What do you think?
The Heart of the West #3
A Love of Her Own
April McBride has suffered a broken engagement once before and fully intends to guard her heart when she travels to Lewistown, Montana, to attend her brother's wedding. One look around the small mining town convinces April that this won't be difficult--just a bunch of dusty shops, bad service, and ill-bred cowboys. But a run-in with a horse trainer named Wes Owen opens up vast possibilities for frustration, embarrassment, friendship, and . . . love? Can April and Wes see past their differences in order to envision a future together?
Readers will love going on this adventurous, spark-filled ride through turn-of-the-century Montana.
Readers will love going on this adventurous, spark-filled ride through turn-of-the-century Montana.
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2010
About the author
Maggie Brendan
19 books283 followersMaggie Brendan is a CBA bestselling author, of the Heart of the West and The Blue Willow Brides series. Winner of the 2014 Book Buyers Best Award (OCC/RWA) for Inspirational Fiction and the 2013 Laurel Wreath Award, she was a finalist for the 2013 Published Maggie Award of Excellence and the 2013 Heart of Excellence Readers’ Choice Award. Her new series Virtues and Vices of the Old West began with The Trouble with Patience released in February, 2015. A Sweet Misfortune will release February 2016. Follow Maggie on her website www.MaggieBrendan.com, her blog www.SouthernBelleWriter.blogspot.com, Twitter: @MaggieBrendan and Pinterest:https://www.pinterest.com/maggiebrendan/
Instagram:https://www.instgram.com/maggiebrendan.
Instagram:https://www.instgram.com/maggiebrendan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
October 13, 2009
Originally, in reading the first book in the Hearts of the West Series, No Place for a Lady (Heart of the West, #1) I had to say: Having a plot line that starts and grows with tragedy, this is a novel that grabs your heart and makes you silently or even sometimes verbally cheer on the heroine to succeed at her current goal. Maggie Brendan has done well with her first novel and I definitely look forward to more. This is easily one of those stories where you are screaming for the characters to see what you as a reader are seeing. There are times where I thought something would come out differently, but with the story coming to a close I could not have imagined anything better than the way it was itself. I cannot wait for the next book in the series!!
My review of the second in the series, The Jewel of His Heart: The romantic prose of Maggie Brendan is very visual and a reader can easily imagine what it was in Montana in the late period of the 1800s. The writing and characterization of the protagonist was good, I could tell, because they aggravated me to no end with the decisions and flip flops of emotions. A slight thing that threw me was some of the serious events that occurred in the lives of our main characters and how quickly the story just seemed to move forward without much time for the characters much less a reader to reflect. This is a sequel in continuing the life of main character Josh McBride from No Place for a Lady yet this story completely holds it’s own as a stand-alone. Once a cattle-rancher’s son, McBride is attempting to make his own as a sheepherder. The details of the life are intriguing and as a reader going along for the journey one routes for Josh to succeed. Juliana Brady has had it rough and has her pride, but with each day as she grows closer to Christ she learns a bit more of what He has in store. I definitely plan to read more titles to come from Maggie Brendan. This was a great story, I just did not personally mesh with the character’s personalities and felt they were quick to jump and assume, but then that just hits a nerve. The romance is vivid and chill bumps present, this is one to read with imagination and time to reflect the lessons within as well as revel in the kisses stolen.
This third and final end to the trilogy I just could not do. From page five, I despised the main character. She is a snobbish, self centered, arrogant girl. She will do things that will start to make her have a personality worth attention, and then reverts back to idiocy. While everyone deserves love and redemption, her story just was not one that held me. While that is said, I know many of my friends read and loved the novel.
It seems that Carly just loved the book. She was left with a happy feeling and cannot wait to see what Maggie Brendan writes next.
http://carlybirdshome.blogspot.com/20...
![BookReviewsbyBuuklvr81]()
src="http://i692.photobucket.com/albums/vv282/buuklvr81/Decorated%20images/BookReviewLink-4.png"/>Then Molly finds Maggie Brendan to be an exceptional author. She recommends this book with the highest praise. http://buuklvr81.blogspot.com/2010/06...
![]()
src=" http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad320/steelergirl83/meandcoco-1.png?t=1253508079"/>And another friend of mine, Renee who loves most all the same authors and genre as I do praises this series as well. She says that April is a heroine unlike any that she has ever met.
Just because this was not a book that I loved, many other people have and highly recommend it. It was just not my cup of tea, but try it for yourself, you may love it like these ladies did.
