Question O

[Jonetta]

Leading up to this story, Tom was characterized as being cold and ruthless. How did your opinion of him change, if at all, and why? Did he redeem himself after having first attempted to cheat Devon out of the estate mineral rights? How would you rate his romance with Cassandra?

[Anita]

My opinion changed. When you learn his background and all he did is put a lot in perspective. I don't know if I could ever forgive him for trying to cheat Devon. But he was definitely there for the family when they needed him, so I guess he redeemed himself. I loved this romance. Cassandra may not have gotten the love match she wanted, but Tom did love her.

[Sharon]

My opinion changed. Tom honestly didn't understand that Devon was trying to help his tenants. Tom considered these deals a game. As Tom's past is revealed, we see how and why he protects himself from emotions and close connections to other people. In the past, he only allows five emotions. Now, he experiences the full range of emotions.

I love how Cassandra taught Tom how to open up. They are a good couple.

[Jonetta]

He most definitely redeemed himself. Tom even acknowledged to Cassandra that the deal making was sport for him and he didn’t realize how bad off the estate was at the time. He showed himself to be a better man than who he showed himself to be publicly. His upbringing was tough and shame on his mother for disowning him because he was looking out for her best interest. When he tried to connect to another family, they drew lines that he didn’t know were there. He could have become a hard man but didn’t. Just constructed a wall around his heart to protect it.

I actually think Cassandra got her love match. She just has to give him time to catch up to his feelings. This will be one of my favorite romances.

[Robin]

Yes, he redeemed himself for all of the reasons mentioned.

I loved this story. Tom falling in love with Cassandra and not realizing what was happening worked so well for this character.

[Karen ♐]

He definitely redeemed himself. I really loved this story also. It was wonderful to see this couple move toward one another and fall in love. I really enjoy watching a character that I'm not crazy about change my feelings about them.