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A River to Cross
Texas Ranger Jake Nelson patrols the U.S.-Mexico border, protecting the settlers from cattle rustlers, outlaws, and bandits. Sparks fly when Manuel Diego stirs up a revolt against the government, which leads to the murder of a newspaperman, who is the son of a U.S. senator, and the kidnapping of his sister, Elizabeth Madison, a journalist in the making.
With Elizabeth's photograph in hand—a dark-haired beauty with smiling eyes—Jake rides over the border to find her. After the Rangers defeat the marauders and rescue Elizabeth, Jake is surprised to learn she's not the spoiled daughter of a senator that he was expecting. In fact, he finds himself taken by her. And she by him.
But the Mexicans won't give up that easily, as Elizabeth becomes the target of an all-out hunt. Leaving Elizabeth back at Fort Williams, Jake and his men set off again, this time to go after Diego himself—to apprehend him and his renegades and bring them all to justice.
Meanwhile, Jake knows what's begun between him and Elizabeth is undeniable. Amid all the turmoil, Jake finally admits how much he loves her. She tells him the same. Until now, they've lived in different worlds, yet it is those differences that drew them together.
With Elizabeth's photograph in hand—a dark-haired beauty with smiling eyes—Jake rides over the border to find her. After the Rangers defeat the marauders and rescue Elizabeth, Jake is surprised to learn she's not the spoiled daughter of a senator that he was expecting. In fact, he finds himself taken by her. And she by him.
But the Mexicans won't give up that easily, as Elizabeth becomes the target of an all-out hunt. Leaving Elizabeth back at Fort Williams, Jake and his men set off again, this time to go after Diego himself—to apprehend him and his renegades and bring them all to justice.
Meanwhile, Jake knows what's begun between him and Elizabeth is undeniable. Amid all the turmoil, Jake finally admits how much he loves her. She tells him the same. Until now, they've lived in different worlds, yet it is those differences that drew them together.
291 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2011
38 people are currently reading
558 people want to read
About the author
Yvonne Harris
10 books40 followersYvonne Harris earned a BS in Education from the University of Hartford and has taught throughout New England and the mid-Atlantic. Unofficially retired from teaching, she teaches writing at Burlington County College in southern New Jersey, where she resides. She is a three-time finalist for the Golden Heart, once for The Vigilante’s Bride, which is her first historical novel.
She is the author of Hindu Kush, a romantic suspense, and For Honor, winner of the 2002 EPPIE.
See also: Y.L. Harris
She is the author of Hindu Kush, a romantic suspense, and For Honor, winner of the 2002 EPPIE.
See also: Y.L. Harris
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
July 10, 2025
I liked the fast action at the beginning but, certain parts just didn't hit it off for me.
The ending was lame and felt like it was rushed.
The ending was lame and felt like it was rushed.
June 2, 2015
I got this book free on kindle years ago and since then, it just sat around not being read. However, after reading “The Vigilante's Bride” which was also written by Yvonne Harris, I moved on to this one. They both have very similar covers and since I don't have internet access to look these kind of things up right away, I assumed that they must be part of a series. However, that isn't the case. This second book that I read had no connections to The Vigilante's Bride. It isn't a series, for anyone who is confused like I was. Nope, “A River To Cross” is it's own storyline.
I really enjoyed this book, much more than the first book of this authors that I read. Jake and Elizabeth's stories were compelling and wonderfully written. It was adventurous, romantic, and in some places, extremely unexpected. The addition of the gypsies was especially intriguing in a book where I figured Indians would be more prominent due to the setting. It was refreshing. The plot was at times predictable but often possessed an element of surprise. I liked reading both Jake and Elizabeth's stories equally.
Overall, A River To Cross was a light, adventurous read. There was nothing too preachy and it was (as far as I can remember) a pretty clean read considering the amount of filthy, supposedly Christian romance books I've read and come across recently.
I really enjoyed this book, much more than the first book of this authors that I read. Jake and Elizabeth's stories were compelling and wonderfully written. It was adventurous, romantic, and in some places, extremely unexpected. The addition of the gypsies was especially intriguing in a book where I figured Indians would be more prominent due to the setting. It was refreshing. The plot was at times predictable but often possessed an element of surprise. I liked reading both Jake and Elizabeth's stories equally.
Overall, A River To Cross was a light, adventurous read. There was nothing too preachy and it was (as far as I can remember) a pretty clean read considering the amount of filthy, supposedly Christian romance books I've read and come across recently.
September 3, 2011
I’m afraid I can’t give a glowing review on every book I read and while there were enjoyable places in “A River to Cross”, I found a great deal of this story unbelievable. More than once during the book I thought a scene was not appropriate to the time period. And while I won’t enter into specifics as it would just be degrading, I will say I didn’t believe many of the events between the hero and heroine would actually happen. I thought several historical facts were also inaccurate. It seemed too “modern”.
The romance really rocketed to a fast start which I thought was a bit too fast. It didn’t seem plausible that the hero would see the heroine for the first time in a picture and immediately have heart flutters. However this is a short book with a short word count, so that very possibly, could have been the intent of the author.
Several action scenes were well laid out, including the opening kidnapping scene. While I did enjoy the debut book, “The Vigilante’s Bride”, I didn’t find this book as entertaining to read. I was pulled too many times from the storyworld with what I considered implausibility.
Now, with that said, I believe that if you enjoyed the first novel by this author, you will enjoy this second. This is simply the opinion of one reader.
This is review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publisher for my copy to review.
The romance really rocketed to a fast start which I thought was a bit too fast. It didn’t seem plausible that the hero would see the heroine for the first time in a picture and immediately have heart flutters. However this is a short book with a short word count, so that very possibly, could have been the intent of the author.
Several action scenes were well laid out, including the opening kidnapping scene. While I did enjoy the debut book, “The Vigilante’s Bride”, I didn’t find this book as entertaining to read. I was pulled too many times from the storyworld with what I considered implausibility.
Now, with that said, I believe that if you enjoyed the first novel by this author, you will enjoy this second. This is simply the opinion of one reader.
This is review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publisher for my copy to review.
September 16, 2011
With a beautiful cover and enticing synopsis, I was looking forward to an adventurous read with a good mix of romance. Sadly, I was really disappointed in all areas. I’m not really sure, but overall, something rubbed me the wrong way in this book. One reviewer mentioned it had a “modern” feel to it, and after reflecting that, I have to agree.
Many of the interactions between Jake and Elizabeth felt like they were forced or simply occurred so they could physically touch/embrace each other. I won’t go into detail and ruin the story for you, but it just didn’t seem realistic or flow very well, in my opinion.
The writing was well done. I was hooked at the opening scene, when Elizabeth was taken, and when the Texas Rangers had to defend the two women from the street gangs. I liked the very masculine viewpoint Yvonne had of the Texas Rangers. Makes one want to go back in time and meet these impressive men. (lol)
While I didn’t enjoy this book, I would recommend that you check out other reviews first before drawing conclusions. I wasn’t crazy about her debut novel, The Vigilante’s Bride, either. But if you liked that one, you would probably find a very fun adventure in A River to Cross. This is just my opinion, and the book didn’t work for me.
Many of the interactions between Jake and Elizabeth felt like they were forced or simply occurred so they could physically touch/embrace each other. I won’t go into detail and ruin the story for you, but it just didn’t seem realistic or flow very well, in my opinion.
The writing was well done. I was hooked at the opening scene, when Elizabeth was taken, and when the Texas Rangers had to defend the two women from the street gangs. I liked the very masculine viewpoint Yvonne had of the Texas Rangers. Makes one want to go back in time and meet these impressive men. (lol)
While I didn’t enjoy this book, I would recommend that you check out other reviews first before drawing conclusions. I wasn’t crazy about her debut novel, The Vigilante’s Bride, either. But if you liked that one, you would probably find a very fun adventure in A River to Cross. This is just my opinion, and the book didn’t work for me.
September 6, 2011
Enjoyed this book, but got confused at times and forgot it was set in 1886. All the historical books I've read never talked about emergency rooms in their hospitals or the Texas Rangers going running in the morning or wearing black face paint and acting like modern day Special Ops men. Maybe I'm wrong :) but it was a nice light read.
April 22, 2013
3.5 stars! I really liked Jake Nelson. He's a good character.
February 17, 2019
Sadly I didn't enjoy A River to Cross as much as I would have liked to. I really like The Vigilantes Bride so I had high hopes for this one. I enjoyed the first few parts of the book but by the middle it was hard to continue. It got too confusing as timelines didn't seem to match up, they jumped from place to place with little to no transition, and a lot of characters were introduced never to appear again. To be fair I do have the flu and I'm drugged up on cough medicine so that could be a factor but I have been able to get through other books just fine. While I'm sad this didn't pan out I would give this author a try again in the future as I enjoyed her first book very much.
May 10, 2018
Dry like the desert it’s set in. I couldn’t make myself read the whole thing. Life is to short to waste on bad books. Gave up in chapter 13. By then the ending of the book is as plain as day. There are so many historical inconsistencies I had to keep double checking the date the story is supposed to be set in. The romance, if one can call it that, is seriously forced.
February 1, 2025
Although I didn't read the first book in this series, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I learned that border problems happened a long time before I knew. The Christian aspect of it is light, but the romance is definitely there.
June 1, 2018
I love pretty easy to follow and exciting stories like this. It’s a book you can’t take too seriously and have to realize it’s a work of fiction.
July 30, 2018
I couldn't put in down ! 💟💜
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2018
Great book !
April 13, 2020
Great book.
September 25, 2021
Good book
May 3, 2025
The plot was predictable and parts seemed unrealistic and didn't seem in the right period. Despite knowing that Elizabeth and Jake would end up married, the book held my interest enough so I could finish it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2016
okay. not a waste of time, but not a favorite.
October 31, 2011
Once in a while I like to read a good Western romance. There's something about cowboys and the rugged setting of the Wild West that I find appealing. A River to Cross takes place in Rio Grande, Texas in 1886, where Elizabeth Evans is kidnapped after her brother is killed for exposing the dangers along the U.S.-Mexican border. Texas Ranger Jake Nelson is commissioned to rescue her and to apprehend Mexican General Manuel Diego who is responsible for bad relations between the two countries.
