Book Review - Zach

Zach 
Bachelors and Babies
Hebby Roman
April 2020

Will their love for an orphaned baby forge a lasting bond between a widowed sheep rancher and a battle-scarred drill sergeant? 

Sergeant Zacharias Armstrong survived the massacre of his family and the starvation of his baby brother but lost his faith. After being rescued and raised by mountain men, Zach joins the Army. Disciplined and introverted, he doesn’t form personal attachments. Instead, he makes the Army his new home and family, rising in rank to sergeant. But when he rescues a baby, his life takes an unexpected turn. 

Johanna Gunter, an immigrant from Germany, survived the murder of her husband and eldest son. Johanna clings to the ranch she and her husband carved out of the Texas wilderness, and she wants to be left in peace to raise her other two children. But her neighbors, the Jackson brothers, are determined to terrify her, making her give up her land. 

When the Army sends Zach to investigate the murder of one of Johanna’s shepherds and his wife, he finds their baby. Johanna offers to raise the child, but Zach doesn’t want to give up the baby. When he learns the murder is part of the ongoing terror Johanna faces, he joins forces with her. A bond develops between them, their mutual attraction grows, and Johanna helps Zach find his faith again. But can they forget their painful pasts and open their hearts to allow their newfound attachment to forge a lasting family? 

Between The Pages
This story was an emotional ride. The plot was interesting and held my attention. There’s a little suspense to up the reading enjoyment. The historical setting is well-developed as is the cast of characters. Zach is such a likable hero. His unwavering love for the baby and helping Johanna is touching. Both Zach and Johanna have suffered in the past, but their connection is healing and makes them stronger. This sweet story is enjoyable from beginning to end. A perfect weekend read.

Rating 
4.5 Stars