Taming Lady Temperance

The Secret Society of Spinsters #1

by Karen Witemeyer

When passion for justice conflicts with the heart, which will prevail?

Noreen O'Sullivan is an enthusiastic member of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union and believes herself called to defend the cause of prohibition. When she's invited to join the Secret Society of Spinsters, Noreen jumps at the chance to rally others to her movement and shut down the local saloon for good. However, her passionate campaigning often puts her at odds with the men around her—including the local deputy.

Deputy James Paxton believes in preserving the peace, but Miss O'Sullivan has been disturbing his peace for months. If James wants to be elected sheriff, he can't afford to be seen as her ally. But when Noreen ropes him into helping her plan a temperance march, their growing closeness sparks unexpected feelings. Then tensions escalate at the saloon and accusations fly. James must choose between upholding his badge and protecting the woman who's captured his heart—knowing either choice could cost him everything.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical Romance, Christian, Westerns, Fiction, Romance

330 pages, Paperback

First published February 17, 2026

About the author

For those who love to smile as they read, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. Voted #1 Readers' Favorite Christian Historical Author in 2023 by Family Fiction Magazine, Karen is a multiple award-winning author and a firm believer in the power of happy endings. She is an avid cross-stitcher, tea drinker, and family board game player who makes her home in Abilene, TX with her heroic husband who vanquishes laundry dragons and dirty dish villains whenever she's on deadline.

Karen also loves to reward her readers. Every month she gives away two inspirational historical novels to someone from her newsletter list and offers substantial bonus content on her website. To learn more about Karen and her books, or to join her subscriber list, please visit www.karenwitemeyer.com.

Reviews

[BookLoverAmanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taming Lady Temperance by Karen Witemeyer
Book 1 in The Secret Society of Spinsters Series
4 Stars
Blog Post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...

This was just the book I needed during a hard season, filled with laughs and wit! We have a spinster, Noreen and our Deputy, James. Noreen is a member of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union and it's her goal to defend the cause of prohibition. James is the Deputy who wants to preserve the peace...but Miss Noreen ain't havin' any peace! :) She is invited to join the Secret Society of Spinsters and jumps at the chance to rally others behind her movement to shut the local saloon down. James is wanting to be elected sheriff so he really can't afford to be seen as her ally but Noreen ropes him into her plans for a temperance march...the rest is history.

I just had a good time with this book. I think its a fun, old west style book that is a good mix of lightheartedness and emotional depth too.

James and Noreen together was chef's kiss! They were so funny because they were total opposites and yet, they find themselves pulled to one another all the same. Noreen wasn't your typical female lead either, she was strong willed and passionate about what she believed in.

This has a good faith thread and I loved the ending with the bit of mystery and court room-trial dynamics!

Read if you like:
- Clean, historical romances
- Western Feel
- Cowboys
- Strong Willed Heroines
- Faith Content
- Humor and Banter

Thank you to Bethany House for providing a complimentary copy of this book to honestly read and review. All thoughts are my own.

[(Katie) Paperbacks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I fell in love with the characters and setting. A headstrong prohibition woman and local sheriff go head to head in this historical love story.

I loved the action and romance. Every page was better than the last and I couldn't wait to find out how it ended. Karen Witemeyer never disappoints with her blend of romance and historical era stories.

4.5⭐

*thank you to Bethany House for the complimentary copy of this book to read, all thoughts are my own.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars!

I absolutely loved this witty, sprightly story of a spinster and a lawman and what happens when Noreen gets just a bit too enthusiastic about her pet project, Prohibition and Temperance pledges. She’s got good reason from a traumatic past to feel as she dos, but is she putting her pet crusades before God and others?

