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Lonestar #2
Lonestar Secrets
USA TODAY bestselling author Colleen Coble delivers romance and suspense in a beautiful West Texas setting. Five years ago, Shannon Astor left the beautiful high-mountain country of West Texas as a single mother. She was desperate for a fresh start and a way to keep the secrets of her past buried. It almost worked. Until a chance to make a better life for her daughter leads her right back home. To the very place of the past betrayals. But it also leads Shannon to horse-trainer Jack MacGowan--her handsome high-school nemesis, now a widowed father. His daughter looks so startlingly like her own that Shannon can't help but question the circumstances surrounding her daughter's birth. Wary of each other's intentions, Shannon and Jack reluctantly join forces to untangle a deep mystery that swirls around Shannon's parents, a lost Spanish treasure, and a legendary black stallion. If Shannon can learn to entrust her secrets to the man falling in love with her, the truth just might set her free.
336 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2008
229 people are currently reading
1698 people want to read
About the author
Colleen Coble
147 books6,322 followersUSAToday bestselling author Colleen Coble lives with her husband, Dave, in Arizona. She is the author of dozens of novels including the Rock Harbor Series, the Aloha Reef Series, the Mercy Falls Series, the Hope Beach Series, the Lonestar Series and two Women of Faith fiction selections, Alaska Twilight and Midnight Sea. She has more than 6 million books in print.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
August 15, 2019
A small-town veterinarian and a cowboy are the two leads in this story. The tale itself is sweet and Kylie and Faith in particular stole my heart. However, there were some major suspension of belief leaps (for instance, her being able to whistle for and get her wild stallion to come to her just after a wildfire, but be unable to find him days in a row at other points) and the continual secrets muddied up what would have been a really lovely story, so it stays at a “good” rating despite a wish that I could have spent more time with these characters. It was nice to see Rick, Allie, and Betsy from book one.
Also, I didn’t like it that her MS was hinted to be fixable by a gluten-free diet and a homeopathic doctor. MS is a complex and not fully understood disease, and for someone who has to use a cane at times to become almost normal after skipping gluten was a big stretch.
Also, I didn’t like it that her MS was hinted to be fixable by a gluten-free diet and a homeopathic doctor. MS is a complex and not fully understood disease, and for someone who has to use a cane at times to become almost normal after skipping gluten was a big stretch.
September 12, 2018
I enjoyed this romantic suspense from Colleen Coble. Both Shannon and Jack was great characters with a deep back story and I just adored the girls, Faith and Kylie.
The plot with the girls were revealed and completed early in the story, which I liked because the focus was then on healing and building a new family of four. The story with the girls did end up differently than what I expected.
The suspense was intriguing and kept me guessing, but it was not thrilling for those who enjoy a milder type of suspense. Again, the author surprised me here when things turned out differently to what I expected would happen.
The message of trust and the affect broken trust can have on relationships was beautifully reflected in the relationship between Shannon and Jack. It was also great to catch up with Rick and Allie from book 1.
This can be read as a stand alone, however, I would read book 1 first to truly appreciate Rick and Allie, who was a great support to Shannon in this story.
The plot with the girls were revealed and completed early in the story, which I liked because the focus was then on healing and building a new family of four. The story with the girls did end up differently than what I expected.
The suspense was intriguing and kept me guessing, but it was not thrilling for those who enjoy a milder type of suspense. Again, the author surprised me here when things turned out differently to what I expected would happen.
The message of trust and the affect broken trust can have on relationships was beautifully reflected in the relationship between Shannon and Jack. It was also great to catch up with Rick and Allie from book 1.
This can be read as a stand alone, however, I would read book 1 first to truly appreciate Rick and Allie, who was a great support to Shannon in this story.
December 13, 2021
3 Stars ✨
This story felt a little bit recycled from the first book in the series. Also the plot was definitely unrealistic but it is fiction and I can’t deny wanting to keep reading to know what was going to happen. So it did have an addicting pull to it.
I really enjoyed the first book and was hoping to like this one as much but unfortunately it fell a little short for me. Since I really liked the returning characters from book 1 - I may still give book 3 a chance in hopes that it goes in a different direction. 🤞🏼
This story felt a little bit recycled from the first book in the series. Also the plot was definitely unrealistic but it is fiction and I can’t deny wanting to keep reading to know what was going to happen. So it did have an addicting pull to it.
I really enjoyed the first book and was hoping to like this one as much but unfortunately it fell a little short for me. Since I really liked the returning characters from book 1 - I may still give book 3 a chance in hopes that it goes in a different direction. 🤞🏼
October 24, 2024
I love nothing better than a marriage for convenience story line… so good! 4.5⭐️
August 3, 2010
I love Colleen Coble’s writing. She brings her readers into the lives of each character, making us care about them. And so it is with Lonestar Secrets.
Shannon Astor gave birth to twins but then was told one of the babies had died. Five years later, she returns home and meets a little girl who looks so startlingly like her own daughter she questions the past. Other books would drag out this plot. Colleen’s characters behave like real people. Shannon immediately discovers the truth (don’t worry, no spoiler here, this comes out by the 4th chapter). What she does about it makes this novel’s plot unique. This is a story of love, about what a parent will do or give up for their children’s happiness and well-being.
Of course, Lonestar Secrets is also a suspense. Shannon’s friend has been kidnapped, and the abductor wants Shannon to return something. But she has no idea what. She’ll have to learn to trust her new husband, Jack, and stop keeping secrets from him. The suspense plot is twisted and convoluted enough to satisfy the toughest critic. I never suspected the identity of the villain.
Overall, this is a novel I would recommend. However, there were a few things that disappointed me, because I believe in Colleen Coble’s integrity as a writer. The first thing that jumped out at me was the timeline of Shannon’s college life versus her daughters’ ages. Colleen writes that Shannon’s twins were born while she was still in college and that she managed to finish college and complete vet school while taking care of her daughter. Later, she writes that Kylie was in preschool by the time Shannon started vet school. At the time of the story, Kylie is 5 years old. Achieving a veterinary degree takes 4 years. Preschool is generally from age 2.9 years up to five years old. That means Shannon finished vet school in less than 2 years, because she also had post-graduate work experience prior to the start of this story. Colleen Coble should’ve written that the twins were born at the end of Shannon’s undergrad college years and that Shannon put herself through vet school during the first 4 years of Kylie’s life.
This discrepancy was glaring in my eyes, although it did not take away from my enjoyment of the story. Toward the end of the book, another error occurred that is a spoiler for me to explain, so I won’t. I’ll just say that she wrote that one character finally said something that the character had actually fist said 4 pages earlier.
I also felt the climax was a little, well, I guess flat. The resolution, at least – how the villain is defeated. I don’t think the villian’s actions at the end were consistent with who that character was portrayed to be. It smacked of convenient rather than believable. But, again, it didn’t make me dislike the novel on whole.
Shannon Astor gave birth to twins but then was told one of the babies had died. Five years later, she returns home and meets a little girl who looks so startlingly like her own daughter she questions the past. Other books would drag out this plot. Colleen’s characters behave like real people. Shannon immediately discovers the truth (don’t worry, no spoiler here, this comes out by the 4th chapter). What she does about it makes this novel’s plot unique. This is a story of love, about what a parent will do or give up for their children’s happiness and well-being.
Of course, Lonestar Secrets is also a suspense. Shannon’s friend has been kidnapped, and the abductor wants Shannon to return something. But she has no idea what. She’ll have to learn to trust her new husband, Jack, and stop keeping secrets from him. The suspense plot is twisted and convoluted enough to satisfy the toughest critic. I never suspected the identity of the villain.
Overall, this is a novel I would recommend. However, there were a few things that disappointed me, because I believe in Colleen Coble’s integrity as a writer. The first thing that jumped out at me was the timeline of Shannon’s college life versus her daughters’ ages. Colleen writes that Shannon’s twins were born while she was still in college and that she managed to finish college and complete vet school while taking care of her daughter. Later, she writes that Kylie was in preschool by the time Shannon started vet school. At the time of the story, Kylie is 5 years old. Achieving a veterinary degree takes 4 years. Preschool is generally from age 2.9 years up to five years old. That means Shannon finished vet school in less than 2 years, because she also had post-graduate work experience prior to the start of this story. Colleen Coble should’ve written that the twins were born at the end of Shannon’s undergrad college years and that Shannon put herself through vet school during the first 4 years of Kylie’s life.
This discrepancy was glaring in my eyes, although it did not take away from my enjoyment of the story. Toward the end of the book, another error occurred that is a spoiler for me to explain, so I won’t. I’ll just say that she wrote that one character finally said something that the character had actually fist said 4 pages earlier.
I also felt the climax was a little, well, I guess flat. The resolution, at least – how the villain is defeated. I don’t think the villian’s actions at the end were consistent with who that character was portrayed to be. It smacked of convenient rather than believable. But, again, it didn’t make me dislike the novel on whole.
October 24, 2024
It’s so cliche but I loved it anyway 😂
October 23, 2009
Shannon Aster, a vet, comes back to West Texas. She had left it as a single mother five years back. Her uncle has left her the farm and she wants her daughter to have a better life. Despite the betrayals of the past she thinks that West Texas is home for her daughter Kylie.
When she sees Faith, the daughter of Horse Trainer Jack MacGowan, she is amazed. Faith looks exactly like her daughter Kylie and both the girls take to each other instantly. Shannon has to get to the bottom of it. Reluctantly Jack too has to agree. Both find themselves in the midst of mystery about the resemblance of the girls, a lost spanish treasure, and a black stallion who loves Shannan. Somehow down the way, they unite their strengths to get into the bottom of it all.
Someone has kidnapped Mary Beth, Shannon's best friend and is asking for 8 million dollars from Shannon, who doesn't have that kind of money. Although she fears for her friend's life, but she doesn't trust Jack enough to tell him about her problems. What with her daughter's father to coming into the picture, it becomes very difficult for Shannon to fight alone.
The mystery about the girls is solved early enough and both Sannon and Jack try to find the best solution. But who is blackmailing Shannon and what is he after, is not revealed until the end and it comes as a complete surprise. The countryside is beautifully described. With other interesting characters like Allie and Rick (of Lonestar Sanctuary), it is an extremely readable novel. Shannon is a strong individual who makes something of herself even though she has no support and has a young daughter. Jack feels guilty about falling in love with her because he thinks he betrays his dead wife's memory. But both love the little girls, Faith and Kylie, are instantly bonded as soon as they meet.
The book does get repetitive at places but it is easy comfortable read, which gets finished fast. There are so many secrets to be revealed and that is what keeps one hooked. I liked Coble's writing and will look out for more of her books.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson for the copy.
When she sees Faith, the daughter of Horse Trainer Jack MacGowan, she is amazed. Faith looks exactly like her daughter Kylie and both the girls take to each other instantly. Shannon has to get to the bottom of it. Reluctantly Jack too has to agree. Both find themselves in the midst of mystery about the resemblance of the girls, a lost spanish treasure, and a black stallion who loves Shannan. Somehow down the way, they unite their strengths to get into the bottom of it all.
Someone has kidnapped Mary Beth, Shannon's best friend and is asking for 8 million dollars from Shannon, who doesn't have that kind of money. Although she fears for her friend's life, but she doesn't trust Jack enough to tell him about her problems. What with her daughter's father to coming into the picture, it becomes very difficult for Shannon to fight alone.
The mystery about the girls is solved early enough and both Sannon and Jack try to find the best solution. But who is blackmailing Shannon and what is he after, is not revealed until the end and it comes as a complete surprise. The countryside is beautifully described. With other interesting characters like Allie and Rick (of Lonestar Sanctuary), it is an extremely readable novel. Shannon is a strong individual who makes something of herself even though she has no support and has a young daughter. Jack feels guilty about falling in love with her because he thinks he betrays his dead wife's memory. But both love the little girls, Faith and Kylie, are instantly bonded as soon as they meet.
The book does get repetitive at places but it is easy comfortable read, which gets finished fast. There are so many secrets to be revealed and that is what keeps one hooked. I liked Coble's writing and will look out for more of her books.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson for the copy.
October 23, 2010
Title: LONESTAR SECRETS
Author: Colleen Coble
Publisher: Doubleday
2008
ISBN: 978-0-7394-9860-6
Genre: Inspirational/contemporary
Shannon Astor swore she’d never return to the town of Bluebird Crossing, Texas. Her parents were killed there and she lived with a harsh uncle. After Shannon gave birth to twins, and one died, Shannon took her remaining daughter and went to school to become a vet. Years later, Shannon was offered a job in Bluebird Crossing, and she returns home to her uncle’s ranch, now hers.
