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Montana Sky #6
Mystic Montana Sky
A caravan driven at breakneck speed through the hills of Montana is the least of Magdalena Baxter’s concerns. Evicted from their home, and due to soon give birth, the Gypsy woman is forced to follow her husband, Oswald, a drunk and abusive miner who hopes to find work in a neighboring town.
Despite calling Sweetwater Springs home, wealthy banker Caleb Livingston clings to his elitist East Coast ways. While this may have brought him prestige, he’s missed out on romance at every turn.
When Caleb’s buggy collides with the Baxters’ caravan, Oswald is instantly killed and Maggie goes into labor. Caleb manages to keep his guilt and terror at bay long enough to make her comfortable and deliver her baby, a harrowing and ultimately endearing experience. Can Maggie—now stranded with her newborn child—learn to trust again? Will Caleb overcome his sense of obligation and highbrow conceit to open his heart to lasting love?
Despite calling Sweetwater Springs home, wealthy banker Caleb Livingston clings to his elitist East Coast ways. While this may have brought him prestige, he’s missed out on romance at every turn.
When Caleb’s buggy collides with the Baxters’ caravan, Oswald is instantly killed and Maggie goes into labor. Caleb manages to keep his guilt and terror at bay long enough to make her comfortable and deliver her baby, a harrowing and ultimately endearing experience. Can Maggie—now stranded with her newborn child—learn to trust again? Will Caleb overcome his sense of obligation and highbrow conceit to open his heart to lasting love?
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2016
820 people are currently reading
501 people want to read
About the author
Debra Holland
65 books318 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Debra Holland is a three-time Romance Writers of America Golden Heart finalist and one time winner. She’s the author of the award winning Montana Sky Series, sweet, historical Western romance. Book Two, Starry Montana Sky, was selected by Amazon as one of 50 Greatest Love Stories. Debra is also the author of The Gods’ Dream Trilogy, fantasy romance. Painted Montana Sky Christmas is her latest book.
Debra has written a nonfiction book, The Essential Guide to Grief and Grieving from Alpha Books (a subsidiary of Penguin). She has a free ebooklet available on her website, http://drdebraholland.com: 58 Tips for Getting What You Want From a Difficult Conversation.
Debra has written a nonfiction book, The Essential Guide to Grief and Grieving from Alpha Books (a subsidiary of Penguin). She has a free ebooklet available on her website, http://drdebraholland.com: 58 Tips for Getting What You Want From a Difficult Conversation.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
July 6, 2016
I tremendously enjoyed every minute of this heartwarming return to Sweetwater Springs.
"You cannot go into labor," Caleb ordered, anxiety clenching his innards.
"The baby is coming!" She enunciated every word.
"The doctor is a long day's ride away in Sweetwater Springs, and there's no woman for miles. You'll just have to wait."
As the contraction eased, the tightness in her body relaxed, and she gave him a wan smile. "Does everyone always do what you say?"
'Is that levity in her voice? At a time like this?' "They comply if I know what best, and I usually do."
Debra Holland takes readers back to historic Sweetwater Springs, Montana in a colossal way for the town's pompous banker's story in MYSTIC MONTANA SKY. Caleb Livingston has been a snobby presence in the series since its inception. I've been patiently waiting with bated breath for him to receive his comeuppance and, happily, that time has officially arrived. I have to admit that I mistakenly thought it would be impossible for the author to remake Caleb into a likable character as he's been villainized for so long. (Debra - I beg your forgiveness for my lack of faith.) I am amazed and delighted to report that Debra Holland pulled off a miracle as I can now commiserate with not only Caleb, but also his equally snooty sister, Edith, and her cocky son, Ben. In their defense, all three had been raised under the influence of the privileged and racist beliefs of a wealthy Bostonian family. MYSTIC MONTANA SKY is the long-time-coming story of Caleb Charles Victor Livingston and part gypsy Magdalena 'Maggie' Baxter.
As the story opens, Maggie is uncomfortable riding in her vardo with her abusive husband pushing their horses and conveyance at breakneck speeds. Nearing time for the birth of their child, she pleads with her husband to slow down, but her appeal only makes him madder than he already is after losing his job at the mine and being evicted from their home in Morgan's Crossing for his brutality. As they careen around a bend, she is thrown from their vardo as her husband loses control...
Caleb's mind has wandered as he approaches a bend in the road on his way to Morgan's Crossing on banking business. He is quickly jolted back to his present day circumstances to see a vehicle barely miss his carriage and collide into a tree. He hurriedly secures his wagon and finds one female survivor. His relief is short-lived as he finds himself way out of his comfort level when he is forced to act as the woman's midwife as she goes into labor.
It was going to take a strong woman to tangle with Caleb - and Maggie is just what fate ordered ably assisted by a precious little bundle named Charlotte Victoria. The baby certainly turns the Livingston household topsy turvy with her magical cuteness. Caleb had always expected to marry a woman of his same breeding, but love may re-order his intentions.
Attending the wedding of two previous favorite characters was an unexpected twist to Caleb's story. AND the celebratory event gave readers the opportunity of catching up with even more previous favorites making MYSTIC MONTANA SKY an unqualified must-read for fans.
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from this very enjoyable read:
Playfully, he tapped her nose. "If men were the ones to have babies, the human population would die out within a generation."
---
"Caleb rocked back on his heels, surprised by how good her husky laughter and their repartee made him feel. He wasn’t a man given to bantering with women—with anyone for that matter. Out here in the wilderness, with a woman about to give birth, he wasn’t the banker or the hotel owner. I’m just a man trying to hold his guilt and terror at bay and make sure this mother and child survive."
---
"The tiny body was slippery, and he held her tightly, afraid she’d slither out of his grip. He rotated the infant face-up, holding her about ten inches away from his face. The top of her head had a slight cone shape. Her blue-tinged hands pinked. The baby’s eyes were open, alert and seemingly amazed.
They connected with his.
A jolt of intense feeling, of recognition, flowed between them. As he gazed on the scrunched features of the infant, love surged through him. He’d never felt such a feeling before, and his chest ached with the joyful pressure. Caleb wanted to curl her to his chest and keep her safe. He pressed a kiss to her forehead, inhaling a scent that surprised him with its sweetness.
“My baby?” Maggie asked.
The infant broke eye contact with Caleb and turned her face toward the sound of her mother’s voice. He blinked back moisture from his eyes and grinned. “You have a beautiful daughter.”
MYSTIC MONTANA SKY is the sixth installment in Debra's Montana Sky series, but it can be enjoyed as a stand-alone if that is your preference. That said, this series features interconnected characters with ongoing story lines of their own. Your pleasure would be exponentially enriched if the previous books - which are all fabulous reads - are read first.
Debra is one of my favorite authors. Her books are always well-written and solidly plotted with strong, endearing characters. Her stories have never once disappointed me. I tremendously enjoyed every minute of this tale. I highly recommend MYSTIC MONTANA SKY to anyone who enjoys sweet and heartwarming historical western romances.
My review is published at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out here: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
"You cannot go into labor," Caleb ordered, anxiety clenching his innards.
"The baby is coming!" She enunciated every word.
"The doctor is a long day's ride away in Sweetwater Springs, and there's no woman for miles. You'll just have to wait."
As the contraction eased, the tightness in her body relaxed, and she gave him a wan smile. "Does everyone always do what you say?"
'Is that levity in her voice? At a time like this?' "They comply if I know what best, and I usually do."
Debra Holland takes readers back to historic Sweetwater Springs, Montana in a colossal way for the town's pompous banker's story in MYSTIC MONTANA SKY. Caleb Livingston has been a snobby presence in the series since its inception. I've been patiently waiting with bated breath for him to receive his comeuppance and, happily, that time has officially arrived. I have to admit that I mistakenly thought it would be impossible for the author to remake Caleb into a likable character as he's been villainized for so long. (Debra - I beg your forgiveness for my lack of faith.) I am amazed and delighted to report that Debra Holland pulled off a miracle as I can now commiserate with not only Caleb, but also his equally snooty sister, Edith, and her cocky son, Ben. In their defense, all three had been raised under the influence of the privileged and racist beliefs of a wealthy Bostonian family. MYSTIC MONTANA SKY is the long-time-coming story of Caleb Charles Victor Livingston and part gypsy Magdalena 'Maggie' Baxter.
As the story opens, Maggie is uncomfortable riding in her vardo with her abusive husband pushing their horses and conveyance at breakneck speeds. Nearing time for the birth of their child, she pleads with her husband to slow down, but her appeal only makes him madder than he already is after losing his job at the mine and being evicted from their home in Morgan's Crossing for his brutality. As they careen around a bend, she is thrown from their vardo as her husband loses control...
Caleb's mind has wandered as he approaches a bend in the road on his way to Morgan's Crossing on banking business. He is quickly jolted back to his present day circumstances to see a vehicle barely miss his carriage and collide into a tree. He hurriedly secures his wagon and finds one female survivor. His relief is short-lived as he finds himself way out of his comfort level when he is forced to act as the woman's midwife as she goes into labor.
It was going to take a strong woman to tangle with Caleb - and Maggie is just what fate ordered ably assisted by a precious little bundle named Charlotte Victoria. The baby certainly turns the Livingston household topsy turvy with her magical cuteness. Caleb had always expected to marry a woman of his same breeding, but love may re-order his intentions.
Attending the wedding of two previous favorite characters was an unexpected twist to Caleb's story. AND the celebratory event gave readers the opportunity of catching up with even more previous favorites making MYSTIC MONTANA SKY an unqualified must-read for fans.
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from this very enjoyable read:
Playfully, he tapped her nose. "If men were the ones to have babies, the human population would die out within a generation."
---
"Caleb rocked back on his heels, surprised by how good her husky laughter and their repartee made him feel. He wasn’t a man given to bantering with women—with anyone for that matter. Out here in the wilderness, with a woman about to give birth, he wasn’t the banker or the hotel owner. I’m just a man trying to hold his guilt and terror at bay and make sure this mother and child survive."
---
"The tiny body was slippery, and he held her tightly, afraid she’d slither out of his grip. He rotated the infant face-up, holding her about ten inches away from his face. The top of her head had a slight cone shape. Her blue-tinged hands pinked. The baby’s eyes were open, alert and seemingly amazed.
They connected with his.
A jolt of intense feeling, of recognition, flowed between them. As he gazed on the scrunched features of the infant, love surged through him. He’d never felt such a feeling before, and his chest ached with the joyful pressure. Caleb wanted to curl her to his chest and keep her safe. He pressed a kiss to her forehead, inhaling a scent that surprised him with its sweetness.
“My baby?” Maggie asked.
The infant broke eye contact with Caleb and turned her face toward the sound of her mother’s voice. He blinked back moisture from his eyes and grinned. “You have a beautiful daughter.”
MYSTIC MONTANA SKY is the sixth installment in Debra's Montana Sky series, but it can be enjoyed as a stand-alone if that is your preference. That said, this series features interconnected characters with ongoing story lines of their own. Your pleasure would be exponentially enriched if the previous books - which are all fabulous reads - are read first.
Debra is one of my favorite authors. Her books are always well-written and solidly plotted with strong, endearing characters. Her stories have never once disappointed me. I tremendously enjoyed every minute of this tale. I highly recommend MYSTIC MONTANA SKY to anyone who enjoys sweet and heartwarming historical western romances.
My review is published at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out here: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
May 12, 2016
Mystic Montana Sky by Debra Holland
Loved this historical romance. Sweet, engaging, and charming.
I'm so glad that Caleb found his true love. I knew there was a better man buried under the portrayed upright and proper attitude. And Ben! He's grown up a bit and yes, is sorry for the harm he caused in the past. Sweet.
