Badland Bride

Originally posted at [...] A man whose body would "stir Mother Teresa" was what Lila Stone saw when she came out of a tunnel that the ghost had directed her to as she fled from the man chasing her. Lila, a 21st century, only child, who is used to getting what she wants when she wants it, is rather much a "fish-out-of-water" in 19th century Kansas where Indians still roam about. Even though the sexy, charismatic man gives her comfort and makes her feel safe, Lila knows she has to find a way back to her own time before time to have her baby. Skeeter Quinter wakes up from a `whiskey and peyote trip" given him by his friend Buffalo Killer and sees a disheveled, scantily clad woman that sets every part of him humming. He is drawn to her not just by compassion but also by his own need deep inside that reaches out to her. He helps this unusual woman and remembers helping a little bird with a broken wing then having to let it fly away. He knows this will probably happen again, but he never waivers in his commitment to her. Skeeter Quinter is a love, a hero to dream about. Skeeter Quinter's family supports each other emotionally, physically, and spiritually without question. Tough big brother Kid tells Skeeter that worry gets you nowhere, but faith takes you far when Skeeter confides in him about his struggle to understand Lila. Lauri Robinson creates a story full of humor, enchanting imagery, and amazing description. She infuses historical facts into the story that grounds the reader in the time period then propels one along into a whirlwind of events, suspense, and all encompassing love. This love story takes the breath away at times as Skeeter tries to keep the light in Lila's eyes shining when her worries threaten to snuff it out. The joy of life and love shines through, humor abounds, and that happy-ever-after plus just a little more makes Badland Bride a KEEPER.