I truly enjoyed every single story in this collection! So often, in these collections, I don't like ALL of the novellas and feel like only half is worth the read... This time? ALL are great stories, well-written characters and solid romantic stories! I know all readers will enjoy each book. A perfect collection to hide away in for a few afternoons of wonderful reading!

I seriously couldn't wait to read this book!! I loved it!! Great authors and great stories

Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite fiction themes, and here is a fabulous historical collection chock full of them! All the stories had vibrant characters with great chemistry, realistic settings, and well-rounded plots that wrap up nicely for the length of a novella. The majority I would rate 5 stars, a few would be 4 stars. My favorite was "The Sweetwater Bride" by Mary Connealy, focusing on Tanner, the son of Silas and Belle from her earlier book The Husband Tree. He is scouting his land in the harsh mountains and discovers Debba McClain, living alone on her family's hidden ranch, forgotten and completely isolated from society for five years. His protective instincts immediately creates a bond which takes a romantic turn as they get to know each others strengths and their attraction develops. Unfortunately, Tanner comes up with a creative way to get her off her land to meet his family, which puts him in hot water not only with Debba but also his mother when she finds out his methods. I highly recommend this collection and will definitely be reading it again.

(Thank you to Barbour Books for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

I really enjoyed this collection of stories. They were sweet, hopeful, and well written. Though each story was novella length, there was enough substance to them that I would still love to read them had they each been written as full length novels. Although, it is rather nice to have some short and sweet stories to read when there isn't as much time for reading as I'd hoped. I thoroughly enjoyed all nine stories- the characters were well written and the dynamics between the spouses as they transitioned from not-so-willing to wanting a happily ever after were interesting and varied for the different stories. And even though they were short, the transformations in no way felt rushed. I will definitely be rereading this collection, and hope the publisher has similar collections available.

Fun, fast-paced, and exciting, this is a terrific collection that I enjoyed every minute of!

The Substitute Bride is a poignant read, about Gwen Bradbury, who has always felt like an ugly ducking next to her sister, so she agrees to her mother's scheme to marry her to Lord Carlyle, instead of her pretty sister. Lord Carlyle doesn't find out about the switch until after the wedding, so he is understandably upset, so he leaves her alone at his estate, where she spends much of her time reading. But when a tree crashes into the library, they find themselves working together to save the books, and finally getting to know their spouse.

It was a fantastic story of Gwen and Carlyle, as they get to know each other, and Gwen begins to see herself as Carlyle begins to view her. I loved Gwen, and her personal journey throughout the course of this book.

Hattie and the Sheriff of Hitching Post, MT end up spending more time than they expected together when they find themselves lock together in a jail cell, in Mule Dazed. Plenty of humor, and surprises in this delightful read.

In The Sweetwater Bride Tanner Harden discovers the secret valley that Debba McClain has made her home since her father's death. She has gentled all the animals including the long horn bull. Tanner takes her home to his parents, and the bull follows them. A fun read, with great characters.

I liked the strong heroines, like in Bridal Whispers, A Highbrow Hoodwink, and Not So Pretty Penny, they are brave and sacrifice a lot, taking chances and trusting God.

And the men are pretty brave too, stepping up to help a lady in need of a little help, in stories like The Colorado Coincidence, and Railroaded into Love. Through everything Molly held fast to her faith, and becomes the perfect partner for Noah's ministry.

Two sides of a feuding clans find love in All's Fair. When a Davies and Kent get in a fight and face jail time unless the two families are joined by marriage, Jackson volunteers to marry Coral. And she is set on keeping her vows.

Overall, a well done, fantastic collection, with everything you could hope for in a western romance pretty much covered. Definitely recommend!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

An enjoyable collection of stories featuring a wide variety of couples whose beginnings are all quite unusual. With each one in a different setting, from 1880's London to the Wild West of Montana, they all have a unique charm of their own. I really liked them all, especially the western ones by Lisa Carter and Mary Connealy, as I have a soft spot for cowboys and pioneers.
Recommend for fans of Christian historical romance!

this review will post on 12/31

9 Historical Romances Begin After Saying “I Do”
In The Lassoed by Marriage Romance Collection we meet nine couples who barely know each other before they find themselves suddenly married to please family, to stem the tide of gossip, to save the land and joined for life. But can love grow when duty comes before romance?

The Lassoed by Marriage Romance Collection amazon BN.com Christianbook.com Goodreads
​The Substitute Bride
​Elliot, Lord Carlyle, lifted his new bride’s veil only to find himself wed to the sister of his betrothed.
Finally married but to a man who doesn’t even like her Gwendolyn detests the thought of even another day. Especially since he still pines for her beautiful sister.
Review: ​I LOVED The Substitute Bride!! I really identified with Gwen. She’s a sweet person who sees herself as the ugly duckling ands her experiences have only solidified that perception. A great read!

Author: ​Angela Bell Grade: A+
Ages: YA Setting: ​England in June 1865

​Bridal Whispers
​When malicious gossip precipitates a marriage between Maila Holmes and her cousins widow Burton Rutherford they each wonder if anything will ever cause them to liked each other muchless make this a real marriage.
Review: ​I didn’t enjoy Bridal Whispers until about the halfway point and I never loved the characters. It’s an interesting story, if a bit meloncholy.

Author: ​Angie Breidenbach Grade: B Ages: YA Setting: ​Saint Paul Minnesota March 1900

​Mule Dazed
​Sheriff Braxton Cashel isn’t thinking about a crazy haired blast from his past when he corners Harriet Brimfield for horse thievery. Yet a few memories and a shotgun wedding brings Harriet’s character right back into mind… and his house.
Review: ​LOVED IT! Mule Dazed is adorable! I loved every word and can’t wait to read more from Lisa Carter! These characters are fun and the plot felt new and fresh.

Author: ​Lisa Carter Grade: A Ages: 16+
Setting: ​Montana 1885

​The Sweetwater Bride
​Living alone in her own little paradise Debba McClain is happy, if lonely until her new neighbor Tanner Harden stops by and her once peaceful content existence becomes much different.
Review: First, I loved that we, again, got to visit with characters that we sort-of know. It feels like coming home. Second, The Sweetwater Bride is hilarious! It’s a sweet romance with a little spark and plenty of snark!

Author: ​Mary Connealy Grade: A+
Ages: 16+
Setting: ​Montana July 1897

A Highbrow Hoodwink One mistake and Katie Dupont is marked for life. As the mother of an illegitimate son she has no hope for a better life until Henry Baxter comes to claim the heir to the Baxter fortune, none other than Katie’s son.
Review: Wow! I loved every word of A Highbrow Hoodwink! The characters are fun and multidimensional. The plot will leave you laughing and crying. And the mystery is intriguing but mellow.
You won’t put this one down!

Author: Rebecca Jepson Grade: A Ages: 16+
Setting: Aspen Colorado, February 1883

Not So Pretty Penny Framed, George Washington Brannock doesn’t figure on getting out of jail to enact revenge until Penelope Pinehurst arrives looking to purchase a husband to help her run her farm. Maybe a few months of work to pay her back wouldn’t be the worst thing.
Review: What a sad thought, never to be loved because you’re not thought pretty enough. Not So Pretty Penny is a great story to remind us of what’s really important.

Author: Amy Lillard Grade: A Ages: 16+
Setting: Kansas 1867

All’s Fair Coral Davies is earning money to leave her hometown and the fued between her family and the Kent family when an impromptu skirmish ends with her married to the eldest Kent grandson, Jackson. Will this marriage help to fix the fued or just make it worse?
Review: All’s Fair is a cute story but a bit sad.

Author: Gina Welborn Grade: B+
Ages: 18+
Setting: Wathena, Kansas July 1900

The Colorado Coincidence Gloree Lowe is left pregnant and widowed when Mack McCoy rides in to save her from the evils lurking in her neighborhood. Has she really been saved or is Mack just another looking for an easy way out?
Review: I enjoyed watching the coincidences pile up in The Colorado Coincidence. It’s a cute novella with interesting characters and plenty of twists.

Author: Kathleen Y’Barbo Grade: B+
Ages: 16+
Setting: Calleyville, Colorado April 1878

Railroaded into Love Noah Manning, the new chaplain of the railroad car Emmanuel, get stuck with Molly Callahan on his railroad car while the marshal tries to find Molly’s brother. And since it would be improper for them to live together unmarried… a marriage of convenience it will be.
Review: Awwww! Railroaded into Love is an adorable story with fun characters and a tense plot. I think I’d have enjoyed it more had it been a full length novel.

Author: Rose Ross Zediker Grade: B+
Ages: 16+
Setting: 1895 Montana

Hott Overall Review of The Lassoed by Marriage Romance Collection:

Overall, I really enjoyed The Lassoed by Marriage Romance Collection. It’s a cute set of novellas that gives the reader a great picture of life more than a century ago – along with some fun romances. While some of the books showed a great picture of Christianity others were just clean romances — giving a bit of something for everyone.

More…

Source: NetGalley Publisher & Date: January 1st 2016 by Barbour Books Genre: Historical Christian Romance ISBN: 1634091205 (ISBN13: 9781634091206)
Pages: 448 Grade: B+
Ages: 16+
Steam: YA – Mostly, though there are a few streamy moments.

Great stories.

I have really enjoyed novella collections this fall because with school and life, I haven't had a whole lot of time to sit down and read a full novel. Plus, novellas are a great way to be introduced to new authors without committing to read a full novel of theirs. I think I may have read two of these authors before, but mostly it was a bunch of new ones for me. I was shocked at first to see that there was nine stories in one book, but found that they were still a good length and all had good plots. Usually, in a novella collection, there are a few stories that I don't care for, but I really enjoyed every single selection in this collection.

Each storyline involves a couple who has just been married, but aren't necessarily in love. For some, it was a marriage of convenience; for others, they married to save face. Others had a mix-up and married the wrong person. One went and picked out an outlaw awaiting hanging in the local jail. Each was unique, and stood alone. I loved how I could read a story or two in a sitting because of the length, but none of the plots felt rushed.

Thank you so much to Net Galley and Barbour publishing for providing me with an e-book edition of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own and were not required to be positive.

Great collection of romance stories!

The Lassoed by Marriage Romance Collection: 9 Historical Romances Begin After Saying “I Do”*****

by Mary Connealy, Lisa Carta, Rebecca Jepson, Amy Lillard, Gena Welborn, Kathleen Y'Barbo, Rose Ross Zediker, Angela Bell, Angela Breidenbach

1-The Substitute Bride by Angela Bell London, England, June 1865. After 7 seasons in London society, spinster Gwendolyn—Gwen Brandbury, remains unmarried....However her parents form a scheme to get her married to Lord Elliott Carlyle—a deception really. Lord Carlyle does not discover the deception until after the wedding when he lifts the bridal veil to kiss his bride and discovers Gwen instead of Cynthia, her sister. Furious, he takes his substitute bride to his country home, Briarcliff Park.
It was fun watching Gwen and Elliot as they tried to make the best of a seemingly disastrous situation. I felt for “plain” Gwen who felt so unloved and unwanted, even by her groom. And hurt for Elliot, his pride as he was so deceived, not realizing he was far better off with Gwen than flighty Cynthia. There are some surprising developments that they both were not expecting. Will they learn to trust each other and possibly find love? I really liked the characters, could feel their struggles and challenges as they learned to open their hearts to love. There are some unexpected surprises in this interesting and fun story.

2-Bridal Whispers by Angie Breidenbach Saint Paul, MN March 1900...After being away for nine years, nurse Maila Holmes is headed home to Fergus Falls after receiving notice of the flu epidemic at home and her family very ill with the flu. Many have died during the flu epidemic, including her cousin Rose. Store owner Burton Rutherford—Rose's husband—meets Maila at the train depot and takes her to his store in town. They will travel to her family's homestead in the morning when it is safer to travel. Weeks later, due to some gossip, Maila and Burton find themselves in a potential scandalous situation and must marry. Can Burton get over the loss of his beloved Rose and learn to love his bride Maila? Will Maila forever struggle with feelings of being unwanted and unloved, even by her family, chasing after allusive dreams that may or may not make her feel loveable?
I felt Burton's grief over the loss of his beloved wife and uncertainty about Maila and their marriage. I wanted to reassure Maila that her family really loved her, she was seeing things all wrong. It was interesting to see the developments that follow their marriage and the outcome.

3-Mule Dazed by Lisa Carter Hitching Post, Montana Territory 1885....Sheriff Braxton—Brax Cashel is about to arrest the cowboy—no bigger than a little feller who was responsible for setting the mules loose from the corral. When the little feller turned around Brax got a shock, as did the little feller—“crazy hair?” The little feller was no little feller but was in fact Harriet—Hattie Brimfield—or crazy hair as he nicknamed her because of her wild, untamed hair—from the Bronco B ranch, who always got into trouble when they were kids in Wyoming Territory. Hattie couldn't believe young Brax grew into such a handsome man...a handsome man who was arresting her. Well, nothing's changed, she was still getting into trouble—again and Brax was there to get her out of it—again....well not this time. She finds herself locked in the local jail. Due to a situation at the jail, Hattie's 5 brothers demand Hattie and Brax marry immediately.
This is a funny romance and had me laughing out loud a few times and shaking my head at other times. It was fun watching Brax and Hattie figure out what they really wanted.

4-The Sweetwater Bride by Mary Connealy Montana July 1897...Rancher Tanner Harden is proud of his property in the Rockies and hopes to prosper there. Due to the drought his streams have dried up, so he goes out in search for much needed water for his cattle herd and hears a scream followed by gunfire and another scream—a woman's scream. But there is no woman up here. No trail in sight, only solid rock reaching over fifty feet and no way up it. His horse finds a trail and up he goes on a barely visible trail. He goes through a crack in the stone and a beautiful green mountain valley opens up before him. Amazed, he travels on and finds buildings and a lone woman—looking as wild as the land—standing in front of one of the buildings. Debba McClain was shocked to see someone coming into her valley—she doesn't go out of her valley so doesn't know anyone.
Things get pretty interesting, tense and funny in this delightful story. Oh, and the “kidnapping” scene was a surprise and had me laughing as I read. The importance of family, home, love and faith make this a heartwarming story.

5-A Highbrow Hoodwink by Rebecca Jepson Aspen, Colorado 1883...21 year old Katie Dupont works as a serving girl at the very busy local hotel's dinning room. This day was no different, however there was a mysterious, wealthy-looking man sitting in the shadows watching her. He looked so familiar, but she couldn't place him. What he told her was a shock and put fear into her heart—her past lead him here. No way was she going to agree with what he proposes—his planned deception. What can she do? This story has one surprise after another and twists and turns with unexpected results. Fun read.

6-Not So Pretty Penny by Amy Lillard Cooper, Kansas 1867....After much prayer, Penelope—Penny Pinehurst knows what she must do...she marches into the Sheriff's office and informs Sheriff Riley, “I am in need of a husband—today”. To, in fact, buy a husband from one of his prisoners set to for the gallows to help bring in a crop on her farm. Of the three prisoners, she chose George Washington—Wash Brannock for her husband. Wash was now married, free from jail. He planned to go ofter the person who framed him once he fulfilled his part of the bargain—plant and bring in the crops for Penny. However, he didn't plan on his heart falling for Penny. Penny's neighbor, who insisted that they marry...as he wanted her land...was shocked when he learned of her marriage. Then a man shows up on the farm which brings an unexpected situation and Wash has to decide if he will follow up on his plan or to forgive.
There are many humerus scenes in this story...like when Penny goes to “buy” a husband and the response from the sheriff and the potential groom, which had me chuckling. Have to say Penny was a determined woman but she didn't see her own beauty. It was fun to watch as Penny and Wash did a kind of dance as they settled down into “married” life. I really enjoyed reading this delightful, heartwarming story.

7-All's Fair by Gina Welborn Wathena, Kansas 1900....The feud between the Davies and Kent families has been part of the community for many years. As Hiram Kent talks with Coral Davies, their families rush over and a fight breaks out. During the scuffle, Coral is thrown into the river, smacking the left side of her head with the cold water and a sharp pain burst in her ear. Years later, Coral works as a social secretary for the Judge with hopes to move away from Wathena. Dr. Jack Kent hopes to apologize and make things right for Coral. But things don't go as he planned when his cousin shows up and another fight breaks out landing them all in jail. The judge gives them a choice: either face 90 days in jail with fines or a Kent marrying a Davies...thus Coral finds herself married to Jack. Was there really no other choice? Family feuds—which no one remembers the cause, anger, humor, faith and love are woven into a heartwarming story and a fun read. Of all the characters, Jack and Coral were my favorites.

8-The Colorado Coincidence by Kathleen Y'Barbo San Francisco 1878...Illegitimate son of the Duke of Crenwright, Mack McCoy, packed his bags in preparation to leave the city he has come to love and head to Denver. His half-brother, Colin, wants him to never return to England and threatens to harm someone Mack loves dearly if he does.
Callyville, Colorado, Gloree Lowe has buried her husband and her babies and still grieves for them. Her husband told her to marry again if something happened to him and even wrote to his cousin to come and marry her. She is about to loose her cabin and properly if she doesn't pay the bank what she owes soon. Three unsavory characters want her properly and are willing to get it one way or another and only gives her a couple days to leave. A stranger—Mack—shows up just in time and they leave. Of course Gloree thinks Mack is the man her husband said would come. But the men come back and after a shoot out, they are dead. Mack and Gloree take the men into town to the sheriff, things get even more confusing as he too thinks Mack is the man Gloree's husband sent for. Before he knows it, Mack and Gloree are married. But Gloree's troubles are not over yet. It seems others in town want her ranch too.
I enjoyed Gloree and Mack's story and the twists and turns involved in getting things for the ranch settled. Some of the characters had me guessing if they were friend or foe, humor and some unexpected, pleasant surprises make this a charming story.

9-Railroaded into Love by Rose Ross Zediker Montana 1895....Noah Manning is now a missionary preacher on the railroad chapel, Emmanuel where he also lives. He is excited to start his new—single—life as a traveling preacher. But he didn't expect his brother, Seth, to show up with a young woman in hand-cuffs, wanting her to stay on the train with Noah.
Molly Callahan's brother, Cass, had dumped her at the saloon to live and work after their parents died in the influenza outbreak five years ago and left town. Seth says that Cass is a cattle rustler and is hoping having Molly along at the trains next scheduled stop will bring Cass out of hiding so he could arrest him. Noah's supervisor will allow Molly to stay with Noah if they are married and performs the wedding.
There are some unexpected surprises in store for Molly and Noah as they are parked at the next town. An adorable, loveable orphaned boy, Tom, captures Molly's heart and mine. I enjoyed this fun story.

~I received an e-book copy from Amy Lillard via Netgalley for my honest review~

With a subtitle like '9 Historical Romances Begin After Saying "I Do"' you know you are in for some surprises. The biggest surprise? That this might be my favorite collection from Barbour so far.

The first story surprised me partly by being set in London and a country estate. I enjoyed the story so much that I almost didn't want to continue with the collection, fearing that the rest would not live up to it. All Elliott wants to do is continue to work with clockwork automata figures (bestill my Steampunk loving heart). He marries because it is time and his duty as Lord Carlyle, but he is not expecting the bookish Gwen, who is coerced into replacing his vibrant bride at the altar. This story actually had me tearing up because of Gwen's childhood Ugly Duckling book.

What follows are eight more thoroughly enjoyable stories, set in the 1860's-1900 American West, any of which I would gladly read as full novels. Maila marries her deceased cousin's husband, Burton, to stop the appearance of wrong-doing. Brax and Hattie are former childhood friends reunited when, as sheriff, he is forced to arrest her. Tanner ties Debba up and drags her home to meet his ma. Henry marries Katie, the mother of his brother's son, for the sake of his family (the one story which needed a little editing as it seems to jump a bit and George's age seemed a bit inconsistent). Coral and Jackson are from feuding families, Mack marries Glory in a case of mistaken identity, and railroad missionary Noah must marry Molly or she has nowhere to go but back to the saloon.

4/5 stars. If you enjoy shorter fiction, and Historical Christian Romance in particular, then this is a highly recommended read.
This review refers to an ebook read courtesy of the publisher, through NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.

The Substitute Bride by Angela Bell: London, England, June, 1865, Gwen's mother convinces her to be the substitute bride for her sister, Cynthia, in her marriage to Lord Elliott Carlyle. Elliott is not happy about the arrangement that he was tricked into, but their love for books and art may just save the day and make their marriage work.

My REVIEW of The Substitute Bride: This is a very well written and touching novella. I felt great empathy for Gwen and Elliott who were both placed in an awkward situation which is now permanent. I was just disappointed that the story ended and I wanted to know more about Gwen and Elliott's relationship. I rate this novella 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers.

Bridal Whispers by Angela Breidenbach: Saint Paul, MN, March 5, 1900, Maila and Burton work to help their family rebuild itself when Burton's wife and many other family members due of influenza. Maila has been away studying to be a nurse and finally practising as one. But now it is her duty to help her family. Burton needs her help too. But the townswomen spread rumors that Burton and Maila are behaving shamefully. Maila's mother insists they marry when she hears this. Will Burton ever be able to forget his beautiful first wife, Rose? Will Maila be stuck forever in a loveless marriage?

MY REVIEW of Bridal Whispers: This is such a fun novella to read. It must have been very sad and frightening for so many people to die of influenza. I felt so sorry for Maila as it seemed she had to give up her nursing position and the man she loved as well. I rated this novella 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers.

Mule Dazed by Lisa Carter: Montana Territory, 1885, Hattie runs away from her home when her brothers promise her in marriage to a man she doesn't love, and meets up with the sheriff of Hitching Post, Montana. He promptly arrests her for releasing the mules ready to race in the town's annual Mule Days' race. Sheriff Braxton Cashel recognizes her as the girl from his childhood, known as "Crazy Hair". Her brothers ride into town and force them to marry when they say he has compromised her virtue by sleeping in the cell with her all night. Their marriage gets off to a rough start, but Braxton begins to enjoy her cooking, her lovely curls, and her constant chatter. Will their marriage last? or will he have it annuled when the judge returns to town as promised?

MY REVIEW of Mule Dazed: What a cute novella ! I love the annual tradition of Mule Days when the men and women have all sorts of activities planned to hook up as couples and a minister is there to marry all the lucky couples at the end of the festivities. This novella had me laughing and hoping for things to work out for Braxton and Hattie. I rated this novella 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers.

The Sweetwater Bride by Mary Connealy: Montana, July, 1897, Tanner Harden rides out on his land to find a creek to water his cattle and animals, and finds a hidden cover behind a huge rock formation. In that cove, he finds an even bigger surprise....a woman who has lived alone for 4 or 5 years (she is not sure of the exact time) and has not even traveled out to a town in all this time! He kidnaps her and takes her to his home to meet his mother, and in the process, he falls in love with Debba. Will Debba marry him or will she insist on going back to live in her own cabin alone?
MY REVIEW: This is a delightful novella. Debba and Tanner are precious characters. He truly cares about her and fears for her loneliness in living alone. I loved this novella and rated it 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers.

A Highbrow Hoodwink by Rebecca Jepson: Aspen, Colorado, February 1883, Katie has an illegimate son, Georgie, who is ten months old and Henry comes to find her and tell her the father of her baby is dead and he wants to take her son as Georgie is now the heir to a huge family fortune. She refuses to let her son go and Henry then asks her to marry him. She agrees, but life is not good between Henry and Katie. He resents her and her son. Will he ever look at her and her son with love in his eyes? MY REVIEW: This was a surprising novella to read as many events popped up that I wasn't expecting. This made the book very excited. It is a light, quick read and well worth the time. I rated this novella 5 stars and highly recommend it.

Not So Pretty Penny by Amy Lillard:Kansas, 1867, Penny's brother and father have not returned from fighting in the Civil War and she needs a man to help her plant the crops and keep the farm going for when her loved ones return. So she does the only thing she can think of in desperation, she goes to the jail to buy a prisoner to be her husband. She marries Wash in this way and he agrees, but plans to leave after the crops are in to exact revenge on the man who murdered his sister and framed him for the murder. What will happen with Penny and Wash living on the farm and not loving each other? MY REVIEW: This novella made me imagine the agony that many experienced from the Civil War. Women had little choice in many cases but to marry men out of necissity. I found the characters believable and likable. I was drawn into the story and hopeful for the future for Wash and Penny. I rated this novella 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers.

All's Fair by Gina Welborn: Wathens, Kansas, July 4, 1900, Coral Davies and Hiram Kent were secretly seeing each other but the Davies and Kent families had a long feud running and the Kent and Davies' boys saw them together one day. They fought Hiram and Jack Kent threw Coral into the icy waters of the river and caused her to be deaf in one ear. They fight again years later and all end up thrown in jail. The judge orders a Kent and Davies to marry or he will charge them all. Jack Kent and Coral Davies volunteer to marry. How will their marriage ever work though? Will this end the families' feud?
MY REVIEW: This is a very touching novella focusing on forgiveness and stopping generational sins. Forgiveness is certainly not easy but Coral and Jack both work hard to make it happen, and this book inspires others to do the same. I rated this novella 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers.

The Colorado Coincidence by Kathleen Y'Barbo: May 1878, Callyville, Colorado, Gloree Lowe's husband and children have died after they moved from Texas to Colorado, and a man from the town and his two sons come to buy her farm and home from her....ordering her to accept their offer. Mack McCoy happens to ride up on the scene and helps Gloree and ends up marrying her and paying the debt on the farm to the bank. It is a marriage of convenience and both Gloree and Mack have secrets they are keeping. Will love come to them and will they share their secrets and resolve their differences?

MY REVIEW: Again, I felt so bad for women in this time period as they had no rights to ownership of land. The land went to a man as in the case here. The will stipulated it could belong to a man who would become her husband. It must have felt very lonely for women in many ways, especially being physically far from other families. I fell in love with this couple and just wanted the best for them, as if they were true friends of mine. I rated this novella 5 stars and definitely recommend it to readers.

Railroaded into Love by Rose Ross Zediker: Montana, 1895, Molly was picked up by the deputy where she was living in a saloon after her brother dropped her there and left. The deputy takes her to his brother, Noah, who is a new minister serving the Railroad and living and preaching from a railroad car. He wants Noah to let her stay with him but the minister in charge of Noah says it would be improper unless they were married, so they get married so that Molly can stay there. She plays the organ and sings for the services and helps Noah. But her outlaw brother, Cass, is trouble and means to harm them all. Will they find love in their marriage or have it annulled? Will Cass be found and straighten up?

MY REVIEW: This was very interesting as I had never heard of preachers working out of the railroad cars in this manner. I was married to a minister and it actually sounds very exciting. This novella addresses prejudice and tolerance for others in a lovely way. I rated this novella 5 stars and would be glad to recommend it to readers. I received a copy of this book from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

I really really loved this collection! Unlikely marriages that show the sacrifice, joys and commitment of marriage!! I got teary eyes several times and actually sighed out loud after the first story! Not cowboy stories like the name suggested but rather unlikely couples, not brought together by love but as was accurate for many times and cultures, for other reasons. Great and I would say must read if you like historical romances! Not in any way predictble, boring or the usual stories!

What an amazing collection of short stories. Each one is unique and well written, and of course thoroughly entertaining.

Because they're ll so good I thought I'd review them seperately.

The Substitute Bride by Angela Bell

This is the only short story in the bunch that takes place completely in England. Lord Carlyle finds himself at the alter with what he thinks is the woman he loves, but when the vows are said and the veil is lifted he is confronted with the fact that he's been married to his love's dowdy sister. Feeling tricked he looks towards a bleak future, but has he maybe dodged a bullet?

A great start to this bundle of short stories. Gwen is a wonderful woman: caring, intelligent, self-sufficient and talented. But next to her sister all those years no man has seemed to notice her. Luckily for her Lord Carlyle is much in the same predicament. And even though he's been tricked by Cynthia and her mother, I can't help but smile and wait till the moment he reailses that it's the best thing that has ever happened to him. I found it a little unfortunate that we didn't really encounter her family after the wedding breakfast, but for a short story that isn't really necessary. A brilliant read!

Bridal Whispers by Angie Breidenbach

Mailia returns home because of illesses in her family. As a nurse, she's the perfect person to have around, but she's already built a life for herself in the city- a job, a beau- everything she's been working so hard towards. But when she finds herself married to her deceased cousin's husband, it seems like everything is going too fast and that all her dreams are being shattered.

I don't think I've ever read a story where Swedish immigrants in America play the main role. It's a really refreshing read, where culture gets to play a really big role. I love Mailia and how she's so strong willed but at the same time how she seemes to find her place both back in the village with her family, as well as within her marriage. Though it's a short story, this feels like a novel. It's so complex, with multiple characters and a depth that I rarely find in short stories and novellas. I particularly liked the scene where Mailia confronts her mother regarding her being sent away. It's a touching moment that is so well written.

Mule Dazed by Lisa Carter
When Brax is forced to throw his childhood friend in jail for running off with a mule, there was no way he could have foreseen that he would have to marry her. Harriet 'Crazy Hair Brimfield becomes a pain in his side, especially when her brothers show up and their shotgun wedding insues. But with being married comes a whole host of issues, such as learning to live with his new wife.

I smiled a lot while reading this short story. I especially love the little quotes at the beginning of each chapter from Harriet's book For Love of a Mule. And Brax seems to be perpetually confused, which makes for a hilarious read. Add to that a bit of wild west action, it's an adventure I'll probably not forget any time soon.

The Sweetwater Bride by Mary Connealy
Tanner has finally got his won piece of land and a house built on it. He's breaking out on his own and ready for the challange of running his own land. What he wasn't prepared for was Debba McClain. Living on the land by herself, since her father died, Debba has been making due for as long as she can remember. And when Tanner practically hogties her and brings her to his family, she's a little dazed and afraid to be so far away from home, especially since her father had always told her to never leave the valley. But everyone agrees. She can't go back by herself. And before long she and Tanner are saying their vows.

There are a lot of aspects to this short story that make it brilliant. But perhaps the most brilliant one is Debba's herd. How her longhorn cows manage to follow her all the way is not only sweet but absolutely hilarious. That scene is reason alone to read it. However, the real jem is Debba herself. She's so innocent and naive, that she makes for such an interesting character to read. You even forgive Tanner everything because he really is doing everything in her best interest.

A Highbrow Hoodwink by Rebecca Jepson
Katie Dupont was naive enough to accept a carriage ride from what she thought was a gentleman. By the next day she had lost her virginity and was pregnant. Forced to work at a hotel to support herself and her son, she is found by her son's uncle. Soon, she's being whisked away to Washington with her son and her new husband, Henry.

I really love how this story really has an extra character that doesn't really make an appearance. Henry's brother might be dead, but he's there, keeping both Henry and Katie from really being a family. He's the elephant in their relationship, invisible, but absolutely there. Katie wont tell Henry it was just a night and Henry can't help but think that he's married his brother's mistress. There are moments in this that I was thinking back to Oscar Wilde's The Improtance of Being Ernest and all the slapstick comedy. I love the moments when Henry shows his softer side, especially with his nephew/step-son.

Not so Pretty Penny by Any Lillard
When Penelope walks into the Sheriff's office in order to buy herself a husband from the men sitting in the jailcell, she could never have imagined that under all that dirt would be such an attractive man, with such a good heart. Geroge Washington Brannock agrees to the wedding, but in the back of his mind all he can think about is revenge. But he soon realises that there's more to his wife than just the price of his freedom.

I didn't realise that you could buy a husband like that. It was completely new to me. A quick google didn't offer me anything, but none the less, it's a really interesting notion that i'd never heard of before. Of course, I imagine that Penelope got really lucky, who knows what kind of psychopath she could have taken home with her. And though I would imagine that she isn't the easiest of women, they manage to pull through very well.

All's Fair by Gina Welborn
A great little Romeo and Juliet story, where two people from warring families are forced to wed to keep the peace. But once they're married, they decide not to take the loophole offered to them.

I wasn't really sure where this short story was going, for the most part, but that being said, it still is a nice read. The characters are different (espcially Coral, who is so gung-ho about what she wants that she'll just make decisions for Jackson, whether he wants them or not) and though the storyline has a very trope-like feel to it, there are enough unusual aspects to it to make it fresh.

The Colorado Coincidence by Catherine Y'Barbo
Gloree is on the verge of losing her land. The bank has already started the forclosure procedings, and if she doesn't do something quickly she might lose it completely. So, when Mack inserts himself into her life and suggests that they marry so that she can secure the land, she readily agrees. But both of them are hiding a secret, and will it cause friction between the newlyweds?

This short story is a lot like Not So Pretty Penny with one big difference, in the previous one the main character goes hunting for a husband to rescue her, and here one seems to just arrive on her doorstep. I like Mack and Gloree, they're both willing to do what it takes to make their lives what they intend for it to be. They're courageous and godfearing. But most of all they both have big hearts that they're a little afraid to open to each other. It makes for a wonderful story with very funny moments scattered between.

Railroaded into Love by Rose Zediker
Noah and Molly were put together when Noah's brother Seth brings her to him after finding Molly in a saloon. Noah couldn't leave her there, his consience as a preacher wouldn't let him. With her brother on the loose and the law looking for him, he has no choice but to take her to wife, for good and bad. Molly just wants to prove that her brother isn't the criminal everyone expects. But with all the evidence stacking up against him it's becoming harder and harder to believe. Luckily she has Noah to lean on. He makes her feel safe and good.

I'm not really sure what it is about this short story that I loved so much, maybe it was the fact that both the characters were religious, without the story being unnecessarily religious. Or perhaps it was the fact that Molly wants to stand by her good-for-nothing brother. Or maybe it's her relationship with Tom. Most likely it's a combination of all of the above. The characters and the situaton, all coupled with the great writing.