by admin | Aug 25, 2015 | Books, Romance, Texas, Western
MY REVIEW:
“The Cactus Creek Challenge” was a fun read from the beginning to the very end. What could be more fun than two men and two women exchanging jobs for a month as part of their town’s annual challenge? And to have to swap jobs with the man you love who still thinks of you as a kid sister? Well Cassie Bucknell has a lot to prove to Ben Wilder and she does not intend to give up easily.
It was so entertaining to see Ben trying to teach Cassie’s students, Cassie’s efforts to prove herself as sheriff, brawny Carl’s attempts to run the bakery, and frail-looking Jenny’s struggles to keep the livery going. As you can imagine, this book was filled with humorous incidents as each character attempted to perform jobs that were totally unsuitable for them. With a bit of suspense mixed in and not one but two romances in the works, “The Cactus Creek Challenge” was well nigh perfect. Here’s hoping this author has another fun-filled installment in the works.
A copy of this book was provided by Barbour Publishing Review Crew.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Anything he can do, I can do better. At least that was what Cassie Bucknell thought before she pinned on Ben Wilder’s badge and took to patrolling the streets of Cactus Creek, Texas. Cassie has been in love with Ben since primer school, but Ben treats her like a little sister. When they are picked to swap jobs for a month as part of the annual Cactus Creek Challenge in their Texas hometown, the schoolhouse is thrown into an uproar, the jail becomes a temporary bank vault, and Cassie and Ben square off in a battle of wills that becomes a battle for their hearts.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Erica Vetsch is a transplanted Kansan now residing in Minnesota. She loves history and romance, and is blessed to be able to combine the two by writing historical romances. Whenever she’s not immersed in fictional worlds, she’s the company bookkeeper for the family lumber business, mother of two, wife to a man who is her total opposite and soul-mate, and avid museum patron.
by admin | Aug 23, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Texas, Western
MY REVIEW:
“Counting on a Cowboy” is both fun and poignant. The perfect follow-up to the previous “Betting on Hope”, it not only included a brand new romance between Monahan brother Bo and Abby Knightly, but the continuing story lines involving side characters add even more interest.
After visiting and falling in love with Wishing Springs, Texas with Hope in the first book, it is no wonder that Abby chose the cozy little town as a place to start over. Still grieving over major loss in her life, Abby has no desire to even think about another man but when Bo finds himself with a challenge he cannot handle alone, Abby’s resistance is poor.
With bigger-than-life characters who are also believable, “Counting on a Cowboy” is a story of healing, forgiveness, and love. I reached the end of this wonderful tale much too quickly and cannot wait for the next installment to find out what lucky lady will make confirmed bachelor Jarrod change his mind.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
After losing everything she held dear, Abby never wants to love again. But a certain cowboy may just spur her to wonder if love might be worth the risk.
Running from a past that haunts her, Abby Knightly is drawn to the cozy town of Wishing Springs, Texas. Maybe this small town could offer hope and healing and a future for Abby . . . if she’s brave enough to reach out and take it by the reins.
Bo Monahan isn’t interested in the new romantic destination his little town has become—or the women who might be looking at him like he’s their next Mr. Right. Between taking care of his Pops and his growing stirrup business, he isn’t looking for serious romantic commitments. But when the infant son he never knew about shows up at his doorstep, his world is turned upside down.
This confirmed bachelor might not think he needs a wife, but he sure needs help. Even Abby can see that, and despite her best efforts to keep her distance, she can’t help but be drawn to this new father-son duo. As Abby throws herself into helping Bo navigate fatherhood, hope sparks between them, revealing that maybe, just maybe, they can navigate their dark pasts and emerge together into a future as bright as the Texas sun itself.
Learn more and purchase a copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Debra Clopton is a multi-award winning novelist and has written more than 22 novels. Along with writing, Debra helps her husband teach the youth at their local Cowboy Church. Debra’s goal is to shine a light toward God while she entertains readers with her words.
Find out more about Debra at http://debraclopton.com.
A new tale of romance, family, and taking risks—don’t miss Debra Clopton’s Counting on a Cowboy! After losing everything she held dear, Abby never wants to love again. But a certain cowboy may just spur her to wonder if love might be worth the risk. As Abby throws herself into helping Bo navigate fatherhood, hope sparks between them, revealing that maybe, just maybe, they can navigate their dark pasts and emerge together into a future as bright as the Texas sun itself.
Saddle up with Debra and her new book and enter to win her Love at the Reins prize pack!
One grand prize winner will receive:
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on September 8th. The winner will be announced September 9th on
Debra’s blog.
by admin | Jun 1, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Texas
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingJustifiedDavid C. Cook (June 1, 2015)byVarina Denman
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
An avid reader and blogger, Varina Denman enjoys writing fiction about Christian women and the unique struggles they face. She seems to have a knack for describing small town life, and is currently working on the three-book Mended Heart Series. The first book in the series, Jaded, won the 2013 ACFW Genesis contest for romance.
Varina attended three Texas universities over a span of five years, majoring in four subjects and earning zero degrees. However, she can now boast sixteen years as a home educator, volunteering in the local cooperative where she has taught numerous subjects including creative writing and literature.
Even though Varina has spoken at ladies’ retreats and taught women’s Bible classes, she finds the greatest fulfillment facilitating prayer groups. She lives in Burleson, Texas, where she helps with Family Ministry in her home congregation. Varina is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and North Texas Christian Writers.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In a small Texas town ruled by gossip, Fawn Blaylock believes others are justified in condemning her untimely pregnancy. Stifled by guilt, she yearns for grace while the local football coach treats her with gentle respect.
Justified perfectly captures the rhythm and romance of life in a small town, telling the unforgettable story of a woman searching for renewal, a man looking beyond what others see, and a community torn between judgment and love. It is the unforgettable story of broken dreams, second chances, and relentless hope.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Justified, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
Justified is the second book in Denman’s Mended Hearts Series. The story seems to overlap the one that began in the first novel Jaded, and contains most of the characters introduced there. Fawn Blaylock is the featured character in Justified so readers will learn more about her story as well as those of Tyler, JohnScott, and Clyde. An added bonus is catching up with what is going on with Ruthie, Dodd, Grant, and several others.
When I read Jaded, I was not particularly impressed with Fawn’s character. In fact, she seemed to be one of those stuck-up, rich mean girls who are not very pleasant to be around. As I got deeper into this novel, it was easier to see the real person inside who was insecure and always seeking to gain her father’s approval. And who would ever have guessed that the popular head football coach JohnScott had his own lack of confidence, especially when it came to women? It’s also humorous to me that I didn’t like Ruthie nearly as well from Fawn’s point of view.
Justified is a novel laced with drama, romance, and family secrets. I found myself a bit aggravated with certain characters at times but I feel that it is an indication of a well-written book when I can get that involved with the characters. This novel deals with some hard topics such as abusive relationships and out-of-wedlock pregnancy but the situations are handled well. I liked how the author didn’t take the easy way out at the end by letting a particular character die but used the event to pave the way toward forgiveness and redemption.
by admin | May 29, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Texas
MY REVIEW:
Although I’ve never been there, there is a special place in my heart for Texas. I’m not sure exactly why – maybe all the westerns I watched with my Dad as a kid. But even the books that don’t feature cowboys appeal to me because I know enough people who live in Texas to know that they are not all on the ranch. Cabot’s Texas Crossroads series has no cowboys in particular but is really fun to read.
I loved “On Bluebonnet Lake”, the first book of the series, and I have enjoyed revisiting the Rainbow’s End resort to catch up on its characters and to see how things are going with the renovations. In the second book of the series, “In Firefly Valley” I was introduced to two new characters, Marisa, daughter of the resort cook Carmen and Blake, a friend of Greg, the resort owner.
Blake is a best-selling novelist who has hit the dreaded writer’s block and decided to try his friend’s somewhat isolated resort to see if it might boost his creative juices. Marisa has recently lost her job and has moved back to her hometown to take what she hopes will be a temporary job at Rainbow’s End. Of course regular readers of romance can guess that the two of them will end up together but what fun would that be without a good story leading up to happily-ever-after?
