Excited about Reading: SHE'S MINE by Tammy Doherty

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The cover story~
Caitlin Harrington has a new job and a new life away from her menacing ex-boyfriend, Adam. Issues with her parents, losing her previous job and the death of her beloved grandmother leave her wondering if God has abandoned her. Two things she is sure of: she’s a lousy judge of character and men just can’t be trusted. Now a volunteer firefighter who has come to her rescue more than once is dangerously close to breaking through her defenses.

And not everyone in sleepy Naultag, Massachusetts is welcoming. Someone is leaving ominous notes on her door.

Sean Taggart likes being a rescuer. But a failed engagement has taught him to be cautious with his heart and Caitlin is a threat. Women just can’t be trusted. Still, he’d like to save Caitlin from whatever demons have her so spooked. If only she’d let him.

Threatening notes. Scratching at the windows during the night. A shadowy figure lurking in her yard. Caitlin must tell the police about Adam, but everything he told her was a lie. Who is Adam? And if Caitlin trusts Sean to protect her, will his life be in danger?

Can Sean rescue Caitlin before the stalker becomes a killer?

Sharing my takeaway~
After reading Celtic Cross (FREE as of the date of this post) by Tammy Doherty, I couldn't wait to dive into She's Mine. Settling back with a book by Tammy Doherty is a lot like chatting with a dear friend over coffee. :)

Such three dimensional characters with emotional and physical scars! Caitlin Harrington. Math lover, teacher, taking up residence in her beloved Grandmother's house back in Naultag. She learned from her mother's promiscuous relationships and avoids egotistical, controlling men. Most men, actually, except a couple friends from her past.

Mom driving away, leaving me behind as if I was nothing more than a piece of furniture. Except Mom came back for the furniture. 

Hero Sean Taggart, firefighter and campground owner. Recovering from physical injuries sustained during the story, he battles depression, insecurity and even jealousy. 

Caitlin was like a late-night fire--you saw the flames but the full extent was hard to judge and there was a high risk of getting burned.

I really appreciated the genuineness of the characters. Both struggled with failures and asked some tough questions, which made the faith thread flow naturally. The pages were filled with flirty, witty dialog, with a bit of sarcasm thrown in occasionally. Awesome descriptions transported me into the New England area of Naultag. More than one person wasn't happy that Caitlin returned to Naultag. I had an inkling about creepy Adam but never would've guessed the actual scenario that played out, a palm-slicker for sure. Be sure to grab your copy of She's Mine, a perfect book to laze away a rainy weekend afternoon!

Romance, love and marriage--and divorce--had no clean, easily solved equations.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book while it was listed free on Amazon. I was in no way compensated for my fair and unbiased review. 

Excited about Reading: Sweetwater Gap by Denise Hunter

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The Cover Story ~

A story of love and second chances. She wished she could go back and change things . . . but life doesn't give do-overs. Could anything but good-byes be waiting on the other side of Sweetwater Gap?

Josie Mitchell's sister Laurel thinks she's come home to pitch in with the apple harvest and save the family orchard. Her brother-in-law Nate thinks she's there to talk the overworked, very pregnant Laurel into finally selling the family business. The orchard's new manager Grady Mackenzie just thinks she's trouble with a capital T. They're all right . . . and all wrong. Because no one really knows what drove Josie from home in the first place. Why she's never come home before, even for her own father's funeral. Why she pushes herself so hard . . . and what she's running from. And nobody, not even Josie, is prepared for the surprising new fruit she'll find on her last trip home.

Sharing my takeaway ~

A guilt-inducing phone call from her brother-in-law brings Josie Mitchell back home to Sweetwater Gap to help with the apple harvest. Orchard Manager Grady Mackenzie doesn't appreciate the help, especially when Josie admits she came home to convince her sister to sell the orchard.

Relating to Josie was a challenge. She carried a staggering amount of guilt for years, choosing to bottle it up inside rather than talk about it with her sister or aunt, and wrestled with low self-esteem. She made a conscious decision before the story started that I didn't understand (no spoilers). Maybe she had too many issues. On the other hand, Grady, aka Marlboro Man, was easy to like. Betrayed by his ex-wife, he's vulnerable and lonely, and fears that Josie only cozies up to him to convince him to sell his small share of the orchard. Even so, he's kind and sweet, regardless of how she treats him.

Usually, Hunter's true-to-life characters and oh-so-delectable romance jerk me right into the story until I lose all track of time. But for me, Josie's heavy unresolved issues overwhelmed the actual romance in this book. That said, Sweetwater Gap is definitely one of those books that will leave you pondering long after you turn the last page. 

Disclaimer: I purchased Sweetwater Gap. The opinions expressed in this review are my own, and I received no monetary compensation.

Excited about Reading: Hope Harbor by Irene Hannon

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The Cover Story~ 
Tracy Campbell never wanted to leave Hope Harbor, Oregon, or the idyllic three-generation cranberry farm where she grew up. But life--and love--altered her plans. When tragedy strikes and changes her plans yet again, she finds herself back in her hometown with a floundering farm to run and a heartbreaking secret. Romance is not on her agenda. Nor is it on Michael Hunter's. The visitor from Chicago has daunting secrets of his own. But when Tracy recruits him to help save a struggling charitable organization, the winds of change begin to sweep through Hope Harbor, bringing healing, hope, and love to countless lives--including their own.

