Kristen McKendry

All My Loved Ones by Kristen McKendry is a well written, clean romance story. The characters are believable and the plot engaging. Unfortunately, I didn't like the unexpected turn the plot took in the last quarter of the book. I felt like it had come out of nowhere and frankly, like I had been in a "bait and switch" scenario. It just didn’t sit well with me.
Still, the author is talented and the story was engaging to me for a good portion of the book. I encourage you to set aside my review and follow your own heart regarding reading this book.… (más)

The Governess is an awesome historical fiction tale which will keep the reader guessing, through most of the book, how it will end... However, if you pay close attention, there is a hint midway through the book.
This is story of a wealthy, independent woman who lost her parents when she was a young girl and was taken in by relatives to raise in society. Although they were good to her, their words were degrading and they never let her forget their charity she was undebated to them for. She was now pass the proper marriageable age and had no dowry so would likely not be asked. She defied her cousins one day by leaving a note and venturing off on her own to seek employment as a lady's maid or governess. She had answered an advertisement and was hired but for various reasons, she ended up going from one job to another in a short period of time. Hungry and discouraged, she was almost going to have to swallow her pride and return to her cousins "charity". Deciding to splurge with her last coins, she went into an upscale Tea House for one good meal. Sitting alone in a crowded room, she was joined by a strangely, yet, nicely dressed man. She was desperate or she would not have allowed him into talking her into being a Governess for his two children. Although he played the part of a gentleman, devoted to his children, it was evident he was not of the social standing she entertained. But little di she know until too late what she got herself into!
This novel has a lot of humorous adventure in it, plus, a lot of key topics. In this day of unrest and judgement, it would be beneficial to many to read it. Katherine (the Governess) was raised in a time of strict social rules. To not obey them would bring rejection and becoming repudiated by even loved ones. Katherine had a "level head" so tried to use the values she had been taught in making her choices...Choices which could destroy her if anyone found out.
Along with occasional humor, there is a lot of strong sentiment and you may need a tissue box close by in parts of this story.
The characters are very human and "alive". The scenes are portrayed well and easily envisioned.
*I was gifted a free book by the publisher but this is my honest review without any reason to feel obligated otherwise.
This novel definitely earns Four and a Half Stars.… (más)

Heart's Journey by Kristen McKendry is a historical novel full of clean romance and strong faith. It is a relaxing historical fiction read.

Unfortunately, Heart's Journey just didn't resonate with me. I had a hard time connecting with the story and the characters. I thought the premise of the book ~ an 18 year old girl traveling from Canada to the west by herself to join wagon train and actually making it to the wagon train ~ was just a bit too far fetched. I couldn't let go of this fact and unfortunately, it affected my enjoyment of the rest of the story.

Still, the author has talent. Heart's Journey is getting some rave reviews so please check it out for yourselves and make you own decision.

Thank you to Covenant Communications Inc. and Netgalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.… (más)