Book Review: Safe In His Arms by Colleen Coble

Sometimes it takes a stranger to see you as you really are.

Under Texas Stars, #2

Born and raised on sprawling Texas land, Margaret O’Brien prides herself on her competence as a rancher. But her father believes she’s made for more than just dawn-to-dusk work. He wants her to have the love of a good man, to raise children, to build a life. But Margaret gave up such dreams years ago. She’s convinced no man would have her, that the ranch is her life now.

So when Margaret’s father hires Daniel Cutler as a new foreman, she’s frustrated and suspicious. Then an overheard conversation links him with a gang of bank robbers, and she’s downright worried. Daniel swears he’s not involved, but Margaret’s not convinced. She knows the man still has secrets. But would a criminal be so kind and talk so convincingly of his faith? As a series of tragic “accidents” threatens all she holds dear, Margaret must decide what to trust: her own ears, her best judgment . . . or what her heart keeps telling her.

Those who read Blue Moon Promise will recognize Margaret as Nate’s next door neighbor – the girl everyone thought he’d marry, just because their ranches were next to each other, they could tolerate each other and it made sense. Love aside, of course.

Nate found love in Blue Moon Promise but Margaret is still looking.

As in the previous book, Coble does a fabulous job weaving the story. There’s enough intrigue to satisfy all but the most hard core lovers of suspense. There’s enough romance for pretty much everyone. It’s a foregone conclusion that Daniel and Margaret will end up together because it is, after all, a romance. But how they end up together will keep you guessing until Coble reveals it. I’m usually pretty good at guessing who the bad guy is or what the twist is, etc., but she kept me guessing.

There were many sighable moments. Near tears moments. Big smile moments. Giggle moments.

Blue Moon Promise was one of the best reads of 2012 [top 10] and I have no doubt Safe in His Arms will end up near the top of the list for 2013.

Though I read the ecopy provided by NetGalley, I’ve already picked up a hard copy to loan out.

Overall rating: 9.25 out of 10 stars

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an ecopy in exchange for my honest review.