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Wild at Heart #3
Fire and Ice
Saddle up for mysteries and laughs with the Wilde sisters!
BAILEY WILDE IS THE OLDEST SISTER—and the one who takes care of everyone else in her family. But after her sisters marry and move away, her little homestead becomes bleak and lonely, especially during the long winter months. In a moment of weakness, Bailey agrees to a wild plan concocted by her neighbor, Gage Coulter.
Gage is an honest man, but he didn't make his fortune by being weak. He won't break the law, but he'll push as hard as he can within it. Five thousand acres of excellent grazing land is lost to him because Bailey's homestead is located right across the entrance to a canyon full of lush grass. Gage has to regain access to this land—and he's got to go through Bailey to do it. So he makes a proposal...
Can these two independent, life-toughened homesteaders finally loosen up enough to earn each other's respect—and maybe find love in the process?
BAILEY WILDE IS THE OLDEST SISTER—and the one who takes care of everyone else in her family. But after her sisters marry and move away, her little homestead becomes bleak and lonely, especially during the long winter months. In a moment of weakness, Bailey agrees to a wild plan concocted by her neighbor, Gage Coulter.
Gage is an honest man, but he didn't make his fortune by being weak. He won't break the law, but he'll push as hard as he can within it. Five thousand acres of excellent grazing land is lost to him because Bailey's homestead is located right across the entrance to a canyon full of lush grass. Gage has to regain access to this land—and he's got to go through Bailey to do it. So he makes a proposal...
Can these two independent, life-toughened homesteaders finally loosen up enough to earn each other's respect—and maybe find love in the process?
331 pages, Paperback
First published September 29, 2015
139 people are currently reading
917 people want to read
About the author
Mary Connealy
113 books2,512 followersMary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys always with a strong suspense thread. She is a two time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader's Choice finalist.
She is the bestselling author of 65 books and novellas.
Her most recent three book series are: Braced for Love, A Man with a Past and Love on the Range for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing and many novellas and several stand-alone books for multiple publishers.
Mary will be a published author for ten years in 2017 with nearly a million books in print. She has a degree in broadcast communications with an emphasis in journalism and has worked at her local newspaper.
Find Mary online at:
Seekerville
Petticoats & Pistols
My Website
She is the bestselling author of 65 books and novellas.
Her most recent three book series are: Braced for Love, A Man with a Past and Love on the Range for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing and many novellas and several stand-alone books for multiple publishers.
Mary will be a published author for ten years in 2017 with nearly a million books in print. She has a degree in broadcast communications with an emphasis in journalism and has worked at her local newspaper.
Find Mary online at:
Seekerville
Petticoats & Pistols
My Website
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews
July 20, 2016
I read the first two books of the “Wild at Heart” series and I’ve been dying to see how Bailey Wilde, the rough and tumble tomboy of the family, and Gage Coulter, the rugged cattle baron are going to end up together. All I can say is I was in for a wild ride!
I loved the chemistry between Bailey and Gage. They are both such passionate characters that the sparks just fly between them. I found their slow journey from enemies to friends to husband and wife to be completely captivating and well-paced. I also loved the “marriage of convenience” twist and couldn’t wait for the love simmering under the surface to bloom into something beautiful and strong.
The couple deals with many obstacles in the path to happiness, including deadly storms, an over-bearing mother in law, and death traps set by an unseen and unknown enemy. This book is full of action and adventure, making it hard to put down to go back to real life sometimes.
There are some hilarious moments sprinkled throughout the book. One of my favorite lines is from page 162: "Hang on tight, Mrs. Coulter. We've got to make a run for it." Bailey slapped the old nag on the rear - the old nag meaning the horse, not Ma Coulter, although Bailey was sore tempted."
However, there were also some deep, intensely emotional moments. Some of the exchanges between Gage and Bailey run really deep, opening up feelings that neither of them had ever shared with anyone else. Bailey and her sisters share a beautiful, loving connection, too. Without giving away the ending, there is a moment between Bailey and her father that brought tears to my eyes.
All in all, this is an excellent conclusion to the “Wild at Heart” series and I cannot wait to see what Mary has for us next. 5 stars!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.
I loved the chemistry between Bailey and Gage. They are both such passionate characters that the sparks just fly between them. I found their slow journey from enemies to friends to husband and wife to be completely captivating and well-paced. I also loved the “marriage of convenience” twist and couldn’t wait for the love simmering under the surface to bloom into something beautiful and strong.
The couple deals with many obstacles in the path to happiness, including deadly storms, an over-bearing mother in law, and death traps set by an unseen and unknown enemy. This book is full of action and adventure, making it hard to put down to go back to real life sometimes.
There are some hilarious moments sprinkled throughout the book. One of my favorite lines is from page 162: "Hang on tight, Mrs. Coulter. We've got to make a run for it." Bailey slapped the old nag on the rear - the old nag meaning the horse, not Ma Coulter, although Bailey was sore tempted."
However, there were also some deep, intensely emotional moments. Some of the exchanges between Gage and Bailey run really deep, opening up feelings that neither of them had ever shared with anyone else. Bailey and her sisters share a beautiful, loving connection, too. Without giving away the ending, there is a moment between Bailey and her father that brought tears to my eyes.
All in all, this is an excellent conclusion to the “Wild at Heart” series and I cannot wait to see what Mary has for us next. 5 stars!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.
March 12, 2016
This book had some fun moments too – I don’t think it’s possible to have a Mary Connealy book without some laughter :) Probably my favorite scenes involve Gage’s reactions to his mother – both the idea of her pending arrival and the reality of it. Again, as in Now & Forever, these bits of the novel were made all the more hilarious because the narrator is inside the characters’ heads.
You would expect a book with a title like Fire & Ice to have some romantical heat in it. You would not be wrong in this case. Gage and Bailey’s … banter?… I’m not sure that’s the correct word for their early “courtship” as Gage calls it in later chapters but you can definitely sense some sizzle behind the irritation. And when Gage discovers an injury that Bailey has suffered, he morphs into ultra-protective mode and … well, suffice it to say you may need a fan :)
Bottom Line: Besides the humor and heat, there’s a lot of suspense, some agonizing turns of events, and overwhelming tenderness. While each of the three books in the series can be read as a stand-alone, they are better appreciated together. I highly recommend the Wild at Heart series to fans of Karen Witemeyer, Regina Jennings, or Melissa Jagears.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
You would expect a book with a title like Fire & Ice to have some romantical heat in it. You would not be wrong in this case. Gage and Bailey’s … banter?… I’m not sure that’s the correct word for their early “courtship” as Gage calls it in later chapters but you can definitely sense some sizzle behind the irritation. And when Gage discovers an injury that Bailey has suffered, he morphs into ultra-protective mode and … well, suffice it to say you may need a fan :)
Bottom Line: Besides the humor and heat, there’s a lot of suspense, some agonizing turns of events, and overwhelming tenderness. While each of the three books in the series can be read as a stand-alone, they are better appreciated together. I highly recommend the Wild at Heart series to fans of Karen Witemeyer, Regina Jennings, or Melissa Jagears.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
November 13, 2015
Great ending to this fun series! Loved the spunky heroine and tough-on-the-outside-marshmallow-soft-inside hero. Throw in a bunch of bad guys, one borderline personality mother, a herd of cows, plus a few rounds of dynamite, and boom! Glad that poor gal finally had something nice happen in her life after all the horror she faced from the war and her pa. Recommend for fans of western themed Christian fiction!
October 13, 2015
Wow!!!
Mary Connealy takes us back to 1866 in the Dakota/Idaho Territories for the conclusion of the Wild at Heart series. A wonderful way to end a series with the oldest Wilde daughter, Bailey. She lost her mother at an early age and has been raised by her father. To say Cudgels Wilde is a hard man would be an understatement. He raised his daughters with the same expectations as his son, Jimmy. Bailey being the oldest had tried to take care of everything. Cudgels pushed all three daughters to join the fight during the Civil War when his son Jimmy was killed and now he's taken them out west to start a dynasty in Jimmy's honor.
Upon arriving each picked an area to homestead, Bailey picked one high in the mountains that butted up against a canyon with a beautiful valley. Of course someone had already claimed the valley, but Bailey situated her cabin at the mouth so the only way to reach it was through her land and she wasn't giving anyone permission. She would have use of the valley and be able to amass her herd with ease.
Of course there's always a glitch in everything. And Bailey's glitch comes in the form of a tough ranch owner, Gage Coulter, who just happens to own the canyon. Gage sees Bailey as a worthy adversary, but plans to use the valley to winter his cattle one way or other. Bailey has come up against hard men in the past, shoot she even lived with one, so she feels she can handle anything he throws at her.
I truly liked both these characters. Both are highly independent with their own stubborn flaws, but when things become even more complicated than they ever imagined Bailey and Gage form a bond that's unbreakable. This story is one of Bailey actually finding her true self and learning that there's more to herself than she ever imagined. She has seen the worst side of man and expects it, but finds out that sometimes things aren't always as they appear. Gage is a complex character and has some real issues, but through it all he proves what an honorable man he truly is.
The one going theme of this story is one of trust. Trusting the Lord to see you through both the mountains and the valleys of life and learning to praise him through both. Trusting that if you lean on God he will lead you on the path you should go. Of course with trust also comes forgiveness. You must learn to let the past go and move on with the future.
This story has intrigue, suspense and romance interwoven with humor.
I would recommend it to anyone who loves history, romance or just a good, clean read.
**I was provided this book by the publisher for a honest opinion without bias or outside influence as stated above. **
Mary Connealy takes us back to 1866 in the Dakota/Idaho Territories for the conclusion of the Wild at Heart series. A wonderful way to end a series with the oldest Wilde daughter, Bailey. She lost her mother at an early age and has been raised by her father. To say Cudgels Wilde is a hard man would be an understatement. He raised his daughters with the same expectations as his son, Jimmy. Bailey being the oldest had tried to take care of everything. Cudgels pushed all three daughters to join the fight during the Civil War when his son Jimmy was killed and now he's taken them out west to start a dynasty in Jimmy's honor.
Upon arriving each picked an area to homestead, Bailey picked one high in the mountains that butted up against a canyon with a beautiful valley. Of course someone had already claimed the valley, but Bailey situated her cabin at the mouth so the only way to reach it was through her land and she wasn't giving anyone permission. She would have use of the valley and be able to amass her herd with ease.
Of course there's always a glitch in everything. And Bailey's glitch comes in the form of a tough ranch owner, Gage Coulter, who just happens to own the canyon. Gage sees Bailey as a worthy adversary, but plans to use the valley to winter his cattle one way or other. Bailey has come up against hard men in the past, shoot she even lived with one, so she feels she can handle anything he throws at her.
I truly liked both these characters. Both are highly independent with their own stubborn flaws, but when things become even more complicated than they ever imagined Bailey and Gage form a bond that's unbreakable. This story is one of Bailey actually finding her true self and learning that there's more to herself than she ever imagined. She has seen the worst side of man and expects it, but finds out that sometimes things aren't always as they appear. Gage is a complex character and has some real issues, but through it all he proves what an honorable man he truly is.
The one going theme of this story is one of trust. Trusting the Lord to see you through both the mountains and the valleys of life and learning to praise him through both. Trusting that if you lean on God he will lead you on the path you should go. Of course with trust also comes forgiveness. You must learn to let the past go and move on with the future.
This story has intrigue, suspense and romance interwoven with humor.
I would recommend it to anyone who loves history, romance or just a good, clean read.
**I was provided this book by the publisher for a honest opinion without bias or outside influence as stated above. **
October 13, 2015
MY BOOK REVIEW: FOUR STARS * * * * "I really liked it!"
This is Book Three in the 'Wild at Heart' series set in Colorado beginning in October, 1866. The Civil War has left its scars, figuratively and literally, on the lives of many Americans--including the characters in this story.
I did not read the first two books in the series before reading this installment. The author did a fine job of getting me 'caught up' on the setting and cast of characters within the first two chapters, so I was immersed in this story quickly.
Oh, my goodness how I laughed while reading this book! The main characters, Bailey Wilde and Gage Coulter, are hilarious together. Their interactions start off being filled with angst and misunderstanding. For one thing, Bailey has attempted to pass herself off as a man. When Gage realizes she is a woman, everything changes from his point of view!
The surrounding cast of characters are likeable (except for some bad guys), and the relationship between Bailey and her sisters Shannon and Kylie is close. When Gage's mother arrives on the scene the dynamics of Bailey and Gage's relationship takes an interesting and distinct turn.
As the story progresses, Gage and Bailey get to know each other on a deeper level until they each finally reveal past wounds and burdens which have affected their relationships with each other and other people. The two learn to respect and trust each other. I won't spoil the story for you by telling too much, just trust me when I say this couple's journey will delight you.
This author has a way of getting to the heart of difficult issues, always giving her readers some humorous dialogue or event to chuckle about in the process. She's obviously done her research in regard to the historical aspects of the lasting effects of the Civil War, the settlement of Colorado, ranching, frontier living, etc., and this authenticity enriched my enjoyment of the book.
I highly recommend this book to fans of historical romance, historical fiction, clean fiction, and Western fiction. I will now be adding more of Mary Connealy's books on my TBR list.
I received a complimentary paperback copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review of this book. The opinions expressed here are solely my own. I was not compensated for posting this review here or on any other sites.
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This is Book Three in the 'Wild at Heart' series set in Colorado beginning in October, 1866. The Civil War has left its scars, figuratively and literally, on the lives of many Americans--including the characters in this story.
I did not read the first two books in the series before reading this installment. The author did a fine job of getting me 'caught up' on the setting and cast of characters within the first two chapters, so I was immersed in this story quickly.
Oh, my goodness how I laughed while reading this book! The main characters, Bailey Wilde and Gage Coulter, are hilarious together. Their interactions start off being filled with angst and misunderstanding. For one thing, Bailey has attempted to pass herself off as a man. When Gage realizes she is a woman, everything changes from his point of view!
The surrounding cast of characters are likeable (except for some bad guys), and the relationship between Bailey and her sisters Shannon and Kylie is close. When Gage's mother arrives on the scene the dynamics of Bailey and Gage's relationship takes an interesting and distinct turn.
As the story progresses, Gage and Bailey get to know each other on a deeper level until they each finally reveal past wounds and burdens which have affected their relationships with each other and other people. The two learn to respect and trust each other. I won't spoil the story for you by telling too much, just trust me when I say this couple's journey will delight you.
This author has a way of getting to the heart of difficult issues, always giving her readers some humorous dialogue or event to chuckle about in the process. She's obviously done her research in regard to the historical aspects of the lasting effects of the Civil War, the settlement of Colorado, ranching, frontier living, etc., and this authenticity enriched my enjoyment of the book.
I highly recommend this book to fans of historical romance, historical fiction, clean fiction, and Western fiction. I will now be adding more of Mary Connealy's books on my TBR list.
I received a complimentary paperback copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review of this book. The opinions expressed here are solely my own. I was not compensated for posting this review here or on any other sites.
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October 9, 2015
Bailey Wilde is the oldest sister. She's the one who served in the war the longest and as a result has the fewest number of years to work off her homestead. She's built her house across the entrance to a canyon that is prime grazing land. The problem is that Gage Coulter owns the canyon. And she's cut off his only access to his land. That makes him mad. Over the past few months, the two have butted heads. Gage still doesn't know she's a woman, though the secret's out about both sisters. When he does find out, he's madder than ever. Both of these two don't speak for months due to the harsh winter. For Bailey, the long winter is longer than ever and she's the loneliest she's ever been with both sisters married and moved away. When the first thaws of spring arrive, the melting snow brings Gage to her doorstep. He's desperate. Sure he wants the land, but he really needs a wife and thinks Bailey would be perfect. In a moment of desperation, she agrees to his proposal. But these newlyweds soon discover that things aren't going to be all roses. Someone still is set on harming Bailey, and Gage realizes he will do anything to protect the woman he's coming to love. Can these two strong people manage to catch the culprit and fall in love in the process?
This book was a delight to read. I certainly recommend reading this series in order as there are hints of Gage and Bailey throughout. Their story though, was positively delightful.
The chemistry between the two is very strong. I loved how determined Gage was to get to his land. And Bailey was equally determined not to let him. Well at least to an extent. And when they did finally get married, I loved how understanding Gage was of Bailey's fears.
I really think that this book was the best in the series and my personal favorite of the series.
I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Mary Connealy, Karen Witemeyer, romantic comedy, historical fiction
Rating - 4 stars
This book was a delight to read. I certainly recommend reading this series in order as there are hints of Gage and Bailey throughout. Their story though, was positively delightful.
The chemistry between the two is very strong. I loved how determined Gage was to get to his land. And Bailey was equally determined not to let him. Well at least to an extent. And when they did finally get married, I loved how understanding Gage was of Bailey's fears.
I really think that this book was the best in the series and my personal favorite of the series.
I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Mary Connealy, Karen Witemeyer, romantic comedy, historical fiction
Rating - 4 stars
February 8, 2017
The author's trademark humor and action are in full play in this novel, but what stood out to me was the layers and depth of Bailey's character. I've been looking forward to her story since in the previous two books she seemed like the toughest and hardest of the three Wilde sisters. Her father encouraged her to go to war dressed as a man, and the experiences she had not only strengthened her, but gave her vulnerabilities she struggles to overcome. We see both sides of her personality as her ranch is threatened and she endures a harsh lonely winter. Gage is also a contrast of strength and vulnerability and once they let their guard down, the two connect in ways that help heal their trauma from the past. I enjoyed reading the conflict Gage's mother brings into the mix with several chuckles, and was glad that the sisters' dysfunctional relationship with their father was finally put to rest. This book reads well as a stand alone but I recommend you read the whole Wild at Heart series for full enjoyment- they are all 5 stars in my book!
(Thank you to Bethany House Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
(Thank you to Bethany House Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
October 17, 2015
Mary Connealy concludes her Wild at Heart series with Fire and Ice.
Bailey Wilde is the last Wilde sister who still lives as a man. She's perfectly content living that way,too. She doesn't need any help from anyone, and especially Gage Coulter. But Gage needs grazing land that he can only access from Bailey's property. Bailey has no desire to help Gage, so he makes a proposal.....
Mary Connealy has been a favorite of mine since I first read one of her books. She writes hilarious Cowboy Comedies with a good dose of spirituality thrown in.
Mayhem abounds in Fire and Ice, too. Somebody's out to get Gage Coulter and it doesn't matter if someone else goes down with him. Then you throw in an unexpected and mostly unwanted guest who drives everyone nuts and you have a book that you will most assuredly enjoy to the fullest!
Bailey Wilde is the last Wilde sister who still lives as a man. She's perfectly content living that way,too. She doesn't need any help from anyone, and especially Gage Coulter. But Gage needs grazing land that he can only access from Bailey's property. Bailey has no desire to help Gage, so he makes a proposal.....
Mary Connealy has been a favorite of mine since I first read one of her books. She writes hilarious Cowboy Comedies with a good dose of spirituality thrown in.
Mayhem abounds in Fire and Ice, too. Somebody's out to get Gage Coulter and it doesn't matter if someone else goes down with him. Then you throw in an unexpected and mostly unwanted guest who drives everyone nuts and you have a book that you will most assuredly enjoy to the fullest!
December 3, 2015
I finished this book with a big smile on my face, sighing with happiness. That should tell you that this is going to be another gushing review, because . . . I loved it! I freely admit that I am a huge fan of Ms. Connealy’s, so this review may lean a bit toward bias, though I always try to give a thoroughly honest review. That being said, I did honestly love this book!
This book is the last in Mary Connealy’s Wild at Heart series and is Bailey’s book. I’ve been anticipating this one since reading the first, so I was super excited to receive it. It grabbed my attention from the very first page and I read quickly, finishing it within a day. I love that Mary’s books always make me laugh and this one is no exception. I found myself in stitches more than once and just randomly grinning, probably causing a few people to question my sanity. She’s doing something a bit different with this series, though. These books are a bit more serious and cut a little bit closer to the heart. I honestly adore this, because while I enjoy the fluff and laughter, if a book touches my heart, that’s one I’m going to remember. Now, before I make it sound like a drag, it definitely isn’t. I was kept on the edge of my seat for most of the story, wondering what might happen next and how everything would work out.
Mary’s writing is, per usual, excellent. I love the details and descriptions, but also simply her writing style. It’s unique in a way I can’t really define, but that I know I enjoy. The dialogue is also a blast, both the verbal and internal. I love knowing her characters’ thoughts, because they so crack me up with their bluntness and just the fact that they’re thinking what most people would never say but definitely never admit. She paints lovely (and hysterical) pictures with her words, to the point that I could almost imagine I was right there with Bailey and Gage. I love being so thoroughly swept into a story and Mary’s books do that.
I hate to play favorites, but I think Bailey Wilde has been my favorite sister from the start. She’s the mysterious one that plays at being a man and is willing to fight toe-to-toe with anyone who would dare threaten her sisters. Even if I didn’t love her before this book, I do now. I enjoyed getting to really know her and see another side of her character. She comes to life within pages of her story. She isn’t quite as tough as she’s led everyone to believe, but she is fierce and a force to be reckoned with. Beyond that though, is a hurting woman who has faced war and lived to tell about it. One of my favorite parts of her story is when we finally get to know what haunts her and understand who she truly is behind her mask.
Gage Coulter . . . I’m not sure what to say about him. Stubborn fills in a lot of gaps. Thickheaded. Tenacious. But on the flip side, once you get past his cranky exterior he is very caring toward Bailey and her family. Even when they’re driving him batty (though that was often mutual). Gage is one of those heroes that I loved, but also wanted to slap at the same time. So I sympathized with Bailey quite easily. Beyond his annoying qualities, he is actually quite likable and I had to laugh and agree with many of his observations.
I also enjoyed the bit of mystery that’s woven throughout, keeping me guessing as to what might happen next. It’s actually downplayed a bit from the previous books, but with everything else going on, I understood that it didn’t exactly take precedence. The ending was well done, with all of the loose ends neatly tied up. I was disappointed to see it come to an end, simply because I didn’t want to say “goodbye.” There’s something bittersweet about reading the final book in a series and realizing that my time with these particular characters is coming to a close. That being said, I’m also very excited to find out what Mary has up her sleeve, next!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in anyway. All opinions expressed are my own.
This book is the last in Mary Connealy’s Wild at Heart series and is Bailey’s book. I’ve been anticipating this one since reading the first, so I was super excited to receive it. It grabbed my attention from the very first page and I read quickly, finishing it within a day. I love that Mary’s books always make me laugh and this one is no exception. I found myself in stitches more than once and just randomly grinning, probably causing a few people to question my sanity. She’s doing something a bit different with this series, though. These books are a bit more serious and cut a little bit closer to the heart. I honestly adore this, because while I enjoy the fluff and laughter, if a book touches my heart, that’s one I’m going to remember. Now, before I make it sound like a drag, it definitely isn’t. I was kept on the edge of my seat for most of the story, wondering what might happen next and how everything would work out.
