Congrats and felicitations to all for enduring another year of highs and lows (isn't that the definition of life?). For all who are ready for 2011 to end - you're almost there....big breath in and relax! For all those who are ending on a high note - good for you! Hope you enjoy this mini-break during your day, take time to reflect on the things you will and won't miss about this year. I, for one, am not a big resolution maker at the New Year - it's kind of unrealistic for me and invariably I end up disappointing myself. Instead I make vows and use them like mantras - I will be positive (even when I want to smack the crap out of people), I will not be afraid of change (and some big ones are coming), I will read to my heart's content and not feel guilty! That last one is a solid done deal! To celebrate my vows, I share with you some delish eye candy - last taste of the year. Mmmmmm, quite spectacular!Oh and Happy New Year to you all!!!!
Paty Jager, Bridled Heart, Wild Rose Press, January 2011
Paty Jager takes on the hefty task of telling the tale of a broken ER nurse and the bareback rider who heals her heart. BRIDLED HEART sings to the romantic soul like a country ballad: a little sad, a little hopeful and always, always about love.
Gina Montgomery's abusive past haunts her, forcing her to close off from personal relationships of any kind. Working as a traveler nurse, Gina spends little time in any one place and her passions lie in her piano music and her dream to build a camp for abused children. Holt Reynolds fights his own demons, beleaguered by guilt over his sister's suicide. When not competing in rodeos, Holt pours his emotions into his art and it is his soulful renderings that capture the eye of the introverted fundraiser volunteer. Her music reminds him of his sister's. Together they have a chance to heal one another's personal pain if they can only make that leap of faith.
This romance manages to be both sweet and sexy but not in an obvious way. Holt's courtship of the wary Gina speaks of his genuine affection for her. What starts as fascination and infatuation grows into heated romance. Like the gentle breaking of a skittish mare, Holt manages to convince Gina his intentions are honest and true and watching the pair fall in love is quite touching. The growth and development of the secondary characters adds to the storyline as much as the small mystery of who is stalking Gina and why.
A highly enjoyable read, BRIDLED HEART takes the reader on a true journey through the healing process of victims of abuse. With a clever storyline, solid characters and well-written dialogue, Paty Jager's love story will leave the reader sighing and wishing for more.
I give this sweet send off a tasty four chocolate dipped strawberries with a glass of champagne to toast the New Year - welcome 2012! Get reading.....
This review was originially written for The Romance Reviews
