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Where Her Heart Lies
After five years of finishing school in New York, Celeste McCurdy is ready to wash her hands of the snobbery of big-city life and be free of thoughts of Charles, the overly charming suitor who left her without a word. It's time to return home to her small Colorado town. Despite her failed relationship with Charles, Celeste yearns to marry, and she knows just the man to handle her heart with care: her childhood love, Logan. Poor and endlessly kind, he is the polar opposite of the type of men she knew in New York.
Logan Jones has been dealt a difficult hand in life, forever fighting to make ends meet in his desperation to avoid the pitfalls of wealth that poisoned his family. But when his longtime friend returns to town, Logan finds a compelling reason to accept his unwanted inheritance. Because even as Logan and Celeste are drawn together, a complication arises: Celeste's former suitor has come for the woman he let go of—and Logan won't give her up without a fight. Torn between two men, Celeste must determine where her affections lie or risk losing a love that's true.
Logan Jones has been dealt a difficult hand in life, forever fighting to make ends meet in his desperation to avoid the pitfalls of wealth that poisoned his family. But when his longtime friend returns to town, Logan finds a compelling reason to accept his unwanted inheritance. Because even as Logan and Celeste are drawn together, a complication arises: Celeste's former suitor has come for the woman he let go of—and Logan won't give her up without a fight. Torn between two men, Celeste must determine where her affections lie or risk losing a love that's true.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2022
18 people are currently reading
168 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Twede Frank
30 books97 followersAbout my writing: I don't like to write candy for the brain. But I do like to try to make my books not only fulfilling, but entertaining. Candy is nice, but a meal of meat, potatoes, and veges can leave you more satisfied. My books give the reader a good taste of history and/or science along with a dash of mystery folded into the story.
About me: I've always loved writing, but haven't gotten serious until the past seven years. When I'm not writing, I like to garden, sew, fix up old houses, or anything else creative. My favorite movies are ones about history.
About me: I've always loved writing, but haven't gotten serious until the past seven years. When I'm not writing, I like to garden, sew, fix up old houses, or anything else creative. My favorite movies are ones about history.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
January 20, 2022
I’ve enjoyed reading these books by Carolyn Twede Frank. I love when books go together. Heart of the West, Saving Susannah Jones, Under the Stars, and His Accidental Bride all go together and tell the story of Craig, Colorado and the people that live there.
I was so glad to see Logan get his own story. I’ve watched him as a side character in the other books and been so sad for him. He was kind of the underdog, least cared about character. But he was a great guy. Always one to look out for those around him, even when they hadn’t necessarily been kind to him. At least that’s how he was in the beginning of this book. Before he let things drive him crazy. Logan had to learn how to deal with life when it wasn’t hard. And that was kind of fun to watch.
I liked Celeste. She’s come home from finishing school. Not because she was finished. But because she was sick of school and the whole city scene. I loved the way she loved the town of Craig. She just needed to be there, almost like she needed air. And it was great how she was a little unorthodox about how she went about things. Honestly, I didn’t like her when she came up with her contest. And what she did to both Logan and Charles. It wasn’t kind. But I get that she wasn’t sure what to do.
I enjoyed the plot of this one. From the very beginning with Celeste getting home to the great ending, I enjoyed this book. It was a pleasant escape.
I was sent a copy of Where Her Heart Lies as a gift from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I was so glad to see Logan get his own story. I’ve watched him as a side character in the other books and been so sad for him. He was kind of the underdog, least cared about character. But he was a great guy. Always one to look out for those around him, even when they hadn’t necessarily been kind to him. At least that’s how he was in the beginning of this book. Before he let things drive him crazy. Logan had to learn how to deal with life when it wasn’t hard. And that was kind of fun to watch.
I liked Celeste. She’s come home from finishing school. Not because she was finished. But because she was sick of school and the whole city scene. I loved the way she loved the town of Craig. She just needed to be there, almost like she needed air. And it was great how she was a little unorthodox about how she went about things. Honestly, I didn’t like her when she came up with her contest. And what she did to both Logan and Charles. It wasn’t kind. But I get that she wasn’t sure what to do.
I enjoyed the plot of this one. From the very beginning with Celeste getting home to the great ending, I enjoyed this book. It was a pleasant escape.
I was sent a copy of Where Her Heart Lies as a gift from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
November 24, 2021
Celeste is almost 20 and returning home to Craig, Colorado after five years at a finishing school back east. She is longing for courtship and her attention is focused on Logan Jones who was a childhood friend. Logan has had a hard life. But he is kind and works two jobs to support himself. The plot gets more complicated when another suitor arrives. Charles courted Celeste previously while she was in school and then disappeared. She plans to give them each two weeks to see her before deciding who can seriously court her. The competition doesn't bring out what Celeste is looking for in either man.
