Eulalie Gibb heads west to Rio Penasco to start working as a singer in a saloon. Her family had a theatrical company in New York, but she and her sister must get away from New York and fast. Eulalie goes west to find a job singing so she can bring her sister out before something happens to her. She arrives only to be accosted by a jolly old drunk who only wants to dance. She plans to press charges but decides not to after meeting his nephew, Nick. Eulalie is startled to find such a handsome man in the wilds of the west but she knows how to take care of herself and doesn’t need anyone to help her. But Nick Taggart takes it upon himself to help Eulalie find lodging and to keep the men at bay. Could Eulalie trust her feelings for Nick? Could he be the one she has been looking for?

Nick Taggart only wanted a quiet life with his uncle Junius in Rio Penasco. He wasn’t looking for any woman to tie him down or for love, which he didn’t believe in, until he meets Eulalie Gibb. She is a feisty and prickly female. But he takes it on himself to protect her from the wild bunch in the saloon. He finds he is fascinated with her and why she has decided to come west. Nick enjoys hearing her sing and watching her dance, but has a hard time trusting other men around her. Is he in love with her or does he just want what she isn’t willing to give? Could this be love?

Alice Duncan has written another great book with Cactus Flower. I enjoyed reading her book and could not put it down. It is a refreshing and entertaining read. The emotions and humor are plenty. Nick and Eulalie keep you reading until the end. Uncle Junius is a funny old man and he will make you laugh from the start. Cactus Flower is one of the best western romances I have read in along time. I applaud you Ms. Duncan for such a fantastic book and I recommend this book highly.

Reviewed by: Moonluster