Defender of the Widow's Heart: A Historical Western Romance Novel

by Elaine Shields

Mariana Olsen is a woman who has known hardship, time and time again. After becoming a widow, she buys a run-down saloon in Sandy Springs, Texas, determined to create a haven for women. However, she soon finds that all is not as it seems in her new home – and neither is the handsome, helpful handyman who introduces himself as James.

James Harper is a man on the run. Accused of a crime he did not commit and framed for much more, he helps Mariana with her boarding house in exchange for a place to stay. However, falling in love with the widow was never part of the plan. Can James allow himself to accept his feelings, and maybe strive for a life that he never imagined before?

Together, Mariana and James must unravel a complex web of deceit and danger and unmask the culprits behind one of the most dangerous gangs in the West. Armed with only their wits, a sense of justice, and a desire to uncover the truth, the two of them tackle a deep-seated corruption, as well as their own reluctant feelings towards the other.

"Defender of the Widow's Heart" is a historical romance novel of approximately 60,000 words. No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed happily ever after.

Widow Heroine, Wrongfully Accused Hero, Love Amid Danger

396 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 4, 2024

Reviews

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story had me on the edge of my seat. So many, touching moments, then a sense of constant danger.

I loved Mariana, who was courageous, yet cautious. She was willing to help anyone, especially those fleeing abuse. I loved following the completion of her boarding house as her dream came to life. The town of Sandy Springs, Texas wasn't an easy place to start a business, but with unexpected help and the town coming together, there was change.

I received an ARC; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the two main characters in this story, Mariana, who was a widow and whose husband had left her with enough resources to venture west with the intention of starting a haven for women. Her story is revealed slowly, leading me to wonder why she seemed so passionate about creating a safe place for single women.

James has a troubled past, and while he has become a successful rancher, he longs to find love and have a family. When their paths collide, both Mariana and James have to confront their fears and learn to trust, while facing danger, and fighting against those that wish them harm.

This story provides insight into some of the harsh realities of life for early pioneers into the Western frontier. I felt that most of the characters were well-developed, and the story unfolded with enough action and intrigue to keep the reader engaged. I did notice a few grammatical errors, but those did not take away from the enjoyment of the story.

[Rhonda Sledge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another hit by Elaine Shields! This book gives you a glimpse of the hardships often encountered by women in the frontier era. But women aren't the only ones targeted in this story. The main characters in this story all have to find a way to remove themselves from their circumstances while trying to prove themselves trustworthy.

[Sherrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is very similar to one I read a few years ago, but with different twists. Marianna is a widow who wants to set up a boarding house for women after the death of her husband. James comes along looking for work and stays. There are a lot of twists in the story, and everyone has their secrets, some very dangerous. It is worth reading.

[Ruby Fielding]

All of Elaine Shields books are wonderful and a great read. Ruby