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Bitter Springs #2
True to the Law
He was on the hunt for a runaway beauty
“Find her” is the only instruction that private detective Cobb Bridger receives from Andrew Mackey. The scion of a wealthy Chicago family, Mackey is desperate to know the whereabouts of the woman who disappeared from his employ, taking with her something of great value. Intrigued as much by what Mackey won’t say about the missing item as he is by Mackey’s description of the missing woman, Cobb accepts the assignment.
And the one true lie that could destroy them both
Bitter Springs, Wyoming, has a new schoolteacher who may or may not be exactly what she seems. Upon making the acquaintance of Miss Tru Morrow, Cobb begins to question the guilt of this golden-haired lady—and the protective feelings she stirs in him. His investigation hinges on understanding where the truth lies. Can he believe in Tru? Or is she just another treacherous woman out to swindle this hardened detective’s heart?
“Find her” is the only instruction that private detective Cobb Bridger receives from Andrew Mackey. The scion of a wealthy Chicago family, Mackey is desperate to know the whereabouts of the woman who disappeared from his employ, taking with her something of great value. Intrigued as much by what Mackey won’t say about the missing item as he is by Mackey’s description of the missing woman, Cobb accepts the assignment.
And the one true lie that could destroy them both
Bitter Springs, Wyoming, has a new schoolteacher who may or may not be exactly what she seems. Upon making the acquaintance of Miss Tru Morrow, Cobb begins to question the guilt of this golden-haired lady—and the protective feelings she stirs in him. His investigation hinges on understanding where the truth lies. Can he believe in Tru? Or is she just another treacherous woman out to swindle this hardened detective’s heart?
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 7, 2013
32 people are currently reading
400 people want to read
About the author
Jo Goodman
60 books479 followersTo find characters to illustrate my first family saga, I cut out models from the Sears catalogue. I was in fourth grade, but it was a start. In seventh grade I wrote a melodrama about two orphan sisters, one of whom was pregnant. There was also a story about a runaway girl with the unlikely name of Strawberry and one about mistaken identities and an evil blind date. My supportive, but vaguely concerned parents, sighed with relief when I announced I was going to write children's books. They bought me an electric typewriter and crossed their fingers, but somehow PASSION'S BRIDE came out. No one was really surprised.
I graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a major in biology and a minor in chemistry and some notion that I would do marine research. Years of competitive swimming didn't help me anticipate seasickness. A career change seemed in order. I began working with adolescents and families, first as a childcare worker and later, after graduating from West Virginia University with a master's degree in counseling, as a therapist. I am currently the executive director of a child caring/mental health agency and find my work and my writing often compliment each other. One grounds me in reality and the other offers a break from it.
I graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a major in biology and a minor in chemistry and some notion that I would do marine research. Years of competitive swimming didn't help me anticipate seasickness. A career change seemed in order. I began working with adolescents and families, first as a childcare worker and later, after graduating from West Virginia University with a master's degree in counseling, as a therapist. I am currently the executive director of a child caring/mental health agency and find my work and my writing often compliment each other. One grounds me in reality and the other offers a break from it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
June 16, 2016
Unusual Western with some mystery-like undertones set in 1889 Wyoming.
The pace was uneven with several sections that tended to drag and the slow-building romance, while believable, definitely lacked spark. Secondary recurring sidekicks took up too much space and often their forays felt like fillers. I though appreciated once again Goodman's polished writing and her well-drawn characterisations always enriched by some nice introspective touches, but as a whole I found this second instalment a bit of a letdown, especially if compared to book 1, The Last Renegade, which had a much more engaging storyline and a much more successful blend of romantic and action elements.
Now hoping in book 3 and last in the Bitter Springs series, In Want of a Wife.
January 12, 2022
3.5 stars. An enjoyable light romance-mystery. Set in a dusty little frontier town in Wyoming in the 1880s. Tru (Gertrude) has taken a position as teacher in the town. Cobb has been employed as a private detective by a Chicago family, to track down her whereabouts. Cobb and Tru fall in love, and the mystery of why the Mackeys are chasing Tru is gradually revealed.
Nice depictions of the varied small town characters, some good, some petty or weak. The villain is suitably villainous. The romance is enjoyable. A decent read.
Nice depictions of the varied small town characters, some good, some petty or weak. The villain is suitably villainous. The romance is enjoyable. A decent read.
August 12, 2016
"Miss Morrow has something that belongs to me. I want it back."
I guess you could call this a sequel to Goodman's The Last Renegade since it is set in the same town, Bitter Springs, Wyoming. Cobb Bridger is hired by wealthy businessman Richard Mackey to retrieve property he claims was stolen from him by Tru Morrow (she used to be a caretaker/companion of his ailing grandmother). Cobb finds Tru working as the new schoolteacher in Bitter Springs, but he's intrigued with Tru and curious as to *what* it was she *stole* from Mackay, so he bides his time and eventually hangs his hat as the new marshal.
