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Quilts of Love #19
Rival Hearts
They both want the promotion. But will they find out that it is worth the cost?
Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver have been rival magazine writers for the same publishing group for years. When both come up for the same promotion, they find themselves in an unexpected competition to win the spot. Molly, editor of Quilter’s Heart, and Ben, editor of Outdoor Adventures, must switch roles, each working for the other for one month, then submit an article at the end of their quests.
Can girly-girl Molly survive the outdoor adventures that Ben has planned? Can Ben navigate the perils of the social dynamics of quilting events without destroying a valuable quilt in one short month? More importantly, in this he-said, she-said situation, will Molly and Ben give in to their attraction and fall in love, no matter who wins?
Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver have been rival magazine writers for the same publishing group for years. When both come up for the same promotion, they find themselves in an unexpected competition to win the spot. Molly, editor of Quilter’s Heart, and Ben, editor of Outdoor Adventures, must switch roles, each working for the other for one month, then submit an article at the end of their quests.
Can girly-girl Molly survive the outdoor adventures that Ben has planned? Can Ben navigate the perils of the social dynamics of quilting events without destroying a valuable quilt in one short month? More importantly, in this he-said, she-said situation, will Molly and Ben give in to their attraction and fall in love, no matter who wins?
240 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2014
7 people are currently reading
563 people want to read
About the author
Tara Randel
89 books760 followersTara Randel is an award-winning, USA Today bestselling author. Family values, a bit of mystery and, of course, love and romance, are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. Tara has received the Heart of Excellence Readers' Choice Award and the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award. Visit Tara at www.tararandel.com. Like her on Facebook at Tara Randel Books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
June 20, 2022
An impeccably paced romantic comedy that was a joy to read (well, listen to.) I can't believe I haven't read anything by Tara Randel before but you can bet I will rectify that asap!
Enemies to more love trope pans out in both humorous and touching ways. And the whole out-of-their-comfort-zone challenge that dangles a promotion as the reward brings a kinda urban 'Survivor' vibe to the story. Soooo much fun! And along the way both Ben and Molly discover so much about themselves, their faith...and each other. Really, too good to pass up. I can't believe it took me nearly a decade to 'discover' this book!
Enemies to more love trope pans out in both humorous and touching ways. And the whole out-of-their-comfort-zone challenge that dangles a promotion as the reward brings a kinda urban 'Survivor' vibe to the story. Soooo much fun! And along the way both Ben and Molly discover so much about themselves, their faith...and each other. Really, too good to pass up. I can't believe it took me nearly a decade to 'discover' this book!
April 22, 2023
Very sweet contemporary Christian fiction!
October 17, 2019
Rivalry and love are the perfect ingredients for cliché romance. But really, who doesn’t love it?!
The characters really make up the most of this story without a whole lot of extra plot added in, but that is what makes it a well-written novella. We get to spend our time getting to know Molly and Ben and enjoy how their personalities clash, but then how they overcome this rivalry.
I really enjoyed the short, clean romance and bantering of Rival Hearts, so I gladly give it 5 out of 5 stars!
I received this book from the author/publisher for the purpose of this review. All comments and opinions are entirely my own.
This is a LiteratureApproved.com Review.
The characters really make up the most of this story without a whole lot of extra plot added in, but that is what makes it a well-written novella. We get to spend our time getting to know Molly and Ben and enjoy how their personalities clash, but then how they overcome this rivalry.
I really enjoyed the short, clean romance and bantering of Rival Hearts, so I gladly give it 5 out of 5 stars!
I received this book from the author/publisher for the purpose of this review. All comments and opinions are entirely my own.
This is a LiteratureApproved.com Review.
November 14, 2022
Christian Contemporary Romance
This was a crazy ride! The competitive event is like nothing I've never heard of before! I really enjoyed this book!
The only thing I didn't like, was his attraction to her curves and glasses, but then as she lost weight and wore contacts he decided he preferred the "improved" physical attributes.
The narration was really good!
This was a crazy ride! The competitive event is like nothing I've never heard of before! I really enjoyed this book!
The only thing I didn't like, was his attraction to her curves and glasses, but then as she lost weight and wore contacts he decided he preferred the "improved" physical attributes.
The narration was really good!
October 19, 2019
A fun, sweet contemporary romance. It really has everything you expect from. Christian romance. The faith element isn't in-your-face, the characters are relatable, and the ending is sweet. I'd feel comfortable lending this to my mom or niece -- a pleasant way to spend the weekend.
March 23, 2022
Two co-workers are pitted against each other in order to get a promotion. Both must step out of their comfort zones, enter into the other's world, and complete a challenge. The one who succeeds gets the promotion. Things don't go as smoothly as the boss plans, though.
January 9, 2026
wonderfully woven
A wonderfully woven story demonstrating what fear and faith can do. Given to fear, we become stagnant and even digress. However, when we walk in faith the impossible becomes possible. Love the playfulness of the characters, competition, and wonderful outcome.
A wonderfully woven story demonstrating what fear and faith can do. Given to fear, we become stagnant and even digress. However, when we walk in faith the impossible becomes possible. Love the playfulness of the characters, competition, and wonderful outcome.
July 18, 2017
as with all of the books in this series ... i continue to enjoy them ... i also either learn some thing new or it reminds me of solid Christ-like values that get forgotten in the busy-ness of life.
December 10, 2017
Great, Fun Read!
March 5, 2018
This was a pretty good read. The plot wasn't very exciting and it was predictable, but enjoyable nonetheless.
June 20, 2021
Cute story!
January 22, 2021
The 19th book in the Quilts of Love series. Christian fiction. Cute and sweet romance.
April 29, 2023
Listened on Audible (Included).
July 11, 2014
Rival Hearts is my first read from author Tara Randel, a writer of five previous romance novels. When initially requested to read and review the story, the title left me curious; however, I soon discovered the story well defined by its title. Ben Masterson, chief editor for Masterson Publishing Company pits a dualistic competition of sorts between employs and colleagues Molly Henderson, editor of Quilter’s Heart, and Ben Weaver, editor of Outdoor Adventures. Masterson dangles the bait of the editor-in-chief of a new magazine, American Legend for the winner of this bout. The winner to be determined on one condition –Molly and Ben must switch roles for 30 days and write an article about the experience. Masterson deems himself judge over the contest and outcome. The switch means for Molly learning how to navigate a kayak and Ben to create a quilt.
Switching places! Was this a fair process of determining a winner? Molly had longevity as an employee of Masterson Publishing and Ben was a recent employ with only background experience as a world traveler in sports and outdoor adventures – oh yes, there is the time he hosted that TV series, Extreme Survivalist. Thirty days……that seems an impossible task for each in that time limit – unrealistic. These might have been questions both contestants thought privately, at least in my own thoughts. Nevertheless - the race is on!
