To be released: June 2020
If you're looking for a great author or book recommendation.. this is the book/author for you!
I absolutely loved this book! The characters, the setting, the storyline (which threw me for a loop, by the way!), the mystery, the action, the intrigue, the romance, the witty banter, the beautiful words of wisdom and the magical way she makes one feel closer to the Lord through her story telling. It was simply refreshing and wonderful. I was sucked in, at just a couple of pages in!
And can we talk about Karen's writing for a sec! It just flows so perfectly- all the time, she has such a thoughtful, elegant way of expressing her words. Anyway, I loved this book and I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the books in this series!!!

At Love's Command
by Karen Witemeyer
The excitement of this story was hard to stay involved as I was inclined to skim through this book rather than read it word for word. It was a good story but I had a hard time with it. There was everything in it to make it a must-read book: adventure, romance, outlaws, kidnapping and so on. I just ended up skimming it to get to the good stuff which made it difficult to love.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Overall I thought this book was sweet. It was a little slow moving and didn’t offer as much romance or excitement as I would have liked. I liked the characters and enjoyed their interactions. The horsemen were a great team and I loved that dynamic, and Matt and Josie were a great pair and fun to read. I would have loved more time with Matt and Josie together and think a bit more romance would have been welcomed in this plot. There were several long fight/battle scenes and it became a bit tedious to read and I didn’t feel that they needed to be so extensive. It was an overall enjoyable story and kept me entertained.

I was originally drawn to this book because Karen Witemeyer is one of my favorite authors, and this book did not disappoint. At Love's Command is a story about Josephine-a headstrong, sassy doctor and Matthew-an ex cavalryman who holds guilt and regrets over his past. When Josephine finds out her brother is in trouble she turns to Matthew in hopes that he will help. Witemeyer's beautifully crafted romance continuously brought a smile to my face and was believable despite being set in such a short time frame. All of the characters and the friendship dynamics are so well written that I cared about not only the two main characters, but also their friends. This book also had multiple action scenes that had me sitting on the edge of my seat. I will be recommending this book at work and to people in my personal life. I am excited to continue this series to see who in this group will find love next!

Brief summary: Captain Matt is the leader of a gang of horsemen. He needs a doctor for his friend. Who does he get but a woman doctor. Josephine fixes up his friend and then needs to hire him to go save her brother from horrible cattle rustlers. Things happen and Josephine gets kidnapped instead, meanwhile she's already fallen in love with Matt and he with her. He then has to save Jo.

This was a typical save the damsel in distress type story, almost fairy-tale like. Matt is the dashing hero with a great bond with his horse who does pretty remarkable talents. He falls in love with a beautiful woman who hides her soft side underneath an exterior of steel.

I enjoyed this story very much, but some of the tropes rubbed me a little wrong. I loved Jo immediately, her spirit and spunk and steel coming out almost from the get go. Matt took a while to warm up to, and even at the end he wasn't my favorite hero that Witemeyer has written. I did like him though.

The kidnapped damsel in distress trope hasn't really been used by Witemeyer before, I'll give her that, but I wanted Jo to save herself, to use her brains and ingenuity and not wait for a man to save her. Grrrr. She's a doctor she should be smart enough to work a way, or at least most of the way, out of her problem.

I will admit that Matt rushing in guns blazing was very romantic and dashing, but over used and a bit dull by the end. But the way that Matt and Jo fell in love with each other, in like three days, since she avoids him after she fixes up Wallace, in total, it's like 5 days. They're in love that fast. There wasn't much development in the romance department, more focused on adventure and action and fighting than heart to heart exchanges.

I look forward to the next books. Not my favorite Witemeyer novel, but definitely not my least. Somewhere in the middle and will definitely be read on a Witemeyer binge.

All in all, i give this a solid 4 stars. Very enjoyable but a little too heavy on the tropes and not enough development of the romance.