Mary’s writing is, per usual, excellent. I love the details and descriptions, but also simply her writing style. It’s unique in a way I can’t really define, but that I know I enjoy. The dialogue is also a blast, both the verbal and internal. I love knowing her characters’ thoughts, because they so crack me up with their bluntness and just the fact that they’re thinking what most people would never say but definitely never admit. She paints lovely (and hysterical) pictures with her words, to the point that I could almost imagine I was right there with Bailey and Gage. I love being so thoroughly swept into a story and Mary’s books do that.
I hate to play favorites, but I think Bailey Wilde has been my favorite sister from the start. She’s the mysterious one that plays at being a man and is willing to fight toe-to-toe with anyone who would dare threaten her sisters. Even if I didn’t love her before this book, I do now. I enjoyed getting to really know her and see another side of her character. She comes to life within pages of her story. She isn’t quite as tough as she’s led everyone to believe, but she is fierce and a force to be reckoned with. Beyond that though, is a hurting woman who has faced war and lived to tell about it. One of my favorite parts of her story is when we finally get to know what haunts her and understand who she truly is behind her mask.
Gage Coulter . . . I’m not sure what to say about him. Stubborn fills in a lot of gaps. Thickheaded. Tenacious. But on the flip side, once you get past his cranky exterior he is very caring toward Bailey and her family. Even when they’re driving him batty (though that was often mutual). Gage is one of those heroes that I loved, but also wanted to slap at the same time. So I sympathized with Bailey quite easily. Beyond his annoying qualities, he is actually quite likable and I had to laugh and agree with many of his observations.
I also enjoyed the bit of mystery that’s woven throughout, keeping me guessing as to what might happen next. It’s actually downplayed a bit from the previous books, but with everything else going on, I understood that it didn’t exactly take precedence. The ending was well done, with all of the loose ends neatly tied up. I was disappointed to see it come to an end, simply because I didn’t want to say “goodbye.” There’s something bittersweet about reading the final book in a series and realizing that my time with these particular characters is coming to a close. That being said, I’m also very excited to find out what Mary has up her sleeve, next!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in anyway. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 24, 2015
Fire & Ice is another enjoyable addition to the Wild at Heart series. I’ve really liked watching these Wilde women find their happily-ever-afters. It is such a treat to read stories like all three of the books in this series.
Fire & Ice contains a story that flowed very well. I really did not enjoy having to set the book down. There were humorous moments, tempered with plenty of heartfelt emotion. These main characters each carried pain from their past and that is something they both had to deal with.
The development of the romance in this story was great and I enjoyed the flow of the storyline. Bailey and Gage face danger and trials, but they persevere. I am happy that I grew to like Bailey. For about the first third of the book, I really did not sympathize with her. The stance she took about building her home across the mouth of the canyon to block Gage from his land was sneaky and did not endear her to me. But, as the story progressed, and I watched both Gage and Bailey change and soften, I really began to like her.
These are not perfect characters, which makes them interesting. Gage’s inability to see how his mother treated Bailey was another troublesome part of the story for me. But, these things did not diminish my enjoyment of the book. Fire & Ice was fun to read and I definitely enjoyed the entire series. (4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Fire & Ice contains a story that flowed very well. I really did not enjoy having to set the book down. There were humorous moments, tempered with plenty of heartfelt emotion. These main characters each carried pain from their past and that is something they both had to deal with.
The development of the romance in this story was great and I enjoyed the flow of the storyline. Bailey and Gage face danger and trials, but they persevere. I am happy that I grew to like Bailey. For about the first third of the book, I really did not sympathize with her. The stance she took about building her home across the mouth of the canyon to block Gage from his land was sneaky and did not endear her to me. But, as the story progressed, and I watched both Gage and Bailey change and soften, I really began to like her.
These are not perfect characters, which makes them interesting. Gage’s inability to see how his mother treated Bailey was another troublesome part of the story for me. But, these things did not diminish my enjoyment of the book. Fire & Ice was fun to read and I definitely enjoyed the entire series. (4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
October 30, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. Mary has a great sense of humor and her books are fun and interesting. I read through it pretty quickly. This is the third book in the Wild at Heart series, but you don't have to read the others to get the point of this one.
Bailey is the oldest of three sisters, who have all posed as men to settle the land they've claimed in the wild west. Bailey has chosen a peak position blocking the crossing to Gage's canyon. He could beat himself up for thinking the land between him and the canyon was not necessarily important. Who would want to settle there? Obviously she knew what she was doing, but what he doesn't know is that Bailey is a woman.
Gage is an honest upstanding man and does all he can to keep the peace within reason, but he really needs his land. Bailey on the other hand, is not giving in or giving up. She wants nothing to do with anyone and is used to surviving on her own and being a loner.
But things change.... A threat on Gage's life, a visitor, and a long lonely winter can make for some interesting choices and decisions. Can the two of them work through their differences? Or will they go back to who they were?
Both Bailey and Gage has emotional issues from their past they need to work through - trust, forgiveness of self and others, fears. I like how Mary brings these things to light and works them through it, by relying on God and each other. I think these "hidden" messages add to the story and also may be a benefit to a reader who may have similar problems.
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest opinion.
Bailey is the oldest of three sisters, who have all posed as men to settle the land they've claimed in the wild west. Bailey has chosen a peak position blocking the crossing to Gage's canyon. He could beat himself up for thinking the land between him and the canyon was not necessarily important. Who would want to settle there? Obviously she knew what she was doing, but what he doesn't know is that Bailey is a woman.
Gage is an honest upstanding man and does all he can to keep the peace within reason, but he really needs his land. Bailey on the other hand, is not giving in or giving up. She wants nothing to do with anyone and is used to surviving on her own and being a loner.
But things change.... A threat on Gage's life, a visitor, and a long lonely winter can make for some interesting choices and decisions. Can the two of them work through their differences? Or will they go back to who they were?
Both Bailey and Gage has emotional issues from their past they need to work through - trust, forgiveness of self and others, fears. I like how Mary brings these things to light and works them through it, by relying on God and each other. I think these "hidden" messages add to the story and also may be a benefit to a reader who may have similar problems.
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 19, 2015
Fire and Ice is the third and last book in the Wild at Heart series by Mary Connealy. The three books follow the lives of the Wilde sisters, the first book was Kylie’s, the second was Shannon’s, and now this book gives us Bailey’s story. Bailey is the oldest of the sisters and undoubtedly the toughest. She can efficiently run her own homestead and doesn’t need anyone’s help, especially not from a man. A man, however, is her problem. Bailey’s homestead is right across an entrance to a valuable canyon. Gage Coulter, a man wanting to regain access to the canyon, which is full of grass for his livestock, proposes a deal. Things aren’t easy for the two. Bailey’s old war trauma still haunts her, Gage’s possessive mother arrives from Texas, and someone is attempting to kill Gage.
This was my absolute favorite book out of the three. I really enjoyed reading about Bailey and admired her toughness. She’s a strong woman, even at her weakest moments. I thought that her and Gage made a perfect pair. There’s nothing I like more than squabbling couples. Hands down, favorite book, favorite sister, and favorite pair.
If you haven’t read this series or anything written by Mary Connealy, I would a hundred percent recommend her books.
This was my absolute favorite book out of the three. I really enjoyed reading about Bailey and admired her toughness. She’s a strong woman, even at her weakest moments. I thought that her and Gage made a perfect pair. There’s nothing I like more than squabbling couples. Hands down, favorite book, favorite sister, and favorite pair.
If you haven’t read this series or anything written by Mary Connealy, I would a hundred percent recommend her books.
October 13, 2015
I love the cover of this book and knew that the content would be just as lovely...and I wasn't wrong.
Fire and Ice by Mary Connealy is a fun read. I love Bailey Wilde (and it's interesting that this is a Wild at Heart series and Bailey's last name is Wilde!)...hmmm.
Bailey is/has been disguised as a man running a profitable ranch for sometime when Gage Coulter comes to drive her off of her own homestead, the homestead that Bailey she blood and tears for. There is no way under heaven that Bailey is going to give up her hard earned living and her hard earned homestead.
Well, Gage soon figures out that he is up against a formidable rancher and lo and behold, the rancher is a WOMAN!
Gage has to reclaim some of the five thousand acres that Bailey has in her possession. So, Gage comes with quite a plan and Bailey, in a moment of weakness, agrees to his plan.
Once again Mary Connealy pens a fantastic and somewhat humorous western.
A fun read for all western fans! No "yuckiness" either. Mary Connealy includes faith and love of God in this great read!
*This book was provided for review by Bethany House*
Fire and Ice by Mary Connealy is a fun read. I love Bailey Wilde (and it's interesting that this is a Wild at Heart series and Bailey's last name is Wilde!)...hmmm.
Bailey is/has been disguised as a man running a profitable ranch for sometime when Gage Coulter comes to drive her off of her own homestead, the homestead that Bailey she blood and tears for. There is no way under heaven that Bailey is going to give up her hard earned living and her hard earned homestead.
Well, Gage soon figures out that he is up against a formidable rancher and lo and behold, the rancher is a WOMAN!
Gage has to reclaim some of the five thousand acres that Bailey has in her possession. So, Gage comes with quite a plan and Bailey, in a moment of weakness, agrees to his plan.
Once again Mary Connealy pens a fantastic and somewhat humorous western.
A fun read for all western fans! No "yuckiness" either. Mary Connealy includes faith and love of God in this great read!
*This book was provided for review by Bethany House*
March 26, 2016
Another in the series by Mary Connealy about these strong sisters, who seem to go up against equally strong male characters. Always interesting, with some twists that you may not expect. Bailey had fought in the war (yes disguised as a boy) and came out hardened. All three sisters tried hard to please their father, who seemed to wish they were sons, and expected them to do all to honor the memory of their dead brother. Excellent read!! Christian Historical Romance set in the old west.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Bethany House Publishers - Netgalley book review bloggers program. 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”. http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/wa...
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Bethany House Publishers - Netgalley book review bloggers program. 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”. http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/wa...
October 9, 2015
Fire & Ice, By: Mary Connealy
Fire & Ice is book three in the Wild at Heart series by Mary Connealy. This is the best book yet in the series. I couldn’t put the book down I was so captivated by this delightful story. The story of two very headstrong people. Both determined to have their own way. This story is filled with so much love, heartache, pain, laughter and tears. There is never a dull moment in this wonderful story. The story flows so smoothly from one scene to the next. These are characters that will surely capture your heart. If you haven’t read the first two books in this series be sure to pick those up.
Be sure to order your copy of Fire & Ice by Mary Connealy today. 5 stars!
Fire & Ice is book three in the Wild at Heart series by Mary Connealy. This is the best book yet in the series. I couldn’t put the book down I was so captivated by this delightful story. The story of two very headstrong people. Both determined to have their own way. This story is filled with so much love, heartache, pain, laughter and tears. There is never a dull moment in this wonderful story. The story flows so smoothly from one scene to the next. These are characters that will surely capture your heart. If you haven’t read the first two books in this series be sure to pick those up.
Be sure to order your copy of Fire & Ice by Mary Connealy today. 5 stars!
October 20, 2015
I read FIRE AND ICE through in one sitting (I was doing a lot of "hurry up and waiting" at the time) and found it hard to put this book down when I had to move from point A to point B... etc for my waiting. I didn't think I would like Bailey much from the other two books in the series (Now and Forever and Tried and True) because she was very much a manly woman. However, Bailey does have a feminine side and we got to see it as well as get to know her and Gage during this hair-raising historical romance. Someone is trying to kill Gage -- but who? And why? I greatly enjoyed this book and look forward to whatever is next in Ms. Connealy's writing career. Highly recommended.
June 22, 2019
An excellent finish to this series that touched on some difficult questions without forcing any opinions. The author wrapped up all the loose ends and offered hope for one difficult character without changing who he was. She also included a wonderful group of characters throughout the series that were so different from each other, willing to work together, and accepting when preferences differ. I love that the sisters didn't all end up in the same town with each other, even though I can imagine how difficult a decision that might have been--for the author and the characters.
June 19, 2016
I actually finished this one back in May and only just now realized that I had never marked it finished or written a review... :/
It's not fresh in my mind anymore so I can't really do a thorough review like I had intended. I had a really hard time getting into and enjoying this story. It was pretty good, but not as good as the previous books in the series. I liked it okay, but I didn't love it.
It's not fresh in my mind anymore so I can't really do a thorough review like I had intended. I had a really hard time getting into and enjoying this story. It was pretty good, but not as good as the previous books in the series. I liked it okay, but I didn't love it.
July 20, 2017
I guessed who the author was setting up to be the villain in this story, and at first I didn’t think it was going to sit well with me. But the way it played out as increasing desperation rather than cold-heartedness was thoroughly convincing. The love story, that was believable, too. I enjoyed that the relationship between Baily and Gage started as contentious yet mostly respectful. I felt as though they both spent the first part of the book thinking, “I am so mad at him/her for doing that and more mad that I probably would have done the same thing.”
The only reason I didn’t rate this five stars was the fire and ice thing. It seemed that every single time Gage was mentioned, the author commented on his cold stare or his icy gaze or his frigid expression or the cool steel color of his eyes or… I get it! He’s ice, she’s fire. I get it. I think that horse died in the first few chapters, but the author kept beating it until the very last paragraph.
Thankfully, there was enough humor and action and generally fun characters to overshadow that overdone theme. I’m still a fan and still planning to read more from Mary Connealy when I get a chance.
The only reason I didn’t rate this five stars was the fire and ice thing. It seemed that every single time Gage was mentioned, the author commented on his cold stare or his icy gaze or his frigid expression or the cool steel color of his eyes or… I get it! He’s ice, she’s fire. I get it. I think that horse died in the first few chapters, but the author kept beating it until the very last paragraph.
Thankfully, there was enough humor and action and generally fun characters to overshadow that overdone theme. I’m still a fan and still planning to read more from Mary Connealy when I get a chance.
March 27, 2024
Gage and Bailey’s relationship was very frustrating and annoying.
RANT edit a few days later: I’m *still* thinking about how wrong this relationship was and it’s making me upset. Gage is so tied to his mother’s apron strings I can pretty confidently predict “emotional incest and destruction of marriage” which is SUCH a huge red flag. Gage never once steps up for his wife when his mother is around. He pouts and defends and lets his mother push in EVEN THOUGH he also gets annoyed by his mother and her pushy ways and it makes me angry. 🙄 this is not a man you should marry. And the way that his dad had to come fetch his wife home to get anything to change??? Bailey couldn’t even talk to Gage about how she was feeling around his mother and what she was doing to him because he kept shutting Bailey down when she brought it up. She literally thinks his Ma’s presence is a threat and he still won’t listen. Gage is not that great of a guy, not enough to have to have all those emotionally draining boundaries and boundary conversations about/with his mother.
RANT edit a few days later: I’m *still* thinking about how wrong this relationship was and it’s making me upset. Gage is so tied to his mother’s apron strings I can pretty confidently predict “emotional incest and destruction of marriage” which is SUCH a huge red flag. Gage never once steps up for his wife when his mother is around. He pouts and defends and lets his mother push in EVEN THOUGH he also gets annoyed by his mother and her pushy ways and it makes me angry. 🙄 this is not a man you should marry. And the way that his dad had to come fetch his wife home to get anything to change??? Bailey couldn’t even talk to Gage about how she was feeling around his mother and what she was doing to him because he kept shutting Bailey down when she brought it up. She literally thinks his Ma’s presence is a threat and he still won’t listen. Gage is not that great of a guy, not enough to have to have all those emotionally draining boundaries and boundary conversations about/with his mother.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2016
I'm afraid this book was more or less ruined for me at the beginning. You cannot, I repeat cannot, keep someone from accessing their own land. It is illegal! Also, you cannot graze your cattle on someone's land just because they can't access it or they're not using it, that is also illegal. So, from the very beginning we have 2 big problems: 1. The plot is too contrived, all the hero had to do was go get the Sheriff, who would say, let him have access to his land or be arrested. Because you must have ingress and egress for your own land! You own it. 2. The heroine is a thief! She's stealing this man's land and the food for his cattle. That's his pasture, that's his grass, whether he has to go through your land to get to it or not, whether he is using it or not. That's theft and trespassing, she could be arrested and jailed or forced to pay very big fines, because her cattle consumed someone's grass and because she was trying to steal a huge amount of land from him. Also, it could result in the hero person losing his herd, because they were depending on that food for their cattle. So, congratulations madam heroine, you could be starving someone's cattle and destroying their livelihood because you're a criminal.
The beginning was just too contrived for me. It was silly. And the truth was, it was an easy fix, just have her access to the pasture be easier than his, so that he wants to negotiate with her because it will save him time or be easier on his herd.
Also, I had a real struggle with it being more or less ok that the heroine is stealing, willfully and knowingly stealing. This was also unnecessary and didn't show her as being crafty and smart in my eyes, but rather conniving and villainous. She was trying to steal his land and she did steal his grass. That's not the brains of a wise and good heroine, but rather the brains of a corrupt and evil villain. This plot point was also unnecessary, she didn't need to be stealing for the plot to be furthered.
I was also frustrated by the idea that because the hero had a large ranch he should just willingly let someone steal his land from him, after all, he had more. First, it's his land and I don't care who he is or what he's done, stealing is wrong. Second, if you're not aware of how ranching works, you don't keep spare land around just to look at you use it, all of it. The hero had cattle depending on that land, he had invested time and money in those cattle, and needed them to have that grass in order to live, he couldn't just shrug off 5,000 acres and move on. It was illogical and a bad attempt to make the heroine look better for willfully committing crimes.
Additionally, there was a lot of repetition, we are told around 4 times in the book that the heroine's brand is a double w, two w's, two of them, not one, but two! This repetition was carried out in several areas of the book (how the hero's ma was treating the heroine, how the heroine's pa was treating the heroine, etc) and it began to wear on me.
Also, a heavily pregnant woman approaches too stupid to live territory by riding into a danger a month from her delivery date. It felt highly selfish and idiotic to have no consideration for the life and safety of the baby, because she wanted to be involved in what was going down. I found myself extremely angry at this fictional character, she was risking her life, the baby's life, and the peace of everyone involved, because she couldn't just be an adult and stay home.
I was so disappointed in this book, I was really hoping I would enjoy it. I am such a softie when it comes to marriage of convenience stories, but this book just frustrated me. So, I guess, if these sorts of things don't bother you then, read away, but for me it was just too much.
The beginning was just too contrived for me. It was silly. And the truth was, it was an easy fix, just have her access to the pasture be easier than his, so that he wants to negotiate with her because it will save him time or be easier on his herd.
Also, I had a real struggle with it being more or less ok that the heroine is stealing, willfully and knowingly stealing. This was also unnecessary and didn't show her as being crafty and smart in my eyes, but rather conniving and villainous. She was trying to steal his land and she did steal his grass. That's not the brains of a wise and good heroine, but rather the brains of a corrupt and evil villain. This plot point was also unnecessary, she didn't need to be stealing for the plot to be furthered.
I was also frustrated by the idea that because the hero had a large ranch he should just willingly let someone steal his land from him, after all, he had more. First, it's his land and I don't care who he is or what he's done, stealing is wrong. Second, if you're not aware of how ranching works, you don't keep spare land around just to look at you use it, all of it. The hero had cattle depending on that land, he had invested time and money in those cattle, and needed them to have that grass in order to live, he couldn't just shrug off 5,000 acres and move on. It was illogical and a bad attempt to make the heroine look better for willfully committing crimes.
Additionally, there was a lot of repetition, we are told around 4 times in the book that the heroine's brand is a double w, two w's, two of them, not one, but two! This repetition was carried out in several areas of the book (how the hero's ma was treating the heroine, how the heroine's pa was treating the heroine, etc) and it began to wear on me.
Also, a heavily pregnant woman approaches too stupid to live territory by riding into a danger a month from her delivery date. It felt highly selfish and idiotic to have no consideration for the life and safety of the baby, because she wanted to be involved in what was going down. I found myself extremely angry at this fictional character, she was risking her life, the baby's life, and the peace of everyone involved, because she couldn't just be an adult and stay home.
I was so disappointed in this book, I was really hoping I would enjoy it. I am such a softie when it comes to marriage of convenience stories, but this book just frustrated me. So, I guess, if these sorts of things don't bother you then, read away, but for me it was just too much.
October 10, 2015
The Wild at Heart series comes to an end with this fun western romance.
This novel centers on Bailey, the only one of the Wilde sisters not yet married. Bailey is doing just fine on her ranch until Gage decides he wants to run his cattle in the canyon he owns but her ranch blocks access to. When she forbids him to cross her property, he literally blasts another path into the canyon.
The adversarial relation ship between Bailey and Gage takes a sharp turn when he comes to her in the spring – needing a wife. His ma is coming and he had written her last fall that he was married and doing just fine. He never thought his mother would actually come to visit. Gage desperately assures her the marriage would be in name only. Bailey strikes a hard bargain but, tired and lonely after a hard winter, agrees.
The situation becomes potentially deadly when it is clear someone is trying to kill Gage. And Bailey is fit to be tied with Gage's ma being very jealous of the attention he shows his wife. Perhaps this “marriage” is over before it really got started.
Talk about an overbearing mother, Gage's ma takes the prize. And Gage, being a man, just does not see what it is doing to Bailey. And Bailey, being the independent woman she's been for years, has a hard time being controlled by someone else. It's a recipe for relationship disaster which can only be surmounted if love breaks through.
Bailey fought in the Civil War (you have to read the previous novels in this series). She saw some pretty horrible things and took part in an act that haunts her even now. That results in a good lesson about God's forgiveness. Bailey is a strong female heroine I enjoyed.
This series has also contained a good lesson in parenting. The Wilde sisters' father is not a man whose example any should follow. It is amazing the women turned out as they did with such a terrible father.
This novel contains well drawn characters, frontier intrigue, a little romance, and a little humor. It was a pleasure to read.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
This novel centers on Bailey, the only one of the Wilde sisters not yet married. Bailey is doing just fine on her ranch until Gage decides he wants to run his cattle in the canyon he owns but her ranch blocks access to. When she forbids him to cross her property, he literally blasts another path into the canyon.