Molly and Ben share little in common. Both have scars buried deep from their childhood. Ben lost his parents tragically at a young age, now exhausted from moving from place to place; while Molly was a sickly child feeling unloved and a disappointment to her parents Ben had no siblings, while Molly admired her much older brother and longed for his approval. With private battles of their own, the two diverse competitors go through intense and humorous battles while chasing the bait dangled before them. This becomes a captivating story about rival, romance, and reward.
Molly indeed has a quilter’s heart….soft and quiet…and as complex as a quilted design. With sensitivity toward the downtrodden, she spent many hours as a compassionate volunteer. Molly’s faith in God leads her on a path toward a talent for quilting – the joy of her life. Ben enters the scene with unknowns – and his personality, likes and dislikes seem to come in sporadic revealing throughout the story. He is due for a valuable lesson in more than quilting from Nora and the women of Molly’s Christian quilting group. What surprised me was the rapport between Molly and Ben….helping each other behind the scenes…until sabotage happened, derailing the trust and budding romance between them, each believing the other had been dishonest and manipulative. Ben and Molly truly become rivals….until the intervention of God, family, friends, and other characters to reveal the saboteur and change the whole game.
Ms. Randel’s story would appeal to any age group. Her writing is clean, fun, thoughtful and even a bit intriguing. Script was slow and repetitive at times, but so is real life. Personally, I felt the background details about the protagonists were more vital to my enjoyment of the book than the competition. At my age, perhaps it is less about the romance and more about the characters “whys” of their decisions. My fulfillment is when God has led to the making of the right decisions. My gratitude goes to Tara Randel for penning the best in the genre I enjoy reading.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group for an honest review.
Switching places! Was this a fair process of determining a winner? Molly had longevity as an employee of Masterson Publishing and Ben was a recent employ with only background experience as a world traveler in sports and outdoor adventures – oh yes, there is the time he hosted that TV series, Extreme Survivalist. Thirty days……that seems an impossible task for each in that time limit – unrealistic. These might have been questions both contestants thought privately, at least in my own thoughts. Nevertheless - the race is on!
Molly and Ben share little in common. Both have scars buried deep from their childhood. Ben lost his parents tragically at a young age, now exhausted from moving from place to place; while Molly was a sickly child feeling unloved and a disappointment to her parents Ben had no siblings, while Molly admired her much older brother and longed for his approval. With private battles of their own, the two diverse competitors go through intense and humorous battles while chasing the bait dangled before them. This becomes a captivating story about rival, romance, and reward.
Molly indeed has a quilter’s heart….soft and quiet…and as complex as a quilted design. With sensitivity toward the downtrodden, she spent many hours as a compassionate volunteer. Molly’s faith in God leads her on a path toward a talent for quilting – the joy of her life. Ben enters the scene with unknowns – and his personality, likes and dislikes seem to come in sporadic revealing throughout the story. He is due for a valuable lesson in more than quilting from Nora and the women of Molly’s Christian quilting group. What surprised me was the rapport between Molly and Ben….helping each other behind the scenes…until sabotage happened, derailing the trust and budding romance between them, each believing the other had been dishonest and manipulative. Ben and Molly truly become rivals….until the intervention of God, family, friends, and other characters to reveal the saboteur and change the whole game.
Ms. Randel’s story would appeal to any age group. Her writing is clean, fun, thoughtful and even a bit intriguing. Script was slow and repetitive at times, but so is real life. Personally, I felt the background details about the protagonists were more vital to my enjoyment of the book than the competition. At my age, perhaps it is less about the romance and more about the characters “whys” of their decisions. My fulfillment is when God has led to the making of the right decisions. My gratitude goes to Tara Randel for penning the best in the genre I enjoy reading.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group for an honest review.
June 22, 2014
Two successful magazine publishers, one male, one female both with very different magazine profiles, suddenly find themselves competing for the same promotions as Editor-in-Chief for the launch of a new magazine, American Legend. For Molly Henderson, writer for Quilter's Heart, this promotion would be a validation for all the years she has worked for Master's Publishing. She took a novel idea and launched a successful magazine that has highlighted the friendship that women encounter whenever they read it. It not only showcases beautiful quilt designs but also the stories behind the women that create them. However she is not the outdoor type in any sense of the word.
For Ben Weaver, writer for Outdoor Adventures, the true manly man who loves the thrill of adventure in any sport, the more extreme the better. Bouncing back from his television series Extreme Survialist, he has taken Outdoor Adventures to new heights with his reader base. After just being with Master's Publishing for six months, he is running a competitive edge along side Molly's magazine. He knows with his popularity, taking on the challenge of American Legend, will create a permanent place for him instead of constantly being on the road traveling. However the last thing he understands is what fabric types to use and how do you put a quilt together anyway.
But Blake Masterson is always on the look out for a way to drive in more publicity so he decides the only way he can make the right decision on who should get the position is to create a competition between Molly and Ben. They will have thirty days to change places, and Molly will need to lead a kayak expedition and then write about it, while Ben will need to create a quilt all by himself and then write the article about his experience. At the end of the thirty days, whoever has done the most with their task will get the new position. So now instead of being rival colleagues, they are now rival competitors and may the best man or woman win! But it's not going to be an easy task for either of them working outside of their comfort zones. Who will win?
I received Rival Hearts by Tara Randel compliments of Abingdon Press and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are my own. I absolutely love the premise behind this novel. It is a first for me being introduced to the writing of Tara Randel but it definitely won't be the last by a long shot. I love the competitive nature that both Molly and Ben possess with each of them having the drive to do whatever it takes to gain the promotion they both desire. I can't imagine how difficult it would be for a manly man to take on quilting! That is where the humor comes into play and soon the entire office chooses sides between man versus woman and the laughter ensues. What comes out of the novel at the end showcases that the best choice may not always be the best one for the winner. I easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion. This is the nineteenth novel in the Quilts of Love Series and each can be read in any order.
For Ben Weaver, writer for Outdoor Adventures, the true manly man who loves the thrill of adventure in any sport, the more extreme the better. Bouncing back from his television series Extreme Survialist, he has taken Outdoor Adventures to new heights with his reader base. After just being with Master's Publishing for six months, he is running a competitive edge along side Molly's magazine. He knows with his popularity, taking on the challenge of American Legend, will create a permanent place for him instead of constantly being on the road traveling. However the last thing he understands is what fabric types to use and how do you put a quilt together anyway.
But Blake Masterson is always on the look out for a way to drive in more publicity so he decides the only way he can make the right decision on who should get the position is to create a competition between Molly and Ben. They will have thirty days to change places, and Molly will need to lead a kayak expedition and then write about it, while Ben will need to create a quilt all by himself and then write the article about his experience. At the end of the thirty days, whoever has done the most with their task will get the new position. So now instead of being rival colleagues, they are now rival competitors and may the best man or woman win! But it's not going to be an easy task for either of them working outside of their comfort zones. Who will win?
