Welcome to a brand-new series by Mary Connealy! Aiming for Love takes us to Hope Mountain in 1873 Colorado where we meet the Nordegren sisters who have been reared up high in the mountain by a set of grandparents who avoided civilization and taught them to fear the world outside of their cabin. With her trademark humor and easy-to-read writing style, the author paints a beautiful yet challenging backdrop of the untamed mountain as the three sisters meet the Warden family who are fleeing from those coming after their ranch in the "lowlands". Jo, the middle sister, is the main character in this book and her musings about civilization and "other people" are thought-provoking and sometimes downright hilarious. Her curiosity, heart of gold, desire to help others and skill with living off the land endear her to Dave, the younger Warden brother.

There are plenty of struggles, physical and emotional and spiritual, as the Wardens forge their way in the wilderness of Hope Mountain with the help of the sisters. This is book one in the series and sets up quite a few secondary characters and scenarios that will likely come into play as the series progresses. If you enjoy historical fiction, especially set in the frontiers, you will love this book. I can't wait to read the second book in the series where we'll get to know the youngest sister Ilsa better.

I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

Aiming for Love by extremely talented author Mary Connealy is another offering of historical Christian romance at its best. Filled with inspiration and faith the author has written a whimsical tale that includes humor, action, emotion, and mystery. It is a page turning delight.

Set in the mountains of Colorado, this is the tale of Josephine Nordegren and her two sisters. They were raised by grandparents secluded from the outside world. It is also the story of rancher David Warden and his family. When the two families meet, sparks and arrows fly.

Author Connealy is a fabulous storyteller. From the beginning I was invested in this book. My dishes piled up while I kept reading. I devoured this entertaining, inspiring, and even educational book in one day. It is that good!

The writing style was smooth and inviting. Details were enough to make me feel like I was up in the mountains but not so much that they were tedious. The characters were well rounded and believable. Conversations were accurate for the time period.

I highly recommend this beautiful book. It is a sweet romance with action, intrigue, and mystery. I definitely rate it 5 out of 5 stars. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit but these are my honest thoughts.

This story takes place in the 1800s, but with such a setting it could possibly be a modern tale since the Nordegren sisters know nothing but their own little space on the planet. What would happen if three sisters living in rugged mountain isolation suddenly face intruders from the world they were taught to fear? This intriguing tale is the first in a series, and I’m so glad the stories will continue. Josephine is curious about the outside world and wants to learn from others, but her deceased grandparents, who raised her, instilled caution regarding the dangers this would bring so she’s torn between the two. The novel’s action and adventure draw readers in and the compelling story line keep them hooked. The characters are believable and feel authentic, with struggles and difficult decisions. I enjoyed reading about all of them and their situations. They truly made me care. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

What a book!

I was so happy when I received the honor of having Mary Connealy’s newest book Aiming for Love featured on my blog. Mary Connealy is one of my go to authors when I need something to smile about. This book definitely has that aspect in spades, it kept me smiling and laughing through the whole book.

The characters Jo And Dave had such interesting interactions that were so real. Things did not going the way that either of them expected. I thought Dave not quite knowing what to do with Jo’s families ideas was a fun experience as well. Plus all the additional sub characters in this book make it hard to put down as I never knew what was going to happen next. I still totally wish I could do the things that Jo and her sisters could do.

The plot was also very creative to me. I thought the way it was written keeps you wanting more and it gives you more as you read it. Mary Connealy has a way of starting off small and ending with a bang. Personally, I have never read a story quite like this one. But I loved it and I highly recommend picking this one up as a must read.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars for all the happiness it brought to my heart, the laughter of the characters, the very unique premise, and the way in which Mary Connealy was able to convey the message of Christ through out the whole book.

I enjoyed this fun story of sisters who grew up isolated in the mountains. I understood how fear could took hold in their lives as they had been raised by such a fearful grandmother. I liked the way that Jo and Ilsa were able to move past those fears and begin to live life and help the people who showed up on their mountain. However, Ursula really frustrated me. I spent a lot of the book angry with her treatment of Jo and the way she allowed fear to control her. I do look forward to seeing how the author redeems this character in a future book.

