From the very beginning, this book with its kidnapping mystery, had me completely enthralled. Erica Vetsch’s Lily and the Lawman is a delightful romance, tingling with the mystery of a hidden intrigue. Her writing style, complete with flowing sentences and accurate historical descriptions, brings readers directly into the rustic charm of nineteenth-century Idaho. The relentless chase against a backdrop of Western vibes makes this story hard to put down.

As is typical of this author, the characters’ personalities shine through in their actions and words. Trace’s tough outward appearance concealed a warm, compassionate heart, making him quite the charmer. Lily’s relatable character is defined by her determination to maintain her independence. While wanting the couple to succeed, you’re also invested in seeing how the crimes they’re working together to solve are resolved. The way Vetsch brings two stubborn people together through an arranged marriage trope was expertly done, and this distinctive element caused me to become even more attached to the characters.

Spiritual nuggets gleam like precious jewels within this story’s rich narrative. In moments of peril, what actions will they take to trust God? How will they handle life together when God derails their plans to remain alone? Although it has a lighthearted, romantic feel, the story still offers valuable insights. A great addition to the series, it is sure to be a favorite among readers of the Brides of the West.

I received a complimentary copy from the author but was not required to leave a review. All opinions expressed are my own. Click on the book cover for purchase link.

Final Thoughts from Erica

Lily and the Lawman has one of my favorite opening lines that I’ve ever written.

No man should have to arrest his own father—at least not more than once a month.

And so begins Trace McConnell’s adventure to lasting happiness. Trace is a lawman, and his father is the town drunk. He heads out on the trail of some bad men who have kidnapped a baby girl. He doesn’t go alone, the child’s aunt goes with him. Mayhem, danger, and love along the way happen, hopefully leading to a satisfying conclusion for everyone but the bad guy.

But I wanted to talk about first lines in fiction. First lines have to do some heavy lifting! So much responsibility! If you are a writer, you have to consider so many things when writing that first line. Does it set the tone of the book? Does it reveal something up front about the character? Does it make the reader ask a question? Does it make the reader want to continue on to see what happens next?

When I’m writing a new story, I often put in all capital letters in the first draft: WRITE A GREAT FIRST LINE HERE. Then I go on with the opening scene.

You see, there is something intimidating in starting a new story, seeing all the blank, white space where words need to go. And it’s worse when you know how important a first line can be. So I put in a place holder. Often I don’t know what the first line should be until I’m into the story a ways. Only rarely do I know what the first line will be, and even then I often change it later.

When I need inspiration, I peruse my bookshelves to read first lines. Here are two of my favorites, both from the late secular writer, Dick Francis

From To the Hilt: I don’t think my stepfather much minded dying. That he almost took me with him wasn’t really his fault.

From Longshot: I accepted a commission that had been turned down by four other writers, but I was hungry at the time.

Do you have a favorite first line?