I received Rival Hearts by Tara Randel compliments of Abingdon Press and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are my own. I absolutely love the premise behind this novel. It is a first for me being introduced to the writing of Tara Randel but it definitely won't be the last by a long shot. I love the competitive nature that both Molly and Ben possess with each of them having the drive to do whatever it takes to gain the promotion they both desire. I can't imagine how difficult it would be for a manly man to take on quilting! That is where the humor comes into play and soon the entire office chooses sides between man versus woman and the laughter ensues. What comes out of the novel at the end showcases that the best choice may not always be the best one for the winner. I easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion. This is the nineteenth novel in the Quilts of Love Series and each can be read in any order.
August 14, 2014
Rival Hearts is a delightful story that ties together two coworkers who are interested in the same position – to be Editor in Chief of their publisher’s new magazine, American Legend. It was to be the type of periodical that would be highly attractive to both print and internet readers of faith to inspire and warm the hearts of the readers.
Molly Henderson is senior editor and writer for a very popular quilting magazine and Ben Weaver is senior editor and head writer of an equally popular outdoor magazine. Their respective publications are the top-selling magazines at Master’s Publishing. In an effort to get the very best to be the editor-in-chief of American Legend, the boss has decided on a little friendly competition between the two senior editors. They were to trade places with each other regarding the activities in the upcoming editions. Ben would join the quilting group that Molly was in, and Molly would participate in kayaking, the next feature in Ben’s magazine. Oh, goodness.
My sympathy is immediately with Molly, who has never participated in athletic activities due to severe allergies and the over-protective nature of her parents. She has been a member of the quilting group since a teenager when one of the members took her under wing at her church, and the group has been like a family to her. Doing anything outdoors, much less mastering a sport in less than a month, seems like an impossibility.
As for Ben, the all-American (and world traveler) of extreme athletic events, could he manage to wield a tiny needle, from threading to piecing quilt designs? It is so not the kind of sport that he is master of!
Neither Molly nor Ben is the kind of person who will back down from a challenge. Molly sets out to learn all about kayaking and strengthening activities, and Ben goes to meet his new group. What happens next could be anyone’s guess…is there more to Molly and Ben than meets the eye?
I enjoyed this novel very much! The characters, especially Molly and Ben, are very well defined as needed throughout the story. The plot is interesting and a bit unique – while many men would want to see if the little woman can meet the challenge, most men would draw the line at sentencing one of their own to a quilting group. I was happy to see that the publisher is depicted as a Christian, as are Molly and Ben, especially in the climate of America’s business focuses. The spirit of volunteerism is also promoted, which brought additional depth to the story.
As part of the Quilts of Love series, Rival Hearts is an excellent offering. I highly recommend it to adults of any age and young adults who enjoy quilting and Christian romance where the characters face and endure challenges to walking out their faith in everyday life.
I received a copy of this book through an Abington Press giveaway on Goodreads. Many thanks to both! All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Molly Henderson is senior editor and writer for a very popular quilting magazine and Ben Weaver is senior editor and head writer of an equally popular outdoor magazine. Their respective publications are the top-selling magazines at Master’s Publishing. In an effort to get the very best to be the editor-in-chief of American Legend, the boss has decided on a little friendly competition between the two senior editors. They were to trade places with each other regarding the activities in the upcoming editions. Ben would join the quilting group that Molly was in, and Molly would participate in kayaking, the next feature in Ben’s magazine. Oh, goodness.
My sympathy is immediately with Molly, who has never participated in athletic activities due to severe allergies and the over-protective nature of her parents. She has been a member of the quilting group since a teenager when one of the members took her under wing at her church, and the group has been like a family to her. Doing anything outdoors, much less mastering a sport in less than a month, seems like an impossibility.
As for Ben, the all-American (and world traveler) of extreme athletic events, could he manage to wield a tiny needle, from threading to piecing quilt designs? It is so not the kind of sport that he is master of!
Neither Molly nor Ben is the kind of person who will back down from a challenge. Molly sets out to learn all about kayaking and strengthening activities, and Ben goes to meet his new group. What happens next could be anyone’s guess…is there more to Molly and Ben than meets the eye?
I enjoyed this novel very much! The characters, especially Molly and Ben, are very well defined as needed throughout the story. The plot is interesting and a bit unique – while many men would want to see if the little woman can meet the challenge, most men would draw the line at sentencing one of their own to a quilting group. I was happy to see that the publisher is depicted as a Christian, as are Molly and Ben, especially in the climate of America’s business focuses. The spirit of volunteerism is also promoted, which brought additional depth to the story.
As part of the Quilts of Love series, Rival Hearts is an excellent offering. I highly recommend it to adults of any age and young adults who enjoy quilting and Christian romance where the characters face and endure challenges to walking out their faith in everyday life.
I received a copy of this book through an Abington Press giveaway on Goodreads. Many thanks to both! All opinions expressed are mine alone.
July 10, 2014
4.5 stars.
Rival Hearts by Tara Randel is a delightfully heartwarming romance in the charming Quilts of Love series. Each novel in the series stands alone but the common theme that ties all of the novels together is the tagline "Every Quilt Has a Story". In Rival Hearts, a competition for a promotion pits complete opposites Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver against one another as they vie for the position, but quilting figures prominently in this engaging story.
Molly and Ben are senior editor and writers for the same publisher but that's where their similarities end. Molly's life takes place indoors and she has turned her passion for quilting into a career. Ben is active outdoorsman who has turned his love of extreme sports into a lucrative career in television and print. Molly is deeply rooted in the local community where she is actively involved in volunteer work and fundraising. Ben has no family or friends and until his recent return to Tampa, he has had no place to call home.
As Molly and Ben rise to the challenges facing them as they compete for the promotion, they begin to see not only one another, but themselves, in a new light. Both are pretty competitive and while it appears that Ben has an edge over Molly, she is stronger than she (or anyone else) thinks. Molly is literally a fish out of water as she learns how to kayak with the help of brother Paul and she not only gains confidence as she masters new skills, but she is delighted at the opportunity to repair their fractured relationship. Ben's overconfidence falters somewhat when confronted with learning how to quilt, but he is most intimidated by the women in Molly's quilting group.
What makes Rival Hearts such a wonderful read is what Molly and Ben take from their new experiences. As Ben is beginning to open up and let other people into his life, Molly learns the importance of asking and accepting a helping hand from friends and family. With both of them stepping out of their respective comfort zones, they gain valuable insight about themselves and each other. It is incredibly gratifying watching them embrace the changes that occur in both their professional and personal lives.
With its gentle undercurrent of faith, Rival Hearts is a sweet romance that stresses the importance of faith and forgiveness. The plot is refreshingly unique with issues that are easy to relate to. Tara Randel brings this tender love story vibrantly to life with a lovely cast of characters that are realistic and appealing. An incredibly heartfelt and engaging addition to the Quilts of Love series that old and new fans are going to love.