How exciting. Not.
I can't say how disappointed I am. I absolutely loved Never Love A Lawman, Marry Me and The Last Renegade, so I was ready to dive right into this as soon as it landed at my library. Those books were smart, funny and had romantic pairs that just sizzled off the pages. With Cobb and Tru it was more insta-lust with no real feelings or compassion - no sexual chemistry to be found here. Where the two scamps Rabbit and Finn were a riot to watch in book #1, they were just annoying brats in this one. I guessed the big mystery of the *theft* about one third of the way through and kept hoping I was wrong, but no...
And the worst thing of all? Very minor spoiler - . I don't know what happened here, was the author forced to rush this one out? Heart not in it? In in the end it was an OK read, not great but not bad either - but not up to what I know Goodman can produce. Library only, then buy it if you love it.
I guess you could call this a sequel to Goodman's The Last Renegade since it is set in the same town, Bitter Springs, Wyoming. Cobb Bridger is hired by wealthy businessman Richard Mackey to retrieve property he claims was stolen from him by Tru Morrow (she used to be a caretaker/companion of his ailing grandmother). Cobb finds Tru working as the new schoolteacher in Bitter Springs, but he's intrigued with Tru and curious as to *what* it was she *stole* from Mackay, so he bides his time and eventually hangs his hat as the new marshal.
How exciting. Not.
I can't say how disappointed I am. I absolutely loved Never Love A Lawman, Marry Me and The Last Renegade, so I was ready to dive right into this as soon as it landed at my library. Those books were smart, funny and had romantic pairs that just sizzled off the pages. With Cobb and Tru it was more insta-lust with no real feelings or compassion - no sexual chemistry to be found here. Where the two scamps Rabbit and Finn were a riot to watch in book #1, they were just annoying brats in this one. I guessed the big mystery of the *theft* about one third of the way through and kept hoping I was wrong, but no...
And the worst thing of all? Very minor spoiler - . I don't know what happened here, was the author forced to rush this one out? Heart not in it? In in the end it was an OK read, not great but not bad either - but not up to what I know Goodman can produce. Library only, then buy it if you love it.
May 19, 2016
This is romance slow as molasses!
I loved that! It was so different than other romances!
It was obvious to me since the beginning that Cobb will fall in love with True and vice versa, but what I've enjoyed was the fact that they just slipped into love like a slow moving molasses! It was just great!
They were not honest with each other at the beginning, but when their omissions were revealed they didn't feel angry with each other, but recognized the necessaity of those omissions and went on smoothly!
It was a joy to read their dialogues. They're so clever and intelligent and fun!
A big plus is the little town dynamic. The gossip going around was excellently done. I laughed a lot about that!
A very. very nice book!
I loved that! It was so different than other romances!
It was obvious to me since the beginning that Cobb will fall in love with True and vice versa, but what I've enjoyed was the fact that they just slipped into love like a slow moving molasses! It was just great!
They were not honest with each other at the beginning, but when their omissions were revealed they didn't feel angry with each other, but recognized the necessaity of those omissions and went on smoothly!
It was a joy to read their dialogues. They're so clever and intelligent and fun!
A big plus is the little town dynamic. The gossip going around was excellently done. I laughed a lot about that!
A very. very nice book!
October 24, 2015
A pleasant continuation of the Bitter Springs saga. The H/h are new characters, many of the townspeople are back with their quirky dialog and a few are visiting elsewhere.
My favorite quote from the story: "You're going to have to marry me, Tru. You told me that if I proposed to you, you'd have to understand the urgency and know my purpose. I haven't forgotten. The urgency is no different for a drowning man than it is for me. I want to breathe the same air you do."
My favorite quote from the story: "You're going to have to marry me, Tru. You told me that if I proposed to you, you'd have to understand the urgency and know my purpose. I haven't forgotten. The urgency is no different for a drowning man than it is for me. I want to breathe the same air you do."
July 6, 2017
I finally finished this book. The writing is as good as I expected. But I have to agree with other reviewers, I also felt nothing for the couple. They had no magic between them. I don't know what is missing. It just isn't there, not for me. Such a shame because I so enjoy Jo Goodman's style.
I think Jo Goodman writes wonderful stories. And I usually love her characters. This book somehow seemed.....off. The characters were disconnected, they had no chemistry, the story itself was contrived. I don't know what happened. This is just not her best work.
I think Jo Goodman writes wonderful stories. And I usually love her characters. This book somehow seemed.....off. The characters were disconnected, they had no chemistry, the story itself was contrived. I don't know what happened. This is just not her best work.
