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Red Ridge Chronicles #6
The Newcomer
Kent Jackson came to Red Ridge seeking redemption. As the new hotel owner, he's determined to build a reputable business and become part of the community—a fresh start where no one knows his past. But peace proves elusive. When trouble arrives, Kent must cooperate with dangerous men, or watch innocent people suffer. Including the woman who's captured his attention and made him hope for more than he deserves.
After a betrayal, Betty Doyle has given up on love. Content to work in her aunt's store, she looks forward to Kent's visits more than she cares to admit. Their easy conversations brighten her days, which makes his sudden distance all the more troubling. When strangers appear in town alongside a string of break-ins, including someone she thought she’d never see again, Betty can't shake her suspicions. Could Kent be involved in something sinister?
When the gunslingers of Red Ridge force his hand, Kent faces an impossible decision. Telling the truth could prove more deadly than maintaining his lie—but which will keep Betty safe? As danger tightens around them, Betty must confront two terrifying the man she's falling in love with isn't who he claims, and the ghost from her past hasn't come to Red Ridge by chance. In a town filled with secrets, truth becomes the riskiest gamble of all. Especially when it might have come too late.
These kisses only books can be enjoyed in any order, but are best read starting with book one.
After a betrayal, Betty Doyle has given up on love. Content to work in her aunt's store, she looks forward to Kent's visits more than she cares to admit. Their easy conversations brighten her days, which makes his sudden distance all the more troubling. When strangers appear in town alongside a string of break-ins, including someone she thought she’d never see again, Betty can't shake her suspicions. Could Kent be involved in something sinister?
When the gunslingers of Red Ridge force his hand, Kent faces an impossible decision. Telling the truth could prove more deadly than maintaining his lie—but which will keep Betty safe? As danger tightens around them, Betty must confront two terrifying the man she's falling in love with isn't who he claims, and the ghost from her past hasn't come to Red Ridge by chance. In a town filled with secrets, truth becomes the riskiest gamble of all. Especially when it might have come too late.
These kisses only books can be enjoyed in any order, but are best read starting with book one.
178 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 19, 2026
6 people are currently reading
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March 16, 2026I received a ARC, and all opinions are mine, this is another good book from Sarah Lamb, I have read all of this series, and they are all very good! This is a sweet, clean, faith, based historical romance, if that is the type of story you want, I would definitely recommend!
March 23, 2026
THE WEST IS FOR REINVENTION!
The story is part of the Red Ridge Chronicles series, set in the area of Red Ridge, Oregon. This is a clean, historical Western tale that explores the good, the bad, and the evil in people. The story takes place in the 1870s, a few hours outside of Red Ridge, Oregon.
“The gunslingers had worked separately and together over the last ten or so years. They kept in touch, always ready at a moment’s notice to join in a job or help a friend.”
Kent Jackson came through Red Ridge and ended up staying, buying the hotel from the couple who were ready to retire and move closer to family. It feels good to be a businessman, supplying employment for several people, and making an honest living.
Betty Doyle came from Denver to assist her Aunt Glinda Stover, a widow, with her small general store. It took some convincing to get her parents to agree for her to travel to Oregon. With her younger sister now engaged and planning a wedding, they consented. Betty is thriving in Red Ridge, helping her Aunt, offering ideas, and creating attractive displays. She has also made several new friends, wives to the famous retired gunslingers, who all now call Red Ridge home.
The story will have two strangers come to town, and Kent isn’t happy to see them. It is his black past staring him in the face, reminding him of a time he isn’t proud of. As the saying goes, “no good deed goes unpunished”, it sure comes back to haunt Kent. Jimbo and Harry are secretive, and while he warns them of the gunslingers that live in town, the men laugh it off. What happens when they harass Betty? Then there are strange things happening in town, break-ins, items missing, and even the law is watching. Betty catches a glimpse of a man whom she believes is her sister’s fiancé, but why would he be here in Oregon?
Having trouble after the first two strangers doesn’t seem like a coincidence, but then, when Sam makes himself known to Betty, that scares her. Then the men imply that Kent is part of their plans, leading her to question his intentions. With Betty and Kent, it is one step forward and two steps back. But what about the former gunslingers who cleaned up Red Ridge? Surely they are keeping watch and know more than they let on. With Kent and Betty having a chance at a future, or will his troubled past destroy the beginnings of their romance?
