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Grayson Family #5
My Heart's Desire
He Is The Only Man Who Can Protect Her—And The One Who Can Hurt Her The Most
Desperate circumstances set Faith Wilkins on the run and straight into Sheriff Duke Grayson’s protective arms. Hiding her true identity to keep her family safe, Faith hopes her past won’t find her. She believes she can build a good life with the dutiful lawman, but their relationship is built on lies because the truth could get them killed. If her shocking secrets are ever revealed, is the sheriff the kind of man who will stand beside her? Or will he be the one to crush her dreams forever?
Please Note: Kissing in the Dark (Grayson Series) is the original edition of My Heart’s Desire (The Second Chance Brides series), which has been revised for the reader who prefers a book without open-door love scenes. If you prefer sweet, clean romance, please read My Heart’s Desire.
Desperate circumstances set Faith Wilkins on the run and straight into Sheriff Duke Grayson’s protective arms. Hiding her true identity to keep her family safe, Faith hopes her past won’t find her. She believes she can build a good life with the dutiful lawman, but their relationship is built on lies because the truth could get them killed. If her shocking secrets are ever revealed, is the sheriff the kind of man who will stand beside her? Or will he be the one to crush her dreams forever?
Please Note: Kissing in the Dark (Grayson Series) is the original edition of My Heart’s Desire (The Second Chance Brides series), which has been revised for the reader who prefers a book without open-door love scenes. If you prefer sweet, clean romance, please read My Heart’s Desire.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2011
448 people are currently reading
1338 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Lindstrom
25 books138 followersNew York Times & USA Today Bestselling Author Wendy Lindstrom is known for the riveting emotional power of her work. Romantic Times has dubbed her “one of romance’s finest writers,” and readers rave about her enthralling characters and “masterfully crafted” stories. She is the creator of the “original Grayson Brothers” series that begins with RITA award-winner Shades of Honor. This bestselling series is available in ebook, paperback editions, and audiobooks.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
August 22, 2014
Originally posted on The Book Nympho
Quick summary
Duke Grayson, the third brother in this series, meets widow Faith Wilkins when her brother is caught stealing from the general store. He's immediately attracted to this beautiful woman who is understands the healing, medicinal properties of plants and, together with her three "aunts," has a murky past.
What I liked
The characters all exhibited some serious flaws and, at times, behaved pretty badly. Faith's secrets were explosive, adding intrigue and presenting what appeared to be a no-win situation. Even stalwart Radford, the oldest brother, showed some unattractive sides of himself. Even the children had some challenging moments. In spite of this, they were all very likable people who you rooted for and felt the pain of their circumstances.
The narration
Julie Motyka may not have the most distinctive voice but she's a strong storyteller and I never had issues distinguishing characters. For me, she's become synonymous with the series.
The bottom line
I really liked this story, probably my most favorite of the series so far. There are moments that will rip your heart apart and times when you'll laugh out loud. I never wanted to stop listening and loved how the issues were rough and the resolutions not always wrapped with a neat bow. Well done. 4.5 stars
Quick summary
Duke Grayson, the third brother in this series, meets widow Faith Wilkins when her brother is caught stealing from the general store. He's immediately attracted to this beautiful woman who is understands the healing, medicinal properties of plants and, together with her three "aunts," has a murky past.
What I liked
The characters all exhibited some serious flaws and, at times, behaved pretty badly. Faith's secrets were explosive, adding intrigue and presenting what appeared to be a no-win situation. Even stalwart Radford, the oldest brother, showed some unattractive sides of himself. Even the children had some challenging moments. In spite of this, they were all very likable people who you rooted for and felt the pain of their circumstances.
The narration
Julie Motyka may not have the most distinctive voice but she's a strong storyteller and I never had issues distinguishing characters. For me, she's become synonymous with the series.
The bottom line
I really liked this story, probably my most favorite of the series so far. There are moments that will rip your heart apart and times when you'll laugh out loud. I never wanted to stop listening and loved how the issues were rough and the resolutions not always wrapped with a neat bow. Well done. 4.5 stars
July 5, 2014
It pains me to give this book only three stars because overall I really enjoyed the Grayson Brother Series. But I struggled a little with this story. I don't usually summarize the story much in my reviews because the back covers / blurbs tend to do a good job of that. But in this case I think I need to give some of the background in order to explain my rating.
Duke Grayson has dedicated eight years of his life to being Sheriff and believes wholeheartedly in his duty to uphold the law. His gut instincts have been honed over time and serve him well...until he meets Faith...the only woman who has ever stirred up feelings in him that make him long to be a family man. His instincts tell him something is off about Faith, her little brother and her 'Aunts'. But his heart is telling him to trust and believe in her.
Faith and her 'family' are running from a bad guy and they come from a sordid past - Faith's mother operated a brothel and Faith's aunts are really prostitutes. [Not really a spoiler as this revealed very early in the story]. She knows they'll be run out of town if anyone learns of their past so Faith has to lie to everyone...including Duke. In order to secure her future and that of her little brother and daughter, Faith accepts Duke's request to court her and his ultimate proposal of marriage. But in doing so, she could ruin the livelihood of every single family member in the Grayson family if the truth of her past is ever known. She is tormented about her decision to deceive Duke but is determined to keep her past a secret until Duke is deeply in love with her, hoping he'll be able to forgive her.
Okay...I really struggled to get into this relationship because I was so angry at Faith for being selfish and lying to Duke by withholding the truth about her past. Maybe I'm too much like Duke in my feelings about right and wrong. Maybe the author didn't do enough to make me feel sympathetic enough to Faith's plight to make her actions forgivable. I don't know. But I was so pissed at Faith for not fessing up and letting Duke go into the relationship with his eyes wide open that it sort of ruined the story for me. The kicker of it all was that when Duke finally found out the truth, he was pissed for the same reason - because he STILL would have married Faith (because he loved her) but he would have done things a little differently to ensure his extended family was protected. The fact that Faith's lies could have harmed so many people is what upset me the most. It is one thing if the lies only impact the two lovers (like the problems Amelia and Kyle withheld from each other in Book 2), but when your lies are far reaching - well, that just isn't right and really reflects poorly on the character of the individual.
This story might have worked better for me if it had been written 100% from Duke's perspective so I could have experienced the falling in love phase along with Duke without the knowledge of the depth of Faith's lies and betrayal. But because I knew she was withholding such important information, it made her feelings for Duke feel fake or at least 'less than' his feelings for her. And that just doesn't work for me in a romance novel.
I did enjoy all of the side stories going on with the Aunts and their suitors as well as with Faith's little brother, Adam, and Radford's daughter, Rebecca. Faith's daughter, Cora, was adorable and the connection between Duke and Cora was beautiful. The complex relationship between Duke and Adam was also interesting. However, it felt like the story dragged on unnecessarily. The whole thing with the bad guy didn't need to go on as long as it did.
So for me, the major redeeming aspect of this book was Duke finding peace with himself and happiness in the end despite all that had happened. It was wonderful how all four Grayson men drifted off at some point in their careers - but found their center and strength in the family sawmill. It was a little disappointing to have the series end this way but overall it was worthwhile reading.
Duke Grayson has dedicated eight years of his life to being Sheriff and believes wholeheartedly in his duty to uphold the law. His gut instincts have been honed over time and serve him well...until he meets Faith...the only woman who has ever stirred up feelings in him that make him long to be a family man. His instincts tell him something is off about Faith, her little brother and her 'Aunts'. But his heart is telling him to trust and believe in her.
Faith and her 'family' are running from a bad guy and they come from a sordid past - Faith's mother operated a brothel and Faith's aunts are really prostitutes. [Not really a spoiler as this revealed very early in the story]. She knows they'll be run out of town if anyone learns of their past so Faith has to lie to everyone...including Duke. In order to secure her future and that of her little brother and daughter, Faith accepts Duke's request to court her and his ultimate proposal of marriage. But in doing so, she could ruin the livelihood of every single family member in the Grayson family if the truth of her past is ever known. She is tormented about her decision to deceive Duke but is determined to keep her past a secret until Duke is deeply in love with her, hoping he'll be able to forgive her.
Okay...I really struggled to get into this relationship because I was so angry at Faith for being selfish and lying to Duke by withholding the truth about her past. Maybe I'm too much like Duke in my feelings about right and wrong. Maybe the author didn't do enough to make me feel sympathetic enough to Faith's plight to make her actions forgivable. I don't know. But I was so pissed at Faith for not fessing up and letting Duke go into the relationship with his eyes wide open that it sort of ruined the story for me. The kicker of it all was that when Duke finally found out the truth, he was pissed for the same reason - because he STILL would have married Faith (because he loved her) but he would have done things a little differently to ensure his extended family was protected. The fact that Faith's lies could have harmed so many people is what upset me the most. It is one thing if the lies only impact the two lovers (like the problems Amelia and Kyle withheld from each other in Book 2), but when your lies are far reaching - well, that just isn't right and really reflects poorly on the character of the individual.
