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Savage Wells #2
Healing Hearts
Wyoming Territory, 1876
As the only doctor in the frontier town of Savage Wells, Gideon MacNamara knows his prospects for a bride are limited. The womenfolk in town are either too young, too old, or already spoken for. So, being a practical man, he decides to take advantage of the matchmaking service of the day—mail-order brides—and sends away for a woman with nursing experience.
When Miriam steps off the stagecoach in Savage Wells, she sees a bright future in front of her. But when the town—and Gideon—meets her, ready for a wedding, her excitement quickly turns to horror. Somehow Dr. MacNamara's message had gotten turned around. He didn’t want a nurse, he wanted a wife. When she refuses to marry him, she finds herself stranded in Savage Wells with some very unhappy townspeople.
But Gideon is not like the other men Miriam has met. Embarrassed by the misunderstanding, he offers her a job, and the two begin an awkward—and often humorous—dance of getting to know each other as they work to care for the people of their town. Romance blossoms between the two, but when a former medical associate of Miriam’s arrives in town, Gideon and the other townsfolk must rally around Miriam to protect her from a dangerous fate. Gideon and Miriam must decide if they are willing to risk their hearts for each other even as buried secrets are brought to light.
As the only doctor in the frontier town of Savage Wells, Gideon MacNamara knows his prospects for a bride are limited. The womenfolk in town are either too young, too old, or already spoken for. So, being a practical man, he decides to take advantage of the matchmaking service of the day—mail-order brides—and sends away for a woman with nursing experience.
When Miriam steps off the stagecoach in Savage Wells, she sees a bright future in front of her. But when the town—and Gideon—meets her, ready for a wedding, her excitement quickly turns to horror. Somehow Dr. MacNamara's message had gotten turned around. He didn’t want a nurse, he wanted a wife. When she refuses to marry him, she finds herself stranded in Savage Wells with some very unhappy townspeople.
But Gideon is not like the other men Miriam has met. Embarrassed by the misunderstanding, he offers her a job, and the two begin an awkward—and often humorous—dance of getting to know each other as they work to care for the people of their town. Romance blossoms between the two, but when a former medical associate of Miriam’s arrives in town, Gideon and the other townsfolk must rally around Miriam to protect her from a dangerous fate. Gideon and Miriam must decide if they are willing to risk their hearts for each other even as buried secrets are brought to light.
336 pages, Paperback
First published February 5, 2019
166 people are currently reading
3293 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 747 reviews
January 3, 2021
When I saw this takes place in Savage Wells I had to grab it. I really enjoyed The Sheriffs of Savage Wells and was eager to return to this charming western town. As always, Ms. Eden has created memorable characters, a fun and unique plot and a well developed story.
This has such a fun start, Miriam arrives in Savage Wells, Wyoming thinking she has found a safe place to hide and is stunned when she is ushered into a church and supposed to marry the town doctor. I felt bad for Miriam, but equally bad for Gideon who once again found himself jilted. Miriam and Gideon were both likable characters, they have their own demons to deal with, but are so good for each other. Miriam's history is pretty sad and realistic for the time period. I don't want to give any spoilers, I know I kept turning the pages to figure out what Miriam's secret was.
I thought this was well written, the pacing was good. It's a tad more serious than I like. I am a mood reader, which for me means what I read can affect my mood so that's why I typically like to read lighter stories. While this does deal with serious topics, I appreciate that it never got too heavy.
Overall, a really enjoyable read. I loved the town of Savage Wells and the people there. They were a little too hard on Miriam at first, but they definitely come around in a great way. The romance was sweet and realistic and you can't help rooting for things to work out. I stayed up waaaay to late to see how everything plays out, but I just couldn't put it down. I'm sure the lack of sleep with catch up with me later, but it was worth it.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild, nothing graphic or detailed but talk of death and abuse (physical, phycological)
Series: Savage Wells, Book Two - can stand well on its own
Source: Netgalley
This has such a fun start, Miriam arrives in Savage Wells, Wyoming thinking she has found a safe place to hide and is stunned when she is ushered into a church and supposed to marry the town doctor. I felt bad for Miriam, but equally bad for Gideon who once again found himself jilted. Miriam and Gideon were both likable characters, they have their own demons to deal with, but are so good for each other. Miriam's history is pretty sad and realistic for the time period. I don't want to give any spoilers, I know I kept turning the pages to figure out what Miriam's secret was.
I thought this was well written, the pacing was good. It's a tad more serious than I like. I am a mood reader, which for me means what I read can affect my mood so that's why I typically like to read lighter stories. While this does deal with serious topics, I appreciate that it never got too heavy.
Overall, a really enjoyable read. I loved the town of Savage Wells and the people there. They were a little too hard on Miriam at first, but they definitely come around in a great way. The romance was sweet and realistic and you can't help rooting for things to work out. I stayed up waaaay to late to see how everything plays out, but I just couldn't put it down. I'm sure the lack of sleep with catch up with me later, but it was worth it.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild, nothing graphic or detailed but talk of death and abuse (physical, phycological)
Series: Savage Wells, Book Two - can stand well on its own
Source: Netgalley
November 20, 2023
Blew through this one so fast.
January 1, 2019
Whew, a little bit of suspense in this one! Or...a lot. Sarah Eden does a good job of tormenting her characters in general, but I think these go through some of the most impossible situations. I literally couldn't put this down as Gideon meets the woman he'd thought was coming out to marry him and instead is coming out for employment he desperately needs to provide (as a doctor without a nurse and treating an entire region) but doesn't have much in the way of money to achieve that with. But that's just the first of their troubles!
Miriam's secret can't be kept for long, and soon it's clear how much danger she really is running from. Okay, I didn't think it was going to be quite that tenacious. But Eden quickly convinced me of how desperate Miriam's situation actually is. And then sickness strikes the town and makes it even more dangerous! I loved how much character development took place during that crisis, especially with Gideon's folks.
A delight of a story!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free copy to read. A favorable review was not required.
Miriam's secret can't be kept for long, and soon it's clear how much danger she really is running from. Okay, I didn't think it was going to be quite that tenacious. But Eden quickly convinced me of how desperate Miriam's situation actually is. And then sickness strikes the town and makes it even more dangerous! I loved how much character development took place during that crisis, especially with Gideon's folks.
A delight of a story!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free copy to read. A favorable review was not required.
September 17, 2018
I liked the twist to this story. It is a unique one, especially to this time period. I wasn’t sure how it would end. There were a couple of ways to go and of course my mind took the morbid route to fixing the problem. I also am partial to stories with medicine, since I am a nurse.
I really liked both of these main characters. Gideon is a very caring doctor who loves his work and works himself to the bone in caring for the people in his area. Miriam is very caring and really knows how to connect with people. She is an observer. She also carries secrets. She is closed off to giving people information about herself. She doesn’t feel she is of any worth. She has seen horrible things. But to find out what her secrets are and more on what has happened to her, you will have to read the story. It’s a good one.
Gideon and Miriam begin to enjoy each other’s company and have quite the banter at times! They work easily with each other and Gideon sees her worth! Even though Miriam ran when she was supposed to marry Gideon, she wants to be his nurse and he needs her and well…. She didn’t know that she was supposed to marry him when she was told about the job. I would run too! It was all sudden and sort of funny too! The two definitely have chemistry and at times some jealousy!
I haven’t read the first book and now I need to rectify that because I want to know more about that couple! A woman law person in that time?!? Definitely intriguing!
If you like stories about medicine, children and diseases, uncovering secrets, women law persons, finding someone that compliments you, finding someone that loves you, finding your worth, books with questions to think about at the end, bad doctors vs good doctors, and the early 1800’s this might be for you!
I really liked both of these main characters. Gideon is a very caring doctor who loves his work and works himself to the bone in caring for the people in his area. Miriam is very caring and really knows how to connect with people. She is an observer. She also carries secrets. She is closed off to giving people information about herself. She doesn’t feel she is of any worth. She has seen horrible things. But to find out what her secrets are and more on what has happened to her, you will have to read the story. It’s a good one.
Gideon and Miriam begin to enjoy each other’s company and have quite the banter at times! They work easily with each other and Gideon sees her worth! Even though Miriam ran when she was supposed to marry Gideon, she wants to be his nurse and he needs her and well…. She didn’t know that she was supposed to marry him when she was told about the job. I would run too! It was all sudden and sort of funny too! The two definitely have chemistry and at times some jealousy!
I haven’t read the first book and now I need to rectify that because I want to know more about that couple! A woman law person in that time?!? Definitely intriguing!
If you like stories about medicine, children and diseases, uncovering secrets, women law persons, finding someone that compliments you, finding someone that loves you, finding your worth, books with questions to think about at the end, bad doctors vs good doctors, and the early 1800’s this might be for you!
February 5, 2019
It was wonderful to return to the setting of the isolated Western town of Savage Wells! I quickly grew to love Miriam and Gideon, and enjoyed how they worked so well together as doctor and nurse. Miriam has major trust issues because of her past rejection from her family and the doctors that took advantage of her vulnerable circumstances. It was eye-opening to learn some of the history of asylums and made me thankful for the brave individuals who sacrificed and risked to expose the abuse. Gideon has been unlucky in love, but proves himself throughout the book that he is reliable and worthy of Miram's trust and affection. There are still several obstacles for them to overcome, especially when Miriam's secret come to light and an unwelcome visitor comes to town. I loved the loyalty the town had to Miriam and they way her new friends supported her during her trials. It was fun to have Paisley, Cade, and Hawk from the first book play significant roles in this second book, and I'm looking forward to more! (Fingers crossed) :)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
February 22, 2019
This book made my heart feel good. Sarah M. Eden has a way of writing an intelligent story with humor and emotion. I will never tire of reading her novels.
Miriam has endured some horrific trials. I am grateful that we live in a time where the body is better understood that it was in 1876. Miriam has a medical condition that leads to her institutionalization. After two years of living a nightmare, she escapes to a small town in Wyoming to be a nurse for a local Doctor. This should be a safe place to leave her past behind, but she does not know that she is there to marry the Dr as well as be his nurse. The awkwardness of the beginning of the book is cringe-worthy. I could see it coming and I had the inclination to run and hide to avoid reading it. :)
The book keeps on going from the beginning. There are many awkward situations to overcome. I love how once Miriam was accepted by the town, she became one of them and they did what they could to protect her.
Dr. Gideon MacNamara is a man of compassion and able to do what is best for others, rather than feel sorry for his wounded pride. He is the perfect love interest for Miriam.
Once again, I have been taught while being entertained.
Source: I received a complimentary copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Miriam has endured some horrific trials. I am grateful that we live in a time where the body is better understood that it was in 1876. Miriam has a medical condition that leads to her institutionalization. After two years of living a nightmare, she escapes to a small town in Wyoming to be a nurse for a local Doctor. This should be a safe place to leave her past behind, but she does not know that she is there to marry the Dr as well as be his nurse. The awkwardness of the beginning of the book is cringe-worthy. I could see it coming and I had the inclination to run and hide to avoid reading it. :)
The book keeps on going from the beginning. There are many awkward situations to overcome. I love how once Miriam was accepted by the town, she became one of them and they did what they could to protect her.
Dr. Gideon MacNamara is a man of compassion and able to do what is best for others, rather than feel sorry for his wounded pride. He is the perfect love interest for Miriam.
Once again, I have been taught while being entertained.
Source: I received a complimentary copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
February 23, 2019
Another great book by Sarah M. Eden. Thankfully, I'd read The Sheriffs of Savage Wells just a month before starting this one, so all the town's colorful and quirky characters were still fresh in my mind. It was fun being back in the small faraway town of Savage Wells, Wyoming again.
Poor Miriam arrives in town thinking she's going to be the nurse for the town doctor, but everyone in town knows that Gideon (the town's doctor) sent for a mail-order bride and they're ready for a wedding. The truth is, the mail-order bride service was less than truthful with her and Miriam didn't know anything about being someone's bride!! Let's just say the townspeople are NOT happy that Miriam left Gideon at the altar. Gideon, although jilted again, offers Miriam a job as his nurse so someone with medical knowledge will be in town when he has to travel to the smaller outlying areas. The residents of Savage Wells don't trust Miriam after what she did to Gideon, but she can't afford to fail at this job opportunity and her kindness slowly starts to win some of them over.
Gideon and Miriam both have things in their past to overcome. Gideon has had his heart broken before, and Miriam has a very difficult past--people that should have stood by her and protected her failed to do so, and she suffered greatly because of it. Because of all Miriam has gone through she's kind to those others may see as "less than". These two are so good for each other.
The romance between Miriam and Gideon builds slowly through them working together. I loved how the town stood up for her when her "past" came to light and she was threatened once again. There are so many great parts in this story, it had me feeling all kinds of emotions as I read it. I'm glad it all worked out for everyone in the end, and Gideon and Miriam got their happily ever after.
Thanks to Shadow Mountain and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Poor Miriam arrives in town thinking she's going to be the nurse for the town doctor, but everyone in town knows that Gideon (the town's doctor) sent for a mail-order bride and they're ready for a wedding. The truth is, the mail-order bride service was less than truthful with her and Miriam didn't know anything about being someone's bride!! Let's just say the townspeople are NOT happy that Miriam left Gideon at the altar. Gideon, although jilted again, offers Miriam a job as his nurse so someone with medical knowledge will be in town when he has to travel to the smaller outlying areas. The residents of Savage Wells don't trust Miriam after what she did to Gideon, but she can't afford to fail at this job opportunity and her kindness slowly starts to win some of them over.
Gideon and Miriam both have things in their past to overcome. Gideon has had his heart broken before, and Miriam has a very difficult past--people that should have stood by her and protected her failed to do so, and she suffered greatly because of it. Because of all Miriam has gone through she's kind to those others may see as "less than". These two are so good for each other.
The romance between Miriam and Gideon builds slowly through them working together. I loved how the town stood up for her when her "past" came to light and she was threatened once again. There are so many great parts in this story, it had me feeling all kinds of emotions as I read it. I'm glad it all worked out for everyone in the end, and Gideon and Miriam got their happily ever after.
Thanks to Shadow Mountain and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
February 7, 2019
Every time I pick up a book by Sarah Eden I am reminded just why I love her books so much. They always feel so good to me- like wrapping up in the coziest blanket. Gentle, warm, inviting. The characters feel real and the story envelopes me.
Poor Gideon. All he wants is someone to love and support him. He is lonely and tired. Little does he realize at first, but Miriam feels and longs for the exact same thing but where Gideon probably harbors some slight hope that one day that can still happen for him, I think Miriam has given up all hope. I can't even imagine the life she has lived, the terrible scenes she has witnessed or the poor treatment she has endured. My heart broke for her. I can't tell you how much I wanted all good things for both Gideon and Miriam. I was firmly invested in their stories and their happiness.
This story was definitely of a more serious nature. There weren't many moments of lightness and joy but the story felt full, well developed and definitely held my interest and emotions. It was so good to return to Savage Wells and see some old friends from the first book. I really hope there will be more stories to come!
Content: mental illness, some mild peril, kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Poor Gideon. All he wants is someone to love and support him. He is lonely and tired. Little does he realize at first, but Miriam feels and longs for the exact same thing but where Gideon probably harbors some slight hope that one day that can still happen for him, I think Miriam has given up all hope. I can't even imagine the life she has lived, the terrible scenes she has witnessed or the poor treatment she has endured. My heart broke for her. I can't tell you how much I wanted all good things for both Gideon and Miriam. I was firmly invested in their stories and their happiness.
This story was definitely of a more serious nature. There weren't many moments of lightness and joy but the story felt full, well developed and definitely held my interest and emotions. It was so good to return to Savage Wells and see some old friends from the first book. I really hope there will be more stories to come!
Content: mental illness, some mild peril, kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 7, 2018
This is in classic Eden style. A very sad story for our leading lady which makes the endings so much sweeter. Her Heroines really do get drug threw the 'mud', the poor things. I think this might have been the most beat up Heroine yet. Don't worry all ends happily. This was a sweet romance. I enjoyed going back to Savage Wells. I liked those characters much more as side characters. This is chaste and teens could read it. There is talk of insane asylums and abuse.
April 19, 2020
Gideon MacNamara has been unlucky in love, but as the doctor of Savage Wells and the surrounding areas, he needs help in his medical practice, so he has sent for a mail order bride who is a nurse. When she arrives, however, Miriam becomes the third woman to shy away from marrying him, insisting she was only told about the nursing position, not about the marriage part. His love for the people he serves prompts Gideon to swallow his pride and ask Miriam to stay--as his nurse only. Miriam is a good nurse but she's running from her past--and Savage Wells just might be a place where she can make a home, if she can convince the townspeople, who are fiercely loyal to their doctor, that she isn't a terrible person for not wanting to marry Gideon. As they work together, Gideon is drawn to Miriam, but he also realizes she's hiding something and has to figure out if he can really trust her to help him with his patients.
Gideon is a total sweetheart; I love seeing how he cares for his people and how they care about him in return. Miriam is a sort of prickly, but understandably so, but also really wants to help people, and her backstory is so interesting and opened up some really fascinating (and sad) insights into medical treatment for women in the 1800s. The secondary characters are great, too; I love how Sarah Eden always gives us so many people to care about.
If you've read the first book in the Savage Wells series (which you don't have to do before reading this one; it can stand alone), you might expect a lighter tone than this book has; the first book was funnier and had a lot of banter and stuff. This book still has funny moments but it has a darker tone (which is totally appropriate to the story).
Great plot, snappy dialogue, and realistic, well-developed characters are hallmarks of Sarah Eden's writing, and they're all here. Another great book from a terrific author.
I read an ARC via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Gideon is a total sweetheart; I love seeing how he cares for his people and how they care about him in return. Miriam is a sort of prickly, but understandably so, but also really wants to help people, and her backstory is so interesting and opened up some really fascinating (and sad) insights into medical treatment for women in the 1800s. The secondary characters are great, too; I love how Sarah Eden always gives us so many people to care about.
If you've read the first book in the Savage Wells series (which you don't have to do before reading this one; it can stand alone), you might expect a lighter tone than this book has; the first book was funnier and had a lot of banter and stuff. This book still has funny moments but it has a darker tone (which is totally appropriate to the story).
Great plot, snappy dialogue, and realistic, well-developed characters are hallmarks of Sarah Eden's writing, and they're all here. Another great book from a terrific author.
I read an ARC via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
February 11, 2019
Healing Hearts is a gem of a book. It was wonderful being in Savage Wells again. It was like coming home to an old friend. The characters are well written and as charming as I remember them from the first book. Miriam is a lovely addition. She is full of mystery at first and I loved how she entered the heart of the town. The pacing is written perfectly. Gideon was, of course, wonderful. Hawk, Paisley, Cade, essentially the whole town made this book what it was. An absolute joy.
December 7, 2018
Well, I personally couldn’t be happier that Sarah Eden took us back to Savage Wells! ‘Sheriffs’ was a story full of spunk & fun with that added tender element concerning Paisley’s father, and dementia. It was the first time I’d been able to complete a book that touched on this subject. I lost my mum in her mid 60s, to this terrible disease, and usually I can’t bear reading about it in a novel. I appreciated so much the sensitivity in which Sarah writes. In fact if you are an avid reader of hers, you will know that she approaches these things just right.
This second time around in Savage Wells is no different. Again, she tackles the real issues of the day with an disease that little was known about, yet treated in such horrific ways. I’ve read a few books now that centre around Asylums, and the sense of being trapped that many of those living there felt. Women sent there for all kinds of reasons and always their pleas and denials taken by the doctors as a sure sign of their madness. I cannot even abide the thought of how that must have felt to someone with depression, or another ailment that didn’t need to be treated in that manner. It seems to be society’s scapegoat for these illnesses and disabilities no one understood. Trying to keep that ‘perfect’ image.
This story is about two people, one physically running from the past and another mentally running from his past. Everything about the way this beautiful story progresses and is enriched by all the other wonderful characters was just such a joy to read. So many moments, leaving you on the edge of your seat. Feeling empathy for Miriam’s plight. Hope that she will see the good in Gideon. The concern for the town later on in the story, and the continuing tale of Andrew & Mr Bell. So much goodness in the people of this town and I love the way they all rallied together at the end. Fantastic story, that I could not put down! Please write a story for Hawk! His character is so much fun, and I loved the way he so gracefully bowed out.
I received this complimentary eARC from Netgalley & Shadow Mountain. This is my honest review.
This second time around in Savage Wells is no different. Again, she tackles the real issues of the day with an disease that little was known about, yet treated in such horrific ways. I’ve read a few books now that centre around Asylums, and the sense of being trapped that many of those living there felt. Women sent there for all kinds of reasons and always their pleas and denials taken by the doctors as a sure sign of their madness. I cannot even abide the thought of how that must have felt to someone with depression, or another ailment that didn’t need to be treated in that manner. It seems to be society’s scapegoat for these illnesses and disabilities no one understood. Trying to keep that ‘perfect’ image.
This story is about two people, one physically running from the past and another mentally running from his past. Everything about the way this beautiful story progresses and is enriched by all the other wonderful characters was just such a joy to read. So many moments, leaving you on the edge of your seat. Feeling empathy for Miriam’s plight. Hope that she will see the good in Gideon. The concern for the town later on in the story, and the continuing tale of Andrew & Mr Bell. So much goodness in the people of this town and I love the way they all rallied together at the end. Fantastic story, that I could not put down! Please write a story for Hawk! His character is so much fun, and I loved the way he so gracefully bowed out.
I received this complimentary eARC from Netgalley & Shadow Mountain. This is my honest review.
February 19, 2019
I love reading these stories of the Old West, where females play prominent parts and hold important positions in society, where men normally do.
Miriam has had a tough past and I can't image dealing with what she's gone through. Needless to say, she has secrets to hide. Miriam is very strong and not afraid to stand her ground. A misunderstanding right at the beginning of this book forces her to make a quick and difficult decision, but she knows her mind and won't back down. I love this characteristic about her and as she grows more confident in her nursing skills and in her friendship with Gideon, I grew to like her even more.
As for Gideon, this good doctor is a very capable, caring, and personable man. He has his own demons to deal with, but the common thread of loneliness forges a bond with his new nurse, Miriam.
This is a serious Western that captures the flavor of some of the hardships of the wild, wild west well. I love Savage Wells and loved catching glimpses of beloved characters. I'm hoping for more in the future.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Miriam has had a tough past and I can't image dealing with what she's gone through. Needless to say, she has secrets to hide. Miriam is very strong and not afraid to stand her ground. A misunderstanding right at the beginning of this book forces her to make a quick and difficult decision, but she knows her mind and won't back down. I love this characteristic about her and as she grows more confident in her nursing skills and in her friendship with Gideon, I grew to like her even more.
As for Gideon, this good doctor is a very capable, caring, and personable man. He has his own demons to deal with, but the common thread of loneliness forges a bond with his new nurse, Miriam.
This is a serious Western that captures the flavor of some of the hardships of the wild, wild west well. I love Savage Wells and loved catching glimpses of beloved characters. I'm hoping for more in the future.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
September 7, 2019
first of all, WHY ISN'T THIS A MOVIE YET ???????
now to my review
oh my .. OH MY .. I was not ready for this explosion of emotion, this book was everything I was looking for :D so happy I didn't give up after the first book
so in this book we follow Gideon the town's doctor and the only one with compassion to see mentally challenged people as actual human beings, and then there is Miriam, she is a nurse and hides a great secret of a condition of epilepsy and doesn't trust doctors at all .. those two are on a mission to save the town, one person at a time :)
AMAZING AMAZING highly recommended, read it if you want a sweet romance with a high touch of humanity and friendship
now to my review
oh my .. OH MY .. I was not ready for this explosion of emotion, this book was everything I was looking for :D so happy I didn't give up after the first book
so in this book we follow Gideon the town's doctor and the only one with compassion to see mentally challenged people as actual human beings, and then there is Miriam, she is a nurse and hides a great secret of a condition of epilepsy and doesn't trust doctors at all .. those two are on a mission to save the town, one person at a time :)
AMAZING AMAZING highly recommended, read it if you want a sweet romance with a high touch of humanity and friendship
February 14, 2019
I’m not going to tell you that you have to read The Sheriffs of Savage Wells before reading this one. But I am going to highly suggest it! This one can stand on it’s own. The reader will just understand the characters and town much better if they’ve read that one first.
Anyway…Healing Hearts. I’m going to start by saying that the first chapter in this one is my favorite opening chapter in any book I’ve ever read. The book opens with Miriam. She’s on the stagecoach to Savage Wells, where she thinks she’s just going to be a nurse for Doctor MacNamera. But she’s led to a wedding, one where she is supposed to be the bride. I just loved it!
Gideon MacNamera had sent for a wife. His one stipulation was that she also needed to be a nurse. Miriam would be perfect for him. But she isn’t interested in marrying a man she’s never met. Gideon needs help and offers her the nursing job anyway.
It was hilarious to me how the townspeople of Savage Wells interacted with Miriam. They wanted nothing to do with the woman who jilted Gideon. But little by little, she wins them over with her kindness and skill. I loved that part.
This one is a great book. I loved the story! There are just so many great things about it. I didn’t want to stop reading it for anything. Unfortunately, people in my family want clean clothes, food, etc! Make sure you take the time to read this great book!
Anyway…Healing Hearts. I’m going to start by saying that the first chapter in this one is my favorite opening chapter in any book I’ve ever read. The book opens with Miriam. She’s on the stagecoach to Savage Wells, where she thinks she’s just going to be a nurse for Doctor MacNamera. But she’s led to a wedding, one where she is supposed to be the bride. I just loved it!
Gideon MacNamera had sent for a wife. His one stipulation was that she also needed to be a nurse. Miriam would be perfect for him. But she isn’t interested in marrying a man she’s never met. Gideon needs help and offers her the nursing job anyway.
It was hilarious to me how the townspeople of Savage Wells interacted with Miriam. They wanted nothing to do with the woman who jilted Gideon. But little by little, she wins them over with her kindness and skill. I loved that part.
This one is a great book. I loved the story! There are just so many great things about it. I didn’t want to stop reading it for anything. Unfortunately, people in my family want clean clothes, food, etc! Make sure you take the time to read this great book!
September 20, 2022
I really enjoyed this one!! It was wounderful to be back in this world!!! You can really see that Sarah Eden does her homework before writing her books!!! ❤❤❤❤❤
"Confidence is the currency of high society."
March /9/2020
I forgot how much I enjoyed this, loved this reread! The charcters, the mentalist health representation the friendships loved this one. I hope she makes more books in this series!!! Also this cover is beautiful and one of my favorite of hers!!!❤
Reread September 2022
Getting ready for book 3
I Loved it!!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Confidence is the currency of high society."
March /9/2020
I forgot how much I enjoyed this, loved this reread! The charcters, the mentalist health representation the friendships loved this one. I hope she makes more books in this series!!! Also this cover is beautiful and one of my favorite of hers!!!❤
Reread September 2022
Getting ready for book 3
I Loved it!!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 29, 2018
***ARC received in exchange of an honest opinion***
***ARC received in exchange of an honest opinion***
This book was a sweet, light read that I found to be enjoyable, but not really impressive.
I was hoping for a bit more, it needs a bit of angst (even sweet reads need that).
The writing was good though, hence the 3 stars.
***ARC received in exchange of an honest opinion***
This book was a sweet, light read that I found to be enjoyable, but not really impressive.
I was hoping for a bit more, it needs a bit of angst (even sweet reads need that).
The writing was good though, hence the 3 stars.
March 4, 2019
A doctor looking for a wife, a nurse looking for a job. Sounds simple right, this story is anything but. Gideon MacNamara, knowing that it will be hard to get a wife living out west and he hopes that a matchmaking organization can help him obtain what he is looking for. After being rejected a few times he hopes that this time works.
