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Cowboys & Brides #4
How to Marry a Cowboy
Rancher Mason Harper’s two little girls want nothing more than a mama of their own. So when a pretty woman appears on his front porch in a tattered wedding dress, while Mason’s looking for a nanny, he can’t help but wonder if it’s fate.
Annie Rose Boudreaux is in a downright hellish mess. She’s just a few steps ahead of the low-life ex who’s been hot on her heels, but she’s tired of running, and nannying Mason’s two sweet girls may be just what she needs. As her days on the ranch fly by, and the night’s with Mason get hotter, Annie Rose decides that she’s going to stay…for a lifetime.
Annie Rose Boudreaux is in a downright hellish mess. She’s just a few steps ahead of the low-life ex who’s been hot on her heels, but she’s tired of running, and nannying Mason’s two sweet girls may be just what she needs. As her days on the ranch fly by, and the night’s with Mason get hotter, Annie Rose decides that she’s going to stay…for a lifetime.
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 1, 2014
262 people are currently reading
927 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Brown
184 books4,140 followersHi! I'm twenty five years old and movie star gorgeous. The camera added thirty plus years and a few wrinkles. Can't trust those cameras or mirrors either. Along with bathroom scales they are notorious liars! Honestly, I am the mother of three fantastic grown children who've made me laugh and given me more story ideas than I could ever write. My husband, Charles, is my strongest supporter and my best friend. He's even willing to eat fast food and help with the laundry while I finish one more chapter! Life is good and I am blessed!
Reading has been a passion since I was five years old and figured out those were words on book pages. As soon as my chubby little fingers found they could put words on a Big Chief tablet with a fat pencil, I was on my way. Writing joined reading in my list of passions. I will read anything from the back of the Cheerio's box to Faulkner and love every bit of it. In addition to reading I enjoy cooking, my family and the ocean. I love the Florida beaches. Listening to the ocean waves puts my writing brain into high gear.
I love writing romance because it's about emotions and relationships. Human nature hasn't changed a bit since Eve coveted the fruit in the Garden of Eden. Settings change. Plots change. Names change. Times change. But love is love and men and women have been falling in and out of it forever. Romance is about emotions: love, hate, anger, laughter... all of it. If I can make you laugh until your sides ache or grab a tissue then I've touched your emotions and accomplished what every writer sets out to do.
I got serious about writing when my third child was born and had her days and nights mixed up. I had to stay up all night anyway and it was very quiet so I invested in a spiral back notebook and sharpened a few pencils. The story that emerged has never sold but it's brought in enough rejection slips to put the Redwood Forest on the endangered list. In 1997 Kensington bought two books for their Precious Gems line. Two years and six books later the line died with only four of those books seeing publication. But by then Avalon had bought a book and another, and another. Ten years later the list has grown to thirty nine. Last year Sourcebooks bought the Lucky Series which is in the bookstores now. They've also bought The Honky Tonk Series which will debut with I LOVE THIS BAR in June and will be followed by HELL, YEAH, MY GIVE A DAMN'S BUSTED, and HONKY TONK CHRISTMAS.
Folks ask me where I get my ideas. Three kids, fifteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren. Note: I was a very young grandmother! Life is a zoo around here when they all come home. In one Sunday afternoon there's enough ideas to keep me writing for years and years. Seriously, ideas pop up at the craziest times. When one sinks its roots into my mind, I have no choice but to write the story. And while I'm writing the characters peek over my shoulder and make sure I'm telling it right and not exaggerating too much. Pesky little devils, they are!
I have a wonderful agent, Erin Niumata, who continues to work magic and sell my work. I'm very lucky to have her and my editors who continue to believe in me.
Happy reading!
Reading has been a passion since I was five years old and figured out those were words on book pages. As soon as my chubby little fingers found they could put words on a Big Chief tablet with a fat pencil, I was on my way. Writing joined reading in my list of passions. I will read anything from the back of the Cheerio's box to Faulkner and love every bit of it. In addition to reading I enjoy cooking, my family and the ocean. I love the Florida beaches. Listening to the ocean waves puts my writing brain into high gear.
I love writing romance because it's about emotions and relationships. Human nature hasn't changed a bit since Eve coveted the fruit in the Garden of Eden. Settings change. Plots change. Names change. Times change. But love is love and men and women have been falling in and out of it forever. Romance is about emotions: love, hate, anger, laughter... all of it. If I can make you laugh until your sides ache or grab a tissue then I've touched your emotions and accomplished what every writer sets out to do.
I got serious about writing when my third child was born and had her days and nights mixed up. I had to stay up all night anyway and it was very quiet so I invested in a spiral back notebook and sharpened a few pencils. The story that emerged has never sold but it's brought in enough rejection slips to put the Redwood Forest on the endangered list. In 1997 Kensington bought two books for their Precious Gems line. Two years and six books later the line died with only four of those books seeing publication. But by then Avalon had bought a book and another, and another. Ten years later the list has grown to thirty nine. Last year Sourcebooks bought the Lucky Series which is in the bookstores now. They've also bought The Honky Tonk Series which will debut with I LOVE THIS BAR in June and will be followed by HELL, YEAH, MY GIVE A DAMN'S BUSTED, and HONKY TONK CHRISTMAS.
Folks ask me where I get my ideas. Three kids, fifteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren. Note: I was a very young grandmother! Life is a zoo around here when they all come home. In one Sunday afternoon there's enough ideas to keep me writing for years and years. Seriously, ideas pop up at the craziest times. When one sinks its roots into my mind, I have no choice but to write the story. And while I'm writing the characters peek over my shoulder and make sure I'm telling it right and not exaggerating too much. Pesky little devils, they are!
I have a wonderful agent, Erin Niumata, who continues to work magic and sell my work. I'm very lucky to have her and my editors who continue to believe in me.
Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
July 2, 2014
When Mason's two little hellions, Lily and Gabby, find Annie Rose on their porch in a wedding dress no less they decide she is their new mother and immediately set about making it so. Overnight Annie Rose goes from being on the run from a violent and abusive ex to being a "mamma-nanny".
Despite his attraction to her, Mason still holds feelings for his wife who died many years earlier and resists moving beyond a professional relationship with Annie Rose, but with the two little scamps pulling the strings, not even he can resist for long.
How to Marry a Cowboy felt like a G Rated, almost church going christian romance for most of the book. It was very much a book I could give to my 87 year old mother and she would really enjoy it. But then everything changed and the sex started. I don't mind sex, I mean I've read and rated 5 Stars books by Tiffany Reisz, but the sex level really didn't feel right for this book.
I also found some of the set-up for the story a little too easy. For example, she has an accident and her car ends up in a pond fully submerged and never seen again, less than 24 hours later Mason has hired her as a nanny. She is on the run from an abusive ex, who doesn't really feature in the story at all except as a reason for her to be running.
What I really liked and what saved the book was the characters...especially Lily and Gabby in all their 9 year old mischievous glory.
Many thanks to Sourcebooks and Netgalley for providing me with this ARC
Despite his attraction to her, Mason still holds feelings for his wife who died many years earlier and resists moving beyond a professional relationship with Annie Rose, but with the two little scamps pulling the strings, not even he can resist for long.
How to Marry a Cowboy felt like a G Rated, almost church going christian romance for most of the book. It was very much a book I could give to my 87 year old mother and she would really enjoy it. But then everything changed and the sex started. I don't mind sex, I mean I've read and rated 5 Stars books by Tiffany Reisz, but the sex level really didn't feel right for this book.
I also found some of the set-up for the story a little too easy. For example, she has an accident and her car ends up in a pond fully submerged and never seen again, less than 24 hours later Mason has hired her as a nanny. She is on the run from an abusive ex, who doesn't really feature in the story at all except as a reason for her to be running.
What I really liked and what saved the book was the characters...especially Lily and Gabby in all their 9 year old mischievous glory.
Many thanks to Sourcebooks and Netgalley for providing me with this ARC
October 22, 2018
Rancher Mason Harper finds a beautiful woman in a wedding dress on his porch. His precocious daughters decide she is their new mother. Mason isn't sure about Annie but hires her as a nanny to his children. With tow determined little girls Mason finds himself falling for Annie and wondering if they can have a happily ever after.
There was a lot more to the story but the two girls steal the show. They were hilarious and their antics had me laughing out loud. Great read, if you are looking to put a smile on your face this is the book to pick up.
There was a lot more to the story but the two girls steal the show. They were hilarious and their antics had me laughing out loud. Great read, if you are looking to put a smile on your face this is the book to pick up.
June 18, 2014
Ok I'm going to let you in on a not very top secret.
I read a lot of smut.
The darker the better.
and Dystopian stories..
so when I read the synopsis to this book... I didn't think it was going to be so fluffy.
I thought a brooding hot cowboy and a chick on the run, could be on the darker side...
then I saw the cover.. and thought. nope Fluff.
BUT
sometimes... I need light and fluffy. I crave Light and fluffy. I adore light and fluffy!
So I gave it a shot.
and yep you guessed it... I liked it. A lot!
What I don't like is the cover, as a bonefide bookcover whore I felt I was stealing my grandma's romances back in the day mills and boon or something!
Ok but anyway!!
I wouldn't lie to you, so I have to say for the first 40% I thought I had accidentally gotten a Christian romance. There was a lot of "oh lords" and praying and church talk and I was sad. I wanted hot sex not fade to black...
But I soon found out it wasn't!
I love Cowboy's and Mason did not disappoint.
He was twin girls who are turning 9 and are craving a mother.
They have nannies, but they don't last long, as these girls are two little devils with angels eyes.
Annie-Rose has been on the run from an abusive ex.
She ends up at Mason's and after she does the old "I'll fake Amnesia" trick she ends up staying with Mason and the girls.
She comes clean about why she's there.
He needs a nanny.
The girls want a mama.
and BOOM there ya go.
There is sex, some fade to black, some descriptive.
It's not oh my god steaming hot sex. it's hmmm steam off a cup of soup hot.
but it did the trick!
There is not all that much about Annie's Ex - so don't worry no kidnapping or near deaths etc. it all gets sorted out, and Mason and Annie get together and HEA.
It really was a sweet romance.
My first by the author, I think I will go back and read the others in the series after meeting them. I want to know there story.
I read a lot of smut.
The darker the better.
and Dystopian stories..
so when I read the synopsis to this book... I didn't think it was going to be so fluffy.
I thought a brooding hot cowboy and a chick on the run, could be on the darker side...
then I saw the cover.. and thought. nope Fluff.
BUT
sometimes... I need light and fluffy. I crave Light and fluffy. I adore light and fluffy!
So I gave it a shot.
and yep you guessed it... I liked it. A lot!
What I don't like is the cover, as a bonefide bookcover whore I felt I was stealing my grandma's romances back in the day mills and boon or something!
Ok but anyway!!
I wouldn't lie to you, so I have to say for the first 40% I thought I had accidentally gotten a Christian romance. There was a lot of "oh lords" and praying and church talk and I was sad. I wanted hot sex not fade to black...
But I soon found out it wasn't!
I love Cowboy's and Mason did not disappoint.
He was twin girls who are turning 9 and are craving a mother.
They have nannies, but they don't last long, as these girls are two little devils with angels eyes.
Annie-Rose has been on the run from an abusive ex.
She ends up at Mason's and after she does the old "I'll fake Amnesia" trick she ends up staying with Mason and the girls.
She comes clean about why she's there.
He needs a nanny.
The girls want a mama.
and BOOM there ya go.
There is sex, some fade to black, some descriptive.
It's not oh my god steaming hot sex. it's hmmm steam off a cup of soup hot.
but it did the trick!
There is not all that much about Annie's Ex - so don't worry no kidnapping or near deaths etc. it all gets sorted out, and Mason and Annie get together and HEA.
It really was a sweet romance.
My first by the author, I think I will go back and read the others in the series after meeting them. I want to know there story.
June 28, 2014
And it finally comes down to the last story of the Cowboys & Brides series with Mason Harper, the widowed rancher with twin hellcat nine year old daughters. I have been so curious to see what woman would be put with this needing man and his family. Like the others, the author paired up a couple who worked well and were exactly what the other needed. The story was full of laughter, wit, heart-touching moments, food, family and Texas ranch living.
One morning, Mason Harper's girls find the unexpected on their front porch swing and instantly decide that the sleeping lady in the soiled bridal gown is their birthday present from their daddy who went out and got them a new mama just like they've always wanted. No matter what anyone said, they liked this one and they were keeping her.
For the lady in question, she thinks she must have hit her head in that car crash harder than she thought when the twin girls go on and on about her being their mama and marrying their daddy. Annie Rose slept too long on that porch swing and was caught fair before she could continue making her escape from the abusive man who might be following. The rancher with the calm assessing green eyes who calmed his girls and wanted the doctor to look after Annie Rose sent a spark of attraction through her that worried her because she was determined never to fall so fast for a man again after the last bad experience left her on the run for life. She was so terrified of her abusive ex-boyfriend who promised to never let her go that she ran her car into a tree before it slid into a pond. Her nursing experience told her she had a concussion. As she assessed the situation, she learned that Mason Harper needed a new nanny for his girls and he was willing to let her stay a few days until the replacement arrived both to appease the girls and because he really needed someone with them while he was out working the ranch. She'd play it cool and get back on the road as soon as possible though a part of her really wanted to stay with these folks.
Mason knew he was crazy to let a stranger into his home, but there was something about her that he wasn't ready to see leave. She came clean that night about her past and how she ended up on his porch and the detective said her story checked out. This was good because for the first time his girls liked their new nanny who they were persuaded was a hybrid mama-nanny and they were blossoming under Annie Rose's care as was he. Others were more skeptical of Annie Rose's presence, but he didn't care other than she made him feel guilt about betraying his wife. She was nothing like his dead wife in appearance, but she was the first woman to really attract him, who truly cared for his girls, who loved ranch life, and was beautiful inside and out. He struggled hard against the guilt, but he was determined that he would keep her around. He had his work cut out for him too because Annie Rose still cringed and flinched if he moved wrong after enduring her last relationship and some of those closest to him thought she wasn't genuine and had ulterior motives for coming to the ranch. He would just have to show Annie Rose 'How to Marry a Cowboy'.
The plot on this one doesn't involve any brilliant fast-paced action. The conflicts are nearly angst-less and easily solved making this a relaxing feel-good read. It's just a gentle love story between two hurting, lonely people involving a pair of feisty, determined girls, goats, a cat, a porch swing, home-made how to manuals, and life in a small Texas ranching community. I love the down home feel and laughed at the twins' antics. The romance begins with instantaneous attraction, but the daily contact of sharing a home and life have it progressing rapidly. There is a lot of sweetness involved, but these two get up to some spicy loving too.
I enjoyed the brief cameos and scenes with the couples and people from the past books. I closed the book with a feeling of loss not wanting to leave this small Texas community, but I was glad when the author's note at the end indicated that there would be a new series taking up the stories of four more cowboys two of which were minor characters in an earlier book. I did want to point out that the Cowboys & Brides series is rather versatile and can be read in order or each book as a standalone if the reader happens to grab one out of order.
All in all, I enjoyed this book particularly because it was a matter of falling in love with family and not just a couple isolated in their romance. The scenes are bucolic and slow, yet they sparkled too. Those who enjoy easy-going, humorous, slightly spicy Contemporary Romance set in Texas ranch country should definitely give this one a try.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
One morning, Mason Harper's girls find the unexpected on their front porch swing and instantly decide that the sleeping lady in the soiled bridal gown is their birthday present from their daddy who went out and got them a new mama just like they've always wanted. No matter what anyone said, they liked this one and they were keeping her.
For the lady in question, she thinks she must have hit her head in that car crash harder than she thought when the twin girls go on and on about her being their mama and marrying their daddy. Annie Rose slept too long on that porch swing and was caught fair before she could continue making her escape from the abusive man who might be following. The rancher with the calm assessing green eyes who calmed his girls and wanted the doctor to look after Annie Rose sent a spark of attraction through her that worried her because she was determined never to fall so fast for a man again after the last bad experience left her on the run for life. She was so terrified of her abusive ex-boyfriend who promised to never let her go that she ran her car into a tree before it slid into a pond. Her nursing experience told her she had a concussion. As she assessed the situation, she learned that Mason Harper needed a new nanny for his girls and he was willing to let her stay a few days until the replacement arrived both to appease the girls and because he really needed someone with them while he was out working the ranch. She'd play it cool and get back on the road as soon as possible though a part of her really wanted to stay with these folks.
