His pa named him Cain because his birth was a curse… but what happens when he’s the only one who can save the town?
Anna Mae Harding never thought getting married would be so hard. It’s not that she hasn’t had any offers. On the contrary, it seems like someone is always asking her to be his wife. The trouble is, she up and fell in love with the wrong man years ago, and no matter how much she tries to forget him, no one else she’s met has measured up.
Texas Ranger Cain Whitelaw is happy to leave the town where he grew up behind him forever. Being around his childhood friends stirs up too many old feelings—feelings that are best left buried beneath the cracked desert dirt. The hardest part is seeing Anna Mae Harding. Each time he looks at her, he gets a hankering to sweep her off her feet and carry her to the church for a surprise wedding. But he had too rough of a childhood—and has seen too many things as a Ranger—to ever become a family man. That’s why he’s better off shaking the dust of Twin Rivers from his worn boots and never returning.
When one of Cain’s enemies sets his sights on Twin Rivers and threatens both Anna Mae and his friends, Cain finds himself not only returning home, but facing a choice between his duty to the Rangers and the closest thing he has to a family. And he’s not quite sure who will survive the outcome…
From jagged mountains and green river valleys, to cattle ranches and vivid sunsets, Tomorrow’s Lasting Joy offers a powerful story about loyalty, love, and the bonds that hold us together through the deepest of trials.
Naomi Rawlings is the author of historical Christian novels, including the Amazon bestselling Eagle Harbor Series. While she'd love to claim she spends her days huddled in front of her computer vigorously typing, in reality, she spends her time homeschooling, cleaning, picking up, and pretending like her house isn't in a constant state of chaos. She lives with her husband and three children in Michigan's rugged Upper Peninsula, along the southern shore of Lake Superior where they get 200 inches of snow every year, and where people still grow their own vegetables and cut down their own firewood--just like in the historical novels she writes.
Tomorrow’s Lasting Joy is a wonderful story and an excellent wrap up to this series! If you have been reading the Texas Promise series, then you will know that Cain is a bit of an outlier for the group of friends who have been the main male characters in the previous novels. Cain’s story has been hinted at in bits and pieces throughout the series, however, the book directly before this one, Tomorrow’s Steadfast Prayer, would be an especially good one to read immediately before this one in order to learn more about Cain’s background. It will also help you to know what has been going on recently in both the town and friend group.
I adored Cain and Anna Mae! It was so clear that these two loved each other, but it was hard to imagine any way that they would be able to make a life together. It was heartwarming to realize that Cain was going to continue searching for Anna Mae out in the desert on his own, especially as he did not hold out any hope that she was still alive. And I loved the way he cared for her and helped her recover.
The way things played out in this story and the way these two ended up together was perfect. When they realized that they loved each other, my heart was so happy, yet they still had some trying times ahead of them as they needed to survive and navigate the future together. The epilogue was one of the best that I have ever read! I am also excited to read the next series that will be set in Alaska and has a side character who crosses over from this series into that one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I have been waiting for Anna Mae and Cain’s story since book 1, Tomorrow’s First Light. I immediately picked up on their attraction and intense chemistry, and Cain’s fear of commitment. I will always be a sucker for a good Romance where a hero or heroine has to overcome the notion that they are not good enough. I don’t know what you call this trope, but it is one of my favorites and Rawlings absolutely hit this one out of the park. I was engaged in Tomorrow’s Lasting Joy the entire time and hated having to put this book down. Twice, I read WAY past my bedtime (my husband actually scolded me because I had work early the next morning…LOL!). This story has it all: a beautiful, strong, and independent heroine who does actually need saving at the start of the story; a fearsome, powerful, and courageous hero who puts his life on the line in order to save innocent life; a seriously creepy, ugly-hearted villain; best friends who always have each other’s backs; and, a pretty desert setting that becomes a character in and of itself. And the adventure is non-stop. A reader cannot get bored with this fantastic story!
I liked a lot of things about this book. This was another story where my Kindle copy is full of highlights and comments. If I had to choose, I would say my favorite discussion point is on the topic of being like Jonah from the Bible. Jonah was given a mission by God and he didn’t like it one bit. So Jonah decided to run away. It didn’t work out so well for him. In this story, the heroine, Anna Mae, has an issue. I don’t want to spoil anything so I won’t tell you what the issue is, but I will say it is big enough of a problem that it forces Anna Mae to consider leaving the only home she’s ever known, her family, and all of her loyal friends. Ana Mae digs her heals in and stubbornly fights this potential move with every fiber of her body. But then she gets to a point where she says to herself, “Maybe [the move] was a bit like Nineveh, and she was something like Jonah. She had no desire to [move], no desire to be married to a Ranger. But if that was the path God was leading her down, then she needed to trust that He would work out the rest” (Loc. 6083). I absolutely love this very thought-provoking sentiment. I mean, how many times did I dig my heels in because I didn’t want to do something, and then lost out on something potentially amazing because I wanted my way, not God’s. It really makes a girl rethink some of her choices from throughout her life.
I am sad that my time with the heroes and heroines of the Texas Promise series has come to an end. Every book in this series has been wonderful, but this final installment is my favorite. If you are a fan of well-written, high-action Westerns with great messaging then you have to check this book out ASAP!
***Recommendation*** Tomorrow’s Lasting Joy can easily be read as a standalone novel; however, I personally feel that to get the best reading experience you should read Tomorrow’s First Light first.
I received a copy of this novel in eBook form from the author, Naomi Rawlings, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I just finished reading Tomorrow’s Lasting Joy. Naomi Rawlings writes a riveting book about life on the border of Texas and Mexico. This is the fifth and final book of the Texas Promise series where she continues to build and introduce the reader to previous and future characters. Each book can be read as a standalone or in order. Naomi is not a cookie cutter writer - all the way to the end I was amazed at how different situations would arise and how conflicts were solved.
Anna Mae has loved Cain for her entire life - but has not been able to declare her feelings for him. Cain has always been told that in order to be a good lawman, he cannot have a family. Cain ends up being the best Ranger possible - he even takes down the highest crime family in Mexico. Through no fault of her own, Anna Mae is kidnapped and taken to Mexico. Cain returns to his hometown to help his friends find Anna Mae and bring her back home. He nurses her back to life, returns her to her family and ends up struggling with doing the right thing after her reputation is tarnished.
After finding love and marriage-there is still more to fight. The Mexican crime family has a bounty on Cain. Corrupt lawmen in Texas must be fought. Traitors for both sides are discovered. Cain has always been a Texas Ranger and is now being forced to leave the only life he has ever known. Can he be happy as a husband? Can he give Anna Mae the life she wants without putting her life in danger? Can he be happy giving up life as a lawman?
Each chapter brought a new experience. It has been a pleasure to fall in love with the characters in each Texas Promise book. The characters you meet in book one are still involved in the storyline of book five. You get introduced to Cain and Anna Mae before their love is ever declared for each other.
Tomorrow’s Lasting Joy - will keep on lasting beyond the last page you read.
I loved this story!!! The characters are strong willed and amazing. Also love the description of the area the author gives, almost feels like you are there with them. This is the last book of a series and I really hate to say goodbye. I feel like the characters have become my friends and I will miss them.
I Absolutely loved this book ! it’s the story of Cain and Anna Mae , the last book in the Texas Promise series . It can be read as standalone book but it is also such a brilliant series I would recommend all of the books . Naomi Rawlings has a way of writing that gets you to invested in the characters ,I felt the storyline was so heartfelt , the struggle of a young unloved boy from a very challenging upbringing always feeling on the outside never feeling quite good enough despite now being an adult and a woman who who has loved him for so many years . I loved it I read it in one day AnnaMae has been kidnapped and finds herself in a life threatening situation. Cain needs to find her before it’s too late which leaves Cain and Anna Mae in a very dangerous situation that they need to escape from it had everything , Christian theme , excitement, pathos , love story and gave a really good complete conclusion to the Texas promise series it’s been well worth the wait
I liked this book better than the previous one in the series. The plot line was different and there was less wining. It also showed our human struggles with our past, and did it in a more positive way. LOVED how God, faith and scripture hep to guide our lives on His path.
