When a big-hearted debutante collides with a small-town blacksmith set in his ways, it can mean only one thing—a war of hearts has come to Pine Creek.Washington, 1892Cameron Wallace thrives as both the blacksmith and the minister in his community of Pine Creek. Out of the fires of a chaotic childhood, he’s forged a peaceful life filled with safe relationships and predictable routines. But when … routines. But when the smithy he’s been renting is sold out from under him, the impulsive woman who buys it stokes the embers of emotions he’d rather keep unlit—and even has the audacity to lend a helping hand to his smithy work.
Samantha Klein has never been afraid to push boundaries when it comes to helping those whom society—and God—have overlooked, be they orphans, immigrants, or injured animals. When her latest attempt to aid a group of Chinese women lands her in a newspaper scandal, her high-society family sends her packing from Seattle. Setting out on her own, she purchases the Pine Creek smithy and hatches another plan for helping her immigrant friends. But only weeks after arriving in Pine Creek, her plan turns to ashes, and she’s overwhelmed by needs she can never hope to meet, including her own need to be seen and cared for. And the one who seems to understand her is the man who won’t let her anywhere near his heart, no matter the attraction that burns between them.
As Cameron struggles to find a new normal, and Samantha yearns for someone to share her burdens, old hurts and dangerous secrets make them both terrified to admit that what they need—and what God has planned for them—just might be each other.
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Three Words and a Kiss is a delightful, entertaining story featuring a cast of three-dimensional characters that are endearing and realistic. Sondra Kraak is a master at creating settings that are vivid and easy to imagine. I wanted to transport myself to Pine Creek and visit with everyone there. The main characters, Samantha and Cameron were almost polar opposites. Samantha was impulsive, enthusiastic, and compassionate, while Cameron was more reserved and kept his feelings mostly to himself. He quietly helped others around the town. There was more than a little clashing between these two characters, but it caused a lot of hilarity and fun. One of my favorite secondary characters was William the duck. He was a great addition to the book. If you want a light-hearted, charming read with threads of hope and faith running through it, grab this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Three Words and Kiss, by Sondra Kraak, is the third book in the Love that Counts series. Though it includes several characters who were introduced in the previous books in the series, Three Words and a Kiss can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. Even though I have not read the other books in the series, Three Words and a Kiss is so well-written and entertaining that I had no trouble following the story, engaging with the characters, and enjoying this book from start to finish. Having liked this book so much, I am certainly eager to read the other two books in the series, as well as other novels written by the talented Ms. Kraak.
In addition to the fabulous writing, this book moved me with its prominent themes of prejudice, compassion, and faith. Within this novel, the ugliness of racism, ignorance, and fear contrasts sharply with the restorative power of compassion and grace. Even in the face of opposition, those with kind hearts remain generous and faithful depriving prejudice of its power.
I was also surprised and delighted by the prominence the author gave to a strong, female character, named Samantha. Samantha consistently chooses acts of compassion and service rather than submitting to cultural expectations and family obligations. Her sincere desire to do the right thing more than to do the expected thing was inspiring.
Within this book, there were several significant scenes of clean, vulnerable, and passionate romance. More than being simply fun to read, the romantic moments in this book also served an important role in the story fostering the emotional and spiritual development of the characters as they grappled with their own motives, desires, insecurities, expectations, and fears.
Three Words and a Kiss is a wonderful piece of historical fiction. It is rich with relevant themes and thought-provoking ideas. It is romantic, emotionally stirring, faith-filled, and ultimately uplifting. It is a novel that I will long remember for the lasting impact that it has had on my thoughts and upon my heart. This novel was engaging, meaningful, and a pleasure to read. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
5 Stars!
Sam & Cam “their nicknames rhyme.” I simply loved these two together! Samantha Klein doesn’t think about consequences, she acts on what her heart tells her. When she makes headlines in the papers, again, her family sends her away but being Sam, she has a plan all her own. Cam is happy in his life as the blacksmith and part-time pastor in Pine Creek, the town that raised him. The only thing that would make him happier is owning the smithy. But Sam owns the smithy, comes to town and turns his world and heart upside down.
Despite the frustration they cause each other, there is an undeniable attraction. There is also an accidental kiss or two followed by apologies. But the passion between these two is undeniable, despite Cam’s desire to ” just be her friend.”
There are so many layers of emotion in this story. The author does an amazing job bringing all the feelings together. While this is the third book in the series, I think it could be read as a stand-alone book the writing is superb!
Oh, did I mention the kissing? When these two get together, sparks fly! This author knows how to write a kissing scene that will cause palpitations!!! ( Most Christians do kiss before marriage, in case anyone wonders about that) She does not take it beyond kissing though.
The author notes say this is her longest book yet. I say, don’t be intimidated by 560 pages. It was pure delight! I love the main characters, I love the side characters, and I love the social issues brought forth in this book. I can’t wait to return to Pine Creek.
Sparks fly and hearts ignite in this emotionally charged, arresting story of two unlikely characters that will take captive of your attention and have you eagerly turning pages to find out what happens next.
Samantha is the youngest daughter of a highly successful businessman and has often felt overlooked and under appreciated. Samantha has a large compassionate heart for those hurting and for the underprivileged, she often makes snap decisions based on her emotions and sometimes that leads her into trouble.
Cameron has learned to stuff his emotions and lock them away deep inside. He’s satisfied with the way his life is going, and he doesn’t appreciate change. Cameron sees’s emotions as a weakness, and he doesn’t have time for drama.
Both Samantha and Cameron can learn from each other if they will only set aside preconceived ideas and open their hearts to the possibility of change and of putting one’s trust in another person.
I give this fantastic story 5 stars, and would encourage you to pick up a copy to enjoy for yourself!
(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.)