Out of Control by Mary Connealy ~ Review & Giveaway

Don't you just love this cover? That's Rafe Kincaid. He's a rancher. (You might want to click on the photo to get a better look ;)) And that's Julia in the background. She's a paleontologist (my interpretation). What could they possibly have in common?

Book Blurb

Julia Gilliland has always been interested in the natural world around her. She particularly enjoys studying the fossils and formations in the magnificent cave near her father's house. The cave seems plenty safe--until the day a mysterious intruder steals the rope she uses to climb out.

Rafe Kincaid is a man used to being in control--of himself, his brothers, and his family's ranch. The last thing he expects is to find a woman trapped in the cavern on his land--or to be forced to kiss her!

Rafe is more intrigued by Julia than any woman he's ever known. But when their developing relationship threatens a reconciliation with his brothers, will Rafe have to choose between his family and this new love that could heal his troubled heart and secure his happiness?

 

 

 

 

My Review

Mary has a natural flair when it comes to writing western romantic comedy. Crisp dialogue kept me turning the pages as fast as I could gallop from one to the other.

The characters in Out of Control are flawed and funny, annoying and adorable! I laughed & laughed, and really did wonder how Julia and Rafe were going to end up a happy couple. Talk about two people being total opposites! But, Mary skillfully brings them together in a satisfying and big-sigh ending :)

Even though I didn't really feel connected to Julia, I did admire the tenacity and strength that she developed over the years due to her not-so-great home life. While wholeheartedly embracing what she believes to be God's calling (and it certainly wouldn't have been an easy one in her day) she survives seemingly insurmountable circumstances!

Rafe is the oldest of three brothers, therefore he has the typical oldest child syndrome happening. He's bossy and thinks he knows what's best for everyone, even Julia. His heart is always in the right place even if his attitude isn't. I like him!

This novel took me deep into the heart of some fascinating cave exploring, making me wonder if Mary's done a little of that. I was very interested in that aspect of the book.

I'm choosing not to discuss the secondary characters since we'll be meeting them more fully in their own stories. I can't wait to learn more about Seth and Ethan, the younger Kincaid Brothers, and their future brides. Mary has successfully roped me in to this series. Be careful! You just might get roped, too ;)

Bethany House provided the book in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive one, just express my opinion of the book. No other compensation has been received.







Meet the awesome author Mary Connealy who writes fun and lively "romantic comedy with cowboys" for the inspirational market. She is the author of the successful Lassoed in Texas, Montana Marriages, and Sophie's Daughters series, and her novel Calico Canyon was nominated for a Christy Award. She lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her husband, Ivan, and has four grown daughters.

You can connect with Mary online at her fabulous website or blog. She can also be found at Seekerville and Petticoats & Pistols.

To read the first two chapters of Out of Control click here.

 

Check out this trailer!



Leave a comment letting me know if you've read any of Mary's books. If you have, which is your favorite? (I'm always on the lookout for good books to read) US Only! You MUST be a GFC follower for your entry to count. I'll draw a winner on Oct 14th.