The Angel and the Outlaw

by: Kathryn L. Albright

Published by: Harlequin Enterprises, Ltd. (December release)

Reviewed by Leslie Granier

Rachel Houston has just begun teaching in a small town after her father has abandoned her in search of finding his fortune in gold. When Stuart Taylor, the keeper of the lighthouse, rides into town to purchase some supplies, Rachel finds herself instantly attracted to him even though the other residents are suspicious of him due to rumors about his past.

Rachel is also drawn to Hannah, a six-year-old girl who is unable to speak, who is accompanying Stuart. Although she is warned to stay away from them, Rachel insists on trying to get Hannah to attend school. When Stuart repeatedly refuses, a deal is made in which Rachel will privately tutor Hannah at the lighthouse. As a result, Rachel and Stuart are often together which leads to an intimate relationship. As the truth about Stuart’s past begins to surface, he pushes her away. As Rachel’s insecurities mount, she agonizes over the decision of whether to fight for her man or just chalk it up as being abandoned once again by someone she loved.

Albright provides a realistic view of how times were in 1873. Most of the romance portrayed is passionate kissing, which coincides with how unmarried couples back then would have expressed their love. For me, the action started quickly but the middle of the story moved slowly. However, once the truth about Stuart’s past began to be revealed, my interest peaked once again.

The main characters were developed intricately. Rachel’s inner strength came through despite how often she had been hurt in the past. I enjoyed how she made her own decisions instead of being submissive to the respected male figures in the town. It was probably uncommon for women to display such independence in those times. Stuart’s struggles with the guilt he felt for things that happened years ago were vividly portrayed. Both Stuart and Rachel seemed like real people to me instead of just characters in a book.

Armchair Interviews says: The Angel and the Outlaw is a sweet historical romance that will provide a nice escape from today’s fast-paced world.