Sharing my take~
Meet the major players. Tracy Campbell, part time accountant and full time cranberry farmer. Michael Hunter, guilt-ridden, grieving businessman from Chicago who came to Hope Harbor to honor a wish of his late wife. Anna Williams, recluse, taking in wounded animals to make up for the two-decades-long rift with her estranged son. Charley, artist and taco maker (and angel?). And Floyd, a lonely seagull.

"In the beginning he brought his wife, but he's been coming by himself for the past four months. I guess something happened to her."
A husband and wife seagull pair.
Tickled by that fanciful notion, Michael dug out a few stray pieces of taco filling and tossed them to Floyd, who scarfed down the treat. "Maybe he'll get married again."
"He might, down the road...but gulls mate for life, and this one's still in mourning." 

Lonely and wounded by love...kind of sums up all of the characters in Hope Harbor except Charley, who seemed to be the orchestrater of healing. I enjoyed the story and how the characters grew during the course of the book, and I appreciated the parallel of their relationship with that of the seagulls. That said, the romantic chemistry was stiff and a bit lacking for me.

Ever read a book where you almost felt as if you were there? This is one of those books. The "charming Oregon seaside village" came to life. At times I felt like I was walking along the dikes of the cranberry farm flicking away bees or sitting on the picnic table outside Charley's food trailer, the sea breeze kissing my cheeks.

But what really ramped this book up for me was its theme of forgiveness and restoration.

"Are you condoning her behavior?"
"No. But I guess I've gotten more tolerant of mistakes as I've grown older and made plenty of my own. It seems to me it's better to treat people in the midst of a crisis with compassion than censure or criticism."

Hope Harbor isn't a fluffy book to wile away a lazy afternoon. It's deep and packs a powerful message. Don't pick up this book for the romance. Pick it up because of the story.

Disclaimer: Sending my thanks to NetGalley and Revell for the privilege of reading and reviewing Hope Harbor. I was provided a free copy of the book in exchange for my fair and unbiased review. I was in no way compensated for my review.

Excited about Reading: Now & Forever by Mary Connealy

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The Cover Story ~

Saddle up for romance and adventure with the Wilde sisters!

Shannon Wilde is the middle sister--and the one who loves animals. She's established her own homestead and is raising sheep for their wool. Things are going fine...until Shannon gets swept over a cliff by Matthew Tucker!

Tucker seizes every opportunity to get away from civilization, but one particular walk in the woods ends with him sprinting away from an angry grizzly and plunging into a raging river, accidentally taking Shannon Wilde with him. Their adventure in the wilderness results in the solitary mountain man finding himself hitched to a young woman with a passel of relatives, a homestead, and a flock of sheep to care for.

As Tucker and Shannon learn to live with each other, strange things begin to happen on Shannon's land. Someone clearly wants to drive her off, but whoever it is apparently didn't count on Tucker. Trying to scare Matthew Tucker just makes him mad--and trying to hurt the woman he's falling in love with sets off something even he never expected. 

Sharing my takeaway ~
I just love Connealy's kick-em-in-the-teeth, explosive, laugh-out-loud openings scenes! They never fail to yank me right into the story. By the end of the first chapter, my palms are sweaty and hubby's asking what is so funny. Now & Forever was no different.  

Circumstances led Shannon and Tucker to an abrupt wedding shortly into the book, but the romance didn't stop there. No, it progressed until the very last page, sweet, funny and oh-so-tender. There was never any doubt about their love for each other. They had plenty of obstacles, though, to keep me turning pages.

Nightmares plague Shannon and at one point she questions where God was during the war. Tucker's faith is steadfast and sure, and I like how he responded without judgment, by suggesting that she bring her doubts to God and not to hide them, that God's big enough to handle our doubts.

I thought Tried & True, the first book in the Wild at Heart series featuring Kylie and Aaron, might've been my favorite Connealy book, but I was wrong. Now & Forever took its place, but that seems to happen with every one of her books. Both books can be read as stand alone, but trust me and just start with the first one. You won't be sorry! Contemporary and historical romance readers alike will enjoy Now & Forever. Set aside a few hours to read it, though, because you won't be able to put it down! 

Disclaimer: Sending a big thanks to NetGalley and Baker Publishing Group/Bethany House Publishers for the privilege of reviewing Now & Forever. I was provided a free copy of the book in exchange for my fair and unbiased review.

On My Kindle ~ BEYOND THE WAVES by Lynnette Bonner

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The Cover Story~
Can a Love Shattered by the Sands of Time...Rise Beyond the Waves?

Taysia Green nearly chokes on her water when Officer Kylen Sumner shows up in her office claiming he’s back in town because he loves her. Since he’s broken her heart more than once, and she recently started dating youth pastor Blaine Pittman, she wants absolutely nothing to do with Kylen. But he’s been asked to stand in as the mediator between Taysia and wannabe model Sophia Clinesmith, who twisted her ankle in the parking lot of Taysia’s business and is threatening a lawsuit.

If she didn’t need him to help save her gym, Taysia would tell Kylen to take a long midnight walk on a short cliffside trail. She’s perfectly happy with her life just the way it is. So why is it that just the sight of Kylen Sumner sets her traitorous heart to dancing faster than it did the time Blaine kissed her?

Sharing my thoughts~ 
Don't you just love reunion stories, especially where the characters never stopped loving each other, and the hero is oh so determined to overcome his past mistakes and show the heroine how much he's changed? :dreamy sigh: Totally my kinda read and write, and Beyond the Waves is exactly all that and more!

Back in high school, Taysia didn't hang out with the cool kids. When Kylen moved next door during the summer and they struck up a tight friendship that quickly transitioned to romance, she warned him that he would be ostracized, but he only scoffed. You see where that's going, right? Yeah, Kylen broke her heart...twice. After a few years apart, Kylen's back, and he's determined to romance the woman who never let go of his heart, to show her that he's a changed man.

And romance he does, with gifts and flirting and buckets of romantic tension. I thoroughly enjoyed several laugh-out-loud funny scenes, but Beyond the Waves isn't all fun and fluff. It tackles some tough topics like abortion, premarital sex, pregnancy outside of marriage, with sensitivity and a tender touch, and a gentle faith thread makes the entire plot a beautiful tapestry, a book I was loathe to put down because I sooo wanted Kylen and Taysia to reach their happily ever after.

"None of us deserve grace, Sophia. I certainly didn't. But God gave it to me when I asked Him. So how can I give any less to those around me?"

Lynnette Bonner is a new author to me, but she's definitely on my radar now! And I can't wait to dive into Caught in the Current, the second book in the Pacific Shores series, featuring Marie and Reece several years later. Of course, the sweet excerpt at the end of this book with an adorable three-year-old just whet my appetite! Overall, I'm so thrilled to add another author to my must-read list!

"We all make mistakes. And since there's no going back, only forward, it doesn't make a whole lot of sense to linger on those mistakes. We just ask for forgiveness from those we've wronged, and try to do better next time." 

Disclaimer: I received this book free from Amazon. The opinions expressed in this review are my own, and I received no monetary compensation.

Curl Up with this Holiday Romance...

Buy Links: Pelican Book Group & Amazon

“Do you believe in second chances, Chaney?” His voice rumbled near, tickling the bare skin on her neck.

Was he referring to them? Or to his skating career? The air compressed from her lungs, but somehow she managed to squeeze out a raspy, “Yeah.”

His gaze never left her face, but his fingers moved to toy with the ends of her hair. Sliding the strands through his fingertips, a tic tightened his jaw and his lips firmed into a straight line.

Of its own accord, her palm reached up to cover his cheek, his whiskers scratchy against her skin. It wouldn’t ease the pain or regret over his past choices, but perhaps she could offer small comfort now.

“Do you think we might have a second chance?” His lashes dipped to hide his expression from her. She almost missed the naked vulnerability, the loneliness.

“A second chance at…?” She held her breath, waiting, hoping he wasn’t referring to their Olympic dreams.

“Us.” His lips covered hers, gentle and tentative, soft and tender. When her hand curled around his neck and dragged him closer, he deepened the kiss and slid one arm around her waist while the other cupped her cheek, his thumb wreaking havoc with her pulse.

Oh, dear God in heaven, I love this man. What will I do if he leaves again?

What readers are saying about Christmas in the Rink:

"Tis the season for love, faith and joy and what better way to experience them than by reading this book!" ~ Sally Shupe

"...a marvelous novella that reminds us dreams may be set aside for a reason and forgiveness can heal hearts. A lovely story for the season!" ~ Julie Steele

“Washed up Olympic hopeful looking for part time mechanic's job.”

Not quite the glamorous life Conner Weddington envisioned during those countless hours of high school skating practices; but after his mother’s untimely death on Christmas Day, Conner joined the Army and left everything behind, including the father who despised his dreams, and his beautiful skate partner, Chaney Mitchum.

Chaney Mitchum understands why Conner left, but he stole her Olympic aspirations along with her heart. She's never matched that graceful rhythm with another partner, so with her dreams squelched and an adorable niece who requires her attention, Chaney fills her days with diapers and students, not pleasure skating or romance.

Now that Conner's back in town, will he reclaim the joy he once felt about Christmas and faith? Can Chaney and Conner rediscover their poetic elegance on the ice?

Buy Links: Pelican Book Group & Amazon

On My Kindle ~ Vegas Vacation by Clare Revell

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Sharing my review~
I always look forward to reading Clare Revell's latest romantic suspense, so I was thrilled to load Vegas Vacation on my kindle. Who wouldn't love reading about an English heiress who vacations in Vegas, becomes the target of an unknown assassin, and falls in love with a law enforcement hero? I was all over it.

Sgt. Martin Ames has just filed his retirement papers after an on-the-job incident robs him of his self esteem as well as other medical issues when the boss orders him to babysit spoiled Lady Tamlyn Bradshaw. Tamlyn's in Vegas vacationing, her first without her overprotective father, when her bodyguard ends up in the hospital with food poisoning. Personalities clash while Martin tries to protect her, which isn't easy. Tamlyn's used to having her way, but soon realizes that Martin's way is better, safer, and definitely more enjoyable. Tamlyn's attraction and encouragement is just what Martin needs to feel whole again.