Marisa has numerous issues she needs to deal with – especially unforgiveness toward the alcoholic father who abandoned her and her mother. Her attitude is less than stellar and it doesn’t take very much to set her off. Despite his success, Blake has his own less than ideal childhood memories that have more influence on him than he wants to believe. During the course of the book, each of them must deal with their past and move on to be the people God designed them to be.
“In Firefly Valley” is an easily read and enjoyable book. The pace is unhurried with little action or suspense, but is more like a relaxing escape. For true lovers of romance, there is a bonus love story that is nearly as enjoyable as the one between Marisa and Blake. This is the perfect book for a weekend at the lake, beach, or the mountains. It is even the perfect book for relaxing with at home.
This book was provided for review by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
She’s lost her dream job–but has she found the man of her dreams?
Devastated by a downsizing, Marisa St. George has no choice but to return to the small Texas town where she grew up. Though it means a giant step backward, she accepts a position as business manager at the struggling Rainbow’s End resort. The only silver lining: Blake Kendall, a new guest who might make her believe in love at first sight. But will Marisa’s dreams of happily-ever-after be turned upside down when she discovers Blake’s real identity?
This warm and witty story of dreams deferred and mistaken identity will have you believing in second chances.
Praise for Amanda Cabot
“Amanda is a master at creating authentic characters with foibles and dreams.”–Jane Kirkpatrick, New York Times bestselling author of A Light in the Wilderness
“Uplifting and inspiring, the story speaks to the way nostalgia wisely finds a place in the modern world.”–Publishers Weekly starred review of At Bluebonnet Lake
by admin | Dec 31, 2014 | Books, Historical, Romance, Texas, Western
MY REVIEW:
The third book in Caryl’s Texas Romance series, “Hope Reborn” catches the reader up on the lives of characters from the previous two novels plus introduces new characters, particularly feisty May Meriweather. May is a popular author of dime novels but is bored with her usual stories. Determined to find adventure for herself and possible new subject matter for her novels, May sets out to Texas where she may just write her own story.
With memorable characters, Caryl’s signature humor, and plenty of adventure, drama, and romance, “Hope Reborn” is anything but fluff. A strong message of salvation runs throughout the entire story but it is presented well within the storyline. I enjoyed the unique twist that essentially had May writing the stories of the characters from the two previous novels – clever and fun!
I enjoyed this story of second chances and emotional healing that can only come from the Lord. It was wonderful to learn about how life turned out for Henry after his previous loss. I strongly recommend “Hope Reborn” but really encourage readers to read both “Vow Unbroken” and “Hearts Stolen” first. Each book can stand on its own merit but reading them in chronological order will add to your reading pleaesure.
A digital copy of this book was provided for review by the author.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Loss both tests faith and almost eradicates any expectations of enjoying a happy-ever-after life. However, the decision to temporarily change one’s existence, no matter how successful or how hopeless, can lead to rebirth—in either case.
New York novelist May Meriwether decides a heroic Texas Ranger will make a great love interest for her new novel’s heroine. Bored to tears with muscle-hard dapper heroes and their fluffy, semi-brainless counterparts and loving adventure, she decides to go to the Lone Star State and tells her right-hand man, constant companion, and confidant Chester to make the arrangements post haste.
While strong desires for a husband and children have been long since relegated to the recesses of her heart, the self-confessed old maid throws caution to the wind when she meets a near-perfect widower He resurrects a smidgeon of hope that dreams can come true. Only his impenetrable, superstitious religious beliefs stand in the path to her falling head over heels, those and his everlasting love for his dead wife.
Would there ever be room for her in his heart? And would he give up his fanaticism over God?
An unexpected romance surprises both. Hope is reborn in God’s unfailing love and grace. Can a life built on lies find the Way to confession, forgiveness, and true joy? In a day when the church offers the only stability on the 1850 Texas prairie, these unlikely players find one another and fall in love. But will it be enough?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Caryl has always loved to write and has published several books including the three novels of the Texas Romance series. For every good blessing – including 10 children (4 by birth, 6 by marriage) and 14 grandchildren – she gives God the glory. Caryl lives a country-life with Ron, her husband of forty-six years and four grandsons, outside Clarksville, Red River County Seat, located in far Northeast Texas
by admin | Nov 7, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Texas
MY REVIEW:
I am most familiar with Amanda Cabot’s historical novels but as I have enjoyed each and every one of them, I felt certain that I would also enjoy “At Bluebonnet Lake”, her latest novel which is contemporary fiction. I am happy to confirm that I did indeed enjoy every page.
