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Hearts Entwined

(Hearts Entwined Collection)

Karen Witemeyer (Goodreads Author),

Mary Connealy (Goodreads Author)

Regina Jennings (Goodreads Author)

Melissa Jagears (Goodreads Author)

4.25 · Rating details · 308 Ratings · 110 Reviews

The ways of love can be complex. Sometimes a relationship full of unexpected twists and unlikely turns leads to a bond that's strong and secure. Join Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Regina Jennings, and Melissa Jagears for novellas that follow the winding path of romance in stories that celebrate a love that lasts forever.

The Love Knot - When Claire Nevin's troubled younge ...more

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Paperback, 342 pages

Published January 2nd 2018 by Bethany House Publishers (first published January 2018)

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Nov 12, 2017 Beth rated it really liked it

Shelves: novella, romantic, new-releases-2018, new-authors-2018, 2018, christian-fiction, historical-fiction, last-tbr-challenge-2018, author-of-the-month-2018

The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer
It's been a while since I've read anything by Witemeyer (I know, what gives??), and I had forgotten just how adorable her stories can be. The story's opening feels very engaging, a bit mysterious, then a bit of a shock as Claire relieves her past. I liked both leads equally, and though they knew each other before the events of the novella, I didn't feel dropped into their story without explanation. Things are revealed nicely throughout the narrative, and I just th The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer
It's been a while since I've read anything by Witemeyer (I know, what gives??), and I had forgotten just how adorable her stories can be. The story's opening feels very engaging, a bit mysterious, then a bit of a shock as Claire relieves her past. I liked both leads equally, and though they knew each other before the events of the novella, I didn't feel dropped into their story without explanation. Things are revealed nicely throughout the narrative, and I just thought the whole thing was really sweet. Pieter plays the protective role when Claire needs it, but doesn't attempt to coddle her. The dynamic between them is basically adorable and made me smile.

The Tangled Ties that Bind by Mary Connealy
I haven't read anything by this author before, and perhaps that was to my detriment with this novella. It's cute, don't get me wrong, but I felt like I was missing something for the first several chapters, like I should have known some of the people mentioned. It just took me a while to get settled into the story, but once I did, I ended up enjoying it. Connor Kincaid is not my "type" when it comes to male leads, as he's a bit too hard-headed. Maggie's circumstances are interesting in that she is training to be a doctor rather far from home. Things move kind of fast for them, and I didn't get a good enough feel for their past to really empathize as I'd have liked to. The ending seems a little bit contrived, but the romance is cute, and for a novella, adding another element to the plot would have made it go too long.

Bound and Determined by Regina Jennings
Regina Jennings is yet another author that I think I should be reading more of. I've read her first novel. I know I enjoyed it, but I don't remember the same amount of humor that is present in this novella. I certainly wasn't prepared for the idea that camels play a huge role in the story, both from a humor stand point but also as a matter of poignancy. What could have been a set up for cheesiness or slap stick humor provides a unique circumstance for the story, setting up for some pithy dialogue between Bradley and Ambrosia. Their scenes together are humorous, yet crackle with tension at times, in a rather swoon-worthy way. Just an all-around entertaining and adorable story.

Tied and True by Melissa Jagears
Melissa Jagears is the one author in the collection who I've read all of her books, so my expectations of a sweet romance and somewhat unusual characters were entirely met in this story. This one has the unique element of being a story that is set in tandem with A Love So True, which was fun. It's not so in tandem that things feel repeated, it's just a neat way to do a novella of peripheral characters in the full book. Marianne as a character is also unique in that, despite being born to privilege, she is more than willing to show Calvin that she can work hard - so willing, in fact that she takes a job considered below her station. I'm not sure how long she could have gotten away with it in real life, but it made for an interesting element of the plot. It also served as a way to highlight the idea that it's good to be aware of the daily lives of others, even if much different than yours, and if it's within your power to help, however small, it can still have a big impact. All in all, this story made me eager for the next full-length Teaville book, A Chance at Forever!

Hearts Entwined is a lovely collection of endearing and romantic novellas. I highly recommend picking it up if you're in the mood for something light, sweet, and full of humorous moments.

I received a complimentary copy of this collection from the publisher. This review is my honest opinion. ...more

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Feb 11, 2018 Caitlyn Santi rated it it was amazing

Shelves: 2018-new-releases-challenge

I am a big fan of all four of these author's novels. I loved the previous novella collection that these four authors wrote, and so needless to say I was super excited when I heard about Hearts Entwined! Overall, I loved this fabulous historical romance novella collection! Highly recommend!

The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer
I always love Karen's books. I've been so enjoying her Harper's Station books and was so excited to read Claire's story. I loved this story. It was just SO good, I kept wishing I am a big fan of all four of these author's novels. I loved the previous novella collection that these four authors wrote, and so needless to say I was super excited when I heard about Hearts Entwined! Overall, I loved this fabulous historical romance novella collection! Highly recommend!

The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer
I always love Karen's books. I've been so enjoying her Harper's Station books and was so excited to read Claire's story. I loved this story. It was just SO good, I kept wishing it was a full length novel because I didn't want it to end!
Oh and by the way I absolutely loved the hero, Pieter, from the moment he first appeared in the story he totally made me melt!
The Love Knot is yet another gem by Karen Witemeyer!

The Tangled Ties That Bind by Mary Connealy
I always enjoy Mary Connealy's stories. I've only read the first book in her Kincaid Brides series, but even though I haven't yet finished the series I was so excited that this novella is a companion to the Kincaid Brides series, it was so cool to catch up with characters I'd met before and read a story featuring their kids. I loved both Connor and Maggie, it was so great to watch their relationship develop as well as watching them both grow and develop as characters. This was a very exciting and adventure filled novella that I loved reading!

Bound and Determined by Regina Jennings
I've loved the three previous books I've read by this author, and this novella was no exception! Regina's books are always so unique and fun that I am sucked in from page one and hate to stop reading, such was the case with this novella! The camels brought such a unique element to the story! I loved both Bradley and Ambrosia, there were so many humorous moments in their adventure that I loved, and the way both their characters developed was awesome! I loved this novella, I think it just may be my favorite Regina Jennings book yet!

Tied and True by Melissa Jagears
I always enjoy Melissa's stories! Marianne was mentioned several times in A Love So True and she and Calvin appeared briefly near the end, which made me so excited to read their story! I loved them both as characters and I totally fell for Calvin from the moment he "coughed" (you'll have to read the book to see what I'm talking about!) This story was SO good, I loved every minute of it so much! It has definitely become a new favorite and is one that I will most certainly be rereading in the future! This story warmed my heart and put the biggest smile on my face.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and author Melissa Jagears, which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own. ...more

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Feb 02, 2018 Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) rated it really liked it

Shelves: novella, historical, christian-fiction

I always look forward to the next novella collection from these four authors! Hearts Entwined is especially fun because the main characters in each story are connected in some way to a full-length novel. I love seeing secondary characters get a happy ending, like in Karen Witemeyer's story, the last of her Ladies of Harper's Station series. Claire is reconnected with a sweetheart from her past that she doesn't quite know how to handle and another surprise bundle of joy.

In Mary Connealy's story, ...more

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Feb 09, 2018 Alysha (For The Love of Christian Fiction) rated it really liked it

First off, I'm gonna fangirl for a moment because this collection of authors is my everything!!! They have worked together previously and I can say it's magical when they do.

The stories in this particular collection did not cross over each other, but they all had a similar plot "tying" them together. (pun most DEFINITELY intended!) Each story dealt with romances that withstood trials that tested the strength of their relationship, their knot.

_______________________________________

The Love Knot

"W ...more

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Jan 30, 2018 Just Commonly rated it it was amazing

"I want to be so tangled and knotted up with you that nothing will ever pull us apart. . ." (The Love Knot)

Hearts Entwined is a historical romance novella collection with stories from authors Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Regina Jennings and Melissa Jagears. Personally, I love novella collections. It gives readers a glimpse into an author's writing style before committing to a full length novel if the author is new, or in my case, provides stories of characters from their previous novels that "I want to be so tangled and knotted up with you that nothing will ever pull us apart. . ." (The Love Knot)

Hearts Entwined is a historical romance novella collection with stories from authors Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Regina Jennings and Melissa Jagears. Personally, I love novella collections. It gives readers a glimpse into an author's writing style before committing to a full length novel if the author is new, or in my case, provides stories of characters from their previous novels that I've fallen in love with. Then there's also a little bit of "what happened" to the main characters of those novels. Hearts Entwined included stories that gave us a sort of continuation from these authors' last full length novel, but still can be read as a standalone.

