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Kincaid Brides #2
In Too Deep
History, Romance, Humor--and Cowboys!--from Bestselling Author Mary ConnealyIn 1866 Colorado, Ethan Kincaid agrees to a marriage of convenience with the same casual disregard he gives every decision. Audra Gilliland, young mother of two, accepts his proposal because she wants to stop being a burden to her newly married stepdaughter.And suddenly both of them are in far deeper than they'd planned.Ethan doesn't expect Audra to affect him so profoundly, and when she begins to, he's terrified of the pain he's felt before when someone he loved was seriously injured on his watch. He's determined that his new wife will do as he says so he can keep her safe from the dangers that lurk on their ranch.Audra has been cared for all her life by one man or another--and they've done a poor job of it. Now she's planning to stand up for herself. And her new husband had better agree or get out of her way! What will it take to transform two wayward hearts fearful of getting in too deep into two trusting hearts ready to risk falling deeply in love?
225 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2012
193 people are currently reading
1393 people want to read
About the author
Mary Connealy
115 books2,481 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 167 reviews
March 20, 2015
This book is so hard to rate and review.
If the story had made Rafe and Julia more side characters (after all, they already had their own book), and had focused, really focused on...um, what's his name? The hero and heroine. See?! I can't even remember their names, and it was supposed to be about them, not their relatives. If it had, I'd have given this book four stars because is good, but not as good as Seth's story in Over The Edge.
What I remember most about the "main characters" is that the hero nearly always had a shallow grin on his face and the heroine was always trying to prove she had a backbone. I like that the two of them really talked to each other though. And because of that they helped each other overcome feelings of worthlessness and cowardice.
But, other than those few conversation I enjoyed this book best when Seth was in it. He was the highlight of all three of these books. He was to me at least the most relatable. Not that I'm crazy.
PG A few swears, some violence and a talk of wedding nights, being married all the way and so on. But all respectfully and nothing beyond kisses. Which there seemed to be a lot of.
If the story had made Rafe and Julia more side characters (after all, they already had their own book), and had focused, really focused on...um, what's his name? The hero and heroine. See?! I can't even remember their names, and it was supposed to be about them, not their relatives. If it had, I'd have given this book four stars because is good, but not as good as Seth's story in Over The Edge.
What I remember most about the "main characters" is that the hero nearly always had a shallow grin on his face and the heroine was always trying to prove she had a backbone. I like that the two of them really talked to each other though. And because of that they helped each other overcome feelings of worthlessness and cowardice.
But, other than those few conversation I enjoyed this book best when Seth was in it. He was the highlight of all three of these books. He was to me at least the most relatable. Not that I'm crazy.
PG A few swears, some violence and a talk of wedding nights, being married all the way and so on. But all respectfully and nothing beyond kisses. Which there seemed to be a lot of.
February 11, 2012
I so wish I'd read the first book so I could've spent more time with these delightful characters. Starting on book 2 wasn't difficult, though. Mary Connealy does a great job of starting the story with enough hints that you don't feel lost. Even though I hadn't read the first one, I could understand why Audra wouldn't be excited to be married to flippant Ethan. Of course, Ethan isn't nearly as cavalier as he pretends and the love of a good woman might be all he needs to straighten up.
The banter between the three brothers was pure genius - bossy oldest, irresponsible youngest and poor Ethan, the peacemaker in the middle. In a way both Ethan and Audra are learning to stand up for themselves, but unfortunately they are practicing on each other.
And Mary knows how to write a cliff-hanger, that's a fact. There's no disguising that book three (Over the Edge) is going to be chock-full of adventure. The letter that Seth gets at the end of this book...it makes me chuckle to think about it.
So I guess I'd better buy the first book, Out of Control, so I can get the scoop before Over the Edge is released.
The banter between the three brothers was pure genius - bossy oldest, irresponsible youngest and poor Ethan, the peacemaker in the middle. In a way both Ethan and Audra are learning to stand up for themselves, but unfortunately they are practicing on each other.
And Mary knows how to write a cliff-hanger, that's a fact. There's no disguising that book three (Over the Edge) is going to be chock-full of adventure. The letter that Seth gets at the end of this book...it makes me chuckle to think about it.
So I guess I'd better buy the first book, Out of Control, so I can get the scoop before Over the Edge is released.
February 26, 2022
I absolutely loved this novel! What a delightful and humorous read!
I must admit, I fell in love with both Audra and Ethan. Audra's sweetness mixed with feistiness and Ethan's humour and strength were a perfect combination. I loved seeing their interactions in book 1, but I loved them even more in this one. I love a good marriage of convenience plotline, and was super excited to see how Ethan and Audra's relationship would progress, and I wasn't disappointed. Also, seeing Ethan with the kids *swoons* he is such a good dad!
The plot was exciting and I was rooting for the characters from the very start.
Super keen to see how the story progresses in the final instalment!
I must admit, I fell in love with both Audra and Ethan. Audra's sweetness mixed with feistiness and Ethan's humour and strength were a perfect combination. I loved seeing their interactions in book 1, but I loved them even more in this one. I love a good marriage of convenience plotline, and was super excited to see how Ethan and Audra's relationship would progress, and I wasn't disappointed. Also, seeing Ethan with the kids *swoons* he is such a good dad!
The plot was exciting and I was rooting for the characters from the very start.
Super keen to see how the story progresses in the final instalment!
February 11, 2012
"Six full feet of stubborn and another few inches of dumb." (p.34) is an apt description of Ethan Kincaid, Connealy's latest reluctant hero. The descriptor also gives you a sense of the author's unique style and her wry sense of humour. Laughter ricochets off every page like bullets in a cavern. There's a staccato rhythm in both her comedy and drama that sets a fast pace to this intriguing plot.
