My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it
About the Book
Determined to prove that cattle king Eli Dearing has no justification for evicting his stepmother and half brothers, Asher Ellis uses the cover of a fancy ball to break into the Three Cedars ranch house to search for proof of wrongdoing. On the verge of discovery, he flees, but a boy's cry compels him to make a daring rescue.
Spunky and independent, Samantha Dearing balks when she learns the ball her father is hosting in her honor is nothing more than a matrimonial ambush. Taking a break from her unwanted suitors, Samantha spots a thief fleeing her home. When the stranger ends up saving her brother's life, she hides the only clue to his identity left behind--his boot--and resolves to find him herself.
But when Samantha encounters the older brother of a student she tutors, all thoughts of the bootless mystery man vanish. And although Asher tries to keep his distance from Samantha for reasons of his own, a series of suspicious accidents befall her, and his protective instincts flare, no matter the cost to their future.
This Western reimagining of the classic Cinderella fairy tale is an enchanting story of courage, family, and the power of true love.
My Review
Fairy tale adaptations are a favorite genre of mine, and with Karen Witemeyer as a favorite author, I knew I would enjoy her Western take on Cinderella. The story elements are creative and unique, with the male lead as the one in poverty, our female lead wealthy, and a father presenting several "opportunities" for her to marry. Samantha knows her own mind and is fiercely loyal to her family. As she grows into adulthood that brings some conflict when her path doesn't necessarily align with the goals of others. Asher has some prejudice against her family, but is willing to have an open mind when sees how Samantha has a compassionate heart as she tutors his younger brother. Samantha and Asher both go through a growth arc as they come up against trials and develop their faith to get through them. The mystery kept me in suspense and the twists at the end I did not see coming. A sweet romance and I was glad that the story deviated from the original enough to feel fresh and not predictable.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
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