Journey to Riverbend by Henry McLaughlin

 Book Description:  Michael Archer is nothing if not a man of his word. Though he was unable to save Ben Carstairs, Michael is determined to carry out Ben’s dying wish: to be reconciled with his father. Unfortunately, Sam Carstairs, one of the most ruthless businessmen on the frontier, has no use for his own son, much less a man of God seeking reconciliation. 

Soon after arriving in Riverbend, Michael meets and falls for the stunning Rachel Stone while waiting for Sam to return from a business trip. Beautiful yet guarded, Rachel seems to be running from a past as dark as Michael’s.

When word reaches town that Sam has been kidnapped on the stagecoach home, Michael offers to join the search party formed by the local sheriff. With a budding romance behind him and a dangerous rescue ahead of him, he sets out on the trail, determined to complete his journey no matter the cost.

My Review:  Michael Archer is a strong man of valor in this great western by Henry McLaughlin. Michael has promised Ben Carstairs, who was hung as an innocent man, that he will find his dad, Sam Carstairs, return the necklace that belonged to his mother and tell his dad that he forgives him for the mean things he did to him when he was growing up.

Michael tells Ben that a promise is a promise and Michael intends to keep that promise.  Michael journeys to Riverbend and finds that Sam is in town on business.  He also finds that Sam is not a well liked man.  He treats people with disdain and uses them for his own gain.  

Michael waits around. Waiting for an opportune time to speak with Sam.  Ahh!  No western is complete without a lovely lady....so, enters Rachel.  Circumstances beyond her control have led her to Riverbend where she resides with the local pastor's family.  She and Michael meet.  Instant attraction!  Not totally unwelcome attraction but both Rachel and Michael feel that they are unworthy to be loved or to love.  So they pull apart not yet ready to love or be loved.

Sam has wronged someone.  That someone kidnaps Sam to seek revenge.  Michael joins the posse feeling that he needs to find Sam-for a promise is a promise!  The journey is grueling!  The kidnappers "play" with the posse leading them in circles.  During this time the men find out "truths" about them selves.  Integrity and character ride alongside of these men.  The men learn to trust each other and God.  
This story is quite intriguing!  Find out why Michael MUST find Sam, why Sam was really kidnapped and after finding Sam will he accept the message Michael has to deliver?  And will the lovely Rachel forgive herself?
This 5 star read involves forgiveness, love, compassion and learning to fully trust God. 

*This book was provided for review by Tyndale Publishing*

About the Author:

I am sixty-three years old. My wife, Linda, and I celebrated our forty-second wedding anniversary in November. I am the father of three boys and two girls. Our oldest son went home to be with the Lord in 1993. We have one grandchild.

I desire to write stories that communicate the Father's love and desire for a close, intimate and personal relationship with each of us.

I have a master's degree in social work. My background also includes writing policies and procedures for my employers as well as training curriculum and sketches. I have also written detailed and concise court reports and petitions. Prior to becoming a full time writer in September, 2010, I worked for Kenneth Copeland Ministries for ten years.

To improve my craft, I subscribe to writing magazines and belong to several Christian writer organizations. I attend writers' conferences, workshops and retreats and participate in online and local critique groups. I have completed the Apprentice, Journeyman, and Craftsman programs with the Christian Writers Guild. My novel, Journey to Riverbend, won the 2009 Operation First Novel award sponsored by the Guild and Tyndale House.