The Element of Love is a nice start to a brand new series! The story contained danger and some difficult topics, including spousal abuse, among other things. It also looked at the effect secrets have on a person and on relationships. There was a great action sequence at the beginning of the novel as the three sisters went to drastic measures to escape a horrible situation. It really showed how desperate they were and how dire their circumstances had become, for them to go to the lengths they did. Their escape, journey to freedom, and the friends they made in the mission group were all enjoyable to read about.
I feel that the author has set up a good, solid basis for the next book in the series. I enjoyed the developing relationship between Laura and Caleb and they way they worked to communicate with each other when it seemed as if all around them was falling apart. They both had a lot to learn, made some mistakes, yet I liked that they approached things with prayer when deciding how to move forward in their lives. I’m excited to read more in this series.
(4 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK
With their sharp engineering minds, Laura Stiles and her two sisters have been able to deal with their mother’s unfortunate choice in husband, until they discover his plans to marry each of them off to his lecherous friends. Now they must run away–far and fast–to find better matches to legally claim their portion of their father’s lumber dynasty and seize control from their stepfather.
When Laura befriends a mission group heading to serve the poor in California during their escape, she quickly volunteers herself and her sisters to join their efforts. Despite the settlement being in miserable condition, the sisters are excited by the opportunity to put their skills to good use. Laura also sees potential in Caleb, the local minister, to help with gaining her inheritance. But when secrets buried in Caleb’s past and in the land around them come to light, it’ll take all the smarts the sisters have to keep trouble at bay.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mary Connealy writes romantic comedies with cowboys and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She is a two time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader’s Choice finalist.
Mary is the bestselling author of over 50 books and novellas has nearly a million books in print. Her most recent book series are Garrison’s Law, High Sierra Sweethearts, Cimarron Legacy, Wild at Heart, Trouble in Texas, and Kincaid Brides.
Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero. Visit her website or find her at Seekerville and Petticoats & Pistols!
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