This story includes a wedding with characters from a prior book. It also includes couples from many of the previous stories so it has several feel good moments revisiting wth them and remember their stories. You do not need to have read those prior books to understand this one.
I'm not a huge historical romance reader, but Debra Holland and Sweetwater Springs are refreshing, and light. I will read these ahead of many favorite authors simply because they are true feel-good romances.
Two excerpts because these explain a bit about Caleb:
"Caleb rocked back on his heels, surprised by how good her husky laughter and their repartee made him feel. He wasn’t a man given to bantering with women—with anyone for that matter. Out here in the wilderness, with a woman about to give birth, he wasn’t the banker or the hotel owner. I’m just a man trying to hold his guilt and terror at bay and make sure this mother and child survive."
Excerpt from Mystic Montana Sky by Debra Holland.
"The tiny body was slippery, and he held her tightly, afraid she’d slither out of his grip. He rotated the infant faceup, holding her about ten inches away from his face. The top of her head had a slight cone shape. Her blue-tinged hands pinked. The baby’s eyes were open, alert aseemingly amazed.
They connected with his
A jolt of intense feeling, of recognition, flowed between them. As he gazed on the scrunched features of the infant, love surged through him. He’d never felt such a feeling before, and his chest ached with the joyful pressure. Caleb wanted to curl her to his chest and keep her safe. He pressed a kiss to her forehead, inhaling a scent that surprised him with its sweetness.
“My baby?” Maggie asked.
The infant broke eye contact with Caleb and turned her face toward the sound of her mother’s voice. He blinked back moisture from his eyes and grinned. “You have a beautiful daughter.”
Excerpt from Mystic Montana Sky by Debra Holland.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley
Loved this historical romance. Sweet, engaging, and charming.
I'm so glad that Caleb found his true love. I knew there was a better man buried under the portrayed upright and proper attitude. And Ben! He's grown up a bit and yes, is sorry for the harm he caused in the past. Sweet.
This story includes a wedding with characters from a prior book. It also includes couples from many of the previous stories so it has several feel good moments revisiting wth them and remember their stories. You do not need to have read those prior books to understand this one.
I'm not a huge historical romance reader, but Debra Holland and Sweetwater Springs are refreshing, and light. I will read these ahead of many favorite authors simply because they are true feel-good romances.
Two excerpts because these explain a bit about Caleb:
"Caleb rocked back on his heels, surprised by how good her husky laughter and their repartee made him feel. He wasn’t a man given to bantering with women—with anyone for that matter. Out here in the wilderness, with a woman about to give birth, he wasn’t the banker or the hotel owner. I’m just a man trying to hold his guilt and terror at bay and make sure this mother and child survive."
Excerpt from Mystic Montana Sky by Debra Holland.
"The tiny body was slippery, and he held her tightly, afraid she’d slither out of his grip. He rotated the infant faceup, holding her about ten inches away from his face. The top of her head had a slight cone shape. Her blue-tinged hands pinked. The baby’s eyes were open, alert aseemingly amazed.
They connected with his
A jolt of intense feeling, of recognition, flowed between them. As he gazed on the scrunched features of the infant, love surged through him. He’d never felt such a feeling before, and his chest ached with the joyful pressure. Caleb wanted to curl her to his chest and keep her safe. He pressed a kiss to her forehead, inhaling a scent that surprised him with its sweetness.
“My baby?” Maggie asked.
The infant broke eye contact with Caleb and turned her face toward the sound of her mother’s voice. He blinked back moisture from his eyes and grinned. “You have a beautiful daughter.”
Excerpt from Mystic Montana Sky by Debra Holland.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley
May 7, 2016
Caleb Livingston is a snob, well sort of. He and his sister, Edith grew up with privilege. Even so, Caleb wanted to be part of something bigger and make a name for himself that would last for generations. He moved to Montana and built a bank and hotel and was doing really well. When her husband died his sister and nephew moved in with him. He and Edith enjoyed the finer things in life even in the back woods of Montana. On a trip to Morgan’s Crossing, Caleb tangles with Maggie and her husband’s wagon with his own vehicle and tragedy strikes. Maggie’s strength and all she has been through move him. He takes one look at her infant daughter and he is a changed man. He finds himself doing things he never would have considered just days before.
Her husband Oswald has abused Maggie for years. The only thing she can try to do is keep her unborn baby safe from this evil man she married. When Oswald, driving their wagon, in a rage, has an accident, her life is changed forever. Caleb is a dream come true but can she trust her feelings or judgment when it comes to men ever again?
This story starts with an edge of your seat wagon ride that unfolds with the miracle of giving birth and the tragedy of death. This scene in the story really moved me because it creates a bond between two people who would have never had anything to do with each other in their everyday lives. There are several scenes where Caleb is “talking” to infant Charlotte that are so sweet and moving that I couldn't help but smile at this man's tenderness.
This story is the journey of two people who needed each other desperately, and allowed love to change them forever.
I absolutely love Debra Holland’s Montana Series. They are real stories of hardship, love, laughter and just life in the 1800’s. The characters just move in with you and you don’t want them to ever leave!
This book can be read as a stand-alone but is so much richer if you read the entire series.
I received this an ARC for an honest review.
Her husband Oswald has abused Maggie for years. The only thing she can try to do is keep her unborn baby safe from this evil man she married. When Oswald, driving their wagon, in a rage, has an accident, her life is changed forever. Caleb is a dream come true but can she trust her feelings or judgment when it comes to men ever again?
This story starts with an edge of your seat wagon ride that unfolds with the miracle of giving birth and the tragedy of death. This scene in the story really moved me because it creates a bond between two people who would have never had anything to do with each other in their everyday lives. There are several scenes where Caleb is “talking” to infant Charlotte that are so sweet and moving that I couldn't help but smile at this man's tenderness.
This story is the journey of two people who needed each other desperately, and allowed love to change them forever.
I absolutely love Debra Holland’s Montana Series. They are real stories of hardship, love, laughter and just life in the 1800’s. The characters just move in with you and you don’t want them to ever leave!
This book can be read as a stand-alone but is so much richer if you read the entire series.
I received this an ARC for an honest review.
May 9, 2016
Welcome back to Sweetwater Springs, Montana where the people are made of hearty stock and hearts filled with compassion and love. In Debra Holland’s latest novel in her Montana Sky series “Mystic Montana Sky” we are introduced to a pregnant Maggie Baxter who is thrown from the vehicle she is riding in when it collides with Sweetwater Springs banker Caleb Livingston as he is making his way to Morgan’s Crossing on banking business. Caleb is thrust into the role of the midwife as Maggie’s baby is ready to greet the world regardless who is on hand to help. The moment the Caleb meets Montana’s newest resident he feels as if his world has shifted in a way that he never thought possible. Caleb feels responsible for Maggie after the death of her husband, so he brings her home with him where Maggie and Baby Charlotte weaves their magic with the inhabitants of his home. The more time he spends with Maggie and Charlotte the freer he becomes and he finds himself falling in love with every fiber of his being. Ms. Holland has done a remarkable job creating an idyllic town where the reader would like to take up residence and hopefully find the life that they are looking for. I was given this book to read by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 27, 2016
I thought this book raised some interesting issues around racial stereotyping and prejudice even in pioneer times. And the idea that Romanies are always thieves and not to be trusted.
This story is a gentle romance with the usual hitches and issues to overcome. Cozy.
3.5
This story is a gentle romance with the usual hitches and issues to overcome. Cozy.
3.5
August 29, 2016
Great read!!!
I loved this story very much!!! I'm sure you will too!!! Enjoy reading this as much as I did!!! That's my advice!!!
I loved this story very much!!! I'm sure you will too!!! Enjoy reading this as much as I did!!! That's my advice!!!
May 30, 2019
I always love to go back to Sweetwater Springs and it was good to see Caleb get his HEA. Caleb is on his way to Morgan's Crossing for his usual meeting. He was driving a bit too fast over a hill and a large caravan is driving at breakneck speed coming from the other way. The caravan is run off the road and when Caleb gets to them, a pregnant woman is slightly injured and her husband dead. Maggie goes into labor early out in the middle of no where with only Caleb to help her. As Caleb and Maggie get to know each other better, Caleb realizes that he doesn't want to be alone any more and that he is truly smitten with the little girl that he helped bring into the world. Little Charlotte works some magic on Caleb and his family. Will Maggie remarry? Can Caleb keep her?
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May 11, 2018Loved the sample but couldn’t read more it would not open the book.
May 12, 2016
I have to start by saying I have read all of Debra Holland's Montana Sky series and Mail Order Brides of the West series and have loved each and every one of them.
With that, I have watched Caleb's character over most if not all these books and as the staunch, upright, stiff, Bostonian banker, but this story shows him in a brand new light and I think the real Caleb. I think this could very well be my most favorite story in the Montana Sky series yet.
This is a story of guilt for Caleb over the accident that killed Maggie's husband even though she told him of the abuse. He has to deliver her baby out in the wilderness because there was no way he could make it back to Morgan's Crossing or into Sweetwater Springs. In the time he was with Maggie, she telling him what he needs to get out of her caravan for the birthing and the baby, she seems to cast a spell over him from first meeting. The birthing experience moved his hard heart further to a soft more gentle Caleb. But he is very angry at her dead husband who abused her so much and risked her and the babies life because he was driving the caravan too fast on mountain curves.
When she is able to be moved since not only the birth but the bruises and injuries from the accident, they head to Sweetwater Springs.
Beautiful little Charlotte is already in Caleb's heart and he is also seeing more in Maggie than he thought. He takes them to him mansion in Sweetwater Springs for Maggie to recuperate and both her and baby Charlotte to watched over and protected.
This story is of the guilt, the chance to see a baby born and being the one that brought her into the world, a softened heart that makes Caleb laugh which I don't remember him doing from other stories and love that seeps in, in spite of him trying hard not to fall. A gypsy woman, not his typical sophisticated women he has met and fallen for, and last a chance at love and family. But does that happen as Maggie feels out of his league for sure and isn't sure about women he might have been in love with before. This is a beautiful story as it seems baby Charlotte gets into the hearts of the most harden Edith and changes so many people. My love for this story is a great surprise that I would love him as much as I do now. I didn't really care for the old Caleb but when you read this story you will see why I love the new Caleb. There are so many things going on in this story, the characters are complex and so different and to have so many of my favorite characters from the past stories this is just an amazing story. Thank you Debra Holland for writing this story for Caleb. Thank you for writing this whole series that I have loved so much and I can't wait to see what it next.
This is a must read story, but I do recommend that you read the entire Mail Order Brides of the West and the Montana series to get the background stories of amazing characters. I can tell you, you won't be disappointed in these stories at all.
I received this ARC for my honest and unbiased review.
June 30, 2016
The Upright Snobby Handsome Banker
The Beautiful Gypsy Widow
The banker and the gypsy’s vehicles collide on a bad mountain road resulting in the death of the husband and the woman in labor. The story that follows this harrowing beginning is one of prejudice, abuse, preconceived ideas, community, love, and lives changed forever. Relax in your favorite spot and enjoy this wonderful warm novel from acclaimed author Debra Holland.
STORY LINE:
Once again we return to the close-knit community of Sweetwater Springs. We find the stiff, snobby, prejudice banker and hotel owner Caleb Livingston on his annual journey to Morgans Crossing for business, driving a little distracted and too fast. He will meet, in a dangerous curve, the vardo of Oswald and Maggie Baxter. The accident kills the abusive Oswald and Maggie is in labor. Caleb, through necessity, will deliver Maggie’s baby. Come along as Caleb finds he is not the man he thought he was, Maggie discovers happiness beyond compare, and the town of secondary characters gather around these two.
CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, AND DEVELOPMENT:
Author Debra Holland always fills her stories with emotion; this story will grab you from the first page and will not let go until the last page of the book. Even then, you are panting for the continuation of Sweetwater’s residents story. In a time period when Gypsy and Negro Blood was disparaged, treated less than human, snubbed, and looked down upon, Caleb Livingston finds himself reconsidering his opinions. Ms. Holland skillfully developed Caleb’s character from one who cuts himself off from life, lived on the sidelines, and looked down on others less fortunate to become a man with a compassionate and giving heart.
Maggie’s portrayed as a sweet woman who was horribly abused by her husband; Ms. Holland does not shy away from sensitive issues in her writing rather she handles them with skill and care. Maggie’s baby, Charlotte, plays a leading role in Ms. Holland’s story-line. Not only do Maggie and Charlotte impact Caleb, we watch as Caleb’s snobby and critical sister comes under their spell to become a caring woman with feelings she’s not afraid to show.
There are several plot lines and secrets in this book and Ms. Holland skillfully developed and paced each one to form a solid intriguing book. Ms. Holland gives just enough of the back story of the previous characters; I wanted to immediately buy all the books. Ms. Holland has a talent for interweaving each book and characters as their stories continue and intertwine together. Each book is a standalone; I can not wait to read the others in this series.
RECOMMENDATION: 5+ STARS
I highly recommend this book to anyone that likes a clean, solid, well-written story-line by a talented author. I am never disappointed in Ms. Hollands books.
Book Review copy received via Netgalley in return for an honest book review.
The Beautiful Gypsy Widow
The banker and the gypsy’s vehicles collide on a bad mountain road resulting in the death of the husband and the woman in labor. The story that follows this harrowing beginning is one of prejudice, abuse, preconceived ideas, community, love, and lives changed forever. Relax in your favorite spot and enjoy this wonderful warm novel from acclaimed author Debra Holland.
STORY LINE:
Once again we return to the close-knit community of Sweetwater Springs. We find the stiff, snobby, prejudice banker and hotel owner Caleb Livingston on his annual journey to Morgans Crossing for business, driving a little distracted and too fast. He will meet, in a dangerous curve, the vardo of Oswald and Maggie Baxter. The accident kills the abusive Oswald and Maggie is in labor. Caleb, through necessity, will deliver Maggie’s baby. Come along as Caleb finds he is not the man he thought he was, Maggie discovers happiness beyond compare, and the town of secondary characters gather around these two.
CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, AND DEVELOPMENT:
Author Debra Holland always fills her stories with emotion; this story will grab you from the first page and will not let go until the last page of the book. Even then, you are panting for the continuation of Sweetwater’s residents story. In a time period when Gypsy and Negro Blood was disparaged, treated less than human, snubbed, and looked down upon, Caleb Livingston finds himself reconsidering his opinions. Ms. Holland skillfully developed Caleb’s character from one who cuts himself off from life, lived on the sidelines, and looked down on others less fortunate to become a man with a compassionate and giving heart.
Maggie’s portrayed as a sweet woman who was horribly abused by her husband; Ms. Holland does not shy away from sensitive issues in her writing rather she handles them with skill and care. Maggie’s baby, Charlotte, plays a leading role in Ms. Holland’s story-line. Not only do Maggie and Charlotte impact Caleb, we watch as Caleb’s snobby and critical sister comes under their spell to become a caring woman with feelings she’s not afraid to show.
There are several plot lines and secrets in this book and Ms. Holland skillfully developed and paced each one to form a solid intriguing book. Ms. Holland gives just enough of the back story of the previous characters; I wanted to immediately buy all the books. Ms. Holland has a talent for interweaving each book and characters as their stories continue and intertwine together. Each book is a standalone; I can not wait to read the others in this series.
RECOMMENDATION: 5+ STARS
I highly recommend this book to anyone that likes a clean, solid, well-written story-line by a talented author. I am never disappointed in Ms. Hollands books.
Book Review copy received via Netgalley in return for an honest book review.
June 6, 2020
The Gypsy and the Banker
I so enjoyed finally getting to read about Caleb Livingston 's search for love. I was pleasantly surprised at the childbirth storyline, since I would have expected Caleb to feel that such a situation would be beneath him. In prior storylines Caleb was always the "nose in the air" puritan. I was glad to finally see that he possessed a romantic, soft hearted side as well. I'm anxious to get started on the next book in this , to see what happens next.
I so enjoyed finally getting to read about Caleb Livingston 's search for love. I was pleasantly surprised at the childbirth storyline, since I would have expected Caleb to feel that such a situation would be beneath him. In prior storylines Caleb was always the "nose in the air" puritan. I was glad to finally see that he possessed a romantic, soft hearted side as well. I'm anxious to get started on the next book in this , to see what happens next.
May 30, 2016
This was a wonderful and inspiring western romance that Ms Holland has written. She does a fabulous job of giving us a time of homey atmosphere and lots of fun beloved characters. You will feel at home with this read and catch up with people who were from previous novels.
I really liked Caleb Livingston in this book. He is a precise man who maintains self control whether in business or his personal life. His widowed sister and nephew live with him in Sweetwater Springs, Montana where he has built his banking firm and home. He is on his way to another town to do his business, when he meets on the road a wagon traveling very fast. He made it unharmed, but the other not so good. He jumps down from his buggy and finds a woman hurt and very pregnant. She awakens to find a stranger looming over her, but she is unafraid. Her name is Maggie Baxter and says she is with her husband. Caleb has sorry news to share in which her husband is dead.
But Maggie is very relieved to say the least. Her life has been full of abuse from "him" but is more concerned with her baby. Maggie tells Caleb that she is in labor, and well Caleb is not the type to interfere with type of situation. He's not at all prepared with this but Maggie guides him along.
When Caleb is holding the little girl after she's born, he feels connected with her. He can't believe this sort of miracle has touched him deeply.
There's a lot going on, but his lovely book will bring satisfaction to anyone who loves a happy ever after. Caleb and Maggie need each other and love is the key!
I appreciate Net Galley for this ARC title in which I gave an honest review.
I really liked Caleb Livingston in this book. He is a precise man who maintains self control whether in business or his personal life. His widowed sister and nephew live with him in Sweetwater Springs, Montana where he has built his banking firm and home. He is on his way to another town to do his business, when he meets on the road a wagon traveling very fast. He made it unharmed, but the other not so good. He jumps down from his buggy and finds a woman hurt and very pregnant. She awakens to find a stranger looming over her, but she is unafraid. Her name is Maggie Baxter and says she is with her husband. Caleb has sorry news to share in which her husband is dead.
But Maggie is very relieved to say the least. Her life has been full of abuse from "him" but is more concerned with her baby. Maggie tells Caleb that she is in labor, and well Caleb is not the type to interfere with type of situation. He's not at all prepared with this but Maggie guides him along.
When Caleb is holding the little girl after she's born, he feels connected with her. He can't believe this sort of miracle has touched him deeply.
There's a lot going on, but his lovely book will bring satisfaction to anyone who loves a happy ever after. Caleb and Maggie need each other and love is the key!
I appreciate Net Galley for this ARC title in which I gave an honest review.
May 9, 2016
I have been waiting to see just what kind of woman Caleb would end up with and I was not disappointed. The changes that come over Caleb as he is taking care of Maggie and her daughter were amazing to see and the powerful message of love was just beautiful.
Caleb is the snobbish banker/hotel owner of Sweetwater Springs. And he feels that he is the catch of the town. So why do the women always pick someone else over him?? He just can't understand it . All of the well educated and sophisticated women are turning him down. But when a life changing accident and event cause him to take measure of his life what will he actually see? And will he like it?
Maggie has had a horrible marriage. Beaten and belittled, she is just existing. Her pregnancy gives her something to live for. But when her husband causes an accident that kills him and leaves her badly injured and in labor what will she do?
Caleb and Maggie embark on a very traumatic and emotional journey. The birth of her daughter delivered by Caleb changes her. And changes something in him that will forever stay. But Maggie knows that with her Gypsy blood she will never be good enough and she doesn't want to be with him out of a sense of duty to her. Finding her strength she will take a stand and live her life for herself and her daughter. Not depending on a man for her well being.
Caleb has other ideas though. Can he make her believe that he could change so much as to love a gypsy and love her daughter as his own? Will this mystic gypsy magic work its charm on Caleb once and for all?
Caleb is the snobbish banker/hotel owner of Sweetwater Springs. And he feels that he is the catch of the town. So why do the women always pick someone else over him?? He just can't understand it . All of the well educated and sophisticated women are turning him down. But when a life changing accident and event cause him to take measure of his life what will he actually see? And will he like it?
Maggie has had a horrible marriage. Beaten and belittled, she is just existing. Her pregnancy gives her something to live for. But when her husband causes an accident that kills him and leaves her badly injured and in labor what will she do?
Caleb and Maggie embark on a very traumatic and emotional journey. The birth of her daughter delivered by Caleb changes her. And changes something in him that will forever stay. But Maggie knows that with her Gypsy blood she will never be good enough and she doesn't want to be with him out of a sense of duty to her. Finding her strength she will take a stand and live her life for herself and her daughter. Not depending on a man for her well being.
Caleb has other ideas though. Can he make her believe that he could change so much as to love a gypsy and love her daughter as his own? Will this mystic gypsy magic work its charm on Caleb once and for all?
May 8, 2016
Caleb has been in The Montana Sky Series right from the start. He is a product of his time and environment so I made allowances for his snobbery and prejudices since he did show us glimpses of his goodness. That being said, I didn’t like him very much because of his treatment of the orphan twins in book 2. Although he was actively looking for a wife, he didn’t have any luck finding her because he was searching for a woman that would fit perfectly into his life. He saw himself as quite a catch and never considered what he could offer a wife. It was sad yet comical when the women he decided to pursue were won by others. I really didn’t hold out much hope that he would find his match.
When I started reading this story, I was immediately hooked. I really shouldn’t be surprised because I have been a Debra Holland fan for years. Still, I was surprised that I became so invested in Caleb’s story and was actually rooting for him to finally find his love. I was also amazed when other characters that I had previously not cared for showed real change and growth. This story definitely worked it’s magic on me because I enjoyed every minute of it.
I am looking forward to the audio-book version and will get it as soon as it is available on audible.com because the only thing better than reading Debra’s books are enjoying them in the audio format.
I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review
When I started reading this story, I was immediately hooked. I really shouldn’t be surprised because I have been a Debra Holland fan for years. Still, I was surprised that I became so invested in Caleb’s story and was actually rooting for him to finally find his love. I was also amazed when other characters that I had previously not cared for showed real change and growth. This story definitely worked it’s magic on me because I enjoyed every minute of it.
I am looking forward to the audio-book version and will get it as soon as it is available on audible.com because the only thing better than reading Debra’s books are enjoying them in the audio format.
I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review
May 27, 2016
*I received a copy of the book from Netgalley to read and review.
I found this book to be sweet story that left me with a happy feeling. It is part of the Montana Springs series but can be read as a standalone. Characters from previous stories make appearances in this one.
Magdalena (Maggie) Baxter survives a wagon crash that kills her abusive husband. Caleb Livingston blames himself because they passed each other right before it happened. He helps Maggie who is in labor deliver her baby girl. I felt like this what drew the two together and bonded them. He, Maggie and her daughter return to Sweetwater Springs for her to recover.
Maggie is happy to have a safe place to rest and recover. She also feels a connection to Caleb but resists it because she isn't looking for another husband. Caleb wants to find a wife and he has feelings for her and loves Charlotte but is resistant too.
Will they find love or lose out at a once in a lifetime chance?
I liked to sweetness to this story and that it involved different characters. I was glad to see their connection and to have a couple to root for.
I found this book to be sweet story that left me with a happy feeling. It is part of the Montana Springs series but can be read as a standalone. Characters from previous stories make appearances in this one.
Magdalena (Maggie) Baxter survives a wagon crash that kills her abusive husband. Caleb Livingston blames himself because they passed each other right before it happened. He helps Maggie who is in labor deliver her baby girl. I felt like this what drew the two together and bonded them. He, Maggie and her daughter return to Sweetwater Springs for her to recover.
Maggie is happy to have a safe place to rest and recover. She also feels a connection to Caleb but resists it because she isn't looking for another husband. Caleb wants to find a wife and he has feelings for her and loves Charlotte but is resistant too.
Will they find love or lose out at a once in a lifetime chance?
I liked to sweetness to this story and that it involved different characters. I was glad to see their connection and to have a couple to root for.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2016
After reading many of the reviews, I felt I read the book all over again. That being said, "Bully for you, Ms. Debra." Once again it is a wonderful job of writing, drawing us into the storyline and making us feel the characters in your book. The people of Sweetwater Springs move there because it is where families can be raised and feel a measure of safety that if a person needs help, someone is there to assist. Such is the need of a young gal, with child, that finds herself alone and about to give birth. I want to add here that the narration of this book on audible will be outstanding with all the heartfelt emotions written into this book. Yes, Caleb finally meets two females that reach out and grab his heart. He is astounded at the feeling of emotion it brings and the thoughts that make up his mind. How is a pompous, snobbish, wealthy banker going to handle these new feelings without showing weakness like the ordinary person? I smiled throughout this book and left with a feel-good heart when the book ended. I wanted more! "I want another chapter" is what I mean. "I want the next book," Ms. Debra. This is an excellent job of writing and I loved it.
May 16, 2016
Receive from Netgalley.
A heartwarming story of hurt and healing, anger and love. Two people from different lifestyles help each other grow.
Magdalena 'Maggie' Baxter learned to fear her husband Oswald. She had hoped being pregnant would bring about a better husband and father but she quickly learned that wasn't to happen.
After an accident took his life she couldn't help but feel relief to be free of him.
Banker and Hotel Owner Caleb Livingston was traveling for business and lost in thought he never expected to narrowly avoid an accident. Nor was he prepared to be the person to be delivering a baby.
Maggie planned to never marry again. She instead hoped to live the life of her gypsy heritage with her newborn baby.
Caleb is from a line of respectable family and he plans to find a wife of the same breeding.
Their feelings for one another deepen but Maggie's fear of not being good enough holds her back. Caleb at first believes she doesn't return his feelings but comes to understand her motives. With a surprise waiting for Maggie Caleb opens up his heart.
A heartwarming story of hurt and healing, anger and love. Two people from different lifestyles help each other grow.
Magdalena 'Maggie' Baxter learned to fear her husband Oswald. She had hoped being pregnant would bring about a better husband and father but she quickly learned that wasn't to happen.
After an accident took his life she couldn't help but feel relief to be free of him.
Banker and Hotel Owner Caleb Livingston was traveling for business and lost in thought he never expected to narrowly avoid an accident. Nor was he prepared to be the person to be delivering a baby.
Maggie planned to never marry again. She instead hoped to live the life of her gypsy heritage with her newborn baby.
Caleb is from a line of respectable family and he plans to find a wife of the same breeding.
Their feelings for one another deepen but Maggie's fear of not being good enough holds her back. Caleb at first believes she doesn't return his feelings but comes to understand her motives. With a surprise waiting for Maggie Caleb opens up his heart.
July 3, 2016
Rigid banker falls for Gypsy beauty
I enjoy immersion reading so this review is for both book and audiobook.
This story starts out with the excitement and mellows into a heartwarming love story.
If you hadn't read the previous Sweetwater Springs books, you might find the easy rapport between Maggie and the Livingston family a little farfetched. But things have happened to mellow their rigid standards before this to make the way clear for Maggie and her baby to fit right in.
Of course you shouldn't expect it to be all smooth sailing, but Debra Holland has a way with a story making it believable and compelling.
As told by Natalie Ross, you won't be able to stop listening before the all too quick conclusion. Or so it seemed to me.
If you are new to Sweetwater Springs, please start at the beginning so you can appreciate the development of the characters. If you are already a fan, you won't be disappointed.
Thank you Debra and Natalie for another great read/listen.
I enjoy immersion reading so this review is for both book and audiobook.
This story starts out with the excitement and mellows into a heartwarming love story.
If you hadn't read the previous Sweetwater Springs books, you might find the easy rapport between Maggie and the Livingston family a little farfetched. But things have happened to mellow their rigid standards before this to make the way clear for Maggie and her baby to fit right in.
Of course you shouldn't expect it to be all smooth sailing, but Debra Holland has a way with a story making it believable and compelling.
As told by Natalie Ross, you won't be able to stop listening before the all too quick conclusion. Or so it seemed to me.
If you are new to Sweetwater Springs, please start at the beginning so you can appreciate the development of the characters. If you are already a fan, you won't be disappointed.
Thank you Debra and Natalie for another great read/listen.
June 6, 2016
Debra Holland grabs your heart & emotions from the first page and does not let go until the last! This story starts our fast & terrifying. It takes you through many obstacles. The characters evolve, grow and become so strong right before your eyes and not just the main characters Maggie and Caleb but everyone around them. Maggie transforms from a cowering abused wife to an independent, strong willed and even stronger minded woman and mother. Charlotte and Maggie share their magic with those around them, softening the coldest heart and transforming Caleb in to the man he was always meant to be. This is a story of fear, overcoming hate, triumphs, love, and the magic of forgiveness. As an added bonus we get to see so many characters from other Debra Holland series and that just adds to how wonderful the story is. I loved this heartwarming story!!!
May 11, 2016
The reader is swept back in time to Montana to observe the courtship of Caleb and Magdalena. They are introduced after a wagon and buggy accident after which Caleb helps Maggie give birth and falls in love at first sight with baby Charlotte. Maggie ,of Romany descent, has to work through her sense of self worth as Caleb who is the town banker and hotel owner ,comes to admire her and find the love of his heart . Although this is a stand alone book, the reader is reintroduced to the members of the community and brought up to date with the happenings in their lives. Delightful characters and writing style that keep the reader turning pages until the end complete with chuckles and sighs. Looking forward to the next book about this community.
Ebook from netgalley with thanks.
Ebook from netgalley with thanks.
May 6, 2016
I have loved every one of Debra Holland's Montana Sky books and I have anxiously awaited Caleb's story. I was not disappointed. This story was so worth the wait. Watching Caleb transform from the snob into a man in love was a joyous experience. I loved the loose ends that were tied up in his life.
Maggie is a spitfire from the beginning. She is also a wounded soul who has much healing, physically and emotionally before she could accept the love Caleb didn't know he had to offer.
This series is full of wounded people who find their way. I highly recommend each one of them. They are stand alone books but even better when you know the backstory!!
Maggie is a spitfire from the beginning. She is also a wounded soul who has much healing, physically and emotionally before she could accept the love Caleb didn't know he had to offer.
This series is full of wounded people who find their way. I highly recommend each one of them. They are stand alone books but even better when you know the backstory!!
August 3, 2016
My new favorite!
I have found my new favorite book from this author. This is the sixth book in the series and they just keep getting better, the characters were so real and because of a tragic event we get to see them transform from people who value material things and a high status in life into humble human beings. The love story between Caleb and Maggie was perfect, the rich banker and the poor gypsy learn that love is not measured in material worth. In my opinion what made this book even more special was that we get to see the Livingston family change and transform into characters that bring a smile to our face.
I have found my new favorite book from this author. This is the sixth book in the series and they just keep getting better, the characters were so real and because of a tragic event we get to see them transform from people who value material things and a high status in life into humble human beings. The love story between Caleb and Maggie was perfect, the rich banker and the poor gypsy learn that love is not measured in material worth. In my opinion what made this book even more special was that we get to see the Livingston family change and transform into characters that bring a smile to our face.
June 30, 2016
This is my second book from Debra Holland.
Mystic Montana Sky is a very engaging and moving story with a unique storyline. Ms. Holland writes emotions extremely well. Throughout the story, I had the impression of being there, with the various characters. I felt their pain, their joy, their insecurities... and that’s the mark of good writing – at least for me.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Mystic Montana Sky is a very engaging and moving story with a unique storyline. Ms. Holland writes emotions extremely well. Throughout the story, I had the impression of being there, with the various characters. I felt their pain, their joy, their insecurities... and that’s the mark of good writing – at least for me.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2016
The renewal of Caleb Livingston
What an absolutely wonderful story for Caleb! He has been the also ran so many times, not really knowing or finding someone special. His new love is life changing. Three cheers!
“What you don’t understand is how beauty is not about comparisons. Your attractiveness is not Delia’s or Sophia’s or Elizabeth’s. You are all unique. You are Magdalena Petra, your very own special self.”
What an absolutely wonderful story for Caleb! He has been the also ran so many times, not really knowing or finding someone special. His new love is life changing. Three cheers!
“What you don’t understand is how beauty is not about comparisons. Your attractiveness is not Delia’s or Sophia’s or Elizabeth’s. You are all unique. You are Magdalena Petra, your very own special self.”
June 6, 2017
Second best book
This is the second best book of the series of 6. I loved them all. Every character, every scene, every line and story. Wonderfully written. I can not wait for book 7 and book 8 to be released. I promise you, I'll be the first to buy them. Actually, I already have them pre-ordered. Thank you so much Mrs Debra for writing these books. I've stayed up past my bedtime reading each one, one after the other.
This is the second best book of the series of 6. I loved them all. Every character, every scene, every line and story. Wonderfully written. I can not wait for book 7 and book 8 to be released. I promise you, I'll be the first to buy them. Actually, I already have them pre-ordered. Thank you so much Mrs Debra for writing these books. I've stayed up past my bedtime reading each one, one after the other.
April 22, 2017
Great book
The author always does well building her characters . The favorites are her from previous series. Love following the families that make up a town. A road accident brings a gypsy into town. Will the town accept her? Read the happenings. Meet a community that have built their lines together.
The author always does well building her characters . The favorites are her from previous series. Love following the families that make up a town. A road accident brings a gypsy into town. Will the town accept her? Read the happenings. Meet a community that have built their lines together.
September 4, 2017
So pleased!
I have been waiting to read Caleb's story! Throughout the series, he was not a likable character. However, I had hope the right women would come along and soften him. I was thrilled as I read the story! It was even better than I imagined. I would love a love story for his sister!
I have been waiting to read Caleb's story! Throughout the series, he was not a likable character. However, I had hope the right women would come along and soften him. I was thrilled as I read the story! It was even better than I imagined. I would love a love story for his sister!
September 29, 2019
Good read
Deborah Holland is my latest exciting discovery in my world of too many books too little time. Her stories are insightful and sensitive with a depth of psychological understanding that stands out from the rest, like a wisdom and understanding about people that you only gain from life experience. Enjoy 👍👍👍🔮💜
Deborah Holland is my latest exciting discovery in my world of too many books too little time. Her stories are insightful and sensitive with a depth of psychological understanding that stands out from the rest, like a wisdom and understanding about people that you only gain from life experience. Enjoy 👍👍👍🔮💜
January 14, 2020
A cowboy chick book. I listened to several of Holland's books but lost interest in the series. They are just was not my kind of book. So, it makes little sense to continue to pound noise through my earbuds on the next book in the series. If it weren't so old, I'd turn it in for an audible.com refund.
March 31, 2017
Great book I so enjoy reading the continuing books.
Great book.
I so enjoy reading continuing series books .thank you for writing such great books. keep them coming as I want to know what happens next
Great book.
I so enjoy reading continuing series books .thank you for writing such great books. keep them coming as I want to know what happens next
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