APPOINTMENT WITH DESTINY by Anna Dynowski

Tessa Kramer grew up without much love from her parents. When she met Karl he swept her off her feet. But not too long after being married he devastates her with the truth that she was adopted. He proceeds to tell her she is not worthy of him and the next day serves her with divorce papers. She decides that day that she would find her real family and that she would never trust a man again. Her journey takes her to a Dude Ranch in Bandera, Texas where her mother and brother live. She promises not to disrupt their lives, she only wants to get to know who they are. That's when she comes face-to-face with C.J. Tremaine, owner of the Dude Ranch. He was so affected by the death of his mother he had promised himself never to give his heart completely. The attraction is immediate between Tessa & C.J. But he is a 'ladies man' and she is an 'ice cube'. Slowly as they get to know each other the facades begin fade. What will happen when the truth about Tessa becomes known? Will they trust that the Lord knows the plans he has for them, plans to prosper them and not harm them, plans to give them hope and a future?

This was a story I could not put down. This author knows how to write with such human emotions that your heart grows weak. She is not afraid to put her characters through very difficult and emotional situations. You could feel Tessa's pain when Karl spoke the cruel and hurtful words to her. You could understand why she had the 'ice cube' reputation. She didn't want to be hurt again. C.J. Tremaine was such a great hero. He had his moments that weren't so great but his love and character shined through as he let God grow him. One thing that I really appreciate about Anna's work is the way she weaves Scripture throughout her stories. That's not to say that her characters aren't realistic. They are. They struggle with the same issues we do but she always brings it around to the message that we must Trust the Lord because of who He is. If you enjoy cowboy stories that are packed with emotion and a good spiritual message I highly recommend Appointment with Destiny. Great Job Anna!