Meagan Myhren-Bennett
The Spark of Love Mesquite Springs #3 By Amanda Cabot Alexandra Tarkington has fled from her home in New York, misdirecting her unwanted suitor while fleeing to her father's side in the hopes that he would keep her safe. Mesquite Springs, Texas, is far from New York and Alexandra is sure that she will be well hidden there. Unfortunately, her father is less than thrilled to see her and wants her to turn around head right back home. But Alexandra refuses to leave and begins to create a home and a life for herself in Mesquite. And then there are a few questions she needs answers to, answers that only her father can give. Gabe Seymour is an investigator who has been hired to track down a swindler, a swindler who he believes lives in Mesquite Springs. When he shares a stagecoach with a delightful young woman, he is more than a little surprised to find that she is the daughter of the man he is seeking. The Spark of Love is the third book in the Mesquite Springs series and is an excellent enjoyable read that takes one back to the Texas Hill Country. I love how some of the incidents of Dreams Rekindled are further delved into in this book - the ranches that were bought out, the house that Mrs. Lockhart sold, there is a bit of mystery there, and naturally, most people are looking for answers. But there is more to the story than questions about an unknown buyer and landmark house being sold; there is danger as Alexandra falls victim to "accidents" that seem too convenient. This is one book that I would highly recommend after reading the first two books in the series (Out of the Embers and Dreams Rekindled). There are references to events from those books, and, yes, you could probably read and enjoy The Spark of Love without reading them, but you wouldn't have the proper context to fully grasp the situation. And don't skip ahead; you will totally ruin the ending. So clear your weekend and plan a staycation read-in! I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion - All thoughts expressed are my own.
Sonja Nishimoto
This is the first book from this author that I have had the privilege to read. It's book 3 and now I definitely will have to find books 1 & 2! But that being said, book 3 is fine on it's own and I just loved it! I love Texas historical fiction because I have so many ancestors that settled here in those rough times. So that in itself is a huge draw for me. I loved this book. It was Texas, it was romance, and definitely mystery! What a great combination.The characters are great. I can certainly see trying to get away from gold digger suitors, who only are in a relationship just to see what's in it for them! This book was a page turner, without a doubt. After various strangers arrive in Mesquite Springs, it is interesting to see how the story will develop. I received a copy of this book from Revell Publishing and was not required to post a positive review. All Thoughts are my own.
Kristina Barnes
The Spark of Love by Amanda Cabot is the third and final book in the Mesquite Springs series. Like the other books in the series, this story is full of danger, mystery, sweet romance, and a beautiful historic landscape. Throughout this series, I have fallen in love with Mesquite Springs, Texas. It is a charming small town with generous and compassionate characters who will steal your heart. I loved Alexandra from the very beginning for her bravery and intelligence. And the more I got to know her loving heart, the more I kept cheering her on through all her troubles. Gabe was an excellent hero. Handsome, no doubt. But the story highlighted how perfect he was in what really counts--honor, compassion, love, and honesty. I loved how he could see Alexandra for the amazing woman she was. Overall, this was an exciting story that kept my attention chapter after chapter. I'm sorry to not be able to visit Mesquite Springs again, but I am looking forward to the author's next series. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.