Miriam Bricks gets off the stagecoach and is greeted by a bevy of townsfolk. She is whisked away to the schoolhouse where the town is there and a preacher upfront along with Dr.MacNamara. This seems strange to Miriam as she is there for a job. All of a sudden she realizes that it is a wedding and it appears that she is the bride. She.Runs.
Because she ran she is greeted with unhappy townspeople. She does the best she can and starts work as the nurse she was hired for. She and Gideon sidestep each other but soon begin to have a working relationship. Miriam has a past and little by little it comes out and she soon begins to trust Gideon. But her past is catching up with her and she finds that she has to run again. Eventually, with the trust, she has gained with the town and their appreciation for her in her nursing skills, things start to work out for both her and Gideon.
Like I said before, this is typically not a book I would have picked up to read, but once I started reading it, I was immersed in the story. This book had a readable storyline and likable characters that I found to like a lot. A clean romance that should appeal to anyone looking for a book to just entertain. Nothing too deep but that is a good thing.
I highly recommend it.
Miriam Bricks gets off the stagecoach and is greeted by a bevy of townsfolk. She is whisked away to the schoolhouse where the town is there and a preacher upfront along with Dr.MacNamara. This seems strange to Miriam as she is there for a job. All of a sudden she realizes that it is a wedding and it appears that she is the bride. She.Runs.
Because she ran she is greeted with unhappy townspeople. She does the best she can and starts work as the nurse she was hired for. She and Gideon sidestep each other but soon begin to have a working relationship. Miriam has a past and little by little it comes out and she soon begins to trust Gideon. But her past is catching up with her and she finds that she has to run again. Eventually, with the trust, she has gained with the town and their appreciation for her in her nursing skills, things start to work out for both her and Gideon.
Like I said before, this is typically not a book I would have picked up to read, but once I started reading it, I was immersed in the story. This book had a readable storyline and likable characters that I found to like a lot. A clean romance that should appeal to anyone looking for a book to just entertain. Nothing too deep but that is a good thing.
I highly recommend it.
November 9, 2021
So, I've been devouring Sarah M. Eden's Regency books and still have a way to go so I really didn't have any interest in reading one of her Western romances until I conquered that Regency backlist. But then Healing Hearts popped up on my audible plus list and I couldn't resist. I honestly didn't think I would enjoy it as much as her Regencies...I was so wrrrrooonnnnggg!!!!
Still classic Eden, just with an American twang. :-) So, no Regency style banter but there's plenty of witty repartee between Miriam and Gideon. We're missing a manor house and all the hoity-toity dressing of London's elite, but we have a town full of opinionated characters who get in this couple's business every which way.
And we have the colossal misunderstanding that's at the start of it all. Sooooo much fun!!! The mail-order-bride that wasn't! Poor Miriam steps off the stagecoach thinking she's accepted a nursing position only the whole town thinks she's about to become their beloved doctor's wife. Things go downhill from there. Bwahahaha!
Though there are some really comedic twists in this story, there's also some heartbreaking drama and even danger. Because Miriam is fleeing from a horrific past and if she's caught...shudder. I was appalled at her situation and sickened to think that what she endured was common place at the time, and, as a woman she had absolutely no recourse open to her...except to run.
Incredible fast-paced story full of wit and pathos and the hope of better things to come. Oh -- and the way the town rallies around Miriam -- hoozah! Stand-up-and-cheer-until-you're-hoarse kind of stuff!
Still classic Eden, just with an American twang. :-) So, no Regency style banter but there's plenty of witty repartee between Miriam and Gideon. We're missing a manor house and all the hoity-toity dressing of London's elite, but we have a town full of opinionated characters who get in this couple's business every which way.
And we have the colossal misunderstanding that's at the start of it all. Sooooo much fun!!! The mail-order-bride that wasn't! Poor Miriam steps off the stagecoach thinking she's accepted a nursing position only the whole town thinks she's about to become their beloved doctor's wife. Things go downhill from there. Bwahahaha!
Though there are some really comedic twists in this story, there's also some heartbreaking drama and even danger. Because Miriam is fleeing from a horrific past and if she's caught...shudder. I was appalled at her situation and sickened to think that what she endured was common place at the time, and, as a woman she had absolutely no recourse open to her...except to run.
Incredible fast-paced story full of wit and pathos and the hope of better things to come. Oh -- and the way the town rallies around Miriam -- hoozah! Stand-up-and-cheer-until-you're-hoarse kind of stuff!
May 19, 2019
Miriam has fled a mental asylum and is in need of a job. One far away from society, the law, her family, and any questions. The opportunity to use her expert skills and serve as a nurse in the small Wyoming town of Savage Wells seems perfect. Right up until she arrives and realizes that the local doctor, Gideon, is not only looking for a nurse but a mail order bride.
She declines.
Gideon has been rejected before, but Miriam makes the first to do so at the alter. Hurt and disappointed but still very much in need of a nurse, he hires her anyway. And falls in love with her anyway. But if Miriam will not tell him her truths, he will need to find them out for himself; and little does Gideon know the danger that lies in such an endeavor.
Healing Hearts was wonderful. Sarah Eden's gorgeous writing, intriguing plot, and empathetic characters pulled me right through the book. The harsh realities of Miriam's dilemma--her absolute powerlessness in the face of the law--and the relationship between the two main characters were both fascinating. Highly recommended.
She declines.
Gideon has been rejected before, but Miriam makes the first to do so at the alter. Hurt and disappointed but still very much in need of a nurse, he hires her anyway. And falls in love with her anyway. But if Miriam will not tell him her truths, he will need to find them out for himself; and little does Gideon know the danger that lies in such an endeavor.
Healing Hearts was wonderful. Sarah Eden's gorgeous writing, intriguing plot, and empathetic characters pulled me right through the book. The harsh realities of Miriam's dilemma--her absolute powerlessness in the face of the law--and the relationship between the two main characters were both fascinating. Highly recommended.
June 25, 2021
Another beautifully told story. I thoroughly enjoyed this clean western romance. Sarah Eden never disappoints.
February 13, 2019
I am writing a completely different review from the one I started out thinking I would.
The first 42 percent of Healing Hearts made me feel like I had a split personality. One side of me liked the plot, the people, the humorous dialogue. The other side of me thoroughly disliked the author’s attempt to inject mystery and suspense into the story by constantly alluding to the heroine’s big secret. UGH. I despise when authors do that.
However...
Nurse Miriam Bricks was shocked to discover that her welcome party to the small Wyoming town of Savage Wells is actually supposed to be a wedding to the town’s doctor. When she discovers the grave miscommunication, she flees the church and makes plans to head out on the next stagecoach. But before she can do that, doc Gideon McNamara convinces her to stay and be his nurse anyway.
It’s an agreeable arrangement for the nurse, but townsfolk aren’t too keen on the woman who jilted their beloved doc at the altar. And as you can imagine, when Miriam begins to work side-by-side with the good doctor, her feelings for him begin to grow. However, Miriam has a bad past and is apparently stricken with some illness that, if the doctor finds out about, he’s sure to fire her…
Here’s the thing. Miriam’s reason for being secretive actually did make sense (for once!). But as a reader, it irritates the bejeebers out of me when an author hints at those secrets over and over and over again. Just because those issues aren’t known to the characters in the book doesn’t mean they need to be a secret to the reader. Holding back all those details doesn’t necessarily make your story suspenseful or build drama - ESPECIALLY if you keep holding it over the reader’s head and reminding them every single page. Okay, that’s a bit of an exaggeration. But mentions of Miriam’s past, her medical condition, and what would result when the doc finds out, happened multiple times each chapter. It got old, and killed the good vibes I was otherwise getting from reading the story. And I was irritated.
Then the grand secret was revealed. Right on the top of that, a dire situation with the town occurs. THEN Miriam’s past shows up in town, threatening her new life and even her safety.
And it was great!!!
Healing Hearts has great characters, fantastic and witty dialogue, and a truly compelling plot. I loved meeting all the townspeople, I enjoyed watching them evolve from disliking Miriam to embracing her as one of their own. The romance part was more on the sedate side, but that is to be expected in a story that takes place in the late 1800s. Miriam and Gideon’s relationship developed naturally at a realistic pace, and in the day of abundant insta-love storylines, it was a refreshing change of pace.
So, I went from thinking I’d not like this book much at all to devouring it to find out what happened. This book is the reason why I keep reading when I’m not completely hating a book. Because on those rare occasions, things turn completely around, and it is totally worth it!
* thank you to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
The first 42 percent of Healing Hearts made me feel like I had a split personality. One side of me liked the plot, the people, the humorous dialogue. The other side of me thoroughly disliked the author’s attempt to inject mystery and suspense into the story by constantly alluding to the heroine’s big secret. UGH. I despise when authors do that.
However...
Nurse Miriam Bricks was shocked to discover that her welcome party to the small Wyoming town of Savage Wells is actually supposed to be a wedding to the town’s doctor. When she discovers the grave miscommunication, she flees the church and makes plans to head out on the next stagecoach. But before she can do that, doc Gideon McNamara convinces her to stay and be his nurse anyway.
It’s an agreeable arrangement for the nurse, but townsfolk aren’t too keen on the woman who jilted their beloved doc at the altar. And as you can imagine, when Miriam begins to work side-by-side with the good doctor, her feelings for him begin to grow. However, Miriam has a bad past and is apparently stricken with some illness that, if the doctor finds out about, he’s sure to fire her…
Here’s the thing. Miriam’s reason for being secretive actually did make sense (for once!). But as a reader, it irritates the bejeebers out of me when an author hints at those secrets over and over and over again. Just because those issues aren’t known to the characters in the book doesn’t mean they need to be a secret to the reader. Holding back all those details doesn’t necessarily make your story suspenseful or build drama - ESPECIALLY if you keep holding it over the reader’s head and reminding them every single page. Okay, that’s a bit of an exaggeration. But mentions of Miriam’s past, her medical condition, and what would result when the doc finds out, happened multiple times each chapter. It got old, and killed the good vibes I was otherwise getting from reading the story. And I was irritated.
Then the grand secret was revealed. Right on the top of that, a dire situation with the town occurs. THEN Miriam’s past shows up in town, threatening her new life and even her safety.
And it was great!!!
Healing Hearts has great characters, fantastic and witty dialogue, and a truly compelling plot. I loved meeting all the townspeople, I enjoyed watching them evolve from disliking Miriam to embracing her as one of their own. The romance part was more on the sedate side, but that is to be expected in a story that takes place in the late 1800s. Miriam and Gideon’s relationship developed naturally at a realistic pace, and in the day of abundant insta-love storylines, it was a refreshing change of pace.
So, I went from thinking I’d not like this book much at all to devouring it to find out what happened. This book is the reason why I keep reading when I’m not completely hating a book. Because on those rare occasions, things turn completely around, and it is totally worth it!
* thank you to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
January 21, 2019
From the beginning to the end this book pulled me in, and had me cringing at the injustice that was perpetrated at the time.
Once you find out why Miriam is in Savage Wells and why she won’t marry Gideon you champion her cause.
Will she win this town over? Will the evil that is brought on her by the law at that time win? I know I was starting to get very angry at the system, but so many souls were lost here, and this went on way into the late 1900’s.
There are some really warmhearted events here, and others will rip your heart out, and you will worry about this town losing its children.
Wow! As you can see there is a lot going on here, and innocent telegram has the ability to destroy lives.
A quick page-tuner, that will make you think!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Shadow Mountain, and was not required to give a positive review.
Once you find out why Miriam is in Savage Wells and why she won’t marry Gideon you champion her cause.
Will she win this town over? Will the evil that is brought on her by the law at that time win? I know I was starting to get very angry at the system, but so many souls were lost here, and this went on way into the late 1900’s.
There are some really warmhearted events here, and others will rip your heart out, and you will worry about this town losing its children.
Wow! As you can see there is a lot going on here, and innocent telegram has the ability to destroy lives.
A quick page-tuner, that will make you think!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Shadow Mountain, and was not required to give a positive review.
November 12, 2018
This book was fantastic! The themes of nursing, mental health and asylums in the 1800's are new ones for me. As a woman, it is easy to take for granted the rights and opportunities we have now. And it was horrifying to read and imagine what it would be like to have a medical condition that was unknown or misunderstood... and being at the mercy of male relatives.
The familial relationships were complex and well done. The villain was terrifying in his ability to manipulate and twist things. And the love story was sweet. The story over all was layered and while most of the subplots were intense and serious, there were moments of humor tucked in.
Highly recommend!
The familial relationships were complex and well done. The villain was terrifying in his ability to manipulate and twist things. And the love story was sweet. The story over all was layered and while most of the subplots were intense and serious, there were moments of humor tucked in.
Highly recommend!
Read
June 2, 2018Wow. This was a good book. Really good.
January 2, 2019
A cute story with an interesting twist on marriage. Loved the slow development of feelings between the characters. Miriam's back story was amazing!
** ARC received from Netgalley **
** ARC received from Netgalley **
February 20, 2019
This is the very first Sarah M Eden book that I haven’t liked. The relationship development especially seemed so bland in comparison to her other works.
March 4, 2019
Nurse Miriam Bricks is excited when she gets off the stagecoach in the small town of Savage Wells, Wyoming. She is thrilled to be starting her life over as a nurse to Dr. Gideon MacNamara. However, things don’t go quite as smoothly as she thought they would. Instead of Dr. MacNamara meeting the stagecoach, the entire town is there and leads her to the schoolhouse. This is where Dr. MacNamara is waiting to make her his bride.
Dr. Gideon MacNamara was tired of living alone and his prospects for finding a local bride were dwindling. So, he purchases a mail order bride, but he’s humiliated when Miriam refuses to marry him. In fact, she didn’t even know she was a mail order bride. She thought she accepted a nursing position. The entire town quickly turns against her.
Stranded in a strange town, Miriam doesn’t know how she will survive. She’s more than shocked and delighted when Gideon offers her a real nursing position. She happily accepts, although the town is very slow to accept her in their fold, she has high hopes she will change their minds.
As Miriam and Gideon grow closer, things suddenly turn horrible for Miriam. Her past catches up with her and comes to Savage Wells. She is filled with fear and dread. Gideon is determined to find out what the real story is. All he knows is that Miriam has become an important part of his life and he’s not about to let go of her.
Although this is the second book in the Savage Wells series, it stands on it’s own. This story is about Gideon and Miriam. Other characters make an appearance, but you don’t have to read the first one to appreciate this one. I didn’t read the first one and enjoyed this one very much.
Healing Hearts is a touching romance with a dash of humor and mystery mixed in. It, also, features a few serious topics such as abuse and medical illness. I was totally transported into the time era and right into the town of Savage Wells.
My heart broke for all that this couple had to endure. They are two people readers can really come to care about. The author did a great job of drawing me in and keeping me hooked until the last page. I’ll be on the look out for more books by Sarah M. Eden.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Dr. Gideon MacNamara was tired of living alone and his prospects for finding a local bride were dwindling. So, he purchases a mail order bride, but he’s humiliated when Miriam refuses to marry him. In fact, she didn’t even know she was a mail order bride. She thought she accepted a nursing position. The entire town quickly turns against her.
Stranded in a strange town, Miriam doesn’t know how she will survive. She’s more than shocked and delighted when Gideon offers her a real nursing position. She happily accepts, although the town is very slow to accept her in their fold, she has high hopes she will change their minds.
As Miriam and Gideon grow closer, things suddenly turn horrible for Miriam. Her past catches up with her and comes to Savage Wells. She is filled with fear and dread. Gideon is determined to find out what the real story is. All he knows is that Miriam has become an important part of his life and he’s not about to let go of her.
Although this is the second book in the Savage Wells series, it stands on it’s own. This story is about Gideon and Miriam. Other characters make an appearance, but you don’t have to read the first one to appreciate this one. I didn’t read the first one and enjoyed this one very much.
Healing Hearts is a touching romance with a dash of humor and mystery mixed in. It, also, features a few serious topics such as abuse and medical illness. I was totally transported into the time era and right into the town of Savage Wells.
My heart broke for all that this couple had to endure. They are two people readers can really come to care about. The author did a great job of drawing me in and keeping me hooked until the last page. I’ll be on the look out for more books by Sarah M. Eden.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 15, 2019
Full of heart and endearing characters but could use more passion
I would like to thank Sarah M. Eden, Shadow Mountain Publishing, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Minor spoilers
This was a great book! It was the right degree of dramatic, it had heaps of heart, and all of the characters were endearing. Well, except the villain, of course, but I even sympathized with Miriam’s father to a point, and he was a self-serving jerk. So kudos there, Eden. And when Rupert was so sick… I had tears in my eyes. If he’d died… I don’t want to think about it. I kept thinking, “Don’t you dare. Don’t you dare kill that precious child, Eden, I swear to god.” I loved that kid.
Oh, be aware that this book is the second in a series. The first was The Sheriffs of Savage Wells. I didn’t realize that when I started Healing Hearts, but as soon as you meet Cade you’re hit with a blast of charisma that makes it clear he’s a leading man. Then you meet Paisley, and there’s another blast of charisma. I’m very interested in their story.
Gideon was awesome. I loved him. He wasn’t a macho man oozing testosterone and going around intimidating people. He was quiet, gentle, kind, considerate, and intellectual—but by no means perfect. He had his moments of jealousy and insecurity and inadequacy. And he was a martyr, though he was aware of that. But he was mature and selfless in general.
I liked Miriam, too. Considering what she’d been through, her actions made sense to me. Also considering what she’d been through, she was pretty well-adjusted. Wary and secretive, but still friendly, kind, and selfless. Almost too well-adjusted, but that’s arguable. I thought her actions/reactions were appropriate. Maybe she should have been smart enough to change her name the first time…but I understand that the west seemed so far removed from eastern society that she probably thought she’d be well lost out there.
My biggest problem with the book—pretty much my only real problem—was that I didn’t feel they’d earned their love at the end. They barely knew anything about each other; for most of the book they tiptoed around each other, and for the rest they were too busy dealing with everything to have a decent conversation. By the end they knew the important superficial information about one another, but most of it had been revealed and discussed by other people, not in earnest conversations between the two of them. This means that some of their intimate gestures also felt unearned, such as when Gideon cupped her face in his hands about halfway through the book. I would have bought it more if Miriam had reacted with startlement or resistance, because at that point she didn’t have any idea how much he’d come to care for her, but she acted like it was no big deal.
Speaking of—I was shocked when she had absolutely no reaction the first time Gideon said he loved her at about 77% progress. Just nothing. I remember thinking, “Maybe that was supposed to have been cut,” because that’s how Miriam reacted—as if it hadn’t been said. It was rather bizarre.
Furthermore, I understand that when he declares to her, “None of that matters without you”—referring to all of his friends and responsibilities, in light of Miriam running for her life—that it was supposed to be a very symbolic gesture on his part. Up to that point, nothing mattered more to him than the town/his patients—he’d already sacrificed the privacy of his music to her—and the moment he says the above, it’s supposed to signify that he loves her enough to give all that up. I bought when he gave up his cello secret for her, that was small-time, but as I was saying, I didn’t buy their love, so I didn’t buy this moment, and I made a doubtful “Seriously?” face when I read it. I wasn’t convinced that Miriam meant that much to him.
Why wasn’t I convinced? Well, this was a chaste romance, but of course that in itself is not why it didn’t work. It didn’t work for me because it was chaste to the point that they didn’t seem to express any attraction to one other beyond the general thought that he’s handsome, on her part, and that her curly red hair is becoming, on his. They never checked each other out that I recall, never wondered what it would be like to kiss passionately, never wondered anything that would suggest they wanted to be more than friends. They came to care about each other, sure, but it didn’t seem much different from how they cared about their friends or the children. The only thing that suggested Gideon was falling in love was when he got jealous of Hawk showing interest in Miriam. Yes, Gideon and Miriam were embracing tightly and kissing a little by the end, but that’s expected, and it…didn’t feel obligatory per se, but kind of like a going-through-the-motions-because-it’s-a-romance thing. I just didn’t feel any passion between them, so their getting together wasn’t as satisfying as I’d hoped it would be.
There was one other line that made me frown in confusion. When Miriam says, “I won’t make you my shield. Your life is not worth mine.” I know what was meant, but phrasing it that way makes it sound as if Miriam is saying Paisley’s life isn’t worth as much as Miriam’s. It would make more sense to invert it: “My life isn’t worth yours,” “I’m not worth your life,” or something like that.
Other than that, I enjoyed this book very much. I had a hard time putting it down and devoured it within two days. Eden is a very good writer and capable of not only humor but powerful analogies, such as: “To say Mother was, at times, a bit overbearing was like saying the ocean was, at times, a bit wet. And Gideon could feel himself drowning.” I liked that line so much I reread it three times before moving on.
If I have one suggestion for Eden, other than the passion thing, is to not be afraid to give her characters dark sides. We want them to be morally upstanding in general, but few readers can relate to saints.
I don’t know if Eden plans to continue writing about Savage Wells, but if she did, I’d certainly request those ARCs. I see prime protagonist candidates in Hawk, Tansy, Andrew, and even Mr. Larson. I did get the feeling like I was supposed to already be acquainted with Tansy, so I’m not sure if she played a part in the first book or what. Regardless, I’d like to know her better.
And…*gasp* My library has some of Eden’s other books! Yesssss *does happy dance*
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I would like to thank Sarah M. Eden, Shadow Mountain Publishing, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Minor spoilers
This was a great book! It was the right degree of dramatic, it had heaps of heart, and all of the characters were endearing. Well, except the villain, of course, but I even sympathized with Miriam’s father to a point, and he was a self-serving jerk. So kudos there, Eden. And when Rupert was so sick… I had tears in my eyes. If he’d died… I don’t want to think about it. I kept thinking, “Don’t you dare. Don’t you dare kill that precious child, Eden, I swear to god.” I loved that kid.
Oh, be aware that this book is the second in a series. The first was The Sheriffs of Savage Wells. I didn’t realize that when I started Healing Hearts, but as soon as you meet Cade you’re hit with a blast of charisma that makes it clear he’s a leading man. Then you meet Paisley, and there’s another blast of charisma. I’m very interested in their story.
Gideon was awesome. I loved him. He wasn’t a macho man oozing testosterone and going around intimidating people. He was quiet, gentle, kind, considerate, and intellectual—but by no means perfect. He had his moments of jealousy and insecurity and inadequacy. And he was a martyr, though he was aware of that. But he was mature and selfless in general.
I liked Miriam, too. Considering what she’d been through, her actions made sense to me. Also considering what she’d been through, she was pretty well-adjusted. Wary and secretive, but still friendly, kind, and selfless. Almost too well-adjusted, but that’s arguable. I thought her actions/reactions were appropriate. Maybe she should have been smart enough to change her name the first time…but I understand that the west seemed so far removed from eastern society that she probably thought she’d be well lost out there.
My biggest problem with the book—pretty much my only real problem—was that I didn’t feel they’d earned their love at the end. They barely knew anything about each other; for most of the book they tiptoed around each other, and for the rest they were too busy dealing with everything to have a decent conversation. By the end they knew the important superficial information about one another, but most of it had been revealed and discussed by other people, not in earnest conversations between the two of them. This means that some of their intimate gestures also felt unearned, such as when Gideon cupped her face in his hands about halfway through the book. I would have bought it more if Miriam had reacted with startlement or resistance, because at that point she didn’t have any idea how much he’d come to care for her, but she acted like it was no big deal.
Speaking of—I was shocked when she had absolutely no reaction the first time Gideon said he loved her at about 77% progress. Just nothing. I remember thinking, “Maybe that was supposed to have been cut,” because that’s how Miriam reacted—as if it hadn’t been said. It was rather bizarre.
Furthermore, I understand that when he declares to her, “None of that matters without you”—referring to all of his friends and responsibilities, in light of Miriam running for her life—that it was supposed to be a very symbolic gesture on his part. Up to that point, nothing mattered more to him than the town/his patients—he’d already sacrificed the privacy of his music to her—and the moment he says the above, it’s supposed to signify that he loves her enough to give all that up. I bought when he gave up his cello secret for her, that was small-time, but as I was saying, I didn’t buy their love, so I didn’t buy this moment, and I made a doubtful “Seriously?” face when I read it. I wasn’t convinced that Miriam meant that much to him.
Why wasn’t I convinced? Well, this was a chaste romance, but of course that in itself is not why it didn’t work. It didn’t work for me because it was chaste to the point that they didn’t seem to express any attraction to one other beyond the general thought that he’s handsome, on her part, and that her curly red hair is becoming, on his. They never checked each other out that I recall, never wondered what it would be like to kiss passionately, never wondered anything that would suggest they wanted to be more than friends. They came to care about each other, sure, but it didn’t seem much different from how they cared about their friends or the children. The only thing that suggested Gideon was falling in love was when he got jealous of Hawk showing interest in Miriam. Yes, Gideon and Miriam were embracing tightly and kissing a little by the end, but that’s expected, and it…didn’t feel obligatory per se, but kind of like a going-through-the-motions-because-it’s-a-romance thing. I just didn’t feel any passion between them, so their getting together wasn’t as satisfying as I’d hoped it would be.
There was one other line that made me frown in confusion. When Miriam says, “I won’t make you my shield. Your life is not worth mine.” I know what was meant, but phrasing it that way makes it sound as if Miriam is saying Paisley’s life isn’t worth as much as Miriam’s. It would make more sense to invert it: “My life isn’t worth yours,” “I’m not worth your life,” or something like that.
Other than that, I enjoyed this book very much. I had a hard time putting it down and devoured it within two days. Eden is a very good writer and capable of not only humor but powerful analogies, such as: “To say Mother was, at times, a bit overbearing was like saying the ocean was, at times, a bit wet. And Gideon could feel himself drowning.” I liked that line so much I reread it three times before moving on.
If I have one suggestion for Eden, other than the passion thing, is to not be afraid to give her characters dark sides. We want them to be morally upstanding in general, but few readers can relate to saints.
I don’t know if Eden plans to continue writing about Savage Wells, but if she did, I’d certainly request those ARCs. I see prime protagonist candidates in Hawk, Tansy, Andrew, and even Mr. Larson. I did get the feeling like I was supposed to already be acquainted with Tansy, so I’m not sure if she played a part in the first book or what. Regardless, I’d like to know her better.
And…*gasp* My library has some of Eden’s other books! Yesssss *does happy dance*
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March 17, 2020
WHAT IT'S ABOUT
When Miriam steps off the stagecoach in Savage Wells, she sees a bright future in front of her. But when the town—and Gideon—meets her, ready for a wedding, her excitement quickly turns to horror. Somehow Dr. MacNamara's message had gotten turned around. He doesn't just need a nurse, he wants a wife. When she refuses to marry him, she finds herself stranded in Savage Wells with some very unhappy townspeople.
MY TAKE
I loved this book, even more than the first one in the series. It was a delight to get to see the other characters again. There's a lot of humor and touching scenes as Miriam begins to win the hearts of the townspeople as she accepts a job as Gideon's nurse. But Miriam is hiding something, which makes the people she's coming to care about curious to start asking questions ... outside of Savage Wells. The last thing she wants is to be found.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator Kirsten Potter who did The Sheriffs of Savage Wells did a great job with this book too.
When Miriam steps off the stagecoach in Savage Wells, she sees a bright future in front of her. But when the town—and Gideon—meets her, ready for a wedding, her excitement quickly turns to horror. Somehow Dr. MacNamara's message had gotten turned around. He doesn't just need a nurse, he wants a wife. When she refuses to marry him, she finds herself stranded in Savage Wells with some very unhappy townspeople.
MY TAKE
I loved this book, even more than the first one in the series. It was a delight to get to see the other characters again. There's a lot of humor and touching scenes as Miriam begins to win the hearts of the townspeople as she accepts a job as Gideon's nurse. But Miriam is hiding something, which makes the people she's coming to care about curious to start asking questions ... outside of Savage Wells. The last thing she wants is to be found.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator Kirsten Potter who did The Sheriffs of Savage Wells did a great job with this book too.
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