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Hanger's Horsemen #1
At Love's Command
Haunted by the horrors of war, ex-cavalry officer Matthew Hanger leads a band of mercenaries known as Hanger's Horsemen who have become legends in 1890s Texas. They defend the innocent and obtain justice for the oppressed. But when a rustler's bullet leaves one of them at death's door, they're the ones in need of saving.
Dr. Josephine Burkett is used to men taking one look at her skirts and discounting her medical skills. What she's not used to is having a man change his mind in a heartbeat and offer to assist her in surgery. Matthew Hanger's dedication to his friend during recovery earns Josephine's respect, and when she hears of her brother's abduction, he becomes her only hope for rescue.
Matt has stared down ruthless outlaws, betrayal, and injury, but when a bossy lady doctor crawls under his skin, his heart is tempted to surrender. And when she is caught in the crossfire, he may have to sacrifice everything--even his team--to save her.
Dr. Josephine Burkett is used to men taking one look at her skirts and discounting her medical skills. What she's not used to is having a man change his mind in a heartbeat and offer to assist her in surgery. Matthew Hanger's dedication to his friend during recovery earns Josephine's respect, and when she hears of her brother's abduction, he becomes her only hope for rescue.
Matt has stared down ruthless outlaws, betrayal, and injury, but when a bossy lady doctor crawls under his skin, his heart is tempted to surrender. And when she is caught in the crossfire, he may have to sacrifice everything--even his team--to save her.
384 pages, Paperback
First published June 2, 2020
447 people are currently reading
3206 people want to read
About the author
Karen Witemeyer
69 books4,329 followersFor 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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 677 reviews
August 4, 2021
Don't let the cheesy title fool you - this is a really good book! Also, why is book 2 not out yet? *quiet weeping* I may die.
So a bunch of random likes in no particular order:
Matthew, Mark, Luke, and Jonah. Oh. My. Gosh. What an awesome team! And they're so great together. I remember them all distinctly even though it's been a while since I read the book - they really stuck with me! (I CAN'T WAIT FOR THEIR STORIES!)
Also, Josephine is now officially the Only Type Of Offended Feminist I will accept. Patent pending. That is a trope in historical romance that I HATE HATE HATE, but the author took that hated trope and made it work so. dang. well.
Like, Josephine is STRONG but she also has relatable flaws and weaknesses but she also IS WILLING TO STAND UP FOR HER STRENGTHS (e.g. she's like, "dudes, I am a doctor whether you like it or not, so I'm GOING to be HELPING this PERSON") - but she also admits she needs help and is respectful to people REGARDLESS OF THEIR FEELINGS ABOUT HER.
She's just so great. If every woman was like her, we'd have been voting ... whenever this novel was set. *checks book* We'd have been voting in 1893. So there.
She just has sooo much gumption, but it's not Scarlett-O'Hara-in-your-face-I-do-what-I-want gumption. It's good gumption. It's actual strength - not just "I'm a feminist - watch me fly" (followed by a jump into the swoony hero's arms) gumption. She's actually a powerful woman. How often do we see that?
Matthew also contributed to this by being legitimately respectful and strong in his own right. He was surprised at first - who wouldn't be? - and protective - who wouldn't be? - but he was never overbearing or cruel. And, again, I really respected Josephine's acceptance of his protection. (I am so dang sick of heroines who are like, "I DON'T NEED HELP!" and then immediately get kidnapped. It did not play out like that.)
Anyways. I'm a fan. Karen Witemeyer, you may add me to the list of "people who are a bit tooo obsessed with my books" because I loved this story!
5/5 stars - and much excitement for book 2!
Edited to Add (08/04/2021):
This book is very open and honest about all the characters' regrets on their involvement in the army. The people who are trying to cancel it are clearly people who didn't read the full book! The author is a historian who knows her stuff, and she honestly portrays the events of the characters' pasts as horrific, highlighting a sad period of American history in a tasteful way. (Note: I will also add that this is just a small portion of the book.)
The people pushing down this book are actually ridding the world of a book that is honest about the evils that occurred. How can we ever heal unless guilt is first admitted? How can we ever move on from the past unless we first speak openly and honestly about it? Not enough books are written where the treatment of Native American people is shown as unpardonable genocide, which it was. Not enough historical fiction will take on these tough topics because of inability of modern day audiences to be made uncomfortable. To read about how horrible these things are and be able to see where, in some ways, we are still ignoring things - still arguing only our own side - still failing to stand up for the people who need us. Americans need this awareness.
Even now we are the active participants in various human rights infringements around the world. And we do nothing. And yet, the imaginary hero of this story (based on and accurately recounting negative historical events in a negative light), who left the military because of the evils he encountered, is getting a lot of hate because he did take actionable steps and he did at least acknowledge and express his blame.
Instead of ranting on Twitter and posting negative reviews of a book we've never read, perhaps we should take actionable steps to make a difference in eliminating the social issues we're still facing. But that would be too hard. Ranting online about something we fail completely to understand is a lot easier.
So a bunch of random likes in no particular order:
Matthew, Mark, Luke, and Jonah. Oh. My. Gosh. What an awesome team! And they're so great together. I remember them all distinctly even though it's been a while since I read the book - they really stuck with me! (I CAN'T WAIT FOR THEIR STORIES!)
Also, Josephine is now officially the Only Type Of Offended Feminist I will accept. Patent pending. That is a trope in historical romance that I HATE HATE HATE, but the author took that hated trope and made it work so. dang. well.
Like, Josephine is STRONG but she also has relatable flaws and weaknesses but she also IS WILLING TO STAND UP FOR HER STRENGTHS (e.g. she's like, "dudes, I am a doctor whether you like it or not, so I'm GOING to be HELPING this PERSON") - but she also admits she needs help and is respectful to people REGARDLESS OF THEIR FEELINGS ABOUT HER.
She's just so great. If every woman was like her, we'd have been voting ... whenever this novel was set. *checks book* We'd have been voting in 1893. So there.
She just has sooo much gumption, but it's not Scarlett-O'Hara-in-your-face-I-do-what-I-want gumption. It's good gumption. It's actual strength - not just "I'm a feminist - watch me fly" (followed by a jump into the swoony hero's arms) gumption. She's actually a powerful woman. How often do we see that?
Matthew also contributed to this by being legitimately respectful and strong in his own right. He was surprised at first - who wouldn't be? - and protective - who wouldn't be? - but he was never overbearing or cruel. And, again, I really respected Josephine's acceptance of his protection. (I am so dang sick of heroines who are like, "I DON'T NEED HELP!" and then immediately get kidnapped. It did not play out like that.)
Anyways. I'm a fan. Karen Witemeyer, you may add me to the list of "people who are a bit tooo obsessed with my books" because I loved this story!
5/5 stars - and much excitement for book 2!
Edited to Add (08/04/2021):
This book is very open and honest about all the characters' regrets on their involvement in the army. The people who are trying to cancel it are clearly people who didn't read the full book! The author is a historian who knows her stuff, and she honestly portrays the events of the characters' pasts as horrific, highlighting a sad period of American history in a tasteful way. (Note: I will also add that this is just a small portion of the book.)
The people pushing down this book are actually ridding the world of a book that is honest about the evils that occurred. How can we ever heal unless guilt is first admitted? How can we ever move on from the past unless we first speak openly and honestly about it? Not enough books are written where the treatment of Native American people is shown as unpardonable genocide, which it was. Not enough historical fiction will take on these tough topics because of inability of modern day audiences to be made uncomfortable. To read about how horrible these things are and be able to see where, in some ways, we are still ignoring things - still arguing only our own side - still failing to stand up for the people who need us. Americans need this awareness.
Even now we are the active participants in various human rights infringements around the world. And we do nothing. And yet, the imaginary hero of this story (based on and accurately recounting negative historical events in a negative light), who left the military because of the evils he encountered, is getting a lot of hate because he did take actionable steps and he did at least acknowledge and express his blame.
Instead of ranting on Twitter and posting negative reviews of a book we've never read, perhaps we should take actionable steps to make a difference in eliminating the social issues we're still facing. But that would be too hard. Ranting online about something we fail completely to understand is a lot easier.
April 27, 2020
Karen has done it again. She has crafted a novel that had me caring so deeply about the characters I had to put the book down when the danger ratcheted to high levels. I'm so glad I quickly came back to it because the combination of Matthew Hanger and Dr. Jo Burnett was perfect. Two lead characters who care and live deeply, both strong on their own, but learning to give control to the only One who can realluy save the day. Add a great cast of supporting characters, a little brother I did not like at the beginnig but who showed signs of coming around, and a story with tighting tension, and I'm a goner. This book is a perfect example of why her books jump to the top of my to be read pile immediately.
July 19, 2020
I'm a fan of those larger-than-life cowboy hero types, and this book sure delivered! Adventure, danger, romance, and subtle humor set in the rustic western wilderness. Matthew and Josephine are an interesting couple, and despite their very different backgrounds, they share some important things in common. They have compassion for others, keep calm under pressure, and have the determination to accomplish what they set out to do. Josephine's very proper and intelligent manner of speech took a little getting used to, but it quickly became an endearing mannerism in Matthew's eyes. They are quick to admire each other in their intense circumstances, and I enjoyed reading as they worked together to save her brother from the unsavory characters he has fallen in with... and from himself. Matthew's crew of Hanger's Horsemen has a variety of characters and I'm looking forward to more adventures with them!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
June 2, 2020
I absolutely loved everything about At Love's Command! Ms. Witemeyer hooked me from page one and I cannot wait for book two to hit the shelves. Matthew Hanger is everything you want in a hero and a friend and with his group of brothers (Hanger's Horseman) the reader gets just that.
Even better, Dr. Josephine Burkett makes a great heroine. Not afraid to do what's right and ready to face judgment and show her worth head on.
This is a hit and a great start to the series.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. My review was not required nor influenced.
Even better, Dr. Josephine Burkett makes a great heroine. Not afraid to do what's right and ready to face judgment and show her worth head on.
This is a hit and a great start to the series.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. My review was not required nor influenced.
June 14, 2020
Wow! This was such an enjoyable book to read. It was full of action, adventure, daring, bravery, men of faith, and a very swoon worthy romance.
Josephine and Matthew fell for each other fairly quickly, however, I found that it made sense to me in the situations they found themselves in. The beginning of attraction moved quickly to devotion and love when lives were in danger. I thought the author did a great job of capturing their growing feelings for each other.
I love that this is the start of a new series. It was great to get to meet all of the Horsemen and I am really looking forward to reading about their stories in the future.
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...
Josephine and Matthew fell for each other fairly quickly, however, I found that it made sense to me in the situations they found themselves in. The beginning of attraction moved quickly to devotion and love when lives were in danger. I thought the author did a great job of capturing their growing feelings for each other.
I love that this is the start of a new series. It was great to get to meet all of the Horsemen and I am really looking forward to reading about their stories in the future.
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...
July 3, 2020
Review featured on FaithfullyBookish.com
Hanger's Horsemen are motivated, haunted, and united by the tragedy that brought them together. These chivalrous knights of Texas follow a high code of honor, justice, and mercy. Matthew Hanger is a natural leader and driven protector with sacrifice and loyalty running through his veins.
I adore Dr. Josephine Burkett's spunk and determination. Excelling in a profession dominated by men requires plenty of both. Her relationships with the men in her life are plenty complicated but it's hilariously obvious that she is completely unprepared for a distraction from her single-minded professional focus.
Loaded with witty banter, a clever action-packed chain of events, and of course, plenty of shootouts, At Love's Command is quite possibly my favorite Karen Witemeyer story yet and I highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Hanger's Horsemen are motivated, haunted, and united by the tragedy that brought them together. These chivalrous knights of Texas follow a high code of honor, justice, and mercy. Matthew Hanger is a natural leader and driven protector with sacrifice and loyalty running through his veins.
I adore Dr. Josephine Burkett's spunk and determination. Excelling in a profession dominated by men requires plenty of both. Her relationships with the men in her life are plenty complicated but it's hilariously obvious that she is completely unprepared for a distraction from her single-minded professional focus.
Loaded with witty banter, a clever action-packed chain of events, and of course, plenty of shootouts, At Love's Command is quite possibly my favorite Karen Witemeyer story yet and I highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
August 5, 2021
'Horsemen never quit. We find a way to achieve the mission and we protect our own.'
Karen Witemeyer begins a new series, 'Hanger's Horsemen' with this book and she's off to a fabulous start! Matthew Hanger, ex Calvary officer and three of his buddies forma band of mercenaries, bringing justice to those who are oppressed. He lands on Dr. Josephine Burkett's doorstep when one of his men is wounded. Dr. Jo is sassy and not inclined to allow Matt's idea of women doctor to deter her. Soon, though, Josie needs Matt's and the Horsemen's professional help.
'God's warriors had been outnumbered and outmatched before, and that hadn't stopped them from facing their enemies and emerging victorious.'
I have never missed a Karen Witemeyer book and have enjoyed them all. But this one totally captivated me. From the opening sentence to the last, my interest never once waned. Not one bit. As soon as I saw the cover, I knew I would love this book. Just knew it. Very well written with a cast of characters that completely endeared themselves to me (except the bad guys), I thoroughly enjoyed every single minute of this book. And Witemeyer has included some deep spiritual truths here as well, lessons we could all take to heart.
Witemeyer's portrayal of Hanger's Horsemen had me loving these men--men of honor and integrity who never abandon a mission and fight for justice. And there are four horsemen, so there are more books coming!! Witemeyer truly shines here! I very highly recommend this book and author.
'I might not know you well, Matthew Hanger, but I've seen your heart. The world would be a darker place without you in it.'
*My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions expressed here in this review are completely my own.
Karen Witemeyer begins a new series, 'Hanger's Horsemen' with this book and she's off to a fabulous start! Matthew Hanger, ex Calvary officer and three of his buddies forma band of mercenaries, bringing justice to those who are oppressed. He lands on Dr. Josephine Burkett's doorstep when one of his men is wounded. Dr. Jo is sassy and not inclined to allow Matt's idea of women doctor to deter her. Soon, though, Josie needs Matt's and the Horsemen's professional help.
'God's warriors had been outnumbered and outmatched before, and that hadn't stopped them from facing their enemies and emerging victorious.'
I have never missed a Karen Witemeyer book and have enjoyed them all. But this one totally captivated me. From the opening sentence to the last, my interest never once waned. Not one bit. As soon as I saw the cover, I knew I would love this book. Just knew it. Very well written with a cast of characters that completely endeared themselves to me (except the bad guys), I thoroughly enjoyed every single minute of this book. And Witemeyer has included some deep spiritual truths here as well, lessons we could all take to heart.
Witemeyer's portrayal of Hanger's Horsemen had me loving these men--men of honor and integrity who never abandon a mission and fight for justice. And there are four horsemen, so there are more books coming!! Witemeyer truly shines here! I very highly recommend this book and author.
'I might not know you well, Matthew Hanger, but I've seen your heart. The world would be a darker place without you in it.'
*My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions expressed here in this review are completely my own.
June 25, 2021
At Love's Command was fantastic and my new favourite Karen Witemeyer book! This is the first book Karen Witemeyer has written where the storyline is focused on the male lead rather than the female, hence the beautiful man on the cover! It's such a refreshing change after reading so many female focused books. Obviously, Josephine is still a big part of the story too but it was just so nice to hear more from Matthew's side. The topic of guns, war and violence, whether for good or bad, is a fine balance to write about but Karen Witemeyer executed it beautifully. I loved Matthew's character sooooo much! Gruff, strong, protective men are my favourite ones to read about so I really enjoyed reading about Matthew. I really admired Josephine too (and I loved her name!). I liked how even though she was strong and worked in a at-the-time male profession that it didn't make her any less feminine. Insta romances aren't always my favourite but this one is written in such a way that it didn't feel like a quick romance even though technically it was.
June 4, 2020
A Godly Hero and a Lady Doctor. Could this be a match made in Heaven? But these two meet in Purgatory, Texas!
Matthew Hanger and his three comrades have retired from the cavalry and become united in a cause for justice. After Mark Wallace is injured, they turn to Josephine Burkett to do the doctoring. Dr. Jo has made her mark in the medical world and expects that her matrimonial prospects are dim. Until she meets Matt Hanger. Quote: He made a glorious picture. Tall in the saddle. Valiant. Unafraid of dangers that lurked ahead. A hero on a noble quest.
I loved the premise that Matt, Jonah, Mark and Luke were ex-military and used their experience to right wrongs. Luke is nicknamed Preach and has a Scripture for everything, especially before the Horsemen set out to roust outlaws. They seek God’s direction in everything and learn how to submit to Him. They have faith and integrity.
The banter between Matt and Jo with her: “highfalutin, ten dollar words” showed their personalities. Dr. Jo might be educated but she can understand people and is loyal to family.
Another winner for Karen Witemeyer with more to come from the other Horsemen.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Matthew Hanger and his three comrades have retired from the cavalry and become united in a cause for justice. After Mark Wallace is injured, they turn to Josephine Burkett to do the doctoring. Dr. Jo has made her mark in the medical world and expects that her matrimonial prospects are dim. Until she meets Matt Hanger. Quote: He made a glorious picture. Tall in the saddle. Valiant. Unafraid of dangers that lurked ahead. A hero on a noble quest.
I loved the premise that Matt, Jonah, Mark and Luke were ex-military and used their experience to right wrongs. Luke is nicknamed Preach and has a Scripture for everything, especially before the Horsemen set out to roust outlaws. They seek God’s direction in everything and learn how to submit to Him. They have faith and integrity.
The banter between Matt and Jo with her: “highfalutin, ten dollar words” showed their personalities. Dr. Jo might be educated but she can understand people and is loyal to family.
Another winner for Karen Witemeyer with more to come from the other Horsemen.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
August 25, 2020
This book was the adventure I was looking for!
Road trips are my favorite vacation, but I’m not so sure I’d love it if the transportation options were horses and trains. Then again, I might. This book featured both, but not in a vacation sort of sense. Rather, they were on a manhunt that involved outlaw gangs, kidnappings, rescue missions, and a female doctor.
Let’s chat about this female doctor. Her spunkiness and gumption and stick-her-nose-in-where-it-isn’t-wanted personality were very reminiscent of one of my favorite shows: Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. I couldn’t help but wonder if the author had recently binge-watched that show as inspiration for Josephine, because I very much saw parallels between that show and this book. Either way, I adored Josephine. With this lead, as with most, if not all, of Mrs. Witemeyer’s others, there was a splash of feminism. However, this did not come with an abrasive, in-your-face voice. Thankfully, it was delivered with respect for men while also standing up for her own rights. It’s so refreshing to see that a strong woman is still willing to accept assistance from a man. This type of mutual respect for one another is something I can actually get behind, unlike the abrasive, derogatory-to-men type of feminism that is so prevalent today.
That the story opened up with the massacre of Wounded Knee was a shock. A good shock, but a shock just the same. I wasn’t expecting that (clearly). The author wrote this very well, and I love how the emotions of that event plagued the leading man throughout the remainder of the book… but that his part in the massacre also drove him to become a better man, to help the downtrodden and abused rather than take further part in annihilating a certain group of people on any of his commanders’ whims.
Grit, spunk, gumption—name it what you will, but these characters all have it. One thing to know about a Witemeyer book: This personality trait will always be featured, and it will be done in spectacular fashion under a master artist’s hand.
I love so much that the characters leaned on God for help in facing their enemies. The victory belongs to God that way, and all the glory is His. This was expressed so beautifully on the pages of this book, and it made the journey with the characters so much richer, because they knew the Source for their aid and victory.
I can hardly wait to find out what happens next with Hanger’s Horsemen. Please tell me the other three will all be getting a book in this series!
Road trips are my favorite vacation, but I’m not so sure I’d love it if the transportation options were horses and trains. Then again, I might. This book featured both, but not in a vacation sort of sense. Rather, they were on a manhunt that involved outlaw gangs, kidnappings, rescue missions, and a female doctor.
Let’s chat about this female doctor. Her spunkiness and gumption and stick-her-nose-in-where-it-isn’t-wanted personality were very reminiscent of one of my favorite shows: Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. I couldn’t help but wonder if the author had recently binge-watched that show as inspiration for Josephine, because I very much saw parallels between that show and this book. Either way, I adored Josephine. With this lead, as with most, if not all, of Mrs. Witemeyer’s others, there was a splash of feminism. However, this did not come with an abrasive, in-your-face voice. Thankfully, it was delivered with respect for men while also standing up for her own rights. It’s so refreshing to see that a strong woman is still willing to accept assistance from a man. This type of mutual respect for one another is something I can actually get behind, unlike the abrasive, derogatory-to-men type of feminism that is so prevalent today.
That the story opened up with the massacre of Wounded Knee was a shock. A good shock, but a shock just the same. I wasn’t expecting that (clearly). The author wrote this very well, and I love how the emotions of that event plagued the leading man throughout the remainder of the book… but that his part in the massacre also drove him to become a better man, to help the downtrodden and abused rather than take further part in annihilating a certain group of people on any of his commanders’ whims.
Grit, spunk, gumption—name it what you will, but these characters all have it. One thing to know about a Witemeyer book: This personality trait will always be featured, and it will be done in spectacular fashion under a master artist’s hand.
I love so much that the characters leaned on God for help in facing their enemies. The victory belongs to God that way, and all the glory is His. This was expressed so beautifully on the pages of this book, and it made the journey with the characters so much richer, because they knew the Source for their aid and victory.
I can hardly wait to find out what happens next with Hanger’s Horsemen. Please tell me the other three will all be getting a book in this series!
April 15, 2021
Note to self: Racist, white supremacist book. The hero was involved in genocide, slaughtering native people. And he’s not sorry.
The fact that a book could feature such an inhumane and morally corrupt person as a romantic lead? Shameful. This is America’s version of a Nazi romance.
The fact that a book could feature such an inhumane and morally corrupt person as a romantic lead? Shameful. This is America’s version of a Nazi romance.
August 7, 2021
Update 8/5/21: RWA has rescinded the award for At Love's Command. Why it was even nominated given the hugely traumatic subject matter and how ham-fistedly this painful chapter in America's history was handled is beyond me.
This isn't to say such dark chapters in history SHOULDN'T be written about, even in fiction. They SHOULD. The questions are WHO should be telling these stories and HOW they are told. For decades the "Wild West" has been romanticized and utterly whitewashed, completely erasing the contributions of Black cowboys, the Chinese, and the history of Native Americans. The mythos that's come down to many people was "cowboys/settlers = good/Indians = bad". To be perfectly blunt, we don't need any more stories centered around folks trying to "redeem" and/or distance themselves from the historical racialized bloodshed they've committed over the centuries, the ramifications we still grapple with today.
Given one of the perennial favorite themes of the inspirational genre - the "kindly" slave owner either somehow realizing that owning and dehumanizing fellow human beings is wrong, all the while making southern society oh so genteel with forgiving slaves and mint juleps on the veranda - I had no hope this book would be any different in whose voice gets prioritized.
Mass graves have been unearthed at Indian residential schools in Canada and here in the US, so the timing of this book is questionable at best. I get it, the whole redemption arc. Romance as a whole loves a good redemption story - bad boy transformed by love - but there are certain characters - nazis, slave owners - who really shouldn't be redeemed.
EVER.
That's why I question the need for a "romance" centered on a white hero who spent 13 years of his life fighting and displacing people trying to defend their territory and way of life, and then somehow "accidentally" participating in the massacre at Wounded Knee.
The hero has a backstory in which the Comanche killed his family. Of COURSE this just had to be the reason he joined the calvary. Revenge. It couldn't be just he wanted adventure and freedom. Nope. Never mind the fact that his family were residing on stolen land. Let's just gloss over all that pesky "Manifest Destiny" stuff. You know, the same way folks want to gloss over Tulsa.
Then there's the paragraph describing the shaman in the most tropey racist way possible, that he was "inciting" the Lakota to violence because...reasons.
***
RWA has always been problematic in some form or fashion over the years. They've clutched their pearls over erotic romance, tried to freeze out ebooks, went full-on homophobe over M/M romance, and their track record with multicultural BIPoC romance/authors of color has been pretty damn dismal, so while it honestly doesn't surprise me that some members of the organization decided to once again show their asses.
One would have thought after the recent Courtney Milan debacle and the messiness that was Damon Suede, RWA might have learned its lesson. Granted, there's new leadership which is much more diverse than in the past, and a pledge to do better representation-wise by marginalized authors and readers. If I were the conspiracy theory type, I'd say this was an orchestrated effort to make the new president - author LaQuette - look bad.
Their highest prize is named after Vivian Stephens, the pioneering Black woman founder of RWA and early champion of romance books, especially books featuring BIPoC characters and written by BIPoC authors. Awarding it to a book in which the "hero" has enforced racist practices against Native Americans for 13 years is one of those face-palming moments.
Having said all that, I kind of feel rescinding the award to At Love's Command is the proverbial closing the barn door after ALL the horses and livestock have escaped. The damage is done, the book is out there and when major newspapers like WaPo are writing articles about the brouhaha and the usual suspects are circling the wagons yelling "censorship" (which this isn't by the way). Frankly, there were two way better choices amongst the nominees - Bethany Turner's "Hadley Beckett's Next Dish" (just the blurb alone probably would have made me interested in reading this) and "Small Town Faith" by Michelle Lindo-Rice and Michelle Stimpson, two authors who've been long-time inspirational fiction stalwarts.
***
I've already dealt with several of this books supporters (there's one in particular who seems to appear in every one/two star review - I'll call her Miss You Should Be Ashamed" - who fail to grasp the basic concept of subjectivity. Reading IS subjective and what works for one person may fall utterly flat for someone else.
There are plenty of books I loved that others disliked. I don't make it a point to go on their review and tell them they "didn't get it". If anything, a lot of one and two star reviews are quite detailed in regards to what didn't work for them and why. I may not agree but it's still food for thought.
I also have a hard rule - life is too short for books that suck.
One chapter was enough and I value my time and sanity.
This isn't to say such dark chapters in history SHOULDN'T be written about, even in fiction. They SHOULD. The questions are WHO should be telling these stories and HOW they are told. For decades the "Wild West" has been romanticized and utterly whitewashed, completely erasing the contributions of Black cowboys, the Chinese, and the history of Native Americans. The mythos that's come down to many people was "cowboys/settlers = good/Indians = bad". To be perfectly blunt, we don't need any more stories centered around folks trying to "redeem" and/or distance themselves from the historical racialized bloodshed they've committed over the centuries, the ramifications we still grapple with today.
Given one of the perennial favorite themes of the inspirational genre - the "kindly" slave owner either somehow realizing that owning and dehumanizing fellow human beings is wrong, all the while making southern society oh so genteel with forgiving slaves and mint juleps on the veranda - I had no hope this book would be any different in whose voice gets prioritized.
Mass graves have been unearthed at Indian residential schools in Canada and here in the US, so the timing of this book is questionable at best. I get it, the whole redemption arc. Romance as a whole loves a good redemption story - bad boy transformed by love - but there are certain characters - nazis, slave owners - who really shouldn't be redeemed.
EVER.
That's why I question the need for a "romance" centered on a white hero who spent 13 years of his life fighting and displacing people trying to defend their territory and way of life, and then somehow "accidentally" participating in the massacre at Wounded Knee.
The hero has a backstory in which the Comanche killed his family. Of COURSE this just had to be the reason he joined the calvary. Revenge. It couldn't be just he wanted adventure and freedom. Nope. Never mind the fact that his family were residing on stolen land. Let's just gloss over all that pesky "Manifest Destiny" stuff. You know, the same way folks want to gloss over Tulsa.
Then there's the paragraph describing the shaman in the most tropey racist way possible, that he was "inciting" the Lakota to violence because...reasons.
***
RWA has always been problematic in some form or fashion over the years. They've clutched their pearls over erotic romance, tried to freeze out ebooks, went full-on homophobe over M/M romance, and their track record with multicultural BIPoC romance/authors of color has been pretty damn dismal, so while it honestly doesn't surprise me that some members of the organization decided to once again show their asses.
One would have thought after the recent Courtney Milan debacle and the messiness that was Damon Suede, RWA might have learned its lesson. Granted, there's new leadership which is much more diverse than in the past, and a pledge to do better representation-wise by marginalized authors and readers. If I were the conspiracy theory type, I'd say this was an orchestrated effort to make the new president - author LaQuette - look bad.
Their highest prize is named after Vivian Stephens, the pioneering Black woman founder of RWA and early champion of romance books, especially books featuring BIPoC characters and written by BIPoC authors. Awarding it to a book in which the "hero" has enforced racist practices against Native Americans for 13 years is one of those face-palming moments.
Having said all that, I kind of feel rescinding the award to At Love's Command is the proverbial closing the barn door after ALL the horses and livestock have escaped. The damage is done, the book is out there and when major newspapers like WaPo are writing articles about the brouhaha and the usual suspects are circling the wagons yelling "censorship" (which this isn't by the way). Frankly, there were two way better choices amongst the nominees - Bethany Turner's "Hadley Beckett's Next Dish" (just the blurb alone probably would have made me interested in reading this) and "Small Town Faith" by Michelle Lindo-Rice and Michelle Stimpson, two authors who've been long-time inspirational fiction stalwarts.
***
I've already dealt with several of this books supporters (there's one in particular who seems to appear in every one/two star review - I'll call her Miss You Should Be Ashamed" - who fail to grasp the basic concept of subjectivity. Reading IS subjective and what works for one person may fall utterly flat for someone else.
There are plenty of books I loved that others disliked. I don't make it a point to go on their review and tell them they "didn't get it". If anything, a lot of one and two star reviews are quite detailed in regards to what didn't work for them and why. I may not agree but it's still food for thought.
I also have a hard rule - life is too short for books that suck.
One chapter was enough and I value my time and sanity.
May 23, 2020
I read this book in a day, y'all. There's not a dull moment to be had; I couldn't look away from this book if you paid me.
Matthew Hanger makes an excellent hero, flawed and honest and steady. And Josephine Burkett is the perfect heroine to round him out--compassionate, sassy, and incredibly intelligent. The horsemen are so well-written, each with distinctive personalities but the same loyal hearts. I cannot wait to read their stories! I'll be stalking the internet, anxiously awaiting release dates.
I sighed, grinned like a dork, and even teared up on occasion. This is just a good, old-fashioned five-star read across the board. Don't miss it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All expressed opinions belong to me.
Matthew Hanger makes an excellent hero, flawed and honest and steady. And Josephine Burkett is the perfect heroine to round him out--compassionate, sassy, and incredibly intelligent. The horsemen are so well-written, each with distinctive personalities but the same loyal hearts. I cannot wait to read their stories! I'll be stalking the internet, anxiously awaiting release dates.
I sighed, grinned like a dork, and even teared up on occasion. This is just a good, old-fashioned five-star read across the board. Don't miss it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All expressed opinions belong to me.
August 12, 2020
I really loved the connection between the Horsemen! I feel like we don't see a ton of this kind of relationship between guys in Christian fiction, so it's definitely a refreshing theme to see!
I CANNOT wait to read the rest of the Horsemen's stories!
I liked the main characters! Both characters were strong, a just a smidge stubborn, but in a way that worked with the other. They complemented each other.
The romance was super quick in this story, but the whole book was fast paced! From the first page until the last, it was an action packed book. I'm kind of glad the romance kept up with the rest of the story. it didn't bog it down at all.
As always Karen wove a STRONG Christian message into the book, and I LOVED IT! I love reading her books to see what lesson she's going to remind me of. This one had strong "let go & let God" message for me. It's a reminder we all need from time to time. (I might need it day to day sometimes)
I hope we see Charlie get a bit of a love story. (Novella, Karen? 😉)
Overall, it was a great introduction into this new series! I cannot wait to see how it goes!
I rated this a 4/5 stars.
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
I CANNOT wait to read the rest of the Horsemen's stories!
I liked the main characters! Both characters were strong, a just a smidge stubborn, but in a way that worked with the other. They complemented each other.
The romance was super quick in this story, but the whole book was fast paced! From the first page until the last, it was an action packed book. I'm kind of glad the romance kept up with the rest of the story. it didn't bog it down at all.
As always Karen wove a STRONG Christian message into the book, and I LOVED IT! I love reading her books to see what lesson she's going to remind me of. This one had strong "let go & let God" message for me. It's a reminder we all need from time to time. (I might need it day to day sometimes)
I hope we see Charlie get a bit of a love story. (Novella, Karen? 😉)
Overall, it was a great introduction into this new series! I cannot wait to see how it goes!
I rated this a 4/5 stars.
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
June 29, 2020
If Karen Witemeyer wasn't already a favorite author she definitely would be after reading, At Love's Command. This is the first book in the Hanger's Horsemen series.
I haven't read a book of hers yet that I haven't absolutely loved. Upon starting this book I was delightedly entertained for hours with this wonderful plot and the cast of characters.
I really enjoyed this western historical christian fiction book.
It was fun to read the interaction between Matthew and Josephine.
I can not wait to see what the next book in the series holds for us.
Published June 2nd 2020 by Bethany House Publishers
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I haven't read a book of hers yet that I haven't absolutely loved. Upon starting this book I was delightedly entertained for hours with this wonderful plot and the cast of characters.
I really enjoyed this western historical christian fiction book.
It was fun to read the interaction between Matthew and Josephine.
I can not wait to see what the next book in the series holds for us.
Published June 2nd 2020 by Bethany House Publishers
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
March 27, 2020
At Love’s Command is the newest novel by Karen Witemeyer, and the first novel in The Horseman series, though it reads as a stand alone with a satisfying “all knots tied” ending. We follow both Josephine and Matt on their journey, and the double POV gives a lot of interest to this story! Before going in depth, I have to say: this cover is amazing! And both my dad and granddad, who are Karen’s biggest fans beside me, are very glad finally a man is featured on the cover. Though being a woman, I do appreciate the cover a lot, too ;)
The story begins with the four Horsemen, specifically their leader, Matt. Originally from the cavalry, they now use their army expertise to help innocent people and uphold justice. I loved how they worked together, their team work is admirable even though everyone has his own specific quality. I came to love all four characters, and I really hope each one gets his own book..! There’s Preach, who is a little gruff but has a Bible verse for every occasion stored in his head. Mark, with a huge charisma and sparkling eyes and yet is very ethical and hard working. Jonah, an amazing sharp shooter and reliable fellow, who’s always got to be on the defensive because of his dark skin color (I really hope we get his full story!). And Matt, who carries so much guilt from his cavalry past, and doesn’t think he deserves love... he cares about everyone all the time and forgets to care about himself.
As injury always follows these men on their quest for justice, they find themselves in need of a doctor. And there we have doctor Jo, who turns out to be woman...! I looooove her character so much! She’s very beta, and often thinks with logic and approaches each difficulty objectively and all the time she holds these little experiments in her head. I can relate, lol! However as you can imagine, these times are not kind on a female doctor, and she’s had to fight for her position, having to prove over and over she’s just as worthy as a man. This not only made her stubborn, it made her kind of other people’s struggles.
“She stole a peek at the stiff fellow who had yet to reanimate after suffering rapid-onset paralysis. A condition brought on by the pronouncement of her medical expertise. Josephine shook her head. The poor male brain. So susceptible to gender-oriented shock.”
And then we have a lovely clash between Matt and dr. Jo! Oooh the romance is as swoonworthy as they come. I rooted for them from page 1. There’s a depth in their relationship that makes their bond very believable and after a while they are both not afraid to communicate and tell the other what they really feel. I love good strong talks with no misunderstandings!
I also very much loved the plot! Normally Karen’s book are more focused on the romance in a small town setting, with high stakes building up in the end, but here the action goes on from about halfway to the end. Of course that is to be expected with a band of ex-army man, and I absolutely loved how it played out! The shifting of POVs and the build up to each confrontation was very well paced, and it kept me glued to the pages. I got this ARC at 8 in the evening and I read it non stop till 4 in the night lol! I just couldn’t make myself stop... something about Karen’s writing style is so addictive, you just have to read on. As a huge Karen Witemeyer fan, and having read all her other books and owning them in two languages, this book absolutely met my ridiculous high standards, and I already am sad I have to wait so long for her next book and realized requesting this ARC made the wait for a next book longer. But I cannot regret my life’s choices and would request again in a heart beat.
I received an e-arc from Bethany House through Netgalley. I squeeled so hard my dog looked annoyed. My huge Karen Witemeyer addiction might have influenced my review, however the publisher and the free copy have not.
The story begins with the four Horsemen, specifically their leader, Matt. Originally from the cavalry, they now use their army expertise to help innocent people and uphold justice. I loved how they worked together, their team work is admirable even though everyone has his own specific quality. I came to love all four characters, and I really hope each one gets his own book..! There’s Preach, who is a little gruff but has a Bible verse for every occasion stored in his head. Mark, with a huge charisma and sparkling eyes and yet is very ethical and hard working. Jonah, an amazing sharp shooter and reliable fellow, who’s always got to be on the defensive because of his dark skin color (I really hope we get his full story!). And Matt, who carries so much guilt from his cavalry past, and doesn’t think he deserves love... he cares about everyone all the time and forgets to care about himself.
As injury always follows these men on their quest for justice, they find themselves in need of a doctor. And there we have doctor Jo, who turns out to be woman...! I looooove her character so much! She’s very beta, and often thinks with logic and approaches each difficulty objectively and all the time she holds these little experiments in her head. I can relate, lol! However as you can imagine, these times are not kind on a female doctor, and she’s had to fight for her position, having to prove over and over she’s just as worthy as a man. This not only made her stubborn, it made her kind of other people’s struggles.