Fans of Out of Control will be thrilled to become reacquainted with familiar characters. And while Rafe and Julia and Seth definitely play their parts well -- this is Ethan and Audra's story. Though be forewarned, you'll want to read the first book in the series before you delve into this one.
Fear is a recurring theme throughout the plot. It acts as a catalyst that propels the characters into action and reaction, including the dastardly villain. From Audra's determination to grow a backbone to Ethan's valiant struggle to put the horrors of the past behind him, Connealy deals with a prevalent issue with surprising depth and clarity for a romantic comedy. And she does it with panache.Add in the toe-curling romance and an air of mystery and you come up with another winning read from Mary Connealy.
Fans of Out of Control will be thrilled to become reacquainted with familiar characters. And while Rafe and Julia and Seth definitely play their parts well -- this is Ethan and Audra's story. Though be forewarned, you'll want to read the first book in the series before you delve into this one.
Fear is a recurring theme throughout the plot. It acts as a catalyst that propels the characters into action and reaction, including the dastardly villain. From Audra's determination to grow a backbone to Ethan's valiant struggle to put the horrors of the past behind him, Connealy deals with a prevalent issue with surprising depth and clarity for a romantic comedy. And she does it with panache.Add in the toe-curling romance and an air of mystery and you come up with another winning read from Mary Connealy.
August 4, 2012
WOW!!!! :-). Gee whiz!!!! :-). "In Too Deep," the second novel included in The Kincaid Bride Series is a SUPER, SMASH HIT!!!! :-). I ABSOLUTELY ADORED the continuing saga that intertwine the lives of the Kincaid brothers and their growing family!!!! :-). Because I knew nothing about Mary Connealy and her work when she introduced me to Rafe and Julia, Ethan, Audra, Maggie, and Lily, and Seth in "Out of Control," I found it rather difficult to become attached and root for happy endings for any one of them -- until the final 100 pages of the novel, that is. By the time that I finished it, I was TOTALLY HOOKED!!!! :-). I was SO ANXIOUS to learn more and develop a deeper, more meaningful relationship with each character. Unlike its prequel, I devoured the pages of "In Too Deep" viraciously from beginning to end!!!! :-). Mary Connealy has earned my deep respect and has captured a special place in my heart!!!! :-). EXCELLENT, TOP-NOTCH SUCCESS!!!! :-).
July 19, 2012
2.5 stars as well. Another low rating from me for this author. Again, I just couldn't really connect with her characters. Still a little crazy and unrealistic. Conversation and thoughts still too redundant. I ended up skipping parts where there wasn't anything important or new. I will finish out the series just because I want to see what happens to Seth (the third brother).
June 13, 2021
This book had some definite high points, but it was completely saturated in sensuality overload. This series is not a favorite for me for that reason.
The action in the book was wonderful. The pacing was good throughout because of that. The plot worked pretty well, as far as the treasure hunt and caverns were concerned.
I liked that this story revolved around family and children but that it also had great heart and showed an emphasis on care and concern about one another. The fact that characters had to face their fears and decide if they’d choose courage or cowardice.
Content: sensuality (to excess), tobacco, prostitutes, taverns, alcohol
The action in the book was wonderful. The pacing was good throughout because of that. The plot worked pretty well, as far as the treasure hunt and caverns were concerned.
I liked that this story revolved around family and children but that it also had great heart and showed an emphasis on care and concern about one another. The fact that characters had to face their fears and decide if they’d choose courage or cowardice.
Content: sensuality (to excess), tobacco, prostitutes, taverns, alcohol
April 7, 2020
This was a well written and entertaining Christian romance novel with a large thread of suspense, which added depth to the plot. I enjoyed the character development as well. I think this is my favorite of the series because I really enjoyed Ethan and Audra as characters and seeing them learn how to be a married couple was sweet. Plus, seeing Ethan interact with his step daughters was adorable. Then, as usual for most of Mary Connealy's books, this one was rather unrealistic but funny a lot of the time. I'm glad that I finally read the rest of the Kincaid Brides trilogy as well as a few novellas that are connected to the series.
July 9, 2012
Ever read a book with a stolen fortune, outlaws, marriage of convenience, and a cavern? Want to? Then read In Too Deep!
Back in November of 2011, I read Out of Control - that was the first book I read by Mary Connealy! She is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors, and if all of her books are as good as these two, I will HAVE to read them! :)
I could hardly wait to read In Too Deep, since Ethan Kincaid was the character that intrigued me most from Out of Control. Reading Ethan's story and getting to know him (and the other characters) was just fantastic!
In Out of Control we learn that Audra's first husband stole a fortune, and in In Too Deep, there are outlaws after it! This added a lot of adventure/danger and it's just another reason why I loved this book!
Ethan made me laugh many times in this book. He was just so funny! I loved learning more about the reasons why he smiles a lot and seeing his character grow.
There is still another book in The Kincaid Brides series (I wish there were more!), Over the Edge, and I am anxiously awaiting it! In Too Deep gives some hints as to what to expect, and I'm pretty sure it will be great!
While I recommend reading Out of Control (because it was so good) before you read In Too Deep , I don't think it is entirely necessary. In Too Deep is great on its own!
I loved In Too Deep - it's now a favorite of mine. I recommend it if you like romance, historical, or western novels!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Was my review helpful? If so, please click yes on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R3CZKX0Q...
Back in November of 2011, I read Out of Control - that was the first book I read by Mary Connealy! She is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors, and if all of her books are as good as these two, I will HAVE to read them! :)
I could hardly wait to read In Too Deep, since Ethan Kincaid was the character that intrigued me most from Out of Control. Reading Ethan's story and getting to know him (and the other characters) was just fantastic!
In Out of Control we learn that Audra's first husband stole a fortune, and in In Too Deep, there are outlaws after it! This added a lot of adventure/danger and it's just another reason why I loved this book!
Ethan made me laugh many times in this book. He was just so funny! I loved learning more about the reasons why he smiles a lot and seeing his character grow.
There is still another book in The Kincaid Brides series (I wish there were more!), Over the Edge, and I am anxiously awaiting it! In Too Deep gives some hints as to what to expect, and I'm pretty sure it will be great!
While I recommend reading Out of Control (because it was so good) before you read In Too Deep , I don't think it is entirely necessary. In Too Deep is great on its own!
I loved In Too Deep - it's now a favorite of mine. I recommend it if you like romance, historical, or western novels!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Was my review helpful? If so, please click yes on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R3CZKX0Q...
July 16, 2012
Totally enchanting read. One of my rare 5 star reviews. This is book #2 in the series. I have not read book #1... but you can bet I WILL! A wonderful combination of humor and love seasoned with enough tension to keep me awake and reading until after midnight. I'm not a night person, so this is high praise indeed.
Ethan Kincaid may have just slipped into my favorite leading man slot. He's not the typical leading man - which might be one of the reasons I like him so much - but he got under my heart right from the start. A little backward and hesitant to put himself forward, he nevertheless comes through with both humor and heroism enough for any leading character.
Audra is the mother of 2, an infant and a toddler. Widowed and facing trouble, she turns to marriage with a man she hardly knows. Accepting her situation with fortitude to be admired, she forges onward to make a life for her family. When danger threatens to tear them apart, love binds them stronger than ever.
I highly recommend reading book #1 first, but if you don't, you'll still enjoy this one.
Ethan Kincaid may have just slipped into my favorite leading man slot. He's not the typical leading man - which might be one of the reasons I like him so much - but he got under my heart right from the start. A little backward and hesitant to put himself forward, he nevertheless comes through with both humor and heroism enough for any leading character.
Audra is the mother of 2, an infant and a toddler. Widowed and facing trouble, she turns to marriage with a man she hardly knows. Accepting her situation with fortitude to be admired, she forges onward to make a life for her family. When danger threatens to tear them apart, love binds them stronger than ever.
I highly recommend reading book #1 first, but if you don't, you'll still enjoy this one.
July 25, 2012
I know I say this a lot but it bears repeating, Mary Connealy is an AMAZING author! Honestly I have yet to read a book of hers that I wasn't instantly drawn into.
So needless to say I loved this book. I was laughing so often my sister is probably ready to kill me. I really enjoy all the ribbing between the brothers, whether spoken aloud or thought. They just have such an interesting relationship that it makes for some great times. Ethan and Audra were a great couple and I loved watching them bond as they struggled to overcome their fears and discovered that “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear” 1 John 4:18
So needless to say I loved this book. I was laughing so often my sister is probably ready to kill me. I really enjoy all the ribbing between the brothers, whether spoken aloud or thought. They just have such an interesting relationship that it makes for some great times. Ethan and Audra were a great couple and I loved watching them bond as they struggled to overcome their fears and discovered that “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear” 1 John 4:18
September 21, 2015
Completely entertaining, full of humor, suspense, and love.
Read
May 11, 2019RTC
February 28, 2025
Even better than the 1st
May 24, 2019
Do you ever start reading a book and it's going alright and then the author makes one mistake and it wrecks the whole book for you and then you do a little more reading and there's another worse mistake later on and you're watching it with the look of a cat faced with water and you can't help but die a little inside knowing that someone edited this novel and its series siblings and missed the fact that the author wrote very specifically in the first book that the cave incident happened thirteen years ago, but in the second one (which OBVIOUSLY takes place after the first one) it only happened ten years ago and also the fact that in 1866, Audra's baby sister is eight and her baby brother is six, yet in the Runaway Bride novella (which my boss and I rechecked my math) which takes place THIRTEEN years later (1879) leaving the baby sister as twenty-one and the baby brother at nineteen (I may suck at math, but I at least can do minor addition when necessary), BUT THE AUTHOR HAS THE BABY BROTHER LISTED AS SIXTEEN.
Quite frankly, having come across these mistakes that kinda ruined the whole novel for me, I'm skeptical about reading further, but I have decided to attempt to tough out the series in the hopes that maybe I'll be able to at least round out the Kincaids and the Cimmaron Legacy before I stab myself in the eyes. I have a bad feeling that if these glaring mistakes were missed, I missed a couple of things in my original read of the first Cimmaron Legacy book (granted, I already suspect that there's a lot to be questioned based on me zipping through without taking in too much information), particularly since Heath shows up in book three and I really need to figure out how old he's claiming to be in both this series and the Cimmaron Legacy series. It's going to bother me.
I liked it well enough to fly through it, but I'm cringing at how the general treatment of Seth has been. They act like he's insane (we're led to believe that being drugged by laudanum for a long time is what caused part of it, but no one really has figured out for sure), but they want to give him a house and junk like he's going to be perfectly safe living on his own. Y'all are the insane ones. He's got ptsd and a lot of it (not that they really understood ptsd at that point. It was a different time for mental illnesses, as seen by Ma crying all the time (I'm figuring depression), and the boys just assuming that that's how all women are.) and you want to treat him like he's spun sugar at the same time as you want to trot him through the cave systems.
