MY REVIEW:

You can always expect an action-packed, faith-filled, romantic, and humorous story when they open any novel by Mary Connealy and The Unexpected Champion is no exception. In this wonderful conclusion to the Sierra Sweethearts series, readers encounter one surprising twist after another, including a kidnapping and harrowing escape, a forced marriage, and a massive wall enclosing a mansion in the wilderness.

The unlikely pair of John McCall and Penny Scott are opposites in almost every way. Penny’s expertise in necessary wilderness skills and her habit of dressing accordingly are a puzzle to city bred detective John whose attire is not exactly geared to his current situation – and that is just the beginning of their differences. Of course anyone who reads novels by Mary Connealy on a regular basis knows exactly how that will end up.  A truly evil villain keeps the pair on their toes as they (and their friends) attempt to bring him to justice.

I loved everything about this book. The pacing was perfect and the subtle humor and romantic vignettes offered a welcome break from the escalating danger and suspense. Every aspect of the story was woven together with the skill that keeps this author near the top of my must read list.

If you have not experienced a Mary Connealy novel, The Unexpected Champion might be a great place to start but I personally suggest reading the entire series in order for the greatest enjoyment.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.



ABOUT THE BOOK:

They’re as Different as Could Be.
But They’ll Need to Trust Each Other to Survive
the Wilderness . . . and the Dangers Chasing Them.

City dweller John McCall never expected to be out in the High Sierras of 1868 on a wild-goose chase to find the Chiltons’ supposedly lost grandson. But now that he’s out here, things have gotten even more complicated, mostly due to wildcat Penny Scott. She’s not like any woman he’s ever met–comfortable in the woods, with a horse, and with a gun.

When Penny and John are taken against their will by a shadowy figure looking for evidence they don’t have, both realize they’ve stumbled into something dangerous. With their friends and family desperately searching for them, Penny and John must make a daring escape.

When they emerge back into the real world, they discover their kidnapper just won’t stop. This city man and country woman must bring a powerful, ruthless man to justice, all while fighting a very inconvenient attraction to each other.

Read an excerpt here.

Purchase a copy here.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Photo courtesy of Ginger Murray Photography

Mary Connealy writes “romantic comedies with cowboys” and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She has more than half a million books in print. She is the author of the popular series Wild at Heart, Kincaid Brides, Trouble in Texas, Lassoed in Texas, Sophie’s Daughters, and many other books. Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero. Learn more at www.maryconnealy.com.