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Wyoming Sunrise #2
The Laws of Attraction
If widowed town seamstress Nell Armstrong has to make one more pair of boring chaps for the cowboys in her tiny Wyoming town, she might lose her mind. So meeting Brand Nolte, a widower father struggling to raise three girls, seems like her dream come true. Brand has no idea how to dress the girls, and Nell finally has a chance to both create beautiful dresses and teach the girls to sew.
But Nell is much more than a seamstress, and the unique legal and investigative skills and knowledge she picked up alongside her late lawman husband soon become critical when a wounded stagecoach-robbery survivor is brought to town. As danger closes in from all sides, Nell and Brand must discover why there seems to be a bull's-eye on their backs.
Fan favorite Mary Connealy invites you back to 19th-century Wyoming for this adventuresome Western romance, complete with a budding romance, witty banter, and an absorbing mystery.
But Nell is much more than a seamstress, and the unique legal and investigative skills and knowledge she picked up alongside her late lawman husband soon become critical when a wounded stagecoach-robbery survivor is brought to town. As danger closes in from all sides, Nell and Brand must discover why there seems to be a bull's-eye on their backs.
Fan favorite Mary Connealy invites you back to 19th-century Wyoming for this adventuresome Western romance, complete with a budding romance, witty banter, and an absorbing mystery.
301 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2023
117 people are currently reading
3417 people want to read
About the author
Mary Connealy
118 books2,495 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 188 reviews
June 25, 2023
Another book that pulls you right into the story! We are back in this small town of Pine Valley in 1871 Wyoming and the dead eye gang continues to reek havoc!
In book 2 of the Wyoming Sunrise series, we follow Nell, the widowed seamstress we met in book 1, Forged in Love. I was so interested in Nell's story as in book 1 she was a fantastic, and a bit mysterious, side character. The book opens in Nell's shop where she primarily makes chaps for westerners. A young girl runs into her shop to hide when her father comes in looking for her. The young girl is embarrassed about her father having her wear breeches instead of a dress to town. When the girl explains this to her father, Brand, Nell overhears how she and her 2 sisters wish they could wear dresses - but Brand can't afford to buy them. Nell offers a proposition to Brand and the girls that if they will work in her store for a dime a day, she will make the girls dresses. Nell truly loves making dresses but no one ever needs to buy them from her so she sees this as the perfect opportunity to make dresses and have some nice company in her shop working with her. She also doesn't want to appear as giving Brand charity so she offers the work trade. The girls are ecstatic, their father agrees and so the girls start to come after school and work for the dresses, while learning how to sew. But things get crazy quickly as the dead eye gang make their way back to town, men end up killed and injured, danger is lurking everywhere, leaving Brand, the girls, and Nell in trouble. Things take off from here as we see Nell take a leadership role in town, Brand try to protect his family and a romance begin to form between the two of them.
Brand and Nell are both widows so I knew I would love this story from the beginning because I am always here for a second chance at love story when they never expected it. Especially a single Dad with children just trying to do the best he can. And Brand was just that. I loved his character as he was a great guy just trying to provide for his family after the death of his wife in childbirth. When he meets Nell he starts to wonder if he could find love again. Nell is a bit of a broken character as she has a history of arguments with her husband, but its not explained in detail. We know she is very on guard about getting into a new relationship and makes it clear her next husband will never raise their voice to her in any way as her previous one did. Seeing them get to know each other and seeing Nell help Brand's daughters was beautiful.
We have some nice mentions of prayers, going to church and asking God for protection that I really appreciated seeing too.
Nell is a strong woman and we have a lot of discussion centered around women's rights and the women's suffrage movement that was going on during that time. I did really like some of this detail and showing how a woman can do anything just a man - but sometimes it was a bit overdone for me personally and I wanted to get back to the story to develop more of Nell and Brand's romance together, instead of so much of those details. But it was still nice to see that representation and history aspect as Nell was the first Justice of the Peace there in town - and that was a big deal for women during that time.
Overall, I did really like the story and will be continuing on in the series. My favorite parts in this story were surrounding the 3 daughters - they were great and it was nice to see Nell get to know them and Brand learn how to help them in ways he couldn't before.
I think if you love a good western story, a strong female lead, widowers finding love again and great family vibes - you will enjoy this! Thank you to Bethany House and NetGalley for a copy to honestly read and review.
In book 2 of the Wyoming Sunrise series, we follow Nell, the widowed seamstress we met in book 1, Forged in Love. I was so interested in Nell's story as in book 1 she was a fantastic, and a bit mysterious, side character. The book opens in Nell's shop where she primarily makes chaps for westerners. A young girl runs into her shop to hide when her father comes in looking for her. The young girl is embarrassed about her father having her wear breeches instead of a dress to town. When the girl explains this to her father, Brand, Nell overhears how she and her 2 sisters wish they could wear dresses - but Brand can't afford to buy them. Nell offers a proposition to Brand and the girls that if they will work in her store for a dime a day, she will make the girls dresses. Nell truly loves making dresses but no one ever needs to buy them from her so she sees this as the perfect opportunity to make dresses and have some nice company in her shop working with her. She also doesn't want to appear as giving Brand charity so she offers the work trade. The girls are ecstatic, their father agrees and so the girls start to come after school and work for the dresses, while learning how to sew. But things get crazy quickly as the dead eye gang make their way back to town, men end up killed and injured, danger is lurking everywhere, leaving Brand, the girls, and Nell in trouble. Things take off from here as we see Nell take a leadership role in town, Brand try to protect his family and a romance begin to form between the two of them.
