'Without Words' by Ellen O'Connell is a historical western romance novel that follows the story of a mute heroine who is ill-treated by her family due to her disability. The book revolves around the heroine taking care of her dying old husband before the male main character (MMC) arrives. The plot includes elements of adventure, steamy romance, and a unique slow-burn relationship development between the heroine and the MMC, who is a bounty hunter with a secret heart of gold. The writing style is described as solid, interesting, and engaging, with a focus on character growth and the development of the romantic relationship.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with the heroine showcasing resilience and the hero demonstrating protective instincts.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is emotionally compelling, featuring genuine dialogue and detailed descriptions that enhance character and setting.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot includes the FMC's vulnerability and relationship with the rigid but honorable bounty hunter, culminating in personal growth and romance.

Setting:

The setting emphasizes the challenges and realities of life in the post-Civil War West.

Pacing:

The pacing effectively balances adventure and character development, fostering a slow-burn romance.

“I can’t believe it,” he said for at least the hundredth time. “I come home for the first time in years. Jube and Clete are gone, and the old man’s dying.” He pointed a long, boney finger at her. “Don...

Notes:

Without Words is a historical Western romance novel by Ellen O'Connell.

The main character, Hassie, is mute due to a childhood accident.

The story features a bounty hunter named Bret who feels responsible for Hassie after a violent encounter involving her late husband.

Hassie's character is portrayed as tough and resilient despite her circumstances, representing a 'sunshine' type.

The romance develops slowly between Hassie and Bret, characterized by mutual growth and deep emotional connections.

Ellen O'Connell's writing style is praised for its emotional depth and engaging storytelling.

The novel touches on themes of survival, trauma, and the harsh realities of life in the post-Civil War era.

Readers appreciate O'Connell's ability to create relatable and well-developed characters.

The story includes adventure elements as Bret and Hassie travel together in the Wild West.

Reviews highlight the chemistry between the characters and the balance of tension and sweetness in their relationship.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings for Without Words include themes of prior trauma related to forced marriage and attempted assault, which are handled sensitively.

Has Romance?

The book contains a high level of romance, characterized by the emotional depth of the relationship.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

Bounty hunter Bret Sterling kills Rufus Petty, thief and murderer, less than ten feet away from a frightened, half-starved woman. Rufus should have surrendered. The woman should have kin to help her. But Rufus went down shooting, and the woman has no one. Bret figures by the time he finds a safe place to leave Hassie Petty, he'll earn the five hundred dollar reward several times over. Hassie doesn't mourn Rufus, but the loss of the ten dollars he promised her for supplies is a different matter. The bounty hunter gives her nothing, takes everything, ties the body on one horse and orders her on another. Afraid if she defies him, he'll tie her down tighter than Rufus, Hassie mounts up and follows the icy-eyed killer. Mismatched in every way, the sterling man and petty woman travel the West together, hunting thieves, deserters, and murderers. Wary traveling companions, friends and partners, lovers, Bret and Hassie must decide what they want, what they need, and the price they're willing to pay for love.

Ratings (10)

Incredible (3)
Loved It (6)
Liked It (1)

Reader Stats (23):

Read It (13)
Want To Read (4)
Not Interested (6)

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Without Words

Ellen O'Connell