Carol Moncado

Blue Moon Promise by Colleen Coble

Lucy Marsh’s worldly resources are running out, but she’s fiercely determined to care for her younger brother and sister. When she discovers that their father’s recent death was no accident, Lucy is eager to leave town. She accepts a proxy marriage she believes will provide safe refuge. But trouble follows her to Texas where her new husband is surprised to suddenly have a wife and children to care for.

Nate Stanton always hoped he’d marry someday, but running the family ranch meant he had no time for romance. When his father deposits Lucy Marsh-a city girl-on his doorstep, with two siblings in the bargain, he expects ranch life will send her running on the first train out of town. But Lucy is made of tougher stuff than Nate imagined. When danger moves in, Nate finds he’d give anything to protect Lucy and the children he’s grown to love. Even if it means giving up his ranch.

Blue Moon Promise is a story of hope, romance, and suspense . . . immersing the reader in a rich historical tale set under Texas stars.

I loved this book! I finished it an afternoon [even though I was on drugs that make me sleepy due to surgery – I could have slept, but I couldn’t because I had to keep reading!] and am looking forward to the next one in the series. I have several of Ms. Coble’s books on my bookshelves, but I think this is the first one I’ve actually read. It won’t be the last.

I loved Lucy’s spunk and determination. I adored her little sister, Eileen. Little brother, Jed, was wonderful with his desire to protect those he loves.

Nate had no idea his father was going to find him a bride by proxy. He has no desire to be married to someone he doesn’t know, especially not someone as seemingly unsuited as Lucy. Before long, even he has to admit that her being there has made his life better and he’s falling in love with both her and her siblings.

Coble has woven a wonderful romance under the Texas stars – with just enough suspense to keep one guessing who the bad guy is and what he – or she – is really after. You’ll fall in love with Lucy, Nate, Jed and Eileen while also falling in love with the Texas landscape and the Stars Above Ranch.

Overall Rating: 9 out of 10 stars

Thanks to Thomas Nelson Publishing and their BookSneeze program for a free copy of the book. A positive review was not required and the opinions expressed here are my own.