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The Mail-Order Brides Collection
Dreams for marriage hinge on mail-order promises
Nine advertisements for brides lead to inconvenient complications in romance. Traveling west alone on a promise of marriage, each woman has her reasons to accept a husband sight unseen. Some are fleeing poverty or abuse while others simply seek hope for a brighter future.
Perfect for the Preacher by Megan Besing
The Outlaw’s Inconvenient Bride by Noelle Marchand
Train Ride to Heartbreak by Donna Schlachte
Mail-Order Proxy by Sherri Shackelford
To Heal Thy Heart by Michelle Shocklee
Miss-Delivered Mail by Ann Shorey
A Fairy-Tale Bride by Liz Tolsma
The Brigand and the Bride by Jennifer Uhlarik
The Mail-Order Mistake by Kathleen Y’Barbo
But what the brides find at the end of their journeys doesn't go according to plan—missing grooms, mistaken identities, nefarious traps, undisclosed secrets, and so much more await them. How can each bride possibly find a safe place to call home and a husband she can love?
Nine advertisements for brides lead to inconvenient complications in romance. Traveling west alone on a promise of marriage, each woman has her reasons to accept a husband sight unseen. Some are fleeing poverty or abuse while others simply seek hope for a brighter future.
Perfect for the Preacher by Megan Besing
The Outlaw’s Inconvenient Bride by Noelle Marchand
Train Ride to Heartbreak by Donna Schlachte
Mail-Order Proxy by Sherri Shackelford
To Heal Thy Heart by Michelle Shocklee
Miss-Delivered Mail by Ann Shorey
A Fairy-Tale Bride by Liz Tolsma
The Brigand and the Bride by Jennifer Uhlarik
The Mail-Order Mistake by Kathleen Y’Barbo
But what the brides find at the end of their journeys doesn't go according to plan—missing grooms, mistaken identities, nefarious traps, undisclosed secrets, and so much more await them. How can each bride possibly find a safe place to call home and a husband she can love?
445 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2018
About the author
Kathleen Y'Barbo
131 books730 followersPublishers Weekly bestselling author Kathleen Y’Barbo is a multiple Carol Award and RITA nominee of more than one hundred novels with almost two million copies in print in the US and abroad.
A tenth-generation Texan and certified paralegal, she has been nominated for a Career Achievement Award as well a Reader’s Choice Award and is the winner of the Inspirational Romance of the Year by Romantic Times magazine.
To connect with her through social media, check out the links on her website at www.kathleenybarbo.com.
A tenth-generation Texan and certified paralegal, she has been nominated for a Career Achievement Award as well a Reader’s Choice Award and is the winner of the Inspirational Romance of the Year by Romantic Times magazine.
To connect with her through social media, check out the links on her website at www.kathleenybarbo.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
March 26, 2018
You've got to hand it to the authors in this romance collection. The stories in this collection were just plain FUN to read. Some actually made me laugh out loud! Some of the story lines were different and original and this added to their appeal! I love the variety that different authors add to this collection, after all more than one perspective in a situation makes for an entertaining read!
Absolutely LOVE the Barbour Collections and will continue to read them all!
Pub Date 01 Feb 2018
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, Inc. through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
Absolutely LOVE the Barbour Collections and will continue to read them all!
Pub Date 01 Feb 2018
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, Inc. through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 11, 2017
I love these collections of novellas. They are perfect for busy days and holidays. Short enough to be interesting but not too long when you're busy. I especially enjoyed Kathleen Y'Barbo's contribution.
February 24, 2019
Loved, loved loved this book. I was stuck reading a heavier genre and needed something light and feel good. This was the perfect book!!! Each story in the book was well written and you really rooted for all the characters and their relationships. I definitely had some favorite stories in here, but loved them all!! I gave this book to my mom to read and she has loved it. When she is finished I will give it to a friend of mine and I am sure she will feel the same.
April 9, 2018
BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB
Dreams for Marriage Hinge on Mail-Order Promises
Nine advertisements for brides lead to inconvenient complications in romance. Traveling west alone on a promise of marriage, each woman has her reasons to accept a husband sight unseen. Some are fleeing poverty or abuse while others simply seek hope for a brighter future.
Perfect for the Preacher by Megan Besing
The Outlaw's Inconvenient Bride by Noelle Marchand
Train Ride to Heartbreak by Donna Schlachter
Mail-Order Proxy by Sherri Shackelford
To Heal Thy Heart by Michelle Shocklee
Miss-Delivered Mail by Ann Shorey
A Fairy-Tale Bride by Liz Tolsma
The Brigand and the Bride Jennifer Uhlarik
The Mail-Order Mistake Kathleen Y'Barbo
But what the brides find at the end of their journeys doesn't go according to plan--missing grooms, mistaken identities, nefarious traps, undisclosed secrets, and so much more await them. How can each bride possibly find a safe place to call home and a husband she can love?
MY REVIEW
I think this is one of the best collection of novella books that I've read. It has a little bit of everything, you always think about what the 'bride' is getting in the groom, well in one story you will probably find yourself feeling sorry for the 'groom'. I was also pleased that there was a Pinkerton Detective story in here, love those stories! I can not encourage you enough to grab a copy and find our for yourself, you will NOT be disappointed.
Dreams for Marriage Hinge on Mail-Order Promises
Nine advertisements for brides lead to inconvenient complications in romance. Traveling west alone on a promise of marriage, each woman has her reasons to accept a husband sight unseen. Some are fleeing poverty or abuse while others simply seek hope for a brighter future.
Perfect for the Preacher by Megan Besing
The Outlaw's Inconvenient Bride by Noelle Marchand
Train Ride to Heartbreak by Donna Schlachter
Mail-Order Proxy by Sherri Shackelford
To Heal Thy Heart by Michelle Shocklee
Miss-Delivered Mail by Ann Shorey
A Fairy-Tale Bride by Liz Tolsma
The Brigand and the Bride Jennifer Uhlarik
The Mail-Order Mistake Kathleen Y'Barbo
But what the brides find at the end of their journeys doesn't go according to plan--missing grooms, mistaken identities, nefarious traps, undisclosed secrets, and so much more await them. How can each bride possibly find a safe place to call home and a husband she can love?
MY REVIEW
I think this is one of the best collection of novella books that I've read. It has a little bit of everything, you always think about what the 'bride' is getting in the groom, well in one story you will probably find yourself feeling sorry for the 'groom'. I was also pleased that there was a Pinkerton Detective story in here, love those stories! I can not encourage you enough to grab a copy and find our for yourself, you will NOT be disappointed.