Mason knew he was crazy to let a stranger into his home, but there was something about her that he wasn't ready to see leave. She came clean that night about her past and how she ended up on his porch and the detective said her story checked out. This was good because for the first time his girls liked their new nanny who they were persuaded was a hybrid mama-nanny and they were blossoming under Annie Rose's care as was he. Others were more skeptical of Annie Rose's presence, but he didn't care other than she made him feel guilt about betraying his wife. She was nothing like his dead wife in appearance, but she was the first woman to really attract him, who truly cared for his girls, who loved ranch life, and was beautiful inside and out. He struggled hard against the guilt, but he was determined that he would keep her around. He had his work cut out for him too because Annie Rose still cringed and flinched if he moved wrong after enduring her last relationship and some of those closest to him thought she wasn't genuine and had ulterior motives for coming to the ranch. He would just have to show Annie Rose 'How to Marry a Cowboy'.
The plot on this one doesn't involve any brilliant fast-paced action. The conflicts are nearly angst-less and easily solved making this a relaxing feel-good read. It's just a gentle love story between two hurting, lonely people involving a pair of feisty, determined girls, goats, a cat, a porch swing, home-made how to manuals, and life in a small Texas ranching community. I love the down home feel and laughed at the twins' antics. The romance begins with instantaneous attraction, but the daily contact of sharing a home and life have it progressing rapidly. There is a lot of sweetness involved, but these two get up to some spicy loving too.
I enjoyed the brief cameos and scenes with the couples and people from the past books. I closed the book with a feeling of loss not wanting to leave this small Texas community, but I was glad when the author's note at the end indicated that there would be a new series taking up the stories of four more cowboys two of which were minor characters in an earlier book. I did want to point out that the Cowboys & Brides series is rather versatile and can be read in order or each book as a standalone if the reader happens to grab one out of order.
All in all, I enjoyed this book particularly because it was a matter of falling in love with family and not just a couple isolated in their romance. The scenes are bucolic and slow, yet they sparkled too. Those who enjoy easy-going, humorous, slightly spicy Contemporary Romance set in Texas ranch country should definitely give this one a try.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 20, 2014
Originally reviewed for Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy.
In Her Cowboys and Brides Series ending, Carolyn Brown once again delights us. Each book has been slightly silly, slightly crazy and all the way fun. Filled with unique characters that we can't help but fall in love with.
It seems that these sexy cowboys all have needed a little help in finding the one. In How to Marry A Cowboy, it's the terrible twosome. The terrors if the county, these two delightful young girls want a new mama and are more than ready to do whatever it takes to get one.
Annie Rose Bodreau has had a time of it lately. First her parents die, then she hooks up with the boyfriend from hell. An abusive idiot with feelings of entitlement and questionable family connections. Finally changing her name she escapes him..only to see him two years later when she is modeling a wedding dress fir a charity event. Escape was imperative so she fled while still in her borrowed gown. During her mad escape she looses control of her car, runs into a tree and barely manages to get out before it sinks into a nearby pond. On foot she finds a nearby ranch house and falls asleep on the porch. Only to be awakened by two young voices thanking their daddy for getting them a mama for their birthday.
Mason Harper lost his wife when his daughters were mere babies. Forced to go it alone this sexy cowboy was a success at everything he did. Except for saying no to his two young daughters. Consequently he has managed to barely raise the wildest twosome in Texas. They go through nannies like other children go through kool-aid. Desperate for another nanny he too feels like Annie Rose may actually be a godsend. But it's not long before he's thinking about more than his daughter's welfare.
Just a delight. All these two darling girls need is structure, discipline and love and when Annie provides it, their transformation is nothing shirt of miraculous. They don't become perfect overnight but they do amaze the town. And it's all because if their new mama-Nanny.
I will say, the instruction booklets provided might come in handy. Wonder if I could get myself a copy of their How to Marry a cowboy booklet..*grins*
If you haven't yet read this series check it out.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of How to Marry A Cowboy, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on July 1, 2014
In Her Cowboys and Brides Series ending, Carolyn Brown once again delights us. Each book has been slightly silly, slightly crazy and all the way fun. Filled with unique characters that we can't help but fall in love with.
It seems that these sexy cowboys all have needed a little help in finding the one. In How to Marry A Cowboy, it's the terrible twosome. The terrors if the county, these two delightful young girls want a new mama and are more than ready to do whatever it takes to get one.
Annie Rose Bodreau has had a time of it lately. First her parents die, then she hooks up with the boyfriend from hell. An abusive idiot with feelings of entitlement and questionable family connections. Finally changing her name she escapes him..only to see him two years later when she is modeling a wedding dress fir a charity event. Escape was imperative so she fled while still in her borrowed gown. During her mad escape she looses control of her car, runs into a tree and barely manages to get out before it sinks into a nearby pond. On foot she finds a nearby ranch house and falls asleep on the porch. Only to be awakened by two young voices thanking their daddy for getting them a mama for their birthday.
Mason Harper lost his wife when his daughters were mere babies. Forced to go it alone this sexy cowboy was a success at everything he did. Except for saying no to his two young daughters. Consequently he has managed to barely raise the wildest twosome in Texas. They go through nannies like other children go through kool-aid. Desperate for another nanny he too feels like Annie Rose may actually be a godsend. But it's not long before he's thinking about more than his daughter's welfare.
Just a delight. All these two darling girls need is structure, discipline and love and when Annie provides it, their transformation is nothing shirt of miraculous. They don't become perfect overnight but they do amaze the town. And it's all because if their new mama-Nanny.
I will say, the instruction booklets provided might come in handy. Wonder if I could get myself a copy of their How to Marry a cowboy booklet..*grins*
If you haven't yet read this series check it out.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of How to Marry A Cowboy, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on July 1, 2014
September 20, 2019
A beautiful romance! Annie Rose is the perfect woman to land on Mason's porch. I loved Mason's daughters Gabby and Lily also. I'm normally not a huge fan of cowboy romances, but I make an exception for Ms. Brown's books. I've been hooked ever since reading my first book by her.
July 23, 2014
Four stars: Sweet, simple and satisfying for summer.
Annie wakes to the jabbering of two young girls. She blinks furiously in an effort to recall how she got here. Annie Rose finds herself in a dirty, torn wedding dress with a big yellow tom cat in her lap on a porch swing somewhere in Texas. Before her are two eager twin girls, Gabby and Lily, who believe that their daddy married her and she is their new mom. Annie agrees to stay on for a couple of days and be the girls nanny until she comes up with a better plan. Little does she know, a couple of days might be enough time to lose her heart. Will Annie Rose find peace and happiness at last?
What I Liked:
*A sweet, romantic, cowboy book by Carolyn Brown is just what I needed to perk me up. With any book by Mrs. Brown, you can count hot cowboys, strong minded women, Texas ranches with lots of animals, sumptuous food and a sizzling hot romance. Her books always make me smile and leave me feeling happy. If you need a simple, feel good, light book for summer grab one of Carolyn Brown's books. You won't be disappointed.
*As I mentioned in a book by Mrs. Brown, you can expect to find stubborn, outspoken women. This time you get two precocious, active and fiery nine year old twin girls, Gabby and Lily. These two young girls have earned a reputation in the small town as being little devils. They are certainly headstrong and full of energy. They made me laugh, especially Lily with her cursing. It was fun to see them in action whether it be piercing goats' ears or beating up the bully who calls Annie Rose a slut. There is never a dull moment where these two are concerned.
*The romance is spice and fire. I have come to expect when reading a book in this series for a whirlwind fast romance. From the moment Annie and Mason meet, there are some serious sparks of attraction. Both are damaged, but together they overcome their burdensome pasts. Within a few days, it moves to kisses and then in a month it is a full blown romance with forever in mind. For those of you who prefer a long, drawn out romance, this may not work for you, but I have grown to appreciate the simplistic, beautiful romances in Mrs. Brown's books.
*This is the fourth book in the series, but don't feel like you have to go back and read the first three. This is a companion book series. Each book is a complete stand alone story, but the fun part is that you get cameo appearances from many of the characters in the previous books. Grab one, or grab them all.
*One of my favorite things about this book where the adorable and funny little how to books that were presented to Annie Rose by the twins. So fun!
*I love that everything resolved by the end and I got a nice, sweet happy ending. Just perfect.
And The Not So Much:
*I was a tad bit disappointed that the major conflict in Annie Roses' past resolved so easily and quickly. I was expecting a dramatic confrontation, perhaps with some cowboy punching. I was rather shocked that it ended so simply rather early. I was prepared for something big, and I got a fizzle.
*Nash was an adorable old man who makes an appearance in the final pages of the book. I would love to have had more of him in the story, but I was at least satisfied with what I got.
*Early on, Annie shows symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Then there is no further mention of her issues. I was expecting more taking it slow so she could get over her trauma. Not a big deal, but I thought it was a bit unrealistic how quickly she moved into a romantic relationship considering her past.
How To Marry A Cowboy is a quick, pleasant romance without drama. It has terrific characters and plenty of feel good moments. This is a light, easy breezy read perfect for summer days or anytime you need a fluffy, feel good read. I know every time I pick up a book by this author, I will end up with a smile.
Favorite Quotations:
"Looks were deceiving. Words couldn't be trusted. Body language could lie. But the eyes told the truth."
"Experience is what you get when you didn't' get what you wanted."
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Annie wakes to the jabbering of two young girls. She blinks furiously in an effort to recall how she got here. Annie Rose finds herself in a dirty, torn wedding dress with a big yellow tom cat in her lap on a porch swing somewhere in Texas. Before her are two eager twin girls, Gabby and Lily, who believe that their daddy married her and she is their new mom. Annie agrees to stay on for a couple of days and be the girls nanny until she comes up with a better plan. Little does she know, a couple of days might be enough time to lose her heart. Will Annie Rose find peace and happiness at last?
What I Liked:
*A sweet, romantic, cowboy book by Carolyn Brown is just what I needed to perk me up. With any book by Mrs. Brown, you can count hot cowboys, strong minded women, Texas ranches with lots of animals, sumptuous food and a sizzling hot romance. Her books always make me smile and leave me feeling happy. If you need a simple, feel good, light book for summer grab one of Carolyn Brown's books. You won't be disappointed.
*As I mentioned in a book by Mrs. Brown, you can expect to find stubborn, outspoken women. This time you get two precocious, active and fiery nine year old twin girls, Gabby and Lily. These two young girls have earned a reputation in the small town as being little devils. They are certainly headstrong and full of energy. They made me laugh, especially Lily with her cursing. It was fun to see them in action whether it be piercing goats' ears or beating up the bully who calls Annie Rose a slut. There is never a dull moment where these two are concerned.
*The romance is spice and fire. I have come to expect when reading a book in this series for a whirlwind fast romance. From the moment Annie and Mason meet, there are some serious sparks of attraction. Both are damaged, but together they overcome their burdensome pasts. Within a few days, it moves to kisses and then in a month it is a full blown romance with forever in mind. For those of you who prefer a long, drawn out romance, this may not work for you, but I have grown to appreciate the simplistic, beautiful romances in Mrs. Brown's books.
*This is the fourth book in the series, but don't feel like you have to go back and read the first three. This is a companion book series. Each book is a complete stand alone story, but the fun part is that you get cameo appearances from many of the characters in the previous books. Grab one, or grab them all.
*One of my favorite things about this book where the adorable and funny little how to books that were presented to Annie Rose by the twins. So fun!
*I love that everything resolved by the end and I got a nice, sweet happy ending. Just perfect.
And The Not So Much:
*I was a tad bit disappointed that the major conflict in Annie Roses' past resolved so easily and quickly. I was expecting a dramatic confrontation, perhaps with some cowboy punching. I was rather shocked that it ended so simply rather early. I was prepared for something big, and I got a fizzle.
*Nash was an adorable old man who makes an appearance in the final pages of the book. I would love to have had more of him in the story, but I was at least satisfied with what I got.
*Early on, Annie shows symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Then there is no further mention of her issues. I was expecting more taking it slow so she could get over her trauma. Not a big deal, but I thought it was a bit unrealistic how quickly she moved into a romantic relationship considering her past.
How To Marry A Cowboy is a quick, pleasant romance without drama. It has terrific characters and plenty of feel good moments. This is a light, easy breezy read perfect for summer days or anytime you need a fluffy, feel good read. I know every time I pick up a book by this author, I will end up with a smile.
Favorite Quotations:
"Looks were deceiving. Words couldn't be trusted. Body language could lie. But the eyes told the truth."
"Experience is what you get when you didn't' get what you wanted."
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
June 29, 2014
5 Stars!!! More if it were possible!
This book was incredible on so many levels for me. I felt this story from the first page deep in my heart. Mason and Annie Rose’s gave my heart the biggest hug it has had in a long time when reading a book. The book was so sweet I was covered in their love. This is probably one of my favorite books of the year so far.
When I read the book I did not realize it was part of a series. This book can totally be read as a stand-alone book. I am so hooked on this book that I will be purchasing the other books in the series. I need to know more about the other characters in this series (like yesterday).
Mason was so loving and caring. I love stories about cowboys but this cowboy was more than just a hot guy in a pair of wranglers. He loved his little girls and was loyal to the bone. He flat out stole my heart. Annie Rose was a bit conflicted but she was funny, caring and got so much more than she bargained for. (in a good way) I loved that she was not weak once she got back on her feet.
This was such a refreshing read in the fact that I laughed so many times during this book and felt just utter joy. Mason’s little girls Gabby and Lily were a hoot. Cussing, tomboy nine year olds that knew what they wanted and weren’t afraid to manipulate the adults to get it. These girls were such a prolific part of the book that I felt it was not just about the love of Mason and Annie Rose but in the building of a family love. The girls just made the story. The end of this book was just beautiful. I will have to say that I let a few tears roll when Mason wrote his version of the “How To Booklet”. I won’t say any more but SWOON!!!
This is my first Carolyn Brown book and I know I am going to be such a huge fan just from reading this book. I would HIGHLY recommend it to everyone!
My Favorite Quotes:
Nicky is mostly all belt buckle and no cowboy. –Annie Rose
I was wondering if every woman who kisses a man is a slut. If so, there are probably a whole lot of them here today. – Annie Rose
There’s something like strings between our hearts that keeps tugging me back to you. – Mason
“I wanted to see your face one more time tonight. The moonlight dancing off you hair is beautiful,” – Mason
She’d like to fix everything for him, but there wasn’t a dam thing in her virtual toolbox that would take care of jackassitis. – Annie Rose
Texans can’t ever complain about rain or hot sex. – Mason
Experience is what you get when you didn’t get what you wanted. – Annie Rose
“You buy condoms? He asked. “Darlin’, I’d steal them if that’s what it took to take care of this yearning in my body,” she answered.
“I’m glad you aren’t naked. I like unwrapping presents.” –Mason
“My heart hears yours and understands completely.” – Mason
It feels right to have you in my life, my heart, and my soul. - Mason
July 3, 2014
Review from Backchatting Books
When rancher Mason Harper and his twin girls discover a woman on their porch wearing a wedding dress and claiming to have lost her memory, it seems to good to be true. The girls want a new mother and he needs a nanny that can put up with their rambunctious behaviour. Annie Rose Boudreaux accepts his job offer as it will keep her under her violent ex's radar.
Annie Rose had already changed her name and fled cities to avoid her ex but when she thinks he tracked her down, she ran without bothering to take off the wedding dress she was modelling. A car crash led her to Mason's door and two nine-year olds. Annie Rose has the girls under control fairly quickly as she relies on truisms from her own mother on parenting and life. Annie Rose's decision to isolate herself on the ranch with Mason and the twins seemed at odds with her personality and skill set as a nurse and librarian. I wish she had something that brought her joy outside of this small family.
Mason's wife died fairly suddenly and he was thrust into single parenthood. He's pretty protective of the kids even though one has a potty mouth and they have managed to run off a large number of nannies. He may have had relationships with other women but it wasn't until he met Annie Rose that he began to feel guilty for wanting to move on. His internal thoughts got a little repetitive and I would have liked a little more depth.
The biggest problem was that the twins were so lively that they made all the adults seem a little bland in comparison. The little books they wrote for Annie Rose and their attempts at spiffing up the animals were just so cute even if the latter got them in a whole heap of trouble. I did think the Mama-Nanny thing was a bit over-the-top though.
Brown's skill is taking the ordinary things in life and making them seem special. The violent ex plot line peterd out quickly and instead we had the girls learning to enjoy chores, Mason coming to terms with his late wife's death and Annie Rose finding her feet. There wasn't any great tension between the two leads or massive issues they had to resolve so the payoff at the end was a little less sweet than it could have been. It is a personal preference but I like my hero and heroine to work for their HEA rather than having it fall into their laps.
A solid entry in the series by Brown. Best enjoyed on a lazy afternoon when you want something feel good and light.
*I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.*
When rancher Mason Harper and his twin girls discover a woman on their porch wearing a wedding dress and claiming to have lost her memory, it seems to good to be true. The girls want a new mother and he needs a nanny that can put up with their rambunctious behaviour. Annie Rose Boudreaux accepts his job offer as it will keep her under her violent ex's radar.
Annie Rose had already changed her name and fled cities to avoid her ex but when she thinks he tracked her down, she ran without bothering to take off the wedding dress she was modelling. A car crash led her to Mason's door and two nine-year olds. Annie Rose has the girls under control fairly quickly as she relies on truisms from her own mother on parenting and life. Annie Rose's decision to isolate herself on the ranch with Mason and the twins seemed at odds with her personality and skill set as a nurse and librarian. I wish she had something that brought her joy outside of this small family.
Mason's wife died fairly suddenly and he was thrust into single parenthood. He's pretty protective of the kids even though one has a potty mouth and they have managed to run off a large number of nannies. He may have had relationships with other women but it wasn't until he met Annie Rose that he began to feel guilty for wanting to move on. His internal thoughts got a little repetitive and I would have liked a little more depth.
The biggest problem was that the twins were so lively that they made all the adults seem a little bland in comparison. The little books they wrote for Annie Rose and their attempts at spiffing up the animals were just so cute even if the latter got them in a whole heap of trouble. I did think the Mama-Nanny thing was a bit over-the-top though.
Brown's skill is taking the ordinary things in life and making them seem special. The violent ex plot line peterd out quickly and instead we had the girls learning to enjoy chores, Mason coming to terms with his late wife's death and Annie Rose finding her feet. There wasn't any great tension between the two leads or massive issues they had to resolve so the payoff at the end was a little less sweet than it could have been. It is a personal preference but I like my hero and heroine to work for their HEA rather than having it fall into their laps.
A solid entry in the series by Brown. Best enjoyed on a lazy afternoon when you want something feel good and light.
*I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.*
December 29, 2018
A great light hearted little romance that has characters that will capture your heart. Especially, the twin spit fires, trouble making and getting into, avoided by many, daughters of Mason Harper! Mason is a multi-generational widowed Texas rancher that has raised twin daughters on his own. This book starts out with a bang when the twins find a lady asleep on their porch in a torn up and dirty wedding dress. The twins immediately come to the conclusion that their Daddy married the woman and didn't even invite them to the wedding or was it that God put her there for them? No matter which way the story goes, as far as the twins are concerned, they have a new "mamma-nanny" and they'll do anything not to lose here.
Annie Rose Boudreaux is on the run from her very violent ex when she crashes into a tree. She comes across a house and just wants to close her eyes and rest for a few minutes. Exhausted, she sleeps longer than expected and is awakened by two adorable twin girls that are cheering yelling and carrying on about her being their birthday present. Little does she know that accepting the ranch owners proposal to be his daughters Nanny will be much more than a few days agreement. She only intends to use the time to recover from the accident and make a plan for what she's going to do next.
A very sweet fast read when your needing one!
Annie Rose Boudreaux is on the run from her very violent ex when she crashes into a tree. She comes across a house and just wants to close her eyes and rest for a few minutes. Exhausted, she sleeps longer than expected and is awakened by two adorable twin girls that are cheering yelling and carrying on about her being their birthday present. Little does she know that accepting the ranch owners proposal to be his daughters Nanny will be much more than a few days agreement. She only intends to use the time to recover from the accident and make a plan for what she's going to do next.
A very sweet fast read when your needing one!
June 19, 2014
I liked this one from the start. When poor Annie wakes up to the chatter of two girls thinking their daddy brought home a new mother. And I do like all of Brown's books so no surprise there.
Right, Mason is a rancher with two wild girls who have scared away every nanny there is. But they were sweet rascals and just fun to read about. And Mason was sexy, calm and yummy.
Then we have Annie who is on the run from an old relationship and at first I was all she is never gonna tell, but then she DID tell and I was all, wow. Cos you know, mostly they just drag the secrets around until I wanna hit them in the head. But Annie did tell and the secrets were out. Yes! No unnecessary drama. Just two people getting to know each other, falling in love and taking care of two crazy twins. And various animals.
You have some passion, romance, ranch life, fun times and if you have read Brown then you know you are in for a good ride.
Right, Mason is a rancher with two wild girls who have scared away every nanny there is. But they were sweet rascals and just fun to read about. And Mason was sexy, calm and yummy.
Then we have Annie who is on the run from an old relationship and at first I was all she is never gonna tell, but then she DID tell and I was all, wow. Cos you know, mostly they just drag the secrets around until I wanna hit them in the head. But Annie did tell and the secrets were out. Yes! No unnecessary drama. Just two people getting to know each other, falling in love and taking care of two crazy twins. And various animals.
You have some passion, romance, ranch life, fun times and if you have read Brown then you know you are in for a good ride.
June 9, 2014
To escape an abusive relationship and for any hope of a better future Annie Rose must escape and run for her life. With a turn of good fate it leads her right into the ranch of Mason Harper and his spunky/hell-on-wheels twin 9 year old daughters. Mason needs a nanny, the girls want a "mama" and Annie Rose is just the answer they needed. You will fall in love with Lily and Gabby with their endless energy, smart mouths and "How To" books. Not to mention the very sexy and endearingly romantic rancher Mason. Prepare to laugh, ooh and ahh all while you enjoy another great addition to the Cowboy's and Bride's series.
April 10, 2014
Light, well written, and thoroughly enjoyable.
February 4, 2025
This was a fun read with two very mischievous girls
June 20, 2014
Book Info
Kindle Edition, 352 pages
Expected publication: July 1st 2014 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
original title How to Marry a Cowboy
ASIN B00HFDVNS8
edition language English
series Cowboys & Brides #4
other editions (1)
Source:Netgalley EARC
Book Buy Links
Amazon
B&N
Rancher Mason Harper’s two little girls want nothing more than a mama of their own. So when a pretty woman appears on his front porch in a tattered wedding dress, while Mason’s looking for a nanny, he can’t help but wonder if it’s fate.
Annie Rose Boudreaux is in a downright hellish mess. She’s just a few steps ahead of the low-life ex who’s been hot on her heels, but she’s tired of running, and nannying Mason’s two sweet girls may be just what she needs. As her days on the ranch fly by, and the night’s with Mason get hotter, Annie Rose decides that she’s going to stay…for a lifetime.
The morning of their 9th birthday twins Gabby and Lily Mason find a young woman on their porch asleep wearing a wedding gown, their screams of delight that their Daddy had gotten married to give them a “Mama” for their present not only woke Annie Rose up but brought their father out to see what all commotion was about.
Finding herself on a strangers porch with the family cat curled up next to her asleep was the last thing Annie expected, she had no intention of staying but when confronted with the heartfelt pleas of the twins plus the genuine need by Mason for a person willing to fill the gap of time before he could replace their nanny she found herself making a promise to help out for a few days.
Mason Harper found himself a single parent 8 years prior when his wife Holly died unexpectedly, for all those years it has been he and his girls with none of the women he dated briefly even making his heart flutter once. Boy is it fluttering now! Annie Rose is nothing like his deceased wife in looks but some of her mannerisms are dead on which makes his uncomfortable attraction to the new nanny a reason for him to feel guilty that he is somehow betraying cherished memories of Holly.
What I liked best about this tale is that it is not a fish-out-of-water story, Annie Rose was raised on a ranch so she knows full well the hours of day to day work and that a flexible schedule works best when it comes to meal times and making sure that the abundant energy that two 9-year-old girls have is channeled into the proper outlets to keep them out of making mischief as much as possible.
The fact is that Annie fits right in as not only is she able to cook, she is a former nurse which comes in handy when dealing with minor illness or medical emergencies caused by the over zealous application of claws by the family Tomcat O’Malley. The icing on the cake comes when she is able to help with fiddle and singing lessons for the girls and when she wins over the foreman’s elderly grandfather there is no better character reference!
Like the previous book in the series this one also builds the romance slowly so Mason has time to realize that Annie is just what he needs after 8 years of grieving and Annie finds that not all men are abusive like her Ex but rather able to show passion sweetly even when driven by a need as strong as her own.
Wow! Can only say am sorry series has ended but if it had to go this was a great send off and such a heartwarming story it was enough to give me chill bumps more than a time or two along the way to the HEA.
Kindle Edition, 352 pages
Expected publication: July 1st 2014 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
original title How to Marry a Cowboy
ASIN B00HFDVNS8
edition language English
series Cowboys & Brides #4
other editions (1)
Source:Netgalley EARC
Book Buy Links
Amazon
B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS
Rancher Mason Harper’s two little girls want nothing more than a mama of their own. So when a pretty woman appears on his front porch in a tattered wedding dress, while Mason’s looking for a nanny, he can’t help but wonder if it’s fate.
Annie Rose Boudreaux is in a downright hellish mess. She’s just a few steps ahead of the low-life ex who’s been hot on her heels, but she’s tired of running, and nannying Mason’s two sweet girls may be just what she needs. As her days on the ranch fly by, and the night’s with Mason get hotter, Annie Rose decides that she’s going to stay…for a lifetime.
My Thoughts
The morning of their 9th birthday twins Gabby and Lily Mason find a young woman on their porch asleep wearing a wedding gown, their screams of delight that their Daddy had gotten married to give them a “Mama” for their present not only woke Annie Rose up but brought their father out to see what all commotion was about.
Finding herself on a strangers porch with the family cat curled up next to her asleep was the last thing Annie expected, she had no intention of staying but when confronted with the heartfelt pleas of the twins plus the genuine need by Mason for a person willing to fill the gap of time before he could replace their nanny she found herself making a promise to help out for a few days.
Mason Harper found himself a single parent 8 years prior when his wife Holly died unexpectedly, for all those years it has been he and his girls with none of the women he dated briefly even making his heart flutter once. Boy is it fluttering now! Annie Rose is nothing like his deceased wife in looks but some of her mannerisms are dead on which makes his uncomfortable attraction to the new nanny a reason for him to feel guilty that he is somehow betraying cherished memories of Holly.
What I liked best about this tale is that it is not a fish-out-of-water story, Annie Rose was raised on a ranch so she knows full well the hours of day to day work and that a flexible schedule works best when it comes to meal times and making sure that the abundant energy that two 9-year-old girls have is channeled into the proper outlets to keep them out of making mischief as much as possible.
The fact is that Annie fits right in as not only is she able to cook, she is a former nurse which comes in handy when dealing with minor illness or medical emergencies caused by the over zealous application of claws by the family Tomcat O’Malley. The icing on the cake comes when she is able to help with fiddle and singing lessons for the girls and when she wins over the foreman’s elderly grandfather there is no better character reference!
Like the previous book in the series this one also builds the romance slowly so Mason has time to realize that Annie is just what he needs after 8 years of grieving and Annie finds that not all men are abusive like her Ex but rather able to show passion sweetly even when driven by a need as strong as her own.
Wow! Can only say am sorry series has ended but if it had to go this was a great send off and such a heartwarming story it was enough to give me chill bumps more than a time or two along the way to the HEA.
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
June 3, 2015
Very fun story, with a romance that is sweet with a bit of spice. Annie is on the run from an abusive ex when she ends up on Mason's front porch. There she is found by his nine year old daughters, who decide she would be the perfect mother for them. He's in desperate need of a nanny, and Annie figures she can hide out there for a few days until she decides what to do next.
I loved both Annie and Mason. She is a strong, resourceful woman who got herself out of a bad situation. I loved seeing how well she fit in on the ranch and how quickly she connected with the girls. She has a great sense of humor and has a talent for turning awkward situations into fun times. Mason is a good guy who has had a lot to deal with. He loves his girls, but they have a tendency to walk all over him.
There's an instant attraction between Mason and Annie, but both of them are wary. Annie is still dealing with the consequences from the last good looking guy she fell for. She doesn't want to repeat the mistake and get involved with someone before she has a chance to get to know him. Mason has been a widower for eight years and has had a few brief relationships, but it's Annie that has him feeling guilty about wanting to move on. I loved watching the two of them get to know each other, and realize that the attraction is too strong to fight. As they agree to see where it leads, both of them have to let go of their fears. Annie still suffers from the effects of her ex's abuse, and I loved that Mason is so sensitive to them. He has the kindness and patience to give her what she needs without pushing her past where she's comfortable. At the same time, Mason's guilty feelings sometimes cause him to pull back. I liked her understanding of his feelings and that she doesn't exhibit jealousy of the dead woman. The developing relationship isn't all sweetness and light. Each of them has their own fair share of stubbornness which causes a little head butting. Mason has a couple instances of overprotectiveness that Annie has no trouble calling him on. Some of their conversations are pretty heated, but the respect is always there and soon the love is obvious. Mason's big moment at the end was sweet and so perfect for them.
I thoroughly enjoyed Mason's daughters, Lily and Gabby. They have a reputation of being little hellions, and Mason has a terrible time keeping nannies. They were completely convinced that Mason had brought Annie home to be their mother, and nothing was going to change their minds. It was interesting to see that, as much as Mason loved them, he had a hard time getting them to behave. I loved the methods that Annie used and it was terrific to see them respond. I loved the reactions that the "new" twins got from people that knew them. Of course, it wasn't a total conversion, and I loved seeing some of the things they did. I loved seeing them stand up to the bully and piercing the ears of the cat and goats was hysterical. Even though the girls were headstrong and troublesome, sometimes they were really pretty sweet.
I loved both Annie and Mason. She is a strong, resourceful woman who got herself out of a bad situation. I loved seeing how well she fit in on the ranch and how quickly she connected with the girls. She has a great sense of humor and has a talent for turning awkward situations into fun times. Mason is a good guy who has had a lot to deal with. He loves his girls, but they have a tendency to walk all over him.
There's an instant attraction between Mason and Annie, but both of them are wary. Annie is still dealing with the consequences from the last good looking guy she fell for. She doesn't want to repeat the mistake and get involved with someone before she has a chance to get to know him. Mason has been a widower for eight years and has had a few brief relationships, but it's Annie that has him feeling guilty about wanting to move on. I loved watching the two of them get to know each other, and realize that the attraction is too strong to fight. As they agree to see where it leads, both of them have to let go of their fears. Annie still suffers from the effects of her ex's abuse, and I loved that Mason is so sensitive to them. He has the kindness and patience to give her what she needs without pushing her past where she's comfortable. At the same time, Mason's guilty feelings sometimes cause him to pull back. I liked her understanding of his feelings and that she doesn't exhibit jealousy of the dead woman. The developing relationship isn't all sweetness and light. Each of them has their own fair share of stubbornness which causes a little head butting. Mason has a couple instances of overprotectiveness that Annie has no trouble calling him on. Some of their conversations are pretty heated, but the respect is always there and soon the love is obvious. Mason's big moment at the end was sweet and so perfect for them.
I thoroughly enjoyed Mason's daughters, Lily and Gabby. They have a reputation of being little hellions, and Mason has a terrible time keeping nannies. They were completely convinced that Mason had brought Annie home to be their mother, and nothing was going to change their minds. It was interesting to see that, as much as Mason loved them, he had a hard time getting them to behave. I loved the methods that Annie used and it was terrific to see them respond. I loved the reactions that the "new" twins got from people that knew them. Of course, it wasn't a total conversion, and I loved seeing some of the things they did. I loved seeing them stand up to the bully and piercing the ears of the cat and goats was hysterical. Even though the girls were headstrong and troublesome, sometimes they were really pretty sweet.
July 1, 2014
“Gabby, come quick! Hot damn, Daddy done got us a new mama!”
The sound of a little girl’s running feet pounded through her head like a longhorn cattle stampede, and her eyes snapped open to see two little blond girls with tangled hair flying out to the sides of their heads as they jumped up and down on the wooden porch, giving Annie Rose the mother of all headaches. The bright morning sun rising above the trees out there on the horizon stung so bad that she frowned and quickly shut them, hoping it was all a bizarre nightmare.
How to Marry a Cowboy captivated me and had me smiling from the very first sentence. I loved the characters, the humor, the down to earth nature of the story, and yep...I even loved the romance.
I loved the rambunctious nine year old twins and laughed out loud more than once at the trouble they got themselves into. I also loved Annie Rose. She is a great gal and definitely someone that I could hang out with. I loved her no nonsense way of dealing with life and swooned a little each time she had a "moment" with Mason.
How to Marry a Cowboy is book four in Carolyn Brown's COWBOYS AND BRIDES series but it works great as a stand alone. As a matter of fact this is the first book that I have read in this series and I plan on catching up with all the others real soon.
This is a book you want to enjoy with a tall glass of lemonade, sweet tea, or your summer time drink of choice and just slip away into the entertainment that Carolyn Brown delivers.
Five Stars...
The story has stuck with me. I read it over a month ago and still remember almost every detail of the story. (That my friends is like a Christmas miracle.)
It still brings a smile to my face.
I enjoyed every minute of reading it.
My Book Source: ARC, Author, Won in Giveaway
***FTC Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
November 29, 2015
Reviewed by Aubrey
Book provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I loved this book. From the start to finish it was a feel good novel where you are rooting for the best outcome for everyone. I laughed at all the antics that Mason Harper’s twins got up to. Carolyn Brown has a way of writing a book that makes you want to be friends with the characters and be a part of their world. I know that when I pick up a book written by her the heroes are going to be super hot and the heroines are going to be spunky and feisty.
