A young widow is tempted to love again after her heartbreaking loss in this new Madison River Romance. After her husband’s tragic death, Ryann Marie Ashcroft’s only remaining dream is to save her family’s struggling mountain resort. And the last person she wants to rely on is a brooding stranger with secrets of his own.Nicknamed America’s rock-and-roll pastor, Shane Olson arrives in Montana after … Olson arrives in Montana after a viral video destroys his marriage, his ministry, and his reputation. Working side by side on the banks of the Madison River, he and Ryann get a second chance at love. But not everyone wants to see their happily ever after.
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WOW! What a follow-up to This Wandering Heart! The themes of redemption and sacrifice throughout this book were powerful. The faith elements were a welcome addition, particularly with regards to Shane. Once again, Janine Rosche paints a vivid picture of the location, leaving me wishing I was sitting along the riverbanks of the Madison while reading it. Ryann was a fascinating character to get to know better. And I even liked that Ms. Rosche was able to draw out my dislike for one character in particular while also making me hope for his own redemption. Wanderful book! (that’s on purpose for those who have read This Wandering Heart) I look forward to the next book in this series!
After having read—and LOVED!—Ms. Rosche’s debut novel, This Wandering Heart, I couldn’t wait to return to the mountains in Montana. The second story in the Madison River Romance – Wildflower Road- proved just as amazing as its predecessor.
The heroine, Ryann, has a past filled with heartbreak and tragedy. Right away, I found myself rooting for her Happily Ever After. Her kindness, her fierce devotion to her family, and her tenderness in dealing with those who are wounded, were all qualities that made her more endearing. Plus she had spunk. And I absolutely LOVE when heroines have a good dose a sass.
The hero, Shane, is … well, all things swoony. He’s running from his mistakes, and his escape to the mountains lands him on the door step of the River’s Edge Resort. He’s protective. He’s loyal. And the man cooks. Basically, he’s Prince Charming in flannel.
Shane and Ryann have instant chemistry! This author does SO well at writing witty banter and spark-filled love scenes. One minute I was snort-laughing and the next I was sighing. Such emotion on every page!
While this book deals with delicate topics, there is a great balance between light and heavy conversations. I really appreciate stories that help spread awareness of mental health, and this author approaches this subject with sensitivity and grace.
What I LOVE about this book is that it reveals that even though our wounds may be deep, they’re not beyond the reach of God’s healing touch.
The very first sentence pulled me in and so aptly set the tone for a book that is filled to the brim with romance while also tackling tough real world subjects like depression and suicide. Having read the first book in this Madison River Romance series, I was not only happy to return to the beautiful mountain resort area that Janine Rosche does such a great job of creating in her stories, I was excited to learn more about Ryann’s character and journey with her from heartache to hope. While occasionally I found myself frustrated with how Ryann was handling certain situations in the story—you know, like not killing Stuart and burying his body in the woods like I wanted her to—I appreciate how the author chose to push for a message of forgiveness and redemption instead.
I received an advanced reader copy with no obligation to leave a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A wonderful tale of redemption and second chances. This novel does deal with some heavy topics, while themes of redemption and grace are beautifully woven into the storyline. Readers will enjoy the incredible scenery and relatable characters in this second installment of author Janine Rosche’s Madison River Romance series.
Wildflower Road recommended for readers of contemporary romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
“She knew all too well the shattering that follows the mishandling of precious things.”
Wildflower Road is about the path to redemption. Ryann tries hard to make up for other’s shortcomings including what she thinks are her own. In an understandable moment of weakness, former Pastor Shane Olson inadverently destroys his life. He now feels like his life is beyond saving and that he needs to perform penance of sorts. These two form a connection that helps to result in healing.
Ryann Ashcroft’s tragic loss of her husband to suicide is revealed in book 1 of this series. (I am mentioning that this is a part of the book in case this is a trigger for someone. The death is handled with tact and with sadness but is a key part of the storyline). What is not revealed is the complicated situation that happens with her late husband’s family. That is also an important part of the book. Many people have complicated family relationships, so this story plays out well to reality.
But although Ryann has known tragedy, she spends her life thinking of others. She is forever trying to brighten everyone’s day. Her main weakness is that she can tend toward overdoing her care for others. Many tend toward people pleasing, and this book shows some of the complications that can result from not being balanced. Over time, Ryann learns that speaking the truth matters more than smoothing over wrongs.
