MY REVIEW:
An installment of the Texas Ever After series by Karen Witemeyer, If the Boot Fits is a western version of the classic Cinderella story. However, readers will find more than one role reversal in the tale and what fun it is! I can always count on this author for a romantic drama laced with humor and often a bit of mystery and suspense. This one has it all.
Samantha Dearing is the daughter of a wealthy rancher. Their relationship has been filled with misunderstanding since the death of her mother and Sam feels unloved and unwanted. When her father plans a ball in her honor and invites all the eligible bachelors in the area, she is convinced he wants to be rid of her.
Asher Ellis is convinced that Eli Dearing has wrongfully evicted his mother and is determined to find evidence while the household is preoccupied with the ball. As luck would have it he is discovered and manages to make a quick getaway. Unfortunately Samantha’s younger brother chases him and falls into the pond. During the rescue, Asher loses one of his distinctive boots and of course Samantha finds it. So thus begins the retelling of Cinderella.
Be ready to put all your preconceived notions of the Cinderella story to rest because Witemeyer has managed to upend them all. Few of the characters are what you expect and their interactions are both heartwarming and fun. Faith plays a strong role also with prayers and scripture featured often. Danger and mystery, forgiveness and reconciliation are all deftly woven together in a delightful tale that will brighten the reader’s day.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group. (I also purchased my own copy) A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
One fateful night will change their destinies forever. . . .
Convinced that his stepmother and half brothers have been wrongfully evicted by cattle king Eli Dearing, Asher Ellis uses the cover of an extravagant ball to break into the Three Cedars’ ranch house to search for proof. On the verge of discovery, he flees, but a boy’s cry compels him to make a daring rescue.
Spunky and independent Samantha Dearing balks when she learns the ball her father is hosting is nothing more than a matrimonial ambush. Taking a break from unwanted suitors, Samantha spots a thief fleeing her home. When the stranger ends up saving her brother’s life, she hides the only clue to his identity left behind–his boot–and resolves to find him herself.
When Samantha encounters the older brother of a student she tutors, all thoughts of the bootless mystery man vanish. Asher values family above wealth, a rare trait that opens her heart. Afraid she will discover his past misconduct, Asher tries to keep his distance, but when a series of suspicious accidents befall her, he vows to protect her, even though saving her life could mean losing her love.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Voted #1 Reader’s Favorite Christian Historical Author of 2023 by Family Fiction magazine, bestselling and Carol and Christy Award-winning author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. She and her husband make their home in Abilene, Texas. Learn more about Karen and her books at KarenWitemeyer.com.
