C. H. Admirand, A Gift From Home

A Gift From Home

C. H. Admirand

Five Star, Aug 18 2010, $25.95

ISBN 9781594149184

In 1878 the Committee for the Betterment of Emerson, Colorado has reconvened after a short temporary shutdown (see Pearl's Redemption); the members feel an urgent need to hold Jessi Fahy culpable. The CBE accuse Jessi of arson; setting on fire Peterson's Stable and causing injury to the owner. They also blame her for behavior unbecoming of a lady by her fighting in public and devastating John Reilly with a one punch knock out.

Over five years ago John Reilly left County Cork, Ireland and then thirteen years old Jessi for America. Jessi and John's mother team up to send her as a "present" to him. After an oceanic voyage and a trek across two thirds of America, Jessi arrives in Emerson only he fails to recognize the almost nineteen year old beauty. Frustrated with him and bone tired, she throws a right to his jaw that proves what his mom said: his jaw is made of glass; as one punch knocks out big John. Though the CBE demands Jessi leave, she refuses. Instead she hopes that her one punch KO knocked some sense into John that they belong together though outlaws and kindhearted Flynn distract her somewhat from her mission.

The latest Irish Western romance is a fun lighthearted historical starring a feisty female with a terrific right-cross and the man of her dreams with a glass jaw. The support cast, especially the CBE members especially Millie Peabody the town nosy body, enhance the tale of a brave woman seeking what she believes is her destiny.

Harriet Klausner