Sabine Starr

I had issues with the book - it seemed like it wanted to be a longer novel, like with a bit more exploration, the relationship and plot would have flowed and felt more natural. I struggled with the seemingly sudden introduction of the supernatural elements - again, perhaps a bit more time to allow the reader to feel the need for those elements would make them seem less intrusive. That said, I read the book in about 2 days, so it was definitely entertaining!

(I was provided with a review copy of this novel by the published via Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.)… (mere)

Can a tough, cynical, female bounty hunter and a "tenderfoot," free spirit artist fall in love? Ms. Starr takes on that challenge in BELLE GONE BAD, and scores a 5-star read, proving that anything is possible and nothing is quite what it seems in the Old West.

Set in 1884 in Delaware Bend, Texas, one of the toughest towns in the Old West, BELLE GONE BAD is the story of Belle Thompson and Mercy Huntingdon. When Belle meets Mercy she takes an instant disliking to the artist who is better known for his sensual, erotic wood carvings of ladies on saloon bar furniture than his skill with a gun. Belle, who is on the hunt for her father's and ex-fiance's killer, has no time for such a free spirit while the trail she is tracking is growing cold. But when a friend, convinces Belle to help Mercy track down his missing muse, Belle discovers that there is more to Mercy than meets the eye. Soon Belle and Mercy are taken on a trail of discovery that includes secrets of each's past, a spiritual reawakening, the sensual freedom of "Free Love" and an appreciation for forgiveness and how the releasing of prior guilts is an essential element to the ability to fully open up to love.

I commend Ms. Starr for reversing the typical stereotypes that are so pervasive in romantic literature. Belle Gone Bad demonstrates that not all heroes and heroines need to fit the typical mold for a love story to work. I also loved the rich, vivid detail with which BELLE GONE BAD describes the Old West and its outlaws, bounty hunters, saloons, "outlaw towns" and even Indian religious influences and the motivation driving the migration west. You can tell that Ms. Starr really did her research before writing this historical western romance, and it greatly adds to the allure and intrigue of the story!

I highly recommend BELLE GONE BAD to anyone who loves a good western romance or strong heroines!

Source: ARC copy provided by the Publisher through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.… (mere)

ANGEL GONE BAD by Sabine Starr is an exciting Western/American Historical Romance set in 1884 Texas Chowtow Nation. #2 in the "Gone Bad" series, but can be read as a stand alone. See, "Lady Gone Bad". Ride the trail with Angel and Rune as they face secrets,danger, passion, and love. Along with an outlaw or two. A not to miss story of and ex-AHTA undercover agent,who he is determined to clear his name with the help of Angel who had him caught in the first place and sent to prison. Angel, feels guilty,is now an author,writing stories about her adventures with Rune and is determined to find her friend's fiance. A US Deputy who has disappeared while working a case,and is soon to be a father. If you enjoy Westerns, outlaws,romance and passion than "Angel Gone Bad" is just up your ally. Does leave you to wonder a few things,for one,their was only one body found in the burned out outlaw fortress,so what happened to the worst of the lot? Guess we will have wait until next time to find out or maybe......oh, and I will be looking forward to the next "Gone Bad" story. An adventure filled story. Received for an honest review from the publisher and Net Galley.

RATING: 4

HEAT RATING: MILD

REVIEWED BY: AprilR, Review courtesy of My Book Addiction and More… (mere)