In Karen Witemeyer's The Love Knot, it's part of the Ladies of Harper's Station series. Claire gave readers quite the impression in the other books of the series, and I'm so glad to have her featured in this one. Though, I didn't find too much action happening, the romance part was the highlight. We get a bit more backstory to who Claire was and is, and how she came about to Harper's Station. With a man from the past, adding a baby in the mix and how trust is earn when it was easily lost, The Love Knot may grip you from the start.

Mary Connealy's The Tangled Ties that Binds is just as part of the Kincaid Brides as it is the Cimarron Legacy series. Though I've only read the latter, I can still easily enjoyed this novella even without reading either. Both Connor and Maggie are headstrong and possess a determination that one can't help but admired. Add in the author's trademark humor, our cowboy just don't know what he's got himself into as he follows his heart.

"No one but God could create such a perfect vehicle for traveling across the desert." (Bound and Determined)

Did you know how cute and comical camels are? No? Well, Regina Jennings can tell you or you can read about it in her novella, Bound and Determined. I laughed quite a bit with them around. I was looking forward to Private Bradley Willis' story since his appearance in Holding the Fort. His mischievousness have finally met his match in Ambrosia Herald!

In the last story of the collection, Melissa Jagears' Tied and True continues in the fashion of the Teaville Moral Society series with a female character that unwaveringly fights for what she believes. In this case, it's not a matter of what, but whom.

"You never know what surprises a day will bring." (Bound and Determined)

Each story in Hearts Entwined has a wonderful mix of humor, wit and romance, incorporating a purposeful message that will give you just the right amount of surprise. A lovely collection for fans of historical romance as well as fans of these authors.

This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion. ...more

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Feb 16, 2018 Jen. rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: borrowed-from-library, author-of-the-month-2018

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I was so excited to read Hearts Entwined: A Historical Romance Novella Collection and it did not disappoint!

The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer - A Ladies of Harper's Station Novella
Claire Nevin has been a recurring character throughout the series and it's finally her time to shine! How will she handle a visit from Pieter, a man from her past? Their trust in each other has already been tested - will the unexpected twists they encounter only make things worse? Claire and Pieter's tale moved at an ...more

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Jun 18, 2018 Dawn rated it really liked it

Shelves: bethany-house, read-in-2018, review-copies, tbr-2018

Overall, this novella collection was cute. I felt that some of the stories weren't that particular author's best, but it was still good. I think my favorites were Karen Witemeyer's and Regina Jennings' stories. Those two made me laugh so hard.

I received a copy from one of the authors to help promote it. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of novellas, Karen Witemeyer, Regina Jennings, Mary Connealy, Melissa Jaggers

Rating - 4 stars

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Jan 27, 2018 Monique rated it it was amazing

Shelves: christian-historical-fiction, tbr-list, 2018, favorites, for-dad

A lovely quick read ❤❤❤❤ from Karen Witemeyer, ending the Harper Station series. I couldn’t be more happy, we have an awesome Dutch love interest and lots of quilting and embroidery references! Yay! 👏🏻👍🏻❤🎉😊😎🤩 ((sorry I haven’t read the other stories, first I want the read the series they’re inspired by)). Anyway if you can’t tell I LOVED this story to bits. Thank you, Karen! ...more

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Apr 14, 2018 Lisa (Bookworm Lisa) rated it really liked it

This is a sweet novella collection. All of the stories are companions to a series, but can be read on their own. I enjoyed connecting with characters that I have come to love in other books.

Each of the stories are set in the United States and are historical fiction. Some are the Old West and one is set in a more affluent and "cultured" area. All three are sweet, clean, and contain Christian aspects.

I loved the diversity in the stories. It is perfect for any occasion. You can sit down and read it ...more

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May 10, 2017 Rachael rated it really liked it

Shelves: novellas

Four great authors of historical western romance team up again to present four novellas on a theme. Each is related to the author's own series.

"The Love Knot" by Karen Witemeyer: I loved seeing the progress of the women's colony--it's come far from the first story, No Other Will Do. And it's fun having Claire's story told, as she's been around since the beginning.

"The Tangled Ties that Bind" by Mary Connealy: Tangled family ties is more like it . . . It was fun revisiting the Kincaids/Regulators ...more

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Feb 11, 2018 Laura added it

The Love Knot When Claire Nevin's troubled younger sibling sends her an unexpected package by rail, the gift and the man who delivers it--an unexpected face from the past--threaten to upend Claire's life forever. Fighting to hold on to all she has built, will she lose what matters most?

My thoughts: I enjoyed reading The Love Knot and getting to know Claire and Pieter. A sweet story, set in Texas, that held my interest. I especially loved Pieter. He was a sweetheart and full of wisdom. Claire see ...more

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Jan 20, 2018 Andrea rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Recommends it for: Fictional western, inspirational readers

Short and sweet! Four of my FAVORITE authors in one novella collection. Having read the each authors' series that these novellas are based on I can honestly say I loved each story. I think readers who haven't read the series will like them too. The only problem I had was they were too short! I could have read for many more days. I took my time reading this collection, 1 story per day!
I was kind of sad this will is the end of The Ladies of Harper's Station series by Karen Witemeyer but it was a ...more

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May 22, 2018 ضحى الحداد rated it it was ok

Shelves: books-i-didn-t-enjoy-much, e-book

2.5 stars
I really wanted to enjoy this book, but most of the stories were boring, the only story I sort of liked was the one with the camels, the rest were not to my liking at all

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Jun 07, 2017 Pam rated it it was amazing

This book is such a treat: four of my favorite authors in one volume. Though Hearts Entwined can easily be enjoyed all on its own, the stories are even more delightful if the reader has read other works by these authors.
"The Love Knot" by Karen Witemeyer is part of the Ladies of Harper Station series and is Claire's story, though we do catch up with some of the other residents of this ladies colony.
In "The Tangled Ties that Bind" by Mary Connealy, we meet Connor Kincaid, 20 year old son of Set This book is such a treat: four of my favorite authors in one volume. Though Hearts Entwined can easily be enjoyed all on its own, the stories are even more delightful if the reader has read other works by these authors.
"The Love Knot" by Karen Witemeyer is part of the Ladies of Harper Station series and is Claire's story, though we do catch up with some of the other residents of this ladies colony.
In "The Tangled Ties that Bind" by Mary Connealy, we meet Connor Kincaid, 20 year old son of Seth and Callie, who is returning home to the ranch in Colorado after spending five years in Texas with his Uncle Luke and his friends (who we met in the Trouble in Texas series). He is especially looking forward to seeing Maggie, whose mother Audra married Ethan Kincaid when Maggie was a young girl. Connor left when they were both 15, when he started seeing her as a woman rather than a cousin. Longtime readers of Mary Connealy's books will recognize the Kincaids from The Kincaid Brides series.
Possibly the most unique novella is "Bound and Determined" by Regina Jennings that tells the story of a retired cavalry officer who moves five former army camels from southern Kansas to his home in Texas, accompanied by his strong-willed 18 year old daughter, Ambrosia, and 20 year old Private Bradley Willis. Pvt. Willis is known for his exploits at Ft. Reno and this trip is punishment for some of his recklessness. I look forward to reading more about Bradley, and hopefully Ambrosia, in the Ft. Reno series.
"Tied and True" by Melissa Jagears is a Teaville Moral Society novella that takes place during the same time period as the novel A Love So True. It gives us the backstory of Marianne and Calvin and is a seemingly unlikely love story of wealthy Marianne and Calvin, who is secretary to her good friend David, who their parents expect her to marry. Marianne goes to quite unexpected lengths to prove to Calvin he is the man worthy of her love. Hearts Entwined is a historical romance novella collection not to be missed!
I received a complementary copy from one of the authors but that in no way influenced my opinions. All thoughts are my own. ...more

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Sep 26, 2018 Becky rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: operationactuallybooks, librarybook

The Love Knot. Karen Witemeyer. 2018. 140 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence:
May 1895 Harper's Station, Texas
Claire Nevin frowned at the cheerful white clouds frolicking across the blue sky and tried to close her ears against the melodies the birds insisted on singing in response to the deceptively fine morning.
Premise/plot: When Claire hears from her sister by letter, she's anxious. She knows her sister is in trouble--that there's been a falling out between her parents and her sister--but ...more

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Jun 28, 2017 Rebecca rated it really liked it

What a witty group of heartwarming, romantic tales that showcases each author's ability to weave a good story, subtly built upon beloved characters and settings from previous books!

Love can certainly become a tangled conundrum of twists, turns, double knots . . . . . and camels?

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Apr 12, 2018 Amy rated it it was amazing

I absolutely adored Hearts Entwined. I haven’t read a book of novellas in a while and this was one that will stick with me for some time. I have read all four of these authors before so I was quite excited to dive into these short but engaging stories that all showcase each author’s abilities and minor characters stories from their series.

The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer was a story about Claire, a fiery Irish woman, and Pieter a Dutchman with a lot of patience and a determination to tear down h I absolutely adored Hearts Entwined. I haven’t read a book of novellas in a while and this was one that will stick with me for some time. I have read all four of these authors before so I was quite excited to dive into these short but engaging stories that all showcase each author’s abilities and minor characters stories from their series.

The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer was a story about Claire, a fiery Irish woman, and Pieter a Dutchman with a lot of patience and a determination to tear down his only love’s walls that she built around her heart. I so enjoyed watching these two lovebirds let the past hurts and misconceptions go and venture onto the path of true love that was meant for them. This was a story of a young couple separated and brought back together in less than ideal circumstances, but the determination of both assured their happily ever after.

The Tangled Ties that Bind by Mary Connealy was another romantic tale of two people who had grown up together and one went away for a time. Connor comes back and in author Connealy fashion, finds himself and the object of his affection already in trouble. Maggie has just about given up on her dreams to be with Connor when all of a sudden he comes back. Maggie however has new dreams and is now training to be a doctor and moving to the big city. Connor’s love for Maggie and at the sacrifice of his own dreams follows Maggie to the big city to be with her and to try and get her to marry him. Both find more than they bargained for but their love that binds them together strengthens.

I was quite excited to read Bound and Determined by Regina Jennings as I wanted to get reacquainted with Private Bradley Willis who is the brother in Hold the Fort and the one that trouble always seems to follow. Bradley has not changed much even though his sister is engaged to his Major, he still finds himself in trouble and a lot of times through no fault of his own. I liked that Bradley met his match in Ambrosia Herald and the information about the camels crossing US prairies was priceless. Hold the Fort was one of my favorite reads so this novella just sweetened the series.

I just finished the third book by Melissa Jagears in her Teaville Moral Society series, and her story, Tied and True took me back to the second book where we get the behind the scenes story of heiress Marianne Lister and David’s secretary, Calvin Hochstetler. Marianne and Calvin are in love, but Calvin refuses to pursue her when he feels he is too far beneath her social status and he is not willing to risk abandonment by her. Calvin was hurt as a child, so Marianne sets out to prove her love is true and she goes about it in quite an unconventional way, but oh how bitter sweet their love story was.

I highly recommend this novella collection and all of these authors other stories.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20... ...more

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Mar 07, 2018 Lynda Edwards rated it it was amazing

Shelves: keeper-shelf

These historical romance novellas are part of four different series but read well as standalones, enabling a reader to enjoy them without being familiar with either storylines or characters. Each one is unrelated to the others in this collection, but all are wonderful reads by fantastic authors.

The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer

I loved the variations on the "knot" theme and how they played off Irish culture, embroidery, and marriage—a fitting play on words at several points. Characters are reali These historical romance novellas are part of four different series but read well as standalones, enabling a reader to enjoy them without being familiar with either storylines or characters. Each one is unrelated to the others in this collection, but all are wonderful reads by fantastic authors.

The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer

I loved the variations on the "knot" theme and how they played off Irish culture, embroidery, and marriage—a fitting play on words at several points. Characters are realistically portrayed and I appreciate the flaws and the characters' realization of their own contributions to misunderstandings. This sweet romance of second chances is a lovely read and a great companion to the longer novels in the Ladies of Harper Station series.

The Tangled Ties That Bind by Mary Connealy

This novella is my introduction to Connealy's writing and I think I may have a bit of whiplash! The first part of the novella was quirky and humorous; the climax was a wild triage after a stagecoach accident with a pace so brisk that I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to keep up. In amid all the chaos is a heart-pounding romance between family friends who reconnect almost as it's too late to really connect. I think I may need to meet more members of this family by reading the Kincaid Brides series.

Bound and Determined by Regina Jennings

I have not had the opportunity to begin the Fort Reno series, but with this introduction, I am really looking forward to it now! I am surprised by all that I learned while reading this novella, from the US Camel Corps to how some people joined the Cherokee nation like others might immigrate to America, this story had plenty of fascinating historical details. The humor and the romance are combined with some fantastic characters, leaving me with a big smile on my face as I finished this one.

Tied and True by Melissa Jagears

The final novella is by another author I have previously enjoyed and in a series with which I am familiar, the Teaville Moral Society. It has several moments that I laughed out loud, and several others where I sighed at the sweet romance and a very determined woman. I love Marianne's devotion and strong will to prove her love's ability to weather whatever storms life may throw at her and Calvin, but also that she realizes the future is in God's hands.

I highly recommend this collection to fans of historical romance and of these authors, even if just one of these authors. There is much to enjoy here with a different setting and characters in each novella, giving variety, but great writing and sweet romance no matter which one the reader chooses first.

I received a free copy of this book from the authors and publisher but was not required to write a favorable review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own. ...more

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Mar 11, 2018 Amy rated it really liked it

Four very different stories, each connected to a series of novels written by their author's.

The only series I wasn't familiar with was Mary Connealy, and it didn't matter. These stories can completely stand alone, though enriched if you have read the others.

I enjoyed the return to the women's colony in Harper's Station, with Karen Witemeyer's 'The Love Knot'. Claire is stunned with the arrival of a familiar face and a package from home she'd never dreamed of. Life completely turned on its side Four very different stories, each connected to a series of novels written by their author's.

The only series I wasn't familiar with was Mary Connealy, and it didn't matter. These stories can completely stand alone, though enriched if you have read the others.

I enjoyed the return to the women's colony in Harper's Station, with Karen Witemeyer's 'The Love Knot'. Claire is stunned with the arrival of a familiar face and a package from home she'd never dreamed of. Life completely turned on its side in a matter of minutes, everything she once believed has taken a dramatic turn - or as Pieter hopes, very soon will do in his favour.

With Mary's 'The Tangled Ties That Bind', I was thrown into a family I'd not read about before. The opening scenes are dramatic, and tho Connor & Maggie have known each other since childhood - five years apart will be the reason their future together must come to an end. Honestly, I struggled with the plot. Maggie has aspirations to be a doctor and has secured medical training in Denver, probably the equivalent of what would be required today. However, Connor seems to gain the title of Doctor with zero schooling and no one bats an eye. A different age to be sure, but all the flip flopping about his job opportunities seemed strange.

I loved the first installment of Regina's Fort Reno series, and I was excited that the mischievous but good hearted Private Bradley Willis was getting a story. This location and time period in Kansas is something I know little about, so it intrigues me. However, I was absolutely stunned when the camels entered the scene. Yeah, that was a surprise. Thankfully social media provides many opportunities to ask a question or two to the authors and Regina was able to confirm that yes, she had used real life events as a base upon which her fiction blooms. Interesting. Fun story.

Finally the return to Teaville, in 'Tied and True' is a sweet story of overcoming preconceived ideas about the class system. You can't help who you fall in love with, but in that era, your wealth and status in society would have been enough to keep most people apart. That is unless your name was Marianne Listed who will go to extreme lengths to prove to the only man she wants give with, Calvin. Regardless of his efforts to push her away, and his idea that as a lowly secretary he will never deserve her, or retain her love - Marianne has other ideas. She says "don't shove away a lifetime of blessing because you fear trials. You'll have them no matter what you do."

I received 'Hearts Entwinned' as a complimentary copy. This is my honest review. ...more

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Jan 24, 2018 Trixi rated it it was amazing

When I first began to read this, I saw characters I knew about and then realized that each of these novellas took place after the authors last full length novel. I was very happy about that because I often wonder what the characters are up to * smile *! That being said, here's a brief review on each story:

The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer

When Claire meets the train to pick up a package her sister sent her, she never expected to run into her old love Pieter van Duren. And with a baby to boot! Unta ...more

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Jan 25, 2018 Brittany rated it it was amazing

Shelves: 2018-50-states-challenge, 2018-abc-challenge, 2018-new-releases-challenge, 2018-author-of-month-challenge

Well, this was definitely one of the best novella collections that I have ever read! I enjoyed every single story so much. Each author did a nice job of crafting interesting stories and filling them with main characters that had great chemistry together.

The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer

I loved that these main characters had a past together that had ended in heartache. With hurt still brimming to the surface, Claire had to decide if she had misjudged Pieter and then decide if she could forgive and Well, this was definitely one of the best novella collections that I have ever read! I enjoyed every single story so much. Each author did a nice job of crafting interesting stories and filling them with main characters that had great chemistry together.

The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer

I loved that these main characters had a past together that had ended in heartache. With hurt still brimming to the surface, Claire had to decide if she had misjudged Pieter and then decide if she could forgive and trust him again. I loved the way Pieter’s true and selfless heart showed through in this novella. He was a man who went above and beyond to help the woman he loved.

The Tangled Ties That Bind by Mary Connealy

Another tale of main characters with a past! Connor and Maggie grew up together and cared for each other for years. However, Connor was gone for five long years and Maggie now had other plans that did not include marriage. I loved Connor’s dogged determination to be there for Maggie and convince her that they belonged together. Their relationship was so sweet!

Bound and Determined by Regina Jennings

Now, these two characters do not have a past relationship to fall back on. But they both had strong wills and lots of determination. There was plenty of humor sprinkled throughout this novella, yet it had its serious moments, as well. If ever there was the complementary companion for Bradley Willis, it was Ambrosia Herald. I loved the way they connected and fell for each other.

Tied and True by Melissa Jagears

These main characters come from very different backgrounds and social situations. Even though it was hard to watch Calvin push away the woman he loved, I knew that he felt it was for her own good. I was impressed with Marianne’s kindness, goodness, determination, and work ethic. The chemistry was great between these two. The fact that a marriage between them seemed as if it would be next to impossible made the happily ever after even sweeter.

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

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c... ...more

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Jan 21, 2018 Trisha Robertson (Joy of Reading) rated it it was amazing

see full review post at: www.joyofreadingweb.wordpress.com

This collection features four stories from four different, gifted authors. Those who have read books from these authors will recognize characters from their full-length novels, and newcomers will find new favorite authors and stories they will want to pick up and enjoy! I fully enjoyed reading each of these stories.

In the first story "The Love Knot" by Karen Witemeyer we find Claire an Irish immigrant, living in Harpers Station who finds see full review post at: www.joyofreadingweb.wordpress.com

This collection features four stories from four different, gifted authors. Those who have read books from these authors will recognize characters from their full-length novels, and newcomers will find new favorite authors and stories they will want to pick up and enjoy! I fully enjoyed reading each of these stories.

In the first story "The Love Knot" by Karen Witemeyer we find Claire an Irish immigrant, living in Harpers Station who finds herself face to face with a past she thought she left behind. Will she be able to let go of past hurts and move forward on a new unexpected path?

Next, we travel with Mary Connealy in "The Tangled Ties that Bind" to Colorado and meet Connor Kincaid returning home to the Kincaid family ranch and ready to sweep Maggie off her feet and start a ranch of his own. Only to discover that Maggie has plans and dreams of her own.

Our next story "Bound and Determined" by Regina Jennings takes us on a bit of a journey across the hot, sun-baked land of Oklahoma. Private Bradley Willis is assigned to accompany retired Army Officer, Herald across Indian Territory as they herd not cattle, but Camels. More surprises are in store as Bradley realizes that Officer Herald's daughter is also along for the trip, and she is trying to keep them from getting to Texas.

Our final story "Tied and True" by Melissa Jagears brings us to Kansas City, Missouri. The expectations her family has set are thwarted when wealthy socialite Marianne Lister falls for the unlikely business assistant, Calvin Hochstetler. But will Marianne be able to prove to Calvin that he's not just a passing fancy and that he is worthy of love?

Each story is unique and independent of the next. What ties them together is the central theme of love and entanglement, but in the best possible way. I give this fabulous collection of novella's 5 stars.

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

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Apr 21, 2018 Julia Wilson rated it it was amazing

Hearts Entwined is a most delightful collection of four novellas. They are linked by themes of dreams, trust, huge hearts for others and for God. The stories are all heart warming and wonderful. It is hard to pick a favourite with such delightful characters and plotlines - but I think I have one that is my favourite - have a read and see if you have one too.
The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer is a delightful tale to kick off this collection. There are themes of family, trust, pride, forgiveness, hu Hearts Entwined is a most delightful collection of four novellas. They are linked by themes of dreams, trust, huge hearts for others and for God. The stories are all heart warming and wonderful. It is hard to pick a favourite with such delightful characters and plotlines - but I think I have one that is my favourite - have a read and see if you have one too.
The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer is a delightful tale to kick off this collection. There are themes of family, trust, pride, forgiveness, hurt, grace and love. The characters were wonderfully drawn - even down to baby Liam. Feelings of warmth and protectiveness oozed from the story. Life is for living. We cannot let the past hold us back. We learn from the lessons of the past and with a leap of faith, step into the future.
The Tangled Ties That Bind by Mary Connealy is another charming tale. Childhood bonds continue into adulthood. There is some amusing and heart warming banter between the two main characters. The main theme was of dreams. We are never too old to dream or to pursue our dream. When God lays plans on our hearts, we would be wise to follow them. Medicine was advancing all the time in the late nineteenth century with education and innovation. A wonderful light read.
Bound And Determined by Regina Jennings is another light hearted story concerning bravery, camaraderie and family. With comprehensive descriptions, the reader is treated to a vista of landscapes. There is good natured banter as strangers become friends. The reader witnesses that the journey goes best if we all pull together and stand firm against the enemy trusting God for the outcome.
Tied And True by Melissa Jagears really is a pearl of a story to end this collection. The story focuses on true beauty and treasure - both are found in people and not possessions. Wealth can be used to help others but just as important is giving of one's time and self. True love crosses the social divide in spite of opposition. Huge hearts feature in this tale. People give out of what they have, even if it is very little.
An absolute gem of a collection which I loved.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
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Feb 19, 2018 Katherine rated it it was amazing

Anyone who enjoys American western historicals will enjoy this collection. In my opinion, all of the authors to a great job of developing a believable romance within the shortened format of a novella.

Karen starts off with the final story in the Harper's Station series and Claire Nevin's happily ever after. We find out why Claire so quickly left home to marry Mr. Fischer and while we also see the immaturity that her age denotes, she also grows and develops.

Mary's story brings another Kincaid tale ...more

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Jan 31, 2018 Beth Erin rated it it was amazing

Shelves: blogged, own-print

Full review on Faithfully Bookish

The Love Knot
Harper’s Station is one of those fictional places that readers long to visit! Feisty Claire Nevin and her Irish brogue have played a prominent secondary role in the previous novels and she’s been a favorite of mine from the start! Her unexpected delivery (and deliverer) opens the door to new possibilities prompting Claire to reexamine the past and reconsider her plans for the future.

The Tangled Ties that Bind
This second generation Kincaid Brides stor ...more

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Apr 07, 2018 Janis Kay rated it it was amazing

Shelves: christian-fic, own

I'm so sad I'm leaving Harper's Station (I was also super sad about leaving the Archer family, but life goes on)!!!! Claire and Pieter are such a great match, I knew it wouldn't take too long haha! That was such a lovely town/series & this novella was just so endearing:) It'd be great if we could find out how Polly got her own HEA, but that's up to the author. In the meantime, I'm waiting with bated breath for Karen's next book!!!

The Kincaids never have a dull moment lol. This was especially ...more

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Apr 10, 2018 Charity Andrews rated it it was amazing

Shelves: us-history-fiction

Ok, so this whole book isn’t officially by Karen Witemeyer, but this review is specific to The Love Knot. Just to specify, the other authors that contributed are absolutely recommended by me as well. ❤

Karen is one of the ladies that really got me into reading. I’m a huge fan and have always enjoyed her writing. In this novella, we once again visit the all ladies colony of Harper’s Station, Texas. (You first read about this in No Other Will Do.) Claire is living in Harper’s Station when she recei ...more

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Apr 25, 2018 Laura rated it really liked it

A compilation of four novellas, Hearts Entwined is a Historical Romance where warm fuzzies abound.

While each novella provided compelling reading, my favorite is Bound and Determined by Regina Jennings. For those of you unfamiliar with Jennings, this author uses humor in her stories. The laugh out loud kind of humor.

In order to get a complete picture of the storylines and the people who inhabit Ft. Reno, might I suggest reading the novel, Holding the Fort prior to reading the novella? Normally ...more

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Feb 17, 2018 Vicky Sluiter rated it really liked it

Four novellas that are a quick but fun to read make a good book for a weekend of delight. All four are standalones, though they do link to series by the authors.

I found these stories relaxing, but they kept my attention. All of the characters were well developed and the plots were creative. Think camels in Texas.

These sweet romances also carry a thread of faith and forgiveness. And determination abounds. I really did like the characters in each story as they persevered through various trials. A ...more

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Mar 11, 2018 Amy rated it it was amazing

Hearts Entwined is a collection of four stories. The stories include:
The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer
The Tangled Ties That Bind by Mary Connealy
Bound and Determined by Regina Jennings
Tied and True by Melissa Jagears

I thought this was a great collection. All four of the stories are full of laughter and sweetness. A fabulous read.

5+ stars.

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

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About Karen Witemeyer

Karen Witemeyer

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For those who love to smile as they read, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. A transplant from California, Karen came to Texas for college, met a cowboy disguised as a computer nerd, married him, and never left the state that had become home.

Winner of the National Reader's Choice Award, H ...more