This story might have worked better for me if it had been written 100% from Duke's perspective so I could have experienced the falling in love phase along with Duke without the knowledge of the depth of Faith's lies and betrayal. But because I knew she was withholding such important information, it made her feelings for Duke feel fake or at least 'less than' his feelings for her. And that just doesn't work for me in a romance novel.
I did enjoy all of the side stories going on with the Aunts and their suitors as well as with Faith's little brother, Adam, and Radford's daughter, Rebecca. Faith's daughter, Cora, was adorable and the connection between Duke and Cora was beautiful. The complex relationship between Duke and Adam was also interesting. However, it felt like the story dragged on unnecessarily. The whole thing with the bad guy didn't need to go on as long as it did.
So for me, the major redeeming aspect of this book was Duke finding peace with himself and happiness in the end despite all that had happened. It was wonderful how all four Grayson men drifted off at some point in their careers - but found their center and strength in the family sawmill. It was a little disappointing to have the series end this way but overall it was worthwhile reading.
May 14, 2014
I was unmoved by this historical, which seemed to pull on every unbelievable trope in the genre. Prostitutes on the road to redemption running a greenhouse with a bonus medical bath (only a little bit hanky-panky-inspired!) but terrorized by an evil man out of their past as well as the possible revelation of their secrets? Book-smart heroine whose herbal knowledge and anatomical reading makes her the best healer in the world? Hurt hero who's dogged by problems in his community as well as a family that conveniently pushes or pulls him into closer connection with the heroine? Cute moppet who is all too precocious and precious, sure to be endangered? Tick, tick and yawn.
I didn't get excited about the hero and heroine or the rest of the sprawling cast. That could just be me. If you like historicals which are heavy on action sparked by emotional drama and excursions into the historical research the author obviously worked hard to gather, have fun. Just not my cup of tea or herbal brews.
I didn't get excited about the hero and heroine or the rest of the sprawling cast. That could just be me. If you like historicals which are heavy on action sparked by emotional drama and excursions into the historical research the author obviously worked hard to gather, have fun. Just not my cup of tea or herbal brews.
April 6, 2016
This is Duke's story. The setting is now 1879 and he's 30 years old. He's been the sheriff for 8 years and it's election time again. Unfortunately, he's recently injured his shoulder and that's giving his competition reason to campaign against him. Then, he encounters a young boy attempting to steal a hair brush. As it turns out, the boy's name is Adam and he and his sister and her "aunts" have recently moved to Fredonia.
Faith Wilkins and her family are escaping their past. They intend to start fresh by opening a greenhouse where they can sell herbs and ointments. She also wants to offer massages to the citizens.
Duke cannot afford to allow any irreputable business to operate in his jurisdiction, so he goes to investigate. What follows is a tale that dips into all sorts of deep topics, yet the author somehow maintains an appropriate balance without ever getting too heavy or dark.
Themes covered are: honesty / integrity, morality / ethics, trust, and what is family.
Subthemes are - jealousy and young love / maturity
The author also introduces several new characters, but it's easy to keep up with who's who and their back story is just as good as the main story. In fact, I found all the character development to be solid and good.
Romance - depends on which book you read -
Kissing in the Dark has more spice to it and falls in the PG13 category whereas My Heart's Desire is trimmed down of anything eyebrow raising and remains in the PG category.
Language -again depends on which book -
Kissing in the Dark has a couple of strong words, but the setting makes sense. Those few words are removed in My Heart's Desire.
Violence - There are a few fight scenes and a couple of them involve someone getting shot.
All in all, it's a good book that keeps the reader engaged. I never felt that the story dragged. It seemed to be well balanced in length and content.
My rating - 5 stars.
Faith Wilkins and her family are escaping their past. They intend to start fresh by opening a greenhouse where they can sell herbs and ointments. She also wants to offer massages to the citizens.
Duke cannot afford to allow any irreputable business to operate in his jurisdiction, so he goes to investigate. What follows is a tale that dips into all sorts of deep topics, yet the author somehow maintains an appropriate balance without ever getting too heavy or dark.
Themes covered are: honesty / integrity, morality / ethics, trust, and what is family.
Subthemes are - jealousy and young love / maturity
The author also introduces several new characters, but it's easy to keep up with who's who and their back story is just as good as the main story. In fact, I found all the character development to be solid and good.
Romance - depends on which book you read -
Kissing in the Dark has more spice to it and falls in the PG13 category whereas My Heart's Desire is trimmed down of anything eyebrow raising and remains in the PG category.
Language -again depends on which book -
Kissing in the Dark has a couple of strong words, but the setting makes sense. Those few words are removed in My Heart's Desire.
Violence - There are a few fight scenes and a couple of them involve someone getting shot.
All in all, it's a good book that keeps the reader engaged. I never felt that the story dragged. It seemed to be well balanced in length and content.
My rating - 5 stars.
July 20, 2016
Still enjoying the series, this book about the last Grayson brother. However, I didn't so much enjoy the theme on this one (not stated to avoid spoilers). I didn't think that some story details made sense, such as so many of the men in the town asking to "court" the aunts at first sight. Especially, the gift of clothing from the H to h would have been considered highly inappropriate just a few years ago, let alone over 100 years ago. Also, I noticed more editorial issues, especially missing punctuation at the end of quoted content.
August 17, 2016
Duke and Faith. He's the sheriff and she's new in town. She and her "aunts" buy a place to grow herbs and make medicinal recipes. There are many secrets in this book, but twice as many names to attempt to keep track of. The author talks about Faith, her brother, her daughter, all of her aunts, the sheriff, his brothers, his brothers' families, people in the town trying to become sheriff, and people from the town that Faith came from. I think when you are talking about that many people, you can't get a good read on the main characters.
December 1, 2016
I loved Kissing in the Dark. For one, the setting was intriguing. Set in New York, it has a very western feel to it as though the characters live out in the mid-west. I found the characters all fun, quirky, and full of depth. The dynamic between Faith and her "aunts" is quite fun and realistic in how she can be disapproving and embarrassed by them at times.
The romance between Duke and Faith started almost from their first meeting, mostly on Duke's side, but it was a slow burn and full of seduction. I found Duke seriously swoon worthy. Loved this book!!!
The romance between Duke and Faith started almost from their first meeting, mostly on Duke's side, but it was a slow burn and full of seduction. I found Duke seriously swoon worthy. Loved this book!!!
January 7, 2022
Absolutely loved this book as well as this series. This book gives us so many things going on. We have Duke Grayson, who is the third son of the Grayson brothers and he is the straight and honest sheriff. When a new family comes to town and has some questionable business ideas it is Duke's duty to investigate. What he found was love amongst those crazy women and children but there are secrets and lies and danger all mixed in and it will take all he has to survive.
Faith and her family has escaped the pits of doom to start over in this sweet town. If she can keep her crazy aunts in line and get her business started just maybe they have a chance at finally being happy. When the handsome sheriff keeps coming around she is not only nervous about what he will discover but her heart is growing fond of Duke Grayson and that could either save her or cost her everything.
The characters in this book are wonderful. There are so many things going on it keeps you guessing and on your toes. I loved the story and enjoyed watching Duke understand there is more to life than just following the law. Sometimes there is thin line between right and wrong and you have to figure out what works best for you. I loved how Faith has survived the worst of situations and been the care giver to all these people. Her heart was wounded but not broken and she came out the other side a strong women. I loved this book.
Faith and her family has escaped the pits of doom to start over in this sweet town. If she can keep her crazy aunts in line and get her business started just maybe they have a chance at finally being happy. When the handsome sheriff keeps coming around she is not only nervous about what he will discover but her heart is growing fond of Duke Grayson and that could either save her or cost her everything.
The characters in this book are wonderful. There are so many things going on it keeps you guessing and on your toes. I loved the story and enjoyed watching Duke understand there is more to life than just following the law. Sometimes there is thin line between right and wrong and you have to figure out what works best for you. I loved how Faith has survived the worst of situations and been the care giver to all these people. Her heart was wounded but not broken and she came out the other side a strong women. I loved this book.
April 16, 2019
Kissing in the Dark: A Heartwarming, Small Town Historical Romance (Grayson Brothers Book 4) (Kindle Edition)
This book was a very interesting look into the lives of four women who were born into or choose the life of prostitution. Loved how their lives intertwined with each other to be a family. How they escaped to change their lives and intermingled with those they thought were higher up in society was a great plot line.
