A Match Made in Texas

To novella, or not to novella, that is the question.

Hopefully, I have the answer.

Book Rating: Up All Night'er

OK. I've read several novellas now and I'm developing quite a strong opinion about them. *oh dear* But before I divulge that, let me talk about this particular collection as a whole.

It's nice to see these authors that we love getting together to write shorter stories with a similar theme. I thought that was fun. I enjoyed seeing Neill, especially, since I'm always a HUGE fan of Karen's. The plots of the various novellas were enjoyable with varying degrees of excitement and drama, and it was a very easy read.

Do I recommend this book? Absolutely....
Will you be sorry you bought it? No way....

*do you sense a "but" coming?*

But (there it is!) for me, these stories didn't feel natural--or they didn't feel like they flowed naturally out of the authors brains like a lot of the novels we read. For me--and this might just be me--I sensed the publisher in the background saying something like, "Hey, we've got an idea for a novella collection we want you to be a part of and we want to do it this way." Do you know what I mean? Maybe I'm just being way too picky. This is the real reason why I've shied away from these collections in the first place, and now my fears are realized. THIS IS JUST MY OPINION. There are tons of raving reviews about these types of collections, so obviously there's a real market for them. For me it's a no-go.

Now, as for my overall opinion of novellas generally.... I'm not a fan. They are delightful little stories, but that's it. They don't stick with me, they don't have meat. In fact, sometimes I read them and think, "Shoot! Why didn't they make this into a full novel, it would have been great!" And I just end up feeling jipped. Has that ever happened to you?

In the end, yes, this book does deserve my second highest rating, but that's all. And will I be tempted to pick up any more novellas or novella collections? I don't think so. *frown*

If you read this, let me know what you think and if you LOVE novellas, tell me why!

*Thank you to Bethany House for my free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review*

Happy Reading!
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Safe in His Arms

Oh man, if you've had a baby and experienced any cravings--you're gonna relate. I had a craving SO strong the other day (and no, I'm not preggo right now...) I could feel it in my bones--couldn't rest, couldn't focus until I got what I needed!

No, I wasn't craving a juicy hamburger like I usually do.

I was craving a COWBOY ROMANCE!! And this book was just what I needed.

Book Rating: Up All Night'er

SAFE IN HIS ARMS was pure cowboy heaven. Man, there's nothin' like getting caught up in the dust of the cattle as they stampede, and feeling the baking sun on your back. Am I right?! This book had it all, and even though I felt much better after listening to my craving, it reminded me why I always go back to westerns.

Margaret O'Brien doesn't feel pretty, and doesn't even really feel loved--by God or by anyone else. Until she meets Daniel Cutler and all of that begins to change. (This is where you sigh dreamily, cuz seriously, I thought Daniel was pretty darn dreamy.) I truly enjoyed Margaret's journey, and her ultimate acceptance of Christ's love. What a beautiful message!

The action and romance is just delightful with enough kisses to keep even me satisfied! Always clean and always exciting, this story will keep you turning pages that's for sure--from a stampeded, to a tornado, to a bank robbery...things keep happening and there's no time for you to get bored.

Margaret is already suspicious of Daniel when her father hires him to help on the ranch, but when she overhears him talking about a bank robbery, she is even MORE worried. But how can Daniel be following a life of crime when he talks so openly about his faith in God? Their attraction starts from page one...ok maybe more like page three, I don't know...but anyway, its right from the start. No doubt, this is a fun book.

If you are having the same kind of craving, please let me help! Git yerself a copy 'o this 'ol--I mean new--book, and you'll be feeling better to. I promise.

Happy Reading!
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Stealing the Preacher

THIS is why I read Christian fiction!!!

Book Rating: Best of the Best

Every time I read a Karen Witemeyer book I love it. I'm pretty sure that happens to you too, am I right? Yeah, I knew it--I'm right. *wink*

This story will capture you from the beginning and hold you through all 347 magnificent pages. I have to say that the even though the romance was marvelous, the characters unforgettable and the plot effortless--it was the Christian messages throughout the book that I will never forget!! I got choked up several times--and I'm not the kind that gets teary eyed at a Tide commercial, if you know what I mean....OK, well, maybe I am, but still.... *teehee* Also, there was no "preachiness" about it at all either, in case you were wondering. It all flowed so beautifully and felt so natural--that's one of the reasons I loved it so much.

Joanna needs a preacher because her ex-outlaw father needs God--and she's made a vow to help him find salvation. But she can't do it alone. So when Crockett Archer is "escorted" to her home she is horrified, but at the same time, she can't believe her luck. Or is it God's doing that brought Brother Archer as an answer to her prayers?

Crockett (and for those of you who read Karen's previous novel SHORT-STRAW BRIDE, Crockett is one of the brothers, as you may remember...) has an appointment he simply can't miss--so when he's kidnapped from the train he can only pray that he will get away in time! However, he never expected his kidnapper's daughter to be so sweet, faithful, strong and beautiful--and to make such a powerful request.

From the beginning, I felt the Spirit of God through this story, and I LOVED all the messages of faith, trust, and redemption. The love of God is evident in this novel--and I would read it again in a second! The characters are so real and story SO easy to read, and if I was a bettin' person, I would be willing to bet you will love this book as well.

Are you interested in a GIVEAWAY?! Of course, you are. Smart girl. *wink* Karen has offered to giveaway her latest book! How spantabulous is that?! So, if you want to be entered, you must be a follower of my blog or FB page and leave a comment (with your email) telling me what your favorite Witemeyer book is and why! Sound good?! OK, good! (Shipping to US addresses only.) Please share this with your family and friends as well!! The drawing will be on Friday.

This magnificent story comes out June 1, so if yer itchin' to get this into your cute little 'ol hands you oughtta pre-order it right now. You won't regret it. I promise. *big grin*



Happy Reading!
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Scattered Petals

This ain't yer regular HCR.

Book Rating: Best of the Best

I just finished Amanda Cabot's SCATTERED PETALS. Wow. It is very good. And at the same time, it's very deep and very sad. But, the message of faith, hope and strength through trials is wonderful.

Priscilla Morton is on her way to Texas when tragedy strikes. A wagon robbery leaves her reeling from scars that are both physical and emotional. She blames God for not intervening--for not saving her from such a nightmare.

Zachary Webster wishes he could go back and make up for his past mistakes, but he can't. Now, with Priscilla needing help, he wonders if this could be a way to make amends for what he's done.

This story is long, and even might drag at times, but don't give up. The overall message is powerful and the characters are real! I know the Cabot has said this is the most difficult novel she has ever written--but I'm so glad she kept going, because I know it's got to be a strength to many people.

The romance is very sweet, is in all Cabot's book, but I wouldn't call it the grab-at-your-heart kind of passion you would get from other authors/stories. But that wasn't the intent with this one...If you are looking for something light, that you can read in a few days, that's high on romance and low on drama--you might want to look elsewhere.

Overall, I highly recommend this!

Happy Reading!
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Doctor in Petticoats

"Is there a Doctor in the house?!" (Eh hem. I'm sorry, I couldn't help myself...)

Book Rating: Up All Night'er

Aw. My friends, you can't go wrong with a Connealy book. You just can't. I mean, every story is different, and some are better than others, but every one has something about it you can enjoy.

This story is fun, fast and fabulous! Beth McClellan (you'll remember her from Petticoat Ranch) has just gone to school to become a nurse, but she likes to consider herself a doctor--and she's good enough to be one. When she crosses paths with a man named Alex Buchanan--a man who's running from his past--her healing skills take on a whole new meaning.

The protagonists in this story are enjoyable--though different. One thing I liked about this was actually the questions at the end. So if you read this book, read the questions at the end--it will give you good food for thought. One of the questions deals with Alex and what a troubled character he is and why it is that so many women want to help troubled men. Very thought provoking...

Anyway, I did think Alex was a bit too needy of a leading man for me. I prefer the strong, stable type (although with the obligatory weaknesses, etc). And Beth was great too, but I had a bit of a hard time relating to her for some reason. But don't let that stop you from reading it!

The thing I liked most was the side story about another McClellan girl, Mandy. So fun! I can't wait for her story!

Grab your Winchester, and a cup of warm cocoa and enjoy the excitement!

Happy Reading!
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Touching the Sky

Bethany House was kind enough to give me a copy of Tracie Peterson’s book TOUCHING THE SKY to read and review.  It’s the #2 book in the series called Land of the Lone Star.  A great series! And isn't the cover pretty?  I typically don't like to see faces, but this one didn't bother me.

Book Rating: Up All Night’er

The overall story was fabulous! I really got hooked into the plot very fast! The characters are wonderful (can you say Brandon...yum!) and the romance was great--but I would have done with another kiss! *teehee*

Laura Marquardt is the older sister of Carissa, who is marrying a former Confederate.  Laura suspects that all is not well with her sister’s fiancé Malcolm—she overhears him talking suspiciously and isn’t sure what to do about it.