The adversarial relation ship between Bailey and Gage takes a sharp turn when he comes to her in the spring – needing a wife. His ma is coming and he had written her last fall that he was married and doing just fine. He never thought his mother would actually come to visit. Gage desperately assures her the marriage would be in name only. Bailey strikes a hard bargain but, tired and lonely after a hard winter, agrees.
The situation becomes potentially deadly when it is clear someone is trying to kill Gage. And Bailey is fit to be tied with Gage's ma being very jealous of the attention he shows his wife. Perhaps this “marriage” is over before it really got started.
Talk about an overbearing mother, Gage's ma takes the prize. And Gage, being a man, just does not see what it is doing to Bailey. And Bailey, being the independent woman she's been for years, has a hard time being controlled by someone else. It's a recipe for relationship disaster which can only be surmounted if love breaks through.
Bailey fought in the Civil War (you have to read the previous novels in this series). She saw some pretty horrible things and took part in an act that haunts her even now. That results in a good lesson about God's forgiveness. Bailey is a strong female heroine I enjoyed.
This series has also contained a good lesson in parenting. The Wilde sisters' father is not a man whose example any should follow. It is amazing the women turned out as they did with such a terrible father.
This novel contains well drawn characters, frontier intrigue, a little romance, and a little humor. It was a pleasure to read.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
October 9, 2015
Fire and Ice
Introduction
After having read the first two books in the series, Tried and True and Now and Forever, when the opportunity came to read and review this one, I wanted to read it. Though Mary Connealy isn't my favorite author, Bailey and Gage were the two characters I most liked in the other two books, especially with all the hints about Bailey.
Characters
1/1
Bailey and Gage were everything I hoped they would be. They were real and they both had issues to deal with, including a mystery and a controlling mother.
Dialogue
1/1
Everything that was said seemed to fit each character. When Gage goes to Bailey's cabin after everyone was snowed in for the winter, the whole dialogue there was captivating.
Plot/storyline
.5/1
There were a few minor things that bugged me about the plot and storyline. One of the main things is how much Bailey does NOT tell Gage that I think she really should have.
Over-all writing quality
.75/1
As with most of the books I've read by the author, this one seemed to have a little something missing at the end, but it wasn't as abrupt as others. Although, I think the plot/storyline issue I have could have been resolved by a little less rushing at the end.
Un-put-down-ability
.75/1
It was hard to put down the book. There was always something happening like a rockslide, a dark ride through the woods with wolves, a blizzard that almost kills one of the main characters, and a really odd proposal. Mrs. Connealy definitely knows how to build the suspense.
Conclusion
4/5
This is my favorite of the three books in the Wild at Heart series. It was a good read and gave me a new perspective on a few things.
Note: I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Introduction
After having read the first two books in the series, Tried and True and Now and Forever, when the opportunity came to read and review this one, I wanted to read it. Though Mary Connealy isn't my favorite author, Bailey and Gage were the two characters I most liked in the other two books, especially with all the hints about Bailey.
Characters
1/1
Bailey and Gage were everything I hoped they would be. They were real and they both had issues to deal with, including a mystery and a controlling mother.
Dialogue
1/1
Everything that was said seemed to fit each character. When Gage goes to Bailey's cabin after everyone was snowed in for the winter, the whole dialogue there was captivating.
Plot/storyline
.5/1
There were a few minor things that bugged me about the plot and storyline. One of the main things is how much Bailey does NOT tell Gage that I think she really should have.
Over-all writing quality
.75/1
As with most of the books I've read by the author, this one seemed to have a little something missing at the end, but it wasn't as abrupt as others. Although, I think the plot/storyline issue I have could have been resolved by a little less rushing at the end.
Un-put-down-ability
.75/1
It was hard to put down the book. There was always something happening like a rockslide, a dark ride through the woods with wolves, a blizzard that almost kills one of the main characters, and a really odd proposal. Mrs. Connealy definitely knows how to build the suspense.
Conclusion
4/5
This is my favorite of the three books in the Wild at Heart series. It was a good read and gave me a new perspective on a few things.
Note: I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2018
While I did enjoy parts of Fire & Ice, it just didn't have the "it" factor for me. The plot didn't quite draw me in...I'm kind of starting to grasp that homesteading type novels might not be my thing, haha.
I really struggle with cowboy characters who don't have a good opinion of themselves, and that act wimpy at times. Not that Gage was wimpy, but at moments he had rather...glum/pathetic tendencies in his personality that just weren't attractive, and I've found that happens a lot with Connealy's dude characters.
It won't bother certain people, but it rubs me the wrong way.
I get it. Dude's have insecurities, but when someone mentions one thing and it hacks their self-confidence to the bone, that bugs me. It just didn't seem in keeping with his character's personality. I get all people have confidence issues at times, but I find seeing men's confidence hacked to bits with a simple comment from...ahem...their mother's...that get's my goad.
Nothing will make me see a man as more of a boy than when he acts like a boy around his mother- or allows his mother to treat him like a child, not a man. That starts happening, and I'm like..."son, you need help." It's just one of those interpersonal character things that irk me so hardcore.
However, if that kind of thing doesn't bother you and you like homesteading type books- you could very much enjoy Fire and Ice.
And I did really enjoy some of Gage & Bailey's moments together as a couple. I won't deny it, they had some good cuteness going on when they got a good moment.
I really struggle with cowboy characters who don't have a good opinion of themselves, and that act wimpy at times. Not that Gage was wimpy, but at moments he had rather...glum/pathetic tendencies in his personality that just weren't attractive, and I've found that happens a lot with Connealy's dude characters.
It won't bother certain people, but it rubs me the wrong way.
I get it. Dude's have insecurities, but when someone mentions one thing and it hacks their self-confidence to the bone, that bugs me. It just didn't seem in keeping with his character's personality. I get all people have confidence issues at times, but I find seeing men's confidence hacked to bits with a simple comment from...ahem...their mother's...that get's my goad.
Nothing will make me see a man as more of a boy than when he acts like a boy around his mother- or allows his mother to treat him like a child, not a man. That starts happening, and I'm like..."son, you need help." It's just one of those interpersonal character things that irk me so hardcore.
However, if that kind of thing doesn't bother you and you like homesteading type books- you could very much enjoy Fire and Ice.
And I did really enjoy some of Gage & Bailey's moments together as a couple. I won't deny it, they had some good cuteness going on when they got a good moment.
October 8, 2015
Set after the Civil War in the mountain territory of Colorado, Bailey Wilde, the oldest Wilde sister, has staked a homesteading claim with the dream of becoming a successful rancher. Like her sisters, she has been wearing britches and disguising herself as a man, just as they all three disguised as men and fought in the Civil War on the side of Union. However, her sisters soon ditched the male disguises after falling in love and getting married. This leaves Bailey all alone on her homestead in a battle with rancher, Gage Coulter over access to his winter grazing canyon. Bailey’s homestead sets across the mouth of the canyon and she refuses to let the big time rancher trespass on her property to drive his cattle to his winter range.
Hang on for a Wilde ride with the final sister and her range war with Gage Coulter. The conclusion to Connealy’s Wilde at Heart Series is fast paced, full of fun, romance, mystery, suspense, and a jealous, nit-picky mother-in-law. Yes, it has it all. I’ve always said I’ve never met a Mary Connealy book I didn’t love and Fire and Ice is no exception. Her books are light-hearted, romantic, and laugh out loud funny. I highly recommend the entire Wild at Heart Series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, through The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for my honest review.
Hang on for a Wilde ride with the final sister and her range war with Gage Coulter. The conclusion to Connealy’s Wilde at Heart Series is fast paced, full of fun, romance, mystery, suspense, and a jealous, nit-picky mother-in-law. Yes, it has it all. I’ve always said I’ve never met a Mary Connealy book I didn’t love and Fire and Ice is no exception. Her books are light-hearted, romantic, and laugh out loud funny. I highly recommend the entire Wild at Heart Series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, through The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for my honest review.
