After discovering his brother's death, reclusive rancher Noah takes in his brother's pregnant wife Katherine, leading to a marriage of convenience that evolves into a heartfelt love story. The book beautifully captures the journey of healing and forgiveness, exploring themes of self-worth, love, and overcoming past traumas. The narrative showcases a sweet and tender romance set in the old American West, with well-developed characters and a captivating Beauty and the Beast trope.

Characters:

The characters are complex, with the hero grappling with self-esteem issues related to his scars, while the heroine is strong and adaptable, bringing warmth into the hero's isolated life.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is straightforward and engaging, focusing on character emotions and relationships, which effectively conveys the story's romantic themes.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a marriage of convenience formed between the scarred hero and the heroine, who is the pregnant widow of his brother. Their relationship evolves from obligation to genuine affection through their shared struggles.

Setting:

The narrative is situated in a late 19th-century Colorado setting, primarily on a ranch, which complements the character-driven plot and thematic elements.

Pacing:

The pacing allows for detailed character development and exploration of themes, though some readers noted that certain conflicts could feel prolonged.

The rap on the wood was sharp and insistent. Kate Allen Cutter pushed herself up from her narrow cot and slowly crossed the small dimly lit room while smoothing wrinkles from her faded skirt. She’d le...

Notes:

The book is a sweet historical romance set in the Colorado town of Copper Creek.

The main character, Noah, is a scarred, reclusive rancher who struggles with deep self-esteem issues.

Katherine, the heroine, is pregnant and widowed after her husband, Levi, is killed.

Noah offers to take Katherine in, viewing it as his responsibility to care for his brother's widow and child.

The story presents a marriage of convenience that develops into a deeper love over time.

Noah is described as a 'beta hero' and is noted to be a virgin, which is uncommon in romance novels.

Katherine is portrayed as optimistic and accepting, which contrasts with Noah's brooding nature.

The narrative explores themes of inner beauty and overcoming personal scars, both physical and emotional.

The author, Cheryl St. John, often includes relatable characters and settings, making it a comfort read for many.

The book has elements of the 'Beauty and the Beast' trope, with Noah's scars representing deeper emotional struggles.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings for the book include themes of abandonment, self-loathing, and familial cruelty, which may be distressing for some readers.

Has Romance?

Yes, the book contains a strong romantic narrative that evolves as the characters grow closer throughout the story.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

NOAH CUTTER WAS A MAN OF HIS WORD...

Scarred in body and soul, rancher Noah didn't consider himself fit company for anyone. But when his brother's philandering finally caught up with him, honor dictated that Noah claim his brother's widow as his own....

Standing on her doorstep, with his collar turned up and a rifle by his side, Noah was about the most intimidating man Katherine had ever seen. And though one man's false promises had already dashed her dreams, she instinctively trusted this stranger. Even more, Kate suspected she'd only be a fool this time if she didn't take a chance on Noah for the sake of herself...and her unborn child! more

Ratings (9)

Incredible (1)
Loved It (2)
Liked It (3)
It Was OK (3)

Reader Stats (19):

Read It (10)
Want To Read (6)
Not Interested (3)

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His Secondhand Wife?

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His Secondhand Wife

Cheryl St. John

Book 2 in the series:The Copper Creek Brides