Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer

About the Book
On his way to interview for a position at a church in the Piney Woods of Texas, Crockett Archer can scarcely believe it when he's forced off the train by a retired outlaw and presented to the man's daughter as the minister she requested for her birthday. Worried this unfortunate detour will ruin his chances of finally serving a congregation of his own, Crockett is determined to escape. But when he finally gets away, he's haunted by the memory of the young woman he left behind--a woman whose dreams now hinge on him.
For months, Joanna Robbins prayed for a preacher. A man to breathe life back into the abandoned church at the heart of her community. A man to assist her in fulfilling a promise to her dying mother. A man to help her discover answers to the questions that have been on her heart for so long. But just when it seems God has answered her prayers, it turns out the parson is there against his will and has dreams of his own calling him elsewhere. Is there any way she can convince Crockett to stay in her little backwoods community? And does the attraction between them have any chance of blossoming when Joanna's outlaw father is dead set against his daughter courting a preacher?

My Thoughts
Ah where to begin?! I absolutely adored this book!! I have loved each of Karen Witemeyer's previous four books especially Short-Straw Bride, so not only was I already in love with this author but the hero of this book, Crockett, was one of my absolute favorite characters in Short-Straw Bride. Two facts that made me super excited for the release of this book! And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! I loved every part of this book and think it might even be my favorite of hers!
Crockett was as amazing as I remembered him being, if not better! I loved his knowledge of scripture, his intuneness (yeah I realize that's not a word) to God, his willingness to do whatever was asked of him, and his general care of people. Joanna was also a great character, with her love for God, her passion to see her father saved, and her spirited but sweet personality.
The other characters were quite entertaining from the gruff but funny ex-outlaws to Jackson the fun "little brother" to Bessie the hard-shelled boarding house owner with a soft heart. I also loved the little bits we got to see of the other Archers.
The whole book was beautifully written with unexpected events, moments that made me laugh and moments that had me rapidly turning pages to see what happened. All in all this was another hit from Karen Witemeyer that I highly recommend. And while I would suggest reading Short-Straw Bride first it's not absolutely necessary!
PS: I also love this cover!!

About the Author
Karen Witemeyer is a bestselling historical romance author who believes the world needs more happily-www.karenwitemeyer.com.
ever-afters. She holds a master's degree in psychology from Abilene Christian University and is a member of ACFW, RWA, and her local writers' guild. Stealing the Preacher is her fifth novel. Karen lives with her husband and three children in Abilene, Texas. Learn more at

I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own

Karen Witemeyer is "kindling" the excitement for Stealing the Preacher (Bethany House) with a Kindle Fire Giveaway and connecting with readers at her June 18th Facebook Author Chat Party!

  One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer 

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at 4pm on June 18th. Winner will be announced at the "Stealing the Preacher" Facebook Author Chat Party on June 18th. Connect with Karen for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Karen will also share an exclusive look at her next book and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of Stealing the Preacher and join Karen on the evening of June 18th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 18th!