In Eden Valley, Alberta, Canada, in July of 1882, Grace Eileen Henderson finds herself in a situation that may end up killing her and her little sister, Belle. Alone in the world, they listen to Thornton Winch, a man who calls himself a travelling preacher, when he promises them protection and safety. Instead, he holds Belle hostage in order to force Grace to his will. Grace, now called Red by Thornton because of her fiery colored hair, must dance for men, must let them touch her in order to keep her sister safe. She endures the beatings, the humiliation, and the degradation for Belle. She has lost her faith in God. She has learned not to trust any man, especially a man who says he wants to help her.
After spending the past few days on an errand for his boss, all Ward Walker wants is a hot meal and to get back to the ranch. Even the rowdiness of the saloon, and the shouting of a man named Thornton to ante up for a look at “Red” doesn’t faze him until he realizes that Red is nothing more than a shy yet defiant young woman doing her best to hold on to a small scrap of dignity. But it’s the welts and bruises that bring him to action. He suffered that same abuse at the hands of his stepfather. A fight ensues and he “kidnaps Red and takes her to the ranch. But Red won’t stay, can’t stay—not without Belle. Ward and the others at the ranch say they want to help her, but isn’t that what Thornton told her, too? Men are not to be trusted. Especially a man who comforts her, calms her fears, and makes her want to believe again.
A great character-driven western historical that will keep you turning the pages. The hero and heroine share the stage throughout the book with their need to outwit the evil that shadows them. The plot has darker undertones as the subject of abuse is dealt with but the author handles it well to make a satisfying read. There are also book group discussion questions at the end, a real bonus for book groups who might choose this title to read and talk about. Definitely a recommended read for those who like to keep the action going.