Thursday, October 15, 2015

12 Brides of Summer Novella Collection #3 ~ Reviewed



Dog Days of Summer by Margaret Brownley

When Jed and Merrilee discover they co-own the same dog, mayhem--and a little bit of match-making--breaks loose. What do you get when you involve a match-making dog, a piano teacher, and a stargazing, "womanizing" blacksmith? A shoo-in for animal-lovers and romance fans alike. A light, fluffy romance, but the author's voice makes this story sing.


Dogwood Blossom Bride by Merrilee Ferrell 

A beautiful tomboy and a cowboy scarred by his adventurous sister's death lock horns when his niece begins to emulate the pretty woman's reckless ways. The characterization is delightful and skillfully done, especially with the main characters and the niece, who displays very believable behavior for a child her age. On the other hand, the emotions between the hero and heroine seem a bit rushed and melodramatic as the romance propels virtual strangers to confessions of love and marriage plans within a few short days. Also, the hero tearfully pours out his deeply personal past wounds to the heroine within hours of meeting and deciding he doesn't trust her. The faith element came across a bit forced. Overall, though, a sweet, clean story.


The Lumberjack's Bride by Pam Hillman

City girl Lucy Denton takes cooking lessons from a lumberjack's elderly mother whose kind, over-protective son becomes a threat to Lucy's Chicago-bound heart. This story took me back to the time of brawny lumberjacks, outdoor cooking ranges, logger’s games, and mess hall tents. The hero starts out a bit grouchy--which I loved. He’s super protective, and when he sees anyone in danger, he turns all bossy and command-man. It’s flat adorable. Then there’s the heroine. She’s delicate and feminine, coming from “up north.” No one thinks she’ll last long in the logging camp, but she cinches up her boots and gets to work learning how to trek the woods and cook with the rest of the women. Ending with a twist I didn’t see coming, this story had me at, “Timber!” and I couldn’t put it down.


***I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.com in exchange for my honest opinion.

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