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The Lumber Baron's Daughters #3
A Model of Devotion
A brilliant engineer, Jilly Stiles has been educated since childhood to help run her father's dynasty. Now with the company safe after the marriages of her two sisters, Jilly can focus on her dream of building a mountaintop railroad--and never marry.
Nick Ryder came into Jilly's life when he saved her mother from her no-good stepfather, and he's prepared to protect Jilly from anything that threatens to harm her. Haunted by the pain of his own past, Nick is determined not to get his heart involved while protecting Jilly from losing her hard-won independence.
But when a cruel and powerful man goes to dangerous lengths to make Jilly his own, marrying Nick may be the only way to save herself and her dreams.
Nick Ryder came into Jilly's life when he saved her mother from her no-good stepfather, and he's prepared to protect Jilly from anything that threatens to harm her. Haunted by the pain of his own past, Nick is determined not to get his heart involved while protecting Jilly from losing her hard-won independence.
But when a cruel and powerful man goes to dangerous lengths to make Jilly his own, marrying Nick may be the only way to save herself and her dreams.
301 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2022
175 people are currently reading
2254 people want to read
About the author
Mary Connealy
116 books2,487 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 123 reviews
July 27, 2022
I loved this book and series. The book follows more than the hero and heroine as it wraps up the series. Jolly is such an interesting heroine, trapped in her past and not knowing how to break free even with all her brilliance. And the hero Nick is perfect. I loved him from his first introduction in the first book, and that only grew with this story. A sweet relationship and story.
October 11, 2022
Mary Connealy brings this good series to a great close here. I loved these girls’ stories. Well, women. Three daughters trying to escape the dastardly clutches of an evil stepfather. And the heroine of this book, Jilly, has even worse to escape from. But she has a good posse on her side. The ending is great. Connealy takes her readers on a wild exciting ride to catch this evil dude. Well done!
My thanks to Bethany House for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinion here is my own.
My thanks to Bethany House for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinion here is my own.
October 3, 2022
What an exciting conclusion to a stellar series. I felt like I was watching an episode of The Wild Wild West when Jilly and Nick gave chase on the train!
These three very smart sisters plot how to run the family lumber business they inherited. “Jilly’s math brain. Michelle’s invention brain. Laura’s chemical brain. They were a trio of mad scientists, for a fact.” And with the help of three very capable men, they try to outsmart the villains bent on destroying them and Stiles Lumber.
With the voice of reason and godly wisdom from parson Caleb, the girls and their mother keep trusting God to get them out of trouble. Jilly takes Nick’s wise words to heart. “Take the work that you do on your own strong, capable shoulders, but let God take the weight off your soul.” Nick and Jilly” turned and walked toward promises. Toward danger. Toward their future.”
Ms. Connealy has given us another outstanding book with unique characters that teach us spiritual truths in a very enjoyable way.
* A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House on behalf of the author and Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
These three very smart sisters plot how to run the family lumber business they inherited. “Jilly’s math brain. Michelle’s invention brain. Laura’s chemical brain. They were a trio of mad scientists, for a fact.” And with the help of three very capable men, they try to outsmart the villains bent on destroying them and Stiles Lumber.
With the voice of reason and godly wisdom from parson Caleb, the girls and their mother keep trusting God to get them out of trouble. Jilly takes Nick’s wise words to heart. “Take the work that you do on your own strong, capable shoulders, but let God take the weight off your soul.” Nick and Jilly” turned and walked toward promises. Toward danger. Toward their future.”
Ms. Connealy has given us another outstanding book with unique characters that teach us spiritual truths in a very enjoyable way.
* A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House on behalf of the author and Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
January 12, 2023
This story had one issue that really bugged me, but the story was fantastic.
I loved the way this story wrapped up the various loose threads in the trilogy. Obviously, I can’t talk about those things, but they came to satisfactory ends for me.
The thing that bothered me was the excessive sexual innuendo layered in throughout. It felt awkward and inappropriate. I understand these characters were married, but it still felt like entering the bedroom with them. They weren’t the types to flirt so overtly in company, so why were they doing it in mine? If not for that, this book would have easily been a five-star read for me.
The engineering, turning bridge, and familial drama were all sorts of happy for me. I loved how these aspects were all intertwined and overlapping. The faith thread was woven well among it all, and that was definitely the icing on the cake. The sisters and their mom were still the highlight and center of the story, but I loved how the fellows the girls chose were added in naturally and brought depth and extra spunk to the adventure.
Content: alcohol, sexual innuendo (excessive)
I loved the way this story wrapped up the various loose threads in the trilogy. Obviously, I can’t talk about those things, but they came to satisfactory ends for me.
The thing that bothered me was the excessive sexual innuendo layered in throughout. It felt awkward and inappropriate. I understand these characters were married, but it still felt like entering the bedroom with them. They weren’t the types to flirt so overtly in company, so why were they doing it in mine? If not for that, this book would have easily been a five-star read for me.
The engineering, turning bridge, and familial drama were all sorts of happy for me. I loved how these aspects were all intertwined and overlapping. The faith thread was woven well among it all, and that was definitely the icing on the cake. The sisters and their mom were still the highlight and center of the story, but I loved how the fellows the girls chose were added in naturally and brought depth and extra spunk to the adventure.