Brand and Nell are both widows so I knew I would love this story from the beginning because I am always here for a second chance at love story when they never expected it. Especially a single Dad with children just trying to do the best he can. And Brand was just that. I loved his character as he was a great guy just trying to provide for his family after the death of his wife in childbirth. When he meets Nell he starts to wonder if he could find love again. Nell is a bit of a broken character as she has a history of arguments with her husband, but its not explained in detail. We know she is very on guard about getting into a new relationship and makes it clear her next husband will never raise their voice to her in any way as her previous one did. Seeing them get to know each other and seeing Nell help Brand's daughters was beautiful.
We have some nice mentions of prayers, going to church and asking God for protection that I really appreciated seeing too.
Nell is a strong woman and we have a lot of discussion centered around women's rights and the women's suffrage movement that was going on during that time. I did really like some of this detail and showing how a woman can do anything just a man - but sometimes it was a bit overdone for me personally and I wanted to get back to the story to develop more of Nell and Brand's romance together, instead of so much of those details. But it was still nice to see that representation and history aspect as Nell was the first Justice of the Peace there in town - and that was a big deal for women during that time.
Overall, I did really like the story and will be continuing on in the series. My favorite parts in this story were surrounding the 3 daughters - they were great and it was nice to see Nell get to know them and Brand learn how to help them in ways he couldn't before.
I think if you love a good western story, a strong female lead, widowers finding love again and great family vibes - you will enjoy this! Thank you to Bethany House and NetGalley for a copy to honestly read and review.
September 22, 2023
I liked Nell's story better than Mariah's, it was sweeter, and made me tear up right at the start at how kind Nell was to Brand's daughters. The whole romance was much cuter due to that, I have a soft spot for characters who marry single parents to help them raise their kids.
And it was so fun seeing Nell excited about FINALLY being able to sew some dresses, and just interacting with the girls. She's probably my favourite character in the series so far, but Becky still has a chance to beat her.
The same narrator that did the first book, narrated this one too, I still love her voice.
Also, I'd love if these books became a tv series, I think they're perfect for that.
And it was so fun seeing Nell excited about FINALLY being able to sew some dresses, and just interacting with the girls. She's probably my favourite character in the series so far, but Becky still has a chance to beat her.
The same narrator that did the first book, narrated this one too, I still love her voice.
Also, I'd love if these books became a tv series, I think they're perfect for that.
September 22, 2024
4.5 stars
I started in the middle of the series, but I still enjoyed the storyline. I liked the female lead, the supporting characters, and the mystery. I did feel like the romance was a little sudden, but it was still an enjoyable story!
I started in the middle of the series, but I still enjoyed the storyline. I liked the female lead, the supporting characters, and the mystery. I did feel like the romance was a little sudden, but it was still an enjoyable story!
June 27, 2023
“Would it kill someone in this town to want a few yards of lace?”
Poor Nell, resigned to make boring chaps over and over again when what she really wants to make is dresses. But no matter how much she charges or how long her turnaround time is, the cowboys around Pine Valley keep ordering her chaps. And yes, she makes more than a decent living at it, but I chuckled more than once in The Laws of Attraction at her obvious exasperation over the situation. Much to Nell’s delight – and mine – she doesn’t have to wait beyond this book’s first chapter for the opportunity to make dresses for three young girls. Motherless girls, to be specific, who have a sincere & goodhearted dad whose only real flaw is being somewhat clueless about what girls need.
I’m sure you fellow romance fans can see where this is going to lead, but I’m equally sure that you won’t predict exactly how it gets there. Connealy’s trademark dry wit lends itself perfectly to western romance, and the no-nonsense practicality she gives her characters means the strong women and steady men on these pages are good at getting themselves – and others – out of tight situations. The exact kind of situations that abound in The Laws of Attraction, as a matter of fact. Menacing monsters – of the two and four-legged varieties – show their claws in various ways throughout the story, and I found myself not wanting to put it down until I knew everyone was safe. And since romance is usually not practical or no-nonsense, it was fun (and swoony) to watch Nell and Brand stumble into love too!
Bottom Line: The Laws of Attraction by Mary Connealy offers a little something for every reader: romance, women’s rights, history, mountains, endearing dogs, shootouts, and all the adventure (and cowboys) of the wild, wild West. Before starting this series, I had no idea that Wyoming was so progressive when it came to women, particularly when it came to the right to vote and the right to hold positions typically reserved for men. I’ve really enjoyed learning more about that in the context of these Mary Connealy historic western romcoms, with the little tidbits of info the author tucks away into the entertaining story. And most of all, I loved these engaging characters, and I loved watching them grow to love each other, too. Already eager for Becky’s story in book three!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Poor Nell, resigned to make boring chaps over and over again when what she really wants to make is dresses. But no matter how much she charges or how long her turnaround time is, the cowboys around Pine Valley keep ordering her chaps. And yes, she makes more than a decent living at it, but I chuckled more than once in The Laws of Attraction at her obvious exasperation over the situation. Much to Nell’s delight – and mine – she doesn’t have to wait beyond this book’s first chapter for the opportunity to make dresses for three young girls. Motherless girls, to be specific, who have a sincere & goodhearted dad whose only real flaw is being somewhat clueless about what girls need.
I’m sure you fellow romance fans can see where this is going to lead, but I’m equally sure that you won’t predict exactly how it gets there. Connealy’s trademark dry wit lends itself perfectly to western romance, and the no-nonsense practicality she gives her characters means the strong women and steady men on these pages are good at getting themselves – and others – out of tight situations. The exact kind of situations that abound in The Laws of Attraction, as a matter of fact. Menacing monsters – of the two and four-legged varieties – show their claws in various ways throughout the story, and I found myself not wanting to put it down until I knew everyone was safe. And since romance is usually not practical or no-nonsense, it was fun (and swoony) to watch Nell and Brand stumble into love too!
