Reviews
Twisted Creek
TWISTED CREEK is a wonderful, character-driven tale that tells just what a family can be, even if it's made up of a bunch of lonely friends. ... Romance blossoms slowly, but for two nearly lost souls, it's rewarding when it does. ...As usual, Jodi Thomas kept me up way later than normal! TWISTED CREEK could be anywhere, but Ms. Thomas makes it uniquely Texan with her wonderful characters and great dialogue. This is another thought-provoking novel to add to your Jodi Thomas collection. Jani Brooks
...Romantic suspense and sweet women's fiction are an unlikely combination, but in TWISTED CREEK, veteran storyteller Jodi Thomas makes the pairing work quite well. Allie's love for her aging grandmother is sensitively portrayed, while her blossoming relationship with Luke simmers unforgettably in the background. This is a moving story about overcoming hardship and bitterness and about being brave enough to make a happy ending – no matter how long it takes. Romance Junkies Reviewer: Lynn Reynolds
Texas Princess
Top Pick! 4.5 Stars!
Hot! Thomas, the Queen of Texas
Romance, does it again, creating a powerfully realistic portrait of
the West, peopled with remarkable, unforgettable characters
who steal your heart. Her graceful prose paints vivid pictures,
and her ability to bring an intense love story to the pages is
astounding and unforgettable.
romantictimes.com
TEXAS PRINCESS, the second book in the Whispering Mountain trilogy, is a fun read with a fabulous, romantic scene in a ballroom that will melt readers' hearts. Ms. Thomas leaves a perfect opening for the last book (due out in November, 2008) with the interesting character she introduced in the outlaw Roak and his relationship with Tobin's sister, Sage.
freshfiction.com
Texas Rain
Texas Ranger Travis McMurray is home for a bit of rest and relaxation at his family's Whispering Mountain Ranch. Of the three McMurray boys, Travis is the only one who doesn't want to settle down, the one who enjoys the freedom of his oftentimes dangerous job. Yet it feels good to be home with his brothers and younger sister, where he can be himself. When Sage, his sister, talks him into escorting her to a dance in the local town, Travis meets a mysterious young woman who affects him like no other before. When she disappears with one of his horses, Travis wonders what "Molly" is running from, and why?
Rainey Adams has always been told by her father how plain and useless she is. And he is just the person she is running from. After fleeing a forced marriage, Rainey has traveled from the Washington D.C. area to the heart of Texas, hoping that her father will never discover her whereabouts. Dressed as a boy at times, and short on cash, Rainey is planning on "borrowing" a horse and finding a safe place to settle down. What she doesn't plan on is running into the ruggedly handsome Texas Ranger and getting his attention.
Setting off to find the missing horse, not to mention the lovely young woman he's convinced stole it, Travis rides along with a wagon train of German immigrants, hoping they can reach their destination without any trouble. But that is not to be, and they are attacked. Travis is wounded, and his brothers show up and manage to kill the marauders and take their brother back to Whispering Mountain. When they arrive, a young boy is at the ranch, returning the stolen horse. Helping tend the gravely injured Travis, Rainey, the "boy," discovers she has feelings for him, as ridiculous as that seems to her. Why would a Texas Ranger want to hook up with a horse thief?
Once again, Jodi Thomas has ignited the fiery history of Texas into a wonderful, fast paced, yet oh-so-romantic story. Rainey and Travis are two lonely, heartsick people, who have endured difficult lives. But Travis has the support of his family, while Rainey has never felt wanted or needed by her father or her late mother. Readers will cheer Rainey's bravery and Travis's growing realization that perhaps he isn't meant to be alone for the rest of his life.
Great writing, a heartwarming tale, and wonderful characters make TEXAS RAIN a terrific read. There are a few surprising turn of events, some excellent secondary players, and plenty of adventure and romance. Don't miss this, the first book in Ms. Thomas's Whispering Mountain Trilogy.
Jani Brooks, Romance Reviews Today
Jodi Thomas starts off her exciting new “Whispering Mountain” trilogy with TEXAS RAIN. Mrs. Thomas is known for her awesome western historical novels and this new series will no doubt be at the top of everyone’s favorite’s list. TEXAS RAIN is the story of Travis McMurray the second oldest son of an Irish man and an Apache woman who fell in love and built their home on Whispering Mountain. Their father Andrew McMurray died fighting for Texas and their mother died soon after, while giving birth to their baby sister Sage. The McMurray boys were just kids then, Teagen was eleven, Travis was ten and Tobin was only six but they fought off anyone who tried to take their ranch, until the day Teagen turned eighteen.
Travis knew that the ranch life was not for him, he dreamed of traveling the open land and sleeping under the stars. When Travis turned eighteen he joined the Texas Rangers and hunted outlaws while he traveled the land. Now tired and ready for some rest Travis decides to take a month off and head back home to Whispering Mountain and his siblings.
Rainey Adams was scared and desperate otherwise she would never have even considered “borrowing” someone else’ s horse. She had to have a horse to follow the wagon train and make her escape before her father found her. When Rainey’s father told about his plan to marry her off to some stranger she knew she had to escape. Rainey refused to marry any man, giving up her freedom to be treated like she was worthless, somehow she would find her own way.
When Travis first saw her he though she was a beautiful fairy as she kissed him and then vanished, only to discover she had stolen his horse. Then when Travis is injured in a gun fight she returned to him and eased his pain, only to vanish once again. When Travis recovers from his injuries he is determined to find his fairy and make her his, if only he knew who she was. Travis soon discovers that his little fairy is not as angelic as she appears. With tempers flaring and bullets flying this Texas Ranger will definitely have his work cut out for himself.
As I read the last page and closed the book the first thought that came to my mind was, WOW! TEXAS RAIN touches on so many different emotions, I laughed, cried, and cheered all the while turning page after page never wanting it to end. Little Duck stole my heart, and I can only hope that we can read more about him in future books. From the very beginning this story captured my complete attention, never letting go making it a romance truly worth the five blue ribbon rating that I am giving it.
Dina Smith of Romance Junkies
The Texan's Reward:
"The Texan's Reward" blends intrigue with romance and inspiration, a compelling read."
K. Anne Rohrer, Historical Romance Writers - A Romance Designs Community Website
"It's always a joy to read one of Jodi Thomas's books . . . This tale is filled with humorous, as well as some very poignant, parts as both Nell and Jacob come to terms with their long relationship . . . Bright, realistic dialogue and heart pounding adventure, THE TEXAN'S REWARD is a definite page-turner. Don't miss this terrific story. It's Texas and Jodi Thomas at their best!"
Jani Brooks, Romance Reviews Today
The Secrets of Rosa Lee
"...appealingly warm yet wounded characters...typical depth and complexity..."
Publisher's Weekly
". . . an interesting look at progress vs. heritage . . .fine look at group interplay with a touch of intrigue . . ."
Harriet Klausner for The Reader's Guild
"THE SECRETS OF ROSA LEE kept my attention from the opening page to the surprising conclusion. Once again, Jodi Thomas has brought to life a group of people who, although diverse in every way, seem to click when working together. Readers of THE WIDOWS OF WICHITA COUNTY will recognize many characters. This story has beautifully constructed scenes of yearning, heartbreak, joy, and discovery. Every character plays an important part in the plot,including Rosa Lee, whom we gradually come to know. Each of the committee members springs to life off the pages. Excellent, realistic dialogue and a glimpse into small town Texas life just added to the brilliance of this novel. Jodi Thomas has once again nailed it with her terrific writing and heart grabbing characters. Run to the nearest bookstore for a copy of THE SECRETS OF ROSA LEE. It's a Perfect 10!
Jani Brooks Romance Reviews Today
A Texan's Luck
"While Thomas recently made a splash with two contemporary novels, THE WIDOWS OF WICHITA COUNTY, and FINDING MARY BLAINE, it's her nearly 20 historical romances, set in her native state of Texas, that have earned her two RITA awards. This psycologically, as well as physically, action-packed tale demonstrates why . . . a tale with more than enough fast-paced adventure to satify suspense buffs. But, as always, it is Thomas's slower-paced handling of the romantic dynamics between her emotionally warm but wounded characters that is the novel's strength."
Publisher's Weekly
"Thomas continues to demonstrate why she is one of the finest western romance writers today. Strong characters,
pulse-pounding action and sizzling sexual tension are all here in great degrees."
Kathe Robin, Romantic Times Book Club
"Fans of Jodi Thomas's WHEN A TEXAN GAMBLES and THE TEXAN'S WAGER will be delighted by this conclusion to
her "wife lottery" trilogy of love in the Old West . . . Thomas skillfully develops the relationship between these two
determined and engaging characters, and the result is nothing less than heartwarming."
Ginger Curwen, Barnes and Noble
"The third "Texan" tale (see WHEN A TEXAN GAMBLES and THE TEXAN'S WAGER) is a wonderful finish to a fabulous
trilogy . . . the strong lead couple and the return of heroes from the previous books inside an exciting western romance
plot make for a fine read."
Harriet Klausner
"Jodi Thomas has made the concluding book of this trilogy the best one, and readers couldn't ask for a more heartwarming tale . . . A TEXAN'S LUCK will grab readers from the opening page. There's lots of adventure and more than a little romance. For a rollicking good read, A TEXAN'S LUCK will warm your heart and make it beat a little faster, too. Don't miss this terrific book!"
Jani Brooks, Romance Reviews Today
"[An] action-packed, heartfelt story . . . Thomas continues to demonstrate why she is one of the finest western romance writers today. Strong characters, pulse-ponding action, and sizzling sexual tension are all here in great degrees."
Historical Romance Reviews
"An exciting story of waiting out the bad guys and discovering love in the process . . . Excellent."
The Best Reviews
Finding Mary Blaine
Thomas (Widows of Wichita County, etc., ) skillfully, and at times humorously, depicts the various street characters who assist Blaine, and she does an excellent job of portraying Mark's moving metamorphosis - - with the help of an irresistibly eccentric old lady neighbor - - from cold careerist to caring human being. By the book's end, the author has believably revitalized the dead-end relationship of two emotionally numbed people.
Publisher's Weekly
4 STARS!
Vividly written, FINDING MARY BLAINE is a harrowing depiction of any woman's nightmare. The characterizations are the best part--Thomas's people are wonderfully diverse, and there's not a stereotype to be found.
Catherine Witmer, Romantic Times
In FINDING MARY BLAINE, Jodi Thomas does a splendid job of character development, but that's too mild and overworked a term for the way Mark and Blaine evolve through suffering...Lest you think FINDING MARY BLAINE is all dark, I assure you it's not. The people Blaine meets among the down-and-out provide moments of humor and warmth over and above the tragedy of their lives...I have long been a fan of Ms. Thomas's Western historical romances and am happy to say her foray into contemporary suspense is a resounding success. I highly recommend you look for FINDING MARY BLAINE.
Jane Bowers, Romance Reviews Today
"FINDING MARY BLAINE is an exhilarating romantic suspense that focuses on a mousy heroine surviving by befriending street people. The story line moves forward at a fast clip, but readers gain an appreciation for Mary, Mark, and several folks she befriends. Though the inability to reach Mark sees odd in an age of communication even with his mentor manipulating much of the scenario, fans will appreciate this rousing look at the plight of the homeless wrapped inside an exciting thriller."
Harriet Klausner, AllReaders.com
". . . in Finding Mary Blaine, Thomas shows that she can deliver the goods on romantic suspense . . . This tale features an interesting heroine and a well-developed suspense plot . . . Jodi Thomas has a wonderful writing style, and Finding Mary Blaine is the sort of book that will keep readers turning the pages."
Lynn Spencer, All About Books
"FINDING MARY BLAINE may be her [Jodi Thomas's] best writing to date . . . [she] always tells a good story, but something about the immediacy and intricacy of this one puts it in a category by itself. It is realistic in the way fiction can be realistic…sort of riding just slightly above believability. If you haven’t read this one yet, I urge you to read it . . ."
Sissy Jacobson, Reviewers-Choice Reviews
When a Texan Gambles
"Beauty and the Beast meets the Old West as the feisty Sarah refuses to fear the man whose reputation makes sane men tremble. Thomas's second [in the trilogy] is even better than the first, which is terrific."
Booklist
"A superb western Romance that moves at a fast pace, is filled with plenty of action, and contains a strong cast . . . Readers will look forward to the final novel in what is so far a delightful series."
Midwest Book Review
"WHEN A TEXAN GAMBLES is the second book in Jodi Thomas's new Texas trilogy, following the poignant THE TEXAN'S WAGER. Both Sarah and Sam are wonderful characters, but it's Sam -- strong, brave, and oh-so-lonely -- who will tug at readers' hearts. . .Annoother wonderfully-told tale of Texas, WHEN A TEXAN GAMBLES is exciting, uplifting, and beautifully written. . .Once again, Jodi Thomas has kept me up reading past my bedtime! Don't miss this terrific novel.
Jani Brooks, Romance Reviews Today
"This second book in Ms. Thomas' Wife Lottery series stays lively and entertaining as Sarah gains strength and confidence in herself, and Sam realizes he no longer has to be a loner. I loved this story!
Delia Larkins, Courtesy Old Book Barn Gazette
"The Texas setting is familiar territory to Thomas's fans, as is the book's lively dialogue and endearing homespun characters ... this bright, character-centered tale should entertain fans of the Old West."
Publisher's Weekly
"4 STARS...With earthy, gritty characters, an adventurous plot and an understanding of human nature, Thomas delivers another entertaining , touching, delightful romance with an emotional intensity that warms the heart."
Kathe Robin, Romantic Times Magazine
"The second "Wife Lottery" tale (see THE TEXAN'S WAGER) is a superb western romance that moves at a fast pace, is filled with plenty of action and contains a strong cast. The key, besides the fully developed lead protagonists, are the townsfolk, the kids, and those foes wanting to kill the hero. Each one enhances the understanding of the inner values of a pair who on the surface seem inappropriate together yet share similar ethics. Readers will look forward to the final novel in what is so far a delightful series focusing on players with principles."
Harriet Klausner, The Best Reviews
Widows of Wichita County
4 ½ stars and a Top Pick from Romantic Times Magazine! Debbie Richardson says, “In a remarkably moving story, Thomas examines these very different lives and creates characters readers truly care about. From Highs to lows and back again, these strong women will stay with you long after you finish the book.
"The STEEL MAGNOLIAS meet THE ENGLISH PATIENT might be an alternative title for this book. Ms. Thomas' debut modern literature has a warmth and realism that has characterized her past writing, making it accessible to a new audience without abandoning her loyal following. Tears and laughter alike await the reader."
Amanda Killgore, HUNTRESS REVIEWS
"THE WIDOWS OF WICHITA COUNTY marks Jodi Thomas's debut contemporary. Her career as a historical romance author has been unprecedented, but she proves she is capable of even more. Expect to run the full gamut of emotions from tears to laughter within the pages of this wonderful, poignant story."
Tracy Farnsworth, RoundtableReviews.com</p>
"Jodi Thomas furbishes a powerful character study that will hook fans of women's fiction..."
Harriet Klausner, The Best Reviews
The Texan's Wager
"An exciting western romance filled with engaging characters . . . fans will know they won by reading THE TEXAN'S WAGER."
Midwest Book Review
"On par with Pamela Morsi's endearing stories, Jodi Thomas' tale of the Old West will warm your heart and touch your soul. THE TEXAN'S WAGER is a must read for lovers of expertly crafted historical romance."
Julie Shininger, for Escape to Romance
"Kudos to Ms. Thomas for another stunning read! 4 ½ plugs for THE TEXAN'S WAGER!"
Tracy Farnsworth, for The Romance Reader's Connection
"An exciting western romance filled with engaging characters...fans will know they won by reading THE TEXAN'S WAGER Jodi Thomas's deep historical novel."
Harriet Klausner, for The Best Reviews
"Two emotionally scarred people find love in this fast-paced Western from Thomas (To Wed in Texas, etc.) . . . Thomas's crisp prose, sprightly dialogue and homespun characters will charm ..."
Publisher's Weekly
"Ms. Thomas makes the reader more aware of the cruelty people have against things that they don’t understand or aren’t willing to and as a reader you stop to think about how it might affect you...by the time I was done, only several hours after starting it, I was a solid Jodi Thomas fan. I can’t wait to read her other books! This is a fantastic book, sure to entertain even the most skeptical readers. Don’t miss this fabulous read, but don’t start it at bedtime – you’ll be up all night finishing it! 5 Stars."
Melissa M. Curran, Scribe's World (Reviewer's Choice Award)
"No reader will be immune to the emotional power and heart-warming story of THE TEXAN'S WAGER, as a tortured hero learns to give of himself through the love of a unique heroine. You will truly feel for the characters and be eagerly anticipating the next story in this marvelously begun trilogy. "
Kathe Robin, Romantic Times Magazine
"Jodi Thomas, the queen of Texan romance, just keeps turning out entertaining stories with interesting characters and plots. THE TEXAN'S WAGER will undoubtedly delight her many fans . . . A most enjoyable beginning of what promises
to be an entertaining trilogy."
The Romance Reader
About Jodi
HEARTLAND CRITIQUES reported, "Jodi Thomas never disappoints. She wraps humor into the harsh realities and comes up with characters worthy of the title of 'friend' and plots that sparkle with originality."
AFFAIRE DE COEUR announced: "Jodi Thomas's writing is breathtaking . . . her name should be at the top of everyone's favorite author list."
ROMANTIC TIMES MAGAZINE: "Jodi Thomas will render you breathless!" "Earthy, vibrant, funny, and poignant . . . a wonderful, colorful love story."
GOTHIC JOURNAL: "A thoroughly entertaining romance."
RENDEVOUS: "Interesting characters, a bit of mystery, humor and danger . . . enjoyable and hard to put down." "Excellent . . . Have the tissues ready - - this tender story will tug at your heart. Memorable reading."
PAMELA MORSI, Bestselling Author: "The woman who made Texan's tender . . . Jodi Thomas shows us hard-living men with grit and guts, and the determined young women who soften their hearts."
DEBBIE MACOMBER, National Bestselling Author: "Jodi Thomas is at her remarkable best in TWO TEXAS HEARTS . . . She's one of my personal favorites."
May 1999 ROMANTIC TIMES MAGAZINE gave TO KISS A TEXAN the K.I.S.S. Award as well as 4 1/2 stars and naming it a TOP PICK OF THE MONTH.