Content: alcohol, sexual innuendo (excessive)
August 7, 2022
I've really enjoyed this series and how each daughter became empowered through her skills and determination, as well as supporting and receiving support through new relationships and love. While their mother was physically abused by their stepfather, Jilly suffered from emotional abuse which has been alluded to in the first two books. We learn how this has influenced her stance on marriage, especially marriage for convenience. Nick has proven himself a devoted protector of his former boss's family, and received their trust in return. He and Jilly make a good team, continuing to build her father's lumber legacy with the latest developments in rail transportation. As sabotage becomes evident, the danger ramps up and all the daughters with their mother unite to fight back against the threat. I appreciated that Nick and Jilly had more time than her sisters to develop a foundation before diving into a deeper relationship, but I think that was necessary given her issues. I was happy to see healing and success with all the members of the family as the series wrapped up.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
July 8, 2022
What an explosive finale to the Lumber Baron's Daughters series! To say I was eager to read this, is a massive understatement! Mary wove quite a story in the first two books of this series, and I HAD to know how it was going to end! It did not disappoint! It's got tons of action, humor and romance all while bringing the bad guys to justice once and for all. Great finale!
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
November 1, 2022
The conclusion of "The Lumber Baron's Daughters" series by Mary Connealy was packed with humor, love, excitement, villains, heroes, sabotage, strong female characters, justice, and an exiting conclusion. I totally enjoyed this entire series.
The female lead, Jilly is the third daughter and her talent and intelligence give her the ability to design and carry out the building of a railroad in the mountains to carry the lumber down the mountain. This requires tunnels, trestles, and a swivel bridge over a river.
Danger and villainy are in the midst of all this advancement.
I highly recommend this series and believe that readers will thoroughly enjoy each book and especially this concluding story of Jilly and her love interest, Nick.
I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
The female lead, Jilly is the third daughter and her talent and intelligence give her the ability to design and carry out the building of a railroad in the mountains to carry the lumber down the mountain. This requires tunnels, trestles, and a swivel bridge over a river.
Danger and villainy are in the midst of all this advancement.
I highly recommend this series and believe that readers will thoroughly enjoy each book and especially this concluding story of Jilly and her love interest, Nick.
I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
October 4, 2022
3.5 stars
"Tell me about the dream, Jilly."
"Jilly Stiles always came back to the mansion on Nob Hill. She was alone, and that never happened . . . When had she ever been alone in her life? . . . In the black hour before dawn, walking through the upstairs hallway with a burning candle . . . fear wound tightly in her chest. . . . "
It had happened over and over again, that particular dream. Sadly, her mother's life depended on Jilly keeping the details to herself, or so she had been convinced by the one who stalked those recollections, making her photographic memory a curse rather than a blessing. But Jilly had bigger fish to fry, she had a railroad to build, and build it she would. There was just one little problem, actually one big problem; the project was being sabotaged. Would Jilly really have to get married in order to save her family's lumber business?
Nick Ryder thought Jilly Stiles was just about the prettiest woman he had ever seen, if he was noticing, which he shouldn't have been since she was technically his boss lady. But it was hard to ignore anything about Jilly. Protecting her, her mother, and her sisters ( who now had very capable husbands to fill that position) against continual threats from their ex-stepfather and husband had been Nick's overriding goal, until one day his mouth worked way ahead of his head, causing him to blurt out a proposal that sounded an awful lot like, "I think we should get married, Jilly". It wasn't a bad idea, not a bad idea at all. . . . . if the lady would agree. "She didn't slap him." That was good.
What a laugh-out-loud, silent gasp, fist pump, kind of story! All of Jilly's awkward antics and brilliant brain games are on full display, which means that Nick has to work over time to love every curl on the top of her engineering head, while racing to thwart a very evil man with the worst of intentions. Readers will love this ride to the finish line of an entertaining series.
I received a copy of this book from Baker Publishing Company through Interviews and Reviews. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
"Tell me about the dream, Jilly."
"Jilly Stiles always came back to the mansion on Nob Hill. She was alone, and that never happened . . . When had she ever been alone in her life? . . . In the black hour before dawn, walking through the upstairs hallway with a burning candle . . . fear wound tightly in her chest. . . . "
It had happened over and over again, that particular dream. Sadly, her mother's life depended on Jilly keeping the details to herself, or so she had been convinced by the one who stalked those recollections, making her photographic memory a curse rather than a blessing. But Jilly had bigger fish to fry, she had a railroad to build, and build it she would. There was just one little problem, actually one big problem; the project was being sabotaged. Would Jilly really have to get married in order to save her family's lumber business?
Nick Ryder thought Jilly Stiles was just about the prettiest woman he had ever seen, if he was noticing, which he shouldn't have been since she was technically his boss lady. But it was hard to ignore anything about Jilly. Protecting her, her mother, and her sisters ( who now had very capable husbands to fill that position) against continual threats from their ex-stepfather and husband had been Nick's overriding goal, until one day his mouth worked way ahead of his head, causing him to blurt out a proposal that sounded an awful lot like, "I think we should get married, Jilly". It wasn't a bad idea, not a bad idea at all. . . . . if the lady would agree. "She didn't slap him." That was good.
What a laugh-out-loud, silent gasp, fist pump, kind of story! All of Jilly's awkward antics and brilliant brain games are on full display, which means that Nick has to work over time to love every curl on the top of her engineering head, while racing to thwart a very evil man with the worst of intentions. Readers will love this ride to the finish line of an entertaining series.
I received a copy of this book from Baker Publishing Company through Interviews and Reviews. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
December 5, 2022
Jilly is a gifted engineer, with dreams of building a railroad through the mountain to help transport the lumber. Her past has left her determined never to marry, but the man who her step father arranged a marriage with is not willing to give up his claim on her so easily.
Nick has been a faithful friend, helping to get the sisters' mother safe from her treacherous husband, and he wants to whatever he can to help the women escape Edgar's clutches. He is honorable and has a good heart, I liked how he was understanding of Jilly and was supportive of her no matter what.
This is a fast paced read, full of faith and adventure. I liked how this book brings together the whole family, and we get to see them working together as well as reunited with their mother. I liked how patient Nick is with Jilly, and how he already cares for her family. A wonderful conclusion to a highly entertaining series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Nick has been a faithful friend, helping to get the sisters' mother safe from her treacherous husband, and he wants to whatever he can to help the women escape Edgar's clutches. He is honorable and has a good heart, I liked how he was understanding of Jilly and was supportive of her no matter what.
This is a fast paced read, full of faith and adventure. I liked how this book brings together the whole family, and we get to see them working together as well as reunited with their mother. I liked how patient Nick is with Jilly, and how he already cares for her family. A wonderful conclusion to a highly entertaining series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 1, 2022
Good ending to s great series.
September 26, 2022
Mary Connealy has done it again!
In A Model of Devotion, her root for 'em characters, twisting and turning plot, and excellent story kept my attention glued to the e-reader.
What a dynamic conclusion to The Lumber Baron's Daughters series. Make sure to read all three novels, every Stiles family member is an absolute delight, and the clean, feel-good romance captured in each story is the proverbial, "cherry on top of the sundae!"
I received this book from the publisher but was under no obligation to write nor post a review.
In A Model of Devotion, her root for 'em characters, twisting and turning plot, and excellent story kept my attention glued to the e-reader.
What a dynamic conclusion to The Lumber Baron's Daughters series. Make sure to read all three novels, every Stiles family member is an absolute delight, and the clean, feel-good romance captured in each story is the proverbial, "cherry on top of the sundae!"
I received this book from the publisher but was under no obligation to write nor post a review.
July 28, 2022
This is a fun loving series written by my favorite author! I really enjoyed her humorous trademark.
My favorite thing about these sisters? Was hoe they stuck together and looked out for each other no matter what! They were ahead of their time in my opinion.
This is Jilly and Nick's story. My favorite of the three books.
I'm glad I got to know them better and even found myself rooting for them.
There are some heart stopping moments and some beautiful Christian messages interwoven through the novel.
The heart stopping moments and my favorite author are what kept me turning the pages.
I was NOT disappointed in the least! I loved every minute of this fast paced novel.
A book that you'll not want to put down until you've devoured it.
5 stars for a job well done! I highly recommend it!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own!
My favorite thing about these sisters? Was hoe they stuck together and looked out for each other no matter what! They were ahead of their time in my opinion.
This is Jilly and Nick's story. My favorite of the three books.
I'm glad I got to know them better and even found myself rooting for them.
There are some heart stopping moments and some beautiful Christian messages interwoven through the novel.
The heart stopping moments and my favorite author are what kept me turning the pages.
I was NOT disappointed in the least! I loved every minute of this fast paced novel.
A book that you'll not want to put down until you've devoured it.
5 stars for a job well done! I highly recommend it!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own!
November 9, 2022
Hanging out with The Lumber Baron's Daughters has been a rip-roaring adventure straight from the mountainside log plume! Connealy has created an irresistible cast of characters and readers have a several opportunities to get to know each of them at an individual level throughout. The innovations of the time period are a fascinating element of the story and I love the mix of mountain, city, and ranch life.
Honestly, I was drawn to Nick from the start by his quick action and protective spirit and I have to say his time in the spotlight was worth the wait! Jilly's exceptional memory is a two edged sword, allowing her to recall both helpful and hurtful details with startling clarity but it's her independent yet compassionate personality that won me over.
Three cheers for three genius sisters and the men who love them (and their mama)! I highly recommend this 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.
Honestly, I was drawn to Nick from the start by his quick action and protective spirit and I have to say his time in the spotlight was worth the wait! Jilly's exceptional memory is a two edged sword, allowing her to recall both helpful and hurtful details with startling clarity but it's her independent yet compassionate personality that won me over.
Three cheers for three genius sisters and the men who love them (and their mama)! I highly recommend this 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.
January 26, 2025
“A man sees in the world what he carries in his heart.”
This was such a wonderful conclusion to The Lumber Baron’s Daughters trilogy! I loved the suspense and how each sister found the right person to love them exactly as they were. The men they ended up with supported and protected them without making them seem helpless or undermining their decisions. They weren’t treated like their intelligence and that they were educated in roles that women didn’t traditionally fill were negative traits.I enjoyed seeing Jilly find someone she could truly feel safe with. Each book in the series has suspenseful scenes that had me absolutely captivated. The train scene at the end of this book was truly a nail biter! Mary Connealy truly has a talent for writing characters that just find a place in my heart and I am so looking forward to reading more of her work.
This was such a wonderful conclusion to The Lumber Baron’s Daughters trilogy! I loved the suspense and how each sister found the right person to love them exactly as they were. The men they ended up with supported and protected them without making them seem helpless or undermining their decisions. They weren’t treated like their intelligence and that they were educated in roles that women didn’t traditionally fill were negative traits.I enjoyed seeing Jilly find someone she could truly feel safe with. Each book in the series has suspenseful scenes that had me absolutely captivated. The train scene at the end of this book was truly a nail biter! Mary Connealy truly has a talent for writing characters that just find a place in my heart and I am so looking forward to reading more of her work.
October 18, 2022
In A Model of Devotion by Mary Connealy, readers finally get some insight into Jilly Stiles’s reluctance to marry along with a satisfying completion to the series.
Let’s talk about Nick first. I’ve been rooting for this guy since he walked onto the page in book one of the series, and even more so as I learned more about him in this story. He’s a protector by nature, yet he gives Jilly the space she needs and authority her intelligence demands. He’s willing to stand by her side instead of standing in front of her.
When sabotage invades Jilly’s plans to build a railroad, Nick and Jilly team up to uncover which detractors remain working for the Stiles family. It’s not always as clear cut as it seems on the surface.
Connealy once again delivery a book filled with likable characters who form a bond and come together for the good of the whole while finding their individual happily-ever-afters.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Let’s talk about Nick first. I’ve been rooting for this guy since he walked onto the page in book one of the series, and even more so as I learned more about him in this story. He’s a protector by nature, yet he gives Jilly the space she needs and authority her intelligence demands. He’s willing to stand by her side instead of standing in front of her.
When sabotage invades Jilly’s plans to build a railroad, Nick and Jilly team up to uncover which detractors remain working for the Stiles family. It’s not always as clear cut as it seems on the surface.
Connealy once again delivery a book filled with likable characters who form a bond and come together for the good of the whole while finding their individual happily-ever-afters.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
October 20, 2022
Mary Connealy is tops at creating fantastic stories with fascinating, engaging, and fun characters. She plops them down in crazy, perilous situations, then proceeds to bring them out the other side victorious and changed for the better. With plenty of wit, humor, and laugh-out-loud moments, A Model of Devotion wraps up The Lumber Baron’s Daughters series. I’ve loved the tales of the three Stiles sisters—Michelle, Jilly, and Laura—and their pursuit of loving husbands to protect them from their evil stepfather and his schemes to take over the family lumber dynasty.
Jilly and Nick are such fun, endearing characters. Their witty banter tickled me, and I adored the way Nick appreciated Jilly’s intellect and engineering knowledge and let her talents shine but still was protective of her and her family members. Nick is a terrific hero and one of my favorites.
With plenty of action, suspense, humor, a big dose of romance, and dashes of inspiration, this story has something for everyone. I recommend this series to those who enjoy clean and wholesome historical fiction. I would suggest that you read the books in this series in order, as there is quite a bit of background given in the first one that you won’t want to miss. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishing. All opinions are my own.
Jilly and Nick are such fun, endearing characters. Their witty banter tickled me, and I adored the way Nick appreciated Jilly’s intellect and engineering knowledge and let her talents shine but still was protective of her and her family members. Nick is a terrific hero and one of my favorites.
With plenty of action, suspense, humor, a big dose of romance, and dashes of inspiration, this story has something for everyone. I recommend this series to those who enjoy clean and wholesome historical fiction. I would suggest that you read the books in this series in order, as there is quite a bit of background given in the first one that you won’t want to miss. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishing. All opinions are my own.
September 3, 2024
1873 California
Good conclusion to the series. Loved how all three heroines were gifted in science and mathematics.
Good conclusion to the series. Loved how all three heroines were gifted in science and mathematics.
October 3, 2024
This story is full of drama and intrigue. It’s a great way to end the series!
September 10, 2022
This is book three in The Lumber Baron's Daughters Series, even though you could read it as a stand alone, I feel you need to read the series in order to fully enjoy the Stiles sisters. Plus they are all great reads. So if you enjoy books in a series all three books are now out so you don't even have to wait on the next one to read it. I enjoy the writing style of Mary Connealy, her books are always full of fun, spunky, independent characters who always bring a smile to my face and they are great historical romance books as well.
This one we follow Jilly Stiles and Nick Ryder. Both are hardworking, independent people. Nick has such a protective instinct, Jilly knows she can trust him, even if some of her experience with men is not so trustworthy. I loved the twist and turns and so much more in this book. I love how the characters were first introduced to us in book one, The Element of Love and they continue to develop. If you enjoy reading historical romance with some laughter, love, family and more you will love this book and the entire series.
I was given a copy of this book for my honest opinion.
This one we follow Jilly Stiles and Nick Ryder. Both are hardworking, independent people. Nick has such a protective instinct, Jilly knows she can trust him, even if some of her experience with men is not so trustworthy. I loved the twist and turns and so much more in this book. I love how the characters were first introduced to us in book one, The Element of Love and they continue to develop. If you enjoy reading historical romance with some laughter, love, family and more you will love this book and the entire series.
I was given a copy of this book for my honest opinion.
November 20, 2022
Not a fan. The first couple of chapters just kept reiterating the same things, over and over. I kept putting the book down in annoyance, and I don’t usually have trouble continuing a book. Yes, we know she is smart at this point. Yes, we know they have to work fast before winter, yes we know they have to be careful of this guy. Then it got very violent with a completely evil man. Too much death and destruction for me. Too much drama. I did like the main characters, Nick and Jilly though. Would love to have a book on them that isn’t full of violence to see where their adventurous-ness and Jilly’s intelligence takes them. Once we got past the repetitive issues in the first few chapters, I feel like the author did do a good job writing and for Christians, they would appreciate the praying and leaning into God parts. Nick was a gentleman and a wonderful Christian supporting Jilly’s family. The book just was too much for me and that’s ok. Others may love a thrilling, scary ride all the way to the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2022
First sentence: Jilly Stiles always came back to the mansion on Nob Hill.
There are three books in the series: The Element of Love, Inventions of the Heart, and A Model of Devotion. Each book stars a different sister as the central protagonist, though all three books feature the sisters [and whole family] to a certain extent. This third book has the story focused on Jilly.
I have just about decided that A Model of Devotion will almost probably-probably be my last novel to read by Mary Connealy. [Unless I find more review copies from previous years. Those I'd probably still feel the need to read.] Mary Connealy's personal writing style is melodrama, melodrama, melodrama, and even more melodrama. I have just about decided that I am personally allergic to all the melodrama. This doesn't seem to be the case with most of the reviews I've read. Plenty of readers instead of seeing melodrama see ACTION and ADVENTURE and SUSPENSE.
For those not allergic melodrama, Jilly's life [and the lives of anyone who's close to her, works with her, happens to be near her] is in great danger [still]. Will Jilly and Nick Ryder [the love interest] outsmart the bad guys.
I do recommend--well, loosely "recommend"-- reading the books in order. [If you read them at all. You should have a fairly good idea as to your own tolerance for melodrama.] So, all three books have had one overarching villainous group of bad guys. A hierarchy of bad-ness, if you will. The [wicked] stepfather naturally has super-evil schemes to take control of the family's lumber business. It isn't enough for him to have manipulated his way into marrying their mother. He wants "his men" [his cronies, his minions, his yes men] to marry the daughters. Together they will essentially take over this business. He has picked out a villain for each daughter. The sisters learn of this scheme and ESCAPE. [This is the one time that I don't mind the melodrama. It happens in the first chapter of the first book.] The loophole is that if each of the sisters marry, then the stepfather's plans will come to nothing. To be fair, if TWO of the three sisters marry, then the stepfather's plans will be thwarted completely. Since each book features a sister getting married, the third book should be irrelevant at this point. There's no way for the "bad guys" to win the day.
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So the stepfather and the three men [though this number dwindles I think???] keep on cranking out evil plans--one after the other, for THREE BOOKS. Despite the fact that ALL THREE GIRLS HAVE GOTTEN MARRIED. Despite the fact that there is absolutely positively no way whatsoever that this company could ever pass into the hands of the stepfather or the would-have-been-husbands, the cronies, the minions, the bad guys, these MEN continue throwing resources away--ridiculously so. Not accounting for money spent, time wasted, or risk of getting caught, getting sent to jail, or being sentenced to death. They come up with plans that involve murder, more murder, kidnapping, assault, sabotage and tampering, etc. Like the number of HOURS, WEEKS, MONTHS, spent calculating these super-elaborate schemes is ridiculous. When you know that even if every single little thing went according to your diabolical plan and you still would be no closer to your goal--because ALL THREE SISTERS/DAUGHTERS ARE MARRIED AND HAVE CONTROL OF THE COMPANY. I just can't fathom any reason why these villains wouldn't have moved on with their lives by this point.
There are three books in the series: The Element of Love, Inventions of the Heart, and A Model of Devotion. Each book stars a different sister as the central protagonist, though all three books feature the sisters [and whole family] to a certain extent. This third book has the story focused on Jilly.
I have just about decided that A Model of Devotion will almost probably-probably be my last novel to read by Mary Connealy. [Unless I find more review copies from previous years. Those I'd probably still feel the need to read.] Mary Connealy's personal writing style is melodrama, melodrama, melodrama, and even more melodrama. I have just about decided that I am personally allergic to all the melodrama. This doesn't seem to be the case with most of the reviews I've read. Plenty of readers instead of seeing melodrama see ACTION and ADVENTURE and SUSPENSE.
For those not allergic melodrama, Jilly's life [and the lives of anyone who's close to her, works with her, happens to be near her] is in great danger [still]. Will Jilly and Nick Ryder [the love interest] outsmart the bad guys.
