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Montana Rescue #1
Wild Montana Skies (Montana Rescue) by Susan May Warren
Bestselling Author's New Series Delivers Romance and Adventure as an SAR Team Searches for Others--and Finds Themselves Search and rescue pilot Kacey Fairing is home on leave in Mercy Falls, Montana, twelve years after she joined the military to escape the mistakes of her past. With a job waiting for her as the new lead pilot of Peak Rescue in Glacier National Park, Kacey hopes to reconnect with the now-teenage daughter she sees only between deployments. What she doesn't realize is that someone else is also back in town. Ben King has been building his country music career since the day Kacey shut him out of her life. Now all of that's on hold when his injured father calls him home to help run Peak Rescue until he's fully recovered. It doesn't take long, though, to discover his father's ulterior motives as Kacey Fairing walks into the house and back into his heart. With Mercy Falls in a state of emergency due to flash floods, Kacey and Ben are forced to work together to save lives. But when floodwaters turn personal, can they put aside the past to save their future?
Paperback
First published October 1, 2016
651 people are currently reading
2526 people want to read
About the author
Susan May Warren
212 books3,623 followersI can't help be amazed at the gifts God has delighted me with - a wonderful husband, four amazing children, and the opportunity to write for Him.
I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.
Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.
Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.
Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.
Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.
I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.
I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at susan@susanmaywarren.com. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.
God Bless and Happy Reading!
In His Grip,
Susan May Warren
I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.
Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.
Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.
Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.
Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.
I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.
I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at susan@susanmaywarren.com. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.
God Bless and Happy Reading!
In His Grip,
Susan May Warren
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 484 reviews
February 6, 2017
I was so excited to start a new series from Susan May Warren! It has all the elements I've come to expect from her writing- dynamic characters, a sense of family and community, drama and angst, and curl-your-toes romance! Even though I'm not normally a fan of the surprise baby/child trope, I was completely immersed in the relationship between Kacey and Ben since it takes such a unique twist... more than once! I loved that the author revealed bits and pieces of their past throughout the story so we could see how the two fell in love and it allowed me to hope that they would reconcile. Intertwined in their story is the continuation of Sierra and Ian's ill-fated romance from the prequel novella (which I highly recommend reading first!). Add to that the action and suspense from the rescues of the team, and this is a book that's impossible to put down!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
April 24, 2024
Wild Montana Skies - Susan May Warren (Book 1 in the Montana Rescue Series) - 3.5 Stars
This is the start to the Montana Rescue series and I enjoyed my time with it. I was listening to the audiobook but the lady's singing pulled me out the story some, so I switched to the e-book at the end. In this story, we follow Search and Rescue helicopter pilot Kacey Fairing who is back home in Mercy Falls, Montana and her ex, Country Music Star Ben King. Ben left his past behind when he moved to Nashville 13 years ago to start his career. But when his father is injured, he comes back home and realizes things were not exactly how he left them 13 years ago. We quickly find out Ben and Kacey had a daughter together and this is the first time Ben learns about her because of so many misunderstandings years ago. Ben and Kacey work together for many different situations throughout the book and we see their relationship start back up in this second chance romance story. Meanwhile, we have a side story of Ian and Sierra (who work together) have their mixed feelings story going on throughout this book as the search for Esme (Ian's Niece) and Dante continue....
Overall I enjoyed this story but did get a little frustrated with the Ian and Sierra side story. I know I need to read the next book, but there was so much back and forth with them thrown in the middle of Kacey and Ben's story. I think I would have rather had more of that in the second book with them but I understand we are setting up the scene for book 2 here. Wasn't sure how I felt about Ben at first but really liked the ending. The faith content was great in this book. The characters really trusted the Lord and even when they questioned, by the end, they realized He was there with them in the situations they were going through.
"Having faith is the bravest thing we can do. It's the unwavering confidence that God loves us. That
although we can't see the road ahead, we can see God."
I will definitely be continuing on in the series.
3.5/5
This is the start to the Montana Rescue series and I enjoyed my time with it. I was listening to the audiobook but the lady's singing pulled me out the story some, so I switched to the e-book at the end. In this story, we follow Search and Rescue helicopter pilot Kacey Fairing who is back home in Mercy Falls, Montana and her ex, Country Music Star Ben King. Ben left his past behind when he moved to Nashville 13 years ago to start his career. But when his father is injured, he comes back home and realizes things were not exactly how he left them 13 years ago. We quickly find out Ben and Kacey had a daughter together and this is the first time Ben learns about her because of so many misunderstandings years ago. Ben and Kacey work together for many different situations throughout the book and we see their relationship start back up in this second chance romance story. Meanwhile, we have a side story of Ian and Sierra (who work together) have their mixed feelings story going on throughout this book as the search for Esme (Ian's Niece) and Dante continue....
Overall I enjoyed this story but did get a little frustrated with the Ian and Sierra side story. I know I need to read the next book, but there was so much back and forth with them thrown in the middle of Kacey and Ben's story. I think I would have rather had more of that in the second book with them but I understand we are setting up the scene for book 2 here. Wasn't sure how I felt about Ben at first but really liked the ending. The faith content was great in this book. The characters really trusted the Lord and even when they questioned, by the end, they realized He was there with them in the situations they were going through.
"Having faith is the bravest thing we can do. It's the unwavering confidence that God loves us. That
although we can't see the road ahead, we can see God."
I will definitely be continuing on in the series.
3.5/5
October 23, 2016
Well, I have mixed feeling about this book. I got it to read because I've always been intrigued by stories of rescues and helicopters, but I was disappointed. There were only two mountain rescues in this book. And one was hardly one at all. They did have to rescue some people from a collapsed house and that was interesting.
The story was mostly about two people who should have gotten married a long time ago and all that they were going through with misunderstands and doubts and a really annoying girl. And then there were two other people that I couldn't figure out where they fit in for quite some time who seemed to be lovers. Not to mention all the other "teenage lovers." There was too much "love description" for my tastes. I'm not interested in how someone smelled!
The other thing that bothered me was the muddied doctrine that was in this story. Nothing was ever very clear. There were a few prayers mentioned and the 23rd Psalm was quoted a few times and there was a general sprinkling of God loving and leading people, but it all felt so fuzzy that it was hard to know what was being said.
I think this could have been a very interesting story, but it just didn't work for me.
The story was mostly about two people who should have gotten married a long time ago and all that they were going through with misunderstands and doubts and a really annoying girl. And then there were two other people that I couldn't figure out where they fit in for quite some time who seemed to be lovers. Not to mention all the other "teenage lovers." There was too much "love description" for my tastes. I'm not interested in how someone smelled!
The other thing that bothered me was the muddied doctrine that was in this story. Nothing was ever very clear. There were a few prayers mentioned and the 23rd Psalm was quoted a few times and there was a general sprinkling of God loving and leading people, but it all felt so fuzzy that it was hard to know what was being said.
I think this could have been a very interesting story, but it just didn't work for me.
May 31, 2021
What a sweet story. I liked that the characters were flawed and had to learn how to trust in God's love and provision for them in the end. The romance was good. I wish it had more comedic moments, but overall I really liked it and I will be reading the sequel!
September 5, 2016
This book is fabulous! There is such great romantic tension between the main characters, Ben and Kacey! These two never stopped loving each other and they each became successful in their own way. But, there is a lot of hurt standing in between them. Will they be able to overcome and embrace what happened in their past?
Wild Montana Skies explores the question of whether someone can ever do something that so disappoints God that He will no longer love that person. Along with that deep thread, there is so much packed into this amazing story. The main romance between Ben and Kacey deals with issues such as trust, truthfulness, forgiveness, shame, and a simply beautiful story of love and redemption.
There is also a side story between the characters of Ian and Sierra. This plot, along with a mystery of two missing teenagers, is a continuation from the free novella If Ever I Would Leave You. Understanding the issues that Ian and Sierra are dealing with will be even more interesting if you have read that novella. I like the way the author is continuing this mystery throughout the novella and books. Here is the link to the free novella: https://app.convertkit.com/landing_pa...
As soon as I finished Wild Montana Skies, I felt as if I was slipping into book withdrawal! I enjoyed this story so much and I am looking so forward to reading more books from this series. You know a book is great when you continue thinking about the characters long after the last page is turned!
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Wild Montana Skies explores the question of whether someone can ever do something that so disappoints God that He will no longer love that person. Along with that deep thread, there is so much packed into this amazing story. The main romance between Ben and Kacey deals with issues such as trust, truthfulness, forgiveness, shame, and a simply beautiful story of love and redemption.
There is also a side story between the characters of Ian and Sierra. This plot, along with a mystery of two missing teenagers, is a continuation from the free novella If Ever I Would Leave You. Understanding the issues that Ian and Sierra are dealing with will be even more interesting if you have read that novella. I like the way the author is continuing this mystery throughout the novella and books. Here is the link to the free novella: https://app.convertkit.com/landing_pa...
As soon as I finished Wild Montana Skies, I felt as if I was slipping into book withdrawal! I enjoyed this story so much and I am looking so forward to reading more books from this series. You know a book is great when you continue thinking about the characters long after the last page is turned!
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
October 19, 2016
My Thoughts:
I've long been a fan of Susan May Warren's books. When she finished her Christiansen Family series at the beginning of this year, I was sad to say goodbye. But I knew that she'd have something new coming for her readers. This book combines action and adventure with romance.
I'll admit that it was very different than her Christiansen Family novels, but different can be a good thing. In this case, it's a VERY good thing. Ben and Kacey have a history. Yet they have to put aside their past in order to save lives. But their past does make itself known in the present. I loved how these two finally got around to talking about what happened so many years ago. And that they weren't going to let anyone stand in their way again.
I'm looking forward to seeing these characters again in the second book of the series, and to see who the next book will be about. I've got a couple of ideas, but I'm not sure.
I received this book for free from Revell as part of their Revell Reads Blogging program. I was not required to like the book, only give my honest opinion. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Susan May Warren, Becky Wade, Denise Hunter, contemporary fiction
Rating - 4 stars
I've long been a fan of Susan May Warren's books. When she finished her Christiansen Family series at the beginning of this year, I was sad to say goodbye. But I knew that she'd have something new coming for her readers. This book combines action and adventure with romance.
I'll admit that it was very different than her Christiansen Family novels, but different can be a good thing. In this case, it's a VERY good thing. Ben and Kacey have a history. Yet they have to put aside their past in order to save lives. But their past does make itself known in the present. I loved how these two finally got around to talking about what happened so many years ago. And that they weren't going to let anyone stand in their way again.
I'm looking forward to seeing these characters again in the second book of the series, and to see who the next book will be about. I've got a couple of ideas, but I'm not sure.
I received this book for free from Revell as part of their Revell Reads Blogging program. I was not required to like the book, only give my honest opinion. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Susan May Warren, Becky Wade, Denise Hunter, contemporary fiction
Rating - 4 stars
March 24, 2017
Oh.My.Goodness. Wild Montana Skies was SO good!! I don't know why I'm so surprised, because, come on, Susan May Warren wrote the book. But I guess the cover made me think it would be western/cowboy-ish. LOL! It definitely wasn't that type of story and unbelievably good. I actually read it in one day -- I just didn't want to stop reading it!
I loved the second chance romance. I felt so bad for Ben at times, but then at other times I felt sad for Kacey, or even Audrey -- who was really the one who had no control over anything.
The story also had some really intense and scary situations (especially one near the end). It had my heart in my throat waiting to see what would happen next.
All in all, I highly recommend Wild Montana Skies. It has great characters, storyline, and writing. I cannot wait to read the next one, Rescue Me.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
I loved the second chance romance. I felt so bad for Ben at times, but then at other times I felt sad for Kacey, or even Audrey -- who was really the one who had no control over anything.
The story also had some really intense and scary situations (especially one near the end). It had my heart in my throat waiting to see what would happen next.
All in all, I highly recommend Wild Montana Skies. It has great characters, storyline, and writing. I cannot wait to read the next one, Rescue Me.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
August 2, 2020
So very well done! I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. I love that everyone has a story and Amazing Grace being free for all along with faith having such an impact on your Christian Walk comes out so clearly in this book. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
August 7, 2019
There is nothing better than finishing a great book by one of your favourite authors! Please read the prequel
before you read this book, since a mystery and history between Ian and Sierra is set up in that story.
Back to Wild Montana Skies.
Susan May Warren delivered a great first story in a new series which I highly expect I would love. We got to meet the peak rescue team, all with hints of their own little story to come and then pulled into Ben and Kacey's story, which was not without mistakes and hurts. I really enjoyed their story and path to reconciliation (not just to each other, but also to God). I did not like Kacey's meddling father at all.
Ian and Sierra's story also continued and just when you think there is breakthrough, something else happens. The mystery around Ian's missing niece is still left unsolved and took quite an interesting turn in this book.
Susan May delivered a book of characters, which has a family type feel, adventure and a breathtaking event at the end of the book. On top of that she included so much spiritual wisdom between the pages.
I'm looking forward to the rest of the series. I enjoyed this story so much, will probably change my reading plan and start
right away.
before you read this book, since a mystery and history between Ian and Sierra is set up in that story.Back to Wild Montana Skies.
Susan May Warren delivered a great first story in a new series which I highly expect I would love. We got to meet the peak rescue team, all with hints of their own little story to come and then pulled into Ben and Kacey's story, which was not without mistakes and hurts. I really enjoyed their story and path to reconciliation (not just to each other, but also to God). I did not like Kacey's meddling father at all.
Ian and Sierra's story also continued and just when you think there is breakthrough, something else happens. The mystery around Ian's missing niece is still left unsolved and took quite an interesting turn in this book.
Susan May delivered a book of characters, which has a family type feel, adventure and a breathtaking event at the end of the book. On top of that she included so much spiritual wisdom between the pages.
I'm looking forward to the rest of the series. I enjoyed this story so much, will probably change my reading plan and start
right away.
September 13, 2016
Just when you think Susan May Warren can't create a cast of characters as memorable and lovable as her last series, she does. This book sets the stage for a community that will grab readers' hearts. Kacey and Ben are strong characters, and although their storyline is one that's been told so many times, the author gives such life and uniqueness to the characters and community, that the story is fresh and enjoyable.
I also love that she sets up the next story by introducing us to the characters and their story in this book, which means I'm already counting down till the next book!
I was given this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts are my own.
I also love that she sets up the next story by introducing us to the characters and their story in this book, which means I'm already counting down till the next book!
I was given this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts are my own.
February 6, 2017
Wild Montana Skies by Susan May Warren is a contemporary Christian romance. It is the first book in the Montana Rescue series and what a cracking series it promises to be.
I had heard a lot of good things about Susan May Warren and she certainly did not disappoint. I cannot wait to read more by her.
The main theme is that of fathers. There are all sorts of different types of fathers. A father's love is a precious thing. It is a gift from God. The bond that the reader witnesses unfolding in the novel is truly beautiful. It encompasses caring, sacrifice and overwhelming love. The novel also shows we are never too old to not need our father's love.
God the Father loves us with an everlasting love. We see this love at work in the novel. Sometimes we disqualify ourselves from God's love. "Let's not let our past determine whether God loves us or not." God loves each and every one of us because He wants to not because of anything we did or didn't do.
There is the theme of faith and trust in God. Faith to trust God is a decision we make. Trusting Him and letting Him have control of our lives may seem scary but it is the best decision we will ever make. "Don't be afraid of letting go and walking into all God has for you." Life can be hard at times, all we can do is pray and trust God. "Although we can't see the road ahead, we can see God."
