Book Review: A Beggar's Bargain by Jan Sikes

 

 

A BEGGAR’S BARGAIN

The Bargainer Series, Book One

by

Jan Sikes

Historical Fiction / Literary Fiction

Publisher: Fresh Ink Group

Date of Publication: March 12, 2024

Number of Pages: 324 pages 

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A shocking proposal that changes everything

Desperate to honor his father’s dying wish, Layken Martin vows to do whatever it takes to save the family farm.

Once the Army discharges him following World War II, Layken returns to Missouri to find his legacy in shambles and in jeopardy. A foreclosure notice from the bank doubles the threat. He appeals to the local banker for more time—a chance to rebuild, plant, and harvest crops and for time to heal far away from the noise of bombs and gunfire.

But the banker firmly denies his request. Now what?

Then, the banker makes an alternative proposition—marry his unwanted daughter, Sara Beth, in exchange for a two-year extension. Out of options, money, and time, Layken agrees to the bargain.

Now, he has two years to make a living off the land while he shares his life with a stranger.

If he fails at either, he’ll lose it all.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Laken Martin, discharged from the army, returns to the family farm with a burning desire to restore his fortunes. He makes a deal with the local banker for a loan in exchange for marrying Sara Beth, the banker’s daughter. Sara, despite her wariness of marrying a stranger, is relieved to be out from under her father’s abusive hand. Laken soon finds he got more than he bargained for in Sara, a collector of waifs, strays and old souls.  

A Beggar’s Bargain is a sweet story of resilience, honor and love. I really enjoyed getting to know Layken, quiet, kind, introspective, and he promised Sara Beth that he will let her go when the debt is repaid, but will she want to leave him?  Sara Beth is kindhearted, and draws people to her, making them feel safe in her presence. 

Set in the post WWII years, it was fun to read about the slower pace of life; listening to the radio, baking cakes from scratch and taking a drive into town. Not that they didn’t have their share of hard luck and hard work. As the pair slowly realize their feelings for each other, Laken and Sara pull together with the help of friends and neighbors to reach their goals. The ending seems a foregone conclusion, but it’s the getting there that makes this book worth reading.

I highly recommend this book to readers of historical fiction who like a sweet story with a happy ending.

I give this book 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐stars!

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Jan Sikes writes compelling and creative stories from the heart.

She openly admits that she never set out in life to be an author, although she’s been an avid reader all her life. But she had a story to tell. Not just any story, but a true story that rivals any fiction creation. She brought the entertaining true story to life through fictitious characters in an intricately woven tale that encompasses four books, accompanying music CDs, and a book of poetry and art.

And now, this author can’t put down the pen. She continues to write fiction in a variety of genres and has published many award-winning short stories and novels.

Jan is an active blogger, a member of Story Empire, a devoted fan of Texas music, and a grandmother of five. She resides in North Texas.

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FOUR WINNERS:

Two winners receive $20 Amazon gift cards;

Two winners receive eBook copies of A Beggar’s Bargain

(US only; ends midnight, CDT, 4/19/24)

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