At Love's Command is Karen Witemeyer's newest series and it definitely starts out with a bang! From the very beginning we meet Matthew Hanger and his men. He is a Calvary Officer that has suffered loss not only in his younger life but also during war. He feels so ashamed and guilty from what he considers his past failures that he and his friends become mercenaries. They call themselves the Hanger's Horsemen. With one of his men being injured he meets the strong-willed Dr. Josephine Burkett. Instantly you know that he is going to fall in love with her. The banter and respect they have between each other made the story! Immediately you see that his men welcome her into the fold and have nothing but respect for her.

I wan't sure how this story would develop at the beginning especially when Matthew is set to leave the town of Purgatory Springs but then trouble arises for Dr. Josephine in the form of her brother Charlie and she needs the help of the Hanger's Horsemen. This is when all the action of the story takes place and where Karen Witemeyer truly sucks you in. There's definitely more than romance in this story. It is truly packed with action, so if Western Romances are your thing then you will love this. Not only is there action and romance but there is a clear Christian theme woven throughout. I love that both Matthew and Josie (as he calls her!! be still my heart!) both come to the same realization about letting God be fully in control of their lives.

These quotes definitely make you realize that this has been a struggle for them and its finally time to let go and let God.

" Knowledge inspired confidence. A lack of knowledge left her feeling powerless and afraid."

"Forfeiting control to an almighty God should be easier than giving in to a gang of outlaws, yet he struggled,,"

I'm looking forward to seeing the rest of this series unfold and see where the rest of the Horsemen end up and what their stories will be.

If you love western romances, Christian Fiction and clean reads then this is the book for you!

Happy Reading!

FTC Disclosure: I received a complementary copy of this book from Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.

In this first book in a new series–“Hanger’s Horseman”–we are introduced to a gang of horsemen who hire themselves out for the sake of justice and doing what people need to have done in the wild west.

In one such adventure, they come across trouble and ride into the nearest town for a doctor. Encountering a rare woman doctor, the men come to trust her and want to look out for her.

Witemeyer’s novels are known for being Wild West stories with a sweet romance, and this one did not disappoint the model. A story about a woman ahead of her time, and chivalrous men…you can’t get much better than that.

Thank you to Bethany House and Net Galley for providing me with a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own and were not required to be positive.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion – which I’ve done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

Karen Witemeyer is one of my favorite authors, and all of her titles immediately go on my must-read list! Although this one wasn’t my favorite in my Witemeyer collection, I still think my fellow readers would enjoy this Western romance between a lady doc and a cavalryman.

Things to note: 1) Karen’s writing style is usually so funny and light-hearted; this one felt different in that it was not only lacking the humor I’m used to from a Witemeyer title, it also felt overly dramatic at times.

2) I don’t mind the hero/heroine finding each other attractive (this seems healthy in a romance, yes?) but I felt like sometimes in scenes where they were together every other line was about how sexy the other was. 🤦‍♀️ I just wanted to return to the action.

3) The action was really up a notch! From the violent opening scene that changes the hero’s life forever to certain aspects of the plot I did not see coming, this book definitely qualifies as a page-turner! Excellent choice for a summer vacation / beach read to be consumed in a week or less.

4) I hope this turns out to be a long series, as I really want to find out what happens to the other Horsemen!

'Horsemen never quit. We find a way to achieve the mission and we protect our own.'

Karen Witemeyer begins a new series, 'Hanger's Horsemen' with this book and she's off to a fabulous start! Matthew Hanger, ex Calvary officer and three of his buddies forma band of mercenaries, bringing justice to those who are oppressed. He lands on Dr. Josephine Burkett's doorstep when one of his men is wounded. Dr. Jo is sassy and not inclined to allow Matt's idea of women doctor to deter her. Soon, though, Josie needs Matt's and the Horsemen's professional help.

'God's warriors had been outnumbered and outmatched before, and that hadn't stopped them from facing their enemies and emerging victorious.'

I have never missed a Karen Witemeyer book and have enjoyed them all. But this one totally captivated me. From the opening sentence to the last, my interest never once waned. Not one bit. As soon as I saw the cover, I knew I would love this book. Just knew it. Very well written with a cast of characters that completely endeared themselves to me (except the bad guys), I thoroughly enjoyed every single minute of this book. And Witemeyer has included some deep spiritual truths here as well, lessons we could all take to heart.

Witemeyer's portrayal of Hanger's Horsemen had me loving these men--men of honor and integrity who never abandon a mission and fight for justice. And there are four horsemen, so there are 3 more books coming!! Witemeyer truly shines here! I very highly recommend this book and author.

'I might not know you well, Matthew Hanger, but I've seen your heart. The world would be a darker place without you in it.'

*My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions expressed here in this review are completely my own.

Karen Witemeyer's newest novel, At Love's Command features four cowboys who seek justice. After an important battle changed their perspective on being a soldier, the four friends decided to change course and help the unfortunate. The four men work seamlessly together to make a wonderful pact of heroes. The story features revenge, ransom, a kidnapping, and hunting for love. The male hero is interesting and brave. Once he fell in love, he didn't allow the thought of love to run away. The heroine, Dr. Josephine, is brave and not afraid of anything. She falls in love quickly and will do anything for the safety of those she loves and injured. I love the male cowboy on the cover. Most Christian Fiction features the heroine, so it was nice to see this becoming a thread especially with this publisher. Overall, At Love's Command was a delightful introduction to a new series. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.

I received a complimentary copy of At Love's Command by Karen Witemeyer from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.

Start of a new series Hanger's Horsemen.
First, book is Matthew's story. His lady is a fiesty Dr. Josephine.
Inspirational western.
Cattle rustler's, kidnapping, friendship, and family.
Check it out

Another wonderful book by Karen! The Hangers horsemen was a nice twist on male characters. Who wouldn’t fall for a dashing commander! This story took a twist that was not expected and then another one for the better! I couldn’t wait to finish the story to find out what happened. I can’t wait for the next Hangers horsemen story!

At Love's Command by Karen Witemeyer is a heartwarming romance set in the 1890's.

Josephine Burkett is a woman doctor who is strong minded, intelligent and spunky. Sparks fly when she meets Matthew Hanger, a member of the Hanger's Horsemen, a group of men who defends the innocent and brings justice to outlaws. As an ex-Calvary officer, Matthews back story is one of pain and guilt, which drives him to be on the side of justice.

When Dr. Jo approaches Matt to find her brother, who has been kidnapped and held for ransom, the story's suspense heats up. As does their relationship.The secondary characters are well rounded and sure to be part of forthcoming stories.

Karen Witemeyer writes excellent Christian romance novels, and this one has great action, suspense and what we have come to expect from Ms. Witemeyer.

I received a complimentary ebook copy from the publisher, through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Karen Witemeyer has this uncanny ability to craft a heartwarming romance with relevant spiritual threads that work their way into your heart and lodge there. Her latest novel, At Love’s Command, is just another example. I could go on and on gushing about her novels, but I’ll save that for another time.

This novel reminds me a bit of her Archer brother series, but instead of four brothers, this series focuses on four former calvarymen who form a group known as Hanger’s Horsemen. Although not brothers by birth, their bond is just as strong, and they protect their own.

Their banter made the novel, as well as the genuine respect between them. Each of the men have defining quirks that made them feel like friends. And Josephine’s response to their banter brought her into the group so seamlessly, you understand their willingness to help her.

Josephine is a strong woman, which I appreciate, but I also appreciate that she knows when to capitulate and when to stand her ground, especially when it comes to Matt. Witemeyer did a great job of fleshing out their personalities and building their relationship. It’s easy to understand their bond and the professional respect they extend one another. And to be honest, as Josephine fell in love with Matt, I did, too. I always have appreciated the strong, stoic type.

But this book provides so much more than a relationship to root for (although that’s fun, too.) There’s the friendship of four men who’ve been to battle together and survived. There’s the spiritual aspect about God guiding our steps. And there’s the characters’ growing understanding of the need to surrender it all to Him. Not just when things are going wrong but when they’re going right, too. All of this combines with a plot that will have you on the edge of your seat as you root for the hero and heroine as well as their band of friends.

Overall, At Love’s Command is an exceptionally written novel with action, adventure, romance, and spiritual threads to warm your heart, entertain your mind, and refresh your soul.

