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A Sheriff for Sophie
When Sheriff William Gentry holds himself responsible for a young woman being shot, he gives up his badge and leaves his hometown. In his weakened frame of mind, he becomes a bounty hunter, soon questioning that decision. The only thing he’s sure of is; he needs to reunite with his family and God, and find his purpose in life.
When Sophie Collins’ husband died two years earlier, he not only left her well-off financially with a hotel and diner, but also the mother of two rambunctious boys. Many men had tried to win her affection, most wanting to send her boys off to boarding schools and help her spend her money.
Learning of a discreet, upscale, matchmaking service, she sends for information.
Through an odd turn of events, Will and Sophie meet. She was sure that he would run when he learned about her boys, and she was the estranged daughter of a notorious outlaw. But Will has determined that Sophie is the woman God has intended for him.
Within hours of getting married, Will puts Sophie on a stagecoach, promising to see her in a few
hours…then he disappears. She is left to wonder if he is dead, injured, or has played her for a fool. Then her
life really takes a turn for the worse…
When Sophie Collins’ husband died two years earlier, he not only left her well-off financially with a hotel and diner, but also the mother of two rambunctious boys. Many men had tried to win her affection, most wanting to send her boys off to boarding schools and help her spend her money.
Learning of a discreet, upscale, matchmaking service, she sends for information.
Through an odd turn of events, Will and Sophie meet. She was sure that he would run when he learned about her boys, and she was the estranged daughter of a notorious outlaw. But Will has determined that Sophie is the woman God has intended for him.
Within hours of getting married, Will puts Sophie on a stagecoach, promising to see her in a few
hours…then he disappears. She is left to wonder if he is dead, injured, or has played her for a fool. Then her
life really takes a turn for the worse…
134 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 30, 2023
43 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Lynne Lanning
53 books42 followersLynne Lanning has such an effortless way of evoking emotion from her readers. Her characters are so realistic that the reader can feel their pain during trials and their joy during triumphs. Reviews state: "...it's as if Mrs. Lanning lived through this herself." "Couldn't put it down..." "A real page turner." Lynne enjoys turning history and her love of God into enjoyable, relatable stories with practical life lessons that can benefit people today. Each story tells of true bonds of love and loyalty, mixed with tough times and decisions, with a twist of humor and sometimes devastation...the same is true in life. With a blend of her own family members and heritage along with lots of fiction, it's hard to tell where reality stops and fantasy begins.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
October 30, 2023
Will is born to be a protector
It's second nature for him to protect the town, the residents and especially Sophie and his boys...even when it isn't his job he automatically falls into that role. He struggles with misplaced grief and because of that doubts his suitability to being a Sheriff, but he proves himself time and again with his actions, he is a character that you cannot help but like and respect. Sophie is stronger than most, but even she cannot resist the chemistry between Will and herself, and for the first time ever someone is showing her just how special she is. She finally understands romance and love, it is very sweet to see.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
It's second nature for him to protect the town, the residents and especially Sophie and his boys...even when it isn't his job he automatically falls into that role. He struggles with misplaced grief and because of that doubts his suitability to being a Sheriff, but he proves himself time and again with his actions, he is a character that you cannot help but like and respect. Sophie is stronger than most, but even she cannot resist the chemistry between Will and herself, and for the first time ever someone is showing her just how special she is. She finally understands romance and love, it is very sweet to see.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
October 31, 2023
I’VE FOUND MY PURPOSE
The Mail-Order Papa series will consist of clean, Christian-based, historical books. Rather than a mail-order bride, what about a mail-order groom? Sometimes, even a woman has to take a chance to find happiness.
Widow Sophie Collins is doing everything she can to run her hotel and diner business while raising two rambunctious boys. But she feels like it is two steps forward and one step back. Gabe is nine and Calvin is six, and she feels like she can’t give them her time like she wishes she could. Maybe if she could find a mail-order husband to give her boys what they need, it would be better for all of them. She could use help around the hotel too.
William ‘Will’ Gentry was the sheriff of his town, but when a shot rang out and hit a lady, he held himself responsible. It didn’t help when his own father berated him for his failure. He turned in his badge and left town, seeking work along the way. It wasn’t long before he was bringing in bounties—but that wasn’t a life that made him happy.
“I’m cut off from my family because of my pride. I’m cut off from God by my own choices. Maybe I do need to find a good woman. But is there such a thing? Aren’t they all spoiled and demanding?”
The story’s plot will have Sophie praying about what to do, and finally sending off the paperwork to a matrimonial agency to find a mail-order husband.
“I need help, Lord. That’s all I know to say. I need help from You and a good man willing to come here to Nebraska and be a good father for my boys.”
“28-year-old widow with some means, business owner. Seeking hard-working Christian man, 30-40, with integrity. Marriage required, romance not. I stand a better chance with my family and God. Maybe I should start there.”
Will sees the same mail-order groom advertisement in several papers each week and starts praying about it. While he lets weeks go by without responding, it won’t leave his mind. A trip back home to his parents, and an offer to travel as protection on the stage takes him right to the town where the matrimonial agency is located. Will considers this divine intervention and pursues it in person—something completely unheard of.
I loved the story, which also has the good, the bad, and the ugly in people. The story was unputdownable, and such a good read. I liked the two main characters, not perfect people, but godly ones, who each pray before making any decisions. The story has mystery, suspense, with life and death danger, and more. I loved the strong Christian element throughout the story. It is never preachy, but a beautiful reminder of keeping your eyes on the Lord, trusting in Him, and the power of prayer. In the end, we have the coveted happily ever after ending.
The Mail-Order Papa series will consist of clean, Christian-based, historical books. Rather than a mail-order bride, what about a mail-order groom? Sometimes, even a woman has to take a chance to find happiness.
Widow Sophie Collins is doing everything she can to run her hotel and diner business while raising two rambunctious boys. But she feels like it is two steps forward and one step back. Gabe is nine and Calvin is six, and she feels like she can’t give them her time like she wishes she could. Maybe if she could find a mail-order husband to give her boys what they need, it would be better for all of them. She could use help around the hotel too.
William ‘Will’ Gentry was the sheriff of his town, but when a shot rang out and hit a lady, he held himself responsible. It didn’t help when his own father berated him for his failure. He turned in his badge and left town, seeking work along the way. It wasn’t long before he was bringing in bounties—but that wasn’t a life that made him happy.
“I’m cut off from my family because of my pride. I’m cut off from God by my own choices. Maybe I do need to find a good woman. But is there such a thing? Aren’t they all spoiled and demanding?”
The story’s plot will have Sophie praying about what to do, and finally sending off the paperwork to a matrimonial agency to find a mail-order husband.
“I need help, Lord. That’s all I know to say. I need help from You and a good man willing to come here to Nebraska and be a good father for my boys.”
“28-year-old widow with some means, business owner. Seeking hard-working Christian man, 30-40, with integrity. Marriage required, romance not. I stand a better chance with my family and God. Maybe I should start there.”
Will sees the same mail-order groom advertisement in several papers each week and starts praying about it. While he lets weeks go by without responding, it won’t leave his mind. A trip back home to his parents, and an offer to travel as protection on the stage takes him right to the town where the matrimonial agency is located. Will considers this divine intervention and pursues it in person—something completely unheard of.
I loved the story, which also has the good, the bad, and the ugly in people. The story was unputdownable, and such a good read. I liked the two main characters, not perfect people, but godly ones, who each pray before making any decisions. The story has mystery, suspense, with life and death danger, and more. I loved the strong Christian element throughout the story. It is never preachy, but a beautiful reminder of keeping your eyes on the Lord, trusting in Him, and the power of prayer. In the end, we have the coveted happily ever after ending.
October 30, 2023
Great entertainment
Wow, so much in this book! Set in the old west, Will is involved in an accident that leaves him questioning his path in law enforcement, while Sophie needs a pa for her two boys. The path to romance is rocky but described vividly in Lynne Lanning's next hit romance novel!
Wow, so much in this book! Set in the old west, Will is involved in an accident that leaves him questioning his path in law enforcement, while Sophie needs a pa for her two boys. The path to romance is rocky but described vividly in Lynne Lanning's next hit romance novel!
October 31, 2023
This is a sweet romance with plenty of action. It’s unique in that the main female advertises for a mail-order husband. Plenty of twists to keep you engaged in the story.
I received an arc of this book. My opinions are my own.
I received an arc of this book. My opinions are my own.
October 26, 2023
The Perfect, Sweet Romance!
I hadn't read for pleasure for several months due to a stressful job situation, so I was really looking forward to reading this. "A Sheriff for Sophie" did not disappoint. On the surface, it's a sweet and slightly predictable Christian romance, but if you look a little deeper it's a well researched piece of historical fiction. I absolutely enjoyed every minute of this book and can't wait to read the next one!
I hadn't read for pleasure for several months due to a stressful job situation, so I was really looking forward to reading this. "A Sheriff for Sophie" did not disappoint. On the surface, it's a sweet and slightly predictable Christian romance, but if you look a little deeper it's a well researched piece of historical fiction. I absolutely enjoyed every minute of this book and can't wait to read the next one!
October 30, 2023
Will blames himself, when a woman is injured,while he was a sheriff. His mind was on another issue and didn't respond as needed. He takes off for parts unknown, to find himself again. Sophie has been a widow for a few years and wants more, but with two active boys, no one is interested in marriage. They just want her money. Will and Sophie meet by chance, when both apply for a matchmaker service. Of course, trouble is brewing , along with Will's new wife, Sophie. Good story.
I won this book, through a Goodreads giveaway and this is my honest review.
I won this book, through a Goodreads giveaway and this is my honest review.
October 25, 2023
This engaging, entertaining Old West tale, part of the multi-author Mail Order Papa series, kept my interest from beginning to end. Sophie and Will’s story features a fast-moving plot, well-crafted characters, sweet romance, and an inspiring faith thread. If you are looking for a quick, satisfying western romance read, try this one.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 1, 2023
I enjoyed reading this story of Sophie, a widow with 2 young boys, who really needed a father figure in the house. Sophie was left with a hotel and diner, so she did not have financial problems, but after a year of no husband, she could see the difference in her sons. She decided she would discreetly go to the matchmaking company and put an ad in and just see what would take place. Will was disgusted with his life. He had gotten away from the Lord, his career, his family, and it was time to turn around and go back down the road in the right direction now. He stopped in a diner, and as always, he opened a newspaper and glanced over at the little section for matchmaking ads and he saw Sophie’s ad. It spoke to his heart. He couldn’t get it out of his mind. He tore it out and folded it and put it in his pocket. At the next town, he saw it again, and he did the same thing, until he had several of the ads in his pocket. He prayed and prayed about Sophie. He could NOT get her out of his head or his heart. He decided that he would marry her. Let the adventures begin…He goes home first, to make amends with his family, especially his father, a judge, whom he had left on bad terms with, and his mother and brother. He visited only a few days because he had a mission-to go see the matchmaker. So, he met the married couple who ran the agency and explained that he was ready to answer her letter and offer to marry her right then. They sent a message to Sophie and she arranged to get there in two days. It was very cute how they met and really fell in love at first sight. There is so much more to this action-packed book, but I’m not re-writing the book for you, I’m just giving a review of it, and it was sooo great!! I highly recommend that you get this book as quickly as possible so that you, too, can enjoy some quality time and enjoyment. I was given a copy of this copy and this review is my own opinion.
October 23, 2023
1. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?
Bounty Hunter William Gentry was determined to turn his life around. He knew that taking action was crucial, starting with prioritizing his faith and cherishing his loved ones.
2. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?
Widow Sophie Collins, a devout church-goer, fearlessly nurtured her two young boys with steadfast faith. Nevertheless, her boys yearned for a paternal presence, craving the guidance only a father figure could provide.
3. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?
Sophie placed an advertisement in the newspaper, looking for a man to be a positive influence in her boys’ lives. This unconventional approach caught William’s attention, as it was typically men who placed ads seeking mail-order brides. Intrigued, he was determined to uncover the story behind Sophie’s intriguing ad.
4. For whom would you recommend this book?
I assure you, A Sheriff For Sophie is an absolute must-read for enthusiasts of Christian Western romance.
5. Why did you give it the star rating you did?
I enthusiastically award A Sheriff For Sophie a perfect 5/5 stars. From the very beginning, author Lynne Lanning effortlessly captivates me and refuses to release her grip.
6. Is the title memorable and/or emotion-grabbing?
Yes! I can definitely envision the romance that is about to unfold.
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author. This in no way affects my review. All thoughts are my own.
Bounty Hunter William Gentry was determined to turn his life around. He knew that taking action was crucial, starting with prioritizing his faith and cherishing his loved ones.
2. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?
Widow Sophie Collins, a devout church-goer, fearlessly nurtured her two young boys with steadfast faith. Nevertheless, her boys yearned for a paternal presence, craving the guidance only a father figure could provide.
3. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?
Sophie placed an advertisement in the newspaper, looking for a man to be a positive influence in her boys’ lives. This unconventional approach caught William’s attention, as it was typically men who placed ads seeking mail-order brides. Intrigued, he was determined to uncover the story behind Sophie’s intriguing ad.
4. For whom would you recommend this book?
I assure you, A Sheriff For Sophie is an absolute must-read for enthusiasts of Christian Western romance.
5. Why did you give it the star rating you did?
I enthusiastically award A Sheriff For Sophie a perfect 5/5 stars. From the very beginning, author Lynne Lanning effortlessly captivates me and refuses to release her grip.
6. Is the title memorable and/or emotion-grabbing?
Yes! I can definitely envision the romance that is about to unfold.
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author. This in no way affects my review. All thoughts are my own.
June 24, 2025
Action. Adventure and Finding Love ❤️
***A Sheriff for Sophie*** by Lynne Lanning is an incredible read you won't want to miss! This captivating story revolves around Sophie, a courageous widowed single mother struggling to provide for her two sons. Enter William—“Will”—a former sheriff turned bounty hunter on a quest to find meaning in his life and the desire to settle down with a loving family.
From the moment they meet, the chemistry is electric, leading to a beautiful marriage. But just when happiness seems within reach, life throws them a series of unexpected challenges. This is where the real excitement begins! With an abundance of action and suspense, the plot is filled with twists that will keep you guessing until the very end.
If you crave adventure, drama, and emotional depth in a story, ***A Sheriff for Sophie*** is the perfect book for you. It will keep you turning the pages late into the night, and you'll find yourself fully invested in the characters’ journey. Be sure to have a tissue box nearby—you’ll need it for those tender moments. And if you're prone to snacking when the tension rises, grab some treats to enjoy as you dive into this thrilling ride!
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey. I highly recommend picking up this book today—you won’t regret it!
***A Sheriff for Sophie*** by Lynne Lanning is an incredible read you won't want to miss! This captivating story revolves around Sophie, a courageous widowed single mother struggling to provide for her two sons. Enter William—“Will”—a former sheriff turned bounty hunter on a quest to find meaning in his life and the desire to settle down with a loving family.
From the moment they meet, the chemistry is electric, leading to a beautiful marriage. But just when happiness seems within reach, life throws them a series of unexpected challenges. This is where the real excitement begins! With an abundance of action and suspense, the plot is filled with twists that will keep you guessing until the very end.
If you crave adventure, drama, and emotional depth in a story, ***A Sheriff for Sophie*** is the perfect book for you. It will keep you turning the pages late into the night, and you'll find yourself fully invested in the characters’ journey. Be sure to have a tissue box nearby—you’ll need it for those tender moments. And if you're prone to snacking when the tension rises, grab some treats to enjoy as you dive into this thrilling ride!
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey. I highly recommend picking up this book today—you won’t regret it!
October 31, 2023
This is a sweet and heart warming action packed story. This is Sophie and Will's story, and the character development is outstanding. Sophie is a widow with two rambunctious boys, and Will is a past sheriff who has become a bounty hunter. Sophie realizing she needs a role model for her boys advertises to become a MOB. Will who is at somewhat loose ends decides if his life is ever to become settled and more normal he needs a wife and needs to mend his relationship with God. The couple marry and life becomes very interesting for all of them and then Will disappears. Will Sophie discover what happened to Will? Will Sophie, the daughter of a famous outlaw, and Will find their HEA? Will Sophie's boys accept Will as their father? Be sure and read this great story to find out; I know you will enjoy it as much as I did.
May 1, 2024
There was never a dull moment in this story! There was more to consider than two people meeting and marrying due to a need for a mail order papa. Both her past and his past weaved in and out throughout the main plot but were every bit as important.
A few scenes had me not putting the book down at all, but I don't want to spoil it for others. All I can say is that each situation got resolved in a way that makes sense and leaves the reader feeling satisfied.
Sophie and Will are perfect for each other! Their "courtship" was a bit different from other books in this series but fit in well with the plot path the author had us following. I would definitely read more by this author.
A few scenes had me not putting the book down at all, but I don't want to spoil it for others. All I can say is that each situation got resolved in a way that makes sense and leaves the reader feeling satisfied.
Sophie and Will are perfect for each other! Their "courtship" was a bit different from other books in this series but fit in well with the plot path the author had us following. I would definitely read more by this author.
October 16, 2023
From sheriff to bounty hunter, William Gentry becomes unhappy with the course his life is taking. He realizes he needs to regroup and return to God and family while seeking his true purpose in life. This will involve marriage to a young widow, Sophia Collins, and becoming pa to her two boys. Mrs. Collins is the daughter of a much wanted outlaw. The twist and turns this fact adds to the marriage of William and Sophia will keep you turning pages. Great read!
October 25, 2023
Will is a man living with guilt. No one blames him for the accident that harmed a woman in the town he was sheriff of, but he blamed himself. He quit his job and roamed around from town to town as a bounty hunter for a year. He saw an ad for a husband and realized he needed to change if he was ever going to live a normal life with a family. Sophie needs a husband to help raise her boys and run her business. A clean, Christian, romance with plenty of action.
September 24, 2024
Will, Sophie, Gabe and Calvin
This is a sweet tale of a widow with two sons. She is lonely and wanting love and a father for her boys. Will was a sheriff and is suffering from an arrest gone wrong. He resigns bing sheriff thinking to get his life back together. He reads an advertisement for a groom. Romance not required only help her with her life. You will enjoy discovering how they find their happily ever after.
This is a sweet tale of a widow with two sons. She is lonely and wanting love and a father for her boys. Will was a sheriff and is suffering from an arrest gone wrong. He resigns bing sheriff thinking to get his life back together. He reads an advertisement for a groom. Romance not required only help her with her life. You will enjoy discovering how they find their happily ever after.
October 17, 2023
This was a “don’t put me down” book from start to finish! From the beautiful, successful Sophie to her two mischievous boys, to the handsome sheriff turned bounty hunter, this story is full of surprises, second chances, learning to rely on the Father’s leading and so much more! This author’s natural ability to peak the reader’s interest is truly a divine gift!
October 21, 2023
A SHERIFF FOR SOPHIE -- This is a story about daughter of a western gang leader and 2 former sheriffs, one a former bounty hunter and her 2 sons. Unbelievable that the mail order marriage agency would match them. Will their marriage survive nosy relatives, accidents and arrests?
