Book Review: Preservation by Rachael Wade

Preservation by Rachael Wade
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Ryan is a failed writer, college professor, and a man with a broken heart. Kate is his talented writing student with a painful past of her own. The immediate chemistry between them leads to passion as well as fear for both of them. As they struggle to put their demons to rest their relationship endures significant highs and lows.

I found the two main characters to be interesting, but they could have been SO much more. This brief novel did not do justice to the scars they were purported to have. Given that these scars were the reason their relationship was so volatile, they should have been explored more deeply.
The minor characters in this book provide humor and a sense of continuity, particularly Kate's two male best friends.

The plot was a little choppy for me, and the Seattle setting was of little import to the story. Overall, just an OK book. However, it was a quick read and a free download for my Kindle, so I can't consider it a waste of time or money.

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Book Review: The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks

The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

No, I haven't seen the movie yet. Yes, I probably will. The characters in this book are actually well developed and their story is engaging. Sparks tells the tale of Logan (a marine who served in Iraq), Elizabeth (a single mom), her son Ben, her Nana, and her ex-husband Keith. I can't forget to mention my favorite character, Zeus, four-legged companion to Logan.

In many ways it is a typical love story, yet the pain Logan goes through as a result of his service to the USA gives it such a current and poignant flavor. I appreciated the fact that this heroic character was written with flaws as well.

Keith, the ex and county deputy, was equally well-written. He is meant to be a total creep, and I totally felt that throughout the book. Ick!

What I loved most was that as the climax of the story unfolds, Sparks keeps you guessing until the very last page. You know something terrible is coming, but to whom? Surely not Elizabeth's 10 year old son? Elizabeth herself? One of the two men in her life? The ending is suspenseful and gratifying!

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Book Review: Lonetree Ranchers (Colt) by Kathie Denosky

Nelson's Brand: Nelson's Brand\Lonetree Ranchers: Colt by Diana Palmer
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The second story in this book, Colt, (written by Kathie Denosky) was by far my favorite. I'm a sucker for daddies and their little girls- every time.

Kaylee's brother and best friend of Colt died tragically in a rodeo accident. Seeking to outrun their grief, the two find comfort for a night in each other's arms. Shaken by the passion he feels, Colt bolts from Kaylee's life. He unknowingly leaves her pregnant and broken-hearted.

Two years later, their paths cross again. Colt knows immediately that he is the father of Kaylee's little girl. In an attempt to form a relationship with his daughter, he moves both of them to his ranch.

It's not hard to imagine what happens next... trust and respect build between the two as they bond over their child. Trust leads to forgiveness over past hurts, and forgiveness leads to (ahem) certain activities in bathtubs and in front of the fireplace.

Yeah, it gets pretty steamy.

The story is short and fluffy, heartwarming and passionate at the same time.

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