Guardian of Her Heart

by Cheryl R. Lane

Dr. Courtney Beck‑Carson is settling into newlywed life on her husband Owen’s farmhouse, embracing the rhythm of caring for cows, chickens, horses, and dogs. Everything feels perfect—until a heartbreaking loss shatters her world. In her grief, her friends encourage her to read the diary of their ancestor, Bronwyn Wellington, whose words offer unexpected comfort. A DNA test soon reveals surprising connections, both past and present, giving Courtney renewed strength and a sense of belonging. But when danger strikes the farm, she and Owen are stunned to discover who is behind it.

Meanwhile, Brooke Meadows—cousin to Jen and Cassie—has just returned from Ireland and a flirtatious friendship with the charming Tiernan O’Donnell. Back home in Virginia Beach, she begins working at Courtney’s veterinary office and helping at the Carson Farm stand. There she meets Dillon McGregor, the farm’s new hired hand—a handsome, polite cowboy whose easy charm quickly makes her forget the Irishman she left behind. Brooke finds herself falling for Dillon and the simple beauty of farm life. But Dillon carries secrets he’s not ready to share, leaving her torn between trust and caution.
When Dillon is shot, Brooke’s world tilts. Can their fragile love survive the truth he’s been hiding—and the danger closing in around them? Or will her chance at a happily‑ever‑after slip away before it even begins?

350 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 31, 2025

About the author

Cheryl R. Lane is the author of the historical romance Wellington Cross and Wellington Patriot Series, as well as a modern-day romantasy Angel Series. She has been self-publishing her books since December 2012. Her book, Sunrise Kisses, was a finalist in the 2018 Golden Quill Award Contest sponsored by Golden Box Books Publishing. She grew up in East Tennessee and moved to Virginia Beach, Virginia, after she married her high-school sweetheart. They have one adult son who lives in sunny Florida. She enjoys gardening, walking, traveling, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

Reviews

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guardian of Her Heart is a moving story. You will see some of the characters from prior books, but this story is focusing on Courtney and Owen. Newlywed, Courtney is a veterinarian, enjoying the farm with her husband, running a farm stand, but wants a baby too. Things go wrong and she puts her focus on her ancestry. Owen, her husband just wants to be there for her. We are also introduced to a new farm hand, Dillon , who takes a instant liking to Brooke. Brooke just got back from a trip from Ireland and took an interest in Tiernan, but now Dillon is in front of her. Time will tell on that one. The story weaves through the diary of Bronwyn Wellington, which will answer many questions for Courtney. Loved the storyline and wonderful characters.
I was given an ARC of this book by the author for an honest review.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book five of the series. You don't have to read priors, but it helps to have read pthem as this is a historical romance and fantasy, with angels, and it refers back to prior people and events. This book centers on newlyweds Courtney and Owen and their farm. Courtney is a veterinarian and runs a sat morning farm stand. There are lots of family connections and interactions with other friends and family ... Don't want to give away what happens, but it's a good storyline. I'm sure you will enjoy it.

[Rosemary K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guardian of Her Heart is an amazing story by Cheryl R Lane. It is part of her Angel series. Dr Courtney has just married her forever love Owen. Their life on Carson Farm makes them happy. Dr Courtney is hoping for a baby, but unfortunately she has a miscarriage. She starts to read Bronwyn Wellington's diary to help process her grief. This awakens her desire to know more about her past. Now her family connections lead her to realize that her life is filled with people who love and care for her. Dr Courtney is a wonderful person. She cares for everyone and tries to help all who need her support. Brooke Meadows works in Dr Courtney's veterinary practice and also her farm stand. There she meets Dillon and falls in love with him. He's a mystery. He seems to care but there are times when he isn't truthful. Is he the man of her dreams or will he break her heart? The past combines with the paranormal to help Brooke as she struggles to find her true love. Her path is filled with obstacles that are almost impossible to overcome. I hoped for a HEA. Cheryl R Lane has written a beautiful heartwarming story. I especially enjoyed the writings of Bronwyn Wellington which contained the fascinating history of her Aunt. This author has an easy writing style that leaves me feeling satisfied. Her characters are likable and their dialogue is interesting.

[Trish Cutter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guardian of Her Heart is a heartfelt novel that explores the powerful themes of family, love, loss, while focusing mainly on Courtney and Owen who are newlyweds as well as Brooke and new farmhand, Dillon. The book dives deep into the connections between family members, showing how love can help heal even the deepest wounds.
The author does a great job of portraying the protagonist’s emotional journey, from the pain of losing her child to the hope that comes with a second chance at motherhood. The continuing theme of angels adds an interesting layer of magic and comfort to the story, giving it a unique twist.
One of the strengths of Guardian of Her Heart is its focus on the importance of family and family history. The bonds between the characters feel real and relatable, and you can really connect with the main character’s struggles and triumphs. The writing is clear and easy to follow, making the story engaging and easy to get lost in.
Overall, Guardian of Her Heart is a touching story about love, loss, and the healing power of angels. It’s a perfect read for anyone who enjoys emotional stories with a mix of the supernatural.

[Renee Simmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book, book 5 in the Angel series. Angels have different responsibilities and Angels have choices. I love how this book has incorporated and involves history from the author’s past books. And how the wonderful characters are searching for their ancestry in order to better understand where they came from and how certain events, are still effecting their lives. Main characters Courtney and Brooke, each have to deal with their families descendants in order to understand what has to be done to ensure a future for generations to come.
Entertaining, action, and many questions, will have you holding your breath on more than one occasion. The characters are all amazing, some more deceitful and sneaky , and some willing to give everything for the ones they love.

[TTaylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guardian of Her Heart is a spellbinding read that showcases a richly layered narrative, replete with unexpected twists and turns. The central theme revolves around Courtney and Owen's life together, while Brooke, another key character, falls deeply in love with Dillan, a captivating cowboy who has secrets of his own. As both couples navigate numerous challenges, they explore the diary of their ancestor, Bronwyn Wellington, ultimately intersecting the past and present. The author's masterful integration of elements from Bronwyn Wellington's story in her Wellington series into her angel series is truly praiseworthy. As Cheryl Lane's new releases are always highly anticipated.

[Heather L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cheryl R. Lane has done it again! Guardians of Her Heart has all the comfort and hominess that we love from her Angel Series but also introduces pieces of history from her Wellington series. I appreciate how much detail Cheryl uses to describe the people and places we visit throughout the book. You can tell she also has done her research when talking about the Scottish and Colonial time periods. You do not need to have read any of her previous books to enjoy this one. Cheryl is very good at making you feel like you are not missing any information about the previous storylines, without overly explaining. Of course, you won’t regret reading any of the other books in her series as well!

[Mary Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Cheryl R. Lane intertwines her previous series with the Angel Series. In this fifth book, Courtney and Owen's journey continues with newlywed life on their farm. However, their happiness is soon overshadowed by tragedy. Seeking comfort, Courtney turns to the diary of Brownyn Wellington, uncovering a connection that offers her solace and strength. I recommend this book to readers who enjoy romance blended with historical elements.

[Deborah J. Russo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. It starts with Courtney and Owen. They're married and she's moved to his ranch. She's a veterinarian, which adds storyline to the book. You also have Brooke and Dillon, who are falling in love. Their relationship does have its ups and downs!! Is Dillon hiding something? I highly recommend this book.

[Marilyn Rushing · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just finished reading this book. It was a good read but a little different type of story that I am use to reading. A mature chapter in the book that I didn’t approve of but other than that if you like some supernatural with some romance and some history you will enjoy this book.

[Dianne Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 5 in the Angel series, and can be read as a stand alone or as a continuation of the series. It combines the supernatural realm (angels) with earthly relationships. The story of Dr. Courtney and her husband Owen are woven with diary entries from Bronwyn Wellington - an ancestor from the 1700's. So if you want "the full story", read the Wellington series too. There is a possible romance between Brooke Meadows and the new farm hand, Dillion also. But there are "issues" - secrets that may affect this relationship. Read and find out what will happen!

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The 5th book in the Angels series did not disappointment. This book like the other combines the history from the authors other series with new characters in today's world. As always, the characters are amazing and will to give everything for those they love. I absolutely loved this book and the continuation of the storyline.