I enjoyed this clean book of historical fiction.
I enjoyed this clean book of historical fiction.
October 23, 2023
My review of the book A Sheriff for Sophie - Lynne Lanning.
Rating: 5, excellent.
This book will keep you turning the pages. Sophie and Will are awesome characters. There is plenty of suspense and action for those who like that in their stories. I definitely recommend this book.
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Rating: 5, excellent.
This book will keep you turning the pages. Sophie and Will are awesome characters. There is plenty of suspense and action for those who like that in their stories. I definitely recommend this book.
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September 30, 2024
If you like page turning, historical fiction, you will enjoy A Sheriff for Sophie.
This sweet romance is full of twists and turns from page one! Sophie is a widowed mother and business owner with her hands full, and Will is a young, upstanding man who wants to walk in God's purpose for his life.
Their story is full of joy, suspense, and love. I highly recommend this adventure!
This sweet romance is full of twists and turns from page one! Sophie is a widowed mother and business owner with her hands full, and Will is a young, upstanding man who wants to walk in God's purpose for his life.
Their story is full of joy, suspense, and love. I highly recommend this adventure!
October 16, 2023
This was a quick fluff of a western style clean romance! It didn’t have a lot of meaningful content, but it was perfect for a little story to relax and read the whole thing in one sitting. It contains a bit of amnesia and a happy ever after.
October 16, 2023
I loved this book! The storyline was unique and the characters were great! My only complaint is it wasn’t near long enough for me. I would have loved more time with this family! It is sweet and has a happily ever after. I consider this a 4.5 stars book but only because of the length.
October 27, 2023
A Sheriff for Sophie is a clean western romance that was a perfect little book to read and relax too. This was a page turner till the beginning to the end and one that I would recommend to any reader. Thank you to the author for this book in exchange of my honest review.
November 5, 2023
This is a wonderful example of how trusting God can bring us the desires of our heart. He knows what we need and will give us more than we ask for if only we trust in Him.
Another book that you just can't put down by Lynne Lanning.
Another book that you just can't put down by Lynne Lanning.
November 6, 2023
Wowzie!
This was a nail biter! It kept my attention throughout the entire book. It has been a long time since I've read a story that I couldn't put down. Now I need to go fix a late supper.
This was a nail biter! It kept my attention throughout the entire book. It has been a long time since I've read a story that I couldn't put down. Now I need to go fix a late supper.
January 5, 2024
Pulls your heartstrings
I really enjoyed this book. Couldn’t put it down! Didn’t want it to end! Should consider an extended version so we can find out more about baby and the grandparents visit.
I really enjoyed this book. Couldn’t put it down! Didn’t want it to end! Should consider an extended version so we can find out more about baby and the grandparents visit.
January 31, 2024
So so so good
I enjoyed everything in this storyline. All kinds of excitement. Sophia and the Sheriff were made for each other. I can not imagine this much hate in a family. Then so much joy and faith.
I enjoyed everything in this storyline. All kinds of excitement. Sophia and the Sheriff were made for each other. I can not imagine this much hate in a family. Then so much joy and faith.
March 25, 2024
Very Enjoyable Story!
This is such a sweet, touching story. I really liked the storyline, as well as the characters!
I recommend this book to everyone who loves "second chance" happy endings.
This is such a sweet, touching story. I really liked the storyline, as well as the characters!
I recommend this book to everyone who loves "second chance" happy endings.
December 11, 2023
An exciting Western with lots of twists and turns in the plot!
January 15, 2024
Book mail
Enjoyed the well written story.
Enjoyed the well written story.
February 6, 2024
great book
This was a great book. I love this author. I highly recommend this book and author. I can’t wait to read the next book by this wonderful author.
This was a great book. I love this author. I highly recommend this book and author. I can’t wait to read the next book by this wonderful author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews