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The Proposal

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When the sheriff’s daughter goes into hiding from her father’s killer, her life isn’t the only thing in danger.

The day Jessica Thompson’s father was murdered, she swore to never love another sheriff. Now, she’s fleeing his killer. When her stagecoach is robbed and her rescuer declares she will be his wife, she does the only thing she knows to do—shove her revolver in his back. Never would she have expected he wore a star on his chest.

Sheriff Blake McKenny prides himself on protecting his town’s people from danger, but his efforts don’t include a headstrong woman bent on putting herself in harm’s way. When outlaws threaten his town and put Jessica’s life in danger, Blake’s failure to save his late wife haunts him.

Can Jessica and Blake forgive themselves for the past and break down the protective walls around their hearts? Or will secrets and deception take their lives in a direction they never saw coming?

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Published June 15, 2021

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14 people want to read

About the author

Tanya Eavenson

21 books380 followers
Tanya Eavenson is an award-winning Christian romance novelist. She enjoys spending time with her husband and their three children. Her favorite pastime is grabbing a cup of coffee, eating chocolate, and reading a good book. You can find her at her website http://www.tanyaeavenson.com/

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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Marilyn.
1,268 reviews
June 8, 2021
The Proposal is a poignant and action packed story from the start to the finish. This historical Christian romance is pictorial and expressive penned with dialogue that held my attention from the start to the last word. Jessica is one strong, spirited, and determined woman and is on the run. A sudden proposal by Blake caused alarm when she discovered he was a lawman. Having no choice but to remain in town Jessica found more than she anticipated. Her choice was to leave but time wasn’t on her side.

The characters are likable even with their flaws and secrets. Eavenson created a fantastic story line with a solid Christian message interwoven with all the danger and caring residents of the town and ranch. It was nice to connect up with the characters from book one, The Rescue, but The Proposal can be read as a standalone. This book is appropriately titled just like The Rescue was for the hero and heroine. I look forward to the next book in the All Roads Lead to Texas series.

I received a complimentary e-book from Celebrate Lit without any obligation to write a positive review. I have expressed my own opinion with my review.
Profile Image for Deana Dick.
3,081 reviews134 followers
June 29, 2021
This story is written so well that I feel as if I have traveled back to the days of 1891 with the characters. It was easy to see the town and the people as they went about their business. The mercantile was ready with supplies and the sheriff was there protecting the town.

Jessica meets the sheriff by way of a stagecoach robbery. Little did the the robbers know that Jessica was quite capable of protecting herself. Her dad taught her how to shoot when she was little and it may come in handy about now. Blake somehow rescues Jessica but I don’t think she liked being the damsel in distress. She is a feisty young woman who doesn’t take to Blake right away.

She is hiding something and Blake wants to help her but she has a big issue with trust. I think the author does a great job of intertwining faith throughout the story. It is evident that both characters believe in God and rely on Him in time of need. Blake is a wonderful character who really takes to Jessica. It was fun to read how their relationship had its ups and downs. After all, Jessica doesn’t like anyone to help her and there is that big secret she is hiding,

I loved the adventure and danger in the story as someone is trying to find Jessica. She knows she needs to leave town before she brings trouble to the town. She is set on getting out as soon as she can. Oh but God has a different plan for her and this is where her faith will be tested. With hints of robbers, kidnapping, and an exciting ending this book will be a hit for those looking for a clean western story.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion,
Profile Image for Faith.
2,197 reviews
June 20, 2021
There's a lot going on and a lot to love in this fast paced Western romance.

Blake and Jessica don't start out on the best of terms, as their first meeting is less than ideal, it starts them off kind of on the wrong foot. But as they get to know one another, and work together I loved seeing them get to know and trust each other.

Blake still carries the guilt of not being able to protect his first wife, but he is a devoted Sheriff and takes his job seriously. He has a strong faith, leading by example.

Jessica has been running for a long time and I liked how she reached out to the neighbor boys. There is a lot going on in this book, and despite being unsure at the start, it grew on me as they got to know each other, and the plot progressed.

Overall, an adventure packed Western Romance, I loved Blake's friends that helped them along the way, as well as the strong faith shown in their lives. There's plenty of action and good interaction between the characters, making for a sold read. Perfect for fans of Western romance, like me!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Robbie .
439 reviews54 followers
July 6, 2021
Little did Blake McKenney know Jessica Thomson wasn’t your typical damsel in distress when he tried to rescue her from stagecoach robbers. Neither realizes the journey this will put them on nor the secrets the other holds that will waylay their plans.

Tanya Eavenson’s second book, The Proposal, from The All Roads Lead to Texas Series, is a historical romance novel located in Texas during the 1890s when stagecoach robberies were common.

The budding love story is set in motion with the two unlikely heroes at a loss as to how to overcome all their secrets.

Jessica craves love and acceptance, including safety. However, danger always seems to follow her. She can’t risk another person’s life as she did with her father’s.

The story of Jessica and Blake’s burgeoning romance had just the right amount of pathos and hope based on a deep faith.

I enjoyed reading about early Texas as I spent many of my childhood years in Texas and remember learning of how the stagecoach connected the cities and people.

The Proposal is book 2 in the series, but it works well as a stand-alone.

I received The Proposal from Celebrate Lit and am leaving a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Cyndi.
424 reviews9 followers
June 8, 2021
A very beautiful story showing the love and mercy of God throughout the book. Jessica has lived through a world of hurt and is living each day running for free of her life. When an accidental meeting lands her in the small town of Graham she has no idea how much her life is going to change. Sheriff of Graham, Blake feels like he needs to protect everyone in his town and everyone he comes across. He wasn't able to protect his wife and he won't let it happen again. These two are the main characters in this book and they certainly have a lot to learn. I loved reading their frightening and exciting story but I also enjoyed meeting the residents of Graham. This story is very touching and held my attention throughout. It is so nice to read a book that has all the elements I enjoy with the love of God shining throughout. There is also lots of suspense, action and beautiful romance. I look forward to reading more about this small town and the wonderful people who live there.
I received a free download of this book from the publisher. This review is my own honest opinion.
Profile Image for Gina.
2,383 reviews31 followers
June 17, 2021
An inspirational western book. It focuses on Jessica, on the run from her father's killer and Blake, the sheriff who saves her. At first they don't care for each others attitudes. Then they fight their attraction for each other. Their romance is complicated. There are also killers to catch and many interesting characters in town. I enjoyed this story.
Profile Image for Ashley.
1,176 reviews45 followers
May 21, 2021
I really enjoyed this story! Westerns aren't something I usually gravitate towards, but I eagerly jumped into this one because it's by one of my favorite authors, Tanya Eavenson. And I've gotta say, it did not disappoint, and in fact, exceeded all my expectations. It held my full attention and helped distract me from real-life stresses.

Jessica was the type of heroine I love to read about. She's independent, feisty, full of spunk, and determination, yet also had a softer side and a great love for the Lord. She definitely kept things lively. Blake was the epitome of a gentleman. Trustworthy, dependable, honest, and sweet. Their first meeting was memorable, to say the least.

This was fast-paced with moments that had my heart racing and anxiety high. But it also had some lighter moments that made me laugh, and touching, heartfelt moments that brought tears to my eyes. There was a strong spiritual message woven throughout that I loved, too.

All in all, The Proposal was a wonderful read that I highly recommend to fans of inspirational historical romance.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Kendra Neal.
1,783 reviews47 followers
June 24, 2021
A Christian Historical Romance with a Western setting theme, is a book that totally makes me happy. The Proposal by Tanya Eavenson is Book 2 in the All Roads Lead to Texas series. I had the opportunity to read it recently.

Jessica Thomson recently lost her father to a murderer, and now she is fearing for her life. She
really becomes fearful when her Stagecoach is robbed. Sheriff Blake McKenny comes to her rescue and almost immediately declares she will be his wife. Jessica is unsure of what is happening and doesn't realize he is the sheriff and sticks her revolver in his back. She soon realizes he is the Sheriff and now her heart is torn as she has sworn she would never love another Lawman. Sheriff Blake McKenny is fast realizing how Determined Jessica is and how she loves her independence. He knows his job as Sheriff is to protect his town and the People, but he is also remembering his late wife. He feels even more determined to protect Jessica, as he thinks he failed to protect his late wife. Will the Murderer who killed Jessica's Dad be found and captured? Will Jessica and Blake be able to put their pasts behind them? Will there be a love connection between Jessica and Blake?

A GREAT Page Turner book! I was hooked from the very first chapter and couldn't put it down. There was definitely a lot of "Texas style" action in this book. Jessica is a VERY determined woman who wants to be cautious with falling in love. Blake is a wonderful and caring gentleman, who knows what he wants but also remembers his past. The Proposal is a book about trusting God, forgiveness, being able to move forward in life with confidence. I really like that the book definitely has a Christian Focus. FANTASTIC BOOK!
Profile Image for Nyla Kay.
Author 1 book25 followers
June 24, 2021
The Proposal by author Tanya Eavenson is Book Two in her All Roads Lead Home series. Even though this is the second book in the Christian western historical romance series, it may be read as a standalone. Book One is The Rescue.

This is the story of Jessica Thomson set in early 1890’s Oklahoma. Jessica is a feisty young woman with secrets. She is running from something or someone in her past. It is also the tale of Sheriff Blake McKenny. He is a most likable character. His goal is to keep his town and everyone in it safe. Blake is struggling with unfounded guilt from the past. The chemistry between Blake and Jessica is undeniable.

This is a Christian romance historical adventure. The author has added some twists and turns to surprise readers. The dialog sounds authentic and adds to the story. Characters are realistic and relatable. The descriptions easily took me to Oklahoma of the 1890’s.

Author Eavenson has penned a nice story. It seemed to lack a little something to me. I loved that there was a prevalent Christian message woven throughout the book. With a little polish this good book could be a great one. Fans of historical, western, and romance fiction will enjoy it. It gets 4 out of 5 stars from me. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.
Profile Image for Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama.
681 reviews93 followers
June 30, 2021
So I totally wasn't expecting the high intensity moments in this story but I loved them!! It just kept you engaged the whole time and I wanted to know more. Definitely one of those books that keeps you up because you want to know what is going to happen next! It also had some moments where I did chuckle and even some heartfelt moments which occurred at just the right time in the story. The Christian message was interwoven beautifully throughout the story and you know I completely appreciate that.

The characters were great! Jessica is running away from the man who killed her father. She is not your typical damsel in distress though. She is feisty and very independent but also has that softer side that catches the eye of Blake, the sheriff, who is the ultimate gentleman. It has my favorite trope which is marriage of convenience and those always catch my attention quickly. The characters are all very well written and extremely likable. You can't help but be engaged with them.

This is my first book by this author but it certainly won't be my last! This is also book two in the series but it can be read as a stand alone. Overall I really enjoyed the storyline and recommend it if you enjoy Westerns, romance and a little bit of suspense!

I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Erin.
2,108 reviews17 followers
June 30, 2021
Jessica lost her father to a killer. When that happened she vowed to never love a sheriff again. But then she’s on the run from the killer and who should show up to protect her? Yeap. A sheriff. Can she maintain her position of never loving a lawman again or will she lose her heart to Blake?

But most importantly, will they both lose their lives?

This is a wonderful read. The characters are well fleshed out and you immediately fall in love with them. They have problems of course that need to be worked through, not to mention the killer out to get them.

You’re going to lose yourself in this book! It’s the second book in a series so please know that and read accordingly. I always recommend reading series in order. You do revisit characters from book one so this is definitely a series to read in order. I can’t wait for the next book in the series to come out!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Profile Image for Becca Hope.
230 reviews8 followers
June 18, 2021
I’m not usually a fan of romance, especially Western romance, but when I read the synopsis of the book, I felt compelled to sign up for the blog tour.

Jessica is headstrong and stubborn, determined to prove that she does not need any man, no matter what. However, meeting Blake McKenny changes that. As they end up in one dangerous situation after another, their lives and feelings end up changing everything.

It honestly took me a while to warm up to Jessica. She was too headstrong for my liking. But once I saw her interacting with children, I changed my mind about her. I liked Blake pretty much as soon as I met him. All he wanted was to keep his town—including Jessica—safe from harm.

I do have to say, the last two chapters had me at the edge of my seat. It was heart-pounding, and I wished the author had spent more time on that part.

If you are a fan of Western romance, I would recommend this book. It’s filled with adventure, romance, and a lot of faith.

I had received a copy of this book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.
Profile Image for Connie Hill.
1,881 reviews47 followers
June 26, 2021
The Proposal is a Christian Historical Romance that is written by Tanya Eavenson. This is book two in the All roads lead to Texas series. I have read book one. However they can be read as stand alones.

It is set in Oklahoma in 1891. Jessica Thomson has gone into hiding in fear of her father’s killer. She is worried that she could be next. When the stage coach is robbed it makes her fear even more. Sheriff Blake McKenny knows he needs to protect Jessica he vows he will make her his wife to do so. This arrangement brings together two hurt people with a lot of baggage. Blake is now worried he won’t be able to protect Jessica like he wasn’t able to protect his first wife. Jessica always thought she would never love a lawman again.

This book is a page turner. You will want to pay attention to the clues that the author leaves in the story. My heart was pounding so hard. I was so worried the killer was going to catch up with Blake and Jessica. This book contains well written characters and a fun story line. I always enjoy everything this author writes



I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging Program all thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Brooks.
135 reviews9 followers
June 22, 2021
This book is such a page turner, I couldn’t put it down! I loved all the action in this book, and the characters are so well written. I adored them all.

This story is the perfect reminder of how God will never leave us, and we can trust Him through everything – including fear, guilt, anger, and disappointment.

One of my favorite quotes from the book was,

“I thought one of the reasons He gave you to me was to protect you, but I wasn’t able to protect Abigail. I know now that was wrong thinking. He was showing me – us – that He was the One to protect our lives, and that our guilt from the past isn’t ours to keep, but to be given to Him. To be set free from.”

The last few chapters had me at the edge of my seat, and the book ended so perfectly! I loved how it explained how salvation was a gift for all, and we can receive love and forgiveness from Jesus just by asking.

I really enjoyed this book, and I look forward to the next book in the All Roads Lead to Texas series.
Profile Image for Mary Hake.
Author 4 books414 followers
June 29, 2021
This Western suspense keeps the pages galloping along. And, yes, horses play a big role in the book featuring the daughter of a murdered lawman, Jessica Thomson, and Sheriff Blake McKenny. The story begins with a bang and Jessica in danger, and continues along those lines. She has vowed never to marry, and Blake still mourns his wife and blames himself for her death. Can the two overcome their pain-filled pasts to recognize the growing love that may be developing for each other. Of course, another man has Jessica in his sights to wed, but the outlaw trailing her intends to nab her for himself. At first, I found the novel a bit hard to follow, but the characters soon had me riding along and accompanying their various adventures, hoping all would turn out well in the end. Forgiveness and healing are major themes in this compelling tale. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
1,887 reviews
July 2, 2021
A stagecoach robbery, a killer on the loss, a woman trying to survive, a sheriff trying to keep his town safe – all of this and more takes place in The Proposal – a historical Christian romance book. Jessica Thompson just wants to stay alive. Blake McKenny, as the sheriff, attempts to keep her and the other residents of his town safe. Yet, somehow, through the pages of this book, they manage to move past distrust and dislike to something more.

The author creates characters with depth and interest, along with a plot line that engaged me as I read the book. I love how the residents of Blake’s town embrace Jessica and work to protect her along with the rest of the community. I have to say the final pages of this book made me glad that I elected to read this book. The ending suits the story perfectly. So check out this book for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but it in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
6,155 reviews
June 19, 2021
The Proposal is the second installment from the All Roads Lead to Texas series by Tanya Eavenson. I have not read the first book, The Rescue, and feel that this one can be read as a stand alone. I enjoyed Jessica and Blake’s story. I love the lessons of learning the power of forgiveness and having faith. I thought it was really good and I wanted to keep reading to find out how it would all end for them.

I am giving The Proposal four stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy clean western and historical fiction. I hope there will be a third book from the All Roads Lead to Texas series and most definitely be getting the first book to see what happened previously.

I received a digital copy of The Proposal from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Profile Image for Ashley Dawn.
Author 41 books81 followers
June 28, 2021
This was a wonderful historical romance with plenty of romance. I absolutely loved Jessica. She had such spunk and fire. She may be in trouble and running for her life, but she's determined to take care of herself. I really enjoyed the way she and Blake met.

Their relationship was really well written and I enjoyed it. The author did a great job with the characters. There was plenty of action and suspense to keep me intrigued start to finish. I just really liked the whole book. It was very entertaining.

4/5

Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
1,324 reviews11 followers
June 21, 2021
I don’t think I have ever read a book by Tanya before and now I am wondering why. From the beginning of enjoyed her writing style, characters and plot.

The reader is given bits and pieces of what happened to Jessica but slowly, just enough to satisfy but wanting to keep reading to get the full story.

I came to love the town and the characters who made up the town as well. Of course I was curious how Blake and Jessica would overcome their objections to falling for each other. The romance is slow and sweet.


A copy of this book was given to me through Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
500 reviews11 followers
June 15, 2021
Once I had this book in my possession, I started it and didn't stop till the end. This story of two broken people finding their way to healing and love is an inspirational page-turner. Fiesty Jessica meets Sheriff Blake and the story begins, takes a hold of you and keeps you reading to see them slowly shed the pain of past failures they see in themselves. And they realize that, though neither of them wanted it, they may have a future together. This story is one reason why this author is one of my favorites.
Profile Image for Debbie.
2,559 reviews4 followers
July 3, 2021
"The Proposal" by Tanya Eavenson is Book Two in the "All Roads Lead Home series, but can be read as a standalone. Book One is "The Rescue". Once I started reading I had to keep reading it. This is a clean read as well as inspirational. This book features two characters who have to give up what they think are their past mistakes and failures to find out that God does make good out of bad. I think this is also a "may the best man win" type of tale. This novel ended in a sweet surprising way.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Randi Sampson.
1,752 reviews92 followers
Read
June 23, 2021
The Proposal is book number two in Tanya Eavenson's All Roads Lead To Texas series, but can be read just fine as a standalone.

Admittedly, western romances are not always the first genre I gravitate towards. I had however read the first book in this series and found that I really enjoyed it, and couldn't wait to read what happened next in this book. I was not disappointed. Like the previous book, this one was a good blend of action and romance with elements of faith worked in beautifully throughout the story as well. The characters were well written and drew me into their lives. They were not perfect characters, but it's always those imperfect characters that allow us to see them grow throughout. While I must say that I did personally prefer the first book to this one, I certainly found it to be an enjoyable story nonetheless.

If you enjoy western romance or historical romance, this is certainly a story worth checking out.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Ann.
2,635 reviews3 followers
June 15, 2021
This is a wonderful inspirational Christian western that hooks you on the first page. It is full of action, suspense, drama and romance. I loved reading Jessica and Blake's story.
Profile Image for Kimberley Mcclintock.
171 reviews6 followers
June 28, 2021
I haven’t read a lot of historical fiction this year but I was very interested in this book when I read the blurb. This was a great historical, western romance with the perfect amount of suspense/adventure. There were so many different plot elements that worked perfectly together. And of course the meet cute was fantastic. This book has elements of enemies-to-lovers but I’d say it is more that the characters are reluctant to accept their feelings than a pure enemies-to-lovers situation. This is another series where I will be going back to read the rest.
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