At Love’s Command by Karen Witemeyer

 

At Love's Command by Karen Witemeyer

Let’s begin with the summary:

Haunted by the horrors of war, ex-cavalry officer Matthew Hanger leads a band of mercenaries known as Hanger’s Horsemen who have become legends in 1890s Texas. They defend the innocent and obtain justice for the oppressed. But when a rustler’s bullet leaves one of them at death’s door, they’re the ones in need of saving.

Dr. Josephine Burkett is used to men taking one look at her skirts and discounting her medical skills. What she’s not used to is having a man change his mind in a heartbeat and offer to assist her in surgery. Matthew Hanger’s dedication to his friend during recovery earns Josephine’s respect, and when she hears of her brother’s abduction, Matthew becomes her only hope for rescue.

Matt has stared down ruthless outlaws, betrayal, and injury, but when a bossy lady doctor crawls under his skin, his heart is tempted to surrender. And when she is caught in the crossfire, he may have to sacrifice everything—even his team—to save her.

And now, my review:

The story begins with back-to-back battles. I almost set the book aside. So glad I didn’t because soon, we meet the doctor heroine. She’s knowledgeable and I loved the medical aspect of her expertise, which we see in her POV. She’s selfless and no-nonsense, but she’s also compassionate and strong. Determined.

It was refreshing to read of a female doctor in a historical, and especially fun to see her scientific mind tackle mysteries like falling in love or physical attraction. So fun.

I liked the hero’s intense loyalty to his fellow soldiers. Matt is sacrificial, often putting other’s lives above his own. He’s wise, prudent, protective, and noble. His men follow him because they respect him, but also know he’d die for them. He’s earned their trust.

Karen’s writes strong prose, and her pacing kept me reading. She’s excellent at penning romantic scenes, weaving them in during otherwise simple moments. I highlighted several lines while I read the e-book.

Just when you think things are settling down, she layers in another adventure. Readers will enjoy this historical from a true pro.