Author: Caryl McAdoo
Publisher: Howard Books
ISBN: 978-1-4767-3551-1

Just then, at the height of her sweet revelation, the promise she made to God reared its head. The vow had served her well, weeded out those who professed love, but would it hurt her now?” Sue questions in Caryl McAdoo’s book, Vow Unbroken.

A Lone Star novel, this three hundred and sixty-eight page paperback targets those who enjoy American western romances, especially taking cotton to market in Texas during the eighteen hundreds. With no profanity or sex scenes but some violence, it would be geared toward teenagers to adult aged readers. After thirty-two chapters devoted to the story, acknowledgements, fifteen group discussion questions, three book club topics, and a conversation with the author end the book.

When Susannah was nineteen, she left her family and married without her father’s blessings. One year later, she found herself widowed and pregnant, living in Texas. Feeling responsible for her husband and brother-in-law’s deaths, she is determined to run the large farm on her own, supporting her daughter and nephew. 

With a shyster trying to take advantage of her annual sale of cotton, she decides to take the product to Jefferson to hopefully meet buyers who will give her a higher price. Unable to transport the large load via wagons pulled by mules by herself, she hires Henry Buckmeyer, a layabout heathen.

Thirty-four year old Henry gladly comes to Sue’s aide, especially because he has wares to sell and does not mind working for the beautiful woman, having noticed her four years ago. Immediately sensing her attraction, he becomes wary of her questioning and second-guessing any suggestions he makes. Aware of the widely-known vow the woman made in remarrying only with her father’s blessing, he treads lightly as he lets her and her family melt his heart. 

Traveling in close quarters, the four individuals, as well as the man’s dog, start off on a rocky path, learning to value each other in unexpected ways. In addition to her vow, Sue’s promise to not be unequally yoked with an unbeliever forces her to listen to God’s direction as they get closer and closer to their destination. 

McAdoo writes with spiritual purpose and determination, developing her characters with raw, down-to-earth humanity of falling short of the glory of God as she weaves a tale of teamwork, commitment, and romance.

Thanks to Howard Books for furnishing this book in exchange for a review based on the reader’s opinions.

Follow Here To Purchase Vow Unbroken: A Novel