*Thanks to Revell Books for providing a copy for review.*
My review of the second in the series, The Jewel of His Heart: The romantic prose of Maggie Brendan is very visual and a reader can easily imagine what it was in Montana in the late period of the 1800s. The writing and characterization of the protagonist was good, I could tell, because they aggravated me to no end with the decisions and flip flops of emotions. A slight thing that threw me was some of the serious events that occurred in the lives of our main characters and how quickly the story just seemed to move forward without much time for the characters much less a reader to reflect. This is a sequel in continuing the life of main character Josh McBride from No Place for a Lady yet this story completely holds it’s own as a stand-alone. Once a cattle-rancher’s son, McBride is attempting to make his own as a sheepherder. The details of the life are intriguing and as a reader going along for the journey one routes for Josh to succeed. Juliana Brady has had it rough and has her pride, but with each day as she grows closer to Christ she learns a bit more of what He has in store. I definitely plan to read more titles to come from Maggie Brendan. This was a great story, I just did not personally mesh with the character’s personalities and felt they were quick to jump and assume, but then that just hits a nerve. The romance is vivid and chill bumps present, this is one to read with imagination and time to reflect the lessons within as well as revel in the kisses stolen.
This third and final end to the trilogy I just could not do. From page five, I despised the main character. She is a snobbish, self centered, arrogant girl. She will do things that will start to make her have a personality worth attention, and then reverts back to idiocy. While everyone deserves love and redemption, her story just was not one that held me. While that is said, I know many of my friends read and loved the novel.
It seems that Carly just loved the book. She was left with a happy feeling and cannot wait to see what Maggie Brendan writes next.
http://carlybirdshome.blogspot.com/20...
Just because this was not a book that I loved, many other people have and highly recommend it. It was just not my cup of tea, but try it for yourself, you may love it like these ladies did.
*Thanks to Revell Books for providing a copy for review.*
June 1, 2010
A Love of Her Own was a nice western romance. Maggie did a good job at capturing the feel of the west. There were a lot of characters, but each one added a little something nice to the story. I didn't exactly care for Maggie's writing, but it grew on me a little. As I started getting to know April, I really didn't like her. She was a stupid, spoiled, mean brat, who didn't really care for anyone and expected everyone to do something for her. Although she was very capable of handling horses and getting stuff done when absoultely needed. As the story went along she became softer as she went through little trials, and grew closer to the people around her. The romance between her and Wes was sweet, and the kissing scenes were done well. One thing that I didn't like was the ending. It was kind of rushed. I felt like April's parents should have been there. But, overall, it was a pretty good romance novel. It made me want to read more of these type of western books.
July 12, 2010
Okay, first off, when I signed up to win this book, I was mistakenly under the impression that this was going to be Historical Fiction. When I discovered that first and foremost, it was Christian Fiction, I thought in all fairness that I would give it a whirl, putting aside all of my experienced notions I have with the genre. Perhaps, I thought, this one would be different, but, eh, that was not to be.
In most Christian Fiction that I have read, plot and characters are pretty thin. This is despite the seriousnes of the subject. Folks in these stories come to their convictions within a paragraph or two without question, query, or any kind of fall-out. There is no cost, just more pastel happiness.
Maggie Brendan's characters, with the exception of the Stage manager, experience very little hardship. Funny thing, it is the Stage Manager that I would have loved to hear more about, as he comes across as the most interesting of the group. But that, of couse, would distract from the main theme of this book, which is the love story between a wealthy spoiled brat and a lonely horse trainer. The characters are all pretty stock and partnered up, and the author moves things along at a quick enough pace so that we only get a glimmer of what they may perhaps really be like, and their motivation beyond having, getting a spouse of one form or another.
I know that many Christian Fiction readers frown upon the Fantasy genre, but to me, this at times comes across as a greater fantasy than anything penned by an offical author of that genre, as the reader must firmly affix their pink-tinted lenses before gazing outward at their two dimensional world.
History to me is more than just what people wore, and where the buildings were located--but what they thought, and why, their mannerisms and political leanings that lead to certain events taking place.
All and all, a disappointment, but not an unexpected one.
In most Christian Fiction that I have read, plot and characters are pretty thin. This is despite the seriousnes of the subject. Folks in these stories come to their convictions within a paragraph or two without question, query, or any kind of fall-out. There is no cost, just more pastel happiness.
Maggie Brendan's characters, with the exception of the Stage manager, experience very little hardship. Funny thing, it is the Stage Manager that I would have loved to hear more about, as he comes across as the most interesting of the group. But that, of couse, would distract from the main theme of this book, which is the love story between a wealthy spoiled brat and a lonely horse trainer. The characters are all pretty stock and partnered up, and the author moves things along at a quick enough pace so that we only get a glimmer of what they may perhaps really be like, and their motivation beyond having, getting a spouse of one form or another.
I know that many Christian Fiction readers frown upon the Fantasy genre, but to me, this at times comes across as a greater fantasy than anything penned by an offical author of that genre, as the reader must firmly affix their pink-tinted lenses before gazing outward at their two dimensional world.
History to me is more than just what people wore, and where the buildings were located--but what they thought, and why, their mannerisms and political leanings that lead to certain events taking place.
All and all, a disappointment, but not an unexpected one.
November 21, 2009
I'm a huge fan of edgy inspirational authors Julie Lessman and Deeanne Gist but when it comes to sweet romances Maggie Brendan is my "go to" author. Her writing style puts me in mind of Janette Oke and Tracie Peterson, whose work I read when I was introduced to Christian fiction.
The Heart of the West series has been really enjoyable and this last book, A Love of Her Own is a perfect ending to the series. April, who we first met in No Place for a Lady is the heroine of this book. Somewhat of a spoiled brat, she's not very likable at first but as the story goes along she gets better. Ms. Brendan does a wonderful job in making April a heroine unlike any I've ever read about, that's for sure and in my opinion, the cover design folks did a great job capturing April to a T! Of course the romance is sweet and I just love the interaction between Wes and April. When two stubborn people get together you know there's chaos. You're bound to get a few chuckles out of this book, I know I did!
If you're looking for a light read on a Sunday afternoon this book is a great choice. I recommend starting with Book 1, No Place For a Lady if you want to get to know the other characters but it's not completely necessary to understand this story. Heart of the West is a series to read for lovers of faith-filled western romance!
* I received my free copy from the publisher to review. I'm also an influencer for the author.*
The Heart of the West series has been really enjoyable and this last book, A Love of Her Own is a perfect ending to the series. April, who we first met in No Place for a Lady is the heroine of this book. Somewhat of a spoiled brat, she's not very likable at first but as the story goes along she gets better. Ms. Brendan does a wonderful job in making April a heroine unlike any I've ever read about, that's for sure and in my opinion, the cover design folks did a great job capturing April to a T! Of course the romance is sweet and I just love the interaction between Wes and April. When two stubborn people get together you know there's chaos. You're bound to get a few chuckles out of this book, I know I did!
If you're looking for a light read on a Sunday afternoon this book is a great choice. I recommend starting with Book 1, No Place For a Lady if you want to get to know the other characters but it's not completely necessary to understand this story. Heart of the West is a series to read for lovers of faith-filled western romance!
* I received my free copy from the publisher to review. I'm also an influencer for the author.*
April 15, 2020
Rating: 5 Stars (Wish i could rate it 10 stars!!)
Review:
This was my first time reading a book by Maggie and might i say it wont be the last.
This story was set in 1896 Colorado and Texas which reminded me ALOT of the Lori Wick and Janette Oak books that i read as a teen.
The storyline, plot, characters and settings were very enjoyable and easy to get into. At first i wasnt a fan of Cassie cause of the attitude she carried with her from Colorado to Texas BUT over time she let go of that and i fell in love with her character.
Im glad her and Wes got their happy ending!! Can't wait to read more by Maggie in the future!!
Review:
This was my first time reading a book by Maggie and might i say it wont be the last.
This story was set in 1896 Colorado and Texas which reminded me ALOT of the Lori Wick and Janette Oak books that i read as a teen.
The storyline, plot, characters and settings were very enjoyable and easy to get into. At first i wasnt a fan of Cassie cause of the attitude she carried with her from Colorado to Texas BUT over time she let go of that and i fell in love with her character.
Im glad her and Wes got their happy ending!! Can't wait to read more by Maggie in the future!!
October 21, 2014
April gets an invite to her Bothers Wedding and needs to travel via train. But when the train ride ends then still 100 miles+ to travel via stage coach. Not fun for someone spoiled.
Barely makes it to her Brother's wedding and not in the way she had planned. Everything seems to be going wrong for her: reservations not at the motel so had to stay in a boarding house. April is used to be waited on. But she finally makes friends, and the story takes a turn.
It's fun to see how her life changes and she begins to think of others needs, ahead of her wants. Really enjoyed the book.
Barely makes it to her Brother's wedding and not in the way she had planned. Everything seems to be going wrong for her: reservations not at the motel so had to stay in a boarding house. April is used to be waited on. But she finally makes friends, and the story takes a turn.
It's fun to see how her life changes and she begins to think of others needs, ahead of her wants. Really enjoyed the book.
June 1, 2010
I read all three books in this series. I really wanted to like these books but it was hard for me. The writing didn't flow very well and seemed a little sporadic. There was not a lot of depth. I really had a hard time with the love interest going back and forth so many times. One minute they're kissing and then literally the next second they're fighting. And it wasn't just once or twice...that kind of thing happened in all three of the books.
February 18, 2014
People complain about the characters and the plot line, which you know, maybe they're right, maybe they're wrong, all a matter of opinion. However when I read the book it wasn't any of those things that made me gag and die a little inside, instead it was the awful writing style, the implausible speech of the characters and overall just the flow of how things were said. I finished the book, but it was a struggle.
