by admin | May 20, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Western
MY REVIEW:
Because of a devastating experience ten years earlier, Charity had avoided her hometown to escape the memories. She had also avoided any thought of romance, concentrating instead on her successful writing career. That is – until her publisher requested that she right a romance novel instead of her usual genre. So with writer’s block and a noisy house due to structural repairs after a flood, Charity finally returns home to her parent’s quieter house. There she quickly learned that her high school crush Buck was now the next-door neighbor and an unexpected accident forced Charity and Buck to spend time together. Could close proximity persuade the two determined to avoid romance that it might not be such a bad thing?
“Whenever You Come Around” is a novel that is quickly read but it nevertheless contains some serious content. Although Charity and Buck have run from romantic involvement for different reasons, it all boiled down to avoiding pain. This novel takes them both through the healing process to the point where they realize that sometimes love is worth the potential pain and that their faith would seem them through.
Authentic characters and a well-paced plot with just the right blend of drama, humor, and romance kept the pages turning. I thoroughly enjoyed “Whenever You Come Around” as I have every novel I have previously read by Robin Lee Hatcher.
This book was provided for review by the BookLook Blogger Program of Harper Collins Christian Publishing.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Just when Charity’s wild imagination failed her, a flesh-and-blood hero walked into her life.
Best-selling author Charity Anderson returns to her hometown of Kings Meadow to defeat a bad case of writer’s block. She imagines she’ll spend a lonely summer writing and then return to her home in Boise. She soon finds herself caring for Buck Malone, a wilderness guide-and the object of her unrequited teenage crush. But what else can she do? Her dog Cocoa caused the accident that left Buck with a broken ankle and wrist, taking him off the trail for weeks of prime tourist-season work.
Buck and Charity have gone different ways since high school, and at first it seems they have little in common. Buck loves the simple, low-key life he’s made for himself in the mountains of Idaho, and she’s a woman accustomed to the faster, bustling pace of the city. But spending so much time together has Buck hoping to change her mind about staying in the small town she thought she’d left behind for good.
It’s a summer for discovering that young love is a spark not soon extinguished.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Robin Lee Hatcher is the bestselling author of 70 books. Her numerous awards include the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award. Robin and her husband currently reside in Idaho. For more information, visit www.robinleehatcher.com.
by admin | Apr 14, 2015 | Books, Historical, Novella, Romance, Western
MY REVIEW:
Book two of the Journey of the Heart series finds Sarah encouraged by her friend Amelia to travel with he and her new husband to Fort Laramie and make things right with Rand. Unfortunately Sarah finds that things are entirely different than what she expected. If she wants to regain Rand’s love, she may just have to fight for it. To make matters worse, Ben Croftner makes an appearance and it does not look like he will leave without causing trouble.
“A Heart’s Obsession” continues the story of Sarah and Rand with plenty of action, drama, and suspense. At this point in the story, I am not too happy with Rand and would like to see Sarah be a bit more assertive. I will be forced to wait until the next installment (or horrors, even later) to find out if their situation improves to my satisfaction. That is one aspect of serial novels that I do not like. I suppose I am just too impatient. Even full length series can try my patience!
Once again, this novella is a welcome look back at one of Colleen Coble’s earliest work that is a fine indicator of the talent that has made her one of my top favorite authors.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Will Sarah’s journey west lead her back into the arms of the one man she can trust?
When her father succumbs to a long illness, Sarah Montgomery is freed from duty to family. At last she can be with the love of her life, Rand Campbell, who has gone out west to Fort Laramie, Wyoming. Sarah and her younger brother Joel make the arduous journey filled with hope.
But at Fort Laramie, the reception Sarah meets isn’t what she had hoped for. Her friend Amelia is thrilled to have her, but Rand seems to be in the clutches of Jessica DuBois, the scheming daughter of the post commander.
Sarah resolves to remain at Fort Laramie and try to win Rand back. But things will get tougher before they get easier . . . especially when her ex-fiancé Ben Croftner arrives in Wyoming, obsessed with having her back in his arms.
Learn more and purchase a copy at the Thomas Nelson website.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
USA Today bestselling author Colleen Coble has written several romantic suspense novels including “Tidewater Inn,” “Rosemary Cottage,” and the Mercy Falls, Lonestar, and Rock Harbor series.
Find out more about Colleen at http://www.colleencoble.com/.
Kindle Giveaway, Blog Tour, and Author Chat Party with Colleen Coble Code: Can a woman held captive by her family make it back to the one man she knows she can trust? Find out in book two, A Heart’s Obsession, of Colleen Coble’s Journey of the Heart series. When Sarah Montgomery’s father succumbs to his long illness, Sarah is faced with a life-altering choice: submit to her brother’s will and marry the deceptive Ben Croftner . . . or escape through the dangerous American West to reclaim the heart of her beloved Rand Campbell at Fort Laramie, Wyoming.
Celebrate book two in Colleen’s A Journey of the Heart series by entering to win a Kindle Fire and RSVPing to her May 5th author chat party!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A Kindle Fire
- A copy of A Heart’s Disguise
- A copy of A Heart’s Obsession
- A copy of The Inn at Ocean’s Edge (blog tour coming in mid-April)
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 7th. Winner will be announced May 8th on Colleen’s website. Plus be sure to clear your calendar on the evening of May 5th because Colleen is hosting an author chat party on Facebook to celebrate her A Journey of the Heart series and the release of The Inn at Ocean’s Edge! RSVP here!
RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on May 5th!
by admin | Mar 13, 2015 | Books, Historical, Romance, Western
MY REVIEW:
Although Ada Brownell was an unknown author to me, I usually enjoy novels with a historic western setting so I decided to give “The Lady Fugitive” a try. I found it to be an engrossing story with solid characters and a strong message of salvation woven through it.
When Jenny Parks makes a desperate run for freedom from her abusive uncle, she continues to cross paths with William O’Casey, a peddler who is also committed to presenting an early moving picture, “The Passion of Christ” in the towns he travels through. As William frequently comes to Jenny’s rescue, the pair begin to develop some feelings for each other but between personal complications and misunderstandings, any hope for a future together seems doomed.
The plot of “The Lady Fugitive” moved at a steady pace and contained numerous plot twists and surprises along the way. With numerous positive characters as well as villains, there was never a dull moment. I would not hesitate to recommend this novel.
This book was provided for review by the Book Club Network, Inc.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
How does a respected elocutionist become a face on a wanted poster?
Jenny Louise Parks escapes from the coal bin and her abusive uncle offers a handsome reward for her return. Because he is a judge, he will find her.
Determination to remain free grips Jenny, especially after she meets William and there’s a hint of romance. But while peddling household goods and showing a Passion of the Christ moving picture, he discovers his father’s brutal murder.
Will Jenny avoid the bounty hunters? Can she forgive the person who turns her in? Will she find peace, joy and love?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
ADA (NICHOLSON) BROWNELL’s prolific writing career began in her teens with writing for youth magazines. She taught youth much of her life. She and her husband had five children of their own. Nearly 300 articles of her articles and stories have appeared in 45 Christian publications, and she spent 17 years as a journalist, mostly at The Pueblo Chieftain in Colorado. Brownell has a B.S. Degree in mass communications and a certificate of ministry from Berean School of the Bible, now Global University. She continues to write books; articles for Christian publications, and occasional op-ed pieces for newspapers.
by admin | Mar 5, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Western
MY REVIEW:
Always up for a good western novel, I was excited when “Betting on Hope” finally came up on my review calendar. It was well worth the wait. This book is so very readable with a plot that never bogs down and an encouraging message of faith.
A contemporary tale, this novel had me laughing out loud one minute and close to tears minutes later. Populated with wonderful characters, Wishing Springs is a make-believe town that I wish were for real. Misunderstandings and personal secrets threaten to keep Maggie Hope and Tru Monahan apart although it is apparent to absolutely everyone that they were made for each other.
I loved everything about “Betting on Hope” from Maggie’s tender heart and true compassion toward others to Tru’s protective instincts and integrity. I also enjoyed reading about Tru’s brothers and grandfather and the fine but sometimes quirky folks of Wishing Springs. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series. I am hoping it will feature one of Tru’s brothers.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A bet gone wrong. A small town’s meddling. And a cowboy intent on saving his ranch.
Maggie Hope is an advice columnist whose background leaves her with little advice to give . . . and it’s beginning to show. When Maggie fills in at an interview with champion horse trainer Tru Monahan, the on-camera chemistry between them is undeniable. Maggie’s bosses know this is the opportunity she’s been looking for to launch her career—and their bank accounts. In order to save her column, Maggie takes Tru up on the bet that he can teach her to ride a quick-stepping cutting horse like any cowgirl, despite the fact that she has never been on a horse. And in the meantime, she can get the scoop on the man under the cowboy hat.
Tru has been on the competition circuit for longer than he’d like, but he knows it’s the only way he can afford to keep the Four of Hearts Ranch that means so much to his ailing grandfather. So when his sponsors see the opportunity for Tru’s fans to get to know the star on a more intimate level, he knows he must oblige. To his dismay, Maggie not only invades his small town of Wishing Springs, but she also invades his heart, and that is something he cannot let any woman do—for her own good.
In Wishing Springs, Maggie finds what she has always been looking for: a community and a home. But when her past catches up to her, it threatens everything, even the tender hope that this town holds all of her heart’s desires.
Learn more and purchase a copy at Debra’s website.
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.
‘Betting on Hope’ Kindle Giveaway
Saddle up for a new romance from novelist Debra Clopton, Betting on Hope! In Wishing Springs, Maggie finds what she has always been looking for: a community and a home. But when her past catches up to her, it threatens everything, even the tender hope that this town holds all of her heart’s desires.
Enter to win a Kindle Fire HD 6 to celebrate the release of Betting on Hope!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A Kindle Fire
- A copy of Betting on Hope
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 8th. Winner will be announced March 9th on Debra’s blog.
by admin | Feb 26, 2015 | Books, Historical, Montana, Romance, Western
MY REVIEW:
Both Patience Cavanaugh and Sheriff Jedediah Jones have had bad experiences with love and neither has any intention of getting involved anytime in the near future. In fact, the pair clashed mightily during their very first meeting. During subsequent encounters Jedediah found Patience annoying and too outspoken for his taste – yet felt himself mysteriously drawn to her. Could God have plans for the two of them?
With a quickly moving plot, lots of action, plenty of humor, and of course romance, “The Trouble With Patience” is one more Maggie Brendan novel for my keeper shelf. I loved the way the author tied the story together with characters who were unknowingly connected in some way and how they discovered the connection. I also loved how well she was able to misdirect my suspicions about the identity of true villain of the tale – what a surprise!
“The Trouble With Patience” is a wonderful tale of compassion and forgiveness and the unfailing love of the Lord.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Patience Cavanaugh has lost hope in romance. The man she yearned to marry is dead and her dreams are gone with him. Now she is consumed with restoring a dilapidated boardinghouse in order to support herself.
Despite Patience’s desire for solitude, Jedediah Jones, the local marshal with a reputation for hanging criminals, becomes an ever-looming part of her life. It seems like such a simple arrangement: She needs someone with a strong back to help her fix up the boardinghouse. He needs a dependable source of food for himself and his prisoners. But as she gets to know this “hanging lawman,” Patience finds there is far more to him than meets the eye–and it could destroy their tenuous relationship forever.
With a keen eye for historical detail and a deft hand at romantic tension, Maggie Brendan invites you to a Montana gold rush boomtown, where vices and virtues are on full display and love is lying in wait.
Read an excerpt from “The Trouble With Patience” HERE.
Endorsements:
“Maggie Brendan deftly captures the flavor of the Old West in a sweet love story filled with suspense and well-developed, interesting characters that will surely capture the hearts of readers.”–Kathleen Morgan, author of the Brides of Culdee Creek series
“Maggie Brendan has created a wealth of memorable characters in this heartwarming story. Romance, mystery, and an intriguing plot all add up to a winning combination that’s sure to delight readers.”–Margaret Brownley, bestselling author of Gunpowder Tea and Petticoat Detective
“Brendan is a master at tender love stories that tug at your heart while touching the soul, providing rich historical detail and tension that races the pulse.”–Julie Lessman, award-winning author of The Daughters of Boston series
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Maggie Brendan is the bestselling author of several books, including the Heart of the West series and The Blue Willow Brides series. Winner of the 2013 Laurel Wreath Award, she was a 2013 finalist for the Published Maggie Award of Excellence, a 2013 finalist for the Heart of Excellence Readers’ Choice Award, a 2012 finalist for Inspirational Reader’s Choice award, and a recipient of the 2004 ACW Persistence Award in Atlanta. She is a member of the Author’s Guild; Romance Writers of America; Faith, Hope, and Love; and Georgia Romance Writers. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, researching for her novels, and spending time with her family. You can follow her at her website www.MaggieBrendan.com, her blog www.SouthernBelleWriter.blogspot.com, and on Facebook and Twitter @MaggieBrendan.
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