I'm hoping the third book will finally clear some clouds away from Seth and maybe we shall see that these characters aren't as stupid as they all seem to think the others are. (I think only Rafe really likes Julia. I mean, Audra likes her well enough, but Julia doesn't respect her at all (Julia treats Audra like she's spun sugar).) Julia did not endear me to her any more in this book than in the previous one. It's the caves. At one point, Audra is like "I don't listen when you talk about caves because you act like anyone who doesn't love them like you do is stupid" or something. Which is exactly how Julia made everyone feel for not knowing thing one about fossils.
Quite frankly, having come across these mistakes that kinda ruined the whole novel for me, I'm skeptical about reading further, but I have decided to attempt to tough out the series in the hopes that maybe I'll be able to at least round out the Kincaids and the Cimmaron Legacy before I stab myself in the eyes. I have a bad feeling that if these glaring mistakes were missed, I missed a couple of things in my original read of the first Cimmaron Legacy book (granted, I already suspect that there's a lot to be questioned based on me zipping through without taking in too much information), particularly since Heath shows up in book three and I really need to figure out how old he's claiming to be in both this series and the Cimmaron Legacy series. It's going to bother me.
I liked it well enough to fly through it, but I'm cringing at how the general treatment of Seth has been. They act like he's insane (we're led to believe that being drugged by laudanum for a long time is what caused part of it, but no one really has figured out for sure), but they want to give him a house and junk like he's going to be perfectly safe living on his own. Y'all are the insane ones. He's got ptsd and a lot of it (not that they really understood ptsd at that point. It was a different time for mental illnesses, as seen by Ma crying all the time (I'm figuring depression), and the boys just assuming that that's how all women are.) and you want to treat him like he's spun sugar at the same time as you want to trot him through the cave systems.
I'm hoping the third book will finally clear some clouds away from Seth and maybe we shall see that these characters aren't as stupid as they all seem to think the others are. (I think only Rafe really likes Julia. I mean, Audra likes her well enough, but Julia doesn't respect her at all (Julia treats Audra like she's spun sugar).) Julia did not endear me to her any more in this book than in the previous one. It's the caves. At one point, Audra is like "I don't listen when you talk about caves because you act like anyone who doesn't love them like you do is stupid" or something. Which is exactly how Julia made everyone feel for not knowing thing one about fossils.
March 14, 2017
Book two picks up on the heals of book one. Ethan’s older brother Rafe is now married to Julia. Audra does not want to be a burden now that Julia is married and is thinking about heading back east to her uncaring father. Rafe will have none of that and come up with the idea that Ethan should marry her so she can be the house keeper at the Kincaid ranch that Ethan is now taking over. Before either of them have a chance to think they are wed. Heading back to the Kincaid ranch with crazy Seth in tow how will these two settle into married life. Will they find love after all?
Mary Connealy has done it again! She is one of my favorite authors and she does not disappoint in this new book.
What I liked: Everything! I really liked both Ethan and Audra in the first book maybe even more then Rafe and Julia. I could not wait to read their story. I love how the characters interact in this book. The humor had be laughing through out. I also love how Ethan and Audra start to care for each other and realize how much they need each other.
What I did not like: Really not much. The only part of the story I was not really into was the head bad guy. It really seemed like it did not fit with this story. I am guessing we will hear more from him in the 3rd book. I just did not feel his chapters added anything to the main plot of the story.
Over all I loved this book. I love how this author intertwines romance, comedy and suspense(bad guys) and creates characters you fall in love with. I could not put it down and wanted to cry when it was over. I can’t wait for book three which will finally tell Seth’s story and I can’t wait to meet Callie! August can’t come soon enough. This is a must read for all historical fiction lovers!
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/0...
Mary Connealy has done it again! She is one of my favorite authors and she does not disappoint in this new book.
What I liked: Everything! I really liked both Ethan and Audra in the first book maybe even more then Rafe and Julia. I could not wait to read their story. I love how the characters interact in this book. The humor had be laughing through out. I also love how Ethan and Audra start to care for each other and realize how much they need each other.
What I did not like: Really not much. The only part of the story I was not really into was the head bad guy. It really seemed like it did not fit with this story. I am guessing we will hear more from him in the 3rd book. I just did not feel his chapters added anything to the main plot of the story.
Over all I loved this book. I love how this author intertwines romance, comedy and suspense(bad guys) and creates characters you fall in love with. I could not put it down and wanted to cry when it was over. I can’t wait for book three which will finally tell Seth’s story and I can’t wait to meet Callie! August can’t come soon enough. This is a must read for all historical fiction lovers!
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/0...
May 5, 2012
Colorado. 1866. Ethan Kincaid is doing his best to block childhood memories, but it’s hard now that he’s back on the ranch with his two brothers: overbearing eldest brother, Rafe, and the loco youngest brother, Seth. Problem is, it’s his fault Seth went crazy. He remembers. Still, Ethan has a smile for every occasion. Not because he’s happy but because it’s a mask he can hide behind.
Trust newly-married Rafe to decide the only sensible thing for Ethan to do is marry Audra, a young mother of two who was recently widowed. Audra doesn’t have any place to return to or the money to get there, and she seems biddable enough. Ethan figures he might as well.
But Audra has decided it’s time she stood up for herself, and made her own decisions. So it’s not caving in (again) when she agrees to marry Ethan, right? It’s her choice, and the only chance she can think of to keep her two young daughters away from the terrible caverns on the Kincaid ranch near where she’s been living in a dilapidated shack. The caverns where Seth lost his mind years ago.
Trouble was following Audra’s late unlamented husband and it’s quite ready to follow her, too. Apparently he’d stolen a small fortune and carried it to Colorado, and its owner wants it back. Audra has no idea what it could be or where it’s hidden, but that doesn’t stop those who are desperate to regain it.