Captain Brandon Reid (Hello, ladies!  Another man in uniform—love it!) is told to keep an eye on Malcolm, which he does gladly.  But, at the same time he’s falling for Laura and he’s worried that she will think he is only interested in her so he can have more access to Malcolm.  Are you following all of this?  Good.

Over time the two love-birds begin a relationship, as you may have guessed.  There really is good tension, no doubt.  Great excitement and a captivating storyline! I really had a lot of fun with the action at the end!

So, bottom line: should you read it?  Most definitely.

Happy Reading!

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Chasing the Sun

I read my first Tracie Peterson book over the weekend: CHASING THE SUN.  It’s the first book in what I believe is a three book series…the last book isn’t out yet.

Book Rating:  Up All Night'er

A fun book with a good beginning to a series! I love series books because you get to know the characters and see them for longer than just 300 pages. *giggle*

Hannah Dandridge is under a great deal of stress caring for her younger siblings, while trying to run a Texas Ranch, all with just having learned that her father has been taken prisoner.  (This takes place during the Civil War…)  A wounded soldier returns to claim his ranch—and finds that it’s been given to Hannah and her family—will he be able to turn them out of his home once his land is returned to him, or is his growing love for this Southern Belle making it too hard to let her go?

This story was fun, but I just wish there could have been more romance. Then again, as you know I'm a romance junkie. LOL Not to say there isn't romance in the story--there is, but I could always go with another kiss or two thrown in there. *wink*

The Christian element was VERY good, which is this book's shining star.  So, if you wanna give it a shot, I say—go for it!  And then tell me what you thought!

Happy Reading!
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The Husband Tree

It was difficult for me to settle on a rating for this book.  At first I really enjoyed it, but as it went along I found myself less interested.  Overall, it was a nice story, but not one that I am likely to read again.

Book Rating:  Here a little, there a little

Connealy’s books are fabulous.  So far, I have thoroughly enjoyed them all.  For some reason, I didn’t like this one quite as much.

Belle is a character you first meet in the previous story, MONTANA ROSE.  She has had a very hard life, (as do 90% of the characters in these books…) and she finds herself husband-less…again.  But, for Belle, that’s really not a bad thing.  She’s been running her ranch by herself (with the help of her girls) for many years, and she is laboring under the belief that men just cause problems, so she is thankful her third husband is gone.  She will NEVER get married again.  Famous last words…

Silas Harden is a good guy who was in the wrong place at the wrong time, and needed to get out of New Mexico to avoid a sham wedding!  He finds himself in Texas and in need of work.  He ends up signing up for Belle’s cattle drive.  Little does he know what he is in for! 

Both of these characters want nothing to do with anyone of the opposite sex.  Can you guess what might happen?  Yeah, they eventually get together.  You got it, bravo!  *teehee *  Overall, there was a smooth story-line and plenty of excitement to keep a person reading.  But eventually, I was tired of hearing how much she hated men, and how difficult everything was for her.

Frankly, I know I would have never made it as a pioneer/frontier woman.  Natural childbirth?  Forget it.  Natural childbirth outside, in the middle of nowhere?  Not even going there.  Natural childbirth, with three other children, while having to nurse a baby you have just 18 months ago, and drive cattle—not to mention take care of basic every-day needs?!  I’m having serious nightmares just thinking about it.  I admire beyond words what those women did and their struggles humble me exceedingly, and that includes "Belle", but as I read I felt kind of overwhelmed by the difficulties she had faced.

I liked the spiritual nature of the story, but it didn't seem as clear or as specific as some of the other messages I have seen in her books.  It was good though, so in that respect I think you will be pleased.

Out of all of Connealy’s books this would be my least favorite I think.  But, I do recommend giving it a try.  You may find you really enjoy it.  I know for sure you will laugh a lot.  That’s always something fun to expect from Connealy.

Happy Reading!

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Montana Rose

MONTANA ROSE is such a delightful story.  I was so pleased with it that the abrupt ending was a bit of a disappointment.  However, that being said, it wasn’t enough to keep me from giving it my highest rating.

Book Rating:  Best of the Best

I think I speak for a lot of us HCR lovers out there when I say that I (almost always) fall in love with the leading man in the book I am reading at the time.  This book was definitely no exception!

Cassie Griffin is in a desperate situation.  With her husband dead and a baby on the way she feels that she would rather die herself than agree to marry any of the ruffians that are begging for her hand.  This is where the dashing Red Dawson comes in!  (You can imagine him riding to the rescue on his white steed, shirt flapping in the wind over his  large muscles…mmmm…)  Well, its not really like that at all, but he is truly fabulous and he does come to the rescue!  He offers to be her husband, and she accepts.  I love the stories where they get married right at the beginning!!

He's called "Red" because of his red hair.  Now, I must be honest and say that I have never really been a “red-hair-on-a-guy” kind of girl, but this character really does it for me!  (As did Cassius McLinn in THE COLONEL’S LADY…su-HU-per dreamy!) 

Red and Cassie have a truly wonderful relationship.  The way he cares for her and teaches her to be strong and trust in herself is beautiful!    It’s very romantic, and you will get to enjoy a lot of great kisses in this book, so be prepared!  *wink *  Also be prepared to laugh out loud!!  Great, great humor!

There were several different spiritual messages that I took away from this book, and I thought they were all beautifully orchestrated.  I didn’t feel like it was too much or that the author was just trying to “fit it all in”.  It worked.  Very well.  One of the ones that stood out most to me was that God will be our strength and when He is with us, “whom shall we fear?”

The story is full of great characters and it’s another easy read.  I actually think that I may like these characters more than those from the Lassoed In Texas series. 

I can’t wait to hear what you think!

Happy Reading!

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Gingham Mountain

GINGHAM MOUNTAIN is the last book in the Lassoed In Texas series, and it seems like Connealy saved the best for last.

Book Rating: Best of the Best

I’m hooked, what can I say.  I really love Connealy’s style.  It’s fun and fresh--not a lot of fluff or hullabaloo.  She gets me smiling a lot while I read her stories, and that’s exactly what I look for in a HCR—something that will take me away from the dishes and the laundry for a while.  It’s heavenly!

Hannah Cartwright (another character you become familiar with in the previous book, CALICO CANYON) is sure her little sister will have a terrible future as the new adopted daughter of Grant—a man she just met at the train station.  She will risk everything to save Libby and the rest of the children she hears are in his care.

Hannah is a very sweet and lovable character, I thought.  The story overall, was exceedingly enjoyable. It’s an easy read, with very little heaviness.  Yes, there’s the typical “bad guy” (and “bad lady” too, which is kinda fun!) and it’s sad to learn about how all those orphans lived, but Mary writes in such a way so that you don’t feel overwhelmed by the sadness of it and I greatly appreciated that!

Grant (no last name…at least to start…) is really fabulous, too.  He isn’t the larger-than-life or untouchable kind of man, which you will sometimes find in a HCR...not that there's really anything wrong with that--  "I love you, Drew O'Conner!"  Anyway, Grant is real and just plain awesome.  His caring nature was endearing, and I thought his love for Hannah was very romantic!

As for the spiritual message, I thought it was just beautiful!!!  I don't really want to give anything away--just go read it and let me know what you think!!

So out of the three books in this series, I think this one is the best.  An easy read.  I bet you could read this one in a day—if there are no chores or screaming kids occupying your time.  *teehee *  So, considering you most likely have both of those, you could read it in two days.

Happy Reading!
Buy it!  (I've got the trilogy again here, folks.  Look at Mary's site for the individual book.)

Calico Canyon

CALICO CANYON (fun title—it rolls off the tounge…) was a Christy Award finalist and I can totally see why.  The message of this story was very sweet.  Here is another book where I wasn’t sure if I could like it because of the five wild and crazy boys, but (like the little girls in PETTICOAT RANCH) they won my heart and I loved this story.

Book Rating:  Up All Night’er

This book follows right after PETTICOAT RANCH and includes the characters from that story quite a bit.  If I thought I was attached to those characters then, I grew to really love them after this book.

Grace Calhoun is the school teacher for Mosqueros, TX and you first meet her in the previous book.  This is her story.  As with PETTICOAT RANCH, this one is filled with dirt (and I mean these people are living on a dirt floor for a while…) and mean, mean bad guys and quite a bit of sadness.  Grace has had a terrible youth (in fact, she is still a youth—she’s only seventeen!  I would have liked her a little older, but that’s just me…) and her past has caught up with her.  But “God is faithful” and protects her by leading her into the life of the very man who just got her fired from her teaching job!  Who would have known that it would have been such a blessing to her?  Well, God did!

Daniel Reeves has five young boys and no wife.  They are surviving well enough, but a cave is a poor excuse for a house.  One fateful night when he returns from town, he finds poor Grace in his wagon, nearly frozen to death.  How in the world did she get there?  (You’ll just have to read to find out!)  He saves her life (so romantic!) and that’s where all the fun and adventure begins!

Daniel is a rough on the outside, but that’s only to protect his sweet and gentle heart.  I really enjoyed his character a lot.  His relationship with Grace is sweet and develops nicely throughout the book.  But I really have to say, I could have actually used a bit more romance here, just as in PETTICOAT RANCH.

Connealy has a great writing style.  It took me a while to get used to it, because it really is quite different from say Gist or Witemeyer.  But I think she really captures people’s one-on-one communications very well, and she will get you smiling a lot as you read.

I’m a’bettin’ your gonna like this’n. *teehee *

Happy Reading!
Buy it!  (If you want Calico Canyon you may be able to get it from Mary's own website...I have a link here for the trilogy from amazon.com, but I can't find the book by itself...just FYI)

Petticoat Ranch

First of all, let me say, I love the covers of these books.  HCRs have such fun covers!  My only pet peeve is that when they show the whole face of the girl and/or guy in the story—as beautiful as that face may be, it messes with my own imagination and I kinda don’t like that!  So the covers of Connealy’s books are perfect for me, because they are artistic and cute, but I don’t have an actual face to see that distorts my own interpretation of what the characters look like.  (My favorite covers of all belong to some Gist books…)  Now, what about the story we’re discussing here?  Oh ya.  It was pretty good, too.  (Understatement!)

Book Rating:  Up All Night’er

Petticoat Ranch was truly a great story.  It starts off quickly, and doesn’t stop!  I had a hard time thinking that I could get into a book where there are so many children involved.  I guess I just thought it would take away from the romance.  To be honest there wasn’t as much romance as I would have liked to see, but the characters were all so lovely I didn’t mind so much.

If you are looking for a sweet romance, filled with excitement and laced with gentleness—this is NOT the book for you!  This story takes place in the dirty, dirty west with lots of bad guys and TONS of hardship.  (Mmmmm, I like the west!  Anyone second that?!)

Sophie Edwards is an amazingly strong woman who has had to care for herself and her four young daughters for a very long time.  (You will be so amazed at the things these girls had to do to protect and provide for themselves, and I wouldn’t be surprised if there were really some people that actually lived that way…or very close to that way…)

Clay McClellan has been looking for his twin brother for many, many years.  Who would have ever thought he would run into his brother’s family in Texas—and need them to save his life.  Now, Clay was a very likeable guy.  Cute personality and kind to Sophie and the girls, but I have to say I didn’t really care for the way he communicated and handled things with them a lot of the time.  But, he would risk his life for anyone and worked hard for their welfare.

There was good romance and fun kisses, but overall it lacked a bit of the gentleness and sweetness that I enjoy so much in these stories.  Most of the book was very rough and tumble.  I like reading about strong women, but Sophie pushed my limit.

I absolutely loved the message of how the Holy Spirit whispers to us.  It was very inspiring and it made me realize that I need to listen for God’s whisperings in my life on a daily basis.

So, if you are up for an adventure and think you can handle this wild ride, go for it!  I can’t wait to hear what you think!

Happy Reading!
Buy it!

Courting Trouble

Courting Trouble is a book that I declined to read for a while, based on the, um, very unflattering reviews I’d seen.  (And “unflattering” is putting it lightly…)  But, I said to myself, “Amber, be brave.  Venture forth with courage.”  Well, actually, it may have been more like, “Eh, just read it.”  So I did.  I would like to be able to echo the sentiments of the few pleasing reviews that I read, but alas, I cannot.

Book Rating:  Meh…

I hate to do it.  I hate to rate this book so low, but I just have to.  This is my first “Meh…” rating.  I can honestly say that I went in to this book truly believing that I would like it.  Every Gist book that I have read so far I have thoroughly enjoyed--loved, really.  I struggled through the first bit, and after a while, I decided I just couldn’t finish it.

Essie is a “spinster”.  At the ripe old age of thirty she is afraid she will never get married.   So, she chooses a kind, older widower and decides that she will use her charms to get him--whether she is in love with him or not.  She desperately wants a family of her own!  Then along comes a “drifter” of sorts named Adam.  He’s handsome, flattering and a complete scoundrel!  Wow.  I disliked Adam from the beginning and that dislike grew to a strong visceral hatred as I continued reading.

As Essie and Adam’s relationship develops, I kept thinking to myself, “Holy cow!  Poor girl, can’t she see he is just using her!  He is SO creepy!”  He continues to get more forward with her, (ew!) and gets her to be more and more physical with him (jerk!) until finally they…well… I was super uncomfortable with that, and I couldn’t keep reading.  I skimmed the rest, and I kind of got the feeling that Gist might have been trying to share a message of repentance and God’s loving atonement—which is a very good thing, since we are all sinners.  But I have to admit, reading about their encounters was just too much for me. 

But, please don't be hatin' on me! I could not be a bigger Gist fan, at all! She is wonderful and a very gifted writer, but this book just didn't do it for me--but you might love it, and if you read it, please let me know what you thought!

I wanna hear what you think about it!

Happy Reading!

Buy it!

Short-Straw Bride

Ask me what my favorite book is.  Go ahead.  Ask me.  The answer is simple.  Move over, BRIDE MOST BEGRUDGING.  Step aside, THE MEASURE OF A LADY.  Make way, TO WIN HER HEART.  Sorry, THE DOCTOR’S LADY.   As much as I will always love you, you have to make room for my new “number one”.  My answer to your question is:  SHORT-STRAW BRIDE.

Book Rating:  Best of the Best


When this book arrived I squealed with such delight you would have thought it was Ed McMahon at my door announcing me the winner of Publishers Clearing House.  But no, it was only the UPS guy with my copy of SHORT-STRAW BRIDE.

This is the PERFECT book.  Let me repeat: this is the PERFECT BOOK!  Of course this is just my opinion, but I defy anyone to read this and not at least like it.  It has all the elements needed to make a fabulous, totally engrossing story.  I knew I would like it, cuz I like all Witemeyer books, but I was not prepared for the utter and totally consuming pleasure it gave me.

Twelve years ago Meredith Hayes was rescued by a reclusive (yet strapping and handsome) young man named Travis Archer, and she’s never seen him since.  But all these years, in her dreams, he has been her “knight in shining armor”.  When she overhears someone planning to burn their land and property, she knows she must warn the Archers.  She also knows that anyone found on Archer land will be treated like an enemy.  But, she is willing to take the risk.

Travis Archer is intrigued by the courageous and beautiful trespasser who claims their land is in danger.  And when her reports turn out to be true, and she risks her life to help save his land, he knows he will always be in her debt.  Then another accident leaves her seriously injured and her reputation in tatters.  There is only one solution:  one of the four Archer brothers needs to marry her.  So they draw straws, and Travis is the one left with the short straw.

Do you ever read a story and wish there was more romance?  This one has plenty!  Do you ever wish there were more kisses in a story?  This one has many wonderful kisses!  Do you ever become bored, or feel like it’s taking too long for the story to get anywhere?  Not so here.  The plot is excellent and you won’t ever be bored or overwhelmed by the plot.  Do you ever get annoyed with certain characters, or feel like certain characters are superfluous?  Every character in this story serves a purpose.

The spiritual side of the story is not to be forgotten.  Witemeyer books are always uplifting.  The message I got from this book was this:  if you want to speak to God, pray--if you want God to speak to you, read your scriptures.  I loved how the characters were always turning to the scriptures to find the answers to their problems and the guidance they needed.  I LOVED that!

Travis Archer is also one of the most wonderful men I have ever read about.  His love for Meredith is SO amazingly sweet and just what every girl wants in her man.  He is perfectly handsome and comes to the rescue whenever she needs him.  Love it!! He also cares about his wife’s feelings and takes her advise to heart.  What’s not to love about a guy like that?  He’s also tough and brave, yet gentle and oh, so romantic!  Oh man, I’m getting all worked up again.  *teehee *

I really can’t say too many good things about this story, but I will refrain.  I don’t want to over-do it.  I simply cannot wait to hear what you think about this story so we can talk about how awesome all the Archer boys are, and how you liked the rescue scenes, etc.  OK, I really gotta stop.

You will definitely like, and possibly even love this book to death, just like me.  Enjoy!

Happy Reading!
Buy it!

Sixty Acres and a Bride

Holy FREEEEEAAAAAK!  (Pardon my French.)  This book was breathtakingly beautiful.  I seriously could not stop reading!

Book Rating:  Best of the Best

I am often suspicious when I start a new book, and I haven’t decided if that is a good thing or a bad thing.  Anyway, I was extremely skeptical when I started this one.  No reason, really.  I just was.  But, it didn’t take long before I was consumed by my need to finish this book!  This is Regina Jennings first novel, and there’s no way it will be her last.  If you are keen on Tamera Alexander’s style of writing, you will like this book.  To me, their styles are quite similar.

