ShortHand Publishing - Review of "The Maverick"

Review of “The Maverick”

Lori Copeland

ISBN: 0-8423-8690-4

Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers (September 30, 2005)

RATE: ♥♥♥♥♥

What do you get when you put a strong willed woman together with nine orphaned children, a couple in their seventies and a strong, handsome maverick? You get a story that will keep you wanting to know what’s going to happen next!

Lori Copeland has done it again. This third in the “Men of the Saddle” series is no less riveting than its two predecessors. Ms Copeland has a way of drawing you into the story early on, and she does a brilliant job of keeping your interest. Even though it doesn’t take long to realize how it will end, the journey you are taken on to get there, is well worth your time.

After forcing Cass Claxton to marry her, Susanne McCord spends the next six years alone. Their paths cross again quite by accident after a tragic event, and Susanne needs Cass’s help. Unwilling to help the woman who had single-handedly controlled his life so many years earlier, Cass refuses to help Susanne.

Although he should have known better, Susanne once again gets the upper hand on Cass. Much to his chagrin he finds himself guiding her, nine orphans and an elderly couple across several states. The two are constantly aggravating each other and the sparks that fly are not only humorous, but typical of two people who are more alike than either want to admit.

You can’t help but fall in love with three year old Phebia, who loves her rag doll, Marybelle, with all her heart. I think one of my favorite parts was when poor Marybelle lost an eye. It hadn’t helped that Phebia dragged the doll by her feet! Unsure of Cass, Phebia cautiously takes her ailing doll to him. In a tender scene Cass plays doctor with nurse McCord’s help, and after operating, (sewing on a new button), restores Phebia’s sight.

It’s hilarious when Phebia, instead of giving Cass a kiss in thanks, tweaks his nose so hard it almost brings tears to his eyes. The final jerk of his nose that little Phebia delivers, is enough to knock the grown man off balance and he lands on his backside.

The exchange between Cass and Susanne is one that will bring a tear of laughter to your eye. There are a few other events that have the same effect. Ms Copeland’s sense of humors is priceless.

When the group finally reaches their destination, they’re met with unbelievable news! After things settle down somewhat, Cass leaves town just as he said all along, he would. What will Susanne and the children do now? How will they manage when their plans have been so completely turned upside down? I’m not going to spoil it for you, I’ll just say, you won’t be disappointed with this wonderful tale!