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    Stealing the Preacher (The Archer Brothers Book #2)
    Stealing the Preacher (The Archer Brothers Book #2)
    Stealing the Preacher (The Archer Brothers Book #2)
    Ebook376 pages6 hours

    Stealing the Preacher (The Archer Brothers Book #2)

    By Karen Witemeyer

    4.5/5

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    Inspirational Historical Romance's Rising Star

    On his way to interview for a position at a church in the Piney Woods of Texas, Crockett Archer can scarcely believe it when he's forced off the train by a retired outlaw and presented to the man's daughter as the minister she requested for her birthday. Worried this unfortunate detour will ruin his chances of finally serving a congregation of his own, Crockett is determined to escape. But when he finally gets away, he's haunted by the memory of the young woman he left behind--a woman whose dreams now hinge on him.

    For months, Joanna Robbins prayed for a preacher. A man to breathe life back into the abandoned church at the heart of her community. A man to assist her in fulfilling a promise to her dying mother. A man to help her discover answers to the questions that have been on her heart for so long. But just when it seems God has answered her prayers, it turns out the parson is there against his will and has dreams of his own calling him elsewhere. Is there any way she can convince Crockett to stay in her little backwoods community? And does the attraction between them have any chance of blossoming when Joanna's outlaw father is dead set against his daughter courting a preacher?
    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherBaker Publishing Group
    Release dateJun 1, 2013
    ISBN9781441261458
    Stealing the Preacher (The Archer Brothers Book #2)
    Author

    Karen Witemeyer

    Voted #1 Reader's Favorite Christian Historical Author of 2023 by Family Fiction magazine, bestselling and Carol and Christy Award-winning author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. She and her husband make their home in Abilene, Texas. Learn more about Karen and her books at KarenWitemeyer.com.

    Read more from Karen Witemeyer

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    Reviews for Stealing the Preacher (The Archer Brothers Book #2)