Bottom Line: The Laws of Attraction by Mary Connealy offers a little something for every reader: romance, women’s rights, history, mountains, endearing dogs, shootouts, and all the adventure (and cowboys) of the wild, wild West. Before starting this series, I had no idea that Wyoming was so progressive when it came to women, particularly when it came to the right to vote and the right to hold positions typically reserved for men. I’ve really enjoyed learning more about that in the context of these Mary Connealy historic western romcoms, with the little tidbits of info the author tucks away into the entertaining story. And most of all, I loved these engaging characters, and I loved watching them grow to love each other, too. Already eager for Becky’s story in book three!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
May 29, 2023
1871 Pine Valley, Wyoming
Such a cute start! When a "boy" barges into Nell's seamstress shop, it takes her a while to realize the newcomer is actually a young woman. Nell is delighted to have a reason to sew dresses instead of chaps.
The gang of bad men that surfaced in the first book of the series is back creating havoc in Pine Valley. This provides Nell an opportunity to share her strong investigative skills.
Three strong female characters in Nell, Becky and Mariah. New characters Brand and his three daughters were great additions.
Another well written western by Mary Connealy. I look forward to continuing the series.
My gratitude to publisher Bethany House for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Such a cute start! When a "boy" barges into Nell's seamstress shop, it takes her a while to realize the newcomer is actually a young woman. Nell is delighted to have a reason to sew dresses instead of chaps.
The gang of bad men that surfaced in the first book of the series is back creating havoc in Pine Valley. This provides Nell an opportunity to share her strong investigative skills.
Three strong female characters in Nell, Becky and Mariah. New characters Brand and his three daughters were great additions.
Another well written western by Mary Connealy. I look forward to continuing the series.
My gratitude to publisher Bethany House for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
July 8, 2023
I do love a book about a woman who marries a man just to raise his children, because she loves them (but only if they do not have a living mother, mind you), and in the second installment of Mary Connealy’s Wyoming Sunrise, The Laws of Attraction, we see an even stronger woman (than the main character of the first in the series), Nell, take charge and do just that. Along with a zillion other things- one of which is taking over as the judiciary for the area- a big first for women in America at the time of the book's setting.
When readers first meet Nell she is happy as she can be, a single woman who owns her own business making clothing. Unfortunately for Nell, because of the area in which she lives, Wyoming, all she is really asked to make is chaps. Loving to make women’s clothing, Nell has to beg women to take the dresses she makes. Despite charging huge prices, taking forever to make chaps, Nell gets more and more orders for them.
When Nell meets Brand Nolte and his three daughters, the fact they don't have a living mother is a boon to Nell. And that Notle has no idea what to do with three daughters who are coming of age to be little women, yet another. Because Nell does, she can make them dresses and have them stay with her everyday after school and work the prices of them off (Notle does not want to take charity). They can even make her hated chaps, and Nell can make the three girls proper clothing.
Despite the fact that Nell does fall in love with Notle’s girls first, Nolte is soon to follow in Nell’s heart. The sad fact is Nell likes her independence after a bad first marriage, with a husband who held her back and got physical with her. Nell is a very independent, fierce minded, and take charge kind of woman- but she is always helping others when taking control is needed. Nell is one of those people who stand up and take charge, giving orders and telling others how to handle a bad situation. That is how she ends up being elected as the judiciary in the area, a position she was picked for and one she didn't even seek.
It isn't helped that the Deadeye Gang is back and more deadly than ever. Another stagecoach has been robbed and just like the gang does, they left no one alive to tell the tale. That is after the gentlemen who was brought back dies while under the watch of the town, very suspicious like. Will the town survive the Deadeye Gang again? And what will become of Notle, his girls and Nell? Because after she is made judge many of the men in the area are grumbling and kicking up dirt. Will it be made into something more?
The Laws of Attraction, the second installment of The Wyoming's Sunrise, a wonderful western romance, along with characters who have a strong attachment and belief to their God!
Happy Reading!
When readers first meet Nell she is happy as she can be, a single woman who owns her own business making clothing. Unfortunately for Nell, because of the area in which she lives, Wyoming, all she is really asked to make is chaps. Loving to make women’s clothing, Nell has to beg women to take the dresses she makes. Despite charging huge prices, taking forever to make chaps, Nell gets more and more orders for them.
When Nell meets Brand Nolte and his three daughters, the fact they don't have a living mother is a boon to Nell. And that Notle has no idea what to do with three daughters who are coming of age to be little women, yet another. Because Nell does, she can make them dresses and have them stay with her everyday after school and work the prices of them off (Notle does not want to take charity). They can even make her hated chaps, and Nell can make the three girls proper clothing.
Despite the fact that Nell does fall in love with Notle’s girls first, Nolte is soon to follow in Nell’s heart. The sad fact is Nell likes her independence after a bad first marriage, with a husband who held her back and got physical with her. Nell is a very independent, fierce minded, and take charge kind of woman- but she is always helping others when taking control is needed. Nell is one of those people who stand up and take charge, giving orders and telling others how to handle a bad situation. That is how she ends up being elected as the judiciary in the area, a position she was picked for and one she didn't even seek.
It isn't helped that the Deadeye Gang is back and more deadly than ever. Another stagecoach has been robbed and just like the gang does, they left no one alive to tell the tale. That is after the gentlemen who was brought back dies while under the watch of the town, very suspicious like. Will the town survive the Deadeye Gang again? And what will become of Notle, his girls and Nell? Because after she is made judge many of the men in the area are grumbling and kicking up dirt. Will it be made into something more?
The Laws of Attraction, the second installment of The Wyoming's Sunrise, a wonderful western romance, along with characters who have a strong attachment and belief to their God!
Happy Reading!
June 7, 2023
This was such an enjoyable read. The heroine is a strong, independent woman who has created a life on her own but finds a family that needs what she can give. The hero has made a life for his daughters in the wilds of Wyoming, but finds that there are things they need he hadn’t considered. Add in a mystery, romance, and great supporting characters. I loved it!
May 21, 2024
I love everything about this book and series however I decided to lower my rating due to unbelievable impossibilities including a bull getting attacked by a bear and I also felt really sad about the horrible treatment of the bear as I hate when bad things happen to animals in books.
June 27, 2023
I love the cover of this book. I had read the previous one in this series so it was nice to follow up. This is Nell’s story.
I liked Nell, she’s strong, outspoken and all about women’s equality. It’s a fast moving book with plenty of action and some light romance. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy
I liked Nell, she’s strong, outspoken and all about women’s equality. It’s a fast moving book with plenty of action and some light romance. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy
May 5, 2023
The Laws of Attraction is done in classic Mary Connealy style. Returning readers to the series will enjoy spending time with the characters they met in book one, but it can easily be read as a stand-alone as well. The book is clean and wholesome, though there is little to no mention of God or relationships with Him. There is a sweet little side romance. All the loose ends tie up tidily with just the right ones left undone to interest you in returning for the next installment to find out who the remaining members of the gang are.
Nell’s internal commentary on chaps and hats made me smile more than once. Brand’s girls were sweet and charming and I hope that Cassie’s calm and cool in a crisis tendency is fleshed out in the next volume.
Women’s rights and suffrage are a recurring mention in the book. I truly enjoyed some details that seemed they may have been historical, although it wasn’t noted in my ARC copy whether these were factual or fabricated, such as Wyoming having women’s voting rights earlier than some surrounding states and thus being the deciding factor in our heroine deciding to stay and Wyoming having the first female justice of the peace. However, the message that women can do everything men can do was either voiced or portrayed so often it was somewhat exasperating. I did, however, really appreciate that she still painted the men as strong too and not only the women and the fact that Mariah enjoyed adding fancy scrollwork to her blacksmithing, highlighting that she was still innately feminine despite her job and that it’s not only ok, but good.
Sadly, I found Nell and Brand’s relationship underwhelming. It just didn’t seem to be developing and I never just felt myself really rooting for them. I was also a little disappointed that the bad guy was evident from his very first mention early in the book, with no suspicion ever clouding the assumption. The remaining members of the gang are still very much a secret to the readers however, don’t fear.
In summary, this book is a 3 star for me but I feel it’s largely due to personal preference on writing styles. I have no doubt loyal fans of Mary Connealy’s books and return readers from this series’ first installment are sure to be entertained by this light, easy read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through Interviews & Reviews in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 17, 2023
"They certainly grew them tough in Wyoming."
Another fun, fast-paced story in the Wyoming Sunrise series! This time it's Nell's turn to shine, and she is definitely a star.
Pine Valley's seamstress finally gets a chance to sew some dresses and get to know some new young ladies, becoming more involved in their lives. I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between their father, Brandon, and Nell. She surprises him at every turn. She is a tough gal underneath the feminine surface. I liked how he honored and respected her as a person, humbly accepting her help and supporting her in all her roles. He is a wonderful father too.
Nell's backstory is revealed at last, and the Deadeye Gang continues to cause trouble, adding more action and some suspense. Mentions of prayers, going to church, and looking to God for guidance and protection, added spiritual depth to the story in meaningful ways.
Recommend reading these in order to get a better picture and avoid spoilers. Looking forward to reading Becky's story. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley, as part of a LibraryThing giveaway. All opinions expressed are my own.)
Another fun, fast-paced story in the Wyoming Sunrise series! This time it's Nell's turn to shine, and she is definitely a star.
Pine Valley's seamstress finally gets a chance to sew some dresses and get to know some new young ladies, becoming more involved in their lives. I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between their father, Brandon, and Nell. She surprises him at every turn. She is a tough gal underneath the feminine surface. I liked how he honored and respected her as a person, humbly accepting her help and supporting her in all her roles. He is a wonderful father too.
Nell's backstory is revealed at last, and the Deadeye Gang continues to cause trouble, adding more action and some suspense. Mentions of prayers, going to church, and looking to God for guidance and protection, added spiritual depth to the story in meaningful ways.
Recommend reading these in order to get a better picture and avoid spoilers. Looking forward to reading Becky's story. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley, as part of a LibraryThing giveaway. All opinions expressed are my own.)
July 4, 2023
I am really enjoying this series from Mary Connealy. A woman blacksmith in the first story, and a seriously strong woman character in Nell in this story. I love these strong women main characters. The opening of this story immediately grabbed my attention and captured my interest. Can't wait for book 3!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher but also purchased my own Audible copy. All thoughts are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher but also purchased my own Audible copy. All thoughts are my own.
August 13, 2023
Her surprise skills may save the day...
Reading a Mary Connealy novel is always fun and The Laws Of Attraction was no exception. This second Wyoming Sunrise novel delivered just as much romance, comedy, and edge of your seat danger. Needless to say, things might have gotten a little neglected around the house but I wasn't going to abandon Nell and Brand with the vicious Deadeye Gang bent on silencing all possible witnesses and obstacles...
The Wyoming Sunrise series has proven to be an entertaining one to read. Each of the heroines has a somewhat unusual job, Nell makes chaps though she would much rather make dresses, and they show their world exactly what a woman can do if given a chance and the need arises. Those needs arising just might include an additional, also unusual, job title for one of our heroines. Those jobs also provide some extra danger as well as humorous moments...
The overarching mystery in this series continued in The Laws Of Attraction and I can say that Mary Connealy had some intense moments and shocking revelations in store for delighted readers such as myself. Even I didn't see some of it coming, at least until I was part way into this book, and it is always fun to be surprised.
The Laws Of Attraction is another excellent read from the talented pen of Mary Connealy. Her brand of historical western comedy romance shines bright in her Wyoming Sunrise series and they are completely enjoyable. Honestly, you won't want to miss a one...
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
Reading a Mary Connealy novel is always fun and The Laws Of Attraction was no exception. This second Wyoming Sunrise novel delivered just as much romance, comedy, and edge of your seat danger. Needless to say, things might have gotten a little neglected around the house but I wasn't going to abandon Nell and Brand with the vicious Deadeye Gang bent on silencing all possible witnesses and obstacles...
The Wyoming Sunrise series has proven to be an entertaining one to read. Each of the heroines has a somewhat unusual job, Nell makes chaps though she would much rather make dresses, and they show their world exactly what a woman can do if given a chance and the need arises. Those needs arising just might include an additional, also unusual, job title for one of our heroines. Those jobs also provide some extra danger as well as humorous moments...
The overarching mystery in this series continued in The Laws Of Attraction and I can say that Mary Connealy had some intense moments and shocking revelations in store for delighted readers such as myself. Even I didn't see some of it coming, at least until I was part way into this book, and it is always fun to be surprised.
The Laws Of Attraction is another excellent read from the talented pen of Mary Connealy. Her brand of historical western comedy romance shines bright in her Wyoming Sunrise series and they are completely enjoyable. Honestly, you won't want to miss a one...
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
May 8, 2023
The main female character in this book was widowed. She had a loveless marriage. She traveled with her brother, and he wanted to go further west, but she settled in a small town in Wyoming. She opened up a dress shop. The year was 1871, and Wyoming was way ahead of other states in letting women have rights. Nell tried to get ladies to buy dresses from her, but the main interest in this area was for chaps. She did not enjoy making chaps, but they were a good money maker for Nell.
One day a young girl burst into her shop asking Nell to hide her. I wondered if this girl suffered abuse, but thankfully this was not the case. She just did not like wearing men's clothing. She and her two younger sisters helped their widower father run a ranch, and the father did not realize that the girls wanted to wear dresses. This allowed Nell to make these girls some pretty frocks. Nell needed to ensure the father did not feel like she was offering charity, so she said the girls could come after school and work for these dresses. The father reluctantly agreed.
A lot happened in this town. There was danger lurking around the corner, and Nell, the girls, and Brand, the father, were threatened. Tragedy struck big time.
This was a fascinating historical romance and very easy to read. I enjoyed hearing more about the town and the state of Wyoming.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.
One day a young girl burst into her shop asking Nell to hide her. I wondered if this girl suffered abuse, but thankfully this was not the case. She just did not like wearing men's clothing. She and her two younger sisters helped their widower father run a ranch, and the father did not realize that the girls wanted to wear dresses. This allowed Nell to make these girls some pretty frocks. Nell needed to ensure the father did not feel like she was offering charity, so she said the girls could come after school and work for these dresses. The father reluctantly agreed.
A lot happened in this town. There was danger lurking around the corner, and Nell, the girls, and Brand, the father, were threatened. Tragedy struck big time.
This was a fascinating historical romance and very easy to read. I enjoyed hearing more about the town and the state of Wyoming.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.
August 21, 2023
THE LAWS OF ATTRACTION is about the danger a gang of outlaws brings to a small town and its people, in this story specifically a widow seamstress and a widower with three girls. It's about unexpected love and found family. It's about women's' rights, the struggle to have their voices heard, and take roles in the community against tradition and some men set in their ways and thinking. It's about faith and romance amidst hardship and danger. An overall sweet story full of heart.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters in this town a bit from the first book. I liked Nell with her mix of dainty and gumption then and I love her even more in this story. She steps up so many times and shows her grit and determination as well as her heart when she brings three girls without a mother into her life. Of course their father gets brought in too before he even knows what's happening, which adds a bit of humor and sets things up for possible romance. Brand is as steady as they come with a vulnerability that makes him swoon-worthy as he tries to raise his girls as best he can. He has his own solid determination and the desire to help others. The gang who was introduced in the first book are still causing trouble in this one and Nell and Brand find themselves in the middle of it as the story progresses. It's a good mix of romance, women's fiction, a bit of inspirational elements and an underlying feeling of danger that grows to the climatic end.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I enjoyed reading this. It's sweet with some parts more emotional and climatic than others. It's the loveable characters though, as they try to figure things out and find their own happily ever after with three adorable girls (I actually wouldn't mind a future series focused on them), that make this a great read!
Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters in this town a bit from the first book. I liked Nell with her mix of dainty and gumption then and I love her even more in this story. She steps up so many times and shows her grit and determination as well as her heart when she brings three girls without a mother into her life. Of course their father gets brought in too before he even knows what's happening, which adds a bit of humor and sets things up for possible romance. Brand is as steady as they come with a vulnerability that makes him swoon-worthy as he tries to raise his girls as best he can. He has his own solid determination and the desire to help others. The gang who was introduced in the first book are still causing trouble in this one and Nell and Brand find themselves in the middle of it as the story progresses. It's a good mix of romance, women's fiction, a bit of inspirational elements and an underlying feeling of danger that grows to the climatic end.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I enjoyed reading this. It's sweet with some parts more emotional and climatic than others. It's the loveable characters though, as they try to figure things out and find their own happily ever after with three adorable girls (I actually wouldn't mind a future series focused on them), that make this a great read!
Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
June 27, 2023
I can count on a few things with every Mary Connealy book series. 1. A suspense thread that connects each book (so you definitely want to read her series in order). 2. A group of people (sisters, brothers, friends, etc) who will find love. 3. An entertaining and engaging story that I don’t want to put down.
The Laws of Attraction is the second book of Connealy’s Wyoming Sunrise series. We met Nell—the seamstress who despises making chaps—in Forged in Love. Like her friend Mariah, Nell is an independent woman running a successful business. Brand is a homestead with three daughters (who happen to really need a mother figure in their lives). Brand’s daughters were my favorite characters in this story.
As someone who spent her middle and high school years in Wyoming, I appreciated the setting and enjoyed the focus on how the state was the first to give women many rights such as land ownership and voting. While the romance fell a bit flat for me, the rest of the story made up for it. And I’m looking forward to Becky’s book!
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
The Laws of Attraction is the second book of Connealy’s Wyoming Sunrise series. We met Nell—the seamstress who despises making chaps—in Forged in Love. Like her friend Mariah, Nell is an independent woman running a successful business. Brand is a homestead with three daughters (who happen to really need a mother figure in their lives). Brand’s daughters were my favorite characters in this story.
As someone who spent her middle and high school years in Wyoming, I appreciated the setting and enjoyed the focus on how the state was the first to give women many rights such as land ownership and voting. While the romance fell a bit flat for me, the rest of the story made up for it. And I’m looking forward to Becky’s book!
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
December 23, 2023
My favorite of the series! I loved Nell in the first book and it was eye-opening to learn her backstory and all she's been through. Her experiences prepared her to really help her friends and the town, leading her on a path she never considered. The exasperated attitude she has about making money hand over fist sewing cowboy chaps rather than dresses is hilarious, but there's such demand she can't give it up. She is sensitive and compassionate to Brand's daughters and their needs, figuring a way for them to help each other rather than take pity on them with charity. The danger from the first book continues with the stage-robbing outlaws on the loose, and the author's trademark action, suspense, faith, and humor complement rather than compete with the romantic relationship that develops between Nell and Brand. I felt connected to them and their emotions which made for a rather satisfying reading experience!
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.
May 29, 2023
This series has all the heart of a Jeanette Oke novel but with lots of spunk and wit that are the trademark of Ms. Connealy.
Nell is an independent widow who makes chaps but would rather make pretty dresses. Brand is a widower with three daughters who are used to wearing britches and are tired of nothing feminine in their wardrobes. When the notorious Dead Eye Gang threatens, it seems the logical solution is a marriage of convenience.
This story is the perfect blend of a budding romance or two, suspense and danger and the town of Pine Valley pulling together to help each other thwart the outlaws. Add in the suffragette movement, loyal dogs and friends and a solid faith thread and you have a very enjoyable story.
This is the second in the series and while it can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend that you read Forged in Love in order to meet the other folks that reside in Pine Valley and to see what trouble the Dead Eye Gang made that has the residents of the quiet town so on edge.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Nell is an independent widow who makes chaps but would rather make pretty dresses. Brand is a widower with three daughters who are used to wearing britches and are tired of nothing feminine in their wardrobes. When the notorious Dead Eye Gang threatens, it seems the logical solution is a marriage of convenience.
This story is the perfect blend of a budding romance or two, suspense and danger and the town of Pine Valley pulling together to help each other thwart the outlaws. Add in the suffragette movement, loyal dogs and friends and a solid faith thread and you have a very enjoyable story.
This is the second in the series and while it can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend that you read Forged in Love in order to meet the other folks that reside in Pine Valley and to see what trouble the Dead Eye Gang made that has the residents of the quiet town so on edge.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
June 29, 2023
After reading Forged in Love earlier this year, I looked forward to the other books to come. 💖 Nell's story stole my heart. She impressed me as a woman with more going on below the surface. She has spirit and a no-nonsense way about her. Life experience has matured her but not made her bitter. Nell is a widow who has made it clear she isn't remarrying again. Don't you love the “never say never” scenario in books?
She has her dress shop, and her two good friends, and lives in the beautiful town of Pine Valley in the progressive state of Wyoming. What more could she want? Women or girls to sew beautiful dresses for—that's what! She wants bonnets and ribbons, lace and frills! Instead, she has orders for Cowboy chaps as far out as anyone can guess.
When three girls, mistaken for boys, tumble into her shop and life, Nell leaps at the opportunity to fit them with dresses. At that moment, she opens her heart to fall in love with a whole family. But does she dare fall in love with a man again?
This story beautifully portrays two people, wizened by life experience, finding it in themselves to open their hearts to love again. Nell knows how to take command and charge when there is a call for it. These characteristics quickly qualify her to become the new justice of the peace for the town of Pine Valley.
I found the pace of this story moved along at a nice clip. We have the still present and unsolved mystery of the notorious Dead Eye Gang near town. A few more pieces of the puzzle are coming together, leaving me with a guess of who just might be behind it all and ready to see justice served. I can't wait for Becky's story this fall 🍂!
Read this if you enjoy:
🏔️ Instant Family Trope
🏔️ Western Frontier Settings
🏔️ A bit of mystery
Thank you @bethanyhousefiction for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions on this book are mine.
She has her dress shop, and her two good friends, and lives in the beautiful town of Pine Valley in the progressive state of Wyoming. What more could she want? Women or girls to sew beautiful dresses for—that's what! She wants bonnets and ribbons, lace and frills! Instead, she has orders for Cowboy chaps as far out as anyone can guess.
When three girls, mistaken for boys, tumble into her shop and life, Nell leaps at the opportunity to fit them with dresses. At that moment, she opens her heart to fall in love with a whole family. But does she dare fall in love with a man again?
This story beautifully portrays two people, wizened by life experience, finding it in themselves to open their hearts to love again. Nell knows how to take command and charge when there is a call for it. These characteristics quickly qualify her to become the new justice of the peace for the town of Pine Valley.
I found the pace of this story moved along at a nice clip. We have the still present and unsolved mystery of the notorious Dead Eye Gang near town. A few more pieces of the puzzle are coming together, leaving me with a guess of who just might be behind it all and ready to see justice served. I can't wait for Becky's story this fall 🍂!
Read this if you enjoy:
🏔️ Instant Family Trope
🏔️ Western Frontier Settings
🏔️ A bit of mystery
Thank you @bethanyhousefiction for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions on this book are mine.
June 23, 2023
This new book by Mary Connealy will appeal to so many readers! Romance lovers will enjoy it, historical fiction fans will be thrilled, and anyone who's ever enjoyed a Western movie or TV show will be in their element. The Laws of Attraction is the second book in the Wyoming Sunrise and it offers us a chance to get to discover the real Nell Armstrong. A seamstress who's become wealthy by making chaps for the cowboys in Pine Valley, Wyoming, but secretly longs to make dresses with frills and lace. A childless widow who finds more than she bargained for when she befriends three young girls and their widowed father!
Nell and Brand Nolte are the primary focus in The Laws of Attraction but there's also a reunion with Nell's friends Mariah and Becky. These three women aren't your typical Wild West females and they're proud of it! The Women's Suffrage Movement is on the rise, Nell becomes a Justice of the Peace, and the Deadeye Gang continues their deadly rampage of robbing the stages coming into Pine Valley. Will the new Justice of the Peace become their target?
If you're looking for exciting, shoot-'em-up western action, suspenseful plot twists, and Connealy's trademark humor, grab a copy of this book. You won't be disappointed, and you'll be as eager as I am to read Marshaling Her Heart, the last book in the Wyoming Sunrise series!
I received a copy of this book from the author and Bethany House Publishers. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts
Nell and Brand Nolte are the primary focus in The Laws of Attraction but there's also a reunion with Nell's friends Mariah and Becky. These three women aren't your typical Wild West females and they're proud of it! The Women's Suffrage Movement is on the rise, Nell becomes a Justice of the Peace, and the Deadeye Gang continues their deadly rampage of robbing the stages coming into Pine Valley. Will the new Justice of the Peace become their target?
If you're looking for exciting, shoot-'em-up western action, suspenseful plot twists, and Connealy's trademark humor, grab a copy of this book. You won't be disappointed, and you'll be as eager as I am to read Marshaling Her Heart, the last book in the Wyoming Sunrise series!
I received a copy of this book from the author and Bethany House Publishers. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts
June 3, 2023
'...she was finding it easy to remain safely unmarried As a matter of fact, the more outspoken she was about women having rights equal to any man, the more she repelled suitors. And in a town so lopsided with men, that wasn't easy. But she was proud to say she'd managed it.'
After reading book 1 in this series I was so hopeful that Nell would get the next one. I loved her fiery spirit and attitude. I loved that she was "can-do" about anything and everything because I felt like it was setting up for a never say never situation and I couldn't be more entertained with how this book played out!
I loved getting back to this setting and seeing the same characters. It feels like home when series still include them throughout the series. This book could definitely still be read as a stand alone though and so far this is my favorite in the series.
I loved getting deeper into the 'Dead Eye Gang' and grabbing clues any chance I could to figure out who might be involved. I loved the romance. This is a sweet, sweet romance story and I loved how it came together.
If you like historical western romance with a dash of suspense you would love this book!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content/Trigger: Previous mention of domestic dispute/light abuse, animal injuries, animal attacks, medical injuries are discussed with very light detail, wild west shooting scenes with gunshot wounds mentioned, kisses, implied marriage consummation (no details).
After reading book 1 in this series I was so hopeful that Nell would get the next one. I loved her fiery spirit and attitude. I loved that she was "can-do" about anything and everything because I felt like it was setting up for a never say never situation and I couldn't be more entertained with how this book played out!
I loved getting back to this setting and seeing the same characters. It feels like home when series still include them throughout the series. This book could definitely still be read as a stand alone though and so far this is my favorite in the series.
I loved getting deeper into the 'Dead Eye Gang' and grabbing clues any chance I could to figure out who might be involved. I loved the romance. This is a sweet, sweet romance story and I loved how it came together.
If you like historical western romance with a dash of suspense you would love this book!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content/Trigger: Previous mention of domestic dispute/light abuse, animal injuries, animal attacks, medical injuries are discussed with very light detail, wild west shooting scenes with gunshot wounds mentioned, kisses, implied marriage consummation (no details).
June 13, 2023
I just love how this author's books are such fun to read. They have lifted my spirits and got me tickly gigglely enough until the bah-hum-bugs have been thoroughly pushed aside.
The characters of three unusual women settled in the state of Wyoming are covered in this series. Book two follows lovely Nell; a seamstress who dearly loves to sew ruffles and lace dresses, but for which there just doesn't seem to be much of a market. Instead, all the men want are leather chaps which she graciously provides and which is making her a wealthy woman. But the wild west isn't just about dresses and chaps. There is meanness afoot, stage coach robberies, and murder.
Next we get a lovely little family of 3 young girls and their dad who are homesteading. They lost the girl's mother years ago, but dad is seemingly making things work just fine. Until they aren't.
Then we have the unusual set up where Wyoming has given women the right to vote and own property, etc. Really a game changer for the times and the place.
So with all this going on and with some really fun situations, you have a wonderfully enjoyable, relaxing read that is squeaky clean. I thoroughly enjoyed this and look forward to book three in the series.
