An Uncommon Protector

By: Shelley Shepard Gray

Narrated by: Nan Gurley

Overwhelmed by the responsibilities of running a ranch on her own, Laurel Tracey decides to hire a convict—a man who’s just scary enough to take care of squatters and just desperate enough to agree to a one year post.

The years following the war have been hard on Laurel Tracey. Both her brother and her father died in battle, and her mother passed away shortly after receiving word of their demise. Laurel has been trying to run her two hundred acre ranch as best she can.

When she discovers that squatters have settled in her north pasture and have no intention of leaving, Laurel decides to use the last of her money to free a prisoner from the local jail. If she agrees to offer him room and board for one year, he will have to work for her to pay off his debt.

Former soldier Thomas Baker knows he’s in trouble when he finds himself jailed because he couldn’t pay a few fines. Laurel’s offer might be his only ticket out. Though she’s everything he ever dreamed of in a woman—sweet and tender-hearted, yet strong—he’s determined to remain detached, work hard on her behalf, and count the days until he’s free again.

But when cattle start dying and Laurel’s life is threatened, Thomas realizes more than just his freedom is on the line. Laurel needs someone to believe in her and protect her property. And it isn’t long before Laurel realizes that Thomas Baker is far more than just a former soldier. He’s a trustworthy hero, and he needs more than just his freedom—he needs her love and care too.

Critic reviews

'A sweet historical romance with charming, caring characters with an interesting story. The female lead, Laurel, is a breath of fresh air. She isn't the typical woman of the 1860s; she is gutsy and tough. The storyline is fast-paced and believable with memorable scenes. Gray brings the past alive with her novels. This one is a keeper.'

'This inspiring story about realizing one’s own worth in the Lord should be recommended to fans of Deanne Gist.'

“Gray’s ardent fans will line up for this one.”

Really enjoyed this series

Read the whole series twice book 1 book 2 and book 3 really enjoyed listening.

Good book -ok narration

I own the book and enjoy it. It’s the story of a young woman,Laurel, trying to save her ranch with the help of a “convict” she has employed while she is being harassed from both family members and an unknown source.

The narrator does not capture accents or written out clues describing the voices. The book takes place in Texas with Texans and the author mentions the “drawl” and tone of voice, etc. However, the narrator fails to use Texas accents. If she had and if she put mood into the conversations, it would have improved the performance greatly.

The book is a Christian historical fiction with a happy ending. It is the second in the series but, a stand alone read.

Enjoyed The Plot

You really can't go wrong with this kind of idea so I liked it a lot :D
So in this book we follow Thomas who is a prisoner because he didn't pay his taxes, then Miss Laurel buys him to work in her land and then the romance between them when there are people who are threatening Laurel to sell her land .. what will happen to them ?
the romance was so sweet and I smiled a lot through out the story and I really needed that .. I'm so excited about the third book because it will feature my favorite character, Captain Devin .. let's see

The narrator was nice although sometimes I had a hard time distinguishing the characters

Another good read!

I enjoy the way the story moved- and came together. I love how the men in the story have an unbreakable bond, with honor. The love story was sweet and respectful. as always the Lord was front and Center. It is well worth reading

ok read

like the story and the characters are likeable but the narrator didn't do a good job all the characters sounds alike so it makes listening confusing