Can they find their fresh startwith roadblocks around every corner?
To care for her orphaned nieces and nephews, Daisy Anderson moved to a small town for a new deputy position—but now her job could be eliminated. With potential budget cuts looming, her only hope is to work with police chief Mitch Rainbolt to save their department’s funds. But can their fight for her job lead to something neither dared wish a future together?
Tina Radcliffe is a Romance Writers of America and American Christian Fiction Writers Honor Roll member. A four-time ACFW Carol Award finalist, Tina’s Harlequin novels have won the ACFW Carol Award, the Holt Medallion, and appeared on the Publishers Weekly Bestseller list. Amazon Facebook Instagram
"Maybe, just maybe, living in Oklahoma would help them remember the good times, ease their pain and remind them all that God had his hand on their tomorrows." (p 17)
Well, my heart definitely belongs in Oklahoma as long as Mitch is there. :-) I fell head over heals on page 21 and there's no looking back. Move over, Daisy, I'm after your fella! He's a fixer and a planner with a sideline in trying to micro-mange God though that's not working very well -- especially after Daisy enters his life (and his heart, though there's no way he's going to admit that!) But, oh that stubborn man has to work on his obstinate streak. Especially when it comes to living in the past. As one coworker puts it: "...once he figures out that the future ain't the past, he'll be ready to handle today." (p 124) Which is a pretty profound concept I'm still mulling over.
So now that we've established I'm one of Mitch's groupies (he has many fictional and otherwise!) I guess I should mention the heroine (and my arch rival for Mitch's affections) Daisy. A city girl gone wide-eyed with wonder over country life. Suddenly becoming guardian to five (yes, five!) orphaned nieces and nephews as put her personal dreams on hold as she struggles to rebuild their lives. Small town Rebel is their new start and hunky police chief Mitch Rainbolt is there to roll out the welcome wagon and guide her through the intricacies of small town living. :-)
This is the first book in Radcliffe's Hearts of Oklahoma series and she has done an amazing job of introducing the town and a host of secondary characters but also has given readers a peek into the Rainbolt siblings' lives -- hellooo -- Mitch has two brothers and a sister and they are all going to get their very own stories! And one of them -- Tucker (book three) is a vet who rescues animals! Eeeeep -- yes, this is me fangirling over Mitch's brother after just declaring he's the man for me, but then I'm fickle like that when it comes to book boyfriends.
Finding the Road Home is the perfect mix of funny and teary and exasperating and utterly satisfying. I'm super excited about this series!!!!
My thanks to the author for gifting me with a copy of this book.
'Police Chief Mitch Rainbolt, micromanaging God. Why am I not surprised?
Sometimes you read a book that just sparks joy in your heart and makes you feel good. Finding The Road Home did that for me. I read it in less than a day and now I'm sad it's over. I can't wait for the next one. Tina Radcliffe brings us the first book in her new series, 'Hearts of Oklahoma'. And it's a super good one.
Mitchell Rainbolt is police chief of Rebel, OK, a tiny town full of extraordinarily sweet folks. Mitch raised his brothers and sisters and feels like he has to be the responsible person all the time. He hires a new deputy, Daisy Anderson, and then funds are going to be cut, so he'll have to unhire her. Daisy has just taken on her five nieces and nephews after her sister and brother in law's tragic deaths and now has them to support, plus her grandmother and a mortgage on a farm house. Can Mitch and Daisy and the rest of the tiny department come up with some creative ways to get more funding from the county? And just maybe, maybe, they can find a new life together?
I loved every single minute of this book. I have never been disappointed in any of Tina Radcliffe's books, but this one just made my heart smile. Full of precious characters, even the secondary ones, and small town charm, this book is sure to be read again! And it's one for my keeper shelf, too! Highly recommended.
*My thanks to the publisher and author for a copy of this book. The opinion expressed in this review is entirely my own.
Finding the Road Home is a beautiful start to a new series. The author did a great job of creating a small town that the reader cannot help but wish they were a part of. The town is populated by caring people that are a true community, there for each other in every way.
Mitch and Daisy are so likable and have circumstances in their lives that are similar. I appreciated the way Mitch took Daisy and her children under his wing, knowing what they were going through and the challenges they were facing. The growth of love between Daisy and Mitch was perfect, but not without challenges to overcome.