I do recommend--well, loosely "recommend"-- reading the books in order. [If you read them at all. You should have a fairly good idea as to your own tolerance for melodrama.] So, all three books have had one overarching villainous group of bad guys. A hierarchy of bad-ness, if you will. The [wicked] stepfather naturally has super-evil schemes to take control of the family's lumber business. It isn't enough for him to have manipulated his way into marrying their mother. He wants "his men" [his cronies, his minions, his yes men] to marry the daughters. Together they will essentially take over this business. He has picked out a villain for each daughter. The sisters learn of this scheme and ESCAPE. [This is the one time that I don't mind the melodrama. It happens in the first chapter of the first book.] The loophole is that if each of the sisters marry, then the stepfather's plans will come to nothing. To be fair, if TWO of the three sisters marry, then the stepfather's plans will be thwarted completely. Since each book features a sister getting married, the third book should be irrelevant at this point. There's no way for the "bad guys" to win the day.
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So the stepfather and the three men [though this number dwindles I think???] keep on cranking out evil plans--one after the other, for THREE BOOKS. Despite the fact that ALL THREE GIRLS HAVE GOTTEN MARRIED. Despite the fact that there is absolutely positively no way whatsoever that this company could ever pass into the hands of the stepfather or the would-have-been-husbands, the cronies, the minions, the bad guys, these MEN continue throwing resources away--ridiculously so. Not accounting for money spent, time wasted, or risk of getting caught, getting sent to jail, or being sentenced to death. They come up with plans that involve murder, more murder, kidnapping, assault, sabotage and tampering, etc. Like the number of HOURS, WEEKS, MONTHS, spent calculating these super-elaborate schemes is ridiculous. When you know that even if every single little thing went according to your diabolical plan and you still would be no closer to your goal--because ALL THREE SISTERS/DAUGHTERS ARE MARRIED AND HAVE CONTROL OF THE COMPANY. I just can't fathom any reason why these villains wouldn't have moved on with their lives by this point.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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November 15, 2022This was the perfect book to end the series. I’ve been waiting for this book since March, and it was worth the wait.
This series has to be one of the best that I have read. I loved the sisters and their bond. I loved the story plot that continued through the series. After reading the first book, it made you anticipate the second. And after reading that one, it made you also anticipate the third book. It was perfect. I loved her writing style. It keeps you interested in what will happen next.
I love the female role. Women in this time period weren’t treated as an equal to men, at least as far as I know. The Stiles women were treated as equal. To be fair, they were super smart, so they were smarter than most men.
Nick. When I first saw him in The Element of Love, I loved his character. He is such a sweetheart and a very protective person. He dropped everything to protect Mama Stiles and eventually quit his job to be near her. Honestly, Connealy did an exceptional job on Nick’s character.
Jilly. I loved her character. It was the mathematician gene in her. I love math, so seeing a character love math made me love her even more. Anyway, she has a secret that she has been harboring inside of her for too long. It was destroying her view of men and made her scared of them. But not all men were like her awful step father, Edgar. This is so true for many young women out there. A man or men have hurt them, and they close themselves off. I like that Connealy shows that there are plenty of good men out there. Just because you ran into a few rotten men, doesn't mean they are all rotten. I like that she shows that there can be healing for women like this. And I also love that Nick was super sweet and patient with her. And I love that he was super protective of her and her mother.
Edgar and the evil rich man got on my nerves, more so the rich man. Connealy makes you despise those evil men, which I liked. She pours so much into her characters that you actually feel like they are real.
This book was clean from any profanity and sexual content. The only sexual content is a few kisses and an implied sex scene. Nothing is shown.
Disclaimer: I requested and received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
This series has to be one of the best that I have read. I loved the sisters and their bond. I loved the story plot that continued through the series. After reading the first book, it made you anticipate the second. And after reading that one, it made you also anticipate the third book. It was perfect. I loved her writing style. It keeps you interested in what will happen next.
I love the female role. Women in this time period weren’t treated as an equal to men, at least as far as I know. The Stiles women were treated as equal. To be fair, they were super smart, so they were smarter than most men.
Nick. When I first saw him in The Element of Love, I loved his character. He is such a sweetheart and a very protective person. He dropped everything to protect Mama Stiles and eventually quit his job to be near her. Honestly, Connealy did an exceptional job on Nick’s character.
Jilly. I loved her character. It was the mathematician gene in her. I love math, so seeing a character love math made me love her even more. Anyway, she has a secret that she has been harboring inside of her for too long. It was destroying her view of men and made her scared of them. But not all men were like her awful step father, Edgar. This is so true for many young women out there. A man or men have hurt them, and they close themselves off. I like that Connealy shows that there are plenty of good men out there. Just because you ran into a few rotten men, doesn't mean they are all rotten. I like that she shows that there can be healing for women like this. And I also love that Nick was super sweet and patient with her. And I love that he was super protective of her and her mother.
Edgar and the evil rich man got on my nerves, more so the rich man. Connealy makes you despise those evil men, which I liked. She pours so much into her characters that you actually feel like they are real.
This book was clean from any profanity and sexual content. The only sexual content is a few kisses and an implied sex scene. Nothing is shown.
Disclaimer: I requested and received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
December 20, 2022
***Have you noticed how many of these ratings are from readers given complimentary copies? Now I realize how the book got so many positive reviews... I was misled by the average rating. These readers are not inclined to be critical about quality, it seems.***
After struggling through the first book in this series, I decided to read the third. Why, you might ask? I already had it on hand, and my complaints were primarily with the quality of writing and editing, whereas I found the plot rather interesting.
I enjoyed the engineering parts of the story. As a layperson, I felt that the planning, construction, and various architectural elements were well researched.
I had my doubts, but the plot was sufficiently interesting to carry me through despite my frustration with several writing elements. Here is my main complaint:
Several messages to the reader are given bluntly and repetitively, rather than being played out for the reader to realize based on evidence in the story. For example, the reader is told time and again that the Stiles women are very smart, brilliant, and hard thinkers. (Yes, all of those things. Hm... Does that feel repetitive?) I would have forgiven one or two repetitions of this point, but I was beat over the head with it, and found no further evidence to inform my opinion on the matter, or deepen my understanding of such. Yes, the women solve a lot of problems, but it felt automatic. There was never a doubt that they would figure out a brilliant solution to each problem. The repeated assertion that they were brilliant women fell flat for me. Perhaps they were intended to be inspirational characters, but I found them inoraganic and unrelatable.
After struggling through the first book in this series, I decided to read the third. Why, you might ask? I already had it on hand, and my complaints were primarily with the quality of writing and editing, whereas I found the plot rather interesting.
I enjoyed the engineering parts of the story. As a layperson, I felt that the planning, construction, and various architectural elements were well researched.
I had my doubts, but the plot was sufficiently interesting to carry me through despite my frustration with several writing elements. Here is my main complaint:
Several messages to the reader are given bluntly and repetitively, rather than being played out for the reader to realize based on evidence in the story. For example, the reader is told time and again that the Stiles women are very smart, brilliant, and hard thinkers. (Yes, all of those things. Hm... Does that feel repetitive?) I would have forgiven one or two repetitions of this point, but I was beat over the head with it, and found no further evidence to inform my opinion on the matter, or deepen my understanding of such. Yes, the women solve a lot of problems, but it felt automatic. There was never a doubt that they would figure out a brilliant solution to each problem. The repeated assertion that they were brilliant women fell flat for me. Perhaps they were intended to be inspirational characters, but I found them inoraganic and unrelatable.
November 9, 2022
This was such a fun book to read. Connealy made it nearly impossible to put down, which kept me up later than my husband wanted. I absolutely love the Stiles sisters! They are smart, beautiful, and feisty. A Model of Devotion is the third book in the Lumber Baron’s Daughters series, and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. I have now read all 3 and can’t recommend them enough. That being said you can totally read this as a stand alone novel as well, you’ll grow to love them along the way. Connealy is a master at what she does, and I will read any book she writes.
Having read The Element of Love and Inventions of the Heart, I was dying to read Jilly’s story. Jilly never planned on getting married, and like most women that feel like her she has her reasons. Since both of her sisters married, they now own the majority of their families lumber dynasty. Surely that means that Jilly is free to live her life the way she wants. Unfortunately little does she know, that isn’t all that matters to the evil man her step father promised her to. He will stop at nothing to make her his, and it doesn’t matter who gets in his way. Nick wants nothing more than to protect the Stiles women, but just how much will it cost him?
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance with the perfect amount of suspense mixed in. I couldn’t get enough. This series belongs on the keeper shelf. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Having read The Element of Love and Inventions of the Heart, I was dying to read Jilly’s story. Jilly never planned on getting married, and like most women that feel like her she has her reasons. Since both of her sisters married, they now own the majority of their families lumber dynasty. Surely that means that Jilly is free to live her life the way she wants. Unfortunately little does she know, that isn’t all that matters to the evil man her step father promised her to. He will stop at nothing to make her his, and it doesn’t matter who gets in his way. Nick wants nothing more than to protect the Stiles women, but just how much will it cost him?
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance with the perfect amount of suspense mixed in. I couldn’t get enough. This series belongs on the keeper shelf. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 14, 2022
The saga of the Stiles sisters continues with the third daughter of lumber baron Liam Stiles taking the forefront. Jilly’s youngest sister has married a parson and the oldest sister has married a rancher. Their marriages were rushed because their mother’s second husband is trying to take over Stiles Lumber Company. With two sisters married, they have gained control of two-thirds of the business, thus blocking any opportunity the step-father thought he had of getting control. Jilly is determined to remain single but she failed to realize the dogged determination of the man to whom her step-father had promised her hand in marriage. She is the engineer in the family and has dreamed and planned for a long time to complete the railroad to the lumber company at the top of the mountain. Her father trained her and planted the seed of the dream in her mind. No one in the family recognizes the lengths to which the step-father and his cronies will go to get the business. The action is intense and suspenseful as the family and their trusted employees work diligently to build the railroad, keep the lumber business running, and fight off their enemies. With a strong faith and a high degree of confidence in their own abilities, the Stiles family determines to push ahead against all obstacles. Quite often, the hero and heroine of a story will share some valuable life lessons. That was true in this story, but even the villains share some lessons. Theirs were lessons of things that will lead to destruction.
October 21, 2022
This book is a fantastic way to wrap up The Lumber Baron's Daughters series! The Stiles sisters and their mother finally get a resolution for a major problem, and we're given a glimpse of Jilly's secret dilemma that's remained a mystery since book one. Jilly takes center stage as she encounters major hurdles while trying to build a railroad. Nick Ryder, in true Mary Connealy fashion, proves to be the best kind of hero. He's willing to help and protect Jilly but he also knows when to let her have her say!! Nick's been a part of this series from the beginning, and I love that he finally gets this chance to shine!
I truly enjoy Connealy's books. She makes me laugh out loud and she shares beautiful gems of inspiration, but she doesn't overlook the romance! Swoon-worthy, clean romance that convinces us that a happy ending is possible! Add the western settings that I've always loved and realistic characters that are good, bad, or a little of both, and I'm kept fully engaged! Connealy's a master in writing wonderful historical Christian novels and A Model of Devotion is a perfect example!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review, and I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts.
I truly enjoy Connealy's books. She makes me laugh out loud and she shares beautiful gems of inspiration, but she doesn't overlook the romance! Swoon-worthy, clean romance that convinces us that a happy ending is possible! Add the western settings that I've always loved and realistic characters that are good, bad, or a little of both, and I'm kept fully engaged! Connealy's a master in writing wonderful historical Christian novels and A Model of Devotion is a perfect example!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review, and I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts.
November 3, 2022
A Model of Devotion is the final book in Mary Connealy’s The Lumber Baron’s Daughters series. As always expected, it is filled with plenty of action, danger, suspense, and yes, romance.
Remaining unmarried daughter Jilly Stiles is determined to remain that way. Haunted by nightmares about her cruel stepfather, she wants no part of marriage. Unfortunately circumstances already in play demand that she marry in order to protect herself from a dangerous man. Nick Ryder is not only willing but eager to marry Jilly but can she trust him?
Once again this author has provided me with several hours of delightful entertainment as I kept turning the pages to see how everything would turn out. I was solidly in Nick’s corner as the perfect candidate for Jilly’s husband. Although I had a good idea about the inevitable conclusion it was nevertheless fun to follow Nick and Jilly as well as her sister and mother to that point.
As always, I thoroughly enjoyed the latest offering from this author and look forward to her next one.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the author’s launch team through the publisher. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
Remaining unmarried daughter Jilly Stiles is determined to remain that way. Haunted by nightmares about her cruel stepfather, she wants no part of marriage. Unfortunately circumstances already in play demand that she marry in order to protect herself from a dangerous man. Nick Ryder is not only willing but eager to marry Jilly but can she trust him?
Once again this author has provided me with several hours of delightful entertainment as I kept turning the pages to see how everything would turn out. I was solidly in Nick’s corner as the perfect candidate for Jilly’s husband. Although I had a good idea about the inevitable conclusion it was nevertheless fun to follow Nick and Jilly as well as her sister and mother to that point.
As always, I thoroughly enjoyed the latest offering from this author and look forward to her next one.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the author’s launch team through the publisher. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
January 23, 2023
Historical fiction that stars an intelligent female protagonist, like this one, is right up my alley. Jilly is the daughter of a lumber baron, and is now basically running the company after her father's passing and her two sisters' marriages. Her plan to improve the company is to build a railroad track going up the mountain, in order to make the lumber distribution process easier. Family friend and lumberjack, Nick, considers protecting the family as one of his main duties. When someone from their past begins sabotaging the railroad, he is quick to step up. He will fight to keep Jilly and her family safe while they race against time to finish the railroad.
The very first scene of the novel put me off a bit, with the suggestion of a sexual assault, but I'm glad I kept reading.
I enjoyed the sweet and gentle romance that built up between Jilly and Nick. I also love when female protagonists are smart and not afraid to show it, just like Jilly and her sisters. I've not read the first two books in the series, but feel like I got the gist of what occurred in those novels. This novel has a surprising amount of well written action scenes as well. It provides an interesting plot, lovable characters, and a well rounded story.
The very first scene of the novel put me off a bit, with the suggestion of a sexual assault, but I'm glad I kept reading.
I enjoyed the sweet and gentle romance that built up between Jilly and Nick. I also love when female protagonists are smart and not afraid to show it, just like Jilly and her sisters. I've not read the first two books in the series, but feel like I got the gist of what occurred in those novels. This novel has a surprising amount of well written action scenes as well. It provides an interesting plot, lovable characters, and a well rounded story.
September 18, 2023
This is the 3rd book in a series. You don’t have to read the previous 2 but I recommend it. I definitely enjoyed this book much better than book 2. I thought it was more interesting. I really like Jilly’s character and also Nick’s. Jilly has nightmares that involve her stepfather(somewhat “violent” with threats some people might not like) and she won’t tell anyone what happened in real life. Nick is such a great protector. He protects all of the Stiles women. Loved the development of Nick and Jilly’s relationship. There is a villain in this story and he is pure evil. (Some things he says and how he acts might be too much for some. Possibly too graphic. Examples being about murdering people or hurting people.) He wants to sabotage Jilly’s railroad building project because she was promised to him by her stepfather and he is not taking “no” for an answer. A little bit of cheesiness with the drama but I LOVED it 😂. Overall great read and definitely recommend!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
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