Being lost and found permeates the novel. We may be spiritually lost of actually lost. The novel focuses on both. "We're not lost - we just can't see the path. But God can."
Sometimes we feel abandoned by God. "It would be a lot easier if God was actually on my side." God is always on our side, even if we cannot feel Him.
There is the theme of dreams. Dreams may change over the years. It is always good to have a dream to follow. Dreams can easily become nightmares. War veteran Kacey suffers from PTSD which disturbs her sleep. "She couldn't let the war follow her home." She needs help and love to recover.
The themes of forgiveness, guilt and hope are all present in the novel. Guilt may separate us from God but it is a wall that we build ourselves. God wants us to bring our guilt to Him and He will forgive and give us a hope for the future. Likewise we need to forgive ourselves and others and not live life with one foot in the past.
The characters in the novel were all realistically and sensitively drawn. They faced problems that were easy to empathise with. They were neither distant nor remote and took up residence in my heart. I am really looking forward to book two Rescue Me that is released in spring 2017.
A fabulous story with God at the centre.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
I had heard a lot of good things about Susan May Warren and she certainly did not disappoint. I cannot wait to read more by her.
The main theme is that of fathers. There are all sorts of different types of fathers. A father's love is a precious thing. It is a gift from God. The bond that the reader witnesses unfolding in the novel is truly beautiful. It encompasses caring, sacrifice and overwhelming love. The novel also shows we are never too old to not need our father's love.
God the Father loves us with an everlasting love. We see this love at work in the novel. Sometimes we disqualify ourselves from God's love. "Let's not let our past determine whether God loves us or not." God loves each and every one of us because He wants to not because of anything we did or didn't do.
There is the theme of faith and trust in God. Faith to trust God is a decision we make. Trusting Him and letting Him have control of our lives may seem scary but it is the best decision we will ever make. "Don't be afraid of letting go and walking into all God has for you." Life can be hard at times, all we can do is pray and trust God. "Although we can't see the road ahead, we can see God."
Being lost and found permeates the novel. We may be spiritually lost of actually lost. The novel focuses on both. "We're not lost - we just can't see the path. But God can."
Sometimes we feel abandoned by God. "It would be a lot easier if God was actually on my side." God is always on our side, even if we cannot feel Him.
There is the theme of dreams. Dreams may change over the years. It is always good to have a dream to follow. Dreams can easily become nightmares. War veteran Kacey suffers from PTSD which disturbs her sleep. "She couldn't let the war follow her home." She needs help and love to recover.
The themes of forgiveness, guilt and hope are all present in the novel. Guilt may separate us from God but it is a wall that we build ourselves. God wants us to bring our guilt to Him and He will forgive and give us a hope for the future. Likewise we need to forgive ourselves and others and not live life with one foot in the past.
The characters in the novel were all realistically and sensitively drawn. They faced problems that were easy to empathise with. They were neither distant nor remote and took up residence in my heart. I am really looking forward to book two Rescue Me that is released in spring 2017.
A fabulous story with God at the centre.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
September 5, 2016
Since I first discovered Susan May Warren's writing, I've always been so excited when she releases a new book. I absolutely HAVE to have it!
This one, the first in her new Montana Rescue series, features Ben King and Kacey Fairing as the two main characters. They both grew up in Mercy Falls, Montana, but something happened to them when they were 18 years old. Lies were told, fears consumed them and they fell apart, only to see each other again 13 years later.
Ben is now an international country music star, home because his dad has fallen and broken both hips. Kacey is home on leave from the military, after winning the Bronze Star. Her 13 year old daughter has been mostly raised by Kacey's parents with infrequent visits from Kacey when on leave.
Mercy Falls is being washed away by rain and flood waters. Kacey is a helicopter pilot and is needed to help with SAR and Ben can also help. Can old secrets and feelings remain hidden or will they surface, only to wreak havoc on the lives of those who have kept them? Will the truth prevail?
Susan May Warren is a master at what she does. She creates very believable characters, families, set within a small town situation. I absolutely love her writing. Her books are ones that you force yourself away from to do life, when all you really want to do is hunker down and read till the last page is turned. She writes with a great depth of emotion, her characters experiencing problems every day people would experience. She pulls the reader into the story until you feel as if you *really* do live there! To me, that is the mark of a great writer. I don't just want to read a good story. I want to feel it, live it, let it grow down into my heart and take up residence.
And Susan May Warren always includes a profound spiritual message in her books. Always. She is not afraid to loudly proclaim the goodness of God and His moving in the lives of His children, whom He loves. THIS is the stuff Christian fiction is made of. It's not just a book, but a sermon, something the reader can carry with them and put into application in their own lives. My, what a book Wild Montana Skies was! Don't miss this.
*I was given a preview copy of this book. I was not pressured to leave a good review and all opinions are my own.
This one, the first in her new Montana Rescue series, features Ben King and Kacey Fairing as the two main characters. They both grew up in Mercy Falls, Montana, but something happened to them when they were 18 years old. Lies were told, fears consumed them and they fell apart, only to see each other again 13 years later.
Ben is now an international country music star, home because his dad has fallen and broken both hips. Kacey is home on leave from the military, after winning the Bronze Star. Her 13 year old daughter has been mostly raised by Kacey's parents with infrequent visits from Kacey when on leave.
Mercy Falls is being washed away by rain and flood waters. Kacey is a helicopter pilot and is needed to help with SAR and Ben can also help. Can old secrets and feelings remain hidden or will they surface, only to wreak havoc on the lives of those who have kept them? Will the truth prevail?
Susan May Warren is a master at what she does. She creates very believable characters, families, set within a small town situation. I absolutely love her writing. Her books are ones that you force yourself away from to do life, when all you really want to do is hunker down and read till the last page is turned. She writes with a great depth of emotion, her characters experiencing problems every day people would experience. She pulls the reader into the story until you feel as if you *really* do live there! To me, that is the mark of a great writer. I don't just want to read a good story. I want to feel it, live it, let it grow down into my heart and take up residence.
And Susan May Warren always includes a profound spiritual message in her books. Always. She is not afraid to loudly proclaim the goodness of God and His moving in the lives of His children, whom He loves. THIS is the stuff Christian fiction is made of. It's not just a book, but a sermon, something the reader can carry with them and put into application in their own lives. My, what a book Wild Montana Skies was! Don't miss this.
*I was given a preview copy of this book. I was not pressured to leave a good review and all opinions are my own.
November 25, 2016
It’s a very nice story, but that’s not a surprise, it’s Susan May Warren who we’re talking about here, and we know she can do no wrong.
I’m not a huge fan of outdoors or extreme environments, so the general concept of this series is definitely out of my comfort zone, but the writing is so good that I’m learning to like it.
All characters are very easy to relate to, but my favorite is Ben King, of course, he’s so real and broken. He does not have life figured out, and he’s not pretending to have it. I believe we’ve all been in that same condition at some point: lost, messy, in need of rescue.
I could easily connect with almost everything that happened in the story, all its ups and downs. However, I must admit I felt Ian and Sierra’s subplot more deeply, even if it was secondary in this book.
Now, Ben and Kacey’s story was really sweet and romantic, but I can’t shake off the idea that some big problems were solved kind of easily and fast. It might be that these characters had suffered enough and were ready for that.
I loved to see the changes in Ben throughout the story. He’s definitely a great character and I enjoyed spending some time with him and learning what second chances look like.
**I received a copy of this book from Fleming H. Revell Company through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own**
I’m not a huge fan of outdoors or extreme environments, so the general concept of this series is definitely out of my comfort zone, but the writing is so good that I’m learning to like it.
All characters are very easy to relate to, but my favorite is Ben King, of course, he’s so real and broken. He does not have life figured out, and he’s not pretending to have it. I believe we’ve all been in that same condition at some point: lost, messy, in need of rescue.
I could easily connect with almost everything that happened in the story, all its ups and downs. However, I must admit I felt Ian and Sierra’s subplot more deeply, even if it was secondary in this book.
Now, Ben and Kacey’s story was really sweet and romantic, but I can’t shake off the idea that some big problems were solved kind of easily and fast. It might be that these characters had suffered enough and were ready for that.
I loved to see the changes in Ben throughout the story. He’s definitely a great character and I enjoyed spending some time with him and learning what second chances look like.
**I received a copy of this book from Fleming H. Revell Company through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own**
September 16, 2016
While I love the Christiansen family saga, I found myself not at all fond of this book. Even though the writing was exceptional and the romance was full of tension, and the second storyline eluded to another book, those virtues couldn't make up for the vices.
One, I found Kacey to be selfish by joining the military and to do that, she would have had to give up custody. There are rules about single parents joining, and most times single parents cannot join. Waivers are too few and too far between. I couldn't get past the fact that she left her daughter to serve tours in Afghanistan and risk PTSD.
Two, the storyline between Kacey, Ben, and Audrey was not original. I knew before I read the story how Audrey would act and react. Basically because it has been done too many times before.
Three, I felt the physical attraction/pull between Kacey and Ben seemed to "worldly" at times for a Christian novel.
Although the spiritual story of saving grace was evident, I felt the book needed fresher scenarios and more originality. Will it stop my reading of Warren's books? No. I look forward to the next one.
***I received this book through NetGalley by the publishers in exchange of an honest review***
One, I found Kacey to be selfish by joining the military and to do that, she would have had to give up custody. There are rules about single parents joining, and most times single parents cannot join. Waivers are too few and too far between. I couldn't get past the fact that she left her daughter to serve tours in Afghanistan and risk PTSD.
Two, the storyline between Kacey, Ben, and Audrey was not original. I knew before I read the story how Audrey would act and react. Basically because it has been done too many times before.
Three, I felt the physical attraction/pull between Kacey and Ben seemed to "worldly" at times for a Christian novel.
Although the spiritual story of saving grace was evident, I felt the book needed fresher scenarios and more originality. Will it stop my reading of Warren's books? No. I look forward to the next one.
***I received this book through NetGalley by the publishers in exchange of an honest review***
November 18, 2016
Just take a moment to enjoy the cover and you have an idea of the role the hero plays. Ben King's a small town Montana boy who went to Nashville and made a name for himself, except now his career may be falling apart. Kacey Fairing is home from a tour as a military helicopter pilot. A crash haunts her, and the last thing she wants is to pick up where she left off 13 years earlier with Ben. However they're thrown together on a search and rescue team and have to confront the mistakes and misunderstandings of their past. Their story is the larger story with other characters introduced with subplots that will launch them into their own books. The masterful way the author made me care about all of the characters and threads is proof of why her books have won so many prestigious awards. If you've never tried her books, this is a great one to start with. If you have read Susie's books before, then Wild Montana Skies is one you need to read today!
May 9, 2017
3.5 stars
Loved the stories of the SAR team and Kacey, the Army pilot who joins them. Ben, a Nashville musician and hometown boy, was a perfect foil for Kacey. She's had to be independent all this time and blames herself for the choices she had to make; Ben blames himself for not living up to what he should have as a preacher's kid and harbors blames for Kacey for years, until he sees her again and the sparks fly.
I still didn't like Ian—he's too controlling and driven—but he wasn't in it much, and I didn't have to put up with him like I did in the novella. Now for the next...
Loved the stories of the SAR team and Kacey, the Army pilot who joins them. Ben, a Nashville musician and hometown boy, was a perfect foil for Kacey. She's had to be independent all this time and blames herself for the choices she had to make; Ben blames himself for not living up to what he should have as a preacher's kid and harbors blames for Kacey for years, until he sees her again and the sparks fly.
I still didn't like Ian—he's too controlling and driven—but he wasn't in it much, and I didn't have to put up with him like I did in the novella. Now for the next...
January 15, 2018
Ugh, this book is so good!!! I cannot wait to read the next book. This book defiantly will keep you on the edge of your seat the entire read. I loved reading the different perspectives that Susan wrote in! My heart at times could not take all the stress and action. This book will pull you in and not release you until the end. Even then you will want to read the next one.
June 12, 2018
WARNING: I didnt know this was Christian romance and while spiritual I am not religious. So take that into account as for me that took interest in book away for me.
Ben King is back in town, so is Kacey Fairing. High school sweethearts. Broken apart. Kacey thought he abandoned her and their daughter. He never even knew she kept it. Now they are back together and fighting those old feelings.
I loved the story. The action at the end. The romance grew nicely for a rekindling. As I mentioned before the 'preaching' lost my interest a little.
Ben King is back in town, so is Kacey Fairing. High school sweethearts. Broken apart. Kacey thought he abandoned her and their daughter. He never even knew she kept it. Now they are back together and fighting those old feelings.
I loved the story. The action at the end. The romance grew nicely for a rekindling. As I mentioned before the 'preaching' lost my interest a little.
January 24, 2017
Wild Montana Skies is the first of Montana Rescue series following the prequel of If Ever I Would Leave You. The series take place in the town of Mercy Falls. Ian Shaw's niece, Esme and her boyfriend, Dante disappeared on a church youth camping trip in the prequel. In this book, Kacey Fairing returns to Mercy Falls to work as a helicoptor pilot for the PEAK search and rescue team for the summer. Kacey is a Blackhawk pilot for the US Army and is recovering from a crash and ambush that took place in Afghanistan. She is having a much needed break from the event that has caused insomnia and nightmares. Kacey left Mercy Falls thirteen years ago after having a baby girl that her parents are raising in her absence. Her parents moved to the nearby town of Whitefish to raise Audrey away from the events of Kacey's pregnancy. Audrey's father, Ben King, and Kacey were engaged but the night of Audrey's birth, Ben got into a fight and wound up in jail. Ben called Kacey's father, an attorney, to help get him out of jail. Mr. Fairing told Ben that Kacey was going to give the baby up for adoption and to go fulfill his dream of being a country music star. He never told Kacey what he told Ben so Kacey has thought that Ben abandoned her and Audrey for all those years. Fast forward to present day. Kacey has earned a Bronze Star for her heroism and Ben is a big country music star. Ben is in Mercy Falls to take care of his father, Chet, who was injured in a helicopter crash. Chet is also a helicopter pilot as well as a minister.
Sparks fly when Kacey runs into Ben at the SAR center. But they have to put their personal history aside temporarily. A group of youth from the church are on a hiking trip in the mountains and are stranded in the midst of a storm. The town is being torn apart by flood waters while a snow storm is about to hit. Kacey is quickly put to work flying the rescue chopper to find the group of kids, which includes Audrey. Ben is helping out with the rescue since he knows the area well. The third person is an EMS crew member. When they find the group, Ben discovers that Kacey has a daughter and realizes that Audrey is his daughter. Kacey and Ben have to decide what to do about their situation that will work out for the best for all. Working against them is the fact that Kacey's dad's still wants them apart. On top of that, Ben's old singing partner, Hollie Montgomery wants to get Ben back to Nashville. Hollie is a very attractive woman who makes it appear that she and Ben are a couple or have been.
On another hand, a body shows up that reopens the disappearance of Esme and Dante. Ian and his assistant Sierra care about each other but are not open to each other about their feelings. There are complicated things going on there that started in the prequel. Sierra is a strong Christian who tries to help Ian deal with Esme's disappearance. She is best friends with Kacey and is Audrey's godmother. She tries to help Kacey sort through her feelings concerning Ben.
This is a great read that involves emotional tension as well as old and new hurts and wounds that need God's help to deal with. People are thrown into situations where they are brought to a point where they have to remember their faith that has been put aside. I am enjoying this series and recommend it but recommend reading the prequel first. I have the Montana Fire series but haven't read it. I feel that there are characters from that series that are also in this series. Hopefully, it won't be a problem to go back and read the Fire series after this one. Susan May Warren always does a great job with character development and giving a great visual for the scenery and background.
Sparks fly when Kacey runs into Ben at the SAR center. But they have to put their personal history aside temporarily. A group of youth from the church are on a hiking trip in the mountains and are stranded in the midst of a storm. The town is being torn apart by flood waters while a snow storm is about to hit. Kacey is quickly put to work flying the rescue chopper to find the group of kids, which includes Audrey. Ben is helping out with the rescue since he knows the area well. The third person is an EMS crew member. When they find the group, Ben discovers that Kacey has a daughter and realizes that Audrey is his daughter. Kacey and Ben have to decide what to do about their situation that will work out for the best for all. Working against them is the fact that Kacey's dad's still wants them apart. On top of that, Ben's old singing partner, Hollie Montgomery wants to get Ben back to Nashville. Hollie is a very attractive woman who makes it appear that she and Ben are a couple or have been.
On another hand, a body shows up that reopens the disappearance of Esme and Dante. Ian and his assistant Sierra care about each other but are not open to each other about their feelings. There are complicated things going on there that started in the prequel. Sierra is a strong Christian who tries to help Ian deal with Esme's disappearance. She is best friends with Kacey and is Audrey's godmother. She tries to help Kacey sort through her feelings concerning Ben.
This is a great read that involves emotional tension as well as old and new hurts and wounds that need God's help to deal with. People are thrown into situations where they are brought to a point where they have to remember their faith that has been put aside. I am enjoying this series and recommend it but recommend reading the prequel first. I have the Montana Fire series but haven't read it. I feel that there are characters from that series that are also in this series. Hopefully, it won't be a problem to go back and read the Fire series after this one. Susan May Warren always does a great job with character development and giving a great visual for the scenery and background.
October 15, 2016
I don't know what it is about these books, but I am hooked. It all started with the Montana Fire series that revolved around smokejumpers. I LOVED that series. I was so happy to see this off shoot series from that one. Some of the characters cross over and it's fun to see them. Susan May Warren writes these books in a way that just settles in so easy with me. I love the romance and the adventure/suspense together. By the end of the book I feel like I know these characters and I am invested in their success.
This series is about a search and rescue team in the small town of Mercy Falls, Montana. The setting is perfect for this with National Parks all around. This story is mostly about Ben and Kacey but there is a secondary story line happening as well. Ian and Sierra's story starts in If Ever I Would Leave You: A Montana Rescue Prequel. (which is free on Amazon as of when I wrote this.) But it doesn't have a conclusion. They are featured in this novel but STILL don't reach a conclusion. I guess they are the couple with the eternal struggle. It was awesome to read the prequel before this novel though to get a good sense of who Ian and Sierra are and how their relationship started and evolved. It also set the stage for the Mercy Falls rescue team.
Ben and Kacey are a love story gone wrong. Their love story began early when they were both young. Circumstances tore them apart but now they have been brought back together with a common job task. You can feel the tension and the connection these two have. It's just a matter of finding their way through the murky waters of the past.
I'm so excited about this new series. I can't wait to read the next book which is scheduled to come out in January. Yay!
Content: mention of previous sexual relationship outside of marriage, some mild suspense and violence. Christian fiction, some moments that have a "preachy" feel to it.
--I received this book for free from the publisher. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
This series is about a search and rescue team in the small town of Mercy Falls, Montana. The setting is perfect for this with National Parks all around. This story is mostly about Ben and Kacey but there is a secondary story line happening as well. Ian and Sierra's story starts in If Ever I Would Leave You: A Montana Rescue Prequel. (which is free on Amazon as of when I wrote this.) But it doesn't have a conclusion. They are featured in this novel but STILL don't reach a conclusion. I guess they are the couple with the eternal struggle. It was awesome to read the prequel before this novel though to get a good sense of who Ian and Sierra are and how their relationship started and evolved. It also set the stage for the Mercy Falls rescue team.
Ben and Kacey are a love story gone wrong. Their love story began early when they were both young. Circumstances tore them apart but now they have been brought back together with a common job task. You can feel the tension and the connection these two have. It's just a matter of finding their way through the murky waters of the past.
I'm so excited about this new series. I can't wait to read the next book which is scheduled to come out in January. Yay!
Content: mention of previous sexual relationship outside of marriage, some mild suspense and violence. Christian fiction, some moments that have a "preachy" feel to it.
--I received this book for free from the publisher. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
August 8, 2020
REVIEW | This novel is a kind of restart for the Christy-award winning talents of Susan May Warren. She not only returns to her storyteller roots, but also a new publisher. If the accolades weren’t enough, the reader's love of Warren’s pen proves she’s a rare talent whose stories never cease to excite, entertain, and enchant. This latest novel further enforces her skill. Wild Montana Skies returns to the basics of the genre she has roots in; romantic suspense. Since Warren’s “Team Hope” series was among the first I ever read by her, returning to this genre is sort of like a “homecoming.”
This story is a fabulous example of everlasting love and the power of family. The family dynamics are, in fact, some of my favorite parts of this book. Something I like is that, while some of the people in Kacey’s family do wrong by her, they are open to the possibility the choice they make might be wrong. Or the reader feels this is entirely possible before the book ends. The romance is also a charming part of the book. I adored how Ben loved Kacey with unchecked abandon and Kacey, though rigid because of her training, was no less sure. Her emotions (safeguarding her heart) were safely kept hidden away for fear of showing weakness.
Read the review in full on Finding Wonderland
Sincere thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary copy of this book.
This story is a fabulous example of everlasting love and the power of family. The family dynamics are, in fact, some of my favorite parts of this book. Something I like is that, while some of the people in Kacey’s family do wrong by her, they are open to the possibility the choice they make might be wrong. Or the reader feels this is entirely possible before the book ends. The romance is also a charming part of the book. I adored how Ben loved Kacey with unchecked abandon and Kacey, though rigid because of her training, was no less sure. Her emotions (safeguarding her heart) were safely kept hidden away for fear of showing weakness.
Read the review in full on Finding Wonderland
Sincere thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary copy of this book.
March 30, 2019
Wild Montana Skies is the first in the series Montana Rescue by Susan May Warren.
This story is about thr SEARCH AND RESCUE team that billionaire Ian Shaw put together. He started it three years ago when his niece, Esme Shaw, went missing on a hiking trail in the mountains. The search, long abandoned, resumes when a body washes up after spring flooding.
The story is mainly about two couples: Ian Shaw and his personal assistant, Sierra Rose and childhood sweethearts, Kacey Fairing, an army helicopter pilot, and huge country and western star, Ben King.
As we have come to expect, Susan May Warren has begun another epic series. This one has a fantastic setting and lots of suspense, danger and a mystery to be solved. The romances have their ups and downs because she writes realistic characters with flaws like normal people have. These stories and characters grow on you and you want to get the next books and have a reading marathon. As always, Ms. Warren has a strong biblical theme running through her stories. She has said that the hymn running through her mind as she penned this novel was Amazing Grace. You can see it played out in her story. Grace, Redemption, Second Chances are all portrayed in this exciting book.
*I purchased this ebook from Amazon. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
This story is about thr SEARCH AND RESCUE team that billionaire Ian Shaw put together. He started it three years ago when his niece, Esme Shaw, went missing on a hiking trail in the mountains. The search, long abandoned, resumes when a body washes up after spring flooding.
The story is mainly about two couples: Ian Shaw and his personal assistant, Sierra Rose and childhood sweethearts, Kacey Fairing, an army helicopter pilot, and huge country and western star, Ben King.
As we have come to expect, Susan May Warren has begun another epic series. This one has a fantastic setting and lots of suspense, danger and a mystery to be solved. The romances have their ups and downs because she writes realistic characters with flaws like normal people have. These stories and characters grow on you and you want to get the next books and have a reading marathon. As always, Ms. Warren has a strong biblical theme running through her stories. She has said that the hymn running through her mind as she penned this novel was Amazing Grace. You can see it played out in her story. Grace, Redemption, Second Chances are all portrayed in this exciting book.
*I purchased this ebook from Amazon. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
October 2, 2016
Totally enjoying this book: 12 Sept .
Susan May Warren is a new author to me... I was enticed by the Wild Montana Skies' cover and synopsis at the back of the book... and thanks to Netgalley I got to test the waters in exchange for an honest review.
Susan May Warren is a new author to me... I was enticed by the Wild Montana Skies' cover and synopsis at the back of the book... and thanks to Netgalley I got to test the waters in exchange for an honest review.
October 4, 2021
3.5 stars. Helicopter pilot Kacey Fairing is still suffering PTSD from her last tour of Afghanistan. She has a few months off over summer to spend back in her home town of Mercy Falls with her 13-year-old daughter Audrey. However, she's not expecting to run into former love Ben King, now a big country music star. Ben had promised her the moon, but landed in jail the night Audrey was born and then left town soon after. However, she doesn't know the full truth about why Ben left town. He was under the impression that she'd given their baby up for adoption, and isn't expecting to find he has a teenage daughter who doesn't know he's her father. Can these two wounded former sweethearts get beyond the past and forge a life together?
I'd recently finished reading 'Knox', which has some cameos by Ben and Kacey, so I thought I'd better go back and see how it all began. Susan May Warren writes really well and I liked the Montana setting. This is very much a tale of second chances, and I liked the way life was messy and the characters had to work through issues with God and each other before they could move forward. However, Kacey and Ben were so angry with each other for the first third of the book, that it took me a while to warm to them. There were also a couple of things that didn't ring quite true. For example, Kacey quickly forgives another character who played a big part in keeping her and Ben apart. I'm all for forgiveness, but I just think it was too quick given the circumstances. There also wasn't quite as much action as some of Warren's other books, but that's just a personal preference of mine.
However, I did enjoy the story enough that I wanted to read the rest of the series. There was a complicated relationship simmering in the background between a couple of the other characters, Sienna and Ian, so I want to find out more about what happens to them. The Montana setting also drew me in and has been added to my bucket list.
All in all, a good romance story with some deeper issues and a great theme of how God is a God of second chances.
I'd recently finished reading 'Knox', which has some cameos by Ben and Kacey, so I thought I'd better go back and see how it all began. Susan May Warren writes really well and I liked the Montana setting. This is very much a tale of second chances, and I liked the way life was messy and the characters had to work through issues with God and each other before they could move forward. However, Kacey and Ben were so angry with each other for the first third of the book, that it took me a while to warm to them. There were also a couple of things that didn't ring quite true. For example, Kacey quickly forgives another character who played a big part in keeping her and Ben apart. I'm all for forgiveness, but I just think it was too quick given the circumstances. There also wasn't quite as much action as some of Warren's other books, but that's just a personal preference of mine.
However, I did enjoy the story enough that I wanted to read the rest of the series. There was a complicated relationship simmering in the background between a couple of the other characters, Sienna and Ian, so I want to find out more about what happens to them. The Montana setting also drew me in and has been added to my bucket list.
All in all, a good romance story with some deeper issues and a great theme of how God is a God of second chances.
September 30, 2017
I regret that I found the heroine of this story to be too self centered and immature, and I believe too much effort was put into 'justifying' her poor choices. For example, in the first quarter of the story, we as the reader learn that Kacey experienced a teen pregnancy - a difficult situation to be sure, but unfortunately, the storyline here gets wrapped up in Kacey's animosity. We learn that her young 'boyfriend', Ben, proposed, and his failure to show up at the hospital led her to cut off all ties from him following some discussion that she intended to put the baby up for adoption. She never sought an explanation for his absence, but made assumptions and refused to take his calls. Furthermore, she never again reached out to him, but blamed him for his absence in her life and presumably their child's life. The reader is later informed via Kacey in a discussion with Ben, "I only suggested it (being adoption) once, I did not mean it." Uhmm, what? While I can accept that she floundered in her decisions, - what a trial to be young and pregnant - I found it impossible to comprehend her animosity towards Ben. Lack of culpability, and future bad choices like telling her daughter that her father just abandoned her as if she had no role or involvement in this path made her hardened.
I could easily comprehend mistakes made by Ben too, but while reeling from his recent news, we see him making more rationale decisions than Kacey. He knows that he would like a relationship with his daughter, and he knows change in his life will necessarily follow while Kacey's inner thoughts, decisions, and excuses just lacked sincerity and maturity. While I felt Ben's frustrations, loss, acceptance of past mistakes, and anxiety over his future future, Kacey was more inclined to avoid, self-destruct, and blame. She lacked signs of personal maturity that in part should have occurred during the past 14 years. Evidently, we, the reader, are to believe her exemplary military honors speak for her character. It was as though her military achievements dwarfed every other aspect of her life, including raising her daughter, or rather, her parents, who obviously, in part, made their own mistakes with their own child, and obviously never grew their own personal experiences.
As Ben naturally wished to be present in his daugher's life, albeit belatedly, and held back from acting too impulsively, again the reader continued to witness Kacey's immaturity. She can't use to lie to her daughter and herself. Evidently, his current career has him traveling as a musician; so naturally, he cannot be a good father? Swooping generalization their especially given this from the mouth of Kacey, Ben's Dad, and Kacey's friends - all well knowing that her military career take her much further and presumably longer away from her child - the most recent being a 6 month stint. Hmmm...kettle...black? Doesn't anyone have faith in this young man who has shown more character and depth than any other? There are also other examples in which Kacey or others appears to justify decisions supposedly for the daughter's benefit, but frankly are more about the individual's own insecurities. Obviously, the father has always had an agenda for his son, self-motivated for sure. Suffice it to say, the first half of the book set the pace and simply left me discontented and without the heart to make the finish endearing. Kacey's sudden reawakening - for lack of a better descriptive concerning her turn-around - was neither convincing or satisfying given the framework already set. She was also too easily prepared to fall into the same old behaviors and bad choices, if not forced by circumstance.
Additionally, incidents, like the teens 'repeating' their parents exact actions and moreover, the plot line in which the teens managed to ditch their chaperones in the wilderness left me dissatisfied. Somehow, we are to believe that these chaperones would be permitted to take responsibility ever again? or that the children are just naive innocents and would not be banned from any further church outings? Then refer exclusively is the 13 year old with her soul mate planning her future wedding. Okey dokey. Nevertheless, those incidents are not designed to serve as perhaps learning lessons for those youths or pivotal gcharacter growth realizations, but unbelievable sidelines.
Finally, in seeking out Christian authors, I like to find content that reinforces, supports and deepens my faith. I failed to see how faith aided in the depth and life of Kacey's character with regard decision making, acknowledgment of mistakes, efforts at reconciliation, healing, learning to love God or accept him into their life, and so forth certainly in the first half of the book, which left a disconnect with the remaining storyline. It was not enough to have Ben carry the burden of working through his mistakes. In fact, I am amazed that Ben managed to work through the challenges with the lack of support. For a father who evidently genuinely cared for his son, his machinations again lacked maturity. It was clear that his relationship with his son was strained at best, and consequently his perceptions and advice lacked depth and heart.
Ultimately, I think that Ms. Warren has the skills to pen a story, but for me I did not find myself drawn to her characters or their situational experiences. As readers we each have different expectations and opinions, and my views are in no way provided to disparage the author or her story, but rather express my feelings as the story did not appeal to me.
I could easily comprehend mistakes made by Ben too, but while reeling from his recent news, we see him making more rationale decisions than Kacey. He knows that he would like a relationship with his daughter, and he knows change in his life will necessarily follow while Kacey's inner thoughts, decisions, and excuses just lacked sincerity and maturity. While I felt Ben's frustrations, loss, acceptance of past mistakes, and anxiety over his future future, Kacey was more inclined to avoid, self-destruct, and blame. She lacked signs of personal maturity that in part should have occurred during the past 14 years. Evidently, we, the reader, are to believe her exemplary military honors speak for her character. It was as though her military achievements dwarfed every other aspect of her life, including raising her daughter, or rather, her parents, who obviously, in part, made their own mistakes with their own child, and obviously never grew their own personal experiences.
As Ben naturally wished to be present in his daugher's life, albeit belatedly, and held back from acting too impulsively, again the reader continued to witness Kacey's immaturity. She can't use to lie to her daughter and herself. Evidently, his current career has him traveling as a musician; so naturally, he cannot be a good father? Swooping generalization their especially given this from the mouth of Kacey, Ben's Dad, and Kacey's friends - all well knowing that her military career take her much further and presumably longer away from her child - the most recent being a 6 month stint. Hmmm...kettle...black? Doesn't anyone have faith in this young man who has shown more character and depth than any other? There are also other examples in which Kacey or others appears to justify decisions supposedly for the daughter's benefit, but frankly are more about the individual's own insecurities. Obviously, the father has always had an agenda for his son, self-motivated for sure. Suffice it to say, the first half of the book set the pace and simply left me discontented and without the heart to make the finish endearing. Kacey's sudden reawakening - for lack of a better descriptive concerning her turn-around - was neither convincing or satisfying given the framework already set. She was also too easily prepared to fall into the same old behaviors and bad choices, if not forced by circumstance.
Additionally, incidents, like the teens 'repeating' their parents exact actions and moreover, the plot line in which the teens managed to ditch their chaperones in the wilderness left me dissatisfied. Somehow, we are to believe that these chaperones would be permitted to take responsibility ever again? or that the children are just naive innocents and would not be banned from any further church outings? Then refer exclusively is the 13 year old with her soul mate planning her future wedding. Okey dokey. Nevertheless, those incidents are not designed to serve as perhaps learning lessons for those youths or pivotal gcharacter growth realizations, but unbelievable sidelines.
Finally, in seeking out Christian authors, I like to find content that reinforces, supports and deepens my faith. I failed to see how faith aided in the depth and life of Kacey's character with regard decision making, acknowledgment of mistakes, efforts at reconciliation, healing, learning to love God or accept him into their life, and so forth certainly in the first half of the book, which left a disconnect with the remaining storyline. It was not enough to have Ben carry the burden of working through his mistakes. In fact, I am amazed that Ben managed to work through the challenges with the lack of support. For a father who evidently genuinely cared for his son, his machinations again lacked maturity. It was clear that his relationship with his son was strained at best, and consequently his perceptions and advice lacked depth and heart.
Ultimately, I think that Ms. Warren has the skills to pen a story, but for me I did not find myself drawn to her characters or their situational experiences. As readers we each have different expectations and opinions, and my views are in no way provided to disparage the author or her story, but rather express my feelings as the story did not appeal to me.
September 8, 2016
This book has enough action, adventure, mystery, romance and plenty of family tangles and drama to keep any reader glued to the page. There are also a whole host of new characters to fall in love with and a rugged mountain setting that perfectly offsets the dangerous conditions the characters face.
I really enjoyed reading Wild Montana Skies, not quite as much as I loved the all-consuming Christiansen series, but I think it is a great start to what will be a thrilling series. And the romance promises to be just as exciting as the rescues.
Kacey is returning home to Mercy Falls after another stint on duty in the army but this time she's shaken and a little broken over what transpired while deployed overseas. In Mercy Falls her thirteen-year-old daughter is waiting for her, along with a new job as helicopter pilot for the Mercy Falls search and rescue team. Ben King, too, is on his way home to Mercy Falls, a crumbling music career in his rear-view mirror. Ben just wants to help his ailing father regain his feet before hightailing it back to Nashville. Neither Ben nor Kacey expect to see the other or to dredge up the past and all the hurts and misunderstandings that go with it.
Kacey and Ben's story is complex and tumultuous. It's also fiery and passionate. Kacey arrives as Mercy Falls is flooding, her daughter is missing and people need rescuing. And the chaos only increases when she realises Ben is home too. Misunderstanding is an understatement when it comes to their story. The first half of the book bounces between them sorting out what really happened thirteen years ago and settling back in at home, sandbagging against the rising floodwaters and searching for lost hikers - including their daughter.
Along with Kacey and Ben's story, you get the bonus of another story in Ian and Sierra. Their story starts in the series prequel, If Ever I Would Leave You. I think I enjoyed their story more than Kacey and Ben's in a way, even if Ian is sometimes stupidly stubborn. And I'm assuming (hoping) that Ian and Sierra's story will continue in the next book, Rescue Me, and there is still plenty to be revealed about the disappearance of Ian niece.
Wild Montana Skies has family drama, country music, romance and action ranging from helicopter rescues, missing person searches, and saving rescuing lost and injured hikers, all tied together with faith as the characters come to understand God's plan for them, even if they think they have strayed too far. I can't wait to read Rescue Me and see where this series takes us next.
The publishers provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Find more reviews on my blog Madison's Library.
I really enjoyed reading Wild Montana Skies, not quite as much as I loved the all-consuming Christiansen series, but I think it is a great start to what will be a thrilling series. And the romance promises to be just as exciting as the rescues.
Kacey is returning home to Mercy Falls after another stint on duty in the army but this time she's shaken and a little broken over what transpired while deployed overseas. In Mercy Falls her thirteen-year-old daughter is waiting for her, along with a new job as helicopter pilot for the Mercy Falls search and rescue team. Ben King, too, is on his way home to Mercy Falls, a crumbling music career in his rear-view mirror. Ben just wants to help his ailing father regain his feet before hightailing it back to Nashville. Neither Ben nor Kacey expect to see the other or to dredge up the past and all the hurts and misunderstandings that go with it.
Kacey and Ben's story is complex and tumultuous. It's also fiery and passionate. Kacey arrives as Mercy Falls is flooding, her daughter is missing and people need rescuing. And the chaos only increases when she realises Ben is home too. Misunderstanding is an understatement when it comes to their story. The first half of the book bounces between them sorting out what really happened thirteen years ago and settling back in at home, sandbagging against the rising floodwaters and searching for lost hikers - including their daughter.
Along with Kacey and Ben's story, you get the bonus of another story in Ian and Sierra. Their story starts in the series prequel, If Ever I Would Leave You. I think I enjoyed their story more than Kacey and Ben's in a way, even if Ian is sometimes stupidly stubborn. And I'm assuming (hoping) that Ian and Sierra's story will continue in the next book, Rescue Me, and there is still plenty to be revealed about the disappearance of Ian niece.
Wild Montana Skies has family drama, country music, romance and action ranging from helicopter rescues, missing person searches, and saving rescuing lost and injured hikers, all tied together with faith as the characters come to understand God's plan for them, even if they think they have strayed too far. I can't wait to read Rescue Me and see where this series takes us next.
The publishers provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Find more reviews on my blog Madison's Library.
November 1, 2016
"Let's not let our past determine whether God loves us or not. He does. And we'll never get it right without Him." (p 310)
My heart feels more than a little bruised and battered after reading Wild Montana Skies. And I don't think my blood pressure is back to normal yet. There are two characters in particular who caused it to spike into the danger zone. I do so love being righteously indignant on behalf of a hero and heroine.
Speaking of which....hero Ben...Be. Still. My. Heart. Cowboy crooning heart-throb with a tragic past? Count me in -- even though Kacey doesn't want anything to do with him. She may be a tough-as-nails war hero but there's an insecure little girl inside aching to be comforted. What a dynamic partnership...not that you can actually call it a partnership...more like wary enemies circling, waiting to see who is going to strike first.
So there's angst aplenty -- the kind that ties a reader's tummy in knots and induces teeth grinding. Which makes the romantical bits all the more swoonworthy and toe-curling. :-) Fainting couch a necessity for this read!
And, hallelujah, there is an exceptional faith thread that brings an added depth of hope and grace to an already incredible story. There were so many quotable quotes within the pages of Wild Montana Skies, that I wrote them on index cards to have as keepsakes. Reminders of how powerful my God really is. I couldn't resist sharing a couple within this review so you can see the richness this story offers. Major kudos to the publisher (Revell) and the author for not shying away from including inspirational content.
This is the first book in Warren's Montana Rescue series and I'm so excited to read the rest of the books. Hope the series is way more than the usual three. The author has introduced a team of search and rescue specialists that all need a chance to shine in their own story. Even though this isn't a family saga, it does remind me of Dani Pettrey's Alaskan Courage series (without the suspense.) So if you are a Pettrey fan you'll definitely want to check out this adventure series.
"Instead of telling yourself you can't have a happy ending, why don't you let go of all your dreams -- and your fears -- and let God show you how it ends. He's the master of happy endings -- let him figure it out." (p.253)
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
My heart feels more than a little bruised and battered after reading Wild Montana Skies. And I don't think my blood pressure is back to normal yet. There are two characters in particular who caused it to spike into the danger zone. I do so love being righteously indignant on behalf of a hero and heroine.
Speaking of which....hero Ben...Be. Still. My. Heart. Cowboy crooning heart-throb with a tragic past? Count me in -- even though Kacey doesn't want anything to do with him. She may be a tough-as-nails war hero but there's an insecure little girl inside aching to be comforted. What a dynamic partnership...not that you can actually call it a partnership...more like wary enemies circling, waiting to see who is going to strike first.
So there's angst aplenty -- the kind that ties a reader's tummy in knots and induces teeth grinding. Which makes the romantical bits all the more swoonworthy and toe-curling. :-) Fainting couch a necessity for this read!
And, hallelujah, there is an exceptional faith thread that brings an added depth of hope and grace to an already incredible story. There were so many quotable quotes within the pages of Wild Montana Skies, that I wrote them on index cards to have as keepsakes. Reminders of how powerful my God really is. I couldn't resist sharing a couple within this review so you can see the richness this story offers. Major kudos to the publisher (Revell) and the author for not shying away from including inspirational content.
This is the first book in Warren's Montana Rescue series and I'm so excited to read the rest of the books. Hope the series is way more than the usual three. The author has introduced a team of search and rescue specialists that all need a chance to shine in their own story. Even though this isn't a family saga, it does remind me of Dani Pettrey's Alaskan Courage series (without the suspense.) So if you are a Pettrey fan you'll definitely want to check out this adventure series.
"Instead of telling yourself you can't have a happy ending, why don't you let go of all your dreams -- and your fears -- and let God show you how it ends. He's the master of happy endings -- let him figure it out." (p.253)
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
May 28, 2017
If you enjoy stories of second chances -- and who doesn't? -- this might be just the book for you. Be sure to read the prequel, If Ever I Would Leave You, first and be aware that not all story lines are resolved in this book.
October 26, 2016
Wow!! I absolutely loved every part of this book. I am a huge fan of Susan May Warren's books anyway. I have read several of her books and have enjoyed every one of them. But, this one was better than even my expectations were. It was well written with developed characters with real emotions and fears and concerns. I love that her books are clean and are based on Christian values but that not all the characters demonstrate those same values and even those that do have flaws that are real. They make mistakes and seek redemption and sometimes lash out at God when things don't turn out the way they want them to.
Kacey Fairing and Benjamin King had grown up in Mercy Falls, Montana. They had been high school sweethearts and Kacey had depended on Ben for support when her life was falling apart. They loved each other but when hard times came they didn't listen to their hearts and let others influence them and they let each other down.
It is now thirteen years later and they have both returned to Mercy Falls and are thrown back together. Kacey is a hero having flown helicopters in many missions in the Middle East but she is reeling from an accident and the loss of several soldiers on a mission. She can't sleep and has nightmares. Ben is a successful musician who now lives in Nashville but has come home to help his father after his father was almost killed in a helicopter accident. They begin to learn that things that they had believed were not always the way they had been. The betrayal and anger they had once felt begins to melt away as they learn more about the circumstances surrounding the time when their relationship ended.
Can they forgive and turn to God for answers and healing or will they be stubborn and rely only on their own will? You will have to read to find out and it will be worth the time.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Kacey Fairing and Benjamin King had grown up in Mercy Falls, Montana. They had been high school sweethearts and Kacey had depended on Ben for support when her life was falling apart. They loved each other but when hard times came they didn't listen to their hearts and let others influence them and they let each other down.
It is now thirteen years later and they have both returned to Mercy Falls and are thrown back together. Kacey is a hero having flown helicopters in many missions in the Middle East but she is reeling from an accident and the loss of several soldiers on a mission. She can't sleep and has nightmares. Ben is a successful musician who now lives in Nashville but has come home to help his father after his father was almost killed in a helicopter accident. They begin to learn that things that they had believed were not always the way they had been. The betrayal and anger they had once felt begins to melt away as they learn more about the circumstances surrounding the time when their relationship ended.
Can they forgive and turn to God for answers and healing or will they be stubborn and rely only on their own will? You will have to read to find out and it will be worth the time.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
September 6, 2016
It’s always fun to dive into a new cast of characters from Susan May Warren and explore the world she’s built. I really enjoyed Wild Montana Skies, which of course, offered all the romance, intrigue, drama, and spiritual growth I’ve come to expect from her books.
I have to say initially I had a few issues with this book. Or rather with the characters. It irritated me that everyone seemed to think getting married and raising a family would ruin Ben and Kacey’s lives. I didn’t totally understand why they wouldn’t have been able to be together and still pursue their dreams. And I really wanted to see more remorse from Kacey’s dad, specifically, about the part he played in the whole mess. I was also frustrated that Ben being involved in Audrey’s life was debated for so long. He’s her father. Of course he has every right to know his daughter. The fact that they inadvertently kept her from him for SO long was kind of appalling. I alternately wanted Ben to stand up to Kacey and for Kacey more. So, I guess I could put it another way and say I felt very connected to these characters and struggled alongside them as they wrestled with these issues. I was alternately crying sad and happy tears from about half way through the book till the end.
Aside from the main characters’ personal struggles, there was certainly no lack of action in this book. I was on the edge of my seat several times. And I’m dying to know what’s going to happen with Ian and Sierra and their whole situation. I can’t wait to find out in the next book.
*I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
www.wanderingthepages.tumblr.com
I have to say initially I had a few issues with this book. Or rather with the characters. It irritated me that everyone seemed to think getting married and raising a family would ruin Ben and Kacey’s lives. I didn’t totally understand why they wouldn’t have been able to be together and still pursue their dreams. And I really wanted to see more remorse from Kacey’s dad, specifically, about the part he played in the whole mess. I was also frustrated that Ben being involved in Audrey’s life was debated for so long. He’s her father. Of course he has every right to know his daughter. The fact that they inadvertently kept her from him for SO long was kind of appalling. I alternately wanted Ben to stand up to Kacey and for Kacey more. So, I guess I could put it another way and say I felt very connected to these characters and struggled alongside them as they wrestled with these issues. I was alternately crying sad and happy tears from about half way through the book till the end.
Aside from the main characters’ personal struggles, there was certainly no lack of action in this book. I was on the edge of my seat several times. And I’m dying to know what’s going to happen with Ian and Sierra and their whole situation. I can’t wait to find out in the next book.
*I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
www.wanderingthepages.tumblr.com
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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