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Where the Heart Lives #3
Beloved
Diana Brennan came west on the orphan train and was given a home with a loving couple who cherished and spoiled her. At 17, she fell hard for Tyson Applegate, the son of a wealthy mine owner. After a whirlwind courtship and marriage, Tyson took off for adventures around the world, including fighting with the Rough Riders in Cuba. Receiving no word of him for seven years, Diana's infatuation with her dashing husband died an ugly death, and she is ready to move past the old pain and marry again, just as soon as Tyson is declared legally dead.
But when her husband returns, supposedly a changed man, he wants to reunite with his wife and run for the senate. While Diana suspects the election is his real reason for wanting her by his side, she agrees to maintain his home and to campaign with him, but when it is over, win or lose, she wants her freedom. He agrees with one condition----she must give him a chance to change her mind about him.
But when her husband returns, supposedly a changed man, he wants to reunite with his wife and run for the senate. While Diana suspects the election is his real reason for wanting her by his side, she agrees to maintain his home and to campaign with him, but when it is over, win or lose, she wants her freedom. He agrees with one condition----she must give him a chance to change her mind about him.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2013
77 people are currently reading
1453 people want to read
About the author
Robin Lee Hatcher
121 books3,252 followersRobin Lee Hatcher is the author of over 95 novels and novellas with more than five million copies of her books in print. She is known for her heartwarming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. Her numerous awards include the RITA® Award, Christy Award, Carol Award, HOLT Medallion, National Reader’s Choice Award, and the Faith, Hope & Love Reader’s Choice Award, and she is also the recipient of prestigious Lifetime Achievement Awards from both American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America®. When not writing, she enjoys being with her family, spending time in the beautiful Idaho outdoors, Bible art journaling, reading books that make her cry, watching romantic movies, and decorative planning. A mother and grandmother, Robin makes her home on the outskirts of Boise, sharing it with a demanding Papillon dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
July 18, 2020
I am impressed with this book, It could have really been a mess but the author does a good job with the writing style she picked. The book starts out really strong, she jumps you right in the middle of the story and then goes backward to both main characters point of view. I thought this would get messy or confusing but it doesn't and it is actually a great way to tell the story of change. You actually learn to fall in love with the main character as he tells his story. It was a great story too and very believable. It was just the escape I needed:} This is a Christian book but there was no preaching the characters actions show how they believe. There was way too much repetition by the author and this is the reason this book doesn't get more stars. I want to see how they feel not read the same words written over and over again. But overall very clean, while tugging at your heart and the romance was so sweet.
December 14, 2018
The book premise is that Tyson abandoned his young wife, Diana, when she was 18. He traveled extensively, did not keep his marriage vows, and returned seven years later, after everyone believed he was dead and she was about to be engaged to another. His life was changed after a severe battle injury in Cuba, and a young man lead him to the Lord.
Now he wants to be in God's will, which means returning to Idaho be the husband he was supposed to be, and pray Diana can someday forgive him.
Well, he was in for a rough road to prove to her he was changed and would never hurt her again.
Didn’t love:
Internal dialog of how Tyson remembered time spent in bed with his wife, and thoughts of "kissing her senseless". Meh. Not racy or provocative, just unnecessary.
Loved:
A homeless orphan came into their life causing softened hearts.
The strained relationship between Tyson and his father. Reconciliation, and changed hearts beautifully written.
The gospel was shared, albeit briefly. It was clear how character’s faith changed their lives.
Humility and forgiveness were major themes. There was conflict but not hair raising. Sometimes I really enjoy that.
Good read.
Now he wants to be in God's will, which means returning to Idaho be the husband he was supposed to be, and pray Diana can someday forgive him.
Well, he was in for a rough road to prove to her he was changed and would never hurt her again.
Didn’t love:
Internal dialog of how Tyson remembered time spent in bed with his wife, and thoughts of "kissing her senseless". Meh. Not racy or provocative, just unnecessary.
Loved:
A homeless orphan came into their life causing softened hearts.
The strained relationship between Tyson and his father. Reconciliation, and changed hearts beautifully written.
The gospel was shared, albeit briefly. It was clear how character’s faith changed their lives.
Humility and forgiveness were major themes. There was conflict but not hair raising. Sometimes I really enjoy that.
Good read.
March 10, 2016
The premise was interesting... the book, however, was not. I really enjoyed the first two in the series so it was a let-down to not connect with the characters in this final book. There are flashbacks to the past throughout the story, but the basic content of the flashbacks had already been explained in the present-day text, so I felt it was repetitive and slowed the story down in a major way. It also brought Tyson's selfishness and indiscretions into the limelight, as well as Diana's hurt and role as the victim. It was difficult to feel compassion for Tyson when such a great deal of the novel was spent rehashing his mistakes, and his redemption was explained rather than shown. I found the romance lacking as well- Tyson was afraid to pursue his wife so he wouldn't scare her off, and Diana spent the majority of the novel keeping him and her feelings at arm's length (not that I blame her). The overall theme of forgiveness is an important one, and it was most compelling in the relationship between father and son. The story could have delved so much deeper if not for the bulkiness of the unnecessary flashback scenes.