(Review will go on the blog May 15 at 5:00 PM)

This is the BEST christian romance novel that I have read in a long time! Matthew Hanger is an ex-Calvary officer. He and the other three men in his band of mercenaries have made a pact after witnessing the devastation at Wounded Knee. They will protect the innocent. They are helping disband a group of rustler's when one of their members is shot. Hanger is told to take his partner to Doc Joe, in a nearby town. Much to his chagrin, the doctor is a woman. Dr. Josephine Burkett, also fights battles. The battle of being a woman doctor, in a small town, in the west. The battle every doctor faces when fighting to save a patient. These two warriors now must fight to save Josephine's brother. Just when they know they can fight for each other, all seems lost. Loved this novel and highly recommend! I can't wait to see what adventures occur in the rest of the series! #atlovescommand #netgalley

I absolutely loved this story set in 1890s Texas. It touched my heart and brought me to tears several times as if they were real people. The Christian theme woven throughout, like a rope binding comfort to my soul, was perfect for the days we are living in.

"Got a verse for me, Preach?" was a favorite phrase of mine throughout the story.

Faith Quote: "Romans 8:31. 'If God be for us, who can be against us?"'

Tea Quote: "I'd hoped to sweet talk my way into the room with tea and cookies." -Josephine

I received a complimentary eBook through Netgalley and the Publisher for an honest review. All opinions are my own without further compensation or expectation.

Karen Witemeyer is such a sweet and genuine person. You can connect with her online as I have and be blessed by her tender heart.

5 STARS

SERIES: Hanger's Horsemen
1) At Love's Command - Possibly May or June 2020 (dependent upon COVID-19 delays)

I enjoyed At Love’s Command so much! Karen Witemeyer has woven a daring story of heroic ex-Cavalrymen, a lady doctor and a band of heartless outlaws in the Wild West territory of Texas..
When Matthew Hanger sought a physician to treat one of his men, he had no idea “Doctor Jo” would be a beautiful bold woman who was exactly what the doctor ordered for his heart.
Josephine Burkett had worked so hard to establish herself as a lady doctor in the town of Purgatory Springs and she’s finally basking in the glow of the towns acceptance. But when a band of burly outlaws bring trouble her way, she must learn that some situations are outside of her control and commit herself to the Almighty’s safekeeping. The man she loves must risk everything to save her.
I love that both of the main characters have strong faith in God-even when circumstances seem impossible, they both fall on God’s help to get through. Many authors struggle with their characters prayers sounding genuine, but Witemeyer does an exceptional job of making the reader feel keenly what is in the characters heart.
I love the gang of men who champion the cause of the oppressed-they are the shining knights of the frontier era. I loved reading Matthews story and I cannot wait to read the rest of this series.

This started out so good, I love when the loves interest meet soon after the book opens. This sets the pace for the book. This was a great beginning showing us very quickly who these two were and what they wanted in life. Loved how it all unrolled. The ending was more wordy then I liked. There was more preaching and some repetitive thoughts and the action got slowed down. Overall I enjoyed it and would have loved it if it had been shortened. This is a Christian western romance. Very chaste, some shoot outs.

Karen Witemeyer writes a thrilling adventure grounded in faith, romance, and loyalty. From the prologue, Witemeyer keeps readers hooked with riveting action, beautiful characters, and a healthy dose of God’s wisdom.

Matthew Hanger, Witemeyer’s hero, is definitely swoon-worthy while remaining humble and a admirable leader. Dr. Josephine Burkett, the heroine, is intelligent and strong, a good role model for all readers. The two are supported by a wonderful collection of minor characters, who will all hopefully receive their own stories to continue this wonderful series.

A solid 5/5 stars!

I have never read a Karen Witemeyer novel that I didn't like and this one was no exception! A fantastic beginning to a new series, At Love's Command pulled me into the story from the very first page. The characters had depth, the plot was well paced, and Matt and Josie's relationship had such wonderful chemistry. I loved the sparks flying between them as they faced one plot twisting challenge after another. Matt's team had some really great new characters as well and I am hoping that the rest of the series will be about them. This is a must read for anyone who enjoyed Karen's other books or who likes a good Western romance!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley but my opinions are my own.