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Wild at Heart #2
Now and Forever
Matthew Tucker survives a grizzly attack by jumping over a cliff into a rushing river. Unexpectedly, Shannon Wilde takes the plunge with him. Going through a series of waterfalls and rapids turns into a bonding experience.
By the time they battle their way back to civilization, Shannon has been thoroughly compromised, and only a wedding will do. A mountain man who loves to wander in the wilderness far from other people finds himself hitched to a young woman with a passel of relatives, a homestead, and a flock of sheep to care for.
As they learn to live with each other, strange things begin to happen on Shannon’s land. Someone evil clearly wants to drive them off, but whoever it is apparently didn’t count on Tucker. Trying to scare Matthew Tucker just makes him mad–and trying to hurt the woman he’s falling in love with sets off something even Matthew never expected.
By the time they battle their way back to civilization, Shannon has been thoroughly compromised, and only a wedding will do. A mountain man who loves to wander in the wilderness far from other people finds himself hitched to a young woman with a passel of relatives, a homestead, and a flock of sheep to care for.
As they learn to live with each other, strange things begin to happen on Shannon’s land. Someone evil clearly wants to drive them off, but whoever it is apparently didn’t count on Tucker. Trying to scare Matthew Tucker just makes him mad–and trying to hurt the woman he’s falling in love with sets off something even Matthew never expected.
330 pages, Paperback
First published May 26, 2015
About the author
Mary Connealy
113 books2,206 followersMary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys always with a strong suspense thread. She is a two time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader's Choice finalist.
She is the bestselling author of 65 books and novellas.
Her most recent three book series are: Braced for Love, A Man with a Past and Love on the Range for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing and many novellas and several stand-alone books for multiple publishers.
Mary will be a published author for ten years in 2017 with nearly a million books in print. She has a degree in broadcast communications with an emphasis in journalism and has worked at her local newspaper.
Find Mary online at:
Seekerville
Petticoats & Pistols
My Website
She is the bestselling author of 65 books and novellas.
Her most recent three book series are: Braced for Love, A Man with a Past and Love on the Range for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing and many novellas and several stand-alone books for multiple publishers.
Mary will be a published author for ten years in 2017 with nearly a million books in print. She has a degree in broadcast communications with an emphasis in journalism and has worked at her local newspaper.
Find Mary online at:
Seekerville
Petticoats & Pistols
My Website
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 163 reviews
May 28, 2015
Mary Connealy has penned a wild west adventure! The action was non-stop and there was a touch of mystery to keep the reader intrigued. I loved Matt, the rugged mountain man hero. Tough as all get-out, but dedicated to his woman. He treated her with patience and respect yet at the same time didn't let her run roughshod over him. And Shannon, was the type of heroine I adore--feisty, a woman with backbone and the skills to stand on her own. She fought beside her man to defend her home instead of waiting for him to solve her problems for her.
This is the second in the series, but I can attest that it reads well as a stand-alone because I haven't yet read book 1. If you like western romance and enjoy inspirational fiction, I recommend you give Now and Forever a try.
This is the second in the series, but I can attest that it reads well as a stand-alone because I haven't yet read book 1. If you like western romance and enjoy inspirational fiction, I recommend you give Now and Forever a try.
August 12, 2015
Okay, I'll just go ahead and say it. I hate this book cover. I really do. And if I was the type to judge a book by it's cover and assume that the book would be just as bad... I would have missed out on a very fun read!
I really enjoyed this book. It's fun and funny, yet it does have it's serious moments-- it's quite sad moments, actually. It was a fast read for me, too. I just flew through it, not wanting to put it down unless I had to. Can't wait to read the third book! :)
I really enjoyed this book. It's fun and funny, yet it does have it's serious moments-- it's quite sad moments, actually. It was a fast read for me, too. I just flew through it, not wanting to put it down unless I had to. Can't wait to read the third book! :)
June 24, 2015
Now & Forever is book two in the Wild at Heart series. It can definitely be read as a stand-alone novel, but I think the story is richer if you have read book one. While I liked book one very much, I absolutely loved Now & Forever! I could hardly set the book down! There is humor, danger, suspense, interesting characters, deep issues, and a really wonderful romance.
I connected with the two main characters, Shannon and Tucker, very easily. Of course, I met them a bit in book one. They were both likeable and the situation that they found themselves in at the beginning of the book was extremely exciting. The danger doesn’t stop there. I enjoyed the intense situations in the story.
But, my favorite part of this book was the development of Shannon and Tucker’s relationship. It was so well done and believable to me. There was some lightheartedness, some tears, some hurts, some anger. But most of all, it was two people falling in love and learning about each other. I found Tucker to be a very caring man.
I enjoyed this story from start to finish and am looking very forward to reading the third book in the series.
My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for the complimentary copy of this book that I received in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I connected with the two main characters, Shannon and Tucker, very easily. Of course, I met them a bit in book one. They were both likeable and the situation that they found themselves in at the beginning of the book was extremely exciting. The danger doesn’t stop there. I enjoyed the intense situations in the story.
But, my favorite part of this book was the development of Shannon and Tucker’s relationship. It was so well done and believable to me. There was some lightheartedness, some tears, some hurts, some anger. But most of all, it was two people falling in love and learning about each other. I found Tucker to be a very caring man.
I enjoyed this story from start to finish and am looking very forward to reading the third book in the series.
My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for the complimentary copy of this book that I received in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
March 12, 2016
After now reading all three of the Wild at Heart books, I can unequivocally say that Now & Forever is my favorite of the trilogy. This second book is Mary Connealy at her best! Madcap adventure, hilarious dialogue, toe-curling kisses, and characters that you wish you could invite to dinner. Well... I'm unsure about that last one. Shannon's idea of a meal and mine are quite different, and while my tastes align much more closely with Tucker's he has that one bath a year rule so.... yeah. Maybe I should amend that thought to "characters that you wish you counted as friends". There. That sounds somewhat safer on both my beet-sensitive constitution and my sense of smell.
One of the things I enjoy most about Mary Connealy's books is her writing style - the narrator is inside the characters' heads and informs us of their thoughts with wry amusement. Sometimes, she bypasses wry amusement and goes straight for out-and-out hilarity! Tucker's ponderings to himself about Shannon and his feelings thereof .... and his attachment to his pants (it would take me too long to explain here - you just to read the book) waver between those two categories and were responsible for many chuckles from yours truly as I read. Speaking of chuckles... watch for a scene where the mountain men are planning their strategy for how best to retell the tale of Tucker and Shannon's river adventure. Outside of the romantical scenes and the kisses that Tucker kept planting on Shannon, that particular scene was one of my very favorites in the book. Pure comedic gold. I could see it playing out so clearly, and I'm pretty sure Tim Conway was one of the mountain men in my mind.
Bottom Line: In between all the laughter and the kissing (and ooo-la-la, are there some good ones!), Now & Forever brims with suspense and tenderness and warmth. I would not hesitate to recommend this book to anyone who loves romantic comedies, westerns, or historical fiction. As I said, it's Mary Connealy at her best - and it has a little something for everyone!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
One of the things I enjoy most about Mary Connealy's books is her writing style - the narrator is inside the characters' heads and informs us of their thoughts with wry amusement. Sometimes, she bypasses wry amusement and goes straight for out-and-out hilarity! Tucker's ponderings to himself about Shannon and his feelings thereof .... and his attachment to his pants (it would take me too long to explain here - you just to read the book) waver between those two categories and were responsible for many chuckles from yours truly as I read. Speaking of chuckles... watch for a scene where the mountain men are planning their strategy for how best to retell the tale of Tucker and Shannon's river adventure. Outside of the romantical scenes and the kisses that Tucker kept planting on Shannon, that particular scene was one of my very favorites in the book. Pure comedic gold. I could see it playing out so clearly, and I'm pretty sure Tim Conway was one of the mountain men in my mind.
Bottom Line: In between all the laughter and the kissing (and ooo-la-la, are there some good ones!), Now & Forever brims with suspense and tenderness and warmth. I would not hesitate to recommend this book to anyone who loves romantic comedies, westerns, or historical fiction. As I said, it's Mary Connealy at her best - and it has a little something for everyone!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
May 27, 2015
I love this series. The first book was so good and I have been anxiously awaiting this next book in the Wild at Heart series. The series is based on three sisters who are acting as men to homestead following their service as soldiers in the war. It's such a fun premise. I love the setting and the characters
The book opens with Matthew Tucker being chased and attacked by a bear. Shannon tries to save him and they both end up falling over the cliff into a river. Tucker and Shannon are both engaging and smart characters. They have a fantastic chemistry. Shannon is perfect for Tucker. She is strong and tough but also soft and tender. Tucker loves her ability to shoot and wield a knife. :)
Mary Connealy is one of my favorite Christian fiction authors. She has the ability to write so I can create a movie in my head. The places and people in this book are so easy to picture. I love that. This book is clean and not too heavy in the Christian aspect. I can't wait to read the next book in the series! One more sister to go and she just may be the toughest of them all.
My thanks to the publisher, Bethany House, for providing an ARC copy for review.
The book opens with Matthew Tucker being chased and attacked by a bear. Shannon tries to save him and they both end up falling over the cliff into a river. Tucker and Shannon are both engaging and smart characters. They have a fantastic chemistry. Shannon is perfect for Tucker. She is strong and tough but also soft and tender. Tucker loves her ability to shoot and wield a knife. :)
Mary Connealy is one of my favorite Christian fiction authors. She has the ability to write so I can create a movie in my head. The places and people in this book are so easy to picture. I love that. This book is clean and not too heavy in the Christian aspect. I can't wait to read the next book in the series! One more sister to go and she just may be the toughest of them all.
My thanks to the publisher, Bethany House, for providing an ARC copy for review.
June 13, 2016
This is the first Mary Connealy book I've read. I know Mary and she gave me this book but I'm always honest in my reviews. (If I don't like a book by a friend, I don't review it.)
Mary certainly writes with ZEST! Her characters are unique and have a lot to say.
Shannon Wilde, our heroine, dresses and acts like a man. And is an unlikely mate for Matthew Tucker, mountain man (Did I mention this is a Western? :-)
They go over a cliff into a river one day and end up hitched. Another twist on the marriage of convenience--bride and groom, chased by grizzly.
But there is more--a villain who wants to steal Shannon's land.
Woe to him is all I can say.
If you enjoy a rollicking good Western with quirky charaters, this book's for you.
Mary certainly writes with ZEST! Her characters are unique and have a lot to say.
Shannon Wilde, our heroine, dresses and acts like a man. And is an unlikely mate for Matthew Tucker, mountain man (Did I mention this is a Western? :-)
They go over a cliff into a river one day and end up hitched. Another twist on the marriage of convenience--bride and groom, chased by grizzly.
But there is more--a villain who wants to steal Shannon's land.
Woe to him is all I can say.
If you enjoy a rollicking good Western with quirky charaters, this book's for you.
December 30, 2015
Another winner from Mary Connealy. Loved the relationship between these two and the creepy villain they have to find and catch. There's a lot of foreshadowing of Bailey's romance for book three, and I really, really wish I could have read all three books through right in a row.
I do hate the cover picture. The embossing and detailing and back cover are so pretty...and the front cover just doesn't do it at all for me. Oh well. Don't let the appearance keep you from this enjoyable gem.
I do hate the cover picture. The embossing and detailing and back cover are so pretty...and the front cover just doesn't do it at all for me. Oh well. Don't let the appearance keep you from this enjoyable gem.
July 7, 2015
Non-stop action, memorable characters and Connealy's trademark humor make Now & Forever a great read. Did I mention the creepy villain? You'll keep turning the pages to see what happens to him, but no spoilers here...
May 28, 2015
Can I have the next one, now? 4.5 stars
Now & Forever is the second book in Mary Connealy’s Wild At Heart series. I’m a big fan, so of course, I was super excited to read this book, especially after loving the first one! I generally have the same expectations for all of Connealy’s books - humor that makes me laugh, an adventure that keeps me guessing, and characters that come alive. I’ve added a new one with this series - a seriousness that gives the story a new depth. Many of Mary’s books are light or what some call “fluff,” but with this series, she’s stepped away from that adjective a bit. Possibly because the Wilde sisters all served in the Civil War, but while there is humor in these, there is also sorrow. I really appreciate that she isn’t glossing over the pain of war, or forgetting where the sisters earned their tough exterior. Particularly with this story, Shannon’s pain is almost palpable at times, drawing me in until I almost cried with her at the imagery of what those in the war suffered.
Mary definitely excels at descriptions. Using just a few words, she can paint a picture that comes to life and fills my mind. I love the little details that aren’t one hundred percent necessary, but that add another layer to my understanding of the setting and the world around the characters. Her writing is very straight-forward, something I really enjoy. I had to laugh several times at the just honestly blunt manner of the dialogue and the characters’ thoughts. She also does an excellent job of giving each of the characters a unique voice. I enjoyed getting into the head of the villain, as I got a glimpse of their plan and it increased the sense of intrigue and suspense. I never felt the story lagged, though it does end a bit abruptly (more about that later). It flows very quickly and smoothly, holding my attention from the very first page. I did not want to put it down and would pick it up again as soon as possible.
Shannon Wilde may be my favorite of Mary’s heroines, to date. She’s the middle sister, in more ways than one. She’s strong, but she also learns how to be weak and lean on others. She is brave, but knows her limits. She is sensitive and hurting, but doesn’t let that stop her from doing what needs to be done. She, like her other sisters, served in the Civil War, which left her with scars. For me, this one fact set her apart. Even though her world seems to be falling apart, she learned how to be strong and keep moving. I’ve read many books set during the war or just after, but not many have had the depth this book does in just one scene.
Matthew Tucker is a bit more of Mary’s stereotypical hero, though I honestly didn’t mind. He’s strong, stubborn, set in his ways, and determined. But he is also gentle with Shannon, something that surprised me a little bit with him being a “mountain man.” Though his pride is stomped more than once, he is still willing to let her take the lead now and then. He’s also very protective, though he tries to give her space. He also has a strong faith, something I found fascinating.
Though God is an integral part of all of Mary’s books, this one takes it a step further, with a conversation about Shannon’s doubts. She’s not sure God hears her, or even still exists, and those doubts keep her walking in her fear. Though this is a bit deeper than her other books, unfortunately, it became glossed over with everything else going on. So, I applaud her for making the effort to incorporate more serious subjects in her stories, but I’m also a little disappointed that they were forgotten for the sake of keeping the story moving.
I’m honestly never quite sure what to say about the romance in Mary’s books. They definitely aren’t typical historical romance novels. The heroes aren’t soft spoken, or poetic. They tend more toward blunt and sometimes a little dense. I did really enjoy their relationship, as they both learned what it means to be married and depend on someone else. While I wouldn’t say there was a huge amount of romance, there are a few sweet moments, sometimes sprinkled with humor. I also appreciated the realistic take on marriage, as they both have to strive toward making it work.
I have to confess that I found the ending to be a bit abrupt and rather anticlimactic. I was expecting something else to happen, so when it just kind of stopped, it was a bit of a let down. I didn’t want it to end! I would have loved another chapter or two, to kind of tie things up and give the characters a little longer to work things out.
Despite my negative comments, I will say that I really enjoyed this book. Mary’s books are always good for a laugh and a break from reality. I am anxiously anticipating the final book in the series and finding what becomes of the final Wilde sister!
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Now & Forever is the second book in Mary Connealy’s Wild At Heart series. I’m a big fan, so of course, I was super excited to read this book, especially after loving the first one! I generally have the same expectations for all of Connealy’s books - humor that makes me laugh, an adventure that keeps me guessing, and characters that come alive. I’ve added a new one with this series - a seriousness that gives the story a new depth. Many of Mary’s books are light or what some call “fluff,” but with this series, she’s stepped away from that adjective a bit. Possibly because the Wilde sisters all served in the Civil War, but while there is humor in these, there is also sorrow. I really appreciate that she isn’t glossing over the pain of war, or forgetting where the sisters earned their tough exterior. Particularly with this story, Shannon’s pain is almost palpable at times, drawing me in until I almost cried with her at the imagery of what those in the war suffered.
Mary definitely excels at descriptions. Using just a few words, she can paint a picture that comes to life and fills my mind. I love the little details that aren’t one hundred percent necessary, but that add another layer to my understanding of the setting and the world around the characters. Her writing is very straight-forward, something I really enjoy. I had to laugh several times at the just honestly blunt manner of the dialogue and the characters’ thoughts. She also does an excellent job of giving each of the characters a unique voice. I enjoyed getting into the head of the villain, as I got a glimpse of their plan and it increased the sense of intrigue and suspense. I never felt the story lagged, though it does end a bit abruptly (more about that later). It flows very quickly and smoothly, holding my attention from the very first page. I did not want to put it down and would pick it up again as soon as possible.
Shannon Wilde may be my favorite of Mary’s heroines, to date. She’s the middle sister, in more ways than one. She’s strong, but she also learns how to be weak and lean on others. She is brave, but knows her limits. She is sensitive and hurting, but doesn’t let that stop her from doing what needs to be done. She, like her other sisters, served in the Civil War, which left her with scars. For me, this one fact set her apart. Even though her world seems to be falling apart, she learned how to be strong and keep moving. I’ve read many books set during the war or just after, but not many have had the depth this book does in just one scene.
Matthew Tucker is a bit more of Mary’s stereotypical hero, though I honestly didn’t mind. He’s strong, stubborn, set in his ways, and determined. But he is also gentle with Shannon, something that surprised me a little bit with him being a “mountain man.” Though his pride is stomped more than once, he is still willing to let her take the lead now and then. He’s also very protective, though he tries to give her space. He also has a strong faith, something I found fascinating.
Though God is an integral part of all of Mary’s books, this one takes it a step further, with a conversation about Shannon’s doubts. She’s not sure God hears her, or even still exists, and those doubts keep her walking in her fear. Though this is a bit deeper than her other books, unfortunately, it became glossed over with everything else going on. So, I applaud her for making the effort to incorporate more serious subjects in her stories, but I’m also a little disappointed that they were forgotten for the sake of keeping the story moving.
I’m honestly never quite sure what to say about the romance in Mary’s books. They definitely aren’t typical historical romance novels. The heroes aren’t soft spoken, or poetic. They tend more toward blunt and sometimes a little dense. I did really enjoy their relationship, as they both learned what it means to be married and depend on someone else. While I wouldn’t say there was a huge amount of romance, there are a few sweet moments, sometimes sprinkled with humor. I also appreciated the realistic take on marriage, as they both have to strive toward making it work.
I have to confess that I found the ending to be a bit abrupt and rather anticlimactic. I was expecting something else to happen, so when it just kind of stopped, it was a bit of a let down. I didn’t want it to end! I would have loved another chapter or two, to kind of tie things up and give the characters a little longer to work things out.
Despite my negative comments, I will say that I really enjoyed this book. Mary’s books are always good for a laugh and a break from reality. I am anxiously anticipating the final book in the series and finding what becomes of the final Wilde sister!
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 16, 2019
Overall, I like Mary Connealy as an author. She has a unique style and a great sense of humor. I found myself laughing during the scene where Shannon takes her time sewing Tucker's pants while he sits in bed, fuming in his long "nightgown".
Like her two sisters, Shannon fought in the war between the North and the South. She applied for a homesteading exemption based on her years of service. She still dresses and acts the part of a man for the sake of convenience and her own safety.
A bit of exposition here: homesteaders could claim land for very low cost but then they would have to live on it for five years before they owned it. This amount of time would be reduced by the number of years they served in the army. Shannon was a soldier for three years.
Her current brother-in-law was a land agent who realized that Shannon and her sisters were women. Since it was illegal for women to enlist in the army, he removed the exemption from their paperwork. Granted, he did this to protect the legitimacy of their claim but it seems horribly unjust.
Tucker is a mountain man who works as a trapper. His father died when he was young. His adoptive mother was a Shoshone woman and while his adoptive father Pierre was a decent man, he was a neglectful husband and parent.
Tucker is distracted by thoughts of curly dark hair and sparkling eyes when he steps on a bear cub. The mama grizzly charges him and he falls over a cliff trying to escape. Shannon tries to save him when she jumps into the river with Tucker. They almost die: the rapids are strong and there is no safe place to go ashore. Somehow, they wash into a cave together.
They are both bruised, cold, wet, and trapped underground. They hobble through the tunnels for five days before they finally emerge and are found by the search party that was sent out for them. The preacher in the group has a few things to say. One of them is that Shannon and Tucker must get married then and there. After all, they've spent five days and nights together...alone.
Oh, the horrors! They were battered, filthy, and in danger of a slow death by starvation. Tucker's leg was broken and his abdomen had been slashed by grizzly claws. I am sure that romantic intimacies must have occurred under these circumstances.
Ridiculous. Even if Shannon's reputation was called into question, no one in their right mind would think that anything had happened. There was no need for a shotgun wedding to save her from being treated as a pariah in any case: women in the Old West were scarce and people were too practical.
But they get married anyway because signing away your freedom, your possessions, and your life to a man you hardly know is always the better option in Christian romance.
Like her two sisters, Shannon fought in the war between the North and the South. She applied for a homesteading exemption based on her years of service. She still dresses and acts the part of a man for the sake of convenience and her own safety.
A bit of exposition here: homesteaders could claim land for very low cost but then they would have to live on it for five years before they owned it. This amount of time would be reduced by the number of years they served in the army. Shannon was a soldier for three years.
Her current brother-in-law was a land agent who realized that Shannon and her sisters were women. Since it was illegal for women to enlist in the army, he removed the exemption from their paperwork. Granted, he did this to protect the legitimacy of their claim but it seems horribly unjust.
Tucker is a mountain man who works as a trapper. His father died when he was young. His adoptive mother was a Shoshone woman and while his adoptive father Pierre was a decent man, he was a neglectful husband and parent.
Tucker is distracted by thoughts of curly dark hair and sparkling eyes when he steps on a bear cub. The mama grizzly charges him and he falls over a cliff trying to escape. Shannon tries to save him when she jumps into the river with Tucker. They almost die: the rapids are strong and there is no safe place to go ashore. Somehow, they wash into a cave together.
They are both bruised, cold, wet, and trapped underground. They hobble through the tunnels for five days before they finally emerge and are found by the search party that was sent out for them. The preacher in the group has a few things to say. One of them is that Shannon and Tucker must get married then and there. After all, they've spent five days and nights together...alone.
Oh, the horrors! They were battered, filthy, and in danger of a slow death by starvation. Tucker's leg was broken and his abdomen had been slashed by grizzly claws. I am sure that romantic intimacies must have occurred under these circumstances.
Ridiculous. Even if Shannon's reputation was called into question, no one in their right mind would think that anything had happened. There was no need for a shotgun wedding to save her from being treated as a pariah in any case: women in the Old West were scarce and people were too practical.
But they get married anyway because signing away your freedom, your possessions, and your life to a man you hardly know is always the better option in Christian romance.
July 10, 2015
Matthew Tucker is on his way back up to his cabin in the mountains when he is attacked by a mama grizzly. In order to survive, he jumps off a cliff into a raging river, unintentionally sweeping Shannon Wilde along with him. Fighting through rapids, waterfalls, and caves bonds the pair together in a way that Tucker certainly didn't expect. Especially when they are found five days after having gone missing and Shannon's reputation compromised. The mountain man finds himself married hastily to a young woman with a homestead, a flock of sheep, and more relatives than he cares to have. Forced to recover from his injuries at Shannon's cabin, Tucker soon realizes that someone wants to drive Shannon and her sisters off their land. Yet the culprit didn't count on Shannon having an experienced tracker as her husband. And Tucker gets mad when he is underestimated about those he cares about especially when he's starting to fall in love with his new wife.
I'm really enjoying this series. I love the humor in these books. And the circumstances that are causing the sisters to cast off their masquerading as men and find love.
Shannon was my favorite in the first book and I was delighted to read her story in this one. Especially learning of what she did during the war. I also enjoyed seeing sparks starting to fly between Bailey and Gage. I know their story is next and I'm excited about it.
Tucker was interesting. I actually found him rather charming really. I wasn't expecting the gruff mountain man to have a soft spot for Shannon's sheep, but he did. And his horse is pretty awesome!
Still the way Tucker and Shannon have yet to figure out to talk to each other is rather annoying. I kept wanting to shake them and force them to talk to each other.
I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of historical romance, comedies, Mary Connealy, Karen Witemeyer.
Rating - 4 stars
I'm really enjoying this series. I love the humor in these books. And the circumstances that are causing the sisters to cast off their masquerading as men and find love.
Shannon was my favorite in the first book and I was delighted to read her story in this one. Especially learning of what she did during the war. I also enjoyed seeing sparks starting to fly between Bailey and Gage. I know their story is next and I'm excited about it.
Tucker was interesting. I actually found him rather charming really. I wasn't expecting the gruff mountain man to have a soft spot for Shannon's sheep, but he did. And his horse is pretty awesome!
Still the way Tucker and Shannon have yet to figure out to talk to each other is rather annoying. I kept wanting to shake them and force them to talk to each other.
I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of historical romance, comedies, Mary Connealy, Karen Witemeyer.
Rating - 4 stars
August 27, 2015
First off, I have loved Mary Connealy’s romantic comedy westerns since finding her first series years ago. I sometimes have a tiny worry in the back of my mind when I pick up a new one that maybe this one won’t be as good, but Mary has done it again! With witty turns of phrase, nail-biting suspense, and larger than life characters, this is one of her best yet.
This sweet and sassy story has action, comedy, suspense, and romance – perfect for the reading slump that I found myself in last week. Shannon and Tucker are excellent characters, both of them flawed, but so special and spunky that you can’t help cheering them on.
This book is the second in the “Wild at Heart” series, so several of the characters we met in Book One return in this one. Although there are laugh-out-loud funny moments, this story isn’t afraid to delve into deeper, more emotional territory as Shannon works through the horrors that she faced while serving in the war.
This story opens in a flurry of life-and-death action and doesn’t let up the pace until the last page. I truly enjoyed it and CANNOT wait to read Bailey’s story in the third and final book in the Wild at Heart series.
5 stars for a truly excellent read!
(I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest, unbiased review, which I have given. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
This sweet and sassy story has action, comedy, suspense, and romance – perfect for the reading slump that I found myself in last week. Shannon and Tucker are excellent characters, both of them flawed, but so special and spunky that you can’t help cheering them on.
This book is the second in the “Wild at Heart” series, so several of the characters we met in Book One return in this one. Although there are laugh-out-loud funny moments, this story isn’t afraid to delve into deeper, more emotional territory as Shannon works through the horrors that she faced while serving in the war.
This story opens in a flurry of life-and-death action and doesn’t let up the pace until the last page. I truly enjoyed it and CANNOT wait to read Bailey’s story in the third and final book in the Wild at Heart series.
5 stars for a truly excellent read!
(I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest, unbiased review, which I have given. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
June 23, 2015
I love Mary's sense of humor...her books are just plain fun to read. The characters are so memorable and I just love the depth she puts into them. What seem like surface quirks are always deep rooted. Now & Forever starts at high octane and ends at the same speed. In between, the book has romance, mystery and a touch of suspense. The mystery keeps you guessing and the romance keeps you swooning. Add in memorable characters, and this book is perfect for readers who love a historical, cowboys, and heroines you want to call friend.
June 7, 2015
Another great book from Mary Connealy. This one remained me of her earlier books. Tucker was swoon worthy - even with his mountain man ways. The cover of the book shows you exactly what to expect from the inside. I'm really looking forward to the next book --- I'm guessing Baily and Gage will end up together.
June 10, 2015
Now and Forever started strong, and how could it not? After strapping hero Matt Tucker gets knocked off a cliff by an angry mama bear, he's then promptly pushed off another cliff by pretty heroine Shannon Wilde. After that it's almost a 100 pages of going over waterfalls, trying to find their way out of a pitch-black, never-ending cave - all with his broken leg - and a rescue which culminates in marriage.
Yep. This was a brilliant setup, and all the things I love in Mary Connealy's novels were there in abundance. Shannon was sassy and spunky, Tucker was reluctant to believe she could take care of herself, but he got there eventually, and there was witty dialogue galore! Add in big sister Bailey's continued reluctance to let anyone outside of the family (including brothers-in-law Aaron and now Tucker), and you've got a recipe for success.
So why the low rating? In short, the subplot.
Another thing that bugged me were the inconsistencies scattered through the book. Once Tucker watched Shannon's "skirt" disappear around the corner. It was established several times throughout the book she didn't wear one, let alone own one. It should have been "britches." Also, during one of Coulter's POVs, he thought of Shannon as a female once - when the rest of the time in the scene, he thought of her as male, because he didn't yet know she was a woman. There were a few other things like that, and I'm not saying it wouldn't be hard keeping all these things straight while writing a novel like this, but it shows a serious problem in the editing department, and little inconsistencies like that can build up to a very big thing which yanks a person out of the story faster than you can blink. And that's what happened with Now and Forever.
I'm not saying the book wasn't necessarily good. It definitely had its moments, and it still made me excited for sister Bailey's novel. But this is probably going to be the weakest book the series, and one of the author's overall weakest. But it's still definitely worth a read for the highlights - especially the live-or-die portions in the cave. They were some of the best written parts in the entire book, and make it worth the read on their own.
Yep. This was a brilliant setup, and all the things I love in Mary Connealy's novels were there in abundance. Shannon was sassy and spunky, Tucker was reluctant to believe she could take care of herself, but he got there eventually, and there was witty dialogue galore! Add in big sister Bailey's continued reluctance to let anyone outside of the family (including brothers-in-law Aaron and now Tucker), and you've got a recipe for success.
So why the low rating? In short, the subplot.
Another thing that bugged me were the inconsistencies scattered through the book. Once Tucker watched Shannon's "skirt" disappear around the corner. It was established several times throughout the book she didn't wear one, let alone own one. It should have been "britches." Also, during one of Coulter's POVs, he thought of Shannon as a female once - when the rest of the time in the scene, he thought of her as male, because he didn't yet know she was a woman. There were a few other things like that, and I'm not saying it wouldn't be hard keeping all these things straight while writing a novel like this, but it shows a serious problem in the editing department, and little inconsistencies like that can build up to a very big thing which yanks a person out of the story faster than you can blink. And that's what happened with Now and Forever.
I'm not saying the book wasn't necessarily good. It definitely had its moments, and it still made me excited for sister Bailey's novel. But this is probably going to be the weakest book the series, and one of the author's overall weakest. But it's still definitely worth a read for the highlights - especially the live-or-die portions in the cave. They were some of the best written parts in the entire book, and make it worth the read on their own.
June 17, 2015
A romantic comedy set in the Wild West with a Wilde cast of characters.
Shannon Wilde is the middle sister in the Wilde family and has a strong love for family and animals. She has a homestead and is raising sheep for wool. She is happy and things are going good until she gets thrown off a cliff with Matthew Tucker. He has been hiking, one of his favorite pastimes, keeping him away from civilization. Unfortunately it brings him face to face with an angry grizzly. In his effort to get away, he runs into Shannon and together they wind up in a raging river. It is an unforgivable river that no one has come out of alive. Together they somehow make it out alive and after their adventure they end up married.
It is an adjustment for both as they learn to live with each other and strange things start to occur at Shannon’s homestead. Just like with her sister Kylie, it seems someone is set to drive her from her land. The one thing they didn’t count on was Tucker. It is not easy to scare Tucker, most likely it will just make him mad, especially if you mess with the woman he is falling in love with.
The second book in the Wilde at heart series picks up where the first left off but this time we get a glimpse into the life of middle sister Shannon Wilde and mountain man Matthew Tucker. There is humor, romance and history without being overloaded with historic information or backstory. It is obvious from the beginning that Shannon and Tucker will end up in love and together. I thought the development of their relationship was not as well played out as Aaron and Kylie from the first book. Shannon tried to stay strong but any time Tucker was around she would crumble and rely on him for anything and everything. Even though she fought in the war and had been taking care of herself for a long time, she lets go of all of that and releases everything to the new man in her life. That’s how things went in the old west, I get that, but so much of the story of the Wilde sisters is they are able to take care of themselves and don’t need a man to take care of them. But so far as soon as a man shows himself with interest in them they just forget all they have been capable of and relinquish everything to him. I would have liked to see her hold on to more of herself, especially towards the last few pages.
Even though it felt like things were the same from the first book with the concept of the main character trying to be driven off her, it was done in an entirely different way that kept the story interesting. The writing is quick without much to slow the story or distract from what is going on. I like the fact that the humor is mixed in with the romance, which keeps things moving and light hearted. With one more book expected in the series, I am curious to see how Bailey’s story plays out.
Shannon Wilde is the middle sister in the Wilde family and has a strong love for family and animals. She has a homestead and is raising sheep for wool. She is happy and things are going good until she gets thrown off a cliff with Matthew Tucker. He has been hiking, one of his favorite pastimes, keeping him away from civilization. Unfortunately it brings him face to face with an angry grizzly. In his effort to get away, he runs into Shannon and together they wind up in a raging river. It is an unforgivable river that no one has come out of alive. Together they somehow make it out alive and after their adventure they end up married.
It is an adjustment for both as they learn to live with each other and strange things start to occur at Shannon’s homestead. Just like with her sister Kylie, it seems someone is set to drive her from her land. The one thing they didn’t count on was Tucker. It is not easy to scare Tucker, most likely it will just make him mad, especially if you mess with the woman he is falling in love with.
The second book in the Wilde at heart series picks up where the first left off but this time we get a glimpse into the life of middle sister Shannon Wilde and mountain man Matthew Tucker. There is humor, romance and history without being overloaded with historic information or backstory. It is obvious from the beginning that Shannon and Tucker will end up in love and together. I thought the development of their relationship was not as well played out as Aaron and Kylie from the first book. Shannon tried to stay strong but any time Tucker was around she would crumble and rely on him for anything and everything. Even though she fought in the war and had been taking care of herself for a long time, she lets go of all of that and releases everything to the new man in her life. That’s how things went in the old west, I get that, but so much of the story of the Wilde sisters is they are able to take care of themselves and don’t need a man to take care of them. But so far as soon as a man shows himself with interest in them they just forget all they have been capable of and relinquish everything to him. I would have liked to see her hold on to more of herself, especially towards the last few pages.
Even though it felt like things were the same from the first book with the concept of the main character trying to be driven off her, it was done in an entirely different way that kept the story interesting. The writing is quick without much to slow the story or distract from what is going on. I like the fact that the humor is mixed in with the romance, which keeps things moving and light hearted. With one more book expected in the series, I am curious to see how Bailey’s story plays out.
June 2, 2015
The wild ride starts on the first page of this book and doesn't stop til the end. When Matthew Tucker is being chased by a bear and Shannon saves him by throwing him over a cliff into "Slaughter River", it begins the fast-paced action and romance that can only be expected from a Mary Connealy novel. It's only appropriate that our heroine, Shannon, has the last name of Wilde ; ).
I mentioned the fast pace from the start because that's what I love about Connealy's books. It's what makes them page-turners because you want to know...what's going to happen!? Of the three Wilde sisters, Shannon seems to be the most gentle. But this novel also shows Shannon's tough side as she not only throws Matt over the cliff, but also how she keeps him afloat, and saves him from certain death in the rapids. There was a great contrast, though, because Shannon was forced to be tough through her experiences in the Civil War, but deep down, when she was most vulnerable, she was gentle and tender-hearted. I really loved getting to know her character more and seeing these different sides.
I also love the wit that Connealy writes for her characters. This sometimes comes out in dialogue, but other times it's just what they're thinking. It makes me laugh inside...and sometimes out loud...and causes the characters to be all the more endearing. It adds levity to tough situations, but it also serves to show some of her character's deep feelings. Here's a passage from the beginning of the book:
"Somehow Shannon had gotten them ashore--he was real sure he hadn't done it. He fumbled at his shirt, reasonably dry now. So they'd been landed for hours. What a woman. Tucker smiled as he considered all she'd done and all that was left to do to get them out of here. He hoped she didn't kick up too much of a fuss when, after all she'd done to save them, Tucker took charge, because he didn't like a fuss."
I will also say that with all the humor and lighthearted moments in the novel, Connealy sure can write nasty bad guys! In this book the villian is cunning, evil, and a little scary. He's great at fooling everyone as to just how smart he really is, which catches them off guard. This makes for some very exciting moments in the story.
Overall, I really loved this book. The humor, wit, fast-paced action, and great characters made a great novel. It's also the second in the Wild at Heart series and I would recommend the first novel as well, called "Tried and True." I will say that the resolution was a little predictable, as there were a few hints during the course of the novel. But it didn't affect my overall enjoyment of the book.
*I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher, Bethany House, in exchange for an honest review, which I gave."
I mentioned the fast pace from the start because that's what I love about Connealy's books. It's what makes them page-turners because you want to know...what's going to happen!? Of the three Wilde sisters, Shannon seems to be the most gentle. But this novel also shows Shannon's tough side as she not only throws Matt over the cliff, but also how she keeps him afloat, and saves him from certain death in the rapids. There was a great contrast, though, because Shannon was forced to be tough through her experiences in the Civil War, but deep down, when she was most vulnerable, she was gentle and tender-hearted. I really loved getting to know her character more and seeing these different sides.
I also love the wit that Connealy writes for her characters. This sometimes comes out in dialogue, but other times it's just what they're thinking. It makes me laugh inside...and sometimes out loud...and causes the characters to be all the more endearing. It adds levity to tough situations, but it also serves to show some of her character's deep feelings. Here's a passage from the beginning of the book:
"Somehow Shannon had gotten them ashore--he was real sure he hadn't done it. He fumbled at his shirt, reasonably dry now. So they'd been landed for hours. What a woman. Tucker smiled as he considered all she'd done and all that was left to do to get them out of here. He hoped she didn't kick up too much of a fuss when, after all she'd done to save them, Tucker took charge, because he didn't like a fuss."
I will also say that with all the humor and lighthearted moments in the novel, Connealy sure can write nasty bad guys! In this book the villian is cunning, evil, and a little scary. He's great at fooling everyone as to just how smart he really is, which catches them off guard. This makes for some very exciting moments in the story.
Overall, I really loved this book. The humor, wit, fast-paced action, and great characters made a great novel. It's also the second in the Wild at Heart series and I would recommend the first novel as well, called "Tried and True." I will say that the resolution was a little predictable, as there were a few hints during the course of the novel. But it didn't affect my overall enjoyment of the book.
*I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher, Bethany House, in exchange for an honest review, which I gave."
September 6, 2015
"Matthew Tucker survives a grizzly attack by jumping over a cliff into a rushing river. Unexpectedly, Shannon Wilde takes the plunge with him. Going through a series of waterfalls and rapids turns into a bonding experience.
By the time they battle their way back to civilization, Shannon has been thoroughly compromised, and only a wedding will do. A mountain man who loves to wander in the wilderness far from other people finds himself hitched to a young woman with a passel of relatives, a homestead, and a flock of sheep to care for.
As they learn to live with each other, strange things begin to happen on Shannon’s land. Someone evil clearly wants to drive them off, but whoever it is apparently didn’t count on Tucker. Trying to scare Matthew Tucker just makes him mad–and trying to hurt the woman he’s falling in love with sets off something even Matthew never expected."
So Matthew doesn't exactly take a jump of the cliff to escape the grizzly bear; Shannon pushes him, which totally describes her personality! Shannon is plenty spunky and knows how to fight. She even dressed as a man and fought in the Civil War with her sisters. Despite her spunk and ability to get down and dirty to save herself and her sheep, she's plenty feminine. The Goodreads blurb (included at the top of this review) says that she was "thoroughly compromised" by the time they make their way back to civilization, but that's very misleading. I would say that her reputation was compromised, but she most certainly was not.
I also really loved Tucker! I thought his character was so funny and realistic. All of the characters worked together so well, and the plot was very engaging. The spiritual moral of the story was also really great. You cannot run from God or hide your feelings from Him, but it's okay if you have doubts and struggles. Instead of futilely trying to hide those doubts from Him, tell Him. Have that conversation with God because He already knows your thoughts anyways. Nothing you say can surprise Him nor overwhelm Him. So give your burden to God.
This book is book number two in the Wild at Heart Series, and each book is dedicated to the story of each sister: Kylie Wilde, Shannon Wilde, and Bailey Wilde. I read this novel as a stand alone, but I can definitely tell that the story would be even better by having read book one first. I plan on reading the whole series because I love the characters so much! My overall rating of this book is 4.5 stars.
Disclaimer: I received this book in a giveaway from the author and publisher; this is my honest review.
By the time they battle their way back to civilization, Shannon has been thoroughly compromised, and only a wedding will do. A mountain man who loves to wander in the wilderness far from other people finds himself hitched to a young woman with a passel of relatives, a homestead, and a flock of sheep to care for.
As they learn to live with each other, strange things begin to happen on Shannon’s land. Someone evil clearly wants to drive them off, but whoever it is apparently didn’t count on Tucker. Trying to scare Matthew Tucker just makes him mad–and trying to hurt the woman he’s falling in love with sets off something even Matthew never expected."
So Matthew doesn't exactly take a jump of the cliff to escape the grizzly bear; Shannon pushes him, which totally describes her personality! Shannon is plenty spunky and knows how to fight. She even dressed as a man and fought in the Civil War with her sisters. Despite her spunk and ability to get down and dirty to save herself and her sheep, she's plenty feminine. The Goodreads blurb (included at the top of this review) says that she was "thoroughly compromised" by the time they make their way back to civilization, but that's very misleading. I would say that her reputation was compromised, but she most certainly was not.
I also really loved Tucker! I thought his character was so funny and realistic. All of the characters worked together so well, and the plot was very engaging. The spiritual moral of the story was also really great. You cannot run from God or hide your feelings from Him, but it's okay if you have doubts and struggles. Instead of futilely trying to hide those doubts from Him, tell Him. Have that conversation with God because He already knows your thoughts anyways. Nothing you say can surprise Him nor overwhelm Him. So give your burden to God.
This book is book number two in the Wild at Heart Series, and each book is dedicated to the story of each sister: Kylie Wilde, Shannon Wilde, and Bailey Wilde. I read this novel as a stand alone, but I can definitely tell that the story would be even better by having read book one first. I plan on reading the whole series because I love the characters so much! My overall rating of this book is 4.5 stars.
Disclaimer: I received this book in a giveaway from the author and publisher; this is my honest review.
June 28, 2015
Now and Forever by Mary Connealy is book two in the Wild at Heart series. Shannon and her sisters have been posing as men while fighting in the Civil War and homesteading. Shannon has a love for sheep like The Good Shepherd. Matthew is a mountain man who lives by himself. His skills have made him a legend. He prefers to be alone and only deals with people when necessary.
They met before, but their relationship is established by a wild adventure. How could a couple not be bonded after running from a bear and falling into a dangerous river? For about three chapters, we read about Shannon Wilde and Matthew Tucker as they struggle to survive. Matthew learned that Shannon can take care of herself and him.
Many people are involved in their search and rescue - Shannon’s sisters & Matthew’s mountain men friends and family. The teasing done by Matthew’s friends was so funny to me once they were found. It also reminded me how different things are today. A woman alone with a man back then for a long period of time almost means marriage.
The rest of the book is about Shannon and Matthew learning how to get along and figuring out who is trying to drive her off her land. The villain in this book is scary. You know who he is at the beginning, but he becomes more intense and dangerous as the story progresses.
I like how the women in this book are very capable of taking caring of themselves during a time that was made for men. Shannon learns how to make room for Matthew in her life. He learns that living alone in the mountains is not as good as it was before getting to know Shannon. You will enjoy this clean romance set in the 1800s. The heroine is not frilly and dainty and the hero is not dashing and elegant. Shannon and Matthew is the right combination of brave, strong, caring and sweet.
They met before, but their relationship is established by a wild adventure. How could a couple not be bonded after running from a bear and falling into a dangerous river? For about three chapters, we read about Shannon Wilde and Matthew Tucker as they struggle to survive. Matthew learned that Shannon can take care of herself and him.
Many people are involved in their search and rescue - Shannon’s sisters & Matthew’s mountain men friends and family. The teasing done by Matthew’s friends was so funny to me once they were found. It also reminded me how different things are today. A woman alone with a man back then for a long period of time almost means marriage.
The rest of the book is about Shannon and Matthew learning how to get along and figuring out who is trying to drive her off her land. The villain in this book is scary. You know who he is at the beginning, but he becomes more intense and dangerous as the story progresses.
I like how the women in this book are very capable of taking caring of themselves during a time that was made for men. Shannon learns how to make room for Matthew in her life. He learns that living alone in the mountains is not as good as it was before getting to know Shannon. You will enjoy this clean romance set in the 1800s. The heroine is not frilly and dainty and the hero is not dashing and elegant. Shannon and Matthew is the right combination of brave, strong, caring and sweet.
September 12, 2015
This is the 2nd book in the Wild at Heart series by Mary Connealy. I was so excited to have been chosen to review this book for Bethany House. I love Mary Connealy’s books and this one did not disappoint.
Not having read book 1, I found there was some confusion on who all the characters were and how they were related, but once you get into the first chapter or so the book really is stand-alone. The author capably explains the necessary plot ideas that you might have missed from book 1.
In Now and Forever, we meet Matt Tucker (wild man/mountain man) and Shannon Wilde (pretending to be a man since the Civil War and trying to forget that same war too) who end up going through an adventure together and surviving only to be forced into a marriage of convenience due to propriety.
This is one of those books that you just tuck into, rest back into your pillow and enjoy every moment. Mary's writing style is so easy to get drawn into and before you know it several chapters have gone by. There's just something so genuine in the way the author creates her characters and as they reach their epiphany of life and love it touches your heart in a real way and the words flow over your soul and comfort you.
Matt Tucker for instance is a hero to fall in love with and not just because he's handsome and able to fight and protect Shannon but also because he has a heart for God. And he says things like this after Shannon finally divulges something personal and hurtful from her past: “”If I’m strong enough to listen, then for certain God is.”
Memorable characters, terrific writing and the plotting and pacing are perfect. I definitely plan to get the other books in the series.
I received a free copy of the book from Bethany House publishers for an honest review.
Not having read book 1, I found there was some confusion on who all the characters were and how they were related, but once you get into the first chapter or so the book really is stand-alone. The author capably explains the necessary plot ideas that you might have missed from book 1.
In Now and Forever, we meet Matt Tucker (wild man/mountain man) and Shannon Wilde (pretending to be a man since the Civil War and trying to forget that same war too) who end up going through an adventure together and surviving only to be forced into a marriage of convenience due to propriety.
This is one of those books that you just tuck into, rest back into your pillow and enjoy every moment. Mary's writing style is so easy to get drawn into and before you know it several chapters have gone by. There's just something so genuine in the way the author creates her characters and as they reach their epiphany of life and love it touches your heart in a real way and the words flow over your soul and comfort you.
Matt Tucker for instance is a hero to fall in love with and not just because he's handsome and able to fight and protect Shannon but also because he has a heart for God. And he says things like this after Shannon finally divulges something personal and hurtful from her past: “”If I’m strong enough to listen, then for certain God is.”
Memorable characters, terrific writing and the plotting and pacing are perfect. I definitely plan to get the other books in the series.
I received a free copy of the book from Bethany House publishers for an honest review.
July 4, 2015
What I Liked: Matt was a mountain man but one look into Shannon’s eyes and he knew he wanted her for himself. Yet could he be the husband she deserves? Shannon finds herself jumping off a cliff in the arms of a mountain man who she spends the next few days with trying to return to her family. The next thing they both know they are hitched for better or for worse. I liked both Shannon and Matt. I always enjoy Mary’s humor and friction between her male and female leads.
What I didn’t like: As much as I wanted to love this book it was just okay. I very much liked Matt and Shannon but they liked each other from the start and there was not as much romantic friction between these two characters as some of her other books. They did have to work out issues between them it was just not as funny or entertaining as I expected. I also found the suspense of who was trying to take the farm very predictable. I just think this book would have been a little better had Shannon and Matt not just agree to get married but have a little more friction at least for a little while.
I still enjoyed the book. Just find myself looking forward to the third book half way through this one. I still highly recommend this book as there are lots of laughs and a good plot. I can’t wait to read book three this fall.
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2015/0...
What I didn’t like: As much as I wanted to love this book it was just okay. I very much liked Matt and Shannon but they liked each other from the start and there was not as much romantic friction between these two characters as some of her other books. They did have to work out issues between them it was just not as funny or entertaining as I expected. I also found the suspense of who was trying to take the farm very predictable. I just think this book would have been a little better had Shannon and Matt not just agree to get married but have a little more friction at least for a little while.
I still enjoyed the book. Just find myself looking forward to the third book half way through this one. I still highly recommend this book as there are lots of laughs and a good plot. I can’t wait to read book three this fall.
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2015/0...
February 2, 2016
Matthew Tucker noticed Shannon Wilde while helping the family with some home renovations. He doesn't believe the Wilde family that he's noticing a guy. This is confirmed when Shannon saves him from an angry grizzly by jumping with him into a raging river. They spend a harrowing experience trying to survive on a river that no one is known to have survived. Once they are rescued their troubles only multiply. Now they are teaming together to stop a crazy man from killing.
I enjoyed this story. I think I even liked it better than book 1. While the two stories definitely go together, they can also be read as a stand-alone. There were two almost separate parts to the story. They were both enjoyable for me, but my mind had a slight problem transitioning between them. Otherwise the story was smooth and flowed well. The story has romantic elements, suspense, drama, and faith filled moments. It's a fun, quick read and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoyed this story. I think I even liked it better than book 1. While the two stories definitely go together, they can also be read as a stand-alone. There were two almost separate parts to the story. They were both enjoyable for me, but my mind had a slight problem transitioning between them. Otherwise the story was smooth and flowed well. The story has romantic elements, suspense, drama, and faith filled moments. It's a fun, quick read and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
April 3, 2016
I loved it! This book was so entertaining! It only took me over the course of 11 hours to read it :)
In my opinion this book was WAY better than the first one. I like Tucker and Shannon much more than Aaron and Kylie!
Seriously! Tucker and Shannon <3 <3 I love them! <3 <3 I loved their story so much that I had to make something to capture all the feels!
*sigh*
When the nefarious subplot began abruptly, I started to get annoyed, I don't like subplots. However, as the story went on I was pleasantly surprised to find that I wasn't completely annoyed, I think it was because there wasn't a ridiculous amount of time spent on it. The mystery was obvious but it didn't matter because the suspense was still very present.
I can't wait to read Bailey's story!!! It's going to be like World War III ;)
*Not a huge fan of the cover* as you can see I picture Shannon more like young Elizabeth Taylor.
In my opinion this book was WAY better than the first one. I like Tucker and Shannon much more than Aaron and Kylie!
Seriously! Tucker and Shannon <3 <3 I love them! <3 <3 I loved their story so much that I had to make something to capture all the feels!
*sigh*
When the nefarious subplot began abruptly, I started to get annoyed, I don't like subplots. However, as the story went on I was pleasantly surprised to find that I wasn't completely annoyed, I think it was because there wasn't a ridiculous amount of time spent on it. The mystery was obvious but it didn't matter because the suspense was still very present.
I can't wait to read Bailey's story!!! It's going to be like World War III ;)
*Not a huge fan of the cover* as you can see I picture Shannon more like young Elizabeth Taylor.
June 10, 2016
Adventure, humor, and romance. The Mary Connealy triple threat delivers again! Shannon is devoted to her sheep, and Tucker becomes quickly devoted to Shannon, sheep and all. It's adorable how fast and hard he falls for her. He is a fascinating character as a mountain man who shuns society yet still treats Shannon with gentleness and respect. Since she never received that from her own father and was believed to be a man while serving as a medical assistant on the front lines of the Civil War, it's no wonder she falls in love with Tucker just as deeply. There are plenty of humorous and heartwrenching moments as they struggle to communicate, disagree and compromise, and fight for the safety of their farm and family. I can't wait to read the story of the third sister Bailey next!
(Thank you to Bethany House for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
(Thank you to Bethany House for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
November 17, 2023
This book was Mary Connealy at her best. It features a sociopath villain, a realistic "hero" and, I think Shannon is the most well rounded female character she's ever written. I identified with Shannon's struggle to find balance as a person. As well as her questions about how God can allow such terrible things to happen in the world.
The one thing I didn't care for in this book was the end. I thought it was just a little bit abrupt, however I still give it 5⭐.
The one thing I didn't care for in this book was the end. I thought it was just a little bit abrupt, however I still give it 5⭐.
November 3, 2015
Shannon and Tucker find themselves having an adventure together. Falling off cliffs, over waterfalls and somehow surviving Slaughter River. Then the real adventure begins. The story was quite intense, trying to figure out who was after Shannon. Read this one with the boys and they enjoyed it too.
June 4, 2015
I thought this one was better than the first one. I loved the suspense and I thought the characters and their relationship was very believable. I cannot wait for the next one to come out!!
February 4, 2018
I liked the story itself, but the relationship was a bit too fast for me. Tucker sees Shannon on a rooftop and goes off by himself to get away from the pull he feels for her. He's distracted and surprises a grizzly and ends up plummeting down a steep incline where he eventually ends up at Shannon's feet. She then throws them over a cliff into the Slaughter River to get away from the bear.
Though rumor has it that no one has survived this river, Shannon manages to get them into a cave from which they find their way out 5 days later. A preacher is with the rescue group and he insists that the two must be married due to the perceived impropriety in their story--a story which is sure to be retold.
While Tucker is healing from his injuries, it comes to light that several homesteaders' properties have been deliberately burned--with one man snatching up the properties almost as quickly as they're signed over to the new land agent. Shannon's place seems to be next on his list. Will Shannon, Tucker and their friends prove too wily for him?
Though rumor has it that no one has survived this river, Shannon manages to get them into a cave from which they find their way out 5 days later. A preacher is with the rescue group and he insists that the two must be married due to the perceived impropriety in their story--a story which is sure to be retold.
While Tucker is healing from his injuries, it comes to light that several homesteaders' properties have been deliberately burned--with one man snatching up the properties almost as quickly as they're signed over to the new land agent. Shannon's place seems to be next on his list. Will Shannon, Tucker and their friends prove too wily for him?
December 30, 2021
This was action packed from the beginning when Shannon and Tucker jump off the cliff and end up in the river for a wild ride over the waterfalls and whatnot. Then they must find a way back home. When they are rescued and the Parson insists they marry because they have spent 5 days together, Shannon tells Tucker that they will be married in name only until they get to know each other better. Tucker is laid up with all his injuries and that gives them plenty of time to bond. But someone is out to burn down the barns of the homesteaders and is after Shannon's land. Tucker - the tough mountain man - tries to track the culprit and keep Shannon safe at the same time. Sunrise is a fun character in the story. Such a sneaky, wise Indian woman. Shannon loves her sheep and Tucker eventually learns to like them as well. The barnburner was a scary person who was out for blood and enjoyed killing. It takes everyone of Shannon's relatives and Tucker and Sunrise and Nev to capture him. Story kept moving along and held my interest clear up to the end.
October 23, 2023
Meet the Wilde sisters. Strong, independent, perfectly capable women..until they meet men and "take a husband". How disappointing.
Shannon was portrayed as such a great character in the first book and this one, until she married Tucker. Then all of a sudden she became an airhead damsel in distress, constantly needing and yearning for her manly husband to make decisions for her and speak on her behalf.
This one was also heavily laiden with talk about "wifely duties" and obeying the husband because the "Bible says so". I really do enjoy these inspirational western fictions but it's so infuriating for women. Always portrayed as baby making machines "in the name of God" following "wifely duties" like that's their only purpose in life. At the end of the series, all the women characters throughout the novels almost always just end up married with babies and more on the way...happily ever after
I typically like Mary Connealy novels. This one fell short though.
Shannon was portrayed as such a great character in the first book and this one, until she married Tucker. Then all of a sudden she became an airhead damsel in distress, constantly needing and yearning for her manly husband to make decisions for her and speak on her behalf.
This one was also heavily laiden with talk about "wifely duties" and obeying the husband because the "Bible says so". I really do enjoy these inspirational western fictions but it's so infuriating for women. Always portrayed as baby making machines "in the name of God" following "wifely duties" like that's their only purpose in life. At the end of the series, all the women characters throughout the novels almost always just end up married with babies and more on the way...happily ever after
I typically like Mary Connealy novels. This one fell short though.
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