Rival Hearts by Tara Randel is a delightfully heartwarming romance in the charming Quilts of Love series. Each novel in the series stands alone but the common theme that ties all of the novels together is the tagline "Every Quilt Has a Story". In Rival Hearts, a competition for a promotion pits complete opposites Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver against one another as they vie for the position, but quilting figures prominently in this engaging story.
Molly and Ben are senior editor and writers for the same publisher but that's where their similarities end. Molly's life takes place indoors and she has turned her passion for quilting into a career. Ben is active outdoorsman who has turned his love of extreme sports into a lucrative career in television and print. Molly is deeply rooted in the local community where she is actively involved in volunteer work and fundraising. Ben has no family or friends and until his recent return to Tampa, he has had no place to call home.
As Molly and Ben rise to the challenges facing them as they compete for the promotion, they begin to see not only one another, but themselves, in a new light. Both are pretty competitive and while it appears that Ben has an edge over Molly, she is stronger than she (or anyone else) thinks. Molly is literally a fish out of water as she learns how to kayak with the help of brother Paul and she not only gains confidence as she masters new skills, but she is delighted at the opportunity to repair their fractured relationship. Ben's overconfidence falters somewhat when confronted with learning how to quilt, but he is most intimidated by the women in Molly's quilting group.
What makes Rival Hearts such a wonderful read is what Molly and Ben take from their new experiences. As Ben is beginning to open up and let other people into his life, Molly learns the importance of asking and accepting a helping hand from friends and family. With both of them stepping out of their respective comfort zones, they gain valuable insight about themselves and each other. It is incredibly gratifying watching them embrace the changes that occur in both their professional and personal lives.
With its gentle undercurrent of faith, Rival Hearts is a sweet romance that stresses the importance of faith and forgiveness. The plot is refreshingly unique with issues that are easy to relate to. Tara Randel brings this tender love story vibrantly to life with a lovely cast of characters that are realistic and appealing. An incredibly heartfelt and engaging addition to the Quilts of Love series that old and new fans are going to love.
July 29, 2016
Rival Hearts
By: Tara Randel
A great book about community, friendship, rivalry, and love. We need all these components to figure out who we are, to feel connected to the people we come in contact with, and to know what we stand for. When Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver are pitted against each other to win the office promotion, sparks start to fly. Molly has to take on Ben’s outdoor’s activity for his adventure magazine and Ben has to take on quilting for Molly’s quilting magazine. Can they survive the challenge without losing their hearts to each other? Or will the rivalry pull them further apart?
In order for Molly to win her part of the competition, she has to depend on her brother to coach her. She is not the outdoorsy type, but she is determined to win that coveted office on the top floor with the awesome view. From her growing up years, there has been a strain between Molly and her brother. Everything came easy to him and he had their parents’ approval. Molly had to fight for everything but was still not recognized for her accomplishments. She found a quilting circle of women who took her in and taught her quilting and about God’s love.
Before Ben’s parents died while he was in college, they traveled. After their death, he continued traveling, not having close friends or family. If he didn’t stay in one place too long, he didn’t have time to think about his loss. Taking on the quilting challenge puts him in close proximity to others on a personal basis. Will he survive the challenge of spending time with a circle of women bound to learn all they can about him? Can he keep his distance or will he learn having friends and a close community strengthens and connects him?
Molly’s mom kept her at arm’s length. She in turn kept others behind a formidable wall. Ben had been hurt by a past love and built walls around his heart that no one could get through. Molly and Ben needed to be reminded of God’s unconditional love. Both come to depend on others to help them complete their challenges in order to be in the running for the promotion, but during the competition they both learn what is important to them.
Will they act on what they learn, or is it all about the coveted office? Pick up this great book today to find out. I read it in one afternoon. I couldn’t put the book down. Tara Randel pulls you into Molly’s and Ben’s life and I couldn’t stop until knew how it ended.
I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review
By: Tara Randel
A great book about community, friendship, rivalry, and love. We need all these components to figure out who we are, to feel connected to the people we come in contact with, and to know what we stand for. When Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver are pitted against each other to win the office promotion, sparks start to fly. Molly has to take on Ben’s outdoor’s activity for his adventure magazine and Ben has to take on quilting for Molly’s quilting magazine. Can they survive the challenge without losing their hearts to each other? Or will the rivalry pull them further apart?
In order for Molly to win her part of the competition, she has to depend on her brother to coach her. She is not the outdoorsy type, but she is determined to win that coveted office on the top floor with the awesome view. From her growing up years, there has been a strain between Molly and her brother. Everything came easy to him and he had their parents’ approval. Molly had to fight for everything but was still not recognized for her accomplishments. She found a quilting circle of women who took her in and taught her quilting and about God’s love.
Before Ben’s parents died while he was in college, they traveled. After their death, he continued traveling, not having close friends or family. If he didn’t stay in one place too long, he didn’t have time to think about his loss. Taking on the quilting challenge puts him in close proximity to others on a personal basis. Will he survive the challenge of spending time with a circle of women bound to learn all they can about him? Can he keep his distance or will he learn having friends and a close community strengthens and connects him?
Molly’s mom kept her at arm’s length. She in turn kept others behind a formidable wall. Ben had been hurt by a past love and built walls around his heart that no one could get through. Molly and Ben needed to be reminded of God’s unconditional love. Both come to depend on others to help them complete their challenges in order to be in the running for the promotion, but during the competition they both learn what is important to them.
Will they act on what they learn, or is it all about the coveted office? Pick up this great book today to find out. I read it in one afternoon. I couldn’t put the book down. Tara Randel pulls you into Molly’s and Ben’s life and I couldn’t stop until knew how it ended.
I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review
July 13, 2014
Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver are both magazine editors for the same company, both up for the same promotion to launch a new magazine. Their boss plans to make the decision based on a friendly competition between the two, in which Molly has to learn to kayak, and Ben has to learn to quilt (Rival Hearts is from Abingdon’s Quilts of Love series. There has to be a quilt).
I had trouble getting in to Rival Hearts. I found Molly annoying from the beginning, with her view that she should get the promotion based on seniority (what about based on performance? Or who is actually a better fit for the new magazine?). Yes, I get that part of her personal character arc was the transition from the sedate can’t-do-much introvert with best friends are twice her age, to the “I can do anything” woman who is prepared to take some risks in life and love. And I get that her mother has been a huge influence in shaping her personality and beliefs—a largely negative influence. But I just didn’t like Molly, and it’s hard to enjoy a romance novel when I don’t like the heroine.
The beginning felt like we were being told a lot about Molly (such as her volunteering, her health issues, her relationship with her brother, how she got into quilting …) and not shown or told much about Ben. What little we did see showed him as overconfident to the point of arrogance. While he improved as a character as the novel progressed, I still would have liked to have seen him develop a bit more depth. I would also have liked to have seen more of his spiritual journey than a couple of offhand references.
The plot held few surprises (I guessed the ending at about the halfway point), the characters didn’t inspire me, and the writing didn’t shine. It read more like a Harlequin than Quilts of Love, and it certainly didn’t have any mystery (as claimed in her author tagline, ‘Where Mystery and Romance are Everywhere’). On the plus side, I thought the Christian aspects were handled well, and I very much liked Nora and her quilting circle, Molly’s second family.
