Awaken My Heart

Title: AWAKEN MY HEART
Author: DiAnn Mills
Publisher: Avon Inspire
February 2008
ISBN: 978-0-06-137601-6
Genre: Inspirational/historical

Marianne Phillips has never agreed to her father’s treatment of the poor mestizos who inhabit Texas. He plans to kill them, especially their leader, and take over their land. On the other hand, the rebel leader, Armando Garcia wants to run Marianne’s father—and the family—off the land.

When Marianne is captured to be held as ransom, the rebels hope that he will trade the land for his daughter’s life. But Marianne’s papa never seems to have cared for his daughter, and certainly he didn’t make any effort to save her.

Armando is falling in love with Marianne and is facing a difficult decision now. Kill her, as he vowed if the father doesn’t come, keep her with him and his people forever, or release her and risk losing both his love and his land, forever.

AWAKEN MY HEART is one of the better historical romances I read this year. It has enough tension to keep the pages turning. Armando is a true hero, even though he’s a rebel, kind and caring, both of his people and of his captive. Marianne is strong and courageous, ready to take on both rebel leaders and devil stallions.

The faith message is strong, but not preachy, and the plot, setting, and characters are strong. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, based loosely on real Texas history. If you like history and romance, you won’t want to miss this book. Discussion questions are included at the end. $9.95. 255 pages.