May 16, 2016
Cobb has been tasked with a job of locating Ms. Gertrude. Once Cobb found the pretty little teacher in Bittercreek, he was determined to be the teacher's pet. Once Tru had a taste of Cobb's kisses she was determined that he was going to pet the teacher. :-) I am loving this series and Jo Goodman continues to deliver. This story was a lot of fun and had unexpected depth as these two figure out how to love one another. Can't wait for the next one.
June 20, 2013
When I began reading this book, I had no idea it’s related to The Last Renegade. I just wanted a good western, and I know Jo Goodman always delivers one. Something niggled in the back of my mind during the prologue, but it wasn’t until Finn, and then Rabbit, appeared on the pages that I knew I was back in Bitter Springs, Wyoming. It’s going to be a very long time before I forget these two brothers. They are stars in their own right in these books, and I sure hope Ms. Goodman either keeps writing about other characters in town so Finn and Rabbit can grow up or she just jumps ahead in time to give them their own books. After getting to know them, it would be such fun to see what kind of men they grow into. But I’m digressing right off the bat here. It’s Cobb and Tru’s book, and I’m happy to say I’m just as thrilled with them as I am those other scamps.
Tru Morrow is the new school teacher in Bitter Springs, having left Chicago behind when pushed to do so by “Aunt” Charlotte Mackey. Since her departure Tru has learned of Charlotte’s death and, while saddened, is happy in the new life her benefactor believed she could find. Cobb Bridger is passing through, or so he says, and Tru finds him intriguing. She also thinks he’s the perfect candidate for town marshall, despite all his protestations.
Cobb is actually a private detective working for Andrew Mackey, Charlotte’s grandson. Andrew has accused Tru of theft, though he won’t tell Cobb what she’s supposedly taken from the Mackey family. His job is just to find her. But after getting to know Tru, something just doesn’t add up for Cobb and he decides to stick around town – to get to the bottom of this mystery and also to be near Tru.
I love these characters to death. Their banter from beginning to end is engaging, and you can see the subtle changes as they go from acquaintances to friends to lovers, when the rapport only gets better once they become intimate. Also very enjoyable is their straightforwardness and honesty with one another, especially during lovemaking. They’re a fresh breath of air in the bedroom. Even once Cobb confesses his original task when he arrived in Bitter Springs, Tru is, of course, upset at that news, but she doesn’t pitch a fit or storm out or any such usual things you expect from a woman in romance. She goes about her business, all the while thinking it through, looking at both sides and coming to her own brand of solution.
Tru also confesses her secret having to do with the Mackeys, giving her and Cobb a new look at what Andrew wants with her, which helps tremendously when the man shows up in town. I have to admit I didn’t see his turnaround coming until seconds before it happens. Tru warned me, however; she has panic-lessening calm that saves her time and again. And Ms. Goodman has a canny way of distracting the reader to deliver a villain you don’t expect.
Then, naturally, comes Finn and Rabbit. I’m able to see their growth in this book from the last, but those competitive, boys-will-be-boys ways do crop up once or twice. They’re still into trouble and they still know everything that goes in Bitter Springs. Most of all, though, they’re just plain old fun, and I’m so very glad they have more page time in this story. ‘Course, since Tru is the school teacher, it only makes sense her students will be featured more. Thank goodness. All of the other secondary characters around town are wonderfully written. My favorites are Mrs. Sterling, the cook at the Pennyroyal Saloon and Hotel, and Mr. Collins, Finn and Rabbit’s grandfather and also the station master. I really would have liked to have seen Kellen and Raine from The Last Renegade, but it’s explained why they aren’t in town and we do get to catch up with what’s going on in their lives.
Ms. Goodman has that wonderful talent to write the perfect man of the West, be he cowboy or detective or anything else. Then she shows readers that knack at giving him the heroine who can hold her own, make her intelligence and strength sexy, and tame that man all in one fell swoop. When I’m in the mood for a western read, Jo Goodman is at the top of the list.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
Tru Morrow is the new school teacher in Bitter Springs, having left Chicago behind when pushed to do so by “Aunt” Charlotte Mackey. Since her departure Tru has learned of Charlotte’s death and, while saddened, is happy in the new life her benefactor believed she could find. Cobb Bridger is passing through, or so he says, and Tru finds him intriguing. She also thinks he’s the perfect candidate for town marshall, despite all his protestations.
Cobb is actually a private detective working for Andrew Mackey, Charlotte’s grandson. Andrew has accused Tru of theft, though he won’t tell Cobb what she’s supposedly taken from the Mackey family. His job is just to find her. But after getting to know Tru, something just doesn’t add up for Cobb and he decides to stick around town – to get to the bottom of this mystery and also to be near Tru.