May 5, 2018
This collection features 9 authors and the men seeking wives along with the women answering those ads. We have a preacher with a congregation demanding marriage; detective/outlaw who marries a fellow outlaws intended; a farmer widower who’s looking for someone to raise his children; a military man who stands in proxy for his brother along with the sister of the bride standing proxy for her; a doctor looking for a partner and specifically saying what he wouldn’t accept in a bride; a homesteader needed a wife to claim up; 2 farmers who’s ads were answered by widowers; a gal who has a short window to marry her intended, only the wrong person rushes through and is mistaken for the prospective groom who she learns is a wanted man, or is he?; and a detective assigned the job of getting to the bottom of a mail order bride scheme. All wonderful stories and a collection that was thoroughly enjoyed. All stories move quickly and are wrapped up nicely with no loose ends.
This book was provided by Barbour Publishing via NetGalley. A review was not required and all thoughts are my own.
This book was provided by Barbour Publishing via NetGalley. A review was not required and all thoughts are my own.
January 2, 2018
One of the things I especially like about these collections of romance stories is that the reader can pick and choose which order to read the novellas. These were sweet narratives where women take a huge chance on a man she only knows by letters. Both the ladies and the gents have dire needs for a match to take place.
Barbour Books gathers the nine best authors to write the stories to fill their book and puts them in their best light. I am glad I chose to read this collection. Five Stars, Two Thumbs, and a letter in the mail.
My thanks to Barbour Books for allowing me to read and review this book.
Barbour Books gathers the nine best authors to write the stories to fill their book and puts them in their best light. I am glad I chose to read this collection. Five Stars, Two Thumbs, and a letter in the mail.
My thanks to Barbour Books for allowing me to read and review this book.
Read
June 8, 2018First off the bat, is the lovely photo and the wonderful old looking pages. Ohh, we are going back in history. And then with all nine authors different writing styles, I got to experience authors that I did not know. And because this was a collection of sweet and clean stories, it was all that much more wonderful to read stories from different perspectives. The twists that was taken in each of the stories had me on the edge of my seat for each. I recommend this book of fabulous authors if you love mail order bides stories and want something wonderful, short and sweet. This book will not disappoint the reader.
April 21, 2018
The Mail-Order Brides Collection Is 9 novellus that is full of twists and turns. There is complications, achievements, entertainment and hard times. You have antagonists and protagonists. There is warmth and harshness. There is hard times and good times. It has everything that you could ever ask for. You will enjoy this book more than you have enjoyed any other that has come before it. It is so much fun and it piqued my interests from the get go and if you that is something you are looking for this then this is for you.
October 11, 2021
As always with these Barbour books that feature numerous stories - some stories are great, and some stories are so-so. Overall, this was a nice collection of mail-order bride adventures from the ol' America west.
January 26, 2018
I requested a NetGalley e-galley of this collection based on the title, having only previously read a few novellas by two of the nine authors, Kathleen Y'Barbo and Jennifer Uhlarik. That said, I particularly enjoy an unexpected element in my mail-order bride reads and these novellas did not disappoint.
Chance meetings, deceptions, and unexpected complications are just a few of the obstacles that the hopeful couples encounter, not to mention a few interfering, disagreeable relatives. The heroines are relatable and the heroes are adorable, even when they are getting in the way of their own happiness.
I enjoyed every little twist, turn, and wrinkle in this set of novellas. Each story was interesting, entertaining, a bit uplifting (eventually) and I would gladly read more by any of these authors. My favorites were those with outlaws, cowboys, and colonels. Which of those might actually be Pinkerton agents in disguise, along with which mail-order bride is eager to become "deputized," I leave for you to discover. If you enjoy a good historical romance, this collection will be well worth your time.
Highly recommended. I think at this point I would need to reread all of my "favorite" novella collections from Barbour to make an accurate judgment, but for now I'll just say it - I think this is one of my favorites.
This review refers to an e-galley read courtesy of the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
Chance meetings, deceptions, and unexpected complications are just a few of the obstacles that the hopeful couples encounter, not to mention a few interfering, disagreeable relatives. The heroines are relatable and the heroes are adorable, even when they are getting in the way of their own happiness.
I enjoyed every little twist, turn, and wrinkle in this set of novellas. Each story was interesting, entertaining, a bit uplifting (eventually) and I would gladly read more by any of these authors. My favorites were those with outlaws, cowboys, and colonels. Which of those might actually be Pinkerton agents in disguise, along with which mail-order bride is eager to become "deputized," I leave for you to discover. If you enjoy a good historical romance, this collection will be well worth your time.
Highly recommended. I think at this point I would need to reread all of my "favorite" novella collections from Barbour to make an accurate judgment, but for now I'll just say it - I think this is one of my favorites.
This review refers to an e-galley read courtesy of the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 6, 2017
About the Book:
The Mail-Order Brides Collection features nine unique stories each from a different author sharing stories of unexpected, yet welcome, love often stemming from undue hardships in the characters’ lives. The collection captures the allure of the Old West complete with villains, outlaws, damsels in distress, and romance. A synopsis of each novella is provided below.
Perfect for the Preacher by Megan Besing
1897, Indiana
Fresh from seminary, Amos Lowry believes marriage will prove to his skeptical congregation that he’s mature. If only his mail-order bride wasn’t an ex-saloon girl, and worse, pregnant.
The Outlaw’s Inconvenient Bride by Noelle Marchand
1881, Wyoming
After a gang of outlaws uses a mail-order bride advertisement to trick an innocent woman into servitude, an undercover lawman must claim the bride—even if it puts his mission in jeopardy.
Train Ride to Heartbreak by Donna Schlachter
1895, Train to California
John Stewart needs a wife. Mary Johannson needs a home. On her way west, Mary falls in love with another. Now both must choose between commitment and true love.
Mail-Order Proxy by Sherri Shackelford
1885, Montana
A mail-order marriage by proxy goes wrong when a clerical error leads to the proxies actually being married instead of the siblings they were standing in for. In their quest to correct the mistake, the two discover outlaws, adventure, and even love.
To Heal Thy Heart by Michelle Shocklee
1866, New Mexico
When Phoebe Wagner answers a mail-order bride ad that states Confederate widows need not apply, she worries what Dr. Luke Preston will do when he learns her fiancé died wearing gray.
Miss-Delivered Mail by Ann Shorey
1884, Washington
Helena Erickson impulsively decides to take advantage of her brother’s deception and travels to Washington Territory in response to a proposal of marriage intended for someone else. How will Daniel McNabb respond when Helena is nothing like he expected?
A Fairy-Tale Bride by Liz Tolsma
1867, Texas
Nora Green doesn’t feel much like Cinderella when her mail-order groom stands her up. But could the mysterious jester from the town’s play be her Prince Charming?
