After years of isolation on top of Hope Mountain, Ilsa Nordegren may finally be ready to leave. Raised to fear the world, Ilsa and her sisters never planned on coming down, but when the Warden family arrived in need, they had to help. And it may cost them everything.

Having made his fortune, Mitch Warden returned home and found the family homestead abandoned. In a land grab, a ruthless cattle baron had forced his family to escape up the mountain, and when he follows, the last thing he expects is to fall smitten to a black-haired woman who dresses like Robin Hood.

Warden is intent on helping his family reclaim their land, but doesn't realize the risks his past has brought. Dangerous men have tracked him, and rather than risk innocent lives, he's determined to end the danger. But that means a journey to the city--and when Ilsa insists on joining him, the mismatched pair suddenly find themselves on a venture they'll never forget.

Another great book by Ms. Connealy. This is the second book in the series. It is not necessary to read the first book but it would be beneficial to read it to understand why Ilsa is the way she is. It was entertaining to see how Ilsa reacted to the world out side her beloved mountain. She had never been off the mountain and then she travels by horseback and train to Chicago. Her perspective is really enjoyable to read. There is also a good mystery involved. Someone is trying to kill Mitch. Little does he know that Ilsa can take care of herself in a fight.

This is a highly entertaining book and I recommend it to everyone. It has mystery, romance and laughter all rolled into one.

I was given this book by Bethany Publishing House via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.

Woman of Sunlight is a fantastic story. I enjoyed Ilsa and Mitch’s story. I loved that they got married early in the book. Ilsa helps Mitch fight a lot of battles. Someone is trying to kill him. Who is it? It was a surprise to me.


In Woman of Sunlight, there is also a mystery involving the Bible. Ilsa has been told that there were two Bibles. Mitch tries to figure out why.


The book was a historical set in 1873. I love reading this type of book, how different the traveling was. Mostly by horseback but also by foot. Ilsa did get to experience a different way to travel in the book. I just loved her character so much.


This book is the 2nd in the series. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.


I received an advanced copy of the book from the publisher through the author. This book review is my own opinion.

This is the second book in this fascinating series. In book one of the Brides of the Hope Mountain series we met the three sisters living extremely isolated lives atop a mountain. Whereas the first book took place mostly on the mountain, this one takes place among town and city. Although the sisters were raised and taught to never go down from the mountain less they die. Ilsa, this younger savage fairy princess, has to overcome her fear of towns and weird going on, that she did not understand. Mitch Warden has the duty thrust upon him to enlighten her to the ways of the civilized world. This novel takes us on a wild journey of suspense and danger, peppered with life threatening moments even murder. Also romance and of course Conneally’s own brand of humor. Looking forward to book number three with the very weird oldest sister, Ursula being tamed. I have my ideas who will do the taming, but we will see……… I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via Netgalley. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

This second story in the Brides of Hope Mountain series picks up right where the last story ended. I enjoyed spending time with Ilsa and Mitch in this story and getting to know them better.

I didn’t want to put this story down for a moment. The adventure, the mystery, and of course the fun banter between these two characters kept me wanting more and turning pages late into the night. I do have to admit that I didn’t like how this book ended. But with that said, I was thrilled to find out that there will be a third book, and I can not wait to get my hands on that story!

If you are looking for a page-turning, witty story, filled with mystery and adventure then do yourself a favor and be sure to pick up a copy of this book! Do be sure to catch the first book in the series, because you will want to read these wonderful stories in order.

(I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)

Woman of Sunlight picks up where Aiming for Love leaves off. The story of three sisters, living in a remote mountain for their whole lives.

Ilsa and Mitch seem at odds from the beginning. Ilsa's innocence brings humor as she tries to define her views and beliefs after being isolated on the mountain top. But she must learn the ways of the world down below.

Mitch, who was a successful businessman back east, now faces a new adventure as he tries to tame the wild Ilsa and her odd ways. With someone out to kill him, He plans to return to the city to face his foes. But Ilsa insists on coming with him. And everything is strange and new to her.

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.

Diving into any book written by Mary Connealy is a delight because of the combination of romance, western, humor, and mystery that is so unique to this particular author. Woman of Sunlight has everything I expect in a Connealy book and then some.

Ilsa Nordegren is a strong woman. She and her two sisters have to be as they’ve survived alone on a mountain top. Yet, she’s also endearingly naïve about the ways of the world. I mean, once this woman who loves the outdoors, handles a knife better than most men, and swings through treetops gets on a train for the first time, it’s downright hilarious.

As Ilsa and Mitch try to unravel the mystery of who is trying to kill Mitch, they travel from the mountain tops of Colorado to the great city of Chicago (and if you think the train was an experience for Ilsa, imagine what the big city brings).

I smiled and chuckled throughout so much of this book, but the suspense is just as engaging. I also felt Ursula’s despair and loneliness without her sisters and will be watching for her story soon.


Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

What a fun continuation of the adventures of the sisters of Hope Mountain. The story begins several days after the first book ends and finds Ilsa heading down the mountain for the first time in her life. What follows are humorous situations involving her learning “the rules” of society. Unfortunately, her ignorance of the rules lands her exactly in the kind of situation the rules are made for preventing.
Mitch’s story continues as trouble follows him from New York. His past catches up to him and he’s more determined than ever to discover who’s behind all the attempts on his life. Interesting twists and turns take him away from Hope Mountain and back into action again.
Another action-packed adventure with crazy mayhem and humorous situations saturate the pages of Mary Connealy’s latest release. A difficult point of view to write, but the author handles it with ease. One can’t help but to root for girlish Ilsa as she discovers a whole new world in her twenties.
I look forward to the third instalment of Brides of Hope Mountain.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

Mary Coneally is known for her books with romantic cowboys playing the lead role. Mitch Warden is playing that lead in the second novel on Hope Mountain.

Ilsa is often described throughout the book as being feral, because of her lack of being around others while she was growing up. She is extremely able to defend and take care of herself, as well as the people around her.

The one time she goes to town, she is found in a compromising position with Mitch and finds herself married to him before she really knows what happens.

The basic plot to the story is finding out who is after Mitch and why that person wants him dead. After fending off several hired guns, Mitch and Ilsa find themselves in Chicago to bring the hunt to an end.

There isn't much in the way of humorous events in this novel which is a departure from Mary's normal mode of writing, but that doesn't detract from the enjoy-ability of the novel. There is enough intrigue to keep the reader involved with the book until the very end. This is a solid four star book.

Bethany House Publishing and NetGalley.com supplied the galley I read for this review. All opinions expressed are my own.

When I get my hands on a Mary Connealy book, I know I’m in for a fantastic reading treat! I loved Aiming for Love, the first book in Connealy’s Brides of Hope Mountain series, but I wasn’t quite prepared to be immersed in Ilsa’s story. Let me just post a warning—do not eat or drink anything while reading this book. There are so many humorous incidences scattered throughout that you’ll never know when you might end up laughing, snorting, or chuckling. It’s a delicious, riotous, witty barrel of fun.

Connealy is a genius at creating colorful, endearing, imaginative, and quirky characters, and Ilsa and Mitch are two of my favorites. They are so perfect for each other. I love how Mitch just puts aside expectations and goes with the flow. I love Ilsa’s innocence and also her fierceness when needed.

This book can be read alone, but reading Aiming for Love first will enrich the experience and give you a little more background into the family. I’m going to have a hard time waiting for Ursula’s story.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

I’ll tell you really quickly why I enjoyed reading this book so that you can go read it too!
It was funny. I was laughing so much throughout the whole book. It’s a great book if you just need a lighthearted book to escape into.
It was adventurous. Whether traveling across the country when winter weather is hitting, running into guys with murderous intents or going dress shopping, Ilsa and Mitch take you on their adventure with them.
It was mysterious. There is a intriguing mystery involved to the story. And the plot has many twists and turns that make it even more mysterious.
I would recommend this book for anyone who enjoys humorous historical and romantic books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own

Book 2 in the Brides of Hope Mountain series. Ilsa had always lived on Hope Mountain and was told that to go down it would lead to death. Mitch Warden arrives on Hope Mountain following his family as they are trying to stay ahead of a land rustler. Mitch's past is catching up with him as two men try to kill him on Hope Moutain, and Ilsa is a witness. Trying to find out who is behind the shooting Mitch and Ilsa travel to the big city, along the way Ilsa learns about life off the mountain. This story is full of adventure, romance, humor (two Bibles), and suspense. I really enjoyed it and can't wait to read Ursla's story in book 3.