I love these characters to death. Their banter from beginning to end is engaging, and you can see the subtle changes as they go from acquaintances to friends to lovers, when the rapport only gets better once they become intimate. Also very enjoyable is their straightforwardness and honesty with one another, especially during lovemaking. They’re a fresh breath of air in the bedroom. Even once Cobb confesses his original task when he arrived in Bitter Springs, Tru is, of course, upset at that news, but she doesn’t pitch a fit or storm out or any such usual things you expect from a woman in romance. She goes about her business, all the while thinking it through, looking at both sides and coming to her own brand of solution.
Tru also confesses her secret having to do with the Mackeys, giving her and Cobb a new look at what Andrew wants with her, which helps tremendously when the man shows up in town. I have to admit I didn’t see his turnaround coming until seconds before it happens. Tru warned me, however; she has panic-lessening calm that saves her time and again. And Ms. Goodman has a canny way of distracting the reader to deliver a villain you don’t expect.
Then, naturally, comes Finn and Rabbit. I’m able to see their growth in this book from the last, but those competitive, boys-will-be-boys ways do crop up once or twice. They’re still into trouble and they still know everything that goes in Bitter Springs. Most of all, though, they’re just plain old fun, and I’m so very glad they have more page time in this story. ‘Course, since Tru is the school teacher, it only makes sense her students will be featured more. Thank goodness. All of the other secondary characters around town are wonderfully written. My favorites are Mrs. Sterling, the cook at the Pennyroyal Saloon and Hotel, and Mr. Collins, Finn and Rabbit’s grandfather and also the station master. I really would have liked to have seen Kellen and Raine from The Last Renegade, but it’s explained why they aren’t in town and we do get to catch up with what’s going on in their lives.
Ms. Goodman has that wonderful talent to write the perfect man of the West, be he cowboy or detective or anything else. Then she shows readers that knack at giving him the heroine who can hold her own, make her intelligence and strength sexy, and tame that man all in one fell swoop. When I’m in the mood for a western read, Jo Goodman is at the top of the list.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
May 18, 2013
3.5/5; 4 stars; B+
I am a fan of Jo Goodman, predominantly because I like her characters so much. There are a lot of basic decent principles underlying the behaviour of most of her characters. Plus, I'm a sucker for small towns and the whole dynamic that prevails when everyone knows everyone else.
This book wasn't quite as strong as
,which also took place in Bitter Springs Wyoming but it was still an engaging western romance with a bit of mystery thrown in.
I sincerely hope the author is going to write another book in this world with Finn as a main character. As a 10 year old kid he almost stole the whole show, I can't wait to see what he gets up to as an adult!
I am a fan of Jo Goodman, predominantly because I like her characters so much. There are a lot of basic decent principles underlying the behaviour of most of her characters. Plus, I'm a sucker for small towns and the whole dynamic that prevails when everyone knows everyone else.
This book wasn't quite as strong as
,which also took place in Bitter Springs Wyoming but it was still an engaging western romance with a bit of mystery thrown in. I sincerely hope the author is going to write another book in this world with Finn as a main character. As a 10 year old kid he almost stole the whole show, I can't wait to see what he gets up to as an adult!
October 8, 2014
I'm not sure I understand why other reviewers feel that this book is the weakest in the three part series, or that there aren't enough fireworks between Cobb and Tru. I didn't have any trouble in identifying the passion between these two - the professionally unprovokable man and the introverted woman. It wasn't 'wham bam up against a wall' fireworks but there was a quiet steadfastness about the growing feelings between them that, for me at least, made for a very satisfying read. I find the certainty of the love in Jo Goodman's western novels a very calming aspect of reading the book and a greater part of the enjoyment of the story.
March 5, 2017
I expected to like this western romance as much as I liked its sequel. Unfortunately the heroine was so wooden that I couldn't enjoy her story.
True is unpleasant in her lack of reaction to the hero's treachery. And I'm sorry if you seduce a woman on a false pretence, that's treachery to me. I don't really care that you believe she might be innocent, you are still working undercover for her enemy. If you have sex without coming clean before, you are not a hero worthy of anything. But then if she's not making him pay, she's not better.
Plus she's beyond stupid in more than one occasion. I could not warm to her .. or him.:(
The saving grace is the town and its inhabitants.
True is unpleasant in her lack of reaction to the hero's treachery. And I'm sorry if you seduce a woman on a false pretence, that's treachery to me. I don't really care that you believe she might be innocent, you are still working undercover for her enemy. If you have sex without coming clean before, you are not a hero worthy of anything. But then if she's not making him pay, she's not better.
Plus she's beyond stupid in more than one occasion. I could not warm to her .. or him.:(
The saving grace is the town and its inhabitants.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2023
An interesting start; "find her!" Cobb is a private investigator hired by Andrew Mackey (a wealthy Chicago businessman) to find Tru. Andrew claims Tru stole something, but will not state what it was. Tru is now working as a schoolteacher in Bitter Springs, WY.