The Brigand and the Bride by Jennifer Uhlarik
1876, Arizona
Jolie Hilliard weds a stranger to flee her outlaw family but discovers her groom is an escaped prisoner. Will she ever find happiness on the right side of the law?
The Mail-Order Mistake by Kathleen Y’Barbo
1855, Texas
Pinkerton detective Jeremiah Bingham is investigating a mail-order bride scam bankrupting potential grooms. When unsuspecting orphan May Conrad answers his false ad, she becomes the prime suspect in the case.
My Thoughts:
I’m a complete sucker for “mail-order brides” stories and this collection did not disappoint! Each author draws the reader in through their craft of storytelling infusing the reader with the sights, sounds, joys, and hardships of the frontier West. While other collections may present “mail-order brides” as fickle dream seekers, I feel that The Mail-Order Brides Collection captures the undeniable bravery displayed by history’s real-life women who answered the call to fulfill the need for brides in the untamed West. Although I enjoyed all of the stories, I had a few favorites. Amos and Sophie’s immediate attraction upon meeting in Perfect for the Preacher developed into a sweet and tender love story exemplifying grace and commitment. The Outlaw’s Inconvenient Bride was comical in some parts, but Mariah- the strong, determined, and at times stubborn- lead character was refreshing in the face of her circumstances. I especially enjoyed the gentle melding of hearts between Luke and Phoebe after a rocky start in To Heal Thy Heart. Finally, the fierce protectiveness Del displayed over Jolie was tenderness at its best (and their first kiss had me in stitches!). Great opportunity to get introduced to new authors within a specific genre!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. This review was not required but was voluntary and contains my own thoughts and opinions regarding this literary work.
The Mail-Order Brides Collection features nine unique stories each from a different author sharing stories of unexpected, yet welcome, love often stemming from undue hardships in the characters’ lives. The collection captures the allure of the Old West complete with villains, outlaws, damsels in distress, and romance. A synopsis of each novella is provided below.
Perfect for the Preacher by Megan Besing
1897, Indiana
Fresh from seminary, Amos Lowry believes marriage will prove to his skeptical congregation that he’s mature. If only his mail-order bride wasn’t an ex-saloon girl, and worse, pregnant.
The Outlaw’s Inconvenient Bride by Noelle Marchand
1881, Wyoming
After a gang of outlaws uses a mail-order bride advertisement to trick an innocent woman into servitude, an undercover lawman must claim the bride—even if it puts his mission in jeopardy.
Train Ride to Heartbreak by Donna Schlachter
1895, Train to California
John Stewart needs a wife. Mary Johannson needs a home. On her way west, Mary falls in love with another. Now both must choose between commitment and true love.
Mail-Order Proxy by Sherri Shackelford
1885, Montana
A mail-order marriage by proxy goes wrong when a clerical error leads to the proxies actually being married instead of the siblings they were standing in for. In their quest to correct the mistake, the two discover outlaws, adventure, and even love.
To Heal Thy Heart by Michelle Shocklee
1866, New Mexico
When Phoebe Wagner answers a mail-order bride ad that states Confederate widows need not apply, she worries what Dr. Luke Preston will do when he learns her fiancé died wearing gray.
Miss-Delivered Mail by Ann Shorey
1884, Washington
Helena Erickson impulsively decides to take advantage of her brother’s deception and travels to Washington Territory in response to a proposal of marriage intended for someone else. How will Daniel McNabb respond when Helena is nothing like he expected?
A Fairy-Tale Bride by Liz Tolsma
1867, Texas
Nora Green doesn’t feel much like Cinderella when her mail-order groom stands her up. But could the mysterious jester from the town’s play be her Prince Charming?
The Brigand and the Bride by Jennifer Uhlarik
1876, Arizona
Jolie Hilliard weds a stranger to flee her outlaw family but discovers her groom is an escaped prisoner. Will she ever find happiness on the right side of the law?
The Mail-Order Mistake by Kathleen Y’Barbo
1855, Texas
Pinkerton detective Jeremiah Bingham is investigating a mail-order bride scam bankrupting potential grooms. When unsuspecting orphan May Conrad answers his false ad, she becomes the prime suspect in the case.
My Thoughts:
I’m a complete sucker for “mail-order brides” stories and this collection did not disappoint! Each author draws the reader in through their craft of storytelling infusing the reader with the sights, sounds, joys, and hardships of the frontier West. While other collections may present “mail-order brides” as fickle dream seekers, I feel that The Mail-Order Brides Collection captures the undeniable bravery displayed by history’s real-life women who answered the call to fulfill the need for brides in the untamed West. Although I enjoyed all of the stories, I had a few favorites. Amos and Sophie’s immediate attraction upon meeting in Perfect for the Preacher developed into a sweet and tender love story exemplifying grace and commitment. The Outlaw’s Inconvenient Bride was comical in some parts, but Mariah- the strong, determined, and at times stubborn- lead character was refreshing in the face of her circumstances. I especially enjoyed the gentle melding of hearts between Luke and Phoebe after a rocky start in To Heal Thy Heart. Finally, the fierce protectiveness Del displayed over Jolie was tenderness at its best (and their first kiss had me in stitches!). Great opportunity to get introduced to new authors within a specific genre!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. This review was not required but was voluntary and contains my own thoughts and opinions regarding this literary work.
January 16, 2018
From business arrangements to mix-ups, secrets to damsels in distress, you are sure to find a favorite in Barbour’s newest novella collection.
I’m not sure I can actually pick a favorite, but the bookends (first and last) of this one stood out to me for very different reasons.
Megan Besing’s Perfect for the Preacher delicately deals with sensitive subject matter. The small town, in-your-business, mentality shines through with both antagonists and supporters. While The Mail Order Mistake by Kathleen Y’Barbo is a bit of a caper with a touch of humor with a naïve and innocent heroine determined to stand on her own two feet.
As I always anticipate in these collections, the stories are varied enough they don’t all read alike and I get a taste of what these authors write. Plus, these shorter novellas are the perfect dessert when I finish a lengthier book and need a bit of a reprieve before digging into the next 300-plus page tome.
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.
I’m not sure I can actually pick a favorite, but the bookends (first and last) of this one stood out to me for very different reasons.
Megan Besing’s Perfect for the Preacher delicately deals with sensitive subject matter. The small town, in-your-business, mentality shines through with both antagonists and supporters. While The Mail Order Mistake by Kathleen Y’Barbo is a bit of a caper with a touch of humor with a naïve and innocent heroine determined to stand on her own two feet.
