The woman was Julie Fulton Rossiter, later known as Jewel Rossiter. She was used to being abused. No one ever took up for her. Her crooked husband, Frank, was murdered and she was a suspect. All she was guilty of was returning to this town trying to get the money back that Frank had stolen from her. She had twin daughters to support. When the circumstances required an arranged marriage to Grady Hawks, she didn't see any way to refuse his request.

This book was a fantastic read. It was my first exposure to this author. Let me assure you it will not be my last. I'm not sure how I missed her, since she writes in the style and genre that I love. This book grabbed my interest from the first page. I could hardly put it down until I completed it. Then I wanted more.

Sivad's main characters were so endearing. They both entered their marriage with lots of baggage. Their one-year commitment was, of course, muddied early in the union. How the two, along with her twin girls, became a family is quite a compelling storyline. The main couple acted in the expected manner. However, that does not indicate that the journey was boring or predictable. The myriad of supporting characters enhanced the story. They helped the book to become the winner that it is.

As you can tell, I love this book. The sensuality was simplistic, but not boring. It was told in the way 1882 would have viewed things. Her ability to stay true to the historical aspects helped make the book the hit it is. I highly recommend it.

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Explicit

Reviewer: Brenda Talley
April 16, 2010