Book Review: A Man With A Past

 

From the back:

He must piece together his past if he's to have any chance at a future.

Falcon Hunt traveled west, compelled to start a new life by a surprise telegram that promised him an inheritance and a family in Wyoming. But shortly after arriving, he wakes in a river, completely unaware of who or where he is. As he tries to regain his memory, he meets two men who claim to be his half brothers and the prettiest woman in the area, Cheyenne Brewster. Only trouble is, a few flashes of memory make Falcon wonder if he's already married.

Falcon immediately draws Cheyenne's ire as he so closely resembles her no-good stepfather who swindled her out of inheriting her mother's property. But despite her resentments, she has to admit these newcomers' presence has some appeal, especially after Falcon steals a kiss.

When shootings start happening on the ranch, it's clear someone is gunning for the Hunt brothers. Falcon and Cheyenne set out to find who is behind the attacks, but it'll take all their savvy and skill to deal with their enemies and the potentially forbidden love growing between them.

My Reflections:

In Mary Connealy's second book "The Brothers in Arms" series, you will expect to be entertained for many solid hours. I have to admit this author consistently has me reading well into the wee hours of the night, I simply must keep reading! 

This book is no exception, in this series the plot builds onto the first book "Braced For Love." Readers can expect a good recap, for this reason, I would suggest this not be read as a standalone, read them in order to get the full benefits of the story!

A Man With A Past continues with the story of the Hunt Brothers. Falcon Hunt seems to have lost his memory putting him in a rather awkward situation. He can't recall the two men who claim to be his brothers, but he sure wants to get to know the beautiful lady named Cheyenne. When flashes of his past life come to light Falcon struggles with his building interest in this beautiful lady. Being the honourable man he is, he tries to live by his deep-rooted values hoping to remember enough of his past in order to build a future.

Cheyenne is the half-sister to Wyatt Hunt she is a firecracker of a woman who holds her resentment close after being cut off from the ranch she was raised on. When more confusion comes her way in the form of a handsome cowboy with no memory, things get really interesting!

I love that Mary Connealy weaves other characters into her novels interconnecting stories to add to her future series. I can't wait for book three! If you are looking for a novel packed with handsome cowboys, adventure and a sprinkle of humour this just might be the book you are searching for!

Book Review: Woman of Sunlight

From The Back:

He's Seen the Entire Country.
She's Never Been Off Her Mountain Home.
When Danger Comes, This Unlikely Couple Will Need to Rely on Each Other.
After years of isolation on top of Hope Mountain, Ilsa Nordegren may finally be ready to leave. Raised to fear the world, Ilsa and her sisters never planned on coming down, but when the Warden family arrived in need, they had to help. But with the arrival of added danger, it may cost them the only life they've ever known.

Having made his fortune, Mitch Warden returned home and found the family homestead abandoned. In a land grab, a ruthless cattle baron had forced his family to escape up the mountain, and when Mitch follows, the last thing he expects is to fall smitten with a strong-willed, dark-haired woman who dresses like Robin Hood and defends herself better than most men.

Mitch is intent on helping his family reclaim their land but doesn't realize the risks his past has brought. Hired killers are tracking him, and he's determined to draw them away before anyone else gets hurt. But that means a journey to the city--and when Ilsa insists on joining him, the mismatched pair suddenly find themselves on an adventure they'll never forget.

My Reflections:
My long time favourite author Mary Connealy does it again with her smashing new book"Woman of Sunlight" from the Brides of Hope Mountain series. I enjoyed the first book in the series "Aiming For Love" and was eager to see what would happen to this sister. 

Sweet kind Ilsa Nordegren with her quiet ways and tree swinging wildness. Having been raised in the wilderness and taught from a young age to fear the outside world, she now feels ready to break those constricting binds and explore the unknown However, the danger is lurking in their midst.
Mitch Warden is ready and willing to show Ilsa his favourite places and help her shrug off the past lies, however even though he thought he had left his dangerous past behind him, it looks like it's back to haunt him. 

Will he be equipped to save the woman he has fallen for and the family he loves?

I loved this couple and the strengths and weaknesses that made them perfect for each other. If you are looking for a new series, this is something fun to read as we are all isolated. I would recommend this sweet little gem. We have only been in isolation for three weeks imagine growing up in isolation? That's what I was thinking about as I read this book :-) Book three won't be released until next year, I can't wait to read about the most headstrong sister Ursula, that will be an interesting one indeed! 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Mary Connealy

Mary Connealy (www.maryconnealy.com) 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...