Just 154 pages, I found myself wishing Vegas Vacation was a few pages longer, for the romance to blossom and old friendships (like Lia) to deepen as much as the action popped. Did I mention the action popped?? lol. Still, I wasn't disappointed especially with a twist I hadn't seen coming. While some events seemed a tad rushed, the intense action, budding romance, and a "relationship not religion" theme kept me turning pages. Definitely a book that'll be hard to put down!

Disclaimer: Sending a big thank you to the author for allowing me the privilege of reviewing Vegas Vacation and for the free copy I received in exchange for my fair and unbiased review. This opinion is my own, and I received no compensation.

If you enjoy curling up in front of the fireplace with stories like this...

She gazed up at him, those luscious, forest-green eyes trusting, glowing with pleasure. Her spicy fruit and floral scent drifted up to him, and suddenly, he wanted nothing more than to kiss those strawberry red lips.

His arm tightened around her, and he tugged her up, bringing their torsos together so close that their breaths mingled and they became one form against the ice. Her eyes widened, and then her dark lashes rested against ivory cheeks.

Was she really inviting him to kiss her? But she didn’t know…didn’t know what he did for a living now. And shouldn’t he apologize first for stealing her dreams with his impetuous choice?

“I’m sorry, Chaney.” His voice came out husky, overflowing with broken dreams and pent-up longing. All he’d ever really wanted in life had been his faith, Chaney, and skating.

He had reconciled with God over the lost years. Had even picked up his skates again, and this time, no one could stop him from skating. But Chaney? He was probably the last person she wanted in her life right now.

Her lids flashed open, and her chest lifted with a sigh. Her hand floated up to cradle his cheek, her palm smooth against the rough smattering of whiskers. “It’s OK, Conner. You need to let it go. I have.”

“Have you? Really?”

That little gem is from Christmas in the Rink, a Christmas Extravaganza romance available on December 1st with Pelican Book Group. 

It’s bursting with family and laughter, sprinkled with grace and forgiveness, and weaved with reclaimed joy and rekindled faith. If you enjoy curling up in front of the fireplace with stories like this and you'd be willing to post an honest review at your favorite online hangouts, email me at Dora(at)DoraHiers(dot)com for a PDF copy. I only have a handful of review copies, so don't wait! 

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“Washed up Olympic hopeful looking for part time mechanic's job.”

Not quite the glamorous life Conner Weddington envisioned during those countless hours of high school skating practices; but after his mother’s untimely death on Christmas Day, Conner joined the Army and left everything behind, including the father who despised his dreams, and his beautiful skate partner, Chaney Mitchum.

Chaney Mitchum understands why Conner left, but he stole her Olympic aspirations along with her heart. She's never matched that graceful rhythm with another partner, so with her dreams squelched and an adorable niece who requires her attention, Chaney fills her days with diapers and students, not pleasure skating or romance.

Now that Conner's back in town, will he reclaim the joy he once felt about Christmas and faith? Can Chaney and Conner rediscover their poetic elegance on the ice?

On My Kindle ~ The Yuletide Angel by Sandra Ardoin

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Sharing my review
What a fun premise! A Good Samaritan makes weekly deliveries during the weeks leading up to Christmas, delivering precious supplies to the needy in the community, and the next door neighbor who secretly loves her catches her in the act. 

Violet Madison considers herself plain and socially inept, but this small act of kindness emboldens her. Hugh Barnes sees beauty and a kind heart in Violet, and he determines to protect her during her clandestine missions. It was neat to see how Violet and Hugh grew over the course of the story, Violet morphing from shy and quiet to bold and empowered and Hugh dealing with past hurts inflicted by his brother.

"...what is it you want?"

Kit settled into the nearest chair, crossed his legs, and propped his hat on his knee. After a moment of silence, he said, "Forgiveness.""

We discussed this situation five years ago. You're forgiven." Even as he spoke, Hugh recognized the statement as a lie. Forgiving his brother meant a renewal of their relationship.

Haven't we all experienced a toxic family member, someone who hurts us repeatedly with their vicious zingers whether with words or deeds? This hit home for me, so I was glad to see that Kit had truly changed. Even so, I appreciated that their relationship wasn't restored immediately and that it took Hugh a little while to come to grips with his brother's new behavior.

The Yuletide Angel was a quick read with a clever plot and spiritual depth that kept me turning pages. For my taste, I would have liked more romantic interludes (read kissing) between Hugh and Violet, but I understand that society in the late 1800's didn't permit much of that. :) Overall, The Yuletide Angel was a pleasant way to spend a couple hours, and a great read for all seasons.

Disclaimer: Sending a big thank you to Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas and the author for allowing me the privilege of reviewing The Yuletide Angel and for the free copy I received in exchange for my fair and unbiased review. This opinion is my own, and I received no compensation.

CIA? Her neighbor...seriously?

Purchase Links: Pelican Book Group  Amazon

After a humiliating breakup, best-selling romance author Teal Benning flees to Promise Lake to complete her current novel, minus paparazzi and flashing cameras. Suffering from writer's block and a broken heart, Teal accepts the offer of help from neighbor, Hunter Miciver.

Hunter longs to be more than the friend who picks up the shattered pieces of Teal's heart, but when Teal finds out his secret, will she see him for the man he is—a man of faith and devotion, a man who would cherish her for the rest of her days—or will she lump him into the same category as all the other men in her life, including her father?

Will Teal recognize when truth whispers her name?

On My Kindle ~ Silenced by Dani Pettrey

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Jake Knew Something Was Wrong.
But He Never Guessed How Wrong.

A relaxing day of rock climbing takes a disturbing turn when Kayden McKenna's route brings her face-to-face with a dead climber. Is it a terrible accident or something darker? When the case is handed to overburdened sheriff Landon Grainger, he turns to Jake Westin for help. With Jake's past now revealed, he's ready to use his talent for investigation again--but he could never prepare for where the mystery will take him.

Kayden's climbing expertise soon leads her and Jake to the realization that the death was no accident. And worse, it seems the killer is onto them. When strange things begin happening in Yancey, Jake is terrified that once again his world may put someone he loves in danger. But the truth is far worse than he could ever imagine.

My Review:

Kayden scaled the rock face, the addictive burn spreading through her arms, her body. Man, she loved this--hanging on the edge of a seven-hundred-fifty-foot sheer cliff face, knowing one wrong grab meant death.

Do you get the idea Kayden thrives on danger? We've gotten to know the entire McKenna clan more with every Alaskan Courage book. Kayden's a bit closed off for me, and the one I find toughest to relate to probably because she's so tough and independent. She's committed to not marrying or having children since her mother's death from rheumatoid arthritis, and even keeps her brothers and sister at arm's length. And Jake? We finally found out about the mysterious Jake in the last book, Stranded. Jake had been a homicide detective in his prior life, but after his wife and unborn daughter were murdered, he chose Yancey to hide and heal from the pain. Kayden's been at odds with the Jake throughout the entire series, her interactions with him full of doubt and mistrust, but now that his past has been revealed, she finally admits that she's drawn to him.

"God doesn't promise the way will be easy, far from it, but He promises to carry us through, to give us the courage and grace we need when we need it. He most often doesn't change the circumstances, He changes us." ~Jake to Kayden

The faith thread was gentle, laced with a few prayers and this little goodie. The theme really resonated with me: that a person should live their life to the fullest, without letting fear guide their choices. The plot was fast-paced in a hang-on-to-your-seat kinda way, but, for me, there were so many different pieces to the puzzle, by the end, I still wasn't sure how they fit together. If you enjoy fast-paced thrillers with a little romance mixed in, you'll enjoy Silenced. While it wasn't my favorite book of the Alaskan Courage series, it definitely kept me turning pages for a few hours. Each of the books are stand-alones, but since the McKenna clan is a close-knit bunch who show up in every book, you'll probably enjoy it more if you start with the first book.

Disclaimer: Sending a big thank you to Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley for allowing me the privilege of reviewing Silenced and for the free copy I received in exchange for my fair and unbiased review. This opinion is my own, and I received no compensation.

On My Kindle ~ Stuck Together by Mary Connealy

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When a lawman who values order gets stuck with a feisty crusader who likes to stir things up, there's going to be trouble in Texas! 

Tina Cahill, newly arrived from the East, is determined to get the saloon in Broken Wheel, Texas, closed for good. To that end, she pickets outside the place every afternoon. Unfortunately, so far no one has paid any attention.

Vince Yates earned the nickname "Invincible Vince" because of his reputation for letting absolutely nothing stop him. Not his tyrant of a father. Nor the injuries he suffered in the Civil War. Nor the fact that he is Broken Wheel's only attorney and sheriff yet has no law degree.

But Vince is about to face his biggest challenge yet: his past has just caught up with him. His father, mother, and the sister he didn't know he had show up in Broken Wheel without warning. His father is still a schemer. His mother is suffering signs of dementia. And his surprise sister immediately falls for one of Vince's best friends. Vince has a lot of people to take care of, and Tina doesn't approve of how he's handling any of them. But with almost all the other men in town married off, Vince finds himself stuck with feisty Tina over and over again. Of course, Tina is the prettiest woman he's ever seen, so if he could just get her to give up her causes, he might go ahead and propose. But he's got one more surprise coming his way: Tina's picketing at the saloon has revealed a dark secret that could put everyone Vince loves in danger.

Sharing my thoughts~

There are only a handful of historical authors whose books I automatically snatch up, and Connealy, queen of romantic comedy with cowboys, is one of them. She had me chuckling from the very first scene, a wild saloon brawl instigated by the heroine. Tina, a woman who's been abandoned for most of her life, is always thinking of causes to fight for, and she's determined to shut down the saloon by picketing. As much as she annoys Vince, a self-acclaimed lawyer and a not-wannabe town-appointed sheriff, he can't help but appreciate her spunkiness. 

Broken Wheel was a north Texas town set smack-dab in the middle of Indian Territory. Only idiots lived here, and idiots rarely needed a lawyer. Vince figured it was only fair to count himself and all of his friends among the idiots.

Vince hightailed it away from his childhood home after he healed from the war, escaping a mother with dementia and a tyrant father. But that doesn't last long and Invincible Vince finds himself caretaker for his mother and a sister he never knew existed. As much as he might enjoy a lasting relationship with Tina, Vince recognizes that it's only a matter of time before it becomes apparent which parent he'll take after, and he refuses to pass either of those genes down to a child or to saddle his wife with a tyrant or a man who can't remember her name. For me, how and when Vince finally resolves this issue seemed hasty and a bit rushed. But then, he was tracking down a...well, I won't spoil your reading pleasure. :)

We met Vince and Tina in the second book in the Trouble in Texas series, Fired Up, where the fireworks were already sparking between these two. You can read my review here. All of the Trouble in Texas books can be read as stand alones, but really, why not scoop them up and settle in for a few laughs? With subtle spiritual references, both mainstream and inspirational romance lovers will enjoy Stuck Together.

Disclaimer: Sending a big thank you to Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley for allowing me the privilege of reviewing Stuck Together and for the free copy I received in exchange for my fair and unbiased review. This opinion is my own, and I received no compensation.

Have you read A BRIDE FOR KEEPS by Melissa Jagears?

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About the book~
Everett Cline will never humiliate himself by seeking a mail-order bride. Not again. He's already been jilted by three mail-order brides and figures a wife just isn't in his future. However, a well-meaning neighbor hasn't given up on seeing him settled, so she goes behind his back to bring yet another woman to town for him.

Julia Lockwood has never been anything more than a pretty pawn for her father or a business acquisition for her former fiance. A mail-order marriage in faraway Kansas is a last resort, but she'll do anything to leave her life in Massachusetts and the heartbreak she's experienced there.

Although Everett doesn't see how a beautiful, cultured woman like Julia could be happy sharing his simple life, he could really use a helpmate on his homestead. Determined to prove she's more than just a pretty face, Julia agrees to a marriage in name only. Faced with the harsh realities of life on the prairie and hesitant to explore the tentative feelings growing between them, can Everett and Julia ever let each other in long enough to fall in love?

Sharing my thoughts~
Wow! A Bride for Keeps is one of those books that I wondered if the hero and heroine would actually find their happily ever after!

Poor Everett. Mail order brides never chose him, and he'd given up after four tries. So when his too-helpful neighbor persuaded her friend Julia to travel all the way from Boston to wed, Everett practically ignored her. Not only is he scared of rejection, but she's so beautiful. She'd never make it through a Kansas winter, and he doesn't want to give the town more reason for gossip.

Julia Lockwood's father and ex-fiance were only concerned about her good looks, and used her as a commodity, with no regard for love or her feelings. When she arrived in Kansas, Everett's features remind her of her ex-fiance, almost frightening her off. But she'd traveled all this way, and her friend wouldn't lead her astray. Besides, without any other living relatives, she has no other options.

He needs help on the farm. She needs protection and a roof over her head. They strike a deal, and along the way Everett decides he wants this bride for keeps. This book is so much bigger than the romance, although it's sweet, and at times, frustrating. A Bride for Keeps shows us that no matter the dark shadows of our past that continually rise up and taunt us, with God's help, we can overcome. God covers us with forgiveness and healing, and breaks the chains of fear so we can move on with our lives. It's about a loving God who never gives up on us and showers us with grace. A Bride for Keeps is a definite keeper for my kindle shelf!

Disclosure: Sending a big thanks to NetGalley and Bethany House Publishing for providing me with an advance review copy. The opinions expressed in this review are my own, and I received no monetary compensation.

Sharing my Review of TAPESTRY OF TRUST by Mary Annslee Urban

The Blurb:

Isabelle had always envisioned Charlie Hamilton as the hero depicted in the romantic tapestry hanging in the Hamilton home. Then Charlie abandoned her to make decisions no one should make alone. Now, six years later, Charlie's back, and despite Isabelle's best efforts, she can't ignore the longing his presence reignites. Charlie wants a second chance, but can Isabelle trust the man he's become? Can she surrender her threadbare heart long enough for God to weave Isabelle's own happily-ever-after tapestry?

My Review:

What a powerful debut story by Mary Annslee Urban. Here's an author who shares a story rich with emotions, specifically the pain, grief and destruction caused by deception. Make sure you have a tissue handy!

A deaf cat reintroduces the main characters, Charlie and Isabelle, after six years. Immediately, you knew this would be a story of forgiveness and healing, of second chances and extending grace. Without giving away any spoilers, I really enjoyed how the author threw in different twists, taking you in a different direction than what you expected. Ms. Urban created strong secondary characters as well, like Mrs. Hamilton, Charlie's mother, and Brenda, Charlie's secretary, who played a major role, especially toward the end.

If you prefer more sensuality in your reading, more sexual tension, this story probably isn't for you. But, if you like stories with a powerful tug to your heart, definitely go for this one! Overall, this is a great read, and I absolutely love how Ms. Urban correlates the title, Tapestry of Trust, into the story. Well-done!

Purchase Link

My Review of KICKING ETERNITY by Ann Lee Miller

The Blurb:
Stuck in sleepy New Smyrna Beach one last summer, Raine socks away her camp pay checks, worries about her druggy brother, and ignores trouble: Cal Koomer. She’s a plane ticket away from teaching orphans in Africa, and not even Cal’s surfer six-pack and the chinks she spies in his rebel armor will derail her.

The artist in Cal begs to paint Raine’s ivory skin, high cheek bones, and internal sparklers behind her eyes, but falling for her would caterwaul him into his parents’ live. No thanks. The girl was self-righteous waiting to happen. Mom served sanctimony like vegetables, three servings a day, and he had a gut full.

Rec Director Drew taunts her with “Rainey” and calls her an enabler. He is so infernally there like a horsefly—till he buzzes back to his ex.

Raine’s brother tweaks. Her dream of Africa dies small deaths. Will she figure out what to fight for and what to free before it’s too late?

My Review:
I confess that Kicking Eternity started a little slow for me, but as I got to know each of the four main characters, I found myself warming to them, wanting to read on. 


One of Ms. Miller's strong points was her sprinkling of sensory details. Details so vivid, you could practically feel the Florida beach sand sliding through your toes and the storm kicking up the waves. Kicking Eternity features relevant issues and great conflict: staunch Christian girl battles attraction to rebellious, non-conforming guy. A couple extra characters thrown in to muddy the mix is sure to be the start of a successful series for this author. Young adult readers on up will enjoy Ms. Miller's unique and fresh writing style in Kicking Eternity. 

Disclosure: I received this book from the author for a fair and honest review.

Amazon buy link

About Ann: 

Ann Lee Miller earned a BA in creative writing from Ashland (OH) University and writes full-time in Phoenix, but left her heart in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where she grew up. She loves speaking to young adults and guest lectures on writing at several Arizona colleges. When she isn’t writing or muddling through some crisis—real or imagined—you’ll find her hiking in the Superstition Mountains with her husband or meddling in her kids’ lives. 

JOURNEY'S EDGE releases today!

A Routine Audit? Hardly.

Red flags—including some goon who's following her—raise McKinley Frasier's suspicions that numbers don't add up at the insurance firm. When someone tries to snatch McKinley's daughter from school, she turns to police officer and ex-fiance, Renner Crossman—the cop who walked out on her a month before their wedding. But Renner's not the same guy who broke her heart ten years ago. He calls himself a "new man." She trusts the new Renner with her daughter's safety...but what about her heart?


"Honey, if you’re looking for that kind of action, you’ve got the wrong room."

"What?" McKinley gasped. She knew that voice, that rich timbre with just a hint of teasing. Always teasing, forever flirting.

Renner Crossman.

Oh, no! What kind of twisted sense of humor did James suffer from? She didn’t want to see Renner. She only wanted to know that he was in the hotel.

McKinley tilted her head back, inching her line of vision up to Renner’s face. Just to be sure. A lot could change after ten years. Look at her. She was a prime example.

She heard his deep intake of breath. Shock? Yeah, well, she could relate.

"Kinny?"

Ten years faded into yesterday. Those espresso-colored eyes still gleamed with mischief. Or was it something else? Maybe he hadn’t changed that much.

His hands tightened around her arms, pulling her against him. She closed her eyes and leaned into his chest.

Renner.

His heart thumped a tune with hers. His breath whispered against her hair. And the scent of his aftershave was like a dear friend. She sighed.

What was it about him that latched on to her innermost dreams and desires and wouldn’t let go? His grin? His have-no-cares-in-the-world style against her organized, have-to-know-everything-beforehand outlook?

He looped his arms around her back and pressed his forehead to hers, just like he used to do. When he’d made her feel loved and cherished. Protected. Special.

A clamp tightened around her stomach, cut off air, and she almost tossed the cookies she’d scarfed down in place of dinner. Gag.

Special.

Yeah, right. More like used and abused. Thrown away with the trash.

She wasn’t safe in here, either. She braced her hands against his chest and jerked a step back, telling her brain to reject his familiar, comforting scent. She would take her chances in the hall.

Available with White Rose Publishing.

Meet McKinley Frasier from JOURNEY'S EDGE

Hi. I’m McKinley Frasier. An Auditor with a CPA firm, not my dream job, but it pays the bills and keeps a roof over our heads. I’m a mom to an adorable nine-year-old daughter, Tessa. I’ve cherished a lifetime friendship, and I’m single by choice. People may think I have my life together.

Hah! They’d be wrong. Right now I’m desperately ducking the creep who followed me to the hotel, this week’s client, Malcolm Brugman. Or should I say, fraudster?

And avoiding the ex-fiance who dumped me ten years ago, Renner Crossman, who happens to be staying in the same hotel. Why am I thinking about Renner Crossman now anyway? I haven’t thought of him in what? Two days? Not since his totally-off-the-radar phone message. Yeah, well, that apology was about ten years too late. Did he really think I wouldd come running to accept his face-to-face apology? As if!

So explain to me how I ended up wrapped in Renner’s strong arms, hearing his heart thump, and shivering when his breath whispered against my hair? What is it about him that latches on to my innermost dreams and desires and won’t let go? His grin? His have-no-cares-in-the-world attitude colliding with my organized, have-to-know-everything-beforehand outlook?

OK, so maybe I’m not totally over him. But I will be when he finds out about Tessa. And Tessa’s father? It’s probably best not to go down that road…

Journey's Edge

Book 2 in the Marshals of Journey Creek series

coming 3/30/12

with

White Rose Publishing

Meet Renner Crossman from JOURNEY'S EDGE

Hey. Renner Crossman here. The new and improved version, not the old Renner, the jerk who seduced women, then dumped them. Walls painted white by God’s grace, I’m determined to set things right with people I’ve wronged in my life. Beginning with Kinny.

Beautiful, wholesome, pristine Kinny. Like springtime opening her arms wide after a long, harsh winter; new blossoms popping out to embrace the sun. Unspoiled, if you catch my drift, until a month before our wedding date.

So, I called Kinny a few days ago to apologize, right? Got her voice mail and left her a message asking to meet in person. I could have called that number a hundred times just to hear that sweet voice. Yeah, I’m so not over her.

But, I did the right thing breaking up with her, even if it was lousy timing. She blamed me for the deaths of her mother and brother. Well, not me, but the badge in general.

Ten years later, I’m still a cop, just a different kind: a Deputy U.S. Marshal. That won’t matter to Kinny, though. I still carry a gun and a badge. So, it’s probably best that she blew me off and didn’t show up tonight. With an early morning appointment for a job transfer to Charlotte and plans to hunt down a house near my friends, my plate’s mighty full.

When Kinny stumbles into my room after midnight, a thug hot on her heels, what choice do I have but to protect her? Will she still see me as the “old” Renner? Or can I model the “new man” in Christ? 

Journey's Edge

Book 2 in the Marshals of Journey Creek series

coming 3/30/12

with

White Rose Publishing

Journey's Embrace by Dora Hiers

Introducing

Journey's Embrace

Book #3 in the Marshals of Journey Creek series

by Dora Hiers

Coming Soon

with White Rose Publishing.

Want a sneak peek? Here's an unofficial back cover copy:

After an injury forces Deputy U.S. Marshal Sage Michaelson off duty, he heads to his hometown with two things on his mind: recuperating and reevaluating. Sage can’t refuse his best friend’s plea to keep a protective eye on his younger sister after someone ransacks her house. But Delaney’s not so little anymore…and definitely not the “Dane” Sage remembers.

Flight Medic Delaney Hunt has loved Sage forever. But, he’s all about control and order while she embraces life and takes risks. She doesn’t need Sage looking over her shoulder, as much the idea appeals to her. But when her life hangs by her fingertips, who does she call to rescue her?

Will Delaney ever be the woman Sage wants by his side? Can Sage learn to live by grace, recognizing that God is in control? Can they overcome their fears to embrace life together?

Welcome LoRee Peery with SAGE AND SWEETGRASS

Sage and Sweetgrass 

by LoRee Peery

Diagnosed with a chronic, debilitating illness, Lanae Petersen vows to pursue life to its fullest. When she discovers mysterious love letters hidden within an antique desk, she begins a quest to discover who the young lovers were. Little does she realize that in trying to bring closure to their lives, hers will be turned upside-down.

After the death of his wife, cowboy Sage Diamond wants to be left alone on his acreage in peace and anonymity. When Lanae approaches him with letters to a family member, she not only threatens to expose his family secrets, but also stirs something inside him that he neither expects, nor welcomes. Sage fights his attraction, determined not to fall for a woman whose health is so fragile. Can Sage trust God's guiding hand, or will his fear of losing another love crush his chance for a future with Lanae?

Excerpt:

The sky was clear and enormous where it met the horizon. The whinny of horses carried up from a pasture on the other side of the barn. The acreage represented everything she loved about being outside the city limits. Expanse, horses, a sprinkling of trees in the distance…God’s country.

When she caught sight of the cowboy, the vision was complete.

She sighed. Home. How crazy. She felt like she’d come home.

The cowboy rounded the corner of the wood-sided barn that she guessed to be sixty feet long. He loped in the loose way of a man comfortable on the back of a horse.

And she enjoyed every step as he approached.

He even tipped the brim of his hat. “Mornin’. You Lanae?”

Wow was the only thing she could think to say. But she kept it to herself.

Her mouth went dry.

His nose was bent, just off to the right of center. He had a full bottom lip, thinner upper, all accented by what she supposed was a year-round tan. Myriad facial lines gave testimony to a life lived outdoors.

She cleared her throat, mustered up some moisture for her vocal chords in order to answer, “That I am.”

“Sage Diamond.”

When he drew close enough, Lanae was dumbfounded at the impact of his eyes. They were an unbelievable piercing blue with a hint of lavender.

“Did you have any trouble finding the place?” Sage spoke in an unhurried manner.

Lanae wondered if he felt rushed about anything. She started to open the door.

“You always leave your car running?” A hint of amusement tugged at his mouth.

Oops. She turned the key. Great first impression.

He held the door.

Still caught in the lavender blue of his eyes, shadowed now from his hat, Lanae swallowed what felt like the chaff of an August hayfield.

No more singles ads for me.


Great excerpt, isn't it? Readers, look for Sage and Sweetgrass on 2/24 with White Rose Publishing.

Meet LoRee Peery: 

A Nebraska country girl most of her life, LoRee Peery feels she would be stifled surrounded by concrete instead of open spaces. LoRee and her husband live in a home built with their own hands.

LoRee clings to the word overcomer and the knowledge she has victory in Jesus. When she considers being set apart as a child of God, she is humbled. She believes in redeeming grace, and if we open our eyes, we will see the hand of God every day, no matter where we are.