Let’s face it: there is nothing positive you can say about having secrets especially from those you care for. Secrets are toxic to a relationship. For some, their lives are steeped in secrets and it’s a wonder that they can keep them straight. At first glance, you might be tempted to say that Melanie’s motives for being secretive are almost noble. Her sister Ava’s life depends on it. But what happens when it becomes apparent that it is that very secret that presents the greater threat?

Melanie and Ava had an unorthodox childhood. They had no role models, just a father who used them in his con games and schemes. Their father was a gambler and their life was nomadic. Often fleeing the law. When he faced certain prison time he left town, abandoning his daughters leaving them to face the punishment. Not on anyone’s list of a responsible loving parent. The problem was justice was being meted out by corrupt officials without any morals.

Tait’s childhood wasn’t much better escaping from an abusive father. Tait has deep feelings for people he cares for and it is those feelings that are putting his friends and loved ones in harm way. Tait has a price on his head. His face is on wanted posters as a train robber. Problem is that this made him a target. Tait’s train robberies were retribution for tragic events that have left members of Tait's family murdered. Railroad executives were getting away with many misdeeds in their drive to control land along the track sites. It was common knowledge that not all the land was obtained through legal channels. Tait’s family was one of many that lost their land to the railroad.

The old west was not a very civilized society – it was harsh and dangerous. And yet folks tried to build lives. Tait made some very nasty enemies who are leaving a trail of death and destruction in their wake. Tait is the obvious target but they are sending messages to him through their carnage. And now they are getting close to Hope’s Crossing where Tait has dared to attempt the impossible. Put his past behind and build a future with Melanie his new mail order bride and his twin nephews and niece.

THE MAIL ORDER BRIDE'S SECRET is book number three in this series by Linda Broday. Each one is unique and THE MAIL ORDER BRIDE'S SECRET is filled with adventure and memorable characters. There did seem to be an extraordinary amount of really bad guys in THE MAIL ORDER BRIDE'S SECRET. Devil’s Crossing and Hope’s Crossing are communities built by a bunch of outlaws looking to change their ways. Linda Broday does a fabulous job of telling a story filled with humor, angst and some candid truths just so we don’t romanticize this period in our history. Like all in the Mail Order Brides series, THE MAIL ORDER BRIDE'S SECRET is filled with rugged men who get matched with tough women. Great series.

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