I loved The Wren by Kristy McCaffrey, and when given the opportunity to read the second book in the series, The Dove, I jumped at the chance. In all honesty, my initial expectations were mediocre at best given the quality of many series books. In general, it seems as though many series leave me feeling as though the author's creativity is lackluster and the novels are formulaic. The Dove, however, was an excellent sophomore novel in and of itself, and Kristy McCaffrey has proven her writing savvy once again.

Claire Waters returns to her mother Maggie's saloon, The White Dove, in Las Vegas to find her mother and brother, Jimmy, missing. The daughter of a saloon owner, Claire has no respectability and no wealth to afford her dream of becoming a doctor. She's accepted her situation and tries to keep her mother's business afloat. The White Dove is a doomed ship however. Claire reconciles that she must find Maggie to not only save the saloon, but also to exorcise her own past demons.

Logan Ryan is also on a search mission. He's searching for Claire Waters. After learning that the man who escorted her home from the Ryan ranch in Texas fell seriously ill, Logan set out to make sure that Claire was healthy and safe. He enters the White Dove Saloon and bumps into a raven haired prostitute. He helps her to her feet and discovers the woman is Claire! Logan discovers things are not as they seem, and finds himself more intrigued than he'd like to be. His own past won't seem to let go of his heart.

Logan promises to help Claire find her mother and brother. As the twosome venture deeper into the mystery of Claire's family's disappearance, the more dangerous their journey becomes, and a plot woven so tight begins to unravel with consequences that could cost Claire and Logan their lives. In the process, Logan and Claire discover a bond forged through danger but lasting like a tattoo on the heart.

Kristy McCaffrey is a winner. Her ability to draw a story out of two characters is exceptional. The story, while character driven, is entertaining, quick, and adventurous. I was impressed with Ms. McCaffrey's ability to tell a wonderful story that was realistic, but touched with enough fancy to engage the heart. I thought The Wren was fantastic, and The Dove is equally so of its own merit; It could stand alone without its predecessor. I am looking forward to book three in the series having enjoyed the first two.

Reviewed By Maci Walker
© 2005