Harris succeeds in bringing the setting to life for me, from the dusty, hot trails bordered by cliffs to the small Mexican town of San Miguel with its whitewashed mud houses and sandstone church. I learned about Texas Rangers and their role at a time when boundaries between countries were not so clear and disputed. Harris writes with confidence about the Old West and she infuses her narrative with subtle humour. It's clear she is comfortable writing about politics and the military.
Although I enjoyed this novel, there were a few things that I questioned or that didn't jive with me. Elizabeth sees her brother (with whom she was close) get shot and die just before she is abducted, but from the time she's rescued a few days later there is no mention of her mourning him at all. It was as if he never existed. Instead she is quickly enamoured with Jake, giggling with him, settling back into normal life and dating him on her return home. She never cried once for her brother or the dire circumstances of her family. It's like nothing happened. She has a little niece (her brother's daughter) with whom she lived and again there is very little mention of her seeing or comforting the child who just lost a father and had lost a mother not a year ago.
The romance seemed to take precedence over everything, making some situations very unrealistic and it was the least exciting aspect for me. The dialogue seemed awkward at times and did not always suit the characters. I think this book needed better editing. Elizabeth is a senator's daughter brought up in Washington as a socialite, yet she comes to the small town of El Paso and adapts without mishap to life in the rugged, dangerous West on her own, without a maid or chaperone. She cannot cook she declared and we see this when she dumped a whole pack of rice in boiling water and made an inedible mess, but not a month later she cooks meals for ten hearty Ranger men?
As much as I liked the setting, I did not care too much for the characters. There was no tension in their relationship and they felt like a “modern couple” rather than characters who lived in the 18th century. The enemy Diego shows up a few times but didn't come across as a real danger, even if he did want to kill Elizabeth, which seemed a little far-fetched since she did not publish anything to warrant this in the newspaper business she took over from her deceased brother. Incidentally, this too was very little explored in the story although it was supposed to play a major role. Too bad, because I was looking forward to seeing how a woman tackled journalism in a world where men dominated. Instead, it was glossed over. Everything came across as easy for Elizabeth, with not much internal or external struggle.
Overall, this was a fast, simple read. If you like romantic antics within the setting of the Old West without caring too much if the plot is good, this book will do.
Harris succeeds in bringing the setting to life for me, from the dusty, hot trails bordered by cliffs to the small Mexican town of San Miguel with its whitewashed mud houses and sandstone church. I learned about Texas Rangers and their role at a time when boundaries between countries were not so clear and disputed. Harris writes with confidence about the Old West and she infuses her narrative with subtle humour. It's clear she is comfortable writing about politics and the military.
Although I enjoyed this novel, there were a few things that I questioned or that didn't jive with me. Elizabeth sees her brother (with whom she was close) get shot and die just before she is abducted, but from the time she's rescued a few days later there is no mention of her mourning him at all. It was as if he never existed. Instead she is quickly enamoured with Jake, giggling with him, settling back into normal life and dating him on her return home. She never cried once for her brother or the dire circumstances of her family. It's like nothing happened. She has a little niece (her brother's daughter) with whom she lived and again there is very little mention of her seeing or comforting the child who just lost a father and had lost a mother not a year ago.
The romance seemed to take precedence over everything, making some situations very unrealistic and it was the least exciting aspect for me. The dialogue seemed awkward at times and did not always suit the characters. I think this book needed better editing. Elizabeth is a senator's daughter brought up in Washington as a socialite, yet she comes to the small town of El Paso and adapts without mishap to life in the rugged, dangerous West on her own, without a maid or chaperone. She cannot cook she declared and we see this when she dumped a whole pack of rice in boiling water and made an inedible mess, but not a month later she cooks meals for ten hearty Ranger men?
As much as I liked the setting, I did not care too much for the characters. There was no tension in their relationship and they felt like a “modern couple” rather than characters who lived in the 18th century. The enemy Diego shows up a few times but didn't come across as a real danger, even if he did want to kill Elizabeth, which seemed a little far-fetched since she did not publish anything to warrant this in the newspaper business she took over from her deceased brother. Incidentally, this too was very little explored in the story although it was supposed to play a major role. Too bad, because I was looking forward to seeing how a woman tackled journalism in a world where men dominated. Instead, it was glossed over. Everything came across as easy for Elizabeth, with not much internal or external struggle.
Overall, this was a fast, simple read. If you like romantic antics within the setting of the Old West without caring too much if the plot is good, this book will do.
January 18, 2020
Story lines like this draw me in... a Texas Ranger rescuing a beautiful Senator's daughter.
But the writing was very choppy and confusing. It Needed better editing. Many inconsistencies.
Also, it had too many modern expressions and descriptions. It did not feel like an "Old West" novel at all.
I found it odd too that Elizabeth did not really grieve after her brother was killed. She was supposedly really close to him yet she never mourned him in her thoughts or actions. She should have been devastated.
Unnecessary minor character POVs included, distracting and boring.
It was a chore to finish the book.
But the writing was very choppy and confusing. It Needed better editing. Many inconsistencies.
Also, it had too many modern expressions and descriptions. It did not feel like an "Old West" novel at all.
I found it odd too that Elizabeth did not really grieve after her brother was killed. She was supposedly really close to him yet she never mourned him in her thoughts or actions. She should have been devastated.
Unnecessary minor character POVs included, distracting and boring.
It was a chore to finish the book.
December 17, 2011
Yvonne Harris in her new book, "A River to Cross" published by Bethany House Publishers brings us to Texas and the Rio Grande in 1886.
From the back cover: On the lawless frontier, a Texas lawman is her only hope. Elizabeth Evan's brother paid the ultimate price as editor of a newspaper exposing the dangers along the U.S.-Mexican border. Determined to take up his cause, she's targeted and kidnapped by a rogue general-Manuel Diego.
It's the job of Texas Ranger Jake Nelson to protect the border against rustlers and marauders. With Elizabeth's photograph in hand - a dark-haired beauty with smiling eyes - Jake and his men ride across the great river to rescue her, to apprehend Diego and bring him to justice.
But Diego and his renegades are not about to give up that easily. Amid the turmoil, Jake finds himself taken by Elizabeth. And she by him. Yet his life as a Ranger doesn't fit with marriage and settling down. Not at all.
This is a Western and I really like Westerns. This is a thriller, the good guys are in deadly danger practically from page one and the danger escalates as the story progresses. This is a romance. This is a story filled with great characters that you do not mind spending your time with and wonderful writing. There are also grand themes. Ms. Harris explores whether God can make something good out of our disasters and bad choices. When the bad guys are powerful and it seems the law cannot touch them can God deal with them? Are we too small for God to care for and minister to our wounds and traumas? These themes and more are dealt with as Ms. Harris gives us a great ride of a book.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: On the lawless frontier, a Texas lawman is her only hope. Elizabeth Evan's brother paid the ultimate price as editor of a newspaper exposing the dangers along the U.S.-Mexican border. Determined to take up his cause, she's targeted and kidnapped by a rogue general-Manuel Diego.
It's the job of Texas Ranger Jake Nelson to protect the border against rustlers and marauders. With Elizabeth's photograph in hand - a dark-haired beauty with smiling eyes - Jake and his men ride across the great river to rescue her, to apprehend Diego and bring him to justice.
But Diego and his renegades are not about to give up that easily. Amid the turmoil, Jake finds himself taken by Elizabeth. And she by him. Yet his life as a Ranger doesn't fit with marriage and settling down. Not at all.
This is a Western and I really like Westerns. This is a thriller, the good guys are in deadly danger practically from page one and the danger escalates as the story progresses. This is a romance. This is a story filled with great characters that you do not mind spending your time with and wonderful writing. There are also grand themes. Ms. Harris explores whether God can make something good out of our disasters and bad choices. When the bad guys are powerful and it seems the law cannot touch them can God deal with them? Are we too small for God to care for and minister to our wounds and traumas? These themes and more are dealt with as Ms. Harris gives us a great ride of a book.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
July 29, 2011
Elizabeth, an upcoming journalist at her brother's newspaper business and the daughter of a U.S. Senator, watches her brother get killed right in front of her eyes and then the killers decide to kidnap her and take her with them in hopes of using her for leverage!
Texas Ranger Jake Nelson hears about the brutal murder of his friend and the kidnapping of the young beauty Elizabeth by the revolting Mexican Manuel Diego and decides he will not rest until she is safe and sound and Diego is brought to justice!!
Jake sets out to find Elizabeth and when he succeeds not only does he begin to realize that she is nothing like he expected but much more, but he also severely ticks off Diego!! That begins the hunt Diego initiates to find Elizabeth and have her murdered!
A River to Cross starts off with a bang and the excitement begins full throttle and it doesn't end until the end of the story!! The story is filled with action packed adventure, suspense and a sweet love story woven within!
My favorite part of this story is the main characters Jake and Elizabeth!! I really enjoyed reading about Elizabeth. She is a strong and passionate young girl, unlike what Jake thought she'd be like with her being a Senators daughter. She doesn't let the threats on her life distract her from what she believes is right by portraying the story that her brother was working on when he died!!
Then there is Jake, a yummy hunky Texas Ranger that has a grumpy side and a soft spot for the beauty he rescues!! I couldn't get enough of him!! He takes his job seriously and wants Elizabeth to understand why he is passionate about his work!
I felt all the emotions and turmoil the characters did and was very emotionally connected to them and was rooting for them from chapter 1.
The spiritual threads throughout the book were subtle and enjoyable!! I'm not a fan of a Christian novel that pushes Christianity down your throat, it drives me crazy! A River to Cross was not like that for me!! There were moments of references to God and spirituality but it was woven in very nicely and didn't deter from the story!
Content: Very clean, minor kissing!
Disclosure: I received this book free from Bethany House to write an honest and personal review of A River to Cross! All opinions are true and my own!
Texas Ranger Jake Nelson hears about the brutal murder of his friend and the kidnapping of the young beauty Elizabeth by the revolting Mexican Manuel Diego and decides he will not rest until she is safe and sound and Diego is brought to justice!!
Jake sets out to find Elizabeth and when he succeeds not only does he begin to realize that she is nothing like he expected but much more, but he also severely ticks off Diego!! That begins the hunt Diego initiates to find Elizabeth and have her murdered!
A River to Cross starts off with a bang and the excitement begins full throttle and it doesn't end until the end of the story!! The story is filled with action packed adventure, suspense and a sweet love story woven within!