“All Kent knew was that life would never be the same again.”
The story is a page-turning tale of good versus evil, along with a sweet, clean love story, and the coveted happily ever after ending. It was another wonderful addition to the series, and this reader is happy to know that there will be at least one more book in the series.
Note: I read this book with my paid subscription to Kindle Unlimited.
The story is part of the Red Ridge Chronicles series, set in the area of Red Ridge, Oregon. This is a clean, historical Western tale that explores the good, the bad, and the evil in people. The story takes place in the 1870s, a few hours outside of Red Ridge, Oregon.
“The gunslingers had worked separately and together over the last ten or so years. They kept in touch, always ready at a moment’s notice to join in a job or help a friend.”
Kent Jackson came through Red Ridge and ended up staying, buying the hotel from the couple who were ready to retire and move closer to family. It feels good to be a businessman, supplying employment for several people, and making an honest living.
Betty Doyle came from Denver to assist her Aunt Glinda Stover, a widow, with her small general store. It took some convincing to get her parents to agree for her to travel to Oregon. With her younger sister now engaged and planning a wedding, they consented. Betty is thriving in Red Ridge, helping her Aunt, offering ideas, and creating attractive displays. She has also made several new friends, wives to the famous retired gunslingers, who all now call Red Ridge home.
The story will have two strangers come to town, and Kent isn’t happy to see them. It is his black past staring him in the face, reminding him of a time he isn’t proud of. As the saying goes, “no good deed goes unpunished”, it sure comes back to haunt Kent. Jimbo and Harry are secretive, and while he warns them of the gunslingers that live in town, the men laugh it off. What happens when they harass Betty? Then there are strange things happening in town, break-ins, items missing, and even the law is watching. Betty catches a glimpse of a man whom she believes is her sister’s fiancé, but why would he be here in Oregon?
Having trouble after the first two strangers doesn’t seem like a coincidence, but then, when Sam makes himself known to Betty, that scares her. Then the men imply that Kent is part of their plans, leading her to question his intentions. With Betty and Kent, it is one step forward and two steps back. But what about the former gunslingers who cleaned up Red Ridge? Surely they are keeping watch and know more than they let on. With Kent and Betty having a chance at a future, or will his troubled past destroy the beginnings of their romance?
“All Kent knew was that life would never be the same again.”
The story is a page-turning tale of good versus evil, along with a sweet, clean love story, and the coveted happily ever after ending. It was another wonderful addition to the series, and this reader is happy to know that there will be at least one more book in the series.
Note: I read this book with my paid subscription to Kindle Unlimited.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Newcomer combines romance, redemption, and a touch of suspense in a story about leaving the past behind and finding the courage to face it when it returns.
Kent Jackson has created a respectable life for himself as the hotel owner in Red Ridge, but his past isn’t as clean as it appears. When men from his former outlaw life show up in town, Kent is forced to confront the truth he’s been hiding—knowing that revealing it could cost him the future he hopes to build.
Betty Doyle carries her own quiet disappointment after the man she once hoped to marry chose her sister instead. Just as she begins to move forward with her life, that same man reappears as part of the outlaw gang threatening the town.
The story builds nicely as danger grows around Red Ridge. Misunderstandings between Betty and Kent create emotional tension, especially when she fears he may have returned to his old ways. When Betty becomes caught in the outlaws’ plans, the stakes become even higher.
Sarah Lamb adds plenty of action while still keeping the emotional heart of the story front and center. In the end, everything comes together for one of her signature satisfying conclusions—with both justice and love winning out.
Kent Jackson has created a respectable life for himself as the hotel owner in Red Ridge, but his past isn’t as clean as it appears. When men from his former outlaw life show up in town, Kent is forced to confront the truth he’s been hiding—knowing that revealing it could cost him the future he hopes to build.
Betty Doyle carries her own quiet disappointment after the man she once hoped to marry chose her sister instead. Just as she begins to move forward with her life, that same man reappears as part of the outlaw gang threatening the town.
The story builds nicely as danger grows around Red Ridge. Misunderstandings between Betty and Kent create emotional tension, especially when she fears he may have returned to his old ways. When Betty becomes caught in the outlaws’ plans, the stakes become even higher.