I like the main message that money and things are less important than how you treat others. The two MC's seem very young or naive with both guessing what the other is thinking without trying to communicate. I got distracted with story details that decreased my interest in the book. Early an issue of Celeste being melancholy and not returning letters to Logan and her friend is brought up and then disappears. I found it odd that Logan is scrapping by when his sister has the means to employee or provide for him. The father's will excluding Logan from inheriting wouldn't still be in effect as it should be Stanley's will regarding his property and money (which could still be the same) but there is no mention of that. The Ponzi scheme timeline is a decade early. (The author does note this at the end, but I'd already knew the timing was off, checked and found Charles Ponzi was in jail in Canada in 1910.) I was bothered enough I almost gave up on the story a couple of times but I am glad I finished it.
This is part of a series of books the author set in Craig, Colorado and the second one I've read. The book is wholesome and clean with some kisses. Thank you to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I like the main message that money and things are less important than how you treat others. The two MC's seem very young or naive with both guessing what the other is thinking without trying to communicate. I got distracted with story details that decreased my interest in the book. Early an issue of Celeste being melancholy and not returning letters to Logan and her friend is brought up and then disappears. I found it odd that Logan is scrapping by when his sister has the means to employee or provide for him. The father's will excluding Logan from inheriting wouldn't still be in effect as it should be Stanley's will regarding his property and money (which could still be the same) but there is no mention of that. The Ponzi scheme timeline is a decade early. (The author does note this at the end, but I'd already knew the timing was off, checked and found Charles Ponzi was in jail in Canada in 1910.) I was bothered enough I almost gave up on the story a couple of times but I am glad I finished it.
This is part of a series of books the author set in Craig, Colorado and the second one I've read. The book is wholesome and clean with some kisses. Thank you to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2022
I have been waiting and hoping that Logan would get his own story. And he finally did! Logan’s character is endearing, heartfelt, and so good through and through. You find yourself smiling and cheering him on every step of the story. I felt his happiness and his despair right alongside him. Logan seemed like a real person to me! Every town needs a Logan.
I appreciated the uniqueness of Celeste and her situation. Trying to be who she thinks others want her to be and trying to be herself at the same time. This not so typical love story is unique and one you will want to read! I enjoyed the historical aspects of the western town of Craig, everything was so authentic to a rural western town. While this is a part of a series, you could definitely read it as a standalone. I enjoyed all of my favorite chargers from previous books and meeting some new ones. If you like historical westerns, this is the book for you! I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I appreciated the uniqueness of Celeste and her situation. Trying to be who she thinks others want her to be and trying to be herself at the same time. This not so typical love story is unique and one you will want to read! I enjoyed the historical aspects of the western town of Craig, everything was so authentic to a rural western town. While this is a part of a series, you could definitely read it as a standalone. I enjoyed all of my favorite chargers from previous books and meeting some new ones. If you like historical westerns, this is the book for you! I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 12, 2024
Disappointingly dull. Not nearly enough action, conflict or character growth. Made it 36%..I couldn't make myself finish it.
December 22, 2021
I wanted to really like this story based on the description, but unfortunately the characters and storyline just fell flat for me. Also, it seems as if this story is part of a series, which I haven’t read before, and was still able to read this book but perhaps reading the others books first would helpful.
The author tried really hard to write a love story between Celeste and Logan but neither seemed ready for a relationship. There was a foundation of friendship between them for many years but with their age difference there wasn’t a romantic relationship previously. Celeste was in no way attractive as a character and not someone that I would encourage into a relationship. She tried to just force her interests and attentions on Logan, hoping he’d pick up on her interest in him, and then would get mad like a toddler if he said the wrong thing or went against her plan. She wasn’t patient, used silent treatment at the drop of a hat and was too inconsistent. One moment she doesn’t care about being educated or refined and having money, but then cares about her appearance and Logan’s even though she knows what he does for a job. She thinks she’d be fine living off of Logan’s salary (almost nothing), and then wonders how he’d support a family and is upset when he actually does something to have money to take care of her. There were too many dramatic swings for the characters. Logan also didn’t seem like a hero, he liked Celeste for no reason, and put up with her finicky ways and never stood up for himself. Also, his swing towards the end fits in with the storyline but not consistent for his character.
Overall I think there is a good base for a story but it could use some character development or storyline editing. I wish I could rate it higher, but felt like I had to give an honest opinion. Love stories that are hard fought and hard won should leave the reader with a happy heart and that just wasn’t the case this time.
The author tried really hard to write a love story between Celeste and Logan but neither seemed ready for a relationship. There was a foundation of friendship between them for many years but with their age difference there wasn’t a romantic relationship previously. Celeste was in no way attractive as a character and not someone that I would encourage into a relationship. She tried to just force her interests and attentions on Logan, hoping he’d pick up on her interest in him, and then would get mad like a toddler if he said the wrong thing or went against her plan. She wasn’t patient, used silent treatment at the drop of a hat and was too inconsistent. One moment she doesn’t care about being educated or refined and having money, but then cares about her appearance and Logan’s even though she knows what he does for a job. She thinks she’d be fine living off of Logan’s salary (almost nothing), and then wonders how he’d support a family and is upset when he actually does something to have money to take care of her. There were too many dramatic swings for the characters. Logan also didn’t seem like a hero, he liked Celeste for no reason, and put up with her finicky ways and never stood up for himself. Also, his swing towards the end fits in with the storyline but not consistent for his character.
Overall I think there is a good base for a story but it could use some character development or storyline editing. I wish I could rate it higher, but felt like I had to give an honest opinion. Love stories that are hard fought and hard won should leave the reader with a happy heart and that just wasn’t the case this time.
January 13, 2022
Celeste has just moved home from school back East. She knows where she wants to be and she has a good idea who she wants to be with. Logan is content with his lot in Craig, Colorado, until Celeste comes back. He is afraid that she won't want him.
This is a story of friends that have potential to become so much more. It is a story with a little intrigue and mystery. It is a story about figuring out who you are and not letting yourself change with a change of circumstances.
Celeste and Logan are naturally good together. I found myself cheering for them early on. I knew Logan from previous books, but it was nice to see things from his point of view.
When a stranger comes from backeast, it definitely stirs things up and brings with it an unexpected outcome. I love this town of Craig, Colorado and the collection of characters I have met in this series. I have watched these characters grow and grow together.
This story flows well and the characters are compelling. There is a time or two when I want to shake each of the main characters to help them see their folly, but isn't that what makes a good story?
I received an eARC through NetGalley and this is my honest review.
This is a story of friends that have potential to become so much more. It is a story with a little intrigue and mystery. It is a story about figuring out who you are and not letting yourself change with a change of circumstances.
Celeste and Logan are naturally good together. I found myself cheering for them early on. I knew Logan from previous books, but it was nice to see things from his point of view.
When a stranger comes from backeast, it definitely stirs things up and brings with it an unexpected outcome. I love this town of Craig, Colorado and the collection of characters I have met in this series. I have watched these characters grow and grow together.
This story flows well and the characters are compelling. There is a time or two when I want to shake each of the main characters to help them see their folly, but isn't that what makes a good story?
I received an eARC through NetGalley and this is my honest review.
January 19, 2022
This has been a great series. I was very happy to see Logan Jones finally be the center of his own novel. He was first introduced as a young boy with a disability and a father and brother that hated and abused him. Now he is a grown man, slowly gaining confidence and trying to make his way on his own.
Celeste McCurdy has just come home after five years of finishing school. She still has a crush on Logan but it's more than that now. She wants Logan for a husband and he doesn't feel worthy of the lady Celeste has become. I truly enjoyed the little dance these two characters did as they tried to figure each other out after so many years. I truly adored Logan, even when he was clueless about Celeste and her feelings. A former Beau of Celeste's from back East shows up to try and win Celeste's heart. Logan still does what he can to fight for her in his own awkward way.
This sweet, clean romance is a fun return to a small western town in the early 1900s. There's great growth for both characters as they realize their love for one another but also realize that love matters more than worldly things. You need to give this series a look, especially if you love stories from the old west.
Celeste McCurdy has just come home after five years of finishing school. She still has a crush on Logan but it's more than that now. She wants Logan for a husband and he doesn't feel worthy of the lady Celeste has become. I truly enjoyed the little dance these two characters did as they tried to figure each other out after so many years. I truly adored Logan, even when he was clueless about Celeste and her feelings. A former Beau of Celeste's from back East shows up to try and win Celeste's heart. Logan still does what he can to fight for her in his own awkward way.
This sweet, clean romance is a fun return to a small western town in the early 1900s. There's great growth for both characters as they realize their love for one another but also realize that love matters more than worldly things. You need to give this series a look, especially if you love stories from the old west.
December 27, 2021
This probably landed more of a 3.5, but I couldn't decide between three or four stars. For the most part, I have enjoyed the Craig Colorado series. I find the setting always well-constructed and the town and its people definitely tug at your heart. Unfortunately, this fell a little flat for me. I loved that Logan got his happily-ever-after and there were some great messages about love and how people are more important than money, but the two main characters felt really immature for their age and I struggled to get past that throughout the story. While I found it to be a good read, it's not one I'll probably ever reread. I can recommend it, especially for fans of western romance, it just didn't top the charts for me.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 17, 2022
I liked this book. I have enjoyed the other books in her Craig Colorado series. I liked that we finally get Logan’s story since he has been one of my favorite characters from the beginning. I like how Celeste loves Logan no matter what and when he loses his way she helps him to come back to the man she fell in love with. I like how Logan has to decide what is really important. I think this is a nice conclusion to the series and it will be fun for me to read them again in order.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
April 22, 2022
Overall I have enjoyed this series. I will admit that this one wasn't my favorite. Logan was supposed to be a 27-year-old man but it felt like he was stuck in his original role as a 13-year-old boy. Overall though, I enjoyed the story and the bits of history that were included.
November 22, 2022
The main characters really annoyed me. Please just have an actual conversation, thank you. I also appreciate when the romance comes with side plot development and this book definitely did not have that
November 25, 2021
Kind of torn between 3 and 3.5-rounded-to-4. I may need to put this on simmer and come back.
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January 15, 2022Review to come.
June 24, 2023
Celeste returns home after years of finishing school and being spurned by a suitor. Back in Colorado she get's reacquainted with an old friend, and the man who broke her heart in New York follows her to Colorado. Who will prove himself worthy of her heart?
A sweet western romance, I felt my heart go out to Logan for all the things that he had and was still going through, and I could see with how he was just scrapping by that he didn't feel comfortable pursuing a wife. He is hardworking and kindhearted. He didn't ever ask for anything from anyone, and was always putting others first. Celeste on the other hand was more divided in her thinking and unsure in some ways.
An enjoyable read with likable characters, and a beautiful setting. I liked the character interaction and growing relationship between the characters. A sweet romance, though sometimes I was frustrated with the characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A sweet western romance, I felt my heart go out to Logan for all the things that he had and was still going through, and I could see with how he was just scrapping by that he didn't feel comfortable pursuing a wife. He is hardworking and kindhearted. He didn't ever ask for anything from anyone, and was always putting others first. Celeste on the other hand was more divided in her thinking and unsure in some ways.
An enjoyable read with likable characters, and a beautiful setting. I liked the character interaction and growing relationship between the characters. A sweet romance, though sometimes I was frustrated with the characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 4, 2023
I picked this book up randomly at a bookstore and I am glad I read it but have to admit it is not my favorite story.
Although the characters are well developed and the plot line strong I struggled with the heroine. I felt she was a bit contradictory and at times very spoiled. When she set her sights on the hero she became upset when he didn’t respond as she wanted. Add to that and a past suitor appears and she makes it worst yet.
I felt for the hero as he had struggled with feeling unwanted and unloved his whole life. Yet he was kind and good. When he follows an example of the former suitor and it goes wrong it adds to the whole mess.
A clean romance with kindness and forgiveness the underlying theme.
Although the characters are well developed and the plot line strong I struggled with the heroine. I felt she was a bit contradictory and at times very spoiled. When she set her sights on the hero she became upset when he didn’t respond as she wanted. Add to that and a past suitor appears and she makes it worst yet.
I felt for the hero as he had struggled with feeling unwanted and unloved his whole life. Yet he was kind and good. When he follows an example of the former suitor and it goes wrong it adds to the whole mess.
A clean romance with kindness and forgiveness the underlying theme.
January 7, 2022
Money and love
Coming back from school and a different life style, Celeste learns her training and life are more intertwined than she thought. She rekindles her friendship with Logan, but realizes that he may never be financially able to keep her . A former love come to town spending money and full of promise. The (contest) she sets up destroys them all. Only by then all losing do they find true friendship and lasting love.
This story underlines the importance of being oneself no matter what happens, be it wealth,promises or decisions. Pitting people against others to clarify ones decision, works against everyone. An excellent book.
Coming back from school and a different life style, Celeste learns her training and life are more intertwined than she thought. She rekindles her friendship with Logan, but realizes that he may never be financially able to keep her . A former love come to town spending money and full of promise. The (contest) she sets up destroys them all. Only by then all losing do they find true friendship and lasting love.
This story underlines the importance of being oneself no matter what happens, be it wealth,promises or decisions. Pitting people against others to clarify ones decision, works against everyone. An excellent book.
September 24, 2022
This book has:
-Dual POV
-Friends to lovers
-Past Suitor
-Love Triangle
I feel like Celeste is too forward. She moves too fast in that she just decides that she wants to marry Logan, there doesn’t seem to be any connection or emotion with that choice. If Celeste would just let things take it course her relationship with Logan would have developed naturally instead of her forcing her way into a relationship with him. Celeste feels like he doesn’t fit in anywhere – she didn’t fit in at finishing school and he doesn't feel like she fits in now that she is back home.
