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Lonestar Homecoming: Lonestar Series, Book 3
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Most Helpful Customer Reviews
Format:Kindle Edition
At the time of this review, Lonestar Homecoming is a quadrilogy and this is the third installment. The protagonist featured is Gracie Lister and her daughter, Hope. As with all the other Mary-Sues in the series, Gracie is on the run. She flees the FBI after they thwart her wedding and she discovers her fiance was not the man he said he was. Like all the other Mary-Sues, you can count on Gracie to end up at Bluebird Ranch, where abused and neglected horses are taken in along with runaway Mary-Sues, all of whom have a 5-year-old daughter.
Gracie and Hope flee, with nothing but the shirts on their backs and (running) shoes on their feet. Gracie has a $5.00 bill and a train ticket. You know her next stop - Bluebird Ranch in west Texas. You don't need the conductor to call out THAT stop - you knew it was coming!
All right, here is where a predictable story gets even more so. Gracie meets single dad Michael Wayne, a widower with 2 young children. Since he needs a sitter/nanny, cook, bottle washer and housekeeper, you know very good and well he will hire Gracie. They have more in common than they realize - Gracie and her fraud of a fiance who endangered her life and that of her daughter; Michael with murderers hot on his trail and a brother who was killed. Sounds like the stuff of soap operas.
While I admit that I have never been overly fond of the romance genre, I really didn't like this series. Since I am familiar with the area this series is set in, that piqued my curiosity. Yeah, it's a time filler and the child characters are what offers a lifeline of interest support. By and large, this series is a sinking ship.
Every single one of the Lonestar books feature a single mother with a young daughter fleeing her past. You can count on the usual romance; the usual marriage; the usual antogonists and danger thrown in and every last single one of these female protagonists is a Mary-Sue who meets a man who comes through like the Cavalry by marrying her and saving her from her troubles.
Yeah, there are initial sparks and separate bedrooms, but you know very good and well that will change and that all the questions will be solved and the anti-heroes will get their come uppance.
As with the other books, you have the predictable elements, such as the "marriage in name only" (think Jack & Shannon, Rick & Allie, for instance) evolving into the consummated union. I enjoy some Christian literature and that was the only really positive aspect I found in this book. I like affirming messages in re faith and God. However, I don't like tawdry and predictable romances and that is what I think this series is. The child characters did pique one's curiosity.
As another reviewer on Amazon US noted, the book is interspersed with Christian tenets. As noted by that other reviewer, I, too like Christian books to focus on the characters' relationship with God and their beliefs and how their faith guides them in treating others kindly. I didn't get that from this series. Gracie appeared to make sporadic efforts to be near God toward the latter part of the story by crying out to Him for help, one didn't get the sense that that was a integral part of Gracie's character.
The mystery bore a resemblance to the others, but it did help keep this sinking ship (or derailed train) of a story afloat (or on track). It was not a complete cure for insomia, but I did find it trite and predictable.
In summary, I'd have to say this book, like the others in the Lonestar series is simply a time filler. It lacks depth and you can easily read it in a very short space of time. If you want something with a stronger Christian base and more plausible characters and story lines, then this is not the book or the series for you. Read Karen Kingsbury's books instead.
Gracie and Hope flee, with nothing but the shirts on their backs and (running) shoes on their feet. Gracie has a $5.00 bill and a train ticket. You know her next stop - Bluebird Ranch in west Texas. You don't need the conductor to call out THAT stop - you knew it was coming!
All right, here is where a predictable story gets even more so. Gracie meets single dad Michael Wayne, a widower with 2 young children. Since he needs a sitter/nanny, cook, bottle washer and housekeeper, you know very good and well he will hire Gracie. They have more in common than they realize - Gracie and her fraud of a fiance who endangered her life and that of her daughter; Michael with murderers hot on his trail and a brother who was killed. Sounds like the stuff of soap operas.
While I admit that I have never been overly fond of the romance genre, I really didn't like this series. Since I am familiar with the area this series is set in, that piqued my curiosity. Yeah, it's a time filler and the child characters are what offers a lifeline of interest support. By and large, this series is a sinking ship.
Every single one of the Lonestar books feature a single mother with a young daughter fleeing her past. You can count on the usual romance; the usual marriage; the usual antogonists and danger thrown in and every last single one of these female protagonists is a Mary-Sue who meets a man who comes through like the Cavalry by marrying her and saving her from her troubles.
Yeah, there are initial sparks and separate bedrooms, but you know very good and well that will change and that all the questions will be solved and the anti-heroes will get their come uppance.
As with the other books, you have the predictable elements, such as the "marriage in name only" (think Jack & Shannon, Rick & Allie, for instance) evolving into the consummated union. I enjoy some Christian literature and that was the only really positive aspect I found in this book. I like affirming messages in re faith and God. However, I don't like tawdry and predictable romances and that is what I think this series is. The child characters did pique one's curiosity.
As another reviewer on Amazon US noted, the book is interspersed with Christian tenets. As noted by that other reviewer, I, too like Christian books to focus on the characters' relationship with God and their beliefs and how their faith guides them in treating others kindly. I didn't get that from this series. Gracie appeared to make sporadic efforts to be near God toward the latter part of the story by crying out to Him for help, one didn't get the sense that that was a integral part of Gracie's character.
The mystery bore a resemblance to the others, but it did help keep this sinking ship (or derailed train) of a story afloat (or on track). It was not a complete cure for insomia, but I did find it trite and predictable.
In summary, I'd have to say this book, like the others in the Lonestar series is simply a time filler. It lacks depth and you can easily read it in a very short space of time. If you want something with a stronger Christian base and more plausible characters and story lines, then this is not the book or the series for you. Read Karen Kingsbury's books instead.
Format:Hardcover
When the FBI visit Gracie just before her wedding and she finds herself in the middle of a shoot out she quickly flees with her young daughter Hope. Still wearing her wedding dress and with only $5 and a train ticket to Texas she finds herself in a desperate situation. When Michael finds Gracie he wants to help her and ends up offering her a job looking after his 2 children. Feelings between Gracie & Michael quickly escalate but with Gracie's ex-fiance determined to find her and Michael's life at risk from the drug cartels he is trying to prevent crossing the borders life isn't going to be easy for the couple.
Lonestar Homecoming is actually book 3 in the Lonestar series by Colleen Coble but although I've not read any of the previous books I didn't find this confusing and Lonestar Homecoming can easily be read as a stand alone novel. This is the first Christian romance that I've read and so I wasn't too sure what to expect from that. Personally as an atheist I didn't find the Christian theme took over the story of the book - yes there were some references to religion in there but overall it was slotted quite smoothly into the story and didn't overwhelm me.
I was quite surprised at how quickly the romance developed between Gracie and Michael but I liked both of the characters and thought they made a nice couple. I found there was more mystery and action to the story than I was expecting but I really enjoyed that part of the book and really wasn't sure how Gracie would get out of the situation she'd found herself in.
Overall it was quite a sweet story and a quick easy read, I wouldn't mind reading the previous books in the series but I didn't quite love it enough to make them must reads for me. I'd class this as a pleasant romance and would recommend it if you're looking for something light to read.
Lonestar Homecoming is actually book 3 in the Lonestar series by Colleen Coble but although I've not read any of the previous books I didn't find this confusing and Lonestar Homecoming can easily be read as a stand alone novel. This is the first Christian romance that I've read and so I wasn't too sure what to expect from that. Personally as an atheist I didn't find the Christian theme took over the story of the book - yes there were some references to religion in there but overall it was slotted quite smoothly into the story and didn't overwhelm me.
I was quite surprised at how quickly the romance developed between Gracie and Michael but I liked both of the characters and thought they made a nice couple. I found there was more mystery and action to the story than I was expecting but I really enjoyed that part of the book and really wasn't sure how Gracie would get out of the situation she'd found herself in.
Overall it was quite a sweet story and a quick easy read, I wouldn't mind reading the previous books in the series but I didn't quite love it enough to make them must reads for me. I'd class this as a pleasant romance and would recommend it if you're looking for something light to read.
Most Helpful Customer Reviews on Amazon.com (beta)
Amazon.com:
46 reviews
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful
Lonestar Homecoming by Colleen Coble
6 April 2010
Format:Paperback
Lonestar Homecoming is the third book of a trilogy. The book centers on Gracie Lister and her young daughter, Hope. On the day of Gracie's wedding, she's suddenly confronted by the FBI about her fiance and realizes she's been lied to. Desperate and afraid, Gracie does what she has always done - she runs.
Not having time to pack, eat, or anything else, she takes off in her wedding dress with her 5-year-old daughter, five dollars, and a train ticket to western Texas. Once there, she meets Lieutenant Michael Wayne, a single father headed home to take care of his two children who just lost their mother. With Michael in need of someone to care for his kids while he's at work and Gracie in need of a home and a job, he hires her.
But Gracie's problems (a secret from her past, her fiance's dealings, and her instinct to run) are far from over - and combined with Michael's issues (a price on his head and his brother's murder) peace seems far away.
I have read many books by Collen Coble. Some I fall in love with (ie, Alaskan Twilight), others, I don't really care for. This book falls into the latter category.
While this book is the 3rd in the trilogy, it's not directly connected with the other two, so you don't need to worry about reading them in order. I had read Lonestar Sanctuary, but not the second one, Lonestar Secrets.
Lonestar Homecoming is very similar to Lonestar Sanctuary, and I found that I was able to accurately predict what would come next. These books are all about young women with young daughters who find themselves in what could end up being deadly trouble. They all meet wonderful men who agree to marry them to get them out of that trouble, but of course, with "separate bedrooms." They all inevitably end up falling in love and the mystery is resolved nicely at the end of the book.
Collen Coble is a masterful storyteller. Her descriptions are vivid and make you feel like you're right there in the room with the characters. However, some of the language she uses makes it feel as thought the story is not modern-day. In fact, when I read the first chapter of Lonestar Homecoming, I thought it was set back 50 years ago or so. Nevertheless, her stories are very enjoyable.
While I enjoyed the mystery of the novel, I felt that it was not the prominent aspect. The romance was. And to be honest, it was a little over the top for me. The two main charachters who are married begin by not sleeping together, since it's supposed to be just a legal contract, not necessarily a "real" marriage - however, they quickly find themselves attracted to each other and kissing ensues several times, and eventually they "head back to the bedroom" -and while that's all well and good (since they are married), I didn't feel it was very appropriate, at least for me. It made me uncomfortable. I prefer that a Christian book doesn't focus so heavily on the romance aspect of a story, because too much romance can lead my mind astray.
Another thing I did not like was the religious part of the book. It was scattered here and there, but didn't come across as a prominent point. Again, I prefer Christian books be upfront about God and their character's relationship with Him. While Gracie did cry out to God near the end of the book, it didn't seem to fit in with the rest of the story, since there had not been much to lead up to it.
The mystery was definitely a mystery, and it twisted wonderfully. However, some things seemed a little forced. Not the best mystery ever, but not entirely predictable or boring. Just a little confusing. Like this review probably is at this point... ;)
Overall, I'd say the book is one of those books that are good to read if you just want to lose yourself for a little while. It's not very deep, not very dark, and easy to read (I finished it in less than two days). But if you're looking for something containing a strong message, strong Christianity, and a stong plot, this isn't necessarily the book for you.
***
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their [...] book review bloggers program. 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."
Not having time to pack, eat, or anything else, she takes off in her wedding dress with her 5-year-old daughter, five dollars, and a train ticket to western Texas. Once there, she meets Lieutenant Michael Wayne, a single father headed home to take care of his two children who just lost their mother. With Michael in need of someone to care for his kids while he's at work and Gracie in need of a home and a job, he hires her.
But Gracie's problems (a secret from her past, her fiance's dealings, and her instinct to run) are far from over - and combined with Michael's issues (a price on his head and his brother's murder) peace seems far away.
I have read many books by Collen Coble. Some I fall in love with (ie, Alaskan Twilight), others, I don't really care for. This book falls into the latter category.
While this book is the 3rd in the trilogy, it's not directly connected with the other two, so you don't need to worry about reading them in order. I had read Lonestar Sanctuary, but not the second one, Lonestar Secrets.
Lonestar Homecoming is very similar to Lonestar Sanctuary, and I found that I was able to accurately predict what would come next. These books are all about young women with young daughters who find themselves in what could end up being deadly trouble. They all meet wonderful men who agree to marry them to get them out of that trouble, but of course, with "separate bedrooms." They all inevitably end up falling in love and the mystery is resolved nicely at the end of the book.
Collen Coble is a masterful storyteller. Her descriptions are vivid and make you feel like you're right there in the room with the characters. However, some of the language she uses makes it feel as thought the story is not modern-day. In fact, when I read the first chapter of Lonestar Homecoming, I thought it was set back 50 years ago or so. Nevertheless, her stories are very enjoyable.
While I enjoyed the mystery of the novel, I felt that it was not the prominent aspect. The romance was. And to be honest, it was a little over the top for me. The two main charachters who are married begin by not sleeping together, since it's supposed to be just a legal contract, not necessarily a "real" marriage - however, they quickly find themselves attracted to each other and kissing ensues several times, and eventually they "head back to the bedroom" -and while that's all well and good (since they are married), I didn't feel it was very appropriate, at least for me. It made me uncomfortable. I prefer that a Christian book doesn't focus so heavily on the romance aspect of a story, because too much romance can lead my mind astray.
Another thing I did not like was the religious part of the book. It was scattered here and there, but didn't come across as a prominent point. Again, I prefer Christian books be upfront about God and their character's relationship with Him. While Gracie did cry out to God near the end of the book, it didn't seem to fit in with the rest of the story, since there had not been much to lead up to it.
The mystery was definitely a mystery, and it twisted wonderfully. However, some things seemed a little forced. Not the best mystery ever, but not entirely predictable or boring. Just a little confusing. Like this review probably is at this point... ;)
Overall, I'd say the book is one of those books that are good to read if you just want to lose yourself for a little while. It's not very deep, not very dark, and easy to read (I finished it in less than two days). But if you're looking for something containing a strong message, strong Christianity, and a stong plot, this isn't necessarily the book for you.
***
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their [...] book review bloggers program. 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."
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
Something for everyone
29 Aug 2010
Format:Paperback|Amazon Vine™ Review
(What's this?)
I was first introduced to the writing of Colleen Coble when I ordered another of her books through Amazon Vine. As soon as I finished that book, I wanted to read more of her work. So when I was offered the chance to review this book for Amazon Vine, I jumped at the chance.
Colleen Coble sure knows how to write a great book. No matter what type of book you enjoy reading, there is something here you will like. There is romance, suspense, adventure, action. Coble has a knack for writing interesting, believable characters. The story is quick moving and engaging. This book caught my interest very early on and I didn't want to stop reading until it was over. Coble is one of my new favorite Christian authors.
Gracie struggles with things that a lot of people will be able to identify with. She has a tendency to run away from her problems rather than deal with him, she is often paralyzed by fear, and she struggles with feelings of guilt and low self-worth. She used to have a relationship with God, but now feels that she no longer deserves His Love and has no right to ask Him for anything. She wants to be free, but she believes that she has gone too far, and made too many bad decisions. She believes that her relationship with God can never be restored. She believes He won't forgive her, mainly because she can't forgive herself.
I highly recommend this book and any other by this author.
Colleen Coble sure knows how to write a great book. No matter what type of book you enjoy reading, there is something here you will like. There is romance, suspense, adventure, action. Coble has a knack for writing interesting, believable characters. The story is quick moving and engaging. This book caught my interest very early on and I didn't want to stop reading until it was over. Coble is one of my new favorite Christian authors.
Gracie struggles with things that a lot of people will be able to identify with. She has a tendency to run away from her problems rather than deal with him, she is often paralyzed by fear, and she struggles with feelings of guilt and low self-worth. She used to have a relationship with God, but now feels that she no longer deserves His Love and has no right to ask Him for anything. She wants to be free, but she believes that she has gone too far, and made too many bad decisions. She believes that her relationship with God can never be restored. She believes He won't forgive her, mainly because she can't forgive herself.
I highly recommend this book and any other by this author.
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
Great Mix of Suspense and Romance
23 Aug 2010
Format:Paperback
I'm a Colleen Coble fan and have been for years, but Lonestar Homecoming has hit a new high mark, even for her. This book has the marriage of convenience, the strong hero with a good head on his shoulders, and the woman in jeopardy with a tender heart and willingness to put her life on the line for those she loves. Throw in lovable children as well as a dog and horses, and you've got a winner. Colleen has the exceptional talent to weave all these aspects into one wonderfully readable novel that takes it to the next level.
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