Jenna's Cowboy by Sharon Gillenwater - REVIEWED

“God will protect me.” (p. 111)

Nate Langley’s soul and mind have been crying out for God’s protection for quite some time by the time readers begin Sharon Gillenwater’s latest story, Jenna’s Cowboy. During his time in the military Nate cried out to God as never before. Now that he has returned home to Callahan Crossing, he discovers there is much to be thankful for, but in spite of the blessings Nate discovers that his mind and body are still fighting a war that seems to have no end.

Jenna Callahan Colby can’t believe how much Nate has changed since returning home from the War on Terror. She can’t believe how her heart is drawn to him in spite of the wounds in her soul left behind when her husband walked out on her and her son Zach. As friendship is renewed and Jenna and Nate begin to tentatively explore their relationship, it becomes clear to them both that their hearts are still pretty ragged and torn. Will there ever be a chance to discover the possibility of the love and romance they long for?

Sharon Gillenwater has been writing strong Christian romances for a long time, and she has created something extra special in Jenna’s Cowboy. This story deals with battle scars and the fallout that often follows soldiers back into their private lives after serving their country during war time – otherwise known as post traumatic stress disorder. Gillenwater skillfully incorporates this emotional struggle into the budding relationship between Jenna and Nate, and she uses their faith and the faith of those who love them to lead them toward healing and wholeness. She also draws some interesting parallels between the emotional scars in Jenna’s personal life and Nate’s struggle to deal with the events of war time that have followed him home.

Jenna’s Cowboy showcases characters who lean upon God for their strength during dark, confusing circumstances, and yet realistically portrays the fact that fragile emotions are a real result of horrors neither Jenna nor Nate ever planned for. Christians must struggle in this world, but thankfully God is faithful to redeem even the darkest of situations. As Jenna and Nate take small, uncertain steps toward healing with the hope that they will find their way to one another along the way. This is a very special story!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Sharon Gillenwater was born and raised in west Texas, and loves to write about her native state. The author of ten novels, she is a member of ACFW and Romance Writers of America. When she's not writing, she and her husband enjoy spending time with their son, daughter-in-law, and adorable grandson.