This is classic Karen Witemeyer at her best. I wanted to jump in the pages to be personal friends to both James and Noreen and to at least half the town. I’m so excited about this new series and don’t want to wait months to return to the spinsters and their possible beaux.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret Society of Spinsters series is off to a promising start with this captivating, inspiring Western romance offering. The story revolves around spunky, passionate yet vulnerable temperance reformer Noreen O'Sullivan and dedicated, honorable deputy James Paxton. The imaginatively crafted cast of characters also includes an engaging sisterhood of devoted, supportive spinsters seeking to make their community of Albany, Texas, a better place to live. The fast-moving, expertly plotted storyline, with emotional depth and just the right mix of lighthearted and heartrending moments, kept me reading expectantly to see what happened next. As always Ms. Witemeyer captures the atmosphere and the distinctive flavor of the Old West with immersive detail. I felt like I was there witnessing the action first-hand. I enjoyed the slow-building, challenging opposites-attract-romance. I greatly appreciate the strong faith thread with encouraging themes of forgiveness, God's faithfulness and sovereignty, and how He works all things for good. This is an exceptional Western romance read, and I highly recommend it!
I read an early copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Heather Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took me longer than usual to care about these characters and the plot. As a teetotaler myself, I still found Noreen's singlemindedness against alcohol to be unrelatable, making for a slow start. I do understand her reasons for it, and it's all presented well though.
But as she grew, more twists were introduced, and faith became such a central part of the story, I became more engaged. I enjoyed meeting Noreen's friends, and I'm interested in them getting their own books. While this one didn't leap out as a favorite to me, it was still a decent read and I love the way Witemeyer writes faith stories.

[♥Rachel♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Noreen O’Sullivan is determined to shut down the local tavern, warning anyone who’ll listen that strong drink destroys families, something she knows all too well. So, when she’s invited to join the Secret Society of Spinsters, she’s thrilled. With their support, she finally has the numbers and the confidence to push her cause forward.

Sheriff James Paxton admires Noreen’s conviction, even if her crusade tends to stir up trouble with the tavern’s owner and patrons. The complaints keep landing on his desk, and he worries her boldness will eventually put her in danger. When Noreen asks for his help, he knows he must remain neutral as the county’s peacekeeper, but that doesn’t stop James from quietly offering guidance and keeping a watchful eye on her.

At first, Noreen seemed a bit fanatical, but once her heartbreaking past came to light, her determination made perfect sense. Her stepfather was truly awful, and I was relieved to see she never let him break her spirit. I admired her grit, her compassion, and her willingness to listen and grow.

Taming Lady Temperance was a touching romance rooted in redemption and forgiveness. Faith and scripture play a meaningful role, but the story never felt preachy, more uplifting and hopeful. There’s a thread of mystery and danger woven throughout, and I genuinely worried for Noreen, though she always had her Spinster Sisters, and James at her back. I’m excited for the next romance in the series. Maybe Jane or Martha will get their turn!

I alternated between an audio version and e-copy and can recommend either version. I thought Kate Forbes did a wonderful job narrating all the voices; male, female and a range of ages seamlessly and with appropriate emotions!

I voluntarily read/listened to a copy courtesy of the publishers. These are my thoughts and opinions.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

“I’ve been called to love my enemies by a God who died on a cross for his.”

Karen Witemeyer has been one of my favorite authors from the moment I read Short Straw Bride, and her latest novel Taming Lady Temperance only reinforced that status. Noreen and James bantered their way easily into my heart, but I loved the beautifully tender moments between them just as much as I loved their quick wit and James’ can’t-help-himself grins. Deputy James Paxton is one of the truly good heroes in romance, a man of integrity and honor even if he can’t cook to save his life. Watching him fall for Noreen was everything swoony and sweet, and I adored his obvious delight in her sassy side, her courage, her heart, and of course her cooking. (He and I actually have something in common – the way to his heart, and mine, is through potatoes. LOL) His integrity puts him at odds with his love for her in this novel though, and how he balanced the two made me admire him even more than I already did.

Noreen is, as James reflected, an endearing mix of “Fire and sunshine, sass and sweetness, courage and compassion.” Her emotional backstory and some of the difficult circumstances she finds herself in now weren’t always easy to read, but they were important representations nonetheless. I related to her sense of justice as well as her deeply-felt passions against the people and vices that keep others in bondage to sin. Which means that the lessons she learns in Taming Lady Temperance were truths that I need to remember just as much as she does. Things like loving our enemies, keeping pace with God instead of running ahead of Him, and extending grace to those who’ve wronged us (including ourselves). Witemeyer tucks this wisdom into the story in a way that feels organic to the characters’ growth journeys, not just Noreen and James but an assortment of side characters who needed those reminders as well. I also loved the sisterhood between Noreen and her two best friends, Martha and Jane, and I eagerly anticipate reading their stories in the future.

