Review: A Fantastic Western Romance!
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 04 10, 2011
Patricia Preston's puts the 'wild' back in the wild west with Almost An Outlaw. This novella puts it all on the line with plenty of danger and gunslingers, but at it's heart is a western romance between two lost souls. One that, despite all the obstacles against it, could never die.Austin never forgot the young girl who gave him wild flowers and stole his heart. Circumstances tore them apart and now Austin has come back to Missouri to ask Darcy for her help to contact the infamous Jesse James gang. Austin had a priceless horse stolen from him and he knows James gang can help return what is rightfully his. Neither Austin nor Darcy expected their attraction to still be so strong after all these years. Despite their passion and mutual feelings for one another, their pasts may be the biggest obstacle in their path to love and happiness.This short story starts years after our two leads have seen each other. So of course they reflect a bit on the time they spent together and the memories. Their reflections on the past are endearing and tenderly sweet. The impact these two individuals had on each other is romantic and charming to say the least. But of course, now they are older, wiser and terrified of their past and their feelings for one another. Still, their dialogue was always straight forward and honest, which was truly refreshing. There were no coy moments or awkward silences between these characters...if they wanted to express their feelings, they simply said so.For the history buffs out there, you will enjoy the connection Preston's heroine has with well known outlaws Frank and Jesse James. This adds a dazzling historical spin to the backdrop of this lovely romance story. It was a creative addition to the story and added a few interesting characters.I was truly surprised with what Preston lays out for the reader...the obstacles, a murder mystery, the character introductions, the romance. A lot takes place during this novella and none of it feels rushed or unresolved. It a very entertaining and complete read. You have a good dose of drama and romance that creates a great story. Preston creates a promising novella that fans of western historical romance will enjoy immensely.Almost An Outlaw by Patricia Preston is a worthwhile read for an easy afternoon. A little spicy, a little sweet and overall delightful, this is a short story you won't be sorry you picked up.Overall Rating: 4/5Heat Level: 3/5Lisa @ Once Upon A Chapter