This story was just as good a romp as Mrs. Witemeyer’s earlier works. But it was richer on the romance side of things, as there were two romances that held equal merit and sweetness. I love Hanger’s Horsemen. They’re my favorite sort of brotherhood: chivalrous and strong, loyal and family-oriented. I loved that one was a sniper, too. That career choice has long been a fascination for me, and this one was written well.

The author’s trademark humor came through beautifully. I especially loved how the thread featuring a fear of horses played a significant role in the plot while also bringing fun levity at precisely the right moments.

One of my favorite things was that Jonah took a little boy seriously when he shared a concern. This was so precious.

The child-snatching angle felt timely with current events in 2023.

I’m looking forward to reading the third book in this series.

Content: suicidal thoughts, saloons, illegitimate child, prostitution, derogatory terms, replacement expletives

This is the second book in the Hanger’s Horsemen series. I have not read the first, but plan on doing so. This was an interesting tale of two men who meet their loves. However, the way to love is not easy. After finding a woman in labor and she delivers the baby Mark and Jonah take the baby to a foundling home and to Mark’s surprise, he finds Kate. Who is Kate? Well, he was in love with her and things just did not work out. Will they this time? Then there is Jonah. He too meets someone special, but there are issues. Will they resolve them? Will they find who are snatching children and being exploited? Only way to find out it to read this most excellent story by Karen Witemeyer.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book for an honest opinion.

Another clean, lighthearted (for the most part) romance set in the historical west by this author. If you’ve read any of her books before, you know what to expect and you won’t be disappointed .

Babies, Horses, Kiddie Snatchers, Romance and more…

What an amazing story! Starts out with a baby being born and just builds and builds!!!!

I want to call this a twofer! Two romances that have their unique qualities and interesting details. Lots of great moments. I also can never resist strong Women characters and children being saved. I highly recommend this series! The third book was just released last week.

I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley on behalf of the Publisher and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.

The Heart’s Charge follows Jonah and Mark of the Hanger’s Horseman. I loved the interactions that they have as a duo. There is so much respect and brotherly love that is clear to see. They meet two women who run a home for children and sparks fly! I loved that we have two romances and that they don’t take away from each other. Katie and Eliza run Harmony Home with open arms and love for every child who comes their way. I have a special love for books with adoption or found parents themes so this hit the spot. The mystery was so good and it was never forced. All of the characters were fantastic and they felt so real. I would highly recommend this series!

I purchased my own copy prior to reading in addition to receiving an arc from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. My review is on the final copy.

I read At Love's Command in 2020. I knew I wanted to read the other Horsemen's stories, and I jumped at the chance to get The Heart's Charge for review. Yet when I got it, I wasn't in the mood for it. I sometimes hate it about myself, but I am such a mood reader. I almost say that I can't force myself to read something that I'm not in the mood for, but that's not exactly accurate. I can, but I hate doing that. Anyway, I finally broke down and picked it up even though I still wasn't quite in the mood.

The Heart's Charge ended up being better than I expected. First of all, there are two love stories. Both Mark Wallace and Jonah Brooks share this book, and I loved reading about both of their stories. I loved their friendship with each other.

I've been listening to an audiobook while I'm driving to get the kids from school and I was reading this book at the same time, and I couldn't help but contrast these two books. One has a woman that struggles with anxiety and panic attacks. This book has two strong women who aren't satisfied to sit by the side when they can be useful even though historically it would be more difficult for women to be as active as modern-day. The other book has a feminist slant and this book shows men and women working in tandem to have the strongest relationship possible by using the strengths of both parties. I just couldn't help but notice the differences in these two stories and their approaches. I much prefer this type of story to the ones more focused on the characters being victims.

I was impressed with the amount of Bible verses used in The Heart's Charge. Often, I find myself annoyed with stories that push an agenda or a message, but you can't read "Christian fiction" without expecting there to be a focus on Christian messages to some degree or other. But to be honest, I was impressed with how each lesson and verse tied into the story and felt like lessons the characters were meant to learn and not lessons the author was trying to preach to the reader. And that is what makes the difference to me.

Favorite quotes:
-He had nothing against putting down roots. He just hadn't found the right soil yet.

-She very much feared that Jonah Brooks was not a man to be pigeonholed. Which meant he was a man who needed to fly her coop as soon as possible.

-A gift bestowed by God couldn't be stolen by man. Or woman. It might be neglected or stifled, but never stolen.

-"Lessons taught from love bring wisdom. Lessons spawned from fear and pain often come with cynicism and bitterness attached, which can cloud the truth."

-"Satan uses loneliness to isolate and depress. But God uses it to build compassion."

-Hunger, sickness, ostracism--people afflicted with such things care only about a warm meal, healing medicine, and a compassionate touch.

-...a man considering a commitment to one woman should not behave in a way that could lead her to believe him fickle in his affections. Nor should he give another woman reason to believe his interest lay anywhere other than where it did.

-Friendly was different than flirty.

