Aiming for Love - Brides of Hope Mountain Book 1 - Mary Connealy

My Rating

★★★★ - You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you. (More Info)

About the Book

When Strangers Intrude on Three Wild Sisters’

Hidden Mountain Life, Their World Will Never Be the Same

Josephine Nordegren is one of three sisters who grew up nearly wild in southwestern Colorado. She has the archery skills of Robin Hood and the curiosity of the Little Mermaid, fascinated by but locked away from the forbidden outside world–a world she’s been raised to believe killed her parents. When David Warden, a rancher, brings in a herd much too close to the girls’ secret home, her older sister is especially frightened, but Jo is too interested to stay away.

David’s parents follow soon on his heels, escaping bandits at their ranch. But his father is wounded and needs shelter. Josephine and her sisters have the only cabin on the mountain. Do they risk stepping into the world to help those in need? Or do they remain separated but safe in the peaks of Hope Mountain? (from the author's website)

My Thoughts

From the hillside of Hope Mountain to the valley of Warden Ranch, Aiming for Love is a fascinating and entertaining story from beginning to end. Mary Connealy has given us a unique and totally NEW story.

Jo is incredible. I have never read a book with a character quite like her. While naive and ignorant of the world outside her isolated haven on Hope Mountain, Jo is an endearing heroine if ever there was one. She is resourceful and curious. Ready for adventure and ready for love. I want her clothes! LOL! This book was fabulous world building and setting the stage for the rest of the series. I feel like we've just scratched the surace of the lives of the Nordegren sisters and I can't wait to learn more about them in the books to come.

Cowboys, romance, mountains, danger, and a Ma that everyone needs in their life, Aiming for Love is the perfect blend of Mary's classic genre of Romantic Comedy...with Cowboys! It's a good thing book two, Woman of Sunlight is now available because you won't want to leave Hope Mountain! 

I received a complimentary copy of Aiming for Love from the publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

About the Author

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedies with cowboys and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She is a two time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader’s Choice finalist.

Mary is the bestselling author of over 50 books and novellas has nearly a million books in print. Her most recent book series are Garrison’s Law, High Sierra Sweethearts, Cimarron Legacy, Wild at Heart, Trouble in Texas, and Kincaid Brides.

Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero. Visit her website or find her at Seekerville and Petticoats & Pistols!

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First Line Fridays - A Cowboy for Christmas

Happy Friday!

I know, I know...I only JUST got my fall decor out and I am already posting about Christmas books! Well, I figured I needed to give you ideas for your own Christmas reading right? Hehe! There is no doubt that Christmas is my favorite HOLIDAY! This is one of the books that I received at CFRR this year. And Ruthy is such a sweetheart! I adore her! And I managed to get a picture with her this year (and not loose the photo haha)!

Ellensburgh, Washington

November 1889

"Will we have food, Mama?" The hope in Beth's voice did more than stir June Harper's resolve as she and two friends hurried west on the Seattle road. It pushed her to make a decision she'd been putting off for weeks.

Now it's your turn! Post your first line below and blog hop and join in more First Line fun! 

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Lone Star Trail - Texas Trails Book 1 - Darlene Franklin

My Rating

★★★★★ - You have bewitched me, body and soul. (More Info)

About the Book

The six-book series about four generations of the Morgan family living, fighting, and thriving amidst a turbulent Texas history spanning from 1845 to 1896 begins with Lone Star Trail.  Although a series, each book can be read on its own.

Judson "Jud" Morgan's father died for Texas' freedom during the war for independence. So when the Society for the Protection of German Immigrants in Texas (the Verein) attempts to colonize a New Germany in his country, he takes a stand against them.

After Wande Fleischers' fiancé marries someone else, the young fraulein determines to make a new life for herself in Texas. With the help of Jud's sister Marion, Wande learns English and becomes a trusted friend to the entire Morgan family.

As much as Jud dislikes the immigrant invasion, he can't help admiring Wande's character. She is sweet and cheerful as she serves the Lord and all those around her. Can the rancher put aside his prejudice to forge a new future?  Through Jud and Wande, we learn the powerful lessons of forgiveness and reconciliation among a diverse community of believers.

My Thoughts

Pinterest

When I first read this book, I was NEW at this whole reviewing thing. This is one of the first print books I ever received...And I can guarantee that I sniffed it. There is just something about holding a book in your hands. *Sigh* I love the smell of books. I really want one of those candles that is library, book scented. I never tire of #bookmail. It makes me so giddy. I even have my kids trained...when they see a yellow envelope..."What book did you get Mama?" Proud mama.

I look back on this story with great fondness. I love the setting and the culture clash that Darlene Franklin gives us with Jud and Wande. Faith is evident in this story and the romance is very tender and sweet.

(Original review published on Bookworm Mama 10/2014)

What happens when two families, who have experienced tragedy and loss, and are from very different backgrounds are thrown together?

It is 1845, the Morgans are Texans through and through. They raise the famous Morgan Horses on their ranch, the Running M Ranch and have fought hard and sacrificed much to be the successful ranchers that they are. The Fleischer family have traveled from Germany and just arrived in Texas. This foreign land has taken much from them in the short time they have been here. Jud Morgan carries bitterness and distrust for the Germans who have begun to overtake "his" Texas. But his eyes are opened to the Lord's love for all people when he accepts the friendship of the Fleischers. Especially when the eldest daughter, Wande, catches his eye. It becomes apparent that the Lord brought these two families together. To work and live side by side to survive the untamed land of the "Lone Star State".

I couldn't put this book down! Depending on the personal events of our family, it usually takes me a little while to complete a book, no matter how interesting it is. But with this book, I couldn't help it. The dishes piled up, the laundry went unwashed and I read every second I could. Darlene Franklin captured my attention from the start. I always enjoy reading about this particular time era, when families are venturing into unknown land to build a new life. And Lone Star Trail did not disappoint. I look forward to reading the rest of the Texas Trails series and continuing the Morgan family adventure!

I received a complimentary copy of Lone Star Trail from Moody Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

About the Author

Best-selling hybrid author Darlene Franklin's greatest claim to fame is that she writes full-time from a nursing home. She published her fiftieth book, Mermaid's Song, in July 2017, and has contributed to more than thirty nonfiction titles. Her column, “The View Through my Door,” appears monthly in two national venues and three regional.

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Many thanks to Canva for providing an AMAZING program for me to design all these beautiful graphics. Book covers, publisher/tour logos, and author pictures not owned by me. All other graphics created by Bookworm Mama with public domain photos on Canva unless stated otherwise. 

Tried & True - Wild at Heart Book 1 - Mary Connealy

My Rating

★★★★★ - You have bewitched me, body and soul. (More Info)

About the Book

Saddle up for a wildly fun ride with the Wilde sisters!

Kylie Wilde is the youngest sister—and the most civilized. Her older sisters might be happy dressing in trousers and posing as men, but Kylie has grown her hair long and wears skirts every chance she gets. It’s a risk—they are homesteading using the special exemptions they earned serving in the Civil War as “boys”—but Kylie plans to make the most of the years before she can sell her property and return to the luxuries of life back East.

Local land agent Aaron Masterson is fascinated with Kylie from the moment her long hair falls from her cap. But now that he knows her secret, can he in good conscience defraud the U.S. government? And when someone tries to force Kylie off her land, does he have any hope of convincing her that marrying him and settling on the frontier is the better option for her future?

My Thoughts

Pinterest

THIS is the book that started it all! Tried & True was the VERY first book I EVER received from a publishing house as part of a blogger review program. As you can see...I have come a LONG way since August 2014. Lots of trial and error, lots of friends made, lots of tears cried over fictional characters, lots of memories made. I will forever be grateful for this opportunity to share my love of all things bookish!

(Original review posted August 2014)

Idaho Territory, 1866, The Civil War has ended, but the charade has not. Kylie Wilde and her sisters Shannon and Bailey lived as men throughout the war. And at their father's command, are now homesteading as men.

Tried & True is a gripping journey about forgiveness and finding true identity. Kylie's demanding Pa is sick with grief over the loss of his son and does not know how to take care of, or love his daughters for who they are. Powerful cattleman, Gage Coulter, would like nothing better than to reclaim Kylie's land as his own. Aaron Masterson is captivated by Kylie from the moment they meet. But Aaron wants to live a life in the mountains and Kylie longs for the civilization of the East. Attempts to scare her off her land by persons unknown, opens doors Kylie never dreamed of. Throughout her journey, her faith is tested and tried. But she stands strong and remains true to herself.

It was next to impossible for me to put this book down. I was transported to the mountains of Idaho in the height of the land rush every time I began to read. Feeling the fear, the love, the determination that Kylie felt. It was all very captivating. I am especially grateful to Mary Connealy for the way she is able to portray a Historical Fiction "Romance" very tastefully. I am excited to read the rest of the series!

I received a complimentary copy of Tried & True from the publishers, Bethany House Publishing. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

About the Author

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedies about cowboys. She's the author of The Kincaid Brides, Trouble in Texas, and Wild at Heart series, as well as several other acclaimed series. Mary has been nominated for a Christy Award, was a finalist for a RITA Award, and is a two-time winner of the Carol Award. She lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero. They have four grown daughters--Joslyn, married to Matt; Wendy; Shelly, married to Aaron; and Katy, married to Max--and four precious grandchildren. 

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You can find more books by Mary Connealy on Bookworm Mama HERE.

Many thanks to Canva for providing an AMAZING program for me to design all these beautiful graphics. Book covers, publisher/tour logos, and author pictures not owned by me. All other graphics created by Bookworm Mama with public domain photos on Canva. 

Author Interview & GIVEAWAY! - Misty M. Beller

About the Book

Taking flight from their quiet Pennsylvania town seems like the only way for Tori Boyd to protect her dearest cousin’s virtue. And the success of their escape may now depend on the man she’s been writing letters to for over a year now in the vast wilds of the Wyoming Territory.

Ezra Reid has finally stepped out from under the shadow of his older brother and sister, now having full responsibility to man the Rocky Ridge Stage Stop through the winter. The success or failure of the stage and telegraph contracts falls squarely on his shoulders, and he's entirely focused on the work - at least until his mysterious correspondence partner shows up on his doorstep.

As Ezra takes on the search for a proper situation for Tori and her cousin, there seem to be no good options for the ladies. Especially since Tori won't even discuss the one option that might succeed - marriage. When the danger chasing the women takes on a form none of them anticipated, how far will Ezra have to go to keep the Tori and her cousin safe? It’ll take a lot more than luck to ensure his heart is the sole casualty.

Welcome to Bookworm Mama, Misty! I am so honored to have you here today!

Rachel: First of all....EEEEEEEP! Your hero has my son's name! Ezra is not an overly common name (Although Today.com reported that it was the most popular boy's name in 2015) I adore the name! And so excited to see it in a book! YAY!

Where did your love of books/storytelling/reading/writing/etc. come from?

Misty: Great question! I’ve always loved reading, and there were many times growing up when my mom would tell me to pull my nose from the book and go outside! I never thought I could write those engaging stories I read, though.

But several years ago, I was putting together my bucket list, and realized that I really did want to write a novel. So, "Write a novel that's published" made it near the top! I decided, it's now or never, and made the commitment to do it.

Once I started, I realized how hard it truly is to learn the craft required to write a novel, but I also realized how much I love it! And I've spent countless hours sitting with my laptop pouring out words onto the screen. Writing is in my blood. It's my passion. A true gift from my Heavenly Father, and I pray daily that He uses the words for His purpose

Rachel: So inspiring! I THINK I would like to write a book...someday...But I am not sure if that is where my calling will lead. I love that you put action to your dreams! (I was also told by my mom to go outside...I would take the book with me hehe)

What literary character is most like you?

Misty: This is a tough one! I can’t think of one character that is exactly like me, but some of my favorite characters have some of my characteristics. I can relate to Elizabeth Bennet’s quiet resolve and dry humor in Pride and Prejudice. I also tend to share Elinor Dashwood’s realistic approach to life in Sense and Sensibility, and I love the way she discovers that God wants the very best for her! (my interpretation of the story’s end. 😊) 

Rachel: Oooh, this is fantastic! Great interpretation. I can totally see how we can all apply Elinor's discovery in the sense that God wants GOOD things for His Children.

How did you become involved with the subject or theme of your book?

Misty: As I began the story, I knew that Tori had experienced some truly awful things in her past – at the hands of her uncle’s steward – and she would have to overcome some of the lingering emotions. But I didn’t realize the depth of the scars that the past recurring abuse held left on her – both emotionally and mentally. I love the way Ezra tries to “fix” her in the story, but only God can heal the kind of wounds that Tori was dealing with. He has the best for us, but sometimes we have to experience the lows to realize how wonderful the best is!

Rachel: SO GOOD!!! Yes,there are thing that we go through that affect us on a deeper level than we realise sometimes. I love LOVE what you said: "only God can heal the kind of wounds that Tori was dealing with." Too many times we (as humans) try to heal or fix ourselves with things other than God. But only HE has the healing we seek.

Who are some of your favorite authors that you feel were influential in writing A Sweetwater River Romance? What impact have they had on your writing?

Misty: I love Deeanne Gist (especially her earliest books), Kristen Heitzmann (Diamond of the Rockies series anyone?) and Karen Witemeyer (I’ve read Short-Straw Bride so many times!)

Rachel: I am sad to say I have not read any of these! *scurries over to Goodreads and adds them to my To-Read shelf* For those of you who have not read these click on the title to go to their Goodreads page.

What secret talents do you have?

Misty: I was a music major my first year in college, piano concentration. 😊

Rachel: Ooooh! I play the piano...nothing fancy haha!

What are you reading right now? What made you pick it up?

I’m relistening to the audiobook of You’re the One That I Want by Susan May Warren. This is my favorite of her Christianson Family series because I love the way Owen (the hero) works so hard to overcome the really bad decisions he’s made in his life. And Scotty, the hero, is tough as nails, yet we see her softer, tentative side. Great characters!

Rachel: Sounds like a wonderful lineup of characters!

Do you have any unusual writing habits?

Misty: This is probably not unusual, but I am not a good self-editor. Once I “see” a certain way in my mind, it’s hard for me to envision it differently. Because of that, I take a little more time with my first drafts than some writers, because I need it to be decent at that point (it will be harder for me to make significant changes later!).

Rachel: Oh! I get that for sure! Even as a blogger haha! 

What writing advice do you have for pre-published authors?

Misty: There are so many things that spring to mind! Some I've learned from wise writers. Some from my heavenly Father. And some from doing it the hard way. If I had to narrow down my experience into advice, these are the three things I would share:  

1. Seek:  Read books on craft. Join a writer's organization. Make friends with other writers and develop connections. Seek to learn everything you can about this wonderful world of fiction! 
   

   

2. Work:  Writing takes so many hours of typing and plotting and editing. You may feel it will never end. But enjoy the journey, even the hard times. I heard a quote today that really hit home for me. "Happiness is counting your blessings for the good things where you are right now." We all need goals, but the joy truly can be in the journey. 

3. Pray: Seek God's face and His direction for your writing. If you're in His will, He will bless the work. His blessings may be a different outcome than you expected, but I promise it will be wonderful! 

Rachel: Oh Misty, this is beautiful! Thank you for sharing your heart!

Before we go, can you tell us what is up next for you?

Misty: I’ll be writing a Christmas novel! The fourth book in the Wyoming Mountain Tales will star Opal, Tori’s cousin, and will be titled A Mountain Christmas Romance. I’m in the brainstorming process and getting really excited!

Rachel: I LOOOOOOVE Christmas books!!! Hehe! It is my favorite time of year, and I adore seeing it come alive for the characters in a book.

Thanks ever so much for joining us today, Misty! I had a blast chatting with you and getting to know you a little better!

Thanks so much, Rachel!

About the Author

Misty M. Beller writes Christian historical romance and is the author of the bestselling Mountain Dreams Series, Wyoming Mountain Tales, and the Texas Rancher Trilogy.

She was raised on a farm in South Carolina, so her Southern roots run deep. Growing up, her family was close, and they continue to keep that priority today. Her husband and daughters now add another dimension to her life, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

God has placed a desire in Misty's heart to combine her love for Christian fiction and the simpler ranch life, writing historical novels that display God's abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters. 

Learn more at www.MistyMBeller.com.

Giveaway

Misty has graciously provided a copy of A Pony Express Romance (Book 1 in the series) for giveaway. Format will be winner's choice! Please enter via the Rafflecopter form below. *Please note: If the winner has an international mailing address (outside the U.S.A.) the format provided will be ebook. Please see Policies & Disclosures for more information. Void where prohibited.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Long Time Gone - The Cimarron Legacy Book 2 - Mary Connealy

My Rating
★★★★ - You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you. (More Info)

From the Back of the Book

The Boden clan thought their problems had ended with the death of a dangerous enemy, but have they truly uncovered the real plot to take their New Mexico ranch? Rancher Justin Boden is now in charge. He is normally an unshakable and rugged man, but with his brother, Cole, shot and in mortal danger, even a tough man faces doubts. And it doesn't help that Angie DuPree, the assistant to the doctor trying to save Cole, is as distracting a woman as Justin ever laid eyes on.

With her and the doc's timely skills, Cole looks to be on the mend, and Justin and the rest of the Bodens can turn their attention back to the dangers facing them. It's clear now that everything that's occurred is part of a much bigger plot that could date back to a decades-old secret. Can they uncover all the pieces before danger closes in on them, or is the threat to the ranch even bigger than any of the Bodens could imagine?

My Thoughts

Fast paced and filled with all the adventure, suspense, comedy, and romance that I have come to expect from Mary Connealy.

The Boden clan is a family that I am sad to say, I only JUST met in Long Time Gone. Even though I was able to pick up the gist of the story pretty quickly, I would suggest that you begin with book 1, No Way Up before diving into this one. 

Angie and Justin are two peas in a pod. They really were made for each other and I just loved watching them bicker, tease, and fall in love. And they are both stubborn as mules. Justin, inexperienced when it comes to females, is adorable as he tries to sort out his feelings for Angie. Wanting to protect her, but trying not to come across as a dictator. Angie, still healing from the wounds of the past, is learning how to be her own woman, standing up for herself, defending herself. But we weren't made to do everything alone. That is why God sends us a partner to stand beside us, to fight with us. And above all we must never forget to lean on God for protection and strength. To trust that He is leading us down the right road. That no matter where life leads us, He will be by our side.

Mary's books have the great ability to make you laugh out loud, hold your breath in anticipation, shake your head in frustration, and curl your toes with the sweet romance. 

Set in New Mexico Territory in 1880, we get to meet both outlaws and cowboys. Full of adventure and some hair raising escapades, Long Time Gone is sure to capture your attention, and the characters, your heart. 

I received a complimentary copy of Long Time Gone from the publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

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Book 1

About the Author

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedies about cowboys. She's the author of The Kincaid Brides, Trouble in Texas, and Wild at Heart series, as well as several other acclaimed series. Mary has been nominated for a Christy Award, was a finalist for a RITA Award, and is a two-time winner of the Carol Award. She lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero. They have four grown daughters--Joslyn, married to Matt; Wendy; Shelly, married to Aaron; and Katy, married to Max--and four precious grandchildren. 

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More Books by Mary Connealy on Bookworm Mama

Tried & True (Wild at Heart Book #1)

Now & Forever (Wild at Heart Book #2)

Fire & Ice (Wild at Heart Book #3)