Bottom Line: Taming Lady Temperance by Karen Witemeyer is as sweet as it is swoony and as witty as it is touching. I loved the depth and the spiritual threads, but I also loved that it’s not a heavy read despite dealing with some serious topics. Because even as they each wrestled with their own internal conflicts, Noreen and James made me smile every time they shared the page, and the sparks between them quite simply delighted me. There are some characters I would have dearly loved to purse whomp though… which is why I needed the never-heavy-handed threads on mercy just as much as Noreen and James (and a few others) did. Y’all, Witemeyer has seamlessly woven together charm, chemistry, humor, grace, justice, and emotion to make this a well-rounded story that you won’t be able to put down.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Meagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for this #gifted book!*
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Title: Taming Lady Temperance
Author: Karen Witemeyer
Genre: Historical Fiction
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: Noreen O’Sullivan is passionate about temperance to say the least. But sometimes, her passion comes across as well—cantankerous. And Deputy James Paxton is left to keep the peace between the woman who hates the drink and the men in the town who love it. When Noreen seeks James’ advice and expertise, Deputy Paxton finds himself drawn to Noreen in a way he doesn’t understand. And Noreen is just as unsettled since she’s written off any chances of love and has committed to being a spinster. As the two navigate their respective roles in society, is it possible to understand each other’s ways? Or are they much too different to even consider a future together?

Analysis: I didn’t think I was a fan of Westerns, but I think Karen Witemeyer just changed my mind. I absolutely loved this book! The characters were true to life, and I especially loved Noreen. She was far from perfect but learning and growing in her faith all along the way. And James was the perfect man for her—steady, strong, and a man of honor and conviction. I really appreciated the growth of the characters and how they learned to understand each other and the community around them. And the romance is sweet and swoony! If you’re looking for an adventure in the Wild Wild West, I definitely recommend this historical romance!

Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Lisa M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am always eager to try new series by the fabulous historical western fiction writer Karen Witemeyer. It's a "sight unseen" relationship with her at this point. If she writes it, I'll read it. LOL. I also love spinster stories. :)

The lead character in this novel is Noreen. A zealous, passionate fire-brand when it comes to the Temperance movement. She is determined to close down the saloon in her town at ALL costs. But no one knows the true deep reason as to why.

I loved seeing her grow as a character through her friendship with the deputy. As she experiences true kindness from a man who doesn't try to silence or stifle her. Respect. And in turn that helps tone down her zeal and help it become constructive for her desires regarding the temperance movement.

I love the secret sisters society and I imagine her two friends will be next in the series! :)

Also great messages of faith on forgiveness.

4 Stars

*Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my ARC. All opinions are 100% my own.

[Sylvia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this start to Karen Witmeyer’s newest series, The Secret Society of Spinsters! Taming Lady Temperance takes on a more serious tone than most of Witemeyer’s other stories, however there is a good balance with lightheartedness and romance. James is such a swoony hero, and although Noreen’s personality is quite different from mine, she grew on me and I ultimately related to her more than I expected. I’ve already connected with a few side characters whose stories I hope are forthcoming. Definitely add this one to your TBR! 4.5/5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Madisyn Carlin]

RTC

[Alicia (aliciasbooksanctuary) · Rating 4 out of 5]

OVERALL STAR RATING: 4/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5

I can’t believe it’s taken me this many years to finally pick up a book by Karen Witemeyer! I loved this story and the passion and determination that the main characters held. It was an inspiring read, full of depth with a heartfelt romance that’ll sweep you off your feet.

Noreen O’Sullivan has fully embraced spinster status. Her life’s passion doesn’t involve a man – she feels her God given purpose is to fight for prohibition. She joins the Secret Society of Spinsters and together these women try and put the local saloon out of business. Noreen’s cause doesn’t come without deeply rooted personal reasons. Alcohol has played a big and dark role in her upbringing. Some find Noreen over the top, but those who know her story, understand her mission. One such person is Deputy James Paxton. He’s hesitant to work alongside Noreen’s cause because he’s vying for a position as town sheriff. If he ruffles too many feathers, that dream is hopeless. He can’t help but feel a special connection to Noreen though and the more he learns about her past, the more he wants to help her fight for the cause.

A lot of unexpected and chaotic suspense begins to unfold in the second half of this book that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I don’t want to say too much at the risk of spoiling things, but I assure you that you won’t be able to put this one down. This story is proof that God moves in mysterious ways and our faith and trust in Him is the most important thing.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary

[Emily Waits (emilylovesreading_) · Rating 4 out of 5]

(I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.)

I love Karen Witemeyer books, so I’m thrilled to have a new series by her to look forward to!

Noreen O’Sullivan is a woman on a mission: a mission to turn her town into a dry town. Noreen has been personally hurt by alcohol abuse in her family and this sets her on a path to leading a prohibition movement. James Paxton, the town deputy, would love to avoid getting involved and choosing sides, but ultimately as the story progresses, he finds himself more and more involved…with the temperance movement and with Noreen!

This story was really cute. It took me a bit to get into, but I felt that things really took off in the second half of the book. There’s a bit of suspense and mystery in this story and though I did figure out the mystery early on, I still really enjoyed watching the events unfold and James and Noreen work together. I really enjoy an opposites-attract-romance and this was a wonderful example of that!

I’m looking forward to the rest of the series!

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Karen has been one of my top favorite authors for over a decade, and when she has a new book it goes to straight to the top of my must reads. Her newest “Taming Lady Temperance,” did not disappoint. A wonderful blend of humor, mystery, a great cast of characters and a fun start to her new series. I thoroughly enjoyed how she wrote certain elements of the story and the ending was perfect. Another fantastic read from Karen!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and also pre-ordered my own Audible copy. I was not required to post a positive review and all thoughts are my own.

[Makayla Ledingham · Rating 5 out of 5]

*school girl squeals*

Wow it was amazing!!! it was charming! it had a great spiritual thread woven in, some good humor, ahhhh it was just all the things that reminds me why I love her writing and the words she creates! and it reminds me why I love this genre
It was just all the things! you cant help but love James and Noreen

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book is fantastic! The storyline is engaging and informative.

The characters are well written and easy to like (for the most part). I really connected with Noreen. She is a lot like me! Her passion towards temperance often gets her into trouble but it doesn't deter her from speaking her mind. When her past is revealed, the hurt and abuse that she suffered; it makes perfect sense that she is so adamant about the ills of alcohol. James is swoon-worthy with a capital S! He is proud to serve as a deputy for Albany, Texas. His passion for justice, protection and peace is apparent. I absolutely adore Luella, Jane and Martha! Their steadfast and loyal friendship helps Noreen to be found innocent of "crimes."

The main issue that is addressed in this book is alcoholism. An important issue for sure. This horrible disease runs through both sides of my family tree. Noreen was certainly impacted negatively by her father's alcoholism. Poor Luella almost didn't live because of her father's alcoholism. It's sad that in the late 1800's, women almost had no way to escape their husbands abuse. Thankfully that has changed.

I was provided a complimentary copy of the ARC from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Noreen O’Sullivan is singleminded with little thought of how her actions affect others. Even though she has very good reasons for her temperance movement, it took a long time for me to warm up to her because of this disregard. Deputy Paxton, on the other hand, is a delight - even tempered and fair minded. T his is a sweet romance with a little mystery built in, though if you pay attention, the reveal will not be a surprise. This is book one in the series, and I do look forward to future stories.

I liked this book and would recommend it to lovers of old west historical romance.

This is Christian fiction so expect prayer and a lot of discussions about faith.

Family friendly.

I listened to the audiobook which was masterfully read by Kate Forbes.

Thanks to NetGalley and RBMedia. I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Teri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every book I’ve read by Karen Witemeyer has been wonderful, but this new series, The Secret Society of Spinsters, is a downright delight! The ambitious sheriff’s deputy James tangles with Noreen the feisty temperance advocate right off, exactly as one would expect. However, the Secret Society comes into play, and we meet so many charming people in this late 1800s small town. Situations change, however, which leads to the sparks zinging off the rooftops! If you love historical romance with a bit of mystery thrown in, definitely grab this “he falls first”, enemies to lovers, opposites attract bit of perfection all wrapped up in a neat little package! I also got the chance to listen to part via the audiobook, and Kate Forbes is impeccable as always. I received an advanced copy of this book/audiobook from the publisher via NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore the ladies of the Secret Society of Spinsters. What a fun idea for a new series!
Karen Witemeyer is off to a good start with Taming Lady Temperance. I loved the story of Noreen, a spinster dedicated to the cause of temperance, and James, the local deputy sheriff. They fall fast and hard but have many obstacles to overcome. I was kept reading well past my bedtime to find out how the mountains would be moved to give them their happily ever after.

Witemeyer has written an engaging story full of romance, humor, and mystery set in a wonderful small town. Her secondary characters add to the enjoyment of the story even the ones that are difficult to like. I look forward to the stories of Noreen’s friends and fellow members of the Secret Society. Just one more reason Witemeyer is a must read for me!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Noreen is part of the temperance movement for prohibition. Her deceased father was a bad drunk and became abusive. She is willing to go up against anyone. She is even is no longer welcome at her Stepfather and mother’s house because of her actions. She enlists the help of local law enforcement. The Deputy, James, is drawn to Noreen but he also has to make sure he keeps law and order and no one is above the law.
I enjoyed this story! I loved Noreen character. She has a lot of spunk. And she is really brave. And has strong beliefs. James is a great character. I loved how he did his job properly while making sure justice was served. I liked watching Noreen and James get together. Good Christian content. Overall a good story!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Joanne | wellreadcoffeeaddict · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars ✨

I love Karen’s books because they’re easy to read and always a good time. If you love historical western romance, this is a great book for you. I found the main character, Noreen, a hard character to like because of how narrow-minded she was, so I didn’t enjoy this one as much as I loved some of Karen’s other books. I also found some parts over the top, but that is typical of Karen’s books and I usually find it fun and entertaining, but I think I didn’t enjoy it since I couldn’t get behind Noreen. However, it was a well-rounded story with a hint of mystery.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Noreen is staunch in her belief in the temperance movement and is doing everything she can to shut the local saloon down. However, she tends to get a little too passionate about her cause. When she ends up at odds with the saloon owner, Deputy James Paxton steps in. I really enjoyed this first book in Witemeyer's new series. I've been a fan of hers for a long time and this series promises to be excellent. I really like how she develops the characters and the chemistry between James and Noreen is great. Looking forward to more in the series!

[Ellen Senechal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Witemeyer has done it again!

4.5 stars. (Will add my rating after the book is published, per Goodreads guidelines)

Already I am anticipating the release of the rest of the series 😄 Nora and James' story was great. I loved the deeper themes, the characters, and being reminded how always truly faith- and scripture-filled Witemeyer's books are.

Recommended for those who enjoy clean, historical Christian romance.

[Sophia]

She’s a spitfire with a cause and he’s a lawman who loves her. Karen Witemeyer’s inspirational western historical romances have caught my eye for a while now and finally, I had the chance to give one a whirl for a delightful experience.

My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy TBA.

[Dashea Carlson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to the audio version of this book. The narrator was amazing! Although this is not the typical style of book that I read, I enjoyed it. It’s great if you are looking for historical, women’s fiction with some romance. It has motivated me to learn more about the temperance movement.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Claia Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I throughly enjoyed this new book by Karen Witemeyer. Noreen is an incredibly strong woman who won’t let anything, or anyone stop her from fighting for a change. This story delves into a very heart wrenching subject that will have you really wishing you could stand up and fight right along side Noreen. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author. This review is my own and has not been influenced in any way.

[Emilee Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taming Lady Temperance is my first 5 star read of 2026 and what a way to begin the year! Whenever I get one of Karen's books in the mail I go through the same agonizing struggle every reader faces. Do I binge it in a matter of days or do I savor every chapter? This time, I choose to linger and I'm so glad I did.
I've been eagerly anticipating the launch of the Secret Society of Spinster series and Karen did not disappoint. The tone she sets from the first chapter is filled with such warmth and conviction. I immediately connected with the story. In today's society spinster doesn't have quite the same negative connotation and as a single woman over a certain age, I'm glad. At times being single can still feel lonely and sometimes isolating. Karen reminds us to see our worth not defined by marital status, but who we are in God's eyes. I was saying a lot of Amens throughout the first chapter.

Noreen O' Sullivan is an enthusiastic member of the Women's Christian Temperance Union. She believes it's her calling to defend the cause of prohibition. This puts her at odds with many of the men in the community particularly the handsome town deputy. Joining the Secret Society of Spinsters, Noreen sees this as her opportunity not only for friendship, but to rally others to her cause and shut down the local saloon for good.

The way Karen wrote Noreen she strikes the perfect balance. She's a strong opinionated woman who is unapologetic in her convictions, but she is never harsh or self-righteous. She'd bold without being overbearing, principled without losing tenderness.

Deputy James Paxton believes in preserving peace. He also has high hopes of seeking to be elected as the new sheriff. When she ropes him into assisting her with a temperance march being seen as her ally could cost him this dream. As he gets to know Noreen, he comes to appreciate her take-charge personality in a crisis combined with her level-headedness.

James Paxton. Imagine my moony-eyed expression over this hero. Karen can write heroes you want to be real that you wish would step off the pages into your life. Think of him as combination of Travis Archer (Short-Straw Bride) and Philip Carmichael (Cloaked in Beauty). By this I mean he's got the intense protectiveness that readers love about Travis combined with Philip's honorable to the core character trait. (Now I have an urge to re-read both of these books.) James is protective without being domineering, honorable without being rigid.

I like how he both challenges and encourages Noreen in her causes, but more importantly spiritually. Their dynamic isn't about one overpowering the other, but about mutual respect and admiration. I loved watching James and Noreen slowly fall in love with each other. It was my favorite part of the story.

Taming Lady Temperance reminds us that God uses unlikely partnerships, strong personalities, and even conflict to shape our hearts.

If this is how the Secret Society of Spinisters series begins, I can't wait to see what comes next. Without hesitation 5 very shiny stars. Bravo Karen! I can't wait to read more.

[Paty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another hit for Karen Witemeyer’s Romantic and Lighthearted Western Historical Romances! This one pulled me in from page one!

Noreen O’Sullivan is determined to shut down the town’s saloon and prove that conviction can change the world. Deputy James Paxton is determined to keep the peace -and win his bid for sheriff.

Working together was never part of the plan.

But when Noreen pulls James into her temperance campaign, sparks fly faster than rumors in a small town. As tensions rise and accusations threaten everything he’s worked for, James must choose between his badge and the woman who’s captured his heart.

Because sometimes the greatest risk isn’t breaking the law… it’s falling in love.

One of the best parts of the book was the characters. I just loved Noreen’s spunk and sass, and her determination to do something to help women and children at the mercy of a drunkard husband/father, as she and her mama suffered. And yet, there’s a vulnerability at being rejected that only James detects, which makes her more relatable. Jame is a swooning hero with his integrity, sense of duty, and his heart of gold that sees persons and not only law breakers. And the romance was sooo endearing! A few scenes touched my heart and made me sigh.

What stayed with me most in this one wasn’t just the romance, the lighthearted banter, or the small-town tension - it was the way faith was woven into the struggle. Noreen is so certain she’s standing for what’s right. James is so certain he must uphold his duty. Both are sincere. Both believe they’re honoring God in their choices. And yet… both have things to learn.

There’s something humbling about watching characters realize that conviction alone isn’t enough. That zeal without grace can wound. That duty without compassion can harden the heart. And that sometimes God uses the very person who challenges us most to refine us.

I was especially moved by the reminder that obedience to God doesn’t always look like winning an argument or proving a point. Sometimes it looks like surrender. Like listening. Like allowing the Lord to soften places in our hearts we didn’t even realize had grown rigid. To learn to forgive and be merciful.

In a town divided by strong opinions and louder voices, what ultimately stood out was the quiet work of God shaping two hearts -teaching them that love and truth are never meant to compete.

And maybe that’s the real beauty of it: when we place our plans, our ambitions, and even our causes in His hands, He writes something far better than we could have imagined.

This book is not only inspiring but utterly enjoyable! I laughed out loud and smiled too many times! I highly recommend it to everyone! The main characters will capture your heart immediately and stay with you!

Can’t wait to read more about the Secret Society of Spinsters!

