So...... I thought I knew what this book was about. I've seen the research Patti Sherry-Crews had been sharing on the PRP blog, I've read the blurb, I had gotten little teases/hints in some side conversations.... and yet.... I wasn't truly prepared for the mind games and twists and surprises that weaved the story together!
If you're into the sort of thing where you thrive on not knowing anything about a story... just dive right on into the story and stop reading here. Otherwise here's just a little more for you - besides the encouragement to just keep turning the pages, be prepared, there's some drama and twists and curious moments ahead!
Wynne is not the usual kind of hero I'm drawn to... he's quieter, a little hesitant, a bit more unsure of himself. Then again, going undercover as your estranged brother into a outlaw gang where you're on your own, totally out of your element, and dependent upon your outlaw brother telling the truth about everything... and then you encounter some pretty major surprises, one has every right to feel off-kilter. And while overall his personality is on the quieter, gentler side, there's moments where he digs deep and finds an inner strength that I think surprised even him at first. I enjoyed watching his character growth and how he built his confidence in himself. I think he was the perfect kind of man Lucy was needing in her life.
Lucy.... oh my, that girl! She was an unexpected sweet surprise! Her mix of soft and strong drew me to her, even as my heart was breaking for her and cheering her on at the same time. She made some choices that set her on a very tough path, and despite the heavy struggles, she found ways to thrive and survive. When it all was said and done, she definitely needed a man like Wynne in her life to fully bloom.
I was delightfully surprised at how empathetic I felt and attached I became to some side characters... I don't want to spoil anything, just know you may also find yourself rootin' for some of them as well! Maybe it's because I like a bit of a bad boy.... ;)
Anyways, this was another awesome story by Patti Sherry-Crews that I enjoyed opening the cover and falling into.
*leaves the room whistling an old Alan Jackson song...
still you wonder...
who's cheatin' who
and who's bein' true
and who don't even care anymore
makes you wonder
who's doin' right
with someone tonight...
who's horse is stabled next door.
;)