I'm sure many readers will love this, but I didn’t, which is a disappointment as I look forward to reading the Quilts of Love stories and discovering exciting new authors.
Thanks to Litfuse and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
I had trouble getting in to Rival Hearts. I found Molly annoying from the beginning, with her view that she should get the promotion based on seniority (what about based on performance? Or who is actually a better fit for the new magazine?). Yes, I get that part of her personal character arc was the transition from the sedate can’t-do-much introvert with best friends are twice her age, to the “I can do anything” woman who is prepared to take some risks in life and love. And I get that her mother has been a huge influence in shaping her personality and beliefs—a largely negative influence. But I just didn’t like Molly, and it’s hard to enjoy a romance novel when I don’t like the heroine.
The beginning felt like we were being told a lot about Molly (such as her volunteering, her health issues, her relationship with her brother, how she got into quilting …) and not shown or told much about Ben. What little we did see showed him as overconfident to the point of arrogance. While he improved as a character as the novel progressed, I still would have liked to have seen him develop a bit more depth. I would also have liked to have seen more of his spiritual journey than a couple of offhand references.
The plot held few surprises (I guessed the ending at about the halfway point), the characters didn’t inspire me, and the writing didn’t shine. It read more like a Harlequin than Quilts of Love, and it certainly didn’t have any mystery (as claimed in her author tagline, ‘Where Mystery and Romance are Everywhere’). On the plus side, I thought the Christian aspects were handled well, and I very much liked Nora and her quilting circle, Molly’s second family.
I'm sure many readers will love this, but I didn’t, which is a disappointment as I look forward to reading the Quilts of Love stories and discovering exciting new authors.
Thanks to Litfuse and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
June 25, 2014
About this book:
“They both want the promotion. But will they find out that it is worth the cost?
Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver have been rival magazine writers for the same publishing group for years. When both come up for the same promotion, they find themselves in an unexpected competition to win the spot. Molly, editor of Quilter’s Heart, and Ben, editor of Outdoor Adventures, must switch roles, each working for the other for one month, then submit an article at the end of their quests.
Can girly-girl Molly survive the outdoor adventures that Ben has planned? Can Ben navigate the perils of the social dynamics of quilting events without destroying a valuable quilt in one short month? More importantly, in this he-said, she-said situation, will Molly and Ben give in to their attraction and fall in love, no matter who wins?”
Series: Number #19 in the “Quilts of Love” series. (They do not have to be read in order) {Click Here! for number #17, “A Promise in Pieces”, and click Here! For number #18 “A Stitch and A Prayer”.}
Spiritual Content- Prayers & Scriptures are said; Talks about God and His Love.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: two ‘screw’s and a ‘suck it up’.
Sexual Content- a semi-detailed kisses.
-Molly Henderson
-Ben Weaver
P.O.V. switches between them.
205 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star (and a half)
New Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Four Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Four Stars
Hands down the best “Quilts of Love” book I’ve read. As silly as it sounds, the quilt felt like a main character along with Molly and Ben…not just a thing that the main girl makes in the book.
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Abingdon Press) for this review.
“They both want the promotion. But will they find out that it is worth the cost?
Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver have been rival magazine writers for the same publishing group for years. When both come up for the same promotion, they find themselves in an unexpected competition to win the spot. Molly, editor of Quilter’s Heart, and Ben, editor of Outdoor Adventures, must switch roles, each working for the other for one month, then submit an article at the end of their quests.
Can girly-girl Molly survive the outdoor adventures that Ben has planned? Can Ben navigate the perils of the social dynamics of quilting events without destroying a valuable quilt in one short month? More importantly, in this he-said, she-said situation, will Molly and Ben give in to their attraction and fall in love, no matter who wins?”
Series: Number #19 in the “Quilts of Love” series. (They do not have to be read in order) {Click Here! for number #17, “A Promise in Pieces”, and click Here! For number #18 “A Stitch and A Prayer”.}
Spiritual Content- Prayers & Scriptures are said; Talks about God and His Love.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: two ‘screw’s and a ‘suck it up’.
Sexual Content- a semi-detailed kisses.
-Molly Henderson
-Ben Weaver
P.O.V. switches between them.
205 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star (and a half)
New Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Four Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Four Stars
Hands down the best “Quilts of Love” book I’ve read. As silly as it sounds, the quilt felt like a main character along with Molly and Ben…not just a thing that the main girl makes in the book.
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Abingdon Press) for this review.
July 14, 2014
Tara Randel in her new book, “Rival Hearts” Book Nineteen in the Quilts of Love Series published by Abingdon Press brings us into the lives of Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver.
From the back cover: They both want the promotion. But will they find out that it is worth the cost?
Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver have been rival magazine writers for the same publishing group for years. When both come up for the same promotion, they find themselves in an unexpected competition to win the spot. Molly, editor of Quilter’s Heart, and Ben, editor of Outdoor Adventures, must switch roles, each working for the other for one month, then submit an article at the end of their quests.
Can girly-girl Molly survive the outdoor adventures that Ben has planned? Can Ben navigate the perils of the social dynamics of quilting events without destroying a valuable quilt in one short month? More importantly, in this he-said, she-said situation, will Molly and Ben give in to their attraction and fall in love, no matter who wins?
This book is the kind of movie that Hollywood used to make back in the 40′s and 50′s. You can almost see Barbara Stanwyck as Molly, possibly Clark Gable as Ben. Molly and Ben are competitors. They each have made their own little niche in the world by the quality of the magazine they edit. Now they are being given the chance at a new magazine but only if they switch places for a month. This is the set-up for a great deal of humor and also the chance for much stretching outside individual comfort zones. Both Molly and Ben learn about themselves as well as others while learning about the barriers they put up to keep from being bruised emotionally. All of the characters are terrific and the plot is very enjoyable as well as being interesting and exciting as well.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: They both want the promotion. But will they find out that it is worth the cost?
Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver have been rival magazine writers for the same publishing group for years. When both come up for the same promotion, they find themselves in an unexpected competition to win the spot. Molly, editor of Quilter’s Heart, and Ben, editor of Outdoor Adventures, must switch roles, each working for the other for one month, then submit an article at the end of their quests.
Can girly-girl Molly survive the outdoor adventures that Ben has planned? Can Ben navigate the perils of the social dynamics of quilting events without destroying a valuable quilt in one short month? More importantly, in this he-said, she-said situation, will Molly and Ben give in to their attraction and fall in love, no matter who wins?
