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Destiny #1
Destiny's Embrace
Award-winning romance author Beverly Jenkins offers up another high-stakes historical romance that is sure to make you swoon.
With Destiny’s Embrace, Jenkins brings readers back to the American West, where Logan Yates, a self-important ranch owner, must confront his feelings for his beautiful, free spirited housekeeper, Mariah Cooper. While they bicker incessantly, their sexual tension is palpable, and only rises when Mariah's former lover arrives on the scene. Will she accept Logan's heart?
Set in 19th-century California, Destiny's Embrace features unforgettable characters and a satisfying mix of adventure and passion from nation's premier writer of African-American historical romance.
With Destiny’s Embrace, Jenkins brings readers back to the American West, where Logan Yates, a self-important ranch owner, must confront his feelings for his beautiful, free spirited housekeeper, Mariah Cooper. While they bicker incessantly, their sexual tension is palpable, and only rises when Mariah's former lover arrives on the scene. Will she accept Logan's heart?
Set in 19th-century California, Destiny's Embrace features unforgettable characters and a satisfying mix of adventure and passion from nation's premier writer of African-American historical romance.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 29, 2013
About the author
Beverly Jenkins
68 books4,491 followersBeverly Jenkins is the recipient of the 2017 Romance Writers of America Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as the 2016 Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award for historical romance.
She has been nominated for the NAACP Image Award in Literature, was featured both in the documentary “Love Between the Covers” and on CBS Sunday Morning.
Since the publication of Night Song in 1994, she has been leading the charge for inclusive romance, and has been a constant darling of reviewers, fans, and her peers alike, garnering accolades for her work from the likes of The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine, and NPR.
She has been nominated for the NAACP Image Award in Literature, was featured both in the documentary “Love Between the Covers” and on CBS Sunday Morning.
Since the publication of Night Song in 1994, she has been leading the charge for inclusive romance, and has been a constant darling of reviewers, fans, and her peers alike, garnering accolades for her work from the likes of The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine, and NPR.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 590 reviews
May 5, 2021
“Sometimes demons are best conquered when shared.”
This book was so enjoyable to read! I loved Mariah so much! I loved how we saw her grow into her strong self who know her worth and how she was determined to get what she wants! I loved the beginning, how she kept fighting with Logan with both of them determined to get their way -even if it leads to a kiss, a kick in the knee, or hitting him with a stone-
I enjoyed everything about this book; Mariah, sweet Logan, the setting, the history, the writing. The banter between these two was hilarious specially because they’re both so stubborn! I also loved nearly all the side characters, specially their mother. I loved her and her relationship with Mariah and how she just took her in like that.
February 7, 2020
this was my first beverly jenkins book and I really liked it!
August 11, 2016
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Don't be fooled by the bodice ripper cover & pose. While I adore the genre, and that was what originally made me gravitate towards this book, bodice rippers represent a specific type of romance that many may find unpalatable, and suggestive cover aside, this book is definitely not a bodice ripper at heart!
Mariah Cooper grew up in Philadelphia with her seamstress mother. Her life has been difficult. She's been bullied for being poor and looking different. Since she was a young girl, her mother has abused her verbally and physically, working her like a slave and insulting her looks and making her feel like she's unworthy of love.
Finally, Mariah can't take any more, and with the help of a sympathetic aunt, she finds herself with a rail pass to a place in California called Destiny Ranch, to answer an advertisement in the classifieds looking for a housekeeper.
Logan Yates is the stepson of the fierce and beautiful Alanza Yates. He's a hard-working rancher, but also a hopeless slob (and a bit of a hoarder, if we're being honest). He's also a devil with the ladies and has absolutely zero intention of settling down. Few women have ever told him no, so he's flabbergasted when Mariah comes in like a whirlwind and immediately begins stirring things up. She's not above lashing him with her tongue or kicking him in the knee if he gives her trouble, either.
DESTINY'S EMBRACE isn't exactly an enemies-to-lovers romance, but many of the same themes are there. It's a reformed rake romance, but with a spirited, resourceful, clever heroine that will appeal to fans of Courtney Milan. Sometimes heroines are given interests that are never mentioned again and I loved that Mariah's sewing was made such an important aspect of her life. She was also a very strong female character and had a great sense of humor. That parade of suitors was, hands-down, my favorite part of the book. I guffawed.
As much as I liked Mariah, my favorite character in this book would have to be Alanza. She was so cool. I kind of hope that the author writes a prequel about her and her two husbands, because she was such a strong woman, and I loved her relationship with her three sons, and how that translated to a willingness to accept Mariah as a surrogate daughter as well. She had a lot of love to give, that was obvious. I loved the interactions between the five of them on the ranch.
The California setting was also really great, because I've actually been in Yolo County many times, and I have seen the orchards it described so beautifully. I learned something new about the potential origin of my home state's name, too! Apparently, it is named after a mythical island of kick-ass black Amazons who had battle-trained griffins. If that isn't the OG of origin stories, I don't know what is.
I did have a few nitpicky issues. I thought Mariah gave into Logan too quickly, especially considering what happened to her mother. She had held steadfastly to her principles until that point, and it felt really out of character to me. I also thought that the climax between her mother and Tillerman was a bit abrupt. I was expecting more drama, I guess. Her mother was such a horrible person...maybe I've been reading too many bodice rippers with vindictive revenge schemes, but it felt like Mariah's mother got off way too easily. Also, the sex scenes could be pretty cringeworthy. At one point in the narrative, Mariah's breasts are referred to, unironically, as "the twins." *cringe*
Overall, DESTINY'S EMBRACE was a really great book. I really think fans of Courtney Milan should read Beverly Jenkins. Not only are their writing styles similar, and their heroines both full of spirit, but they both try to provide non-white perspectives in historical romance, which is something the romance genre definitely needs more of. I can't wait to read more of Jenkins' work!
