It has been five years since I last read a book by Mary Connealy. There is no real reason for this long stretch of time in between books other than so many books, so little time. I chose to read Forged in Love because of a reading challenge I am currently finishing up. If not for this challenge, I probably wouldn’t have picked up Forged in Love this year and that would have been a shame. I very much enjoyed my time with this lovely, endearing story. I found the storyline highly engaging. This was definitely another book I tore through in a couple of days. I also loved the characters. I respect Mariah’s deep need for independence and her desire to prove herself to her community. I found her character to be spunky and feisty, but also good-natured and realistic. Even though she wanted to prove herself, that didn’t keep her from being practical. When someone else can do a task better, she acknowledges that fact and steps aside. I really respect that about her character. I also love Mariah’s sisterhood with her two best friends. Nell is absolutely the best. I am so intrigued by her detective-like nature and cannot wait to read her story next. I also really love how protective she is over Mariah. Nell and Becky have that in common. Becky, Mariah’s other best friend, is tough and smart. Like Nell, I can’t wait to see how things go for her in her own story. As far as Clint goes, I found him to be quite the unique hero. His passion for unique and delicious foods is cool. I love how he desires to educate his clientele on the value of eating diverse and unique foods. I also really love how deeply he cares for Mariah, and his protective streak makes him one swoony guy. My favorite aspect to this novel, however, is the mystery. I think I know, but I can’t be certain yet if I am right in my estimation of whodunnit. I’m excited that I get two more books to work through to figure out if my guesses are correct or not. It’s so much fun to look forward to more mystery!

Forged in Love is a wonderful Historical Romance. I loved every minute of this story! If you are a fan of well-written and highly engaging Westerns that also discuss timely themes, then you will love this story.