Reviewer: Trudy Smith
Title: Bandit's Hope - 2nd in the Backwoods Brides series
Author: Marcia Gruver
Publisher: Barbour
ISBN-13: 978-1-60260-949-5
Release Date: October 2011
Genre/Sub-genre: Inspirational Historical Romance
Year/Setting: 1882/Areas in and around Pearl River on the Natchez Trace, Mississippi
Overall Rating: 4.25
Sexual Content Rating: None
Language (Profanity/Slang) Content Rating: None
Violent Content Rating: Minimal
Marcia's Website/Blog: www.marciagruver.com
Bandits along the Pearl River were common. During this latest fleece, Tiller McRae had had enough. Tiller had been with this group of bandits for nigh on 10 years, the only “family” that he’s had for a long time. But even so, Tiller’s conscience and heart were pulling harder than his desire to stay; he’d had enough.
Bell’s Inn was the only home Mariah Bell has ever known. She’s operated the place during her father’s illness just fine. Now that her father was dead, the only way she can keep the promise made to her mother on her death bed is to marry a white man. The law wouldn’t let a woman hold her own land, let alone a half-breed. If she can find someone soon, she can keep her father’s death a secret until she’s married.
When Tiller happens upon the Inn he becomes mesmerized by the beautiful owner. Tiller can’t expose himself but if he doesn’t he’ll never be able to put down roots with Mariah. Mariah isn’t interested in a drifter; she needs a man that will let her run the Inn as she always has. The pull between the two is great and sprouts of love are beginning to bud.
Secrets can kill a relationship faster than a gator can cross the Pearl. But when God has a plan they can be overcome, if only Tiller and Mariah are willing.
In the meantime, Tiller’s North Carolina family has decided it’s time to bring Tiller home. They’ve looked before but this time they won’t stop until he’s found.
Marcia Gruver has once again penned a fascinating story. The characters are loveable and charming (except for the bandits) and the secrets draw you in from the start. Some may call the inspiration a little heavy with references to God and scriptures but the way that Ms Gruver has woven them into the story using a loveable old gent (that happened to be Tiller’s last fleece) makes the inspiration appear subtle leaving you thoughts to ponder.
The Backwoods Brides series will be a keeper on my selves as I expect Ms Gruver to give her readers more of the same exciting adventures in the third book which I look forward to with great anticipation.
Trudy
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