Wedding At Cardwell Ranch (2014) - Plot & Excerpts
"Wedding at Cardwell Ranch" by B.J. Daniels which I won through Goodreads Giveaways is a captivating and entertaining romance filled with mystery, betrayal and love. Set in Montana the story begins with Allie Taylor whose husband is missing and presumed dead. Torn by guilt and remorse because their marriage was failing, and with all the unusual incidents happening around her, she thinks she's losing her mind. The only joy in her life is her five year old daughter Natalie, and being hired to plan a western style wedding for Tanner (Tag) Cardwell and Lily McCabe.When handsome Jackson Cardwell arrives at the Cardwell Ranch with his young son Ford he finds himself drawn to Allie, and when she's almost hurt in an accident decides to find the person responsible for terrorizing her. As love blossoms Jackson begins to uncover the truth behind Allie's husband's death and those that want to harm her. But intending to return to Texas after the wedding he's afraid there may not be enough time to bring the perpetrators to justice.This well-developed plot is filled with action and intrigue as the attraction between Jackson and Allie picks up steam, even though both have issues with the former partners that make them hesitant in pursuing any kind of relationship. The narrative is masterfully crafted and progresses smoothly to a conclusion which is as fascinating as it is satisfying.In this tale of deceit, disloyalty and heartache Jackson Cardwell is haunted by the memory of a gold-digging ex-wife who left him with commitment issues. Kind, considerate and honest, Jackson wants to help Allie but protect his heart, only to find it stolen by the beautiful lady. Alison (Allie) Taylor plagued by trouble in her past and the loss of her controlling husband is vulnerable to her domineering and critical mother-in-law. Overly trusting, caring and forgiving she's susceptible to the whims of the Taylors, her friends and half sister. But it's the rapacious manipulation of the antagonists that arouse the reader's anger and antipathy. Nick Taylor is the lousy father and husband that Allie wanted to leave. He was unpredictable, moody and cocky unlike his brother Drew who seems quiet and understanding until his bad temper and possessiveness begin to show. Megan Knight, Allie's half sister seems agreeable and loving, hiding her selfishness and disloyalty, while unassuming Sarah Taylor masks her brokenness behind a mild-mannered and obedient demeanor. It is all these characters that give this romance its passion, energy and drama and make it riveting story.I thoroughly enjoyed "Wedding at Cardwell Ranch" and look forward to reading more romances in the Cardwell family saga. Another great Cardwell Ranch installment from B.J. Daniels!Jackson Cardwell comes to Montana for his brother’s wedding. He only plans to stay long enough for the nuptials, but he meets the widowed wedding planner, Allie Taylor, and senses something is not quite right with her. Rather than question her sanity – as everyone else seems to be doing – Jackson feels that she’s being tormented by someone. The question is – who? BJ Daniels presents a number of good suspects from the miserable mother-in-law, the creepy brother-in-law or is it the presumably dead husband? All seem to have something to gain by Allie being declared crazy or even better yet – dying. Allie has no idea who is stalking her and making her think she is losing her mind, but she knows she must fight them to protect her daughter. Jackson Cardwell has rescued her more than once and the attraction she feels for him is overwhelming. Strong characters and a plot with plenty of action and suspense make this one of my favorite Daniels’ books to date. About the time I would be certain of who the ‘bad guy’ was, the plot would take a turn and I’d have to rethink the ‘whodunit’ part. This was a good page turner and I didn’t want to put the book down until I was finished with it. I can’t wait for the next installment of the Cardwell Cousin series! I would, and have, recommended this book to my friends.
What do You think about Wedding At Cardwell Ranch (2014)?
Can't wait to read the next one! Oh wait... Dang it isn't out yet.
—DarkQueen21