As I always anticipate in these collections, the stories are varied enough they don’t all read alike and I get a taste of what these authors write. Plus, these shorter novellas are the perfect dessert when I finish a lengthier book and need a bit of a reprieve before digging into the next 300-plus page tome.
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.
February 21, 2018
God is working his magic in the lives of 9 couples who are marrying for different reason like financial, needing a place to live, being helpful to a doctor & a preacher, to needing help with children, escaping from the law, trying to break a mail fraud ring, saving a innocent from outlaws, proxy marrying couple, and not wanting to be an old maid. The authors of these 9 stories have taken you to the 1850-1890 west where their couple start out strangers and with God's intervention fall in love at first sight but take the time to get to know each other. They work their way through the problem and secrets that one or both bring to the relationship. God though whether want their secrets revealed or not brings them to the surface to be tackled by the couples together. Emotions run high and feelings are hurt but with God's help and wisdom they are handled and forgiven. These stories are funny, and will make your tears flow. It gave me insight into what real Christian mail-order brides might have gone through back in the past.
Perfect for the Preacher by Megan Besing 1897 Southern Illinois Sophie Ross is the mail-order bride of Pastor Amos Lowry. Sophie's past will come back to be faced. Amos is basically forced into taking on a mail-order bride by an Elder of the Church because of his youthful experience. As Amos and Sophie get to know each other they fall in love but that love is tested by the Elder who doesn't want Amos as the preacher. When Sophie's past is brought to light it's a shock to the entire community. Amos is in love with her so he won't give her up even after her worst secret is revealed. Deciding to leave the church after marrying Sophie. The town is hit by a robbery of the general store and 22 women are taken hostage. When they are safely returned the community goes looking for the daughter of the Elder who wants Amos out. She shows up at the church where Sophie talks to her about what happened to the girl and what she went through in her old life. The Congregation comes to the side of Amos and Sophie after over hearing what happened to her and start to help women who have had abused.
The Outlaw's Inconvenient Bride by Noelle Marchand Wyoming 1881 Wyatt Coulter aka Luke Bellamy is being an unconventional outlaw by trying to keep innocent Mariah Snow from marrying her mail-order bride because he can't stand her being put into the situation that will come. Mariah is stubborn and won't leave until she sees her groom. When she stubbornly stays, to protect her Wyatt marries her himself. That puts him in a precarious situation because Mariah affects his work and cover. Mariah is keeping a secret that she has outlaws in her family as well. They show up looking for her just as she was attacked by her intended groom. Since the brothers and the gang have found out about a bank in the area they decide to pool their resources and work together only to get caught. Wyatt comes back to round up the last of the gang and reveals his true identity to Mariah.
Train Ride to Heartbreak by Donna Schlachter Pennsylvania & California 1895 Mary is about to age out of the orphanage that she's grown up in. John Stewart has just lost his wife and needs someone to take care of his 2 daughters. The local preacher talks him into taking a mail-order bride. Mary is desperate to find some type of work so she won't end up in the saloon working. When she sees an ad in a paper she writes. John goes to visit his in-laws to discuss his decision to remarry. Mary leaves the orphanage early and starts for her new life. John & Mary end up on the same train headed west. Circumstances throw them together while travelling. They are attracted to each other and because of one disaster after another they end up longer on the train than expected and fall in love with each other not knowing that they are already engaged. Mary decides to call off her engagement but John won't show his feelings until his mail order bride responds to his telegram wanting to cancel their engagement.
Mail-Order Proxy by Sherri Schackleford Montana 1885 Delia is waiting for her sister's groom to show up. Colonel Sean Morgan is waiting for his brother's bride to show up. They figure out that they are both their siblings proxy for the marriage. After the ceremony Delia is taken hostage and Sean tries to safe her. They go to lunch and Sean gets the truth from Delia why she actually came with her sister for the wedding. He tries to talk her out of her appointment with an outlaw for an interview. Delia gets annoyed with Sean with he keeps thwarting his attempts to get in touch with the outlaw. When they find out the paperwork for their proxy marriage is real they work together to go after the judge to get the situation taken care. They get side tracked by helping a young man who is a runaway and having their siblings show up. Unfortunately, before Sean can leave to get the mistake taken care of Delia is taken hostage again by the outlaw she wanted to interview. Delia and Sean realize that they have fallen in love with each other.
To Heal Thy Heart by Michelle Shocklee New Mexico Territory 1866 Post Civil War America and Luke is still suffering the effects of his time as a doctor. Phoebe is still mourning her dead fiancé and the death of her father. Money being an issue she answers Luke's add for a mail-order bride. Phoebe arrives while Luke is at the mining camp tending to some men. He returns and they marry. She helps him attend to patients and they get to know each other. Luke is falling in love with her but Phoebe is still holding onto the fiancé and trying to fight the feelings for Luke. Phoebe finally decides its time to tell Luke the truth and put her fiancé behind her. They're interrupted by a miner wearing a confederate coat and Luke refuses to treat the man's brother. Phoebe get angry and tells Luke about how her father died and goes to help. Luke finds the letter from Phoebe's fiancé that brings back all the old war memories. He goes to the reverend for help and he goes to Phoebe to tell to come talk to Luke. They forgive each the other and confess their love to each other.
Miss Delivered Mail by Ann Shorey Illinois & Washington 1884 Helena is considered an old maid by the people of the town and wants to leave. Cleaning up at home she finds a letter in the trash and thinks about trying to find the owner. Her brother comes home and confesses that he wrote letters as a mail-order bride as a joke. The more Helena thinks about it she decided to use the train tickets to go be the intended bride. Arriving in Washington she is met by Daniel who is furious that she would take his intended brides place and won't let her explain. He drops her with neighbors who graciously take her in. Helena is stubborn and doesn't want Daniel to pay for her return ticket, and decides that she won't go back because there is nothing to go back to. She goes searching for a job and with the help of her hosts starts working at a local mercantile. Meanwhile Daniel realizes how much he's beginning to respect and think about Helena and knows he treated her wrong. He decides that he'll start courting her and get her to change her mind about leaving. All the while they're falling in love. When Daniel is hurt in a harvesting accident Helena rushes to his side. She leaves the next day to start her new life with out him but when a shadow covers her on the train Helena looks up and sees Daniel and they confess their love and head back home to get married.
