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, Westerns, Historical Romance, Romance, Christian, Historical

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.

[JaneReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this and really enjoyed me time reading. James is the local lawman and is fighting to keep the peace in town between the local saloon owner and Noreen who wants the saloon shut down. Things escalate over time and James does what his job requires even when he doesn't want to. After a major event happens James continues to fight for what he believes is right and does his job even when it goes against what his heart wants. I loved his determination to find the truth no matter what it revealed. Noreen begins the book as a very stubborn opinionated women, ignoring advice from others. But over the course of the story we see her grow and change from being so outspoken to someone who seeks to find the best way to share her beliefs without being overbearing. I loved the support of the sisterhood and how they stood by Noreen when things looked bad. There were some scenes that made me laugh out loud and characters that captured my heart. Ms. Witemeyer has written another great story that transported me back to the western heartland and had me falling in love with the characters. (I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)

[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.

[Joleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet book about a single 24 year-old “spinster" named Noreen O'Sullivan, whose life was dedicated to the temperance movement. Her history with an abusive drunk father created in her a hatred for alcohol, and a drive to have a saloon removed from the town.

Meanwhile as she solicits the aid from the local deputy to plan a temperance parade, he begins to see her as something other than a nuisance.

Cute book, wonderful characters. Love the faith inclusion throughout.

[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

[Hannah Simmons · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars, what a ride!!

this book is so good, highly recomended!

[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

[Nicole Williamson · Rating 4 out of 5]

An honorable sheriff, a prickly temperance lady, good faith content, a sisterhood, and a little bit of mystery. It took me a bit longer to get through this, but I still enjoyed it. Not in my top 3 favorite Whitaker novels, but a good one.

Audio: voice fit the characters well

Romance: kisses only

[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.

[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.

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

Taming Lady Temperance is the first in the Secret Society of Spinsters series set in the 1890s about women who support Suffrage and causes like Prohibition. Noreen is the heroine of the first book and this sassy spinster is all about shutting down the town saloon. She’s excited to become a member of the Secret Society of Spinsters and proud of her spinsterhood. Spunky and stubborn she is undeterred by opposition and unintimidated when the law, in the form of handsome and gentleman-like Deputy James Paxton is determined to keep the peace – even while attempting to hide just how charming he finds the feisty Noreen.

Noreen has her reasons for needing to drive out the saloon, growing up in an alcoholic father’s home will do it, but she has lessons to learn in the wisest way to get her point across and James’ tries to teach her this. She’s a bit over the top earnest at first.

The lighthearted and often fun, witty thoughts and banter had me smiling, the sweet slow-burn romance as James works on Noreen’s heart was a tender and welcome part of the story, but I was also pleased as punch when a bit of suspense kicked up its heels in the latter-half of Taming Lady Temperance showcasing James’ lawman abilities and a great surprise ending.

Taming Lady Temperance had strong inspirational themes, good-hearted romance pair, well-written characters and relationship development and a colorful historic western backdrop going for it. I would definitely pick up the next Secret Society of Spinsters and try some of Karen Witemeyer’s backlist.

I rec'd a finished print copy from Bethany House fiction and Great Reads Book Promo to read in exchange for an honest review.

My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy 4.24.26.