3.5 to 4 stars!
Shelved as 'dnf'
September 11, 201853% dnf
I really wanted to love this book, but the story has a fairy tale quality to it that isn't working for me.
I really wanted to love this book, but the story has a fairy tale quality to it that isn't working for me.
November 20, 2015
Price Drop! Just a heads up on this sweet, American West Historical Romance - today it's only $0.99, down from $7.99, for Kindle! www.amazon.com/Destinys-Embrace-ebook...
My Review:
Destiny’s Embrace, the first book in Beverly Jenkins’ Destiny series, is a romantic story about learning to compromise, learning to trust, and learning to love.
From the cover:This is my first taste of Ms. Jenkins’ writing and I enjoyed it! It’s one of those easy to read stories – a comfortable tale without a lot of angst, but loaded with feeling and characters you can care about. I loved the way the story unfolded, told with enough attention to detail, making me see and feel the landscape, the atmosphere, the trials and triumphs of ranch living, and I felt as if I were there. The characters are compassionate people who, despite giving new meaning to the word stubborn, are understanding and able to – eventually – admit their mistakes.
Award-winning romance author Beverly Jenkins offers up another high-stakes historical romance that is sure to make you swoon.
With Destiny's Embrace, Jenkins brings readers back to the American West, where Logan Yates, a self-important ranch owner, must confront his feelings for his beautiful, free spirited housekeeper, Mariah Cooper. While they bicker incessantly, their sexual tension is palpable, and only rises when Mariah's former lover arrives on the scene. Will she accept Logan's heart?
Set in 19th-century California, Destiny's Embrace features unforgettable characters and a satisfying mix of adventure and passion from nation's premier writer of African-American historical romance.
Updated to add:
My lovely friend, Mei, asked why, since I really enjoyed this story, did I only give it 3 stars? Here's our chat about that:
Mei wrote: "Lovely review, Dhes! :D
... but why only 3 stars?"
You know, I really struggled with the rating... it was slower paced than I like. It didn't drag or anything like that, but it was just... slower paced than I normally like. And I know many readers enjoy that laid back, easy going, day to day life kind of read.
I hesitated to mention that in the review because it's not a complaint about the story, just the way the story is told. It's not like there was supposed to be a bunch of action that didn't work... does that make sense? I'll add it to the review, though. Thanks for bringing this up!
The bottom line:
I thoroughly enjoyed Destiny’s Embrace and Ms. Jenkins’ easy going way of telling a story. It's sweet, witty, and sexy, and I now understand why she’s considered one of the leading ladies of writing in the African American Romance genre!
My thanks to Avon Books for providing me with a copy of Destiny’s Embrace in exchange for an honest review.
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October 10, 2019Oooh I adored this one. Mariah starts off as a victim of her abusive mother but has a fairy tale transformation into an absolutely takes-no-crap woman, while Logan is just enough of a jerk at first to justify Mariah giving him some serious butt-kicking and to make his self-improvement deeply satisfying. Lovely setting with enjoyable minor characters and some fantastic lines. A thorough pleasure, with a real wish fulfilment ending (if your wish is to see someone who really deserves it get a proper smackdown).
July 28, 2020
I always love Beverly Jenkins' headstrong heroines!
August 7, 2023
I really loved this one. Great dynamic of a heroine who's been abused by her mother finding new bravery and confidence when she moves across the country and takes her life into her own hands, and a hero who is her grumpy employer but also a big fan of her sass.
April 13, 2019
***4.25 Stars***
First off, why the hell have I waited so long to read Beverly Jenkins? Dumb, dumb mistake.
Second, watch out now bank account...it's about to go down! I need her backlist!
I seriously loved this book!
- Bickering banter? Check.
- Delicious sexual tension? Check.
- Great main characters? Check.
- A romance to root for? Check.
- A cast of secondary characters to love? Check.
- Terrific writing? Check.
- An addicting story? Check.
Full review to come. But that basically covers it. I have a new-to-me author to be obsessed with.
April 12, 2018
4.25 stars!
Well, Ms. Jenkins you’ve got a new fan!
Now, I will hunt and binge your classic books first.
Loving the narrator and the accent too, so melodious ❤️❤️❤️
Well, Ms. Jenkins you’ve got a new fan!
Now, I will hunt and binge your classic books first.
Loving the narrator and the accent too, so melodious ❤️❤️❤️
April 23, 2019
I enjoyed this book. Loved the banter between both characters. Well done Mariah for standing up to Logan. He needed it. Looking forward to the next books in the series. I am away on holidays so not a lot of time for a proper review.
July 28, 2023
I'm a little bit of two minds about this one. Objectively, the relationship between the hero and heroine has problems. She fights violently early on, he pushes past her boundaries and there is some fuzzy consent going on, and he's pretty high-handed in the way he treats her. Those are all things that usually really bother me. For whatever reason though, I found Destiny's Embrace to be really charming and I enjoyed seeing our heroine fight back and take agency in her life after growing up with an abusive mother. And I see why she was into the hero who is completely gobsmacked by this woman who might be the first to ever tell him no. So I'm rating this on enjoyment, but heads up that those issues are still there.
As always, I love how this handles history. We get information about Spanish colonial treatment of indigenous people, and some side characters with Spanish culture as well as the state of things Black people in America at the time.
As always, I love how this handles history. We get information about Spanish colonial treatment of indigenous people, and some side characters with Spanish culture as well as the state of things Black people in America at the time.
November 27, 2022
In this first book of the trilogy Mariah Cooper responds to an ad for a housekeeper. The move from Philadelphia to California took courage as did her break from an overbearing, abusive mother. Once there she goes to work for ranch owner Logan Yates. It's pretty much lust at first sight. I appreciate the historical accuracy and research Jenkins includes in her romance novels. Natural dialogue is also a big plus.
January 21, 2021
This isn't my first Beverly Jenkins book, but it's my first historical romance by her and it did not disappoint! CW: abuse from parental figure. 4.5 Stars
Destiny's Embracehas a little of everything: romance, intrigue, banter, HISTORY! Honestly, my little history heart was jumping for joy when I came across any section that specifically emphasized the history of the American West and its impact on communities of colors. However, the real stars of the show were definitely Mariah and Logan. The banter! Ms. Beverly Jenkins can definitely write good banter and I loved it. Mariah was headstrong and determined to make a way for herself after dealing with the abusive behavior of her mother. It was enjoyable to see her in a position where she refused to let Logan define her place in their community. It was EVEN MORE enjoyable to watch her turn down Logan time after time when he made it clear that he wasn't interested in a marriage. Mariah was the definition of a woman knowing what she deserved and not backing down from her expectations.
Logan was a fun and interesting character. Seeing his instant attraction to Mariah while attempting to balance his idea of marriage was absolutely hilarious. He was head strong and he couldn't figure out why Mariah made him so frazzled all the time. Jenkins was able to weave together these two seemingly opposite characters in a fun and exciting way while giving readers a small part of history. There were great relationships with secondary characters. For example, I truly enjoyed the care and trust that was established between Alanza and Mariah. Alanza gave Mariah a safe space that she didn't ever have with her mother and I appreciated it.
To be my first Beverly Jenkins historical romance I must say that I was completely and totally blown away. The writing, the characters, the history were all amazing and I cannot wait to pick up the next book in this series and the rest of Jenkin's historicals.
Destiny's Embracehas a little of everything: romance, intrigue, banter, HISTORY! Honestly, my little history heart was jumping for joy when I came across any section that specifically emphasized the history of the American West and its impact on communities of colors. However, the real stars of the show were definitely Mariah and Logan. The banter! Ms. Beverly Jenkins can definitely write good banter and I loved it. Mariah was headstrong and determined to make a way for herself after dealing with the abusive behavior of her mother. It was enjoyable to see her in a position where she refused to let Logan define her place in their community. It was EVEN MORE enjoyable to watch her turn down Logan time after time when he made it clear that he wasn't interested in a marriage. Mariah was the definition of a woman knowing what she deserved and not backing down from her expectations.
Logan was a fun and interesting character. Seeing his instant attraction to Mariah while attempting to balance his idea of marriage was absolutely hilarious. He was head strong and he couldn't figure out why Mariah made him so frazzled all the time. Jenkins was able to weave together these two seemingly opposite characters in a fun and exciting way while giving readers a small part of history. There were great relationships with secondary characters. For example, I truly enjoyed the care and trust that was established between Alanza and Mariah. Alanza gave Mariah a safe space that she didn't ever have with her mother and I appreciated it.
To be my first Beverly Jenkins historical romance I must say that I was completely and totally blown away. The writing, the characters, the history were all amazing and I cannot wait to pick up the next book in this series and the rest of Jenkin's historicals.
December 25, 2021
I reread this and LOVE it.
Must've been in a bad mood when I read this the first time.
What a charming story.
Original review:
I loved the historical aspect. The history about California was interesting.
I don't care much for the romance aspecr
Must've been in a bad mood when I read this the first time.
What a charming story.
Original review:
I loved the historical aspect. The history about California was interesting.
I don't care much for the romance aspecr
January 30, 2022
I have been meaning to read a Beverly Jenkins romance for the longest time. I just knew that I was missing out on romance goodness and I was right. DESTINY'S EMBRACE is a fast paced historical romance that features an African American woman who decides to take a chance to change her life by traveling across the country from Philadelphia to California in the 1800's.
Mariah has the talent to design and sew her own creations that has helped her mother to become a popular seamstress back in Philadelphia; but her mother's own bitterness and basic meanness has tainted Mariah's very existence. Her mother's final act of cruelty sends Mariah to her wealthy aunt out of desperation. Through her aunt's support, Mariah finds a determination for a better life and the hope for a new future that she had thought was beyond her. Fleeing her oppressive and abusive mother with nothing but a train ticket, a few personal belongings, and the willingness to work hard, Mariah steps out on faith and moves toward an uncertain future.
Mariah's new employer, Logan, is unlike any other man that she has run into before. Logan is self confident, a bit arrogant, argumentative, and used to having women fall over themselves for him. Logan is a wealthy rancher who has worked hard for his position in life and has the respect of his community. Mariah is not what he was expecting in a housekeeper and gives as good as she gets from him. Expecting an older and infinitely more docile woman than Mariah, Logan is quickly put on notice that his attitude and behavior will be returned right back to him.
DESTINY'S EMBRACE is a quick and enjoyable read, but does wrap up a bit quickly toward the end. The time frame for Mariah and Logan's unconventional courtship is only a little over two weeks, so things move lightening quick between them. I would have loved to have had a slower build between them with many more confrontations between them to see their relationship grow. However, the fact that Mariah is such a strong and admirable personality in a time in history where women, especially African American women, were little more than property and expected to fall in line was very nice.
The cultural diversity in DESTINY'S EMBRACE is also eclectic and felt realistic for the place and time period. There's real California history woven into the story that made me want to experience more. All that I would have wanted added to this story would have made it significantly longer, which is an issue I often run into as the greedy reader that I am. When I enjoy a story I often want it to just keep going. This won't be my only read by Jenkins and I am so glad that I finally got to experience the Jenkins goodness!
