Taming Jesse James [Paperback]

Even more than a year after the hospitals, the surgeries, and the bruises have faded, fourth grade teacher Sarah McKenzie still bears the deep-seated psychological wounds of her beating. She doubts that a sensual, sexy man like officer Jesse James Harte could find a mousy, wounded woman like herself attractive. After all, virtually all the women in town pant after him. Jesse radiates strength and power-exactly what she needs, but she doesn't feel worthy of such strength. Yet Sarah underestimates her own strength. She once stood up for what she believed in with debilitating personal consequences. Moreover, she does not hesitate to do so again, putting herself in danger while standing up for a child that she suspects has been abused.

Jesse James Harte lives up to his namesake, having always been a hell-raiser. The only difference between now and his teen years is that now he does it from the right side of the law. Consequently, he does not believe such an innocent woman as Sarah could want a somewhat reformed troublemaker. Still, he wants to know what put the shadows in Sarah's eyes, and where she earned her slight limp. He views her limp as a badge of honor: a proof of her ability to survive overwhelming odds. When Sarah reports her suspicions regarding one of her students, Jesse cannot help identifying the youngster that Sarah suspects has been abused. Little does he suspect the series of events that will subsequently transpire that will put Sarah at desperate risk.

Author Raeanne Thayne deftly captures the fears, the needs, and the desires of a woman recovering from the devastating psychological effects of a brutal beating and rape in TAMING JESSE JAMES. The story behind her beating is both unexpected and plausible, lending a powerful strength to the narrative. Conversely, Jesse is every heroine's bad boy dream: the outlaw cop. Yet he underestimates himself, as does Sarah underestimate herself, thereby creating both empathy and compassion in the reader. Favorite characters from the previous book of the series put in their appearance, especially Jesse's delightful nieces. Their bout of chicken pox and manipulation of their uncle's heart will keep readers smiling. Jesse's sister Cassie likewise appears, whetting the reader's appetite for the final book of the series, CASSIDY HARTE AND THE COMEBACK KID. Overall, Thayne magically balances suspense, danger and love in the perfect mix, firmly placing TAMING JESSE JAMES on the keeper shelf. Very highly recommended.