(Thank you to Zondervan Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
(Thank you to Zondervan Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
June 2, 2018
A neat twist on a prodigal son's return. There's angst from the very first page -- I mean, what reader can resist siding with an abandoned wife never mind how contrite the reformed husband?! And Hatcher tells this love story with such flare -- "To say the least, it was inconsiderate of Diana's almost-dead husband to show up at her engagement party." (p 3) Bwahahaha! Love the subtle humour lurking among the angst! And that erstwhile Tyson --- swoony sigh -- he's definitely seen the light, found the Lord and wants nothing more than to make amends to the wife he didn't realize he loved so much. So he sets out to woo her and she's determined to resist while chaos seems to take over their lives in the form of strays and frenemies and unsuspecting evil. A great escape for the avid romance reader.
April 6, 2021
Coming across an unusual premise is rare. When you’ve read as many books in one genre as it feels like I have, so many of the plots seem to resemble each other. This last novel in Robin Lee Hatcher’s most recent trilogy is actually a different concept and that makes it special.
STORY: Diana has had a tough childhood. Orphaned at only six, she along with her two siblings were put on the orphan train west. Unlike her siblings, Diana was adopted by a loving couple who gave her a world of love; she grew up spoiled, fell in love with the 20-something Tyson Applegate when she was only seventeen… and married him. It isn’t long into their young marriage Diana learns that Tyson married her for an inheritance and then… he walks out on Diana and his family. Now, seven years later, Tyson has returned on the eve of her planned engagement. Only trouble is, he isn’t willing to let Diana go and she isn’t so sure that Tyson has really changed.
REVIEW: It’s been forever since I read a novel by Hatcher and I have to admit, I’ve did miss her easy, breezy style. I can vaguely remember reading Speak to me of Love and from then on, I wanted to read every book she wrote. Beloved is a sweeter, much more lighthearted story full of characters that are easy to like albeit flawed human beings. Instead of being full of historical details, here we are enjoy a heartwarming picture of redemption. The style of the book pauses from the present nearly every chapter to visit the past through either Diana or Tyson’s perspective at some point in their courting or married life. It's an interesting way to share the backstory and each instance remains short, something I appreciate.
Tying up all the “loose ends” goes down too “neatly” however I know there are some books in which I’ve overlooked this solution; in particular, the convenience card is played by way of a “secondary” relationship going romantic that is unnecessary. It's nice that the siblings don’t play any larger part in Diana’s story than they do, especially since I’ve yet to read the prior two novels (Belonging, Betrayal). Balancing against some of the flaws, I did enjoy this as a more mature love story in fiction. As a 17- and 25-year-old, Diana and Tyson were foolish but as adults, seven years later, there's no sweeping gesture of love, just a “real” story. If you like historical fiction that focuses on its story instead of details, Beloved is your kind of read. It’s a tender narrative that reminds of the importance of forgiveness.
With thanks to Litfuse and the publisher for providing a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing purposes
© Copyright 2011-2013 Dreaming Under the Same Moon / Scribbles, Scripts and Such
STORY: Diana has had a tough childhood. Orphaned at only six, she along with her two siblings were put on the orphan train west. Unlike her siblings, Diana was adopted by a loving couple who gave her a world of love; she grew up spoiled, fell in love with the 20-something Tyson Applegate when she was only seventeen… and married him. It isn’t long into their young marriage Diana learns that Tyson married her for an inheritance and then… he walks out on Diana and his family. Now, seven years later, Tyson has returned on the eve of her planned engagement. Only trouble is, he isn’t willing to let Diana go and she isn’t so sure that Tyson has really changed.
REVIEW: It’s been forever since I read a novel by Hatcher and I have to admit, I’ve did miss her easy, breezy style. I can vaguely remember reading Speak to me of Love and from then on, I wanted to read every book she wrote. Beloved is a sweeter, much more lighthearted story full of characters that are easy to like albeit flawed human beings. Instead of being full of historical details, here we are enjoy a heartwarming picture of redemption. The style of the book pauses from the present nearly every chapter to visit the past through either Diana or Tyson’s perspective at some point in their courting or married life. It's an interesting way to share the backstory and each instance remains short, something I appreciate.
