Books & Spoons Review STAND-IN RANCHER DADDY by Renee Ryan

Suddenly a Father   

Rancher CJ Thorn isn't ready to graduate from uncle to brand-new daddy—but he has no choice. After his widowed brother runs off, a pair of adorable twins have no one but CJ…and lovely neighbor Molly Langley. She's helped with the girls for so long that she's almost part of the family. Almost. CJ knows his family isn't good enough for her. Not when his brother's actions have disgraced the Thorn name yet again. 

Watching CJ become a devoted father would soften any woman's heart. Yet Molly must remain immune. CJ deserves more than a woman who can't have children. Held back by fear, it'll take a disaster forcing the community together before they're ready to risk a chance on happiness.

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​A story with a great balance of tragedy and triumph, a little suspense, and lots of love. So many moments that made me smile and sigh, take notice, and moments that nearly broke my heart with the sorrow, and feelings of not being enough. 
CJ is a great man of faith and dignity, he is kind, caring, and fair-minded, he seeks God's guidance on his actions, and is willing to take responsibility and carry his share of burdens. Yet his family's past has laid a shadow on his life, and he doesn't think he will measure up, be good enough for Molly. 
Molly has her own burdens, feelings of inadequacy, not having enough to offer. Her heart desperately loves CJ and his nieces, wants to be a family with them, but the one thing CJ wants, she can't give him. 
I loved the patience of CJ, not giving up on Molly, or being a parent to the girls, or the troubled boys in town. His character spoke to me strongly about a man of faith, and how they will be recognized by their actions. 
The sadness in Molly is palpable and heartbreaking. I felt the sorrow she had in her heart, and how CJ was able to make her smile despite everything, was beautiful. I wished she would have had the courage to tell him earlier about her doubts, would have saved a lot of heartaches, but on the other hand, fit nicely into the flow of the plot.
The sermons of their preacher shared the message of faith, their life demonstrating it every step of the way. The unity of the small town was commendable and set an example for the younger generation. 
And talking about the younger generation, the twins stole my heart completely. Even though their loss and pain were unbearable, I liked that they were not set out to be 'perfect', but instead they were typical four years olds, a handful at times,  sweet the other. 
A story with a great message of faith and hope, how love can heal the deepest wounds, and give purpose for tomorrows to come. 
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side

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