the setup…
Sienna Naples has finally gotten her divorce, only to find her friends have announced the event in the town newspaper via an ad saying she’s looking for a husband in exchange for helping out on her family Idaho cattle ranch. It’s meant as a joke but when single father Guy Maple shows up with a serious offer, Sienna feels terrible because he’s in desperate need of a union that comes with medical insurance. His four-year old daughter Emma has stage five kidney disease and cannot go on the transplant list without having the means to afford the anti-rejection medications. After first turning him away, she has second thoughts and impulsively accepts his offer. Guy is a skilled construction worker who plans to take his vows seriously. Sienna immediately falls for Emma…and maybe this attractive man might win her heart, too.
the heart of the story…
While this isn’t a traditional Christmas story, it has all of the elements that embody the spirit of the season. I was taken by Guy immediately, his love and devotion for his daughter overwhelming. His entire life is committed to keeping her safe and alive but when he takes those marriage vows, he brings Sienna into that circle, no matter that it’s a marriage of convenience. It’s a cobbled together family and it makes a difference that all three embrace their new relationship.
the narration…
Haley Taylor is new to me but I’m now an instant fan. From her warm, soft tone and perfectly paced storytelling, she created the perfect listening experience. She was outstanding.
the bottom line…
It’s a very slow burn romance but that felt right as the seriousness of Emma’s health issues were always at the forefront. Despite that, there were so many heart-tugging moments and the family that was hastily created started to gel in ways that also felt natural. I loved everything about this story, including the quirky animals on that ranch. It’s even better knowing it’s the start of a new series.
Book Info
- Release Date: September 24, 2024
- Series: Heart of the Wilderness #1
- Narrator: Haley Taylor
- Audio Length: 9 hours, 24 minutes
- Publisher: Dreamscape Media
Listen to a Sample!
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(Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Blue Mood Café 
Fab review Jo. Looks like you’ve found a new series to listen to!
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Thanks, Nicki💜 This is a special story.
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I just received this one from the library and look forward to reading it soon. Wonderful review Jonetta!
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Thank you, Jodie💜 Enjoy!
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It sounds lovely!
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It really is, Carol💜
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The story sounds lovely. I am not sure I find it believable that Sienna would be willing to marry so quickly after a divorce though.
Anne – Books of My Heart
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It is lovely! I didn’t elaborate on the serendipitous circumstances that had her say yes. You’re right to be skeptical. But…😏
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Fab review! I enjoyed her previous series, and I’m definitely looking forward to get a copy of this one. It sounds great for the Holiday season! xx
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Thank you, Yvo💜 I still have the other series to read.
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Especially the first two books are so much fun!
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Great review, Jo. I also loved this one, one of my favourites this year. I also loved the characters, they were so likable and caring.
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Thank you, Carla💜 This will probably make my list of favorites for the year.
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Great minds think alike. 😁
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