About Me I am a retired librarian and I now support books and authors through my reviews.

I have always loved to read and I was able to share that love through my work as a public librarian for 22 1/2 years. I now promote literacy by reading, and then writing reviews. I love to support authors by sharing my reviews with others!

Saturday, June 10, 2023

Fairest of Heart (Texas Ever After, #1) by Karen Witemeyer

Fairest of Heart (Texas Ever After, #1)
ABOUT THE BOOK

Beauty has been nothing but a curse to Penelope Snow. When she becomes a personal maid for a famous actress whose troupe is leaving Chicago to tour the West, she hides her figure beneath shapeless dresses and keeps her head down. But she still manages to attract the wrong attention, leaving her prospects in tatters--and her jealous mistress plotting her demise.

After his brother lost his life over a woman, Texas ranger Titus Kingsley has learned to expect the worst from women and is rarely disappointed. So when a young woman found in suspicious circumstances takes up residence with the seven old drovers living at his grandfather's ranch, Titus is determined to keep a close eye on her.

With a promotion hanging in the balance, Titus is assigned to investigate a robbery case tied to Penelope's acting troupe. The evidence points to her guilt, but Titus's heart divines a different truth--one that might just get Penelope killed.

An enchanting Western take on the classic Snow White fairy tale, Fairest of Heart will sweep you away from once upon a time to happily ever after.




MY THOUGHTS.....





A funny, romantic, and exciting fairytale that takes place in Texas? Karen Witemeyer is known for her humorous Western romances and now, she's offering a retelling of a beloved fairytale! Fairest of Heart is the story of a sweet young girl in need of protection, a Texas Ranger who doesn't trust women, and the seven "grandfathers" who dedicate themselves to protecting Penelope Snow from harm. Throw in an older woman who's jealous of Penelope's youthful beauty and the results are pure magic. Madame Narcissa LaBelle is the ultimate villainess, and she doesn't care what she does to carry out her evil schemes! Will Penelope be the next victim of this well-known actress?

This is a captivating story that alludes to the classic fairytale, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. I found myself laughing out loud at the antics of Doc Kingsley and the Geezer Gang, the six retired cowhands who live on Doc's Diamond D Ranch, and I enjoyed comparing each of their quirky personalities with those of the original seven dwarfs! Witemeyer also adds action, danger, and mystery, but it's the special connection between Penelope and a very reluctant Titus Kingsley that makes this such a special story! How could anyone not love a homeless young girl who only wants to make others happy?

Witemeyer never fails to offer inspiration in the faith messages that she weaves into her plots, and this book is no exception. Readers are given a powerful reminder that sin and evil do exist in our world, but they can be overcome with faith, prayer, and God's Word. Fairest of Heart is the first book of a new series, Texas Ever After. Do yourself a favor and grab a copy today!

I received a complimentary copy from the author and Bethany House. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars




ABOUT THE AUTHOR

After growing up in California, Karen moved to Texas to attend Abilene Christian University where she earned bachelor and master's degrees in Psychology. It was also there that she met and married her own Texas hero. He roped her in good, for she has lived in Texas ever since. In fact, she fell so in love with this rugged land of sweeping sunsets and enduring pioneer spirit, that she incorporates it into the pages of her novels, setting her stories in the small towns of a state that burgeoned into greatness in the mid- to late1800s.

A life-long bookworm, Karen is living her dream by writing novels. Her books have consistently hit bestseller lists and have garnered awards such as the ACFW Carol Award, the Holt Medallion, and the Inspirational Reader's Choice Award. In addition, she is a multiple RITA and National Reader's Choice finalist. Karen is also a sought-after speaker for national writing conferences and regional workshops.

Karen's favorite aspect of her writing life is hearing from readers. Nothing encourages her heart more. She'd love to hear from you. You can contact her here.

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