The local sheriff was a genuine hero whom every woman alive would love to come to your rescue. Excellent love stories in this book and worth the read!
This book was a very interesting look into the lives of four women who were born into or choose the life of prostitution. Loved how their lives intertwined with each other to be a family. How they escaped to change their lives and intermingled with those they thought were higher up in society was a great plot line.
The local sheriff was a genuine hero whom every woman alive would love to come to your rescue. Excellent love stories in this book and worth the read!
March 27, 2021
Kissing in the Dark: The Grayson Brothers Book 5
The love story of Duke and Faith. When Widow Faith and her family (three aunts( the Wilde sisters), a brother (Adams), and her daughter (4 years old Core) move to Fredonia, NY to open a greenhouse and spa. They are on the run from Judge Stone and Faith run right to to the arms of Duke (the sheriff). The sisters want her to marry him so he can protect them. While they are try to marry Faith off they find their lover. Will this unusual family find safety in Fredom?
The love story of Duke and Faith. When Widow Faith and her family (three aunts( the Wilde sisters), a brother (Adams), and her daughter (4 years old Core) move to Fredonia, NY to open a greenhouse and spa. They are on the run from Judge Stone and Faith run right to to the arms of Duke (the sheriff). The sisters want her to marry him so he can protect them. While they are try to marry Faith off they find their lover. Will this unusual family find safety in Fredom?
July 6, 2024
Kissing in the Dark (The Grayson Family Book 5)
Well another truly awesome Book by my favorite Author,.who is as beautiful as each of her Romance Novels! I have never read any Book filled with more love and romance put into these wonderful storylines that are so sweet that puts an old man with mist in his eyes!! Thank you for another touching story that filled by heart with such peace and happiness..
Well another truly awesome Book by my favorite Author,.who is as beautiful as each of her Romance Novels! I have never read any Book filled with more love and romance put into these wonderful storylines that are so sweet that puts an old man with mist in his eyes!! Thank you for another touching story that filled by heart with such peace and happiness..
June 8, 2018
This has been the best book in this series so far. Very complete. Please note this is an historical fiction series and not just a romance story. I felt it was very complete and many things were happening that kept my interest and kept me wondering what comes next. The narration has been a lot better than in the previous books as well. Very enjoyable.
May 8, 2017
This one took me awhile to finish -- just way too much going on in my life. I've enjoyed all of this series although this one was better than the last one I believe! I liked the "things aren't always black and white" aspect!
February 12, 2018
This was a fun ending to the quartet of stories. I loved all the aunts and Duke and Faith make a great couple. I wish there was a little more about the healing done with the herbs as that is an area of interest for me.
July 20, 2018
Suspenseful and full of adventure
This story is well written and kept me wondering what next! I love the characters in this series even the bad guys are truly bad! Some you think are bad turn out not so bad!
This story is well written and kept me wondering what next! I love the characters in this series even the bad guys are truly bad! Some you think are bad turn out not so bad!
December 18, 2019
Duke and Faith
This is a great story sweeping all emotions, happiness, want, necessity, hate, love humor. I cried a couple time I laughed several times and I happily discovered their happily ever after. I loved this story the most so far in this series and I bet you will too.
This is a great story sweeping all emotions, happiness, want, necessity, hate, love humor. I cried a couple time I laughed several times and I happily discovered their happily ever after. I loved this story the most so far in this series and I bet you will too.
December 23, 2019
Love
Each book just keeps getting better and you can see the growth in Wendy's writing. I absolutely enjoyed this book, it may be my favorite yet. Looking forward to reading the rest.
Each book just keeps getting better and you can see the growth in Wendy's writing. I absolutely enjoyed this book, it may be my favorite yet. Looking forward to reading the rest.
Currently reading
September 20, 2023Great read
Great story of love, forgiveness, responsibility, commitment and family!
It was a bit repetitious about the characters feelings and summarization about what had already occurred. I loved the book though
Great story of love, forgiveness, responsibility, commitment and family!
It was a bit repetitious about the characters feelings and summarization about what had already occurred. I loved the book though
October 20, 2017
So many characters, so many relationships, past and present, it was difficult at times not to mess all the names, lol. I didn't like Duke as much as I liked Kyle.
December 15, 2017
Wonderful
This was a very interesting and wonderful book. Wendy did a great job with all the characters and kept my interest to the very end.
This was a very interesting and wonderful book. Wendy did a great job with all the characters and kept my interest to the very end.
January 7, 2018
Wonbderful
This book will keep you engaged the entire time. Don't start reading unless youy have time to finish it in one sitting.
This book will keep you engaged the entire time. Don't start reading unless youy have time to finish it in one sitting.
March 5, 2018
Full of well-principled, moral characters in spite of the fact that half of them worked in a brothel. A fun romp through humanity.
January 23, 2024
Kissing in the dark
Loved the story. Slow paced at the end, Felt like it was dragging.
Nevertheless now i am ready to read Book 6
Loved the story. Slow paced at the end, Felt like it was dragging.
Nevertheless now i am ready to read Book 6
March 31, 2024
Great book
Thank you for this boom. It was great all the love Hart ace and even the kidnapping made this book great and on my toes.
Thank you for this boom. It was great all the love Hart ace and even the kidnapping made this book great and on my toes.
June 22, 2024
Wonderful touching storytelling
This series is wonderful reads with a great storyline…it keeps your attention and guessing about the plot coming in the next chapter
This series is wonderful reads with a great storyline…it keeps your attention and guessing about the plot coming in the next chapter
November 30, 2025
This one made me tear up while reading it. Very good.
May 11, 2015
My Heart's Desire is another delightful book in the Second Chance Brides series. Having previously read Kissing in the Dark, I was excited to see how the author would address some mature topics forming the foundation of the story in a "sweet edition", and I was not disappointed. The author creates a wonderful story of a man's struggles between right-and-wrong, black-and-white, and love-and-honor and a woman's struggle to rebuild her life after trauma and loss and does so without including any "sensual" aspects of any of the relationships. My Heart's Desire is just that - a man and a woman fight to balance their personal struggles with their heart's desire for each other.
The author uses wonderful imagery throughout the story to create a picture of the characters. This book introduces more primary characters than other books in the series - as Faith moves to town with two children and four "aunts" - but the author creates a family unit that makes it easy for the reader to fall in love with all of them. I really love how the names of Faith's aunts are flowers and creates a tie-in to Faith's plants in the greenhouse. The names also create an image of the beauty and strength and delicacy of the aunts. At one point, Duke compares himself and his brothers to different types of trees. This additional tie in to nature creates an image of stature and strength in the Grayson men. The Grayson wives are also compared to the seasons of the year -- and around all of the imagery of nature is Nancy Grayson, the matriarch of the family, and the epitome of mother earth with her grounding influence. This imagery of nature and its healing properties and its nurturing growth is a wonderfully-pleasing way to create a mental picture of the key characters and their journeys in this story.
Throughout the story, Duke's strength is drawn from his black-and-white view of right and wrong. Because of these strongly held views, he continues to find himself struggling to find a balance between his view of right-and-wrong and situations in which he finds himself in a grey area influenced more by emotion than fact. This struggle makes it difficult for Duke to accept what he finds to be unacceptable situations with Faith and her family. His sense of honor battles with his love for Faith and her family. His emotional turmoil over feeling the need to choose one or the other makes for a compelling story for our hero. Faith's secrets lie in her past but threaten her future in Fredonia and with Duke. Her childhood influences her view of right-and-wrong and her "shades of gray" view of the world drives her actions and decisions as she strives to create a new life for her children and her aunts. As a reader, you are drawn to Faith's strength, and her vulnerability, and her compassion, and her love for family. You mourn and celebrate with Faith and Duke as they navigate their way through trials and tribulations with the hope of finding love at the other end.
My Heart's Desire also dedicates a good portion of the story to getting to know Adam, Faith's teenage brother, and Rebecca, Radford's daughter (we initially met her as a young child in Twice Loved). Their budding friendship is sweet to see and also lays the foundation for what we know are future books that focus on their love story. While this story represents the last of the four Grayson brothers to find their happily-ever-after, there is so much more to look forward to from Wendy Lindstrom and Fredonia, New York.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
The author uses wonderful imagery throughout the story to create a picture of the characters. This book introduces more primary characters than other books in the series - as Faith moves to town with two children and four "aunts" - but the author creates a family unit that makes it easy for the reader to fall in love with all of them. I really love how the names of Faith's aunts are flowers and creates a tie-in to Faith's plants in the greenhouse. The names also create an image of the beauty and strength and delicacy of the aunts. At one point, Duke compares himself and his brothers to different types of trees. This additional tie in to nature creates an image of stature and strength in the Grayson men. The Grayson wives are also compared to the seasons of the year -- and around all of the imagery of nature is Nancy Grayson, the matriarch of the family, and the epitome of mother earth with her grounding influence. This imagery of nature and its healing properties and its nurturing growth is a wonderfully-pleasing way to create a mental picture of the key characters and their journeys in this story.
