Tess Marks is a blind woman, deserted by her low-down dirty husband on their land in the Dakota Territory. She’s got some skills and can take care of herself, but the farm is falling down around her since her man left her six months ago. Tess is determined to not allow her disability prevent her from working and tending her farm.

Will Ashton’s pregnant sister was knifed by a stranger and Will killed him. That is the only trouble with the law he’s even been in, and he finds his way to the Marks’ place to see if the lady needs help. He knows she’s a woman alone, but he doesn’t expect her to be so pretty or charming. As their friendship heats up, she fights against the desire she has for him, knowing that she is a married woman. The time is never right and Will doesn’t have the heart to tell her that she is a widow now.

Hired Hands passionately details the story of a blind woman who refuses to allow her lack of sight to prevent her from doing the things she loves. Tess is wonderful - determined, strong, and needy - without ever inspiring pity. Sable Grey creates such great characters in Will and Tess, and she fleshes them out, giving them life and depth not often found in a work this short. I’ll be on the lookout for more of Sable Grey’s work.

Reviewed by: Michelle