Rescued Hearts by Hope Toler Dougherty

A complimentary review copy was provided to me.

After reading several historical fiction works, it was fun to return to modern day and read a contemporary fiction. Rescued Hearts is the second book that I have read by Hope Toler Dougherty.

As much as I enjoyed the first book that I read, I liked this one even more. Much like Mars...with Venus Rising (see my review here), Rescued Hearts has some quirky, lovable characters, but with the new addition of suspense. With the crafty blending of crime and romance and the utilization of characters that are like people you might have in your life, Hope created a story that was very enjoyable. The story pulled me in and had me wanting to read any free minute, so as to see what happened next. Unfortunately, as Mary Wade found her spaces invaded and questions about their safety arose, I was home alone with the kids while my husband was traveling. Not an ideal time to read such a suspenseful tale; proof positive that the story was realistic. It had me wondering how many people have inadvertently found themselves in danger as a result of a self-less act of trying to rescue an animal (or a person). Fortunately, Mary Wade discovered an inner-strength and was able to draw on her faith to find the hope necessary to help get her through.

About the Book:
Rescued Hearts | Hope Toler Dougherty

Children's clothing designer Mary Wade Kimball's soft spot for animals leads to a hostage situation when she spots a briar- entangled kitten in front of an abandoned house. Beaten, bound, and gagged by the two thugs inside, Mary Wade loses hope for escape when a third villain returns with supplies.

Discovering the kidnapped woman ratchets the complications for undercover agent Brett Davis. Weighing the difference of ruining his three months' investigation against the woman's safety, Brett forsakes his mission and helps her escape, the bent-on-revenge brutes following behind.

When Mary Wade's safety is threatened once more, Brett rescues her again. This time, her personal safety isn't the only thing in jeopardy. Her heart is endangered as well.

Meet the Author:

Hope Toler Dougherty holds a Master's degree in English and taught at East Carolina University as well as York Technical College. A member of ACFW, RWA and SinC, she writes for Almost an Author. Before writing novels, she published non-fiction articles on topics ranging from gardening with children to writing apprehension. She follows the Pittsburgh Steelers, ACC basketball, and Army West Point Football. Hope and her husband, Kevin, live in North Carolina and chat with their two daughters and twin sons through ooVoo. Her debut novel, Irish Encounter, is partially set in Ireland. Her second one, Mars . . . With Venus Rising, is published with Pelican Book Group.

Learn more at hopetolerdougherty.com.

You can learn more about the book and read additional reviews on the blog tour landing page.

No compensation was received for this review. All opinions expressed are my own or that of my family. A complimentary review copy was provided to me.