A body is found on the ranch, that of the old ranch hand, but the death appears to be unsuspicious. But that is the least of Shannon’s concerns. A local rancher, Jack, a man Shannon despises, has a daughter who is identical to Shannon’s daughter. Same birthdays. Same clinic. And Shannon’s daughter, Kylie is adamant that Faith is her twin sister. Shannon had never told Kylie she had a twin.
But secrets are hidden, lives are at stake, and Jack and Shannon battle for custody of Faith. Shannon wants both her children, and Jack is unwilling to give up the one he has. What will it take to reach a compromise?
LONESTAR SECRETS is the sequel to Lonestar Sanctuary though it easily stands alone. The characters in Lonestar Sanctuary are prevalent in this book though. I wanted to read this book since I read the first one, and Colleen Coble ranked high on my must-read authors list. But I didn’t care for this series as much as I did her other series or stand-alone books.
Shannon is a strong woman, suspicious, and believing everyone is out to get her, while hauling herself up on her own boot-straps. She is used to taking care of herself, but will grudgingly allow close friends access to her life. She doesn’t like Jack because he’s the son of a senator and he did her wrong once years ago when he was eighteen. I can understand her attitudes as I’ve known other single parents who respond the same way, so I’d say that Ms. Coble did her research there, she is quite realistic. But I didn’t grow to love Shannon the way I wanted to. Jack on the other hand was a sweetheart who responded kindly even while he stood firm on the issues he believed in. Fans of Ms. Coble won’t want to miss LONESTAR SECRETS. Available from your favorite booksellers. 321 pages.
Author: Colleen Coble
Publisher: Doubleday
2008
ISBN: 978-0-7394-9860-6
Genre: Inspirational/contemporary
Shannon Astor swore she’d never return to the town of Bluebird Crossing, Texas. Her parents were killed there and she lived with a harsh uncle. After Shannon gave birth to twins, and one died, Shannon took her remaining daughter and went to school to become a vet. Years later, Shannon was offered a job in Bluebird Crossing, and she returns home to her uncle’s ranch, now hers.
A body is found on the ranch, that of the old ranch hand, but the death appears to be unsuspicious. But that is the least of Shannon’s concerns. A local rancher, Jack, a man Shannon despises, has a daughter who is identical to Shannon’s daughter. Same birthdays. Same clinic. And Shannon’s daughter, Kylie is adamant that Faith is her twin sister. Shannon had never told Kylie she had a twin.
But secrets are hidden, lives are at stake, and Jack and Shannon battle for custody of Faith. Shannon wants both her children, and Jack is unwilling to give up the one he has. What will it take to reach a compromise?
LONESTAR SECRETS is the sequel to Lonestar Sanctuary though it easily stands alone. The characters in Lonestar Sanctuary are prevalent in this book though. I wanted to read this book since I read the first one, and Colleen Coble ranked high on my must-read authors list. But I didn’t care for this series as much as I did her other series or stand-alone books.
Shannon is a strong woman, suspicious, and believing everyone is out to get her, while hauling herself up on her own boot-straps. She is used to taking care of herself, but will grudgingly allow close friends access to her life. She doesn’t like Jack because he’s the son of a senator and he did her wrong once years ago when he was eighteen. I can understand her attitudes as I’ve known other single parents who respond the same way, so I’d say that Ms. Coble did her research there, she is quite realistic. But I didn’t grow to love Shannon the way I wanted to. Jack on the other hand was a sweetheart who responded kindly even while he stood firm on the issues he believed in. Fans of Ms. Coble won’t want to miss LONESTAR SECRETS. Available from your favorite booksellers. 321 pages.
September 22, 2023
Hard to rate this one because I really loved all of the characters as well as the family dynamics between the characters. However, the story line is completely unrealistic. With the threat of danger so imminent, the characters mostly go about their business like there's no urgency to really take action about any of the danger.
Loved the setting. Loved the way the children play into this story. Loved the short adventures into an old home and a camper. It's clean, with almost no faith based element. Mystery and very light suspense in this one. I think the suspense is so light because the characters didn't seem to feel like they were in any significant danger despite the circumstances.
I will go on to the third book in the series because I have loved all of the characters in the first two books. I really enjoyed that the main characters in the first book were in this one. And I did enjoy the first book more than this one, so I'm interested to read the third.
Last note-one of the main characters has multiple sclerosis. I thought that was worth mentioning in case anyone is every looking for a book that features that. It is part of the story line.
Loved the setting. Loved the way the children play into this story. Loved the short adventures into an old home and a camper. It's clean, with almost no faith based element. Mystery and very light suspense in this one. I think the suspense is so light because the characters didn't seem to feel like they were in any significant danger despite the circumstances.
I will go on to the third book in the series because I have loved all of the characters in the first two books. I really enjoyed that the main characters in the first book were in this one. And I did enjoy the first book more than this one, so I'm interested to read the third.
Last note-one of the main characters has multiple sclerosis. I thought that was worth mentioning in case anyone is every looking for a book that features that. It is part of the story line.
March 30, 2025
A solid read from my Colleen Coble backlist TBR. The story was intriguing although it was a bit of a hard read for me as the storyline with the two little girls broke my heart. As a parent myself, it was hard to read. I also struggled some with Jack’s attitude in the story. I did think it was cool that Colleen added in some specific health challenges for Shannon, that’s something you don’t see a ton of, so I appreciated that element to the story.
November 4, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Really liking the western settings right now. Ready for my own homestead :)
The twins were fun and adorable. The main characters relatable, admirable, and feisty. The prized horses amazing as always.
I think Coble does a great job of giving you a thrill/mystery without eliciting true fear. I’m grateful for her faith based writing.
Really liking the western settings right now. Ready for my own homestead :)
The twins were fun and adorable. The main characters relatable, admirable, and feisty. The prized horses amazing as always.
I think Coble does a great job of giving you a thrill/mystery without eliciting true fear. I’m grateful for her faith based writing.
September 25, 2020
Good series.
June 9, 2025
the plot twists
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2019
Another great Christian Romance audio book!
July 4, 2022
Super quick and cute read but was very similar to the first book in the series.
November 15, 2025
3.5, typical love story ups and downs with a mystery twist. And horses! That’s why the .5.
January 3, 2020
Well, this was my first book finished in 2020. I started it in 2019, but I’m happy to welcome it as the first book on my 2020 shelf. I was excited to get a chance to read Shannon’s story and this mystery was definitely very intriguing.
What I Liked: The mystery of who was behind all of the crimes in this book was very suspenseful. I had my own suspicions, but in the end I was definitely surprised.
The twins, Kylie and Faith, were so sweet and were probably my favorite characters in this book. Jack was also a favorite.
What I Didn’t Like: Okay, folks, the reason this book lost two stars from me was because of Shannon. While she was a likeable character, all of the secrets drove me mad. (I get that with the title of this book, “Lonestar Secrets”, you’re going to get a lot of secrets, but I felt that all of the secrets except for the first one about the look-alike girls were dragged on for SOOOOO long that I got really frustrated with the character. In the process of holding the secrets close to herself, Shannon selfishly hurt Jack and that really bothered me. But we all have own issues, so I won’t harp too much on that.
Another one of my issues was with the whole issue of “you broke my trust in high school” thing. I was expecting by the way Shannon was acting that the reason Jack had lost her trust in him was going to be something HUGE! And when I found out what it was, it just seemed so…petty. I’m sorry, but practically saying Jack ruined her high school years and her young adult life because he accidentally broke her confidence about something that in my opinion was quite silly, just really annoyed me. Yes, it sounded like Jack was immature, but I felt that it was just exaggerated. She held it over Jack’s head for ¾ of the way through this book and I finally got to the point of: “Get over yourself. We’ve all been hurt by someone like that in the past, but we got over it.” Anyway, I will stop my rant now. I just don’t have much room for a part of the plot that is so psyched up as a “big deal” and it doesn’t turn out to be such a biggie in my opinion. I mean, what Jack did would obviously hurt a lot, but I don’t think it’s: “You ruined my trust in you and it’s going to be VERY hard, nearly impossible, to gain my trust back” worthy. I also don't buy the idea of the whole town viewing her as "weird" because of what was found out about her. I think they would most likely just chalk it up to her just being young and maybe a bit silly.
*Cue stepping off my soap box now.* :D
I give this book 3/5 stars for another enjoyable book by this author. I’m sad to leave all of these awesome characters behind and wish there was more to the series.
What I Liked: The mystery of who was behind all of the crimes in this book was very suspenseful. I had my own suspicions, but in the end I was definitely surprised.
The twins, Kylie and Faith, were so sweet and were probably my favorite characters in this book. Jack was also a favorite.
What I Didn’t Like: Okay, folks, the reason this book lost two stars from me was because of Shannon. While she was a likeable character, all of the secrets drove me mad. (I get that with the title of this book, “Lonestar Secrets”, you’re going to get a lot of secrets, but I felt that all of the secrets except for the first one about the look-alike girls were dragged on for SOOOOO long that I got really frustrated with the character. In the process of holding the secrets close to herself, Shannon selfishly hurt Jack and that really bothered me. But we all have own issues, so I won’t harp too much on that.
Another one of my issues was with the whole issue of “you broke my trust in high school” thing. I was expecting by the way Shannon was acting that the reason Jack had lost her trust in him was going to be something HUGE! And when I found out what it was, it just seemed so…petty. I’m sorry, but practically saying Jack ruined her high school years and her young adult life because he accidentally broke her confidence about something that in my opinion was quite silly, just really annoyed me. Yes, it sounded like Jack was immature, but I felt that it was just exaggerated. She held it over Jack’s head for ¾ of the way through this book and I finally got to the point of: “Get over yourself. We’ve all been hurt by someone like that in the past, but we got over it.” Anyway, I will stop my rant now. I just don’t have much room for a part of the plot that is so psyched up as a “big deal” and it doesn’t turn out to be such a biggie in my opinion. I mean, what Jack did would obviously hurt a lot, but I don’t think it’s: “You ruined my trust in you and it’s going to be VERY hard, nearly impossible, to gain my trust back” worthy. I also don't buy the idea of the whole town viewing her as "weird" because of what was found out about her. I think they would most likely just chalk it up to her just being young and maybe a bit silly.
*Cue stepping off my soap box now.* :D
I give this book 3/5 stars for another enjoyable book by this author. I’m sad to leave all of these awesome characters behind and wish there was more to the series.
August 7, 2012
another great read by coble in the lonestar series. It is a clean, fun romance telling how love is a choice. I love how the characters from the sanctuary are involved and you can continue to see their lives progress (Allie and Rick Bailey).
In secrets,Shannon a single mother of a 5 year old girl has made the break and sacrifice to go back to west Texas for a vet job that will help her and her child get a new break from a lower paying job in San Antonio and the cruddy living she had there. Her parents, who are now deceased made growing up there harder by be treasure hunters and people who didn't get a lot of respect in their raising of their daughter. Her uncle helped with a roof over their head but that is it until he died leaving her a rundown ranch house. What she didn't plan on was the surprise of a look a like to her daughter when she was told her daughter's twin died. The truth is revealed that one of her daughter was purposely switched and given to another whose baby died... Jack MacGowan an old friend is her daughter's daddy. His wife died earlier in the year leaving him a widow. Instead of fighting for the girls in court, both decide to save the girls that experience and marry for convenience. Neither is too happy about the idea, but the girls needs come first. Shannon desires to be loved and accepted into a family, but after Faith her daughter that was taken finds out the truth it takes time for her to allow another "mother's" love and Jack isn't too fast to allow his heart to open for another woman either.
Shannon still holds little trust in Jack due to past experience and holds secrets of her MS, danger in the form of threats to her friends, and the treasure her parents found and died trying to retrieve. She blunders when she doesn't allow Jack into her confidence. Then the girls paternal father finds out about the twins and wants to cause problems because he and Jack are rivals in the mustang breaking business. Little by little fences are mended and broken down allowing love and families to grow. I like how the message of love as an action not just words is portrayed.
In secrets,Shannon a single mother of a 5 year old girl has made the break and sacrifice to go back to west Texas for a vet job that will help her and her child get a new break from a lower paying job in San Antonio and the cruddy living she had there. Her parents, who are now deceased made growing up there harder by be treasure hunters and people who didn't get a lot of respect in their raising of their daughter. Her uncle helped with a roof over their head but that is it until he died leaving her a rundown ranch house. What she didn't plan on was the surprise of a look a like to her daughter when she was told her daughter's twin died. The truth is revealed that one of her daughter was purposely switched and given to another whose baby died... Jack MacGowan an old friend is her daughter's daddy. His wife died earlier in the year leaving him a widow. Instead of fighting for the girls in court, both decide to save the girls that experience and marry for convenience. Neither is too happy about the idea, but the girls needs come first. Shannon desires to be loved and accepted into a family, but after Faith her daughter that was taken finds out the truth it takes time for her to allow another "mother's" love and Jack isn't too fast to allow his heart to open for another woman either.
Shannon still holds little trust in Jack due to past experience and holds secrets of her MS, danger in the form of threats to her friends, and the treasure her parents found and died trying to retrieve. She blunders when she doesn't allow Jack into her confidence. Then the girls paternal father finds out about the twins and wants to cause problems because he and Jack are rivals in the mustang breaking business. Little by little fences are mended and broken down allowing love and families to grow. I like how the message of love as an action not just words is portrayed.
September 14, 2009
I got a bit nervous when I realized this book was part of the Lonestar series but after reading it, it seems to be a stand alone title.
Lonestar Secrets (click on the title to read the beginning)is the story of Shannon who is going back home to Texas; she's a single mom who is willing to put her past behind her in order to provide her daughter with a chance at a better life. Soon after her arrival in Texas she meets up with Jack, a now widowed father, whose daughter looks surprisingly like Shannon's daughter. Very quickly the 'mystery' of the look-alike girls is solved but there is still more intrigue as an unknown person threatens Shannon's friend Mary Beth and insists Shannon pay a large ransom to keep her safe. In addition, there is the ever changing relationship between Shannon and Jack including secrets untold.
Colleen Coble did a great job of combining romance, intrigue, and suspense in one enjoyable story. At first I thought the story was going to be boring since the question of the look-alikes was resolved so early in the book but there were other plot developments that kept my interest. I look forward to reading more titles by Colleen Coble and wonder if she has plans to write a sequel to Lonestar Secrets.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson for providing this book for me to read and review.
Lonestar Secrets (click on the title to read the beginning)is the story of Shannon who is going back home to Texas; she's a single mom who is willing to put her past behind her in order to provide her daughter with a chance at a better life. Soon after her arrival in Texas she meets up with Jack, a now widowed father, whose daughter looks surprisingly like Shannon's daughter. Very quickly the 'mystery' of the look-alike girls is solved but there is still more intrigue as an unknown person threatens Shannon's friend Mary Beth and insists Shannon pay a large ransom to keep her safe. In addition, there is the ever changing relationship between Shannon and Jack including secrets untold.
Colleen Coble did a great job of combining romance, intrigue, and suspense in one enjoyable story. At first I thought the story was going to be boring since the question of the look-alikes was resolved so early in the book but there were other plot developments that kept my interest. I look forward to reading more titles by Colleen Coble and wonder if she has plans to write a sequel to Lonestar Secrets.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson for providing this book for me to read and review.
September 11, 2009
Shannon is looking for a chance to better her life for herself and her daughter. While she has struggled as a single mother and put herself through vet school, the ranch bequeathed to her offers a new opportunity. The vet clinic in town is also available to her, so off she goes. But, does the little town hold painful secrets for her? And, what's up with Mary Beth?
Jack is struggling with painful memories of his deceased wife, but his daughter is the light of his life. The ranch and training horses give him an outlet for his passion and give him a great place to raise his daughter. What is his connection to Shannon?
Faith and Kylie are two little girls caught in a whirlwind of secrets. What will happen when the secrets come out? Will they both accept the outcome?
I totally enjoyed this book! There is mystery, suspense, love, faith, and humor. The location and characters drew me into the story and provided a comfortable place to hear the story. The animals also drew me in - Jewel the gorgeous stallion and the dogs, Moses, Wyatt, and Jem. This is a story for anyone who loves a good read.
Jack is struggling with painful memories of his deceased wife, but his daughter is the light of his life. The ranch and training horses give him an outlet for his passion and give him a great place to raise his daughter. What is his connection to Shannon?
Faith and Kylie are two little girls caught in a whirlwind of secrets. What will happen when the secrets come out? Will they both accept the outcome?
I totally enjoyed this book! There is mystery, suspense, love, faith, and humor. The location and characters drew me into the story and provided a comfortable place to hear the story. The animals also drew me in - Jewel the gorgeous stallion and the dogs, Moses, Wyatt, and Jem. This is a story for anyone who loves a good read.
February 18, 2016
Oh my! I loved this book! Lonestar Secrets is the second in this series by Collen Coble. A lot of heartache, soul searching, murder, mystery, love, faith all rolled into one - Early on we discover an injustice dealt to Shannon - that she doesn't realise until a chance meeting at the Mustang Makeover pre-event, when her small daughter meets another identical looking girl - with the same birthday & place of birth. The girls widowed father, Jack, also notices, and off we go on quite the adventure. Secrets are revealed, mysteries are uncovered. This is a beautiful story of finding the courage to believe in love & trust in the right places. The addition of the stallion that roams the desert 'Jewel' and the way it feeds into the story, has such a touching ending. ' Faith is believing when we can't quite see'... Perfect!!
September 24, 2009
I read Lonestar Secrets by Colleen Coble as a member of the Thomas Nelson Book Review Blogger group.
Shannon Astor returns to her childhood home where secrets long buried start coming to light. Shannon finds herself caught in the middle of these secrets which place her life in danger.
This book was great. It had suspense, intrigue, romance, and held my attention throughout. There were a few parts of the book that were a bit far fetched, but the twists and turns were entertaining. Even though it is the second book in a series, I did not feel there was something missing by not reading the first. It is a stand alone book, but I look forward to reading Lonestar Sanctuary.
Before Lonestar Secrets I had not read any of Colleen Coble’s books. I have now found a new favorite author.
Shannon Astor returns to her childhood home where secrets long buried start coming to light. Shannon finds herself caught in the middle of these secrets which place her life in danger.
This book was great. It had suspense, intrigue, romance, and held my attention throughout. There were a few parts of the book that were a bit far fetched, but the twists and turns were entertaining. Even though it is the second book in a series, I did not feel there was something missing by not reading the first. It is a stand alone book, but I look forward to reading Lonestar Sanctuary.
Before Lonestar Secrets I had not read any of Colleen Coble’s books. I have now found a new favorite author.
February 4, 2019
Great story! Five years ago Shannon had twin girls and was told one had died. As soon as she was able to leave the hospital with the surviving twin, she left town swearing she was never looking back. After putting herself through vet school she get's offered a job back in her hometown, the place she swore never to return. As soon as she returns, secrets start to unfold and someone seems to be trying to harass her. Her only hope is to marry her high school nemesis, Jack MacGowan. A great story about new beginnings, hope for a good future for Shannon and her daughter's and possibly love.
May 7, 2014
I thought this was a very good story of people who make the best of a very difficult situation. It is about loving someone (their children) more than themselves and being willing to sacrifice for them. It is also about choosing to love and make a happy place. Both parties chose to do so and that is why it worked.
The mystery is there but does not take over the entire story.
I recommend this CLEAN romance to almost anyone.
The mystery is there but does not take over the entire story.
I recommend this CLEAN romance to almost anyone.
July 22, 2019
I liked the idea of the story, but there was way too much going on and it was so distracting. It reminded me of reading stories my 6th grader writes. Fine, but not enough character development and too many plots. Lost dog, and sickness, and someone is about to have a baby, and babies switched at birth, and everyone is out to kill you, and hidden treasure, and hidden bank account....all in a short book with no time for details before throwing in another twist.
August 28, 2024
2024: There’s just something about this series that I find exciting, with enduring characters, a gritty Texan setting, and a plot I didn’t quite remember the finale for. Themes of vulnerability and truth, as well as faith and trust. This story if my favorite of the series.
June 16, 2014
Another EXCELLENT story by Colleen Coble!
September 29, 2022
Meet Shannon, another scrappy, hard knock life heroine with a heart of gold...the most bombshell secrets are saved for the final denouement of the plot, where things just explode and then elegantly tie together into a seamless resolution. Yes, I had to suspend my disbelief to enjoy this book, especially the part about the friend Mary Beth...I didn't love this book enough to throw down a spoiler, but it kept me occupied for a few hours while homeless during Hurricane Ian in Florida. Of course, the love story was there, the two girls who look like twins...could they possibly have been switched at birth? (So many nurses and doctors playing God out there, jeez!) How to win the love of the children and gently explain the crazy story to them, uh oh, here comes their no-good biological father threatening the whole new arrangement with Shannon's new love, oh my God...what will happen...oh yeah, Shannon also has MS and is keeping that from her new love. I was really not buying the convenient plot devices, but whatever.
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