Review: "Cross My Heart" by Robin Lee Hatcher

Over the past few years, Robin Lee Hatcher has become one of my go-to authors for contemporary inspirational romance. Her well-drawn characters and intriguing stories always draw me in. Cross My Heart, her latest release, is no different.

Review: "Who I Am With You" by Robin Lee Hatcher

Robin Lee Hatcher has become one of my go-to romance writers. The lowest star rating I've ever given any of her books is 3-1/2, and I've rated most of her books 4-1/2 or 5 stars. They're always excellent! Who I Am with You is different from the other Hatcher books I've read in that it's a split time (dual timeline) novel; those are often hit or miss for me, so of course I was hopeful that this one would be a hit!

"You're Gonna Love Me" by Robin Lee Hatcher

Robin Lee Hatcher has long been one of those romance writers whose books I enjoy reading when I get the chance. Her books are romantic and engaging, but they generally haven't been "unputdownable" for me. That all changed with You're Gonna Love Me, a book that I read in just a couple hours as I was so completely immersed in the story!

"You'll Think of Me" by Robin Lee Hatcher

Robin Lee Hatcher's latest novel, You'll Think of Me, is another charming small-town romance.

"kiss the bride" by mcclone, hatcher, and springer

Three of the novellas in Zondervan's Year of Weddings series are brought together in this collection that makes a great beach read.

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Meet the people who make it all happen—the planners, the photographers, the musicians who have helped orchestrate the perfect day for countless couples—as they find their own happy endings in the second Year of Weddings novella collection.

Picture Perfect Love: A June Wedding Story by Melissa McClone

When image becomes everything, it’s up to love to refocus the heart.

Photographer Jenna Harrison wants every bride and groom to look picture perfect on their special day. But her own heart is still broken, the unworn wedding dress hanging in her closet a reminder that relationships aren’t always as perfect as they look through her camera lens.

Attorney Ashton Vance is the one that got away, but he wrongly blamed Jenna for ruining his political aspirations. Even if Jenna can forgive him, dare he hope for a second chance at her love?

I Hope You Dance: A July Wedding Story by Robin Lee Hatcher

Can two left feet lead to one perfect romance?

Grant Nichols is a genius in the kitchen and a klutz on the dance floor. But his friend’s wedding is shaping up to be a shindig the likes of which Kings Meadow has never seen—including dancing. Lots of dancing.

Former rodeo queen Skye Foster is offering dance lessons for the wedding party. Grant and Skye are no match on paper. But when they step onto the dance floor, they create a melody all their own.

Love on a Deadline: An August Wedding Story by Kathryn Springer

MacKenzie “Mac” Davis returns to her hometown of Red Leaf, Wisconsin, and takes a job at the weekly newspaper writing about social events.

When Hollis Channing, Mac’s high school nemesis, returns to Red Leaf to marry her celebrity fiancé, the editor asks Mac to cover all the festivities for the newspaper. The last thing Mac wants to do is reconnect with the person who made her life miserable when she was a teenager . . . unless it’s spending time with Ethan Channing, the bride’s older brother—and Mac’s first crush.

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As is the case with most novella collections, I enjoyed some of the stories more than others. My favorite by far is Springer's Love on a Deadline. Of the three novellas, it felt the most complete and featured my favorite romance. I also really enjoyed returning to Red Leaf, Wisconsin, the setting of Springer's A September Bride. 5 stars.

I Hope You Dance, which is part of Hatcher's Kings Meadow series, was also enjoyable to read, though the conflict keeping Grant and Skye apart was resolved a bit too easily and conveniently. 3-1/2 stars.

Picture Perfect Love was the one novella that missed the mark for me. I didn't enjoy the romance at all, which is a key component of a romance novel! I did appreciate Jenna's journey—except the part where she ended up with Ashton. 2-1/2 stars.

Overall, this collection is enjoyable, and it's nice to have these novellas in print when they were previously only available digitally. 4 stars for the collection.

Buy the book.
Read my full reviews of each novella: Picture Perfect Love, I Hope You Dance, and Love on a Deadline.
Read my reviews of the other Year of Weddings and Year of Weddings 2 novellas.

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Melissa McClone has published more than thirty novels with Harlequin and Tule Publishing Group. She has also been nominated for Romance Writers of America's RITA® award. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, three school-aged children, two spoiled Norwegian Elkhounds and cats who think they rule the house.

Best-selling novelist Robin Lee Hatcher is known for her heart-warming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, two RT Career Achievement Awards, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over sixty novels.

Kathryn Springer is a USA Today bestselling author. She grew up in northern Wisconsin, where her parents published a weekly newspaper. As a child she spent many hours sitting at her mother's typewriter, plunking out stories, and credits her parents for instilling in her a love of books --- which eventually turned into a desire to tell stories of her own. Kathryn has written nineteen books with close to two million copies sold. She lives with her husband and three children in Marinette, Wisconsin.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook blogger program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Also, some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase an item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

"i hope you dance" by robin lee hatcher

Author Robin Lee Hatcher takes readers back to the beloved setting of Kings Meadow for this novella in Zondervan's second Year of Weddings series.

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Can two left feet lead to one perfect romance?

Grant Nichols is a genius in the kitchen and a klutz on the dance floor. But his friend’s wedding is shaping up to be a shindig the likes of which Kings Meadow has never seen—including dancing. Lots of dancing. Then he learns that a local dance teacher, Skye Foster, is offering dance lessons for the wedding party. The lessons are free, so what does he have to lose?

A former rodeo queen, Skye Foster teaches children ballet and tap during the day, but with the popularity of ballroom dancing and her own love of Country Swing, she’s been teaching adults in the evenings.

Grant comes from a family of ten siblings. He was the second oldest and believes he's had his fill of little rug rats. He’s happy with his bachelor state, despite the fact that he’s given up his ladies’ man lifestyle. Even he admits to his wilder nature and has been trying to clean up his act, with God's help.

Skye, on the other hand, loves being around kids. She would love to find the right guy and settle down to have half a dozen children of her own.

Grant and Skye are no match on paper. But when they step onto the dance floor, they move to a love song all their own.

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Novellas can be difficult. Because they're short, sometimes the author has to leave things out or rush things in order to tell a complete story. Unfortunately, that's what's happened with I Hope You Dance. I loved the set up of Grant and Skye meeting and falling in love, and I could even buy a quick proposal—after all, that does happen in real life. But the big hindrance to their happily ever after—Skye's desire for a big family contrasted with Grant's determination to not have children—is resolved so quickly and rather improbably, and it just didn't ring true.

I have loved Robin Lee Hatcher's Kings Meadow series, and I Hope You Dance is a charming return to that world. I just wish that it could have been slightly longer to allow for a touch more believability. 3-1/2 stars.

Buy the novella.
Buy Kiss the Bride, which contains the novellas I Hope You Dance, Picture Perfect Love, and Love on a Deadline.
Read my reviews of Hatcher's other Kings Meadow stories: A Promise Kept (5 stars--not "officially" a Kings Meadow novel, but set there), Love Without End (4-1/2 stars), Whenever You Come Around (4-1/2 stars), and Keeper of the Stars (4 stars).
Read my reviews of the other Year of Weddings and Year of Weddings 2 novellas.

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Best-selling novelist Robin Lee Hatcher is known for her heart-warming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, two RT Career Achievement Awards, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over sixty novels.

Connect with Robin: website, Twitter, Facebook

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook blogger program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Also, some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase an item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

"keeper of the stars" by robin lee hatcher

Robin Lee Hatcher takes readers on a return trip to Kings Meadow, Idaho, in Keeper of the Stars.

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Because it's not always love at first sight!

When her mother died from pneumonia, Penny Cartwright was heartbroken. But now, after burying her younger brother just 12 years later, she is devastated. Anger, guilt, and sorrow cloud Penny's mind, and the last thing she wants is to be reminded of her pain---but that's exactly what happens when a stranger comes to town.

Trevor Reynolds has been chasing fame for more than a dozen years, but his musical career can't get off the ground. While on the road, an accident kills his young drummer, Brad Cartwright. Trevor wasn't behind the wheel, but he still blames himself . . . and so does Brad's sister, Penny. Now Trevor finds himself in Kings Meadow, determined to follow through on his final promise to his friend.

Still feeling the pain of Brad's death, Penny and Trevor must learn that forgiveness is the only thing that can heal their hearts. And if they do forgive, something beautiful may rise from the ashes of heartbreak.

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In Keeper of the Stars, the last thing Penny wants is to be constantly reminded of her brother Brad's death and the huge fight they had beforehand. But when Trevor, lead singer of the band Brad played with, moves to Kings Meadow, Penny has no choice but to face her pain.

As this is a romance novel, I had no doubt that Penny and Trevor would find their way to one another, and I loved the scenes where the two were getting to know one another (albeit reluctantly on Penny's part). I did think that the shift from dislike to love came a bit quickly (not timewise, but in how the characters were portrayed on the page), and the romance was not my favorite aspect of the novel. The characters are very strong, though, and they carried the novel when the romance wasn't as toe curling as I'd hoped. I absolutely loved Penny's dad and his relationships with both Penny and Trevor, and Trevor's transition to small town life was enjoyable, too.

While Keeper of the Stars is part of Hatcher's Kings Meadow series, you do not need to have read any of the other books to enjoy this one. A few characters from the other novels pop up, but they are minor characters in Keeper of the Stars. Those who have read the other Kings Meadow books will surely want to read Keeper of the Stars, and those who haven't will find it a great introduction to a wonderful series. 4 stars.

See what others are saying.
Read an excerpt.
Buy the book.
Read my reviews of Hatcher's Kings Meadow books A Promise Kept (5 stars--not "officially" a Kings Meadow novel, but set there), Love Without End (4-1/2 stars) and Whenever You Come Around (4-1/2 stars); Beloved (4-1/2 stars); and The Heart's Pursuit (4 stars).

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Best-selling novelist Robin Lee Hatcher is known for her heart-warming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, two RT Career Achievement Awards, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over sixty novels.

Connect with Robin: website, Twitter, Facebook

http://www.robinleehatcher.com/celebrating-my-76th-release-keeper-of-the-stars/

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Also, some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

"whenever you come around" by robin lee hatcher

Robin Lee Hatcher takes readers back to beloved Kings Meadow in Whenever You Come Around.

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Just when Charity's wild imagination failed her, a flesh-and-blood hero walked into her life.

Best-selling author Charity Anderson returns to her hometown of Kings Meadow to defeat a bad case of writer's block. She imagines she'll spend a lonely summer writing and then return to her home in Boise. She soon finds herself caring for Buck Malone, a wilderness guide-and the object of her unrequited teenage crush. But what else can she do? Her dog Cocoa caused the accident that left Buck with a broken ankle and wrist, taking him off the trail for weeks of prime tourist-season work.

Buck and Charity have gone different ways since high school, and at first it seems they have little in common. Buck loves the simple, low-key life he's made for himself in the mountains of Idaho, and she's a woman accustomed to the faster, bustling pace of the city. But spending so much time together has Buck hoping to change her mind about staying in the small town she thought she'd left behind for good.

It's a summer for discovering that young love is a spark not soon extinguished.

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Kings Meadow is quickly becoming one of my favorite places to visit in fiction. The three novels so far—A Promise Kept, Love Without End, and Whenever You Come Around—feature wonderful romances and can be read separately or as part of the series.

Whenever You Come Around focuses on Charity Anderson, a woman whose past has kept her from spending much time in her hometown and has held her back from finding love. When she reconnects with Buck, her high school crush, the walls she has erected around her heart begin to crumble.

I absolutely loved Charity's back story—the circumstances that turned her into the woman she is in the novel. It's revealed in bits and pieces, and it's both infuriating and heartbreaking. I hated how she felt the need to keep her story a secret, though I understood why she did.

The romance in Whenever You Come Around is very sweet, especially from Buck's perspective. Watching him fall in love with Charity was one of my favorite aspects of this novel. I also enjoyed another relationship in the novel: Charity's relationship with her sister Terri. Terri plays a major role in Charity's healing, which I think is more realistic than having Buck be the one to "save" Charity.

I did think that the ending came rather quickly and wrapped up a bit too neatly, but that's a minor complaint when compared with my regard for the rest of the novel. Whenever You Come Around is wonderful romance with depth, and I highly recommend it. 4-1/2 stars.

Buy the book.
See my reviews of the Kings Meadow books A Promise Kept (5 stars) and Love Without End (4-1/2 stars); Beloved (4-1/2 stars); and The Heart's Pursuit (4 stars).

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Robin Lee Hatcher is the bestselling author of 70 books. Her numerous awards include the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award. Robin and her husband currently reside in Idaho. For more information, visit www.robinleehatcher.com.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook blogger program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Also, some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase an item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

"love without end" by robin lee hatcher

Earlier this year, I read Robin Lee Hatcher's A Promise Kept, the story of a woman who retreats to an inherited mountain cabin following an unwanted divorce. While I absolutely loved the novel, I wondered what happened to some of the people whose stories didn't wrap up—specifically cowboy Chet Leonard. Fortunately, Hatcher didn't make me wait too long to find out, as Love Without End is all about Chet.

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Love Without End || A King's Meadow Romance (Thomas Nelson, November 2014)

Chet and Kimberly have both failed when it comes to love. Will they risk their hearts to love again?

Chet Leonard's life was forever changed when his 17-year-old son died and then, soon after, his wife walked out on their family. Over two years later, all he wants to do is hold onto his horse ranch and raise his remaining sons to be honorable men.

Kimberly Welch, widowed mother of Tara, a rebellious 15-year-old, has reached the end of her finances and nearly the end of her rope. She and Tara come to King's Meadow to try to piece their lives back together again. Kimberly has no intention of becoming involved with the residents of this remote mountain community and certainly not with any man.

When octogenarian Anna McKenna returns to King's Meadow and to the Leonard ranch, she becomes an agent of change and healing for the two hurting families. With her help, Kimberly and Chet may discover that true love has no end.

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I've reached an age where I really enjoy reading love stories that feature people who are older and have a bit more life under their belts. Love Without End perfectly fits the bill. It's a wonderful "second chance at love" story that grabs the reader from the opening pages and doesn't let go until the end.

Chet, who I loved in A Promise Kept, is a strong and compelling hero, and while Kimberly's constant second-guessing of their relationship gets a bit tiresome, it is understandable. Their romance is sweet, and I pulled for them throughout the novel.

The novel's surprise, though, is Anna McKenna's story, which is told in bits and pieces between chapters. Anna is basically a grandmother to Chet's boys, and the novel is made so much richer by including her backstory. This is a tactic Hatcher employed in A Promise Kept, as well, and it works equally well here.

Love Without End is not technically a sequel to A Promise Kept, and readers who did not read the latter will have no trouble jumping right into Love Without End. Those who did read A Promise Kept will appreciate the continuation of Chet's story and the return to King's Meadow. 4-1/2 stars.

See what others are saying.
Buy the book.
Read my reviews of Hatcher's A Promise Kept, The Heart's Pursuit, and Beloved. 

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Best-selling novelist Robin Lee Hatcher is known for her heart-warming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, two RT Career Achievement Awards, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over sixty novels.

Find Robin online: website, Facebook, Twitter

Fire up the romance this holiday with Robin Lee Hatcher's latest offering in the King's Meadow Romance series, Love Without End. For two single parents with bruised hearts, it’ll take more than a little courage to get back on the horse when it comes to love.

Celebrate love rising from the ashes of tragedy with Robin by entering her Kindle Fire giveaway.

 One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• Love Without End and the rest of the King's Meadow Romance series from Robin Lee Hatcher

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 14th. Winner will be announced December 15th on Robin's blog.
{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Also, some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

"four weddings and a kiss" by brownley, hatcher, connealy & clopton

About the book: Spitfire Sweetheart by Mary Connealy

Maizy Place is an unruly tomboy. When she causes an accident, injuring neighbor Rylan Carstens, she becomes his unlikely caregiver. Rylan has never noticed how pretty his infuriating neighbor is, and he never expected to fall in love.

Love Letter to the Editor by Robin Lee Hatcher

Molly Everton is the outspoken daughter of the town newspaper's owner. When her father brings in an outsider to be editor, she tries to drive him out of town. But Jack Ludgrove is not intimidated. He's resolved to change Molly's mind about him—as an editor and as a man.

A Cowboy for Katie by Debra Clopton

Katie Pearl is uninterested in men and love. But she needs help on her ranch and hires Treb Rayburn, a wandering cowboy looking to make a buck. Will Treb change Katie's mind?

Courting Trouble by Margaret Brownley

Grace Davenport is either the unluckiest woman alive—or a killer. When her third husband is found dead, Grace is arrested. Attorney Brock Daniels isn't interested in the case—until he meets Grace. Only a miracle will prove her innocence, but the joining of two lonely hearts may be their saving grace.

My take: Four Weddings and a Kiss is a delightful novella collection. Following in the steps of the authors' previous collaboration, A Bride for All Seasons, this collection is full of stories that are connected only through the prologue and epilogue, so the authors didn't need to write about the same characters, which can be a problem in novella collections.

As for the stories themselves, of course I have my favorites! I really loved Hatcher's "Love Letter to the Editor"—as I get older, I definitely appreciate reading about older characters, and I enjoyed Molly and Jack's courtship. I also really liked Connealy's "Spitfire Sweetheart." Like Maizy, I wanted to dropkick Rylan when he suggested she wasn't good enough for him just as she was, but of course he changed and things worked out :-) Clopton's "A Cowboy for Katie" was fine, but it wasn't my favorite. I did appreciate how Treb helped Katie work through her issues. My least favorite was Brownley's "Courting Trouble"—there was nothing wrong with it, but I just couldn't make myself care about the outcome. I ended up skimming through it.

Even though I didn't love all of the novellas, this is still a great collection! And I suspect that other readers will really love the stories that didn't interest me as much. That's what's great about novella collections—there's usually something for everyone!

My rating: 4 stars (5 for "Love Letter to the Editor," 4.5 for "Spitfire Sweetheart," 3.5 for "A Cowboy for Katie," and 3 for "Courting Trouble.")

See what others are saying.
Buy the book. (You can also buy each novella individually.)
Read my reviews of A Bride for all Seasons; Connealy's In Too Deep, Over the Edge, Swept Away, and Fired Up; and Hatcher's Beloved, A Promise Kept, and The Heart's Pursuit.

About the authors: Margaret Brownley is a NEW YORK TIMES best-selling author and has penned more than thirty novels. Her books have won numerous awards and has written for a TV soap opera. @margaretbrownley

Robin Lee Hatcher is a Christy and RITA award-winning author. She is the author of over seventy novels and her work often appear on bestseller lists. @robinleehatcher

Mary Connealy is an award-winning author of romantic comedy with cowboys. Mary and her Nebraska rancher husband have four grown daughters and two spectacular grandchildren. @MaryConnealy

Debra Clopton is an award winning author of sweet, heartfelt, western romance that face life with a smile. With over 2 million books in print, Debra's first book-to-movie aired on ABC Family and starred LeAnn Rimes. @debraclopton

About the giveaway:  Four best-­selling romance novelists bring tales of feisty heroines, stubborn heroes, and unlikely love in the Wild West in Four Weddings and a Kiss. Don't miss the latest from the Western Brides Collection from Margaret Brownley, Robin Lee Hatcher, Mary Connealy, and Debra Clopton.

The authors are celebrating with a "Sweet on Love" iPad Mini Giveaway and rip-roarin' Facebook party.

 
  One winner will receive:

• An iPad Mini
• A Bride for All Seasons and Four Weddings and a Kiss 

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on July 8th. Winner will be announced at the Four Weddings and a Kiss Facebook Author Chat Party. Connect with Western Brides Collection authors Margaret Brownley, Robin Lee Hatcher, Mary Connealy, and Debra Clopton for an evening of fun book chat, western-themed trivia, and prizes. The authors will also be answering audience questions and giving an exclusive look at the next book in the collection!

So grab your copy of Four Weddings and a Kiss and join the authors on the evening of July 8th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 8th!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Also, some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

"the heart's pursuit" by robin lee hatcher

About the book: A jilted bride desperate to save her family from ruin.
A bounty hunter seeking vengeance for a ravaged past.
An arduous trek toward justice—or redemption.

Silver Matlock and Jared Newman know traveling together is a bad idea. Bad for Silver's already tarnished reputation in her small Colorado town. Bad for bounty hunter Jared's secret, single-minded mission for revenge. But Silver is determined to track down the rogue who left her at the altar and stole the last remnant of her father's fortune. And Jared's in a hurry to hunt down the murderer who destroyed his family—even if Silver is too distractingly beautiful for comfort.

The pair takes off over mountain and desert, past bleak homesteads and raw mining towns, hot on the trail of the two villains who took what wasn't theirs to take. Soon supplies dwindle, secrets emerge, and suspicion leave Silver and Jared at odds when they need each other most. To confront an enemy deadlier than desert rattlesnakes and rocky cliffs, Silver and Jared must learn to forgive and trust and face the question they haven't dared voice: What happens next?

My take: I've read several of Robin Lee Hatcher's novels, and they never disappoint. When I began reading The Heart's Pursuit, I struggled to keep my attention on the novel, and I wondered if I'd finally encountered a Hatcher novel I wouldn't enjoy. But I kept reading, and I'm so glad I did.

The majority of The Heart's Pursuit takes place on the trail from Colorado to Nevada, as Silver and Jared try to catch the villains. Along the way, they encounter so many problems that they can't help but gravitate toward one another. Both are strong, stubborn characters, yet Silver's faith is what carries her through—and it's what begins breaking down the walls around Jared's heart. Watching his journey back to faith was one of my favorite aspects of this novel.

The Heart's Pursuit is also full of memorable supporting characters. Though most don't stick around long, Hatcher does a great job of fleshing out these minor characters. I'd especially love to read more about Miss Corrine, a woman who takes Silver under her wing in Nevada.

Overall, The Heart's Pursuit is a very enjoyable read. Fans of westerns and historical fiction will love it!

My rating: 4 stars

See what others are saying.
Watch the video intro for this book.
Buy the book.
Read my reviews of Hatcher's Beloved and A Promise Kept.

About the author: Best-selling novelist Robin Lee Hatcher is known for her heart-warming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love.The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, theRITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, two RT Career Achievement Awards, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over sixty novels.

Robin can be found at her website, Facebook, and Twitter.

About the giveaway: Robin Lee Hatcher's latest novel, The Heart's Pursuit, is receiving critical praise: "The Old West lives again in this inspirational romantic adventure. . . . Themes of forgiveness, justice and mercy dominate the story and add to the characters' depth. Hatcher treats readers to a rich sensory experience—you can taste the desert dust and smell the smoke and stench of a crowded gambling hall." (Publishers Weekly)

Robin is celebrating the release of her novel by giving away a $200 "Romantic Weekend Getaway."

  One winner will receive:

• A $200 Visa cash card (Get away for the weekend with that special someone!)
• The Heart's Pursuit by Robin Lee Hatcher

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 8th. Winner will be announced June 9th on Robin's website.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Robin's blog on June 8th to see if you won.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Also, some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

"the heart's pursuit" giveaway information

I'm very excited to read Robin Lee Hatcher's latest novel, The Heart's Pursuit. I'll be posting my review near the end of the tour, so I wanted to get you the information about the giveaway now. Keep reading to find out how you can win a $200 Visa cash card!

Robin Lee Hatcher's latest novel, The Heart's Pursuit, is receiving critical praise: "The Old West lives again in this inspirational romantic adventure. . . . Themes of forgiveness, justice and mercy dominate the story and add to the characters' depth. Hatcher treats readers to a rich sensory experience—you can taste the desert dust and smell the smoke and stench of a crowded gambling hall." (Publishers Weekly)

Robin is celebrating the release of her novel by giving away a $200 "Romantic Weekend Getaway."

  One winner will receive:

• A $200 Visa cash card (Get away for the weekend with that special someone!)
• The Heart's Pursuit by Robin Lee Hatcher

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 8th. Winner will be announced June 9th on Robin's website.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Robin's blog on June 8th to see if you won.

"a promise kept" by robin lee hatcher

About the book (from Litfuse): God was going to save her marriage, Allison was sure of it. But neither her husband nor her marriage had been saved.

What had become of His promise?

Tony Kavanagh had been Allison's dream-come-true. They were in love within days, engaged within weeks, married and pregnant within a year. Her cup bubbled over with joy . . . but years later, that joy had been extinguished by unexpected trials.

The day Allison issued her husband an ultimatum, she thought it might save him. She never expected he would actually leave. She was certain God had promised to heal; it was clear that she'd misunderstood.

Now, living in the quiet mountain cabin she inherited from her single, self-reliant Great Aunt Emma, Allison must come to terms with her grief and figure out how to adapt to small town life. But when she finds a wedding dress and a collection of journals in Emma's attic, a portrait of her aunt emerges that takes Allison completely by surprise: a portrait of a heartbroken woman surprisingly like herself.

As Allison reads the incredible story of Emma's life in the 1920s and 1930s, she is forced to ask a difficult question: Does she really surrender every piece of her life to the Lord?

Drawing from her own heart-wrenching story of redemption, A Promise Kept is Robin Lee Hatcher's emotionally charged thanksgiving to a God who answers prayers—in His own time and His own ways.

My take: A Promise Kept is an intensely personal, realistic novel about one woman's struggle to believe God after the dissolution of her marriage. It's also the story of another woman's journey to find her place in the wake of happiness turned to tragedy.

Three different time periods are featured in the novel—Allison's, Emma's, and Emma's again as Allison reads her journals. This sounds confusing, but it actually works beautifully, and I never once felt any confusion as I read.

A Promise Kept is a wonderful story of redemption, trust, and hope, and it powerfully shows how God will do what he says he will do ... just not always in the expected manner!

My rating: 5 stars

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Buy the book.
Read my review of Hatcher's Beloved.  

About the author: Robin Lee Hatcher is the author of 65+ novels and novellas. Her home is in Idaho, where she spends her time writing stories of faith, courage, and love; pondering the things of God; and loving her family and friends. Learn more about Robin at http://www.robinleehatcher.com

About the giveaway: Don't miss Robin Lee Hatcher's stunning new novel, A Promise Kept. Robin is celebrating with a fun giveaway and an encouraging Facebook Author Chat Party.

 One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire HDX
• A Promise Kept by Robin Lee Hatcher

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on February 6th. Winner will be announced at the "A Promise Kept" Facebook Author Chat Party on the 6th. Connect with Robin and friends for an evening of encouraging book chat, prizes, and an exclusive look at Robin's next book!

So grab your copy of A Promise Kept and join Robin on the evening of February 6th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN at the event page. Spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway and party via FACEBOOK or TWITTER. Hope to see you on 2/6!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Also, some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

"a promise kept" kindle fire hdx giveaway information

I'll be posting my review of Robin Lee Hatcher's A Promise Kept next week. (Spoiler alert: I loved it!) In the meantime, I wanted to be sure you had the info for the great giveaway that's going along with this blog tour. Enter today!

Don't miss Robin Lee Hatcher's stunning new novel, A Promise Kept. Robin is celebrating with a fun giveaway and an encouraging Facebook Author Chat Party.

 One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire HDX
• A Promise Kept by Robin Lee Hatcher

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on February 6th. Winner will be announced at the "A Promise Kept" Facebook Author Chat Party on the 6th. Connect with Robin and friends for an evening of encouraging book chat, prizes, and an exclusive look at Robin's next book!

So grab your copy of A Promise Kept and join Robin on the evening of February 6th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN at the event page. Spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway and party via FACEBOOK or TWITTER. Hope to see you on 2/6!

"beloved" by robin lee hatcher

 About the book (from Litfuse): Diana is ready to begin a new chapter in her life-until the husband she believed dead reappears at her engagement party.

Diana Brennan came west on the orphan train and was given a home with a loving couple who cherished and spoiled her. At 17, she fell hard for Tyson Applegate, the son of a wealthy mine owner. After a whirlwind courtship and marriage, Tyson took off for adventures around the world, including fighting with the Rough Riders in Cuba. Receiving no word from him in years, Diana's infatuation with her dashing husband died an ugly death, and she is ready to move past the old pain and marry again, just as soon as Tyson is declared legally dead.

But when Tyson returns, claiming to be a changed man, he wants to reunite with his wife and run for the senate. While Diana suspects the election is his real reason for wanting her by his side, she agrees to maintain his home and to campaign with him, but when it is over, win or lose, she wants her freedom.

He agrees with one condition—she must give him a chance to change her mind about him.

My take: Marriage of convenience stories are my favorite, and while this one has a twist—Tyson and Diana have been married for seven years—it still fits the basic trope. It's definitely one of the better marriage of convenience stories I've recently read.

The novel begins when Tyson appears, after being presumed dead for two years, at Diana's engagement party. The couple's past is told through short flashbacks at the end of most chapters. This allows the reader to learn about the past without getting bogged down in it.

I love how this book isn't solely about Tyson winning Diana's love—it's also about finding forgiveness, self-worth, and family ... and by the end, Tyson and Diana do have quite the family!

I did find the book's villain (and it may be a stretch to really call him that) unnecessary. He didn't really keep Tyson and Diana apart, and I didn't fear him for an instant. He just kind of filled the pages and took away from the Tyson-Diana story.

Beloved is the first Robin Lee Hatcher book I've read (aside from a short novella in A Bride for All Seasons), but it certainly will not be my last. It's the third book in her Where the Heart Lives series, and I now want to go back and read the other two. (The novel functions as a stand alone, so you can read them in any order.)

My rating: 4-1/2 stars

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My giveaway: I received an extra copy of this book, so I'm giving it away! Enter through the Rafflecopter below.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the author: Robin is the author of 65+ novels and novellas. Her home is in Idaho, where she spends her time writing stories of faith, courage, and love; pondering the things of God; and loving her family and friends. Learn more at http://www.robinleehatcher.com.

About the giveaway:
Robin Lee Hatcher is celebrating the release of her latest novel, Beloved, with an iPad Mini giveaway! 

 
  One winner will receive:

• An iPad Mini
• Beloved by Robin Lee Hatcher

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 15th. Winner will be announced November 16th at Robin's blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Robin's blog on the 16th to see if you won. (Or, better yet, subscribe to her blog and have the winner announcement delivered to your inbox!)!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Also, some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

"a bride for all seasons" by margaret brownley, debra clopton, mary connealy & robin lee hatcher

About the book (from Litfuse): It All Started with an Ad in a Mail Order Bride Catalogue . . .

Melvin Hitchcock of the Hitching Post Mail Order Bride Catalog isn't dishonest—not exactly. If he tweaks his clients' applications a bit, it's because he's looking out for their best interests.

This charming bouquet of novellas introduces four Hitching Post prospects in the year 1870, each one eager for second chances . . . and hungry for happiness. Year in, year out, they'll learn that love often comes in unexpected packages.

And Then Came Spring by Margaret Brownley

Mary-Jo has been unlucky all her life. But who would guess she'd travel halfway across the country to meet her match . . . only to find him dead!

An Ever-After Summer by Debra Clopton

Ellie had no idea she's not what Matthew ordered. And what's wrong with being a "Bible thumper" anyway? She's determined to show him she's tougher than she looks---and just the girl he needs.

Autumn's Angel by Robin Lee Hatcher

Luvena would be perfect for Clay if she didn't come with kids. But kids are a deal breaker, especially in a rough-and-trouble mining town. The trouble is, there's no money to send them back. . .

Winter Wedding Bells by Mary Connealy

David's convinced he's not long for the world. He needs someone to mother his boys when he's gone---nothing more. Can plucky Irish Megan convince him to work at living instead of dying?

My take: It's been a long time since I've enjoyed an anthology as much as I enjoyed this one! First of all, the subject matter is right in my wheelhouse—marriage of convenience stories are my favorite, so a mail-order bride collection is perfect for me. Secondly, the stories are connected only because all of the characters used the same mail-order bride catalog, so different authors don't have to try to write the same characters.

As for the novellas themselves, I don't think I could even pick a favorite—I loved them all! I did find Mary-Jo's extremely superstitious nature in "And Then Came Spring" a bit off-putting, but I suspect I was supposed to feel that way. Overall, I greatly enjoyed this collection of novellas. Each one can be read in an hour or so, making them a nice way to wind down after a long day.

My rating: 4-1/2 stars.

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Buy the book.
Read my reviews of Connealy's In Too Deep, Over the Edge, and Swept Away.

About the authors: Margaret Brownley is a NEW YORK TIMES best-selling author and has penned more than twenty-five historical and contemporary novels. @margaretbrownley

Robin Lee Hatcher is a Christy and RITA award-winning author. Her books often appear on bestseller lists. @robinleehatcher

Mary Connealy is a Carol Award winner, an a RITA, Christy and Inspirational Reader's Choice finalist. @MaryConnealy

Debra Clopton is an award winning author of sweet, heartfelt, western romance that face life with a smile. With over 2 million books in print, Debra has her first book coming as a movie starring LeAnn Rimes. @debraclopton

About the giveaway: Four novellas, four brides, and four stories to fall in love with. 

Enter the world of mail-order brides with four of your favorite authors: Mary Connealy, Robin Lee Hatcher, Debra Clopton, and Margaret Brownley. In A Bride for All Seasons (Thomas Nelson) each of the prospective brides is hopeful for a second chance at love—and that second chance always seems to come in an unexpected package.
 
The authors are celebrating with a fun 12 Days of Unexpected Packages Giveaway! Between July 12-23 visit the authors’ Facebook Page to enter to win a new giveaway each day. Winners will be announced at the Facebook Author Chat party on July 23rd! Such fun!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Also, some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."