I am really looking forward to reading more books in this series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Loved the cover of this Love Inspired book. A beautiful story about two people who seemed to have much in common with each other. It was a fast and easy read and had a good ending. What I appreciate about Love Inspired Romances is that they are Inspirational without bedroom scenes or bad language. To this reader that means a lot. Police Chief Mitchell Rainbolt hired Officer Daisy Anderson to work for the Rebel police department. He hadn't expected her to be so beautiful and was immediately attracted to her. Daisy found her new boss to be very handsome but she wasn't looking for a relationship at this Time in her life. After all she had five children to take care of. Who would want to be involved with a women who had all those children? No, she had no time for romance in her life. The kids after all where the most important thing to her. Chief Mitchell Rainbolt had raised his five siblings from the time he was twenty one. They were grown up now and he sure wasn't going to fall for someone who had five kids. His days of raising kids was finished and he sure didn't intend to go down that road again. So why was he so drawn to his pretty new police officer? There really couldn't be anything more than friendship because he was the Chief and it was against the police departments policies for a boss to date an officer who worked for him. If you like contemporary romance and Love Inspired books you will enjoy this cute story. It's a very heartwarming story that I enjoyed very much. I won a paperback copy of this book in a giveaway by the author, Tina Radcliffe. I was not asked to write a review. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Finding the Road Home is the first book of a new series by Tina Radcliffe and it introduces readers to Mitchell Rainbolt, one of four siblings who live in Rebel, Oklahoma. Mitch is the police chief and an all-around good guy but he is carrying a load of guilt that he just can't let go. A new gal in town, Daisy Anderson, is also carrying a load---she is now the guardian of her five nieces and nephews and she's hoping that she and her own grandmother can make a home for these children who've recently been orphaned by the deaths of their parents.
The characters in this story are amazing. Daisy is determined, positive (most of the time), and a real go-getter! Mitch proves to be the a man that small children can love and look up to and he has known the challenge of providing a stable environment for his younger siblings. There are also great secondary characters that I hope to see in future books. Deputy Roscoe can't help but offer advice and Grandma Alice is both practical and encouraging!! She also has great vision because she recognizes the spark and connection between Mitch and Daisy long before they do.
Finding the Road Home has moments of laughter but it also touched my heart. As Daisy relishes her life in small-town Rebel and gets to know Chief Mitch, she realizes that 'Every day her life became more and more tangled in his, and she wasn't sure it was a good thing to put all of her trust in this one man.' (p. 161) Then, in a moment of clarity, Daisy knows that she must walk away because 'She was a mother of five, in love with a man who didn't have room in his heart for her or her family.' Is it possible for Mitch to let go of his past and somehow convince Daisy that they might have a future?
If you enjoy lovable children, wise grandmothers, steadfast friends, and two people who seem to be perfect for each other, you will enjoy Finding the Road Home. Tina Radcliffe has once again given readers great Christian contemporary romance and I can't wait to meet another Rainbolt sibling in the next book of the Hearts of Oklahoma series.
I received a copy of this book from the author. A positive review wasn't requied and I was not compensated in any way. These are my own opinions.
I thought this was the most adorable story! I am fairly certain this is my first read by Tina but it won't be my last. I am already looking forward to the rest of this series and finding her earlier books. She has a new fan in me!
Finding the Road Home simply made me smile! It is everything a sweet romance should be. Heart-warming. Funny. Sweet. Add just a pinch of conflict and there you have it!
I loved Mitch! This cowboy-police chief had sacrificed himself to raise his five younger siblings when their mom died and he was only twenty-one. Though he made plenty of mistakes, his heart was in the right place. He was, unbeknownst to himself, the town's most eligible bachelor and had no plans on changing that status. Until, of course, Daisy entered his life.
Daisy was the tomboy twin who had never thought about more domestic activities. Her sister was a natural mother. Yet when her sister died, leaving her five children, Daisy couldn't help but step up to care for them. (Sound familiar?)
Both Mitch and Daisy had loving hearts and yet they were each so stubborn! Mitch was a bit of a control freak - Daisy even accused him of trying to micromanage God! He needed to learn that he couldn't wrap everyone he loved in bubble wrap to protect them. He had to trust God to be sovereign.
The folks in the town of Rebel were precious! I loved the way they embraced Daisy and her family, ready to help and to bless.
