Eden Spencer has sworn off men, choosing instead to devote her time to the lending library she runs. When a mountain-sized stranger walks through her door and asks to borrow a book, she steels herself against the attraction he provokes. His halting speech and hesitant manner leave her doubting his intelligence. Yet as the mysteries of the town's new blacksmith unfold, Eden discovers hidden depths in him that tempt her heart.
Levi's renewed commitment to his faith leads Eden to believe she's finally found a man of honor and integrity, a man worthy of her love. But when the truth about his prodigal past comes to light, can this tarnished hero find a way to win back the librarian's affections?
My Thoughts:
Levi's halting speech leaves most people with the impression that he's simple-minded, but you know what they say: Never judge a book by its cover. Eden, the town librarian, initially dismisses Levi as a common and uninteresting blacksmith, but as their interactions become more frequent Eden begins to question her first assumption. Though he doesn't say much, Levi's use of extravagant words in place of simpler ones gives a glimpse of a highly educated man, which tugs at Eden's growing curiosity. She finds herself inexplicably drawn to him, wanting to unravel the secrets he holds...
For me, Levi came as a complete shock. Normally novels with big hulking men as the hero aren't really my thing, but I came to really like and appreciate Levi. He's big and strong, but his speech impediment is a continual trial for him, leaving him somewhat vulnerable. I was very intrigued by the way he's able to handle it by using a creative approach, all the while keeping a mostly good attitude despite his frustration. His past is rough, but the grace of God has redeemed him--completely changed him--yet sadly most people aren't near as forgiving when they discover the sins his past holds. It's heart-wrenching to see how people's behavior towards him shifts when they discover his past, but at the same time it makes you take a good look at yourself, wondering how you would react in a similar situation. The answer just might surprise you.
Karen Witemeyer's novels have a way of surprising me, but in a good way! I've read most of her books and enjoyed them, but every time I pick up one of her books I am surprised anew by just how GOOD of an author she really is. She comes up with the most unique situations and trials for her characters to go through, and honestly, it's just downright entertaining story-telling. The art of historical romance is perfected in her novels. I very much enjoyed "To Win Her Heart", and I highly recommend it, along with the rest of her books, as well!
My Rating: 5 stars
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