The Better Man

About the Book:

A woman bound by duty and debt. A man who doubts his worth.

After tragedy broke her family, Laramee fled her family’s once beloved Colorado ranch. But the news that her ailing parents are considering selling the place lures her home after five bitter years.Jamie Cannon spent a decade redeeming himself from the mistakes of his youth. As a successful partner in his family's real estate business, he's back on solid ground. If only his worried parents believed it too.When Jamie needs an escape from the Denver social scene, the Stone’s request for an appraisal of their remote ranch gives him the perfect excuse to get away. But Laramee Stone is as determined to drive this paper pusher off her family’s property as Jamie is dedicated to fulfilling his assignment. The two eventually agree to a truce for the sake of the Stone’s financial future, but as Laramee and Jamie work together, they reveal glimpses into the tragedies that destroyed their pasts. In one another’s company, old hurts heal, and they feel whole.But ex-fiancé Sutton is back. This man, who saved Laramee and her parents after tragedy struck, wants Jamie gone and Laramee back. Sutton discovers Jamie’s past and reminds him of his failings, leaving Jamie with two critical questions he must answer before he can tell Laramee how he feels—Could Jamie’s past baggage threaten Laramee’s happiness?And is he the better man for Laramee Stone?

 My Review: 

When Laramee comes home to the old ranch where she grew up per her mother’s request, she doesn’t expect to have a city slicker be there too. Realtor Jamie Cannon has been sent to check on the viability of the ranch and to appraise the ranch for its possible sale. Sparks fly when Laramie discovers why Jamie is there since she was unaware of what her folks were planning. Laramee wasn’t about to go easy on Jamie as he stays at the ranch for an extended period of time. There are some pretty funny scenes when Laramee gives Jamie some undesirable jobs that will make you chuckle.

While this is a love story, it also had some more serious topics of guilt, forgiveness, and self-worth. Ms. Lewis handled all of it with respect, showing that people like Laramee and Jamie can get past their hurt by leaning on God and others. I think everyone can relate to Laramee and Jamie in different areas of their lives.

This is the second book in the Silver Buckle Bride series. It can easily be read as a standalone, however, the characters from the first book do make a short appearance in the book. If you are a reader of clean romantic fiction, then this will be a book you will enjoy.

I received a copy of this book with no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.