Tying up all the “loose ends” goes down too “neatly” however I know there are some books in which I’ve overlooked this solution; in particular, the convenience card is played by way of a “secondary” relationship going romantic that is unnecessary. It's nice that the siblings don’t play any larger part in Diana’s story than they do, especially since I’ve yet to read the prior two novels (Belonging, Betrayal). Balancing against some of the flaws, I did enjoy this as a more mature love story in fiction. As a 17- and 25-year-old, Diana and Tyson were foolish but as adults, seven years later, there's no sweeping gesture of love, just a “real” story. If you like historical fiction that focuses on its story instead of details, Beloved is your kind of read. It’s a tender narrative that reminds of the importance of forgiveness.
With thanks to Litfuse and the publisher for providing a complimentary copy of this book for reviewing purposes
© Copyright 2011-2013 Dreaming Under the Same Moon / Scribbles, Scripts and Such
August 20, 2022
Great series. I read all three in the same day, and really enjoyed them
October 18, 2013
Not having read the first two books in “Where the Heart Lives” series, I was a bit at a disadvantage as to their stories being connected or related to the characters in Beloved. However that didn’t diminish my interest and enjoyment of this skillfully orchestrated tale of Diana Brennan Applegate and Tyson Applegate’s awkward twist of the unexpected. Ms Hatcher wrote a whopping shock wave in the first few lines that hooked my curiosity without a doubt. Diana Applegate and Brook Calhoun were about to announce their engagement when Diana’s dead husband appeared –not as a ghostly figure, but alive laying claim to his bride!
Before continuing the story, Robin Lee Hatcher recounts some background about Diana Brennan as a six year old and two siblings traveling on an orphan train westward to find families willing to give them a home. The children were separated when Diana was chosen by the Fisher family who raised her with love. At seventeen Diana marries Tyson Applegate, son of wealthy Jeremiah Applegate, a tyrannical mining tycoon. Tyson has an ulterior motive for marrying Diana, which will be revealed progressively. Diana’s heart is broken when Tyson abandons her and defies his father to “do his own thing” for years and eventually winds up in Cuba with Roosevelt’s Rough Riders. Diana received a message that Tyson was missing and presumed dead. The living Tyson had caught wind of Diana and Brooke’s impending marriage and decided he should do what is right and stop the whole thing before the proceedings Diana had started to declare him dead progressed.
Tyson has found redemption in Christ and come to the realization that Diana is his “Beloved” and returns to Idaho a changed man. He is praying for the chance to prove this to Diana through a proposal with subsequent intentions that explain his need for her to continue as his wife….for at least six months. He bought a lovely large estate in Boise and announced his candidacy for the Senate. If she decides after six months to leave, Tyler would not grant a divorce, but would continue to provide the home for her and her mother, Gloria Fisher, as well as a hefty allowance for life. Diana eventually agrees to the six month trial period even though she is untrusting and bitter. She is not willing to have her heart broken twice and ensues with prudence.
Beginning in the 1880’s and crossing over into the next century – early 1900’s, the historic facts are real, the emotions are real – although confused and misplaced at times; and the fictional writing is awesome! The reader of Beloved can be sure of some uproarious fun and frolic from new characters adding their personalities to the blend, which caused tears to flow through my laughter at Ms Hatcher’s wit. There is more than one character who is not who they seem, as well as mystery of thieving in their midst. Redemption and reconciliation of those seeking God’s grace and love is unconditionally granted. It seems every character has experienced change and new tender realizations that flow throughout the story.
Even though Beloved is a story that can stand alone, it ultimately dawned on me that the characters of each book in this series have been brought to a miraculous gathering truly of God’s design. Robin Lee Hatcher is without a doubt in tune with humanity as we are and who God is. Beloved is one of the most touching stories I’ve read. It is thoughtful and provoking and I heartily recommend it to those wanting their hearts warmed.
Before continuing the story, Robin Lee Hatcher recounts some background about Diana Brennan as a six year old and two siblings traveling on an orphan train westward to find families willing to give them a home. The children were separated when Diana was chosen by the Fisher family who raised her with love. At seventeen Diana marries Tyson Applegate, son of wealthy Jeremiah Applegate, a tyrannical mining tycoon. Tyson has an ulterior motive for marrying Diana, which will be revealed progressively. Diana’s heart is broken when Tyson abandons her and defies his father to “do his own thing” for years and eventually winds up in Cuba with Roosevelt’s Rough Riders. Diana received a message that Tyson was missing and presumed dead. The living Tyson had caught wind of Diana and Brooke’s impending marriage and decided he should do what is right and stop the whole thing before the proceedings Diana had started to declare him dead progressed.
Tyson has found redemption in Christ and come to the realization that Diana is his “Beloved” and returns to Idaho a changed man. He is praying for the chance to prove this to Diana through a proposal with subsequent intentions that explain his need for her to continue as his wife….for at least six months. He bought a lovely large estate in Boise and announced his candidacy for the Senate. If she decides after six months to leave, Tyler would not grant a divorce, but would continue to provide the home for her and her mother, Gloria Fisher, as well as a hefty allowance for life. Diana eventually agrees to the six month trial period even though she is untrusting and bitter. She is not willing to have her heart broken twice and ensues with prudence.
Beginning in the 1880’s and crossing over into the next century – early 1900’s, the historic facts are real, the emotions are real – although confused and misplaced at times; and the fictional writing is awesome! The reader of Beloved can be sure of some uproarious fun and frolic from new characters adding their personalities to the blend, which caused tears to flow through my laughter at Ms Hatcher’s wit. There is more than one character who is not who they seem, as well as mystery of thieving in their midst. Redemption and reconciliation of those seeking God’s grace and love is unconditionally granted. It seems every character has experienced change and new tender realizations that flow throughout the story.
Even though Beloved is a story that can stand alone, it ultimately dawned on me that the characters of each book in this series have been brought to a miraculous gathering truly of God’s design. Robin Lee Hatcher is without a doubt in tune with humanity as we are and who God is. Beloved is one of the most touching stories I’ve read. It is thoughtful and provoking and I heartily recommend it to those wanting their hearts warmed.
November 15, 2013
This was the first book I've ever read by Robin Lee Hatcher, and though it wasn't a huge favorite for me, I did enjoy it and would consider it a nice, quick, one-time read.
Being that this was the first book I've read by Robin Lee Hatcher, I really didn't know how much I would enjoy Beloved. However after reading it, I'm glad I was able to, and enjoyed the story. This book was very unique to me, because unlike most romance novels that focus on how the two people meet, this book was all about this couple's marriage - which is something you don't see portrayed in novels a lot now days. I found it very unique and different from any other novel I've read. I really liked Robin's writing style, and the course of events and how they were strategically placed in a certain order to add definition to the story. For instance, at the end of every chapter, there would be a flash-back of sorts, to before the two main characters were married, giving insight to the story before the story, so to speak. I sometimes noticed that Robin would strategically have a flash back that would relate to the current place in the story, and found it to be a really neat writing style, that I liked.
At first when I started reading Beloved, honestly I wasn't crazy about the story line of a woman who was married, but assumed to be a widow since she hadn't heard from her husband in seven years since he left for war; to all the sudden have her husband who she thought dead, show up at her party with her fiancée. Kind of unexpected. =) It definitely is a unique plot, but for some reason it didn't really make me super excited about the story. It may have been that it seemed a little unrealistic for me, but I'm not sure. However as the story progressed I liked seeing how Tyson had changed since leaving Diana, and how the Lord saved Him, turning his life around and how he began living for Christ. I also enjoyed seeing how this new relationship with Christ changed his actions; and most importantly the way he treated his wife. It was a neat story of redemption and making up for things of the past.
I really enjoyed the little boy in this story, Ned. He just added so much to the story for me. Maybe it's because I love little children in a story, as it brings out the best in a person, and it certainly did for Diana as it brought out her kind-hearted personality. I loved seeing how Diana and Tyson took Ned in, and gave him a chance and made his life so much better because of the love that was shown to him.
Another thing I did like about this book is how, despite the title, the romance was very clean and minimal. There was just enough to keep the story sweet, but wasn't overpowering or the main focus of the story, which I really appreciated.
Overall, though I don't consider Beloved a favorite of this year, I'm glad I was able to read it and loved Robin's writing style. The ending was interesting as well! I would recommend this book for ages 13+ due to brief topics covered, and since the overall plot is about a man trying to win back his wife.
N O T E :: I received a complementary copy of Beloved from Litfuse and Zondervan publishers to read and review. I was not paid to do so, nor am I required to give a good review if I didn't like the book. All thoughts expressed in the review are completely my own, and unbiased by the free book.
Being that this was the first book I've read by Robin Lee Hatcher, I really didn't know how much I would enjoy Beloved. However after reading it, I'm glad I was able to, and enjoyed the story. This book was very unique to me, because unlike most romance novels that focus on how the two people meet, this book was all about this couple's marriage - which is something you don't see portrayed in novels a lot now days. I found it very unique and different from any other novel I've read. I really liked Robin's writing style, and the course of events and how they were strategically placed in a certain order to add definition to the story. For instance, at the end of every chapter, there would be a flash-back of sorts, to before the two main characters were married, giving insight to the story before the story, so to speak. I sometimes noticed that Robin would strategically have a flash back that would relate to the current place in the story, and found it to be a really neat writing style, that I liked.
At first when I started reading Beloved, honestly I wasn't crazy about the story line of a woman who was married, but assumed to be a widow since she hadn't heard from her husband in seven years since he left for war; to all the sudden have her husband who she thought dead, show up at her party with her fiancée. Kind of unexpected. =) It definitely is a unique plot, but for some reason it didn't really make me super excited about the story. It may have been that it seemed a little unrealistic for me, but I'm not sure. However as the story progressed I liked seeing how Tyson had changed since leaving Diana, and how the Lord saved Him, turning his life around and how he began living for Christ. I also enjoyed seeing how this new relationship with Christ changed his actions; and most importantly the way he treated his wife. It was a neat story of redemption and making up for things of the past.
I really enjoyed the little boy in this story, Ned. He just added so much to the story for me. Maybe it's because I love little children in a story, as it brings out the best in a person, and it certainly did for Diana as it brought out her kind-hearted personality. I loved seeing how Diana and Tyson took Ned in, and gave him a chance and made his life so much better because of the love that was shown to him.
Another thing I did like about this book is how, despite the title, the romance was very clean and minimal. There was just enough to keep the story sweet, but wasn't overpowering or the main focus of the story, which I really appreciated.
Overall, though I don't consider Beloved a favorite of this year, I'm glad I was able to read it and loved Robin's writing style. The ending was interesting as well! I would recommend this book for ages 13+ due to brief topics covered, and since the overall plot is about a man trying to win back his wife.
N O T E :: I received a complementary copy of Beloved from Litfuse and Zondervan publishers to read and review. I was not paid to do so, nor am I required to give a good review if I didn't like the book. All thoughts expressed in the review are completely my own, and unbiased by the free book.
October 31, 2013
About the Book:
Diana Brennan came west on the orphan train and was given a home with a loving couple who cherished and spoiled her. At 17, she fell hard for Tyson Applegate, the son of a wealthy mine owner. After a whirlwind courtship and marriage, Tyson took off for adventures around the world, including fighting with the Rough Riders in Cuba. Receiving no word of him for seven years, Diana's infatuation with her dashing husband died an ugly death, and she is ready to move past the old pain and marry again, just as soon as Tyson is declared legally dead.
But when her husband returns, supposedly a changed man, he wants to reunite with his wife and run for the senate. While Diana suspects the election is his real reason for wanting her by his side, she agrees to maintain his home and to campaign with him, but when it is over, win or lose, she wants her freedom. He agrees with one condition----she must give him a chance to change her mind about him.
About the Author:
Robin Lee Hatcher is the bestselling author of 70 books. Her numerous awards include the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award. Robin and her husband currently reside in Idaho. For more information, visit www.robinleehatcher.com.
My Review:
Diana stares blankly at the man who just walked in on her dinner announcing her engagement to the new guy in her life. He was supposedly dead and she hadn't seen him for seven years and now here stands her husband. The man said to have been missing in combat, possibly even dead, stands staring longingly at her. Later she peaks to him and he asks her to meet him the next day, which wouldn't be a big deal accept what he proposes they do that next day. Will she be able to accept this?
Tyson didn't mean to upset her seven year ago and continually do it. But now he's here and he hopes she will see he has changed. He believes deeply in The Creator and has tried to fix his wrongdoings. But he doesn't know if he can prove that to Diana because she to has changed. Will he be able to prove his worth to her?
Brook is the man in the middle. He was engaged to the widow Diana but now she is a married woman. Well, she never actually stopped being one. But when it seems she may just choose Tyson, again, Brook is full of anger. And he needs to find someone to let it out on. But will Tyson be able to stop this crazy man?
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Litfuse Publicity.
Diana Brennan came west on the orphan train and was given a home with a loving couple who cherished and spoiled her. At 17, she fell hard for Tyson Applegate, the son of a wealthy mine owner. After a whirlwind courtship and marriage, Tyson took off for adventures around the world, including fighting with the Rough Riders in Cuba. Receiving no word of him for seven years, Diana's infatuation with her dashing husband died an ugly death, and she is ready to move past the old pain and marry again, just as soon as Tyson is declared legally dead.
But when her husband returns, supposedly a changed man, he wants to reunite with his wife and run for the senate. While Diana suspects the election is his real reason for wanting her by his side, she agrees to maintain his home and to campaign with him, but when it is over, win or lose, she wants her freedom. He agrees with one condition----she must give him a chance to change her mind about him.
About the Author:
Robin Lee Hatcher is the bestselling author of 70 books. Her numerous awards include the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award. Robin and her husband currently reside in Idaho. For more information, visit www.robinleehatcher.com.
My Review:
Diana stares blankly at the man who just walked in on her dinner announcing her engagement to the new guy in her life. He was supposedly dead and she hadn't seen him for seven years and now here stands her husband. The man said to have been missing in combat, possibly even dead, stands staring longingly at her. Later she peaks to him and he asks her to meet him the next day, which wouldn't be a big deal accept what he proposes they do that next day. Will she be able to accept this?
Tyson didn't mean to upset her seven year ago and continually do it. But now he's here and he hopes she will see he has changed. He believes deeply in The Creator and has tried to fix his wrongdoings. But he doesn't know if he can prove that to Diana because she to has changed. Will he be able to prove his worth to her?
Brook is the man in the middle. He was engaged to the widow Diana but now she is a married woman. Well, she never actually stopped being one. But when it seems she may just choose Tyson, again, Brook is full of anger. And he needs to find someone to let it out on. But will Tyson be able to stop this crazy man?
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Litfuse Publicity.
October 31, 2013
I was super excited when I first read about the plot of this book. The first chapter brought on all kinds of uncomfortable feelings for the heroine (Diana), and the main two characters seemed perfectly at odds with one another--and for good reason. They were still married. Her husband (Tyson) who'd left her years before was believed to be dead, and she was on the verge of announcing her engagement to someone else. Tyson needed her to pretend to be his happy wife while he ran for office. Complicated, right? And so much potential for an interesting read!
It's been a long time since I read a book by Robin Lee Hatcher. Probably close to eight years. I thought this book might have what it would take to bring me back... however, it did not. There were just too many things that bugged me about this book as I read. There were points-of-views strewn everywhere. We saw a few small glimpses into the minds of Diana's mother and Tyson's father along the way, as well as the man Diana was set on marrying before Tyson showed up. There were also flashbacks at the end of every chapter that took the reader back to how exactly they'd come to be married and separated in the first place. I also felt as though I hardly knew the main characters because my attention was directed in too many directions at once.
It seemed like the book would involve a complex plot, but to me most of it ended up coming out as contrived and predictable. Because Tyson and Diana were already married and planned to remain so no matter what happened in the six months she agreed to pretend to be his happy wife, there were no stakes that made me want to keep reading. Either they would get back together for real, or they would remain married and live separately... which was too predictable of a "problem" for me to enjoy finding out the solution.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
It's been a long time since I read a book by Robin Lee Hatcher. Probably close to eight years. I thought this book might have what it would take to bring me back... however, it did not. There were just too many things that bugged me about this book as I read. There were points-of-views strewn everywhere. We saw a few small glimpses into the minds of Diana's mother and Tyson's father along the way, as well as the man Diana was set on marrying before Tyson showed up. There were also flashbacks at the end of every chapter that took the reader back to how exactly they'd come to be married and separated in the first place. I also felt as though I hardly knew the main characters because my attention was directed in too many directions at once.
It seemed like the book would involve a complex plot, but to me most of it ended up coming out as contrived and predictable. Because Tyson and Diana were already married and planned to remain so no matter what happened in the six months she agreed to pretend to be his happy wife, there were no stakes that made me want to keep reading. Either they would get back together for real, or they would remain married and live separately... which was too predictable of a "problem" for me to enjoy finding out the solution.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 28, 2013
Title: BELOVED
Author: Robin Lee Hatcher
Publisher: Zondervan
September 2014
ISBN: 978-0310257776
Genre: Historical
Diana Brennan came west on the orphan train and was given a home with a loving couple who cherished and spoiled her. At 17, she fell hard for Tyson Applegate, the son of a wealthy mine owner. After a whirlwind courtship and marriage, Tyson took off for adventures around the world, including fighting with the Rough Riders in Cuba.
Receiving no word of him for seven years, Diana's infatuation with her dashing husband died an ugly death, and she is ready to move past the old pain and marry again, just as soon as Tyson is declared legally dead.
But when her husband returns, supposedly a changed man, he wants to reunite with his wife and run for the senate. While Diana suspects the election is his real reason for wanting her by his side, she agrees to maintain his home and to campaign with him, but when it is over, win or lose, she wants her freedom. He agrees with one condition----she must give him a chance to change her mind about him.
BELOVED is the third book in Ms. Hatcher’s Where the Heart Lives series, but it easily stands alone. I had the privilege of reading the first book in the series, Belonging, but haven’t read Betrayal yet (it is on my wish list.) However, while BELOVED is part of a series about siblings, they do stand alone.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading BELOVED, and recommend this book to all historical fans. Ms. Hatcher has really managed to bring this series to life, helping us to get to know both Diana and Tyson. I hated some of the choices Diana made, and really fell in love with Tyson. I hoped they would work things out. I loved the way some of the secondary characters played out in this story. If you like historical fiction, don’t miss BELOVED or any of the books in this series. Discussion questions and a snippet of another book are included at the end. $14.99. 304 pages.
Author: Robin Lee Hatcher
Publisher: Zondervan
September 2014
ISBN: 978-0310257776
Genre: Historical
Diana Brennan came west on the orphan train and was given a home with a loving couple who cherished and spoiled her. At 17, she fell hard for Tyson Applegate, the son of a wealthy mine owner. After a whirlwind courtship and marriage, Tyson took off for adventures around the world, including fighting with the Rough Riders in Cuba.
Receiving no word of him for seven years, Diana's infatuation with her dashing husband died an ugly death, and she is ready to move past the old pain and marry again, just as soon as Tyson is declared legally dead.