I didn't like this as much as I liked the first book. I did like that Cobb saw something in Tru and knew she didn't steal anything and that something more was going on. I did like that they started out slowly gradually becoming friends before they became more. I think my main issue was she still didn't know fully why he was in WY until after they were sleeping together.
The romance with a side of mystery was nice, but again, Cobb should have come clean sooner than he did.
I didn't like this as much as I liked the first book. I did like that Cobb saw something in Tru and knew she didn't steal anything and that something more was going on. I did like that they started out slowly gradually becoming friends before they became more. I think my main issue was she still didn't know fully why he was in WY until after they were sleeping together.
The romance with a side of mystery was nice, but again, Cobb should have come clean sooner than he did.
September 7, 2025
Sweet book ! Typical JO GOODMAN STYLE, and a bit of mystery in there to keep things interesting.
April 27, 2014
Originally reviewed for Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
I have long been a fan of Jo Goodman. She has this unique style of writing that just draws a reader in. In a Jo Goodman novel you will find strong characters with not so traditional views on life. Of course they are probably more accurate than we would think.
True to the Law is part of her Bitter Creek series and once again the Pennyroyal hotel plays an important part. And the characters of Bitter Creek are great. Just what one would expect from a small town.
Tru Morrow has left her life in Chicago behind and began a new one as the school teacher in Bitter Creek, WY. Encouraged by her mentor and employer. Tru has found a place where she belongs and has made some wonderful friends. Completely putting her old life behind her...or so she thinks.
Cobb Bridger is a private detective with a great reputation. Hired by Andrew Mackey to find Gertrude Morrow, a former employee if the family and a thief. At least that is what he is being told only Andrew Mackey refuses to tell Cobb just what she has stolen. And he doesn't want her apprehended, just told where she is. All this leaves huge questions in Cobb's mind. And once he meets Ms. Morrow, he is completely confused. She seems a hard working and honest woman..and Cobb is completely under her spell.
There is so much more to the story than just finding a thief and Cobb wants to make sure that true justice is served. But first he must figure out what that is. Somehow Cobb is convinced into taking the job as town marshal and now he responsible for this town if unique individuals. And that means protecting them. So when the Mackeys role into town, Cobb needs to figure out their true agenda.
Tru has her hands full as well...Besides falling for the delectable Cobb, she has a life to protect, hers. Whatever the Jackets are selling she's not buying.
It all seems rather ordinary as I write this review but in the hands of Ms. Goodman we have a story about fighting for love and standing up to those who would bring you drown. A wonderful story!
Shauni
I have long been a fan of Jo Goodman. She has this unique style of writing that just draws a reader in. In a Jo Goodman novel you will find strong characters with not so traditional views on life. Of course they are probably more accurate than we would think.
True to the Law is part of her Bitter Creek series and once again the Pennyroyal hotel plays an important part. And the characters of Bitter Creek are great. Just what one would expect from a small town.
Tru Morrow has left her life in Chicago behind and began a new one as the school teacher in Bitter Creek, WY. Encouraged by her mentor and employer. Tru has found a place where she belongs and has made some wonderful friends. Completely putting her old life behind her...or so she thinks.
Cobb Bridger is a private detective with a great reputation. Hired by Andrew Mackey to find Gertrude Morrow, a former employee if the family and a thief. At least that is what he is being told only Andrew Mackey refuses to tell Cobb just what she has stolen. And he doesn't want her apprehended, just told where she is. All this leaves huge questions in Cobb's mind. And once he meets Ms. Morrow, he is completely confused. She seems a hard working and honest woman..and Cobb is completely under her spell.
There is so much more to the story than just finding a thief and Cobb wants to make sure that true justice is served. But first he must figure out what that is. Somehow Cobb is convinced into taking the job as town marshal and now he responsible for this town if unique individuals. And that means protecting them. So when the Mackeys role into town, Cobb needs to figure out their true agenda.
Tru has her hands full as well...Besides falling for the delectable Cobb, she has a life to protect, hers. Whatever the Jackets are selling she's not buying.
It all seems rather ordinary as I write this review but in the hands of Ms. Goodman we have a story about fighting for love and standing up to those who would bring you drown. A wonderful story!
Shauni
May 31, 2014
This second book in the Bitter Springs, Wyoming series gives us further enjoyment as the citizens of Bitter Springs face new challenges. The children are back in school because Raine Berry Coltrane has hired a new schoolmarm, Ms. Gertrude "Tru" Morrow. All the regulars are back in full force and effect, especially young brother Rabbit and Finn.Enter the powerful Mackey family from Chicago, the heirs of Tru's former employer, Charlotte Mackey. Andrew Mackey has been charged by the family to find Tru, because she stole something from them. He hires former Pinkerton agent, Cobb Bridger, to do just that. A thinking man who prefers to use his brain over his guns, Cobb finally tracks down the elusive Ms. Morrow and settles into Bitter Springs to watch and observe.
