Harriet Klausner's Review Archive
In Purgatory, Texas, no one locks their doors in spite of the fact that eleven homes have been recently robbed by the Ghost of Ol' Morty Pike. Actually, widow Regan Doyle uses the spectral scenario to "encourage" donations from the reticent purse strings of the rich in support of the local orphanage.
Texas Ranger Clayton Walker, cousin to Regan's late respected spouse, comes to Purgatory to end the crime spree. He almost succeeds with his mission upon initial arrival in town, but the Robin Hood bandit barely eludes him. When Regan arrives at the home she shares with her ailing mother-in-law Martha, she faints at the sight of Clayton also being there. Unbeknownst to either the law enforcement official or the undercover felon, Martha arranged for Clayton to come here because she believes her nephew and her daughter-in-law are perfect for one another. However, neither one wants a relationship though both cannot hide their respective desire for the other.
WALKER'S WIDOW is an amusing western romance that requires a critical leap of faith to accept Regan's successful enterprise into break and enter venture capital funding of the orphanage. Still the lead couple is a captivating duet whose antics to avoid their attraction and to elude identification of her alter ego make for fun reading. The support ensemble brings the era to life while the skirmishes between Clayton and Regan prove quite droll. Heidi Betts provides her audience with a humorous historical romance that is a sure bet to please readers.