I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers and wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: Taming Lady Temperance
Author: Karen Witemeyer
Narrated by: Kate Forbes
Publisher: Recorded Books
Length: Approximately 12 hours and 51 minutes
Source: Thank-you to @karen.witemeyer @bethanyhousefiction @greatreadsbookpromo for the review copy of the physical book as part of the Great Reads Book Promotion Tour and thank-you to @Netgalley for the audiobook review copy.

Do you have a cause that you believe in? I have many, but a lifelong cause I have is to promote engineering to youth and to help increase the number of women in engineering.

Noreen O’Sullivan firmly believes in the temperance cause. When she is invited to join the Secret Society of Spinsters, she hopes she will be able to rally others to her cause to close the local tavern. Not everyone is town is happy about this, and Deputy James Paxton is often called in to keep the peace. Noreen and the Deputy are at odds at first, but soon sparks fly. Will these two be able to find love? Will Noreen be able to shut down the tavern?

My thoughts on this novel:
• I loved the discussion of favorite books including Little Women.

• It was interesting to think about “spinster” ladies and how they could be devoted to a cause back then, like temperance, and work together for a change for the greater good.

• I was not sure about Noreen’s crusade at first, but as she described her abuse by her alcoholic father and his early death, it made sense that she wanted to shut it own. The cruel violent beating of her friend in a similar circumstance was horrifying.

• I loved Deputy James Paxton and how he is always trying to do with is right for the community. He was caring and empathetic man. I also liked how he investigated a crime at the end and was able to put together all the clues. I also loved how he was able to change his viewpoint as he emphasized with people.

• I was call this enemies to friends to lovers book.

• This was a western frontier historical romance set in Albany Texas in 1894. It was a clean romance and a Christian read.

• The point of view would switch between Noreen and James.

• I loved Noreen and James’s relationship and the growth of both characters throughout the novel.

• The audiobook was interesting with a good narrator.

• There are great discussion questions at the end of the book for a book club to use.

• This is the first book in a new series, The Secret Society of Spinsters. I am looking forward to continuing to read this series. An exciting excerpt of the next book in the series is included at the end of this book.

Overall, Taming Lady Temperance by Karen Witemeyer was a good western historical romance that had an interesting spin with the temperance and spinster women topics.

This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2026...

[Cassidee Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Karen Witemeyer skillfully weaves a heartbreaking story that, at the same time, overflows with hope.

Drunken rage, flying fists, alcohol-induced stupor—these are the very evils Noreen O’Sullivan is determined to eradicate from her town. Passionate and driven, Noreen has taken it upon herself to expose the dangers of alcohol and shut down the local saloon, regardless of the opposition she faces.

Naturally, her crusade angers some of the town’s men, and a handsome deputy named James is tasked with keeping the peace.

I often struggle with books where the female lead steamrolls the male lead—belittling him, acting superior, and refusing to listen—only for the author to label her “independent and feisty” and expect us to cheer when he falls in love with her bossy behavior. No, thank you. That is not godly wife material.

After the first few chapters, I feared this book would follow that pattern. Noreen initially came across as brash, overbearing, and combative.
But what followed was one of the most moving character transformations I’ve ever read. I have before gone from disliking a character so deeply to feeling such kinship and affection for her by the end of the book. Noreen’s tough exterior proved to be a carefully constructed wall protecting a vulnerable heart—one that longed to serve God and uplift those around her. As the story unfolded, she grew emotionally and spiritually, took responsibility for her actions, and humbly changed her ways. It was a truly beautiful redemption arc.

The love that developed between Noreen and James was equally beautiful—quiet, subtle, filled with teasing but respectful and sweet. It was almost as if their souls recognized one another as their other half.

James stood as a strong force for justice throughout the story, and even his love for Noreen never compromised his commitment to truth. He is, without question, hero material.

I also loved the emphasis on friendship. Though strong-willed, Noreen valued the wisdom and counsel of her friends. One moment in particular stood out, when a friend told her: “You are the most fearless person I know, Noreen O’Sullivan. Just because you’re changing tactics and making yourself vulnerable tonight, don’t forget you’ve been given not a ‘spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.’ Strength, heart, and intelligence. You possess all three. Usually, you let your strength drive your words, but tonight let it drive your faith as your heart and mind shape your message.” Wise words—and a powerful reminder for us all.

Karen Witemeyer has written another winner, full of wit, danger, growth, and just a touch of mystery. I heartily recommend this book!