etter actor than an outlaw, serving as a decoy for the infamous Texas gang leader, Julian Crisp. When an impulse decision causes a routine heist to go awry, Alden must choose between the character he has portrayed for so long and his most genuine self.

A Better Man is a page-turning, plot-twisting book I seriously could not put down. At the heart of this historical Western set in Texas is a story of redemption that came through desperation and manipulation. The characters are amazingly written with depth, richness, and believability. Just when I thought I'd figured out the plot and the characters, unexpected twists and surprises emerged. I've read it twice and found clues I'd missed the first time. I love this book! -A. Cossota

Taking place in a North Texas town at the dawn of the 20^th century, to say that A Better Man is a tale of romance and mystery would be a disservice. Merchant guides the reader on the journey as the two protagonists discover their developing feelings in the sometimes harsh reality of post-Civil War Texas. The author uses prose as an artist uses paint to give depth and character to the landscape, people, and drama being portrayed. The reader is drawn into the story by the descriptive details, allowing for a clear mental picture as the mystery of the Disciples gang is slowly revealed. If you love a Michner-esque story with wonderful, descriptive scenery or are a fan of classic romances (think Casablanca), then A Better Man is the book for you. -A Montiel

An excellent novel dealing with the history of the adventurous American West! In A Better Man, Merchant has highlighted each character by incorporating their individualized backgrounds as it applies accurately to the time period and location as each chapter introduces new information that expands the reader's excitement. -M. Weber

Laura Merchant is a native Texan hailing from Dallas/Fort Worth. She holds a degree in Vocal Music Education from Texas Christian University with teaching certificates in Music, Theatre, ESL, Special Education, and Generalist studies. After sixteen years in the classroom, along with the support of her love, Ryan, Laura has chosen to fully embrace her writing passion with her debut novel, A Better Man. Laura is a born-again Christian and Yorkie Mom who advocates for the arts and mental health awareness. When Laura isn't writing, she enjoys baking, attending classic rock concerts, and performing in the DFW theatre community.