I have a tendency to love books set in Texas, both historical and contemporary so “At Bluebonnet Lake” immediately had that going for it. I also tend to like stories with cowboys in them. Greg is NOT a cowboy. In fact he is a software designer who has made a fortune with the company he recently sold. Cowboy or not, Greg is just the right hero material for this book and I quickly forgave him for not being a cowboy. I liked the fact that Greg appeared to be an ordinary person like everyone else and no one knew how wealthy he was. Despite his wealth, he still battled deep-rooted insecurities instilled in him as a child.
On the other hand, Kate was an up-an-coming marketing guru with an eye on a partnership in the near future. With that goal in sight, she was not at all excited about spending an entire month in such a backwoods, run-down resort but her love for her grandmother kept her there. I will admit that I did not care very much for Kate at the beginning, but it didn’t take long at Rainbow’s End for her true colors to shine. Her interaction with the resort staff and people in the nearby town revealed a compassionate heart and a desire to help others. Kate’s drive and ambition stemmed from a desire to prove herself worthy.
There were so many things to like about this book. The characters were lifelike and quite likeable for the most part. Kate’s grandmother was a joy with just the right touch of wisdom and youthful determination. The plot moved along at a good pace and had a few surprises in store including a bonus romance. Faith was an integral part of the story but was never intrusive. The end was as expected but all the fun was getting to it.
“At Bluebonnet Lake” is about two very different people – one who has made it to the top of his field and is searching for a more simple life and one who is still driven to achieve the goal they have set before them. So what happens when these two meet and fall in love? Can they really find a future together? Will either be willing to even compromise their dreams for the other? I guess you will have to read the book to find out but I guarantee that you will enjoy the journey to learn their fate. I look forward to the next book in this series.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Her life is set to warp speed. His is slowing to a crawl. But love has its own timing.
Marketing maven Kate Sherwood’s world is fast-paced, challenging, and always changing. The last thing she wants to do is grind to a halt at Rainbow’s End, a dilapidated resort in the Texas Hill Country. Still, she cannot deny her ailing grandmother’s request to visit the place where she and her deceased husband spent one glorious week fifty years ago. There, Kate meets Greg, who appears to be the resort’s unassuming handyman. But there’s more to Greg than meets the eye–billions more, in fact.
Kate isn’t looking for romance, but she can’t deny the sparks of attraction that fly every time she and Greg are together. Could there be a future there? Or will Kate’s long-sought promotion take her back to the big city?
Amanda Cabot invites you to step into a place away from the pressures of the day. You might be surprised by what you find at Rainbow’s End.
Endorsements
“Two insecure overachievers meet in an unlikely setting and find themselves confronted by upside-down and inside-out questions: What, and who, is truly important in life? Anyone who loves a story of transformation (and who doesn’t?) will thoroughly enjoy Amanda Cabot’s At Bluebonnet Lake, set in the beautiful Hill Country of Texas.”
Suzanne Woods Fisher, award-winning, bestselling author of The Inn at Eagle Hill series
“Kate Sherwood has given up chasing rainbows of romance to concentrate on her career goals, but then she comes to Rainbow’s End, where love is in the air. In At Bluebonnet Lake, readers are sure to enjoy Amanda Cabot’s characters and her Texas Hill Country setting, a place rich in atmosphere and romance.”
Ann H. Gabhart, author of Angel Sister, Small Town Girl, and Love Comes Home
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Amanda Cabot is the bestselling author of the Texas Dreams series, Christmas Roses, Summer of Promise, and Waiting for Spring. Her books have been finalists for the ACFW Carol Awards and the Booksellers Best. She lives in Wyoming. Find out more at www.amandacabot.com.
