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Trouble in Texas #1
Swept Away
Swept away when her wagon train attempts a difficult river crossing, Ruthy MacNeil isn't all that upset at being separated from the family who raised her. All they've ever done is work her to the bone. She prayed for a chance to get away, and then came the raging flood. Alive but disoriented, she's rescued by Luke Stone... so unfortunately, there are more chances to die in her immediate future.
Luke is heading home to reclaim the ranch stolen from his family. But the men who killed his father are working hard to ensure Luke doesn't make it alive. He has no choice but to keep moving. Still, he can't just abandon Ruthy, so she'll have to come along.
His friends—a ragtag group of former Civil War soldiers—take a fast interest in the pretty gal. Luke thinks that's rather rude—he's the one who found her. And the more time he spends around the hard-working young woman who is a mighty good cook, the more he finds himself thinking beyond revenge and toward a different future. For the first time in a long time, Luke is tempted to turn from his destructive path and be swept away by love.
Luke is heading home to reclaim the ranch stolen from his family. But the men who killed his father are working hard to ensure Luke doesn't make it alive. He has no choice but to keep moving. Still, he can't just abandon Ruthy, so she'll have to come along.
His friends—a ragtag group of former Civil War soldiers—take a fast interest in the pretty gal. Luke thinks that's rather rude—he's the one who found her. And the more time he spends around the hard-working young woman who is a mighty good cook, the more he finds himself thinking beyond revenge and toward a different future. For the first time in a long time, Luke is tempted to turn from his destructive path and be swept away by love.
303 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
439 people are currently reading
2099 people want to read
About the author
Mary Connealy
116 books2,487 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 357 reviews
August 24, 2022
This was pretty good...the writing style wasn't my favorite. The characters felt a little flat to me...also the Christian aspect just seemed to be there and didn't seem to have much if a theme. It wasn't as integral to the story as I would have liked.
There was some head hopping...and it got a bit confusing with that at times. But the story was kind of fun...at parts it was funny.
Honestly, my favorite part of this book was that one of the side characters was called Dare because his name was Darius. Love that!
There was some head hopping...and it got a bit confusing with that at times. But the story was kind of fun...at parts it was funny.
Honestly, my favorite part of this book was that one of the side characters was called Dare because his name was Darius. Love that!
Read
August 1, 2015DNF at 17%: I am becoming increasingly more and more picky as I read the Christian fiction genre. I long to read a Christian book that has a good message, but is, almost more importantly, good. So many times I start reading a book only to find it's written poorly but is heralded as wonderful simply because of the good message.
Swept Away was completely uninteresting and bland. Luke didn't feel like a true character to me. He spoke so often and moved the plot forward with his long speeches he was more like a simple plot device than a romantic hero. Also, Ruthy just came across as kinda boring and not too bright.
If you want to read a good Christian fiction book, try Brentwood's Ward or The Wrangler's Inconvenient Wife.
Swept Away was completely uninteresting and bland. Luke didn't feel like a true character to me. He spoke so often and moved the plot forward with his long speeches he was more like a simple plot device than a romantic hero. Also, Ruthy just came across as kinda boring and not too bright.
If you want to read a good Christian fiction book, try Brentwood's Ward or The Wrangler's Inconvenient Wife.
September 11, 2013
3.5 Stars
The plot for this book was really good. It was intense and well thought out, though a bit much at times as far as the villain went, and a bit romantic in several scenes (but I guess that's the point of a romantic-western-comedy, so...). I liked how she connected it to the Kincaid Brides series. It wasn't my favorite Connealy, but I would enjoy reading the rest of the series. I feel bad giving a book such a low rating when I did enjoy it, but sometimes I just have to go with my gut-rating :)
The plot for this book was really good. It was intense and well thought out, though a bit much at times as far as the villain went, and a bit romantic in several scenes (but I guess that's the point of a romantic-western-comedy, so...). I liked how she connected it to the Kincaid Brides series. It wasn't my favorite Connealy, but I would enjoy reading the rest of the series. I feel bad giving a book such a low rating when I did enjoy it, but sometimes I just have to go with my gut-rating :)
July 16, 2013
This is the second book I have read by Mary Connealy and I just don't like her writing style. A lot of things get repeated. She states over and over that the bag guy is bad, by everyone and in our characters heads. The characters are flat and the story is very predictable. I usually don't mind a simple plot but the characters have to have depth and I have to grow to care for them. All her books are very clean with no preaching just good people who pray.
