Title: The Maverick's Bride
Author: Catherine Palmer
Publisher: Steeple Hill 1988
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Pages: 272
Rating: 4 / 5 stars
Reading Challenges: Support Your Local Library
I don't usually pick up these series romances. But for some reason, I grabbed this one. It intrigued me. And I found that I liked it!
The basic setting, Africa during the 1880s, fulfilled my exotic locations desire. I like far-flung locations. Africa during the 1880s was a time of colonization and exploration. Fittingly the main female character, Emmaline, was a proper British loyalist espousing pro-colonist sentiment. Until her views were changed by the American cowboy Adam King and his friends, mostly African natives. As a part of the story, they touched on the man-eater lions of Tsavo, an actual event. So right there I liked the setting and atmosphere of the book.
As to the plot, it was predictable, as they mostly are, but I was okay with it. The predictable plot was tolerable because of the strength of the characters. While Emmaline was whiny at times, I understood why she was whiny. Adam was secretive, but understandably so based on his history. And Nicholas was a thoroughly despicable character from the beginning without being a cartoon version of himself. I found them likable. And the side characters of Soapy, Linde, and Tolito added to the overall atmosphere.
One of the big problems I usually have with Christian historical romance is the sermonizing. This book had a nice balance of witnessing and general conversation. I didn't feel like the entire book was centered around "saving" someone. It was a good balance that didn't upset me.
Overall, I think an enjoyable quick read. I read it in a day. I think I'll be adding Catherine Palmer to my interesting authors list.
