I think this is the first time I’ve picked up a western historical novel, and it didn’t disappoint! When We Run by Millie Shepherd is a tale of love, forgiveness, and hope. First, before my review, if you haven’t heard of this novel, check out some details below:
Title and Author: When We Run by Millie Shepherd
Publish Date: April 15, 2024
Blurb from Goodreads:
“Promise me you’ll take care… of Ebony.” A gurgly cough interrupted his words, but as soon as he’d gotten his breath back, he continued. “Protect her. I trust you.”
“I promise, Grant.” Wes nodded, squeezing his hand tightly. And it was an easy thing to promise, though only he knew why. The love he harbored for Ebony Sawyer was a deeply buried secret. One he had no intention of ever telling.
As death slaughters his employer, Wesley Acton makes a promise he can only fiercely hope to protecting Ebony Sawyer, his boss’s only daughter. But when their world crumbles around them and Ebony becomes orphaned, Wes is left with no other option but to run to the very same town he never desired to step foot in again.
Ebony’s life had always been delightfully sweet… until catastrophe strikes time and time again, leaving her destitute and alone for all but her treasured friend, Wes, who she’s secretly been in love with for years. When life takes an even worse turn, she readily and willingly runs away with him, not giving a second thought to the terrors that lie ahead.
With a rage-filled, evil step-father following their footsteps, the trek to Carson City for Wes and Ebony is nothing short of perilous and life-threatening, but will the journey of finally opening their hearts to one another turn out to be even more challenging?
Ratings for When We Run
Story: 5/5
Worldview: N/A
First things first, I have to say I was impressed by the author taking the care to put a content warning right at the beginning of the book. I’ll share the warning at the end so it doesn’t interrupt the review. From Chapter One, I loved Wes and Ebony. They are wonderfully real and flawed people that go on an amazing journey of growth and love. The plot unravels at breakneck speed but it never feels rushed or lagging–I finished the whole book in one day! It was so nice to see Wes’ example as a strong man that is isn’t stereotypes. He cries, he shares his feelings, but he’s not soft or emotional.
Worldview is N/A because, even though the characters do mention the Lord, God is not really a factor in this story. However, the themes here were stunning. Characters struggle with guilt and forgiving themselves, and with accepting unconditional love and sacrifice. Ebony and Wes are on the run, but they still have to face their pasts and glean what hope they can from the future.
Content Warnings (from the author): When We Run is an adult novel and is rated PG-13. There is never any spice or foul language. This is a closed door, fade to black romance with implied intimacy and mild innuendos. PG-13 level violence; semi-graphic death scenes; rape attempt (on page); brief and mild domestic violence (on page).
Content Warnings (from me): I would add that the fade to black scenes are very tame, fading within one sentence. There is one scene towards the end, however, that is more indulgent (moderate kissing across two pages or so).
Overall Thoughts
All in all, a really pleasant read! I will definitely look out for Millie Shepherd’s books! If you like adult historical fiction, but with more elements of faith, you might enjoy Rebecca by Shannon McNear and Kim Vogel Sawyer’s The Tapestry of Grace.