Sparks soon fly between the schoolmarm and the "gambler," which is what the townsfolk have decided is Cobb's occupation. Before the book is done, there will be a conflagration, betrayal, love, and a man who is sure and steady as he realizes where his heart belongs.
I truly enjoy Ms. Goodman's voice and I couldn't put the book down--well, really, I couldn't put any of them down, and would have finished it a day sooner if I hadn't fallen asleep trying to get the last 40 pages read. I even ignored morning coffee in favor of finishing the book before getting out of bed to make a pot.
August 1, 2013
After reading The Last Renegade, the first book in this series, I couldn’t imagine how Goodman could possibly follow up such a delightful and enjoyable tale with anything better. Now I know since she’s outdone herself with this book.
Set again in Bitter Springs, Wyoming, the story opens with detective Cobb Bridger being hired in Chicago by Andrew Mackey III to find Gertrude Morrow, who Andrew says has stolen something from him. Although Cobb asks, Andrew refuses to say what was stolen. He only wants Tru found.
Using the leads he finds in her Chicago room, Cobb tracks Tru to Bitter Springs where she is the town’s schoolteacher. Cobb has had lots of time to consider his assignment as he tracked her, and something doesn’t sit right for him about Andrew’s story. So instead of notifying Andrew right away, Cobb decides to study Tru to see if he can figure out what she’s taken.
The denizens of Bitter Springs, however, give Cobb a run for his money as detectives. With the help of the delightful Rabbit and Finn, boys who relish knowing everyone’s business, the townspeople see through Cobb’s cover of being a ne’er-do-well gambler and drifter, and have the mayor appoint him as acting sheriff, much to Tru’s delight since she’s the one who ferreted out Cobb’s essential goodness and fairness.
Read the rest of my review at AAR: http://www.likesbooks.com/cgi-bin/boo...
Set again in Bitter Springs, Wyoming, the story opens with detective Cobb Bridger being hired in Chicago by Andrew Mackey III to find Gertrude Morrow, who Andrew says has stolen something from him. Although Cobb asks, Andrew refuses to say what was stolen. He only wants Tru found.
Using the leads he finds in her Chicago room, Cobb tracks Tru to Bitter Springs where she is the town’s schoolteacher. Cobb has had lots of time to consider his assignment as he tracked her, and something doesn’t sit right for him about Andrew’s story. So instead of notifying Andrew right away, Cobb decides to study Tru to see if he can figure out what she’s taken.
The denizens of Bitter Springs, however, give Cobb a run for his money as detectives. With the help of the delightful Rabbit and Finn, boys who relish knowing everyone’s business, the townspeople see through Cobb’s cover of being a ne’er-do-well gambler and drifter, and have the mayor appoint him as acting sheriff, much to Tru’s delight since she’s the one who ferreted out Cobb’s essential goodness and fairness.
Read the rest of my review at AAR: http://www.likesbooks.com/cgi-bin/boo...
December 4, 2013
Reading this book and other more recent works by Jo Goodman I've noticed a difference in tone in her writing. I can't say exactly what it is but it is different enough from her older books that I take notice. I'm not sure I like it but not exactly sure that I don't. It is just different and will take some getting used to.
In parts I felt very little emotion from Tru and I think part of that is the change in writing tone for Goodman. After the first sex scene I definitely wanted more emotion, especially in regards to what we find out about it later. I felt a little lost after reading the scene and then our couple doesn't actually speak to each other for another six weeks! (It jumps to six weeks later) It just felt off to me. Later, I understood better Tru's reaction but there wasn't enough for me in the scene to make me feel what Tru was experiencing.
Overall, this was an enjoyable book, if a bit slow in parts. As normal with most books, things picked up for me in the end.
Very sweet moments in this book from our hero, Cobb. He said something to Tru along the lines of "I want to breathe the same air as you," that I found quite romantic. He really did have a good heart. He was definitely the star in this book for me.
In parts I felt very little emotion from Tru and I think part of that is the change in writing tone for Goodman. After the first sex scene I definitely wanted more emotion, especially in regards to what we find out about it later. I felt a little lost after reading the scene and then our couple doesn't actually speak to each other for another six weeks! (It jumps to six weeks later) It just felt off to me. Later, I understood better Tru's reaction but there wasn't enough for me in the scene to make me feel what Tru was experiencing.
Overall, this was an enjoyable book, if a bit slow in parts. As normal with most books, things picked up for me in the end.
Very sweet moments in this book from our hero, Cobb. He said something to Tru along the lines of "I want to breathe the same air as you," that I found quite romantic. He really did have a good heart. He was definitely the star in this book for me.
