Although I didn't read the first book in this series, I thoroughly enjoyed this one. The two do not seem to be tied together so that the reader is not able to understand or enjoy each one individually. Arlene James includes in her writing descriptions of the characters in such a way that the reader can visualize not only the actions, but also feel the emotions. The heroine's struggle to accept God's grace and salvation becomes a little tiresome, but I found myself falling in love with the hero. Great book to curl up with on a rainy day! In fact, enjoyed it so much, I've read it twice!