Sarah Lamb adds plenty of action while still keeping the emotional heart of the story front and center. In the end, everything comes together for one of her signature satisfying conclusions—with both justice and love winning out.
March 21, 2026
Kent came to Red Ridge for a second chance at life. He had been running with a gang and hoped they’d never find him here and he would never have to see their faces again. He had purchased a hotel from a sweet couple who were ready to retire. He’d never felt more content in his life. Sweet Betty, our heroine, had no beau, although her younger sister was about to be wed. She decided to go to Red Ridge to help her widowed aunt run her mercantile. She felt like she’d come home, except she did still yearn for a true love, like her sister. Who knew that they would find their true loves in Red Ridge. Strange coincidence! When, one day, Kent looked out and saw the two sleaze bags he used to steal with coming into his hotel, it sickened him. The story gets all messed up, really quick like from this point on. So many shocking things happen-one of them being Sam? Her future brother-in-law? In with the thieves? It just couldn’t be true!! You’ve got to read this adventurous story to find out all of the details. We’ve got Eli, and all of the ex-gunslingers in the story, too, of course. I am on the arc team and this is my personal review of this wonderful historical romance, with a touch of mystery!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This sixth addition to The Red Ridge Chronicles, one of my favorite western romance series, introduces hotel owner Kent Jackson who came to Red Ridge to make a fresh start, leaving his unsavory past behind. It was exciting to experience a new adventure with the gunslinger lawmen as they come to Kent's aid when his past resurfaces. The steadily paced storyline and captivating, realistic characters kept me engaged from beginning to end--a one sitting read. I love the way Kent and Betty's romantic relationship builds through meaningful everyday moments, helping them both learn to trust again. I enjoyed this story, and I recommend it as a quick, satisfying read. I look forward to returning to Red Ridge for the next exciting adventure!
I read an early copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I read an early copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 19, 2026
Will his past destroy their future?
I absolutely loved The Newcomer by Sarah Lamb! Set in charming Red Ridge, this historical Christian romance beautifully weaves faith, suspense, and heartwarming romance. Kent Jackson’s journey from redeemed outlaw to honorable hotel owner is compelling, and his growing relationship with Betty Doyle is tender, believable, and full of hope. The tension rises perfectly when Kent’s past catches up with him, keeping me on the edge of my seat as he navigates danger to protect the town—and the woman he loves. Sarah Lamb’s vivid setting, engaging characters, and heartfelt story made this book impossible to put down. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys romance, faith, and a dash of thrilling suspense!
I absolutely loved The Newcomer by Sarah Lamb! Set in charming Red Ridge, this historical Christian romance beautifully weaves faith, suspense, and heartwarming romance. Kent Jackson’s journey from redeemed outlaw to honorable hotel owner is compelling, and his growing relationship with Betty Doyle is tender, believable, and full of hope. The tension rises perfectly when Kent’s past catches up with him, keeping me on the edge of my seat as he navigates danger to protect the town—and the woman he loves. Sarah Lamb’s vivid setting, engaging characters, and heartfelt story made this book impossible to put down. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys romance, faith, and a dash of thrilling suspense!
March 20, 2026
Second Chance Romance
Delighted to be exiled from her family home, where she was treated as the Ugly Duckling by her parents, Betty discovers the possibilities present in the "wild west."
Even without reading any of the other tales in this fun series, you can enjoy this fast-paced adventure and love story to the fullest. Overlapping characters add depth and dimension to the books, but they are complete within themselves and can be read in any order. What a wonderful series! Men of action and adventure find the influence of the right woman has them mellowing a bit and settling down to domestic bliss--within reason. They've kept up their weapons skills and are still able to protect family, friends, and townsfolk.
Delighted to be exiled from her family home, where she was treated as the Ugly Duckling by her parents, Betty discovers the possibilities present in the "wild west."
Even without reading any of the other tales in this fun series, you can enjoy this fast-paced adventure and love story to the fullest. Overlapping characters add depth and dimension to the books, but they are complete within themselves and can be read in any order. What a wonderful series! Men of action and adventure find the influence of the right woman has them mellowing a bit and settling down to domestic bliss--within reason. They've kept up their weapons skills and are still able to protect family, friends, and townsfolk.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Excellent story.
Two people Betty and Kent are both trying to leave their past behind. One was a heartbreak and always being told they weren't good enough. The other had a pretty black criminal past that he was doing his best to leave behind.
When his past shows up in town causing trouble he wasn't sure what to do.
I throughly enjoyed reading this book and hope others will enjoy it as much as I did!
Two people Betty and Kent are both trying to leave their past behind. One was a heartbreak and always being told they weren't good enough. The other had a pretty black criminal past that he was doing his best to leave behind.
When his past shows up in town causing trouble he wasn't sure what to do.
I throughly enjoyed reading this book and hope others will enjoy it as much as I did!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The newcomer
I loved Kent and Betty’s story. Kent is new to town and running the hotel. He was a bad guy. Some of his old friends came to town. They are still bad guys. Betty is helping her aunt. Will Kent be able to get rid of the bad guys? Read the book to see. A very good short story. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received an advanced copy of the book from the author. This book review is my own opinion.
I loved Kent and Betty’s story. Kent is new to town and running the hotel. He was a bad guy. Some of his old friends came to town. They are still bad guys. Betty is helping her aunt. Will Kent be able to get rid of the bad guys? Read the book to see. A very good short story. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received an advanced copy of the book from the author. This book review is my own opinion.
March 20, 2026
The Newcomer by Sarah Lamb ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Book 6 in the Red Ridge Chronicles series. All stand alone but the characters crossover.
Betty and Kent are lost souls trying to find themselves and start a new life in new adventures. Can they overcome their past to live in the present/future? Pick up your copy today to see what the future will hold for them. You'll be glad you did. I highly recommend this sweet romance
Book 6 in the Red Ridge Chronicles series. All stand alone but the characters crossover.
Betty and Kent are lost souls trying to find themselves and start a new life in new adventures. Can they overcome their past to live in the present/future? Pick up your copy today to see what the future will hold for them. You'll be glad you did. I highly recommend this sweet romance
Review of advance copy received from Author
A charming story about redemption and love. I enjoyed the characters; they felt like old friends. The story is sweet with romance but intense with outlaws who want to take what isn't theirs. Gunslinger lawmen, a hotel owner once an outlaw bent on restoration, will keep you on the edge of your seat. A fun and entertaining read!
March 20, 2026
Best if read in order but could be read as a standalone.
He was just passing through when an offer was made he couldn't forget. Now he's back hoping to start fresh.
She's visiting her aunt but the longer she stays the less she wants to leave.
Opposites attract
Second chances
Unwelcome acquaintances try to pull them back.
Unique disguises prove valuable if uncomfortable
He was just passing through when an offer was made he couldn't forget. Now he's back hoping to start fresh.
She's visiting her aunt but the longer she stays the less she wants to leave.
Opposites attract
Second chances
Unwelcome acquaintances try to pull them back.
Unique disguises prove valuable if uncomfortable
Review of advance copy received from Author
A nice story of a man that is trying to overcome his past and has started in a new town. Trouble comes a knocking however….as well as a woman he’d like to get to know. I enjoyed this book. It was somewhat predictable but still very good.
March 20, 2026
I loved this new story in the Red Ridge Chronicles. Loved the characters and their story. Perfect story for those who like clean historical fiction. I received a copy of this book and all opinions are my own.
March 24, 2026
easy to read!
Good story slightly predictable. Good love story, good old fashioned
Love story. With a chat or trying to make up for his shady past.
Good story slightly predictable. Good love story, good old fashioned
Love story. With a chat or trying to make up for his shady past.
March 24, 2026
I enjoyed the book! This book is part of a series There are characters from the other books but this book can be read standalone. I highly recommend reading this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reading The Newcomer was everything I knew it would be. This series has been great, since the first book. It's nice seeing familiar characters in the Town of Red Ridge. Kent wants to forget his past and start fresh as the hotel owner in Red Ridge. Betty is starting new in Red Ridge also, working for her Aunt. There is something there, when they meet, but Kent's past has caught up with him and he must protect Betty, at any cost.
I was given an ARC of this book by the author for an honest review.
I was given an ARC of this book by the author for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews