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Journey's End #2
Melody
A Murder and a Marriage...
Melody Williams is determined to get justice for her brother’s murder and remain on the family farm. But until she’s married or twenty-five, she can’t gain control of her money. Before she gets shipped off to her uncle’s house, she needs a husband.
Mitch McBride lives and works at Journey’s End with his sister and her family. When he encounters Melody screaming and swearing at the town banker, he feels called to help her. But a marriage of convenience? That’s a mighty strange notion, but he likes the little gal with the honey blonde hair. It might be worth the risk.
Can they catch the killer?
Will Melody accept a marriage of convenience that comes with conditions, rules and consequences?
This is book two in the Journey’s End series but can be enjoyed independently.
Publisher’s Note: This Old West romance is intended for adults only and contains elements of action, adventure, danger, mystery, suspense, and old-fashioned discipline. If any of these offend you, please do not purchase.
Melody Williams is determined to get justice for her brother’s murder and remain on the family farm. But until she’s married or twenty-five, she can’t gain control of her money. Before she gets shipped off to her uncle’s house, she needs a husband.
Mitch McBride lives and works at Journey’s End with his sister and her family. When he encounters Melody screaming and swearing at the town banker, he feels called to help her. But a marriage of convenience? That’s a mighty strange notion, but he likes the little gal with the honey blonde hair. It might be worth the risk.
Can they catch the killer?
Will Melody accept a marriage of convenience that comes with conditions, rules and consequences?
This is book two in the Journey’s End series but can be enjoyed independently.
Publisher’s Note: This Old West romance is intended for adults only and contains elements of action, adventure, danger, mystery, suspense, and old-fashioned discipline. If any of these offend you, please do not purchase.
130 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 28, 2020
66 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
April 29, 2020
This was okay. Those who like these books' conservative values will probably enjoy this more than I did since it's not badly written or edited; the h isn't a doormat; and it's not as harsh as some DD books are.
I appreciated that the H, rare for this genre, apologized when he was wrong and did work for Melody's forgiveness (to some extent). TBH, in her place I wouldn't have forgiven him since he left her bruised and emotionally distraught.
I didn't appreciate spanking a pregnant woman, and I'm really tired of all these books adding disclaimers like "but the doctor said..." Doctors aren't infallible -- particularly those in the 1800s. In addition, every woman's body is different. Why would any husband who claims to love his wife want to risk a miscarriage at all, even if it's minimal? This is a hard limit for me so cost this book 1 star.
I appreciated that the H, rare for this genre, apologized when he was wrong and did work for Melody's forgiveness (to some extent). TBH, in her place I wouldn't have forgiven him since he left her bruised and emotionally distraught.
I didn't appreciate spanking a pregnant woman, and I'm really tired of all these books adding disclaimers like "but the doctor said..." Doctors aren't infallible -- particularly those in the 1800s. In addition, every woman's body is different. Why would any husband who claims to love his wife want to risk a miscarriage at all, even if it's minimal? This is a hard limit for me so cost this book 1 star.
September 6, 2020
NO SWEARING, NO DANGER, NO TEMPER, RIGHT?
The second story in the Journey’s End series could read as a stand-alone but works even better after Here Comes McBride. The second story will have Melody Williams and Mitch McBride meeting by accident, but before the day is out, they will be married.
Melody has come into the town of Ford to the bank, only to be so upset to learn that the Bar W ranch accounts are empty. She will leave the bank in a huff, yelling at the banker, when running into Mitch McBride. He will learn her story, her brother has been murdered, but the Sheriff in Oakville is calling it suicide rather than murder. As the story unfolds, the details, and her reasoning, she will also explain that the lawyer is trying to force her to sell the ranch and make her go to California to be with an Uncle as her guardian. The only way she can stay is to marry. But she is stubborn, has a temper, and determined not to allow that to happen.
Mitch will listen to her story, and he agrees with her, things are not on the up and up. But what can he do to help this fiery girl? When she tells him that she can acquire her trust left by her father if she is married, he will agree to her plan for a marriage in name only, but he has his conditions to the terms, six months marriage, and she will accept his discipline.
“You’d need to trust me, Melody. The search for a killer will be dangerous. You’ll be my wife. As long as you’re wearing my name, you’ll behave as such. It will be my job, my pleasure, to protect and provide for you. Also, the women at Journey’s End have some rules that they follow. I’d expect you to adhere to them.” –Mitch
“I’m not much for following rules. My pa said I never saw a rule I couldn’t find my way around. What are these rules?” You’ll really marry me? You’ll help me find Clay’s killer?”
“I will, as long as you agree to my conditions and the rules. As long as you under the consequences.” “A ship can only have one captain, and in his house, that was him.”
The story is the tale of Melody and Mitch marrying and him learning that Melody has a nasty temper, a foul mouth, and likes to stomp her foot when she doesn’t get her way. She will be a challenge, but one he gladly accepts. Getting her to fall in line and listen isn’t easy, but it is for her own good. As they progress in their relationship, she pushes it until he spanks her, repeatedly, but he is a man of his word and doesn’t back down. Will they figure out who is behind the murder of Clay? Who is causing problems at the Bar W? Will Mitch be able to win Melody over for more than six months—could he convince her that they belong together?
The story has the good, the bad, the ugly, and the temperamental of people. It is part mystery and suspense, part two people getting to know each other, and part romance. What begins as a marriage in name only becomes a challenge for both of them. When the mystery is solved, will they change the terms of their original agreement? The story has multiple spankings scenes, even if, at times, dubious consent it had been given. There is no sex until marriage in the story, and even that is never detailed.
“Establishing rules and consequences before love was putting the cart in front of the horse.”
The story ends on a mild cliffhanger that will segue into book three, Harmony.
The second story in the Journey’s End series could read as a stand-alone but works even better after Here Comes McBride. The second story will have Melody Williams and Mitch McBride meeting by accident, but before the day is out, they will be married.
Melody has come into the town of Ford to the bank, only to be so upset to learn that the Bar W ranch accounts are empty. She will leave the bank in a huff, yelling at the banker, when running into Mitch McBride. He will learn her story, her brother has been murdered, but the Sheriff in Oakville is calling it suicide rather than murder. As the story unfolds, the details, and her reasoning, she will also explain that the lawyer is trying to force her to sell the ranch and make her go to California to be with an Uncle as her guardian. The only way she can stay is to marry. But she is stubborn, has a temper, and determined not to allow that to happen.
Mitch will listen to her story, and he agrees with her, things are not on the up and up. But what can he do to help this fiery girl? When she tells him that she can acquire her trust left by her father if she is married, he will agree to her plan for a marriage in name only, but he has his conditions to the terms, six months marriage, and she will accept his discipline.
“You’d need to trust me, Melody. The search for a killer will be dangerous. You’ll be my wife. As long as you’re wearing my name, you’ll behave as such. It will be my job, my pleasure, to protect and provide for you. Also, the women at Journey’s End have some rules that they follow. I’d expect you to adhere to them.” –Mitch
“I’m not much for following rules. My pa said I never saw a rule I couldn’t find my way around. What are these rules?” You’ll really marry me? You’ll help me find Clay’s killer?”
“I will, as long as you agree to my conditions and the rules. As long as you under the consequences.” “A ship can only have one captain, and in his house, that was him.”
The story is the tale of Melody and Mitch marrying and him learning that Melody has a nasty temper, a foul mouth, and likes to stomp her foot when she doesn’t get her way. She will be a challenge, but one he gladly accepts. Getting her to fall in line and listen isn’t easy, but it is for her own good. As they progress in their relationship, she pushes it until he spanks her, repeatedly, but he is a man of his word and doesn’t back down. Will they figure out who is behind the murder of Clay? Who is causing problems at the Bar W? Will Mitch be able to win Melody over for more than six months—could he convince her that they belong together?
The story has the good, the bad, the ugly, and the temperamental of people. It is part mystery and suspense, part two people getting to know each other, and part romance. What begins as a marriage in name only becomes a challenge for both of them. When the mystery is solved, will they change the terms of their original agreement? The story has multiple spankings scenes, even if, at times, dubious consent it had been given. There is no sex until marriage in the story, and even that is never detailed.
“Establishing rules and consequences before love was putting the cart in front of the horse.”
The story ends on a mild cliffhanger that will segue into book three, Harmony.
May 6, 2020
4.0 out of 5 stars Full Of Surprises
Reviewed in the United States on May 2, 2020
Ms Phelps has created a story that was both heartbreaking and heartwarming.I
found myself on an emotional journey, this book was addictive.A simple concept,
but what a ride it was.It has great character development and a plot that held my
attention.It has the right blend of heart with a sprinkle of heat.
Melody Williams was on a mission to find her brother’s killer.Hope came in a most
unexpected way when she meets Mitch McBride.Mitch could not believe the cursing
that came out of Melody’s mouth.Melody needs a husband and pleads with Mitch
to agree to a marriage of convenience so that Melody can access her inheritance.
Mitch agrees ,but only if Melody follows his rules to keep her safe and control her
temper.This is where the fun really starts.Both characters have strong personalities
that clash and Melody’s temper ignites like fireworks.Mitch may have set out to help
catch a killer but now he also sets out to woo his wife.Melody is conflicted, she finds
that mitch’s masculinity stirs her in ways she has not felt before.
Melody a was sassy, strong willed personality except she was no match for her heavy,
handed husband who had no tolerance for her bad behavior.Mitch could see the fight
in her eyes, her inner strength had him intrigued.I felt he was too hard on Melody at
times.Together the trust between them slowly grew as they opened up to each other.
The book has a high level of drama,danger,angst, romance and well deserved spankings.
I enjoyed the emotional story that brought these two people together.The surprises
kept on coming right until the last page so expect the unexpected.The inclusion of the
characters from the first book all played an important role and added depth to the
storyline.
Reviewed in the United States on May 2, 2020
Ms Phelps has created a story that was both heartbreaking and heartwarming.I
found myself on an emotional journey, this book was addictive.A simple concept,
but what a ride it was.It has great character development and a plot that held my
attention.It has the right blend of heart with a sprinkle of heat.
Melody Williams was on a mission to find her brother’s killer.Hope came in a most
unexpected way when she meets Mitch McBride.Mitch could not believe the cursing
that came out of Melody’s mouth.Melody needs a husband and pleads with Mitch
to agree to a marriage of convenience so that Melody can access her inheritance.
Mitch agrees ,but only if Melody follows his rules to keep her safe and control her
temper.This is where the fun really starts.Both characters have strong personalities
that clash and Melody’s temper ignites like fireworks.Mitch may have set out to help
catch a killer but now he also sets out to woo his wife.Melody is conflicted, she finds
that mitch’s masculinity stirs her in ways she has not felt before.
Melody a was sassy, strong willed personality except she was no match for her heavy,
handed husband who had no tolerance for her bad behavior.Mitch could see the fight
in her eyes, her inner strength had him intrigued.I felt he was too hard on Melody at
times.Together the trust between them slowly grew as they opened up to each other.
The book has a high level of drama,danger,angst, romance and well deserved spankings.
I enjoyed the emotional story that brought these two people together.The surprises
kept on coming right until the last page so expect the unexpected.The inclusion of the
characters from the first book all played an important role and added depth to the
storyline.
April 30, 2020
ONE ACTION PACKED ADVENTURE!!!
Griping gremlins! Victoria nailed this bad boy 100% on point, imparting one beautifully composed approach with all the heat, magic and titillating frills, displaying every sentiment and nuance, wrapping this baby up sleek, shiny and tight. Satisfaction rocks this jewel, bringing it home with such intensity and precision, riding roughshod and imparting one block busting delight, launching this baby to a whole new level. Anarchy, escapades and havoc run amuck, kicking this bad boy into a raging tempest, blasting it into a tailspin with a mind-blowing culmination. A surging eddy of startling mishaps and unexpected circumstances, traversing the intimidating trials and challenging tribulations, along with striking twists and wicked turns, testing our characters in ways they could have never anticipated. Braided, bound and entangled, imparting the explosive ups and agonizing downs, grounding in it's strength and awe inspiring in it's depth. Rolling with the drama, intrigue, tension, turmoil, underlying threats, danger, mounting suspense and nerve racking situations along with a boatload of trouble while dodging evil intents, you have one chart topping experience. The attraction and chemistry sizzles through the pages, alluring and mesmerizing, exposing such thrilling emotions, binding them to one another perfectly. The characters, banter, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow, transforming into genuinely approachable personalities. The scenes are written with such realism, impressive talent and unique insight, blasts this sparkling jewel to life, making the storyline pop. Amazing job Victoria, thanks for sharing this treasure with us.
Griping gremlins! Victoria nailed this bad boy 100% on point, imparting one beautifully composed approach with all the heat, magic and titillating frills, displaying every sentiment and nuance, wrapping this baby up sleek, shiny and tight. Satisfaction rocks this jewel, bringing it home with such intensity and precision, riding roughshod and imparting one block busting delight, launching this baby to a whole new level. Anarchy, escapades and havoc run amuck, kicking this bad boy into a raging tempest, blasting it into a tailspin with a mind-blowing culmination. A surging eddy of startling mishaps and unexpected circumstances, traversing the intimidating trials and challenging tribulations, along with striking twists and wicked turns, testing our characters in ways they could have never anticipated. Braided, bound and entangled, imparting the explosive ups and agonizing downs, grounding in it's strength and awe inspiring in it's depth. Rolling with the drama, intrigue, tension, turmoil, underlying threats, danger, mounting suspense and nerve racking situations along with a boatload of trouble while dodging evil intents, you have one chart topping experience. The attraction and chemistry sizzles through the pages, alluring and mesmerizing, exposing such thrilling emotions, binding them to one another perfectly. The characters, banter, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow, transforming into genuinely approachable personalities. The scenes are written with such realism, impressive talent and unique insight, blasts this sparkling jewel to life, making the storyline pop. Amazing job Victoria, thanks for sharing this treasure with us.
July 28, 2020
This might seem minor, but I was glad to see the image of the hero on the cover depicted him as having red hair! It is a type of continuity detail that is overlooked with surprising frequency. This is the second book in the Journey's End series. In book 1 we briefly met Mitch, the hero in this story.
Mitch meets Melody for the first time when she is in town, having a fit because the bank account for her ranch somehow has no money in it. She believes the money was stolen, and her brother was killed. She wants justice.
She can access money in trust for her if she gets married, so she proposes a marriage of convenience to Mitch. They agree to try it for 6 months. He set out a few rules before he will agree, and if she agrees to his terms that there will be DD consequences when she breaks the rules. Melody does break them, of course, because she really has a bad temper and short fuse for it. At one point Mitch goes too far and realizes it, and his reaction to his own transgression is unexpected. After some solid chaos they get their HEA. This is a quick read, with some good plot turns. The stage is also neatly set for the next book in the series.
Mitch meets Melody for the first time when she is in town, having a fit because the bank account for her ranch somehow has no money in it. She believes the money was stolen, and her brother was killed. She wants justice.
She can access money in trust for her if she gets married, so she proposes a marriage of convenience to Mitch. They agree to try it for 6 months. He set out a few rules before he will agree, and if she agrees to his terms that there will be DD consequences when she breaks the rules. Melody does break them, of course, because she really has a bad temper and short fuse for it. At one point Mitch goes too far and realizes it, and his reaction to his own transgression is unexpected. After some solid chaos they get their HEA. This is a quick read, with some good plot turns. The stage is also neatly set for the next book in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2020
An enjoyable story set in farming country in Oregon in the late 1800s. Melody has inherited a large farm when her father died and her brother was murdered, but there are a lot of financial problems which she doesn’t understand. She needs a husband in order to get her inheritance, and be able to continue owning and operating the ranch. She meets Mitch by accident and he agrees to become her husband and help her to deal with her problems, and find the killer of her brother. Both Melody and Mitch are strong, intelligent people dealing with difficult problems, including her incredibly bad temper – but over time the various issues are worked out and the marriage of convenience becomes real. The story is warm, moves quickly, and the main characters and supporting characters are well described and interesting. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 6, 2020
Mitch first meets Melody when he finds her screaming at the banker in his local town. Melody doesn't believe the banker when he tells her that the family farm that she inherited after her brother's sudden death doesn't have any money in it's bank account. It turns out that Melody has $20,000 in her own inheritance, but she can't access it until she is 25 or married. Then Melody suggests that Mitch marries her for a marriage in name only. The idea is that the marriage ends after six months. This would give Melody access to her inheritance.
But Mitch has some conditions. No swearing, no temper tantrums, no putting herself or others in danger. If she breaks the rules she will be punished. Melody had always been able to apologise herself out of trouble with her father, so she tended to behave like a spoilt brat. Where is this marriage going?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But Mitch has some conditions. No swearing, no temper tantrums, no putting herself or others in danger. If she breaks the rules she will be punished. Melody had always been able to apologise herself out of trouble with her father, so she tended to behave like a spoilt brat. Where is this marriage going?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 1, 2020
In this second book of Journey's End, we spend more time with Ellie's brother Mitch. He encounters Melody in town having a fit because the bank account for her ranch is empty. She believes that her brother was killed and she wants to give him justice. Mitch finds her intriguing and accepts her offer of marriage, telling her that they will give it six months and if they aren't in agreement to stay married, they will get the marriage annulled. Of course, his rules state that she will get spanked if she breaks them. And, of course, she does because she has a hair trigger temper. It is wonderful to read along as the two fall in love and work to solve all the mysteries. They have a HEA and the next book in the series is set up.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 4, 2020
Melody Williams was in a fix. Her father died leaving the ranch to her brother Clay. She would not receive her trust fund till she married. But her brother was murdered, and Melody wanted justice, but her quick temper kept getting in the way of good judgement.
Mitch McBride notices Melody in the bank, and talks her into lunch at the cafe. Soon, both decide on a marriage of convenience—so she can get her trust fund, and Mitch can help her solve her brother’s murder.
Mitch also sets rules to be followed or spanked. Melody was to stop swearing; control her temper; and not put herself in danger. Mitch would not join her bed, till the murder was solved and Melody agreed to be his wife forever.
More fun at Journey’s End as the family grows. Mitch and Melody’s story is tender, sassy and thrilling.
Mitch McBride notices Melody in the bank, and talks her into lunch at the cafe. Soon, both decide on a marriage of convenience—so she can get her trust fund, and Mitch can help her solve her brother’s murder.
Mitch also sets rules to be followed or spanked. Melody was to stop swearing; control her temper; and not put herself in danger. Mitch would not join her bed, till the murder was solved and Melody agreed to be his wife forever.
More fun at Journey’s End as the family grows. Mitch and Melody’s story is tender, sassy and thrilling.
May 5, 2020
She needed an attitude adjustment.
Melody is out to find out why and who killed her brother, but she has a bit of a problem. This is solved by Mitch McBride when they enter into a marriage of convenience. Now here is the tricky part Mitch is rather old fashion and has some rules Melody must follow if not then she needs to know there would be some old-fashion discipline coming her way. She does find herself over Mitch’s knee a time or two. I like the mystery in the story and the author tied it all in well with events occurring in this time setting. I enjoyed the characters and the twist at the end was splendid. I would have no problem recommending this book to friends. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Melody is out to find out why and who killed her brother, but she has a bit of a problem. This is solved by Mitch McBride when they enter into a marriage of convenience. Now here is the tricky part Mitch is rather old fashion and has some rules Melody must follow if not then she needs to know there would be some old-fashion discipline coming her way. She does find herself over Mitch’s knee a time or two. I like the mystery in the story and the author tied it all in well with events occurring in this time setting. I enjoyed the characters and the twist at the end was splendid. I would have no problem recommending this book to friends. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
May 6, 2020
Melody is a fun fast paced love story that includes murder and mystery to keep the pages turning. The author includes a wonderful group of secondary characters with a wide range of personalities. As for the main characters, Mitch is a strong, dominant, honest, and likeable man who lives by his principles. Melody is also strong but determined, stubborn, and bad tempered. Together they both blend and clash in their own special way. The loves scenes are sweet yet passionate and the spankings are included in all the right places. As the mystery unfolds some surprises are revealed and lives are held in the balance. Come take this journey with Mitch and Melody to enjoy a great night's read! I voluntarily received an arc copy of this book.
May 6, 2020
This is my first time reading something by Ms. Phelps and I have to say I was very pleasantly surprised. It is a very well written, sweet, and entertaining story. It is the second book of the series, but can be read as a standalone. It had good character definition with endearing and sweet characters you can't help but love. The storyline was interesting and captured my attention from the start. With some danger and plot twists along the way, the story will keep you turning the pages till the end. This is a sweet, and clean story of a beautiful journey of love you do not want to miss!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 31, 2020
Pleasant story
Melody cannot believe that after the death of her brother, the ranch bank account is empty. She cannot access her inheritance to keep the ranch going until she reaches the age of twenty five, or marries.
As s she throws a tantrum outside the bank, temporary deputy Mitch McBride calms her down and the outcome is a marriage of convenience for six months with the provision that he help find her brother's murderer.
This is quite a pleasant story with characters from the previous book all living at Journey's End Ranch.
Melody cannot believe that after the death of her brother, the ranch bank account is empty. She cannot access her inheritance to keep the ranch going until she reaches the age of twenty five, or marries.
As s she throws a tantrum outside the bank, temporary deputy Mitch McBride calms her down and the outcome is a marriage of convenience for six months with the provision that he help find her brother's murderer.
This is quite a pleasant story with characters from the previous book all living at Journey's End Ranch.
May 3, 2020
Loved this light hearted story. Melody is a spitfire of a young woman set on solving all her problems, with out a plan.
Mitch offers to help he makes plans to succeed.
They clash often and he believes in domestic spanking, but she has never had a spanking.
Will these two find any common ground while solving her pfoblems. Filled with love, friendship and adventure, you will enjoy this story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mitch offers to help he makes plans to succeed.
They clash often and he believes in domestic spanking, but she has never had a spanking.
Will these two find any common ground while solving her pfoblems. Filled with love, friendship and adventure, you will enjoy this story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 6, 2020
Melody needs a husband to get control of her money so she can stay on the farm. When Mitch hears her screaming at the banker, he steps in to help her. He is definitely attracted to her. So she asks him to marry her only he’s got a few conditions of his own. Can he help her find the person who killed her brother? I enjoyed this romance with its many twists. I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 6, 2020
The second book in the Journey's End series a well written story that kept me turning pages. Melody Williams a headstrong woman and Mitch McBride enter into a marriage of convenience. There is suspense, drama, danger, murder, shooting, villains, and romance. I want to read the next book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 6, 2020
This is a really cute story with the action kicking off just right. Who doesn’t love a good marriage-of-convenience novel? This husband and wife duo teams up to solve a murder and save a ranch. Will their plan work? And can they find true love in the process or will they go their separate ways?
May 11, 2020
Danger ahead
Mitch and Melody have a marraige of convenience that came out of murder. But there is still danger, deception, lies, manipulation, lust and spankings before a HEA can be had.
Mitch and Melody have a marraige of convenience that came out of murder. But there is still danger, deception, lies, manipulation, lust and spankings before a HEA can be had.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews