If you haven't read the first two books of the High Sierra Sweethearts, hurry off and read them before you read this review! And when you're done, hurry back - you won't want to miss the fantastic conclusion to this series. This was the best of the set.

Penny was prepared for everything. Her cautious nature had her ready for any emergency in her bag. And that very thing saved her life. More than once. It could have almost been Marry Poppins' bag for the amazing way she had just what was needed. I loved the way she was so resourceful, intelligent, strong, and yet willing to submit to others when necessary. She is one of my favorite spunky heroines!

John's satchels were full of items he couldn't be without as well, yet his preparedness looked so different from Penny's. He carried with him the tools of his trade including disguises for every occasion. This Pinkerton detective, though more than just in his element in the city, was more like a babe in the woods there in the . . . um . . . woods.

John was admirable in so many ways. Not only was he resourceful, gallant, and handsome, he respected Penny despite her mistrust of him. He knew she was better in the wilderness than he was, and deferred to her when necessary. Still, he was fully able to take charge and had a cool head in the face of danger.

This fast-paced adventure had the two running and riding all over Nevada, escaping from their kidnappers and then tracking them down. The circumstances that they continued to find themselves in and the way they got out of the predicaments were such fun to read. Mary Connealy has a knack for balancing laugh-out-loud humor with high adventure and romance.

You can see some of her humor in the quotes here, yet there was so much more I wanted to share but didn't because, outside of the context, it wouldn't make sense.

This stunning conclusion to the series neatly wrapped up the loose ends from the previous books. I was so grateful the author didn't find it necessary to rehash the details here. She sprinkled in enough to jog the memory when needed so it didn't matter that it has been months and hundreds of books read since I read the first two books. Not to mention that they are the kinds of stories that simply stick with you.


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I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.

Y’all, Mary Connealy ends the High Sierra Sweethearts series with a book filled with danger, adventure, two strong-willed people, and plenty of laughs.

I loved Penny and her sarcasm (not the biting kind but the kind that is just plain hilarious). And then there’s John McCall who , without hesitation, goes toe-to-toe with Penny. And of course, Trace and Cam just add to the chaos that only Connealy can create in her books, in the best sort of way.

As Penny and John race to figure out who kidnapped them and who is behind everything that has happened to Penny’s family, readers are taken on a high-stakes, fast-paced adventure that keeps the pages turning as quick as you can.

The Unexpected Champion is the perfect ending to this series, and I’m thoroughly looking forward to what Connealy has instore for readers next because she just gets better with every book she writes.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Unexpected Champion is book 3 of another great series from Mary Connealy! Starting with a kidnapping, then looking for the kidnappers, the story builds to an exciting ending! I absolutely loved it! But I recommend reading Accidental Guardian and Reluctant Warrior before reading this one. All excellent stories!

I was so excited when I received my book.
Let me start by bragging about this beautiful cover. It gives the reader a glimpse of th
e story it holds.
Mary Connealy has been a favorite author of mine for some years. She brings a story that captures both time and place. I always know I'm in for a captivating story with elements or suspense, mystery, faith and romance.
This historical is set in High Sierras during 1868. This is the third book in this series, but I feel it's a stand alone story. I would recommend reading the first two books to get the full impact of the series though.
This story centers around Penny Scott and John McCall. These engaging characters are complex and intriguing. Penny is a no nonsese kind of woman who has learned to take care of herself. Even being in hands of her capturers she still kept her head about her and knew it was only a matter of time until she could make her move. John McCall lives in the city, but he learned how to survive during the war. He's been working for the Pinkerton Agency and is on an assignment to bring a young boy back east to his grandparents. Penny doesn't like John, but when they escaped their kidnappers her one thought was their survival. John realized quickly he was out of his element in this vast forrest and knows if not for Penny they may not survive.
I really liked Penny. She has a good heart and is motivated by doing the right thing. I think she has spent many lonely years following her brother in the army, but if nothing else she has developed skills that will help her while living in the Sierras. At first I wondered if I would like John. He was a typical male who felt he needed to save the weak female, but was pleasantly surprised when he admits that she is more knowledgeable and better prepared that he is about the area. Just one problem, there's a mystery surrounding their kidnapping and just when they think one mystery is solved another emerges.
This book brings many twists and turns; romantic tension; characters with a softer side and tough exteriors; faith; and suspense. What more could a reader want????
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves history, suspense, or just a good, clean read.
I received this book from the publisher. I was not expected to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This book keeps the reader on their toes! Penny, the main character was in an earlier book by Connely written into the backstage. I initially wanted to read this book because I enjoyed the previous book from this author, without realizing that the plot picks up almost immediately after the previous book ends. What a joyous surprise! I always want plots to continue when I find an intriguing story line and this quenched my thirst.

Danger, excitement, mystery and romance from the first chapter until the end. This book will not disappoint. I would recommend this book to any preteen readers as the romance is clean and appropriate for all ages.

Action-packed and heartfelt, The Unexpected Champion is Connealy's third installment in the High Sierra Sweethearts series. Readers find beloved characters picking up right where they left off in The Reluctant Warrior, which instantly relays friction between John McCall and Penny Scott.

I absolutely loved the romantic development between John and Penny. I felt the pacing was perfect, especially given their circumstances and personalities. I also love that Connealy has a gift for making me laugh out loud while reading. There were numerous instances when I had to read a scene out loud to my family in order to explain my laughter.

Overall, this was such a satisfying read. However, I would certainly recommend that readers finish the other novels in the series before reading this one. The emotion of the novel will matter more when built on a foundation of prior plot and character developments.

Beautiful cover on an interesting book.......This historical is set in High Sierras during 1868. This is the third book in this series. The other two books are in the same setting although you do not have to read them to delve into this one, but it helps to know how the characters are related. Connealy has created a great plot with strong believable characters that also have a strong faith in God. Inspiration, hope, mercy and love are all wrapped up into another incredible cowboy story that will keep you turning the pages. Much suspense and danger with many twists and turns are also in this great book. What a story, what a writer!.....I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.

The Highest of Hopes is the 2nd book in Susan Anne Mason's Canadian Crossings series. I haven't read the first book in the series yet, but this book can definitely be read as a stand alone novel. The author created an enjoyable historical novel of family, difficult journeys, and the chance for romance. This was such a fun book to read and is one that I would recommend for fans of historical fiction!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

Mary Connealy has done it again! She has written a page-turner that one simply cannot put down! Her character development is absolutely impeccable, and there is plenty of action to hold anyone's attention. I love that there is a strong female character that doesn't have to rely on a strong male character but is confident enough in herself to do so if she is so inclined. I laughed out loud; I held my breath; I cheered! Penny and John have wonderful chemistry, though it doesn't appear so at first. She is put out with him, thinking he's a city slicker. He doesn't know what to think of her, all country to the bone. But when they are in a pickle, the work together to save each other and find out who is trying to kill them. Will they discover who the killer in time to prevent further tragedy? Well, maybe.

I recommend this story to anyone who wants a clean, exciting book. Make sure you have plenty of time to enjoy this story bc it is quite difficult to put down once you start reading!

Let me just say that I absolutely loved this book! It is the fast paced, action packed, comical story of, Pinkerton Agent John McCall and the no-nonsense, Penny Scott. Things have gotten bad in Dismal, Nevada, one might even say dismal. Especially after Penny and John are kidnapped and yes, I know kidnapping is no laughing matter, unless it's in in a story penned by Ms. Connealy.

After the kidnapping and escape things start to deteriorate for John and Penny but luckily she is prepared and way more savvy than he is as they try to find their way back to town. I'm telling you there is non stop action within the pages of ,The Unexpected Champion that kept me turning pages as fast as I could. Just when I thought the author couldn't possibly have any more surprises she totally proved me wrong. There is a forced marriage and disguises along with hijinks that had me laughing throughout this delightful book. The pairing of John and Penny is brilliant because these two are as different as day and night which added so much to this third and final book in the High Sierra Sweethearts series. Although I haven't read the first two books in the series there was enough of the back story that I knew what had been happening with the characters in the first two books.

I received a copy from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own.

City slicker Pinkerton agent John McCall got more than what he bargained for when he went west to bring back little Ronnie to his grandparents and got kidnapped with Penny Scott trouser wearing female. They were forced to get married. What ensures after is filled with surprises, danger and intensely funny. This is an absolute treat to read another great historical fiction story by the wonderful Mary Conealy. I can't recommend this highly enough
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher All opinions in this review are my own

Love the story of Penny and John. They were kidnapped together and after they get away from the kidnappers they then investigate together to find out who their identity was. I loved how Penny could take care of herself. I also loved how John put on different disguises to help in his investigation. This was such a fun book to read.

This is part of a series which I still need to read the first two. It is a stand alone book. I definitely will be reading the other books though. But if you haven’t read the first two books you can still read this one.

I received a advanced copy of the book from the publisher through the author. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.

You can always expect an action-packed, faith-filled, romantic, and humorous story when they open any novel by Mary Connealy and The Unexpected Champion is no exception. In this wonderful conclusion to the Sierra Sweethearts series, readers encounter one surprising twist after another, including a kidnapping and harrowing escape, a forced marriage, and a massive wall enclosing a mansion in the wilderness.

The unlikely pair of John McCall and Penny Scott are opposites in almost every way. Penny’s expertise in necessary wilderness skills and her habit of dressing accordingly are a puzzle to city bred detective John whose attire is not exactly geared to his current situation – and that is just the beginning of their differences. Of course anyone who reads novels by Mary Connealy on a regular basis knows exactly how that will end up. A truly evil villain keeps the pair on their toes as they (and their friends) attempt to bring him to justice.

I loved everything about this book. The pacing was perfect and the subtle humor and romantic vignettes offered a welcome break from the escalating danger and suspense. Every aspect of the story was woven together with the skill that keeps this author near the top of my must read list.

If you have not experienced a Mary Connealy novel, The Unexpected Champion might be a great place to start but I personally suggest reading the entire series in order for the greatest enjoyment.

The Unexpected Champion is the third and final book in the High Sierra Sweethearts series, written by Mary Connealy.
Summary: John McCall, a Pinkerton detective, is on assignment to bring the Chilton’s grandson back to them out east. He’s found the grandson, but before he can even breathe, he’s helped bring down an outlaw, and now, he’s been kidnapped alongside the tough-as-nails Penny Scott.
Penny is determined to stop John from taking her beloved nephew-whatever it takes. But when she and John are kidnapped, it takes every bit of her survival skills to keep them alive.
Will they be able to escape the outlaws and figure out why they were kidnapped in the first place? And will Penny be able to change John’s determined mind in regards to her nephew?
My Thoughts: To be honest, I only wanted to read this final book in the series because I was curious as to how it would all end. I liked the first book OK, didn’t care for the second, but I still wanted to know what would happen.
I can honestly say, I really enjoyed this book. It was so much better than the others-suspenseful, humorous, romantic, and full of action. It had a great mystery element to it as well-even though you as the reader do know who the bad guy is from the beginning.
This was a great book, and one that I definitely would recommend purchasing. It can stand on its own, and it is not necessary to have read the first two. So, check it out!
As always, I would like to thank Bethany House for providing me with a free digital copy in exchange for my unbiased review.

It’s been a few years since I’ve read a Mary Connealy book and now I’m wondering why I haven’t! This was a delightful, funny book. I thoroughly enjoyed the writing style and wit. “‘You people,’ McCall snarled as he swung down, ‘should stop making up crimes I had no intention of committing (location 1280).'” I enjoyed the imagery of sentences like “Dismal had two strips of businesses that faced each other like a couple of gunfighters at high noon” (location 95).
City-boy Pinkerton detective John McCall meets up with frontier-woman Penny Scott in Dismal, Nevada. He tries to be a gentleman and to rescue Penny from a bad situation but Penny is not your typical damsel in distress. They find themselves forced to work together and are an unlikely team but both come to realize the value in the other’s unique skills and abilities. They’re a fun pair.
This is the third book in the series. I was able to read it as a stand-alone but I am looking forward now to going back to read the first two in the series. It was clear there was a lot of really interesting backstory.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a complimentary e-copy. All opinions are my own.
High Sierra Sweethearts series:
Book 1: The Accidental Guardian
Book 2: The Reluctant Warrior
Book 3: The Unexpected Champion

What do you get when you put a Pinkerton “City-Boy” and a Rough-and-Tumble Homesteading Lady together? Well, toss in a kidnapping, a mad dash to bring a sinister criminal to justice, and a pinch (okay, more like a fistful) of humor, and you have the perfect recipe for an amazing Mary Connealy novel!! ❤️

I appreciated that the characters’ faith was a strong aspect in this book, and I also very much enjoyed some of the more unique aspects of this particular Mary Connealy novel (i.e. certain disguises and a gargantuan wall in the middle of the old west!—when you read it, you’ll see what I mean! 😉)

I’m embarrassed to say I haven’t read the first two books in this series—yet! But I will say this book read perfectly well as a stand-alone (even though there were quite a few references that might have made a tad more sense if I’d read the first two! 😉), and it was a wonderfully entertaining, intriguing, and exciting novel!

~The Unexpected Champion by Mary Connealy takes you on a thrilling (and also hilarious) journey into the old west and, along the way, teaches some very powerful truths!~ Highly Recommended!! ~


Favorite Quotes—

“Marry her? Do I look crazy?”
“There ain’t enough ‘ruin’ in this world to make me marry him.”


“Cam looked at Penny, his eyes wide as a hoot owls. ‘Did he say marriage?’ ‘Yes, marriage,’ Penny stated in her most practical tone. ‘The sheriff just forced us to get married. He was going to hang McCall for kidnapping and murdering me.’ “

The final book in the High Sierra Sweetheart series. This is Penny's story intertwined with Deb and Gwen and Trace from the first book and then Cam and Gwen's story in the second book and now Penny and John's story.
Penny (grew up in Army forts) and John (a Pinkerton agent) are kidnapped by three men who are trying to discover what Raddo, the man who had previously tried to kill them, had in his possession when he died. Penny and John are "forced" to work together to find the mastermind behind it all. In a side story the Chilton's who hired John to find their grandson head to Nevada to see if they can find the boy first.
This story has it all: mystery, suspense, romance, comedy, action and adventure and best of all, it's a western.

I finished reading "The Unexpected Champion" by Mary Connealy, book 3 in the High Sierra Sweethearts series. It picks up right after book 2 and I think this book was better than the 2nd one. It was a fast read for me. I didn't give it five stars because I feel the writing was lacking just a little bit. How much time had passed wasn't always clear in some passages. But Mary Connealy's books are still an auto buy for me. I received an ebook through NetGalley and all opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#NetGalley #theunexpectedchampion

***LIKE A BULLET, THIS STORY LEAPS OFF THE PAGE AND DOESN’T SLOW DOWN***
Sierra Nevada Mountains – June 1868
Beginning where “The Reluctant Warrior” left off this book is by far the best in the trilogy! I really enjoyed it.

John McCall, a Pinkerton agent, has helped haul in the man he just shot to the town of Dismal, NV. Penny Scott is a strong frontierswoman and ready to give her account of the day’s events to the sheriff. She can take care of herself. But, when trouble finds them both and McCall offers to die for her, a long adventurous fight for their lives follows. The story is romantic, outlandish with the disguises and harrowing at times in the rough boomtowns and terrain of mountains, lakes, old mining shacks and wilderness. I enjoyed Penny’s and John’s chemistry. Our previous characters return as well, which rounds out the story nicely. This group is fiercely protective of each other and won’t stop until everyone is safe and justice found.

The only tea reference (albeit slim) I found: “the front windows let in enough light that they managed to not fall tail over tea kettle to the ground floor.”

Copy provided by Bethany House Publishing via NetGalley with no other compensation. I am not required to provide a favorable review and my opinion is my own. Please read other reviews for a more well-rounded purchasing decision.

High Sierra Sweethearts Series:
1 – The Accidental Guardian – April 2018☆☆☆☆☆
2 – The Reluctant Warrior – October 2018 ☆☆☆
3 – The Unexpected Champion – coming March 5, 2019☆☆☆☆☆

Connect with the author at Mary Connealy dot com

The Unexpected Champion is the third book in the High Sierra Sweethearts series and it concludes this trilogy with fast-paced action, mystery, kidnapping, wilderness survival, sleuthing, disguises and -of course- romance.

Penny Scott knows how to take care of herself, knows how to survive in the wilderness, shoot, hunt, and track. So when John McCall, so called detective, comes claiming he is to take away her nephew, Penny knows she will do whatever it takes to stand up to him. Things get a little complicated when one of the men who has long been hunting and threatening Penny’s family is killed and in the process of taking him to the sheriff, Penny and John find themselves kidnapped. Penny will have to help John survive in the harsh terrain of the West, but he might have some tricks he can share with Penny when it comes to tracking down the men responsible and finding evidence of their guilt.

The Unexpected Champion is one big parcel of a whole lot of fun. This third book really stepped up the action, but also brought in some fantastic elements, like John’s work as a Pinkerton agent and his use of subterfuge and disguises. Penny is the perfect offsider for John, a great shot, always with tricks up her sleeve for keeping them alive and easily able to keep up with him. I loved how her outgoing nature really coloured this story, bringing in a layer of fun and high spirits. The romance takes a wild turn (also hilarious) but I loved that despite how Penny and John are forced together they still take the time to get to know each other before their feelings get too involved.

I have enjoyed this series about life in the harsh wilderness of the west and how a family, forged through the bonds of survival and love rather than blood, band together to bring about justice. A mix of action, mystery, adventure, romance will please any romantic historical lover.

The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.