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An idealistic librarian and a troubled cattle baron fight wickedness in high places in 1884 Nebraska.
Carianne Barlow never expected to leave her Philadelphia townhouse and travel to the wild-west, but when she inherits a fortune, conditions are attached. She must carry out her grandmother’s vision of a western culture center anchored by a library to rival those of the east. Such an undertaking requires political support, and no one is more influential than Rhyan Cason, a handsome rancher with the reputation of hardened businessman and rabble rousing lobbyist with a preference for the ladies. Carianne gets on the westbound train with no thought of the treacherous world awaiting her in the little prairie town near Rhyan’s sprawling ranch.
When Rhyan asks her to catalog his library, Carianne jumps at the chance without considering the ramifications. She rejects any romantic notions. Rhyan is known to be a heart-breaker, and he is an atheist, which doesn’t set well with her Christian beliefs. But they are thrown together when events take a dangerous turn, and menacing undercurrents run through the town.
Then Carianne learns too late Rhyan is pursued by a sinister enemy determined to destroy everything he cares for, including her. As they get closer to exposing the adversary, they realize he—or she—wants them both dead.
Carianne Barlow never expected to leave her Philadelphia townhouse and travel to the wild-west, but when she inherits a fortune, conditions are attached. She must carry out her grandmother’s vision of a western culture center anchored by a library to rival those of the east. Such an undertaking requires political support, and no one is more influential than Rhyan Cason, a handsome rancher with the reputation of hardened businessman and rabble rousing lobbyist with a preference for the ladies. Carianne gets on the westbound train with no thought of the treacherous world awaiting her in the little prairie town near Rhyan’s sprawling ranch.
When Rhyan asks her to catalog his library, Carianne jumps at the chance without considering the ramifications. She rejects any romantic notions. Rhyan is known to be a heart-breaker, and he is an atheist, which doesn’t set well with her Christian beliefs. But they are thrown together when events take a dangerous turn, and menacing undercurrents run through the town.
Then Carianne learns too late Rhyan is pursued by a sinister enemy determined to destroy everything he cares for, including her. As they get closer to exposing the adversary, they realize he—or she—wants them both dead.
396 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2020
183 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 16, 2017
This is actually pretty good for what it is—just not my cuppa. This is one of those soap-opera-like novels with a plot that never ends. If you like television programs such as Dr. Quinn, Christy, or When Calls the Heart, or any other such Hallmark-type stuff, then you will probably like this book. The characters are well done, and the plot is easy to follow even if it drags. Those dragging plots—sigh—they’ve never been very believable for me, and after all that time I just stop caring.
Don’t look for too much from the romance on this one. There is only one plotline that gets resolved—much like watching one episode of your favorite TV series and the hero and heroine still haven’t gotten together. Another thing to watch out for is the grammatical errors. Some of my favorites—“antidote” instead of “anecdote,” “access” instead of “assess,” and all those “fugitive glances” (LOL).
I’m sure there are many women who will love this book much more than I did. It’s got your practically perfect heroine, your soul-tortured hero, gossipy townsfolk, mystery and intrigue, and that touch of romance. It really is much like watching a Hallmark television series.
*I bought this when it was free on kindle.
Don’t look for too much from the romance on this one. There is only one plotline that gets resolved—much like watching one episode of your favorite TV series and the hero and heroine still haven’t gotten together. Another thing to watch out for is the grammatical errors. Some of my favorites—“antidote” instead of “anecdote,” “access” instead of “assess,” and all those “fugitive glances” (LOL).
I’m sure there are many women who will love this book much more than I did. It’s got your practically perfect heroine, your soul-tortured hero, gossipy townsfolk, mystery and intrigue, and that touch of romance. It really is much like watching a Hallmark television series.
*I bought this when it was free on kindle.
March 4, 2017
An exciting historical romance filled with suspense and intrigue!
An exciting opening begins Pursued as heroine Carianne Barlow is placed in jeopardy, a gun held to her neck. She has just arrived from the East to a town in frontier Nebraska. She plans to diligently carry out the stipulations of her grandmother’s will—to use the inheritance to establish libraries in these remote towns, enabling women to improve their education. She is rescued by Rhyon Cason, a complex man with quite a reputation. Besides being a rancher baron, he is comfortable in Washington, D.C. social circles. He helps Carianne pursue her goals, while she discovers the true man behind the handsome face.
I really like the main characters. Carianne works hard to fulfill her obligations and remain honorable. Rhyon is a strong, protective man who has been misjudged by some of the townspeople. The suspense in this story builds at just the right pace as questions arise about the threats being made. As the attraction to each other grows, there are some difficult issues to face, requiring love, understanding and forgiveness…a complicated and involved story.
I always enjoy author Elaine Manders’ books. She weaves just the right touches of historical detail in her stories. The reader experiences the true feeling of stepping back in time into those western locations. It’s obvious she does her research as she blends the facts seamlessly into the story.
I love a book where I’m invested in the characters. Pursued is such a book. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens to these two intriguing characters as their future unfolds in the next books.
Favorite quotes:
“It takes courage to stand up for what’s right, but…it takes passion to make a difference.”
“God didn’t call us to judge. Only to love.”
*I won a copy of this book, with no obligation to write a review. I’m happy to post my honest review.
An exciting opening begins Pursued as heroine Carianne Barlow is placed in jeopardy, a gun held to her neck. She has just arrived from the East to a town in frontier Nebraska. She plans to diligently carry out the stipulations of her grandmother’s will—to use the inheritance to establish libraries in these remote towns, enabling women to improve their education. She is rescued by Rhyon Cason, a complex man with quite a reputation. Besides being a rancher baron, he is comfortable in Washington, D.C. social circles. He helps Carianne pursue her goals, while she discovers the true man behind the handsome face.
I really like the main characters. Carianne works hard to fulfill her obligations and remain honorable. Rhyon is a strong, protective man who has been misjudged by some of the townspeople. The suspense in this story builds at just the right pace as questions arise about the threats being made. As the attraction to each other grows, there are some difficult issues to face, requiring love, understanding and forgiveness…a complicated and involved story.
I always enjoy author Elaine Manders’ books. She weaves just the right touches of historical detail in her stories. The reader experiences the true feeling of stepping back in time into those western locations. It’s obvious she does her research as she blends the facts seamlessly into the story.
I love a book where I’m invested in the characters. Pursued is such a book. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens to these two intriguing characters as their future unfolds in the next books.
Favorite quotes:
“It takes courage to stand up for what’s right, but…it takes passion to make a difference.”
“God didn’t call us to judge. Only to love.”
*I won a copy of this book, with no obligation to write a review. I’m happy to post my honest review.
November 16, 2020
Pursued by Elaine Manders is the first book in the Intrigue Under Western Skies series. Carianne Barlow travels all by herself by train from Philadelphia to a small prairie town in Nebraska. Her grandmother has left her an inheritance with a condition: she must open a center of culture anchored by a library. She jumps at the chance to help the wealthy rancher, Rhyan Cason, catalog his personal library to help her prepare for her own venture. Despite clashing spiritual beliefs and enemies threatening all Rhyan cares for, they become friends and possibly more.
This is a book I saw at @christianbookdeals - I’ve been reading several books posted on that account. Anyway, I really liked the story. Both main characters are suspicious of each other at first. Rhyan is accused of having a rabble-rousing personality and a reputation with the ladies. Rhyan thinks Carianne might be a spy hired by an enemy. It was fun to read all of that play out and watch their relationship grow. Plenty of mystery and danger to keep the pages turning. I’d never heard of this author before, but I hope to read more in the series!
This is a book I saw at @christianbookdeals - I’ve been reading several books posted on that account. Anyway, I really liked the story. Both main characters are suspicious of each other at first. Rhyan is accused of having a rabble-rousing personality and a reputation with the ladies. Rhyan thinks Carianne might be a spy hired by an enemy. It was fun to read all of that play out and watch their relationship grow. Plenty of mystery and danger to keep the pages turning. I’d never heard of this author before, but I hope to read more in the series!
August 17, 2019
Enjoyed the mystery/crime aspect of this extensive novel, but the romance was somewhat prolonged and unresolved. However, having lived in Nebraska, certain social and political aspects were confusing. At the time of the story, abolition was long-time resolved and prohibition was many years into the future. Although most agree politics is a dirty business, Nebraska might have been the wrong choice of States as the setting for corruption. Also, from experience, when a storm might involve a tornado, one ducks and covers, not socialize in front of a fire in the parlor. Although the cover model is attractive as a prairie settler, she didn't live up to the book's description and dress of an Eastern socialite. The mystery aspect maintained my attention throughout, but the book definitely needed a concluding epilogue.
June 27, 2020
Loved this book!! Carianne and Rhyan are drawn to each other from the start. Rhyan doesn't believe in God, and Carianne has faithfully served Him. Carianne has to learn that she can't make Rhyan believe, and that everyone doesn't understand God as she does, or the words Christians use as they do. Rhyan has to come to grips with himself, and that the God of his grandparents can be his God, too. Rhyan is trying to learn, and more importantly, willing to learn by the end of the book. This book MUST be read before reading the 2nd in the series. I was sooo gripped by this book, I couldn't wait to read the 2nd!!! Wonderful book!!!
September 1, 2019
Heroine who lives her faith.
This book was a wonderful Christian Western, without being preachy. The characters and storyline are well done and believable. The dialogue flows well and the way the H's heart changes is amazingly realistic. The story moves at a realistic speed, which many books don't. I love how all The characters have their flaws. The twist at the end is surprising. Beware it isn't a sharp HEA , but beautiful done.
This book was a wonderful Christian Western, without being preachy. The characters and storyline are well done and believable. The dialogue flows well and the way the H's heart changes is amazingly realistic. The story moves at a realistic speed, which many books don't. I love how all The characters have their flaws. The twist at the end is surprising. Beware it isn't a sharp HEA , but beautiful done.
November 15, 2019
A wonderful start to what I am sure will be a wonderful series
I have read so many of these books & I have mostly enjoyed them all. Although the difference between this & the others is I can't wait to read more. I live the well-defined characters & feel like I know each one personally. If there was such a town I would definitely want to live there & share friendship with everyone in the book. Even Dorcas.
I have read so many of these books & I have mostly enjoyed them all. Although the difference between this & the others is I can't wait to read more. I live the well-defined characters & feel like I know each one personally. If there was such a town I would definitely want to live there & share friendship with everyone in the book. Even Dorcas.
March 24, 2017
Historical
I enjoyed this book ; good storytelling. This author writes about Nebraska where my grandchildren were born. She currently resides in the Warner Robins, GA area which is where my daughter and husband live and he works a civil service job at Robins AFB after retiring from the USAF. All these similarities made me curious to read the book. I was so pleasantly surprised and thought Ms. Manders did some excellent research.
I enjoyed this book ; good storytelling. This author writes about Nebraska where my grandchildren were born. She currently resides in the Warner Robins, GA area which is where my daughter and husband live and he works a civil service job at Robins AFB after retiring from the USAF. All these similarities made me curious to read the book. I was so pleasantly surprised and thought Ms. Manders did some excellent research.
August 16, 2019
My new favorite author
Elaine Manders is my new favorite author. I really enjoyed her book “Pursued”. It was all the little things that added to my reading experience. The dust, the dirt, the mosquitoes, the gossip, oh my! Extremely entertaining and keeps you guessing to the end who all the bad guys are and why.
Elaine Manders is my new favorite author. I really enjoyed her book “Pursued”. It was all the little things that added to my reading experience. The dust, the dirt, the mosquitoes, the gossip, oh my! Extremely entertaining and keeps you guessing to the end who all the bad guys are and why.
June 30, 2020
Warning-book ends with cliffhanger
Author Elaine Manders draws you in from the very beginning. The story unfolds with twist after twist. Just as you think finally a HEA the book ends unfulfilled! Ugh! Surely it is not a "no" answer from God but rather a "not now" as God's timing is not our timing.
Author Elaine Manders draws you in from the very beginning. The story unfolds with twist after twist. Just as you think finally a HEA the book ends unfulfilled! Ugh! Surely it is not a "no" answer from God but rather a "not now" as God's timing is not our timing.
January 5, 2020
A very good read.
I love the book and Carrieann. She is determined and steadfast to the Lord. I will recommend it to all my friends as a wholesome , interesting book about a Christian woman who stayed true to the Lord.
I love the book and Carrieann. She is determined and steadfast to the Lord. I will recommend it to all my friends as a wholesome , interesting book about a Christian woman who stayed true to the Lord.
February 22, 2021
The ending caused me to shout "Aw, COME ON!!!" Yes, it was a perfectly good ending, I simply wanted the story to last just a bit longer. It's an excellent read just be sure to read the three prequels first as they add background to the main characters.
March 13, 2021
Excellent Reading!
This is an excellent Christian mystery! I loved the main characters and the exciting plot. I thought I had figured out who the "bad guy" was, but I was completely wrong. Looking forward to reading next book in series.
This is an excellent Christian mystery! I loved the main characters and the exciting plot. I thought I had figured out who the "bad guy" was, but I was completely wrong. Looking forward to reading next book in series.
April 17, 2023
Sorry fell asleep 😀
I listen to books and there are some I just leave on to fall asleep. The story usually doesn't catch my attention but not this one. This is the type that keeps me up because I need to know what is next!!
I listen to books and there are some I just leave on to fall asleep. The story usually doesn't catch my attention but not this one. This is the type that keeps me up because I need to know what is next!!
November 7, 2023
Good Ending
This story is captivating from the first page to the last. There is a bit of mystery, wild west and ranch life mixed with Christian faith, touch of romance, and a love for books.
This story is captivating from the first page to the last. There is a bit of mystery, wild west and ranch life mixed with Christian faith, touch of romance, and a love for books.
April 21, 2019
Romance personified
Oh my, one magnificently handsome cowboy and one innocent young woman brought together with intrigue, thieves, and deceit lead to a magnificent romance.
Oh my, one magnificently handsome cowboy and one innocent young woman brought together with intrigue, thieves, and deceit lead to a magnificent romance.
June 13, 2019
Interesting
This was a very good book. Lots of intrigue. Definitely a different kind of. The ending leaves you hanging, which I didn't like but it made sense.
This was a very good book. Lots of intrigue. Definitely a different kind of. The ending leaves you hanging, which I didn't like but it made sense.
August 22, 2019
Great read. Very exciting. It was hard to put it down.
September 13, 2019
Faith shines through
A Nice read with a strong storyline to keep you interested with intrigue abounding.
Good characters that have strong beliefs.
A Nice read with a strong storyline to keep you interested with intrigue abounding.
Good characters that have strong beliefs.
October 26, 2019
Great read
I love Carianne and Rhyan. Their love is built in stages. They undergo many trials that test their true grit.
I love Carianne and Rhyan. Their love is built in stages. They undergo many trials that test their true grit.
November 6, 2019
Magnificent
I have absolutely enjoyed this first book in this series, I can't wait to read the next book. Great read!
I have absolutely enjoyed this first book in this series, I can't wait to read the next book. Great read!
July 16, 2020
A Must Read
The story just keeps getting better and better. This series focusses on the last of the four girls who were in The Harvard Annex Series. Don't miss it.
The story just keeps getting better and better. This series focusses on the last of the four girls who were in The Harvard Annex Series. Don't miss it.
January 26, 2021
This was one of the best books I’ve read by this talented author. I didn’t want to put it down.
February 5, 2021
Excellent Story
This story contains every thing you could want. It has intrigue, mystery and romance. It has action and politics of the old west.
This story contains every thing you could want. It has intrigue, mystery and romance. It has action and politics of the old west.
October 26, 2021
Amazing
A truly magnificent story. A remarkable couple. So full of God and Holy Spirit. So enjoyable. A wonderful look into how a relationship should be, just lovely.
A truly magnificent story. A remarkable couple. So full of God and Holy Spirit. So enjoyable. A wonderful look into how a relationship should be, just lovely.
August 30, 2019
Brilliant!
Elaine is so talented! This book is filled with love, moral character, bad guys, suspense, suspicion, envy, pride, fear, joy, and forgiveness! But, God's not done yet!
Elaine is so talented! This book is filled with love, moral character, bad guys, suspense, suspicion, envy, pride, fear, joy, and forgiveness! But, God's not done yet!
September 29, 2023
Well defined characters and great descriptions. It is an enjoyable Christian Western with interesting characters and a town that sounds like would be a great place to live.
Read
February 9, 2017I love the plot of PURSUED by ELAINE MANDERS. If I had to name just one thing MS. MANDERS did great in regards to writing, it would be to create great plots that will make you want to keep reading to find out what is going to happen next.
From the back cover:
“An idealistic librarian and a troubled cattle baron fight wickedness in high places in 1884 Nebraska. Carianne Barlow never expected to leave her comfortable Philadelphia townhouse and travel to the wild-west, but when she inherits a fortune, conditions are attached. She must carry out her grandmother’s vision of a western culture center anchored by a library to rival those of the east. Such an undertaking requires political support, and no one is more influential than Rhyan Cason, a handsome cattle baron with the reputation of hardened businessman and rabble rousing lobbyist. Carianne gets on the westbound train with no thought of the treacherous world awaiting her in the little prairie town near Rhyan’s sprawling ranch. When Rhyan asks her to catalog his library, Carianne jumps at the chance without considering the ramifications. She learns too late Rhyan is pursued by a sinister enemy determined to destroy everything he cares for—including her.”
From the back cover:
“An idealistic librarian and a troubled cattle baron fight wickedness in high places in 1884 Nebraska. Carianne Barlow never expected to leave her comfortable Philadelphia townhouse and travel to the wild-west, but when she inherits a fortune, conditions are attached. She must carry out her grandmother’s vision of a western culture center anchored by a library to rival those of the east. Such an undertaking requires political support, and no one is more influential than Rhyan Cason, a handsome cattle baron with the reputation of hardened businessman and rabble rousing lobbyist. Carianne gets on the westbound train with no thought of the treacherous world awaiting her in the little prairie town near Rhyan’s sprawling ranch. When Rhyan asks her to catalog his library, Carianne jumps at the chance without considering the ramifications. She learns too late Rhyan is pursued by a sinister enemy determined to destroy everything he cares for—including her.”
January 3, 2017
I love, love, loved "Persued" . i have read all of Elaine's books and each one just gets better. If exciting books with no fear of shady content is what you want, her book ,"Persued" is a must, as is all of her other books. You will find yourself impatiently waiting for exchange new one.
March 30, 2017
An exceptional story full of surprises, suspense and romance.
I truly enjoyed it.
I truly enjoyed it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews