A Texan’s Choice by Shelley
Gray. Abingdon Press, 2012. 320p. (9781426714658) Series: The Heart of a Hero,
#3
Ever since I finished book two in the series I have been looking
forward to reading Scout’s story. I loved reading his story and seeing how he
changed his life after the events of ATexan’s Honor (book 2). But I’m sorry to say this is my least favorite book
in the series.
Book cover:
Texas, 1874. Long ago, Scout Proffitt gave up on ever being a man of
honor like his Civil War hero brother Clayton. But when Scout steps foot on the
rundown remnants of the Circle C ranch, he wonders if maybe just maybe the Lord
has something different intended for him.
Rosemarie has lived most of her life doubting her worth and shouldering
the blame for her brother’s death. But when a stranger rides onto her ranch,
claiming he owns it, she suddenly is given a choice: either keep looking at the
dark side of life…or dare to dream.
My review:
While I loved getting to know Scout more I was also a bit disappointed
in this third book (and I assumed, final) book in the series. In a way it
seemed like the author was trying to wrap up other people’s stories but then
left you wondering what happens to them next.
At the beginning I was not expecting to hear about Russel or Miles so I
was confused when the story started following them. By the middle I understood
how they were tied to Scout’s story but in a way it felt like they were main
characters as well but without their stories being concluded.
A theme in all three books is grace and second chances. Christ’s saving
grace is not really explained and man’s depravity is glossed over. Throughout
the last book and this book we are constantly told that Scout is a cold, grim
killer; a man with no qualms about killing someone for money; a lethal shot
feared throughout west; a man whose exploits have been told and exaggerated in
dime novels. Yet he suddenly turns from all of that and people accept him and
respect him. It’s hard to grasp, even though we’re told that something about
him inspires trust.
I enjoyed Rosemarie’s story and how she was able to help Scout and he
was able to help her. Although again while reading her story there is a scene
that shows how her life has changed but there is no follow up to it.
If I knew that this series will continue I think I would have written a
more positive review. However, since I have been under the impression that this
is the last and I haven’t seen anything contrary wise, I must say I expected a
better ending to the story and not so many loose ends. I think what bothers me
the most is that they are not loose ends to the series, but rather loose ends
just from this book.
If you’ve read book one and two, A
Texan’s Promise and A Texan’s Honor,
then you should certainly read this book. But don’t read this without having
read the first two (or even just book two).
Disclosure: I received this book
from the publisher through Netgalley. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission.
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