Worst of all–or is it?–Audra and Ethan are falling for each other. But they’re not sure–are they In Too Deep?
In Too Deep is the second tale in The Kincaid Brides series. I reviewed Out of Control, the story of Rafe and Julia, back in August. I’m eagerly awaiting the third book, Seth’s romance, as the author has been developing his character through the two stories thus far. Also in the third book will be (better be!) the revelation of what the outlaws following Audra’s late husband have been searching for.
Trust newly-married Rafe to decide the only sensible thing for Ethan to do is marry Audra, a young mother of two who was recently widowed. Audra doesn’t have any place to return to or the money to get there, and she seems biddable enough. Ethan figures he might as well.
But Audra has decided it’s time she stood up for herself, and made her own decisions. So it’s not caving in (again) when she agrees to marry Ethan, right? It’s her choice, and the only chance she can think of to keep her two young daughters away from the terrible caverns on the Kincaid ranch near where she’s been living in a dilapidated shack. The caverns where Seth lost his mind years ago.
Trouble was following Audra’s late unlamented husband and it’s quite ready to follow her, too. Apparently he’d stolen a small fortune and carried it to Colorado, and its owner wants it back. Audra has no idea what it could be or where it’s hidden, but that doesn’t stop those who are desperate to regain it.
Worst of all–or is it?–Audra and Ethan are falling for each other. But they’re not sure–are they In Too Deep?
In Too Deep is the second tale in The Kincaid Brides series. I reviewed Out of Control, the story of Rafe and Julia, back in August. I’m eagerly awaiting the third book, Seth’s romance, as the author has been developing his character through the two stories thus far. Also in the third book will be (better be!) the revelation of what the outlaws following Audra’s late husband have been searching for.
May 31, 2019
*gah* I usually don't rate romance books unless I really liked them or couldn't stand them. They're what I consider easy reads. Something I read when I want a story that's easy, uplifting, and doesn't require my brain to do much thinking. I usually read them when I'm stressed in life because I need to get away from thinking. Otherwise most of the time you'll find me reading fantasy. I love getting caught up in a well built world...
Back on tracked. This one just set my teeth on edge. The writing wasn't bad, but at time it feel a bit stilted and I just could not bring myself to really care for the main male character. He's the type character that generally makes me want to shake them silly and say get a grip or man up...and so that's probably why I had issues, but I just couldn't not find it in me to really care for him. There were other things that rubbed me wrong or felt a bit forced so all combined this just want' the book for me.
Also, there's NO lead in or refreshing the reader (this is book 2 of 3) and I didn't read book 1 so I was soooo lost for the first few chapters trying to figure out who was who and how they were related and what the heck was going on.
That said, there's a crowd this book will appeal to, just wasn't me. Though I'm curious about the money so I'm likely to read the third book just to find out the answer to the mystery...
Back on tracked. This one just set my teeth on edge. The writing wasn't bad, but at time it feel a bit stilted and I just could not bring myself to really care for the main male character. He's the type character that generally makes me want to shake them silly and say get a grip or man up...and so that's probably why I had issues, but I just couldn't not find it in me to really care for him. There were other things that rubbed me wrong or felt a bit forced so all combined this just want' the book for me.
Also, there's NO lead in or refreshing the reader (this is book 2 of 3) and I didn't read book 1 so I was soooo lost for the first few chapters trying to figure out who was who and how they were related and what the heck was going on.
That said, there's a crowd this book will appeal to, just wasn't me. Though I'm curious about the money so I'm likely to read the third book just to find out the answer to the mystery...
April 25, 2012
This is the second book in this series and is a great compliment to book one.
In 1866, Colorado Audra Gilliand agrees to marry Ethan Kincaid because she feels like she has become a burden to her newly married stepdaughter.
Ethan has become attached to Audra's two small children and is so afraid he will not be able to protect her and the children. Plus he is confused about the feelings he has developed for Audra.
Audra is not wanting to be dependent on anyone. She wants to be able to stand on her own to feet and not be treated like a fragile little china doll.
The author picks Audra up out of the rubble of her past giving her faith in God to protect her and her children. In the character Ethan shows a yearning to be a father to Audra's children. As a family unit I believe Audra and Ethan will bring out the best in each other and the children showing that God has mad a blessed union.
I highly recommend this book.
I rated this book a 5 out of 5.
Disclosure:
I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publisher for review. I was in no way compensated for this review it is my own opinion.
May 18, 2012
I always look forward to books by Mary Connealy because of the humor and great dialogue she inserts into all her novels. I have to say this one had the perfect title. I felt as if Ethan and Audra were almost like two inexperienced boaters tied to a canoe that was speeding down raging rapids. I think it was the first book I read where both main characters were forced into situations pretty much totally out of their control.
Now that isn't to say they didn't make any decisions or were unlikeable. They were unique. I loved watching Audra and Ethan first plan to avoid and work around each other and then learn to love and rely on one another. It was a wonderful journey. The author didn't take it easy on them though. This is a story filled with tense action and danger as well as tender romantic moments. It's the kind of thing that keeps you from eating, sleeping, and doing anything but flipping pages.
This one makes my favorites list. I want to thank Bethany House for providing my copy in exchange for my honest review. They did not influence my opinions or require that I provide a positive review.
Now that isn't to say they didn't make any decisions or were unlikeable. They were unique. I loved watching Audra and Ethan first plan to avoid and work around each other and then learn to love and rely on one another. It was a wonderful journey. The author didn't take it easy on them though. This is a story filled with tense action and danger as well as tender romantic moments. It's the kind of thing that keeps you from eating, sleeping, and doing anything but flipping pages.
This one makes my favorites list. I want to thank Bethany House for providing my copy in exchange for my honest review. They did not influence my opinions or require that I provide a positive review.
October 10, 2012
In Too Deep is Mary's follow up to Out of Control, the first book in the Kincaid Brides series. I loved book one, the suspense and humor mixture always hooks me right in, but I was anxious to read Ethan's story, because as much as I enjoyed Rafe, Ethan was the one that really intrigued me.
Ethan may be clueless about women, but he's a good hearted soul looking for healing and validation as a man. Audra has been beaten down by pushy men her whole life and she's had enough. Both want to be seen for the strength inside of them, but struggle to stand their ground with bossy Rafe and Julia always making choices without consulting anyone else. That's how Ethan and Audra end up married in the first place. But their good for one another, they see each other for who they really are and together are stronger. I loved watching them find their true feelings for one another.
And of course it wouldn't be a Mary Connealy book without a lot of humor and action to go with it. One of my favorite lines in the book is where Audra is describing Ethan at a moment when she's frustrated with him. "Ethan looked like six full feet of stubborn and another few inches of dumb." :)
Ethan may be clueless about women, but he's a good hearted soul looking for healing and validation as a man. Audra has been beaten down by pushy men her whole life and she's had enough. Both want to be seen for the strength inside of them, but struggle to stand their ground with bossy Rafe and Julia always making choices without consulting anyone else. That's how Ethan and Audra end up married in the first place. But their good for one another, they see each other for who they really are and together are stronger. I loved watching them find their true feelings for one another.
And of course it wouldn't be a Mary Connealy book without a lot of humor and action to go with it. One of my favorite lines in the book is where Audra is describing Ethan at a moment when she's frustrated with him. "Ethan looked like six full feet of stubborn and another few inches of dumb." :)
March 12, 2016
I love the way Mary Connealy weaves her words together, crafts her characters and threads a story through this series.
April 23, 2014
The fun continues as the second Kincaid brother takes a wife and settles into married life. These books kept me in stitches.
March 28, 2012
In Too Deep by Mary Connealy
Review by Kara Grant
Before I go into the review I want to make comments on Out of Control by Connealy also. Both books are part of The Kincaid Brides. I won Out of Control in a blog contest a while ago and decided to finally read it before reviewing In Too Deep.
Minor spoilers included: Out of Control introduces us to a cave; the three Kincaid brothers, Rafe, Ethan, and Seth; and archaeologist/cave explorer Julia, her stepmom (more like a sister) Audra, and Audra’s two kids Maggie and Lily. Audra is married to Julia’s pa, Wendell, but Wendell is not a likable character and doesn’t survive. Out of Control centers around the Kincaid brothers, although Seth doesn’t come into the story until later, and Julia & Audra escaping trouble that Wendell has caused from greed, gambling and reckless behavior. Like I mentioned, he is not a likable character and the story improves when he’s no longer in it. Connealy does an excellent job writing about these two families and how their lives merge together starting with Rafe rescuing Julia from the cave she gets stuck in while exploring fossils. The only problem was I just didn’t connect with the story. The villains didn’t create suspense for me and I couldn’t wait for Wendell to leave the story so there could finally be peace for Julia and Audra. I also love when there are kids in the story (Colleen Coble does this with her books and it enhances the book tremendously), but in this case I had no attachment with the younger characters. I will mention this, though. When Connealy first sent me Out of Control, it got lost in the mail. I was heartbroken and embarrassed about that. I contacted Mary about it not knowing what she would say and she ended up sending me the book again with another cowboy book to bless me and make up for the loss!!!! So even though I only read the first 100 pages of Out of Control; that does not reflect on Mary’s writing at all, it just didn’t grab me.
In Too Deep
In 1866 Colorado, Ethan Kincaid agrees to a marriage of convenience with the same casual disregard he gives every decision. Audra Gilliland, young mother of two, accepts his proposal because she wants to stop being a burden to her newly married stepdaughter.
And suddenly both of them are in far deeper than they'd planned.
Ethan doesn't expect Audra to affect him so profoundly, and when she begins to, he's terrified of the pain he's felt before when someone he loved was seriously injured on his watch. He's determined that his new wife will do as he says so he can keep her safe from the dangers that lurk on their ranch.
Audra has been cared for all her life by one man or another--and they've done a poor job of it. Now she's planning to stand up for herself. And her new husband had better agree or get out of her way!
What will it take to transform two wayward hearts fearful of getting in too deep into two trusting hearts ready to risk falling deeply in love? (from Amazon.com)
My Review
This story takes off from where Out of Control ends. There was an instant connection between Rafe and Julia, Ethan and Audra. Now Rafe and Julia are married while Audra is a widow with two kids and they’re not settled yet with dangerous caverns still lurking. Seth is now in the story and he can’t stay away from the caves. So the story opens with Audra’s daughter, Maggie, missing; Ethan and Audra go looking and find out that Seth takes Maggie with him not understanding the danger he puts her in. This also illustrates the mindset Seth has; he has been traumatized both by war and an accident in the past that his mind has never recovered from.
Ethan has a panic attack in the cave and safely retrieves Maggie, but once they exit the cave and meet up with Julia & Rafe, a decision is made. Rafe states (this man does not ask permission or makes suggestions, he speaks his mind and there is no arguing) that Ethan and Audra get married. While they’re initially shocked and confused about this notion, they both give in to it for the safety of Audra’s two girls. Neither one of them is ready for marriage, but there is an attraction between them and they both want to protect the girls. There’s an understanding between Ethan and Audra that later turns to romance.
While I didn’t connect with this book either (I only read 150 pages), I enjoyed reading about the brothers and their relationship to the only two women they’ve ever known or cared for. It was fun to see how inlove Rafe and Julia are and how they protect their families. Ethan loves to observe the family when they’re together, but he quickly grows a protective streak for Audra as well. He adjusts to being a father quickly and it was endearing reading how well he does at being a husband and father so suddenly. This is a man who has stayed away from his parents and brothers most of his life, but after meeting Audra and her kids he never wants to leave again. Ethan and Audra also live with Seth so it’s quite an adjustment taking care of him and his nightmares as well as their two girls, but despite their differences this couple works together to make the living arrangements work for everyone.
The cave is another character in this story that makes Connealy stand out from other authors. Even though it’s not a person, the cave does more damage and traumatizes all three brothers more than any villain could. Seth can’t stay away from it, Julia is fascinated with its findings, Rafe, Ethan and Audra want no part of it and the danger it offers. Even though this book wasn’t for me, I recommend it for anyone looking for a cowboy adventure with two feisty women that are determined to protect their loved ones while finding their own happiness.
Visit Mary Connealy’s website to check out her blog and her newsletter…. www.maryconnealy.com/index
Here is the link for the book trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SskpS2...
I want to thank Mary Connealy and Bethany House Publishers for sending these books for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Review by Kara Grant
Before I go into the review I want to make comments on Out of Control by Connealy also. Both books are part of The Kincaid Brides. I won Out of Control in a blog contest a while ago and decided to finally read it before reviewing In Too Deep.
Minor spoilers included: Out of Control introduces us to a cave; the three Kincaid brothers, Rafe, Ethan, and Seth; and archaeologist/cave explorer Julia, her stepmom (more like a sister) Audra, and Audra’s two kids Maggie and Lily. Audra is married to Julia’s pa, Wendell, but Wendell is not a likable character and doesn’t survive. Out of Control centers around the Kincaid brothers, although Seth doesn’t come into the story until later, and Julia & Audra escaping trouble that Wendell has caused from greed, gambling and reckless behavior. Like I mentioned, he is not a likable character and the story improves when he’s no longer in it. Connealy does an excellent job writing about these two families and how their lives merge together starting with Rafe rescuing Julia from the cave she gets stuck in while exploring fossils. The only problem was I just didn’t connect with the story. The villains didn’t create suspense for me and I couldn’t wait for Wendell to leave the story so there could finally be peace for Julia and Audra. I also love when there are kids in the story (Colleen Coble does this with her books and it enhances the book tremendously), but in this case I had no attachment with the younger characters. I will mention this, though. When Connealy first sent me Out of Control, it got lost in the mail. I was heartbroken and embarrassed about that. I contacted Mary about it not knowing what she would say and she ended up sending me the book again with another cowboy book to bless me and make up for the loss!!!! So even though I only read the first 100 pages of Out of Control; that does not reflect on Mary’s writing at all, it just didn’t grab me.
In Too Deep
In 1866 Colorado, Ethan Kincaid agrees to a marriage of convenience with the same casual disregard he gives every decision. Audra Gilliland, young mother of two, accepts his proposal because she wants to stop being a burden to her newly married stepdaughter.
And suddenly both of them are in far deeper than they'd planned.
Ethan doesn't expect Audra to affect him so profoundly, and when she begins to, he's terrified of the pain he's felt before when someone he loved was seriously injured on his watch. He's determined that his new wife will do as he says so he can keep her safe from the dangers that lurk on their ranch.
Audra has been cared for all her life by one man or another--and they've done a poor job of it. Now she's planning to stand up for herself. And her new husband had better agree or get out of her way!
What will it take to transform two wayward hearts fearful of getting in too deep into two trusting hearts ready to risk falling deeply in love? (from Amazon.com)
My Review
This story takes off from where Out of Control ends. There was an instant connection between Rafe and Julia, Ethan and Audra. Now Rafe and Julia are married while Audra is a widow with two kids and they’re not settled yet with dangerous caverns still lurking. Seth is now in the story and he can’t stay away from the caves. So the story opens with Audra’s daughter, Maggie, missing; Ethan and Audra go looking and find out that Seth takes Maggie with him not understanding the danger he puts her in. This also illustrates the mindset Seth has; he has been traumatized both by war and an accident in the past that his mind has never recovered from.
Ethan has a panic attack in the cave and safely retrieves Maggie, but once they exit the cave and meet up with Julia & Rafe, a decision is made. Rafe states (this man does not ask permission or makes suggestions, he speaks his mind and there is no arguing) that Ethan and Audra get married. While they’re initially shocked and confused about this notion, they both give in to it for the safety of Audra’s two girls. Neither one of them is ready for marriage, but there is an attraction between them and they both want to protect the girls. There’s an understanding between Ethan and Audra that later turns to romance.
While I didn’t connect with this book either (I only read 150 pages), I enjoyed reading about the brothers and their relationship to the only two women they’ve ever known or cared for. It was fun to see how inlove Rafe and Julia are and how they protect their families. Ethan loves to observe the family when they’re together, but he quickly grows a protective streak for Audra as well. He adjusts to being a father quickly and it was endearing reading how well he does at being a husband and father so suddenly. This is a man who has stayed away from his parents and brothers most of his life, but after meeting Audra and her kids he never wants to leave again. Ethan and Audra also live with Seth so it’s quite an adjustment taking care of him and his nightmares as well as their two girls, but despite their differences this couple works together to make the living arrangements work for everyone.
The cave is another character in this story that makes Connealy stand out from other authors. Even though it’s not a person, the cave does more damage and traumatizes all three brothers more than any villain could. Seth can’t stay away from it, Julia is fascinated with its findings, Rafe, Ethan and Audra want no part of it and the danger it offers. Even though this book wasn’t for me, I recommend it for anyone looking for a cowboy adventure with two feisty women that are determined to protect their loved ones while finding their own happiness.
Visit Mary Connealy’s website to check out her blog and her newsletter…. www.maryconnealy.com/index
Here is the link for the book trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SskpS2...
I want to thank Mary Connealy and Bethany House Publishers for sending these books for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
July 22, 2020
This is another enjoyable and humorous installment in Mary Connealy's 'Kincaid Brides' trilogy.
I really liked the two main characters in this story, Audra and Ethan. Along with the circle of supporting characters, they took on challenges that may have been commonplace in the Wild West of the mid to late 1860s but which are not things most of us encounter in the 21st century.
The author does a magnificent job of balancing action, humor, romance, and personal growth throughout the story. I can't wait to read the final installment of the series, 'Over the Edge'.
Highly-recommended for fans of Christian/clean historical romance, Christian/clean Wild West romance, and Christian/clean frontier/cowboy fiction.
I borrowed a copy of this book from the local public library.
---------------------------
**This book is completely clean in language and content. :0}
I really liked the two main characters in this story, Audra and Ethan. Along with the circle of supporting characters, they took on challenges that may have been commonplace in the Wild West of the mid to late 1860s but which are not things most of us encounter in the 21st century.
The author does a magnificent job of balancing action, humor, romance, and personal growth throughout the story. I can't wait to read the final installment of the series, 'Over the Edge'.
Highly-recommended for fans of Christian/clean historical romance, Christian/clean Wild West romance, and Christian/clean frontier/cowboy fiction.
I borrowed a copy of this book from the local public library.
---------------------------
**This book is completely clean in language and content. :0}
November 6, 2022
Everything you want in a book
This was one of the best books I have read in ages, and I average a book a day so that is saying something. The same characters from the first book were in this story, along with some new ones. I don’t remember Mary Connealy being so funny but there were a few places in this book that made me laugh out loud! Besides humor there was suspense, drama, danger and, of course, lots of reluctant love along with references to God’s faithfulness and love for us, too. I say reluctant love for some of the characters because that was the last thing they were looking for. And men and women alike found the strength and courage they always felt they lacked. I can’t wait for the next book because they can only get better. Oh! And there is still the matter of the missing gold or money, which I have some ideas about!
This was one of the best books I have read in ages, and I average a book a day so that is saying something. The same characters from the first book were in this story, along with some new ones. I don’t remember Mary Connealy being so funny but there were a few places in this book that made me laugh out loud! Besides humor there was suspense, drama, danger and, of course, lots of reluctant love along with references to God’s faithfulness and love for us, too. I say reluctant love for some of the characters because that was the last thing they were looking for. And men and women alike found the strength and courage they always felt they lacked. I can’t wait for the next book because they can only get better. Oh! And there is still the matter of the missing gold or money, which I have some ideas about!
October 8, 2019
I perfer adventure books and fantasy, but I was told about this series and I am enjoying it so far!
Book 1 had me laughing a ton, this one didn't as much. However! I loved the characters more, the two main characters are amazing! And the two growing as characters wasn't annoying. :D
The suspense was better in this book then the first! My only complaints are: I had wished the villains would be a little harder or the climax of the book would be longer. And well, the "meh" cute "bleh" romance that this genre is supposed to have... Haha. I would have perfered a little less of it, but I did like these two as a couple!
Anyway, I enjoyed it!
And I will be checking out book 3. I am very curious about Seth's book!
Book 1 had me laughing a ton, this one didn't as much. However! I loved the characters more, the two main characters are amazing! And the two growing as characters wasn't annoying. :D
The suspense was better in this book then the first! My only complaints are: I had wished the villains would be a little harder or the climax of the book would be longer. And well, the "meh" cute "bleh" romance that this genre is supposed to have... Haha. I would have perfered a little less of it, but I did like these two as a couple!
Anyway, I enjoyed it!
And I will be checking out book 3. I am very curious about Seth's book!
August 20, 2020
This one was definitely better than the first one, could be that I found the two main characters less annoying than the first two but who knows. I read it pretty quick, it's a short read. Ethan and Audra are pretty cute. She is feisty and determined to be strong; Ethan is a good father figure to the girls, always helpful, and supportive. Marriage of convenience turns into something more. It's a continuation of the last story and I sure hope they find the 'treasure' in the next book because if they don't I'm gonna be mad. lol.
Two brothers down one to go!
Two brothers down one to go!
October 15, 2021
This one also had way to much romance in it. A lot more than Out of Control did...
This one is about Ethan who fell in love with a woman (Audra) who was sold by her father for marriage and now her husband is dead. She also has 2 children... Ethan decides to marry her and they soon grow to love each other. What really bothered me about this one is how Connealy went into detail about their love, if you get my drift. She talked about them being in bed and how they loved it... It was just too much. But I did enjoy the adventure and the light romance in here.
This one is about Ethan who fell in love with a woman (Audra) who was sold by her father for marriage and now her husband is dead. She also has 2 children... Ethan decides to marry her and they soon grow to love each other. What really bothered me about this one is how Connealy went into detail about their love, if you get my drift. She talked about them being in bed and how they loved it... It was just too much. But I did enjoy the adventure and the light romance in here.
December 9, 2018
I read the first book in this series long enough ago that I don't feel I can adequately compare the two of them. However, just from this book, I like the characters Ethan and Audra better than Rafe and Julia. Perhaps it's their private battles with fear that I identify with, perhaps it's just that Julia's personality irritates me at times. Whatever it is, I enjoyed this book very much, and I look forward to getting into the last book in this series next.
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