Annie Rose is just what Mason and the twins needed. I adored the twins and how different they were. They may have been hard to handle for most people but I think they just needed the right person to keep them in check. Mason and Annie Rose have an adorable relationship. Both have a past that they need to get over so that they can be together.
I have a soft spot for single fathers in romance novels. Mason does not disappoint. His daughters are always his first priority and he wants the best for them. The fact that he is so calm with them when they have run amok shows the kind of man he is.
I’m so sad that this is the last book of the series. I really enjoyed each book more than the last. A must read for fans of western romances.
Book provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I loved this book. From the start to finish it was a feel good novel where you are rooting for the best outcome for everyone. I laughed at all the antics that Mason Harper’s twins got up to. Carolyn Brown has a way of writing a book that makes you want to be friends with the characters and be a part of their world. I know that when I pick up a book written by her the heroes are going to be super hot and the heroines are going to be spunky and feisty.
Annie Rose is just what Mason and the twins needed. I adored the twins and how different they were. They may have been hard to handle for most people but I think they just needed the right person to keep them in check. Mason and Annie Rose have an adorable relationship. Both have a past that they need to get over so that they can be together.
I have a soft spot for single fathers in romance novels. Mason does not disappoint. His daughters are always his first priority and he wants the best for them. The fact that he is so calm with them when they have run amok shows the kind of man he is.
I’m so sad that this is the last book of the series. I really enjoyed each book more than the last. A must read for fans of western romances.
May 11, 2014
"How To Marry A Cowboy" is a book that I enjoyed. Overall it was witty, fun and romantic.
Annie Rose is an educated woman running from her Ex and a bad situation. As a heroine I was extremely impressed with her because although she had moments of fear, she did not become a victim of circumstance. She differs from the standard romance novel heroine by standing up for herself and not allowing herself to be steamrolled by anyone.
Mason is a widow trying to raise twin daughters, who are both adorably sweet and troublemakers. His daughters, Lily & Gabby, were my favorite part of the story. While only nine years old, the girls have enough personality and wit that I literally laughed out loud on multiple occasions.
The relationship that developed between Mason and Annie Rose was well plotted and although it occurs in a matter of weeks it never once felt forced or rushed.
My only problem with the story was that the author mentions Miranda Lambert repeatedly in the same paragraphs and chapters. And that repetitiveness is a little annoying. That aside I really enjoyed the novel.
Would recommend book to readers of the following genres : Western/Country Romance
Annie Rose is an educated woman running from her Ex and a bad situation. As a heroine I was extremely impressed with her because although she had moments of fear, she did not become a victim of circumstance. She differs from the standard romance novel heroine by standing up for herself and not allowing herself to be steamrolled by anyone.
Mason is a widow trying to raise twin daughters, who are both adorably sweet and troublemakers. His daughters, Lily & Gabby, were my favorite part of the story. While only nine years old, the girls have enough personality and wit that I literally laughed out loud on multiple occasions.
The relationship that developed between Mason and Annie Rose was well plotted and although it occurs in a matter of weeks it never once felt forced or rushed.
My only problem with the story was that the author mentions Miranda Lambert repeatedly in the same paragraphs and chapters. And that repetitiveness is a little annoying. That aside I really enjoyed the novel.
Would recommend book to readers of the following genres : Western/Country Romance
September 15, 2014
You have two little girls who think they have found their new mama when Annie Rose takes refuge on their front porch swing in a wedding dress. They done think their daddies gone and got married, so these Lily and Gabby just take her in and make her their momma-nanny and their daddy Mason Harper, just is confused and goes along for the ride until more than cooking heats up in the kitchen.. and the bedroom.
From the first to last page of this book, I was LOL, sighing, and maybe even shed a few tear. Carolyn Brown never disappoints her readers. She has sassy, and sexy heroines and her tall, sexy cowboys just melt a girls heart. And when you throw in two little angels, who are just too darn precocious twin girl well you have the best book in this series..
From the first to last page of this book, I was LOL, sighing, and maybe even shed a few tear. Carolyn Brown never disappoints her readers. She has sassy, and sexy heroines and her tall, sexy cowboys just melt a girls heart. And when you throw in two little angels, who are just too darn precocious twin girl well you have the best book in this series..
July 2, 2014
Ranch. Cowboy. Foul Mouthed Twin Little Girls. Woman on the Run. Fun!
But somehow, not matter how much I adored those little girls and thought the hero was great, this book didn't work for me.
There was a lot of talking in their heads by the leads and it was the same ideas over and over. Way too much telling and not enough creation of the love story between the leads.
It made it so I never really believed in the romance.
I will try this writer again and hope that a different plot allows for a love story that appeals more to me.
I was given this book for my honest review. So, there you have it!
But somehow, not matter how much I adored those little girls and thought the hero was great, this book didn't work for me.
There was a lot of talking in their heads by the leads and it was the same ideas over and over. Way too much telling and not enough creation of the love story between the leads.
It made it so I never really believed in the romance.
I will try this writer again and hope that a different plot allows for a love story that appeals more to me.
I was given this book for my honest review. So, there you have it!
July 3, 2014
Carolyn Brown's How to Marry a Cowboy
Laugh your tush off, fall in love with twin 9 year old smarty pants girls and a sexy cowboy that's romantic as hell!
Carolyn Brown's HOW to MARRY a COWBOY will lasso your heart in for the full ride of this story.
Right from Chapter 1, opening line:
"GABBY, COME QUICK! HOT DAMN, DADDY DONE GOT us a new mamma!" Had me smilin!
You will find these darling conniving twins of rancher Mason Harper most endearing. Just wait till you all read their "How To" books!
This is Carolyn Brown's last book for the Cowboys & Brides series. I will miss these cowboys-Colton, Lucas, & Greg as well as their better halves, Laura, Natalie and Emily.
Laugh your tush off, fall in love with twin 9 year old smarty pants girls and a sexy cowboy that's romantic as hell!
Carolyn Brown's HOW to MARRY a COWBOY will lasso your heart in for the full ride of this story.
Right from Chapter 1, opening line:
"GABBY, COME QUICK! HOT DAMN, DADDY DONE GOT us a new mamma!" Had me smilin!
You will find these darling conniving twins of rancher Mason Harper most endearing. Just wait till you all read their "How To" books!
This is Carolyn Brown's last book for the Cowboys & Brides series. I will miss these cowboys-Colton, Lucas, & Greg as well as their better halves, Laura, Natalie and Emily.
July 25, 2016
Incredibly stupid. I couldn't get past the first few chapters. The daughters seemed to be awfully old to be convinced that their dad had married some random chick on their porch. After being told repeatedly that he hadn't married her, they still couldn't wrap their minds around it. I have daughters. That's not how little girls act. The book went downhill from there.
December 27, 2018
Twins always have a special bond, what one wants and desires the other may as well. For Lily and Gabby Harper they just want another mama, but all they have gotten so far are nannies they make either quit or get fired. So when a blond blue eyednwoman in a torn wedding dress shows up sleeping on their porch, they believe that their wish has come true.
Mason has just wanted to raise his girls and remember his wife Holly who died when they were one. Finding a woman on his porch was not an option, but the girls like her and if she checks out he is willing to hire her as a mama-nanny for as long she wants. He is not prepared for actually liking her.
Annie Rose is running again from her past, a boyfriend who was abusive and a threat of death. She was modeling a wedding dress when she saw her ex boyfriend so she picks up and runs away but as fate would have it, she runs her car into a creek and barely has enough time to get her bag. She starts to walk and decides that a nap would be good on a random person's porch. Hours later she is awoken by two little girls who will not stop talking and a cowboy who is so handsome that she forgets why she is there.
This book was another cute one from Carolyn Brown, and the twins are the best part of the whole thing. They try their best, create "how to " instructional books, yo know how to remember, how to be a rancher, how to be a mama and not a nanny, until she finds one on how to marry a cowboy. This story kept me laughing, could make you cry and overall just give you a reason to be happy.
Mason has just wanted to raise his girls and remember his wife Holly who died when they were one. Finding a woman on his porch was not an option, but the girls like her and if she checks out he is willing to hire her as a mama-nanny for as long she wants. He is not prepared for actually liking her.
Annie Rose is running again from her past, a boyfriend who was abusive and a threat of death. She was modeling a wedding dress when she saw her ex boyfriend so she picks up and runs away but as fate would have it, she runs her car into a creek and barely has enough time to get her bag. She starts to walk and decides that a nap would be good on a random person's porch. Hours later she is awoken by two little girls who will not stop talking and a cowboy who is so handsome that she forgets why she is there.