When Logan comes into money I feel he changes too much too quickly. Most people stay true to their character, to their values, but he just changed really quickly and made it seem like he had never had any qualms about the money.
I give this Book 3/5 stars. I liked seeing some of the character from previous books in this series, but I just didn’t feel like there was a real connection or chemistry with Logan and Celeste's relationship. I was disappointed in how their relationship came about, it just felt too forced.
All opinions are my own.
-Dual POV
-Friends to lovers
-Past Suitor
-Love Triangle
I feel like Celeste is too forward. She moves too fast in that she just decides that she wants to marry Logan, there doesn’t seem to be any connection or emotion with that choice. If Celeste would just let things take it course her relationship with Logan would have developed naturally instead of her forcing her way into a relationship with him. Celeste feels like he doesn’t fit in anywhere – she didn’t fit in at finishing school and he doesn't feel like she fits in now that she is back home.
When Logan comes into money I feel he changes too much too quickly. Most people stay true to their character, to their values, but he just changed really quickly and made it seem like he had never had any qualms about the money.
I give this Book 3/5 stars. I liked seeing some of the character from previous books in this series, but I just didn’t feel like there was a real connection or chemistry with Logan and Celeste's relationship. I was disappointed in how their relationship came about, it just felt too forced.
All opinions are my own.
December 5, 2022
I was so disappointed in what the author did to Logan’s character in this book. I almost gave it 2, rather than 3, stars. Logan has been a favorite sub character in this series and I was so excited to read his story. It started off well but the direction it took to create the conflict, created a storyline I did not like for Logan. The end resolved some of my issues but seemed a little forced and short.
April 7, 2025
I would give this 2.5 if possible. The main characters drove me crazy. Celeste is a wishy-washy, selfish young lady who can't make up her mind between Logan and Charles. Logan is trapped by his childhood and has a difficult time overcoming a loveless upbringing. Charles is a wimpy guy who is unwittingly involved in a Ponzi scheme. The best characters are Celeste's mom and dad. That being said, the book did have a happy ending.
September 27, 2022
Logan finally got his story! Logan has been my favorite character throughout the series. Logan finds himself in a love triangle. Celeste definitely prefers Logan but decides to let Logan and Charles take turns at courting her.
I enjoyed the storyline. I like how Frank incorporated bits of history into the storyline (no spoilers!). This was a good conclusion to the series.
I enjoyed the storyline. I like how Frank incorporated bits of history into the storyline (no spoilers!). This was a good conclusion to the series.
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January 22, 2023Sweet western romance set in Colorado in the early 1900’s. Includes a nice romantic triangle and situations that make the characters grow. Add in a bit of history on the origins of the Ponzi scheme and you have a fun and interesting story!
November 16, 2022
2.5 stars. Ok.....skimmed half of it.
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February 24, 2023Not my favorite. Main character seemed indecisive and immature so it took me longer to get through the book.
October 12, 2024
An interesting story of a man with a handicap that has fought hard to prove himself, and a girl that comes home from finishing school in NY.
April 11, 2025
Overall, this book was fine. It was just a little slow and boring. The moral is definitely: money doesn't buy happiness.
December 31, 2021
This book jumps forward about 14 years from the previous one. Logan has appeared in each of the previous books, and his family life (or lack thereof) has been an ongoing thread. Now he gets his own story, and I’m glad. Celeste returns as a finishing school dropout from the east. Naturally, this wild west girl couldn’t be sufficiently tamed, although she will admit that she has learned some useful things. She remembers Logan’s kindness from her growing-up years, but this time, she sees more—enough that she decides he’s the one for her. He is so self-effacing and humble—and poor—that he doesn’t consider himself to be in her league, though he’d really like to be.
Just as things are progressing, Celeste’s former beau from New York appears in town, promising to make people rich, just as he became rich through a financial scheme by his boss, Mr. Ponzi. (You see where this is going.) Logan finally has the chance to obtain the family ranch, and, against his better wishes, does so, thinking he can buy things for Celeste to prove that he can provide for her. His sudden wealth goes to his head, and turns Celeste right off. Lessons are learned, and we do get our happy ending. Probably my favorite part is the huge act of service Logan does for his former rival for Celeste’s hand.
Carolyn Twede Frank writes turn-of-the-20th-Century western romances. I’ll admit, it’s not my favorite genre. But when you’re looking among your ARCs for something light and quick to read, they fit the bill.
Frank’s books are published by Covenant Communications, who also publish Traci Hunter Abramson. To be honest, I found Abramson’s writing to be superior. The editing on her books was far superior as well. I know that this could be a function of the fact that I am reading uncorrected galleys, but some errors in Franks work were so fundamental—misused words, confusing “lie” and “lay”, and a mess with homophones—I really hope these were cleaned up on final.
Characters have a fairly clear line between “good” people and “bad” people. The good ones tend to be very empathetic and helpful, always wanting the best for everyone. The bad ones are low-down sneaky varmints. Side characters are engaging, which is good, because we meet them over and over through the series.
As with anything published by Covenant, these books are squeaky clean, not going past kissing with unmarried people, and some super mild innuendo between the married ones. Cursing is limited to such words as “heck” and “dagnabit.” There are hardships, and people do die, sometimes at the wrong end of a gun, but violence also is mild.
Thank you to Covenant Communications and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book also reviewed at https://biblioquacious.blogspot.com/2...
Just as things are progressing, Celeste’s former beau from New York appears in town, promising to make people rich, just as he became rich through a financial scheme by his boss, Mr. Ponzi. (You see where this is going.) Logan finally has the chance to obtain the family ranch, and, against his better wishes, does so, thinking he can buy things for Celeste to prove that he can provide for her. His sudden wealth goes to his head, and turns Celeste right off. Lessons are learned, and we do get our happy ending. Probably my favorite part is the huge act of service Logan does for his former rival for Celeste’s hand.
Carolyn Twede Frank writes turn-of-the-20th-Century western romances. I’ll admit, it’s not my favorite genre. But when you’re looking among your ARCs for something light and quick to read, they fit the bill.
Frank’s books are published by Covenant Communications, who also publish Traci Hunter Abramson. To be honest, I found Abramson’s writing to be superior. The editing on her books was far superior as well. I know that this could be a function of the fact that I am reading uncorrected galleys, but some errors in Franks work were so fundamental—misused words, confusing “lie” and “lay”, and a mess with homophones—I really hope these were cleaned up on final.
Characters have a fairly clear line between “good” people and “bad” people. The good ones tend to be very empathetic and helpful, always wanting the best for everyone. The bad ones are low-down sneaky varmints. Side characters are engaging, which is good, because we meet them over and over through the series.
As with anything published by Covenant, these books are squeaky clean, not going past kissing with unmarried people, and some super mild innuendo between the married ones. Cursing is limited to such words as “heck” and “dagnabit.” There are hardships, and people do die, sometimes at the wrong end of a gun, but violence also is mild.
Thank you to Covenant Communications and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book also reviewed at https://biblioquacious.blogspot.com/2...
February 15, 2022
I’ve never read a romance that starts moments before the hanging of a man, but it pulled me right in. Logan Jones has had a difficult life. He has one leg shorter than the other and a foot that turns inward. His mom died at his birth, so his dad has always disliked him. When he died, he left everything he had to his son Stanley who was manipulative, egotistical, and cruel. Logan’s older sister Susannah pretty much raised him and later found coal on the land she and her husband bought after their marriage. Logan works at the livery stable part time and as a postal carrier. He loves horses and enjoys greeting the townspeople. When his wealthy brother Stanley is hung for shooting a man, everything he had passed to Susannah. Logan cares more about not receiving love from his dad and brother than not receiving their money.
Logan met Celeste McCurdy 14 years earlier when she was 5 and he was 13. She asked what was wrong with his leg and he liked her honest curiosity. She has been at boarding school since she was 13 and is uncomfortable talking to people. Her stepmom is a doctor and wanted her daughter to be educated in the East like she was and where her parents still live. Celeste has a history of sadness or depression but isn’t sad with him. Celeste thinks Logan is kind, accepting, a good listener, and more of a gentleman than those back East; but he doesn’t think he has a chance with Celeste and is determined to just stay friends.
Charles Weathersby was Celeste’s friend and more in New York but disappeared for six months. He suddenly shows up in Logan and Celeste’s town trying to convince people to invest with him in the original Ponzi scheme. He is successful because he is very friendly. He ends up competing with Logan to convince Celeste to marry him. She devises a plan to spend two weeks with Charles then two weeks with Logan and continue that way until she decides who she likes best. I thought it was kind of selfish the way she strings them both along.
The author did a great job catching my attention. Some of the conversations felt awkward and didn’t flow, but maybe that was intentional and the author was trying to show that Logan is unrefined. The romance didn’t work for me because I didn’t sense any chemistry at all between the main characters, but I appreciate the ending and that it was clean. Thanks to Covenant Communications and NetGalley for a temporary digital copy to use for my review.
“It’s great to be a free thinker, but to think your ideas are always the best will lead you to be anything but free.” p39
"We are molded by the things we love." Ch 17
Logan met Celeste McCurdy 14 years earlier when she was 5 and he was 13. She asked what was wrong with his leg and he liked her honest curiosity. She has been at boarding school since she was 13 and is uncomfortable talking to people. Her stepmom is a doctor and wanted her daughter to be educated in the East like she was and where her parents still live. Celeste has a history of sadness or depression but isn’t sad with him. Celeste thinks Logan is kind, accepting, a good listener, and more of a gentleman than those back East; but he doesn’t think he has a chance with Celeste and is determined to just stay friends.
Charles Weathersby was Celeste’s friend and more in New York but disappeared for six months. He suddenly shows up in Logan and Celeste’s town trying to convince people to invest with him in the original Ponzi scheme. He is successful because he is very friendly. He ends up competing with Logan to convince Celeste to marry him. She devises a plan to spend two weeks with Charles then two weeks with Logan and continue that way until she decides who she likes best. I thought it was kind of selfish the way she strings them both along.
The author did a great job catching my attention. Some of the conversations felt awkward and didn’t flow, but maybe that was intentional and the author was trying to show that Logan is unrefined. The romance didn’t work for me because I didn’t sense any chemistry at all between the main characters, but I appreciate the ending and that it was clean. Thanks to Covenant Communications and NetGalley for a temporary digital copy to use for my review.
“It’s great to be a free thinker, but to think your ideas are always the best will lead you to be anything but free.” p39
"We are molded by the things we love." Ch 17
December 7, 2021
The year is 1910. To put this in context, my parents were born in 1906 and 1909 and yes, I’m a senior citizen. For some of you, this is set in the olden days. The first picture of my dad is on horseback with Grandma supporting him and Grandpa holding the bridle. 1910 isn’t all that long ago.
I love historical western stories. And I’m sorry. I just couldn’t love this one.
Logan is the younger brother of a man about to hang. Part of the time Logan works at the livery stable, and he also does the rural mail delivery by horseback. Logan doesn’t watch the hanging. His brother deserved it but that doesn’t mean Logan feels good about what is happening. I liked Logan from the beginning. Born with one leg shorter than the other, he knows his limitations but does not let it stop him from what he needs or wants to do.
A young woman returns home to Craig, Colorado after almost five years in a finishing school back East. She is finished with it, and it is finished with her. Celeste never felt like she fit in there (they agreed), but as the days go by, she is not sure she fits in Craig either.
The story is: Girl loves boy. Boy loves girl. Boy is poor but doesn’t have to be. Old East suitor shows up in Craig and girl … Our boy, Logan, gets a bit of what my dad would have called “The Big Head” when he decides to accept what has been given him. Girl doesn’t like that.
And frankly, I was bored.
I never found Celeste engaging. I liked Logan but Celeste? I didn’t dislike her; I just didn’t like her. And I found out I didn’t care much whether she eventually fit in. I didn’t care if she married Logan or the Weathersby fellow. At 51% in, I started skipping through the book. I read the end. It’s a nice ending.
Not every reader will have this reaction. Some will, no doubt, enjoy it. I just didn’t.
I received a complimentary e-ARC* copy of Where Her Heart Lies from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Rating: 2 stars.
Cover rating: Very good.
Publish date: January 3, 2022.
#WhereHerHeartLies #CarolynTwedeFrank #NetGalley
e-ARC* — electronic Advanced Reader Copy.
I love historical western stories. And I’m sorry. I just couldn’t love this one.
Logan is the younger brother of a man about to hang. Part of the time Logan works at the livery stable, and he also does the rural mail delivery by horseback. Logan doesn’t watch the hanging. His brother deserved it but that doesn’t mean Logan feels good about what is happening. I liked Logan from the beginning. Born with one leg shorter than the other, he knows his limitations but does not let it stop him from what he needs or wants to do.
A young woman returns home to Craig, Colorado after almost five years in a finishing school back East. She is finished with it, and it is finished with her. Celeste never felt like she fit in there (they agreed), but as the days go by, she is not sure she fits in Craig either.
The story is: Girl loves boy. Boy loves girl. Boy is poor but doesn’t have to be. Old East suitor shows up in Craig and girl … Our boy, Logan, gets a bit of what my dad would have called “The Big Head” when he decides to accept what has been given him. Girl doesn’t like that.
And frankly, I was bored.
I never found Celeste engaging. I liked Logan but Celeste? I didn’t dislike her; I just didn’t like her. And I found out I didn’t care much whether she eventually fit in. I didn’t care if she married Logan or the Weathersby fellow. At 51% in, I started skipping through the book. I read the end. It’s a nice ending.
Not every reader will have this reaction. Some will, no doubt, enjoy it. I just didn’t.
I received a complimentary e-ARC* copy of Where Her Heart Lies from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Rating: 2 stars.
Cover rating: Very good.
Publish date: January 3, 2022.
#WhereHerHeartLies #CarolynTwedeFrank #NetGalley
e-ARC* — electronic Advanced Reader Copy.
January 1, 2022
Where Her Heart Lies
by Carolyn Twede Frank
Expected Publication Date: 03 Jan 2022
Synopsis:
"After five years of finishing school in New York, Celeste McCurdy is ready to wash her hands of the snobbery of big-city life and be free of thoughts of Charles, the overly charming suitor who left her without a word. It’s time to return home to her small Colorado town. Despite her failed relationship with Charles, Celeste yearns to marry, and she knows just the man to handle her heart with care: her childhood love, Logan. Poor and endlessly kind, he is the polar opposite of the type of men she knew in New York.
Logan Jones has been dealt a difficult hand in life, forever fighting to make ends meet in his desperation to avoid the pitfalls of wealth that poisoned his family. But when his longtime friend returns to town, Logan finds a compelling reason to accept his unwanted inheritance. Because even as Logan and Celeste are drawn together, a complication arises: Celeste’s former suitor has come for the woman he let go of and Logan won’t give her up without a fight. Torn between two men, Celeste must determine where her affections lie or risk losing a love that’s true."
Review:
Sweet historical romance, easily readable. Set in 1910s Colorado. Young Celeste McCurdy, recently home from New York City is ready for love. She decides that Logan Jones, her childhood love, is the man she wants. But then, her former NYC beau Charles arrives in town. Celeste has two men fighting over her and now, she must grow up and decide which man is the one for her. Well-written characters.
I was gifted this advance copy by NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
by Carolyn Twede Frank
Expected Publication Date: 03 Jan 2022
Synopsis:
"After five years of finishing school in New York, Celeste McCurdy is ready to wash her hands of the snobbery of big-city life and be free of thoughts of Charles, the overly charming suitor who left her without a word. It’s time to return home to her small Colorado town. Despite her failed relationship with Charles, Celeste yearns to marry, and she knows just the man to handle her heart with care: her childhood love, Logan. Poor and endlessly kind, he is the polar opposite of the type of men she knew in New York.
Logan Jones has been dealt a difficult hand in life, forever fighting to make ends meet in his desperation to avoid the pitfalls of wealth that poisoned his family. But when his longtime friend returns to town, Logan finds a compelling reason to accept his unwanted inheritance. Because even as Logan and Celeste are drawn together, a complication arises: Celeste’s former suitor has come for the woman he let go of and Logan won’t give her up without a fight. Torn between two men, Celeste must determine where her affections lie or risk losing a love that’s true."
Review:
Sweet historical romance, easily readable. Set in 1910s Colorado. Young Celeste McCurdy, recently home from New York City is ready for love. She decides that Logan Jones, her childhood love, is the man she wants. But then, her former NYC beau Charles arrives in town. Celeste has two men fighting over her and now, she must grow up and decide which man is the one for her. Well-written characters.
I was gifted this advance copy by NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
January 29, 2022
After 5 years back east at a finishing school, Celeste is back home where she'd rather be, as she didn't quite fit in with the snobbish girls in New York. She prefers life in her small Colorado town and has her eyes set on her childhood crush--Logan Jones. Logan works several part-time jobs and yet barely makes enough money to get by, so it's no surprise to find he feels Celeste deserves a man better than himself.
Logan is a wonderful character. He's kind to everyone, even those that have treated him badly and don't deserve his kindness. He feels he doesn't deserve Celeste because of his physical abnormality and lack of money. I was so happy when he decided to accept his inheritance, but was shocked by the changes that came over him when Celeste's former beau from back east came to town. I wanted to shake some sense into Logan and was super happy when he realized he was becoming like his older brother, who was a fairly despicable human being.
Celeste also has to decide who she wants to be. Does she want to be who others think she should be, or is she going to be herself. I thought Celeste and Logan were great for each other, as she accepted Logan for who he was and appreciated his thoughtfulness and quiet nature. This is a wonderful friends to more story. It's part of a series that goes together, but each one can be read as a standalone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Logan is a wonderful character. He's kind to everyone, even those that have treated him badly and don't deserve his kindness. He feels he doesn't deserve Celeste because of his physical abnormality and lack of money. I was so happy when he decided to accept his inheritance, but was shocked by the changes that came over him when Celeste's former beau from back east came to town. I wanted to shake some sense into Logan and was super happy when he realized he was becoming like his older brother, who was a fairly despicable human being.
Celeste also has to decide who she wants to be. Does she want to be who others think she should be, or is she going to be herself. I thought Celeste and Logan were great for each other, as she accepted Logan for who he was and appreciated his thoughtfulness and quiet nature. This is a wonderful friends to more story. It's part of a series that goes together, but each one can be read as a standalone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
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