THE RANCHER TAKES A BRIDE by Brenda Minton

Oregon Jeffries came to Martin's Crossing a year ago to introduce her daughter Lilly, to her father, Duke Martin.  She just hasn't been able to find the right time.  When Lilly is hit by a car, she knows she must tell Duke the truth.  Duke Martin used to have a drinking problem.  That's why he doesn't remember Oregon or even the possibility of having a child.  A wife and child is something Duke never wanted or needed, until Oregon and Lilly entered his life.  Now he wants nothing more than to be a family.  Oregon is frightened and amazed with the way Duke is caring for her and Lilly.  A girl could get used to that, but she knows from her childhood experience that a normal, loving family just isn't possible, or is it?

This is the second book in the Martin's Crossing series and one I absolutely loved.  It's gentle pace made it a real pleasure to read.  I really enjoyed my trip back to Martin's Crossing and catching up with Breezy and Jake, Brody and Joe (the stranger in town).  The chemistry between Oregon and Duke sizzled.  The dialog and interaction between them is what I really like in a story.  Oregon is a sweet woman of strength.  One who could easily be a good friend.  Duke is a strong, loving, swoon-worthy hero.  Trusting the Lord is hard when the important people in your life have walked out or not lived up to their word.  Duke and Oregon will discover that the Lord is there with them even through the difficulties, just like He is for us.  I found myself highlighting lots of great quotes.  Here are two of my favorites: 

(Between Oregon and Duke)
“We do have to talk,” she insisted. He groaned, shaking his head. “Don’t look at me like that. When you look at me that way, talking is the last thing I want to do. That look, all sweet and sleepy, makes me want to do this.” She started to ask what he meant, but her words were cut off as he claimed her lips in a softly insistent kiss.

(The Pastor from his Sunday Sermon)
“Trust begins with accepting that God’s got this, no matter what this is. God’s got it. To be effective in prayer and to understand what we call ‘unanswered prayers,’ we have to comprehend that we see in bits and pieces, but God sees everything.” 

You can easily read this as a stand-alone but I encourage you to read ‘A Rancher for Christmas’ first for a richer reading experience.  If you enjoy a good romance with a gentle pace, one that will help you escape dishes and laundry for just a little while, then I highly recommend a trip to Martin's Crossing.  Tell them I said hello.

*This complimentary copy was provided by Harlequin through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

 For more information about this book or other books by Brenda Minton, I encourage you to visit her website at http://www.brendaminton.net/