This book is the kind of movie that Hollywood used to make back in the 40′s and 50′s. You can almost see Barbara Stanwyck as Molly, possibly Clark Gable as Ben. Molly and Ben are competitors. They each have made their own little niche in the world by the quality of the magazine they edit. Now they are being given the chance at a new magazine but only if they switch places for a month. This is the set-up for a great deal of humor and also the chance for much stretching outside individual comfort zones. Both Molly and Ben learn about themselves as well as others while learning about the barriers they put up to keep from being bruised emotionally. All of the characters are terrific and the plot is very enjoyable as well as being interesting and exciting as well.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
August 16, 2014
I received this wonderful book from Goodreads in exchange for a review. I am so glad I was chosen.
Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver are magazine editors working for the same publishing group. Both are hoping for a shot at becoming the new editor-in-chief for a magazine called American Legend. To make his decision about the best person for the job, Blake Masterson, the head of Master’s Publishing, proposes a challenge, one that will take both Molly and Ben out of their usual comfort zone. Indoorsy girl Molly must participate in a kayaking event while he-man Ben must make a quilt. These two polar opposites must challenge themselves as much as each other as they tackle the events to decide who wins the coveted position. The challenge quickly turns into a ‘Guys’ against ‘Girls’ as the co-workers back their bosses.
Ben, who has just recently returned to his home town of Tampa and is just starting to put down roots, thinks he has the job locked up. But Molly is more that up for the challenge, surprising both Ben and herself, as she struggles to overcome her childhood health issues that had always kept her indoors. Along the way, Molly re-connects with her big brother, Paul, who steps in to help be her co-trainer. And Ben surprises himself when he finds himself opening up to Nora, the head of the quilting group.
Molly is also volunteering on the side for a charity that is very dear to her heart, Second Chances, a shelter for women in need. As she struggles to make a quilt for her magazine and meet the demands of the editor challenge, the unthinkable happens, her quilt goes missing. Despite the sparks that have been flying between Ben and Molly, clues point to him being the one responsible for the quilt’s disappearance. But when Ben comes to her rescue, what is she to think?
This book is heart- touching as both Ben and Molly learn that they must be able to reach out to others in times of need.
Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver are magazine editors working for the same publishing group. Both are hoping for a shot at becoming the new editor-in-chief for a magazine called American Legend. To make his decision about the best person for the job, Blake Masterson, the head of Master’s Publishing, proposes a challenge, one that will take both Molly and Ben out of their usual comfort zone. Indoorsy girl Molly must participate in a kayaking event while he-man Ben must make a quilt. These two polar opposites must challenge themselves as much as each other as they tackle the events to decide who wins the coveted position. The challenge quickly turns into a ‘Guys’ against ‘Girls’ as the co-workers back their bosses.
Ben, who has just recently returned to his home town of Tampa and is just starting to put down roots, thinks he has the job locked up. But Molly is more that up for the challenge, surprising both Ben and herself, as she struggles to overcome her childhood health issues that had always kept her indoors. Along the way, Molly re-connects with her big brother, Paul, who steps in to help be her co-trainer. And Ben surprises himself when he finds himself opening up to Nora, the head of the quilting group.
Molly is also volunteering on the side for a charity that is very dear to her heart, Second Chances, a shelter for women in need. As she struggles to make a quilt for her magazine and meet the demands of the editor challenge, the unthinkable happens, her quilt goes missing. Despite the sparks that have been flying between Ben and Molly, clues point to him being the one responsible for the quilt’s disappearance. But when Ben comes to her rescue, what is she to think?
This book is heart- touching as both Ben and Molly learn that they must be able to reach out to others in times of need.
June 24, 2014
Rival Hearts by Tara Randel is another book in Abingdon’s Quilts of Love series. The tagline for this series is Every Quilt Has A Story and it is the quilt in this novel that really takes center stage. A contemporary romance with an opposites attract plot, Rival Hearts will appeal to romance lovers and avid quilters.
Molly Henderson is the 30-something editor of the quilting magazine, Quilter’s Heart. Dedicated to her job, she longs for the recognition her hard work and determination deserve. But when Ben Weaver, editor of Outdoor Adventures is pitted against her for a promotion, Molly puts aside her feelings of inadequacy and goes for the prize. Ben is surprised by Molly’s tenacity and competitive spirit and his growing attraction to her. Both want the big promotion, but is it worth the cost of friendship and possibly love?
Rival Hearts is a sweet love story featuring a stay inside gal and a daring outdoorsman — seemingly opposites in every way. But both have feelings of unconnectedness and loneliness. Though they go about their lives and the turn-about competition from different directions, they ultimately come to the same conclusion – love is worth the work and the vulnerability. Molly’s selfless and caring nature and Ben’s fear of loss and rejection make these characters very real and relatable. There is some humor and a little bit of mystery in this book as well. The featured quilt, though, was my favorite element of the book. I loved the idea of taking scraps of fabric from women’s lives, many with heartfelt stories attached, and joining them into a beautiful quilt that would benefit other women in need.
If you like your romance sweet or if you love quilting, be sure to check out Rival Hearts by Tara Randel.
Recommended.
(Thanks to LitFuse and Abingdon Press for a review copy. The opinions expressed are mine alone.)
Molly Henderson is the 30-something editor of the quilting magazine, Quilter’s Heart. Dedicated to her job, she longs for the recognition her hard work and determination deserve. But when Ben Weaver, editor of Outdoor Adventures is pitted against her for a promotion, Molly puts aside her feelings of inadequacy and goes for the prize. Ben is surprised by Molly’s tenacity and competitive spirit and his growing attraction to her. Both want the big promotion, but is it worth the cost of friendship and possibly love?
Rival Hearts is a sweet love story featuring a stay inside gal and a daring outdoorsman — seemingly opposites in every way. But both have feelings of unconnectedness and loneliness. Though they go about their lives and the turn-about competition from different directions, they ultimately come to the same conclusion – love is worth the work and the vulnerability. Molly’s selfless and caring nature and Ben’s fear of loss and rejection make these characters very real and relatable. There is some humor and a little bit of mystery in this book as well. The featured quilt, though, was my favorite element of the book. I loved the idea of taking scraps of fabric from women’s lives, many with heartfelt stories attached, and joining them into a beautiful quilt that would benefit other women in need.
If you like your romance sweet or if you love quilting, be sure to check out Rival Hearts by Tara Randel.
Recommended.
(Thanks to LitFuse and Abingdon Press for a review copy. The opinions expressed are mine alone.)
July 3, 2014
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Rival Hearts by Tara Randel, © 2014 ~ a Quilts of Love story
Walking into the publishing company on a normal day of work, Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver find it is anything but a normal day. Their boss calls them into his office to announce a new magazine, American Legend. Both of them will be competing for the spot of editor-in-chief ~ however, there will be a different plan on accomplishing that goal. They will switch places for their current magazines for one month.
Their magazines? Quilter's Heart and Outdoor Adventures. Ben will join a quilting group and Molly will take a first-time group of teens on kayak outings. Completely out of their comfort and knowledge, they began their quest.
I liked the change that came to each of them as they set out to learn these new skills and what the stretching did for their lives personally.
Nora, in the quilting group, was my favorite. She was a listener and asked questions that brought them each to discover new things about themselves.