I liked Jo and David and thought that their love story progressed realistically throughout the novel. I liked seeing some insight into Mitch and also into the character of Wax Mosby. It will be interesting to see where the author goes with their stories in the future books.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

My Thoughts on Aiming for Love:
This is the first book in a new series by Mary Connealy. I have loved all the books I’ve read by her before and this was no different. Great book and an easy to follow read.

I really enjoyed the storyline for this book and can’t wait to continue the series to follow the other sisters. We’ve got almost a fairy tale story but with such fun thrown in that, I forget I’m reading a book. It’s like I’m part of the story and I can’t wait to see what the next page brings. Life gets sad when you have to stop reading and start going back to your own life and the dreaded dishes!

Jo is a sweet and fun, inquisitive character. She’s a great one to follow. I loved learning more about her as the book goes on.

The storyline is unique and I’ve never read a book like this one. I really enjoyed it. David is sweet and I fell in love with the family. But can they escape the trouble that follows them? Can they keep these girls safe and still somewhat apart from the world?

I cannot wait for the rest of the books in the series to come out and see the stories of the next two sisters play out. Where will they go? What will they do? Will they find love?

Of course, I can’t tell you too much about Jo and David and their story because I don’t want to give it away and make you feel like you don’t need to read the book. Give it a read! Then find me and we can chat! This is a great story and it’s one I wouldn’t mind reading again and again.

Plus it’s one I would add to the shelf that my teenage daughters can read. If you’ve read my reviews before you know that I like to add whether I would let my teens read the book or not. Anything by Mary Connealy tends to go in the my teen can read pile.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

Aiming for Love is full of Mary Connealy’s signature wit. I loved the unique characters these three girls present, and I can’t wait to read the next two books. I really enjoyed watching the story unfold, especially learning about the Nordengren girl’s past and why they are the way they are. This story introduces the characters that will continue through-out the next books. It does change POV frequently and has quite a few different perspectives. I found it easy to keep up with who’s mind we were in, but some readers may find it difficult to keep straight. I thought the characters and their fears are very real and relatable. One of the most interesting elements for me was the sheltered lives these sisters had lived and their perspective on life because of it. This leads to many humorous conversations and events.
I recommend this book for those who enjoy unique and quirky characters and are looking for something different.

Oh what fun!

When Jo was caught sneaking into Dave's camp, nobody's life was ever the same again. I loved the way Dave was so appalled by Jo and yet so captivated by her at the same time. And bewildered at her strange behavior and beliefs.

The Nordegren sisters, having been isolated from the outside world by a grandmother who lived in fear of death and disease had a number of idiosyncrasies. Their ability to move through the forest so quietly even the woodland creatures didn't notice their presence was one. Their strange speech and manner of quoting the Bible along with Aesop's fables were yet another. While Jo and Ilsa had a fascination with the outside world, Ursula was terrified by it, having been more greatly influenced by their grandmother.

The sisters had to decide between surrendering to their fears and showing kindness to the Warden family when Dave's father was injured. Then, when their greatest fear was realized, they had to again choose between hope and fear.

Ma Warden was a gem, especially the tactful way she dealt with the misunderstanding the sisters had concerning their "good books." Her love and compassion were combined with wisdom.

Speaking of the "good books". . . While making it clear the sisters were confused and that the Bible is the only infallible word of God, the story had some very funny sections where the confusion about the boy who cried wolf and wolves in sheep's clothing had Dave's head spinning and forgetting what was actually from the Bible and what was not. I laughed out loud as I read. Despite their confusion, the fact that the sisters revered God's word, had such a large portion of it memorized (to the point they really thought they knew how to read!), and desired to live out the truths contained within were admirable.

If you have read Mary Connealy's High Sierra Sweethearts series, then you are already familiar with the way she creates such quirky yet loveable characters. And then places them in familiar and yet unexpected circumstances making a very enjoyable story.

Now that I've met the Warden family and the Nordegren sisters and have seen the beginnings of this tale unfold, I'm excited to continue learning about them when Woman of Sunlight releases March 2020 followed by Ursula's story whenever it comes out. I already have a hunch about who she might end up with but my aim could be completely off!

If you enjoy history and adventure, humor and romance, I highly recommend you read Aiming for Love.