Throughout the story, Duke's strength is drawn from his black-and-white view of right and wrong. Because of these strongly held views, he continues to find himself struggling to find a balance between his view of right-and-wrong and situations in which he finds himself in a grey area influenced more by emotion than fact. This struggle makes it difficult for Duke to accept what he finds to be unacceptable situations with Faith and her family. His sense of honor battles with his love for Faith and her family. His emotional turmoil over feeling the need to choose one or the other makes for a compelling story for our hero. Faith's secrets lie in her past but threaten her future in Fredonia and with Duke. Her childhood influences her view of right-and-wrong and her "shades of gray" view of the world drives her actions and decisions as she strives to create a new life for her children and her aunts. As a reader, you are drawn to Faith's strength, and her vulnerability, and her compassion, and her love for family. You mourn and celebrate with Faith and Duke as they navigate their way through trials and tribulations with the hope of finding love at the other end.
My Heart's Desire also dedicates a good portion of the story to getting to know Adam, Faith's teenage brother, and Rebecca, Radford's daughter (we initially met her as a young child in Twice Loved). Their budding friendship is sweet to see and also lays the foundation for what we know are future books that focus on their love story. While this story represents the last of the four Grayson brothers to find their happily-ever-after, there is so much more to look forward to from Wendy Lindstrom and Fredonia, New York.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
March 2, 2017
A sweet old-fashioned story
This is the first book of the Grayson saga that I've read. The story was very well written, I could feel the characters feelings as they traveled in life. I love that it's an HEA. I loved the secondary characters as well. All in all, an excellent read.
This is the first book of the Grayson saga that I've read. The story was very well written, I could feel the characters feelings as they traveled in life. I love that it's an HEA. I loved the secondary characters as well. All in all, an excellent read.
January 1, 2015
This was the 4th and final book in the Grayson Brothers Bundle.
Luke Grayson is the town's sheriff. He hears that a group of women and 2 young children have moved into town and are all living together. Apparently the women grow herbs and make potions to sell. This sounds like a snake oil scam to him. He meets the young boy Adam first as he is stealing a hair brush. The sheriff decides to scare him and walks him to jail. They make an agreement that Adam won't have to stay in jail if he tells his sister what he did, tells the store owner and agrees to work off the cost of the brush if the store owner will allow it. When confronted by the Sheriff with Adam in tow and Adam fesses up, she is very upset. The store owner agrees that Adam can work part time, and the Sheriff tells Faith that Adam needs to be in school even if it is near the end of the school year.
Duke is up for re-election and several men want his job. Duke has an injured shoulder and wonders if he can even do the job any more. Faith offers him a cream to rub into his shoulder. They are definitely attracted to each other. Faith had introduced herself as a widow, Adam as her brother, the young girl as her daughter, and the other 3 women as her aunts. The truth is that Faith and Adam's mom was a madame for a brothel, and the 3 women (aunts?) worked for her. When her mom dies the women agree to run away together. The local judge wants the ownership of the brothel for a real estate deal he is trying to put together.
Luke knows something is off with this family, but he doesn't know what. It doesn't help matters when his mom and sisters-in-law make friends with the women and buy their products. Over time Duke becomes very involved with Faith and her family. The kids treat him as a father figure and he sees them as his children. When Judge Stone tracks them down, Faith has to tell Duke all. He's not sure he can forgive all the lies. But when the Judge grabs Faith's daughter and is threatening to take her away, Duke realizes how much he loves Faith and her family. Duke's 3 brothers come when Adam gets away and goes and tells them what is happening. Can they defeat a powerful person like the Judge? Can the "aunts" live a normal life in this small town? Faith's father shows up, can they build a relationship after all this time? Will Duke continue as sheriff or will he seek other employment. Can Faith and Duke rebuild their budding relationship?
Luke Grayson is the town's sheriff. He hears that a group of women and 2 young children have moved into town and are all living together. Apparently the women grow herbs and make potions to sell. This sounds like a snake oil scam to him. He meets the young boy Adam first as he is stealing a hair brush. The sheriff decides to scare him and walks him to jail. They make an agreement that Adam won't have to stay in jail if he tells his sister what he did, tells the store owner and agrees to work off the cost of the brush if the store owner will allow it. When confronted by the Sheriff with Adam in tow and Adam fesses up, she is very upset. The store owner agrees that Adam can work part time, and the Sheriff tells Faith that Adam needs to be in school even if it is near the end of the school year.
Duke is up for re-election and several men want his job. Duke has an injured shoulder and wonders if he can even do the job any more. Faith offers him a cream to rub into his shoulder. They are definitely attracted to each other. Faith had introduced herself as a widow, Adam as her brother, the young girl as her daughter, and the other 3 women as her aunts. The truth is that Faith and Adam's mom was a madame for a brothel, and the 3 women (aunts?) worked for her. When her mom dies the women agree to run away together. The local judge wants the ownership of the brothel for a real estate deal he is trying to put together.
Luke knows something is off with this family, but he doesn't know what. It doesn't help matters when his mom and sisters-in-law make friends with the women and buy their products. Over time Duke becomes very involved with Faith and her family. The kids treat him as a father figure and he sees them as his children. When Judge Stone tracks them down, Faith has to tell Duke all. He's not sure he can forgive all the lies. But when the Judge grabs Faith's daughter and is threatening to take her away, Duke realizes how much he loves Faith and her family. Duke's 3 brothers come when Adam gets away and goes and tells them what is happening. Can they defeat a powerful person like the Judge? Can the "aunts" live a normal life in this small town? Faith's father shows up, can they build a relationship after all this time? Will Duke continue as sheriff or will he seek other employment. Can Faith and Duke rebuild their budding relationship?
April 6, 2016
This is Duke's story. The setting is now 1879 and he's 30 years old. He's been the sheriff for 8 years and it's election time again. Unfortunately, he's recently injured his shoulder and that's giving his competition reason to campaign against him. Then, he encounters a young boy attempting to steal a hair brush. As it turns out, the boy's name is Adam and he and his sister and her "aunts" have recently moved to Fredonia.
Faith Wilkins and her family are escaping their past. They intend to start fresh by opening a greenhouse where they can sell herbs and ointments. She also wants to offer massages to the citizens.
Duke cannot afford to allow any irreputable business to operate in his jurisdiction, so he goes to investigate. What follows is a tale that dips into all sorts of deep topics, yet the author somehow maintains an appropriate balance without ever getting too heavy or dark.
Themes covered are: honesty / integrity, morality / ethics, trust, and what is family.
Subthemes are - jealousy and young love / maturity
The author also introduces several new characters, but it's easy to keep up with who's who and their back story is just as good as the main story. In fact, I found all the character development to be solid and good.
Romance - depends on which book you read -
Kissing in the Dark has more spice to it and falls in the PG13 category whereas My Heart's Desire is trimmed down of anything eyebrow raising and remains in the PG category.
Language -again depends on which book -
Kissing in the Dark has a couple of strong words, but the setting makes sense. Those few words are removed in My Heart's Desire.
Violence - There are a few fight scenes and a couple of them involve someone getting shot.
All in all, it's a good book that keeps the reader engaged. I never felt that the story dragged. It seemed to be well balanced in length and content.
My rating - 5 stars.
Faith Wilkins and her family are escaping their past. They intend to start fresh by opening a greenhouse where they can sell herbs and ointments. She also wants to offer massages to the citizens.
Duke cannot afford to allow any irreputable business to operate in his jurisdiction, so he goes to investigate. What follows is a tale that dips into all sorts of deep topics, yet the author somehow maintains an appropriate balance without ever getting too heavy or dark.
Themes covered are: honesty / integrity, morality / ethics, trust, and what is family.
Subthemes are - jealousy and young love / maturity
The author also introduces several new characters, but it's easy to keep up with who's who and their back story is just as good as the main story. In fact, I found all the character development to be solid and good.
Romance - depends on which book you read -
Kissing in the Dark has more spice to it and falls in the PG13 category whereas My Heart's Desire is trimmed down of anything eyebrow raising and remains in the PG category.
Language -again depends on which book -
Kissing in the Dark has a couple of strong words, but the setting makes sense. Those few words are removed in My Heart's Desire.
Violence - There are a few fight scenes and a couple of them involve someone getting shot.
All in all, it's a good book that keeps the reader engaged. I never felt that the story dragged. It seemed to be well balanced in length and content.
My rating - 5 stars.
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