-He didn't mind a strategic surrender every now and again.

-Risks were always assessed but seldom allowed to stand in the way of progress.

-Could it be that being subject to a husband who loved her with sacrificial dedication meant freedom instead of subjugation?

-Leave tomorrow alone, girl. Her mother's oft-voiced scold echoed in Eliza's mind. The Lord's the only one strong enough to carry the future. You'll wear yourself out tryin'.

The Heart's Charge hooked me, and I didn't want to stop reading when I had to. It was easy to see how much better reading about strong characters (both male and female) is than reading about characters that want to be victims. I enjoyed the Scripture used because it felt like the lessons were for the characters and not for the readers. The Heart's Charge gets 4 Stars. Have you read The Heart's Charge? What did you think? Let me know!

The Heart's Charge is the second book in Karen Witemeyer's Hanger's Horsemen series and another wonderful story.

I was first introduced to Jonah and Mark in the first book, At Love's Command, and was so excited to read their story. It's not often that a book has two different romance stories, but The Heart's Charge does and it was great. I loved the two romances and felt like they were both the "main" story. The book had some danger and I couldn't read fast enough to see what was going to happen.

All in all, I loved The Heart's Charge and am eager to read the next book when it releases. I recommend this book, but I think you should read the series in order. :)

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

The second book in the Hangar’s Horsemen series has a dual romance in it, with a story plot of two Horsemen out for a ride and who come across a woman having a baby. As they take the unwanted child to an orphanage, it’s not long before they run across some rumors of children in town who are disappearing without trace. Of course they have to figure out some way to verify it and to rescue the children disappearing!

I loved both romances and enjoyed how both were very unique. Each character in the story is a diverse and unique creation and side characters are well developed too. I really loved the whole story, including Jonah’s horse and how it affects his courting!

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required. Review is based off of a final paperback copy.

This is book two in the Hanger's Horsemen series, however I feel it is a stand alone book you just miss a little history of the Horsemen. I look forward to reading more from this series. Karen Witemeyer has a fun, spunky, detailed writing style. If you enjoy historical romance books you will like this one.

This book focus is on Both Mark Wallace and Jonah Brooks, we met both of them in book one. Mark and Jonah find themselves in a predicament they never imagined. Then that bundle of joy leads them to some unexpected changes in their lives. Mark never imagined he would see Katherine again yet when she opens the door to Harmony House they must figure out how to work together. I loved all the twist, turns, romance, friendship and so much more in this novel. I look forward to book three.

I was gien a copy of this book for my honest opinion.

This is a good read.
A newborn … Reunited loves … Missing children … there’s is a lot to like about this story.
Sit back and escape to the Wild West.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an arc in exchange for my honest opinion.

Karen Witemeyer is such a go-to author for me and she never disappoints! I was so exicted to get a copy of the second "Hanger's Horsemen" book.

Not only does she have amazing plotlines and swoon-worthy heroes, she incorporates so much faith elements that I love love love her books!

Thank you Netgalley and publisher for my copy of this book. All reviews expressed are my own, and I have not been obligated to leave a positive review.

Loved this one. Hearts were definitely changed in this story. Two men, just doing their job find themselves acting as midwives to a crazed young widow. Left with a baby girl to find a home for, Mark Wallace ran headlong into the one woman who broke his heart before he left home for good. What Katherine was doing out west was a mystery. All the details unfolded soon enough: that is, after Jonah Brooks was blindsided by a beautiful woman who captured his heart. Miss Eliza Southerland was even less in the market for a suitor than any of the others. What unfolded was a story wrapped up as only Karen Witemeyer can fashion.

I recommend this book for fans of pure old fashioned romance of the wild west nature. A little danger but a whole lot of fun with a happy endin

Two of the four Horsemen are back in this dual love story. I liked the change-up; having four main characters, two female/two male and yet also two black and two white was a refreshing change of pace. Ms. Witemeyer didn't shy away from hard topics like legitimacy or racism, and more so the interactions, both good and bad, were believable.

Those deeper, real life currents aside, the elements of faith in this story were well applied and the story itself was interesting.

Jonah's perspective, with his maturity, intelligence, and frank nature, was my favorite to read from. His conversation with Abner was one of my favorite parts of the book.

The only criticisms I have are that I thought Katherine was a little foolish at the end, which is a particular pebble in my shoe. I like to see smart, strong female leads and it frustrates me when they're not consistent or they make reckless decisions on emotion. And at the very end, the villains were too over the top for me.

All in all, a great read.

Two romances, lots of action - I really enjoyed this second book about Hanger's Horesemen. There's also a bit of mystery as to who is behind the kiddie snatching. Some things I guessed, some things I didn't. It's the characters that shine though, from the Horsemen, Mark and Jonah, and the women, Katherine and Eliza, to the children at Harmony House. Karen Witemeyer's books are always a pleasure to read and their faith message, inspiring. This historical escape was just what I needed to distract myself from life's worries.

The Heart’s Charge is book two in the Hanger’s Horsemen series by Karen Witemeyer. When Hanger’s Horsemen Wallace and Brooks run across and lady having a baby, that she does not want, they are directed to take the baby to a fondling home. The home is run by Mark Wallace’s ex-girlfriend and they are given a second chance.

This is such a good book. It is well written with strong caring characters. It takes off where book one ends, but there is enough background information given that this is also a good stand alone story. There is action, mystery and suspense through out the story that has not one, but two romantic friendships develop. I enjoyed reading this story, especially the part that deal with the boys who ride the trains and the lives they are forced to live at such a young age. This is a story of second chances and caring for others.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

The Heart's Charge by Karen Witemeyer is the continuing story of Hanger's Horsemen. Hanger's Horsemen are four ex-calvary men who left the army after the Massacre of Wounded Knee. They have dedicated their lives to atone for their actions. I love this series as it shows God can forgive any sin, we must simply ask for forgiveness and change our actions to follow His will. The plot was well developed and I liked the characters. I am looking forward to the third book in the series.
I recommend you brew a pot of tea and settle in for a wonderful story.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

I thoroughly enjoyed the first installment from Karen Witemeyer’s Hanger’s Horsemen series, At Love's Command. I was really excited to have the opportunity to read the next book, The Heart's Charge. It was far from disappointing. It was exactly what I would expect from this author. It was so fun and entertaining. I love that there were two romances going on here with Mark, Jonah, Katherine, and Eliza. There was some light mystery and suspense, as well as, some laugh out loud humor. It was great!

I am giving The Heart's Charge a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical romance. I can not wait to get my hands on the next book from the Hanger’s Horsemen series.

Another victory for Mrs. Witemeyer! I have never before liked a story told from more than 2 points of view – but this one was excellent! It was two love stories in one, and we got both heroines' and both heroes' thoughts and motivations -- for all 4 POV characters.
I loved how Jonah's and Eliza's wounds complemented each other, and I loved how Mark's and Kate's wounds involved each other. I'm so glad we got further into Jonah's psyche. He was the one I knew the least about and therefore liked the least in the previous story.
It definitely needs to be read in order, though. The background for Hanger's Horsemen needs to be understood from At Love's Command before you start this one.
The humor, the two different romances, the parental relationships with the adorable children of Harmony House and the ruffian boxcar children, the attention but not obsession with the race differences, and the faith woven throughout made this a truly enjoyable read.
The only thing I didn't enjoy was the violence. It wasn't as bad as the first one with the prologue in a war scene, but it still had shooting and killing. I also didn't appreciate that the only Latinos in the story were all on the bad side. Though the black man and mulatto woman were heroes, the Latinos were not.
Other than that, it was great, and I loved the ending!
Favorite quotes:
“Why God had chosen him to aid this woman was a mystery he'd never comprehend. The Almighty must not have had anyone else in the area.”
“Mark knew it was probably nothing but coincidence, but the fact that the establishment chose to quote from the gospel of Mark instead of Matthew or Luke resonated in his soul like a signal from heaven. He was meant to come here. Meant to trust these people with his little lady's care.”
“Until she [Eliza] understood his [Jonah] temperament, she wouldn't be able to manage him properly.”
“Why couldn't he just fall into one of her tidy categories and cease being so intriguing?”
“As if the babe understood him, she ceased her wailing and blinked at him. A team player. Good.”
“He [Mark] conquered the tower of tubers heroically, determined to impress the fair maiden with his knightly knife skills.”
“'Nice to meet you, Wart.' Somehow, Mark managed to pronounce the name as if it were a royal title and not an unsightly skin growth. But then, he'd always had a knack for makin' folks feel special.”
“He'd [Jonah had] been trained for battle, after all, not cowardice. Besides, what man in his right mind wouldn't take a moonlight stroll with a lady he admired? Even in territory littered with verbal snares ...”
“Katherine wiped her eyes and stood, mimicking Eliza's stance as if Eliza were some kind of pillar of strength to imitate, when Katherine was already one of the strongest women Eliza knew. Maybe not in the conventional way, but her soft heart had a core of iron.”
“'...start workin' on getting' you outta here?' And back to Kate. So he could wring her neck. Or more likely kiss her senseless. Yeah, kissing was definitely the better option.”
(I received a copy for free from the publisher on NetGalley. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own, as was the decision to write this review.)

I think I liked it even more than the first book. Maybe because it had two of the Horsemen's love stories. This book was funny, fast-paced and frolicking good fun with some serious issues and villainy. I loved all the characters both main and minor. I liked how the men, women, children and even the horses all got to be heroes in their own ways.

I enjoyed this story. It has a second chance romance and two couples who find their happily ever after. There is a lot of drama and some adorable, independent children. There is also a faith element that I enjoyed. This is the second book in the series but is really a complete standalone. I received a copy of this ebook though NetGalley and the publisher. A positive review was not required and all opinions are my own.