I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
The characters of three unusual women settled in the state of Wyoming are covered in this series. Book two follows lovely Nell; a seamstress who dearly loves to sew ruffles and lace dresses, but for which there just doesn't seem to be much of a market. Instead, all the men want are leather chaps which she graciously provides and which is making her a wealthy woman. But the wild west isn't just about dresses and chaps. There is meanness afoot, stage coach robberies, and murder.
Next we get a lovely little family of 3 young girls and their dad who are homesteading. They lost the girl's mother years ago, but dad is seemingly making things work just fine. Until they aren't.
Then we have the unusual set up where Wyoming has given women the right to vote and own property, etc. Really a game changer for the times and the place.
So with all this going on and with some really fun situations, you have a wonderfully enjoyable, relaxing read that is squeaky clean. I thoroughly enjoyed this and look forward to book three in the series.
I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
June 3, 2023
A seamstress has found herself longing to create pretty dresses instead of chaps, out on the prairies of Wyoming. One day the opportunity bursts into her shop and she jumps at the chance. This book is about love and mystery and how things were done in days when women strove to have a vote and more rights. It was a time when some still looked down on women as weaker minded. This heroine is a woman that worked hard to do it on her own after an abusive past. But being a strong woman doesn’t mean that you can’t also want womanly things. I enjoyed this book. I think I enjoyed it more than the 1st in the series. I connected to it. I want to be recognized as a hard worker but I also want to be soft and take care of my home. Married to law enforcement, I know he deals with things that I am thankful not to deal with. But day to day, I still put on my strong face and tackle things I didn’t think I could. I’m a general contractor and enjoy building. But my main job is homemaker. When subcontractors come to the job site, if my husband is there, they tend to go to him and ask him questions. He points at me and says to ask the boss. He has confidence in my abilities. And then we go home and I am honored to be housewife. Just because I want to be strong and enjoy things that are typically for a man, doesn’t mean that I don’t also love being a woman, mom and wife. This book was all that for me.
July 9, 2023
The Laws of Attraction is a fast-paced western adventure story with sweet romance as an added treat. I liked Nell immediately and appreciated her struggles and desires. I like her unique part as the town seamstress, which I haven’t read about much in fiction. Brand has a good heart and good character. I loved getting acquainted with Brand’s daughters as well. All the characters were super easy to connect with and I enjoyed their parts in the book.
Second chance stories are my favorites, whether they are second chances at love with someone from the past, or with someone new after a sad loss. This one is the later and touched me deeply. I look forward to reading more in this series.
First Line: “If I have to make one more pair of chaps…” Nell Armstrong heard her own voice.
Series: Wyoming Sunrise book 2
Genre: Christian Historical Romance, Western
Author: Mary Connealy
Page Count: 304
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
Second chance stories are my favorites, whether they are second chances at love with someone from the past, or with someone new after a sad loss. This one is the later and touched me deeply. I look forward to reading more in this series.
First Line: “If I have to make one more pair of chaps…” Nell Armstrong heard her own voice.
Series: Wyoming Sunrise book 2
Genre: Christian Historical Romance, Western
Author: Mary Connealy
Page Count: 304
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
September 20, 2023
I really liked reading "The Laws of Attraction by Mary Connelly". It was a love story at it's best. There is heartache mentioned but it is a second chance at love for both characters. It is also a chance at 3 young girls growing into young ladies. There are outlaws and let me tell you, when they were revealed it was a surprise to me. Nell wanted to sew dresses but all she got was orders for chaps, which she hated. This was really a good feel kind of novel for me.
This is the second book in the series, but it can be enjoyed as a standalone but I say read both.
I got a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
This is the second book in the series, but it can be enjoyed as a standalone but I say read both.
I got a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
October 23, 2025
I enjoyed this book just as much as the first to my happy surprise 💓
February 11, 2024
I’m being generous by offering three stars. Parts of it were terrible, but the overall storyline was just barely good enough to keep going. I won’t, however, read other books by this author.
January 6, 2024
The women's lib stuff overpowering. The romance underwhelming. The main characters were nice.
September 29, 2023
Continuing this series from Mary Connealy is a treat and I'm eager to dive into the third novel in the trilogy. As I was winding down the story and already knew that I was loving the elements between these characters in a full twist of standard love story with a strong woman, rather saving the man... I was eager to realize that I really wanted to read the stories of each of the three daughters as they grew to womanhood as their characters were full of so much personality in their few mentions within the pages as side characters as it was. While I'm not much of a feminist, I do enjoy seeing a qualified woman find her place. The entire story was enjoyable and continued the mystery bits from the first novel, but could also stand alone as a great read.
Thanks so much to Bethany House Publishers for providing a copy for review.
Thanks so much to Bethany House Publishers for providing a copy for review.
June 22, 2023
I loved this tale of romance and survival in West! This small community on the Wyoming frontier provides a delightful cast of characters reminiscent of Mayberry or Walnut Grove. This story reminds me of the value of Christian community and friendship, and it is my favorite part of this story! Wyoming was the first place to allow women to vote and hold public offices like Justice of the Peace, and it makes a fascinating premise for the series. I also adore the romance in this book! Nell and Brand go through fire together and forge a wonderful bond of love, respect, and sacrifice. A romance forged in the midst of mystery, adventure, and danger always makes for excellent reading— and Mary Connealy does this incredibly well! I highly recommend you read this series in order of release, starting with “Forged in Love.” A mystery launches in book one that continues through the rest of the series. Best of all, the first book introduces you to a cast of characters that you will love revisiting in all of the books! Be sure to grab your own copies of the Wyoming Sunrise series and join this fantastic Western adventure! I can’t wait to see what happens next!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes. My thoughts are my own. I really did love it!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes. My thoughts are my own. I really did love it!
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