The Quality of Clemency

By Judith Genandt

ISBN 1-58851-338-6

America House

Baltimore, Maryland

2001, Trade Paper,

237 pages, $19.95

A stranger comes to Miss Clemency Taylor's door to answer a newspaper ad.  The homestead needs lots of work, and Clemmy's young brothers and sister are determined to get someone to help them with the care of the cattle and horses and upkeep of the ranch.  The stranger who answers the ad gives his name as Eben Harris.  This man has a secret, a dark, hidden mystery that stands between his growing love for Clemency and his regard for her whole family. 

But the truth can't be kept hidden.  Events reveal the devils' bargain that brought Eben to the Taylor ranch.  When Clemency discovers why Eben answered the ad her siblings put in the paper she displays inspiring strength and courage.  She discovers that the man she is fast growing to love is a tool of her enemies, yet she must fight to protect her family and their livelihood.

            Water is at a premium in Wyoming in 1892.  Cattle baron Sylvester Burchfield owns the land that borders the Taylor ranch.  He is determined to own the Taylor outfit with its abundant water and green fields.  He is not above using every way possible, even spying, shooting from ambush and kidnapping to get what he wants.

            Love, treachery, love and loyalty fill the pages of this well-crafted story.  Judy Genandt has given the reader well-rounded, interesting and admirable characters and an exciting page-turner of a tale that is sure to interest the whole family.

A.H.Holt, editor

WesternFictionReview

June 2004