A Fairy-Tale Bride by Liz Tolsma Texas 1867 Nora and Maude are pulling into the train station to marry two strangers. They step off the train to find only one groom. Maude and Wade marry and have Nora come live with them to help Maude with the house and children but actually Nora does all the work. Josiah from the first sight of Nora thinks she's beautiful and that she won't have any thing to do with him because of his injuries form the war & past experience with other women. Nora is hurt that her groom didn't show up but makes the best of the situation Josiah can't stay away and comes to visit and get to know Nora frequently. He takes part in the town play and is wearing a mask so is able to be himself with Nora. As Josiah's secret come out, Nora treats him like any other man. When Nora finds out that Josiah was her intended groom and the man behind the mask she's mad & doesn't want to see him again. A few days laterJosiah shows up to talk to Nora and resolve their differences, which leads to her revealing about her dead husband being in the hospital. There is a proposal and marriage.
The Brigand and the Bride by Jennifer Uhlarik Arizona Territory 1876 Jolie is trying to meet her mail-order groom at the church. Del is trying to hide from the law. When he shows up to hide out in the church he's mistaken for the groom. Del & Jolie get married and he changes the plans that were supposed to happen. He gets her out of town then leaves her to get back on her own. Instead of heading back into town she heads out after Del, capturing him and using his horse to go back to town. Del escapes and God tells him he needs to protect Jolie. He catches up with her and they strike a deal to help each other. del explains about being wrongly accused of murder and robbery. They almost get caught in town. Jolie's fiancé catches up with her and he explains her brother's involvement in her mail-order plan. Del tries to come to her rescue but is injured. Jolie is taken to the hide out and finds incriminating evidence against her fiancé and his friends and shows Del's innocence. Del comes after Jolie and they get involved into a gunfight with the law showing up to arrest Del. Jolie makes a deal with the marshal to get Del charges dropped. Her brother's gang is caught. Del & Jolie head back to the same church to get married.
The Mail-Order Mistake by Kathleen Y'Barbo Illinois & Louisiana 1857 Jeremiah is a Detective for the Pinkerton Agency and has been given the case of mail fraud using mail-order brides. may has just lost everything in a fire and is taken in by the neighbors next door. Mrs. Barrone is going to match May with a man by having her write letters to them. Jeremiah sends a letter that May answers and that brings him to New Orleans to investigate. he is soon on the trail of the criminals the only thing is trying to figure out if May is a part of it or not. May decides to reject the suitors and takes letter to the post office and on the way her ridicule is stolen. Jeremiah catches the thief and take him to the police station where May shows up to file a report. When she recognizes the boy her stole her ridicule it's revealed that Mrs. Barrone is trying to kill May. Jeremiah takes her under his protection and gets her to testify against Mrs. Barrone. He also makes May a Deputy Detective so she can help him with the case. When Mrs. Barrone is caught she tells them that a man in Galveston is head of the organization. May and Jeremiah head there and discover her father. Where May finds out why her father left his family and that they have a common enemy. May under Jeremiah's supervision becomes part of the Pinkerton Agency. They fall in love with each other and Jeremiah asks to marry her.
Perfect for the Preacher by Megan Besing 1897 Southern Illinois Sophie Ross is the mail-order bride of Pastor Amos Lowry. Sophie's past will come back to be faced. Amos is basically forced into taking on a mail-order bride by an Elder of the Church because of his youthful experience. As Amos and Sophie get to know each other they fall in love but that love is tested by the Elder who doesn't want Amos as the preacher. When Sophie's past is brought to light it's a shock to the entire community. Amos is in love with her so he won't give her up even after her worst secret is revealed. Deciding to leave the church after marrying Sophie. The town is hit by a robbery of the general store and 22 women are taken hostage. When they are safely returned the community goes looking for the daughter of the Elder who wants Amos out. She shows up at the church where Sophie talks to her about what happened to the girl and what she went through in her old life. The Congregation comes to the side of Amos and Sophie after over hearing what happened to her and start to help women who have had abused.
The Outlaw's Inconvenient Bride by Noelle Marchand Wyoming 1881 Wyatt Coulter aka Luke Bellamy is being an unconventional outlaw by trying to keep innocent Mariah Snow from marrying her mail-order bride because he can't stand her being put into the situation that will come. Mariah is stubborn and won't leave until she sees her groom. When she stubbornly stays, to protect her Wyatt marries her himself. That puts him in a precarious situation because Mariah affects his work and cover. Mariah is keeping a secret that she has outlaws in her family as well. They show up looking for her just as she was attacked by her intended groom. Since the brothers and the gang have found out about a bank in the area they decide to pool their resources and work together only to get caught. Wyatt comes back to round up the last of the gang and reveals his true identity to Mariah.
Train Ride to Heartbreak by Donna Schlachter Pennsylvania & California 1895 Mary is about to age out of the orphanage that she's grown up in. John Stewart has just lost his wife and needs someone to take care of his 2 daughters. The local preacher talks him into taking a mail-order bride. Mary is desperate to find some type of work so she won't end up in the saloon working. When she sees an ad in a paper she writes. John goes to visit his in-laws to discuss his decision to remarry. Mary leaves the orphanage early and starts for her new life. John & Mary end up on the same train headed west. Circumstances throw them together while travelling. They are attracted to each other and because of one disaster after another they end up longer on the train than expected and fall in love with each other not knowing that they are already engaged. Mary decides to call off her engagement but John won't show his feelings until his mail order bride responds to his telegram wanting to cancel their engagement.
Mail-Order Proxy by Sherri Schackleford Montana 1885 Delia is waiting for her sister's groom to show up. Colonel Sean Morgan is waiting for his brother's bride to show up. They figure out that they are both their siblings proxy for the marriage. After the ceremony Delia is taken hostage and Sean tries to safe her. They go to lunch and Sean gets the truth from Delia why she actually came with her sister for the wedding. He tries to talk her out of her appointment with an outlaw for an interview. Delia gets annoyed with Sean with he keeps thwarting his attempts to get in touch with the outlaw. When they find out the paperwork for their proxy marriage is real they work together to go after the judge to get the situation taken care. They get side tracked by helping a young man who is a runaway and having their siblings show up. Unfortunately, before Sean can leave to get the mistake taken care of Delia is taken hostage again by the outlaw she wanted to interview. Delia and Sean realize that they have fallen in love with each other.
To Heal Thy Heart by Michelle Shocklee New Mexico Territory 1866 Post Civil War America and Luke is still suffering the effects of his time as a doctor. Phoebe is still mourning her dead fiancé and the death of her father. Money being an issue she answers Luke's add for a mail-order bride. Phoebe arrives while Luke is at the mining camp tending to some men. He returns and they marry. She helps him attend to patients and they get to know each other. Luke is falling in love with her but Phoebe is still holding onto the fiancé and trying to fight the feelings for Luke. Phoebe finally decides its time to tell Luke the truth and put her fiancé behind her. They're interrupted by a miner wearing a confederate coat and Luke refuses to treat the man's brother. Phoebe get angry and tells Luke about how her father died and goes to help. Luke finds the letter from Phoebe's fiancé that brings back all the old war memories. He goes to the reverend for help and he goes to Phoebe to tell to come talk to Luke. They forgive each the other and confess their love to each other.
Miss Delivered Mail by Ann Shorey Illinois & Washington 1884 Helena is considered an old maid by the people of the town and wants to leave. Cleaning up at home she finds a letter in the trash and thinks about trying to find the owner. Her brother comes home and confesses that he wrote letters as a mail-order bride as a joke. The more Helena thinks about it she decided to use the train tickets to go be the intended bride. Arriving in Washington she is met by Daniel who is furious that she would take his intended brides place and won't let her explain. He drops her with neighbors who graciously take her in. Helena is stubborn and doesn't want Daniel to pay for her return ticket, and decides that she won't go back because there is nothing to go back to. She goes searching for a job and with the help of her hosts starts working at a local mercantile. Meanwhile Daniel realizes how much he's beginning to respect and think about Helena and knows he treated her wrong. He decides that he'll start courting her and get her to change her mind about leaving. All the while they're falling in love. When Daniel is hurt in a harvesting accident Helena rushes to his side. She leaves the next day to start her new life with out him but when a shadow covers her on the train Helena looks up and sees Daniel and they confess their love and head back home to get married.
A Fairy-Tale Bride by Liz Tolsma Texas 1867 Nora and Maude are pulling into the train station to marry two strangers. They step off the train to find only one groom. Maude and Wade marry and have Nora come live with them to help Maude with the house and children but actually Nora does all the work. Josiah from the first sight of Nora thinks she's beautiful and that she won't have any thing to do with him because of his injuries form the war & past experience with other women. Nora is hurt that her groom didn't show up but makes the best of the situation Josiah can't stay away and comes to visit and get to know Nora frequently. He takes part in the town play and is wearing a mask so is able to be himself with Nora. As Josiah's secret come out, Nora treats him like any other man. When Nora finds out that Josiah was her intended groom and the man behind the mask she's mad & doesn't want to see him again. A few days laterJosiah shows up to talk to Nora and resolve their differences, which leads to her revealing about her dead husband being in the hospital. There is a proposal and marriage.
The Brigand and the Bride by Jennifer Uhlarik Arizona Territory 1876 Jolie is trying to meet her mail-order groom at the church. Del is trying to hide from the law. When he shows up to hide out in the church he's mistaken for the groom. Del & Jolie get married and he changes the plans that were supposed to happen. He gets her out of town then leaves her to get back on her own. Instead of heading back into town she heads out after Del, capturing him and using his horse to go back to town. Del escapes and God tells him he needs to protect Jolie. He catches up with her and they strike a deal to help each other. del explains about being wrongly accused of murder and robbery. They almost get caught in town. Jolie's fiancé catches up with her and he explains her brother's involvement in her mail-order plan. Del tries to come to her rescue but is injured. Jolie is taken to the hide out and finds incriminating evidence against her fiancé and his friends and shows Del's innocence. Del comes after Jolie and they get involved into a gunfight with the law showing up to arrest Del. Jolie makes a deal with the marshal to get Del charges dropped. Her brother's gang is caught. Del & Jolie head back to the same church to get married.
The Mail-Order Mistake by Kathleen Y'Barbo Illinois & Louisiana 1857 Jeremiah is a Detective for the Pinkerton Agency and has been given the case of mail fraud using mail-order brides. may has just lost everything in a fire and is taken in by the neighbors next door. Mrs. Barrone is going to match May with a man by having her write letters to them. Jeremiah sends a letter that May answers and that brings him to New Orleans to investigate. he is soon on the trail of the criminals the only thing is trying to figure out if May is a part of it or not. May decides to reject the suitors and takes letter to the post office and on the way her ridicule is stolen. Jeremiah catches the thief and take him to the police station where May shows up to file a report. When she recognizes the boy her stole her ridicule it's revealed that Mrs. Barrone is trying to kill May. Jeremiah takes her under his protection and gets her to testify against Mrs. Barrone. He also makes May a Deputy Detective so she can help him with the case. When Mrs. Barrone is caught she tells them that a man in Galveston is head of the organization. May and Jeremiah head there and discover her father. Where May finds out why her father left his family and that they have a common enemy. May under Jeremiah's supervision becomes part of the Pinkerton Agency. They fall in love with each other and Jeremiah asks to marry her.
March 20, 2018
I normally don't read about mail order brides but wanted to try something different. This book has several authors and each story was great. Each bride has a different situation in their life that brings them to the decision to become a mail order bride. Some were trying to escape circumstances beyond their control and some were trying to start over after losing husbands. They were all very brave to take the chance on a man most had not seen, much less met. Look forward to reading these authors again.
May 31, 2018
The Mail-Order Brides Collection brings us nine historical stories of women who choose to marry a stranger for convenience rather than to marry for love.
Perfect for the Preacher by Megan Besing
-This story is about someone who has trials that she had to go through and how she became more faithful through it.
-There is a lot of judging other people and forming prejudices but then knowing that God’s forgiveness is for all and we are all sinners.
-One of my favorite movies is While You Were Sleeping. There is a scene in the movie that reminds me of the way Margaret kept jumping topics during dinner.
The Outlaw’s Inconvenient Bride by Noelle Marchand
-Mariah tried to leave a life of crime behind and yet she ended up right in the middle of it.
-It has the message of trusting God and trusting those you love
-I liked the action and adventure in this story.
Train Ride to Heartbreak by Donna Schlachte
-There is a message in this story of finding joy even in bad circumstances.
-I liked the plot and the characters. I especially liked that the characters weren’t perfect.
-The children in the train were a little unbelievably resilient in tragic circumstances.
-I found it odd that John can fall in love and propose even without knowing her last name.
Mail-Order Proxy by Sherri Shackelford
-There is a struggle of trying to prove yourself to others and is it really worth it?
-I loved this story and it was one of my favorites in the collection.
-There were lots of funny moments and I loved the banter, characters and storylines.
-Some quotes:
“They each wanted to feel as though they mattered.”
“Would you rather have your life matter to a thousand people or to one person?”
To Heal Thy Heart by Michelle Shocklee
-This story is about a Yankee doctor who doesn’t want a mail order bride who is a southern sympathizer but Phoebe Wagner hides her beliefs and marries Dr. Luke Preston anyway.
-I liked most of the story but the confession and forgiveness would have been better if it had been expanded.
-Phoebe was completely wrong for being married to one man but still in love with another even though he had died.
-Luke was a very likable character except for his flaw in not loving all people.
Miss-Delivered Mail by Ann Shorey
-This was about looking for something better and taking a chance but not asking God to lead you.
