The Laws of Attraction

This is my new favorite Penny Zeller book (I know I said that about the last book of hers I read, When Love Comes, but I hadn't read this one. I still love When Love Comes just as much, but this one . . .)

John Mark was my absolute favorite character. Strong. Protective. Manly. Godly. And yet, prone to his own set of weaknesses that made him delightfully human. The way he swept in to rescue Hannah was perfect–sweet and funny at the same time.

And I just have to mention Pritchard. If you've read the book, I need say nothing more, and if you haven't, well . . . just read it.

Penny included so much rich wisdom in her book, practical advice about marriage that all couples should hear. I loved that she openly showed the hardships of marriage (especially for someone who had been as mistreated as Hannah), yet also displayed the blessings of it.

This is definitely a book that's going onto my favorites list of stories I've read this year.

The saga of the Deadeye Gang continues in this second book of the series, and this time there's a witness. One man, shot several times, has against odds lived long enough to get to the doctor. He's too critically injured to be of much help, but he does give them several clues. However, that only stirs a hornet's nest, and Nell is right in the middle of it. Not only Nell, either–handsome homesteader Brand Nolte and his three daughters are mixed up too. Of course, Nell's not looking to remarry after a bad marriage; but it does make sense for them to stick together for this–right? And she can enjoy herself making dresses for the girls in the meantime.

I liked this story better than the first book and really enjoyed seeing Brand's daughters bond so easily with Nell. Brand was a very layered character himself, and I enjoyed spending page-time with him also. He's quiet but very ready to stand up to protect his friends and family.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.