Many things made me laugh throughout the story. The clever business name - Beep Jeep Tours - for one. The trip, where Mitch taught the oldest nephew and niece to fish and the conversations they had. So cute and so funny!
And the swooniest part had to be when Mitch asked Daisy to dance. Awww!
I've come to realize that Tina Radcliffe is so good at writing witty repartee. Her dialog is sooo good and very natural.
If you enjoy sweet romance with a Christian flavor, you are sure to be blessed by this lovely story!
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own."
This was what her sister's children deserved. Green grass as far as they could see. Trees to climb. Adventures to be had. Maybe, just maybe, living in Oklahoma would help them remember the good times, ease their pain, and remind them all that God had His hand on their tomorrows.~pg. 17
I fell in love with Rebel, Oklahoma! It definitely has it's small town charm and citizens who take care of each other in all circumstances. I loved how they took Daisy, Gran (Alice) and all five kids under their wing and invested time & money to meet their needs. And how they pulled together to come up with and support ways for the PD to win that much needed funding. It just goes to show you how small town dynamics can have a big impact!
I admired Daisy for never questioning taking her five nieces and nephews under her care after her twin sister & brother-in-law died in a car accident. With the help of her Grandma Alice, they start a new life in a new town to help ease their grief. When the department funding is threatened, she doesn't hesitate to roll up her sleeves and fight for herself & the kids future. I loved her determination and tenacity in the face of hardship. Her faith in God never wavers, and Gran's wisdom helps her remember what He has done in the past and how He has her future in His hands. I loved her the best, I think! The voice of reason and Godly wisdom.
Friendship is a solid foundation for a long-term relationship.~Gran (pg. 174)
Police Chief Mitch is a charming southern gentleman through & through. He not only cares for his employees but also has a soft heart for Daisy and her kids. He does what is needed to make sure they are taken care of. Even though his brothers relentlessly tease him about liking her as more than his deputy, he takes it all in stride. When it comes to his heart, his own grief has held him from getting close to anyone, including a chance at love. It takes a near disaster for his wake-up call and remind him that the Lord is in charge of his past and future.
I'm glad you and your family found your way here. This town has a way of healing the soul.~ pg. 24
I think Tina Radcliffe perfectly sums this up in her “Dear Reader” section in the back: This is a story of heartaches and hope. Like Mitch and Daisy, we too must turn our burdens over to the Lord and receive the healing power of His love.
A story of true love, family ties, healing, and hope for the future.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author and was under no obligation to leave a favorable review. All opinions are my own. *
Tina Radcliffe has a gift in creating small towns full of unique characters, charm, and neighborly camaraderie that has you wishing you could live there, and she's done it again with this new series in Rebel, Oklahoma. Daisy is a newcomer to the small-town, having relocated from Denver with her five nieces and nephews who were just orphaned. Mitch is the police chief of the small town, locked in the past with his regrets and mistakes. They both have a lot to learn about relinquishing control and living the full life of faith that God desires. As their jobs and small town life intertwine, they discover much about themselves as they do about each other. The plot is well-delivered with a good pace, the writing is easy to follow, the characters are lovable, and the romance is sweet and tender. I can't wait for the next book in the series!
I received a copy of the book from the author and publisher and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Finding The Road Home is the start of a new series by Tina Radcliffe. We find chief of police Mitch Rainbolt hiring new officer Daisy Anderson only to find out that he isn't guaranteed funding from the county. She desperately needs the job since moving her family to Rebel, Oklahoma. Daisy is raising her 5 nieces and nephews. Her twin sister and brother-in-law were killed in an automobile accident. Mitch, Daisy, and a whole slew of town people come together to make sure they will win the funding for the police department.
I loved this book. Tina Radcliffe is such a vivid storyteller. She draws you in right from the first sentence. I read it in one day! Not only did I love the characters of Mitch and Daisy, but I fell in love with the whole town of Rebel. The town and secondary characters are just as important as the main two. Once you find yourself in Rebel, you won't want to leave. Can't wait for book 2!
Finding the Road Home is the first book in a new series by Tina Radcliffe, and it’s a doozy! On the one hand, I’m thrilled to have read it, but on the other hand, I now have to be patient (not a strong suit of mine) and wait for the next book in the series. This story centers on Mitch, the sheriff of Rebel, OK, and Daisy, his newly-hired deputy. She’s brand new to town, and has brought not only herself, but her grandmother, and her five nieces and nephews, now in her care after their parents passed away. Mitch and Daisy have both lost loved ones, and Mitch also feels a heap of guilt over the loss of his brother. When Daisy’s job becomes threatened due to underfunding, can the police department come up with a way to show the county their town deserves the money the most? Can Mitch and Daisy, with the Lord’s help, each work through their own reservations to find their way to each other? Plus, how does Deputy Daisy’s dream of a pie shop fit in? Take the time to find out!
Finding the Road Home by Tina Radcliffe takes place in Rebel, Oklahoma, one of my new favorite small towns. Daisy Anderson has just moved to town to work as a police officer and is taking care of 5 of her orphaned nieces and nephews. Mitch Rainbolt is the head police officer who hired Daisy and has grown up in Rebel. Together they work through their pasts, navigate life and look towards a future together.
I am in love with Rebel, Oklahoma. I realize it is pretend, but I really want to visit! Tina Radcliffe does an amazing job drawing you into life in Rebel. (I am totally serious about visiting) Her characters are lively and fun to get to know. Daisy is warm, caring, and has a big heart. Mitch is everything a cowboy should be and has those rugged good looks you fall in love with.
Finding the Road Home is charming and simply fun to read. I enjoyed meeting the secondary characters and look forward to getting to know them in the rest of the series. This is a delightful read and I highly recommend Finding the Road Home.
I was given this book by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.
Tina Radcliffe is my absolute favorite Love Inspired Romance author. Her stories are always great reads that are full of faith, sweet romance, and humor. Finding the Road Home is the beginning of her new series, Hearts of Oklahoma. After reading this story, I cannot wait for the other books. Tina always does a great job of introducing characters from the next book in the series and making you want their stories, now!
I loved both Daisy and Mitch and their story. They were both caring and giving people. Mitch raised his siblings and Daisy is raising her nieces and nephews after the death of her twin sister and her husband. The addition of the five children really added to the story. I also loved the secondary characters, especially Roscoe. I am hoping that he is featured in the rest of the stories. Finally, can I move to Rebel, OK? I loved this town and how everyone pitched in to help Daisy and her family!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I'm always a little sad to end a series that I've enjoyed but I am equally as excited to start a new one, to meet new characters and make friends with them. Finding The Road Home is the first book in Tina Radcliffe's new Hearts Of Oklahoma series and introduces the Rainbolt family. Can I just say how much I like that very unique last name? Rainbolt conjures up wild thunderstorms with dark clouds and lightning in my mind.
I really did enjoy Daisy and Mitch's story though I sure wanted to shake each of them at different times. The rest of the residents of Rebel, Oklahoma, were quirky, charming, and just plain fun. I especially liked Daisy's crusty partner at her new job.
If you enjoy Love Inspired books, which are short and easy reads with plenty of romance, faith, and family, you've got to check out Finding The Road Home from author Tina Radcliffe. Oh, and a friendly warning...this book will make you HUNGRY!
(I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are entirely my own.)
First time reading this author, and I was pulled into the book within the first couple of pages. This is the first of a series, so looking forward to see how all the books connect. The setting is a small town in OK. Daisy Anderson, is single, a police deputy that has just become guardian to her 5 nephews and nieces. She has moved to give the children a new start and home. She is also dealing with her own grief. She loves to bake and has a dream to one day have her own bakery. Mitch Rainbolt, police chief, head of his family, and has his own grief that he is dealing with. He raised his siblings, and now they are all adults, he having trouble letting go of being in charge of the family. Tina Radcliffe takes you on a journey, you feel like you are there in the story. You feel all the emotion, pain, grief that Daisy and Mitch both have. The journey of fitting into a new place, job, is full of twists and turns and you never know what will happen next. Then comes the love, and all the emotions that come with love.
Finding The Road Home is an excellent story. After the death of their parents Daisy takes a deputy position in the small town of Rebel Oklahoma to raise her five nieces and nephews. Having raised his siblings after their mother died and his father left, Mitch has a control issue that drives him to want to protect everyone around him.
The fact that his new deputy is raising five children drives him to put her in safer jobs. When the funding for her position is threatened they must fight to find ways to raise money. But the bigger challenge is for Mitch to forgive himself for the death of his brother in an automobile accident with a drunk driver and for Daisy to accept her dream job isn’t being a Deputy.
Faith, forgiveness and trust are strong threads in this exceptional Love Inspired Romance.
Welcome to Rebel, Oklahoma, where hearts fall in love and you feel like family!
Daisy Anderson arrives in town with her five orphaned nieces and nephews to begin her new job with the police department. Her heart-throb boss, Chief Mitch Rainbolt, is ready to offer her protection and help, but this is not what this self-sufficient woman wants.
With the story’s theme of facing the challenges encountered along the road of life, it’s encouraging to see how Mitch and Daisy embrace their trials with faith and learn to accept help from others. A great hope filled book accented with endearing children and humorous pages.
And the romance! I melted at the sweet dance scene, followed by a tender first kiss. Daisy and Mitch have obstacles to face on the way to their happily-ever-after, but it’s such fun to watch their love grow. And the charming epilogue is the perfect ending!
I was definitely anticipating author Tina Radcliffe’s newest series, Hearts of Oklahoma. In each of her books, she brings small towns to life. You feel wrapped in the warmth of a cozy community as you turn the pages. I fell in love with the town of Rebel with its lovable citizens, cute shops and nearby guest ranch. Did I mention there’s a bakery? Yep, my kind of story! I can’t wait for more books featuring Rebel, Oklahoma!
Favorite quote: “Sometimes you just have to step up to the plate and trust the good Lord will teach you how to bat.”
*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m happy to offer my honest opinion.
I LOVED the realism in this book! Author Tina Radcliffe's characters in this book (and all her previous books) are people I can imagine being friends with. In her books, her descriptive writing helped me to easily be able to picture the stories in my mind.
"Finding the Road Home" is the MOST realistic book I think I have ever read. The story with its vivid characters and descriptions could have been a non-fiction book instead of a fiction one. So many people work multiple jobs these days. So many wonder if they can pay their bills or what they would do if they lose their job. So many push aside their dreams and work at a job to get insurance benefits.
Wow, I love this book so much I wish I can actually live in Rebel, Oklahoma.
The citizens were so nurturing, emotional invested, and overall so very loving and helpful...Everyone in Rebel including Roscoe, Henna, Luna, Reece, Tucker, Will, all want to comfort and help Daisy and her kids (Seth, Grace, Christian, Sam and baby, PJ), who she adopted when her twin sister, Deb and her husband, was killed in a car accident.
Our main character, Mitch Rainhold, police chief, found an instant connection to his newly hired officer, Daisy Anderson. He wanted to protect her as he assisted her in taking care of all her daily needs (fixing the leaking roof, new kitchen furniture, fixing her pipes, entertaining the kids, taking them fishing, encouraging them to attend church, cooking, and babysitting them too). Daisy, who is very independent at first had a hard time with Mitch constant help, she was only used to her grandmother, Alice, who is 73 years old, helping her.
The ending of our story was so wonderful, as Daisy and Mitch were married for a year and were expecting twin. She also open her own bakery.
I love how our author using God to display his presence in time of our need. I highly recommended this book and excitingly look forward to reading the next story of this series. Thank you, Ms. Redcliffe.....🤗 😊 😇👮 🤰
Bursting with small-town charm and filled with lovable, realistic, and caring characters, Tina Radcliffe’s new book, Finding the Road Home is a delicious romantic read. I always love the witty, fun banter and observations she pens. This first book in the Hearts of Oklahoma series is definitely a winner and a great introduction to Rebel, Oklahoma and the wonderful citizens who reside there. I loved meeting the Rainbolt siblings, and I’m hoping to see more of their stories in coming books.
Police chief Mitch Rainbolt is a perfect hero—compassionate, helpful, courageous, and on a mission to keep everyone safe. Enter Daisy Anderson, an independent, lovely, go-getter, who bravely adopts her sister’s five orphaned children and moves to Rebel to be a police officer and renovate a crumbling old house. Of course, sparks fly, and Daisy is the recipient of some good old-fashioned small-town goodness.
Tina Radcliffe’s books are always a delight to read. I love her sense of humor, and I know I’m going to find a deeply satisfying story when I open her books. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
What a joy to read! I loved this first book in a new series by talented author Tina Radcliffe.
Mitch and Daisy are likeable, real people I came to care about, as are the entertaining secondary characters in this story set in Rebel, Oklahoma. Roscoe, Luna, and Henna made me laugh and worked their way into my heart, too. I can't wait to read the next books in the series and get to know the rest of the Rainbolt family.
This author is a pro at snappy dialogue and humorous, human touches that bring her stories to life, and Finding the Road Home was full of them. It's inspirational contemporary romance at its best!
I really enjoy Tina Radcliffe's writing. She writes such sweet romances that are still filled with very real moments, main characters who have their flaws and really learn from them. This was actually my second read through of Finding the Road Home. I'm reading through the entire series in order so that it's all fresh in my mind when I read the last book. It was just as good the second time as it was the first time. Mitch and Daisy both have had their shares of loss and grief, which takes a lot of heart and soul searching as well as some prayer to really learn how to keep on living and not let the past weigh them down. Also, I'm biased to like books with redheads on the cover.
This was my first book by Tina Radcliffe, but it definitely won't be my last! Finding the Road Home is a fabulous small-town romance and the first book in her Hearts of Oklahoma series. I immediately fell in love with the small town of Rebel, Oklahoma and the Rainbolt family. I wish I could move to this fictional town and live on Rebel Ranch. Author Tina Radcliffe has a beautiful way of telling such a heartwarming story. I can't wait to read book 2 in the series, Ready to Trust, where the handsome and charming Reece Rainbolt gets his own story.
Thank you in advance to the author, Tina Radcliffe, for this WONDERFUL birthday gift. A positive review was not required or requested, and all words are my own.
A quick (and rather cute) story here –
I had originally won this book as part of another author’s contest (again, no obligation to leave a review was ever required). So, I was REALLY looking forward to reading this when I could. I love to explore new-to-me authors, and Radcliffe is one such one – though she won’t stay “new” now.
Then, I won a contest of Tina Radcliffe’s – it was a 2-in-1book of reissued stories. Since it was on or around my birthday, I thanked the author as it was definitely a special win.
As a bonus, she sent an autographed copy of this book. I gave the other copy to my mother, who ended up reading hers before I could read mine.
While it is rare for my mom and me to read the same books or even genres, my mother had nothing but praise for this book! She loved it. She isn’t much of a reviewer, but she was telling me I HAD to read it. And, I knew I would have to – that’s why I wanted it.
I decided – as I am doing a review for the second book in this series, “Ready to Trust” – it was time to read this book.
And, I can see why my mom raved about it. She doesn’t do that often, so it is VERY high praise and definitely one that left an impression on her. By chapter 2, I was solidly hooked. I was reading so fast it was hard to take notes to be honest.
As this is the first book in the “Hearts of Oklahoma” series, it is a standalone read, but after reading it … you’re going to want book #2, and then book #3.
The couple on the cover are absolutely darling – and I LOVE Daisy’s red, curly hair. I was SO jealous!
And, speaking of the characters – right off I truly adored Daisy given everything she was dealing with. The issue with the mouse reminded me of myself to be quite honest. I could, like Daisy, probably be a patrol officer … bugs, rodents, creepy things – not my deal.
This is Mitch’s story of the series as it focuses on the Rainbolt brothers.
Mitch is the angst ridden older brother – had to raise most of his younger siblings after their parents’ death, feeling guilty over a sibling’s death, in charge of everything along with being the sheriff. Right off I LOVED his relationship with Daisy’s nieces and nephews. Both Mitch and Daisy were so realistic (the 9 year age difference didn’t bother me), I felt like they could be my neighbors if I moved to a small town.
Reece, Mitch’s brother, is also featured heavily in his. At one point, Mitch teases Reece about love which I found hysterical. Reece is the next book’s victim, err, his story is “Ready to Trust (Hearts of Oklahoma #2)”.
I LOVED the family aspect of the story, the small town help (my mom laughed about the “working for pies” running gag), the sweet romance, the family feel.
This story is as close to perfection as you can get. True, you always want the characters right off to realize they love and need each other, but, where is the fun and journey in that?
The writing was just beautiful! It didn’t slug along, but it didn’t seem to have a hurried pace either. I was happily reading along, chapter after chapter, and never wanted to put it down. Devoured it in a day! It was like I was watching a sweet romantic movie, or TV series. It definitely had that small-town, cozy vibe. I loved the witty banter and missing cherub. There is a LOT going on in this little story and it all works without feeling cluttered.
Watching Daisy learn to accept help with others, and being included in a family was heartwarming. And, watching her and Mitch come together was definitely a treat.
Roscoe was another surprise. To say he was a “character” is putting it mildly.
Radcliffe knows how to craft a beautiful, complex, and inspirational story that anyone can relate to. She can also craft characters that are people we want to know or do already, and settings that are absolutely beautiful.
As it is a Love Inspired romance from Harlequin – there will be light Christian/faith themes – references to prayer, bible quotes, and references to God. It isn’t preachy nor does it put those themes as a central part of the story. This is a beautiful, delightful, sweet, wholesome romance.
Fans of the author, as well as the Love Inspired line are sure to enjoy this book. And, I am eagerly heading into book #2 in this series.
You want to know how REALLY great this book and series is?
My mother REALLY wants book #2 (which I’ll get at the end of this month on payday), and we’ve pre-ordered two copies of book #3 which features Tucker.
FINDING THE ROAD HOME by Tina Radcliffe is the first book in the Hearts of Oklahoma Book series. It’s the story of Daisy Anderson and Mitch Rainbolt.
Daisy Anderson became an instant parent of five children, ranging in ages from a 10 months old baby to a set of 8 year old twins, after the sudden death of her sister and brother-in-law. It’s a job she takes seriously and is determine to lovingly fulfill.
Accepting a new job to become the newest deputy for Rebel Police Department, Daisy is hoping for a fresh start away from memories – for both her and the kids. She moves her family, which includes her Gran, to Oklahoma. She bought a house sight unseen because of the price, but upon arrival finds it in great disrepair. Hoping some elbow grease and a little luck will help, she dives right in.
Police Chief Mitch Rainbolt is in desperate need of more help, but he didn’t expect his newly hired deputy to be a woman with so many responsibilities – like five kids and a dilapidated old house. Although he automatically feels a connection to Daisy, he’s paid his dues with raising his siblings. The last thing he needs is a ready made family.
Barely on the job, Daisy’s job is in jeopardy due to lack of funding. Both Mitch and Daisy are determined to find a way to keep her job viable. Daisy’s determined to remain in Rebel where they’ve been made to feel like family and the kids have adjusted so well. Mitch is determined to not laying Daisy, but he’s also determined to keep their relationship a professional one.
Will Daisy be able to keep the home she has come to love? Or will repairs and the loss of a job keep her from having a home – sweet – home for her and the kids? Will Daisy’s many talents come in the play in keeping her job? How can she be having feelings for her Mitch? He’s her boss and that just won’t do! Dare she dream about the bakery she’s always dreamed about?
Can five little children worm their way into Mitch’s closed off heart? He doesn’t feel that he did that well of a job the first time round in raising his siblings. After all, if he had been a better parent, his brother would still be alive won’t he? When shutting them out of his life proves nearly impossible, dare he think of life with them in it?
Tina Radcliffe did an awesome job of making both Daisy and Mitch believable and lovable characters in FINDING THE ROAD HOME. Your heart feels for both of them for both their past and present situation. She makes you want them to find a way for a romance to work and weaves a story that will have you laughing, hoping, getting mad, smiling, shaking your head, praying with Daisy and dreaming right along with them for a happily ever after. Definitely recommend FINDING THE ROAD HOME to anyone that loves a great romance with twist and turns and a story of hope and faith. Waiting with bated breath for the other books in this series and learning more about the Rainbolt clan!
Daisy Anderson is one strong woman. Right from the start we see that she takes on the world with five children who have lost their parents, a new job in a new town, and a home to restore. I worried for her mental sanity and her physical strength right off the bat. Plus, she’s a big tough policewoman who is afraid of mice. I can identify with the afraid of mice thing!
Poor Mitch Rainbolt starts out with the deer in the headlights persona. He wants to help the new neighbor, wants to maintain authority and respect with his new officer, and wonders how Daisy will survive with everything she’s taken on. He immediately becomes protective. And Mitch is convinced were there ever any attraction between him and his new officer, he was too old for her anyway. The guy’s already a hero.
Daisy’s life seems to be taking off on its own bumpy roller coaster when we find out that she has a dream that has nothing to do with the life she currently lives. It just makes me want to hug her.
But then Daisy finds out her job is in trouble and her world wants to crumble. She does her best not to let it and what follows is a fun and creative adventure as Daisy and Mitch try to overcome their problems.
I won’t tell you if Daisy loses her job and I won’t say if she gets the guy, but I will tell you by the end of this story you will have an unusual craving for pie.
Author, Tina Radcliffe writes sweet stories with characters that tug at your heartstrings. She always delivers a happily ever after ending that leaves you feeling upbeat and positive. I love the Oklahoma setting with cowboys and horses. And I like a story about community working together. Finding the Road Home is a wonderful story I’m sure you’ll enjoy.
Best of all Finding the Road Home is the start of a new series named Hearts of Oklahoma, so I know there will be more terrific stories to come!
I was really enjoying this book. It's a sweet and heart warming story about two damaged souls finding their way to each other.
The female MC, Daisy, is the legal guardian of 5 (FIVE!) children after her twin sister dies. She's got a huge heart and seems to be a great character.
The male MC, Mitch, is her boss and the town Chief of Police. He knows all about stepping up and taking responsibility since he raised his siblings after their mother died and their father skipped out. He's one of those types who thinks he is supposed to take care of the world and that everything is his fault. A little annoying but his heart is in the right place.
The author did a good job with world building. I felt as if I could "see" the town through the eyes of the characters in the book. I liked the small town vibe and how the community pulls together.
Where things went off for me was the way Daisy reacted when Mitch got upset that she didn't follow police protocol. She acted as if he did something horrific. She behaved like a spoiled brat. I stopped liking her and felt sorry for Mitch that he was in love with such a shrew. He was right, she could have been killed and she didn't take into account that she is the sole guardian of those children.
When he apologizes, she throws it back in his face and tells him that it wasn't good enough and that he needed to fix himself. The author did a horrible job showing us why he needed fixing. I just saw a guy who cares too much, not a control freak.
It ruined my enjoyment of the book and I no long cared about their HEA.
What a great start to the new series by Tina Radcliffe. Everything about this book is absolutely charming from the residents who live in the small town to the flow of the storyline. I have never visited Oklahoma but I suddenly had the urge to after reading this book. I loved how welcoming everyone was to Daisy Anderson, her grandmother and the five young nieces and nephews Daisy is raising.
Daisy is the new officer hired in the Rebel Police Department, police chief Mitch Rainbolt has a lot on his plate with his small department and obtaining funding to run the department. I loved Daisy and Mitch, they are funny and co cute together. The witty banter between them is delightful. Speaking of delightful the five kids in the novel truly are delightful, they are good, sweet kids and I loved how natural their interactions with Mitch were. That was one of the things that stood out to me throughout this book, everything had a natural flow because if it's one thing that annoys me when reading a book is when something seems forced. The dialogue was just as natural as those lending a helping hand to the new family in their town who desperately needed it.
Overall, I thought Finding the Road Home has the perfect blend of a good solid community who loves their neighbor by extending a helping hand, witty dialogue, a storyline that moves at a perfect pace and some of the sweetest characters who I wanted to spend time with. I'm not just talking about the humans either, there are several cute furry creatures who I fell in love with, too. So, if you are looking for a clean, well written novel, then I highly recommend this one. I received a complimentary copy of this book but was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own.
Life is real. Obligations, responsibilities and other people's needs often get prioritized over your own. Sound familiar?
Tina Radcliffe begins a new series, Hearts of Oklahoma, with book number one: Finding the Road Home. Her heroine, Daisy Anderson, knows all about priorities and putting others first. Becoming a new parent to her deceased sister's five children, moving to a brand new state with a brand new job. All to make sure these children have the best opportunity to heal and grow.
Mitch Rainbolt, the town's police chief, knows a thing or twenty about being the responsible one. Mitch hired Daisy as a new deputy for the town. Things don't always go the way we want them to.
Welcome to the town of Rebel, Oklahoma. Get to know the interesting people of this friendly little town. Follow along with Daisy and Mitch as they work through personal battles, kid crisis, town pranksters and each other's crazy stubbornness. See how faith and perseverance reward the couple and makes them stronger.
The characters are real. The story is vibrant. You have someone in your own history that has experienced these emotions. Tina Radcliffe only gets better and better with every new book she writes. I can't wait for the next book in this series to be available.
Thank you to the author for providing an early copy of this book to read. It was provided without any expectation of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.