The Reluctant Warrior (High Sierra Sweethearts Book #2)

Mary Connealy

Oct 2018 · High Sierra Sweethearts Book 2 · Baker Books

About this ebook

Union army officer Cameron Scott is used to being obeyed, but nothing about this journey to Lake Tahoe has gone as expected. He's come to fetch his daughter and nephew, and seek revenge on the people who killed his brother. Instead he finds himself trapped by a blizzard with two children who are terrified of him and stubborn but beautiful Gwen Harkness, who he worries may be trying to keep the children.

When danger descends on the cabin where they're huddled, Cam is hurt trying to protect everyone and now finds Gwen caring for him too. He soon realizes why the kids love her so much and wonders if it might be best for him to move on without them. When she sees his broken heart, Gwen decides to help him win back their affection--and in the process he might just win her heart as well.

Ratings and reviews

I love the writing style of Mary Connealy, She keeps you interested with plenty of action, laughter, sparks and so much more. This is book two in the High Sierra Sweethearts series. I would recommend you reading book one, Accidental Guardian, first just to get an understanding of what is happening in this book. This novel also will leave you waiting for book three (which I can't wait to read). I fell in love with many of the characters in book one and was excited to see them stay involved in book two. This novel focus is on former Union army officer Cameron Scott. He must learn to soften up to gain the love of his daughter and nephew and perhaps a beautiful woman in the process. Gwen Harkness, is a beautiful, stubborn woman who has fallen in love with the kids, and they her. Will she be able to put aside her fears and help Cameron or is he just to mean. There is lots of action, drama, love and more in this book. I look forward to book three.

***Just Ok*** Sierra Nevada Mountains – Apr 1868 Cameron Scott has recently returned from the war but can’t seem to give up barking orders as if everyone is a soldier. Cam and his sister Penny have come to the home of Trace and Deb Riley to claim his daughter Maddie Sue and nephew Ronnie. He had only planned to be gone from his new homestead a day or two. But, the weather takes a terrible turn and an interfering woman named Gwen Harkness seems determined to keep him from children. In addition to that, Raddo Landauer, the vile outlaw who led the massacre on the wagon train that killed everyone but Gwen, Deb and the children (book one) seems determined to leave no witness behind. Gwen is trying to figure out her place in a new world but has become bonded to the children she helped save and will do anything to protect them. Cam is not the only one with a claim on the children. Some not-so-nice grandparents also have an interest and hire a Pinkerton Agent to fetch him. This story is fast paced as pioneer life was hard and dangerous. I found some details overly long for inconsequential scenes. It was also a bit odd to have the story switch to the outlaw’s point of view, particularly when he is quite evil. It’s natural for people to become drawn together in snowed in with cramped quarters over a long winter and the romance was sweet as each person fumbled through the practicality of a future together. The book was not my favorite, and I certainly enjoyed the first one more. I would recommend it for someone wanting to know what happens next in the series. Positive Faith Quote: "Think about it, Cam. Whatever happens, God promises to be with us. So, Be not afraid. He goes before us in this life and the next. I'd say that sounds exactly right." Copy provided by Bethany House Publishing via NetGalley with no other compensation. I am not required to provide a favorable review and my opinion is my own. Please read other reviews for a more well-rounded purchasing decision. High Sierra Sweethearts Series: 1 – The Accidental Guardian – April 2018 2 – The Reluctant Warrior – October 2018 3 – The Unexpected Champion – coming in 2019

This book was an absolute joy to read. While danger was lurking around almost every corner, I totally enjoyed the ride. The Reluctant Warrior kept my interest the entire time. I was hooked and turning pages late Into the night. If you've read The Accidental Guardian you know how great these characters are. I love their endurance, passion to keep going, and their love for each other. Connealy had me chuckling at their interactions and loving every minute of it. There were times I was almost biting my nails not knowing what would happen next. I can't wait to see what happens in book three of this series. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romance. Connealy is one of the best and she doesn't disappoint. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

About the author

Mary Connealy writes "romantic comedies with cowboys" and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She has more than half a million books in print. She is the author of the popular series Wild at Heart, Kincaid Brides, Trouble in Texas, Lassoed in Texas, Sophie's Daughters, and many other books. Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero. Learn more at www.maryconnealy.com.