    4.5/5

    120 ratings38 reviews

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    • 5/5
      I have enjoyed reading books by Karen Witemeyer and this one is no exception. Jo wanted a preacher for her birthday and suddenly she finds out that she is getting one for the church that she has access to. The only problem is how she gets the preacher. This book tells of how things work between Jo, the preacher, and her family.
    • 5/5
      This is a captivatingly beautiful story from start to finish.After being kidnapped by an outlaw for his daughter’s birthday Crockett is a little alarmed to say the least. The story was fast paced and had a perfect blend of humor and romance. There were also some great lessons in this story that I will carry with me forever. The author has a way with words and I really enjoyed how she handled the issues of faith in this story.Crockett is the younger brother of Travis and I was really anxious to hear his story. He is a man of faith and hard work. His strong heart and caring nature made me fall in love with him right along with Joanna. I also liked seeing how much he grew throughout the book and that even though they met under some strange situations he gave both Joanna and her father a chance. Joanna is a sweet young girl who only wanted to fulfill a promise to her mother. She is courageous and strong willed much like her father, but has a kind heart and would do anything for her loved ones. I enjoyed getting to know more about her and seeing the relationship between her and Crockett bloom. The romance is sweet and heartwarming. It wasn’t rushed at all and I loved all of the sweet moments between Crockett and Joanna. This is a beautiful story full of hope and romance that I would recommend to all readers!
    • 4/5
      4 STARSI really enjoyed reading Stealing the Preacher this Easter day. It was charming, funny, western romance all in one. I like the characters. The plot. The scriptures quoted fit right in.I never really thought about old train robbers. The train is robbed and they don't want anyone money or things they just want the preacher. So they take him right off of the train. Crockett is going to preach at a new town that is looking for a preacher its between him and one other preacher. He is riding the train when its hold up. He wished he had brought his guns along with him, but he left them behind on his family's ranch.Silas and his gang had stopped robbing trains and stagecoaches for sixteen years. He has his own ranch now. His wife has died over a year ago and his daughter is turning 21 in a few days. Silas's wife had always picked out her gifts. When he asked her what she wanted for her birthday she said a preacher.Joanna can't believe it when her father shown back up at the ranch with a man tied in ropes. Joanna has been praying for a preacher to open up the local church again to help bring the gospel to her father. She never expected her father to kidnap a preacher. She walked with the preacher and explained what she really wanted and asked him for help to find a preacher. Than loaned him her horse to ride to the nearest town to make arrangements to go to the town where he was to tryout for the job.Crockett lived what he believed. He tried his best. When he got to a town where he sent a message on ahead. He was wired back to stay their and tomorrow someone would meet him.The Marshall asked a lot of questions about his kidnapping and Crockett would not lie to him but he did keep some facts away from him. Told him he was not pressing charges.When Crockett found out that he was not chosen he decides to go back and preach at Joanna's little church if he could find a local job till the church could support him. Joanna decided that her father who hated preachers could hire him to work his ranch.Jackson is a 12 year old living with his father who was drunk. Jackson was planning to marry Joanna when he got older. Jackson was so brave, proud and wanting attention so badly. I liked him.I want to read about the other Archer brothers. They sound interesting. I would love to read more of Karen's books based on this one. It is a clean, uplifting story that kept my attention and interest in it with everything going on today.I was given this ebook to read and asked to give a honest review in return by Netgalley.06/01/2013 PUB. Bethany House Publishers 352 pages ISBN:0764209663
    • 4/5
      Crockett Archer is a brand new preacher on his way to an interview when he is abducted off of the train just short of his destination. He is delivered to Joanna Robbins by her ex-outlaw father as a birthday gift. Joanna had been feeling a bit depressed since her mother died and her father thought that giving her this wish would make her happy - but it upset her and he doesn't understand why. Crockett talks to Joanna and sees in her a young woman of strong faith and devotion to her father; even if he is a bit misguided in how he shows his love. Crockett's delay in getting to his interview causes him to lose his opportunity so he feels that perhaps he is supposed to be just where he was taken after all.This was a fun read. Highly implausible, but the two main characters were so delightful that you just couldn't help but root for them. It didn't take long to finish and it didn't really require a lot of concentration but I must admit that I enjoyed my time reading the book. There are enough twists to keep the story interesting and I would assuredly pick up another book by Ms. Witemeyer.
    • 5/5
      The path you choose for yourself may not be the path to your true destiny. There is a master hand at work in all life plans, and sometimes the road is rough and rocky before you reach the clear horizon. In author Karen Witemeyer's "Stealing the Preacher", Crockett Archer is sure that he wants to be the minister of the church in Brenham, Texas. His plans are abruptly changed when the train carrying him toward his destination is held up at gunpoint. However, the bandits didn't come to rob the passengers, they came to steal the preacher! Silas Robbins may have been a robber bandit in his younger days, but he is still a loving and concerned father when it comes to his daughter, Joanna. When Jo said she wanted a preacher for her twenty-first birthday present, then Silas was bound and determined to grant her wish. Jo's mother had been a woman of faith, never giving up that someday her husband would see the light. Her death the year before had left a gaping hole in the lives of Silas and Joanna, with Joanna trying her best to continue her mother's reformation of her father. Crockett is understandably upset at being kidnapped, but he is charmed by Joanna, and finds himself drawn to helping her with her cause, which includes restoring an abandoned church and regaining its congregation. Resisting Joanna is futile, and soon everyone is contemplating the changes taking place in all their lives. Were Jo and Crock brought together just to resolve a matter of faith, or is there more in store for the two of them? Karen Witemeyer is a delightful storyteller, always sprinkling her inspirational romantic works with a liberal dose of love and laughter. Review Copy Gratis Library Thing
    • 5/5
      I have all Karen Witemeyer's books and enjoyed them all, but this was her best yet! She totally outdid herself with STealing the Preacher!Crockett Archer is on his way to candidate for the pastorate of a small country church in the piney woods of Texas when the train he's riding on is held up by gun toting bandits. Imagine his surprise when all they want is the preacher!Joanne Robbins asked for a preacher and her daddy aims to give her her wish for her birthday. She only wants to see life breahted into their church again. Imagine HER surprise when her daddy shows up with a tied up preacher on his horse! Silas Robbins, Joanne's daddy, has no desire for God or talk about God and definitely no preacher boy. Silas has some deep hurts inside and doesn't care for God. But Crockett Archer is not just an ordinary preacher.Silas has a lot to hide, too, and fears the law. Crockett faces many challenges in this town as pastor of the little church and more to come bring him to grave danger. Will these folks allow God to work their problems out or will they put their pride ahead of His perfect plan for their life?The presence of the Holy Spirit was so real in this book and I was really blessed. I was in tears on several occasions. It was deeply moving and precious to me. I am looking forward to her next book.
    • 4/5
      From the book synopsis:"On his way to interview for a position at a church in the Piney Woods of Texas, Crockett Archer can scarcely believe it when he's forced off the train by a retired outlaw and presented to the man's daughter as the minister she requested for her birthday. Worried this unfortunate detour will ruin his chances of finally serving a congregation of his own, Crockett is determined to escape. But when he finally gets away, he's haunted by the memory of the young woman he left behind--a woman whose dreams now hinge on him.For months, Joanna Robbins prayed for a preacher. A man to breathe life back into the abandoned church at the heart of her community. A man to assist her in fulfilling a promise to her dying mother. A man to help her discover answers to the questions that have been on her heart for so long. But just when it seems God has answered her prayers, it turns out the person is there against his will and has dreams of his own calling him elsewhere. Is there any way she can convince Crockett to stay in her little backwoods community? And does the attraction between them have any chance of blossoming when Joanna's outlaw father is dead set against his daughter courting a preacher?"The 'Archer' family has held a special place in my heart ever since I read "Short Straw Bride". So, getting the opportunity to read the next book really made my day.And I was not disappointed in the least. I loved getting to know Crockett better in this book and thought that Joanna was just the right amount of spunky that he needed in his life.I look forward to seeing if there is every a book about the last Archer brother, Neill.
