An Uncommon Protector

GIVEAWAY

GRAY, SHELLEY SHEPARD
AN UNCOMMON PROTECTOR

Overwhelmed by the responsibilities of running a ranch on her own, Laurel Tracey decides to hire a convict -- a man who's just scary enough to take care of squatters and just desperate enough to agree to a one year post.

The years following the war have been hard on Laurel Tracey. Both her brother and her father died in battle, and her mother passed away shortly after receiving word of their demise. Laurel has been trying to run her two hundred acre ranch as best she can.

When she discovers that squatters have settled in her north pasture and have no intention of leaving. Laurel decides to use the last of her money to free a prisoner from the local jail. If she agrees to offer him room and board for one year, he will have to work for her to pay off his debt.

Former soldier Thomas Baker knows he's in trouble when he finds himself jailed because he couldn't pay a few fines. Laurel's offer might be his only ticket out. Though she's everything he ever dreamed of in a woman -- sweet and tender-hearted, yet strong -- he's determined to remain detached, work hard on her behalf, and count the days until he's free again.

But when cattle start dying and Laurel's life is threatened, Thomas realizes more than just his freedom is on the line. Laurel needs someone to believe in her and protect her property. And it isn't long before Laurel realizes that Thomas Baker is far more than just a former solider. He's a trustworthy hero, and he needs more than just his freedom -- he needs her love and care too.

My Review:

Three words have the power to send me racing to my nearest bookstore or online vendor. Shelley. Shepard. Gray. There is something so special about her stories and I just can't resist living through every emotionally charged moment right along with her characters.

I inhaled An Uncommon Protector. Couldn't get through it fast enough and now I feel mighty disgruntled because it's all over until the next book in A Lone Star Hero's Love Story series releases. I love the background for this series -- a self-made band of brothers who survive being prisoners of war together vow to continue to support one another even after the war is over. As the men settle in various parts of Texas they each come upon a time when they need to call on that brotherhood..

Thomas Baker has run into some complications on that front.  His smart mouth and quick temper have the potential to trip him up and he finds himself in a sorry mess. Until Laurel Tracey breezes into his life and tilts his world upside down. She has need of a protector. He needs a get-out-of-jail-free card. The perfect partnership.

The romance is achingly tender and and oh so tenuous. Honestly, I was swoony through most of their story. Thomas and Laurel have so much potential -- they just have to find the courage to acknowledge that. But they are so good together and Thomas is a hero to crush on. Be still my heart. There are some truly delicious romantical scenes.

And then there are the villains. Devious. Sneaky. Relentless. When the danger escalates, Thomas knows he needs to bring in help. Cue every rousing Western movie/TV series theme song as the brotherhood rides in. I actually squealed my way through this part I was so excited.

Superb action and adventure paired with sublime romance and a whole lot of heart for God. Sweet perfection to the very end.

Giveaway Opportunity:

 If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of An Uncommon Protector please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you post a comment and add your email address please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so it's easier for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday March 26 2017.  Offer open to international readers. Good luck!