1880

Lord Nicolas Balfour Montague suffers execution if he stays in Europe but his valet; Gaston, refuses to allow that to happen. His mother was already hanged for treason, and Gaston believes by leaving Europe and going to America, Nicolas will be safe. Of course, after they arrive, Nicolas spends much of his time slumming and drowning in alcohol which only irritates Gaston. After coming across a pamphlet on Nebraska, Gaston feels it would be best to head there and discover some new opportunities for Nicolas. Of course, trying to fit into America, with their English duds and English traits, found them almost as outcast and often not treated with a warm welcome. Josie Sullivan runs Sullivan Farms and understands about prejudices, as well as grief, anger, and resentment. She and her siblings, Erin and Brody, do not believe in fighting with guns or knives but rather strength and determination. All the siblings have is their farm, and it certainly cannot run itself. After Brody encounters the mistreatment of Nicolas and Gaston, when they arrive in town, he offers to step in and help, but it lands them all three in jail. Brody has Cheyenne blood and knows all too well about being picked on by others. Josie goes into town to bail Brody out of jail, only to end up helping Nicolas and Gaston, too, by offering them a job on the farm. Nicolas knows nothing about hard work since he has had servants most his life. Josie is determined to show Nicolas how to survive in the west, it takes hard work, dedication and the perseverance to continue on as they fight their growing attraction for the other.

I found Worth the Risk a most compelling read with in-depth characters that keeps the story moving along greatly. Each character counterbalances the story and makes it even more convincing with their actions. Josie and her siblings struggle through many obstacles and continue to move forward. Gaston and Nicholas are from a different part of the world, unfamiliar with the western lifestyles, and just visualizing Gaston in overalls, out riding a horse allowed this reader to get a view in their mind of their new lifestyles. Eve Asbury pens a great historical read with many emotions, love, and different customs, not to mention extreme hatred, as the characters seek to find a way to overcome harsh situations while building a bright future. There were moments my heart went out to Nicolas because of his upbringing, while almost living like the prodigal son to find meaning in life, while falling in love. This is one recommended read that really comes to life.

Reviewed by: Linda L.