But when her husband returns, supposedly a changed man, he wants to reunite with his wife and run for the senate. While Diana suspects the election is his real reason for wanting her by his side, she agrees to maintain his home and to campaign with him, but when it is over, win or lose, she wants her freedom. He agrees with one condition----she must give him a chance to change her mind about him.
BELOVED is the third book in Ms. Hatcher’s Where the Heart Lives series, but it easily stands alone. I had the privilege of reading the first book in the series, Belonging, but haven’t read Betrayal yet (it is on my wish list.) However, while BELOVED is part of a series about siblings, they do stand alone.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading BELOVED, and recommend this book to all historical fans. Ms. Hatcher has really managed to bring this series to life, helping us to get to know both Diana and Tyson. I hated some of the choices Diana made, and really fell in love with Tyson. I hoped they would work things out. I loved the way some of the secondary characters played out in this story. If you like historical fiction, don’t miss BELOVED or any of the books in this series. Discussion questions and a snippet of another book are included at the end. $14.99. 304 pages.
October 8, 2013
Diana's life has been a strange mix of ups and downs. She was orphaned at six years old and sent on the orphan train. Loving parents adopted her and gave her a new life. While still a teenager Diana fell in love with Tyson Applegate, the son of a very wealthy and influential man. But it isn't long before Diana finds out that Tyson married her to make his father angry and gain control of his inheritance. She is soon abandoned as Tyson leaves with no intention of returning. Years later, thinking he is dead, she agrees to marry another man. Tyson shows up at her engagement party wanting to reconcile. Diana isn't really ready to give Tyson another chance, but finds herself with very little choices.
I really enjoyed this book. The author did a great job of telling a love story and weaving God's love for us throughout. There were romantic, suspenseful, and spiritual aspects to this book. The humorous elements were a bonus. It all added up to make a very enjoyable read. I will definitely be checking out other books by this author.
I received this book free of charge from Booksneeze in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed this book. The author did a great job of telling a love story and weaving God's love for us throughout. There were romantic, suspenseful, and spiritual aspects to this book. The humorous elements were a bonus. It all added up to make a very enjoyable read. I will definitely be checking out other books by this author.
I received this book free of charge from Booksneeze in exchange for my honest review.
October 31, 2013
I found the story very interesting and enjoyed reading how both Diana and Tyson had done a lot of growing up proving that mature love can be so powerful. What seemed like a selfish act on Tyson's part to have Diana act as a loving wife was really his way of wanting her to see how much he had changed. It is a sad fact but sometimes we need to go through some really hard times to finally see that God has been calling us to him. I can relate to this story since I myself went through a lot of pain when I was younger and it took God's help for me to be able to forget and get on with my life. If only we would listen sooner we could save ourselves a lot of heartache. I enjoyed this book so much that I would love to read the other two books in the series.
September 15, 2017
The last in Hatcher's "Where the Heart Lives" series, Beloved tells the story of the youngest Brennan sibling, Diana whose husband deserted her and is believed dead. He returns the night on which she and Brook Calhoun intend to announce their engagement. Like Betrayal, this book tackles hard issues such as spousal abandonment, forgiveness and reconciliation.
One criticism I had was the flashbacks which at times detracted from the story and the "villain" plotline was slightly grating and distracted somewhat as well. Also, at times I became frustrated with the portrayal of Diana's husband Tyson, though I appreciated Hatcher's depiction of his personal and spiritual growth. Ultimately, the sincere, portrayal of biblical themes make it a worthwhile read.
One criticism I had was the flashbacks which at times detracted from the story and the "villain" plotline was slightly grating and distracted somewhat as well. Also, at times I became frustrated with the portrayal of Diana's husband Tyson, though I appreciated Hatcher's depiction of his personal and spiritual growth. Ultimately, the sincere, portrayal of biblical themes make it a worthwhile read.
September 25, 2013
Diana Applegate was abandoned by her husband, Tyson, years ago and believes he is dead. She's ready to remarry and move on with her life when suddenly he shows up at her engagement dinner wanting to reunite and show her he is a changed man. He also wants to run for the Senate and needs her. She agrees to stay with him until the race is over and then wants her freedom.
This is a cute story with such likeable characters. Hatcher is talented and brings a wonderful story of love and forgiveness. This one is hard to put down. 5 stars from me!
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This is a cute story with such likeable characters. Hatcher is talented and brings a wonderful story of love and forgiveness. This one is hard to put down. 5 stars from me!
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 24, 2013
Loved this series and was pleased with the conclusion. Beloved gives an insightfulness to being abandoned and learning to trust again. Made me sad and slightly uncomfortable with some circumstances, but was beautifully redeeming. This book has one of the best, catches your attention, opening sentences for any first chapter, ever!
September 29, 2013
As much as I enjoy most of Robin Lee Hatcher's stories, I was disappointed in Beloved.