Rival Hearts is well-written and draws out the intent of the heart. Molly and Ben have sheltered their true selves from becoming bruised. I liked the development of their backgrounds being exposed to find acceptance and enrichment beyond what they ever would have tried on their own. Relationships are built and others renewed. The story flows very well as they find their place and the true longings of their hearts. Overcoming obstacles, they are strengthened and both are winners beyond the competition of their intended goal.
***Thank you to Litfuse Publicity Group for the invitation to be part of the blog tour for Tara Randel's novel ~ Rival Hearts and to Abingdon Press for sending me this Quilts of Love story for review. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
Rival Hearts by Tara Randel, © 2014 ~ a Quilts of Love story
Walking into the publishing company on a normal day of work, Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver find it is anything but a normal day. Their boss calls them into his office to announce a new magazine, American Legend. Both of them will be competing for the spot of editor-in-chief ~ however, there will be a different plan on accomplishing that goal. They will switch places for their current magazines for one month.
Their magazines? Quilter's Heart and Outdoor Adventures. Ben will join a quilting group and Molly will take a first-time group of teens on kayak outings. Completely out of their comfort and knowledge, they began their quest.
I liked the change that came to each of them as they set out to learn these new skills and what the stretching did for their lives personally.
Nora, in the quilting group, was my favorite. She was a listener and asked questions that brought them each to discover new things about themselves.
Rival Hearts is well-written and draws out the intent of the heart. Molly and Ben have sheltered their true selves from becoming bruised. I liked the development of their backgrounds being exposed to find acceptance and enrichment beyond what they ever would have tried on their own. Relationships are built and others renewed. The story flows very well as they find their place and the true longings of their hearts. Overcoming obstacles, they are strengthened and both are winners beyond the competition of their intended goal.
***Thank you to Litfuse Publicity Group for the invitation to be part of the blog tour for Tara Randel's novel ~ Rival Hearts and to Abingdon Press for sending me this Quilts of Love story for review. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
July 10, 2014
American Legend is a new magazine in need of an editor-in-chief who must compete and win a challenge for the coveted promotional position wanted by editors Molly Henderson (Quilters Heart) and Ben Weaver (Outdoor Adventures) of the same publishing company. Molly and Ben must compete for the position by switching editor positions of each other’s publications and completing the current projects of Quilters Heart by sewing a quilt and Outdoor Adventures by competing in a kayak race with both projects being events for charity.
Molly and Ben begin adjusting to their new projects having no previous experience in the new tasks and give assistance to one another in the beginning processes of the projects. While competing for the ultimate prize, Molly and Ben realize there is more at stake than just the competition rivalry for the editor-in-chief position that neither wants to admit to themselves. Ben has special personal reasons for wanting the job and Molly has the seniority needed to fill the position but the owner of the publishing company cannot decide who is best without the promotional campaign contest. The relationship between them begins flourishing after they work together outside of the competition but a calculated scheme by a person threatens to separate them bringing all to complete regression.
This novel is an uncomplicated and pleasurable read for a weekday afternoon or weekend reading spree in only a few hours. The story plot and characters are very likeable and easy to relate in the different situations and problems throughout this enjoyable book. I recommend reading to those who enjoy novels with personal conflict, competitiveness, and self-growth intertwined in the story line.
I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an unbiased opinion in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission guidelines.
Molly and Ben begin adjusting to their new projects having no previous experience in the new tasks and give assistance to one another in the beginning processes of the projects. While competing for the ultimate prize, Molly and Ben realize there is more at stake than just the competition rivalry for the editor-in-chief position that neither wants to admit to themselves. Ben has special personal reasons for wanting the job and Molly has the seniority needed to fill the position but the owner of the publishing company cannot decide who is best without the promotional campaign contest. The relationship between them begins flourishing after they work together outside of the competition but a calculated scheme by a person threatens to separate them bringing all to complete regression.
This novel is an uncomplicated and pleasurable read for a weekday afternoon or weekend reading spree in only a few hours. The story plot and characters are very likeable and easy to relate in the different situations and problems throughout this enjoyable book. I recommend reading to those who enjoy novels with personal conflict, competitiveness, and self-growth intertwined in the story line.
I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an unbiased opinion in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission guidelines.
June 21, 2014
I wasn’t sure what I was going to think about this most recent addition to the Quilts of Love series since it was contemporary and it’s a competition between a female and male co-worker plus I have never read any of Tara Randel’s other books. However, my hesitancy was quickly put to rest as I got more involved in the characters and the whole competition – I’m not one to advocate for competition – but I think that added a whole new dimension to the book and overall theme and built the suspense, which usually comes in the form of a crime or other climax so a different one was a nice touch and added to the overall feel of the book. Of course, some of the ending wrap up were sort of easy to figure out part way through – such as how Ben and Molly’s relationship would end up and also Molly’s wanting to be more involved with the women’s shelter – but I won’t give too many spoilers.
Overall, this book fits great with the Quilts of Love series and for those who don’t like ‘preachy’ books this one definitely isn’t, although Christian faith is mentioned a couple of times it was no where near what other books in the series include. Stepping out of your comfort zone is one big outcome of the book and learning to let go of things that aren’t really worth the time and effort. I personally would have liked to have read more about the characters struggle with their faith and how it made them stronger but I also know that it’s great to have a book that can sometimes be that heart opener that some otherwise may not ever get. I’ll definitely be looking for other Tara Randel books when I have time for some leisure reading!
**I was given a copy of the book from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my honest opinion, no other compensation was givne.
Overall, this book fits great with the Quilts of Love series and for those who don’t like ‘preachy’ books this one definitely isn’t, although Christian faith is mentioned a couple of times it was no where near what other books in the series include. Stepping out of your comfort zone is one big outcome of the book and learning to let go of things that aren’t really worth the time and effort. I personally would have liked to have read more about the characters struggle with their faith and how it made them stronger but I also know that it’s great to have a book that can sometimes be that heart opener that some otherwise may not ever get. I’ll definitely be looking for other Tara Randel books when I have time for some leisure reading!
**I was given a copy of the book from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my honest opinion, no other compensation was givne.
March 29, 2014
Rival Hearts by Tara Randel
I have read most of the other books in this series and like the diversity of the settings and the whole learning how the quilt plays the main character.
This story is about Ben who's just returned to the Miami area and wants to grow roots there with the publishing company he works for. He's the outdoor extreme sports editor.
Molly is the quilt editor for that section of the publishing firm and she's heavily involved with other community agencies donating all her time for the cause of helping others.
They are both thrown a loop when the president of the company throws them into competition against one another. She must learn how to kayak and he must learn how to quit.
There are only so many hours in a day and time is of the essence as the competition heats up. They are also thrown together and have to spend more time covering for the president at his many events that he's not able to attend himself.
Love that Molly finds out why her mother always felt so cold to her and how they resolve that. Ben tags along a lot as she does other volunteer work and they get to talk to one another to find out why the other wants the lead position with the new office.
Getting out of your comfort zone-Love also that the quilts will go to Second Chances and for all it stands for. I am a great volunteer myself. Quite a surprise when the winner is announced! Handful of characters, easy to follow all the stories. Excerpt of the next A Grand Design is also included at the end.
I received this book from Net Galley via Abingdon Press in exchange for my honest review.
I have read most of the other books in this series and like the diversity of the settings and the whole learning how the quilt plays the main character.
This story is about Ben who's just returned to the Miami area and wants to grow roots there with the publishing company he works for. He's the outdoor extreme sports editor.
Molly is the quilt editor for that section of the publishing firm and she's heavily involved with other community agencies donating all her time for the cause of helping others.
They are both thrown a loop when the president of the company throws them into competition against one another. She must learn how to kayak and he must learn how to quit.
There are only so many hours in a day and time is of the essence as the competition heats up. They are also thrown together and have to spend more time covering for the president at his many events that he's not able to attend himself.
Love that Molly finds out why her mother always felt so cold to her and how they resolve that. Ben tags along a lot as she does other volunteer work and they get to talk to one another to find out why the other wants the lead position with the new office.
Getting out of your comfort zone-Love also that the quilts will go to Second Chances and for all it stands for. I am a great volunteer myself. Quite a surprise when the winner is announced! Handful of characters, easy to follow all the stories. Excerpt of the next A Grand Design is also included at the end.
I received this book from Net Galley via Abingdon Press in exchange for my honest review.
July 22, 2015
Ben and Molly both work for Masters Publishing house and they have a new Editor position opening up and they both want the position and think they deserve it over the other. Mr Masterton has some clever ideas up his sleeve and sees all publicity as good publicity - anything to bring the outside eye to his company. So he decides to propose a challenge, that for one month each of them are to switch their editor roles and work on the latest issue of each other's magazine. The thing is though that Molly is an indoorsy person and runs Quilting Monthly and Ben is an outdoorsy extreme sports person and runs Outdoors Adventure. Now Ben has one month to learn how to sew a Quilt and discover everything about Quilting in time for the Crafts Expo and Molly must learn how to Kayak as this month's spotlight is on a Kayaking tour. As the competition starts, each of them will try and be the "Better" one but as the story goes along, we read as each of them are discovering something new about each other that they love and care about and that their is more than meets the eye in both of their personalities. Can the Rival Hearts start to beat as one and work together rather than at each other's throats ? Who will get the new Editor position and corner office ? Rival Hearts is not only a Women Vs Male book and Battle of the Sexes but it is also about learning to work together and that sometimes your "One" is standing right in front of you all along and that more often we all need a little push in the right direction to seek out our happiness and what we really love and cherish in life before it's too late.
August 3, 2016
This book, number 19 in the Quilts of Love series (a series by a variety of authors) is about an unusual contest in the magazine writers world, a rivalship between the two contestants and eventually an unusual romance.
Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver have been rival magazine writers for the same publishing group for years. When both come up for the same promotion, they find themselves in an unexpected competition to win the spot. Molly, editor of Quilter’s Heart, and Ben, editor of Outdoor Adventures, must switch roles, each working for the other for one month, then submit an article at the end of their quests.
The reader will find themselves intrigued as they follow timid Molly's exploits in the great-and sometimes frightening- outdoors. Simultaneously, read of outdoors king Ben's even more intimidating ventures into the quilting community.
Although the story plot is unusual and brilliant, I thought the author didn't go far enough with it. Apart from a mild scare in the office there are no real adventures. The book mostly focuses on the at-times confusing rivalship/romance of the two main characters. This is, without a doubt, not my type of book or even my type of romance but will please the audience it was meant for. It is not particularly well-written by the way, but is easy (light) reading. I thought the cover was well-done, depicting both sides of the contest contained in the book.
I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver have been rival magazine writers for the same publishing group for years. When both come up for the same promotion, they find themselves in an unexpected competition to win the spot. Molly, editor of Quilter’s Heart, and Ben, editor of Outdoor Adventures, must switch roles, each working for the other for one month, then submit an article at the end of their quests.
The reader will find themselves intrigued as they follow timid Molly's exploits in the great-and sometimes frightening- outdoors. Simultaneously, read of outdoors king Ben's even more intimidating ventures into the quilting community.
Although the story plot is unusual and brilliant, I thought the author didn't go far enough with it. Apart from a mild scare in the office there are no real adventures. The book mostly focuses on the at-times confusing rivalship/romance of the two main characters. This is, without a doubt, not my type of book or even my type of romance but will please the audience it was meant for. It is not particularly well-written by the way, but is easy (light) reading. I thought the cover was well-done, depicting both sides of the contest contained in the book.
I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
July 29, 2014
With the first sentence, Tara Randel grabs your attention – and she doesn’t let go.
One of the things I love about the Quilts of Love series is how many different genres, timelines and lifestyles they cover. We have everything from a pioneering couple to a detective on the streets of a small town to rival magazine editors.
I’ve not read anything else by Tara Randel but it’s clear she has a talent for story telling. In Rival Hearts, she pulls us right in to the story and it’s clear from the first chapter that these two characters are in for an adventure they never could have seen coming.
Ben is clearly over-confident and Molly is timid but determined and we can see the sparks flying between our two main characters in their very first conversation.
Tara Randel makes the story so real to us – encompassing not just the competition and what it entails but also drawing the characters’ lives into the mix. And not just the sparks either, but what makes them tick and even some things that lurk beneath the surface.
Tara uses secondary characters brilliantly, involving friends and family as well as co-workers in this mad dash to the finish. And you may be surprised by how everything turns out. I won’t ruin it for you – it’s just too delicious!
Now I’m going to have to go find some of her other books and see if they’re just as entertaining and enjoyable!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. Actually I never got the book - due to address issues but I was supposed to so... I got it for kindle.
One of the things I love about the Quilts of Love series is how many different genres, timelines and lifestyles they cover. We have everything from a pioneering couple to a detective on the streets of a small town to rival magazine editors.
I’ve not read anything else by Tara Randel but it’s clear she has a talent for story telling. In Rival Hearts, she pulls us right in to the story and it’s clear from the first chapter that these two characters are in for an adventure they never could have seen coming.
Ben is clearly over-confident and Molly is timid but determined and we can see the sparks flying between our two main characters in their very first conversation.
Tara Randel makes the story so real to us – encompassing not just the competition and what it entails but also drawing the characters’ lives into the mix. And not just the sparks either, but what makes them tick and even some things that lurk beneath the surface.
Tara uses secondary characters brilliantly, involving friends and family as well as co-workers in this mad dash to the finish. And you may be surprised by how everything turns out. I won’t ruin it for you – it’s just too delicious!
Now I’m going to have to go find some of her other books and see if they’re just as entertaining and enjoyable!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. Actually I never got the book - due to address issues but I was supposed to so... I got it for kindle.
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