    • 4/5
      I had originally read "Short Straw Bride" by Karen Witemeyer and really loved the book - so, when I found out that I had won "Stealing The Preacher" from the Early Reviewer's Program I was thrilled! This book takes place in the late 1800's in Texas. It is a sweet historical romance that is a light, fun read - a perfect book for a rainy afternoon on the couch. I think that if you enjoy historical romances or western romances, I truly believe that you will really enjoy this book. I am thankful to the Early Reviewers Program for giving me the opportunity to review this book.
    • 5/5
      I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters in this story were very fun to follow. I came from a small country church. So the small town church was very fun for me. I enjoyed the outlaw background for the father and his "group". This was a great read for me.
    • 4/5
      Karen Witemeyer always writes stories full of fun and sweet romance, and Stealing The Preacher is no exception. Fast-paced and funny, if you like your romance full of spunk and set in the Old West, give this one a try.Joanna Robbins’ father is a reformed train robber who has been an honest rancher for over 15 years. But his heart is still hardened to God by the tragic circumstances of his childhood. Joanna longs for him to embrace her faith and the faith of her deceased mother. But when she asks for a preacher for her 21st birthday, she has no idea that he will steal one off a train! Crockett Archer is on his way to interview for a position as preacher when he is waylaid by Robbins and his long in the tooth gang. Faced with disappointing news of his first choice of church, he takes the challenge of revitalizing Joanna’s church and sharing God’s grace with her father.Stealing The Preacher is populated with interesting characters — from the endearing young boy who has staked his claim on Joanna’s affections, to the conniving woman who hopes to make Crockett her husband and the former Texas Ranger turned sheriff who is determined to catch the long elusive robber. The romance between Crockett and Joanna is fraught with misunderstandings and a near lynching! But the tone of the book is generally lighthearted. A quick read, it is perfect to tuck into your suitcase or pool bag.Recommended.(I received this book from Bethany House in return for a review. The opinions expressed are mine alone.)
    • 4/5
      While Crockett Archer is traveling to go to an interview to be a minister at a church in Texas, his train is hijacked and he is forced to go with the outlaws. Joanna Robbins, the daughter of one of the outlaws, has asked for a preacher for her birthday and her father wants to fulfill her wish. Joanna is somewhat surprised but rolls with the punches and makes the best out of an awkward situation. The author skillfully weaves humour and faith into the story without sounding overly "preachy". I enjoyed this book.
    • 5/5
      We are about to journey with a return visit with the Archer family. If you read the first book in this series...Short Straw Bride, then you are familiar with these fellows. If not, don't worry it is not a pre-resquite, but I highly recommend that you do.When Silas's daughter said she wanted a preacher for her Birthday...her father brings her one. Not exactly that way, but startlingly she ends up with one on her doorstep. What she really wants is her Dad to come to the Lord. What a Dad won't do for his daughter? Kidnap?The old church has been vacant for several years, and if they can find a Preacher maybe, just maybe, they can start filling the pews. Enter Crockett Archer, his Mom honored the men from the Alamo.You will find a lot of loving wonderful people, and few that sure need to tame down and follow the Lord. Will Crockett be able to open and have a Parish here? Will Miss Jo find a answer to her prayers? The answers are all in this book along with some romance, and a few scary moments. Enjoy!I received this book through Litfuse Publicity Book Tours, and was not required to give a positive review
    • 5/5
      First, I will say that I VERY RARELY read a historical type of book...its just my preference.Now, I loved the title so I was willing to give it a chance...I am so glad I did! What a wonderful sweet christian romance.Jo's Pa really loves his daughter. So for her birthday he wants to grant her only wish...to speak to a Preacher!What follows is a lovely story about keeping a promise, repentance and rebirth!I highly recommend this book for everyone who loves romance.
    • 5/5
      Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer is a very well written and inspirational historical romance novel that gave me a great deal of enjoyment including several good laughs. Joanna Roberts has been praying for months for a preacher to bring life back into the abandoned, local church. Her dad, who is a reformed outlaw, takes it upon himself to “answer” her prayers and get her a preacher for her birthday. Crockett Archer is on his way to the Piney Woods of Texas to interview for the job as pastor of a local church. Crockett’s train is stopped and he is kidnapped and taken to Joanna who is very upset with what her father has done. Crockett manages to escape but he cannot get Joanna out of his mind for her dreams for a church in the community depend on him and being the kind of man he is, he comes back to help her. Of course there is an attraction between Crockett and Joanna but her father is dead set against the possibility that his daughter could marry a preacher for he has no use for preachers, the church, or God.The author did an excellent job developing the plot, characters, dialogue, and scenes. The plot had a few twists and turns and enough suspense to make it interesting. The characters seemed very real and one could not help pulling for the good guys and booing the bad guys. All the scenes were so well described that I felt as if I were an observer in what was going on. One scene near the end of the book had some nail biting suspense that had me sitting on the edge of my chair wondering what was going to happen. Through the entire book one kept wondering if the father would ever change his ways, if Crockett would stay in the community, and if Crockett and Joanna would end up together. You will have to read the book to learn the answers for I do not want to spoil the ending.I highly recommend this book to all who like a great historical romance novel that inspires and also provides some good laughs and has enough mystery to add to the enjoyment of the book. The book is also recommended because it is a Christian novel and the love and forgiveness of God is shown throughout the entire book.I received this book free from Bethany House at Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
    • 5/5
      Jo wanted a preacher for her birthday but she never for her father who is an ex-outlaw to steal one off the train. She didn't intend to start developing feelings for the preacher but she did. Her community was without a preacher. She wanted so much for her father to come to the Lord and felt a preacher would help soften her father's heart. Crockette Archer had his heart set on pastoring a church in another town but the Lord had other plans for Crockett.We got acquainted with the Archers in Karen Witemyer's previous book "Short Straw Bride" so it was nice to revisit with them again in this book. I loved all the characters. I wouldn't mind reading another sequel to find out what happens to the last Archer brother. Reading a Karen Witemeyer book is always a treat.I received this book compliments of the LibraryThing Early Reviewer program and Bethany House.
    • 5/5
      I enjoyed Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer. There were three main characters, Joanna Robbins, Silas Robbins and Crockett Archer. Crockett is the preacher who gets “stolen” from a train by Silas, a reformed outlaw turned rancher, for his daughter Joanna’s birthday. The story was told from all three of the characters and I liked that because it felt like a more well-rounded story because you got to see it from more than one side. There were secondary characters (Holly Brewster and Neil Archer) in the book that I would love to have their story fleshed out and to see what happens with them.
    • 5/5
