McKinnie Mail Order Brides-Reviews for Books 2-6

 

Love in the Rockies - I enjoyed Josephine's story even more than Abigail's. I look forward to continuing the sisters' journey in the next book in the series. 4.8/5

Love on the Plains - I am not sure who I liked less, Dinah or Colt/Cole. Dinah is spoiled and entitled. Colt (or Cole as he is mistakenly referred to a couple of times) is demanding and rude. They are both horrible people who seem to dramatically change overnight after they survive a traumatic event together. I did appreciate the metamorphosis the characters went through, although it was too quick to be believable. I LOVED the children, Anna, James, and little Emma. I give this loose re-telling of Beauty and the Beast a 2.8/5 overall. This was my least favorite of the series so far.

Love on the Ranch - This was one of the better books in the series. I was a fan of Elizabeth right away and enjoyed her spirit as she fought against the many challenges she faced to survive her harsh journey to happiness. There were a few times the characters' stubbornness drove me crazy, but I was happy with the ending and look forward to reading Francine's story. 4.4/5

Love on the Sound - Although many of the characters stubborn, cluelessness annoyed me, I still enjoyed Francine's adventure to find love and her discovery of a dream even she was unaware she had. Now Thomas I could NOT stand! I had hoped his character would be better redeemed than the ending he received. Francine, Adam, Clara, and Esther were my favorite characters. 3.7/5. I look forward to learning more about Hannah in the next book. 

Love on the Border - When I was approved to read the ARC of Love on the Border, I was unaware it was the sixth book in a series. Never having read any other book by Ciara Knight, I found the first two of this series on Kindle Unlimited. The McKinnie sisters’ stories quickly had me hooked and I read the first five books over two weeks. The series was no longer available on Kindle Unlimited after completing the first two, so I purchased books 3-5. I would have bought Love on the Border as well if I had not had the advanced reader’s copy.

 The latest McKinnie Mail Order Bride release tells Hannah's story. Before this book, readers do not learn much about this sister, so I enjoyed getting to know more about Hannah. I really like the rest of the cast of characters as well. Roger gave me the creeps at first, but it was nice to see his character growth. Eli was a great leading man to root for. He is not perfect but works to overcome his personal demons. Hannah was easy to like as well. Although I admired the strength of her faith, I did not fully agree with the portrayal of faith. This was my third favorite of the series so far. I look forward to reading Cora’s story most! Love on the Border is a well-written and fast-paced story for those who enjoy this and other mail order bride series. I received a free copy of this story from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review. 3.8/5 overall.

I love the beautiful covers for this series! I predict Cora's story will be my favorite (she deserves the best for her selfless sacrifice). I would love to read of reunion between the sisters at series end. My favorite in order are:

A Whole New World ~ Danger on the Loch Book Review

 

“Paisley's DNA test links her to the father she doesn't remember and a heritage and name not her own.”

Danger on the Loch is one of the best books I have ever read. Not just this year. Ever. I don’t write that statement often. To say I loved everything about this story feels like an understatement. Excellent writing combined with well-crafted characters for an edge-of-your seat adventure.

I like how the relationships developed naturally while the characters pursued their individual goals. The romance was well-balanced with mystery and humor. The Pressley-Coombes family is one anyone would want to be friends with. Readers get to become just that as they get to know the characters better throughout the story. I loved Jamie’s (James’) chivalry, Paisley’s strength, and Granny’s spunk. I also admire Paisley’s conviction to stay true to herself and hold fast to her morals and beliefs when faced with displeasing a father she wants so much to impress. Torquil and Mrs. Grant were two more of my favorite characters.

There were a few scenes late in the story that did not flow as well as the rest of the story, but the sweet ending more than made up for it. This was the first I have read by Paige Edwards. Thirty percent into Danger on the Loch I knew I had to read more by this talented author. I purchased the first two Pressley-Coombes books and pre-ordered a physical copy of Danger on the Loch. I highly recommend this author to anyone who enjoys sweet, clean romantic suspense. 5/5

I received a free ARC of this story from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

“I don’t need fancy. I just need you,” ~ Book Review for Love on the Prarie

~

 “Abigail McKinnie and her six sisters huddled together for the last time. Ashes and debris littered the floor of their half-demolished home, the smell of burned wood, gunpowder, and Yankee stench still haunting the air. Everything was gone. Not just their possessions, but their dreams, too.”

The opening scene of this story immediately connected me with the characters, making me want to learn more about what tragedies they had lived through and where their journeys would take them. The bond of sisters is like no other and the author established that bond beautifully from the beginning. Being the oldest of four siblings, it was easy for me to relate to Abigail and understand the love and sense of responsibility that drove her to the prairies to provide a safe home for her sisters.

“A short ceremony, with no words and no tears, but full of sadness.”

Owen’s introduction alludes to his own difficult past. Both leading characters, though flawed, are likable and relatable.  The remainder of the story follows Abigail and Owen as they battle the dangers of prairie life and the feelings they are developing for each other.

“Abigail stumbled down the hill, both her feet flaming lumps of pain.”

Although I laughed at this, I sympathized with her pain.

This book started out as a fast 5/5. However, the story became a little rushed towards the middle and end. The hurried pace affected the quality of writing, dropping my final rating to a 4.4 overall.

I did like how the story ended. The second book in the series is next on my list.

“When their lips parted, she felt she’d given part of herself to him forever. Hope emerged through the ashes of sorrow and for the first time, she believed in happiness.”

“I don’t need fancy. I just need you,”

The sky is falling!~A book review

 

I am big fan of Shannon Messenger's Keeper of the Lost Cities series, so I was excited to give her Sky Fall trilogy a try. I liked the plot idea, but the delivery fell short. Although the book was not poorly written, the characters' stubbornness and lack of growth annoyed me. As did numerous references of Vane-like objects (ie:Vane-pancake, Vane-splat). The only character I really liked was Hannah. She was a minor character, but the most interesting. 

Aside from a few lightly humorous moments that made me laugh, I felt disconnected from the story. Usually, I am rooting for a main couple by the end of a story. Not with this book. The romance felt forced, unnatural, and superficial.  There was also too much profanity and suggestive thoughts/actions sprinkled throughout. 

Let the Sky Fall kept my attention enough to complete the story, but I do not plan on reading it again. I may check out the next two books to see how the trilogy concludes, but they are not at the top of my list of things I want to read. 3.8/5

Welcome to Carnton ~ With This Pledge

 

“When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.” Psalm 63:6 KJV

“Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;” Deuteronomy 7:9 KJV

The best way to start a novel is with scripture. The above texts from the Bible set the stage for a beautiful story to follow. I have never been so fully emersed in a story as I was this one. The author transported me back in time to Franklin, TN 1864. I became part of the Carnton household as they witnessed the devastation of war, the horrific aftermath of battle, and the difficult journey to healing and change. Experiencing this book was like living history. I enjoyed getting to know the courageous people written about. I would love to visit this historic location in the future.

My favorite part of With This Pledge was the messages of faith throughout. I was encouraged to deepen my relationship with God as I read of the characters growing closer to Him, through the truth of His Word amid their trials.

I have had many titles by Tamera Alexander on my TBR list and bookshelf for a while but have not had the opportunity to read any of her books until now. I admire how the author uses her gift to share the Saviour of the world with others and give Him glory. Since February was a slow reading month for me, With This Pledge was the only story I finished. I am glad this is the book that I chose to read. 5/5.

Before I finished reading my Kindle Unlimited copy of the story, I purchased a physical copy of the book along with the novella Christmas at Carnton. I look forward to adding more of the author’s stories to my collection.

Here are a few of my favorite quotes:

“She reached for strength beyond her own.”

“He had strong facial features and was a handsome man in a rough, rugged sense. All except for his gray eyes, which had revealed a kindness that brooked no argument, and that thoroughly convinced the onlooker of his honor at first glance.”

“Grief coupled with regret had a way of bending even the strongest man’s knees,”

“She didn’t doubt that God was watching. That he was present. That he saw every man and even knew each of their names. She’d walked with the Almighty long enough that he’d proven his presence to her time and again.”

“He wrapped her in a hug as familiar as home and as comforting as a feather bed come winter,”

“’Captain Jones, how may I make things more comfortable for you, sir?” Sister Catherine Margaret bent over him. “Well, Sister . . .” He grimaced. “Unless you have a full flask hidden somewhere in that habit of yours, I’m guessing not much.” That earned him a grin, as he’d thought it would. She made a tsking sound. “If only you hadn’t stipulated ‘full,’ Captain Jones, I might have been able to comply.” Roland managed a slight smile. Just what he needed. A nun with a sense of humor.”

“Hearing her voice, Roland opened his eyes and looked toward the door, and felt as though the sun had risen for a second time that day.”

“To know what was going on behind those eyes that could sparkle like sunshine through stained glass when she laughed. At the moment they resembled more the deep blue of a late summer night sky. Enchanting and fathomless.”

“’For those who are in Christ Jesus, the best is always yet to come. Believe that.”’

“’And yet, with all my heart,” she continued, “I trust that God knows best.” A slow, almost sad smile turned her mouth. “Even in those moments when I’m fairly certain I might know better.’”

“He caught a whiff of lilac soap and wished he could finger the brown curl teasing her temple. He told himself it wasn’t wise to allow his thoughts to take this trail, but his thoughts didn’t listen.”

“Her voice was so soft he had to watch her lips to make sure he didn’t miss anything. Not too unpleasant a task.”

“Her eyes lit with a sparkle that precious stones would envy.”

“Moonlight shone through the bare tree limbs and fell across the front lawn, painting the night, and Towny’s familiar features, in dappled silver shadows. But all she could think about was Roland.”

“’But I don’t want to go back to that life, Towny. And I don’t want to forget. Not that I want to keep reliving the images from the battlefield every time I close my eyes. But far too much blood has been spilled to simply forget and move on. Instead, we need to learn from this. We need to make changes.’”

“Lord, whatever changes are coming, let them come quickly. And let them last.”

“He lay still in the darkness and listened, somehow knowing he needed to memorize this moment. Needed to take it in. Needed to remember what the Confederacy sounded like in its final moments.”

“What was it about Christmas that made the heart turn home?”

“there was something fascinating about watching a force of nature that, when contained, could help keep a man alive, but if unleashed would destroy with merciless ferocity.”

“She grabbed her Bible from the bedside table and tiptoed softly down to the kitchen, mindful of the worst offenders among the creaky stairs. The kitchen was dark and still, and she walked to a window and stood for a moment in the quiet, staring out the window into the night. The sun, still tucked in slumber, wouldn’t rouse for a while yet, and she watched transfixed as grayish tufts of clouds wafted across a thumbnail moon.”

“’If you and I have learned anything, Roland, it’s that while life itself holds no guarantees, we both trust in the One who holds our lives. So there’s nothing to fear.”

“’Do . . . you . . . love me?” She could scarcely breathe for watching his face, trying to read the contents of his heart.”

“’More than my own life,” he finally said.”

“’It’s a beautiful day. Enjoy it.” Lizzie closed the kitchen door behind her and took deep breaths, the scents of honeysuckle and summer sweetening the air. Her heart felt lighter than it had in a very long time.”

“I already love him or her with all my heart. Just as I love you.” “And always will?” she asked teasingly. He answered with a promise that didn’t need any words.”

Short and Sweet ~ Book Review

 

Rescued by the Hero was a sweet, clean read. My favorite moments in the book were when the characters relationships with God strengthened and weaved into their choices and actions in their daily lives as they chose to surrender to His will. A few things I did not like were: sections of the story where the dialogue felt forced or ingenuine, the rushed pace of the romance, the brother's whining, and the villain who was more annoying than creepy. But, as the story neared it's conclusion, I found myself liking it more. Although I probably would not read this book again, I never became bored while reading and plan to check out this next book in the series. This book can easily be completed in one setting. 4/5

The key to a girl’s heart is books and board games. ~Movie Reviews

Seeing others rate Christmas Hallmark movies over the holiday inspired me to watch more new releases this year and share my ratings.  Below I have ranked the new releases I have watched in January, from my least to most favorite. 

A Winter Getaway was a 2/5 for me. I liked the lead actors and the storyline, but the overall chemistry did not work well for me. I would not watch this movie again.

Two for the Win was a 3/5. The acting was decent, but the story did not really interest me. I am not a fan of winter sports. I would not watch again. 

Snowkissed stars two of my favorite hallmark actors. This cute movie set in beautiful Canada was fun. 4/5. I would watch again. 

Taking a Shot at Love was a 4/5. I am not a fan of hockey, but I did enjoy the ballet, the good acting, and the sweet story. I would watch again.

 

Finding 'Ohana is a Netflix Original. This film was funny adventure the whole family enjoyed. 5/5. I would watch again. 

A New Year's Resolution was my favorite of the month. This movie had a different feel than the usual Hallmark releases. I enjoyed the friendships and the chemistry between the lead couple. The bit of mystery was also a plus. The high light was a date with board games and books and this quote, 

"The key to a girl’s heart is books and board games."

5/5 I would enjoy watching this again soon.

Coming next month: