This was a delightfully romantic story with a fitting title. Evan Harrison finds himself kidnapping Juliana O'Malley. Juliana thinks this man is a ruthless criminal who is a thief and an outlaw. They take a dangerous journey through the Smoky Mountains and Evan becomes her unexpected protector. He promises to get her back home safely and Juliana will find herself believing him. Evan has risked his life trying to find the men who killed his brother by joining a ruthless gang. Saving the strong-willed Juliana could blow his cover. But Juliana's faith and spirited personality make Evan dream of a home and family that he thought he could never have.

I liked the way these two characters got along. Juliana, who Evan nicknamed "Irish" was full of spunk and surprises and Evan was full of secrets. Their lives will become so intertwined that neither one can see a life without the other. It will just take some interesting circumstances for them both to admit their feelings. Can a lady fall for an outlaw who is a gentleman? In this story it is very probable.

This is book one in the Smoky Mountain Matches series and I look forward to reading this next book in this series, "The Bridal Swap". Karen Kirst gives a complete and very satisfying romantic story, wrapped with spiritual truths that leave you wanting to read more. ( )

Juliana O'Malley goes to the mercantile one morning to gather supplies for her mother's birthday. Imagine her surprise when she realizes that it's being robbed and she is taken hostage by one of the gang. That begins an unforgettable journey through the Smoky Mountains where her captor behaves like a gentlemen and even vows to return her home. Evan Harrison is out to find his brother's killer and that meant joining up with the gang he thinks is responsible. He never expected to take a hostage. Especially one as beautiful and spirited as Juliana. Being with her, seeing her strength and her strong faith, makes him long for things he can never have or can he?

A most excellent story! First let me say that this beautiful cover caught my eye! It made me want to read the story. And let me tell you, from the very first page you become completely immersed in the adventure, right up to it's completely satisfying conclusion. I must say, that the ending was well done because I didn't feel like anything was left unfinished. I really appreciated that. Evan was awesome hero. He was strong and commanding but had such tender heart. He made me wish I was Juliana! She not your typical heroine but she was such fun because she was so spirited. She was a good match for Evan. I absolutely loved the nickname he gave her and thought that added an extra spark to the story! This tale was loaded with romantic tension, which I love and the interaction between Evan and Juliana played out through the whole story. I also loved the underlying message that God is in control no matter what's going on in your life. He is not surprised by anything that comes up and that we can trust Him to carry us through. This is Karen Kirst's debut novel but it reads liked a seasoned author. This is book one in the Smoky Mountain Matches Series and I am looking forward to the next installment, The Bridal Swap. If you're looking for a good historical, chock-full of romantic tension together with a great message then look no further. I HIGHLY recommend The Reluctant Outlaw! Great job Karen!!!
Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 442 KB
Publisher: Love Inspired Historicals (September 1, 2011)
ASIN: B005DF0D9K
Mass Market Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: Love Inspired (September 6, 2011)
ISBN-10: 0373828853
ISBN-13: 978-0373828852 ( )