      An Exciting Read!If you have read Short-Straw Bride you will love this book. I was delighted to find out that one of the Archer brothers would be one of the main characters in this story. If you are looking for action this is the read for you. Crockett Archer is on his way to Brenham, Texas to try-out for his first ministerial position. It is between him and another gentleman but Crockett is sure the Lord is leading him to Brenham. After all, he has been an apprentice for 3 years with a minister in Palestine, Texas a town near the ranch where he grew up. He feels this is God’s calling. What Crockett did not plan on was his train being held up. Or was it held up?Joanna Robbins hearts desire is to carry out her Mother’s last wish. Her Mother asked Joanna to continue to pray for Joanna’s Father’s salvation so that she might see her beloved again in eternity. So Joanna has been praying that God would bring a preacher to their town and bring the old abandoned church back to life. She needs help with her Mother’s final request.This story takes place in 1885 in Texas. If you love that period of time, rugged living, action, and romance, this book is for you. I fell in love with many of the characters, especially Jackson. This is a young man struggling to belong and to be loved. Will love conquer all? Will forgiveness be sought and will it be accepted? Can past hurts be left in the past? Can there ever be trust in God? Will complete surrender take place?I hope everyone that takes the time to read my review will buy a copy of this book. I promise that you will not be disappointed.I won an ARC copy of this book through LibraryThing from Bethany House for my honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are mine alone.
    • 4/5
      Combine a western with humor and add Inspiration and you have a book that will give you a chuckle or two as you read. Crockett Archer is on his was to 'audition' for a preaching position in Brenham, Texas. He is sure he will win out over the other man on his way to try out for the same job. He need only make it to Brenham on time. That doesn't seem to be a problem until the train on which he is a passanger is stopped by bandits. When one man offers his watch to the bandits he is told that they don't want his watch, they want the preacher. The men threaten to shoot someone if the preacher doesn't come with them and Crockett grudgingly goes along. He can't imagine what they want until they arrive at a ranch and one of the men presents him to his daughter as her birthday present. The phrase 'God moves in mysterious ways' is evident from the start of this totally enjoyable book!
    • 4/5
      This is my favorite Witemeyer book. The ending was a little ridiculous and it did get a tad too preachy at times, but it's just all so fun, who cares? The romance was sweet and I loved seeing the Archer brothers again. A great read.
    • 5/5
      This was a delightful inspirational story filled with humor and romance, but also sorrow and heartache and trying to reach the ones we love with the truth of the gospel. It does deal with one of the Archer brothers from book one in this series, "Short Straw Bride", and you do get a small glimpse into the other brothers from that story. But this can easily be read as a stand alone.The story takes place in Texas in 1885. Crockett Archer is one of the Archer brothers who has left the family ranch and has become a preacher and finds himself headed to possibly his first church. But God has a different plan for his life and who would have thought it would be that his train gets held up and the "bandits" are looking for a preacher to take as hostage.Joanna Robbins is about to turn 21 and there isn't anything her widowed father wouldn't do for her. Joanna wishes for a preacher and her father sets out to get her one. But what Joanna really wanted was for someone to come and start up the community church once again and help her reach her father, Silas, for the Lord. She wasn't expecting her Dad to actually go out and kidnap her a preacher. This book started out with the humorous kidnapping, but it was full of so much more. I loved how Joanna related to her father and her love for him and the wanting of him to get saved. Their conversation in the church about why God would allow someone in his earlier life to beat a child to death was very touching and very well said. This author is a joy to read and is becoming a favorite of mine. She mixes humor with romance, but also deals with difficult questions and heartaches too. I came away fully satisfied, but wanting more and I look forward to reading many more of her stories.Pages: 347Year: 2013Publisher: Bethany House
    • 4/5
      "Stealing the Preacher" was a rare foray into a western--not my usual genre, but it's a wonderful story. At one point, Ms. Witemeyer literally had me laughing out at a passage on one page, and wiping away tears on the next. This is one of those that makes your heart feel full when it's done.
    • 4/5
      An excellent christian romance. This gives the reader a great romance without all the sex scenes and profanity found in a lot of books today. A great refreshing read.
    • 5/5
      Title: Stealing the PreacherAuthor: Karen WitemeyerPublished: Bethany House PublishersReviewed By: Arlena DeanRating: 5Series: Archer Brothers #2Review:"Stealing the Preacher" by Karen Witemeyer was one beautifully written inspirational story that only this author can give its readers. This author really worked her magic with giving the reader such a story that was not only interesting but intriguing, funny and oh so enjoyable. Who knew that Joanna's outlaw father would be will to hold up a train and 'steal' a preacher for his daughters' twenty first birthday! Why did his daughter want a preacher? What did his daughter really want from her dad? This is where Will Crockett come into play and wow do we receive a good read from this author. There will be a awesome group of characters from this read. Many come from the first series 'Short Straw Bride" from this author. I would recommend the reading of this first series to truly understand some of the characters that enter into this story. "Stealing the Preacher" will give you some wonderful people and some not so good but in the end a awesome good read. Will Crockett had come to the area to open up a Parish but will he be able to in the area he had planned on getting or will there be a change to the area at Piney Woods? Be ready for plenty of twist and turns because the storyline moves very fast paced. In the end will Joanna find the answer to her prayers? Well, to find out the answers to all of these question plus so much more you must pick up this read to see how this author is able to bring it all out to the readers. Be ready for some romance along with some real 'scary moments.' Would I recommend? YES, YES,YES!
    • 5/5
      I completely loved this story from the first book to this sequel. Joanne is a feisty woman who has a strong faith. When she meets up with Crockett who is as equally cogent the book takes the you to an exciting and very enjoyable destination. Curving around every bend with emotion, adventure and a little romance this is an excellent book and series that I highly recommend. Can't wait to read another book from this author! I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
    • 5/5
      "Stealing the Preacher" by Karen Witemeyer was a super cute and a fun read. From the first page of this book I was hooked and didn't put it down until I finished reading it. It has a unique storyline and that made me like it even more. The book starts by following Crockett as he is on his way to try out for a preaching job. While he is on the train it gets held up and they "kidnap" him because Joanna told her dad that she wanted a preacher for her birthday. There are times where I had to laugh at what was going on and other times where I was sad for the characters. This is the first book I have read from this author and I honestly can't wait to read more. I love how I felt like I was there with the characters.
    • 5/5
      Do not be fooled by the cover of this book - it is NOT about a desperate woman pulling on a reluctant man. Witemeyer's Stealing the Preacher follows the story of Crockett Archer who finds himself, through circumstances only attributable to Providence, in small town Texas. Despite things not working out as he planned, he is strangely attracted to this community, its struggling church and down-to-earth people - especially a certain former-outlaw's daughter. This is a sweet story of grace and redemption.
    • 5/5
      Oh my! This book is so entertaining! There isn't a dull moment!
    • 4/5
      Crocket Archer is on his way towards the small town where he's in competition to take on the role of preacher. When his train is held up by bandits, Crocket is astounded to discover that rather than valuables the bandits are there for a preacher. His captors are there to fulfill the wish of Joanna Robbins who desperately wants a preacher for their small community and more importantly to help her reach her reformed bandit father, Silas. When Crocket decides to remain to serve the small community near Joanna and Silas's farm, none of them realize just what plans God has in store.I enjoyed this Christian romance quite a bit. There's a healthy dose of humour mixed in with a charming romance. As one of the main characters is a pastor, this one has a high level of Christian content. Highly enjoyable and I'll definitely be huntind down the rest of the series.
    • 4/5
      This was a great book! Definitely in the top five in my Hall of Fame! It had just the right amount of action, romance, and plenty of humor! I can’t say that I have a favorite character, because they are all my favorite in different ways.

      I was kind of disappointed, however, when the preacher was not held hostage for very long, not even over-night! He was released much too quickly in my opinion, but I see that it was all for the purpose of him realizing that he was supposed to where he had been kidnapped. So, I was not too disappointed.

      Stealing the Preacher has several soft spots that might make you cry if you are a ball-bag as my family says. However, the humorous scenes are more constant and I was laughing more than I was crying. The way that Silas Robbins constantly threatens to run of every guy that wants to come court his daughter is quite funny to me.

      So, I highly recommend this book!

      “I received this book from Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.”
    • 4/5
      I absolutely loved 90% of this book. I was frequently chuckling or smiling to myself over the sweetness of it all. The "stealing" of the preacher was a fresh idea and the characters had substance. I liked that Crockett was drawn to her unorthodox beauty right away, but was attracted to other women as well; it was realistic. I felt that his falling in love with her was natural and I loved that he had deep, concrete reasons, as opposed to the flimsy ones that are typically used in books of this genre.

      I loved that Silas' story had just as much significance as the romance. I thought his progression was realistic as well; any Christian could relate to a loved one rebuffing God. I appreciated the messages of steady patience and prayer as the remedy.

      Short Straw Bride was one of the first historical christian romances I read and I really enjoyed it. Over time, I have come to appreciate it even more when compared to others of its kind. This book took off so quickly, that I really thought Jo and Crockett would get married early on the book. That would have been so refreshing. I mean, why is it that romance authors seem to think the story *ends* with marriage?! That's when it just gets started! Not to mention, it would have thrown more weight into Silas' relationship with Christ. Oh well.

      But what really got me was the extreme melodrama at the end. All of sudden, there's an attempted hanging and before you can blink, another man getting carted off to prison. These instances were just too extreme for my taste, because they cheapened and undermined the message of steady faithfulness and they just weren't relatable nor realistic. I didn't buy into Silas' reaction to his faith being tested so harshly and so swiftly after beginning to believe the gospel.

      For me, the last ten percent, starting with Holly showing up with a "peace offering" all the way to the end is where everything unraveled. The ending may not have been as "exciting" but it would have been more impactful if it had been better grounded in humble reality.

      *I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*

    Book preview

    Stealing the Preacher (The Archer Brothers Book #2) - Karen Witemeyer

    16:9

    1

    BURLESON COUNTY, TEXAS—1885

    Crockett Archer stretched his legs into the aisle as the train pulled away from the Caldwell station. Only a brief stop in Somerville remained before his arrival in Brenham—the place where his life’s work would begin. A wide grin spread across his face as he contemplated his future.

    Was this how Abraham felt as he’d journeyed to Canaan? Anticipation thrumming through his veins. Certainty of purpose pumping with every heartbeat. That rare sense of satisfaction that came only when one responded to the direct call of the Lord.

    Mama, that man is laughing at your hat. A young boy peered over the seat in front of Crockett, pointing an accusing finger at him.

    His mother huffed and reached up to pat the back of her hat—as if it might have had its feelings hurt. Some people have no manners, she muttered, shooting a scathing glance over her shoulder as she grasped her son’s arm and tried to get him to turn around.

    I meant no disrespect to your hat, ma’am. Crockett leaned forward to offer an apology, but in truth, as he focused on the millinery atrocity in question, the desire to laugh threatened to choke him. Blue feathers poked out at all angles, as if a family of jays had used it as a perch while molting. Forcing down his amusement, he schooled his features into a serious mien. My thoughts were elsewhere entirely, I assure you.

    Then why was you smilin’ so big? Suspicion laced the boy’s tone.

    And no wonder. If the sample before him was any indication of the woman’s usual taste in headwear, the poor lad probably battled for his mother’s millinery honor constantly.

    I was simply thinking of all the exciting things that await me at the end of this trip, and it made me happy. Crockett winked at the kid. Are you looking forward to the end of your trip?

    The boy shrugged. Not really. We’re goin’ to see my great-aunt Ida. He gave Crockett a beleaguered look. She smells funny.

    Andrew Michael Bailey! How could you say such a thing? And to a stranger, no less. Andrew’s mother yanked him around, and Crockett beat a hasty retreat, leaning back in his seat while the woman lectured her son in strident whispers.

    At least she seemed to have forgotten about the hat incident. Crockett decided to count that as a blessing. If dear old Aunt Ida lived in Brenham, it would be best if her niece was more concerned with her son’s slip of the tongue than the new preacher’s opinions on her hat.

    The new preacher. His heart swelled in his chest.

    After three years of apprenticing with the minister in Palestine, Texas, near the ranch where he’d grown up, and guest-speaking at any church in the area that would let him into the pulpit, he finally was being offered the opportunity to preach full time.

    Oh, there was another fellow competing for the position, but Crockett knew in his gut that his time had come.

    The Lord had been leading him to this day since the summer he’d turned fifteen and his older brother, Travis, suggested he take over the spiritual instruction of the family. At first it had simply been a chore like any other, but it soon developed into a ministry. With their parents deceased and their lives isolated and uncertain, the four Archer brothers had needed a faith that ran deeper than the occasional blessing over supper. They’d needed a faith that penetrated every aspect of their lives. Crockett assumed the responsibility of nurturing his family’s souls, but as he and his brothers reached manhood, an ever-increasing pressure to reach beyond his household drove him to stretch his boundaries.

    Apparently, he’d be stretching them all the way to Brenham.

    Crockett rested his elbow on the satchel that sat on the seat beside him and mentally ran through the key points of the sermon he’d written and rehearsed for tomorrow’s service. His concentration shifted inward, and the scenery chugging past his window blurred. He silently mouthed a verse from 1 Peter, but before he could complete the quotation, the passenger car gave a violent lurch.

    His hand caught the seat back in front of him at the last second, narrowly preventing a spill into the aisle when his weight was thrown forward. The locomotive’s wheels screeched against the rails. Passengers flew about the car. Women gasped. Children whimpered. The train slowed slightly as the screeching continued.

    What’s happening, Mama? Andrew wailed as his mother curled her body protectively around her son.

    There’s probably something on the tracks. Crockett raised his voice above the chaos. Once the train stops, the crew will clear it away and we’ll resume our trip. No need to be afraid, little man.

    Yet even as he spoke the words, a tingle of unease crept between Crockett’s shoulder blades. A woman a few rows up let out a shrill scream and pointed at something beyond her window. The man at her side pushed forward for a better look, then shouted the one word guaranteed to strike fear in any traveler’s heart.

    Bandits!

    Crockett instinctively reached for his hip only to come up empty. He’d left his guns at the ranch. For more than a decade he’d worked the Archer spread with a rifle within constant reach or a pistol strapped to his thigh. Usually both. Now he was stuck facing a band of train robbers with nothing more than his wits because his mentor assured him that circuit riders were the only preachers who traveled armed.

    He should have listened to Travis when his brother advised him to pack a weapon in his bag. Maybe then he wouldn’t be sitting here defenseless. But he’d been too intent on making a good impression.

    Not one to sit idle, however, Crockett lurched to his feet and fought the forward momentum of the slowing train. Lunging across the aisle, he locked his hands onto a pair of seat backs and hunched over a salesman’s sample case to peer out the sooty window.

    He counted four men. Guns drawn. Faces covered. Their horses quickly closing the gap between them and the train.

    God help us, Crockett prayed under his breath.

    As the train slowed to a near stop, the outlaws drew abreast of the passenger car. One rider fell back, disappearing from Crockett’s line of sight. The other three surged ahead.

    A thump echoed from the rear of the car. The first man was aboard.

    Crockett reclaimed his seat.

    Just as the rear door crashed open, two other bandits burst into the coach from the front.

    Ever’body put your hands where I can see ’em! The lead man pulled a second pistol from his left holster. With a weapon in each hand, he took aim at both sides of the railcar, eyeing the male passengers who seemed most likely to interfere.

    As he did so, the train came to a full stop, jerking the passengers a final time. The leader’s stance never wavered. He stood as steady as an old sea dog on a ship’s deck.

    Panicked murmurs slithered through the coach, gradually rising in pitch until one lady shot to her feet.

    I have to get out. Let me out!

    The leader’s left gun immediately shifted aim to her chest. Better control your woman, mister. His steely eyes narrowed above the black bandana he wore over his mouth and nose. I ain’t planning to shoot nobody, but plans can change real fast.

    The woman’s companion snatched her from behind and hauled her back down into the seat. She whined but turned her face into the shelter of the man’s arm and made no further comment.

    Satisfied, the outlaw turned his attention to the crowd at large. There’s no reason to get all worked up, folks. As soon as we get what we came for, we’ll be on our way.

    He took a step down the aisle. Then another. The bandit who’d entered with him hung back by the coal stove at the front of the car.

    Crockett stole a glance at the man in the rear. He blocked the exit, his gun hand steady. Crockett shifted his attention back to the leader.

    Something was off about these outlaws. From accounts he’d read and stories he’d heard, robberies usually featured hotheaded, cocky kids eager to prove they were fast with their guns. This group seemed too steady. Too self-controlled. Too . . . old.

    Crockett examined them more closely. The one by the stove turned to glance out the window, and Crockett spotted graying hair at his collar beneath his hat. The middle one had leathery skin—what little was visible above the bandana. Deep creases around his eyes testified to a life lived outdoors, squinting against the sun. And though his glare was intent, the slightly crooked posture of the man at the back reminded Crockett of his sixty-year-old mentor when the man’s joints were paining him after too much work in the garden.

    Crockett was still chewing on his observations when a man in a business suit held out a fancy gold watch, the chain dangling from his fist.

    Here. Take it and leave.

    The leader scowled down at the watch as if it offended him. Put your valuables away, he groused. That’s not what we came for.

    Why would they take over the passenger car if they didn’t intend to rob the passengers? Were they simply keeping the crowd in check while the fourth man rummaged through the baggage car?

    Crockett leaned forward, just enough to see out the opposite window. The fourth man had gathered the horses on the west side of the tracks and was pointing a rifle in the direction of the engine.

    "Then what did you come for? the man with the watch demanded. Tell us so we can hand it over and be done with you and your gang."

    The creases around the outlaw’s eyes deepened as he scanned the coach for what he sought. When his gaze touched on Crockett, it hovered a moment before moving on. Crockett’s mouth went dry.

    The man’s brows formed a V of displeasure as he concluded his search. A growl rumbled in his throat seconds before his intention exploded across the coach.

    I came for the preacher!

    2

    Crockett stiffened.

    He came for the . . . what? Surely his mind was playing tricks on him. The man couldn’t have said what he thought he’d heard.

    The outlaw glared at the passengers and waved his guns from side to side. Which one of you is the parson? Don’t think you can trick me by not wearin’ one of them white collars. I know he’s on this train, and I ain’t leaving ’til I find him.

    Crockett’s hand nearly lifted to the string tie at his neck, but he halted the movement before giving himself away. He’d never worn a clerical collar. Brother Ralston insisted that a man’s character, not his clothing, should identify his calling. Following in his mentor’s footsteps might have saved his life.

    You! the outlaw barked at the salesman across the aisle. You look like a preacher with your fancy duds and soft hands.

    N-n-no, sir. The man who had raised his hands in surrender the minute the bandits boarded the train now turned his palms inward, worry creasing his brow as he inspected his smooth palms. I’m j-j-just a drummer. See? Slowly he opened his traveling case. Patent medicines.

    Bah! The outlaw turned away in disgust and swung around to face Crockett.

    Pale, steel-blue eyes took his measure. Accustomed to staring down unwanted strangers after years of protecting his ranch from interlopers, Crockett held the man’s gaze, although the task had been much easier when he’d been the one holding the gun. The outlaw’s eyes narrowed to slits, then turned their attention to Crockett’s suit. One brow lifted to the brim of the man’s dark hat as he took in the formal attire, but after a glance at Crockett’s work-roughened hands, the bandit grunted and strode past.

    Never had Crockett been more thankful for calluses and scars.

    As the outlaw continued his progress through the car, Crockett made his own assessment of the passengers. Which one was the preacher the bandits were looking for? The man at the front who had offered his watch? The one two rows up dressed like a farmer but whose head was bowed like a man in prayer?

    The coincidence of the robbers invading this particular train in search of a preacher didn’t sit easily on Crockett’s shoulders. Yet he was sure they couldn’t be searching for him. He’d never been in this area before. Shoot. Until a couple years ago, he’d never been anywhere. No one knew he was on this train except his family, Brother Ralston, and the elders at Brenham.

    I’m losin’ patience, folks. The leader growled his warning as he stomped back up the aisle. If the preacher man don’t fess up, I’m liable to get a might upset. And my trigger finger tends to get twitchy when I’m upset.

    Mama, is that man gonna shoot us? Andrew’s tiny voice cut through Crockett’s heart.

    Hush, Andy, his mother hissed as she tucked him more firmly under her arm.