Where you can find me:
•(♥).•*Monica Is Reading*•.(♥)•
Twitter: @monicaisreading
Instagram: @readermonica
Goodreads Group: The Black Bookcase
Mariah has the talent to design and sew her own creations that has helped her mother to become a popular seamstress back in Philadelphia; but her mother's own bitterness and basic meanness has tainted Mariah's very existence. Her mother's final act of cruelty sends Mariah to her wealthy aunt out of desperation. Through her aunt's support, Mariah finds a determination for a better life and the hope for a new future that she had thought was beyond her. Fleeing her oppressive and abusive mother with nothing but a train ticket, a few personal belongings, and the willingness to work hard, Mariah steps out on faith and moves toward an uncertain future.
Mariah's new employer, Logan, is unlike any other man that she has run into before. Logan is self confident, a bit arrogant, argumentative, and used to having women fall over themselves for him. Logan is a wealthy rancher who has worked hard for his position in life and has the respect of his community. Mariah is not what he was expecting in a housekeeper and gives as good as she gets from him. Expecting an older and infinitely more docile woman than Mariah, Logan is quickly put on notice that his attitude and behavior will be returned right back to him.
DESTINY'S EMBRACE is a quick and enjoyable read, but does wrap up a bit quickly toward the end. The time frame for Mariah and Logan's unconventional courtship is only a little over two weeks, so things move lightening quick between them. I would have loved to have had a slower build between them with many more confrontations between them to see their relationship grow. However, the fact that Mariah is such a strong and admirable personality in a time in history where women, especially African American women, were little more than property and expected to fall in line was very nice.
The cultural diversity in DESTINY'S EMBRACE is also eclectic and felt realistic for the place and time period. There's real California history woven into the story that made me want to experience more. All that I would have wanted added to this story would have made it significantly longer, which is an issue I often run into as the greedy reader that I am. When I enjoy a story I often want it to just keep going. This won't be my only read by Jenkins and I am so glad that I finally got to experience the Jenkins goodness!
Where you can find me:
•(♥).•*Monica Is Reading*•.(♥)•
Twitter: @monicaisreading
Instagram: @readermonica
Goodreads Group: The Black Bookcase
February 5, 2020
Ohh la la. Seriously though I am loving these historical romances by Jenkins. This one is the first book in her "Destiny" series. I loved the hero and heroine and cannot wait to read more books featuring the Yates brothers.
In "Destiny's Embrace" we follow Logan Yates and Mariah Cooper. Mariah Cooper is living in Philadelphia with her rage filled mother. Mariah wants to get married, but is shunned due to the color of her eyes (golden) and the fact that her mother refuses to let anyone too close to her. When Mariah suffers one more beating by her mother, she flees to her aunt who tells her her mother's past. Mariah's aunt pushes her to answer an ad for a housekeeper in California. Logan causes his mother fits. His house is a mess (and it smells) and all she wants is for him and his two brothers to settle down and give her grand babies. When Mariah come along the two go together like oil and water. She pushes his buttons and vice versa. Since Logan is up front about never marrying and only wanting a woman long enough to be a mistress, we get to follow him as he is shut down by Mariah and her not wanting to be another notch on his bedpost.
I loved the transformation of Mariah from cowed to queen in this one. She also made me laugh about her matter of fact way of enjoying Logan's kisses, but not being foolish enough to think he means anything by it. I also loved her relationship with his mother.
Logan and his brother and best friend's fits at him not knowing what to do about Mariah was hilarious. That's all I got.
The setting in this time period is interesting. I liked that Logan's mother Alanza (step-mother really) is descended from a different side of California that many don't think of When California was a Spanish and Mexican colonial at some points during the decades. You get to see how that place seemed to be more forward thinking of mixed race people.
The ending was great though it felt a bit rushed. I can't wait for book #2!
In "Destiny's Embrace" we follow Logan Yates and Mariah Cooper. Mariah Cooper is living in Philadelphia with her rage filled mother. Mariah wants to get married, but is shunned due to the color of her eyes (golden) and the fact that her mother refuses to let anyone too close to her. When Mariah suffers one more beating by her mother, she flees to her aunt who tells her her mother's past. Mariah's aunt pushes her to answer an ad for a housekeeper in California. Logan causes his mother fits. His house is a mess (and it smells) and all she wants is for him and his two brothers to settle down and give her grand babies. When Mariah come along the two go together like oil and water. She pushes his buttons and vice versa. Since Logan is up front about never marrying and only wanting a woman long enough to be a mistress, we get to follow him as he is shut down by Mariah and her not wanting to be another notch on his bedpost.
I loved the transformation of Mariah from cowed to queen in this one. She also made me laugh about her matter of fact way of enjoying Logan's kisses, but not being foolish enough to think he means anything by it. I also loved her relationship with his mother.
Logan and his brother and best friend's fits at him not knowing what to do about Mariah was hilarious. That's all I got.
The setting in this time period is interesting. I liked that Logan's mother Alanza (step-mother really) is descended from a different side of California that many don't think of When California was a Spanish and Mexican colonial at some points during the decades. You get to see how that place seemed to be more forward thinking of mixed race people.
The ending was great though it felt a bit rushed. I can't wait for book #2!
February 14, 2013
Mariah Cooper wants a life for herself. She wants a husband and children, and she wants a career as a seamstress where she works for herself instead for her mother. None of these things she can get in Philadelphia, so with a little help from her aunt Mariah answers an advertisement for a housekeeper and travels across the continent to find a new life in California. Her reluctant employer, Logan Yates finds himself bewitched by the spirited widow. He ends up wanting to share his life and family with her and it only takes him a little over a week to decide this.
Jenkins takes the time to set up both Mariah’s life in Philadelphia and Logan’s life on his farm before bringing the characters together—with a clash or ten. Mariah’s decided to change her life and she won’t let anyone walk all over her ever again. This leads to repeated conflicts with Logan who is used to getting his way without having to invest too much of himself.
The banter between these two characters is wonderful as are the little titbits about Californian history the author sprinkles between the pages. I loved that all their troubles came from their characterisations instead of manufactured obstacles. Mariah wants to commit, Logan doesn’t, and neither is hiding the fact. There’s quite a lot of plain speaking and whatever lies or secrets are told, they don’t stay secret forever. Truths comes out and they have consequences. For example, Mariah admits she’s attracted to Logan but that doesn’t change her mind about wanting a commitment. For Logan, when he finally changes his inconstant ways, there are consequences for that too.
Even though the romance itself takes barely a week to develop, it doesn’t feel rushed. With the exception of the sex scenes. The initial kisses and seduction worked well for me, but their first actual sex scene and the events leading up to it felt more like a slapdash-afterthought method had been applied in writing them. It made me question whether or not the publisher had asked them to be added in later. This could also explain why I felt like the author missed the optimal notes for the emotional pay offs such as their I love yous and the umpteenth proposal. Luckily, Mariah’s confrontation with her mother saved a lot.
Destiny’s Embrace is the first book of a trilogy and there is the definite feeling that Jenkins is setting things up for a bigger story. She spends a lot of time on introducing secondary characters like Logan’s stepmother and half-brothers, and expanding their personal histories. For some reason the book also felt little anachronistic; it felt like a 1990’s kind of a book rather than a historical romance written in the 2010’s. I don’t have enough perspective to properly explain why this is.
My thanks to Sarah for gifting me this book when I had trouble buying a copy.
Jenkins takes the time to set up both Mariah’s life in Philadelphia and Logan’s life on his farm before bringing the characters together—with a clash or ten. Mariah’s decided to change her life and she won’t let anyone walk all over her ever again. This leads to repeated conflicts with Logan who is used to getting his way without having to invest too much of himself.
The banter between these two characters is wonderful as are the little titbits about Californian history the author sprinkles between the pages. I loved that all their troubles came from their characterisations instead of manufactured obstacles. Mariah wants to commit, Logan doesn’t, and neither is hiding the fact. There’s quite a lot of plain speaking and whatever lies or secrets are told, they don’t stay secret forever. Truths comes out and they have consequences. For example, Mariah admits she’s attracted to Logan but that doesn’t change her mind about wanting a commitment. For Logan, when he finally changes his inconstant ways, there are consequences for that too.
Even though the romance itself takes barely a week to develop, it doesn’t feel rushed. With the exception of the sex scenes. The initial kisses and seduction worked well for me, but their first actual sex scene and the events leading up to it felt more like a slapdash-afterthought method had been applied in writing them. It made me question whether or not the publisher had asked them to be added in later. This could also explain why I felt like the author missed the optimal notes for the emotional pay offs such as their I love yous and the umpteenth proposal. Luckily, Mariah’s confrontation with her mother saved a lot.
Destiny’s Embrace is the first book of a trilogy and there is the definite feeling that Jenkins is setting things up for a bigger story. She spends a lot of time on introducing secondary characters like Logan’s stepmother and half-brothers, and expanding their personal histories. For some reason the book also felt little anachronistic; it felt like a 1990’s kind of a book rather than a historical romance written in the 2010’s. I don’t have enough perspective to properly explain why this is.
My thanks to Sarah for gifting me this book when I had trouble buying a copy.
July 20, 2020
This was fun. There were parts that I really enjoyed and then parts where I rolled my eyes a bit. I enjoyed the characters and their banter together. I didn’t enjoy how some of their sexual situations happened, they didn’t make a lot of sense to me. There was also a section of the book where there were a lot of typos and they took me out of the story a bit. Overall a good read.
April 9, 2014
This was bad you guys, oh so bad. I waited like two days to type up my review because I was all "maybe I'll like it better if I wait and reflect" but if anything, the two day break has made me bring down my review from two stars to one. It was that bad.
First this book took place over like five days, maybe six. From meeting each other to sleeping with each other to marriage proposal. And I'm okay with fast timelines, my god I have read so many of those books that I don't mind anymore. And in this one, Mariah did point out how fast their relationship was -so that part didn't bother me. What bothered me, was the total change of Mariah's character from page one on. She starts this book off as demure and quiet and a person who survived an abusive environment by not causing any trouble. I liked that, I respected that. But as soon as she arrived on the ranch she was yelling at Logan and throwing water on him and kicking him in the shin in front of all his co-workers. I don't understand where that person came from. Never once did she revert back to the quiet person she had spent the previous thirty years being. Which I didn't like because NO ONE CHANGES THEIR PERSONALITY LIKE THAT IN ONE DAY.
But my big problem with this was
Look, I love Beverkly Jenkins. I am a huge fan of her past historical romance novels such as Topaz or The Taming of Jessi Rose or Something Like Love so I am not saying don't read her. I'm just saying don't read this one. It's not worth it. I can give you books of hers that are MUCH better and have characters that are three dimensional instead of flat.
First this book took place over like five days, maybe six. From meeting each other to sleeping with each other to marriage proposal. And I'm okay with fast timelines, my god I have read so many of those books that I don't mind anymore. And in this one, Mariah did point out how fast their relationship was -so that part didn't bother me. What bothered me, was the total change of Mariah's character from page one on. She starts this book off as demure and quiet and a person who survived an abusive environment by not causing any trouble. I liked that, I respected that. But as soon as she arrived on the ranch she was yelling at Logan and throwing water on him and kicking him in the shin in front of all his co-workers. I don't understand where that person came from. Never once did she revert back to the quiet person she had spent the previous thirty years being. Which I didn't like because NO ONE CHANGES THEIR PERSONALITY LIKE THAT IN ONE DAY.