January 28, 2013
As a child, Ruthie MacNeil was taken in by a local farm family when her Ma and Pa died. This family was cruel and abusive, using Ruthie as a slave. Smart and a quick learner, Ruthie adapted to her environment and became a survivor. On a wagon train trek across the west, her adopted family and Ruthie are swept away by a flood. Ruthie trapped in the planking of the wagon ended up unconscious on a river bank in Texas.
Luke Stone was heading home to reclaim his family farm. A scoundrel, Greer, claims that his father sold him the farm but that’s impossible since Luke already held the deed and was the owner. Sure that Greer killed his father and is attempting to steal his farm, he is returning home with legal proof and friends to help him reclaim what is rightfully his. The last thing he expected was to find a ½ drowned spit fire of a woman in need of his assistance.
With a group of Civil War survivors in tow, Luke and Ruthie (Rosie) make plans to help a beaten wife and recover the Stone farm. What Luke didn’t expect was to be swept away by his “Rosie”.
Swept Away was a completely sweet and tender romance with purely vile villians. A wonderful adventure with fantastic characters, this wholesome story will touch your heart and leave you wanting more. Mary Connealy incorporated the savagery of the wild west with the faith and prayer of a believer to do what was right when it isn’t the easiest path. Marvelous Christian Romance! I look forward to the next book in this series.
This ARC copy of Swept Away was given to me by Baker Publishing Group - Bethany House Publishers in exchange for a honest review. Publish Date March 1, 2013.
Luke Stone was heading home to reclaim his family farm. A scoundrel, Greer, claims that his father sold him the farm but that’s impossible since Luke already held the deed and was the owner. Sure that Greer killed his father and is attempting to steal his farm, he is returning home with legal proof and friends to help him reclaim what is rightfully his. The last thing he expected was to find a ½ drowned spit fire of a woman in need of his assistance.
With a group of Civil War survivors in tow, Luke and Ruthie (Rosie) make plans to help a beaten wife and recover the Stone farm. What Luke didn’t expect was to be swept away by his “Rosie”.
Swept Away was a completely sweet and tender romance with purely vile villians. A wonderful adventure with fantastic characters, this wholesome story will touch your heart and leave you wanting more. Mary Connealy incorporated the savagery of the wild west with the faith and prayer of a believer to do what was right when it isn’t the easiest path. Marvelous Christian Romance! I look forward to the next book in this series.
This ARC copy of Swept Away was given to me by Baker Publishing Group - Bethany House Publishers in exchange for a honest review. Publish Date March 1, 2013.
September 15, 2020
Well, shoot! I wanted to like this book, I really did.
I think the problem is I've read literally hundreds of books in this genre that unless it's truly exceptional writing or plot, I don't seem to really enjoy them. I clearly need to switch to another type of book.
Don't get me wrong, I think for people who read a few books a year, this would be a good book. I would have loved it 10 years ago.
Pros:
Relationships. Good friends who will do anything for each other.
Conflict. Bad guys, really bad guys... one of the best parts of the books, even though there's some serious abuse that happens, it's done well, and you have no sympathy for them.
Story: A flood sweeps Ruthy away from a hard life, and Luke picks her up. His life has been hard and going to be harder with trying to get his property back from the bad guys. Ruthy is sucked into that drama,
Meh:
The relationship between the two main characters. Just so so, and it pretty much stays that way. Nothing earth shattering, or anything that makes you sigh. Just meh.
Cons:
The writing is adequate at best. Took WAY too long to describe something, and too many descriptions of what's happening. The fight scene at the end was easily 50 pages too long. I think it was supposed to add drama, but I thought it was just boring.
I didn't hate it, I would just never read it again. Too many really good books out there. I will be deleting it from my Kindle.
I think the problem is I've read literally hundreds of books in this genre that unless it's truly exceptional writing or plot, I don't seem to really enjoy them. I clearly need to switch to another type of book.
Don't get me wrong, I think for people who read a few books a year, this would be a good book. I would have loved it 10 years ago.