-I liked the other family but wish there was more interaction between Daniel and Helena.
-There was also a lot of wasted money on tickets.
-One of my favorite scenes was the one where Helena received a letter from her brother and Daniel recognized the handwriting.
A Fairy-Tale Bride by Liz Tolsma
-This story was another one of my favorites. The characters were well developed and the story didn’t seem rushed, which is often the case with novellas.
-I really enjoyed this story. It was a sweet and different version of Cinderella. It was a clever take on Cinderella using the play instead of the ball.
-I liked the play and the jester scenes as well as their interactions at Maude’s house.
-I have known people like Maude and I feel for those kids.
The Brigand and the Bride by Jennifer Uhlarik
-Jolie is a strong female character, but she put up with too much abuse from her brother.
-I liked that there was lots of action and adventure and the story was filled with details.
-Jolie and Del had a great connection.
-I didn’t actually see a twist coming in the story which made for a nice surprise.
The Mail-Order Mistake by Kathleen Y’Barbo
-I liked the details about the different locations throughout this story.
-I also liked the mystery.
-Things really did seem to fall into Pinkerton detective Jeremiah Bingham’s lap. I would have liked to see more detective work.
more reviews can be found here: https://timelessnovels.wordpress.com/
Perfect for the Preacher by Megan Besing
-This story is about someone who has trials that she had to go through and how she became more faithful through it.
-There is a lot of judging other people and forming prejudices but then knowing that God’s forgiveness is for all and we are all sinners.
-One of my favorite movies is While You Were Sleeping. There is a scene in the movie that reminds me of the way Margaret kept jumping topics during dinner.
The Outlaw’s Inconvenient Bride by Noelle Marchand
-Mariah tried to leave a life of crime behind and yet she ended up right in the middle of it.
-It has the message of trusting God and trusting those you love
-I liked the action and adventure in this story.
Train Ride to Heartbreak by Donna Schlachte
-There is a message in this story of finding joy even in bad circumstances.
-I liked the plot and the characters. I especially liked that the characters weren’t perfect.
-The children in the train were a little unbelievably resilient in tragic circumstances.
-I found it odd that John can fall in love and propose even without knowing her last name.
Mail-Order Proxy by Sherri Shackelford
-There is a struggle of trying to prove yourself to others and is it really worth it?
-I loved this story and it was one of my favorites in the collection.
-There were lots of funny moments and I loved the banter, characters and storylines.
-Some quotes:
“They each wanted to feel as though they mattered.”
“Would you rather have your life matter to a thousand people or to one person?”
To Heal Thy Heart by Michelle Shocklee
-This story is about a Yankee doctor who doesn’t want a mail order bride who is a southern sympathizer but Phoebe Wagner hides her beliefs and marries Dr. Luke Preston anyway.
-I liked most of the story but the confession and forgiveness would have been better if it had been expanded.
-Phoebe was completely wrong for being married to one man but still in love with another even though he had died.
-Luke was a very likable character except for his flaw in not loving all people.
Miss-Delivered Mail by Ann Shorey
-This was about looking for something better and taking a chance but not asking God to lead you.
-I liked the other family but wish there was more interaction between Daniel and Helena.
-There was also a lot of wasted money on tickets.
-One of my favorite scenes was the one where Helena received a letter from her brother and Daniel recognized the handwriting.
A Fairy-Tale Bride by Liz Tolsma
-This story was another one of my favorites. The characters were well developed and the story didn’t seem rushed, which is often the case with novellas.
-I really enjoyed this story. It was a sweet and different version of Cinderella. It was a clever take on Cinderella using the play instead of the ball.
-I liked the play and the jester scenes as well as their interactions at Maude’s house.
-I have known people like Maude and I feel for those kids.
The Brigand and the Bride by Jennifer Uhlarik
-Jolie is a strong female character, but she put up with too much abuse from her brother.
-I liked that there was lots of action and adventure and the story was filled with details.
-Jolie and Del had a great connection.
-I didn’t actually see a twist coming in the story which made for a nice surprise.
The Mail-Order Mistake by Kathleen Y’Barbo
-I liked the details about the different locations throughout this story.
-I also liked the mystery.
-Things really did seem to fall into Pinkerton detective Jeremiah Bingham’s lap. I would have liked to see more detective work.
more reviews can be found here: https://timelessnovels.wordpress.com/
April 27, 2021
Cute and entertaining.
November 6, 2018
What a wonderful collection of novellas about Mail-Order Brides. Becoming a Mail-Order bride can be a very difficult decision to make and these brides did it up in grand style. Not to mention the grooms. As one other reviewer stated, my favorite was Mail-Order Proxy. I won't write a book by telling you about each individual novella. You can read the book blurb to get that. I will say that these stories teach you many lessons on faith, love, trust and honesty.
So many different personalities in these characters and the authors did a wonderful job of developing them in the short amount of space there is in a novella. The plots were unique to each story, except for the Mail-Order part. If you like clean, Christian, historical romances that are especially of the Mail-Order type, you will truly enjoy this collection. Enjoy!
I won this book in a giveaway and received it from one of the authors, Jennifer Uhlarick. A review was not required, but I voluntarily leave this one without expectation of compensation of any kind.
So many different personalities in these characters and the authors did a wonderful job of developing them in the short amount of space there is in a novella. The plots were unique to each story, except for the Mail-Order part. If you like clean, Christian, historical romances that are especially of the Mail-Order type, you will truly enjoy this collection. Enjoy!
I won this book in a giveaway and received it from one of the authors, Jennifer Uhlarick. A review was not required, but I voluntarily leave this one without expectation of compensation of any kind.
December 27, 2017
The Mail-Order BrIdes Collection is a collection of 9 Historical Stories of Marriage that Precedes Love. These stories include:
Perfect for the Preacher by Megan Besing
The Outlaw’s Inconvenient Bride by Noelle Marchand
Train Ride to Heartbreak by Donna Schlachter
Mail-Order Proxy by Sherri Shackelford
To Heal Thy Heart by Michelle Shocklee
Miss-Delivered Mail by Ann Shorey
A Fairy-Tale Bride by Liz Tolsma
The Brigand and the Bride by Jennifer Uhlarik
The Mail-Order Mistake by Kathleen Y’Barbo
I thought this collection was pretty good. My favorite of the nine stories would be Liz Tolsma’s A Fairy-Tale Bride.
I give this book 4 stars!
