The Secret Society of Spinsters: Book 1
Publication Date: February 17, 2026
When passion for justice conflicts with the heart, which will prevail?
Noreen O’Sullivan is an enthusiastic member of the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union and believes herself called to defend the cause of prohibition. When she’s invited to join the Secret Society of Spinsters, Noreen jumps at the chance to rally others to her movement and shut down the local saloon for good. However, her passionate campaigning often puts her at odds with the men around her–including the local deputy.
Deputy James Paxton believes in preserving the peace, but Miss O’Sullivan has been disturbing his peace for months. If James wants to be elected sheriff, he can’t afford to be seen as her ally. But when Noreen ropes him into helping her plan a temperance march, their growing closeness sparks unexpected feelings. Then tensions escalate at the saloon and accusations fly. James must choose between upholding his badge and protecting the woman who’s captured his heart–knowing either choice could cost him everything.
Karen Witemeyer presents a swoony Western romance with a determined heroine, cowboys, prohibition, and the rivals-to-lovers and duty vs. desire tropes. Fans of Mary Connealy and frontier romances set in the Old West will savor this clean, historical read.
Noreen O’Sullivan meets all the criteria for a late 19th century spinster at 27, but she is no shrinking violet afraid to speak out about reform.
Author Karen Witemeyer launches a a new series titled The Secret Society of Spinsters featuring Noreen’s exploits in Taming Lady Temperance.
Deputy James Paxton prefers his town to be peaceful, but an irate woman accosting customers outside the local tavern doesn’t quite accomplish that goal.
The author skillfully weaves a beautiful faith-based storyline as Noreen and James confront their differences. A shocking plot twist illustrates the deputy’s dedication to doing what is right, even under difficult circumstances.
Taming Lady Temperance highlights the challenge between duty and desire in a sweet Western romance.
Voted #1 Reader’s Favorite Christian Historical Author of 2023 by Family Fiction magazine, bestselling and Carol and Christy Award-winning author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. She and her husband make their home in Abilene, Texas. Learn more about Karen and her books at KarenWitemeyer.com.
