3.5 stars.

I have grown very wary of any book published by Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense, but keep getting sucked in by the interesting synopses. Thankfully, this one didn't disappoint too badly.

While I found the characters rather lacking, especially in comparison to some of Eason's other works, the story was interesting and unique, and kept my attention. I do enjoy the clean-suspense aspect of these books, even if I don't like other aspects. It's hard to find clean suspense these days . . .

All in all, this was an interesting novel, and I look forward to reading the rest of the series. ( )

Protecting Her Daughter (Wrangler’s Corner, #3) by Lynette Eason

Welcome back to Wrangler’s Corner, a loveable friendly little town. This time we meet veterinarian Aaron Starke new to the area neighbor Zoe Collier and her diabetic daughter Sophia. Aaron is there when someone tries to kidnap Sophia so he calls the police but doesn’t wait for their arrival and steps into the middle of the situation. Zoe and Aaron both have problems from their past so resist the attraction but both will do anything to protect Sophia. Zoe tries to figure out who wants Sophia while Aaron tries to keep them both safe. Aaron calls on his family for help so you will get to see the characters from past books. Lynette is a great writer and knows how to spin a good suspense. I figured out some of the mystery but was surprised by who the culprit was. This book is a standalone but I’m sure that you would enjoy the earlier books. I highly recommend this book and the entire series

After losing her husband, Zoe Collier and her daughter, Sophia, have lived a nice quiet life in Knoxville, Tennessee. Then the unthinkable happens; someone tries to kidnap her daughter. Wanting to keep her safe, a friend sends her to house sit for a ranch in Wrangler’s Corner, Tennessee. It’s an out-of-the-way place so she should be safe. Unfortunately, it appears the kidnappers have followed her. Aaron Starke, Zoe’s handsome neighbor and town veterinarian, wants to get to know Zoe better but finds himself in midst of danger trying to protect her and her daughter. Whose behind the attacks and why? Will they figure it out before it’s too late?

This is definitely one you want to read when you have some extra time because it was a hard one to put down. Lots of action and suspense combined with a sweet romance will keep you turning pages until the very end. There are several twists and turns and just when I thought I had things figured out, I found I was wrong. I loved returning to Wrangler’s Corner again (except for the fact that someone was try to kill Zoe and kidnap her daughter) because folks are so friendly and caring toward one another. Zoe was someone you couldn’t help but like and even admire. Aaron was a great hero and one you would want in your corner. The faith element of the story seemed very natural and didn’t feel like an after thought, which I like. This is the third book in the series and could be read as a stand alone but reading them in order is really a plus. (The Lawman Returns, Rodeo Rescue & Protecting Her Daughter) If you enjoy a good edge-of-your-seat type story that keeps you turning pages, then head on over to Wrangler’s Corner and see just how difficult Protecting Her Daughter turns out to be.

*This complimentary copy was provided by Harlequin through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

Some memorable moments:

“She met his gaze, thinking how kind his eyes were. Deep blue and filled with an ocean of compassion, caring…and strength. To match the rest of his well-muscled physique. He really was a handsome man.”

“How could I not trust you? You’ve put your own life ahead of mine.” “Just like you did with Sophia.” “Of course.” “So if you would do that for your child, then don’t you think God would do that for you?” She paused. Then nodded. “Yes, he would. He did. He sent his only son to die for me.” “Exactly. So don’t bash yourself. You are made in His image, and He felt you were worth dying for. That makes you amazing.”

For more information about this book or other books by Lynette Eason, I encourage you to visit her website at http://www.lynetteeason.com ( )