    Crockett set his jaw. This isn’t right. Tormenting women and children. Something had to be done. How do you know that the man you seek is even on this train? Crockett slowly pushed to his feet, careful to keep his hands raised.

    Steel Eyes met his challenge without flinching. Read him the handbill. He barked the order over his shoulder with a jerk of his chin.

    The man by the stove reached into his jacket and pulled out a folded sheet of paper. Holding it by one edge, he shook it open. ‘Meet the . . .’ He paused, cleared his throat once, and then stretched the handbill farther away from his face and squinted. ‘Meet the preachers. Welcome our two cand-i-dates at Brenham Station on Saturday afternoon. They will arrive on the noon train from Houston and the two fifteen from Milano. Cookies and lemonade will be served.’

    A heaviness pressed against Crockett’s chest as the bandit’s stilted words drove into him like nails into a coffin.

    How . . . ? How could he be the preacher they sought? Denial raged through him, but he smothered it and straightened his shoulders. The why didn’t matter. What mattered was getting these bandits off the train.

    I’m your man.

    You ain’t no parson. The leader waved his gun at him. Sit down.

    Crockett stood his ground. Check my bag. You’ll find my Bible, and inside the front cover is a folded page of sermon notes.

    Steel Eyes cocked the pistol in his right hand and pointed the barrel an inch from Crockett’s chest. Step aside, son.

    Crockett obeyed, moving into the aisle.

    Keeping his stare locked on Crockett, the outlaw holstered his left gun and reached for the satchel. Crockett gave serious thought to knocking the pistol out of his hand the minute he glanced down to open the bag, but the man never gave him the chance. Once he had a grip on the satchel, he tossed it to his partner at the rear of the coach, all without taking his eyes from Crockett’s face.

    It’s here, boss, the third bandit called in confirmation. The Bible. The notes. He’s even got some journals underneath—all with religious-type names.

    Well, folks, Steel Eyes announced. It looks like we found what we came for. He latched onto Crockett’s arm with an iron grip. Now, Mr. Preacher Man, let’s get you off this train so these good people can enjoy the rest of their trip.

    Crockett submitted to the forced escort, the pistol barrel jammed into his back keeping him in check. The outlaws might have the upper hand now, but he’d bide his time. Once away from the women and children, Crockett wouldn’t have to worry about an innocent getting caught in the crossfire. He’d make his move when the time was right.

    He had an appointment to keep and a job to win. No gang of long-in-the-tooth train robbers was going to derail his plans.

    An hour of hard riding later, the leader finally called a halt near a stream bed. Crockett had managed to stay in the saddle during the grueling ride despite the fact that his hands were tied behind his back. His shoulders burned from the awkward position, and his thighs ached from working so hard to keep him atop his mount. The pain had kept him alert, however, and his mind sharp.

    The man who had stayed with the horses during the abduction was the first to dismount. We still got it, eh, Silas? He eyed the gang’s leader. Don’t get that kind of excitement herding cattle, do ya? He tugged his bandana down to his neck and took a long drink from his canteen, apparently unconcerned that Crockett could see his face.

    I’m too old for that kind of excitement. The man to Crockett’s right released a mighty groan as he stood in the stirrups. You didn’t have to jump the train, Carl. I swear I ain’t gonna be able to walk right for a month after slammin’ my hip into that railcar. He rubbed the offending spot and made a great show of hobbling as he led his horse over to the stream.

    Quit your whining, Frank. Silas kept a firm grip on the reins to Crockett’s horse as he swung down out of the saddle. He’d had them in hand the entire way, not trusting his captive to follow meekly.

    Smart fellow.

    Crockett had already concluded that they needed him for a particular purpose, and whatever that purpose was, it would probably keep them from lodging a bullet in his back should he make a run for it. But it was unlikely he could keep his seat at a full-out gallop with his hands bound behind him, even if Silas relinquished the reins. So, instead, he’d spent his time plotting what he would do when they stopped.

    Now that they had, it was time for action. All he needed was for Steel Eyes to come a little closer.

    Silas moved, but only as far as the head of Crockett’s horse. He paused to stroke the animal’s muzzle. Crockett bit back his disappointment.

    Jasper, bring the preacher man your canteen. He looks a little parched.

    The third bandit did as ordered, but as he approached, Crockett caught a glimpse of the censorious look he turned on his leader. This is crazy, boss. His low voice barely carried, but with little noise around them, Crockett was just able to hear his quiet words. You promised Miss Martha to give up your thievin’ ways. I’ve never known you to go back on your word. Especially to your wife. We’ve been livin’ honest for too long to risk it all on some fool stunt like this.

    I haven’t broken my word, Silas growled, his face reddening as he clearly fought to control his fury. Martha was the best thing that ever happened to me, and I’d not dishonor her memory by soiling a vow I made to her. I didn’t steal a single trinket today, and you know it.

    You stole the parson. Jasper tilted his head in Crockett’s direction, though neither of them looked his way. Good thing—since they might have noticed him slipping his boots out of the stirrups or loosening his bonds as he stretched them on the cantle.

    I didn’t steal him, Silas insisted. I just borrowed him. We’ll let him go when Joe’s through with him.

    Jasper sighed and shook his head, his long gray mustache doing nothing to hide his frown. I know you love that kid of yours, Si. We all do. But this ain’t right.

    I’ll decide what’s right for my family. Silas snatched the canteen away from Jasper and stalked over to Crockett’s left side.

    Carl and Frank were watering their horses several yards away. Jasper had his back turned. There wouldn’t be a better opportunity.

    Crockett flung up his knee, planted his left boot against the man’s chest, and shoved with all his might. The canteen clattered to the ground. Silas stumbled back, his bellow sounding an alarm. Crockett leapt from the horse’s back and managed to wrench his right arm free of his bindings. He smashed his fist into Silas’s jaw before the man could regain his balance. The outlaw tumbled backward, the horse’s reins still tangled in his fingers.

    The horse whinnied at the rough treatment and thrashed about, trying to gain his freedom. Crockett used the diversion to make a run for the trees. A building of some kind lay to the north. A building meant people. People meant help. He just prayed he’d been right about the bandits not wanting to lodge a bullet in him.

    A shot rang out, followed by angry shouts demanding he stop. But no lead slammed into him, so Crockett kept running.

    He ducked beneath post oak branches and zigzagged from one tree to another, taking advantage of any cover the terrain afforded.

    The building was getting closer. A barn, maybe? He just had to keep his legs under him.

    Hooves pounded into the earth behind him. Crockett’s heart rate tripled. They were running him down. And he was running out of trees.

    Open grassland lay between him and a fenced pasture. Keeping to the trees would only allow him to delay capture, not elude it. His only chance was to scale that fence and hope that Silas and his gang wouldn’t risk discovery by pursuing him onto private property.

    Lungs on fire, Crockett burst out of the woods and sprinted for the fence. The hoofbeats behind him escalated.

    A soft whirring caught his ear a second before a lariat dropped over his head and shoulders. Crockett made a desperate grab for the rope, but before he could get his thumbs hooked, the noose tightened around his chest and yanked him backward. In a flash he was flat on his back, staring at the sky.

    He’d just been lassoed like a new calf at branding time. Lying still, head throbbing from where it had collided with the earth, Crockett prayed there’d be no hot iron involved when Silas presented him to his son. Then again, whoever this Joe person was, he was bound to be as off his rocker as everyone else involved in this farce. Who knew what the kid would do? After all, he was the one who’d talked his outlaw father into stealing a preacher in the first place.

    3

    Silas Robbins didn’t know what to make of the man at the end of Jasper’s rope. All the sermonizers he’d ever come across were soft, bookish men partial to the sound of their own voices. Silas rubbed his bruised jaw with one hand as he shifted in his saddle and glared at the preacher struggling to gain his feet.

    This parson was anything but soft.

    I thought you fellers believed in turnin’ the other cheek. Silas’s saddle creaked as he leaned forward. The preacher man’s fine black suit was covered in dust, his hat lay upended a few feet away, and his arms were pinned to his side by a snare that wouldn’t give an inch. Yet the man met his stare without a hint of fear.

    King David was a mighty warrior, the parson answered, and the Bible calls him a man after God’s own heart. If he can slay his enemies and stand before the Lord with a clean conscience, I think I can defend myself and do the same.

    Silas straightened, a grudging respect poking him like a mosquito prick. In other circumstances, he could imagine himself liking this fellow. But a preacher? He’d run barefoot across a bed of cactus before he’d give his hand in friendship to one of them holy hypocrites.

    Whatever lets you sleep at night, Parson. Heaven knows the only man better than a lawyer at twisting truth to serve his own purpose is a preacher. Silas crossed his wrists over his saddle horn and waited for the man’s reaction.

    Would he sputter denials? Call down curses? Staunchly defend his profession?

    Nope.

    All the fellow did was arch an eyebrow and make a quiet observation. Seems odd that you would go to so much trouble to collect a clergyman when you hold the occupation in such low esteem.

    Odd? It was downright unnatural. But what a man chose to do for his kin was none of this sermonizer’s concern.

    To the house, boys. Silas gave the signal to head out. He trotted his gray gelding to where the preacher’s hat lay on the ground. Without slowing, he pulled his rifle from the scabbard, leaned deeply to the right, and plucked the thing off the ground by jabbing the gun’s muzzle into the head hole. Guiding his horse with his knees, he unhooked the black felt slouch hat from his rifle barrel and slapped it onto the parson’s head.

    Gotta have the man looking respectable for Jo.

    It gave him a sense of satisfaction to have the upper hand again. The preacher might be a couple decades younger and fleeter of foot, but Silas Robbins still had a few tricks up his sleeve. King David, here, wouldn’t be getting the drop on him again.

    You want me to put him up on his horse, boss? Jasper wrapped the end of the rope around the saddle horn and prepared to dismount, but Silas stopped him with a shake of his head.

    He seemed so all-fired anxious to run across our pasture, I figure we might as well grant him his wish.

    The parson’s attention snapped to meet Silas’s before shifting to the barn and back again. The disbelief lining his face was priceless. The poor fellow thought he’d been running for freedom when all along he’d been heading directly into the den of the thieves he’d meant to escape. If there hadn’t been the little problem of him ruining Jo’s surprise, Silas might have let him go just to see his expression when they rode into the yard and met him at the barn door. Might’ve made catching the parson’s fist with his jaw worthwhile.

    Silas set a leisurely pace as they circled the pasture’s perimeter. The man leashed to Jasper’s horse masked his fatigue well, but he had to be tuckered out after that mad dash through the trees.

    Besides, everyone knew preachers were only good for one thing—talking. It stood to reason that if Jo wanted a preacher, she’d want to talk to the fellow. What kind of gift would the hypocrite make if he was so out of breath when he met her that he couldn’t get a word out? If Silas was going to all the trouble of surprising her with this gift, it’d be foolish to break it before she could use it.

    But would she like it?

    Last-minute doubts nibbled the corners of his confidence. Martha had always been the one who’d selected Jo’s birthday gifts in the past. Last year, their grief had been too raw over Martha’s passing to celebrate anything. But this year Jo was turning twenty-one. She deserved something large, something meaningful, something she never dreamed she’d actually receive.

    Ah, Martha. As they gained the road that led to his ranch, Silas turned his eyes heavenward. I miss you something fierce, love. You should be the one arranging things for our Jo. Not me.

    Jasper was right. Martha never would have approved of his methods, but somehow he thought she’d approve of the gift. She always was partial to preachin’ and church-goin’. And Jo followed in her mama’s footsteps.

    When he’d asked her last week what she wanted for her birthday and she’d told him she wanted a preacher, Silas had seen the truth of her words in her eyes—eyes so like her mother’s. She’d laughed afterward and tried to play like she’d just been foolin’, but he’d known better. His Jo was hurtin’, and for some reason she thought a preacher man would make it better. Silas had no patience for religion, but if Jo wanted a preacher, by George, he’d get her a preacher.

    It was only as they pulled up in the yard and the door to the ranch house cracked open that it occurred to Silas that he maybe should have tried to fashion a bow out of some of the rope around the parson’s middle to make him look more like a present and less like a prisoner.

    Joanna Robbins stepped from the house, her gaze, as always, drawn to her father. The dappled gray he rode stood out among the brown quarter horses, just as he stood out from his men. Mama used to say he was a man born to lead, and Joanna had to agree. He exuded authority, but it was his unwavering dedication to those

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