My favorite part of this story is the main characters Jake and Elizabeth!! I really enjoyed reading about Elizabeth. She is a strong and passionate young girl, unlike what Jake thought she'd be like with her being a Senators daughter. She doesn't let the threats on her life distract her from what she believes is right by portraying the story that her brother was working on when he died!!
Then there is Jake, a yummy hunky Texas Ranger that has a grumpy side and a soft spot for the beauty he rescues!! I couldn't get enough of him!! He takes his job seriously and wants Elizabeth to understand why he is passionate about his work!
I felt all the emotions and turmoil the characters did and was very emotionally connected to them and was rooting for them from chapter 1.
The spiritual threads throughout the book were subtle and enjoyable!! I'm not a fan of a Christian novel that pushes Christianity down your throat, it drives me crazy! A River to Cross was not like that for me!! There were moments of references to God and spirituality but it was woven in very nicely and didn't deter from the story!
Content: Very clean, minor kissing!
Disclosure: I received this book free from Bethany House to write an honest and personal review of A River to Cross! All opinions are true and my own!
August 5, 2011
Trust is something that both Jake and Elizabeth will need to do, especially the way they meet. Elizabeth is captured by Major Chavez, a man working for Manuel Diego, whose sole purpose is to stir up a war between the US and Mexico.
Knowing what will happen to her if they don't attempt a daring rescue, late in the evening Jake and his Texas Rangers silently take care of Chavez's men one by one. Not hearing anything Elizabeth awakes to a blackened figure standing above her welding a knife. When she attempts to scream a hand covers her mom. Sensing her life my be in danger, she bites the man holding her, only to discover he is her rescuer. Now they must stay one step ahead of Diego who will stop at nothing to gain back his prized treasure that was taken from him, that being Elizabeth. Seeing an opportunity in kidnapping the US Senator's daughter, Jake must find a way to keep Elizabeth safe until Manuel Diego is finally captured.
Along the way the appearances that Jake and Elizabeth keep up on the outside are merely shells of who they really are on the inside. Both see a way to find healing from the past where the hurt in their lives has allowed them to create these outward appearances to keep from being wounded again. Will God find a way to heal them and restore their hearts or will Manuel Diego succeed in his efforts to provoke a war between the two countries?
I received the book, A River To Cross by Yvonne Harris, compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. This is my second book from Yvonne, A Vigilante's Bride being the first and I love a good western romance involving a little rescuing and protection from the man in her life. This one does not disappoint and Elizabeth's character is a well written strong, determined and open minded woman who remembers how to care and love for those in her life and will fiercely protect them no matter what happens. I would rate this novel a 4.5 out of 5 stars and for those of you that love a great historical western romance, then this is perfect for you.
Knowing what will happen to her if they don't attempt a daring rescue, late in the evening Jake and his Texas Rangers silently take care of Chavez's men one by one. Not hearing anything Elizabeth awakes to a blackened figure standing above her welding a knife. When she attempts to scream a hand covers her mom. Sensing her life my be in danger, she bites the man holding her, only to discover he is her rescuer. Now they must stay one step ahead of Diego who will stop at nothing to gain back his prized treasure that was taken from him, that being Elizabeth. Seeing an opportunity in kidnapping the US Senator's daughter, Jake must find a way to keep Elizabeth safe until Manuel Diego is finally captured.
Along the way the appearances that Jake and Elizabeth keep up on the outside are merely shells of who they really are on the inside. Both see a way to find healing from the past where the hurt in their lives has allowed them to create these outward appearances to keep from being wounded again. Will God find a way to heal them and restore their hearts or will Manuel Diego succeed in his efforts to provoke a war between the two countries?
I received the book, A River To Cross by Yvonne Harris, compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. This is my second book from Yvonne, A Vigilante's Bride being the first and I love a good western romance involving a little rescuing and protection from the man in her life. This one does not disappoint and Elizabeth's character is a well written strong, determined and open minded woman who remembers how to care and love for those in her life and will fiercely protect them no matter what happens. I would rate this novel a 4.5 out of 5 stars and for those of you that love a great historical western romance, then this is perfect for you.
September 1, 2011
A RIVER TO CROSS reminds me of a John Wayne Western. Seriously, except I don’t picture Jake as looking like John Wayne. Not really sure which actor I’d pick to play him. In any case, this would make a great movie.
Elizabeth Evans’ brother is murdered and she is kidnapped – all in the first few pages. Talk about the action starting off with a bang! Texas Ranger Jake Nelson rides in to rescue Elizabeth. Getting out of Mexico alive proves to be a challenge – and puts Elizabeth and Jake into closer contact with each other than either finds comfortable. Elizabeth swore never to love an Army man again; Jake’s fiancé broke his heart and he’s not looking for more pain. But Elizabeth and Jake can’t stop the attraction between them. Problem is, General Manuel Diego wants them both dead and he’s not letting a little thing like international borders and politics stand in his way.
Yvonne Harris has a writing style and voice evocative of the Westerns I grew up reading, such as Louis L’Amour . Though Ms. Harris’ novels are definitely romances, the Old West settings and characters are in keeping with the action and no-nonsense thinking of the time period. Elizabeth is a woman who doesn’t let a daunting challenge keep her from anything – including riding a horse for the first time in her life…for days on end! Jake is serious, career-minded and looking to get in & out of Mexico without getting caught by the authorities. Yet he’s also considerate of Elizabeth and her lack of riding skills. He’s not without fault, even so he’s fully hero material. So John Wayne!
While A RIVER TO CROSS is a Christian novel, published by Bethany House, it’s perfect for anyone who loves Western romance, not just Christian readers or those who like “clean” fiction. Elizabeth and Jake are both Christian and their faith does play a role in their actions. Still, there’s no preaching in this novel and it can be enjoyed by believers and nonbelievers.
Elizabeth Evans’ brother is murdered and she is kidnapped – all in the first few pages. Talk about the action starting off with a bang! Texas Ranger Jake Nelson rides in to rescue Elizabeth. Getting out of Mexico alive proves to be a challenge – and puts Elizabeth and Jake into closer contact with each other than either finds comfortable. Elizabeth swore never to love an Army man again; Jake’s fiancé broke his heart and he’s not looking for more pain. But Elizabeth and Jake can’t stop the attraction between them. Problem is, General Manuel Diego wants them both dead and he’s not letting a little thing like international borders and politics stand in his way.
Yvonne Harris has a writing style and voice evocative of the Westerns I grew up reading, such as Louis L’Amour . Though Ms. Harris’ novels are definitely romances, the Old West settings and characters are in keeping with the action and no-nonsense thinking of the time period. Elizabeth is a woman who doesn’t let a daunting challenge keep her from anything – including riding a horse for the first time in her life…for days on end! Jake is serious, career-minded and looking to get in & out of Mexico without getting caught by the authorities. Yet he’s also considerate of Elizabeth and her lack of riding skills. He’s not without fault, even so he’s fully hero material. So John Wayne!
While A RIVER TO CROSS is a Christian novel, published by Bethany House, it’s perfect for anyone who loves Western romance, not just Christian readers or those who like “clean” fiction. Elizabeth and Jake are both Christian and their faith does play a role in their actions. Still, there’s no preaching in this novel and it can be enjoyed by believers and nonbelievers.
July 8, 2015
Elizabeth Evans is Senator Madison's daughter and sister of Lloyd Madison, newspaper business man. Elizabeth and Lloyd were inside County Courthouse, in El Paso Texas, when all heck broke loose. She then finds herself in the clutches of Manuel Diego, a man who rules Mexico underbelly.
Texas Ranger, Jake Nelson, hears of Senator Madison’s daugther kidnapping and sets out on a mission to find her. He’s determined to keep Elizabeth safe once he finds her and brings Manuel Diego to pay for his brutal crime. Jake learns early on the assumptions he had about Elizabeth being a spoiled, woman of privelege are wrong. He soon discovers she’s a strong courageous woman. She’s stubborn and determined to learn to ride a horse in order to make an easier escape. She’s determined but hiding in woods as they run from their enemy has it’s own issues. It was time to come up with a plan they both could live with.
Even though I did not read Yvonne’s first book - I enjoyed this book very much and it read as a stand alone. I liked Yvonne’s creativity and imagination. I also liked that I learned about that time period, gyspies and Texas Rangers. I liked this authors writing style well paced action and humor and how she started this story with a bang - literally. I liked the fact that this story wasn’t preachy or mushy with lovey stuff. Yvonne has a great mix of adventure, and suspense, interwoven with a tender love story of two people facing the hurts and pain of their past! Both find themselves thinking they might just give love a change again. I recommend this book to people who like Johnny Stewart type westerns with tender love stories, faithful cowboys and a believable spiritual thread!
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The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
Texas Ranger, Jake Nelson, hears of Senator Madison’s daugther kidnapping and sets out on a mission to find her. He’s determined to keep Elizabeth safe once he finds her and brings Manuel Diego to pay for his brutal crime. Jake learns early on the assumptions he had about Elizabeth being a spoiled, woman of privelege are wrong. He soon discovers she’s a strong courageous woman. She’s stubborn and determined to learn to ride a horse in order to make an easier escape. She’s determined but hiding in woods as they run from their enemy has it’s own issues. It was time to come up with a plan they both could live with.
Even though I did not read Yvonne’s first book - I enjoyed this book very much and it read as a stand alone. I liked Yvonne’s creativity and imagination. I also liked that I learned about that time period, gyspies and Texas Rangers. I liked this authors writing style well paced action and humor and how she started this story with a bang - literally. I liked the fact that this story wasn’t preachy or mushy with lovey stuff. Yvonne has a great mix of adventure, and suspense, interwoven with a tender love story of two people facing the hurts and pain of their past! Both find themselves thinking they might just give love a change again. I recommend this book to people who like Johnny Stewart type westerns with tender love stories, faithful cowboys and a believable spiritual thread!
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
August 12, 2016
When I first started reading "A River to Cross", by Yvonne Harris, I was struck by dialogue and terminology which seemed inappropriate for the setting and era of the book, Texas of 1886. However, once the characters really developed and the story line deepened, I was hooked. Lloyd Evans is the owner and operator of the largest newspaper in El Paso, TX. An editor with a bold, investigative style, Lloyd is writing strong expose articles on the local crime element in the area. His reporting leads to his death and to the kidnapping of his sister, Elizabeth Evans. Texas Ranger Captain Jake Nelson, a friend of Lloyd's who was assisting in the investigations, rescues Elizabeth and vows to bring the local crime lords to justice. Elizabeth is the daughter of a US Senator and the still-grieving widow of a US Army Lieutenant, Carl Evans. Beautiful and petite, Elizabeth's exterior belies her inner strength and intelligence. Jake is immediately captivated by Elizabeth, and he soon realizes that he is in over his head. He will also have to overcome the memories Elizabeth has of her lost love. When Jake sets out to woo Elizabeth, and turns on the slow-talking, courtly protector, larger-than-life Texas charm, she is smitten. Their friendship and courtship of each other throughout the action-packed story line is very enjoyable. The romantic suspense aspect of this historical western is terrific! I was very involved with the characters and so looking forward to the resolution of their adventures and to their HEA. Jake and Elizabeth have a wonderful romance with a very unromantic ending. The author did tie up the story line issues, but left out the romance in the final chapter. All in all, because of the characters and the action-adventure suspense of the story, I recommend "A River to Cross" for lovers of western romance.
Review Copy Gratis Bethany House Books
Review Copy Gratis Bethany House Books
August 1, 2011
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves the old west and Texas Rangers! A River to Cross gives us a glimpse into the history and life of the Texas Rangers in the late 1880's while weaving a sweet romance between a ranger and a senator's daughter.
Neither Elizabeth or Jake are looking for love. Both use being a Texas Ranger as the reason. It was a demanding and dangerous life. Elizabeth already had a heartbreaking experience and didn't want a repeat. Jake knew there was no room for domesticity in his life. Or so he thought. Their story is chock full of adventure, from murder to kidnapping to rescue to falling in love. You don't want to miss this one. It's a real treat!
Learning about the Texas Rangers was my favorite part of this book. I have always loved law enforcement (my great grandaddy was a southern lawyer then a judge back in the late 1800's – early 1920's) so the law aspect of this book was the most interesting to me. My favorite character is Jake. He's everything a girl dreams a man would be. He's intelligent, tough and strong, yet with the right woman he is gentle and compassionate. Even though Elizabeth was raised in Washington, DC she has a stern character and determination to forge her way into a man's business world all while staying the genteel bred woman she is. The myriad of secondary characters are a pleasure to be introduced to and I certainly hope Ms. Harris is planning on continuing with another book...perhaps about Gus!
I received this book unsolicited from Bethany House for free. I was under no obligation to give a positive review.
Neither Elizabeth or Jake are looking for love. Both use being a Texas Ranger as the reason. It was a demanding and dangerous life. Elizabeth already had a heartbreaking experience and didn't want a repeat. Jake knew there was no room for domesticity in his life. Or so he thought. Their story is chock full of adventure, from murder to kidnapping to rescue to falling in love. You don't want to miss this one. It's a real treat!
Learning about the Texas Rangers was my favorite part of this book. I have always loved law enforcement (my great grandaddy was a southern lawyer then a judge back in the late 1800's – early 1920's) so the law aspect of this book was the most interesting to me. My favorite character is Jake. He's everything a girl dreams a man would be. He's intelligent, tough and strong, yet with the right woman he is gentle and compassionate. Even though Elizabeth was raised in Washington, DC she has a stern character and determination to forge her way into a man's business world all while staying the genteel bred woman she is. The myriad of secondary characters are a pleasure to be introduced to and I certainly hope Ms. Harris is planning on continuing with another book...perhaps about Gus!
I received this book unsolicited from Bethany House for free. I was under no obligation to give a positive review.
December 1, 2011
Every now and again you come across a good Christian Fiction novel that you can read and have finished quickly due to not being able to put it down , A River to Cross by Yvonne Harris was just that which I had expected due to liking her first novel The Vigilante's Bride. In A River to Cross we meet Elizabeth Madison , a journalist in the making and the daughter of a Senator. Home for the summer she decides to work in her older brother Logan's newspaper business rather than be an intern for her father's campaign and office. Though, little does she know that she will only see her brother for a few days before he is dead and she finds herself kidnapped. When a big story breaks out about the Mexican's and Manuel Diego it seems that a button has been pushed and Elizabeth's brother finds himself assasinated and Elizabeth kidnapped ? Will she be the next to go , leaving their father childless ? Enter Jake , a Texas Ranger and a friend of Logan's - he is making it his mission to safely return Elizabeth but what neither of them counted on was falling in love with each other. However , before any of them are actually ready to open up their hearts and love fully they must battle some relationship demons and move on completely from the past. For Elizabeth , a widow of three years -it means leaving behind and moving forth from her dead husband Carl and for Jake , love made him jaded and difficult to keep as for Jake - an Army Ranger - it's the army first and relationships second. Can the two of them find common ground and love be re-ignited in both their hearts or will their past experiences be too much to handle ?
Find out in A River to Cross by Yvonne Harris.
Find out in A River to Cross by Yvonne Harris.
October 3, 2014
I could have sworn I started a review to this, so now I am quite confused... alas... let's try again. Actually now that I think about it I know I did. Hmmm... Oh well.
When I first was introduced to the writing of Yvonne Harris in her first Bethany House Publishers Christian Historical Fiction The Vigilante's Bride I was nervous about starting into a new author, but was overly pleased to discover that I LOVED her writing almost as much as I adore Mary Connealy. (And if you know anything about my taste in Christian Historical Fiction that is saying a lot!)
I was thoroughly entertained and pleased with this read and do eagerly look for more from Yvonne in the future. The only problem with her books is that I wish they were longer, yet at the same time they are just right.
Highly recommended!
Originally posted: http://creativemadnessmama.com/blog/2...
*Thanks to the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance and Bethany House for providing a copy for review.*
When I first was introduced to the writing of Yvonne Harris in her first Bethany House Publishers Christian Historical Fiction The Vigilante's Bride I was nervous about starting into a new author, but was overly pleased to discover that I LOVED her writing almost as much as I adore Mary Connealy. (And if you know anything about my taste in Christian Historical Fiction that is saying a lot!)
I was thoroughly entertained and pleased with this read and do eagerly look for more from Yvonne in the future. The only problem with her books is that I wish they were longer, yet at the same time they are just right.
Highly recommended!
Originally posted: http://creativemadnessmama.com/blog/2...
*Thanks to the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance and Bethany House for providing a copy for review.*
September 11, 2011
I love historical novels, and if they are set in the west then that's just an added bonus.In this one Yvonne Harris transports us back in time to August 1886 in El Paso Texas. Elizabeth Evans moves to Texas from Washington to look after her brother Lloyd and his daughter Ruthie after the death of his wife and newborn son, and in return he will teach her the newspaper business,but instead her brother is shot dead and Elizabeth is kidnapped by Mexican outlaws. When Jake Nelson, a Texas Ranger learns of the shooting and kidnapping he sets out to rescue Elizabeth.When he finds her there is an immediate attraction,but could a relationship ever work between the two?
With plenty of page turning action from the beginning, this book is certainly a quick read.I enjoyed learning a bit about the Texas Rangers,and the time period in general, while reading a sweet romance. I liked main characters in this book. Both were dealing with issues from their past that caused them to guard their hearts. Jake's heart was broken by his fiance, and the death of Elizabeth's husband Carl, who was killed in the line of duty in the Army, caused her to fear getting involved with someone who might put their job first.
I think anyone who enjoys a good historical fiction western,with romance and plenty of action will certainly enjoy this fast paced read, I know I did.
With plenty of page turning action from the beginning, this book is certainly a quick read.I enjoyed learning a bit about the Texas Rangers,and the time period in general, while reading a sweet romance. I liked main characters in this book. Both were dealing with issues from their past that caused them to guard their hearts. Jake's heart was broken by his fiance, and the death of Elizabeth's husband Carl, who was killed in the line of duty in the Army, caused her to fear getting involved with someone who might put their job first.
I think anyone who enjoys a good historical fiction western,with romance and plenty of action will certainly enjoy this fast paced read, I know I did.
August 18, 2012
Despite the heroine being a "newspaper woman" (which I despise), I decided to give this a try because I liked the idea of a Texas Ranger hero. I wish I had listened to my gut. This is set in the very late 1880s yet the dialog is modern, which is distracting. The whole feel of the book was "out of place".
Texas Ranger Jake is an interesting character, yet as soon as he starts to divulge some of his past, the story goes off on a tangent. There is quite a bit of his POV, but again, goes off on a tangent with no warning. One paragraph he is telling himself the heroine is spoiled and not for him and the next he is pining after her. Disjointed is putting it kindly.
The heroine is just a mess. So much so that I even questioned whether or not she was manic at one point. She's had a recent tragedy and yet only hours later she is giggling like a schoolgirl. There's no mention of her mourning her deceased brother, whom she claimed to love dearly. Very odd. She compares her dead husband to the hero several times, twice to his face. *head desk*
I wish I could recommend this. The cover is beautiful though. 1.5 stars
Texas Ranger Jake is an interesting character, yet as soon as he starts to divulge some of his past, the story goes off on a tangent. There is quite a bit of his POV, but again, goes off on a tangent with no warning. One paragraph he is telling himself the heroine is spoiled and not for him and the next he is pining after her. Disjointed is putting it kindly.
The heroine is just a mess. So much so that I even questioned whether or not she was manic at one point. She's had a recent tragedy and yet only hours later she is giggling like a schoolgirl. There's no mention of her mourning her deceased brother, whom she claimed to love dearly. Very odd. She compares her dead husband to the hero several times, twice to his face. *head desk*
I wish I could recommend this. The cover is beautiful though. 1.5 stars
January 26, 2012
Murder, kidnapping, rescue, romance. This adventure has it all. In 1886, Lloyd Madison was murdered because he wrote revealing newspaper articles about what was really happening with the outlaws along the U. S.-Mexican border. When Lloyd’s sister, Elizabeth Evans, made plans to continue his work, she was kidnapped and taken into Mexico by the outlaws. The Texas Rangers set out to find her and bring her back, which was not easy. Then the renegades tried to take her hostage again, and the rangers had to handle several uprisings by the Mexicans. Along the way, a romance developed between Texas Ranger Jake Nelson and Elizabeth. This is a great historical adventure with many details about the Texas Rangers and the frontier in the 1800’s.
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