Coral Annette Morgan was a young woman branded with a whore's tattoo, but she was as virgin as they came. When Minnie, the woman she called mother, was killed trying to save her from being sold to a brothel, Coral ran from her attackers and hid in the dirtiest and darkest part of New Orleans.

Not certain where to turn next, Coral found her escape in the form of a letter found in the dress pocket of Lilly Malone's dead body. Prior to her murder, young Ms. Malone had been on her way to become a handmaiden in Canaan, Texas. After joining a small wagon train of religious "True Believers," Coral became Lilly Malone, future handmaiden.

Lilly had not spent much time in the company of men, but at first glance she knew the wagon train leader Lucas McDade was dangerous. With long dark hair and topaz eyes he had a way of looking at her that made her feel positively sinful. Coral had no idea how long she could portray the picture of a religious young woman when all she wanted was to get closer to Luke.

And what were these "True Believers" about anyway? She had never seen so much touching between people. Stolen glances and secret meetings could not be hidden in the closeness of a wagon train. When Coral discovered that a handmaiden was also required to serve the man of the house as well as the woman, she decided she must make her escape but had no idea how.

Lucas McDade had waited twenty-six years to meet the woman of his dreams and he had finally found her. Miss Lilly Malone, promised handmaiden and member of the "True Believers" was not what she seemed, but she sure was beautiful. Despite her being promised to another man, Luke couldn't keep himself from imagining what she'd be like as his woman.

Herb and Billie Houston, writing as Barri Bryan, have created a captivating tale of adventure and passion in CANAAN. The travels of Coral as both herself, and as Lilly Malone, are filled with unfortunate events, unbelievable characters and moments of passion which will delight readers longing for a story with more than the usual brand of romance. If you like surprises and a happy ending, you will enjoy CANAAN.

Reviewed By: Sabine Maurier
© July 2004