Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Silver Lining Ranch #2

Love's Silver Bullet

Rate this book
She’s targeting his love.
He’s aiming to steer clear.
Till true love picks them off
in a bull’s-eye of the heart

Eighteen-year-old Sheridan Donovan has been in love with Jake Sullivan since the age of four, when she used to tag after him and her big brothers on the Silver Lining Ranch. From little on, Jake has been her hero, convincing her brothers to play school and wedding with her whenever she’d begged and cried. From horsey rides and tickle fests to his sweet willingness to be her pretend groom, Jake’s gentleness and affection had nurtured two dreams in Sheridan’s heart—becoming both a teacher and Mrs. Jake Sullivan. Preferably not in that order.

At the age of thirty, Jake figures he pretty much has everything he needs at the moment. A good job as the Assistant Foreman for Silver Lining Ranch, great friends in Blaze and Dash Donovan, and a true mentor in their uncle and owner of the ranch, Finn McShane, the man who’d given him a family to replace the one he lost. But when Finn’s niece, Sheridan—Blaze’s and Dash’s little sister to whom Jake became a big brother as well—turns eighteen, Jake discovers there’s one more thing he needs: distance and lots of it. From pinafores and bows at age six to overalls and dirt till age fifteen, the grown-up Sheridan looks nothing like the little girl who’d once been his constant shadow, now transformed into a young woman who races his heart. Painfully aware that Sheridan is determined to win his love, Jake is equally determined to keep a promise to her uncle, a promise that not only shoots a hole in his well-ordered life, but in his heart as well.

398 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 1, 2020

59 people are currently reading
219 people want to read

About the author

Julie Lessman

45 books1,295 followers
Julie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of “Passion With a Purpose” underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. A lover of all things Irish, she enjoys writing close-knit Irish family sagas that evolve into 3-D love stories: the hero, the heroine, and the God that brings them together.

Author of The Daughters of Boston, Winds of Change, and Heart of San Francisco series, Julie Lessman was named American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Author of the Year and has garnered 18 Romance Writers of America and other awards. Voted #1 Romance Author of the year in Family Fiction magazine’s 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie was also named on Booklist’s 2010 Top 10 Inspirational Fiction and Borders Best Fiction list.
Julie’s first contemporary novel, Isle of Hope, was voted on Family Fiction magazine’s “Best of 2015” list, and Surprised by Love appeared on Family Fiction magazine’s list of “Top Ten Novels of 2014.” Her independent novel A Light in the Window is an International Digital Awards winner, a 2013 Readers' Crown Award winner, and a 2013 Book Buyers Best Award winner.

Julie has also written a self-help workbook for writers entitled Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Sweet and Inspirational Markets. You can contact Julie through her website and read excerpts from each of her books at www.julielessman.com.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
85 (47%)
4 stars
53 (29%)
3 stars
34 (19%)
2 stars
4 (2%)
1 star
2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,888 reviews208 followers
June 13, 2020
What a dynamic story full of not only humor, but deep issues, as well. The author blended a fun and loving family, who sometimes break out in over-the-top western phrases reminiscent of the TV westerns of days gone by, with a cast of characters who battle stubbornness, guilt, attraction, and a whole host of other human conditions.

I enjoyed reading about the closeness of the Donovan family, even as Sheridan’s brothers and uncle schemed to interfere with her love life. I thought the chemistry between Sheridan and Jake was great and learning the details of Jake’s past was simply heartbreaking. The author wove in many messages of faith throughout the novel, yet a certain conversation that Finn had with Jake perfectly summed up all that God has done for everyone. Simply beautiful!

Even though this novel is part of a series, I think it could be understood without having read the other books. However, readers who have read the earlier novels will enjoy getting to see Libby, Finn, Blaze, and Maggie return in Love’s Silver Bullet.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Profile Image for DianFlow.
440 reviews42 followers
June 4, 2020
Author Julie Lessman has once again hit the bull's eye in this rollicking, angst-filled, western tale of forbidden love and best-laid romantic plans destined to backfire!

Set on a sprawling ranch, the lovely 18 yr. old Sheridan Donavan has been hopelessly in love with the assistant foreman, Jake Sullivan, since childhood. I honestly don't know who was more manipulative—Sheridan, Jake, or her charming, overprotective brothers, but I sure wanted to knock some sense into them—more than once! Had I been Sheridan I would've told Jake to take a long hike through a pile of horse manure...the way he kept playing with her feelings. However, he WAS very hunky, well respected, and an all-around great guy, so perhaps not. Ahh, the contrary emotions good books bring out in us. lol

Ms. Lessman also tackles the heartbreaking issue of guilt and unworthiness stemming from extreme child abuse and subsequent emotional healing. Guaranteed to bring out a few unladylike guffaws and tears a'plenty—all while gleaning some precious spiritual nuggets...be sure to order your copy of 'Love's Silver Bullet' today!

*I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.*
Profile Image for Laurie DelaCruz.
387 reviews9 followers
March 24, 2021
The first half of this book was a bit tawdry for my taste. Way too many hormones raging and not enough substance. However, the last half was much better, with some degree of maturity and sensibility taking over and the story coming to the forefront.
Profile Image for Grace Johnson.
Author 14 books402 followers
December 19, 2020
*Warnings*
#1 This is a long review, so pull up a chair and grab a bowl of popcorn. You'll be here awhile. #2 When I read a review, I want substantial information. So I will not skimp on the details. Which will mean some spoilers, so watch out. #3--additional warning reserved only for this review--this review possesses insanely high levels (as in more than usual) of gushing and crazy nonsense. I ask that you please at the very least attempt to understand half of what I say, because all of it is imperative.

All right, guys. I'm a lucky gal--'cause the lining is indeed silver, or golden, in this case--this go 'round, because not only have I managed to write a review at the release of a book rather than 10+ years after it was published, but I also managed to get MY NAME IN THIS BOOK! Yep. No kiddin'. For real, y'all. My name--Grace "Gracie" Johnson--is in this book. Now, I'm no important character. I'm only mentioned twice, but, hey, that's way more than I'd expected. And, no, I'm not claiming an excessively common name--like Mary Smith--which could, and does, belong to anyone else. I'm claiming my not-too-popular name (although I know multiple people who share either my first and middle or first and last in just my hometown, which is pretty darn tiny) which does indeed belong to me and was indeed placed in this book for a very good reason.
Now, maybe I'm a partial judge and a partner in crime in this situation. I'm, for one, writing a biased review all because of the reason why my name was in Love's Silver Bullet. (As in, yes, I've struck up a friendship with Julie Lessman now that I've overcome my extreme prejudice. However, I read Isle of Hope before I gushed to Mrs. Lessman about how wonderful her books are. She's a marvelous person, y'all. Send her an email, let her know you love her books and reviewed them; she'd appreciate it. 😉)
Anyway... "[S]weet Gracie Johnson" aside...
If you love Mary Connealy and Regina Jennings--or, my personal favorites, Karen Witemeyer and Melissa Jagears--then get ready for a whole different kind of adventure in Virginia City, Nevada, on the Silver Lining Ranch, with the McShane/Donovan family. (Oh, and, yes, I'm suddenly interested in Bonanza now. Too bad you can't find more than the first two seasons anywhere. 😥) Julie Lessman can write a mean western, and her success with Love's Silver Bullet's predecessors, For Love of Liberty and Love's Silver Lining is proof of that. She manages to combine the writing talents so deftly highlighted in her O'Conner and McClares sagas with her perfect portrayal of reality--and interesting language (lookin' at you, Doodle)--to create an amazingly written story that lassos you in and drags you away!
If you've adored Julie Lessman for years, then it's only natural that you read her new series chock full of cowboys, idiots, stinker-tails, suffragists, heated kisses, and biblical truths! Or if you, like moi, have adored Julie Lessman for a month and a week, then you definitely need to read Silver Lining Ranch! Or, if you haven't been too sure about all those Catholic rakes and warm Bostonian Christmases, then you're in for a real treat! Finn McShane and his bunch are Protestant!
(To be honest, I, a Southern Baptist girl, almost felt slighted to hear that. Why? I dunno. Maybe I myself have fallen in love with all those blinkin', bloomin', frog-spittin' Irish Catholics!)

Now, you may be asking (and I suggest you do if you aren't already), what makes Love's Silver Bullet so darn great? What--and I asked this myself--makes it better than A Passion Denied, which was ol' BookWorm's least fave of The Daughters of Boston and was also about a little girl in love with her big brother figure? Oh, and what makes me qualified to answer these pertinent questions when other readers have all already given it a five-star review with some gushing of their own?
Three answers, in order:
#1 Everything. Especially Grace and Gray Carmody, a certain shooting lesson, ever-heightening suspense, crazy awesome kisses, mulish Irishmen (and women), Maggie Donovan and Finn McShane's boatloads of insight and wisdom, Sheridan's alluring combination of flightiness and levelheadedness (such a great balance, again), and Jake's actually pretty well-founded reasons, of which there were many. And, of course, "sweet Gracie Johnson." 😊😁
#2 Everything. Now, Cluncy McGee (love you, man 😍😘) and Charity Dennehy saved A Passion Denied and I still like how Lizzie handled herself with Brady. But...I don't know. I just liked Jake and Sheridan better. I liked their relationship better and how things played out. I think Jake had much better reasons than Brady--who so needed to get over himself, doggone it--and never put on airs, never seemed out of place. And Sheridan had a tougher time, mentally, than Lizzie did, but how--between Maggie and Grace--she kept turning back to God and eventually let go and let Him really inspired me. (That's not to say I'm hounding my own love from afar and making deals to seal with kisses, but still...) Plus, it was less--what's a good word that would mean the characters needed to be yelled at a couple of times? dramatic?--tense, I guess, than A Passion Denied, yet more so than Love's Silver Lining, which definitely balanced it out. I don't know how it ended up less dramatic, but that may have just been me. *shrugs shoulders*
#3 What makes me qualified? Hmm, well, I have my name in the book, for one. And, for two, I'm a master at nitpicking (I think I'm losing my touch) and explaining things. So...I guess that means I should give maybe one bad thing that I didn't like, you know, just to even things out a little bit. Gimme a second here...
Uh. I got nuthin'. I came into Julie Lessman afraid, concerned, prejudice, wrinkling my nose and raising my eyebrows. I even came into Silver Lining Ranch a little worried--half-naked cowboys and suffragists and canceled marriages usually don't go together real well. But, coming out, I can't see why. Again and again, Lessman amazes me. Her very purposeful passion is astounding and inspiring. I told a friend today that I have never read a book so on fire, by an author so passionate about God that she's not afraid to preach and pour her heart out. Yes, I've read some very spiritual fiction. MaryLu Tyndall makes me a very happy girl with her deep spirituality and gives me chills when she dives into the spirit realm like no Christian romance author does. (Because, no, Frank E. Peretti does not write romance. If he did, I would be having a totally different discussion here.) And Roseanna M. White wowed me with A Soft Breath of Wind and she's done some pretty deep work herself. But Julie Lessman doesn't need to cast out demons, speak in tongues, or have characters who can see evil spirits. Somehow, she is able to only skim the surface of faith and write a deeper book than I've ever read before. No other author that I've ever read in Christian fiction will probe your heart like Julie Lessman.
It's crazy.
Somehow, every author pales in comparison.
And not just spiritually but romantically as well.
Another thing that amazes me is how, even in a story that has little to no plot, no actual action, she's got me on the edge of my seat from Chapter 1 to Chapter 76. Her novels are always quick-paced, lighthearted and yet oh, so deep, slow but certainly not sluggish. She has some of the best pacing I've ever seen. Or, well, read. And pacing means almost as much to me as characterization and prose.

Long story short, Love's Silver Bullet was definitely an amazing book, right there along the best of the O'Connor saga, Isle of Hope, and The Heart of San Francisco, up to par with everything she's ever written and even better that some. I can't say a single bad thing, because, yep, having characters that make you so blighted angry that you could punch a hole in the wall is a darned good thing, if you ask me.

BookWorm
Profile Image for Bess.
734 reviews
October 9, 2025
Again... not intended audience. I loved the redemption arc and all the scriptures. But not a fan of the manipulation or control. Lots of kissing and using others to make people jealous. Not a fan. Great writing. Just not for me.
Profile Image for Julie Graves.
981 reviews37 followers
Read
May 31, 2020
About the Book:

Sheridan has had her heart set on marrying Jake since she was a little 4 year old girl. Coercing him into playing wedding and school with her whenever she could, Jake always had a tender heart towards his boss's little niece. But now that Sheridan is a full-grown woman Jake's feelings of affection are taking a different turn and the only thing he can do is distance himself from Sheridan. He has a promise to keep to his boss, and with his past there is no way he could ever marry Sheridan.

My Review:

Holy frog spit y'all! Julie Lessman the "Caffeinated Drama Queen/Kissing Queen can write a great western! I have been waiting for Sheridan and Jake's story and it definitely did not disappoint! From the beginning I felt that Jake and Sheridan belonged together. Sparks still fly between Libby and Finn which is always entertaining. And Blaze has learned well from his uncle Finn so he and Maggie have their moments as well. With Finn having a promise to keep to his dead sister, he enlists the help of Blaze, Dash and Jake to keep all men away from Sheridan. Which makes it very interesting when men start showing an interest in her! There are a lot of twists and turns to get to the HEA that I crave in a book, but it was well worth waiting for. I ranted, I raved, I was tempted to throw my Kindle, but in the end I sighed with contentment that all ended well for the characters that I had come to care for as if they were real!

Favorite Quotes and Scenes:

"Because as human beings, professed Christians don't always live up to the ideals of Jesus because we are fallible"--a twinkle lit in her eyes--"but the Word of God is not. So, if you want to truly know how to be a Christian, it's best to learn at the feet of the Master through His Word, not actions of professed Christians, which don't line up with the Bible." I love love love the spiritual lessons that the author imparts in her writing, and I love this reminder that our eyes need to be fixed on Jesus and not others.

"Marriage is a partnership, not a dictatorship." Maggie actually said this when talking with Sheridan, but it is Libby's fondest quote and I loved it!

"I see." Clay slapped his hat on with a tad of temper. "Well, pardon me, sir, but one would think a young woman soon to be nineteen who is going off to college would be old enough to decide for herself."
Hip cocked, Finn gave a slow nod as he perched hands loosely on his thighs. "One would think that I suppose, Clay, if one were a young man looking toward his own interests rather than that of a young woman's. But as the guardian of that young woman, not only do I think I know what's best for her"--Finn pinned him with an unflinching stare--"but i also have the power to insure it. Thank you again for a wonderful evening, and I bid you good night," he said with a polite doff of his hat, smile compressed as he mounted his phaeton.
And if I have my way--goodbye."This scene is a bit long for a "quote" section, but I just loved it. Because it showed that Finn wasn't just overbearing, but he very much cared for Sheridan and had only her best interests at heart and he knew how to deal with dandy's that came along to swoop away the innocence of a young woman.

"Her mind traveled back to the kisses Jake had given her the night before she'd returned to school, and for the first time in almost five months, she was shocked to realize she didn't want that to be her focus anymore..." "But months of soul-and Bible-searching had convinced her getting to know God was more wonderful, bringing things into true perspective."Once again I appreciate the spiritual moments that the author brings to her writing. I loved to see that Sheridan started maturing from a young girl only interested in romance to a woman of faith ready to let the Savior direct her path and thoughts.

"I love him, Grace," she whispered with a sudden sheen of tears, "as sure as the buds on those trees bursting into spring, but I've come to realize that the cost of love is steep." A lump bobbed in her throat as she expelled a shaky sigh. "Because it means putting it before self." Once again I loved Sheridan's maturity in her faith and even being able to put her love for Jake above her own desires.

Wrap Up:

An excellent and entertaining story from a wonderful author. I highly recommend you check out the prequel FOR LOVE OF LIBERTY and book one LOVE'S SILVER LINING you won't be disappointed!
Profile Image for Rea K.
727 reviews37 followers
June 25, 2020
I ended up kinda following a few things from the previous book a little bit better (well. Blaze being 29 still seems incredibly old for the timeline, but it's explained a lot better here.), but I'm incredibly salty at Finn's "let's shelter Sheridan and Shaylee forever until they finish college" attitude. First off, you shelter anyone for so long, they might slip off the rails the first taste of freedom they get. Or they might sneak around behind your back and get into trouble. I was terrified that something terrible was going to happen because of Finn's stubbornness.
I kind of related to this one with the thought of "be a good friend first and maybe the plan has been to end up together." I'm trying to at least be a good friend, but it's hard when the person you're trying to be friends with is pulling in a different direction. Aka, not quite the good friends you have in mind, more like acquaintances. Friendships are hard work.
Libby reminded me of Charity in a few spots and Jake and Sheridan reminded me of Brady and Lizzie. And Shaylee is definitely like Gabe. But, I've spent so much time with the O'Connor family that I was bound to see similarities somewhere. I'm sure if I went back and read the series set in San Francisco that I'd see similarities there, too.
I had fun reading, even if the timeline felt very speedy. I'd hoped to see more of school and more tossing of a certain dandy out on his ear. I'm looking forward to the anticipated third book (and hopefully fourth). Dash and Shaylee need their stories, too. I'm hoping to see a little more of Sheridan's new friends, too.

In the end, I did enjoy this book. It put me into a bit of a book coma. And I can't wait for more.
341 reviews
September 28, 2023
This is Jake and Sheridan's story. If you have read the beginning of this series, you know ALL ABOUT sweet little Sheridan loving and looking up to Jake since the day they met on Uncle Finn's ranch. Poor Jake is such an upstanding guy and doesn't want to lead Sheridan on at all, because he only sees her as a little sister that he would literally do ANYTHING for...until she grows up to adulthood and keeps insisting he is the one she is going to marry! What Sheridan and everyone else in Jake's life don't know is Jake's deep, dark past from before he was orphaned and even though he has changed for the best, he still carries that past with him, haunting him. He knows he doesn't want to marry anyone EVER, due to the trauma he endured. My heart broke for him while reading that part of the story!
I love that with each book in this series, there is the common theme of people acting on physical wants to the point of annoying me (and my conscience) even though it isn't blatently wrong. Then, as the story progresses, the said person slowly has a closer relationship with God and comes to their own conclusion that what they had previously done was not in line with what God wants them to do, nor in line with HIS master plan for their life! Even Sheridan, who always seemed like a bubbly, obidient girl found her faith lacking once she gain a compassionate, faith-filled friend. It really goes to show that the company we keep very often influences our behaviors and thoughts even when we don't realize it.
Bottom line is, pick up this book and read it! You will love it and learn important lessons too. I received a copy of this book from the author. That in no way influenced my review.
30 reviews1 follower
June 28, 2020
Julie's writing stays true to form as she brings us this delightful story filled with laughter, fighting for what's right, freedom, and tears of joy. I can see her heart as an author spilling on to the pages of all her stories, this one included, as she shares truths she has taken from her own life and seamlessly displays them for her readers. One cannot simply read a story like this and not feel the spiritual truths leap from the page and touch your heart. You might start off reading for the romance of cowboy and cowgirl, but you will walk away considering the greatest romance of all, the love that our Heavenly Father has for all of us! And this is what keeps me coming back for more of Julie 's writing, time after time! I thoroughly enjoyed my visit back to Silver Linings Ranch and can't wait for more!!

As for the chracters, Sheridan is both a sweet and strong young woman who holds fast to the vision and hope God has given her despite any obstacles that come her way. She is the very picture of steadfastness and grace as she matures throughout the book. Jake, despite his inner turmoil, is a trustworthy and dependable character who you can truly root for and rejoice with when God's truth changes his life. Those two, along with an entire cast of loveable charcters, among a Western frontier, make Love's Silver Bullet an enjoyable read from start to finish!!
Profile Image for Lisa.
413 reviews6 followers
August 1, 2020
Sheridan Donavon is a girl who is in love with romance. She is also in love with her brothers best friend Jake Sullivan, and has been since a very young age. Now she just needs to get Jake to admit that he loves her too.
Jake Sullivan is the second in command at the Silver Lining Ranch, owned by Finn McShane, Sheridan’s uncle. Jake finds himself in a tough spot, not wanting to admit his love for Sheridan for so many reasons.
So first of all I am a huge fan of brothers best friend romance, and a huge fan of Julie Lessman, so I was very excited to read this book! Let me tell you it did not disappoint. True to Julie’s books there was romance and lots of love, and what I like to call pure passion. There were many struggles along the way, mixed with many good and funny times. And as always it included wonderful scripture, this time reminding us of God’s love and grace. This book was uplifting and inspiring.
Love’s Silver Bullet captured my heart and left it over flowing and filled with joy. A story I truly did not want to end. In fact I have already reread the last few of chapters a couple of times already. I very highly recommend Love’s Silver Bullet!!
Profile Image for Maria.
247 reviews
August 21, 2025
~4 stars~

I loved returning to the ranch and catching up with so many beloved characters. In this novel, little Sheridan is all grown up and hoping to catch Jake's attention. I did find Sheridan and Jake to be a little bit more immature which did lower my rating a bit. I also found the whole 'I'm-grown-up-now' plot to be quite similar to a previous story of the author's (looking at you Lizzie and John), but it was still fun to read.

The characters had some growing up and maturing to do, which included dealing with their past and overcoming their fears. Sheri and Jake's interactions were super entertaining to read about and there were also some awesome secondary characters. I have to say however, the person who stole my heart was Gray Carmody. I loved his character so much; his teasing and fun personality made his friendship with Sheri just too sweet .

Anyways, an entertaining and eventful read. It's been a super fun series!
1,077 reviews
June 25, 2020
Sheridan Donovan has had a big crush on Jake Sullivan since she was four and he was twelve, an orphan raised along with her and her siblings by her Uncle Finn. Though Sheridan had a special place in his heart, Jake was firm on regarding her as a little sister, which was pretty easy when she was little. Now that she's eighteen and bent on getting him to see her as a woman rather than a little sister, it's much more difficult, because he doesn't want to admit his attraction even to himself. Sheridan uses a variety of methods, hoping to get Jake to declare his love before she leaves to go to college. Sheridan had a lot to learn about true, unconditional love and putting Jake above herself. Jake had many issues in his past that left him feeling unworthy. One of the things I like about Julie Lessman's books is the faith lessons her characters have to learn that are often helpful for the reader as well. She also really knows how to write a good romance, with a level of passion that is not gratuitous.
I received a complimentary copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
116 reviews1 follower
July 10, 2020
For this genre, or Christian inspirational VERY VERY CHEESY reads, this is good. It's just not quite as good as the usual Julie Lessman story and I really didn't enjoy it nearly as much at the first one in this series.

For this story, I felt like there was just way too much sexism going on. I like this author, so clearly I have a high tolerance for sexism, but this was borderline abuse the way they were manipulating and controlling the protagonist. Her transformation from having a bit of a rebellious streak to being very pious was not developed, and it didn't flow. The tease for the male protagonists "big secret" was carried on for a long time, and then the secret was more along the lines of PTSD than anything terrible he'd done. I suspected as much, but I was left with a "well, that was dumb" kind of a feeling.

So, it was worth reading for the cheesy factor, the wholesome goodness, the terrible puns, and the down home country living. But it wasn't my favorite of this author by a long shot, and so I rate it a 3.5 rounded down to a 3...
Profile Image for Sherida Stewart.
Author 2 books40 followers
June 27, 2020
SO GOOD!

I love this engaging book!
I love the characters who filled my heart with their challenges and faithful actions.
I love being immersed in life on Silver Lining Ranch.
I love the deepening romance between spirited Sheridan Donovan and honorable Jake Sullivan.
I love the emotions evoked by author Julie Lessman’s sweet, passion-filled writing.
And I love the perfect ending of this story!
If you love western romance with a powerful message, you’ll definitely enjoy Love’s Silver Bullet.

Favorite quote: “Loving God helps us to love others, and loving others helps us to love God. Because when we see the changes for good He brings into people’s lives through us—through our love, our prayers, our faith—it fills our hearts with so much joy, so much peace, that we love Him all the more.”
Profile Image for Andi Tubbs.
970 reviews82 followers
July 27, 2020
'Holy Frog Spit!' Julie Lessman has hit the bullseye with her second installment of her Silver Lining Ranch series!

Using slang, setting, and characters she creates the perfect western. And I'd know because I'm married to a cowboy. 😉😉

Her skill as a historical writer is evident in the research of the time and the setting of Virginia City, Nevada.

As with the first book in the series I fell in love with the characters. Ms. Lessman's ability to blend comedy, romance, along with weaving in the inspirational thread of being unworthy in our own eyes and seeing our worth in God's eyes.

Julie Lessman sticks true to her tagline of Passion with a Purpose.

Highly recommended!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via the publisher. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Lori.
219 reviews15 followers
April 4, 2021
This series needs to be read in order to see the progression of the lives and the growth of the ranch. Start with the prequel. You will love seeing things change. And the ride continues. What a lovely and delightful cover. Keep it in mind. Sheridan is sassy yet innocent. This story is about Sheridan, Finn’s niece and Jake. Oh, but this is such a fun story. From the age of four Sheridan has loved Jake. Now at the age of 19 she wants to know if he feels the same towards her. You will completely enjoy what Sheridan goes through to catch his eye and what Jake goes through to avoid her and his feelings. This is a delightful story Cant wait for the author to bring out the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Kathryn Bochman.
364 reviews22 followers
May 1, 2021
I love Julie Lessman's books in any genre. When I learned she was writing a western, I was positively giddy with excitement. Her three Silver Lining Ranch books (one a novella) are excursions into engaging characters, high emotion, and Lessman's hallmark romance. And let's not forget heroes with whom I cannot help but fall in love with myself. Never afraid to address the brokenness of humanity and weave a solid message of hope, Lessman consistently pen a tale that resonates and embeds itself in my heart.

Bravo to this beautiful series. They are a powerful solute to love, forgiveness, and a God who redeems our brokenness.

I received this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kristie Self.
Author 9 books66 followers
April 27, 2023
I liked this book, though I didn't think it was quite as good as the other books in the series. It was fun to reunite with familiar characters from the other books, particularly Finn and Libby. I also enjoyed Sheridan and Jake's romance, but I admit Jake frustrated me with his stubborn refusal to even consider a future with Sheridan. I was also frustrated by the manipulations of Finn and his nephews to try and control Sheridan's life. Their motivations may have been good, but what happened as a result of their shenanigans wasn't. Despite that, I enjoyed this book and recommend this series for anyone that enjoys clean historical romance.
Profile Image for Dianne Sidebottom.
1,437 reviews15 followers
June 4, 2020
I did wonder where the title would fit in the story but it was there. Jake and Sheridan's story. Continuing on from Blaze and Maggie, Finn and Libby stories . Still a couple of single Donavon's about? I wonder are the motives still the same in some girls today as in this era as Sheridan's pursuit of Jake? Certainly a change of pace genre read. The debate of faulty character/gene pool in families enough to decide no children or believe that modern research will find cures and answers in order to fix our kids?hmm . God and the bible factors in the telling!!
Profile Image for Janet Merrell.
647 reviews6 followers
December 1, 2020
It took me a bit to finish this one, and while it wasn’t a favorite for me, I did enjoy it. I do wish Finn and Libby or another “mature” couple had been featured a tad more. I found the plot a little weak compared to most of Julie’s books, and I didn’t like the trickery and manipulation tactics used by most of the family. Having said that, there was definite chemistry between Jake and Sheridan, and I was pulling for them to have their happy ending. Look forward to seeing what happens with Dash and.... could it be Grace? 🤷‍♀️
15 reviews1 follower
June 15, 2020
Julie Lessman New Western is a Winner!

A beautiful love story of two individuals so in love, but with obstacles in their path. Jake carrying the burdens of his past and Sheridan fighting against over protective Uncles. However, she is determined to win Jake's heart amidst all odds. Julie's characters come alive and you feel like your right there! Very highly recommended read.
Profile Image for Lisa.
1,568 reviews
June 16, 2020
Julie Lessman writes a really great story. Her characters are always engaging and she imbues the tale with a lot of humor which is just delightful. However, I think the part I feel is the richest is how she so adeptly portrays the struggles of the individual and how the love and plan God of lifts us and brings us to His light. Beautifully done!
Profile Image for Sunflower.
10 reviews
July 3, 2020
Great story and characters!

Loved loved reading this story and catching up with the characters from the previous books. The main characters were real and flawed but in the end changed by the faithfulness and love of GOD and family. If you are looking for a great story to get wrapped up into, this one is it!
Profile Image for Carrie Daws.
Author 33 books143 followers
November 13, 2020
Oh, my goodness! I love this family, and each book just draws me in deeper. I laughed so many times throughout this book, and love the new additions of Gray and Grace. It's fun and heart-wrenching and beautiful to watch this non-traditional family interact and circle together with all of their strong opinions and deep love.
3 reviews
March 13, 2022
Silver linings and bullets!

As usual Julie Lessman writes her broadly involved stories so the reader can’t put it down!! I loved the whole family pulling for each member as they struggle through life’s trials. But best of all is their faith in God to help others see Him through them and prayer!
7 reviews
June 4, 2025
Could have been better

I finally got through it. Whew! This book didn’t have enough suspense to suit me. It’s all about Sheridan being in love with her brother’s ranch co-worker since she was four years old and finding ways to get Jake to see that she’s the one for her. Too many chapters and boring in most chapters. I considered skipping over most of the chapters.
Profile Image for Wendi Huisman kitsteiner.
29 reviews3 followers
February 16, 2020
Julie Lessman is my favorite Christian fiction writer next to Francine Rivers. Can’t recommend her enough. If you like clean romance and great character development you will love Julie. I also love the historical fiction aspect of many of her books.
Profile Image for Cokiereads.
711 reviews39 followers
June 1, 2020
Another winner!

Mind games. I don't know if I would have been able to handle the situation Sheridan was in with as much grace as she did. Family, family!

Btw will Finn and Libby have a child of their own? It's so sad with all those lost years.
80 reviews1 follower
June 4, 2020
I was hooked from the beginning! I loved how their friendship meant shos much to eachother that they wanted to fight for it no matter what!

I was hooked from the beginning! I loved how their friendship meant shos much to eachother that they wanted to fight for it no matter what!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.