But danger seems to track Kevin along the way, and he wonders if his half brother, Wyatt, is behind the attacks. Finally arriving at the ranch, everyone is at each other's throats and the only one willing to stand in between is Winona Hawkins, a nearby schoolmarm.
Despite being a long-time friend to Wyatt, Winona can't help but be drawn to the earnest, kind Kevin--and that puts her in the cross hairs of somebody's dangerous plot. Will they all be able to put aside their differences long enough to keep anyone from getting truly hurt?
My thoughts...First thought...I loved this book! I've read so many of Mary's books and "Braced for Love" made me reminisce about some of my favorites of hers from the past. This book had many of those familiar elements, but still had a fresh storyline and characters. Sassy, strong females that spoke their minds. Tough, but still had softness and femininity. And the men. They're tough and courageous, willing to fight whatever stands in their way to do what's right. Mysterious baddies that make life really hard for the heroes and heroines. The characterization is great in this book! Now for another element that I love in Mary Connealy's books....I don't have to wait for some great action, yet it doesn't stop the rise in tension. To clarify, her books typically start with a bang. Some high action, high energy event that immediately gets the blood pumping and pages turning. Some books that start out like this often slow down in the pace, then have to work to build the tension back up (and regain the reader's attention), This book continues to build without slowing down. I'm kind of impatient for the slow burn romance and appreciate well-written instant connections. It doesn't work for every storyline, but it works here. Can't wait to read the next book in the series!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in order to share my honest opinion, which I did.**