Broncos and Ballads (Healing Springs Ranch #2) by Jody Hedlund

ABOUT THE BOOK

The bad boy feels the McQuaid legacy of love is out of his reach. Maybe it’s closer than he realizes.

After a bad breakup, country music star Brock McQuaid finds his ratings tanking as fans begin to question whether he’s really experienced the love he sings about so passionately. To salvage his reputation, he agrees to pretend to fall in love with supermodel Venus Vargas, because she needs his help too.

Venus always thought she would marry her best friend Reed. But when he throws a surprise party celebrating his engagement to another woman, Venus finds herself scrambling to make sense of her relationship with him. To keep from being humiliated, she agrees to fake date Brock McQuaid.

The power couple makes headlines, but how long can they keep up their charade? Or is it a charade? The more time they spend together, the more real the relationship begins to feel. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles holding them back from love before their sham comes crashing down and crushes them both?Fake relationshipHot country music starBad boy reputationForced proximityMatchmaking familySwoony kisses* 

The inspirational themes in this book are light, and the romance is the primary focus. While the romance is sizzling and the kisses swoony, both the language and physical attraction are clean and wholesome.

MY THOUGHTS.....

It began with Wyatt McQuaid, in 1862, but the powerful legacy of the McQuaid family remains! Those Colorado cowboys have always known how to sweep women off their feet and offer them everlasting love. but there may be complications with the newest McQuaid love match. Or should I say, fake love match?

I loved witnessing this pretend romance through both Brock and Venus's points of view. I saw the hopes, doubts, and budding friendship that hinted at becoming more. Brock McQuaid was the ultimate dream cowboy, and Venus Vargus proved that her beauty was more than skin-deep! Powerful romantic chemistry. strong family ties, and a tantalizing glimpse of the country music scene made this a captivating summer read! I've always loved her historical romance novels. but Broncos and Ballads is a swoon-worthy contemporary romance! Now I wait, somewhat impatiently, for the next book in the Healing Springs Ranch series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over thirty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award. She lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy teens, and five spoiled cats.

When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.  

Learn more at Jody's Website     

Goodreads    Facebook

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Healing Springs Ranch

Spurs and Sparks

Broncos and Ballads

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The Collector of Burned Books by Roseanna M. White

ABOUT THE BOOK

In this gripping World War II historical about the power of words, two people form an unlikely friendship amid the Nazi occupation in Paris and fight to preserve the truth that enemies of freedom long to destroy.

Paris, 1940. Ever since the Nazi Party began burning books, German writers exiled for their opinions or heritage have been taking up residence in Paris. There they opened a library meant to celebrate the freedom of ideas and gathered every book on the banned list . . . and even incognito versions of the forbidden books that were smuggled back into Germany.

For the last six years, Corinne Bastien has been reading those books and making that library a second home. But when the German army takes possession of Paris, she loses access to the library and all the secrets she’d hidden there. Secrets the Allies will need if they have any hope of liberating the city she calls home.

Christian Bauer may be German, but he never wanted anything to do with the Nazi Party—he is a professor, one who’s done his best to protect his family as well as the books that were a threat to Nazi ideals. But when Goebbels sends him to Paris to handle the “relocation” of France’s libraries, he’s forced into an army uniform and given a rank he doesn’t want. In Paris, he tries to protect whoever and whatever he can from the madness of the Party and preserve the ideas that Germans will need again when that madness is over, and maybe find a lost piece of his heart.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

I don't know what I loved most about The Collector of Burned Books! Was it the author's amazing storytelling, or the history that inspired her story? The eye-catching cover, or the riveting plot that's filled with faith, intrigue, and a captivating relationship between Professor Corinne Bastien and German officer Christian Bauer? As a lover of the written word, Corinne was dedicated to preserving endangered books, and it appeared that this German officer had an opposite goal. Was this truly the case? Was Christian just as determined to save precious reading material?

I loved the characters, the WW II Paris setting, and the thought-provoking historical details. There was romance, but it wasn't all sweetness and light, and the mystery and suspense kept me completely absorbed! What else will I remember about The Collector of Burned Books? The strong faith message is neatly woven into an engaging story that is especially relevant today! We must be vigilant to protect our freedoms! We can't allow others to control our ideas or target our emotions so that our behavior is altered. The written word must be preserved!

Roseanna M. White's name on the cover of a book is always an invitation to compelling reading! I recommend The Collector of Burned Books to fans of historical Christian fiction, and I have added it to my bookcase 'keeper' shelf.

I received a complimentary copy from Tyndale Publishers. There was no obligation for a review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award-nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. 

Being educated at St. John’s College (the Great Books School) taught Roseanna to ask questions, to value conversation, and to never accept the simple answer without exploring it for herself. She and her family make their home in the mountains of West Virginia where she and her husband both grew up. Roseanna is a member of ACFW, a frequent speaker at writers events and small groups of readers, and an unabashed email addict.

You can learn more about her and her stories at her Website  Facebook  Twitter   Instagram

  

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Perilous Tides (Hidden Bay, #2) by Elizabeth Goddard

ABOUT THE BOOK

Three years after her mother's suspicious death, forensic artist Jo Cattrel is in hiding, working at a storm-watching lodge along the Washington coast. When her father sends her a disturbing and cryptic message, Jo leaves the safety of the lodge to find him. But during the ferry crossing, Jo witnesses a murder--and becomes a target.

More surprising to Jo than being in danger is the identity of the person who steps in to protect none other than her ex, former Green Beret Cole Mercer. Now a private investigator, Cole has been looking into her mother's death. If he can just uncover the truth, maybe Jo can end her self-imposed captivity and the two of them can pick up the pieces and build a future together.

As Cole and Jo search for answers, the past rushes in like a dangerous tide to sweep them away before the truth can be revealed.

In this action-packed thriller, USA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Goddard serves up a complex plot and the sizzling romance readers have come to expect.

AMAZON     BAKER BOOK HOUSE     BARNES & NOBLE     

MY THOUGHTS.....

The first line of this book sets the stage for a riveting story with mystery, suspense, and a desperate search for truth. "You won't see danger coming...until it's too late." These words sent Jo Cattrel into hiding three years ago, but what did her mother's final words mean?

I can always count on twists, turns, and surprising revelations in Elizabeth Goddard's books, but this story surpasses them all. And her descriptive talents have never been better! Perilous Tides is riddled with fear, tension, and uncertainty! The cold Pacific waters, Jo's terror, and Cole's desperate attempts to save her. Their search for answers, and their increasing dependence on each other---I felt like I was experiencing all of this with them!

Unforgettable characters, thrilling intrigue, and a wonderful second-chance romance are key ingredients in this engaging story! I recommend Perilous Tides to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense, and I look forward to the next book in the Hidden Bay series.

I received a copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elizabeth Goddard is the USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of 60 novels and novellas, including Cold Light of Day, Shadows at Dusk, and the Rocky Mountain Courage and Uncommon Justice series. Her books have sold nearly 1.5 million copies. She is a Christy Award, Carol Award and Reader’s Choice Award winner and a Daphne du Maurier and HOLT Medallion Award finalist. When she’s not writing, she loves spending time with her family, traveling to find inspiration for her next book, and serving with her husband in ministry.

Learn more by visiting her Website    

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HIDDEN BAY

Storm Warning

Perilous Tides

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The Highland Heist (A Freddie and Grace Mystery #4) by Pepper Basham

ABOUT THE BOOK

Grace Storms a Scottish Castle to Save her Sister

Lord Astley surprises his wife with a trip to America to see her family before they end their honeymoon adventures. But just as they arrive, they find Grace's sister, Lillias, is the prime suspect in her husband's murder. To add to the confusion a solicitor arrives to tell the sister's they are needed in Scotland immediately to claim their mother's inheritance.

The clock is ticking to clear Lillias of suspicion, but someone is determined to keep the sisters from reaching the Scottish Highlands. When Lillias disappears, Freddie and Grace race to Scotland, sure the answers will be found in a long-forgotten castle.

With a ghost from Frederick's past leaving threatening clues along the way, the mysterious Mr. Kane waiting in the wings to grab the inheritance for himself, and an apparition haunting the infamous castle, Lord and Lady Astley must capture the castle, save Lillias, and not die in the process.

The Highland Heist is a Freddie and Grace Mystery, sequel to The Mistletoe Countess, The Cairo Curse, and The Juliet Code.

AMAZON     BARBOUR BOOKS

MY THOUGHTS.....

Freddie and Grace have officially become my favorite sleuthing duo, a title once held by Nick and Nora Charles. Only people of a certain age will understand my reference to The Thin Man franchise, featuring a sleuthing team that was popular in both movies and TV in the late 1930s, 40s, and even the 50s. Nick and Nora were witty, crafty, and totally in love, and so are newlyweds Freddie and Grace. Their latest adventure, set in both Virginia and Scotland, features danger, murder, and an unexpected inheritance for Grace and her sister Lillas.

Grace and Freddie's love and devotion for each other are a joy, and I especially love their humor, banter, and delightful approach to life. Grace can't help being drawn into a mystery, but Freddie isn't far behind! If you enjoy sweet romance, endearing characters, and page-turning intrigue, you will want to read The Highland Heist. It can be considered a standalone, but reading the other books in Pepper Basham's 'Freddie and Grace Mystery' series will provide the ultimate reading entertainment!

I recommend this book and series to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense and cozy mystery.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

 
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance peppered with grace and humor with southern Appalachian flair. Both her historical and contemporary novels have garnered recognition in the Grace Awards, Inspys, and ACFW Carol Awards. Her historical romance, The Thorn Healer, was a finalist in the 2018 RT Awards. Her historical romance novels, My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge and The Red Ribbon, and her contemporary novels, the Mitchell’s Crossroads and Pleasant Gap series, showcase her Appalachian heritage, as well as her love for humor and family. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the mom of five great kids, a speech-language pathologist to about fifty more, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.

You can connect with Pepper by visiting her website, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, or Twitter.

FREDDIE & GRACE MYSTERY

The Mistletoe Countess

The Cairo Curse

The Juliet Code

The Highland Heist

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Hunting for a Husband (The Heart of the Amish #9) by Mindy Steele

ABOUT THE BOOK

Love Is the Bull's-Eye Leah Aims For
 
Full of faith, hope, and romance, this series takes you into the Heart of Amish country.
 
Ten years ago, Joe Shetler took a leap, and it cost him his ability to walk. Accepting that this is God’s will for him, Joe finds his independence running Shetler Outdoors, an archery and outdoors shop.
 
Leah Wicky moves to Kentucky where her father has set up a deer farm. With a strong desire to marry, she soon sets her sights on Joe who, despite his disabilities, has determination and an easy way about him. A sticky situation finally affords the opportunity for a friendship to form between them.
 
When the Wickey’s prize buck attracts attention in the community—and attempted poachers—Leah is caught in the crosshairs, and Joe’s fears of inadequacy haunt him when he fails to protect her. A future once bright has dimmed.

AMAZON     BARBOUR BOOKS

MY THOUGHTS.....

In a few short years, Mindy Steele has become a noted author of Amish fiction.  Is it because she is a neighbor to several Amish families residing in her rural Kentucky area? Can it be her ability to view people and nature, imagine the possibilities, and spin them into stories we all want to read?

Hunting for a Husband is such an engaging story! Leah Wickey is afraid that she may never have a husband and family, and a swimming accident has left Joe Shetler spending his life in a wheelchair. Their unusual introduction sets the stage for a budding friendship filled with humor, compassion, and self-discovery, but soon, sparks of romantic interest begin to ignite!

Steele's latest novel is flavored with great supporting characters, a hint of mystery, unexpected danger, and a special reunion with Dok Stella, a character from a previous story. Best of all, there is heartwarming romance and a reminder that God is always there!

I highly recommend Hunting for a Husband to all who enjoy Amish Christian romance.

I received a copy from the author. There was no expectation of a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Raised in Kentucky timber country, Steele writes Amish Romance peppered in humor, using her rural surroundings as her muse. She is a best-selling author and the winner of the 2022 FHLCW Reader's Choice award for sweet romance. Steele creates realistic characters for her readers and believes in engaging all the senses to make you laugh, cry, hold your breath, and root for the happy-ever-after ending. Readers can find themselves, somewhere within the pages of her Amish fiction or romantic suspense novels.

Learn more by visiting Mindy's Website. 

You can also follow her on Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter  

The Heart of the Amish Series

 The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele

Ruth's Ginger Snap Surprise by Anne Blackburne

The Quilt Room Secret by Lisa Jones Baker

Courting An Amish Bishop by Mindy Steele

Mary's Calico Hope by Anne Blackburne  

Serenity's Secret by Lisa Jones Baker

A Stolen Kiss by Mindy Steele

Lizzie's Little Mouse by Anne Blackburne

Hunting for a Husband by Mindy Steele

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Framed In Amish Country by Mary Alford

ABOUT THE BOOK

To prove her innocence she’ll have to expose a lethal conspiracy.


A frantic call from her best friend sends district attorney Paige Grayson running right into a trap — and now she’s being framed for her friend’s murder. With the police after her and evidence against her stacking up, she seeks refuge in Amish country — and the help of her first love, Elijah King, to clear her name. To expose the drug dealer setting Paige up, they must work together while evading a ruthless criminal and the police. With threats closing in and time running out, one wrong move could be their last.

AMAZON   

MY THOUGHTS.....

"A blood-curdling scream resonated all around, pulling District Attorney Paige Grayson from the fuzzy darkness she'd descended into. Where was she?"

These first few lines are a chilling introduction to Mary Alford's newest book! Paige's initial confusion is just the beginning of her worries because she's witnessed her friend's murder, and she's now the prime suspect. Will running to the place she once lived give her time to discover who's setting her up? Can she clear her name and save her reputation?

Framed in Amish Country is the latest example of Alford's ability to entice readers with intriguing suspense, wonderful character development, and the Amish values we expect. Paige instinctively turns to her former brother-in-law for help, but she and Elijah are ex-sweethearts. I loved his willingness to help and the second chance they're given, but there's so much more in this fast-paced story. Danger, deceit, and murder abound, but there's also love, mercy, and forgiveness!

Grab a copy of Framed in Amish Country and be prepared for a roller-coaster ride of danger, deceit, and murder. Just hold on, because there's also sweet romance and a reminder of God's perfect timing and His unfailing Grace!

I received a copy from the author and publisher. There was no expectation of a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mary Alford is a USA Today bestselling author who loves giving her readers the unexpected, combining unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots that result in stories the reader can't put down. Her titles have been finalists for several awards, including the Daphne Du Maurier, the Beverly, the Maggie, and the Selah. She and her husband live in the heart of Texas in the middle of 70 acres with two cats and one dog. 

Learn more by visiting her   Website    

Facebook     Twitter     Instagram     Pinterest

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Mountain Murder Threat (Kane Sisters, #2) by Shannon Redmon

ABOUT THE BOOK

Somebody wants her dead…

Protecting her is his mission.

An early-morning run takes a chilling turn when homicide detective Leila Kane is nearly abducted—and becomes a serial killer's latest target. She teams up with her ex-fiancé, Officer TJ Snowe, and they race against the clock to stop the rising body count. After evading several attacks in the mountains, Leila realizes the danger may be linked to her past. And soon the case becomes even more personal when Leila's twin sister is abducted. Can Leila and TJ save her before another innocent life is taken?

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Detective Lelia Kane and Officer TJ Snowe were once a couple. but they're now only employees of the same police department. Will this change when an investigation turns deadly and a serial killer targets Lelia? Will TJ 's protection of his coworker turn into a renewal of love?

I can always count on being entertained and inspired when I read this author's books, and this book is no exception! Shannon Redmon grabbed my attention, engaged my emotions, and left me eagerly turning the pages with her endearing characters, intriguing plot development, and emotional faith journey. Mountain Murder Threat is a captivating read, but don't forget the suspense! It is riddled with suspicions, false assumptions, and an unexpected villain! I highly recommend it to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense.

I voluntarily accepted a complimentary digital ARC. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Shannon Redmon remembers the first grown-up book she checked out from the neighborhood bookmobile. A Victoria Holt novel, with romance, intrigue, and ballroom parties, encouraged her desire to create inspiring stories. Her first novel, Cave of Secrets, was published by Love Inspired Suspense. When she's not writing, you can find her spending time with her husband, two boys and little white dog in the mountains of Western North Carolina.

Learn more by visiting her Website

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Books by Shannon Redmon

Cave of Secrets

Secrets Left Behind

Mistaken Mountain Abduction

Christmas Murder Cover-Up

Kane Sisters Series

Unraveling Killer Secrets

Mountain Murder Threat

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Spurs and Sparks (Healing Springs Ranch #1) by Jody Hedlund

ABOUT THE BOOK

Is the powerful McQuaid legacy of love only a thing of the past? Or can such a love still happen today?

Tyler McQuaid has been too busy managing his family’s luxury ranch resort to think about love. But when his dad gets sick and may not have long to live, Tyler begins to question what is truly important. He’s already failed once at love and marriage, but how can he say no to his dad’s sickbed wish that he try again?

Kinsey Wingrove, a traveling nurse, prefers to keep her relationships short and sweet, and yes, even shallow. With the losses she’s already experienced in life, it’s just easier that way. When she arrives at Healing Springs Ranch, she clashes with her new patient’s son, the handsome cowboy who runs the place and doesn’t think she’s the right nurse for his dad.

As sparks fly between Tyler and Kinsey, the meddling, matchmaking McQuaid family sees that more can exist between the two than they will acknowledge. Can Tyler accept and move beyond the mistakes of his past to allow for the McQuaid legacy of love—a fast, furious, and forever kind of love? Or will he let Kinsey’s fears push him away forever?Enemies to moreGrumpy bossSingle dadMatchmaking familyGrief from lossHunky cowboysSwoony kisses* The inspirational themes in this book are light, and the romance is the primary focus. While the romance is sizzling and the kisses swoony, both the language and physical attraction are clean and wholesome.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

I'm always excited to learn about a new Jody Hedlund book but knowing that the McQuaid family was involved made it even more special. I first fell in love with this family in Hedlund's historical Western series, Colorado Cowboys. The past generations of McQuaid men were known for falling in love 'fast, furious, and forever', but Tyler McQuaid doubted that he could continue this legacy. Until...traveling nurse Kinsey Wingrove arrived to care for his seriously ill father. Could their bickering and volatile relationship be more than just instant dislike?

Tyler and Kinsey take center stage in an emotional story that explains their past hurts and their current insecurities. Neither of them believes that a lasting love is possible, but Tyler's family has other ideas. I loved their matchmaking efforts!

The next book in the Hidden Springs Ranch series is scheduled to release in a few weeks, and four more stories are planned in the future. Grab a copy of Spurs and Sparks for a tantalizing story with unforgettable characters and sweet, sizzling romance that's never offensive. It's a great beach read and a wonderful introduction to this new generation of McQuaids!

I accepted an advance reader copy from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over thirty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award. She lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy teens, and five spoiled cats.

When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.  

Learn more at Jody's Website     

Goodreads    Facebook

Twitter     Pinterest     Instagram     BookBub

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Legends of Gold (Golden State Treasure #2) by Mary Connealy

ABOUT THE BOOK

On a risky treasure hunt in the rugged wilderness, can love trump all odds?

After years of solitude, Tilda Muirhead's life takes an unexpected twist when she accepts a teaching position at Two Harts Ranch following her cross-country pursuit of two brothers obsessed with a treasure map left by their grandfather. Tilda is now tasked with educating those mischievous MacKenzie boys, who are bent on remaining out west with the rest of their family until they find the hoped-for treasure. Then a man named Ben arrives, claiming to be her own long-lost brother. Raised as an orphan with no memory of her past, Tilda is both fascinated and wary of Ben's sudden interest in finding her.

When Ben's motives grow increasingly suspect, rancher Josh Hart suggests Tilda and the young MacKenzies set off on a quest with him that aims to protect Tilda while unearthing the map's secrets. As they explore the wilderness, Tilda becomes captivated by the history behind the map, though she doubts it leads to anything more than old artifacts. Yet danger looms ever closer, and Tilda and Josh must rely on faith and their blossoming love to navigate the treacherous path ahead.

AMAZON     BAKER BOOK HOUSE

MY THOUGHTS.....

Are you ready for another romantic cowboy comedy from Mary Connealy? A chance to travel back to a time when the Western frontier was still untamed, when good guys wore white hats and villains deserved to wear black. This book's for you! Legends of Gold continues the treasure hunt that began in "Whispers of Fortune", as a New York teacher arrives at the Two Hearts Ranch looking for the orphaned brothers who escaped an Orphan Train to search for their grandfather's lost treasure. What follows is an adventure filled with danger, suspense, and a sweet connection between Tilda Muirhead and Josh Hart. Would it be possible for a big-city teacher to adapt to life on a California ranch?

Connealy's female characters are always strong and capable, but Tilda's past contains an unknown secret. Looks like she needs protection from a strong hero, and Josh appears to be the man! I also enjoyed that several characters from previous books are mentioned in Legends of Gold. I loved this reunion with the Stiles sisters, aka The Lumber Baron's Daughters!

Looking for Western adventure with humor, romance, a treasure hunt, and pure inspiration? Grab a copy of Legends of Gold, the second book of the Golden State Treasure series.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys that also have a strong suspense thread. She is a two-time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy, and Inspirational Reader's Choice finalist. 

Her most recent book series is Wyoming Sunrise.  Other series by Mary Connealy are: The Lumber Baron's' Daughters, Brothers in Arms, The Brides of Hope Mountain, Garrison’s Law, High Sierra Sweethearts, Cimarron Legacy, Wild at Heart, Trouble in Texas, and Kincaid Bride for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing. along with many novellas. 

Mary is the bestselling author of 70 books and novellas and she has nearly a million books in print! 

Learn more at her Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Golden State Treasure

Whispers of Fortune

Legends of Gold

Riches Beyond Measure

  

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