Pros:
Relationships. Good friends who will do anything for each other.
Conflict. Bad guys, really bad guys... one of the best parts of the books, even though there's some serious abuse that happens, it's done well, and you have no sympathy for them.
Story: A flood sweeps Ruthy away from a hard life, and Luke picks her up. His life has been hard and going to be harder with trying to get his property back from the bad guys. Ruthy is sucked into that drama,
Meh:
The relationship between the two main characters. Just so so, and it pretty much stays that way. Nothing earth shattering, or anything that makes you sigh. Just meh.
Cons:
The writing is adequate at best. Took WAY too long to describe something, and too many descriptions of what's happening. The fight scene at the end was easily 50 pages too long. I think it was supposed to add drama, but I thought it was just boring.
I didn't hate it, I would just never read it again. Too many really good books out there. I will be deleting it from my Kindle.
March 1, 2013
Multi-tasking must be one of Mary's particular skills because she's got a lot going on here. Not only is this an action-packed book, but Connealy has laid the ground work for a rip-roaring series.
Luke Stone has returned to Texas with revenge on his mind. The man who killed his father has taken possession of the Stone family ranch and Luke aims to rectify the situation. But before he gets to Broken Wheel he stops to pull Ruthy MacNeil out of a river.
Ruthy isn't upset that she was swept away from the cruel family she was traveling with, but now she is alone. Luke doesn't want to drag her into his war, but she might not give him a choice.
As always, Connealy uses snappy dialogue and cowboy voice to bring her characters alive. The ensemble of supporting characters (future heroes in the other books I suppose-I hope) reminds me of Dee Henderson's O'Malley series or Karen Witemeyer's new series with Short-Straw Bride. I can't wait to hear their stories as well as more of their past together in Anderson Prison during the Civil War.
Swept Away is a fast read. If only it weren't such a long wait until I can get swept up in the next book.
Luke Stone has returned to Texas with revenge on his mind. The man who killed his father has taken possession of the Stone family ranch and Luke aims to rectify the situation. But before he gets to Broken Wheel he stops to pull Ruthy MacNeil out of a river.
Ruthy isn't upset that she was swept away from the cruel family she was traveling with, but now she is alone. Luke doesn't want to drag her into his war, but she might not give him a choice.
As always, Connealy uses snappy dialogue and cowboy voice to bring her characters alive. The ensemble of supporting characters (future heroes in the other books I suppose-I hope) reminds me of Dee Henderson's O'Malley series or Karen Witemeyer's new series with Short-Straw Bride. I can't wait to hear their stories as well as more of their past together in Anderson Prison during the Civil War.
Swept Away is a fast read. If only it weren't such a long wait until I can get swept up in the next book.
May 20, 2013
This was another fun western adventure from Mary Connealy. It reminded me a bit of those old Louis L'amour westerns. Hard men facing harsh circumstances. There were a lot of characters to keep up with as she set up her new series, but there was plenty of action to keep the pages turning, especially for the last 70 pages or so. I felt the romance took a bit of a backseat, but I loved the concept of these men bonded in friendship/brotherhood because of their shared experiences as Regulators in the Adersonville prison during the Civil War. Overall, it was good read.
July 17, 2016
An enjoyable Western.
March 18, 2013
This was a very good book. It was action packed from the very start. I'm not much on Western's, but I love Mary Connealy's writing.
Luke is on his way to reclaim his father's ranch that was stolen by a ruthless rancher. Ruthie is on a wagon-train headed to California with a family that expects her to marry their son, when they get caught in a flash flood. Luke finds Ruthie on his way to Broken Wheel and has no choice but to take her with him. They arrive at his friend Dare's house. Luke, Dare,Vince, Jonah, and Big John were regulators in a Civial War prison camp and are close friends still. They set out to reclaim Luke's land, and in the process they have to save the ruthless rancher's wife and her children from him. This story has a strong sense of friendship that I really liked. The "regulators" stood by each other no matter what. Also, Ruthie and Luke have a very storng connection and they stick by each other no matter what also. They also realize they need to listen to GOD and he will deliver them. A great read and I look forward to the next book in this series. Great job Mary.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.
Luke is on his way to reclaim his father's ranch that was stolen by a ruthless rancher. Ruthie is on a wagon-train headed to California with a family that expects her to marry their son, when they get caught in a flash flood. Luke finds Ruthie on his way to Broken Wheel and has no choice but to take her with him. They arrive at his friend Dare's house. Luke, Dare,Vince, Jonah, and Big John were regulators in a Civial War prison camp and are close friends still. They set out to reclaim Luke's land, and in the process they have to save the ruthless rancher's wife and her children from him. This story has a strong sense of friendship that I really liked. The "regulators" stood by each other no matter what. Also, Ruthie and Luke have a very storng connection and they stick by each other no matter what also. They also realize they need to listen to GOD and he will deliver them. A great read and I look forward to the next book in this series. Great job Mary.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.
June 9, 2020
This first book of the Trouble in Texas series was a well-written and entertaining historical western Christian romance novel with good character development and a thread of suspense. I enjoyed this novel a great deal and smiled so much at Luke and Ruthy's banter. Mary Connealy always creates such fun characters. Also, I'm so glad that I chose to read this series after having the characters briefly appear in Runaway Bride, which I read earlier this year when I read the Kincaid Brides series, and so now, I know Big John Conroy's friends much better.
July 24, 2021
Despite some negative reviews, I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this western rom-com.
I loved getting to know Luke and Ruthy, and although how they met was definitely unusual, I thought their romance was super cute. I was totally invested in Luke getting his land back, but then also became surprisingly invested in all the other characters like Dare, Glynna, Jonas, Vince and Big John. My heart also definitely went out to Paul. It was also super cool to see the connection with the Kincaid series.
Overall, an exciting start to the series!
I loved getting to know Luke and Ruthy, and although how they met was definitely unusual, I thought their romance was super cute. I was totally invested in Luke getting his land back, but then also became surprisingly invested in all the other characters like Dare, Glynna, Jonas, Vince and Big John. My heart also definitely went out to Paul. It was also super cool to see the connection with the Kincaid series.
Overall, an exciting start to the series!
October 14, 2014
I had forgotten how funny and entertaining Mary Connealy's stories can be! This one pulled me in from the time Ruthy gets swept away in a flood and kept me hooked until the very last page. With witty dialogue, an action packed story, and God's reminder that revenge belongs to Him, this is another fantastic story by Mary Connealy! View my full review here.
September 2, 2017
Another good audio book! I had a hard time remembering the many characters' names because names have become hard to remember. Having a Brain Tumor before and after surgery made names VERY difficult for me to remember. The story was great though. It might have been easier with the names if I was reading the book because then I could have written notes about the characters. I'll definitely listen to book 2 in this series. I want to hear the next part of this story!
June 7, 2014
My first Mary Connealy book, and goodness...it made me an instant fan of her writing.
March 13, 2022
This story has been just as enjoyable as the first time around! I love Connealy's feisty heroines and witty heroes. I'm so glad I took the time to reread this favorite. I highly recommend this book!
April 29, 2013
OK, so I wasn't sure I was going to like this book at first, I mean it looked and sounded like a light historical book without much substance. Well, I was definitely WRONG about that!
What I thought I was getting: Fluffy historical romance.
What I actually got: A wonderful western!
I will step on some toes and irritate a few people here, but I feel that generally speaking women can't write westerns very well. And so often Christian authors miss the boat, eerrr wagon, on writing good western stories, tending to tame down the bad guys and leave out the shoot-outs. OK, OK, maybe I have watched too many John Wayne movies, but.... Mary Connealy was right on the money with Swept Away! This book had all the grit and tumbleweeds of a good western without the lack of morals.
The main characters were Christians but didn't shy away from defending others with various means of force. Yes, they tried to do everything within the bounds of the law but they also did what it took to get the job done.
So, we have good characters but what else? In my opinion, excellent descriptions of the scenery, but not overdone. The action sequences were fast paced and well placed, kept me turning the next page. I felt the story was believable, emotions, actions, plot, all good. There are some difficult issues in this story, specifically physical and verbal abuse, I felt the author handled this very well, contrasting the harshness of it with the gentle love of a mother for her children and the kindness of strangers.
This book most definitely has the 4-E's. Engaging, Engrossing, Entertaining, Enjoyable.
This is the first Mary Connealy book I have read but it will not be my last and I am anxiously awaiting the release of the 2nd book in this series.
(I received a copy of this book from the Publisher via The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.)
What I thought I was getting: Fluffy historical romance.
What I actually got: A wonderful western!
I will step on some toes and irritate a few people here, but I feel that generally speaking women can't write westerns very well. And so often Christian authors miss the boat, eerrr wagon, on writing good western stories, tending to tame down the bad guys and leave out the shoot-outs. OK, OK, maybe I have watched too many John Wayne movies, but.... Mary Connealy was right on the money with Swept Away! This book had all the grit and tumbleweeds of a good western without the lack of morals.
The main characters were Christians but didn't shy away from defending others with various means of force. Yes, they tried to do everything within the bounds of the law but they also did what it took to get the job done.
So, we have good characters but what else? In my opinion, excellent descriptions of the scenery, but not overdone. The action sequences were fast paced and well placed, kept me turning the next page. I felt the story was believable, emotions, actions, plot, all good. There are some difficult issues in this story, specifically physical and verbal abuse, I felt the author handled this very well, contrasting the harshness of it with the gentle love of a mother for her children and the kindness of strangers.
This book most definitely has the 4-E's. Engaging, Engrossing, Entertaining, Enjoyable.
This is the first Mary Connealy book I have read but it will not be my last and I am anxiously awaiting the release of the 2nd book in this series.
(I received a copy of this book from the Publisher via The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.)
April 1, 2013
I was swept right into the story of Swept Away when I started reading the book.
Ruth is living with the Reinhardts, a family who has raised her. She is promised to be married to their son, yet they treat her like their slave, forcing her to do all their work. When their wagon was crossing a river, a huge wave came and swept them down the river. Ruth has escaped the family and she doesn’t regret it. She still lives in fear of them finding her, even though they are probably dead. However, when Luke fishes her out of the river, she doesn’t realize she’s still walking into more trouble.
Luke’s ranch was stolen from him by a man he believes killed his father. Luke and Ruth arrive in town and have to hide out so that Greer doesn’t find out Luke is back in town. Luke gathers the help of some of his closest friends as they try to make a plan for getting Luke’s ranch back. Eventually, they have their plan set, they just have to set it in motion.
Will Ruth find happiness away from the Reinhardts? Or is she destined for a life full of trouble? Will Luke get his ranch back? Will Luke ever find out how his father really died?
Swept Away was a wonderful story full of laughter and fun. I really enjoyed each part of the book and had a hard time putting the book down. Each chapter leaves you wondering what will happen next so you want to keep reading to see what’s going to happen. I had only read one Mary Connealy book before so this was a great introduction to her writing. I look forward to the rest of the books in this trilogy and also reading some of Mary Connealy’s past books.
This book was given to me by Bethany House Publishers through bookfun.org in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Ruth is living with the Reinhardts, a family who has raised her. She is promised to be married to their son, yet they treat her like their slave, forcing her to do all their work. When their wagon was crossing a river, a huge wave came and swept them down the river. Ruth has escaped the family and she doesn’t regret it. She still lives in fear of them finding her, even though they are probably dead. However, when Luke fishes her out of the river, she doesn’t realize she’s still walking into more trouble.
Luke’s ranch was stolen from him by a man he believes killed his father. Luke and Ruth arrive in town and have to hide out so that Greer doesn’t find out Luke is back in town. Luke gathers the help of some of his closest friends as they try to make a plan for getting Luke’s ranch back. Eventually, they have their plan set, they just have to set it in motion.
Will Ruth find happiness away from the Reinhardts? Or is she destined for a life full of trouble? Will Luke get his ranch back? Will Luke ever find out how his father really died?
Swept Away was a wonderful story full of laughter and fun. I really enjoyed each part of the book and had a hard time putting the book down. Each chapter leaves you wondering what will happen next so you want to keep reading to see what’s going to happen. I had only read one Mary Connealy book before so this was a great introduction to her writing. I look forward to the rest of the books in this trilogy and also reading some of Mary Connealy’s past books.
This book was given to me by Bethany House Publishers through bookfun.org in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 22, 2015
Have I ever told you how much I love this author's writing? Mary Connealy combines a grin-inducing sense of humor with a knack for creating a page-turning historical romance.
This one is about an orphaned girl raised by a harshly critical family planning to marry this hard-working virtual slave off to their son--a greedy-eyed slithering skunk of a man. Ruthy prays for a chance to escape as they travel westward. A flood answers her prayers, washing their wagon and the rest of the family down a raging river. She's washed up on the shore half drowned.
And then there's Luke Stone, the rightful owner of a beautiful spread in north Texas that's been taken over by the typical slithering sidewinder, Flint Greer. Lucas has proof he's the legal owner, despite Greer's claim that Luke's father sold him the place before conveniently dying.
What with a posse after him, Luke's reluctant to take this soggy, unconscious woman with him. She'll only make his getaway that much more difficult, but what's an upstanding Texan gentleman supposed to do? Between making plans to get the ranch back, tending to the injured woman, and hiding from Greer (after losing the posse), he has his hands full. Literally.
Greer has settled himself in the ranchhouse, taken a pretty wife, and set out to buy or steal (preferably the latter) every ranch in the area. He's well on his way to accomplishing that when Luke shows up.
Only God knows how this tangled mess will sort itself out--but you can find out by buying Swept Away. Well worth every cent.
This one is about an orphaned girl raised by a harshly critical family planning to marry this hard-working virtual slave off to their son--a greedy-eyed slithering skunk of a man. Ruthy prays for a chance to escape as they travel westward. A flood answers her prayers, washing their wagon and the rest of the family down a raging river. She's washed up on the shore half drowned.
And then there's Luke Stone, the rightful owner of a beautiful spread in north Texas that's been taken over by the typical slithering sidewinder, Flint Greer. Lucas has proof he's the legal owner, despite Greer's claim that Luke's father sold him the place before conveniently dying.
What with a posse after him, Luke's reluctant to take this soggy, unconscious woman with him. She'll only make his getaway that much more difficult, but what's an upstanding Texan gentleman supposed to do? Between making plans to get the ranch back, tending to the injured woman, and hiding from Greer (after losing the posse), he has his hands full. Literally.
Greer has settled himself in the ranchhouse, taken a pretty wife, and set out to buy or steal (preferably the latter) every ranch in the area. He's well on his way to accomplishing that when Luke shows up.
Only God knows how this tangled mess will sort itself out--but you can find out by buying Swept Away. Well worth every cent.
March 23, 2013
From the title of the book Ruthy MacNeil is the one swept away. She is dragged for miles down stream by a flash flood. Having her arm wedged in some wood saved her life.
Luke Stone is on his way home to redeem his property, when he stumbles upon a muddy mess of a girl, Rosie aka Ruthy. Because of her beautiful red hair Luke insists on calling her Rosie!! Others do also, but she is quick to correct them.
A vicious man by the name of Flint Greer, has stolen the S Bar S Ranch that was owned by his Father. He not only stole the ranch but is responsible for killing his Dad. Luke is not some young kid anymore, he is a survivor. He fought for the North during the Civil War, and was in Andersonville Prison, and has forged lasting friendships with a Preacher, a Doctor, A Lawyer, and a Texas Ranger. There all there waiting for him in Broken Wheel, TX, a small town, with not many people.
I found the faith of these people to be outstanding....even when they wanted revenge they listened to their Lord, and decided to do what was right! There was such compassion shown to Greer's wife and family, they wanted to help them no matter the cost.
I hope that in the next book there will be further updates, but this book was a keeper, and I didn't want it to end.
I received this book through the Revell Book Bogging Program, and wasn't required to give a positive review.
Luke Stone is on his way home to redeem his property, when he stumbles upon a muddy mess of a girl, Rosie aka Ruthy. Because of her beautiful red hair Luke insists on calling her Rosie!! Others do also, but she is quick to correct them.
A vicious man by the name of Flint Greer, has stolen the S Bar S Ranch that was owned by his Father. He not only stole the ranch but is responsible for killing his Dad. Luke is not some young kid anymore, he is a survivor. He fought for the North during the Civil War, and was in Andersonville Prison, and has forged lasting friendships with a Preacher, a Doctor, A Lawyer, and a Texas Ranger. There all there waiting for him in Broken Wheel, TX, a small town, with not many people.
