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Spirited Hearts #2
Lena's Courage
Six years ago, Lena Schuler fled Cheyenne to escape the man who brutally stole her innocence. Now, believing her attacker has left Cheyenne for good, she’s returned to build a life for her and her son.
Attorney Lucas Kline has established a new identity and is making his mark as a trial lawyer in the burgeoning rail town of Cheyenne, Wyoming. Fighting to escape the guilt from his past, he’s determined to help shape the emerging territory into a law-abiding state.
When Lena’s attacker threatens the security of her son and others in the community, will she find the courage to face him in order protect those she loves? Can she trust Lucas to defend her secret before a township filled with doubt? Or will the guilt from Lucas’ past blur the lines between justice and vigilantism?
Attorney Lucas Kline has established a new identity and is making his mark as a trial lawyer in the burgeoning rail town of Cheyenne, Wyoming. Fighting to escape the guilt from his past, he’s determined to help shape the emerging territory into a law-abiding state.
When Lena’s attacker threatens the security of her son and others in the community, will she find the courage to face him in order protect those she loves? Can she trust Lucas to defend her secret before a township filled with doubt? Or will the guilt from Lucas’ past blur the lines between justice and vigilantism?
355 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 22, 2015
84 people are currently reading
185 people want to read
About the author
Ruby Merritt
4 books24 followersRuby Merritt writes historical western romance. Her passion for imagining life and love on the High Plains stems from reading and rereading Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House books as a child.
Although Ruby doesn't call the High Plains her home, she resides in an equally beautiful and rustic locale, The Gateway to the Texas Hill Country.
When Ruby's not reading or writing, she can be found riding her horse or homeschooling her children who are avid horsewomen and readers as well.
Although Ruby doesn't call the High Plains her home, she resides in an equally beautiful and rustic locale, The Gateway to the Texas Hill Country.
When Ruby's not reading or writing, she can be found riding her horse or homeschooling her children who are avid horsewomen and readers as well.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
May 16, 2016
++Possible Spoilers+++
4.5 Stars - This can be a stand alone but I recommend reading the 1st (Ella's Choice) to get more backround on existing characters that show up again in Lena's Courage.
This is the second book I have read by this author and I cannot express enough how much I appreciate her extensive research to ensure historical accuracy.
First I strongly suggest reading the prologue regarding the history of the bushwackers. I found it not only interesting, but also found it added to the atmosphere of the story.
Being part German, this book truly spoke to me on a personal level. I had to laugh out loud at how accurate Merrit's depiction of the German characters were. I especially roared with laughter when Lucas was remebering how his mother would say something like a penny saved is a penny earned, because my German grandmother was always so cost conscious too! Do not misunderstand, this is not a humours book, my laughter was personal as I related Merrits characters to my own German relatives.
This is again a difficult story to summarize but I will do my best.
Lena (heroine) was raped at the age 16 by antagonist Frank Piecere, a wealthy spoiled dandy. Lena ended up leaving for Missouri to live with her Aunt Miriam after finding out she was carrying the child of her rapist. She returns 6 years later (after confirming Frank Pierce is not living there any longer)to Cheynne wanting her son to meet, live and grow up with her loving German family.
Lucas Kline, is a lawyer who has moved to Cheynne only 3 months ago. He has not spoken to his German family in over ten years due to some unfortunate mishaps that he blames himself for. He also sadly, has set aside, and hidden his German heritage.
When Lena and her son Jonah arrive in town and surprisingly spot Frank Pierce, they quickly duck inside the first business they come to. Lucas Klines Law office.
And here the story begins!
I will not give away any more but I will say that I love the themes here of family, respect, trust, honor.
The author does a superior job at showing the struggles of rape victims as they try to pick up the pieces of their lives. I also found it interesting that the rapes that occurr in this story are "date rapes." In making them so, the author then expands into the psyche of the victims as they try to come to terms with guilt and fault.
The characters are very well developed and complex. I loved them all, including the secondary characters (especially Mutti). The antagonist was a real person, not cartoonish. I actually felt a little bit of sympathy for him as well.
The pace is slow and steady.. which I personally like, but it did seem to lag a bit from time to time, but not enough for me to skim.
I lowered a half a star for the slight lag in the already slower pace and because we never get the verbal ILY'S.
Yes it is beyond clear that Lucas and Lena truly love each other deeply.. no question about it BUT!!! They never actually say it to each other, and I was a little disappointed about that. Ok Ok, I know Germans are generally people who do not express emotion easily and I suspect this may be the reason the author chose to exclude it. And in all truth, it really didn't need to be said, but it would have been nice.
I really loved the heroine who was strong and courageous. The hero was just perfect!
+sigh+
Most of all.....I really love the fact that this author does not feel it necessary to write about or to expand upon the heros past women. In fact she mentions nothing of this heros past relationships and I so LOVE her for it!!!
THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!
So to my friends with triggers like me, here is a short list of what you may want to know:
1. No OW mentioned at all. Yeay!
2. Nothing ever mentioned about heros past, but he is apparently experienced.
3. Heroine was raped (not by hero) but it is not described in detail, it was in the past
4. Another woman gets raped (not by hero) but it is not described in detail.
5. Hero never cheats or strays
6. No cursing that I recall
7. 1 or 2 loving scenes done tastefully (and detailed)
Overall I will continue to read this authors work, and would absolutely recommend to all my friends.
4.5 Stars - This can be a stand alone but I recommend reading the 1st (Ella's Choice) to get more backround on existing characters that show up again in Lena's Courage.
This is the second book I have read by this author and I cannot express enough how much I appreciate her extensive research to ensure historical accuracy.
First I strongly suggest reading the prologue regarding the history of the bushwackers. I found it not only interesting, but also found it added to the atmosphere of the story.
Being part German, this book truly spoke to me on a personal level. I had to laugh out loud at how accurate Merrit's depiction of the German characters were. I especially roared with laughter when Lucas was remebering how his mother would say something like a penny saved is a penny earned, because my German grandmother was always so cost conscious too! Do not misunderstand, this is not a humours book, my laughter was personal as I related Merrits characters to my own German relatives.
This is again a difficult story to summarize but I will do my best.
Lena (heroine) was raped at the age 16 by antagonist Frank Piecere, a wealthy spoiled dandy. Lena ended up leaving for Missouri to live with her Aunt Miriam after finding out she was carrying the child of her rapist. She returns 6 years later (after confirming Frank Pierce is not living there any longer)to Cheynne wanting her son to meet, live and grow up with her loving German family.
Lucas Kline, is a lawyer who has moved to Cheynne only 3 months ago. He has not spoken to his German family in over ten years due to some unfortunate mishaps that he blames himself for. He also sadly, has set aside, and hidden his German heritage.
When Lena and her son Jonah arrive in town and surprisingly spot Frank Pierce, they quickly duck inside the first business they come to. Lucas Klines Law office.
And here the story begins!
I will not give away any more but I will say that I love the themes here of family, respect, trust, honor.
The author does a superior job at showing the struggles of rape victims as they try to pick up the pieces of their lives. I also found it interesting that the rapes that occurr in this story are "date rapes." In making them so, the author then expands into the psyche of the victims as they try to come to terms with guilt and fault.
The characters are very well developed and complex. I loved them all, including the secondary characters (especially Mutti). The antagonist was a real person, not cartoonish. I actually felt a little bit of sympathy for him as well.
The pace is slow and steady.. which I personally like, but it did seem to lag a bit from time to time, but not enough for me to skim.
I lowered a half a star for the slight lag in the already slower pace and because we never get the verbal ILY'S.
Yes it is beyond clear that Lucas and Lena truly love each other deeply.. no question about it BUT!!! They never actually say it to each other, and I was a little disappointed about that. Ok Ok, I know Germans are generally people who do not express emotion easily and I suspect this may be the reason the author chose to exclude it. And in all truth, it really didn't need to be said, but it would have been nice.
I really loved the heroine who was strong and courageous. The hero was just perfect!
+sigh+
Most of all.....I really love the fact that this author does not feel it necessary to write about or to expand upon the heros past women. In fact she mentions nothing of this heros past relationships and I so LOVE her for it!!!
THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!
So to my friends with triggers like me, here is a short list of what you may want to know:
1. No OW mentioned at all. Yeay!
2. Nothing ever mentioned about heros past, but he is apparently experienced.
3. Heroine was raped (not by hero) but it is not described in detail, it was in the past
4. Another woman gets raped (not by hero) but it is not described in detail.
5. Hero never cheats or strays
6. No cursing that I recall
7. 1 or 2 loving scenes done tastefully (and detailed)
Overall I will continue to read this authors work, and would absolutely recommend to all my friends.
September 25, 2015
Lena's Courage written by Ruby Merritt. ****
A beautiful story about a young woman, 16 year old Lena Schuler. She left her home and family to cover her shame of rape and subsequent pregnancy. She planned to give her baby up for adoption but changed her mind.
