Susan F. (scoutmomskf) - , reviewed on 8/29/2019 + 2626 more book reviews

This is the third book in the series, and though it can be read as a stand-alone, the experience will be richer if the first two books are read first. It opens as Geordie debates with himself about whether to give in to his urge to see the Atlantic Ocean again. It has been years since the family emigrated from Scotland, but Geordie remembers the peace he felt watching the waves. However, he hesitates about leaving his family behind. When a family friend stops by on his way home to Maine, Geordie decides to tag along with James since there is safety in numbers. Youngest brother Robbie also wants to come, looking for a way to test himself after the horrific injuries he received in the previous book.

One of the things I like best about the MacEnroy family is their support of each other. Oldest brother Iain is protective of them all but also understands that each must find their own path. I love the honest conversations about dreams and expectations, and the knowledge that home will always be there. As Geordie, Robbie, and James head off on their journey, I enjoyed the vivid descriptions of the sights along the way. The effects of the Civil War are still evident in the people and places, something that makes an impression on Geordie. I liked the way that Geordie and James watched out for Robbie without babying him, respecting that he knows what he's capable of. There was a bit of excitement on one leg of the journey as the men came to the rescue of a woman and her child. I liked Geordie's calm handling of the matter, and especially enjoyed the "awkward stumble" gambit. Their good deed plays a part later in the book. When they reach the end of the train journey, they ride in the direction of James's home, and along the way discover a woman being threatened by an obnoxious neighbor.

Mehitabel, or Belle, faces off with a neighbor who wants her land and becomes increasingly threatening in his attempts to get it. She has no intention of giving in, as the property is part of a long-standing family trust. When three strangers arrive in time to assist her in sending the bullies packing, she is more than happy to rent them rooms. Belle is a woman of many talents - healer, baker, clam-digger, innkeeper. She is feisty and independent, but also warm, loving, and loyal to her family.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Belle and Geordie. When Robbie is injured, Belle's healing skills are needed. Taking care of him brings Geordie and Belle closer together. I liked the time they spent together talking about their lives and their families. The sparks between them built into a passion they were quick to give in to. It also left each of them wondering where it would lead. Belle's life and family are there by the ocean, and Geordie's is rooted in the Ozarks. An added complication arrives in the form an orphaned little girl. I loved how Geordie and Belle are able to talk about their options and possibilities. The visit to his family was an eye-opener for Belle, and I enjoyed seeing her reactions. I had to laugh a little at the way she and Geordie were ganged up on, but it was all with good intentions. Geordie was especially adorable in the way that he would get flustered when he tried to explain his feelings to Belle. There was a fun bit at the end as he tried to figure out a way to make her see an essential bit of information. The epilogue was a terrific look at the immediate future and the added chaos of visitors.

I also enjoyed following the trials of dealing with her obnoxious neighbor. Bennet was bound and determined to get her land and willing to do anything to succeed. I liked the ways that she stood up to him and countered his moves. It was interesting to see the way that the land was protected. There were some unexpected twists, such as when her aunt was booted from her home by a greedy brother and sister-in-law. Assistance came from an unexpected source and came with an added benefit. The problem with Bennet came to a satisfactory end thanks to the sheriff and his loss of patience with Bennet's antics.

Of the secondary characters, my favorites were Aunt Mary and the two children, Abel and Morgan. Mary is a mature woman with a practical attitude and a dry sense of humor. She also doesn't suffer fools gladly, and the issue with her brother and the house frustrates her. Abel and Morgan were both adorable and mischievous. I liked the way that Morgan and Geordie connected on the train journey and the impression that he made on the little girl. I ached for what she went through and cheered at her resilience. Her reactions to Abel were funny. Abel was a piece of work himself. I loved his energy and his obvious love for his sister. It was fun to see his interactions with Geordie and Robbie, but the real winner was when he was faced with Morgan. The scene with the frog was a riot.

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