Aiming for Love is the first in Mary Connealy's Brides of Hope Mountain series and if book one is any indication of the series, I can't wait to read more! Connealy has a nice style of writing and kept my interest throughout the entire book. I was hooked from the beginning as the action starts right up and continues through the story, always keeping the reader wondering how in the world will things work out now. The characters are unique and likable. I really liked Ma Warden and her down-to-earth attitude and the wise way she dealt with the fears and idiosyncrasies of the self-sufficient Nordegren sisters. Jo, Ursula, and Ilsa, each with their own particular skills, lived in a land of grizzlies and mountain lions, lightning storms and blizzards and pretty much knew no fear. But to have strangers come and occupy their mountain was terrifying. Would they learn that not all folks from 'down there' bring trouble, sickness, and death? Think danger, suspense, a little romance and you have a recipe for an entertaining story. Aiming for Love is a captivating tale of family and faith, courage and love. Readers who enjoy historical romance will not want to miss this story.
I received a copy of the book through Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required and the opinions are my own. This review is part of a Celebrate Lit book tour.

The  Nordegren Sisters lived in seclusion. They never left their area as they were led to believe that harm would come to them.  How often are we too afraid to go out of our safe zone?  What do we risk if we take a step outside the box?

So many times in my life I had to take those steps (sometimes voluntary and sometimes forced).   With each step comes growth.

Jo was more adventurous than her sisters.  She was willing to take a risk.  And with this risk, she gained so much more.

There will be more books to follow as we get to know Jo's sisters better.  Ilsa and Ursula each have lessons to learn and hopefully take a leap of faith in their journeys towards love.

I received this free from Celebrate Lit to review

Mary Connealy has a new book!!! I have to have it!!! What’s it about??? I don’t care I want it!!! That practically sums my thought process when I first heard about this new series.

Three sisters live an isolated existence in the wild mountains. But all that is about to change; as trouble, chaos, and a bit of romance shakes up their lives when a group of strangers get stranded on their mountain.

A fast-paced tale filled with Mary Connealy’s unique style of humor, sass, and wild-west fun. I am excitedly waiting for the next book in this series.

This was one of my favorite books by Mary Connealy. I love the women of Hope Mountain. I loved Jo, Ilsa and Ursula. These three women have lived together on a mountain away from all other people since their grandfather died. They basically have honed their survival instincts and haven’t even talked to anyone else in 10 years. This story focuses on Jo and her finding Dave. This is very inspirational and full of hope. I can’t wait till the second book comes out in this series. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

I’ll be honest here: when I first started reading the book, I thought it would be a Robin Hood type of retelling because I did not look at the picture closely or read the description. Completely my fault!!

This was my first book by Mary Connealy, and I have found a new favorite author! In Aiming for Love we are transported back in time to an era when anything could happen. Jo seems a little rough around the edges at first, but as the story progresses, she quickly became a favorite. I love how Mary Connealy touched on subjects and did not make them out to be just any old mountain people. Instead she opened our eyes to a possibility of why people were the way they were in that time period.

From the first time Jo sneaked around to the very last line, I loved this story! I am very excited to see that she will be making this into a trilogy and will be touching on each of the sisters because I want to see how their stories unfold as well!

I was provided a copy of this book through netgalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a review.

I am one happy reader here to have the opportunity read Mary Connealy’s first installment from her new series, Brides of Hope Mountain, Aiming for Love. I have loved her other books and this one does not disappoint. She has a way to bring on a inspiring story with fun and entertainment. It was great meeting Jo and her sisters. The story has a combination of suspense, mystery, delight, action, and adventure. And, of course, there is that well know Connealy humor mixed in there, as well.

I am giving Aiming for Love a very well deserved five plus stars. I would give it one hundred if I could. I can not wait to get my hands on the second installment from the Brides of Hope Mountain, Woman of Sunlight, releasing next spring. I am looking forward to it.
I highly recommend this book for readers who enjoy sweet and clean historical romance.

Aiming for Love by Mary Connealy is an historical romance set in the mountains of Colorado. When Josephine Nordegren's curiosity gets the better of her, she must decide whether or not to invite strangers into her family's sanctuary.

Cattle owner David Warden plans to make a new life in the mountains above his childhood home. However, things take an unexpected turn when his parents must flee their ranch with most of their animals and possessions. Worst of all, his father has been shot.

Will Dave trust the strange woman he encounters in the mountains? Will Jo convince her sisters to help the family encroaching on their refuge of solitude? Or will death visit the mountain again?

