"In Honor's Defense" by Karen Witemeyer
Jun. 30th, 2022 08:38 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)

Haunted by the abuse and abandonment that marred his childhood, as well as things that happened while he was in the army, Luke Davenport has found purpose in his faith in Christ and in his position in Hanger's Horsemen, an honorable band that helps those in need. Luke answers the call of a rancher whose cattle are being rustled, but he quickly realizes that there's more happening Madisonville than first meets the eye.
Damaris Baxter has always felt invisible, but her simple life took a dramatic turn when she was named the guardian of her 14-year-old nephew. However, Nathaniel's grief has kept her shut out of his heart, and she's worried about how often he's gone and the pranks he's pulling. When he blurts out that his father was actually murdered, Damaris sets out to investigate that claim.
Circumstances bring Luke, Nathaniel, and Damaris together. Nathaniel reminds Luke of himself at that age, and he longs to help the boy. Being around Damaris makes Luke long for the things he's never allowed himself to dream of, while Damaris finds it hard to believe she could inspire ardor in such a man.
Grave danger lurks around Madisonville, threatening those in its path. Can Luke find the source of the conflict before it claims any more lives, especially the ones he's come to love?
While this book had what seemed like more violence than usual for a Karen Witemeyer novel, I very much enjoyed Luke and Damaris as characters.There were aspects to both of them that I could relate to. I also appreciated the strong reliance upon faith that they portrayed. This book wraps up the Hanger's Horsemen series, and it brings a satisfying conclusion to the tale of heroic men who overcame their shared military tragedy. I would recommend this series to those who enjoy western historical romance, and I can't wait to see what Karen brings us next!
I received my copy of the book from the author. All thoughts in this review are my own.