Read
June 12, 2010Move over Scarlett O’Hara! Maggie Brendan treats readers to a spoiled, self-centered heroine whose comeuppance is a pure delight to read. In her strongest novel yet, Brendan gives us much more than a romance. We get to watch a whole cast of characters’ lives change, all because of one woman who wouldn’t let anything stop her from attending her brother’s wedding. What fun!
February 8, 2015
Maggie Brendan seems to have a knack for creating heroines I either dislike or can't build a rapport with. This one is an abrasive, spoiled brat and I'm actually interested in seeing her improve, but I don't think I will. As I'm reading this I feel like I've missed info from the previous books, but I've already tried reading the first of the series and gave up.
June 14, 2015
I loved the spunkiness of the characters and how God works on changing us after salvation. Truly an enjoyable read.
June 21, 2026
a love all her own ~ maggie brendan ⪼---➢ june 19-20, 2026
────୨ৎ───────୨ৎ───────୨ৎ──────
rating: ★ ★ ★ .75
2026 🕮: 13/75
𝗡𝗼𝘄 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴 ♪
unknown title
𝟷:𝟺𝟶 ────●─────── 𝟹:𝟸𝟽
⇄ ⏮ ⏸ ⏭ ↻
୨ৎ well, i finally finished this series, and i have to say, rating the series as a whole, i’d probably give it 3.5 stars. it wasn’t my favorite historical fiction series, but it wasn’t the worst by any means.
୨♡୧ things i loved ୨♡୧
╰┈➤ i did enjoy april’s character, and even though many people would probably label her as “unlikable,” ironically, i always like those characters because (when written well) they have both good and bad qualities, which make the character more realistic. i also enjoyed seeing the “spoiled rich girl” trope but with a little added twist where she wasn’t completely a “wait on me hand and foot and would never be caught dead or alive getting her hands dirty” type. april actually reminded me a little bit of my character, emily, from one of my wips, so that also made her character enjoyable to read!!
╰┈➤ the romance between her and wes was sweet, and i really did like how they both have tempers and they rubbed off on each other in good ways. they definitely had a good start to their relationship, i think.
⊹₊✎⋆. things i didn’t love & could’ve been improved ⊹₊✎⋆.
╰┈➤ honestly, i think the only thing that could have been improved was that there weren’t a lot of times where i felt like i was “inside the character’s head” and it felt like i was watching the story unfold from the outside rather than right alongside the character. otherwise, this wasn’t a bad read.
˚𓆩♡𓆪˚ i love you!!! until i turn the next page xoxo ˚𓆩♡𓆪˚
────୨ৎ───────୨ৎ───────୨ৎ──────
rating: ★ ★ ★ .75
2026 🕮: 13/75
𝗡𝗼𝘄 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴 ♪
unknown title
𝟷:𝟺𝟶 ────●─────── 𝟹:𝟸𝟽
⇄ ⏮ ⏸ ⏭ ↻
୨ৎ well, i finally finished this series, and i have to say, rating the series as a whole, i’d probably give it 3.5 stars. it wasn’t my favorite historical fiction series, but it wasn’t the worst by any means.
୨♡୧ things i loved ୨♡୧
╰┈➤ i did enjoy april’s character, and even though many people would probably label her as “unlikable,” ironically, i always like those characters because (when written well) they have both good and bad qualities, which make the character more realistic. i also enjoyed seeing the “spoiled rich girl” trope but with a little added twist where she wasn’t completely a “wait on me hand and foot and would never be caught dead or alive getting her hands dirty” type. april actually reminded me a little bit of my character, emily, from one of my wips, so that also made her character enjoyable to read!!
╰┈➤ the romance between her and wes was sweet, and i really did like how they both have tempers and they rubbed off on each other in good ways. they definitely had a good start to their relationship, i think.
⊹₊✎⋆. things i didn’t love & could’ve been improved ⊹₊✎⋆.
╰┈➤ honestly, i think the only thing that could have been improved was that there weren’t a lot of times where i felt like i was “inside the character’s head” and it felt like i was watching the story unfold from the outside rather than right alongside the character. otherwise, this wasn’t a bad read.
˚𓆩♡𓆪˚ i love you!!! until i turn the next page xoxo ˚𓆩♡𓆪˚
September 26, 2026
I got this used because the main character is named April and got it for my friend April. But honestly it’s not worth wasting your time.
It’s predictable and cheesy. I think a teenager might like it. The characters are young and immature. There’s no depth to them.
I also hated the archaic ideas. Twice men “joke” about spanking women. WHAT?!! Why would you ever joke about that in a Christian book?! I was shocked and horrified. Never in my life have I heard language that degrading. It was NOT funny at all. I don’t know how the editors let it in there. Absolutely awful. Do people actually joke about that? Not in my world! My dad, grandpa, no one alive today would ever find that funny.
There were other little things like that about women that just irked me.
It’s an older book but not thaaat old. Be warned.
It’s predictable and cheesy. I think a teenager might like it. The characters are young and immature. There’s no depth to them.
I also hated the archaic ideas. Twice men “joke” about spanking women. WHAT?!! Why would you ever joke about that in a Christian book?! I was shocked and horrified. Never in my life have I heard language that degrading. It was NOT funny at all. I don’t know how the editors let it in there. Absolutely awful. Do people actually joke about that? Not in my world! My dad, grandpa, no one alive today would ever find that funny.
There were other little things like that about women that just irked me.
It’s an older book but not thaaat old. Be warned.
June 19, 2018
This is the third and final book in Maggie Brendan's Heart of the West series. Initially, I was hesitant to read April's story. I never particularly liked her, but was pleased with the development of her character in this novel. She is still unlikable at first, but by the end you have grown to be quite fond of her outspoken ways. The romance is especially sweet because both April and Wes had to overcome negative personality traits to be ready for a relationship. I enjoyed Miss Margaret's perspectives, and wished that she could have been more involved in the previous two books. Brendan's writing is light, her descriptions accurate, and her stories enjoyable. A great quick read for when you need a heartwarming Christian western romance!
January 2, 2021
Wonderful read!
This series has been wonderful to read during this very isolating time of the global pandemic. It would be good to read anytime but has been extremely dear to me and a great escape during this terrible time in our nation and world. I’m especially impressed with the authors research that really takes you back and makes you feel a part of this wonderful time in our history.
This series has been wonderful to read during this very isolating time of the global pandemic. It would be good to read anytime but has been extremely dear to me and a great escape during this terrible time in our nation and world. I’m especially impressed with the authors research that really takes you back and makes you feel a part of this wonderful time in our history.
September 27, 2025
This is one of my all time favorite books ever! I absolutely love how the main character had a complete change of heart (attitude) towards others. It was all of God! I loved how she began looking for ways to help others instead of only thinking of herself.
I enjoyed this series & how each book’s characters were intertwined to draw the reader to feel like we were right there in the book.
I’d like see this series extended! Will definitely check out her other books!!
Highly recommend!!
I enjoyed this series & how each book’s characters were intertwined to draw the reader to feel like we were right there in the book.
I’d like see this series extended! Will definitely check out her other books!!
Highly recommend!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2026
Wow this was such a great story. From the very beginning I felt God speaking to me through Maggie’s writing. I’ve struggled a lot and I still do with trusting God with my life but Maggie’s story brought me hope. I also love how she wrote the romantic scenes very tenderly but not explicit. I think my favorite scene is when Wes and April share their first kiss.
March 30, 2018
There were a few times the main characters annoyed me but by the end I liked them both.
January 28, 2019
Not a very likeable character, and her transformation is not very believable.
January 17, 2022
I didn't read any of the books written before this one by this author, but this was an interesting story.
April 22, 2022
Very enjoyable story about April. Hoping there will be others to follow. Very good series.
April 25, 2023
This one was hard to get through and was the last one of the series. The first two were good though.
February 4, 2024
I wasn't sure I could finish this book because of the MC female. However, she undergoes a huge character arc that was amazing. I really enjoyed it!
September 19, 2026
A Love of Her Own (The Heart of the West #3) by Maggie Brendan – April was my least favorite leading lady in the series, but this was still a nice western romance! Happy Reading!
September 2, 2017
This was a story of a spoiled rich lady (April) who comes to the realization that money and arrogance cannot buy love or true friendship. Good story showing the maturity of April, through many trials, of being a spoiled brat into a caring and compassionate woman.
May 22, 2010
Maggie Brendan in her new book, "A Love Of Her Own" Book Three in the Heart of the West series published by Revell concludes the series and brings us to Montana in 1896.
April McBride receives an invitation from her brother, Josh, to attend his wedding to Juliana, the characters from the second book, The Jewel Of His Heart. I found that is was not necessary to have read the previous two books to enjoy this one even though the other characters are involved. Even though her parents are traveling abroad April decides that she must not miss her brother's wedding and that she will make the trip from their home in Colorado to where he is in Lewistown, Montana. This is not an easy thing as it will require a long train ride then a stagecoach journey and time is of the essence as the invitation was delayed in getting to her. Events occur that require April to finally take a horse into town wearing a man's shirt, jeans, cowboy hat and boots. No one pays her any attention as they think she is a man and she has no time to change and is forced to attend the wedding dressed like that.
After the wedding she cannot take a room at the hotel as it is full and must room at the boarding house where she must, for the first time, do things like laundry and take care of herself. Up until this point April McBride has been a very spoiled young lady used to having everything handed to her. April also had her guards up on her heart as she had been wounded previously but then she meets Wes Owen.
This book is more than just a great love story it is all about growing up and responsibility and how our attitudes affect others. Ms. Brendan needs to be commended on how she shows us the process of the change and growth in April instead of just telling us that she is changing. All the characters are likable and Ms. Brendan has a way of making the Old West very real so that we feel that we are walking the dusty streets or seeing the blue skies of Montana. I think I want to go and get the other books for myself and see what I missed.
To listen to 24 Christian music please visit our internet radio station http://www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell. 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.”
“Available June 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
April McBride receives an invitation from her brother, Josh, to attend his wedding to Juliana, the characters from the second book, The Jewel Of His Heart. I found that is was not necessary to have read the previous two books to enjoy this one even though the other characters are involved. Even though her parents are traveling abroad April decides that she must not miss her brother's wedding and that she will make the trip from their home in Colorado to where he is in Lewistown, Montana. This is not an easy thing as it will require a long train ride then a stagecoach journey and time is of the essence as the invitation was delayed in getting to her. Events occur that require April to finally take a horse into town wearing a man's shirt, jeans, cowboy hat and boots. No one pays her any attention as they think she is a man and she has no time to change and is forced to attend the wedding dressed like that.
After the wedding she cannot take a room at the hotel as it is full and must room at the boarding house where she must, for the first time, do things like laundry and take care of herself. Up until this point April McBride has been a very spoiled young lady used to having everything handed to her. April also had her guards up on her heart as she had been wounded previously but then she meets Wes Owen.
This book is more than just a great love story it is all about growing up and responsibility and how our attitudes affect others. Ms. Brendan needs to be commended on how she shows us the process of the change and growth in April instead of just telling us that she is changing. All the characters are likable and Ms. Brendan has a way of making the Old West very real so that we feel that we are walking the dusty streets or seeing the blue skies of Montana. I think I want to go and get the other books for myself and see what I missed.
To listen to 24 Christian music please visit our internet radio station http://www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell. 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.”
“Available June 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
November 25, 2009
I'm so happy to finally know what happens to Josh McBride's sister, April! Ever since I first met this blonde-haired spit-fire in No Place for a Lady, I've wondered how her story was gonna play out. It was a wild ride, just as I had suspected!
Though April was my least favorite person back then, she finally redeems herself in her own story. She still comes across as a little selfish, very independent, and somewhat spoiled. All in all, this makes for a really fast-paced read. It was nice to catch up with some of the folks from The Jewel of His Heart, but Josh and Juliana were hardly even mentioned (they were on their honeymoon!).
Wes Owen turns out to be such a sweetheart -- I'm so glad! I wanted to like him in The Jewel of Her Heart, but he was still rough around the edges. He has since straightened out his life, and become one delicious horse trainer. ;)
There are lots of great secondary characters, one of which is Billy Taylor, a young orphan who loves horses almost as much as April. He became one of my favorite people right from the start. It was also lots of fun getting to know Natalie, Louise, Miss Margaret, and so many more of the folks who reside in Lewistown, Montana.
I only have one "complaint" with this book -- the very abrupt, slam-the-door in your face ending. I mean, WOW! One minute you're sitting there, enjoying a historical moment with April, Wes, Billy, and their friends -- then, a few pages later, the story is over! I didn't see it coming and was unpleasantly surprised. I still had a few questions that weren't yet answered. What happened to Billy (he's one of my favorite characters)? Did he find a permanent home with Morgan and Lenora? Did anything serious develop between Louise and Mark? What did April's parents think about her decision to stay in Montana? I just felt unsettled at the end; like I wasn't given time to prepare. Maybe it's just me, and it didn't/won't bother anyone else. Don't get me wrong, it's definitely worth reading - I was just a little disappointed.
If you haven't read any of Maggie Brendan's books, be sure to pick up this series and read them from beginning to end. The characters are wonderful and will seem like family in no time. You can visit Maggie at her blog: SouthernBelle Writer.
Though April was my least favorite person back then, she finally redeems herself in her own story. She still comes across as a little selfish, very independent, and somewhat spoiled. All in all, this makes for a really fast-paced read. It was nice to catch up with some of the folks from The Jewel of His Heart, but Josh and Juliana were hardly even mentioned (they were on their honeymoon!).
Wes Owen turns out to be such a sweetheart -- I'm so glad! I wanted to like him in The Jewel of Her Heart, but he was still rough around the edges. He has since straightened out his life, and become one delicious horse trainer. ;)
There are lots of great secondary characters, one of which is Billy Taylor, a young orphan who loves horses almost as much as April. He became one of my favorite people right from the start. It was also lots of fun getting to know Natalie, Louise, Miss Margaret, and so many more of the folks who reside in Lewistown, Montana.
I only have one "complaint" with this book -- the very abrupt, slam-the-door in your face ending. I mean, WOW! One minute you're sitting there, enjoying a historical moment with April, Wes, Billy, and their friends -- then, a few pages later, the story is over! I didn't see it coming and was unpleasantly surprised. I still had a few questions that weren't yet answered. What happened to Billy (he's one of my favorite characters)? Did he find a permanent home with Morgan and Lenora? Did anything serious develop between Louise and Mark? What did April's parents think about her decision to stay in Montana? I just felt unsettled at the end; like I wasn't given time to prepare. Maybe it's just me, and it didn't/won't bother anyone else. Don't get me wrong, it's definitely worth reading - I was just a little disappointed.
If you haven't read any of Maggie Brendan's books, be sure to pick up this series and read them from beginning to end. The characters are wonderful and will seem like family in no time. You can visit Maggie at her blog: SouthernBelle Writer.
February 7, 2010
I'm probably the biggest fan of western romance novels, this side of the Mississippi. So, a series, with the title "Heart Of The West",I can't help but read it. LOL
I was first introduced to author Maggie Brendan when I read her first book, No Place For A Lady. Since then, I've been eagerly been waiting the last book in the series. And the book was worth the wait.
I thought A Love Of Her Own was good!! We first meet April McBride in Lady and believe me, she wasn't a favorite of mine. She was a spoiled brat, who was manipulative and stubborn. But in Love, we get to see things through April's eyes, and we understand why she is the way she is. But, in A Love Of Her Own, I really enjoyed "watching" April slowly go from a spoiled daddy's girl to Lewiston's sweetheart. I also liked that April wasn't a "girly,girl" and wasn't afraid to be different from the other young ladies.
Gentle romances usually aren't my thing, but Ms. Brendan writes as if she has been writing for years, and she just has a way of sweeping you right up in the story from page one. Though this might be a sweet romance, the characters sure aren't. Their real and down to earth people who add depth to the story. However, I wish the main characters would have more depth, themselves.
When April first comes to Lewiston, nobody much likes her. Then she meets Wes Owens, who is just as stubborn as she is, and when they're together...Boy! youhad better stand back, cause you just might get singed by all those sparks flyin' about.
One of the reasons I only gave Love 3 1/2 stars, was because I haven't yet read bk.2 , Jewel Of His Heart. I think that if had, I probably would have recognised a lot of the secondary characters that appeared in Jewel and better understood the recent history of Lewsiton . In the end, when April was meeting the town's people for the first time, so was I. Nevertheless, I loved this book and I would recommend it to anybody who is new to western romance novels, as this is a great introduction book to that genre.
*My many thanks to Donna Hauler @ Revell Books, for sending this review copy of A Love Of Her Own. The review is my honest opinion of this book and isn't influenced by the publisher and/or author.*
I was first introduced to author Maggie Brendan when I read her first book, No Place For A Lady. Since then, I've been eagerly been waiting the last book in the series. And the book was worth the wait.
I thought A Love Of Her Own was good!! We first meet April McBride in Lady and believe me, she wasn't a favorite of mine. She was a spoiled brat, who was manipulative and stubborn. But in Love, we get to see things through April's eyes, and we understand why she is the way she is. But, in A Love Of Her Own, I really enjoyed "watching" April slowly go from a spoiled daddy's girl to Lewiston's sweetheart. I also liked that April wasn't a "girly,girl" and wasn't afraid to be different from the other young ladies.
Gentle romances usually aren't my thing, but Ms. Brendan writes as if she has been writing for years, and she just has a way of sweeping you right up in the story from page one. Though this might be a sweet romance, the characters sure aren't. Their real and down to earth people who add depth to the story. However, I wish the main characters would have more depth, themselves.
When April first comes to Lewiston, nobody much likes her. Then she meets Wes Owens, who is just as stubborn as she is, and when they're together...Boy! youhad better stand back, cause you just might get singed by all those sparks flyin' about.
One of the reasons I only gave Love 3 1/2 stars, was because I haven't yet read bk.2 , Jewel Of His Heart. I think that if had, I probably would have recognised a lot of the secondary characters that appeared in Jewel and better understood the recent history of Lewsiton . In the end, when April was meeting the town's people for the first time, so was I. Nevertheless, I loved this book and I would recommend it to anybody who is new to western romance novels, as this is a great introduction book to that genre.
*My many thanks to Donna Hauler @ Revell Books, for sending this review copy of A Love Of Her Own. The review is my honest opinion of this book and isn't influenced by the publisher and/or author.*
June 8, 2010
Title: A LOVE OF HER OWN
Author: Maggie Brendan
Publisher: Revell
June 2010
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3351-3
Genre: Inspirational/historical
April McBride is still recovering from a broken engagement four years prior. She figures she will never marry, and is probably not intended to. When April gets a telegram from her brother Josh in Montana saying he’s getting married, April is the only one in the family able to attend. Her parents are on a tour of Ireland.