According to the book's back copy, Jo Nordegren mixes Robin Hood with the Little Mermaid. With that intriguing description, I was looking forward to reading her story. I just wish the book lived up to my expectations. There were plot points left unraveled by the end and I didn't find myself caring for the characters like I hoped.

Overall I liked the story idea, I just wasn't as much of a fan of the execution as I wanted to be. Perhaps it will be one you would enjoy more than me.

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I received this book free from NetGalley in order to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Aiming for love combines all the wonder and curiosity of a toddler with the skill of an experienced woodsman (or in this case, woodswomen).


Jo captured my heart from the beginning of the book. Her isolated life creates a very observant young woman who is torn between her caution and her curiosity.


Her confident faith, despite a lack of knowledge is inspiring.


The family dynamics of the three sisters are well played. Love and drama. Fear and hope. Fun and frustration.


Dave was a very entertaining character for me. Strong and confident but so totally puzzled by these women on the mountaintop!


While some parts of the story seem to go rather quickly, I still found it believable in context of the time and setting.


As soon as I finished reading, I looked up the sequel, because the buildup was pretty intense. It will be available in March. I'm counting the weeks!


A few threads were neatly tied up, but the stage is only just set for the bigger plot.

I received a copy of the book from @netgalley and chose to review it here. All thoughts are my own.

Wow! This has to be one of the most refreshing stories I've read in a long time.

Aiming for Love by Mary Connealy is the story of three sisters, living in a remote mountain their whole lives. When Dave Warden comes in search of pasture land for his cattle, he finds himself captured by Jo. This wild hunter, who moves silently through the forest. Jo is curious and fascinated by Dave. Her sisters are more resistant to having strangers from the outside world.

This is the first novel by Mary Connealy that I have read.and it was certainly very enjoyable. The budding romance between Jo and Dave are a hallmark as the attraction between them grows. As Jo invites Dave's family into her home, sister Ursula's fears escalate. And little Ilsa's medical prowess takes the Warden family by storm. This story has so many new and refreshing twists. A total delight. I loved it. Looking forward to the next one in the series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Net Galley and the publisher. All views expressed are my honest opinion.

"Aiming for Love " (Bridges of Hope Mountain Book#1 ) by Mary Connealy is a Christian Fiction book. Jo Nordegren and her sisters live in the wild in southern western Colorado. They have learned how to live off the land and protect themselves. When David Warden shows up with his herd and his family how will they get along with the Nordegren's? This book shows how the Nodegren's survived living on the land. The book is creatively written and shows what life is like for these people . I liked the character descriptions. I was given this book from netgalley and the publisher to read and review this book. I appreciate the opportunity to read and review this book. I am not obligated to give a positive review.

Imagine losing everyone you love, except your two sisters. As if that isn’t enough, then living high in the mountains by yourselves, never venturing away to see what the rest of the world is like. The fear instilled in the core of their very beings kept them fending for themselves with no outside help. I find it almost unbelievable that anyone could survive like these three have. The exceptional detail given reminded me how incredibly important it must have been to be observant.

The outside world comes to their valley. Will it bring the disease and death they had been taught about as children? Perhaps it will bring new experiences, friends and a whole different life! I loved learning about Jo, Ilsa and Ursula and hope we will meet them again soon on the mountain called Hope.

This ARC was received through Bethany House Publishers, NetGalley and CelebrateLit. My 5 star rating, comments and impressions were not solicited.

After hearing so many rave reviews for Mary Connealy's writing I was excited to start at the beginning of a series with her. I found the premise intriguing and couldn't wait to meet the characters. I have to admit to having some mixed feelings about it after reading though. While the story held my attention with plenty of adventure, it also felt too far-fetched. The characters were likable, but fell short of being realistic. With exception to Ursula, the abilities and personalities of the three Nordegren sisters didn't seem to fit well with their background of living entirely separate from all other mankind. I did like however, that they confused the Bible with other stories they'd been taught as children because that was more believable. Taking some of the realism aside it was still a well written novel and the fast pace easily kept the pages turning.

Even though I had some mixed thoughts I still consider this worth the read and I'm glad I picked it up. If you can get past some of the realism issues I think historical fiction fans would enjoy it.

*I received a copy of this book through CelebrateLit. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.