“She stole a peek at the stiff fellow who had yet to reanimate after suffering rapid-onset paralysis. A condition brought on by the pronouncement of her medical expertise. Josephine shook her head. The poor male brain. So susceptible to gender-oriented shock.”
And then we have a lovely clash between Matt and dr. Jo! Oooh the romance is as swoonworthy as they come. I rooted for them from page 1. There’s a depth in their relationship that makes their bond very believable and after a while they are both not afraid to communicate and tell the other what they really feel. I love good strong talks with no misunderstandings!
I also very much loved the plot! Normally Karen’s book are more focused on the romance in a small town setting, with high stakes building up in the end, but here the action goes on from about halfway to the end. Of course that is to be expected with a band of ex-army man, and I absolutely loved how it played out! The shifting of POVs and the build up to each confrontation was very well paced, and it kept me glued to the pages. I got this ARC at 8 in the evening and I read it non stop till 4 in the night lol! I just couldn’t make myself stop... something about Karen’s writing style is so addictive, you just have to read on. As a huge Karen Witemeyer fan, and having read all her other books and owning them in two languages, this book absolutely met my ridiculous high standards, and I already am sad I have to wait so long for her next book and realized requesting this ARC made the wait for a next book longer. But I cannot regret my life’s choices and would request again in a heart beat.
I received an e-arc from Bethany House through Netgalley. I squeeled so hard my dog looked annoyed. My huge Karen Witemeyer addiction might have influenced my review, however the publisher and the free copy have not.
July 16, 2020
OH.MY.GOSH.......THIS BOOK WAS AMAZING. I have not read a book that I have utterly loved in a while, but this one was definitely worth a read. I know, I have rated quite a few books 5 stars in the last few weeks, but they were books that I loved, but this one I LOVED. (Only die heart book worms would understand 😉) This book was everything I needed, okay. From action to a heartwarming romance to outlaws that deserve to rot in jail to a very, very attractive male lead, this book had it.
Speaking of an attractive male lead, Matthew Hanger is one of the best male leads that I have read this year. Oh my word, this man was amazing. I don't know what it was about him but I just love him so much. His love for his team and Josie was so sweet and I loved that we got to see both his soft and hard side many times throughout this novel. Josie was also amazing and I related to her on many levels. Her bravery and wittiness really made both the story and her. I could not imagine a better female lead for this book or a better woman for Matthew. They were so sticken cute together. I just loved it!!! 😍🥰
The faith content was so well weaved into this story. I love how Matthew and Josie both turned to God but one of my favorite things was how much scripture was quoted thanks to Preach. He was awesome and I now want to memorize scripture like he did to be able to just rattle it off when asked and needed.
I cannot wait for the next books in this series. I hope that we get to follow the rest of the men in the Horsemen. I really want to watch Preach, Jonah, and Wallace fall in love, that would be SO.MUCH.FUN!!!
*I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a postive review. All thoughts are my own.*
Speaking of an attractive male lead, Matthew Hanger is one of the best male leads that I have read this year. Oh my word, this man was amazing. I don't know what it was about him but I just love him so much. His love for his team and Josie was so sweet and I loved that we got to see both his soft and hard side many times throughout this novel. Josie was also amazing and I related to her on many levels. Her bravery and wittiness really made both the story and her. I could not imagine a better female lead for this book or a better woman for Matthew. They were so sticken cute together. I just loved it!!! 😍🥰
The faith content was so well weaved into this story. I love how Matthew and Josie both turned to God but one of my favorite things was how much scripture was quoted thanks to Preach. He was awesome and I now want to memorize scripture like he did to be able to just rattle it off when asked and needed.
I cannot wait for the next books in this series. I hope that we get to follow the rest of the men in the Horsemen. I really want to watch Preach, Jonah, and Wallace fall in love, that would be SO.MUCH.FUN!!!
*I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a postive review. All thoughts are my own.*
June 3, 2020
I LOVE this new series already! Karen Witemeyer is one of my favorite authors, and I think this might be my all-time favorite book from her. I love a strong hero, and Matthew Hangar fits the bill perfectly! The romance between him and Josephine is just right, and the story itself has a great mix of action and adventure. I highly recommend!
June 17, 2020
If you’re looking for a highly-recommended historical romance, look no further!
At Love’s Command is the first in Karen Witemeyer’s newest series, Hanger’s Horsemen. With characters who intentionally challenge stereotypes and well-paced action, At Love’s Command is hard to set down.
Even more impactful than a great story, though, was the message. Not preachy or stiff, both Dr. Jo and Matt have lessons to learn. They are so naturally woven into the story that I couldn’t help but reflect on my own situation. Have I learned those lessons? I love books that leave a lasting challenge for my own life!
I definitely recommend At Love’s Command, and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
(I received a complimentary copy of this novel. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.)
At Love’s Command is the first in Karen Witemeyer’s newest series, Hanger’s Horsemen. With characters who intentionally challenge stereotypes and well-paced action, At Love’s Command is hard to set down.
Even more impactful than a great story, though, was the message. Not preachy or stiff, both Dr. Jo and Matt have lessons to learn. They are so naturally woven into the story that I couldn’t help but reflect on my own situation. Have I learned those lessons? I love books that leave a lasting challenge for my own life!
I definitely recommend At Love’s Command, and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
(I received a complimentary copy of this novel. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own.)
June 24, 2020
Oh my, what a hero Matthew is! He was such a fun character to meet and his love for his Josie was so fun to read and swoon at. This book has a ton of excitement and kept me on my toes wondering what would happen next. I think this story has a bit more danger than Karen's previous stories and it was hard to put down when life intruded(which it did far to much!). I can not wait to see all of Hanger's Horsemen get their happy endings!! The next story can't come soon enough to suit me!
I received this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
May 29, 2020
One of my favorite reads of this year. There wasn't a thing I didn't love about this book, fantastic characters, plot, and I just didn't want to put it down--the only part of this book that I didn't love was the bad guy!
I admired Matthew for his leadership, as well as how he is respectful of others. He doesn't back down from a challenge, and is willing to fight for what's right. Plus his horse, Phinneas, is remarkably trained.
Josephine is intelligent, skilled at her craft, I liked her restraint and common sense in times of urgency. She isn't afraid to face a challenge, and always gives her best.
There's great interaction between the characters, among the Horsemen, as well as between Jo and Matt. I loved the camaraderie between the men and how the author did a great job of making them each memorable, and distinct. They tease each other, and have a fun, enjoyable report.
This is a engaging read, and a great series opener. The minute I turned the last page down I went back and re-read my favorite scenes, I just didn't want it to end! I had so much fun reading this book, it has great action, faith, and humor all blended together in a way that flowed seemingly effortlessly. In my opinion this book has some of the best characters and character development, of not only the main characters but also the side characters. I don't think a group of characters have ever captured my heart so quickly as Hangers Horsemen, I want a book about each and every one of them!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I admired Matthew for his leadership, as well as how he is respectful of others. He doesn't back down from a challenge, and is willing to fight for what's right. Plus his horse, Phinneas, is remarkably trained.
Josephine is intelligent, skilled at her craft, I liked her restraint and common sense in times of urgency. She isn't afraid to face a challenge, and always gives her best.
There's great interaction between the characters, among the Horsemen, as well as between Jo and Matt. I loved the camaraderie between the men and how the author did a great job of making them each memorable, and distinct. They tease each other, and have a fun, enjoyable report.
This is a engaging read, and a great series opener. The minute I turned the last page down I went back and re-read my favorite scenes, I just didn't want it to end! I had so much fun reading this book, it has great action, faith, and humor all blended together in a way that flowed seemingly effortlessly. In my opinion this book has some of the best characters and character development, of not only the main characters but also the side characters. I don't think a group of characters have ever captured my heart so quickly as Hangers Horsemen, I want a book about each and every one of them!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 29, 2020
Karen Witemeyer is always a must-read-hurry-to-pick-up-as-soon-as-you-can-author. She has the best westerns, the sweetest romances, and the most lovable heroes.
With a cover like At Love's Command you can't help but expect to love the rough, sad, broken, and in need of love, hero, Matthew Hanger. Hero Hanger, I guess you could say.
As much as I have love Mrs. Witemeyer's other books I loved this one even more for the brotherly love that the Hanger's Horsemen had for each other, they'd been through life and death together, they'd fought and now fell in love while watching each other's backs.
Now, I don't love the feminst side of Jo, who wanted to be respected, but with that aside I loved her, the fact she would do so much for the ones she loved was so sweet, I liked the faith that they both had, and they grew to have.
I was scared for a bit toward the end … I'm waiting for the day Karen Witemeyer goes so far as to kill a main character, she comes so close to it so often lately!
A lovely start to an attention commanding new series.
With the start of a new series I am saddened that it will be so long until I can get the next book but each of the guys have me eager to read their stories, especially with the way the book ended, somehow I don't see the stories going how the characters expect, I look forward to finding how accurate my guess is or if I am one hundred percent wrong.
Also, I would love a story about Charlie after the Hanger's Horsemen get theirs!
At Love's Command nearly beats Head in the Clouds but not quite since you can't beat a cute little kid even a fictional adorable kid in a book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
June 13, 2020
Such a fun cowboy read. I love the romance and the way Witemeyer brings the story together. I am happy to say I have not read a cowboy story in some time but this one had a great swoon worthy cowboy that made this story a good one.
I gave this sweet romance 4 stars and I recommend it.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
I gave this sweet romance 4 stars and I recommend it.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
June 9, 2020
The first book in Karen Witemeyer's historical western romance starts this series in a great way. Set in 1893 Texas , starring 4 wonderful western calvary men whose aim is to fight for right and justice and are all strong Christian men. Throw in a lady doctor with plenty of grit, determination and faith; and you just can't miss. Add some villains, a wayward brother, suspense, humor and romance, and this book is a recipe for success.
Looking forward to the next book in this series to see where life takes Hanger's Horsemen and Dr. Jo as well as which one of the Horsemen will find love next!
** I received this from the publisher through NetGalley and was not required to review. All opinions are my own.
Looking forward to the next book in this series to see where life takes Hanger's Horsemen and Dr. Jo as well as which one of the Horsemen will find love next!
** I received this from the publisher through NetGalley and was not required to review. All opinions are my own.
May 24, 2020
This is a great start to a new series! I really enjoyed this book! I read most of it in one sitting. I really liked Matthew and his Horsemen. I also really liked Josephine’s spunky character. I can’t wait to see what the next book holds!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
May 16, 2020
Every time I read a Karen Witemeyer book I am surprised all over again at how much I love her writing style, characters and the romance that just leaps off the page. Either I’ve got a bad memory or every book she writes just gets better and better.
I was a little worried by the first chapter. Would the heroes of the book be made heroic at the expense of Native Americans and a white-washed history? I need not have worried. Horrified by the events and massacre he and his men are commanded to be involved in, Matthew Hanger and his three men leave the cavalry and create Hanger’s Horsemen. They are hired guns, working to arrest criminals and help those needing protection from gangs and bad guys. During one such job, one of Matt’s men is injured and he races to find the nearest doctor. He is surprised to find Dr Jo is actually Dr Josephine Burkett. Josephine is a good doctor and striving to prove that women make excellent health practitioners. When Jo’s brother is taken captive and held for ransom, she turns to Matt and his men for help.
As always, the love story Karen Witemeyer has penned comes to life off the page. It’s romantic, and the chemistry between Josephine and Matt is off the charts. But there is also a shared understanding between them. Even though there isn’t a lot of time for them to connect between pulling bullets out of shoulders and riding after the gang who hold her brother hostage, Josephine and Matt do get some time to share their past hurts, something the other can relate to, and a shared respect for each other. There is also lots of time for kisses, which I am pleased to report.
Matt is a wonderful hero for this book, a little rough around the edges, commanding, hiding deep hurts and very protective of Josephine, but also smart enough to value her for her choices and strength. And Josephine isn’t afraid to tell Matt what she thinks. She stands up against the world, but is kind and caring and knows to play to her strengths.
Alongside Matt and Josephine are Matt’s men, Mark, Joesph and Luke, who are equally important to this story. I can’t wait to continue the Hanger’s Horsemen series and see each of them find love and a hope-filled future.
Historical romance with a touch of danger and action? You’ll love At Love’s Command.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library
I was a little worried by the first chapter. Would the heroes of the book be made heroic at the expense of Native Americans and a white-washed history? I need not have worried. Horrified by the events and massacre he and his men are commanded to be involved in, Matthew Hanger and his three men leave the cavalry and create Hanger’s Horsemen. They are hired guns, working to arrest criminals and help those needing protection from gangs and bad guys. During one such job, one of Matt’s men is injured and he races to find the nearest doctor. He is surprised to find Dr Jo is actually Dr Josephine Burkett. Josephine is a good doctor and striving to prove that women make excellent health practitioners. When Jo’s brother is taken captive and held for ransom, she turns to Matt and his men for help.
As always, the love story Karen Witemeyer has penned comes to life off the page. It’s romantic, and the chemistry between Josephine and Matt is off the charts. But there is also a shared understanding between them. Even though there isn’t a lot of time for them to connect between pulling bullets out of shoulders and riding after the gang who hold her brother hostage, Josephine and Matt do get some time to share their past hurts, something the other can relate to, and a shared respect for each other. There is also lots of time for kisses, which I am pleased to report.
Matt is a wonderful hero for this book, a little rough around the edges, commanding, hiding deep hurts and very protective of Josephine, but also smart enough to value her for her choices and strength. And Josephine isn’t afraid to tell Matt what she thinks. She stands up against the world, but is kind and caring and knows to play to her strengths.
Alongside Matt and Josephine are Matt’s men, Mark, Joesph and Luke, who are equally important to this story. I can’t wait to continue the Hanger’s Horsemen series and see each of them find love and a hope-filled future.
Historical romance with a touch of danger and action? You’ll love At Love’s Command.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library
July 6, 2020
I can never not get excited about a new Karen Witemeyer book! Her stories are always just so much fun.
With At Love’s Command, the new Hanger’s Horsemen series begins—Matthew Hanger and his good-hearted band of mercenaries at the heart of all the action. A bullet brings them to Dr. Josephine Burkett, and naturally, an attraction sparks between Matthew and Jo. They may fall quickly, but their story is not without plenty of exciting Texas danger and adventure.
I so enjoyed my time with these characters. Matthew must make peace with his past, while Jo must prove her capability in a man’s profession. Neither necessarily wanted to find love, yet they do anyway. Their story definitely set up Witemeyer’s new series as one I want to continue, and in the meantime, I definitely recommend At Love’s Command to readers of western romance.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
With At Love’s Command, the new Hanger’s Horsemen series begins—Matthew Hanger and his good-hearted band of mercenaries at the heart of all the action. A bullet brings them to Dr. Josephine Burkett, and naturally, an attraction sparks between Matthew and Jo. They may fall quickly, but their story is not without plenty of exciting Texas danger and adventure.
I so enjoyed my time with these characters. Matthew must make peace with his past, while Jo must prove her capability in a man’s profession. Neither necessarily wanted to find love, yet they do anyway. Their story definitely set up Witemeyer’s new series as one I want to continue, and in the meantime, I definitely recommend At Love’s Command to readers of western romance.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
May 10, 2021
"The Doc's one of us now, Cap. The moment you staked your claim, she became family."
Dr. Josephine Burkett's life changed dramatically the moment that Matthew Hanger deposited one of his men onto her treatment table with a gunshot wound to his shoulder. Treating one of the famed "Hanger's Horsemen" had not been on her agenda, and sparring with their larger then life captain had never made her list of life goals, but Jo was pleasantly surprised at how much she was actually enjoying it. Once she managed to burrow under Matt's gruff exterior, there was a wounded hero just waiting to be recognized . . . . and possibly even loved. . . . . but that was just the beginning of the story.
What magnificent characters with rich, deep inspiration, beginning with Preach's Scripture quoting; as essential to the story as his character. And there's Jonah, with his eagle eyes and practical application of strategy. The youngster Mark; with those winsome smiles and his charming disposition; he smoothed out so many rough edges, not to mention demonstrating his stalwart bravery under pain and pressure. Last but certainly not least, the warrior leader, with his sharp battle skills and intuition, but possessing a heart that loved fiercely, and passionately, and possibly . . . had room to love a lady doc, who couldn't help but spout off a dictionary full of words that most people wouldn't begin to understand. But he didn't have to, he understood her heart.
This is going to be a great series! It already is.
Dr. Josephine Burkett's life changed dramatically the moment that Matthew Hanger deposited one of his men onto her treatment table with a gunshot wound to his shoulder. Treating one of the famed "Hanger's Horsemen" had not been on her agenda, and sparring with their larger then life captain had never made her list of life goals, but Jo was pleasantly surprised at how much she was actually enjoying it. Once she managed to burrow under Matt's gruff exterior, there was a wounded hero just waiting to be recognized . . . . and possibly even loved. . . . . but that was just the beginning of the story.
What magnificent characters with rich, deep inspiration, beginning with Preach's Scripture quoting; as essential to the story as his character. And there's Jonah, with his eagle eyes and practical application of strategy. The youngster Mark; with those winsome smiles and his charming disposition; he smoothed out so many rough edges, not to mention demonstrating his stalwart bravery under pain and pressure. Last but certainly not least, the warrior leader, with his sharp battle skills and intuition, but possessing a heart that loved fiercely, and passionately, and possibly . . . had room to love a lady doc, who couldn't help but spout off a dictionary full of words that most people wouldn't begin to understand. But he didn't have to, he understood her heart.
This is going to be a great series! It already is.
June 20, 2021
Karen’s most western-y western to date! I loved the main couple & getting to know the horsemen. I’d say this is 4/5 due to my lack of interest in the action of the book which is most of the second half. I’ve loved her writing since high school but had to overlook the cheesiness at times. ☺️ Overall I really enjoyed this one & am excited about this series. I think her writing is in a great sweet spot!
June 21, 2020
At Love’s Command by Karen Witemeyer is one awesome story! I loved every minute, and I’m sad my time with these characters is over … for now. The plot is highly engaging; the pages flew by! The action is pretty intense; there are a couple scenes I was on the literal edge of my seat. The characters are SUPERB. The bad guys are crusty and dirty and evil. You root for them to lose the whole time! The good guys are fantastically endearing and relatable. Josie is a spitfire heroine. She is sassy, smart, and bossy. She is also exceptionally capable and brave. I found her to be the perfect match for Matthew Hanger. And, let’s talk about Matthew Hanger for just a second. How would I describe him? How about the coolest Western hero ever!!! He’s smart, strong, and very, very capable. He has a heart as big as Texas. He’s broody, but not negative. He carries the world upon his shoulders, but he’s the first to run into a burning building to save someone’s life. He’s downright sexy, yet he doesn’t know it. Most importantly, he’s just SO cool. Like James Bond cool. And, if this isn’t enough to make it a must-read novel, Witemeyer weaves beautiful and timely messages throughout her narrative. All of this coalesces into one spectacular read that I HIGHLY recommend.
Josie is a get-things-done kind of woman. She is highly intelligent, exceptionally capable, and not afraid to get in the middle of a fray if it means helping someone she loves. When she sees someone hurt, even the “bad” guys, her medical instincts kick into high gear and she cannot physically help herself — she has to fix whatever is broken. One can get caught up by such abilities and fall into the trap of feeling like she is in control. In a moment of great frustration, Josie thinks to herself that “[she hates] being outside the realm of control.” Oh my, do I completely understand this sentiment. I am a massive control freak and my OCD can skew off the charts. When life gets crazy I do my utmost to control everything. I mistakenly believe that if I can control my surroundings then the crazy I’m going through won’t drown me, and I will ultimately be able to create the outcome I want. Yes, this is foolish. The only thing I can control is how I behave in those crazy moments and if I go to God or not. But my instinct is like Josie’s — I want to fix everything. However, like Josie, I have learned the truth — I control very little and I can’t fix everything. I cannot always shield my loved ones from pain, suffering, or tragedy no matter how much I try. Only God can control everything. As Josie comes to understand in this story, I, too, understand that I have to trust that God works EVERYTHING for the good of those who love Him, and sometimes that means doing nothing myself and getting out of God’s way so He can work! Not an easy lesson to learn, but one that is of the utmost importance.
At Love’s Command is a one-of-a-kind read. Yes, many have written Westerns, and many have written very good Westerns, but there is something different about this book. Witemeyer has written a home run! If you are a fan of Westerns then At Love’s Command is a novel you do not want to miss. This is a story that will stick with the reader long after the final pages have been read.
I received a copy of this novel in eBook form from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley in order to review. I also received a paperback copy of this novel from Bethany House Publishers as well. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Josie is a get-things-done kind of woman. She is highly intelligent, exceptionally capable, and not afraid to get in the middle of a fray if it means helping someone she loves. When she sees someone hurt, even the “bad” guys, her medical instincts kick into high gear and she cannot physically help herself — she has to fix whatever is broken. One can get caught up by such abilities and fall into the trap of feeling like she is in control. In a moment of great frustration, Josie thinks to herself that “[she hates] being outside the realm of control.” Oh my, do I completely understand this sentiment. I am a massive control freak and my OCD can skew off the charts. When life gets crazy I do my utmost to control everything. I mistakenly believe that if I can control my surroundings then the crazy I’m going through won’t drown me, and I will ultimately be able to create the outcome I want. Yes, this is foolish. The only thing I can control is how I behave in those crazy moments and if I go to God or not. But my instinct is like Josie’s — I want to fix everything. However, like Josie, I have learned the truth — I control very little and I can’t fix everything. I cannot always shield my loved ones from pain, suffering, or tragedy no matter how much I try. Only God can control everything. As Josie comes to understand in this story, I, too, understand that I have to trust that God works EVERYTHING for the good of those who love Him, and sometimes that means doing nothing myself and getting out of God’s way so He can work! Not an easy lesson to learn, but one that is of the utmost importance.
At Love’s Command is a one-of-a-kind read. Yes, many have written Westerns, and many have written very good Westerns, but there is something different about this book. Witemeyer has written a home run! If you are a fan of Westerns then At Love’s Command is a novel you do not want to miss. This is a story that will stick with the reader long after the final pages have been read.
I received a copy of this novel in eBook form from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley in order to review. I also received a paperback copy of this novel from Bethany House Publishers as well. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
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