This book was another cute one from Carolyn Brown, and the twins are the best part of the whole thing. They try their best, create "how to " instructional books, yo know how to remember, how to be a rancher, how to be a mama and not a nanny, until she finds one on how to marry a cowboy. This story kept me laughing, could make you cry and overall just give you a reason to be happy.
November 1, 2019
When precocious 9-year old twins Lilly and Gabby Harper find nurse Annie Rose Boudreau asleep on their front porch in a wedding dress, they’re convinced their dad, Mason, just gave them the best birthday present ever… a new mama for them and a new wife for him.! And they believe it no matter what Mason, Annie Rose or anyone else says.
One look and widow/rancher Mason needs Annie Rose to stay and he wants to know the basics, like who she is; why she’s on his ranch and how she got there! Annie Rose has faked amnesia before and does it again but right now, more than anything, all Annie Rose wants is to put more distance between her and her jealous and abusive ex-boyfriend.
The twins decide since Annie Rose has no memory they’ll just have to teach her. Mason decides Annie Rose is everything his wife was and everything she wasn’t, more importantly she’s exactly what he wants. Crashing into a tree on a ranch she wishes was hers with a sexy cowboy that takes her breath and thoughts away suits Annie Rose fine.
I can’t say this reader’s a fan of the outing, it unfortunately read like too much filler and there was too much of what I had way too much of (i.e. cussin’ kids; precious kids; navel gazing) and not enough of what I expected to enjoy (i.e. nanny and the cowboy) but the how-to’s were cute.
Rating 3.25stars
One look and widow/rancher Mason needs Annie Rose to stay and he wants to know the basics, like who she is; why she’s on his ranch and how she got there! Annie Rose has faked amnesia before and does it again but right now, more than anything, all Annie Rose wants is to put more distance between her and her jealous and abusive ex-boyfriend.
The twins decide since Annie Rose has no memory they’ll just have to teach her. Mason decides Annie Rose is everything his wife was and everything she wasn’t, more importantly she’s exactly what he wants. Crashing into a tree on a ranch she wishes was hers with a sexy cowboy that takes her breath and thoughts away suits Annie Rose fine.
I can’t say this reader’s a fan of the outing, it unfortunately read like too much filler and there was too much of what I had way too much of (i.e. cussin’ kids; precious kids; navel gazing) and not enough of what I expected to enjoy (i.e. nanny and the cowboy) but the how-to’s were cute.
Rating 3.25stars
September 23, 2017
This is the final book in the Cowboys and Brides series. I have enjoyed each one of them but I know all I have to do is pick up another Carolyn Brown book and I will be transported to a new and exciting love story. As was mentioned in previous books Mason has twin daughters that are hellions and tht is really an understatement. His wife passed away suddenly from a brain aneurysm and eight years later he still hasn't moved on. Because of the twins behavior he isn't able to keep a nanny for very long before they quit.
One morning Annie Rose wakes on a swing on a strangers (Mason's) porch and has no idea where she is. The twins see her and thank their father for making their wish come true. This is their new momma. She is there in a soiled and torn wedding dress and has lots of explaining to do. Oh, Boy...what has she gotten herself into!
This is a really fun love story. Those twins will have you laughing out loud. I enjoyed every minute of this story and also the series and hated for it to come to an end. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.
One morning Annie Rose wakes on a swing on a strangers (Mason's) porch and has no idea where she is. The twins see her and thank their father for making their wish come true. This is their new momma. She is there in a soiled and torn wedding dress and has lots of explaining to do. Oh, Boy...what has she gotten herself into!
This is a really fun love story. Those twins will have you laughing out loud. I enjoyed every minute of this story and also the series and hated for it to come to an end. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.
October 26, 2016
A good read, but hoped for more.
This was a good read. Mason and Annie Rose's story was good from start to finish. Annie Rose was running from an abusive ex and landed on Mason's porch swing after a minor car accident. She woke to two blonde girls claiming that she was there new mama. As the story goes along she falls I move with the girls as well as Manson despite her rules and fears.
With reviews everyone has different opinions. I enjoyed the book. Annie Rose was understanding to Mason and the girls situation. She had patience to deal with it all. The passion was a little boring in my opinion. There was too much back and forth as in one minute they were going to be together and then nope something happened. I also have to admit that there was
several times that the timeline didn't fit in with the place they said they would be. Other than these few things I loved the book and can't wait to read more books by this author.
This was a good read. Mason and Annie Rose's story was good from start to finish. Annie Rose was running from an abusive ex and landed on Mason's porch swing after a minor car accident. She woke to two blonde girls claiming that she was there new mama. As the story goes along she falls I move with the girls as well as Manson despite her rules and fears.
With reviews everyone has different opinions. I enjoyed the book. Annie Rose was understanding to Mason and the girls situation. She had patience to deal with it all. The passion was a little boring in my opinion. There was too much back and forth as in one minute they were going to be together and then nope something happened. I also have to admit that there was
several times that the timeline didn't fit in with the place they said they would be. Other than these few things I loved the book and can't wait to read more books by this author.
August 8, 2019
Wanted: One Mama-Nanny
Mason is the last bachelor cowboy in the series. He is as good looking as they come, widowed eight years and father of the infamous twins, Gabby and Lily. Annie Rose is on the run from an abusive ex-boyfriend who has vowed to killer her for leaving him. She is found by Mason and the girls, asleep on their porch swing in a ruined wedding dress. The twins think Mason has secretly married her and brought them a new mama for their birthday. She becomes their latest nanny and "Mama-Nanny" is born. Wild times begin with the twins learning that "mamas are worse than nannies" (hilarious goat adventure), a definite attraction between Mason and Annie Rose, and "How to..." advice manuals written by the twins. You can't help cheering, even with Lily's potty mouth, for a new family to emerge. Lots of laughs, eye rolls and steamy scenes.
Mason is the last bachelor cowboy in the series. He is as good looking as they come, widowed eight years and father of the infamous twins, Gabby and Lily. Annie Rose is on the run from an abusive ex-boyfriend who has vowed to killer her for leaving him. She is found by Mason and the girls, asleep on their porch swing in a ruined wedding dress. The twins think Mason has secretly married her and brought them a new mama for their birthday. She becomes their latest nanny and "Mama-Nanny" is born. Wild times begin with the twins learning that "mamas are worse than nannies" (hilarious goat adventure), a definite attraction between Mason and Annie Rose, and "How to..." advice manuals written by the twins. You can't help cheering, even with Lily's potty mouth, for a new family to emerge. Lots of laughs, eye rolls and steamy scenes.
December 2, 2018
Mason Harper
Annie Rose Boudreau
Mason’s twin 9 year old daughters find Annie Rose asleep on the front porch swing in a torn wedding gown on their birthday and decide Mason has brought them a mama. The girls mom died when they were 1 years old. Mason invites her in to find out how she ended up on his front porch. Mason hires Annie Rose to be the Mama-nanny as the girls call her. The story goes on to develop Mason’s and Annie Rose’s relationship and her relationship with the girls which are a handful when they want to be. This was a great book to close out the series. It was a fast and fun read. The girls are so funny with the antics they do but yet very cute and good secondary characters. This book as with the other books in the series can be read as a stand alone. None of the books in this series are what you would consider spicy.
Annie Rose Boudreau
Mason’s twin 9 year old daughters find Annie Rose asleep on the front porch swing in a torn wedding gown on their birthday and decide Mason has brought them a mama. The girls mom died when they were 1 years old. Mason invites her in to find out how she ended up on his front porch. Mason hires Annie Rose to be the Mama-nanny as the girls call her. The story goes on to develop Mason’s and Annie Rose’s relationship and her relationship with the girls which are a handful when they want to be. This was a great book to close out the series. It was a fast and fun read. The girls are so funny with the antics they do but yet very cute and good secondary characters. This book as with the other books in the series can be read as a stand alone. None of the books in this series are what you would consider spicy.
October 13, 2017
I got this book as part of a 2 book set I snagged free on Amazon. But this book was so good that I had to give it a review of it's own. It has the most hilarious beginning of any book I've ever read and will totally rope you in right from the start. And the laughs and humor don't stop there. The 2 little girls, and the goats, and ..... etc. keep the humor going throughout the book. And, it has the sweetest ending you'd ever want to read, right out of a fairytale or something. This is really a gem of a book that you should put on your to read list. It's tons of fun to read.
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