A really great way to end the series. I think this has the quentessential western feel to it. There is romance with a bit of "how the west was one" added. Also, faith is a part of the characters and helps them endure and have joy out in the rough west. I thought the mystery was nice and not overly complicated to bog down the reader or so on the nose. I enjoyed the twists here and there. I think the author did great in buikding a connection with this reader and the emotions of what the characters felt. I could feel empathy and indignation along side and in behalf of. I thought the writing was inspirational and thoughtful. The showdown at the end was desciptive and just great! The epilogue was icing and wonderful. I liked the story and character arc in this book. This could be read as a stand alone. Though you may get fuller satsifaction if you started in the beginning to really get to know the people. *I am glad to have been able to recieve and ARC. Opinons are 100% mine and not obligated to leave a review
Anna Mae longs for a husband and children, but the man she loves is a Ranger and not interested in settling down - even for her. Cain has had it drummed into him for years that women are a weakness that should be avoided, but somehow he's never been able to get Anna Mae out of his mind. So when she's kidnapped, going after her isn't optional. Unfortunately when he finds her, she's injured and they're stuck together in the desert until she heals - which sparks all sorts of rumours. Worse, it seems that the gang he thought he'd destroyed has sprung up again as strong as ever. Between pressure for a marriage neither is sure they're ready for and desperadoes gunning for Cain - not to mention all Cain's baggage from his past - can the pair ever reach tomorrow's lasting joy?
It's been clear for several books that these two have to end up together, but it was far from a smooth ride! However, it was a most worthwhile journey and I loved being able to join them for it. There's plenty of action, some very meaningful conversations, friendship and love, and lots of baggage to overcome. Watching Cain and Anna Mae growing together was special, and the friendships among the five men were heart-warming too. Top that all off with a very satisfying ending, and you have a great story. Note that while this is part of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone story. Recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
Book 5 in author Naomi Rawling’s Texas Promise series is a good one. As the entire series has been. Since they do tend to build off each other, I suggest reading books 1 - 4. And if you enjoy cowboys and historical fiction, you’ll want to read them.
Well developed and well written characters will pull you into the story and keep you turning the pages. Suspenseful, with unexpected twists and turns, Rawlings story continues with the five young friends who made a pact and carried it into adulthood. Adulthood where they are still in each other’s lives.
Rawlings descriptions along with her attention to historical detail help you to see what’s happening. To hear and smell it. I’m fairly sure I heard the creak of saddle leather a time or two.
Tomorrow’s Lasting Joy wraps up this series well and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Tomorrow’s Lasting Joy by Naomi Rawlings Texas Promise Series Book Five Cain Whitelaw has always been a loner. The son of a Texas Ranger that put his job first and a mother who turned to prostitution to support him. She had died loving Frank Whitelaw, even though he’d never married or loved her in return. Cain would never marry. He didn’t know how to be part of a family. He was, however, an excellent Ranger. Knowing it was useless, Anna Mae Harding loved Cain most of her life. But, when she gets kidnapped and Cain rescues her, that love grows. Along with the rumors once he returns her to Twin Rivers. It’s time she marries a man who’ll be there for her, even if her heart protests. This is the finale of this series. Every book has been a joy to read. Page-turning adventure and romance. https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Wow! This is the best one yet. I loved this story of Cain and Anna Mae finally finding love. Anna Mae has been in love with Cain since she was young, and even though he is not ready to admit it, he has had feelings for her for just as long. When Anna Mae is kidnapped by mistake by Cain's sworn enemy, he travels into Mexico against orders from his superiors to rescue her, thinking he will find a body not a live woman. Her rescue sets off a chain of events that include gossip, rumors, marriage, danger, betrayal and eventually a life together. It is so beautiful to watch God working to bring them together and to bring healing from the past for Cain. There were definitely some tense parts that had me on edge, but it is a great story.
Wow! This is a phenomenal book. I just love Cain and Anna Mae’s story. You’re in for such a treat reading this book. Tomorrow’s Lasting Joy offers everything you can possibly desire in a “good” read. It has adventure, suspense, redemption and the BEST of all…ROMANCE (clean romance). It’s the perfect book to go along with the perfect series! Seriously, I feel like I’m one of the friends. I always grow and learn when I read this author’s book. Author Naomi Rawlings has done it again! You won’t be bored. I devoured this book in a few days! I actually in the process of rereading this book (and I’m excited). Such a wonderful ending to the Texas Promise Series.
I just finished reading "Tomorrow's Lasting Joy" by Naomi Rawlings. I have read all of Naomi's books and I think this may be my new favorite. I had a hard time putting the book down in order to get some sleep. It took me 15+ hours to read it and I started rereading it on the 2nd day. Historical setting, suspense , intrigue, drama and romance. All rapped in scripture and so much fun in the unfolding of the story. If you haven't read any of this author's books, you'll want to read all of them when you finish this one. She grabs your heart and attention from page one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This is book 5 in Texas Promise by Naomi Rawlings. This book follows Cain and Anna Mae as they fall in love and the troubles going on around the border. Saving the last for the best is true about this read. This book answers a lot of questions that has a risen from all 5 books together. Why a father/ranger keeps saying never fall in love or marry? Why family is important. His is a stand alone book, yet when you read all in order it gives so much more to the series. Love this and all the books. So well written and will reread again.
"Tomorrow’s Lasting Joy" is a heartfelt, gripping tale of love, duty, and redemption. Cain Whitelaw’s tortured past collides with his undeniable feelings for Anna Mae Harding, setting the stage for an emotional and action-packed journey. With a perfect blend of romance, tension, and loyalty, this story pulls you in and doesn’t let go. A powerful narrative about second chances, sacrifice, and finding joy in the most unexpected places this is a must-read for anyone who loves a good Western romance.
The evil is really evil. Lots of hidden twists and turns. Lots of feisty, strong, and gifted, determined characters. I absolutely loved Charlotte's discussion with Anna Mae about marriage and about God's plan instead of self. Brilliant. It was great when I found out what was behind Cain's father's hard heart and cynicism. A lot of dilemmas that you wonder how on earth will be resolved. Big sigh, all sorted out perfectly in the end. A good read.
I loved all of the Texas Promise series, this was one of my favourite. They are all excellently written with an interesting plot line alongside the romance. My only criticism is there are errors in the continuity with some of the minor characters between books in the series, which are rather obvious if read one after the other. Normally this sort of thing really bugs me, but they don't affect the individual storylines which is why I still gave 5 stars.
I have just completed all 5 books in the Texas Promise series by Naomi Rawlings and give each book 5 stars. This series will trigger every emotion you’ve ever had so be prepared. It grabs your heart, latches on and doesn’t let go! You will experience love, romance, sorrow, forgiveness, hope, faith, God’s Grace and Guidance; everything one experiences in real life situations. This series is extremely well written and I highly recommend you read the entire series!
This was surprisingly my favorite book in the series. I thought it would be so predictable, and parts of it were, but there were enough surprises that it was fun to read. A few points came up for plot convenience toward the end of the book that were a little annoying, but those can be overlooked for the amount of enjoyment that came from the love story between these two. It was sweet, frustrating, exciting, and enviable.
She goes for a horse ride — and gets bit by a rattler. NOW WHAT? Cain finds her — and helps her. And she falls in love, And the LAST thing he wants is to get married!!! This is a REALLY good book — totally loved it!! I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.
Finally Cain and AnnaMae’s story and it doesn’t disappoint - plenty of danger, unexpected twists and turns and clean romance. All the series have been page turners and this is certainly no exception. Really sad to see the series come to an end but loved the epilogue, although sad to see the series come to an end.
What a wonderful ending to a series about five boys who were childhood friends. Through the twists and turns, Rawling manages to tell each character's story in the other four books of the series. She saves the best for last. Cain is a character who sees himself as a lone ranger, yet he has never forgotten the kindness of Anna Mae, the sister of one of his best friends
I can’t put into words how much I enjoyed reading this series! Cain and Anna Mae were my favorite characters to read about. I love how Naomi makes you feel as though you are a part of her character’s lives. I couldn’t put this book down!
Naomi’s writing is truly a gift from God! I love how she always puts God in her writing and backs it up with scripture.
Gotta admit, I feel cheated because I was under the impression there were six books in the series, but two of the books were the same with different titles. And the last book had several cut & paste passages from book one. Very disappointing. However the stories were all good. I enjoyed the reading.
Cain and Anna Mae. Story started and ended in suspense! Well most of the book actually. Typically not my genre but since I knew all the characters already, I was truly vested and hoping for a happy ending. BIG ending is more like it! Way to wrap up the series but still wish for less suspense in my next read ha!
I loved this ending to the series. lots of twisting and turning and just when you think it's resolved, there's still half a book left. but such a great story and romance. I've loved how each book had a couple Bible verses that the characters would use to guide their choices. Great acknowledgement that you don't have to know we get verse to follow His path.
When Cain falls in love with his childhood friend and finds out she's loved him since childhood, he knew marriage would be tough. But losing his job might be tougher. When his new wife is drawn in to his attack on an evil outlaw, she proves her worth more than gold. And they both discover God has bigger plans for them than they could ever have hoped.
This book was outstanding from page 1 until the end. I laughed. I cried. I cheered. I wanted to jump into the pages and hurt someone at times. I can't even wait for the next series to begin.