I found the faith of these people to be outstanding....even when they wanted revenge they listened to their Lord, and decided to do what was right! There was such compassion shown to Greer's wife and family, they wanted to help them no matter the cost.
I hope that in the next book there will be further updates, but this book was a keeper, and I didn't want it to end.
I received this book through the Revell Book Bogging Program, and wasn't required to give a positive review.
February 20, 2013
In my humble opinion~
Ruthy MacNeil is a hard worker, and her "adoptive" family takes advantage of that. They also intend for her to marry their son once they reach their destination. Ruthy's not so fond of that idea, or the family, and is looking for an escape when the wagon she's steering gets swept away (don't you just love the title?) from the train. Luke Stone refuses to leave her behind, even if it means hauling her into the middle of his fight to win back his ranch. Both characters, along with the supporting cast, are sure to wiggle their way into your heart.
Ever read a book where you alternated between smiling and biting your nails? Well, if I bit my nails, this would be the book. Fast-paced action mingled with just the right amount of romance and humor will keep you turning pages long after your bedtime, and is sure to leave you with a smile on your face after you've shut down your kindle. Recommended for all historical lovers, and even those who aren't. Give Mary Connealy (the master of "romantic comedies...with cowboys") and Swept Away a chance. You might become a Connealy fan like me.
Disclaimer: A huge thanks to NetGalley and Baker Publishing Group/Bethany House for providing me with a free copy in exchange for my fair and unbiased review.
Ruthy MacNeil is a hard worker, and her "adoptive" family takes advantage of that. They also intend for her to marry their son once they reach their destination. Ruthy's not so fond of that idea, or the family, and is looking for an escape when the wagon she's steering gets swept away (don't you just love the title?) from the train. Luke Stone refuses to leave her behind, even if it means hauling her into the middle of his fight to win back his ranch. Both characters, along with the supporting cast, are sure to wiggle their way into your heart.
Ever read a book where you alternated between smiling and biting your nails? Well, if I bit my nails, this would be the book. Fast-paced action mingled with just the right amount of romance and humor will keep you turning pages long after your bedtime, and is sure to leave you with a smile on your face after you've shut down your kindle. Recommended for all historical lovers, and even those who aren't. Give Mary Connealy (the master of "romantic comedies...with cowboys") and Swept Away a chance. You might become a Connealy fan like me.
Disclaimer: A huge thanks to NetGalley and Baker Publishing Group/Bethany House for providing me with a free copy in exchange for my fair and unbiased review.
September 7, 2013
Swept Away is a great piece of romantic, western fiction. It is a wild ride, has some light-hearted moments and definitely delivers on the happily ever after.
Luke Stone heads back to his family ranch to avenge his father and take up on the land that is rightfully his. On his way home, he comes upon Ruthy MacNeil, who had been swept away in a flood while her wagon train attempted a crossing.
Luke and Ruthy are such likeable characters. There is an attraction between the two of them that is easy to love. Both have had some rough times in their background and they desire to make things right for Luke, while also trying to save a woman and her children from a violent husband.
There are many great characters in this story, one of whom is Dare Riker. I look forward to reading his story in the next book, Fired Up. I also really enjoyed the deep friendship that The Regulators share in this story.
Luke Stone heads back to his family ranch to avenge his father and take up on the land that is rightfully his. On his way home, he comes upon Ruthy MacNeil, who had been swept away in a flood while her wagon train attempted a crossing.
Luke and Ruthy are such likeable characters. There is an attraction between the two of them that is easy to love. Both have had some rough times in their background and they desire to make things right for Luke, while also trying to save a woman and her children from a violent husband.
There are many great characters in this story, one of whom is Dare Riker. I look forward to reading his story in the next book, Fired Up. I also really enjoyed the deep friendship that The Regulators share in this story.
November 7, 2013
Swept Away
By: Mary Connealy
Wasn’t sure about if I would like this book or not. I am not a big western type reader. Wow Mary Connealy changed my mind. I think of westerns I think of cussing , romances that go to far. I love the clean view that Mary did.
Adventure throughout the book. It will keep you wanting to read so have plenty of time when you start. Starts off with Ruthy MacNeil getting separated from her family. Well people who took her n when her parents had died. I would say it was a blessing she was seeing their plans was to have her married to their son. She is found by Luke Stone who takes her with him. Luke has things going on in his life needs to get the land that is his back. Will Ruthy find true love and happiness? Will Luke get back what is his. Get this 5 star book and find out.
By: Mary Connealy
Wasn’t sure about if I would like this book or not. I am not a big western type reader. Wow Mary Connealy changed my mind. I think of westerns I think of cussing , romances that go to far. I love the clean view that Mary did.
Adventure throughout the book. It will keep you wanting to read so have plenty of time when you start. Starts off with Ruthy MacNeil getting separated from her family. Well people who took her n when her parents had died. I would say it was a blessing she was seeing their plans was to have her married to their son. She is found by Luke Stone who takes her with him. Luke has things going on in his life needs to get the land that is his back. Will Ruthy find true love and happiness? Will Luke get back what is his. Get this 5 star book and find out.
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September 14, 2013Absolutely loved this book! It reminded me of Mary's older books. I preordered book 2 in the series before I even finished reading book 1. Mary is an awesome writer. She is able to tell a story without a lot of unnecessary fluff.
The two main characters in this book, Luke and Ruthy, are very likable. Ruthy is an adorable little spit fire, who can out do most me; and does. Luke is an honest, God fearing man determined to right a wrong with the assistance of his friends.
The "friends" are equally enjoyable. Can't wait to read not only their stores, but more about Luke and Ruthy, in future books.
If you're a fan of Mary Connealy's, and who's not, you'll love this book. If you've never read her prior books, you'll not be disappointed with Swept Away.
The two main characters in this book, Luke and Ruthy, are very likable. Ruthy is an adorable little spit fire, who can out do most me; and does. Luke is an honest, God fearing man determined to right a wrong with the assistance of his friends.
The "friends" are equally enjoyable. Can't wait to read not only their stores, but more about Luke and Ruthy, in future books.
If you're a fan of Mary Connealy's, and who's not, you'll love this book. If you've never read her prior books, you'll not be disappointed with Swept Away.
March 19, 2013
I was really looking forward to reading this book. I love series and especially the first book of a new series.
It started off great! Very fast paced and moving right along. Then it slowed down considerably. There was a lot of introduction to new characters that I felt could have come along more organically through the book. I realize that these characters are probably being set up for the next books in the series but it really put a drag on action.
It did pick back up and was enjoyable even though a bit predictable.
You can see the full review at:
http://collettaskitchensink.blogspot....
It started off great! Very fast paced and moving right along. Then it slowed down considerably. There was a lot of introduction to new characters that I felt could have come along more organically through the book. I realize that these characters are probably being set up for the next books in the series but it really put a drag on action.
It did pick back up and was enjoyable even though a bit predictable.
You can see the full review at:
http://collettaskitchensink.blogspot....
March 11, 2013
This book hooked me from the first page and kept me going until I finished it and even after I finished it I was sad that it was over because I really loved the characters. I can't wait to read the other books in this series because I love this one so much. I loved the main characters and the author does such a good job at making you feel like you are there with the characters in the story.
July 20, 2020
I enjoyed this cast of characters and the close bond between the men who've seen plenty of trouble before. It was a lot of people to keep up with, but the author did a great job of differentiating them in different but believable careers to help keep everyone straight. This was a ton of action with an appropriate amount of romance and a touch of humor that I've come to expect from Mary Connealy.
August 14, 2014
To be honest, this book didn't really feel much like a Mary Connealy book. There really wasn't a ton of character development in either main character. I was way more intrigued by Dare Riker and Glynna Greer, so I'm looking forward to the next one.
March 21, 2017
Generally, not my cup of tea, but I enjoyed it despite myself. I liked the amount of humor that the author wove into the fabric of the story. I liked that the female protagonist was pretty tough and not a shrinking violet.
August 14, 2023
Western romance. When Ruthie finds herself swept away in a flash flood while her family (actually guardians) travel West via wagon train, she realizes they are all lost. Considering the abuse she suffered from them, she finds a chance for a new life. Good, clean romance.
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