Debra SalonenRezensionen

Beautiful book!

So much love, understanding, care and so much more in this book. Filled my heart and made me long to be home.

Sweet story that I thoroughly enjoyed. Krista and Jonah are interesting characters and I loved the small-town setting of Marietta. Small-town stories are fun because of the "everybody knows your business" vibe versus the main characters' desires to maintain some semblance of privacy in their relationship.

Krista moved to Marietta from NYC eighteen months earlier to join her friend Amanda's ad agency. She works long and hard to make their business successful, driven by the need to prove herself to her family. It's an odd juxtaposition because she also maintains as much distance as possible to avoid their drama. The Martins are big in the entertainment industry and drama around them is inevitable. The book opens as Krista prepares to talk to Amanda about the latter's lack of focus in their work. That goes out the window when the recently married Amanda reveals she's pregnant and having complications. With a need to cut back on outside activities, Amanda convinces Krista to take over her position on the Marietta Secret Santa Society.

Jonah returned to his hometown of Marietta to house-and-dog-sit for his parents while they help his newly widowed sister. He recently sold his high-tech Silicon Valley business for a lot of money and is now at loose ends as he tries to decide what is next for him. With a non-compete clause in the sales contract, Jonah figured it was safer to remove himself from the temptations of his lab. Before they leave, they tell Jonah that he's expected to take their place with the Society while they are gone. Jonah is a self-declared introvert who claims to have no people skills and feels unsuited for the job.

Krista and Jonah meet when one of the dogs he's walking tangles herself up in Krista's legs and knocks her over, and Jonah tries to break her fall with his body. The attraction between them is immediate and Jonah is happy to use the Secret Santa meetings to get to know Krista better. The older committee members think that Krista, with her marketing skills, and Jonah, with his proven business savvy, are the perfect people to fix the Society's financial woes.

I loved seeing the relationship between Krista and Jonah develop. Both have been burned by previous relationships gone bad, with partners more interested in what they could get than what they could give. Krista and Jonah start out intending to ignore the sparks and concentrate on being friends and partners. I loved how well they worked together, each one's strengths making a good balance of creativity and practicality. The more time they spent together, the stronger their attraction grew and so did their connection. But Krista is rooted in Marietta and Jonah will return to California when his parents return, so neither can see a future for them.

There are some sweet scenes between Jonah and Krista, from hot chocolate at the chocolate shop to time spent with the dogs or wandering the holiday-ready streets of Marietta. I also loved Jonah's support of Krista when the stresses of her family's upcoming visit got to her. There's a bump in the road to them finding their happy ever after and I had to laugh when Krista took action to overcome it. The ending was terrific and left me wanting to make more visits to the chocolate shop.

I've enjoyed the Big Sky Mavericks series overall, and like having the interconnected characters and getting updates on characters from other Montana Born series. I found it difficult to get into this book, however. There wasn't anything wrong with the story or writing, but I just couldn't identify with the characters and therefore found myself struggling to push through at times. Based on reading the other reviews, I think that a lot of readers would be quite happy with this book, it just wasn't for me.

One of the reasons I look forward to reading Debra Salonen's novels is her books are like a comfortable blanket. They give you that warm and fuzzy feeling inside. She takes the time to let you get to know her characters. I received an ARC of Montana Rebel in exchange for an honest review. Montana Rebel is my favorite book in the Big Sky Mavericks series. Justin's wanderlust and addiction to adventure make him a high risk bachelor but can the love of a good woman rescue him from a lonely existence? It's not often love gets a second chance but when it does it is worth every tear. Wonderfully heartwarming romantic fun.

A lovely novel about being perfect for each other even when you are on the opposing team. Meg and Hank have never seen eye to eye on the subject that is close to their hearts but what they do agree upon is that family is everything and one must do what they can to keep them safe.

When a snow storm forces a helicopter to crash-land a mile away from her home, Meg doesn't think twice about rushing out into the blizzard to search for survivors. As luck would have it the helo belongs to her arch rival who was transporting his 4 young grandkids to a hospital. Fate steps in a makes her their savior but is she actually doing they saving or are they saving her.

A must read for those who believe in love and help from a higher power.

Free copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

I've enjoyed this series right from the start. The hardships all the characters have had to overcome, the lives they live and the heartbreak and love they experience are all as close to reality that fiction can get. Debra Salonen's writing makes you feel like you are right there with all her characters, watching their lives unfold in front of you first hand. Montana Rebel is no exception. The vivid imagery and the heartfelt emotion is part of the Big Sky Mavericks experience. Though this series has come to an end I hope it is not the last that we will be seeing of them. A must read series for every hope-filled romantic

ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

As with all of Debra Salonen's characters, Jonah and Krista both have pasts that affect a lot that happens in their present. But the obvious chemistry between them draws them closer even though they try very hard not to get involved. Plus misguided family members are not always so helpful which causes Jonah to panic make a decision that he soon regrets. Stressed out by an unexpected family reunion Krista ends up doing pretty much the same thing but when she get some tragic news from her family, it causes her to reconsider the hesitation and doubt that rules her decisions about forming close relationships. A lovely Christmas story about finding love and yes CHOCOLATE plays a big role.

I received an Advanced Reader's Copy from NetGalley for voluntary review consideration

Thanks to preventing a disaster in the form of a business deal, Kate and her restaurant Romantique are attempting to recover from a slew of bad press. Rob is trying his best to help her and finds that she is about the only thing he really likes about Las Vegas. Spending time with her is making him realise he wants more but, her daughter Maya wants her father and mother back together. So she’s not as welcoming of him. Her dad just getting out of jail doesn’t help matters much either. If he wants the future he now knows he wants with Kate and Maya, he’s going to have to be what the both of them need.

Advanced Review Copy provided by the author for voluntary review consideration.

This is a very sweet romance - but it reads like the characters were cooperating a little too enthusiastically, and the author started picking up every obstacle she could think of and throwing it at them to extend the story. Assault, near-death, Freaky Friday, amnesia...an attempt at bad family histories, but the families straightened themselves out before it could actually be an obstacle...etc. The sex scene is way more about clothes than anything else. And the magic dog - he was a perfectly trained police dog at the beginning of the story, then (even before Freaky Friday) he bonds with and reacts well to this unknown woman. Because of course he knows she's right for Ben. I enjoyed the story, but I had to turn my brain off to do it. I might look at another by this author, but I won't be reading this one again.

Liz thinks half of her mother's premonition was fulfilled when she was unable to help her father recover. Now she is in the process of making the second part come true, "the child of light. Only she's got it all wrong. The "man of darkness" is apparently the grouchy gardener she unwittingly befriends and ends up losing her heart to. Unfortunately David Baines is in Witness Protection and is on the run from his former boss. But he is beginning to realize that he doesn't want to run anymore. In fact putting down roots with Liz is what he wants and more if she'll have him. But first he needs to put his past firmly in the past, if he wants any kind of future with her.

Advanced Review Copy provided for voluntary review consideratio

In Prince Charming Undercover, Nick Lightner aka Nikolai Sarna knows about his Romani roots but has abandoned them just like his father abandoned him as a child. Being lucky to have been adopted by an amazing family, he pretty much goes against his Rom nature and joins law enforcement just like his adoptive father. An unexpected call with essential insider tips somehow linked to a case file on his desk sets things in motion and he finds himself connecting with his extended Romani family.

'Princess' Grace Parlier never expected to find her Prince Charming after every prophecy about the love life and life partners for herself and sister lied to broken hearts and disillusionment with love. But Nikolai Sarna somehow sparks hope within her. And being around her makes Nick take a closer look at his inherited gifts and cultural backgrounds in a different light. Falling in love though is the last thing either of them expected. Two bad they live on opposite side of the country.

I loved that the Romani/Gypsy culture has been highlighted so well in this new series by Debra Salonen. Every story she writes is enriched with culture and family values in spite of many of those families being broken and twisted in some cases. I'm excited to see what is next in the Betting On Love series.

I received an Advanced Reviewers Copy for voluntary review consideration.

A Great Dane named George plays cupid to pet spa owner and single mom to a pair of twin girls Kara Williams and recently divorced, father to a sullen 14-year-old, and restaurant owner, Brad Ralston. And isn't he the best Cupid ever. Missing his normal routine that has changed since the divorce and tired of his family ignoring him, George decides to take things into his own paws and trots off to Kara's pet spa to get himself a much need grooming.

Everyone in the Ralston home is having a tough time adjusting to the new dynamics of their family life, especially his son Justin seems to find any excuse to get in trouble. When George escapes his home one too many times, Brad realizes that he might be neglecting more than just his dog and enlists Kara's help as a live-in housekeeper. CIrcumstances being what they are Kara agrees to be the female presence in a home that is sorely in need of a woman's touch.

Soon all parties involved realize that they function much better as a unit but both Brad and Kara have been badly burned by love going wrong and are way too wary to get involved and risk their hearts once again.

I received an Advanced Reviewers Copy from the author for voluntary review consideration

Cute quick read about George, a great dane belonging to divorced Dad Brad, who constantly escapes to single gal Kara's Pet Spa.

In Debra Salonen's newest book, the reader finds bull rider Will Cavanaugh and professional business woman Anne Fraser. Will ambition's the top bull riding slot; however, an injury has sidelined him for the summer. Anne's just one pinch from making it big in New York's business world. Fate steps in to change Will and Anne's course in life. When Will's grandfather, A. J Cavenaugh, calls asking for summer help, Will immediately headed home. Anne receives the same request, setting her and her asthmatic daughter Zoey on the same path. She can't say no to her stepfather.

With well-developed characters and a slow built up of the romance between Anne and Will, Salonen created a sweet story. I love the way Salonen did not rush them, but let the emotion build from a simmer to a roaring fire. Through the trauma of asthma attracts, the influx of guest, and fighting their feelings, this book keeps the reader entertained.

Anne and Will have ghosts from the past they must overcome. Anne lives and works in New York while Will's on the rodeo tour. They know this life would not be the proper fit for a sickly child or marriage.

Meanwhile, Zoey's growing and becoming healthy in the dry western weather; making friends and loving the lifestyle. With so many obstacles to overcome, Salonen skillfully crafted an HEA romance. Although the story does contain intense emotional attraction, the love scene is not graphic or explicit. Instead, I found it sweet and full of emotion.

Salonen's scenes transition smoothly, the plot will hold your interest, and the pacing's in line with the length of the book. Salonen created to two independent people who are strong and reliable. Will's a true gentleman of the range with heart and commitment. Anne always juggled her professional obligations and her love for Zoey. It's lovely to see Anne mature and grow as she comes to understand her purpose in life and find her happy ever after.

Zoey's a beautiful character; typical of children her age. Without her, the story would not have been the same. Cowboys, ranching, a sweet child, and romance; what more could you want! I would not hesitate to buy this book for myself or a friend.

Footnote:
Additionally, I received this book from the author and chose to voluntarily review the book with an honest romance book review. Lastly, book reviews of any novel are dependent on the book review author’s opinion. All book reviews online and on my blog, are my opinions. Also, the ARC did not affect my voluntary romance novel review.

I just finished this Boxed set and I'm hooked on to the Black Hills series. I AM HOOKED! This series was on my TBR since it first came out but I just didn't get around to reading it. I was lucky to get a copy of the boxed set so it was really convenient to go through 4 books in one go.

I love how each book is so individual. Yes, it does have a common running theme i.e broken hearts, disillusion about love, family, and marriage but that is the essence of real life stories. And fiction is FICTION so you do have a teeny bit of everything conveniently matching up and coming together.

But the amazing thing is that every book has its own plot and drama, the characters have their own personalities and Debra Salonen is very adept at bringing each and every single one of them to life. You will rarely find a storyline or character trait that overlaps in similarity. Hats off to Ms. Salonen as it must be a great undertaking to plan out such an elaborate universe for her stories.

I received a complimentary copy of this book for voluntary review consideration.

OMG! Please have a box of tissues on hand before you begin this book. This book has a range of emotions that you will experience. It's a tear jerker and quite heart rending. But it does have a wonderful HEA ending which will have you going aww shucks that's so sweet. Daniel really turns of a new leaf when he meets Gretchen. But a shattered and heartbroken Gretchen refuses to tie him down because of her condition.

I received an Advanced Reader's Copy from the Publisher via NetGalley for voluntary review consideration.

In Her Rogue To Tame, we find Amanda Heller and Tucker Montgomery. Tucker plans to open a Zip Line Business in Montana. Before the first pole's set, Tucker’s laid up with an injury. But has friends ready to step in and help meet his dead line.

Tucker's an amazing character, he’s good hearted, hard-working, and ambitious. However, the reader will find behind his boyish charm and style, he is hiding childhood trauma, fears, and scars which have deep roots.

When Amanda Heller shows up they reach an agreement, he will supervisor the renovations on her grandmother's house and she will create an ad promo for the Zip Line. Amanda, raised in a dysfunctional family of wealth and privilege, by parents who make the devil look like a good guy. You will love to hate Amanda’s parents. Amanda’s the only good apple in the basket. Brow beaten, ignored, and used her whole life, Salonen skillfully developed her character. I loved seeing her reach the point she could stand up for herself and others. The secondary characters add depth and intrigue to the story.

In concluding my review, I found a solid romance with well-developed characters and an intriguing story-line. The attraction between Tucker and Amanda’s hot, and deep with love scenes which are intense and steamy. Due to love scenes, I recommend this book for mature young adults and adults.

I received an ARC from Netgalley and chose to voluntary review this book.

it was as expected for typical modern romance novels. That's not to say that I didn't enjoy it, because I did. It delivered exactly what it was supposed to: a moment of escape into the world of two people falling in love and resenting every minute of it. I can't really say much more other than that I would read more from this author if ever in the need of a good romance. Her style is fluid and the characters are entertaining.

As with all of Debra Salonen's characters, Jonah and Krista both have pasts that affect a lot that happens in their present. But the obvious chemistry between them draws them closer even though they try very hard not to get involved. Plus misguided family members are not always so helpful which causes Jonah to panic make a decision that he soon regrets. Stressed out by an unexpected family reunion Krista ends up doing pretty much the same thing but when she get some tragic news from her family, it causes her to reconsider the hesitation and doubt that rules her decisions about forming close relationships. A lovely Christmas story about find love and yes CHOCOLATE plays a big role.

I received an Advanced Reader's Copy from NetGalley for voluntary review consideration

Rachel has been the perfect daughter but in so doing has left her dreams behind. With a recent divorce, the loss of her accounting job and a dream she heads to Sentinel Pass to create her future. With Rufus Miller her first web design customer, if she can hook him, she is sure she will succeed in achieving her goals. Rufus has been burned in the past and is a bit unwilling to let Rachel take over. The two definitely have chemistry and are interested in one another but a big secret Rufus is keeping might undo the progress they have made into relationship potential unless the situation can be made right.

I liked both character and rooted for them to get their happily ever after. I have not read any other books in this series and did not need to for this book to be a wonderful standalone story. I will be looking for other books in the series because this new-to-me author impressed me with her character development, storyline and writing abilities.

I received a copy of this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for my honest review.½

"5 out of 5 stars, a man moves back to his hometown after dealing with a big political scandal he didn't commit and falls for his neighbor who shows him that being a cowboy isn't as bad as he had always believed! A spin-off from Ms. Salonen's "Cowgirl Come Home," this novel throws you right into that action from the very beginning and leaves you wanting more from Austen, Serena, and Austen's family."

Read more of this review and a teaser here: http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2014/09/idolizing-in-big-sky-mavericks...

A lovely novel about being perfect for each other even when you are on the opposing team. Meg and Hank have never seen eye to eye on the subject that is close to their hearts but what they do agree upon is that family is everything and one must do what they can to keep them safe.

When a snow storm forces a helicopter to crash-land a mile away from her home, Meg doesn't think twice about rushing out into the blizzard to search for survivors. As luck would have it the helo belongs to her arch rival who was transporting his 4 young grandkids to a hospital. Fate steps in a makes her their savior but is she actually doing they saving or are they saving her.

A must read for those who believe in love and help from a higher power.

Free copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

I loved this book. It was just so real and down to earth, a very natural and relatable story. Flynn is dealing with the death of someone he couldn't save. He's looking for a fresh start and taking over Marietta's SAR is just what he needs. Burned by a previous marriage, he's protecting his heart and is playing it safe.

Kat has a "death sentence" hanging over her head, in the form of potential early onset Alzheimer's. A single mom to a son with Asperger's syndrome, she lost her husband to divorce, her mom to Alzheimer's and a father with no identity. Hoping for some answers she moved to Marietta and found a job with SAR, but after more than a year she still didn't have the nerve to follow through on confronting the man she suspects is her father.

Together Flynn and Kat have this great chemistry that complements each other and they make a great team. The attraction is blatant between them but neither wants a messy entanglement in the workplace

I think Brady is the real hero of this book. I just loved his character. He really knows his mind. He's clear on his target and so focussed. Even though his plan went awry he was still able to achieve what he set out to do. Find a family for himself and his mom.

As always you will meet many of the Montana series favorites and a few new characters that will make the basis for a few more Big Sky Mavericks titles.

Free copy provided in exchange for an honest review.

Loving this continuation in the Big Sky Mavericks series. Tucker Montgomery is the typical carefree, no strings attached kind of guy. When a potentially life altering injury forces him to abandon the set up of his new zip-line business, he must re-evaluate his life and somehow Amanda Heller has become a huge part of this evaluation.

With plenty of laughs, romance and a few teary moments, Montana Rogue is a well paced and fun read. 2 thumbs up!

ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

I've enjoyed this series right from the start. The hardships all the characters have had to overcome, the lives they live and the heartbreak and love they experience are all as close to reality that fiction can get. Debra Salonen's writing makes you feel like you are right there with all her characters, watching their lives unfold in front of you first hand. Montana Rebel is no exception. The vivid imagery and the heartfelt emotion is part of the Big Sky Mavericks experience. Though this series has come to an end I hope it is not the last that we will be seeing of them. A must read series for every hope-filled romantic

ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.