A Story of Faith and FamilyWhen singing sensation Leah Dean becomes the target of an obsessed fan, she changes her appearance, assumes a new identity, and temporarily flees her L.A. home—only to find herself stranded in small-town Texas. When an investigator with the local sheriff’s department offers her a job helping with housework at his ranch home and keeping his ill sister company, she accepts the position . . . reluctantly. Leah worries that she’s woefully unprepared for the work she’s agreed to do. And she’s right. Joshua Calhoun is doing what any decent man would do—offering aid to a woman who’s obviously terrified. Even though he’s not sure what she’s running from, he plans to protect her and pray for her. What Joshua will not do, is get involved. He’s survived the loss of his parents and his best friend, as well as a breakup with a woman who wanted no part of “living in the sticks.” He’s now watching helplessly as his sister battles cancer, and his heart is breaking at another possible loss. So he will help the woman he rescues, but he’s keeping his distance. Yet Joshua is surprised by how much he enjoys her company. Although she has nothing in the way of job skills, she’s a fast learner. And she makes him laugh—something he’s almost forgotten how to do. As he becomes more attracted to her, Joshua is determined to uncover the secret she’s keeping. He needs to know everything before he shares his true feelings. But with numerous responsibilities and distractions, including a prisoner who escaped from custody and vowed to seek revenge, Joshua is blindsided when he learns the truth. This sweet, down-to-earth woman is not at all who or what she seems. But he's already fallen for the woman she’s pretending to be.
The characters captivated my heart! Definitely a hard-to-put-down suspenseful romance! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Right from the beginning, I was drawn into the action of this book. Skillfully author Laura Conner Kestner gives hints as to the circumstances surrounding the characters. I enjoyed being drawn into the drama surrounding performer Leah Dean and lawman/rancher Joshua Calhoun. The suspense of the situation is palpable and the attraction between the couple is sweetly romantic. Yes, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough! And I love hidden identity stories!
Along with well done suspense, I also enjoyed the themes of small-town life, of family strength and of protecting and serving others. All the characters are portrayed so well…little Molly, dedicated Vanessa, even big dog Remi. My favorite parts were the inspirational threads woven into the characters’ lives, especially with the touching…and realistically heartbreaking….scenes with Hannah, Joshua’s sister. Such wisdom and faith!
Previously, I’ve read the author’s four historical romances featuring the Calhoun family and Moccasin Rock, Texas. Even though this is a stand alone book, it was a delight to reconnect with the later generations in this contemporary romance. The ending is perfect, with the promise of hope and faith. I highly recommend this engaging story by a favorite award-winning author. If you like romantic suspense, you’ll be thrilled you put Fair Haven on top of your TBR stack!
Favorite quote: “I understand that God doesn’t promise we won’t have trouble in life. He does promise He’ll be with us as we face those troubles.”
I really enjoyed this story about two wounded souls. I've never read this author before but will certainly look for more of her books now. Leah is running from a stalker and has changed her appearance. She is a famous singer and wouldn't you know, ends up in a small country town rescued on the side of the road by a law enforcement officer. Joshua is willing to help her and have her come live with his family while being a friend to his very ill sister but that's it. He's lost too many people close to him and he's been burned in love so no way will he open his heart. Besides, this woman is hiding something, and he will definitely find out what! I loved how Leah befriended the ill sister and touched her life even though she was going through trials of her own. Joshua had a lot of hurt inside him and he wanted Leah to trust him, but she just couldn't. A very good story that touched my heart.
Loved this book from the beginning to the end... Hated to see it end . This is the first book I've read by this author, but I sure do hope there are more. Great job!