But my big problem with this was
Look, I love Beverkly Jenkins. I am a huge fan of her past historical romance novels such as Topaz or The Taming of Jessi Rose or Something Like Love so I am not saying don't read her. I'm just saying don't read this one. It's not worth it. I can give you books of hers that are MUCH better and have characters that are three dimensional instead of flat.
March 10, 2022
I loved this! I realized I never read the first book in the Destiny series so I went back to the beginning with the Yates family to read Logan and Mariah’s story. This whole series is one of my favorites from Beverly Jenkins, but who am I kidding…all of her books are so good! I loved how strong of a character Mariah is and seeing the change she brings to Logan’s life. I loved her relationship with the entire Yates family, seeing them protect and love her was everything. And I love the ending and seeing a glimpse of the next book in the series which is another of my favorite reads.
November 5, 2020
I’m so happy I finally read my first Beverly Jenkins (and it certainly won’t be my last). I laughed a lot while I read this, fully soaked up the wonderful atmosphere of Destino and the folks who live there, and swooned over the romantic bits too. It was such a delight, and I’m glad I read it.
January 17, 2022
5 Stars
I absolutely loved Mariah. She is such a strong and independent character. I loved the journey she went on during this book!! Logan was one of those heroes that didn’t realize he was falling until he was too far gone.
I absolutely loved Mariah. She is such a strong and independent character. I loved the journey she went on during this book!! Logan was one of those heroes that didn’t realize he was falling until he was too far gone.
March 7, 2021
"You’ve kicked me, thrown rocks at me, and all I want to do is slide you into my arms and kiss you until the mountains turn to dust."
A must-read for historical romance fans who adore a headstrong heroine that isn't afraid to throw a bucket of water on men who are acting childish (yes, this happens and it is priceless).
Review
This was my first, but certainly not my last, Beverly Jenkins. The second I finished this book I purchased the other two in the series. I fell in love with the story instantly and my heart went out to Mariah from page one.
This was also my first Western historical romance. I really enjoyed learning a lot of the history that Jenkin's sprinkled in about California being a Spanish and a Mexican colonial, the racism African Americans experienced, and the evolution of California after the gold-rush. There is a lot of set up with the history of America for the first 20% of the novel, and while some people might want to jump right into the romance, I really loved the build-up.I feel like I not only got to read a fun romance, but I also got to educate myself on the history of America.
This isn't "enemies-to-lovers" in my opinion, but a reluctant-lovers relationship between a reformed-rake and headstrong heroine. Jenkins is known for her headstrong female characters and Mariah did not disappoint. Having been browbeaten since she was a child and constantly belittled and berated by the people around her - including her mother - Mariah sets out to reinvent her life in California. I loved seeing Mariah take charge and stand up for herself. All of her actions had me smiling, especially when she put the men around her in their place. The friendship that formed between Mariah and Alanza had me smiling. I cannot wait to see more of Alanza in the following books - she is mother of the year.
The banter in this book was priceless and was my favourite part of Mariah and Logan's relationship. The back-and -forth between their lust and indifference was hilarious, and the sexual tension that brewed between them was palpable. Logan was so reluctant to marry, but he also refused the idea that any other man would marry Mariah. Mariah refused to let herself be tempted by a man who wouldn't properly commit to her. Despite being treated horribly for most of her life, Mariah knew what she deserved in a man and she wouldn't settle for anything less than a man who would see her as an equal.
Trigger warning for parental abuse: Mariah and her mother have an awful relationship and it was really hard to read at times. I do think Mariah's mother got off a little to easily, but I still appreciated how the final conflict was handled between them.
The only complaint I have is a very technical one. Mariah orgasmed way too damn quickly from him just touching her over the clothes... like... sir, do you have magical fingers or something?
Overall, I highly recommend this historical romance.
A must-read for historical romance fans who adore a headstrong heroine that isn't afraid to throw a bucket of water on men who are acting childish (yes, this happens and it is priceless).
Review
This was my first, but certainly not my last, Beverly Jenkins. The second I finished this book I purchased the other two in the series. I fell in love with the story instantly and my heart went out to Mariah from page one.
This was also my first Western historical romance. I really enjoyed learning a lot of the history that Jenkin's sprinkled in about California being a Spanish and a Mexican colonial, the racism African Americans experienced, and the evolution of California after the gold-rush. There is a lot of set up with the history of America for the first 20% of the novel, and while some people might want to jump right into the romance, I really loved the build-up.I feel like I not only got to read a fun romance, but I also got to educate myself on the history of America.
This isn't "enemies-to-lovers" in my opinion, but a reluctant-lovers relationship between a reformed-rake and headstrong heroine. Jenkins is known for her headstrong female characters and Mariah did not disappoint. Having been browbeaten since she was a child and constantly belittled and berated by the people around her - including her mother - Mariah sets out to reinvent her life in California. I loved seeing Mariah take charge and stand up for herself. All of her actions had me smiling, especially when she put the men around her in their place. The friendship that formed between Mariah and Alanza had me smiling. I cannot wait to see more of Alanza in the following books - she is mother of the year.
The banter in this book was priceless and was my favourite part of Mariah and Logan's relationship. The back-and -forth between their lust and indifference was hilarious, and the sexual tension that brewed between them was palpable. Logan was so reluctant to marry, but he also refused the idea that any other man would marry Mariah. Mariah refused to let herself be tempted by a man who wouldn't properly commit to her. Despite being treated horribly for most of her life, Mariah knew what she deserved in a man and she wouldn't settle for anything less than a man who would see her as an equal.
Trigger warning for parental abuse: Mariah and her mother have an awful relationship and it was really hard to read at times. I do think Mariah's mother got off a little to easily, but I still appreciated how the final conflict was handled between them.
The only complaint I have is a very technical one. Mariah orgasmed way too damn quickly from him just touching her over the clothes... like... sir, do you have magical fingers or something?
Overall, I highly recommend this historical romance.
June 19, 2021
Not bad for my first book by this author.
February 17, 2023
Cheers for the end of the HCP Union Strike🎉
Shamefully, it took me way too long to read a Beverly Jenkins romance, and I'm so happy this was my first look into her work. Something I knew right away is that I'm really gonna like Beverly's heroines because Mariah?? That's my girl. Loved how brave she was after having an abusive mother, loved how she went toe to toe with Logan and made him meet her standards, loved her finding another motherly figure in Alanza (who was also a queen). She stole the show for me. Logan was a reformed rake type of character, which was entertaining. Liked him being put in his place and how he made an effort to show up for Mariah rather than just seducing her. Their dynamic and banter was really fun too, especially when Logan would get frazzled at how much Mariah was affecting him.
I also loved how much actual history was incorporated in this book, and it made my little nerd heart happy. And while there was definitely elements of segregation and injustice, a good amount of the historical elements were non-white people making their way in America and finding community. That aspect brought me a lot of joy.
While Mariah was wonderfully clear about her boundaries for a romantic relationship with Logan, I do think how quick their sexual relationship started seemed slightly out of character? Idk maybe I just wanted her to make him work more for it lol. Also, her mother was SUCH an awful character and I felt like the final confrontation was too abrupt for how terrible she had been to Mariah for years.
As I suspected, I definitely need to read more Beverly Jenkins. Glad I finally picked up one of her books this year.
---------------
Glad this is where I started with Queen Beverly
Full RTC after HCP Union strike
Shamefully, it took me way too long to read a Beverly Jenkins romance, and I'm so happy this was my first look into her work. Something I knew right away is that I'm really gonna like Beverly's heroines because Mariah?? That's my girl. Loved how brave she was after having an abusive mother, loved how she went toe to toe with Logan and made him meet her standards, loved her finding another motherly figure in Alanza (who was also a queen). She stole the show for me. Logan was a reformed rake type of character, which was entertaining. Liked him being put in his place and how he made an effort to show up for Mariah rather than just seducing her. Their dynamic and banter was really fun too, especially when Logan would get frazzled at how much Mariah was affecting him.
I also loved how much actual history was incorporated in this book, and it made my little nerd heart happy. And while there was definitely elements of segregation and injustice, a good amount of the historical elements were non-white people making their way in America and finding community. That aspect brought me a lot of joy.
While Mariah was wonderfully clear about her boundaries for a romantic relationship with Logan, I do think how quick their sexual relationship started seemed slightly out of character? Idk maybe I just wanted her to make him work more for it lol. Also, her mother was SUCH an awful character and I felt like the final confrontation was too abrupt for how terrible she had been to Mariah for years.
As I suspected, I definitely need to read more Beverly Jenkins. Glad I finally picked up one of her books this year.
---------------
Glad this is where I started with Queen Beverly
Full RTC after HCP Union strike
March 1, 2013
This was my first foray into Jenkins' work, and it wasn't too bad. I just didn't fall in love with the writing or the characters really (except Alanza) and when you have a love story where the character's development drives the plot like it does here, and you don't enjoy the characters, it makes it a rough read.
Let's SCORE it.
The Story:
Mariah is a women pretty much working as a slave to her mom in a dress shop in PA. Something finally pushes her over the edge and she leaves for the safety of her aunts house, and finally to the new life in California. She goes there, lying about being a widow (lol I almost wrote window), so she can get a job as a housemaid.
Her job is with Logan, a rancher in California who lives with his (awesome) Spanish stepmom breaking in horses and making the women love him with his looks. From there the story moves to focus on their love and how it develops. Over three days.
The story was okay. It wasn't my favorite because I like a little more conflict. It seemed like the characters overcame their obstacles with too much ease for it to be believable. I wanted more tension, more turmoil from Mariah over stepping outside the bounds of housekeeperhood or with Logan realizing that he may want to marry her. Since this is primarily character driven, let's look at them.
The Characters:
Mariah is the lead and she goes from meek mouse who lived under the thumb of her mom for 30 years to spitfire in the course of a cross-country train ride. I liked that she had spark, but the transition was hard for me to believe. No matter how much you want to change yourself when you have the opportunity, old ways still seep in. I have experience with this (i've not been trapped in a workhouse for 30 years though).
Outside of that Mariah is a pretty strong woman. I loved she didn't get clingy to the hero. She was very much there to do her job and find her life.
Logan was a little more well rounded from the beginning. His only flaw was that he breaks hearts and didnt want to settle with a woman. And that all he had to grow from. His other character traits include, grumpy and stubborn (which was really fun to read when he and Mariah butted heads), friends to the natives and wanting Mariah. Not my favorite hero, but he was never a jackass.
The secondary characters were pretty cool, Alanza (the MIL) leading the charge. She was a spitfire ranch lady. She was Logan's stepmom and I loved that there wasn't that "She was my evil stepmom" storyline from either Alanza or Logan. That was refreshing.
One thing I have to say that was probably my favorite part of this was that the cast of characters contained so much variety. Spanish, African-Americans, Native-Americans. Loved that. And I want to seek out more of these.
The Romance
Eh. I liked when they were fighting with each other. Love sparks flying. And I loved, like I said, how Mariah didn't get clingy after the sexin. BUt overall I was a little cold with the romance. It was just okay for me.
The Execution
This is where it probably loses most of the stars for me. The writing just seemed so cliched at times. The euphemisms drove me up a wall. The whole story itself was rather hurried, in writing and time in the story. The thing took place over a week. I think I would have liked it more if they took their time with the romance. I know it's the west, but I dont know it just took me out of the story. The other thing I had previously mentioned was the seeming lack of consequences. Everything just flew by too perfectly.
The Overview
I can see why people like it. Really I can. It reminds me of this one series I read based around a family of eight kids in Texas. But it just didnt work for me. I liked the history laced within, and I liked some characters, but overall it just wasn't my cup of tea. It wasn't horrid, just meh. Hence the two stars.
If you want something light that has some interested sparks of history, that flys by fast and "treasures between her legs" don't bother you, check this out. I don't think I will continue this series, but I may try another one of the authors books.
Let's SCORE it.
The Story:
Mariah is a women pretty much working as a slave to her mom in a dress shop in PA. Something finally pushes her over the edge and she leaves for the safety of her aunts house, and finally to the new life in California. She goes there, lying about being a widow (lol I almost wrote window), so she can get a job as a housemaid.
Her job is with Logan, a rancher in California who lives with his (awesome) Spanish stepmom breaking in horses and making the women love him with his looks. From there the story moves to focus on their love and how it develops. Over three days.
The story was okay. It wasn't my favorite because I like a little more conflict. It seemed like the characters overcame their obstacles with too much ease for it to be believable. I wanted more tension, more turmoil from Mariah over stepping outside the bounds of housekeeperhood or with Logan realizing that he may want to marry her. Since this is primarily character driven, let's look at them.
The Characters:
Mariah is the lead and she goes from meek mouse who lived under the thumb of her mom for 30 years to spitfire in the course of a cross-country train ride. I liked that she had spark, but the transition was hard for me to believe. No matter how much you want to change yourself when you have the opportunity, old ways still seep in. I have experience with this (i've not been trapped in a workhouse for 30 years though).
Outside of that Mariah is a pretty strong woman. I loved she didn't get clingy to the hero. She was very much there to do her job and find her life.
Logan was a little more well rounded from the beginning. His only flaw was that he breaks hearts and didnt want to settle with a woman. And that all he had to grow from. His other character traits include, grumpy and stubborn (which was really fun to read when he and Mariah butted heads), friends to the natives and wanting Mariah. Not my favorite hero, but he was never a jackass.
The secondary characters were pretty cool, Alanza (the MIL) leading the charge. She was a spitfire ranch lady. She was Logan's stepmom and I loved that there wasn't that "She was my evil stepmom" storyline from either Alanza or Logan. That was refreshing.
One thing I have to say that was probably my favorite part of this was that the cast of characters contained so much variety. Spanish, African-Americans, Native-Americans. Loved that. And I want to seek out more of these.
The Romance
Eh. I liked when they were fighting with each other. Love sparks flying. And I loved, like I said, how Mariah didn't get clingy after the sexin. BUt overall I was a little cold with the romance. It was just okay for me.
The Execution
This is where it probably loses most of the stars for me. The writing just seemed so cliched at times. The euphemisms drove me up a wall. The whole story itself was rather hurried, in writing and time in the story. The thing took place over a week. I think I would have liked it more if they took their time with the romance. I know it's the west, but I dont know it just took me out of the story. The other thing I had previously mentioned was the seeming lack of consequences. Everything just flew by too perfectly.
The Overview
I can see why people like it. Really I can. It reminds me of this one series I read based around a family of eight kids in Texas. But it just didnt work for me. I liked the history laced within, and I liked some characters, but overall it just wasn't my cup of tea. It wasn't horrid, just meh. Hence the two stars.
If you want something light that has some interested sparks of history, that flys by fast and "treasures between her legs" don't bother you, check this out. I don't think I will continue this series, but I may try another one of the authors books.
March 13, 2013
Another jewel by author Beverly Jenkins...LOVED it...Mariah is a spitfire...and Logan has finally met his match...a PLEASANT break from the usual cast of characters...looking forward to reading about the rest of the Yates' men and their circle of family and friends...and can't wait to find out who's that baby's daddy...lol...KUDOS, Mrs. Jenkins on another PAGE-TURNING read!
December 12, 2021
almost a five star if not for the rushed ending
& how Longan changed in second his stance on marriage
beautiful cover!!
& how Longan changed in second his stance on marriage
beautiful cover!!
February 9, 2024
4.5⭐️
First of all, the banter and tension between Logan & Mariah is ABSOLUTELY INSANE right from the beginning. It truly made the entire book for me. But then Beverly goes in and does her signature flawless weaving of true historical events and facts, a solid plot, and a dash of spice. My favorite part about this book was the banter, it was incredible.
My main reason for deducting my rating a bit, is they fall in love in less than a week, and I struggled with that timeline haha. That being said read this fucking book, and just don’t think too hard about the very fast timeline of their relationship lol. Read Beverly Jenkins. She’s a genius. I also binge read this in one sitting, so that should tell you how entertaining this book is haha.
First of all, the banter and tension between Logan & Mariah is ABSOLUTELY INSANE right from the beginning. It truly made the entire book for me. But then Beverly goes in and does her signature flawless weaving of true historical events and facts, a solid plot, and a dash of spice. My favorite part about this book was the banter, it was incredible.
My main reason for deducting my rating a bit, is they fall in love in less than a week, and I struggled with that timeline haha. That being said read this fucking book, and just don’t think too hard about the very fast timeline of their relationship lol. Read Beverly Jenkins. She’s a genius. I also binge read this in one sitting, so that should tell you how entertaining this book is haha.
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