Perfect for the Preacher by Megan Besing
The Outlaw’s Inconvenient Bride by Noelle Marchand
Train Ride to Heartbreak by Donna Schlachter
Mail-Order Proxy by Sherri Shackelford
To Heal Thy Heart by Michelle Shocklee
Miss-Delivered Mail by Ann Shorey
A Fairy-Tale Bride by Liz Tolsma
The Brigand and the Bride by Jennifer Uhlarik
The Mail-Order Mistake by Kathleen Y’Barbo
I thought this collection was pretty good. My favorite of the nine stories would be Liz Tolsma’s A Fairy-Tale Bride.
I give this book 4 stars!
February 19, 2018
Full review on Faithfully Bookish
While I won’t take time to comment on each individual story (there are NINE of them after all and novellas are so easy to spoil), there are plenty of wild west adventures to go around! I was pleased to discover many of the stories have important lessons to impart to readers in addition to the happily ever after entertainment factor. These big juicy collections from Barbour are always a great place to meet new-to-you authors and I found a few here!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
While I won’t take time to comment on each individual story (there are NINE of them after all and novellas are so easy to spoil), there are plenty of wild west adventures to go around! I was pleased to discover many of the stories have important lessons to impart to readers in addition to the happily ever after entertainment factor. These big juicy collections from Barbour are always a great place to meet new-to-you authors and I found a few here!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
May 16, 2018
Collections like this appeal to me because they include multiple short-stories that I can indulge in for a quick read here and there. It's nice to enjoy a complete story, albeit a compact one, from start to finish in a single, quick read. I'm also quite fond of the mail-order bride plot; stories in which characters are forced together and love grows out of the forced circumstance. Typically there's some chemistry between the characters involved in such stories, but there's also often the truth about love being more about choosing to commit than always having the sparks. I enjoyed some of the tales more than others, but all were fun reads.
April 24, 2022
A wonderful collection of mail-order bride stories by some talented authors. I would be hard-pressed to pick out my favorite. I found them all intriguing, with lots of hidden secrets, and most times the end of their journey was far from what they expected.
The Christian element was inspiring and uplifting and I was captivated by the characters in each story. The length of them was perfect and wrapped up everything as it should in the end. I never knew how they might turn out and was pleasantly surprised at times.
I received a copy from a giveaway and enjoyed reading it very much. Highly recommended. Some of the best mail order bride stories I've read.
The Christian element was inspiring and uplifting and I was captivated by the characters in each story. The length of them was perfect and wrapped up everything as it should in the end. I never knew how they might turn out and was pleasantly surprised at times.
I received a copy from a giveaway and enjoyed reading it very much. Highly recommended. Some of the best mail order bride stories I've read.
April 26, 2018
Another charming collection of short stories from Barbour Publishing. I found Perfect for the Preacher by Megan Besing to be especially moving - it was the perfect selection to begin the book.
I received a free copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
February 1, 2018
As you can guess from the title, this is a medley of historical romances set around the nineteenth century version of internet dating. Women would answer ads placed by men, usually from a female-scarce section of the country. After the civil war, especially, husbands were a rare commodity, and ladies didn't have a lot of opportunities for refined courtship. Some of the more adventurous (or desperate) of the ladies agreed to marry strangers after a brief mail correspondence. Each of these nine sagas are about the equivalent of thirty pages long. I think I liked the last one best--but that's often my experience. The best remembered and favorite is frequently the story I just read!
That being said, the stories range from these ladies becoming the brides of men who are outlaws, who change their minds at the last minute, of Pinkerton agents on the trail of mail-order fraud ... and the list goes on. The lively imaginations of the authors have made each story a thriller and a keeper. I loved each of them and encourage you to grab a copy while they're hot.
I received a copy of this book free, but the opinions and evaluations are my own.
That being said, the stories range from these ladies becoming the brides of men who are outlaws, who change their minds at the last minute, of Pinkerton agents on the trail of mail-order fraud ... and the list goes on. The lively imaginations of the authors have made each story a thriller and a keeper. I loved each of them and encourage you to grab a copy while they're hot.
I received a copy of this book free, but the opinions and evaluations are my own.
March 26, 2018
This is a very enjoyable collection of 9 novellas from 9 different authors. You may want to read one of these short novellas in between longer novels because it’s big book at 445 pages. If you like mail order bride stories, you are pretty much guaranteed to love this collection. The novellas run the gamut between train rides that break down, preachers that have tough choices to make… throw in a Pinkerton detective and you’ve got some great tales. Then there’s the outlaw and the proxy bride mishap….and that’s just a sampling because I don’t want any spoilers. I enjoyed revisiting authors I’m familiar with as well as getting to know the writing style of new authors. There wasn’t a one that I didn’t like. You definitely get your money’s worth with this collection. You might even discover a new author that you absolutely love and they already have lots of books out there for you to discover.
December 15, 2017
This collection was a ton of fun to read! Although I've read several other mail-order bride stories, there were some really unique storylines in this collection that were very interesting--outlaws who aren't really outlaws, Pinkerton detectives, marriage by proxy, and some twists and turns to keep things moving. I can't pick a favorite story because I enjoyed them all so much. These novellas are quick reads but also have a depth to them that makes them very satisfying.
I read a copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I read a copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
February 1, 2018
This is a wonderful collection of heartfelt stories of hope and love. I highly recommend this book from a talented group of authors.
I could mention all nine stories individually, but I particularly connected with the heroine in the first story, Perfect for the Preacher. The author presented Sophie's struggle, transformation, and acceptance in such a real and enjoyable way.
Romantic, fun, well written. This collection won't disappoint!
I could mention all nine stories individually, but I particularly connected with the heroine in the first story, Perfect for the Preacher. The author presented Sophie's struggle, transformation, and acceptance in such a real and enjoyable way.
Romantic, fun, well written. This collection won't disappoint!
August 1, 2022
Mail order bride stories always intrigue me, and I couldn't pass reading this collection up. There are 9 stories in all, and I enjoyed all 9, though there were some I enjoyed more. I definitely recommend it, and it was a nice book to read a story or two and be able to lay it down til later
February 10, 2023
This is a collection of 9 short stories. I will categorize the stories.
My favorites:
The Outlaw's Inconvenient Bride
To Heal Thy Heart
Pretty good:
The Brigand and the Bride
The Mail-Order Mistake
The rest weren't too impressive
My favorites:
The Outlaw's Inconvenient Bride
To Heal Thy Heart
Pretty good:
The Brigand and the Bride
The Mail-Order Mistake
The rest weren't too impressive
December 8, 2023
I loved this book! My favorite genre - Early American pioneer romance fiction. This was 9 short stories from various authors, each one a mail-order bride story. I loved it. Light, easy reading that kept me invested. Perfect for a winter afternoon!
June 11, 2018
3.5 ★
Soon review to come
Soon review to come
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews