Review

A historical that doesn’t deemphasize the challenge of living in the old west…

After long years of hunting down the man who killed his wife and the men who attack the innocent, bounty hunter, Ian Vance, known as the Preacher, just wants to return home to Wyoming. When he encounters a sheriff with a prisoner being attacked, his own instinctive nature for justice takes over. Unfortunately, the sheriff leaves him in charge of transporting the troublesome, hauntingly gorgeous female.

Maggie Freeman has been wrongfully accused of her crime. She is desperate to get away from the law because she is sure that she won’t get a fair trial or a chance to tell the truth. But every chance she gets to flee is either defeated by the handsome Preacher or puts her in more danger than her keeper would ever dare. Having to rely on someone else for protection isn’t Maggie’s style and opening her heart to this dark, brooding man wasn’t part of the plan either.
This is my first Beverly Jenkins novel and I enjoyed it. The setting is a travel path that takes you from Missouri to Wyoming: the Old West during the heyday. I will say that Jenkins has an extremely vivid and at times gritty portrayal of life in the harsh, outlaw lands. This didn’t hurt the story for me, but gave the tale more life.

Maggie is definitely the epitome of strength and resilience, growing up as an orphan in harsh circumstances. I enjoy her spunk and determined way of approaching life but the biggest turn off for me was her inability to see the safety net that Ian provided for her. Her continuous struggle for the first half of the book, and her desire to constantly try to escape him made sense to her personality but got old quick. I guess I expected her attitudes and thoughts to mature a little faster.

Ian, on the other hand, is scrumptious. I have a big thing for brooding, and tortured heroes; this one definitely fits the bill. His sense of justice, and his growing passion for the fiery Maggie kept me reading. I also admired his intellect, and Jenkins gave this hero such a way with words and action.

Along with the hero and heroine are plenty of villainous characters that are motivated by multitude of reasons and Jenkins deploys them systematically with much success. Add in a few gun battles, a couple of horse chases, and some interesting encounters with people from a variety of backgrounds—Night Hawk encompasses much more than a regular love story.
Overall, this story was a good read, even with Maggie’s continuous desire to escape Ian. I found the story different then other Historical novels I’ve read in the past and enjoyed the chance of pace. For those looking for something that’s not the run of the mill, this story may be the one for you.

Although not told in great detail, please be aware there are scenes involving attempted sexual abuse and violation in this book. Readers sensitive to this topic may be offended.  

Reviewed by Landra