So, this is a modern take on the Biblical story of Ruth and Boaz.  It’s a great, GREAT romance!  I smiled, and sighed and giggled my way through it.  Now, if you are like me, then you probably like to read these books knowing that there’s gonna be a good kiss sometime before you’ve gone through half the book. Not so here, my friends.  You gotta wait a long, long time. I mean, a long time.  But whoo-ee, it’s worth it!

Rosa (a lovely, sweet and hard working Mexicana) has married into the Garner family, and embraced the Christian faith.  She and her mother-in-law return to Texas from Mexico after their husbands die, only to find they may lose their land due to back-taxes.  They do everything they can think of to get the money, but in the end it still isn’t enough.  How in the world will they save their land and livelihood?

Enter, Weston Garner.  (Do you hear the angel chorus?)  He is really the perfect leading man, in my opinion—strong, with dashing good looks, kind, loves God, has a fun personality and is also romantic.  Who could want more?  Are you crazy?  Anyway, their relationship throughout the book grows slowly, but substantially.  I felt like the issues they were dealing with were very real, and I appreciated that greatly.

The Christian message of the story was wonderful.  Some books have a constsant flow of scriptures, prayer, etc. throughout the book and this one didn’t have as much of that as I have seen before.  But the stuff that was there was very good.

If you don’t like this book, I’ll eat my hat.

Happy Reading!
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Blue Moon Promise

I am drawn to HCRs set in Texas like a moth to a flame.  So I couldn’t resist this book!  It was my first taste of Colleen Coble, I really enjoyed her style!

Book Rating:  Up All Night'er

Overall, the story was great fun and the romance was swoon-worthy.  This book is a nice, easy read, no doubt about it!

Lucy Marsh has had a rough go of things in the past several months.  And now that her father has passed away it’s all she can do to keep her and her two younger siblings together.  When an old family friend comes and offers her a way for them to stay together, her desperation makes it impossible for her to pass up.  The proposition?  Marry the man’s son, sight unseen, (with the father as proxy) and move to Texas the next day.  (I just love those kinds of books!!  So fun!!)

Anyway, Mr. Nate Stanton (a lovely cowboy!!) is none too thrilled to learn about his new wife and her siblings that are now also under his care.  However, as you can rightly assume, this new hubby and wife fall in love over time and everything works out well in the end.  Are you surprised?!  *teehee*  (I don't think I would like it if it didn't turn out well!)

In conclusion, if you want a no brainer, read it.  You'll enjoy it.  The references to the scriptures and God were great!  I was very impressed with that.

Happy reading!
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A Lady Like Sarah

It was one of those nights.  I had gotten sucked into this book and there was no stopping me.  Even though I was deathly tired—my eyes were burning and blood-shot, and my head was pounding from what felt like the weight of two anvils.  Must……keep…..reading…..must………keep………reading.

The next day was a blur.  Was it worth it?  Oh yes it was.

Book rating:  Best of the Best

What a unique idea for a story!  Sarah Prescott comes from a family of outlaw brothers.  She has never known a “real” family, and believes she will never have one.  There is a price on her head and a hangman’s noose waiting for her in Rocky Creek.  Even though the charges against her are trumped-up, what chance does she have?  She’s a Prescott.

Justin Wells is a preacher en-route to Rocky Creek.  He’s looking to start-over after an embarrassing debacle in his hometown of Boston.  When he stumbles upon Sarah and a dying U.S. Marshall, his journey to Texas takes a very unexpected turn.  

Sarah is feisty, and knows how to take care of herself, but she secretly yearns for the love of someone like Justin.  He in turn, never would have expected this beautiful (and wanted!) young woman to steal his heart.

I love, LOVE this story.  What a great example of pure, childlike faith!  Sarah is essentially converted in this story, and I love how she trusts in God, literally, to the bitter end!  Beautiful!  I went away feeling like I need to show God that I can trust Him with that same faith.

The romance is wonderful and the story will melt your heart.  I can’t wait for you to read this!  It’s hard for me to say which of these books in this series is my favorite—they are all so different and inspiring.  Justin’s love for Sarah is magnificent!  That’s what love is all about, people!  So, just go read all the books and don’t do as I did...  Read them in order!

Be prepared for some sleepless nights, y'all!

