Marilyn Johnson
The Calico and Cowboys and Romance Collection by Mary Connealy This is eight romance novellas all in one book. Connealy has a spunky, fun writing style. Many of these novellas are related in one way or another, which make for fun reading. -The Advent Bride - A story about a school teacher, widowed father and hurting son. There is really not a lot of detail in the romance department in this novella, but it is full of misunderstanding, love, learning with a touch of romance. -A Bride Rides Herd – We find a beautiful woman, Betsy, in need of some help. Matt is only open to helping her on the ranch. There is much to be done on a ranch with three busy little girls, and no cowhands. There is humor, laughter and romance in this novella. -His Surprise Family – This is a mail order bride type book. When Meg neglects to tell the whole truth and Si uncovers it will their marriage be doomed before it really begins. This novella is full of getting to know each other, hard times, family and romance. Homestead on the Range - I love the chemistry between Elle and Colin in this novella, Sometimes when the children out number the adults things get interesting real quick. Sophie’s Other Daughter – This was a fun novella full of surprises, some mystery, and of course romance. I loved the sparks between Laura and Ike. Their families have unique characters as well that make for some fun reading. The Sweetwater Bride – This is a fun novella with some interesting animals involved. This novella takes place before His Surprise Family. Debba is a unique lady with some unusual behavior, Tanner really only wants what is best for her even if his ways are a little unusual. Texas Tea – This novella brings a couple families we have already met in this collection together. Luke is a free spirited man, Libby is content with her lot in life. Even though they have grown up as cousins, (which truly they are not) the years have come and gone and the attraction is there. When Luke must prove himself to Libby will he win her trust along with her heart? Hope for Christmas – This is a modern day novella in this series, yet with some of the same descendants from earlier novellas. This one is one of my favorite in this collection. It is full of some surprise, family, love, and more.
Sandra Burson
Love this author. I wait impatiently for her next book, Yes Impatiently, that was not a miss-type. This is one of the best collections I have read. In the eight Novellas she revisits many of my favorite characters. You know you are over the top when you can't wait to talk to your daughter about the latest escapade of these characters, as if they are relatives. If you have read anything by Mary, you know her novels are well written, fast passed and laugh out loud funny. She has such a great wit and wonderful one liners. Her novels are also full of very tender moments. Quote from The Sweetwater Bride, “I love you Tanner, That's why when your pa said you left-----” “The sun dimmed and the birds quit singing. The trees wept and the wind turned cold. I knew you'd gone out of my life.” Mary has a wonderful way of picking you up and planting you back into the late 1800's, before you even realize what's happened. Hope for Christmas was a pleasant surprise. It was written as a modern day novella. A story of the great, great, great grandson of the first Harden family. If you were to ask me which novella was my favorite, I would have to say the one I am reading right now. Don't miss out, read Calico and Cowboys, Purchase one for a friend who loves western romance novels.