After six years she returns to her former home of Cheyenne and to her family. She is dumbfounded to see her rapist has also returned to her town. She meets a young lawyer Lucas Kline who also has many things from his past he is hiding from as well.
This is a love story but in essence it is human triumph over adversity. The aftermath of rape is and was a stigma for the victim which is still unconscionable. Lucas brings the rapist to justice as a result of Lena's testimony.
I like the style of his author very much and I would highly recommend this book for all ages.
A beautiful story about a young woman, 16 year old Lena Schuler. She left her home and family to cover her shame of rape and subsequent pregnancy. She planned to give her baby up for adoption but changed her mind.
After six years she returns to her former home of Cheyenne and to her family. She is dumbfounded to see her rapist has also returned to her town. She meets a young lawyer Lucas Kline who also has many things from his past he is hiding from as well.
This is a love story but in essence it is human triumph over adversity. The aftermath of rape is and was a stigma for the victim which is still unconscionable. Lucas brings the rapist to justice as a result of Lena's testimony.
I like the style of his author very much and I would highly recommend this book for all ages.
January 17, 2016
*** may contain spoilers***
I was graciously gifted this book by a friend and it was one of the best surprises I've ever had the honor of reading. I'm not normally one to read historical romances, but I'm also not one to turn down a very good book - which I knew was the case not just from the blurb, but from the first few pages in the first chapter! Lena's Courage has me wanting to dabble more into the genre and I'm excited to dive in! I refused to put this amazing story down and you will too! Just be aware that it does touch on some adult subjects, but Ruby Merritt tastefully tells it to you in a way that's not overly done.
Lena is a tough as nails woman who had to grow up too soon. But in doing so she became the woman we see her as; she's protective, a family woman, and as we learn quickly on, mesmerizingly courageous and brave beyond anything I've ever read. But her vulnerability and pain of the past is still heavy in her heart. As she settles back into everyday life in her German-settled Cheyenne, Wyoming town with her family, she has to face the reality that her past still lingers there, ready to haunt her at a moments notice.
Lucas Klein is also recovering from a past he tries not to acknowledge; guilt consuming him everyday. His work as a lawyer takes him all over the state. His kindness, open heart, and pure generosity only helped me see the true spirit of a man only wanting to make Wyoming, if not the world, a better place to live. He is indeed a true gentleman to fault! And when Lena quite literally falls at his feet, both of their worlds are ultimately changed for the better.
Even though it's a rocky start, Lena and Lucas both learn that while they cannot change the hardships of their past, they can't let it define them either. She must face her own to bring the man who hurt her to justice as he starts his pillaging of women again. He must come to terms with the fact that he is not responsible for the heinous acts carried out by others because of his need to protect loved ones.
But their pasts not only collide, they team up. Together Lena and Lucas lean on one another, encourage each other, and trust that they are stronger as a team than alone. And in doing so, a beautiful, heartfelt love story is told as they overcome the odds set against them.
Ruby Merritt has told a stunning story that has made an instant fan out of me. And even though this is book two in the series (yes I read book two first ;)) it can be read as a standalone. Pick this book up if you want to read a heart-warming, feel-good book that will have you begging for Ruby to write more more more!!!!
I was graciously gifted this book by a friend and it was one of the best surprises I've ever had the honor of reading. I'm not normally one to read historical romances, but I'm also not one to turn down a very good book - which I knew was the case not just from the blurb, but from the first few pages in the first chapter! Lena's Courage has me wanting to dabble more into the genre and I'm excited to dive in! I refused to put this amazing story down and you will too! Just be aware that it does touch on some adult subjects, but Ruby Merritt tastefully tells it to you in a way that's not overly done.
Lena is a tough as nails woman who had to grow up too soon. But in doing so she became the woman we see her as; she's protective, a family woman, and as we learn quickly on, mesmerizingly courageous and brave beyond anything I've ever read. But her vulnerability and pain of the past is still heavy in her heart. As she settles back into everyday life in her German-settled Cheyenne, Wyoming town with her family, she has to face the reality that her past still lingers there, ready to haunt her at a moments notice.
Lucas Klein is also recovering from a past he tries not to acknowledge; guilt consuming him everyday. His work as a lawyer takes him all over the state. His kindness, open heart, and pure generosity only helped me see the true spirit of a man only wanting to make Wyoming, if not the world, a better place to live. He is indeed a true gentleman to fault! And when Lena quite literally falls at his feet, both of their worlds are ultimately changed for the better.
Even though it's a rocky start, Lena and Lucas both learn that while they cannot change the hardships of their past, they can't let it define them either. She must face her own to bring the man who hurt her to justice as he starts his pillaging of women again. He must come to terms with the fact that he is not responsible for the heinous acts carried out by others because of his need to protect loved ones.
But their pasts not only collide, they team up. Together Lena and Lucas lean on one another, encourage each other, and trust that they are stronger as a team than alone. And in doing so, a beautiful, heartfelt love story is told as they overcome the odds set against them.
Ruby Merritt has told a stunning story that has made an instant fan out of me. And even though this is book two in the series (yes I read book two first ;)) it can be read as a standalone. Pick this book up if you want to read a heart-warming, feel-good book that will have you begging for Ruby to write more more more!!!!
September 20, 2015
Lena's Courage by Ruby Merritt is the second book the Spirited Hearts Series. Merritt has really outdone herself with this book. It's beautifully written and full of emotions. She makes it look effortlessly to remain in a time period before she was even born.
If you're a fan of historical romance then this is one you're not going to want to miss. Lena's innocence was stolen 6 years ago and she is returning home for the first time. You can still feel her fear, every time a man gets close she flinches. She pushes through her own pain and helps others that are going through the same thing she did. She really is a lot stronger than she thinks, what a quality to admire! I love that in my heroines.
Lucas is a trial lawyer and running from something himself. He is swoon worthy and such a gentleman. He struggles with guilt. He really wants to make the territory that they are all living a better place to live- safer.
You won't want to miss this excellent portrayal of another lifetime, things were simpler but not safer.
If you're a fan of historical romance then this is one you're not going to want to miss. Lena's innocence was stolen 6 years ago and she is returning home for the first time. You can still feel her fear, every time a man gets close she flinches. She pushes through her own pain and helps others that are going through the same thing she did. She really is a lot stronger than she thinks, what a quality to admire! I love that in my heroines.
Lucas is a trial lawyer and running from something himself. He is swoon worthy and such a gentleman. He struggles with guilt. He really wants to make the territory that they are all living a better place to live- safer.
You won't want to miss this excellent portrayal of another lifetime, things were simpler but not safer.
September 21, 2015
This is a must read for any fan of historical romance novels. Ruby Merritt does a phenomenal service to 1870’s time period. She gives beautiful descriptions and is able to show deep emotions in her characters.
I love strong heroines and Lena is a strong woman! She may not know this but Merritt showed us this through Lena’s actions. Lena's innocence was stolen 6 years ago and she is returning home for the first time. You can still feel her fear, every time a man gets close she flinches. She pushes through her own pain and helps others that are going through the same thing that happen to her.
Lucas is a swoon worthy trial lawyer and running from something himself. He is a true gentleman. He struggles with the guilt from a past that he wishes he could leave behind. He really wants to make the territory that they are all living a better place to live- safer.
You won't want to miss this excellent portrayal of another lifetime, things were simpler but not safer. I give Lena’s Courage 5 stars.
I love strong heroines and Lena is a strong woman! She may not know this but Merritt showed us this through Lena’s actions. Lena's innocence was stolen 6 years ago and she is returning home for the first time. You can still feel her fear, every time a man gets close she flinches. She pushes through her own pain and helps others that are going through the same thing that happen to her.
Lucas is a swoon worthy trial lawyer and running from something himself. He is a true gentleman. He struggles with the guilt from a past that he wishes he could leave behind. He really wants to make the territory that they are all living a better place to live- safer.
You won't want to miss this excellent portrayal of another lifetime, things were simpler but not safer. I give Lena’s Courage 5 stars.
October 31, 2015
Ruby Merritt is on my "Top Author" list.
Ruby Merritt has written another beautiful, compelling book with Lena's Courage and solidifies her place on my "Top Author" list. While Lena's Courage falls in the western romance genre, modern romance readers will fall for the story, characters and very real, very modern issues faced by the main character, Lena Schuler Hoffmann.
Lena returns to her family in Cheyenne, Wyoming after a six-year absence. She brings a son and her fears about coming home. When the man who initially caused Lena to leave town threatens her security, Attorney Lucas Kline steps in to ensure her safety. Lucas does more than make Lena feel safe, but can she trust her heart to let him show her how to love?
Hover your finger over the "One Click" button and press it NOW. Then find Ruby Merritt's first book, Ella's Choice, and one-click, too.
Ruby Merritt has written another beautiful, compelling book with Lena's Courage and solidifies her place on my "Top Author" list. While Lena's Courage falls in the western romance genre, modern romance readers will fall for the story, characters and very real, very modern issues faced by the main character, Lena Schuler Hoffmann.
Lena returns to her family in Cheyenne, Wyoming after a six-year absence. She brings a son and her fears about coming home. When the man who initially caused Lena to leave town threatens her security, Attorney Lucas Kline steps in to ensure her safety. Lucas does more than make Lena feel safe, but can she trust her heart to let him show her how to love?
Hover your finger over the "One Click" button and press it NOW. Then find Ruby Merritt's first book, Ella's Choice, and one-click, too.
February 14, 2016
A brave undertaking of an uncommon plot for 1876’s Cheyenne Wyoming, this is a sweet tale of hardship turned to triumph.
Read full review in the 2016 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2016 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
October 22, 2016
This book was a little better than the first in the series, and again was addressing a real concern, specifically mistreatment of women. I liked the insights into the life of German immigrants. I appreciated the respect and patience with which the hero treated the heroine. I didn't think the actions of a couple of the characters, including the heroine's mother, made sense.
September 20, 2015
I loved this book, true to the time period and very interesting!
October 24, 2016
Amazing story kept reading to what happened next.
I like the way the story told Lena's life with hardships that she over came . But was still able to keep learning to be the person she should be no matter what life throws your way.
I like the way the story told Lena's life with hardships that she over came . But was still able to keep learning to be the person she should be no matter what life throws your way.
October 27, 2016
Well lovely. Well written. I love historical novels a and this one focuses in a very difficult theme, rape. The courage of Lena is immense.
January 8, 2016
Very exciting and addictive
I admit that I was slow in reading this book, but I made up for it after starting and read nonstop until it was finished. The courage of Lena and how she went from rape to mother to advocate to wife and well you will just have to read the book to find out the rest. Lucas was a man who was a force to be reckoned with! His battles were almost as heartbreaking as lena's. Many thanks to the author for writing such an amazing story. If I could do more than 5 stars I would so I will give her a hearty 10 Awesome Dawson's.
I admit that I was slow in reading this book, but I made up for it after starting and read nonstop until it was finished. The courage of Lena and how she went from rape to mother to advocate to wife and well you will just have to read the book to find out the rest. Lucas was a man who was a force to be reckoned with! His battles were almost as heartbreaking as lena's. Many thanks to the author for writing such an amazing story. If I could do more than 5 stars I would so I will give her a hearty 10 Awesome Dawson's.
October 17, 2016
Courageous
Lucas and Lena. Both are courageous. Each in his or her own way, they both display honor, love, and the ability to move ahead in the front of circumstances. A very good read. A good plot and well written characters. The family, the frontier city of Cheyenne, Wyoming, the people, the citizens are all so vivid, and well rounded and portrayed that the reader can actually visualized being there. A very good novel.
Lucas and Lena. Both are courageous. Each in his or her own way, they both display honor, love, and the ability to move ahead in the front of circumstances. A very good read. A good plot and well written characters. The family, the frontier city of Cheyenne, Wyoming, the people, the citizens are all so vivid, and well rounded and portrayed that the reader can actually visualized being there. A very good novel.
December 2, 2016
Courage
Lena was dealt a cruel blow that no woman should should ever have to deal with - rape. Six years she is still facing the trauma of the rape. However, with the love and strength of her family and friends she is able to help another victim by the same rapist.
Lena was dealt a cruel blow that no woman should should ever have to deal with - rape. Six years she is still facing the trauma of the rape. However, with the love and strength of her family and friends she is able to help another victim by the same rapist.
August 7, 2016
Coming Home
Good easy to read book! This book is written more for adult audiences. Overall well written. A few areas I would have changed up some but really enjoyed.
Good easy to read book! This book is written more for adult audiences. Overall well written. A few areas I would have changed up some but really enjoyed.
October 21, 2016
Enjoyed It
Interesting, clean historical romance. Story didn't progress as I thought it would but that is definitely a good thing. I enjoyed this read.
Interesting, clean historical romance. Story didn't progress as I thought it would but that is definitely a good thing. I enjoyed this read.
October 21, 2016
Fascinating story. Great characters with a plot that kept moving. The author did a great job with dialogue. Worth the time.
September 10, 2017
Excellent!
March 28, 2020
Building trust takes time, and this book allows the reader to witness the passage of time and the building of trust.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews