At the Heart's Command

In this, the second book of the "A Place Called Home" mini-series, Patricia McLinn works out the second part of a curse that has haunted the Susland family for five generations. Indeed, this generation is the last hope for ending the curse. Colonel John Griffin Junior, Grif, always accepts tough, smart assignments intended to advance his career. Advancing quickly through the ranks, Grif forms no personal ties or commitments that could waylay his career. So when Grif declines an opportunity to join the White House liaison team and request leave instead, he seemingly acts totally out of character. Truthfully, his heart formed ties that he abandoned fifteen months ago. Failing miserably to regain control of his heart, Grif doesn't return to Far Hills Ranch until his aunt's letters inform of the rough situation the object of his desire has endured.Married life hadn't been all she wanted it to be, but Ellyn tried hard to make her husband Dale happy. When he served notice that he was giving her one last chance before he divorces her, Dale moved his family back to Far Hills Ranch. Ellyn was unsuccessful in contacting her childhood friend, and her husband's best friend, Grif before the move. As a result, following Dale's unexpected death, she and her children felt terribly abandoned by the man who had once been indispensable in all of their lives.When Grif returns to far Hills Ranch, both he and Ellyn must face the extraordinary attraction between them. They also must overcome the past-other's words, and their own guilt and pain if they wish to forge a relationship. While both are determined to keep their hearts under control, they very well may learn that we are all at the heart's command.With a flair and style unique to this storyteller's pen, McLinn creates a believable world of love and family with the "A Place Called Home" miniseries. In a family plagued by unexpected death, ending the curse promises a new future for all the Suslands. The first part of the curse was lifted in LOST AND FOUND GROOM, and a satisfying conclusion is reached in HIDDEN IN A HEARTBEAT. Reading the books either separate or together is guaranteed to satisfy lovers of the western romance. Highly recommended!

I loved the first book in this series (Lost and Found Groom) and now I'm looking forward to the third (Hidden in a Heartbeat) even more. The premise tying them together is a legend, and a curse, and a continuing cast of warm, wonderful characters. The best thing about At the Heart's Command? It gave me a whole new appreciation of hanging up laundry!!!