Book Review: "A Kiss for Cade" by Lori Copeland

Famous bounty hunter Cade Kolby is forced off the trail to decide the fate of his late sister's orphaned children. He's not just returning to his hometown and nieces and nephews, but also to the fiery redhead he loved and left 17 years ago.

The last person Zoe Bradshaw wants to see is Cade. She tries to be cool and polite, even as the attraction between them flares up again. Only this time, Zoe is determined to not let Cade get close to her heart.

But the townsfolk have other ideas. They want to see the little orphans with a mother and a father, and they form a plan that includes the possibility of a kiss...

If you're still in the lovey dovey mood after Valentine's Day this book will be perfect for you. Are you a fan of romances set in western settings this book is for you. If you like gun slinging cowboys who are chasing after outlaws, you'll want to read this book. Pretty much, while this book has plenty for fans of the typical western romance, there's a lot for the casual reader as well. I really enjoyed being transported to the town of Winterborn. The community is very close knit but without the small town drama. They are concerned about each other without being nosy and overbearing.

To be honest, I was NOT a big fan of Cade. He was the stereotypical male that I hate reading about. He goes away for 15 years and expects Zoe to welcome him with open arms. He told her long ago that he was going to come back but he never did. I can't believe he had the nerve to tell her that she should have waited all these years for him to return and she had no patience. Then he got mad at her for marrying another guy after NINE years of waiting for him! He also would laugh at her every time she was trying to be serious and would keep inciting her by calling her nicknames due to her hair. In short, I really did not like him. On the other hand, I did like Zoe very much. Other than the fact that she ends up with Cade, she was a strong female who knew what she wanted and was determined to get it. She had no regrets about marrying her first husband and they had a good life together. Zoe was a good friend to Cade's sister and was willing to do anything to make sure her children were going to be taken care of.

The story itself is a fast read. While set in a historical setting, there isn't really much history to add to the story. Romance is the main factor. This is a rewrite of Copeland's original mainstream romance, now with a more spiritual focus. Overall even though I didn't like Cade, I did enjoy the story. If you are a fan of sweet historical romances, this is one you will enjoy.

Note this book is the second in the Western Sky series but it can be read as a standalone. The books have no connecting storylines.

A Kiss for Cade by Lori Copeland is published by Harvest House (2009)

This review copy was provided by a publicist