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Fort Gibson Officers #1
The Officer and the Bostoner
Allison Pierson is a well-to-do young lady traveling by stagecoach from her home in Boston to meet her intended in Santa Fe, but instead finds herself stranded in a military fort in the middle of Indian Territory when her stagecoach leaves without her.
Given the choice to either temporarily marry an officer until her intended can come rescue her or take her chances with the Indians, she marries the glib Captain Wes Tucker, who unbeknownst to her, grew up in a wealthy Charleston family and despises everything she represents.
But when it's time for her beau to reclaim her and for Allison and Wes to annul their marriage, will she want to go with him, and more importantly, will Wes let her?
This is the first in a series of three Historical Westerns set in Indian Territory (modern day Oklahoma) in the mid 1840s.
Given the choice to either temporarily marry an officer until her intended can come rescue her or take her chances with the Indians, she marries the glib Captain Wes Tucker, who unbeknownst to her, grew up in a wealthy Charleston family and despises everything she represents.
But when it's time for her beau to reclaim her and for Allison and Wes to annul their marriage, will she want to go with him, and more importantly, will Wes let her?
This is the first in a series of three Historical Westerns set in Indian Territory (modern day Oklahoma) in the mid 1840s.
247 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 14, 2013
107 people are currently reading
973 people want to read
About the author
Rose Gordon
48 books473 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author and writer of eight unusually unusual historical romances that have been known to include scarred heroes, feisty heroines, marriage-producing scandals, far too much scheming, naughty literature and always a sweet happily-ever-after.
When not escaping to another world via reading or writing a book, she spends her time chasing two young boys around the house, being hunted by wild animals, or sitting on the swing in the backyard where she has to use her arms as shields to deflect projectiles AKA: balls, water balloons, sticks, pinecones, and anything else one of them picks up to hurl at his brother who just happens to be hiding behind her.
When not escaping to another world via reading or writing a book, she spends her time chasing two young boys around the house, being hunted by wild animals, or sitting on the swing in the backyard where she has to use her arms as shields to deflect projectiles AKA: balls, water balloons, sticks, pinecones, and anything else one of them picks up to hurl at his brother who just happens to be hiding behind her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
August 22, 2016
++Spoilers++
Pretty good overall but could have been much better.
Here are my observations:
I had some problems with some of the logic at first, but the author did resolve it in a round about way eventually.
The hero's southern accent disappears not long after the first few chapters, going from a drawl to an almost aritocratic tone which was odd.
The heroine's personality changes way to fast to be believable. She goes from haughty socialite to kind and sweet a bit abruptly.
I liked the heroine through much of the book until near the end where she becomes TSTL. How can one NOT look at the betrothel contract?!!! If one is so desperate to get out of a bethrothel, you would think that is the FIRST thing to scrutinize!
On the whole, I did enjoy it. It was different. The story takes place in a Fort, and I liked the atmosphere the author created it was unique and interesting.
The pace was steady, but slow in parts. I did not skim. The characters were likable but a little underdeveloped...not quite 3 dimensional.
Safety:
H & h both virgins
Cheating-No
OM/OW-No
Adultery-No
Rape/Abuse-No
Violence-one scene where they discover a slaughter of people where the bodies condition are described.
Cursing-No
Sex- 1.5 times detailed - spicy nothing crazy
HEA/ILY's - Yes
Marriage-Yes
Baby-No
Pretty good overall but could have been much better.
Here are my observations:
I had some problems with some of the logic at first, but the author did resolve it in a round about way eventually.
The hero's southern accent disappears not long after the first few chapters, going from a drawl to an almost aritocratic tone which was odd.
The heroine's personality changes way to fast to be believable. She goes from haughty socialite to kind and sweet a bit abruptly.
I liked the heroine through much of the book until near the end where she becomes TSTL. How can one NOT look at the betrothel contract?!!! If one is so desperate to get out of a bethrothel, you would think that is the FIRST thing to scrutinize!
On the whole, I did enjoy it. It was different. The story takes place in a Fort, and I liked the atmosphere the author created it was unique and interesting.
The pace was steady, but slow in parts. I did not skim. The characters were likable but a little underdeveloped...not quite 3 dimensional.
Safety:
H & h both virgins
Cheating-No
OM/OW-No
Adultery-No
Rape/Abuse-No
Violence-one scene where they discover a slaughter of people where the bodies condition are described.
Cursing-No
Sex- 1.5 times detailed - spicy nothing crazy
HEA/ILY's - Yes
Marriage-Yes
Baby-No
July 8, 2017
Spoilers ahead:
Miscommunication and TSTL galore. Heroine is betrothed to someone else and is on the way to meet him but briefly leaves her seat and the coach departs without her. The next one is in two months so she's essentially stranded at an army base till that time.
1.Hero gives her the choice of staying with the married ladies on the base or become his wife for "protection". I don't get it. Protection from what? Like, is the author implying that she is going to get assaulted? Are other stationed officers and privates in the base so messed up that they'd lose their shit and attack her? That doesn't set a good precedent for the rest of the story.
2. Heroine makes repeatedly dumb decisions. Instead of staying with the married ladies she decides to up and marry a complete stranger because REASONS. Also, she's rich and not used to doing housework. Instead of admitting it like a sane person and improving her skills, she just refuses help and continues to make mistakes.
3.I couldn't get into the rest of the story because it felt like cheating. Heroine is engaged to marry someone else but starts getting chummy with the Hero.
4. Hero knows from the very beginning that she's planning to leave and marry someone else. They're about to have sex and he calls her a whore for still sticking to her original plan to go anyway. He knew she would leave. He even initially acknowledged that theirs was a sham marriage. What's the point of calling her names now? It's not like she suddenly sprang this on you. Didn't even apologise for it.
5.Heroine is being blackmailed into marriage to settle some debt but doesn't do the normal, rational thing and tell the hero. She stupidly drags it out further. This goes with all other misunderstandings as well. She simply creates stuff in her head (hero doesn't love her, is only tolerating her etc,) even with clear evidence of the contrary.
6. This ties in with 5. The reason she didn't tell him is because she thinks hero is poor and can't pay her debt. The hero is actually rich but has massive trust issues and lies throughout the book about his money. I mean, I understand that fear of someone being with you only for your wealth but at some point you have to decide whether or not you trust your spouse enough to spill the beans. This doesn't happen until the last 95% of the book.
Meh. I read this because I really liked her other book His Contract Bride but this is not as good as that one.
Miscommunication and TSTL galore. Heroine is betrothed to someone else and is on the way to meet him but briefly leaves her seat and the coach departs without her. The next one is in two months so she's essentially stranded at an army base till that time.
1.Hero gives her the choice of staying with the married ladies on the base or become his wife for "protection". I don't get it. Protection from what? Like, is the author implying that she is going to get assaulted? Are other stationed officers and privates in the base so messed up that they'd lose their shit and attack her? That doesn't set a good precedent for the rest of the story.
2. Heroine makes repeatedly dumb decisions. Instead of staying with the married ladies she decides to up and marry a complete stranger because REASONS. Also, she's rich and not used to doing housework. Instead of admitting it like a sane person and improving her skills, she just refuses help and continues to make mistakes.
3.I couldn't get into the rest of the story because it felt like cheating. Heroine is engaged to marry someone else but starts getting chummy with the Hero.
4. Hero knows from the very beginning that she's planning to leave and marry someone else. They're about to have sex and he calls her a whore for still sticking to her original plan to go anyway. He knew she would leave. He even initially acknowledged that theirs was a sham marriage. What's the point of calling her names now? It's not like she suddenly sprang this on you. Didn't even apologise for it.
5.Heroine is being blackmailed into marriage to settle some debt but doesn't do the normal, rational thing and tell the hero. She stupidly drags it out further. This goes with all other misunderstandings as well. She simply creates stuff in her head (hero doesn't love her, is only tolerating her etc,) even with clear evidence of the contrary.
6. This ties in with 5. The reason she didn't tell him is because she thinks hero is poor and can't pay her debt. The hero is actually rich but has massive trust issues and lies throughout the book about his money. I mean, I understand that fear of someone being with you only for your wealth but at some point you have to decide whether or not you trust your spouse enough to spill the beans. This doesn't happen until the last 95% of the book.
Meh. I read this because I really liked her other book His Contract Bride but this is not as good as that one.
August 15, 2013
The Officer and the Bostoner by Rose Gordon is a June 2013 release by Night Shift publishing.
I received a DRC of this book by the author via Netgalley for an honest review.
Allison is traveling by coach to meet her fiancé, Nicholas. The driver gets lost and they wind up in a community made up of Army personnel. Making a brief stop, Allison gets off the coach and winds up being left behind by accident.
Due to the fact that all the women in town were married and the rest of the population were single men, it wasn't too safe for someone in Allison's position to be on her own. Meeting up with Army officer, Wes, she is stunned by his explanation and his offer to marry her for her own protection. He promises she can have the marriage annulled when her intended comes to get her.
So, Allison and Wes are married. They go about pretending the marriage is legitimate. But, Wes recognizes Allison's breeding. She is obviously from money and culture and he presumes balls and frivolous social gatherings and high society position is the only important things in the world to Allison.
But, while they are waiting for Nicolas to arrive, Wes begins to gain a certain respect for Allison. Allison also realizes she is falling in love with Wes. So, why don't they just explain to Nicholas when he arrives that they wish to stay married?
Allison doesn't know the first thing about cooking, sewing, and doing things the other wives do for their husbands. She feels like she would not make a good wife for someone like Wes. There are also a few complications regarding her marriage contract with Nicholas. So, despite her feelings for Wes, Allison insist on going through with her marriage to Nicholas.
Wes naturally misunderstands why she won't stay with him. He presumes she has chosen money and position over him, making him feel as though she thinks of him as second class.
What Allison doesn't know is that Wes could provide Allison with the class position and the wealth he believes is her priority. But, he believes she can not accept him without those things.
When Nicholas arrives though, things really get sticky.
I discovered Rose Gordon through an Amazon promotion a little while back and was really impressed with her writing style.
I was really glad to see a Historical Romance set in the United States. Those seem to be few and far between these days.
Allison is completely out of her element here, but gives it the old college try. Her attempts to sew her own clothes were hilarious. Sounds like my sewing.
Wes, had a wonderful sense of humor and I loved his determination to be his own man despite his family's wealth.
Both Wes and Allison have to adjust their attitudes a little to make the relationship work. Allison's innocence in regards to business affairs that left her at the mercy of men was an accurate portrayal of how things were done in the past, in many instances. Infuriating, but true.
Life with Wes would most certainly be a learning experience for Allison, and a much richer life than she ever would have had with Nicholas.
A very enjoyable read. This one gets an A.
I received a DRC of this book by the author via Netgalley for an honest review.
Allison is traveling by coach to meet her fiancé, Nicholas. The driver gets lost and they wind up in a community made up of Army personnel. Making a brief stop, Allison gets off the coach and winds up being left behind by accident.
Due to the fact that all the women in town were married and the rest of the population were single men, it wasn't too safe for someone in Allison's position to be on her own. Meeting up with Army officer, Wes, she is stunned by his explanation and his offer to marry her for her own protection. He promises she can have the marriage annulled when her intended comes to get her.
So, Allison and Wes are married. They go about pretending the marriage is legitimate. But, Wes recognizes Allison's breeding. She is obviously from money and culture and he presumes balls and frivolous social gatherings and high society position is the only important things in the world to Allison.
But, while they are waiting for Nicolas to arrive, Wes begins to gain a certain respect for Allison. Allison also realizes she is falling in love with Wes. So, why don't they just explain to Nicholas when he arrives that they wish to stay married?
Allison doesn't know the first thing about cooking, sewing, and doing things the other wives do for their husbands. She feels like she would not make a good wife for someone like Wes. There are also a few complications regarding her marriage contract with Nicholas. So, despite her feelings for Wes, Allison insist on going through with her marriage to Nicholas.
Wes naturally misunderstands why she won't stay with him. He presumes she has chosen money and position over him, making him feel as though she thinks of him as second class.
What Allison doesn't know is that Wes could provide Allison with the class position and the wealth he believes is her priority. But, he believes she can not accept him without those things.
When Nicholas arrives though, things really get sticky.
I discovered Rose Gordon through an Amazon promotion a little while back and was really impressed with her writing style.
I was really glad to see a Historical Romance set in the United States. Those seem to be few and far between these days.
Allison is completely out of her element here, but gives it the old college try. Her attempts to sew her own clothes were hilarious. Sounds like my sewing.
Wes, had a wonderful sense of humor and I loved his determination to be his own man despite his family's wealth.
Both Wes and Allison have to adjust their attitudes a little to make the relationship work. Allison's innocence in regards to business affairs that left her at the mercy of men was an accurate portrayal of how things were done in the past, in many instances. Infuriating, but true.
Life with Wes would most certainly be a learning experience for Allison, and a much richer life than she ever would have had with Nicholas.
A very enjoyable read. This one gets an A.
June 21, 2015
This book is a lot shorter than what I usually read. On my Kindle it says 187 pages. But I think it is an ok length for the story, since the story has a straight forward plotline and few complications.
The story is rather charming, featuring a sweet hero and a slighly uppity heroine. Wes the hero is very much a gentleman with imppecable manners, considering the circumstances. It is impossible not to like him. He is kind, generous, considerate, smart, strong, protective, and oh, secretly rich. In a nutshell: he does not exist. I mean.......maybe I am too cynical, I wish with all my poor jaded heart that there are men like this, but I honestly doubt it. Did I mention that ??
OK sorry for that spoiler. I don't think it matters much. This is not exactly a book that is full of suspense.
Allison was supposed to come from a well to do family. I say "supposed" because there is no information on her family background, which is ok. I also do not want to spend time reading about her fancy life in Boston, which has nothing to do with the main story. The readers are supposed to glean that piece of information from the descriptions themselves and I did that. She did appear a bit spoiled in the beginning and did not treat Wes too well. But Allison quickly amended her mistakes when she realized that Wes was actually trying to help her. So no stupid ego struggles, the world heaved a collective sigh.
The romance is a very light-hearted one, typical of a princess being thrown into the hardships of army life. Expect cliches: not be able to cook, sew, or even make coffee. And the wonderful Wes was there to buy just everything she needed, how considerate.
The book has a weak villain, Allison's betrothed, who came into the story late. This was after Wes and Allison have had their "almost sex" and were fighting about why Allison could not stay married to Wes and turn their fake marriage into a real one. They both proclaimed love, which was sweet and all. I cannot help but feel that it was rushed.
Ms. Gordon writes a little funny sometimes. I have had to re-read a few paragraphs and sentences to figure out who said exactly what when. It became a little confusing sometimes and I wanted to say to Ms. Gordon: perhaps it would be wise to re-read what you just wrote and see whether that made sense? It sure as hell did not make sense to me.
I do think it is a sweet and charming story. Wes definitely outshines Allison because he is so perfect. The romance is sweet. The plotline is reasonable. I cannot give it more than 3 stars because I feel this is one of those books written for people who are more comfortable when love and relationship are about saying "i love you". And as long as we love each other things must be alright. There is nothing wrong with it. I however, look for more fundemental quests for love. Love brings happiness and desperation. It is beautiful and ugly. A good romance story for me, would be one that explores love from both extremes. It makes you smile, makes you cry, makes you long for something you cannot have and makes you abandon the one thing that you want most to survive. This book by Rose Gordon has all the fluff but not the substance, by my standard. While I do grin like an idiot reading about how wonderful Wes is, at the end of the book I am left with an emptiness that I cannot define.
For whom it may concern: the intimate scenes came at the end of the book, which I completely skipped after reading half a page. I thought it was rather unnecessary to add sex. My impression was that Ms. Gordon wanted to have sex in the book, which is rather redundant. Sex scenes are not a must for romance stories. If they do not serve the function to build up the story, why have them at all? Just my 2 cents. lol
The story is rather charming, featuring a sweet hero and a slighly uppity heroine. Wes the hero is very much a gentleman with imppecable manners, considering the circumstances. It is impossible not to like him. He is kind, generous, considerate, smart, strong, protective, and oh, secretly rich. In a nutshell: he does not exist. I mean.......maybe I am too cynical, I wish with all my poor jaded heart that there are men like this, but I honestly doubt it. Did I mention that ??
OK sorry for that spoiler. I don't think it matters much. This is not exactly a book that is full of suspense.
Allison was supposed to come from a well to do family. I say "supposed" because there is no information on her family background, which is ok. I also do not want to spend time reading about her fancy life in Boston, which has nothing to do with the main story. The readers are supposed to glean that piece of information from the descriptions themselves and I did that. She did appear a bit spoiled in the beginning and did not treat Wes too well. But Allison quickly amended her mistakes when she realized that Wes was actually trying to help her. So no stupid ego struggles, the world heaved a collective sigh.
The romance is a very light-hearted one, typical of a princess being thrown into the hardships of army life. Expect cliches: not be able to cook, sew, or even make coffee. And the wonderful Wes was there to buy just everything she needed, how considerate.
The book has a weak villain, Allison's betrothed, who came into the story late. This was after Wes and Allison have had their "almost sex" and were fighting about why Allison could not stay married to Wes and turn their fake marriage into a real one. They both proclaimed love, which was sweet and all. I cannot help but feel that it was rushed.
Ms. Gordon writes a little funny sometimes. I have had to re-read a few paragraphs and sentences to figure out who said exactly what when. It became a little confusing sometimes and I wanted to say to Ms. Gordon: perhaps it would be wise to re-read what you just wrote and see whether that made sense? It sure as hell did not make sense to me.
I do think it is a sweet and charming story. Wes definitely outshines Allison because he is so perfect. The romance is sweet. The plotline is reasonable. I cannot give it more than 3 stars because I feel this is one of those books written for people who are more comfortable when love and relationship are about saying "i love you". And as long as we love each other things must be alright. There is nothing wrong with it. I however, look for more fundemental quests for love. Love brings happiness and desperation. It is beautiful and ugly. A good romance story for me, would be one that explores love from both extremes. It makes you smile, makes you cry, makes you long for something you cannot have and makes you abandon the one thing that you want most to survive. This book by Rose Gordon has all the fluff but not the substance, by my standard. While I do grin like an idiot reading about how wonderful Wes is, at the end of the book I am left with an emptiness that I cannot define.
For whom it may concern: the intimate scenes came at the end of the book, which I completely skipped after reading half a page. I thought it was rather unnecessary to add sex. My impression was that Ms. Gordon wanted to have sex in the book, which is rather redundant. Sex scenes are not a must for romance stories. If they do not serve the function to build up the story, why have them at all? Just my 2 cents. lol
July 26, 2014
(Original post on Doing Some Readingt)
I’ll just start off with how much I enjoyed this awesome read! I don’t often read western romance or romance set during the American revolution so I was highly surprise at how much I liked this story. But of course I would! I’ve enjoyed Rose Gordon’s works before and this was no different. Sure it was different from her other books-not set in England and their word and speech terms were different- but everything was still as romantic and entertaining as her last series. ~Ah the Bank Brothers~
Anyways, I really loved this book! I was hooked on it and fascinated by it in the first couple of pages and even more invested when we met the hero! Wes was a very likeable, and I mean like, a lot~, piece of a man! He has humor and the sarcastic teasing jest personality, the hot sexy strong broad shoulders and protective type written all over him. Mmmmmm~ Did I mention he’s an Officer in the American Army? And a Captain! Stationed in hot sweaty Texas, all hot sweaty and tan all over! He sounds and looks good on horse back too! He has a mysterious past and secrets that might help or break him. And He’s willing to give you his name to protect you – from Indians, other soldiers, and even his friends- at all cost! So, what will it be?
Although at first I was struck at how crazy the heroine acted, it was understandable and tolerable to why she acted the way she did at her first arrival. Heroine, Allison is vulnerable and has lost a lot in her days but being stuck in the middle of nowhere was something uncalled for. She’s from the big city of Boston and have never lived close to being a beggar in her life! So it was quite surprising she could move pass it and live on a Fort! Well, she had no other choice anyways. She’s promised to be married to another man, waiting for her at the end of her supposed trip, but then ended up married to the sexy Officer who’s willing to give his name to protect her virtue. She’s attracted to the offending man and at every turn he makes her heart skip a beat, but she has to stay calm if her intended were to come for her, or risk losing it all.
I like that Allison’s a determined and strong willed young lady and very adaptable to her new surroundings. Although she did bicker at the beginning about her surrounding she didn’t complain much about the life style afterwards. I loved watching her grow from a vulnerable proper young lady into a strong independent woman comfortable in her skin. There were times in the story that I disliked her because things would have been understood better if she’d just said something! But then it made for very enjoyable moments in the story yet other times brought on “eye-rolls and head-shaking” moments.
The same thing could be said for Wes too on not saying something during a particular moment but then quite understandable from his position. and made for funny inter actions and eye widening smiles. I liked that he was fairly straight forward in what he wanted to say and was persistent in keeping Allison comfortable even though he, himself wasn’t sure about it. I TOTALLY Love Wes! Everything about him I adore~ Every little thing he said to Allison down to the things he did for her was sweet, romantic, and very thoughtful. He is what I would call me a perfect hero~ Or Husband!
There was the fact that I didn’t quite enjoy the ending as I would have liked due to some factors but I’ll just move away from that. I thought some things weren’t needed in the book and could have been omitted or left out. While other things could have been presented in a different manor and time, but I’m not the writer so it’s not my place to say but just my opinion. Minor grammar and spelling problems so yeah.
All in all I very much enjoyed this book and do hope you readers try it out and adore it too. This was a funny, entertaining, sarcastic bickering filled with with-held sexual tensions and sweet intentions to woo your wife into staying kind of read. This will make you smile from ear to ear at every scene between the couple and their secret ogling at each other down to conversations with Wes’ friends. You will have a blast!
This eARC was provided by the Author through NetGallery.
I’ll just start off with how much I enjoyed this awesome read! I don’t often read western romance or romance set during the American revolution so I was highly surprise at how much I liked this story. But of course I would! I’ve enjoyed Rose Gordon’s works before and this was no different. Sure it was different from her other books-not set in England and their word and speech terms were different- but everything was still as romantic and entertaining as her last series. ~Ah the Bank Brothers~
Anyways, I really loved this book! I was hooked on it and fascinated by it in the first couple of pages and even more invested when we met the hero! Wes was a very likeable, and I mean like, a lot~, piece of a man! He has humor and the sarcastic teasing jest personality, the hot sexy strong broad shoulders and protective type written all over him. Mmmmmm~ Did I mention he’s an Officer in the American Army? And a Captain! Stationed in hot sweaty Texas, all hot sweaty and tan all over! He sounds and looks good on horse back too! He has a mysterious past and secrets that might help or break him. And He’s willing to give you his name to protect you – from Indians, other soldiers, and even his friends- at all cost! So, what will it be?
Although at first I was struck at how crazy the heroine acted, it was understandable and tolerable to why she acted the way she did at her first arrival. Heroine, Allison is vulnerable and has lost a lot in her days but being stuck in the middle of nowhere was something uncalled for. She’s from the big city of Boston and have never lived close to being a beggar in her life! So it was quite surprising she could move pass it and live on a Fort! Well, she had no other choice anyways. She’s promised to be married to another man, waiting for her at the end of her supposed trip, but then ended up married to the sexy Officer who’s willing to give his name to protect her virtue. She’s attracted to the offending man and at every turn he makes her heart skip a beat, but she has to stay calm if her intended were to come for her, or risk losing it all.
I like that Allison’s a determined and strong willed young lady and very adaptable to her new surroundings. Although she did bicker at the beginning about her surrounding she didn’t complain much about the life style afterwards. I loved watching her grow from a vulnerable proper young lady into a strong independent woman comfortable in her skin. There were times in the story that I disliked her because things would have been understood better if she’d just said something! But then it made for very enjoyable moments in the story yet other times brought on “eye-rolls and head-shaking” moments.
The same thing could be said for Wes too on not saying something during a particular moment but then quite understandable from his position. and made for funny inter actions and eye widening smiles. I liked that he was fairly straight forward in what he wanted to say and was persistent in keeping Allison comfortable even though he, himself wasn’t sure about it. I TOTALLY Love Wes! Everything about him I adore~ Every little thing he said to Allison down to the things he did for her was sweet, romantic, and very thoughtful. He is what I would call me a perfect hero~ Or Husband!
There was the fact that I didn’t quite enjoy the ending as I would have liked due to some factors but I’ll just move away from that. I thought some things weren’t needed in the book and could have been omitted or left out. While other things could have been presented in a different manor and time, but I’m not the writer so it’s not my place to say but just my opinion. Minor grammar and spelling problems so yeah.
All in all I very much enjoyed this book and do hope you readers try it out and adore it too. This was a funny, entertaining, sarcastic bickering filled with with-held sexual tensions and sweet intentions to woo your wife into staying kind of read. This will make you smile from ear to ear at every scene between the couple and their secret ogling at each other down to conversations with Wes’ friends. You will have a blast!
This eARC was provided by the Author through NetGallery.
March 28, 2014
3 STARS - I LIKED IT
This was an easy, cute, historical romance. The story is set in 1840's rural America at an Army Fort smack in the middle of Indian territory. The basic premise of the story is that a young lady, Allison, is taking a stage coach to Santa Fe to meet up with her betrothed. The coach gets lost and ends up at this Army Fort. Allison exits the coach to look for a store to buy peppermints for her stomach and gets left behind. Since this is an army fort and there are only 2 women in the entire place in addition to herself, it's not really a safe place for an un-married lady, plus it's not like there is a hotel or something like that for her to stay at... just men in barracks. So enters Captain Tucker who sees her situation and makes an agreement with her, he will marry her, not touch her sexually, and will annul the marriage when her betrothed arrives for her. He does this with the intention of keeping her safe. And there begins the story.
This story was simple and an easy read but I was also very surprised that the writing was as good as it was. That sounds bad, right? I got this book for free through Book Bub and felt like reading a historical romance. I guess I figured the writing would be sub-par but I am happy to report that wasn't the case. The book wasn't riddled with grammatical errors and there was a complete story. Again, the story wasn't a complex one... it was simple but for the type of story it was it was well written. I enjoyed the book and will consider reading this author again when in the mood for historical romance. For those who need to know, there are two main love/sex scenes that happen in the last 1/3 of the book and I felt they were well done. The scenes were detailed but not overly graphic/crude. There wasn't profanity but there were breasts, shafts, moaning, groaning, licking, etc. I know stuff like that can help someone decide whether or not they want to read the book.
So if you're in the mood for an American historical romance that is also a cute, quick read, this might be the book for you.
July 23, 2013
THE OFFICER AND THE BOSTONER by Rose Gordon is an fast paced Western Historical Romance set in 1845 Texas. #1 in the "Officer" series. What a beginning! Filled with passion,misunderstandings,secrets, and love. Join Allison Pierson,a well to do Bostoner,caught stranded in a military fort in Indian Territory and Captain Wes Tucker, a Military man from a wealthy Charleston family. Wes insists she must marry in order to stay in the fort,she accepts his proposal to marry him until her true intended comes to rescue her. What follows is a bit of humor and lots of passion. Allison soon learns she is in love with Wes and he with her. But enter her intended,who is only after her money. She will do anything to keep Wes safe and protected from her intended's stronghold. Wes, is wealthy in his own right,but Allison does not know this. If the Indians don't kill them Allison's food just might. For she knows nothing of housekeeping,she was raised as a socialite,enter the fun and laughter. Another hit for Ms. Gordon! She is an awesome storyteller who carries off her plots without a hitch. Her characters are engaging as well as realistic for the era.She has vivid descriptions that make the reader feel they are actually there. An intriguing story with a few twists and turns. Loved it!! If you enjoy historical romance, humor,Western love than "The Officer and the Bostoner" is the one for you to read. You will not regret your choice. Received for an honest review from the author and Net Galley.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, Review courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, Review courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
July 3, 2013
I received a review copy through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Historical romance is probably my most favorite genre. Toss in the Old West and you have a fan for LIFE.
Especially if your name is Rose Gordon.
Allison is on her way to meet her fiance, Nicholas. In need of peppermint to soothe her ailing stomach, she ends up stuck at the fort while the stagecoach carrying all of her belongings, and her temperamental chaperone, heads on to Santa Fe without her.
Allison is feisty, and quite stubborn. Though she may seem unlikable at first, I grew to love her within a short time. Though she led a pampered life, she doesn't seem to mind work if only to prove her husband wrong.
Wes! Oh I fell in love with him immediately. He's gorgeous, warm, loving, compassionate, and clueless at times. Absolutely, adorably, clueless. Even though he has sworn off all things money related, he is the epitome of hero when he offers his last name to Allison until her fiance arrives to rescue her.
If there is one complaint I have, it's that I wish the other two books in this series were available for me to devour as I want to know what happens to Jack and Gray. Especially Gray. He may just be my second favorite character.
As always with Ms. Gordon's books, I got lost in the time period and wished fervently for a dress from the Old West. And for a man who knows that leaving a single woman in the middle of Army territory isn't a good idea.
He is such a hero...
Historical romance is probably my most favorite genre. Toss in the Old West and you have a fan for LIFE.
Especially if your name is Rose Gordon.
Allison is on her way to meet her fiance, Nicholas. In need of peppermint to soothe her ailing stomach, she ends up stuck at the fort while the stagecoach carrying all of her belongings, and her temperamental chaperone, heads on to Santa Fe without her.
Allison is feisty, and quite stubborn. Though she may seem unlikable at first, I grew to love her within a short time. Though she led a pampered life, she doesn't seem to mind work if only to prove her husband wrong.
Wes! Oh I fell in love with him immediately. He's gorgeous, warm, loving, compassionate, and clueless at times. Absolutely, adorably, clueless. Even though he has sworn off all things money related, he is the epitome of hero when he offers his last name to Allison until her fiance arrives to rescue her.
If there is one complaint I have, it's that I wish the other two books in this series were available for me to devour as I want to know what happens to Jack and Gray. Especially Gray. He may just be my second favorite character.
As always with Ms. Gordon's books, I got lost in the time period and wished fervently for a dress from the Old West. And for a man who knows that leaving a single woman in the middle of Army territory isn't a good idea.
He is such a hero...
September 1, 2016
This novel had likeable characters and was somewhat enjoyable but I really couldn't get into it. The whole basis for their marriage in name only bit was handled so weakly and poorly that it was the embodiment of the phrase "hokey and contrived" and gave the story a faulty start right from the get-go, so that there was little that could be done thereafter to salvage the plot from deterioration. Allison's taking her evil fiance's word that her stable and prudent father, totally contrary to his character, mysteriously owed the villain a fortune, without seeing any evidence or an IOU that would stand up in court was too dumb for believability and made her into the dreaded "Too Dumb To Live" stereotype that ruins so many romance novels--the supposed street-wise hero's acting just as dumb gave this novel the added demerit of making Wes a Too Dumb To Live hero.
July 12, 2013
What do you do when an auto-buy author decides to switch romance genres for her next series? The immature side of me wants to rant and rave and swear off the new stuff. However the more mature side of me is willing to give the new series a try, especially since she’s never steered me wrong before. So, it was with a little apprehension and a lot of faith that I began reading Rose Gordon’s newest book The Officer and the Bostoner. I am very glad that the mature side of me won out or I would have missed out on another great story.
For the full review, please go to http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2013/0...
For the full review, please go to http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2013/0...
May 13, 2017
I'm a big fan of historical/western romance and this was a pleasant read. I thought Wes was a likable guy, upstanding, noble and kind. I really enjoyed his character and the banter he shared with Allison. Allison's prideful ways frustrated me a bit in the beginning, but she came around towards the end of the story. Wes probably wouldn't have fallen for her if she were a complete pushover. While I liked the book, it wasn't a page turner for me and I found myself putting it down a lot. It was still worth the time I took to read it and I was glad I finished it. I am curious about the other three officers and will return to the series to find out how they fair in their searches for love.
August 25, 2019
4.5 stars rounded up. These two are so cute together. Allison and Wes are meant to be. I was rooting for them so hard.
Allison arrives in town as a pit stop on her way to meet her fiancé. While she's in town (searching for peppermint to settle her stomach) her coach leaves without her! The catalyst! Allison doesn't know what to do or where to go, she doesn't have much money on her and has no idea where she is. Wes sees this occur (Allison getting left behind) and offers to help her. Wes treats her to lunch and helps her discuss things. Turns out that Allison is in a military town. She can either choose a man to marry or have one assigned to her. Yikes. Wes offers to marry her until her fiancé can come and claim her...only after a certain point he doesn't want Allison's fiancé to come for her.
Wes thinks Allison is a pampered debutante. She's not, but he doesn't see it. Her nice clothing and proper manners give him a certain impression. This makes Wes think she is concerned about status and money. Allison tries her best to learn how to make clothing and cook. She's never had to before, but she is willing to learn. She thinks Wes needs a woman who already knows how to survive in harsher circumstances. Ahhh, the boundaries of communication. It takes a long time, but eventually they do communicate. HEA sweetness guaranteed.
Allison arrives in town as a pit stop on her way to meet her fiancé. While she's in town (searching for peppermint to settle her stomach) her coach leaves without her! The catalyst! Allison doesn't know what to do or where to go, she doesn't have much money on her and has no idea where she is. Wes sees this occur (Allison getting left behind) and offers to help her. Wes treats her to lunch and helps her discuss things. Turns out that Allison is in a military town. She can either choose a man to marry or have one assigned to her. Yikes. Wes offers to marry her until her fiancé can come and claim her...only after a certain point he doesn't want Allison's fiancé to come for her.
Wes thinks Allison is a pampered debutante. She's not, but he doesn't see it. Her nice clothing and proper manners give him a certain impression. This makes Wes think she is concerned about status and money. Allison tries her best to learn how to make clothing and cook. She's never had to before, but she is willing to learn. She thinks Wes needs a woman who already knows how to survive in harsher circumstances. Ahhh, the boundaries of communication. It takes a long time, but eventually they do communicate. HEA sweetness guaranteed.
June 29, 2016
What do you do when an auto-buy author decides to switch romance genres for her next series? The immature side of me wants to rant and rave and swear off the new stuff. However the more mature side of me is willing to give the new series a try, especially since she’s never steered me wrong before. So, it was with a little apprehension and a lot of faith that I began reading Rose Gordon’s newest book The Officer and the Bostoner. I am very glad that the mature side of me won out or I would have missed out on another great story.
Some of you might be saying “Sara, a historical is a historical, so why the fuss?” Well, the fuss comes from exactly where your mindset is when you begin the story. I’m so used to English historicals, with all the Lords and ladies traipsing through ballrooms and carriage rides through Hyde Park as a means of courting. There are significant differences in setting, character and tone when the story takes place in the wilds of the American frontier in the 1840’s. With my own interests in American history a wall-paper historical need not apply! I tend to think that American Historicals are a tougher genre for Romance since everyone should have a passing knowledge of our own history and it can take away from the fantasy side of romance stories. We understand how hard it was for settlers to carve a new life for themselves in these untamed lands. We know the tensions that existed between the white settlers and the native peoples who were both trying to secure the future of their peoples in that brave new world. With challenges like those in the background, one wonders how a love match could blossom at all!
But blossom it does between two strangers put together by circumstance at an army fort in the middle of Indian Territory. Miss Allison Pierson doesn’t expect to find herself stranded at Fort Gibson, but when her stagecoach leaves without her there are very few options. Located far from the nearest city and off the well-traveled Santa Fe Trail, it will take weeks for word to reach her fiancé that she is stuck at the fort and even longer for another coach to be traveling the way she needs to go. Fortunately for Allison she is spotted by one of the officers, Captain Wes Tucker, who right away realizes the problem of an unmarried woman being alone at a fort.
In order to protect Allison while she waits for rescue, Wes offers to marry her in name only with the promise of an annulment when her fiancé arrives. Very quickly Allison must acclimate herself to the realities of living so far from civilization as well as being dependent on a stranger for all her basic needs. Things she took for granted back in Boston, like new dresses or well prepared food, all must come from her own labors out on the frontier. For Wes, the idea of a wife from high society runs contrary to all of the things he left behind in Charlotte to join the army. It takes a large amount of patience on both sides of the relationship before the preconceptions they hold start falling away and Wes and Allison begin to get to know one another enough to fall in love. Unfortunately for Allison, her love for Wes comes at the price of knowing that she cannot stay with him once her original betrothed comes to claim his right to her hand. It is a tense undercurrent to their relationship that rears its ugly head just when they both make the choice to fully commit to one another.
I came to find Wes and Allison very charming characters. For all of her city upbringing, Allison doesn’t back down against the hardships of life at the fort. At first it is her pride that pushes her to learn how to sew or how to make a simple cup of coffee, but as time goes on she wants to accomplish these tasks to prove to herself she is capable. She makes friends with the commanding officers’ wives and gets close to Wes’s closest friends, ingratiating herself into what I came to see as the fort family that Wes had adopted as his own. I came to enjoy all these little moments where Allison becomes more comfortable in her own skin. In Wes, even when he tries to act on his prejudices against Allison’s background he still comes across as a nice guy. Initially he lumps Allison in with all of the social-climbing debutants that were thrown at him back in South Carolina and he knows that isn’t the kind of woman for him. It takes time for him to realize that Allison is far from that kind of woman and once his blinders come off he reverts back to the southern gentleman he is. I loved the gestures Wes makes to provide for Allison, even in the earliest days of their marriage when they both believe the arrangement temporary.
Going back to the historical setting, I have to give Ms. Gordon a lot of credit for setting a realistic tone for Fort Gibson, the frontier and the people who inhabit it. Due to the isolation of the fort, one can see why men like Wes, Jack and Gray would be so close and why the C.O. would involve himself in the personal affairs of his men. In the scenes with just the women we get the sense of just how difficult their lives could be when stationed with their husbands so far from any comforts. The story doesn’t shy away from some of the brutal realities for anyone traveling across the country to reach the boomtowns of the west. The book has a slightly grittier feel to it that seems to suit the American experience of the time and I think the author did a good job of giving the reader just enough history without turning the book into a lesson.
While I’m not quite ready to surrender all my regency frippery for coatees and prairie dresses, I enjoyed getting to know the men and women of The Officer and the Bostoner. With one officer now happily married I am eager to see how his influence will change the lives of his best friends in their own search for companionship and love on the Great Plains.
Some of you might be saying “Sara, a historical is a historical, so why the fuss?” Well, the fuss comes from exactly where your mindset is when you begin the story. I’m so used to English historicals, with all the Lords and ladies traipsing through ballrooms and carriage rides through Hyde Park as a means of courting. There are significant differences in setting, character and tone when the story takes place in the wilds of the American frontier in the 1840’s. With my own interests in American history a wall-paper historical need not apply! I tend to think that American Historicals are a tougher genre for Romance since everyone should have a passing knowledge of our own history and it can take away from the fantasy side of romance stories. We understand how hard it was for settlers to carve a new life for themselves in these untamed lands. We know the tensions that existed between the white settlers and the native peoples who were both trying to secure the future of their peoples in that brave new world. With challenges like those in the background, one wonders how a love match could blossom at all!
But blossom it does between two strangers put together by circumstance at an army fort in the middle of Indian Territory. Miss Allison Pierson doesn’t expect to find herself stranded at Fort Gibson, but when her stagecoach leaves without her there are very few options. Located far from the nearest city and off the well-traveled Santa Fe Trail, it will take weeks for word to reach her fiancé that she is stuck at the fort and even longer for another coach to be traveling the way she needs to go. Fortunately for Allison she is spotted by one of the officers, Captain Wes Tucker, who right away realizes the problem of an unmarried woman being alone at a fort.
In order to protect Allison while she waits for rescue, Wes offers to marry her in name only with the promise of an annulment when her fiancé arrives. Very quickly Allison must acclimate herself to the realities of living so far from civilization as well as being dependent on a stranger for all her basic needs. Things she took for granted back in Boston, like new dresses or well prepared food, all must come from her own labors out on the frontier. For Wes, the idea of a wife from high society runs contrary to all of the things he left behind in Charlotte to join the army. It takes a large amount of patience on both sides of the relationship before the preconceptions they hold start falling away and Wes and Allison begin to get to know one another enough to fall in love. Unfortunately for Allison, her love for Wes comes at the price of knowing that she cannot stay with him once her original betrothed comes to claim his right to her hand. It is a tense undercurrent to their relationship that rears its ugly head just when they both make the choice to fully commit to one another.
I came to find Wes and Allison very charming characters. For all of her city upbringing, Allison doesn’t back down against the hardships of life at the fort. At first it is her pride that pushes her to learn how to sew or how to make a simple cup of coffee, but as time goes on she wants to accomplish these tasks to prove to herself she is capable. She makes friends with the commanding officers’ wives and gets close to Wes’s closest friends, ingratiating herself into what I came to see as the fort family that Wes had adopted as his own. I came to enjoy all these little moments where Allison becomes more comfortable in her own skin. In Wes, even when he tries to act on his prejudices against Allison’s background he still comes across as a nice guy. Initially he lumps Allison in with all of the social-climbing debutants that were thrown at him back in South Carolina and he knows that isn’t the kind of woman for him. It takes time for him to realize that Allison is far from that kind of woman and once his blinders come off he reverts back to the southern gentleman he is. I loved the gestures Wes makes to provide for Allison, even in the earliest days of their marriage when they both believe the arrangement temporary.
Going back to the historical setting, I have to give Ms. Gordon a lot of credit for setting a realistic tone for Fort Gibson, the frontier and the people who inhabit it. Due to the isolation of the fort, one can see why men like Wes, Jack and Gray would be so close and why the C.O. would involve himself in the personal affairs of his men. In the scenes with just the women we get the sense of just how difficult their lives could be when stationed with their husbands so far from any comforts. The story doesn’t shy away from some of the brutal realities for anyone traveling across the country to reach the boomtowns of the west. The book has a slightly grittier feel to it that seems to suit the American experience of the time and I think the author did a good job of giving the reader just enough history without turning the book into a lesson.
While I’m not quite ready to surrender all my regency frippery for coatees and prairie dresses, I enjoyed getting to know the men and women of The Officer and the Bostoner. With one officer now happily married I am eager to see how his influence will change the lives of his best friends in their own search for companionship and love on the Great Plains.
July 28, 2018
This is the first book in the Fort Gibson Officers series, and I liked it well enough that I continued and finished the entire series. This was also my first book by Rose Gordon. Wes and Allison worked well together and had believable chemistry, with them both wanting to stay together, knowing that they can't (it's and HEA, obviously they do end up together). The only thing I thought was 'odd' for lack of better word, is that Allison was not a complete simpleton. but, Anyway, I enjoyed it as well as Gordon's style of writing.
May 18, 2019
Fun story. I enjoyed it.
The love blossomed quickly and sweetly. Though Wes annoyed me with his jumping to conclusions before fully listening to her, but then Allison was also annoying in keeping her secret. But everything would've worked out too fast if everything was out at the beginning. Would've made things too easy. Still, things didn't drag out as much as other books I've read.
There are sexual situations within marriage. It is quite descriptive in my opinion. So, yay, if you're looking for that and maybe stay away from this if you're not interested in a book with that.
The love blossomed quickly and sweetly. Though Wes annoyed me with his jumping to conclusions before fully listening to her, but then Allison was also annoying in keeping her secret. But everything would've worked out too fast if everything was out at the beginning. Would've made things too easy. Still, things didn't drag out as much as other books I've read.
There are sexual situations within marriage. It is quite descriptive in my opinion. So, yay, if you're looking for that and maybe stay away from this if you're not interested in a book with that.
June 22, 2019
3.75 Stars for this old western between a Military Capt. Wes Tucker and the proper Bostonian, Allison. Allison finds herself stranded on an army post in the middle of Indian Territory with no suitcase and limited money. Wes steps in with a marriage proposal (in name only), which will allow Allison to stay on the post until her fiance is able to make the long trip from Texas to claim his bride-to-be. No surprise that Wes and Allison find themselves attracted to each other. Typical plot in an untypical place.
December 8, 2018
I suppose he is a fine enough character but the way he laughs at her or mocks her rubs me the wrong way. And she continually says how he has never done anything wrong to her or was perfect towards her. When he apologized at the end she tells him not to, he had nothing to feel sorry for. I disagree. I also don't care for it when the mc's don't share with each other. They don't know about each others lives before meeting, and other important information.
September 1, 2018
The Officer and the Bostoner, a really good read.
This book was such a good read I could barely put it down. I took it every where I went so I could continue reading while I was waiting for appointments and such. It has some exciting, funny and sad parts. Please read this book, you won't be sorry you did. God bless.
This book was such a good read I could barely put it down. I took it every where I went so I could continue reading while I was waiting for appointments and such. It has some exciting, funny and sad parts. Please read this book, you won't be sorry you did. God bless.
November 2, 2019
A good historical romance.
While the reason for the leading lady to land in that deserted area to begin with really didn't make sense but later it brought the whole story together. I don't know much about that era but I think it probably was true to the times.
While the reason for the leading lady to land in that deserted area to begin with really didn't make sense but later it brought the whole story together. I don't know much about that era but I think it probably was true to the times.
March 31, 2023
well written
A well written story of survival in the west. Throw in love and romance and you have got a Cinderella story for sure. There are some more racy explicit parts but over all great book
A well written story of survival in the west. Throw in love and romance and you have got a Cinderella story for sure. There are some more racy explicit parts but over all great book
June 28, 2017
Book 1 in Fort Gibson series.
November 27, 2017
Loved this. Very well written and excellent storyline with very memorable characters. I read this awhile back and recently visited it again. Very Entertaining.
February 11, 2018
Very Romantic
The story is great , I was deeply involved into this story ,from the start to the finish . this ones a " keeper"( one I'll go back and read again !
The story is great , I was deeply involved into this story ,from the start to the finish . this ones a " keeper"( one I'll go back and read again !
June 18, 2019
Christian book?
How much description of fore play and sex does one need? Sexual references throughout story. Why not strengthen the story?
How much description of fore play and sex does one need? Sexual references throughout story. Why not strengthen the story?
June 24, 2020
Very boring. Slow paced. Cute story that an 8th grader could read. Just too Harlequin. No love scenes to amount to anything.
March 7, 2021
Great story!
I loved the story of Allison and Wes. Kept me interested the whole time. Can’t wait to read another book by this author.
I loved the story of Allison and Wes. Kept me interested the whole time. Can’t wait to read another book by this author.
May 15, 2022
Enjoyable but the characters are a little 2 dimensional. Rather than developing they just suddenly change, and not always for the better.
February 5, 2024
Great read
August 4, 2014
The Officer and the Bostoner is an American historical romance by Rose Gordon. When I saw the description for Gordon’s latest, I will admit to feeling some trepidation. The setting is in the American West, which is a departure from everything else I have read by Gordon. But since I have loved everything I have read by Gordon, I decided I would give it a shot – it also helped that I was granted a review copy via NetGalley.
Allison Pearson is a proper young Bostonian traveling to Santa Fe to meet and marry her betrothed. Unintentionally, Allison is left stranded in a military fort where it would be in her best interests to marry temporarily until her fiancé can arrive and escort her to Santa Fe. To avoid improper advances from the soldiers stationed there Allison decides to marry Captain Wes Tucker for protection, never expecting to fall for her temporary husband.
Captain Wes Tucker is a Southern gentleman and really has no ulterior motives in helping Allison out by marrying her. When Wes encounters Allison left behind at the fort, he offers his name in marriage to protect her. While I question this logic somewhat (surely there is another way to help Allison), I like the marriage of convenience theme, so I will enter into a suspension of belief. Wes is immediately drawn to her, but is aware that Allison will be leaving him and the rough conditions they live in at the fort. The problem is, Wes starts to wonder what it will take to make Allison stay in the backwater town, leaving her rich fiancé behind.
I cannot express enough what a wonderful surprise this one was. I loved Gordon’s Groom series, but I wasn’t sure about this change in setting. I shouldn’t have worried; everything I love about Gordon’s writing was still there. We still have a young, and rather naïve hero and heroine and their romance is impossibly sweet. This was exactly what made me continue with Gordon’s Groom series after scoring Her Sudden Groom for .99 cents. I found Gordon’s stories are a refreshing change from the usual historical romance fare I typically read. I liked this lighter read and the fact that both the hero and heroine were not experienced in the ways of the world. I don’t think you come across this type of story in mainstream historical romance often, and I love the departure that Gordon takes us on. Gordon is the perfect go-to author if your looking for a sweet, uncomplicated story with a guaranteed happy ending.
What I also like about Gordon’s style is her portrayal of a romantic relationship. While I think most of us like a lot of angst in our romance reads (it's expected in a romance), in real-life , it’s just not quite the same. I think that Gordon does a fantastic job of showing readers a more realistic relationship. I have nothing against those types of historical romances where insta-attraction turns to love, and in fact I read a lot of them, but because Gordon’s style is markedly different, I’ve taken notice and she’s become a go-to author for me.
And finally, I have to say something about the marriage of convenience trope. It is probably one of my favourite set-ups in historical romance. In real life, this would be horrifying, but I love that it generally works out in a historical romance. What I liked about Gordon’s take on this trope in her latest, is the fact that this marriage of convenience didn’t suddenly force the characters into a happily ever after. Despite the short length of The Officer and the Bostoner, Allison and Wes take their time getting to know one another and it’s clear that they have respect for each other. Wes has to be the perfect hero who has no intention of manipulating Allison’s vulnerability.
Overall, I loved this new addition from Gordon. The new setting pleasantly surprised me and I can’t wait to see Second Lt. Jack Walker’s experience with a mail-order bride.
This review is also available (with read-alikes) on my blog: The Book Adventures.
Allison Pearson is a proper young Bostonian traveling to Santa Fe to meet and marry her betrothed. Unintentionally, Allison is left stranded in a military fort where it would be in her best interests to marry temporarily until her fiancé can arrive and escort her to Santa Fe. To avoid improper advances from the soldiers stationed there Allison decides to marry Captain Wes Tucker for protection, never expecting to fall for her temporary husband.
Captain Wes Tucker is a Southern gentleman and really has no ulterior motives in helping Allison out by marrying her. When Wes encounters Allison left behind at the fort, he offers his name in marriage to protect her. While I question this logic somewhat (surely there is another way to help Allison), I like the marriage of convenience theme, so I will enter into a suspension of belief. Wes is immediately drawn to her, but is aware that Allison will be leaving him and the rough conditions they live in at the fort. The problem is, Wes starts to wonder what it will take to make Allison stay in the backwater town, leaving her rich fiancé behind.
I cannot express enough what a wonderful surprise this one was. I loved Gordon’s Groom series, but I wasn’t sure about this change in setting. I shouldn’t have worried; everything I love about Gordon’s writing was still there. We still have a young, and rather naïve hero and heroine and their romance is impossibly sweet. This was exactly what made me continue with Gordon’s Groom series after scoring Her Sudden Groom for .99 cents. I found Gordon’s stories are a refreshing change from the usual historical romance fare I typically read. I liked this lighter read and the fact that both the hero and heroine were not experienced in the ways of the world. I don’t think you come across this type of story in mainstream historical romance often, and I love the departure that Gordon takes us on. Gordon is the perfect go-to author if your looking for a sweet, uncomplicated story with a guaranteed happy ending.
What I also like about Gordon’s style is her portrayal of a romantic relationship. While I think most of us like a lot of angst in our romance reads (it's expected in a romance), in real-life , it’s just not quite the same. I think that Gordon does a fantastic job of showing readers a more realistic relationship. I have nothing against those types of historical romances where insta-attraction turns to love, and in fact I read a lot of them, but because Gordon’s style is markedly different, I’ve taken notice and she’s become a go-to author for me.
And finally, I have to say something about the marriage of convenience trope. It is probably one of my favourite set-ups in historical romance. In real life, this would be horrifying, but I love that it generally works out in a historical romance. What I liked about Gordon’s take on this trope in her latest, is the fact that this marriage of convenience didn’t suddenly force the characters into a happily ever after. Despite the short length of The Officer and the Bostoner, Allison and Wes take their time getting to know one another and it’s clear that they have respect for each other. Wes has to be the perfect hero who has no intention of manipulating Allison’s vulnerability.
Overall, I loved this new addition from Gordon. The new setting pleasantly surprised me and I can’t wait to see Second Lt. Jack Walker’s experience with a mail-order bride.
This review is also available (with read-alikes) on my blog: The Book Adventures.
May 24, 2016
More reviews available at my blog, Beauty and the Bookworm.
Oh, historic romances. How you pull my heartstrings--and not always in the ways the authors intended. I was hoping when I dove into Gordon's book that I'd be finding a new Julia Quinn or Lisa Kleypas to devour, albeit one whose book was set in the early American West instead of in London society. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case. The book wasn't bad, but it just wasn't what I look for in a historical romance novel.
So, The Officer and the Bostoner (the use of Bostoner rather than Bostonian is completely deliberate, by the way) follows Allison Piers, who gets off a stagecoach to get a bite to eat and ends up left behind in a military fort on the edge of Indian lands. She was on her way to meet her fiance--now she's stranded with no way of getting out for at least a few weeks. In swoops Captain Wes Tucker, who offers to marry her, keep his hands to himself, and annul the marriage when Allison's fiance arrives to rescue her so that she won't be harassed by the fort's other soldiers in the meantime. Allison doesn't see any other real options for herself, and so she agrees, and the prim Bostoner/Bostonian has to get used to rough living on the frontier.
While the story isn't the most original, I can't really fault that, because most historical romances revolve around tropes to fuel them. That didn't bother me. What bothered me was that Gordon apparently couldn't decide whether this was going to be a sweet or sultry romance, and so almost three-quarters of the way through it flops from one to the other. The first, larger part of the book has glances and blushes and occasional, mostly accidental touches and all kinds of modesty and so on, and while Allison and Wes had their moments, they definitely weren't getting steamy and ripping each others' clothes off, or even sticking their tongues in each others' mouths. And then, in the span of about two pages, it suddenly turns into all kinds of trailing tongues and vanishing clothes and...well, you get the picture. I really wish that either Wes and Allison had...not necessarily become physically involved earlier, but maybe had a stronger attraction to each other earlier. Maybe more steamy kissing or something? Nothing too much, just enough so that I'd know which way the book was going to go! The sudden emergence of steam in the last part combined with the outpouring of sudden drama (FAR more drama than in the rest of the book, really just dumped in at once) made the whole thing seem a bit unbalanced, and it flopped from sweet-but-slightly-boring into too-much-at-once territory very quickly.
So, I guess The Officer and the Bostoner wasn't quite my cup of tea. Or coffee, right, Wes? That said, Gordon seems like a pretty prolific writer in the historical romance genre, so maybe I just need to find a setting/characters that suit my fancy a bit more and we'll be a better match. But as for this one...?
2.5 stars out of 5.
Oh, historic romances. How you pull my heartstrings--and not always in the ways the authors intended. I was hoping when I dove into Gordon's book that I'd be finding a new Julia Quinn or Lisa Kleypas to devour, albeit one whose book was set in the early American West instead of in London society. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case. The book wasn't bad, but it just wasn't what I look for in a historical romance novel.
So, The Officer and the Bostoner (the use of Bostoner rather than Bostonian is completely deliberate, by the way) follows Allison Piers, who gets off a stagecoach to get a bite to eat and ends up left behind in a military fort on the edge of Indian lands. She was on her way to meet her fiance--now she's stranded with no way of getting out for at least a few weeks. In swoops Captain Wes Tucker, who offers to marry her, keep his hands to himself, and annul the marriage when Allison's fiance arrives to rescue her so that she won't be harassed by the fort's other soldiers in the meantime. Allison doesn't see any other real options for herself, and so she agrees, and the prim Bostoner/Bostonian has to get used to rough living on the frontier.
While the story isn't the most original, I can't really fault that, because most historical romances revolve around tropes to fuel them. That didn't bother me. What bothered me was that Gordon apparently couldn't decide whether this was going to be a sweet or sultry romance, and so almost three-quarters of the way through it flops from one to the other. The first, larger part of the book has glances and blushes and occasional, mostly accidental touches and all kinds of modesty and so on, and while Allison and Wes had their moments, they definitely weren't getting steamy and ripping each others' clothes off, or even sticking their tongues in each others' mouths. And then, in the span of about two pages, it suddenly turns into all kinds of trailing tongues and vanishing clothes and...well, you get the picture. I really wish that either Wes and Allison had...not necessarily become physically involved earlier, but maybe had a stronger attraction to each other earlier. Maybe more steamy kissing or something? Nothing too much, just enough so that I'd know which way the book was going to go! The sudden emergence of steam in the last part combined with the outpouring of sudden drama (FAR more drama than in the rest of the book, really just dumped in at once) made the whole thing seem a bit unbalanced, and it flopped from sweet-but-slightly-boring into too-much-at-once territory very quickly.
So, I guess The Officer and the Bostoner wasn't quite my cup of tea. Or coffee, right, Wes? That said, Gordon seems like a pretty prolific writer in the historical romance genre, so maybe I just need to find a setting/characters that suit my fancy a bit more and we'll be a better match. But as for this one...?
2.5 stars out of 5.
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