[alert variation=”alert-info”]Publisher: Cara Shannon
Formats: Paperback, Kindle, Audible
Purchase: Powell’s | Amazon | IndieBound | Barnes & Noble | iBooks[/alert]

Laura Kensington thinks she is finally free of her abusive husband. Her relief is short-lived when she realizes her mother-in-law will do anything and everything she can to get control of Laura – and her unborn child. Laura accepts the help of a local doctor who treats her injuries and helps her flee to his friend’s ranch in Texas. Overwhelmed with the acceptance and safety she feels, Laura begins to heal from her past abuse. What she doesn’t expect is to start developing feelings for Cade Bishop, who works his family’s land. Frightened by her feelings and by the arrival of private detectives sent by the Kensington family, Laura runs again. Soon, though, she must decide whether she can keep running or whether she should open her heart to Cade and trust in his promise of a new life.

Ever Hopeful is the first book in a new series by author Lori Ryan and she is off to a great start. From the first chapter, the reader is transported into the world of Laura Kensington. She is fragile yet has an inner strength that compels the reader to root for her. Cade is just the right combination of protector and gentle spirit for the book. The supporting characters of May and Shane are equally pleasant. In a turn from some novels in the genre, the author doesn’t demonize every Kensington character but unveils surprising support for Laura as the plot unfolds. The story itself is well laid out, logical and nicely paced. The romance aspects of the book are not gratuitous but very tastefully written. Overall, this is a delightful book that is sure to please fans of romance. Readers and fans of this book will definitely be on the lookout for the next installment in this great new series.

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