The Runaway: a grumpy-sunshine military romance

The Runaway is the fifth and final book of the Brides of Beaufort series by Jess Mastorakos. Nate Bristol is getting ready to travel cross-country to his new duty station in Beaufort, he has a tight schedule. He never expected to have travel companions. When Ms. Hattie asks Nate for a favor, no questions asked, he finds himself aiding in the escape of Nikki, a runaway bride, and her teenage daughter, Marigold. She is the ultimate sunshine and is determined to see the bright side of anything and make the most of the turn of events. Nate is the ultimate grump and as the miles tick by, Nikki and Marigold worm their way under his skin and he learns to roll with the punches. As they get closer to their destination, the slower he finds himself driving. Will they be able to say goodbye once they reach their destination? 

I have loved this series and it was sad to see it end. The Runaway is a grumpy-sunshine military romance. Nate and Nikki’s story was sweet with lots of laughs and drama. I loved how Nikki slowly chipped away at Nate’s gruff demeanor. There is a bit of suspense and a nail biting scene with Nate coming to the rescue. I even enjoyed Marigold’s character and as a mom of a teen myself, I appreciated that Ms. Mastorakos got the teenage slang accurate. I loved Nate’s reaction to the slang. It reminded me of my husband’s reaction to the slang when our teenager and her friends use it. When Nikki and Marigold are in danger, I loved how Nate and his fellow Marines jump into action. Overall, I enjoyed this story and the series. If you haven’t read the Brides of Beaufort, I highly recommend it. I highly recommend The Runaway. 

The Runaway is available in paperback and eBook

The Runaway: a deeper look into the people behind historical events

The Runaway is the second book in the Legacy of Love series by Melanie Dobson. In 1850, as the Fugitive Slave Act is about to be signed in law, Anna Brent is a Quaker woman in Indiana who secretly hides runaway slaves in her home. Just one station in the network known as the Underground Railroad. Her work requires the utmost secrecy with code names and unique signals to identify each other. Daniel Stanton is a local newspaper editor who doesn’t shy away from his abolitionist views. When Anna’s work with the Railroad is threatened, can she trust Daniel to help ensure the safety of the slaves she cares so much for? Will Daniel be able to put his words into action? 

The Legacy of Love is a series of historical romance novels based on courageous people and significant events that wove together the rich tapestry of America's freedom and faith. The Runaway is a great look into a piece of history that we learn about in school but often leaves out the personal stories. Ms. Dobson offers a personal portrait of these faceless, unsung heroes of history. She doesn’t shy away from the horrors and dangers these individuals faced along the Railroad. I enjoyed Anna. As I read, I asked myself would I have the same courage to do what Anna does for her fellow man? I highly recommend The Runaway as well as the other books in the Legacy of Love series. 

The Runaway is available in paperback and eBook.