March 27, 2013
I loved this book. Intriguing, sexy, and exciting, the author has put together a cast of fun, sharp witted characters who bring to life a western romance full of secrets, mystery and lust. The pace is perfect, keeping the suspense in the air and the character development flowing beautifully. The storyline is familiar, yet unique. Set in Wyoming in 1889, True to the Law is so well written, reminiscent of a John Ford classic.
The heroine in the book, Tru, was my favorite character. She is easily likeable and feisty to boot! She stole the show in every scene she was in. Her spitfire personality complimented that of each and every character in the book wonderfully. She truly was enjoyable! The rest of the characters, including Cobb, the upstanding “lawman”, added their own uniquely pleasant flavors to the story.
This was my first book by Jo Goodman, and I can honestly tell you that it will not be my last!
The heroine in the book, Tru, was my favorite character. She is easily likeable and feisty to boot! She stole the show in every scene she was in. Her spitfire personality complimented that of each and every character in the book wonderfully. She truly was enjoyable! The rest of the characters, including Cobb, the upstanding “lawman”, added their own uniquely pleasant flavors to the story.
This was my first book by Jo Goodman, and I can honestly tell you that it will not be my last!
September 17, 2015
Actual rating 3.5 stars.
I'm going to put only one quote here that I really liked from this book. If you'd care to read a few lines about my opinion, click HERE
I'm going to put only one quote here that I really liked from this book. If you'd care to read a few lines about my opinion, click HERE
“You’re going to have to marry me, Tru. You told me that if I proposed to you, you’d have to understand the urgency and know my purpose. I haven’t forgotten. The urgency is no different for a drowning man than it is for me. I want to breathe the same air you do.”
Tru lifted her head to search his face. “And your purpose?”
“Besides the fact that I love you?
July 15, 2018
It is difficult if impossible to pick a favorite of the Bitter Springs trilogy. True to the Law is the center piece. As with all of Goodman that I have read to date, the relationships between the hero and heroine are mature and well developed. The humor is parenthetical, not interruptive. The writing is literate and draws on a solid appreciation of history and western knowledge. Highly recommended.
Reading this again. Same response, especially to the laugh out loud parts!
Reading this again. Same response, especially to the laugh out loud parts!
August 2, 2014
Really enjoyed.
Really enjoyed.
Great second book in No Goldman's Bitter Springs series. Well thought out characters that everyone can enjoy. And the ever funny Rabbit and Finn. They keep the story light-hearted and fun to read.
Really enjoyed.
Great second book in No Goldman's Bitter Springs series. Well thought out characters that everyone can enjoy. And the ever funny Rabbit and Finn. They keep the story light-hearted and fun to read.
June 6, 2019
This story is a continuation of the first book: THE LAST RENEGADE. When released in May 2013, I rushed to the store to get it and I'm glad I did. It's a great follow-up story.
Goodman does a delightful job with character development. She lets her villains have good points and that makes them more interesting and realistic.
She also brought back the 2 characters that charmed the first story; they were just as delightful as before. I think Goodman did a slightly better job developing Tru Morrow's character than Cobb Bridger's. However, this is really Tru's story.
At the point Cobb decides he wants to marry Tru, I was a bit surprised. (Yes, I know they are hero and heroine, but I was surprised by the lack of internal discussion by Cobb before he takes the plunge. I may not be explaining this well; I knew Cobb admired her and was interested. I was just surprised by the question at that point.) It really is a small point - I still loved the book!
By the end of the first book, I wanted to move to Bitter Springs; by the time I finished this one, I had my bags packed! Enjoy! 4.5 stars
Reidsville Series
1. The Last Renegade
2. True to the Law
Goodman does a delightful job with character development. She lets her villains have good points and that makes them more interesting and realistic.
She also brought back the 2 characters that charmed the first story; they were just as delightful as before. I think Goodman did a slightly better job developing Tru Morrow's character than Cobb Bridger's. However, this is really Tru's story.
At the point Cobb decides he wants to marry Tru, I was a bit surprised. (Yes, I know they are hero and heroine, but I was surprised by the lack of internal discussion by Cobb before he takes the plunge. I may not be explaining this well; I knew Cobb admired her and was interested. I was just surprised by the question at that point.) It really is a small point - I still loved the book!
By the end of the first book, I wanted to move to Bitter Springs; by the time I finished this one, I had my bags packed! Enjoy! 4.5 stars
Reidsville Series
1. The Last Renegade
2. True to the Law
February 20, 2022
Rabbit and Finn stole the show!
