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

The only hard thing about reading one of Mary's books, is finding something new to say about how wonderful they are. She is one of my top favorite Christian Romance writers, so I tend to gush. I have loved this new series of hers, High Sierra Sweethearts. I especially enjoyed these new characters in The Reluctant Warrior, Cameron Scott, a former officer is used to being obeyed. He barks out orders, so he has a very strong loud voice. Therefore his daughter and young nephew are scared of him. Gwen, a young lady and her married sister Deb have taken care of the little ones since their parents were killed in a wagon train massacre. They are always running to Gwen and screaming when Cameron comes in the room. She and Cameron want the same thing, the best for this little girl and boy. But they both think they are the answer, so they are at odds with each other. Penny is Cameron Scott's tough as nails, outdoor loving sister. She too is a new character to this series. She has worked with Cam at the Army forts. She can ride and shoot better than a lot of men. She for the most part wears men's clothes, but will wear a dress for a few hours on Sunday during the Sunday service. Just like all of Mary's books, The Reluctant Warrior is full of action, adventure, love and laughter. I can not wait for book # three. We will learn more about Penny Scott and John, a Pinkerton Guard. Sounds like it is going to be a winner.

***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.