Happy Reading!
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A Vision Of Lucy

This is the second book that I’ve read which focuses on photography as a budding art form.  (The first one being From a Distance…)  Of the two, I have to say I actually like A Vision of Lucy more.  I know, I know.  The former won a Christy Award.  That's great n'all, but it doesn’t change my opinion in the least.

Book Rating:  Best of the Best

This is the third book in a three-book series, and I read it first. (Don’t ask me why I keep doing that because I seriously don’t know.)  But you don’t have to read them in order for these books to make sense, so that’s the good part.

If you haven’t ever read a Brownley book you are in for a real treat!  Like a hot-fudge-Sunday-with-a-cherry-on-the-top kind of treat!!  Her style is descriptive and playful without being over the top or cheesy.  I smiled my way through this book, and I was sad to see it end.  And that goes for all the books in this series!  I’ve read several series from a few authors and so far, I like this series best.

Trouble seems to follow Lucy Fairbanks wherever she goes.  Not that she’s out looking for it, mind you.  She simply wants to take photos for the town newspaper so bad, she will do anything to get the perfect shot.  It’s on one of these quests that she’s nearly killed by a run away stage coach and is saved by the “wild man” that lives just out of town.  (Um, side note here…you know it’s gonna be a good book if there’s a kiss before you’ve even read 20 pages!  Boo-ya, baby!)

David Wolf is a man torn between two worlds.  (He is also a man that is exceedingly rugged and super-duper good looking!  Just wanted to clear that up in case you were wondering…)  He can’t seem to escape this young woman who brings disaster.  And despite his efforts against it, he finds he is falling in love with her.

All the books in the series are SO romantic, and have a perfect blend of action and just a dash of drama.  LOVE IT!

Happy Reading!
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A Suitor For Jenny

This book was amazingly delicious!  I devoured it so fast you would have thought it was a bag of Cool Ranch Doritos.  No, I’m serious.  I read it that fast.

Book Rating:  Best of the Best

I loved the premise of this story:  Girl goes to town looking for husbands for her sisters, but insists she doesn't need one herself.  (Of course you can imagine she ends up with one...teehee...)  I knew I had to read this!

Jenny Higgins is a very determined, hard working girl who comes to Rocky Creek because she read in a newspaper that this town had the highest number of eligible bachelors in Texas.  Too bad it was a misprint—but she doesn’t know that.  She has been caring for her sisters since their parents died many years ago and the responsibility has weighed very heavily on her.  In their dire circumstances it made her do things she never wanted to do, and now she believes no one will ever truly love her.  All she needs to do is find men who can care for her sisters financially so they will never starve again.

Rhett Armstrong (hel-LO!  His name alone is super hot!) is the town Marshall and when someone bursts into his office claiming the town is being taken-over by three women looking for husbands, he dismisses it.  But, over time he can’t believe how true that statement really was.  And little does he know how “Colonel Jenny” will change is life forever.

Now, as you know, I won’t divulge any more of the yummy details, so that’s why you just gotta go read it yourself.  But I will tell you, that I thought the romantic tension was magnificent, the characters were SO fun and the spiritual message was inspiring.  I loved it all.

I know you’re wondering.  Which would I rather choose: a bag of Cool Ranch Doritos or this book. Sorry, Doritos.  I would choose this book.

Happy Reading!
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Head in the Clouds

I love Karen Witemeyer’s books.  Have I mentioned that before?  I love them so much that I have already pre-ordered her next book, Short-Straw Bride, which comes out June 1.  I have an advent calendar that I am using to help me count-down the days until it arrives at my doorstep!  Well, maybe not literally, but in my mind anyway!  Head in the Clouds is a simply marvelous novel.

Book rating: Up All Night’er

Adelaide is a sweet, adorable, petite girl who has recently made a humiliating discovery.  She is looking to escape her past by working as a governess at a remote sheep ranch in Texas.  There she finds a dashing transplant from England named Gideon. He's got it all--looks, charm and that wonderful English accent!  Swoon!!  She is hired to work for him by caring for his daughter, Isabella, who hasn’t spoken a word since her mother died.

This book has a great villain and lots of fun excitement.  The spiritual message made such a difference in my life.  I loved how easily Adelaide seemed to communicate with God and I really felt like I wanted and needed to be more like that.

Gideon is very intrigued by Adelaide’s sweetness and fun-loving nature.  She, in turn, cannot escape his charm.  As their relationship heats up, so does the danger posed by Isabella's money-hungry uncle.  

I loved this book on so many levels.  It was the perfect blend of romance, excitement, and just pure fun.  A great any-time read!

Happy Reading!

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