Shane Olson is divorced and does not want to be. He provides a good example of how to show respect toward those who have hurt you even if they are not repentant. I did struggle a bit with how he finally resolves one relationship. After thinking about it, I realized that sometimes not every relationship will result in happily every after. Living out the Christian faith may not always be neatly wrapped up.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book. I liked the supporting cast of characters. I liked how the relationships played out. And I really think that I need to go to Montana to see this beautiful part of the country for myself!
As this is the second book in the Madison River Romance series, I do recommend that you read the books in order. Thank you to the author, to NetGalley and to Berkley publishing for letting me read this one early. All opinions are my own.
P.S. One of my favorite quotes pokes fun at my state – at least I hope that the author knows that the Huskers are in Nebraska. “I figured you’d be back in Iowa by now, shucking corn for fun. Go Huskers, right?” Where I come from, those could be fighting words. 🙂
I appreciate the triggers warning the author stated in the Author’s Note for those that may need it.
Ryann had endured so much prior to the arrival of new cook, Shane. I liked that Ryann hadn’t given up on her faith, but to see her thru each day and how she was able to share that with Shane, without pressuring him. I liked their growing attraction, but both understanding the importance of not rushing intimacy. Good storyline with fun, laughter, family, love, angst and redemption.
Both Ryann Ashcroft and Shane Olson have deep wounds and secrets from their past they are trying desperately to hide. But, like any wound, when exposing it little by little and handling it with care, healing occurs. Wildflower Road isn’t just a typical book of second chances. It tackles some difficult topics in a loving and beautiful way that readers will bond with Ryann and Shane.
Ryann’s life is dominated by an extremely possessive, powerful, and manipulative man that at first she feels she cannot refuse. I was cheering Ryann on as she transformed from an insecure woman to a strong, confident lady who stood up for herself. I love to see justice win!
As details of Shane’s life and his history are revealed, I grew to admire him. Shane’s strength of character, and his discovery that he could change, made me want him to find happiness. Stepping out in faith is not easy, but trusting that God has a plan makes difficult circumstances easier.
With intense, suspenseful incidents throughout the book, I didn’t want to stop reading to see how everything was going to turn out. I recommend you read this thought-provoking romance. If you enjoy Becky Wade’s books, then I think you will enjoy the Madison River Romance series. This is the second book and can be read as a stand alone.
My thanks to the author for a complimentary copy of the book. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Another great Read by Janine Rosche. I love the consistency of her stories. This one is just as good as the first one in the Madison River Romance series and she gives you turns and changes in the story you didn’t see coming and your sitting on the edge of your chair the whole time and can’t put this book down. This story is about Ryann and Shane they both have a troubled past that they find a way to overcome and they do it together. I don’t wanna spoil anymore so I’m just going to tell you to pick this book up and anything else you haven’t read by Janine Rosche yet.
Forgiveness is what stands out to me. No matter what happened, it was a road traveled towards forgiveness on all fronts. I recommend this book.
Janine Rosche draws me into every one of her books. As book two in the Madison River series, it’s best if you read book one first. Wildflower Road has a little bit of everything in it. Action, love, tragedy, and redemption.
Shane has fled west to Montana to escape from mistakes in his past. Ryann wants to save her family’s struggling resort, no matter what the cost. Shane and Ryann both have what seem to be insurmountable obstacles to overcome, and at times, a second chance for each of them seems impossible. Ryann is dealing with the effects of being a widow at a very young age, and with an obsessed former brother-in-law. It has been a very long time since I’ve disliked a character so much, but for an author to draw out those emotions in me says a lot. I loved the redemption found for all in Wildflower Road.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This novel packed a huge emotional punch! I loved the emotional ups and downs of this story, even as it was hard to watch Ryann and Shane go through so much. A warning to those who are sensitive to the topics of suicide, depression, and sexual assault is included in the beginning of this book. The subject matter is handled well and is not overly descriptive, however, these events could be a trigger to some.
Shane and Ryann were both burdened with huge levels of guilt for tragic events in their pasts that they were not solely responsible for. It was interesting to see how both of them had some level of responsibility for what unfolded in their lives, however, others were also to blame.
The love that grew between Shane and Ryann was really beautiful, yet it was not an easy road at all. This story also contained a man who used is power and influence to bully the entire town, as well as, Ryann. His intimidation and threats were a huge part of Ryann’s distress. I had trouble imagining how things could work out, yet the author pulled it all together very nicely and in a believable manner.
This story highlighted second chances and the forgiveness and grace that God will give a truly repentant heart. Wildflower Road is the second book in the Madison River Romance series, but could also be enjoyed even if you haven’t read book one, This Wandering Heart.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
When they first meet, Ryann and Shane seem opposite in many ways, yet both are harboring deep regret and guilt for things in their past. Set among the rugged beauty of Montana and Yellowstone, two hearts heal from heartbreak and tragedy.
Ryann’s love for Montana and her family, her devotion to friends, and her kindness and acceptance of others make her someone you want to know more. But she’s also spunky and fun. Shane is quiet, protective, and loyal. But he’s also human and his knee-jerk reactions have cost him. His is a cautionary tale to not lift people up on pedestals—only God is perfect.
Wildflower Road is a compelling story of grace and growth. Of forgiveness and second chances. There are some hard things Rosche deals with in this book, but they are handled delicately and balanced with the lighter, more endearing moments.
I am so looking forward to Glory Falls (now available0 and Thomas’s story now.
Janine Rosche’s Madison River Romance series is wonderful!! I love Shane and Ryann’s story so much. It is so many things – hard, sweet, funny, heartbreaking, tender, endearing, inspiring… This is such a good book!
I remember thinking after the first couple of chapters, “If it turns out that he’s only divorced, I’m not continuing this book.” Well, by the next couple of chapters when I found he was only divorced, I was already invested in these characters. Even though I do still have very strong opinions on remarriage after divorce, I knew I needed to read anyway to strengthen my empathy for those people who have remarried after divorce. I’m glad I continued to read this. It was great – likable and flawed characters, realistic world-building, great friends, family camaraderie, fabulous writing, humor, and swoon-worthy romance.
There were only a couple of things I didn’t like: I don’t like heroine’s names that sound like a guy’s name. The physical relationship was steamier than I like, though realistic between two formerly married people.
And I didn’t appreciate the sexual assault and suicidal situations. Having a sister who attempted suicide, this hit a little too close to home for me. But by then, I was too invested. I needed to know if Shane and Ryann would ever get engaged.
I ended up reading all 324 pages in one day. I couldn’t put it down.
Favorite quotes:
“Shane entered the kitchen through two swinging doors straight out of a John Wayne western. It was small and hadn’t been cleaned well since last season… Very different from the culinary school he had attended before his call to full-time ministry. Also a far cry from the one kitchen in which he had recently refreshed his cooking skills. He took the discrepancy as a sign: cooking for resort guests would be very different than cooking for his fellow inmates.” (p. 13)
“That thing he wanted most? Redemption? Maybe it would look different than he expected. Maybe it wasn’t about his redemption at all.” (p. 92)
“She clung to him as they walked to the café. Being strong was exhausting. How much damage could be done with one night of weakness?” (p. 108)
“’When did you last eat?’ she asked. You don’t remember? I had half a BLT around ten forty-five. The other half mysteriously disappeared off my plate.’ She shrugged, tossing a coy look his way. ‘Not my fault you got distracted.’ His laugh echoed off the stainless steel. ‘Not your fault? Ryann, my dear, you are the definition of distraction.” (p. 116)
“His guffaw may as well have shaken her whole world. Her heart nearly burst from her chest. She would happily share all her most embarrassing stories if she could keep him far away from that shadow that followed him across the Great Plains.” (p.121)
“His kiss was like the perfect fly-cast. Each movement was graceful, strong, and deliberate. An art that was literally breathtaking. (p. 166)
“Nausea and nerves sparred in Shane’s stomach all throughout the church. When Joe gave a sermon on Jacob and Isaac’s troubled father-son relationship, the irony wasn’t lost on him. Nice sense of humor, God.” (p. 244)
“Shane was visibly shaken by the touch. He held David’s stare and nodded after every few words. His cheek twitched, and his Adam’s apple rose and fell with effort. When David’s arms cautiously surrounded his son for perhaps the first time ever, Shane’s face broke into pieces.” (p. 252)
(I received a copy in a giveaway from the author. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own, as was the decision to write this review.)
What a well crafted and wonderful story! Wildflower Road pulls the reader in early on with heartbreak in the main character’s pasts and seeing how they overcome it and finally find happiness was such a fun read. Ryann and Shane are such likable characters that you can’t help but root for them to break free of their pasts and find their happily ever after. This story has a lot of drama and heartbreak in its pages but that just makes the end all the more satisfying. All in all, this was a lovely story and I can’t wait for book 3 in the series!
I received an early copy for review but I also purchased a hard copy as well an an audible copy for my shelves. All thoughts are my honest opinion.
Like book 1, this book was just too good. Heart gripping, captivating with amazing characters, sigh-worthy plot and settings.
The author painted an amazing picture of hope, love and redemption and it was so beautiful. Reading it pulled at my heart strings.
People with a past they rather not remember but one God alone can redeem and give a beautiful future and those who love a good, deep, faith filled story will love this book.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
*3.5 stars*
Gentle romance…
This was my first venture into Madison River and Ryann and Shane’s story was worth the trip. Both were dealing with a boat load of ‘stuff’ and hiding out in the mountains, strangely enough, wasn’t the greatest place to hide from it. Instead, their relationship made them deal with their pasts and it was anything but a quiet ride…
They both had issues and as they got to know each other all was slowly revealed. Their antagonistic first impressions soon gave way to sharing of heart-wrenching curveballs that affected them deeply now and, more importantly, their futures. As they grew closer, all of it came to a head. Some unexpected events, others more predictable, but all of it led up to a climactic end.
I missed the fine print and didn’t realize it was a Christian romance, a genre I don’t normally seek out. A good story, however is a good story, and this was a balanced read with emotion, human frailty and strength, at its heart.
*Reviewed for 1-Click Addict Support Group
**Thank you to NetGalley
Wildflower Road by Janine Rosche is book 2 in the Madison River series. I was a huge fan of Ms Rosche’s first novel in this series, featuring reality television star Kat Wonderful who finds unexpected love. This book, somehow, surpassed the first book in its emotional complexity and depth. The characters were vivid and had dealt with some horrific trauma, yet this book shines through with the hope and love that can only come from God Himself. I adored every moment of reading this book. I stayed up way too late to read it and cannot wait to read book in the series. The characters were so real that it feels like such a loss now that the book in done! I highly recommend this novel to readers of Christian fiction and romance. It definitely has elements of trauma, so keep that in mind. I received a digital copy of this book from the author with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.
Oh, my heart! What a beautiful book. It’s been a few days and I still can’t stop thinking about Ryann and Shane, two wounded hearts finding their way to each other.
This book deals with some heavier topics and Rosche handles them well. There’s a LOT of drama in Wildflower Road, and just when you think things are finally going well, something else comes around the corner. I had to take breaks from reading because it felt like an endless run of sucker punches to the gut. BUT that made the ending, and the concept of redemption, that much sweeter. It also made Shane and Ryann’s story settle deep.
Overall, Wildflower Road is an emotional but beautiful follow-up to Rosche’s debut. I can’t wait to read the next in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel. All expressed opinions are mine.
Let’s go to Montana! These were the words I uttered to my husband after finishing the last page of Wildflower Road, the second installment in the Madison River Romance series by Janine Rosche. The author makes readers feel like they are right there taking in God’s beautiful masterpiece along side the characters in her books.
Readers met Ryann in book one, This Wandering Heart, and we get to learn more about her tragic story in this book. This book is written just as well as the first in the series, but Wildflower Road definitely tackles some heavy issues such as depression, suicide, blackmail, harassment, and assault that readers need to be aware of before diving into this story. The author handled all of these situations tremendously well. What readers are left with at the end is a beautiful picture of redemption in the lives of these characters, but there will be some hard to read pages on the journey to get there.
I enjoyed getting to know Ryann’s friend, Thomas, a little bit in this book and I am looking forward to getting to know him even better in his story which is the next book in the series. Glory Falls releases in January of 2021.
I was given a copy of this book by the author and publisher. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.