"Undeniably Yours" by Becky Wade

Almost all new authors that I try fall into two categories: those with high praise, or those whose debut novels have an intriguing plotline. Becky Wade falls into the first group. I've heard quite a bit of buzz about her novels, so I was happy when I won a giveaway of this book (courtesy of my friend over at Pages and Threads) and was able to check out this author for myself.

"Undeniably Yours" is the story of Meg, a fragile woman who has been thrust into a position of authority after the unexpected death of her father. Not only is she now the majority shareholder of a major oil corporation, she must also decide what to do with the numerous properties and ventures her father had been involved in. When she decides to close his thoroughbred horse ranch, she's met with resistance by ranch manager Bo Porter, who insists she give him 6 months to prove the worth of the endeavor and save the livelihood of the many who work there. Taken aback by his firm but gentle insistence, Meg agrees to the plan.

Meg has faced her share of challenges and they have left her with frequent panic attacks and a tenuous grasp on her own worth. One thing she does know is that God is still in control and that He has brought people into her life who can be Jesus' hands and feet to her, helping her through the rough patches. I loved that aspect of this story. Meg isn't sure what to think when it seems Bo Porter has been sent into her life for just such a reason. On his part, Bo can't believe he's falling in love with the one woman whom he cannot allow himself to be attracted to. Wouldn't she think he was just trying to save his job if he pursued her?

This book was more straight-up romance than I personally care to read. The spiritual themes of community and helping those in need were well-done, but there were quite a few things I didn't care for. It's not just the cowboy, outdoors-y type who are "real men." There were quite a few mentions of people, especially the protagonist, swearing at different situations. Even though not spelled out, I prefer to keep swearing, or the promotion of swearing, out of Christian fiction. There were other ways this hit "not my style," but not so much that I didn't stick it out and finish reading it. I'll give Becky Wade another try before deciding if we're just not a good match, because sometimes that happens between authors and readers.

My favorite part of this story was seeing God lead and work through vulnerable, hurting people who want to follow Him. Those whose hearts are turned to Him are always going to be overcomers, even in the direst of circumstances, because that's how our God works!