When I pick up a romance book there are hopes attached. I hope to be entertained. I hope for a beautifully told story. I hope for memorable characters that stay with me long after the last page. I hope for an escape as I immerse myself in the story. Kristy McCaffery's The Wren met my hopes for a good romance.

Matt Ryan, a man tortured by the tragic loss of a young girl named Molly to a Comanche raiding party, has never been able to forgive himself for not protecting her. When remains assumed to be Molly's body are found, his life becomes a quest of vengeance. Matt joined the army and then the Texas Rangers to rid the world of degenerates who commit atrocities like Molly suffered. But Matt Ryan can't escape the nightmares of losing Molly. Because he blames himself, he often visits her gravesite to ask forgiveness. Molly Hart has returned from the dead.

When Matt Ryan stumbles across her at her family cemetery on what remains of the Hart Ranch, he doesn't recognize her. After ten years and a life of jaded memories, why would he? But determined, spirited Molly has a goal: she must find who killed her family. After recovering from the shock of Molly alive, Matt promises to help her find answers to the mystery surrounding the murder of her family. In the process, Molly and Matt are drawn toward the shelter that the other provides for his and her heart. What remains is a touching story of love, discovery, and renewal.

I enjoyed Kristy McCaffery's The Wren. I thought that it was well written and it captivated me from the first line to the poignant last. McCaffrey's skilled mixture of words to enhance imagery was first-rate and brought the story to vivid life. I enjoyed the spirited Molly and her acceptance of the woman she became though faced with uncertainty and tragedy. The Wren is a delicious story told by an author that will be a favorite of many. Kristy McCaffrey is one to watch!

Reviewed By Maci Walker
© 2005