Continue reading about Mary Connealy

Book Review: Aiming For Love

From The Back:

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?

My Reflections:
Mary Connealy can always be counted on to pen a heartwarming, thought-provoking and well-planned novel. I am overjoyed that she has this new series out. The "Brides Of Hope Mountain" have once again proven my assumptions, another strong start to another fantastic series! 

Nestled deep in the Colorado mountains in the year 1873 live three sisters. They have a knack for living off the land and have not encountered another person other than their own family members for the entirety of their lives. Imagine meeting not just one person but a whole bunch of people, talk about socially inept! 

Jo Nordegren is spunky and adventurous, her curiosity will play a vital role in leading her and her sisters into a terrifyingly exciting new adventure. 

David and his family along with all the crew escape to the deep mountains with their extensive herd of cattle, and a few chickens. They manage to outrun the outlaws who are bent at taking over the ranch no matter the cost. David is completely thrown off balance when he discovers Jo sneaking around his camp. Where did she come from and what on earth is she doing in the middle of this rugged out country? Will the three sisters be able to help this massive intrusive bunch? Will civilization be able to tame these sisters' wild ways, or will it prove too much too soon? 

There are plenty of challenges and hurdles to climb in this delightfully engaging new series, it is sure to delight readers of all ages! I am eagerly anticipating book two, so Mary Connealy don't make us wait too long!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Mary Connealy

Mary Connealy (www.maryconnealy.com) 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...

Continue reading about Mary Connealy

Book Review: The Accidental Guardian

From the Back:

She's the Only Witness to a Wagon Train Attack. Keeping Her Safe, Though, Means His World Is about to be Turned Upside Down.
When Trace Riley finds the smoldering ruins of a small wagon train, he recognizes an attack by the same group who left him as sole survivor years ago. Living off the wilderness since then, he's finally carved out a home and started a herd--while serving as a self-appointed guardian of the trail. He'd hoped the days of driving off dangerous men were over, but the latest attack shows otherwise.

Deborah Harkness saved her younger sister and two toddlers during the attack, and now finds herself at the mercy of her rescuer. Trace becomes an accidental guardian when he offers the only shelter for miles around and agrees to take them in until they can safely continue their journey. His simple bachelor existence never anticipated kids and women in the picture and their arrival is unsettling--yet enticing.

Trace and Deborah find themselves drawing ever closer as they work together to bring justice to the trail and help the group survive the winter--but every day closer to spring means a day closer to leaving the mountains forever.

My reflections:
Mary Connealy is known for her witty, touching stories. Her newest book "The Accidental Guardian" in her "High Sierra Sweethearts" series is no exception. 
I am a sucker for the dramatic wagon trail themes. Add this to the predicament of being stranded with little ones to care for and you have the perfect backdrop for a dynamic story!

From the first page to the last I was entrapped within its pages, the action and tender romantic moments were equally captivating. I always find it interesting to see how Connealy develops her characters throughout the book.  She has the ability to weave together seemingly unrelated events and make a tapestry of beauty. That is why this authour is number one on my list of favourites.

Rancher Trace Riley never expected to welcome women and children into his quiet, rugged life, but welcome them he did, and it proves to throw his expectations upsidedown!

Deborah Harkness with her determined mindset. She is bent on relieving other burdens, and helping where she can.

Sweet motherly Gwen, her nurturing spirit and ability to put others at ease draws people to her.

Trace's ability to take charge makes the perfect "guardian." This hero is not above doing what it takes to keep those in his care safe, and this proves to cause its own set of problems.

A little intrigue, a little romance, a whole lotta country makes for a fast read. I was hoping for more information to be included in this novel. I am a happily ever after kind of girl and this story does leave some dangling bits. It does, however, leave the reader well set up for book two in this series "The Reluctant Warrior" set to be released in October 2018. I will most certainly be watching out for that one! 
Looking for action, adventure and some laugh out loud moments, this book is for you!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc."

Mary Connealy

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,...

Continue reading about Mary Connealy

Book Review: Hearts Entwined

From The Back:

Hearts EntwinedFour Historical Romance Novellas of Love (With a Twist of Humor)

The ways of love can be complex. Sometimes a relationship full of unexpected twists and unlikely turns leads to a bond that's strong and secure. Join Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Regina Jennings, and Melissa Jagears for novellas that follow the winding path of romance in stories that celebrate a love that lasts forever.