October 16, 2015
I have been reading this series from the very beginning and I really love it. Fire & Ice is the third book in the series and revolves around Bailey, the oldest and perhaps the most emotionally closed off sister of the three.
Bailey has been masquerading as a male for years. She served in the war and saw all the hard, awful things associated with war, death and fighting. Bailey is harboring much guilt and resentment over one event in particular. Bailey is used to being strong and independent and when Gage comes along and pushes her, she is ready to fight.
We get glimpses of Gage in the previous book and he comes off pushy and rough. I love that in this book we get to see that while Gage is pushy and rough, he is also hard working and honest. The more I got to know Gage, the more I liked him.
Bailey has the biggest character arch, I think. Her growth emotionally really made her endearing to me. I loved the learning that Bailey and Gage do together as well.
We get to see the other sisters in this book for brief moments. It's like checking in with old friends to see how they are doing.
As I said in the beginning, I have loved this series. I'm sad to see it coming to an end but I know Mary Connealy must have something great coming up next and I can't wait to read it!
Content: Clean. No swearing or sexual content. Christian Fiction.
Bailey has been masquerading as a male for years. She served in the war and saw all the hard, awful things associated with war, death and fighting. Bailey is harboring much guilt and resentment over one event in particular. Bailey is used to being strong and independent and when Gage comes along and pushes her, she is ready to fight.
We get glimpses of Gage in the previous book and he comes off pushy and rough. I love that in this book we get to see that while Gage is pushy and rough, he is also hard working and honest. The more I got to know Gage, the more I liked him.
Bailey has the biggest character arch, I think. Her growth emotionally really made her endearing to me. I loved the learning that Bailey and Gage do together as well.
We get to see the other sisters in this book for brief moments. It's like checking in with old friends to see how they are doing.
As I said in the beginning, I have loved this series. I'm sad to see it coming to an end but I know Mary Connealy must have something great coming up next and I can't wait to read it!
Content: Clean. No swearing or sexual content. Christian Fiction.
October 6, 2015
I absolutely adored the first two books in Mary Connealy’s Wild at Heart trilogy, and was anxiously looking forward to the third. Fire & Ice, which features the oldest of the Wilde sisters, definitely did not disappoint.
The first two books were heavy on action and quite humorous. While we again have an unknown threat as well as plenty of action and humor in Fire & Ice, it did have a more sedate feel to it. I think of Tried and True as a rom-com, Now & Forever as an action movie with romance, and Fire & Ice as a western drama with humor, though none of these descriptions fully encompass what these novels are. At its heart, Fire & Ice is the story of two people who were damaged by war and by family who turn to God and slowly learn to turn to each other in their difficulties.
So, I do recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romance, inspirational fiction, and a story that is amusing, exciting and heartwarming. I also recommend reading the three books in order for maximum enjoyment.
My full review can be read at: https://bookworlder.wordpress.com/201...
I received a free review copy through the Bethany House Blogger Review Program, in exchange for an honest review.
The first two books were heavy on action and quite humorous. While we again have an unknown threat as well as plenty of action and humor in Fire & Ice, it did have a more sedate feel to it. I think of Tried and True as a rom-com, Now & Forever as an action movie with romance, and Fire & Ice as a western drama with humor, though none of these descriptions fully encompass what these novels are. At its heart, Fire & Ice is the story of two people who were damaged by war and by family who turn to God and slowly learn to turn to each other in their difficulties.
So, I do recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romance, inspirational fiction, and a story that is amusing, exciting and heartwarming. I also recommend reading the three books in order for maximum enjoyment.
My full review can be read at: https://bookworlder.wordpress.com/201...
I received a free review copy through the Bethany House Blogger Review Program, in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2015
Once again a pleasurable read from Connealy! I like so many different authors and moods of books. Hers are always funny and enjoyable reads that lift the spirit.
Bailey Wilde is the oldest sister who is still trying to hang onto her manly ways and her ranch. Keeping stubborn and bring gruff has only left her lonely ...and eventually in a very difficult predicament with her cattle.
Gage is honest, but not a pushover....at least it seems that way till someone from his past shows up. He then appears to be a different man. He wants help!
This is a great story of how the walls two people have built crumble when loneliness and love start to tear those walks down one chink at a time. If you love fun western reads with humor, mystery, love, and just plain fun, you can count on Mary Connealy to deliver! I highly recommend this read and this series!
I received this read through bookfun.org for my honest opinion which I have given.
Bailey Wilde is the oldest sister who is still trying to hang onto her manly ways and her ranch. Keeping stubborn and bring gruff has only left her lonely ...and eventually in a very difficult predicament with her cattle.
Gage is honest, but not a pushover....at least it seems that way till someone from his past shows up. He then appears to be a different man. He wants help!
This is a great story of how the walls two people have built crumble when loneliness and love start to tear those walks down one chink at a time. If you love fun western reads with humor, mystery, love, and just plain fun, you can count on Mary Connealy to deliver! I highly recommend this read and this series!
I received this read through bookfun.org for my honest opinion which I have given.
February 5, 2016
First off, the cover is frankly the worst of the series. The cover model looks nothing like the character! This girl has blue eyes and straight blonde hair, whereas Bailey has golden-hazel eyes and golden curls. Drove me nuts the whole time I read.
Mary Connealy is a favorite choice of mine when I need some good escapist fiction. Nothing like her romps in Colorado or Texas, and I love how her characters pop up repeatedly in different books. We get updates in this one from Kylie, Aaron, Tucker, Shannon,and Sunrise, along with the excitement of the sparks Gage and Bailey strike out of each other. It's a delight to see both of them slowly melt—her fire to his chill. Of course, both have reasons, and when Ma Coulter shows up, things are bound to happen.
A great finish to the series!
Mary Connealy is a favorite choice of mine when I need some good escapist fiction. Nothing like her romps in Colorado or Texas, and I love how her characters pop up repeatedly in different books. We get updates in this one from Kylie, Aaron, Tucker, Shannon,and Sunrise, along with the excitement of the sparks Gage and Bailey strike out of each other. It's a delight to see both of them slowly melt—her fire to his chill. Of course, both have reasons, and when Ma Coulter shows up, things are bound to happen.
A great finish to the series!
October 31, 2015
A fun marriage of convenience story to wrap up the Wilde at Heart Series.
Bailey Wilde, the oldest of the Wilde sisters, is determined to homestead her ranch now that her sisters have married and moved away. Haunted by her time spent in the Civil War disguised as a man, she's reclusive and likes it that way. Then Gage Coulter appears at her door, claiming he owns the canyon she runs her cattle on and he wants it back. But in order for Gage to access the canyon, Bailey has to agree to let him cross her land. She refuses, of course, so Gage finds another way in, using dynamite to blast a path through to the canyon. During a long, snowed-in winter, Bailey's loneliness engulfs her. When Gage shows up at her door come spring, offering marriage to increase their ranches, Bailey gives in. The rest is a Wilde ride!
Bailey Wilde, the oldest of the Wilde sisters, is determined to homestead her ranch now that her sisters have married and moved away. Haunted by her time spent in the Civil War disguised as a man, she's reclusive and likes it that way. Then Gage Coulter appears at her door, claiming he owns the canyon she runs her cattle on and he wants it back. But in order for Gage to access the canyon, Bailey has to agree to let him cross her land. She refuses, of course, so Gage finds another way in, using dynamite to blast a path through to the canyon. During a long, snowed-in winter, Bailey's loneliness engulfs her. When Gage shows up at her door come spring, offering marriage to increase their ranches, Bailey gives in. The rest is a Wilde ride!
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