Bethany House Publishers (June 1, 2012) by Karen Witemeyer


ABOUT THE BOOK
No one steps on Archer land. Not if they value their life. But when Meredith Hayes overhears a lethal plot to burn the Archer brothers off their ranch, a twelve-year-old debt compels her to take the risk.

Fourteen years of constant vigilance hardens a man. Yet when Travis Archer confronts a female trespasser with the same vivid blue eyes as the courageous young girl he once aided, he can't bring himself to send her away. And when an act of sacrifice leaves her injured and her reputation in shreds, gratitude and guilt send him riding to her rescue once again.

if you would like to read the first chapter of Short-Straw Bride, go HERE.


MY REVIEW :
Short Straw Bride is a story of learning, trusting and determination.  I love that both Travis and Meridith do what they know is "right" even when it is the more difficult choice.  Their determination to help others and do what is right leads them both down paths that are a bit unconventional, but eventually leads to a much better reward.
I enjoyed reading this book.  It is well-written, and full of adventure, love and trust.  A great book for those who love clean fiction.  Although it is a Christian Fiction book, I feel that those who like a good adventure with some clean romance will enjoy it as well. There is mention of God and Faith, but not preachy. I love the honest feelings and thoughts, and the realistic relationship issues throughout the story.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Karen Witemeyer is a deacon's wife and mother of three who believes the world needs more happily-ever-afters. To that end, she combines her love of bygone eras with her passion for helping women mature in Christ to craft historical romance novels that lift the spirit and nurture the soul.

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.

Karen is living her dream by writing Christian historical romance novels for Bethany House.