I would have given this book five stars but for an unanswered question. I hate it when the author makes a point about two or three times in the book, and the end there is no explanation. Spoiler alert...The villain Andrew McKay is said to have been engaged three times in the past and mysteriously each woman broke the engagement. Now you have to understand, he his mega rich and supposedly handsome. Why would three, 3 women all dump him. I thought surely there must be something there, there. But no, nothing, nada. This should have been explained. Like maybe he was a killer and put off bad vibes. Or he was into kinky sex. Something.
However, there was significant humor in this book. And the way Ms. Goodman writes the characters of Rabbit and Finn was a constant source of amusement.
I have read this book twice and enjoyed it both times. Highly recommend.
I would have given this book five stars but for an unanswered question. I hate it when the author makes a point about two or three times in the book, and the end there is no explanation. Spoiler alert...The villain Andrew McKay is said to have been engaged three times in the past and mysteriously each woman broke the engagement. Now you have to understand, he his mega rich and supposedly handsome. Why would three, 3 women all dump him. I thought surely there must be something there, there. But no, nothing, nada. This should have been explained. Like maybe he was a killer and put off bad vibes. Or he was into kinky sex. Something.
However, there was significant humor in this book. And the way Ms. Goodman writes the characters of Rabbit and Finn was a constant source of amusement.
I have read this book twice and enjoyed it both times. Highly recommend.
January 29, 2022
This book was good but there wasn’t enough relationship development.
I liked the plot but it was a bit slow. Things are hinted at throughout the book but then when things start to come together near the end, instead of showing how things happen the chapter ends then the epilogue is a month or so later.
In this book and the first one in this series both of the main characters had secrets and when they were revealed, it wasn’t really talked about. The secrets were sort of skipped over and the relationships just sort of carried on. In both of the books it felt like most of the relationship development isn’t really shown.
I liked this book but I think that this author’s writing isn’t for me. I am a bit curious about the next book but I know that there won’t be enough development for me so I don’t think that I’m going to read the next book.
I liked the plot but it was a bit slow. Things are hinted at throughout the book but then when things start to come together near the end, instead of showing how things happen the chapter ends then the epilogue is a month or so later.
In this book and the first one in this series both of the main characters had secrets and when they were revealed, it wasn’t really talked about. The secrets were sort of skipped over and the relationships just sort of carried on. In both of the books it felt like most of the relationship development isn’t really shown.
I liked this book but I think that this author’s writing isn’t for me. I am a bit curious about the next book but I know that there won’t be enough development for me so I don’t think that I’m going to read the next book.
March 21, 2017
I love westerns, Jo Goodman, and Rabbit, Finn and the rest of Bitter Springs. What I didn't love about this book were Cobb and Tru. For a top notch detective, Cobb sure didn't have a clue when it came to his employer, Andrew Mackey, and his motivations for finding Tru. Right off the bat he assumes that Tru is a thief and focuses in on a brooch without Mackey ever indicating that he was looking for Tru because she stole something or ever mentioning a brooch. He breaks into her home to search for "something" he thinks she may have stolen. The step too far is actually sleeping with her while still investigating her. No, that's just not good. Then there's Tru's behavior. I found it completely unbelievable for her upbringing, character, and status in the community. Her reaction to discovering the truth about Cobb is completely unbelievable. It made for an awkward read at best. For the best of Bitter Springs, I recommend books 1 and 3 and skimming this one for the scenes with Rabbit and Finn two of the most engaging characters you'll ever enjoy.
June 23, 2018
What a pleasure to be back in Bitter Springs with Finn and Rabbit and the whole community. While not quite measuring up to Kellan, the first hero in this series, Cobb has his own kind of quiet charm and competence. The mystery wasn't particularly hard to figure out, but the appeal in this book lies more in the characterization and the growing support and confidence between Cobb and Tru. I'm moving on to the rest of the series and glad there are more books to come.
February 26, 2019
5 stars, such a good book. I'm so glad I discovered this author - the books are really well-written, with a good plot and great character development. I like that the romance is a big part of the book but it's not the main source of conflict - it's not all relationship drama. I've really enjoyed this series, even though I didn't read it in order. definitely going to continue on with this author. I'm not really sure why the ratings are not higher.
August 26, 2022
In this second book of the Bitter Springs series, Cobb Bridger is hired to track down a young woman who apparently stole something of value. Tru Morrow is the new schoolmistress in Bitter Springs, respected by the town. Cobb is both attracted to her and doubtful of his employer's claims. It's a good mystery set in the old West with likable characters, good historical detail, and an interesting story.
October 14, 2024
This felt a little long but I like Jo Goodman's style. This couple was a little off. I found Cobb to be flat and Tru to be starchy. I couldn't picture them or particularly feel much emotion about them. They didn't have a lot of chemistry as a couple. Cobb seemed apathetic and Tru uninvested in their relationship. Also, Tru made some really weird choices and how she dealt with the villain of the story was bizarre
January 2, 2018
Great story. I enjoyed reading.
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