The Love Knot- Karen WitemeyerWhen Claire Nevin's troubled younger sibling sends her an unexpected package by rail, the gift and the man who delivers it--an unexpected face from the past--threaten to upend Claire's life forever. Fighting to hold on to all she has built, will she lose what matters most?

My reflections:

Oh, how I wish this were longer. Karen Witemeyer is one of my all-time favourite authors and to have my taste buds wet and not get the full meal was so, so hard on my literary addiction! I'm satisfied only with the knowledge that she will write more books. Once again I will be steeped in her abilities to tie together a string of words so captivating that I will stay up late until the finish.

In this story, the characters are realistically penned along with their many flaws and abilities. I think my favourite part of the book had to have been when the main character Clair gets to the train to pick up a certain parcel that has her whole life upended. I thought she took this shock much better than I would have, seamlessly adapting and rearranging priorities to make it all work out in the end. Throw into the mix past love interest, Pieter Van Duren showing up with the "package!" 

Overall a sweet and tender story filled with human qualities that make you want to sigh and keep reading.

The Tangled Ties That Bind- Mary ConnealyConnor Kincaid returns home determined to win the hand of the woman he was too young for when he left. But Maggie is training to be a doctor in a distant town, while Connor's about to settle on a ranch. Will either be willing to give up their dream? Or will they both have to give up the love of a lifetime?

My Reflections:

Mary Connealy keeps us reading with her "Tangles Ties that Bind." 

I so enjoyed catching up with the Kincaid/ Borden families. Conner Kincaid is home again, but this time he is a man on a mission, and no one will stop him now. Conner will even sacrifice his expectations and dreams to chase after Maggie.Trouble is she seems to have become more headstrong and determined than he remembers her to be. No matter Conner is ready to follow her where ever, even to the big city. Also to take any job to be with her. 

Maggie wants to become a doctor, she has set her mind to it, and no one will stop her now that she finally has a direction. Can these two tie the knot and pursue their dreams? God always finds a way, but it is often not our way!

Bound and Determined- Regina Jennings

As punishment for his recklessness, Private Bradley Willis is sent on an errand to help a retired cavalry officer move a herd across Indian Territory. No one told him the herd would be camels instead of cattle, nor that the officer's headstrong daughter, Ambrosia Herald, would seem to be trying to undermine the whole enterprise. He's definitely been saddled with more than he's bargained for.

My Reflections:

Camels? Wow, I must say I didn't expect that! 

Private Bradley Willis and Ambrosia Herald must work closely to escort these zany animals across the bone-dry Indian territory! This story has its quirks, and right out funny moments, mostly with the camels. Jam-packed with historical detail this story aims to please, who wouldn't love a romance combined with fascinating historical detail and headstrong characters!

Tied and True- Melissa Jagears

Wealthy Marianne Lister is in love with business assistant Calvin Hochstetler, but he can't see past the difference in their social status. When Marianne takes a job to prove that she is prepared for a life of hard work alongside the man of her dreams, will it be enough to convince Calvin to risk it all for love?

My Reflections:

This final novella centres on a series I am very familiar with, the Teaville Moral Society. Marianne Lister's one determined lady, her devotion to her cause is admirable. Despite the looming threat of being disinherited, she runs headlong into her cause, pursuing her love Calvin Hochstetler, no matter the cost. Is she ready to throw her status away? Will Calvin get the hint? A heartwarming story you won't want to miss!

This book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Book Review: Too Far Down

From the Back:

With Danger Drawing Ever Closer, The Boden Clan Risk Losing Their Ranch Forever
Having returned home to the ranch, Cole Boden finds himself caught between missing his time back east and appreciating all that New Mexico Territory offers. Sure, he fights with his siblings now and then, but he does care for them. He enjoys his new job running the mine and, when he's honest, he admits that Melanie Blake captures his interest in a way no other woman ever has.

Melanie has been a friend to the Bodens forever. A cowgirl who is more comfortable with horses and lassoes than people, she never expected to find herself falling for someone, particularly for refined Cole Boden, a Harvard graduate who can't seem to make up his mind about staying in New Mexico.

When a deadly explosion damages the CR Mining Company, the Bodens realize their troubles are not behind them as they thought. Shadowy forces are still working against them. Melanie is determined to help Cole, and the family finally put an end to the danger that's threatened all of them. But will putting herself in harm's way be more dangerous than anyone expected?

My Reflections:
This is the third and final book in the Cimarron Legacy series, and indeed, doesn't disappoint! From page one on Connealy propels her readers on with mystery and action alike. 

My favorite character in this one was Cole, such a twist having a cowboy slash city educated man who is grappling with his place in the world. Having spent ten years with his maternal grandparents in the big city, he is not sure where he wants to end up, or who he wants to end up with. I loved how things fell into place rather quickly. The adorable love story was perfect.

The story doesn't end with romance. However, this story is all western, lassoed with suspense and mystery, complete and perfect. You will want to read the entire series to these to fully grasp the family tribulations and storyline. I would start with, No Way Up and continue with Long Time Gone, this will foster your understanding and give you the complete backstory.

If you are looking for a new series with a fast-paced plot, a little of everything and some endearing love stories this series is for you!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc
Mary Connealy

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,...

Continue reading about Mary Connealy

Book Review: Long Time Gone

From the Back:

Someone Will Stop at Nothing to Claim the Boden Homestead!
The Boden clan thought their problems had ended with the death of a dangerous enemy, but have they uncovered the real plot to take their 1880s New Mexico ranch? Justin Boden is a top rancher and a rugged man, and yet 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. Now Justin and the rest of the Bodens can turn their attention back to the threats 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 pull together all the pieces before danger closes in on them, or is the risk of losing the ranch even greater than any of them could imagine?

My Reflections:

Long Time Gone is book two in the Cimarron Legacy, and although you could probably read it as a stand-alone, I would not recommend it. Too many details will be lost, and the essence of the story may turn murky. The mystery and danger jump start this story from page one, so saddle up your horse and get ready for the ride.

Although not my all-time favorite book from this author, I did find that I quite enjoyed the rough and tumble action and adventure. The plot is well thought out and includes many elements of surprise. I also fell in love with the character Angie, she is brave, spunky and has the tenacity to push through the trials of her life. Let's see if she can get past her hurt and let Justin into her life.

Cole can't seem to get Angie out of his mind, and heart. Although she is the last person, he ever thought he would be attracted to. Her penchant for danger and mishap lead them into all kinds of trouble. Angie is not what a cowhand looks for in a wife, but Cole is discovering that sometimes matters of the heart are entirely illogical!

Long time gone will appeal to those who love western heroes and lovable heroines. I am looking forward to Mary Connealy's next book in this series.

About THE AUTHOR

Mary Connealy

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,...

Continue reading about Mary Connealy

Book Review: No Way Up

From the Back:

The Fight for the Cimarron Ranch Has Just Begun!
When Cimarron Ranch patriarch Chance Boden is caught in an avalanche, only the quick actions of hired hand Heath Kincaid save him. Before leaving by train to receive treatment to save his leg--and possibly his life--Chance demands that Heath read the patriarch's will and see its conditions enforced immediately. If Chance's three bickering adult children, Justin, Sadie, and Cole, don't live and work at the ranch for an entire year, ownership of the ranch will pass to a despised distant relative.

Before long, however, Heath discovers that the avalanche may have been intentionally set--and that more danger lurks ominously. Finding his own future--and a desired future with Sadie--locked up in saving the Cimarron Ranch, Heath and the Boden siblings must work together against outside forces that threaten them all.

My Reflections:

No way Up is Book one in Mary Connealy's newest addition, aptly named The Cimarron Legacy. 

chuck full of sweet romance,  dust billowing action and laugh out loud humor this novel certainly lived up to my top favorite author list. Although I may be a tad bias as I have read every single book Connealy has written and loved each and every one of them. 

This author has a way of writing that pulls the reader in. She writes with depth and forethought as her novels are woven like a fine tapestry seamlessly meshing into the next books. This series is no different, you will notice subtle little clues dispersed throughout the story which I am guessing will be later foretold in future novels.

The dust gets kicked up from the get go when three grown siblings try to pull it together to save the family ranch.  

Strong and tough as nails Sadie, will not wait around for a man to do a job she can do better, even if that man has a tender heart for her.

Heath is such a fine example of a "hero." Good character, upstanding citizen, and fearless beyond reason, however, he must try and woo a damsel who wants to do everything on her own terms. No simple task, luckily Heath has enough to keep him busy, as this cowgirl will not be roped with the flick of a wrist.

Mystery surrounds the Boden family and it is up to Heath to unbind the noose that is entangling this family, can he figure out the source before it's too late? Can these siblings, Sadie, Cole and Justin  stop bickering long enough so that they can work as a family team?

I am eager to read book two in this series, well done Mary Connealy!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc

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THE AUTHOR

1. Photo courtesy of Ginger Murray Photography

   Mary Connealy

   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,...

   Continue reading about Mary Connealy