I absolutely loved the first book of this series Belonging. The second book of this series,
Betrayal was fine, but not up to the level of Belonging.
I absolutely loved the first book of this series Belonging. The second book of this series,
Betrayal was fine, but not up to the level of Belonging.
March 1, 2014
I liked the first two books in this series better.
November 15, 2013
Well, this series just got worse as it went along. I read a half dozen chapters before I gave up and skipped to the end. Even at the end it was lame.
February 17, 2014
Really slow, no character development...
August 25, 2014
This was such a sweet story between two people who had to learn how to trust in God to mend their marriage.
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March 11, 2023What a delight to "help" (as the author) each of the three orphans in the Where the Heart Lives series find happiness. It's one of the perks of being a novelist.
March 26, 2024
Diana was six years old when her mother died, and she was sent west on an orphan train. The Fishers, a loving couple from Montana, adopted her. When she was seventeen, she met Tyson Applegate and fell in love. Tyson wed Diana shortly after in defiance of his father and to receive his inheritance. They moved into the Applegate mansion in Idaho, but several months later, Tyson left, seeking adventure around the world.
Seven years later, Tyson returns a changed man and wants to make things right with Diana. Tyson asks Diana to give him six months to prove himself in exchange for standing by his side and supporting his run for senator. In a secondary story, Tyson joins in the search to reunite the Brennan family.
Beloved is the third book in Where The Heart Lives by Robin Lee Hatcher. This historical romance was my favorite one of the series. I loved Tyson (after his salvation) and his devotion to Diana. The epilogue was perfect.
I purchased a paperback copy of this book.
Seven years later, Tyson returns a changed man and wants to make things right with Diana. Tyson asks Diana to give him six months to prove himself in exchange for standing by his side and supporting his run for senator. In a secondary story, Tyson joins in the search to reunite the Brennan family.
Beloved is the third book in Where The Heart Lives by Robin Lee Hatcher. This historical romance was my favorite one of the series. I loved Tyson (after his salvation) and his devotion to Diana. The epilogue was perfect.
I purchased a paperback copy of this book.
July 4, 2017
Tyson married Diana to spite his father and gain his independence. Diana married him because she truly loved him and knew he felt the same--but she soon realized she was wrong. When he left her and never returned, everyone presumed him to be dead. At Diana's engagement dinner, Tyson showed up again--after 7 years--claiming to be a changed man from the selfish man he'd been. He wants a second chance.
The characters are well developed. I felt the emotions of betrayal myself as I read this book. I understood Diana's fear to give her heart to the man who had hurt her so deeply. The changes in Tyson were believable. An interesting book to read.
The characters are well developed. I felt the emotions of betrayal myself as I read this book. I understood Diana's fear to give her heart to the man who had hurt her so deeply. The changes in Tyson were believable. An interesting book to read.
December 18, 2019
The period of the library loan ended before I finish this book. I'm not going to check the book out again even though I only have about 25% of the book left to read. It just creeps along at a snail's pace and simply isn't very interesting to read. So far every plot point is well aparent before it appears in the written word and I just can't find any motivation to check it out and finish reading it. Robin Lee Hatcher generally writes books I enjoy. So I don't know if it's this particular book or just the hubbub of life right now. 🤷
June 8, 2019
This book grabbed my attention with the opening line of the first chapter, about how unthoughtful it was that Diana's about to be declared dead husband makes his appearance at Diana's engagement party! I had thought this might be a light hearted book, but instead welcomed a serious look at how to try to make amends for dreadful years of ignoring and hurting one's wife, as well as how a wounded wife can begin to forgive and to love and trust again. I loved how the story came together at the end!
January 2, 2022
This was a difficult story to read at times because there is such a need for forgiveness and, as a woman, sometimes it's hard to forgive even a fictional character who has done another (fictional) woman wrong. But this is such a great story of redemption, starting over, becoming new in Christ, giving up your will for God's will--all the things that are so important and leave a deep mark on your heart.
June 17, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed this last in the series! So glad that it came full circle with all the siblings!!!! It is a very Christian book, so it is clean and exciting and fun to read. I did enjoy this audible reading (only version my library owned). I'm glad I was able to find ways to listen (such as while gardening), and that I had a last minute 90 minute drive to finish it, as I was helping a granddaughter move in to her first apartment.
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July 11, 2019I had a hard time getting into this book. Honestly Tyson leaving for seven year and then comes back was hard to even read and I had a difficult time liking his character for it. I skipped to the end because I wanted to read when she met her family (The characters in the previous two books) and the last few chapters were good. I may have to give this another try sometime....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2023
I would never have read this book on my own, but it was assigned to me by my Traveling Tea Book Group as we "visited" Idaho. It was very formulaic and predictable. The characters are so shallow. I skim read the last half just to finish for the group's sake. I can't say I gained anything, not even entertainment, from reading this. Not my cup of tea.
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