All goes well as April catches a train to Billings, Montana. But there she learns that if she waits for the next train to Lewistown she will miss her brothers wedding. The only other option is a carriage leaving the next morning.
April is warned that the carriage ride will be less than pleasant, but desperate to make it to Lewistown, she boards it. But then the carriage breaks down outside the town. April dresses as a man and rides the rest of the way into town where she meets Wes Owen, who is attempting to train a horse. April lashes into Wes, buys the horse then goes on her way.
The encounter with Wes opens up vast possibilities for frustration, embarrassment, friendship, and … love?
A LOVE OF HER OWN is book three in the Hearts of the West series. I had the privilege of reading the first two books in this series, but A LOVE OF HER OWN easily stands alone, though you want to miss any of the previous two books. Especially since book 1, No Place for a Lady is being made into a TV film.
April is a bit difficult to like at first as she is bossy, overbearing, selfish, and complaining. She does meet some wonderful male counterparts on her journey west, such as the kind doctor, Mark, also on the trip. Wes acts very kind and considerate but he is also very opinionated. The perfect hero for this heroine. It was interesting watching this romance develop. $14.99. 323 pages.
Author: Maggie Brendan
Publisher: Revell
June 2010
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3351-3
Genre: Inspirational/historical
April McBride is still recovering from a broken engagement four years prior. She figures she will never marry, and is probably not intended to. When April gets a telegram from her brother Josh in Montana saying he’s getting married, April is the only one in the family able to attend. Her parents are on a tour of Ireland.
All goes well as April catches a train to Billings, Montana. But there she learns that if she waits for the next train to Lewistown she will miss her brothers wedding. The only other option is a carriage leaving the next morning.
April is warned that the carriage ride will be less than pleasant, but desperate to make it to Lewistown, she boards it. But then the carriage breaks down outside the town. April dresses as a man and rides the rest of the way into town where she meets Wes Owen, who is attempting to train a horse. April lashes into Wes, buys the horse then goes on her way.
The encounter with Wes opens up vast possibilities for frustration, embarrassment, friendship, and … love?
A LOVE OF HER OWN is book three in the Hearts of the West series. I had the privilege of reading the first two books in this series, but A LOVE OF HER OWN easily stands alone, though you want to miss any of the previous two books. Especially since book 1, No Place for a Lady is being made into a TV film.
April is a bit difficult to like at first as she is bossy, overbearing, selfish, and complaining. She does meet some wonderful male counterparts on her journey west, such as the kind doctor, Mark, also on the trip. Wes acts very kind and considerate but he is also very opinionated. The perfect hero for this heroine. It was interesting watching this romance develop. $14.99. 323 pages.
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June 28, 2010This is the second "Hearts of the West" book I have read by Maggie Brendan. In the first review - of book 2 - I said Brendan's work could become a "movie of the week" by Michael Landon Jr. I still think that is the case.
In this novel, Brendan has captured the transformation of a spoiled, rich girl - as she moves away from that existence and begins to experience life - and faith in Jesus in a new way.
I do have one suggestion - I really think if you are starting out new to the series - you will get more out of the stories if you start with book number 1. While book 3 can "stand alone," there are subtle themes which weave through the entire series. It's hard to keep up with the "back stories" unless you start out at the beginning of the series.
I was a bit frustrated by April's character - but not because of Brendan's writing. I struggled with her attitude and approach to life. I do think Brendan was successful in showing an "old" way that was transformed into something "new" through April's life.
I also liked how she developed some of the other characters - especially the young boy, Billy. I wish some of their stories could have been developed a bit deeper, but alas, in a limited number of pages, that couldn't happen.
On a scale of 1 to 5 with five being the highest, I definitely give this a 3.5 to 4. It's definitely a good summer-time read.
In this novel, Brendan has captured the transformation of a spoiled, rich girl - as she moves away from that existence and begins to experience life - and faith in Jesus in a new way.
I do have one suggestion - I really think if you are starting out new to the series - you will get more out of the stories if you start with book number 1. While book 3 can "stand alone," there are subtle themes which weave through the entire series. It's hard to keep up with the "back stories" unless you start out at the beginning of the series.
I was a bit frustrated by April's character - but not because of Brendan's writing. I struggled with her attitude and approach to life. I do think Brendan was successful in showing an "old" way that was transformed into something "new" through April's life.
I also liked how she developed some of the other characters - especially the young boy, Billy. I wish some of their stories could have been developed a bit deeper, but alas, in a limited number of pages, that couldn't happen.
On a scale of 1 to 5 with five being the highest, I definitely give this a 3.5 to 4. It's definitely a good summer-time read.
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