What a fun follow up to Aiming For Love. I really enjoyed the mysteries following Mitch and the adventure he and Ilsa are forced on when the danger following Mitch comes to close to home. The mysteries had few surprises and a satisfying conclusion. Ilsa was such an interesting character and after getting to know Ursula a little bit in this story, I am looking forward to her story later this year. All in all, this was a fun read, with mystery, humor and romance. Recommended.

I received this book for review and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

Lover of Mary Connealy’s books take note. The next installment of the Brides of Hope Mountain series is out. I have wanted to read this book ever since the first one came out. And now I’m waiting anxiously for the third book which should come out later this year. This one concerns the youngest sister Ilsa, and the oldest son of the Warrens, Mitch. Someone is still after Mitch and he needs to find the culprit before his family or the ranch is harmed. He and Ilsa end up married and taking the search to Chicago, which is a totally different environment that the one Ilsa grew up in.

I love every one of Mary Connealy’s series and this one is the best yet. If she would just clone herself and get them out there twice as fast I would be so busy reading her books that I would scarcely have time to read any others.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

If you loved the previous book in this series, Aiming for Love, you won't want to miss this fabulous installment in the series. I would highly recommend reading this series in order as this book builds on the events of the previous one.



Isla and her sisters grew up fairly sheltered up on the mountain and away from the world. Mitch is a cultured man of the city, he has made his fortune in New York, but when he is betrayed and narrowly escapes a murder attempt, he joins his family in the mountains unwittingly bringing trouble to the Nordegren sisters. After a compromising situation forces him to marry Isla, they must work together to keep their families safe.



Isla is a intelligent and loyal young woman, she is sensible and innocent from having lived such a sheltered life. But I like how she takes her marriage seriously, and does her best to be supportive of Warden through thick and thin. I admired her straightforward faith, and how she and Warden come to trust each other.



Warden doesn't admit that he likes Isla right away, and it comes out in dislike. But the things that he thought he disliked about her become the things that he loves, I loved how he was sensitive and considerate when showing her his world and challenging her views of faith and God.



Engaging, with good character development and interaction. There is a lot going on, twists, turns and near misses, full of adventure and wholesome romance, setting the stage for the next installment in the series. Highly enjoyable read.



I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Woman of Sunlight is Mary Connealy’s second installment of the Brides of Hope Mountain series. And I must say, it’s better than the first.

While reading the first novel could help you better understand a few things, Woman of Sunlight can be read as a standalone. I could follow everything even though I read the first book several months ago.

As usual, Connealy packs action and humor that keeps you turning pages. The juxtaposition of Ilsa’s innoncence and ferocity provided most of the moments I found memorable. Especially when Mitch and Ilsa reach the city. Ilsa’s reactions to things we take for granted today will entertain readers as much as the mystery of Mitch’s attacker will keep them them on the edge of their seat. Just when I thought I knew who the culprit was, Connealy threw me for a loop. She’s quite good at spinning an interesting and humoring tale, and this novel is no different.

The fact that the heroine’s family believed that there are two Bibles bothered me. But this novel addresses that more than Aiming for Love, which I appreciated. I think the next novel will finally resolve that. Speaking of the next novel, I liked the glimpses into Ursula. I’m excited to see what she’s up to in the next book.

Overall, this is an enjoyable read. If you like westerns, romantic comedies, and plots that keep you guessing, than this is the book for you.

Holy smoke! This was such an amazing book! Ms. Connealy never ceases to amaze me with her writing but this was just such a fabulous book. I love that Ms. Connealy can write such strong female characters and yet they aren't annoying. Ilsa is as wild as the mountain she grew up on and has no desire to leave that mountain life. Mitch flees the big city when someone tries to kill him and ends up on Ilsa's mountain, along with his parents and brothers. When trouble finds him on the mountain, he decides he must act to protect those he loves. When Ilsa insists on going with him, he reluctantly agrees. But, will curiosity kill the cat? Will Ilsa survive her trek off the mountain? Things get exciting with so many twists and turns!

I cannot wait to read the next book in this series!!

I highly recommend this book for lovers of Christian fiction, historical fiction, and exciting adventure!

Women of Sunlight
By Mary Connealy
This is the second installment to the Brides of Hope Mountian series. Sisters Jo, Ilsa, and Ursala have lived on Hope Mountian for years on their own, each playing their parts to survive. For years the girls have feared leaving the mountain but change has come and now Ilsa is forced to choose between the familiar and the world below her. Mitch Warden is taken back by the Nordegren sisters but looming threats on his life have him fearing for his family and the innocent sisters’ lives. With intentions of protecting those he loves he finds he has to work differently then expected and allow Ilsa to help him solve this dangerous mystery. Along this dangerous quest Mitch and Ilsa find they work together quite well, can love bloom between the two while chasing down a murderer?
I enjoyed this book better than the first of the series. I found Ilsa’s innocence and ignorance conflicting to her comfort level in situations throughout the book. I imagine she and her sister would be much more skittish around other people especially men. Rather then dwelling on such the author glazed over these challenges to focus on the characters dilemmas and I just moved on as well. I did enjoy the suspense and have to admit to looking forward to seeing how Ursala’s story turns out. Over all it was ok.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Gifted author Mary Connealy crafts another stunning edition of the Hope Mountain trilogy. She weaves brave, capable female and strong, trustworthy male lead characters throughout her inspirational and historical fiction that readers choose again and again.

Middle sister, Josephine, raised away from society like her siblings, gradually learns interdependence. Though she and Mitch Warden initially and strongly clash, they grow to combine strengths in efforts to protect families and land against several dangers and threats.

I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.

Woman of Sunlight, a bright title that leaves me almost expecting a book with an Indian (I know it's not politically correct but as someone with some Cherokee blood in my family, I find it fine to refer to Native Americans as Indians as well… *shrugs*) woman who was named Woman of Sunlight, I knew it wouldn't be that way but that's almost what the title made me think and I was unsure of how it would fit the book until I started reading, and then it made perfect sense. I found the title was completely correct.

After reading about Mitch's and Ilsa's banter in book one of the Brides of Hope Mountain I was excited to see where they would go, I wasn't expecting what happened to happen, for them to marry like they did, for the reasons they did, and since it went like it did I'd say this book is better for readers over the age of sixteen.

I didn't find Mitch to be hero material in Aiming for Love, he wasn't that impressive, he lacked a good character and was somewhat annoying but I still almost liked him. Just found him lacking, in Woman of Sunlight from his perspective I found that he was actually a good character.

I liked the glimpses into Ursula and what I expect her story to be in the next book, I am eagerly waiting for the conclusion to the Brides of Hope Mountain series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Woman Of Sunlight by Mary Connealy is the second book in the Brides of Hope Mountain Series. I had been waiting rather impatiently for this book ever since I finished Aiming For Love, the first book in the series. Now that I have finished this one I am already counting down the days until the third book releases! I love this series so much.



Ilsa and her sisters have been raised in isolation in the mountains of Colorado. They were raised by their grandparents and were taught to fear people and that going to town would bring sickness and possibly death. With both of their grandparents gone the girls have been living alone and are extremely self sufficient. When the Warden family comes to the mountain in need, the sisters help them out.



Mitch has left his life in New York City and is now living on the mountain with his family. Ilsa and Mitch are drawn to each other, but it seems that the thing they do best is fight. When Mitch's past catches up with him, he realizes that he has put everyone's life in danger. He is determined to resolve the problem, but that means a trip to town and Ilsa insists on going with him. Once in town they embark on a very surprising adventure!

This book was so entertaining! It had me laughing out loud on several occasions and it had a sort of "Tarzan and Jane" feel with the roles reversed. I have to admit that I was very surprised with the twists and turns of this book. It was a lot different than I expected it to be and I loved the suspense. I don't want to include any spoilers, so I'll just say that I didn't see that coming!



I enjoyed getting to catch up with Dave and Jo from the first book and the ground work has been set for the third book which will be Ursula's story. It's going to be good! I can't wait to see how this series wraps up.



Thanks to Bethany House Publishing for providing me with this book.