This is one of my Spring Challenge books.

Petticoat Ranch by Mary Connealy

This is a cute story. It's a bit reminiscent of Janette Oke, but rougher, like the difference between calico and burlap. Janette Oke writes frontier stories with God, romance, and family. Connealy's novel has God, romance, and family as well, but she also has women sharpshooters and trappers, desperadoes, screaming preachers, and lots and lots of Texas.

One of the greatest strengths of the novel is characterization. Connealy captures the battle between men and women beautifully and with much humor. The transitions between points of view are also very well done.

I tended to get confused with all the men--who were the good guys, who were the bad guys, and there were so many of them to track! But it all works out for a happily-ever-after ending.

I'd recommend this book to fans of Janette Oke and other pioneer stories with a Christian message.

http://www.maryconnealy.com/

I hit fifty books! I've met my goal this year of 10 books/month. Woooohoooo!!!!

Elizabeth Berg is a gifted writer. Her book A Year of Pleasures is amazing. It's a study of grief, of marriage, of individuality, and of friendship. If you enjoy fiction about and by women, be sure to grab this one.

Hello there! I found a great new feature over at 5 Minutes for Mom!

Stop by and see the 5 Minutes for Books column, with a review for Mary De Muth's parenting book!

I wrote a review of Shelley Bates's latest novel Over Her Headat Armchair Interviews. Please stop by and check it out!

http://www.armchairinterviews.com/reviews/categories/christian_fiction/over_her_head.php