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Brides of Hope Mountain #1
Aiming for Love
Growing up in Colorado, Josephine Madson has been fascinated by but has shied away from the outside world--one she's been raised to believe killed her parents. When Dave Warden, a rancher, shows up to their secret home with his wounded father, will Josephine and her sisters risk stepping into the world to help or remain separated but safe on Hope Mountain?
304 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2019
515 people are currently reading
2782 people want to read
About the author
Mary Connealy
118 books2,488 followersMary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys always with a strong suspense thread. She is a two time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader's Choice finalist.
She is the bestselling author of 65 books and novellas.
Her most recent three book series are: Braced for Love, A Man with a Past and Love on the Range for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing and many novellas and several stand-alone books for multiple publishers.
Mary will be a published author for ten years in 2017 with nearly a million books in print. She has a degree in broadcast communications with an emphasis in journalism and has worked at her local newspaper.
Find Mary online at:
Seekerville
Petticoats & Pistols
My Website
She is the bestselling author of 65 books and novellas.
Her most recent three book series are: Braced for Love, A Man with a Past and Love on the Range for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing and many novellas and several stand-alone books for multiple publishers.
Mary will be a published author for ten years in 2017 with nearly a million books in print. She has a degree in broadcast communications with an emphasis in journalism and has worked at her local newspaper.
Find Mary online at:
Seekerville
Petticoats & Pistols
My Website
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 364 reviews
August 25, 2019
'It was too perfect, a holy moment, as if they were closer to God up here. They were filled with the peace of the place.'
I never, ever miss a Mary Connealy book. No way, no how. She has been a favorite since the first book of hers I picked up. And nothing has changed since then. When I first saw the cover for this book, I fell in love with it. In fact, the covers for her last two series' have been wonderfully done.
Connealy introduces us to the Nordegren sisters, Danish by blood, living alone in the Colorado mountains in a little hide away valley. They have been taught to fear the outside world, that it would bring sickness and death to them. So they've stayed put and lived off the land and their wits. Until one day, Jo (Josephine) tries to sneak into a camp of a few cowboys and their herd, hankering after a tin cup. David Warden, a rancher, catches her and hangs onto her till he can find out whether she is a real thief or not. Then his mother and father hurry into the camp, with a thousand head of cattle behind them, and someone has shot his father. Just so happens Jo's sister Ilsa is well versed in healing. So thusly these two families meet. What happens next is all Mary Connealy. She can weave a tale of the old West like no other. I've always loved her cowboy comedies and I will never tire of them. There is a lot of good stuff in here, too, and she describes it all well: the pristine snowy winter of the Colorado mountains, how well these folks can track in the snow, how these sisters each have great strengths and talents, and on I could go. But just read it. I highly recommend this book. I can't wait for the next Nordegren sister's story!
*My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for a complimentary copy of this book through Net Galley. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
I never, ever miss a Mary Connealy book. No way, no how. She has been a favorite since the first book of hers I picked up. And nothing has changed since then. When I first saw the cover for this book, I fell in love with it. In fact, the covers for her last two series' have been wonderfully done.
Connealy introduces us to the Nordegren sisters, Danish by blood, living alone in the Colorado mountains in a little hide away valley. They have been taught to fear the outside world, that it would bring sickness and death to them. So they've stayed put and lived off the land and their wits. Until one day, Jo (Josephine) tries to sneak into a camp of a few cowboys and their herd, hankering after a tin cup. David Warden, a rancher, catches her and hangs onto her till he can find out whether she is a real thief or not. Then his mother and father hurry into the camp, with a thousand head of cattle behind them, and someone has shot his father. Just so happens Jo's sister Ilsa is well versed in healing. So thusly these two families meet. What happens next is all Mary Connealy. She can weave a tale of the old West like no other. I've always loved her cowboy comedies and I will never tire of them. There is a lot of good stuff in here, too, and she describes it all well: the pristine snowy winter of the Colorado mountains, how well these folks can track in the snow, how these sisters each have great strengths and talents, and on I could go. But just read it. I highly recommend this book. I can't wait for the next Nordegren sister's story!
*My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for a complimentary copy of this book through Net Galley. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
October 8, 2019
I'm so happy for the start of a new series by Mary Connealy! I adore her down-to-earth characters, the adventure found in the remote wilderness setting, and the sweet romance that develops naturally. Jo and her sisters are an anomaly- three women surviving and thriving without any contact with the outside world. They are an interesting blend of naive and savvy, having a strong moral code instilled by their grandma and survival skills taught by their grandpa, and each girl has a different blend of caution, curiosity, and fear when it comes to their new neighbors. Jo is the most eager to associate with Dave and his family, while Ilsa is compelled by her healing skills to help with Dave's father's injuries, and Ursula fights against the new relationships the entire time (her story will be interesting to read!) Of course there are humorous misunderstandings with certain expressions the girls aren't familiar with and the two Bibles they quoted from especially had me chuckling. There is a nice blend of action, suspense, relationship-building, humor, and romance as Jo is torn between loyalty to her sisters and the way they were raised, and the comfort and love she experiences with Dave and his family. The story wraps on a satisfying note, but the conflict with the land-grabber and his hired gunmen will continue into the next book.
(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)
October 30, 2019
I enjoyed this fun story of sisters who grew up isolated in the mountains. I understood how fear could took hold in their lives as they had been raised by such a fearful grandmother. I liked the way that Jo and Ilsa were able to move past those fears and begin to live life and help the people who showed up on their mountain. However, Ursula really frustrated me. I spent a lot of the book angry with her treatment of Jo and the way she allowed fear to control her. I do look forward to seeing how the author redeems this character in a future book.
I liked Jo and David and thought that their love story progressed realistically throughout the novel. I liked seeing some insight into Mitch and also into the character of Wax Mosby. It will be interesting to see where the author goes with their stories in the future books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I liked Jo and David and thought that their love story progressed realistically throughout the novel. I liked seeing some insight into Mitch and also into the character of Wax Mosby. It will be interesting to see where the author goes with their stories in the future books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
January 19, 2020
I was interested in the premise of this one but instead of being a fun-fluff read it was simply too much fluff, like finding dry ice when you think you see snow. So many inconsistencies in the story and a romance in which I simply couldn’t see what they saw in each other unless it was an attractive exterior.
There were no hogs and boars to hunt in 1873 Colorado. Feral hogs have only recently begun invading the southwestern CO area.
I had a very hard time understanding what Connealy was trying to portray about the girls’ past. On one hand they had the entire Bible memorized front to back; on the other hand they couldn’t discern that the book of fables wasn’t holy too.
I could see maybe one girl memorizing instead of reading, but all three at once? Why would their grandparents not teach them their alphabet?
They were very naive about some things but super savvy about others; fearless in the open but terrified of the unknown (which was the most understandable part of their saga).
Overall, a story that held a lot of promise but didn’t ultimately follow through. I will be trying the second book, though, to see if it follows through on that country-girl-goes-to-town vibe that I’d love to see.
Thanks to the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required. This review is based on a final copy.
There were no hogs and boars to hunt in 1873 Colorado. Feral hogs have only recently begun invading the southwestern CO area.
I had a very hard time understanding what Connealy was trying to portray about the girls’ past. On one hand they had the entire Bible memorized front to back; on the other hand they couldn’t discern that the book of fables wasn’t holy too.
I could see maybe one girl memorizing instead of reading, but all three at once? Why would their grandparents not teach them their alphabet?
They were very naive about some things but super savvy about others; fearless in the open but terrified of the unknown (which was the most understandable part of their saga).
Overall, a story that held a lot of promise but didn’t ultimately follow through. I will be trying the second book, though, to see if it follows through on that country-girl-goes-to-town vibe that I’d love to see.
Thanks to the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required. This review is based on a final copy.
January 14, 2020
It breaks my heart when I don't love a book by one of my favorite authors! I'll be honest, the reviews are hard to write.
This was one of those times for me.
I didn't connect with any of the characters. They didn't feel fully flushed out, they felt really two dimensional to me.
I felt like there were a few plot lines that were started and never touched on or wrapped up. I'm hoping to see them highlighted as the series goes on.
The romance was really, really quick. For how little they actually interacted with each other, and how little Jo knew about men or people, it just felt really rushed. They weren't even in the same area for a portion of the book.
I did really enjoy the family aspect of the book! Each family was close, even through the hard times. They held on to God, and each other. And THAT'S what got them through the valleys.
The story as a whole felt rushed and a bit incomplete.
I LOVE Mary, and I am interested to read Isla & Mitch's story. This story just didn't hit the spot for me.
I rated it a 2.5/5 stars.
*I received this book from the publisher**All opinions are my own*
This was one of those times for me.
I didn't connect with any of the characters. They didn't feel fully flushed out, they felt really two dimensional to me.
I felt like there were a few plot lines that were started and never touched on or wrapped up. I'm hoping to see them highlighted as the series goes on.
The romance was really, really quick. For how little they actually interacted with each other, and how little Jo knew about men or people, it just felt really rushed. They weren't even in the same area for a portion of the book.
I did really enjoy the family aspect of the book! Each family was close, even through the hard times. They held on to God, and each other. And THAT'S what got them through the valleys.
The story as a whole felt rushed and a bit incomplete.
I LOVE Mary, and I am interested to read Isla & Mitch's story. This story just didn't hit the spot for me.
I rated it a 2.5/5 stars.
*I received this book from the publisher**All opinions are my own*
October 14, 2019
Eeep! New series by Mary Connealy alert! I can't get enough of her unique dead-pan quirkiness -- does that make sense? Probably only if you're read a Connealy extravaganza. This time she's outdone herself by taking her trademark wilderness theme to a whole new level. Seriously fun and clever and laugh-out-loudable!
Imagine living way up in the mountains and never seeing anyone other than family? And the only man you've had any interactions with for most of your life is your grandfather. But now it's just you and your sisters, living off the land having been indoctrinated by your hermit of a grandmother that the world is all evil and death. This is such a brilliant concept and the author does an amazing job with consistency in the way the Nordergren women react to the disparities the Wardens bring to their reclusive existence.
I don't even know where to begin with describing the chaos that ensues. Lots of action, of course, because that's another Connealy trademark. And an over arcing sinister plot that won't be wholly solved until the last book. (That's an educated guess on my part.) Villains worthy of a classic Western movie. All mixed up with lots of laughter and sweet romance.
Dave and Jo are perfect for each other and the man is a paragon of patience when it comes to dealing with his prickly mountain woman. Loved their interactions and the way love caught them by surprise...and brought even more mayhem to the Nordergren's all too predictable lives.
A brilliant start to the Brides of Hope Mountain series. (And isn't that cover gorgeous?! The second book is just as lovely -- Woman of Sunlight which comes out in March.)
Oh -- and I listened to the audible edition. Barbara McCulloh's narration brought so much to the story. The way she drawled out some of those one line zingers made me laugh all the harder. And she really got into character with all the various points of view. Really well done.
Imagine living way up in the mountains and never seeing anyone other than family? And the only man you've had any interactions with for most of your life is your grandfather. But now it's just you and your sisters, living off the land having been indoctrinated by your hermit of a grandmother that the world is all evil and death. This is such a brilliant concept and the author does an amazing job with consistency in the way the Nordergren women react to the disparities the Wardens bring to their reclusive existence.
I don't even know where to begin with describing the chaos that ensues. Lots of action, of course, because that's another Connealy trademark. And an over arcing sinister plot that won't be wholly solved until the last book. (That's an educated guess on my part.) Villains worthy of a classic Western movie. All mixed up with lots of laughter and sweet romance.
Dave and Jo are perfect for each other and the man is a paragon of patience when it comes to dealing with his prickly mountain woman. Loved their interactions and the way love caught them by surprise...and brought even more mayhem to the Nordergren's all too predictable lives.
A brilliant start to the Brides of Hope Mountain series. (And isn't that cover gorgeous?! The second book is just as lovely -- Woman of Sunlight which comes out in March.)
Oh -- and I listened to the audible edition. Barbara McCulloh's narration brought so much to the story. The way she drawled out some of those one line zingers made me laugh all the harder. And she really got into character with all the various points of view. Really well done.
July 9, 2021
What took me so long to try a Connealy book?! This story was adorable from beginning to end. The style was very similar to that of Karen Witemeyer, one of my favorite western-genre authors.
The characters were charming and unique. I especially loved the idea of the trio of sisters having lived on their own in the mountainous woods, like American Indians would have long ago. This book definitely felt like a flashback to a different time in history.
Plot twists galore! I really enjoyed the winding path the plot took. It felt very appropriate for the story, and everything felt realistic. The atmosphere really came alive for me, and that helped saturate me in the midst of the mountains of Colorado right alongside Josephine and Dave and the rest of the cast.
The “two Bibles” angle was odd. I didn’t appreciate the disrespect to the one true Bible, but I felt like it was mostly handled well. There were a couple of different characters who, bluntly or subtly, pointed out the truth – that there is only one Bible ordained by God. I greatly appreciated this aspect, that a light was aimed at the truth in a seamless way within the plot of the story.
I can hardly wait to read the next book in the series.
The characters were charming and unique. I especially loved the idea of the trio of sisters having lived on their own in the mountainous woods, like American Indians would have long ago. This book definitely felt like a flashback to a different time in history.
Plot twists galore! I really enjoyed the winding path the plot took. It felt very appropriate for the story, and everything felt realistic. The atmosphere really came alive for me, and that helped saturate me in the midst of the mountains of Colorado right alongside Josephine and Dave and the rest of the cast.
The “two Bibles” angle was odd. I didn’t appreciate the disrespect to the one true Bible, but I felt like it was mostly handled well. There were a couple of different characters who, bluntly or subtly, pointed out the truth – that there is only one Bible ordained by God. I greatly appreciated this aspect, that a light was aimed at the truth in a seamless way within the plot of the story.
I can hardly wait to read the next book in the series.
November 3, 2019
I really enjoyed this heartfelt story and found myself chuckling with this author's sense of humor. The characters were amazing and I fell in love with Jo and James.
I can't wait to find out what happens in the next book with Illsa!
I can't wait to find out what happens in the next book with Illsa!
September 15, 2019
Aiming for Love is the first book in the Brides of Hope Mountain series by Mary Connealy. You can notice this is not Mary’s first book, as you just fly through the pages with excellent pacing, there isn’t a dull moment. For me, it was a very fast read too.
The story is very original, and it had me chuckle out loud quite a few times. We follow Jo, one of the three sisters who have been raised in isolation by their grandparents, having no contact with the outside world at all, as grandmom claimed that was extremely dangerous. As the grandparents passed away, the girls have fended for themself rather remarkably, managing to get food on the table and roaming the lands. Jo especially is quite the roamer, she hunts and even has her own made camouflage suit. As you can imagine, in ways she is both very naive and very wise. And the naive moments make you chuckle and want to wrap her in a big hug tbh.
Then we have the Warden family, their home brutally taken away, with no other choice but to climb this mountain, finding it occupied already. And the handsome Dave might just be what Jo needs, and vice versa. But this book isn’t about romance really, it’s about family, and how family can be stronger together. It’s a book about sisterhood, too. There were many themes I really liked (like how faith can overcome fear), and the story itself is rich, with a lot of side stories. Though it gives the story the oomph it needs, for me was also the only element I didn’t like: because so much was left unresolved, the ending didn’t feel like an ending at all, it felt like it was cut off in the middle. I’m sure future novels will set this right, but it felt a bit unsatisfying. But the characters are well formed and amazing, and we already have amazing character growth that feels deep and profound.
But all in all, I really liked this whimsical story with quite the unique premiss.
I’ve got an e-arc from Bethany House and Netgalley, for which I’m very grateful. It has not influenced my opinions on this book.
The story is very original, and it had me chuckle out loud quite a few times. We follow Jo, one of the three sisters who have been raised in isolation by their grandparents, having no contact with the outside world at all, as grandmom claimed that was extremely dangerous. As the grandparents passed away, the girls have fended for themself rather remarkably, managing to get food on the table and roaming the lands. Jo especially is quite the roamer, she hunts and even has her own made camouflage suit. As you can imagine, in ways she is both very naive and very wise. And the naive moments make you chuckle and want to wrap her in a big hug tbh.
Then we have the Warden family, their home brutally taken away, with no other choice but to climb this mountain, finding it occupied already. And the handsome Dave might just be what Jo needs, and vice versa. But this book isn’t about romance really, it’s about family, and how family can be stronger together. It’s a book about sisterhood, too. There were many themes I really liked (like how faith can overcome fear), and the story itself is rich, with a lot of side stories. Though it gives the story the oomph it needs, for me was also the only element I didn’t like: because so much was left unresolved, the ending didn’t feel like an ending at all, it felt like it was cut off in the middle. I’m sure future novels will set this right, but it felt a bit unsatisfying. But the characters are well formed and amazing, and we already have amazing character growth that feels deep and profound.
But all in all, I really liked this whimsical story with quite the unique premiss.
I’ve got an e-arc from Bethany House and Netgalley, for which I’m very grateful. It has not influenced my opinions on this book.
October 11, 2019
Aiming For Love is the first in a new series by Mary Connealy, Brides of Hope Mountain.
I have been a big fan of Mary Connealy ever since I read her Lassoed in Texas series. She always infuses laughter in her awesome western romances. This book was a real treat.
Imagine three young ladies living in an isolated mountain cabin for ten years. With no outside contact or influence since their grandparents died, Jo, Ursula and Ilsa Nordegren have some strange notions about how the rest of the world operates. They do have The Good Book, however, and they rely on its wisdom. The author gives us a real glimpse into what the girls face with their fears, misconceptions and mistrust of people. They are self-sufficient and as content as they know how to be.... until their lives are turned upside down by a family in need.
Dave Warden’s Pa has been shot by someone who wants to take over his ranch. Jo and Ilsa agree to help them. Ms. Connealy shows compassion and patience through these characters. There is an element of intrigue as they try to figure out how to get the ranch back and foil the bad guys. But not all is resolved in this book. There are three sisters so the next books will move the story along as well as finding possible mates for the girls, after all this is a romance series!
A touch of the author’s humor just fits: After making do with ingredients for meals, Jo tastes Dave’s Ma’s flapjacks. “Her eyes went wide as she chewed. ‘what is this?’, Ma’s food had taken Jo prisoner.”
Fans of Mary Connealy’s other books will be pleased by this new offering.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
I have been a big fan of Mary Connealy ever since I read her Lassoed in Texas series. She always infuses laughter in her awesome western romances. This book was a real treat.
Imagine three young ladies living in an isolated mountain cabin for ten years. With no outside contact or influence since their grandparents died, Jo, Ursula and Ilsa Nordegren have some strange notions about how the rest of the world operates. They do have The Good Book, however, and they rely on its wisdom. The author gives us a real glimpse into what the girls face with their fears, misconceptions and mistrust of people. They are self-sufficient and as content as they know how to be.... until their lives are turned upside down by a family in need.
Dave Warden’s Pa has been shot by someone who wants to take over his ranch. Jo and Ilsa agree to help them. Ms. Connealy shows compassion and patience through these characters. There is an element of intrigue as they try to figure out how to get the ranch back and foil the bad guys. But not all is resolved in this book. There are three sisters so the next books will move the story along as well as finding possible mates for the girls, after all this is a romance series!
A touch of the author’s humor just fits: After making do with ingredients for meals, Jo tastes Dave’s Ma’s flapjacks. “Her eyes went wide as she chewed. ‘what is this?’, Ma’s food had taken Jo prisoner.”
Fans of Mary Connealy’s other books will be pleased by this new offering.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
September 20, 2019
3.5 stars
I enjoyed this book, I really did. The plot and storyline were very unique and entertaining to read. I just wish I could have liked it more.
The characters I felt were a but dull at points and I had a rather hard time relating to them. I really like all the characters but I felt that their development could have gone deeper than what it did.
I had to continue to remind myself that the girls were very sheltered as I was reading this because I found myself growing annoyed at parts, lol. It's not the authors fault or anything, this was just me wanting to shake a few characters. I like Jo's and Isla's characters a lot. I am hoping that we get to see them grow more in the future books.
The faith content was there and it was subtly which was prefect for this book. I cannot wait to see some of the characters, hopefully, come around from some of their views. I am hoping that they change in the future books.
Dave and Jo's romance seemed very rushed and not very well paced. I felt just a tiny bit of chemistry at one point and then a whole bunch of chemistry a few chapters later. I liked their relationship though. I thought that they were cute and made for each other. I enjoyed seeing their romance blossom, I just wish it could have been better paced.
I felt like the middle of this book was rather rushed in a whole as well. The first part was okay but then everything felt rushed and then the book was over. I feel like this book could have easily have been longer.
I will definitely be reading the second book because I want to find out what happens next with the Walden's ranch. The suspense is actually really good. I almost feel like the second book can be better than the first if Ms. Connealy can nail down the action and suspense that I feel building up.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. Sure, it was not a favorite but I am still going to read the next books and maybe some of the author's other work.
*FTC: I received this book from Bethany House thought Netgalley and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own.*
I enjoyed this book, I really did. The plot and storyline were very unique and entertaining to read. I just wish I could have liked it more.
The characters I felt were a but dull at points and I had a rather hard time relating to them. I really like all the characters but I felt that their development could have gone deeper than what it did.
I had to continue to remind myself that the girls were very sheltered as I was reading this because I found myself growing annoyed at parts, lol. It's not the authors fault or anything, this was just me wanting to shake a few characters. I like Jo's and Isla's characters a lot. I am hoping that we get to see them grow more in the future books.
The faith content was there and it was subtly which was prefect for this book. I cannot wait to see some of the characters, hopefully, come around from some of their views. I am hoping that they change in the future books.
Dave and Jo's romance seemed very rushed and not very well paced. I felt just a tiny bit of chemistry at one point and then a whole bunch of chemistry a few chapters later. I liked their relationship though. I thought that they were cute and made for each other. I enjoyed seeing their romance blossom, I just wish it could have been better paced.
I felt like the middle of this book was rather rushed in a whole as well. The first part was okay but then everything felt rushed and then the book was over. I feel like this book could have easily have been longer.
I will definitely be reading the second book because I want to find out what happens next with the Walden's ranch. The suspense is actually really good. I almost feel like the second book can be better than the first if Ms. Connealy can nail down the action and suspense that I feel building up.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. Sure, it was not a favorite but I am still going to read the next books and maybe some of the author's other work.
*FTC: I received this book from Bethany House thought Netgalley and Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts are my own.*
November 2, 2019
Welcome to a brand-new series by Mary Connealy! Aiming for Love takes us to Hope Mountain in 1873 Colorado where we meet the Nordegren sisters who have been reared up high in the mountain by a set of grandparents who avoided civilization and taught them to fear the world outside of their cabin. With her trademark humor and easy-to-read writing style, the author paints a beautiful yet challenging backdrop of the untamed mountain as the three sisters meet the Warden family who are fleeing from those coming after their ranch in the "lowlands". Jo, the middle sister, is the main character in this book and her musings about civilization and "other people" are thought-provoking and sometimes downright hilarious. Her curiosity, heart of gold, desire to help others and skill with living off the land endear her to Dave, the younger Warden brother.
There are plenty of struggles, physical and emotional and spiritual, as the Wardens forge their way in the wilderness of Hope Mountain with the help of the sisters. This is book one in the series and sets up quite a few secondary characters and scenarios that will likely come into play as the series progresses. If you enjoy historical fiction, especially set in the frontiers, you will love this book. I can't wait to read the second book in the series where we'll get to know the youngest sister Ilsa better.
I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
There are plenty of struggles, physical and emotional and spiritual, as the Wardens forge their way in the wilderness of Hope Mountain with the help of the sisters. This is book one in the series and sets up quite a few secondary characters and scenarios that will likely come into play as the series progresses. If you enjoy historical fiction, especially set in the frontiers, you will love this book. I can't wait to read the second book in the series where we'll get to know the youngest sister Ilsa better.
I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
October 30, 2019
Full review on FaithfullyBookish.com
The Nordegren sisters are living in a mountain paradise! This is not to say they have a physically easy life but you don’t have to be an awestruck flat-lander like me to appreciate their hard-core survivalist skills. After living cut-off from the outside world for the majority of their lives, these ladies take socially awkward to a whole new level and I love them for it!
Jo’s insatiable curiosity played a major role in ending the only way of life she and her sisters have ever known, secluded from the world in their mountain hideaway. Adventurous Josephine with her middle-child peacemaking heart is the perfect sister to lead the way into the terrifying new yet exciting territory of socialization.
David’s shock, concern, and frequent befuddlement over the Nordegren sisters is one of my favorite parts of this story. His chivalry doesn’t allow him to simply forget the sisters yet the fact that he’s hard-pressed to keep anything other than his fascination with Jo on his mind is evidence of the kind of attraction that makes chivalrous behavior a challenge.
Mary Connealy delivers a heartwarming, thought-provoking, and entertaining tale which is sure to delight readers from all elevations! I highly recommend Aiming for Love and eagerly anticipate the remaining installments of the Brides of Hope Mountain series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
The Nordegren sisters are living in a mountain paradise! This is not to say they have a physically easy life but you don’t have to be an awestruck flat-lander like me to appreciate their hard-core survivalist skills. After living cut-off from the outside world for the majority of their lives, these ladies take socially awkward to a whole new level and I love them for it!
Jo’s insatiable curiosity played a major role in ending the only way of life she and her sisters have ever known, secluded from the world in their mountain hideaway. Adventurous Josephine with her middle-child peacemaking heart is the perfect sister to lead the way into the terrifying new yet exciting territory of socialization.
David’s shock, concern, and frequent befuddlement over the Nordegren sisters is one of my favorite parts of this story. His chivalry doesn’t allow him to simply forget the sisters yet the fact that he’s hard-pressed to keep anything other than his fascination with Jo on his mind is evidence of the kind of attraction that makes chivalrous behavior a challenge.
Mary Connealy delivers a heartwarming, thought-provoking, and entertaining tale which is sure to delight readers from all elevations! I highly recommend Aiming for Love and eagerly anticipate the remaining installments of the Brides of Hope Mountain series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
November 2, 2019
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
I have always been a fan of Mary Connealy books and with this one, she has written something very different. And I love it! I could never imagine 3 young ladies living their entire lives on a mountain, never going down that mountain to meet anyone else. And living off of the mountain land. And add to that, they know nothing about real life. But that is what this book is about. And you really need to read it to know what happens.
This is such an enjoyable read. The three Nordegren young ladies are very different, Ursula was a loner and afraid of everything, Jo was more adventurous, and Ilsa was sweet and loveable. But they all had amazing skills to survive. But when the Warden family moves to the mountain, life was more interesting. And there is a lot if humor throughout the books from the three sisters because they had no idea what the Wardens were talking about most of the time. I grew to love these characters, and the sweet family they all became. All except the Ursula that is. The awesome plot kept me reading, but I didn’t want this book to end. Being in a place without the worries of the world was so peaceful, it just didn’t last long enough. I can’t wait for the second book in this series.
A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
I have always been a fan of Mary Connealy books and with this one, she has written something very different. And I love it! I could never imagine 3 young ladies living their entire lives on a mountain, never going down that mountain to meet anyone else. And living off of the mountain land. And add to that, they know nothing about real life. But that is what this book is about. And you really need to read it to know what happens.
This is such an enjoyable read. The three Nordegren young ladies are very different, Ursula was a loner and afraid of everything, Jo was more adventurous, and Ilsa was sweet and loveable. But they all had amazing skills to survive. But when the Warden family moves to the mountain, life was more interesting. And there is a lot if humor throughout the books from the three sisters because they had no idea what the Wardens were talking about most of the time. I grew to love these characters, and the sweet family they all became. All except the Ursula that is. The awesome plot kept me reading, but I didn’t want this book to end. Being in a place without the worries of the world was so peaceful, it just didn’t last long enough. I can’t wait for the second book in this series.
A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
October 29, 2019
Aiming for Love is a good book to pick up if you are looking for a nice historical read with some humor. I haven't read a Mary Connealy novel in what feels like ages, so I was curious about whether or not I would enjoy this one... I'm very happy that it was a hit and I am eager to continue the series.
I found the characters to be a delight. It was interesting how the sisters' lived and in some ways I felt bad for them. The romance was as expected and I enjoyed reading the story.
All in all, Aiming for Love was very good and I recommend it to fans of this genre.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
I found the characters to be a delight. It was interesting how the sisters' lived and in some ways I felt bad for them. The romance was as expected and I enjoyed reading the story.
All in all, Aiming for Love was very good and I recommend it to fans of this genre.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
October 16, 2019
Very disappointed. I'm on the fence between okay and didn't like. It felt like a extremely long prequel.
Too much detail was given to the setting and not enough depth to the characters experiences. Mitch's experience in New York was very under developed. Characters repeated their thoughts and plans multiple times without change. Too many events were left unexplained, like the identity of the two men Wax sees at the ranch, the illness with spots, the builder of dwellings and too many issues, such as the two good books, Jo's desire to read and regaining the ranch were left unresolved before the book ended.
If you're a Mary Connealy follower, my advice is to wait until book 2 in the series comes out and read them concurrently. That might make this book worth reading.
Too much detail was given to the setting and not enough depth to the characters experiences. Mitch's experience in New York was very under developed. Characters repeated their thoughts and plans multiple times without change. Too many events were left unexplained, like the identity of the two men Wax sees at the ranch, the illness with spots, the builder of dwellings and too many issues, such as the two good books, Jo's desire to read and regaining the ranch were left unresolved before the book ended.
If you're a Mary Connealy follower, my advice is to wait until book 2 in the series comes out and read them concurrently. That might make this book worth reading.
September 16, 2023
I have only read two books by Mary Connealy—this being my second—and I definitely enjoyed this one more than the other. The setting was beautiful and the plot intriguing. I felt the girls backstory of isolation and being somewhat deceived about life was sad to me.
I did love Jo’s hope and curiosity inspite of the setbacks of life. She was a fun, likeable, and slightly eccentric character. Dave wasn’t my favorite leading man. He came across as selfish so many times, but didn’t seem to grow much.
The romance was too rushed for my taste! Considering her isolation and lack of social interaction (accept with her sister and grandpa), Jo really needed more time to grow up and get to know Dave better in my opinion. I would have been so happy with a longer time frame and the last chapter being an epilogue later!
I also felt the faith content was lacking and a bit confusing. Characters talk a lot about God and even pray, but Jo and her sisters are very confused about several things (MINOR SPOILER: including a second book they think is part of the Bible but is like Aesops fables or something along those lines. END SPOILER) Those issues were not resolved in this book, which I didn’t like! I hope they will be in the future. Her spiritual state really seemed important to Dave at one point but fell to the wayside when it came to their relationship.
The Warden and Nordegren family dynamics were an interesting and enjoyable part of the story. I liked the side characters in this one, so I would definitely consider reading the other two books In the future to see how things turned out.
I did love Jo’s hope and curiosity inspite of the setbacks of life. She was a fun, likeable, and slightly eccentric character. Dave wasn’t my favorite leading man. He came across as selfish so many times, but didn’t seem to grow much.
The romance was too rushed for my taste! Considering her isolation and lack of social interaction (accept with her sister and grandpa), Jo really needed more time to grow up and get to know Dave better in my opinion. I would have been so happy with a longer time frame and the last chapter being an epilogue later!
I also felt the faith content was lacking and a bit confusing. Characters talk a lot about God and even pray, but Jo and her sisters are very confused about several things (MINOR SPOILER: including a second book they think is part of the Bible but is like Aesops fables or something along those lines. END SPOILER) Those issues were not resolved in this book, which I didn’t like! I hope they will be in the future. Her spiritual state really seemed important to Dave at one point but fell to the wayside when it came to their relationship.
The Warden and Nordegren family dynamics were an interesting and enjoyable part of the story. I liked the side characters in this one, so I would definitely consider reading the other two books In the future to see how things turned out.
October 31, 2019
3.5
Josephine Nordegren and her sisters live isolated lives in the wilderness of Colorado. Then, when Jo crosses paths with Dave Warden, her little world begins to grow—but not without a few mishaps and dangerous encounters.
I loved getting to know the characters in Aiming for Love, the start to Mary Connealy’s new Brides of Hope Mountain series. Jo and her sisters prove admirably capable and resourceful (though completely quirky), while Dave and his family quickly open their hearts to the strange women. Plenty of humor fills the narrative as the two groups interact, and it kept me smiling from beginning to end.
I do wish that more had been resolved by the end of this first story. However, as in the High Sierra Sweethearts series, I expect that some of the danger, mystery, and interpersonal conflict will take the whole series to resolve. I’ll just have to wait until I can get my hands on Woman of Sunlight.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Josephine Nordegren and her sisters live isolated lives in the wilderness of Colorado. Then, when Jo crosses paths with Dave Warden, her little world begins to grow—but not without a few mishaps and dangerous encounters.
I loved getting to know the characters in Aiming for Love, the start to Mary Connealy’s new Brides of Hope Mountain series. Jo and her sisters prove admirably capable and resourceful (though completely quirky), while Dave and his family quickly open their hearts to the strange women. Plenty of humor fills the narrative as the two groups interact, and it kept me smiling from beginning to end.
I do wish that more had been resolved by the end of this first story. However, as in the High Sierra Sweethearts series, I expect that some of the danger, mystery, and interpersonal conflict will take the whole series to resolve. I’ll just have to wait until I can get my hands on Woman of Sunlight.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
August 23, 2019
As always Mary has written another fun loving book with just the right amount of humor.
I love Mary's books for this reason because she makes me feel like I'm in the book with the characters.
Whenever she writes a great story she pulls me in from the beginning to end. I spent a lovely afternoon by myself just giggling and snickering at David and Josephine. Mary does an awesome job with these two.
We once were going to move to a place called King's mountain. It was pretty much described like Hope mountain was. Isolated, nearest town was 20 min away. Railroad tracks were behind the cabin on a hill so I pretty much didn't like that at all!! I'm so very glad we didn't move there! It was at least 1 hr and 30 min drive to Lexington. No thanks!
You will truly delight in this adventure yes I call every book an adventure. But I can't tell u enough how much I enjoy her stories.
I encourage y'all to give this book a try. It's super good!!
My thanks to Bethany House and Netgalley for a copy of this book. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
I love Mary's books for this reason because she makes me feel like I'm in the book with the characters.
Whenever she writes a great story she pulls me in from the beginning to end. I spent a lovely afternoon by myself just giggling and snickering at David and Josephine. Mary does an awesome job with these two.
We once were going to move to a place called King's mountain. It was pretty much described like Hope mountain was. Isolated, nearest town was 20 min away. Railroad tracks were behind the cabin on a hill so I pretty much didn't like that at all!! I'm so very glad we didn't move there! It was at least 1 hr and 30 min drive to Lexington. No thanks!
You will truly delight in this adventure yes I call every book an adventure. But I can't tell u enough how much I enjoy her stories.
I encourage y'all to give this book a try. It's super good!!
My thanks to Bethany House and Netgalley for a copy of this book. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.
November 15, 2019
This book is unique. I don't think I have come across another quite like it. It's not a stretch to imagine a family removing themselves from society to escape negative situations. In this story, three sisters live isolated in the mountains to keep from illness. Their grandmother was afraid that they would die by catching a disease.
The three girls are on their own and have a fear of the outside world. That changes when men decide to make the mountain their home. Jo is fascinated with them and a tin cup. From that moment the adventure, romance, and humor begin.
I really enjoyed this book. I am excited to read about the other two sisters and the prospect of them finding love. This book has bad guys, mixed-up biblical stories, exploration, and fighting for the right reasons. This book has non-graphic violence and some kissing.
Source: I requested a copy from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
The three girls are on their own and have a fear of the outside world. That changes when men decide to make the mountain their home. Jo is fascinated with them and a tin cup. From that moment the adventure, romance, and humor begin.
I really enjoyed this book. I am excited to read about the other two sisters and the prospect of them finding love. This book has bad guys, mixed-up biblical stories, exploration, and fighting for the right reasons. This book has non-graphic violence and some kissing.
Source: I requested a copy from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
June 18, 2020
Mary Connealy’s Aiming For Love is a true treasure not to be missed.
This is one of the most unique plots I’ve ever read.
As strangers from down below invade the high mountain land with their cattle, three sisters must decide if they are in danger.
Jo, Ilsa, and Ursula have lived their entire life isolated on this mountain, never once have they ventured down into civilization, they only know how to survive in the wild.
This invasion of their land is a new concept they must face.
As these two different worlds collide a special bond is formed between Jo and Dave- A beautiful love.
This book has it all: inspiration, compassion, and a beautiful love story.
Superbly written, I highly recommend this book to everyone.
This is one of the most unique plots I’ve ever read.
As strangers from down below invade the high mountain land with their cattle, three sisters must decide if they are in danger.
Jo, Ilsa, and Ursula have lived their entire life isolated on this mountain, never once have they ventured down into civilization, they only know how to survive in the wild.
This invasion of their land is a new concept they must face.
As these two different worlds collide a special bond is formed between Jo and Dave- A beautiful love.
This book has it all: inspiration, compassion, and a beautiful love story.
Superbly written, I highly recommend this book to everyone.
July 30, 2019
I really wanted to like this -or really rate this higher. I really liked where this story was going but not where it ended up. None of the big issues were resolved and it ended with a wedding where the new bride has no idea what marriage is.
March 31, 2020
Mary Connealy has created an intriguing story about a God fearing family that has removed themselves from society to protect themselves from bad people and situations, as well as disease. This first story focuses on the first sister, Josephine, or Jo as she likes to be called, and rancher Dave Warden. It’s about their families learning to help one another and exist together on the same mountain by offering shelter or necessary skills when different situations are thrown at them. And through it all, eventually falling in love. This is an exciting Colorado western that readers will love.
Series: Brides of Hope Mountain
Genre: historical, romance, western, Christian
Publisher: Bethany House
Publication date: October 1, 2019
Number of pages: 304
Other books in the series:
2-Woman of Sunlight
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, and authors, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited OR pre-ordered/purchased for review. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Series: Brides of Hope Mountain
Genre: historical, romance, western, Christian
Publisher: Bethany House
Publication date: October 1, 2019
Number of pages: 304
Other books in the series:
2-Woman of Sunlight
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, and authors, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited OR pre-ordered/purchased for review. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
July 4, 2020
This book was pretty good. Throughout the entire book, I was annoyed by the reason the girls stayed on the mountain. They were scared of sickness and death. Maybe if we weren't in the time we are in now, it wouldn't have bothered me as much. Otherwise, I loved reading how they got around in the woods.
October 26, 2019
Oh what fun!
My rating is 4.5 stars
When Jo was caught sneaking into Dave's camp, nobody's life was ever the same again. I loved the way Dave was so appalled by Jo and yet so captivated by her at the same time. And bewildered at her strange behavior and beliefs.
The Nordegren sisters, having been isolated from the outside world by a grandmother who lived in fear of death and disease had a number of idiosyncrasies. Their ability to move through the forest so quietly even the woodland creatures didn't notice their presence was one. Their strange speech and manner of quoting the Bible along with Aesop's fables were yet another. While Jo and Ilsa had a fascination with the outside world, Ursula was terrified by it, having been more greatly influenced by their grandmother.
The sisters had to decide between surrendering to their fears and showing kindness to the Warden family when Dave's father was injured. Then, when their greatest fear was realized, they had to again choose between hope and fear.
Ma Warden was a gem, especially the tactful way she dealt with the misunderstanding the sisters had concerning their "good books." Her love and compassion were combined with wisdom.
Speaking of the "good books". . . While making it clear the sisters were confused and that the Bible is the only infallible word of God, the story had some very funny sections where the confusion about the boy who cried wolf and wolves in sheep's clothing had Dave's head spinning and forgetting what was actually from the Bible and what was not. I laughed out loud as I read. Despite their confusion, the fact that the sisters revered God's word, had such a large portion of it memorized (to the point they really thought they knew how to read!), and desired to live out the truths contained within were admirable.
If you have read Mary Connealy's High Sierra Sweethearts series, then you are already familiar with the way she creates such quirky yet loveable characters. And then places them in familiar and yet unexpected circumstances making a very enjoyable story.
Now that I've met the Warden family and the Nordegren sisters and have seen the beginnings of this tale unfold, I'm excited to continue learning about them when Woman of Sunlight releases March 2020 followed by Ursula's story whenever it comes out. I already have a hunch about who she might end up with but my aim could be completely off!
If you enjoy history and adventure, humor and romance, I highly recommend you read Aiming for Love.
Read my full review at Among the Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
My rating is 4.5 stars
When Jo was caught sneaking into Dave's camp, nobody's life was ever the same again. I loved the way Dave was so appalled by Jo and yet so captivated by her at the same time. And bewildered at her strange behavior and beliefs.
The Nordegren sisters, having been isolated from the outside world by a grandmother who lived in fear of death and disease had a number of idiosyncrasies. Their ability to move through the forest so quietly even the woodland creatures didn't notice their presence was one. Their strange speech and manner of quoting the Bible along with Aesop's fables were yet another. While Jo and Ilsa had a fascination with the outside world, Ursula was terrified by it, having been more greatly influenced by their grandmother.
The sisters had to decide between surrendering to their fears and showing kindness to the Warden family when Dave's father was injured. Then, when their greatest fear was realized, they had to again choose between hope and fear.
Ma Warden was a gem, especially the tactful way she dealt with the misunderstanding the sisters had concerning their "good books." Her love and compassion were combined with wisdom.
Speaking of the "good books". . . While making it clear the sisters were confused and that the Bible is the only infallible word of God, the story had some very funny sections where the confusion about the boy who cried wolf and wolves in sheep's clothing had Dave's head spinning and forgetting what was actually from the Bible and what was not. I laughed out loud as I read. Despite their confusion, the fact that the sisters revered God's word, had such a large portion of it memorized (to the point they really thought they knew how to read!), and desired to live out the truths contained within were admirable.
If you have read Mary Connealy's High Sierra Sweethearts series, then you are already familiar with the way she creates such quirky yet loveable characters. And then places them in familiar and yet unexpected circumstances making a very enjoyable story.
Now that I've met the Warden family and the Nordegren sisters and have seen the beginnings of this tale unfold, I'm excited to continue learning about them when Woman of Sunlight releases March 2020 followed by Ursula's story whenever it comes out. I already have a hunch about who she might end up with but my aim could be completely off!
If you enjoy history and adventure, humor and romance, I highly recommend you read Aiming for Love.
Read my full review at Among the Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
March 9, 2020
While this one feels a little different than Mary Connealy's western romances, it is no less enchanting. The relationship between the three sisters is wonderful, and the storyline as they interact with non-family people for the first time in their lives both interesting and amusing. I love how she creates a major plot that I suspect will run through all three books, but she ties up this first book well enough that if I couldn't continue on for some reason I'm still satisfied with what I know. Still . . . I will be picking up the rest of the series.
August 29, 2019
I received an ARC of this book through Netgalley. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Jo has lived her entire life on Hope Mountain. She's never been off the mountain, never been to a town, never seen any other people but her own family - her two sisters, parents (missing since she was small, and presumed deceased), and grandparents (both deceased for many years). Jo and her two sisters live in a house, raise their chickens, forage for and plant vegetables, and hunt for their meat.
Jo and her sisters have been taught to be fearful of the outside world. Their grandmother was a germaphobe. She insisted that when the grandfather return from town, he live away from them for two weeks before he could rejoin them. Before grandmother died, she taught the girls that other people were infested with deadly diseases. Jo's sister Ursula is especially fearful.
Dave grew up on his parent's ranch on the lower slopes of Hope Mountain. As a youngster he and his brother Mitch would climb the mountain exploring. Now Dave has made a trail up the mountain and is set to homestead. This brings him, and his 6 cowhands, into Jo and her sister's life.
Jo is naturally curious and it doesn't take long for her and Dave to meet. Both are fascinated with one another. Dave can't believe that 3 women are living alone up on the mountain. When Dave's parents are forced from their ranch, they join Dave (along with their 6 cowhands and about 1000 cattle) up in the mountain. Dave's father is injured, and Jo and her sister Ilsa nurse him. But when illness comes, Ursula is terrified.
I have read a lot of Mary Connealy books, and enjoyed them all. This one is a bit different, and I have mixed feelings about it. I really like the idea of having the girls grow up in isolation. I just couldn't reconcile this with the way they acted (and spoke). Being alone from early teen years would stunt anyone's development. They couldn't read, so how did they get an advanced vocabulary?
I found this story to be less a love story between two characters and more a family drama. A lot of the story is dealing with illness of various family members, getting situated in a new environment, and the fears that the sisters, especially Ursula, have to deal with. When your entire life shifts so dramatically, I'm skeptical that you would immediately want to marry. I am looking forward to the continuing of this story.
Jo has lived her entire life on Hope Mountain. She's never been off the mountain, never been to a town, never seen any other people but her own family - her two sisters, parents (missing since she was small, and presumed deceased), and grandparents (both deceased for many years). Jo and her two sisters live in a house, raise their chickens, forage for and plant vegetables, and hunt for their meat.
Jo and her sisters have been taught to be fearful of the outside world. Their grandmother was a germaphobe. She insisted that when the grandfather return from town, he live away from them for two weeks before he could rejoin them. Before grandmother died, she taught the girls that other people were infested with deadly diseases. Jo's sister Ursula is especially fearful.
Dave grew up on his parent's ranch on the lower slopes of Hope Mountain. As a youngster he and his brother Mitch would climb the mountain exploring. Now Dave has made a trail up the mountain and is set to homestead. This brings him, and his 6 cowhands, into Jo and her sister's life.
Jo is naturally curious and it doesn't take long for her and Dave to meet. Both are fascinated with one another. Dave can't believe that 3 women are living alone up on the mountain. When Dave's parents are forced from their ranch, they join Dave (along with their 6 cowhands and about 1000 cattle) up in the mountain. Dave's father is injured, and Jo and her sister Ilsa nurse him. But when illness comes, Ursula is terrified.
I have read a lot of Mary Connealy books, and enjoyed them all. This one is a bit different, and I have mixed feelings about it. I really like the idea of having the girls grow up in isolation. I just couldn't reconcile this with the way they acted (and spoke). Being alone from early teen years would stunt anyone's development. They couldn't read, so how did they get an advanced vocabulary?
I found this story to be less a love story between two characters and more a family drama. A lot of the story is dealing with illness of various family members, getting situated in a new environment, and the fears that the sisters, especially Ursula, have to deal with. When your entire life shifts so dramatically, I'm skeptical that you would immediately want to marry. I am looking forward to the continuing of this story.
February 8, 2023
When I started reading Aiming for Love, it was perfect timing. In our national community, conversation was rapidly around vaccines and viruses, specifically measles and other formerly common childhood illnesses. I was tired of interacting with people. I was tired of trying to teach the propaganda machine fueled persons I interacted with from time to time. It was time to pull back, provide conversation if someone reached out, but recover myself mentally and emotionally. I was also very pregnant. My fifth child was born in November after the release of this book in October and I was just done mom-ing. The older children (all under the age of ten at the time) were exhausting me. We were joking about how nice a stay in the NICU would be considering their descriptions. Long story short, the NICU stay wasn't enjoyable, more of a nightmare, but this book was my escapism from it all.
This is a Colorado story, a Christian Historical Fiction, full of romance and wit. Jo (Josephine) was a fascinating character to escape with into her own troubles with misinformation of whether Aesop's Fables was a second Bible and the fear and danger of sick people, out there. Need I tell anyone that I read this book in the months of my fourth trimester (when a mother stays home-bound to gently introduce her newborn to her life and world) that was suppose to end April 2020. Yeah, that spring of 2020. This story was just the adventure that I needed.
It still had gun toting scalawags, money, fear, and adventure. There was horseback riding, mountain climbing, and train rides. But there was a hermitage base of thought that all would be safe if you just stayed home... Everything and everyone far away that you don't understand is a danger... The timing of this was unreal for me. It was everything that I needed and there is a reason why Mary Connealy's books are always ones I come back for.
Pandemic aside. Children aside. This is a great read and the rest of the trilogy is worth the time as a whole. Highly recommended as always. Thanks to Netgalley and Bethany House Publishers for the blessing of letting me read this story.
This is a Colorado story, a Christian Historical Fiction, full of romance and wit. Jo (Josephine) was a fascinating character to escape with into her own troubles with misinformation of whether Aesop's Fables was a second Bible and the fear and danger of sick people, out there. Need I tell anyone that I read this book in the months of my fourth trimester (when a mother stays home-bound to gently introduce her newborn to her life and world) that was suppose to end April 2020. Yeah, that spring of 2020. This story was just the adventure that I needed.
It still had gun toting scalawags, money, fear, and adventure. There was horseback riding, mountain climbing, and train rides. But there was a hermitage base of thought that all would be safe if you just stayed home... Everything and everyone far away that you don't understand is a danger... The timing of this was unreal for me. It was everything that I needed and there is a reason why Mary Connealy's books are always ones I come back for.
Pandemic aside. Children aside. This is a great read and the rest of the trilogy is worth the time as a whole. Highly recommended as always. Thanks to Netgalley and Bethany House Publishers for the blessing of letting me read this story.
July 13, 2020
(FYI: rant incoming)
What drew me to this story was Jo’s strength and independence. The storyline seemed different and interesting which pulled me in. What I did not like was how greedy and misogynistic Dave turned out to be. From the beginning he tried to decide what was best for Jo even if that included holding her against her will and kidnapping her from her home. He then decided that he would own the mountain that she and her sisters lived so that he could grow his own cattle business, then decided he would take her grandfathers cabin for his own, and last of all manipulated Jo into moving his parents into her cabin, where one of her sisters had to give up their room! And all of this occurred in the first half of the book and at no point was permission asked or respect shown. There were no thoughts from Dave about how he was encroaching on Jo’s home and taking things rightfully belonging to Jo and her sisters from them, nope, he only thought about himself. And what did Jo do about this, you might ask? Nothing, she accepted it as it was and allowed it to happen. All the talking down to, feelings of superiority, blaming, and lack of trust by the Wardens towards the girls throughout the book grated on my nerves. Here the girls are offering their help, land, and home and they are treated like dumb hicks. So many times I wanted to put this book down, but I kept reading out of hope that SOMETHING would get better, sadly it did not. I forced myself to finish this book because I hate leaving a book unfinished, but I definitely have nothing good to say about this book. The women went from being strong and independent to being weak and manhandled by the men that entered their lives. They no longer had a voice or the ability to make decisions for themselves because those very same men were there to make all the decisions for them. And then to top things off the side story of Wax was weaved I. Throughout the book and then completely forgotten in an effort to wrap up Jo and Dave’s wedding. While the writing it self was thorough, built the world, and carried the story forward nicely, the actual story was not that great.
What drew me to this story was Jo’s strength and independence. The storyline seemed different and interesting which pulled me in. What I did not like was how greedy and misogynistic Dave turned out to be. From the beginning he tried to decide what was best for Jo even if that included holding her against her will and kidnapping her from her home. He then decided that he would own the mountain that she and her sisters lived so that he could grow his own cattle business, then decided he would take her grandfathers cabin for his own, and last of all manipulated Jo into moving his parents into her cabin, where one of her sisters had to give up their room! And all of this occurred in the first half of the book and at no point was permission asked or respect shown. There were no thoughts from Dave about how he was encroaching on Jo’s home and taking things rightfully belonging to Jo and her sisters from them, nope, he only thought about himself. And what did Jo do about this, you might ask? Nothing, she accepted it as it was and allowed it to happen. All the talking down to, feelings of superiority, blaming, and lack of trust by the Wardens towards the girls throughout the book grated on my nerves. Here the girls are offering their help, land, and home and they are treated like dumb hicks. So many times I wanted to put this book down, but I kept reading out of hope that SOMETHING would get better, sadly it did not. I forced myself to finish this book because I hate leaving a book unfinished, but I definitely have nothing good to say about this book. The women went from being strong and independent to being weak and manhandled by the men that entered their lives. They no longer had a voice or the ability to make decisions for themselves because those very same men were there to make all the decisions for them. And then to top things off the side story of Wax was weaved I. Throughout the book and then completely forgotten in an effort to wrap up Jo and Dave’s wedding. While the writing it self was thorough, built the world, and carried the story forward nicely, the actual story was not that great.
October 1, 2019
Jo and her sisters have lived in isolation on Hope Mountain in Colorado for their entire lives. They live off the land and what Jo can hunt down. The sisters rely on each other and love each other fiercely. But their quiet existence is shaken up when Dave Warden comes onto their mountain looking for pasture lands for their cows, and then the rest of his family joins him after being driven off of their land. Jo and Dave have a quick connection, but Jo’s sisters, especially the oldest, Ursula, are more leery of the new folks. And when sickness comes, Ursula is determined to isolate herself. Meanwhile, Jo and Dave’s interest grows into love. But can their love survive the fears that Jo and her sisters have lived with their entire lives?
This was my first Mary Connealy book, and I really wanted to like it. The story line was unique and intriguing. The characters were not deep, but they were fun and interesting. However, it was too fast-paced, which led to shallow characters and situations, but at the same time the book was repetitive in that I read the same explanations over and over again. I also had a hard time with believability as, among other things, I’m not sure that three teenage girls could really survive on the mountain and while I get that they are isolated, their ignorance on the ways of the world were, at times, a bit much. I enjoyed Dave and Jo’s relationship, and Dave’s Ma was a delight. Ilsa, Jo’s sister, was also a wonderful character and I would have like to have read more about her—perhaps in a future book in the series. It will be interesting to see how everything pans out. I just wish there had been more to this story, but I still enjoyed reading it and I’m grateful for the chance to review it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This was my first Mary Connealy book, and I really wanted to like it. The story line was unique and intriguing. The characters were not deep, but they were fun and interesting. However, it was too fast-paced, which led to shallow characters and situations, but at the same time the book was repetitive in that I read the same explanations over and over again. I also had a hard time with believability as, among other things, I’m not sure that three teenage girls could really survive on the mountain and while I get that they are isolated, their ignorance on the ways of the world were, at times, a bit much. I enjoyed Dave and Jo’s relationship, and Dave’s Ma was a delight. Ilsa, Jo’s sister, was also a wonderful character and I would have like to have read more about her—perhaps in a future book in the series. It will be interesting to see how everything pans out. I just wish there had been more to this story, but I still enjoyed reading it and I’m grateful for the chance to review it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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