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A Bargained-For Bride
“You’re the sweetest girl in Mourning Dove Creek, you know?” Jack mumbled as he paused in kissing Jilly a moment. Jilly smiled. “And you’re the handsomest man in Mourning Dove Creek, you know,” she flirted in return. Jack smiled. “I do know,” he said. Jilly giggled. Jack Taylor was so predictable—and a little conceited. He really did think he was the handsomest man in Mourning Dove—and he was, for the most part. Secretly, however, if Jilly ever allowed herself to be completely honest about it (which she tried to avoid), there was one other man in Mourning Dove who always crossed her mind when the subject of the handsomest man in town arose. Yet there was no lingering on thinking of that man—no sirree! Not for a moment! Not for any reason—ever. And so Jilly just kept telling Jack that he was the handsomest man in Mourning Dove Creek. Besides, it was almost true—being that the other man lived outside of town and not right in town the way Jack did.
146 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 19, 2001
68 people are currently reading
1013 people want to read
About the author
Marcia Lynn McClure
75 books1,366 followersBorn in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Marcia Lynn McClure grew up influenced by the reminiscent stories of rugged, rural Colorado farm life fascinatingly recounted to her by her parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts…tales of runaway buckboards, mule-drawn plows and dust pneumonia; verbalized images of stream-flooded meadows, frozen over in winter, where a child could peer through the crystal clear ice in wonder at the small fish, snakes and mice sealed in the meadow grasses beneath; stories of hardship and tragedy, love and loss. But always the stories, and the people telling them, bore evidence of the wonder and worthiness of simpler, yet sometimes brutal, times.
These influential people and the family legends they detailed, coupled with her own life experiences and utterly romantic nature, led Marcia to begin writing novels as Christmas gifts for her closest friends…friends who long for a breath of the past and miss the romance of bygone eras; friends searching for moments of distraction from the stressful, demanding times we live in.
And so, knowing that it is the breath of the past and the "take me in you arms and kiss me" kind of moments that so many women long to relive, Marcia spins her tales of love, life and laughter…adventures woven around those compelling, romantic instances that most appeal to a woman's loving heart. Marcia feels that if her readers close one of her books with a contented sigh and a delighted smile, feeling rejuvenated, cheerful and edified, then she has achieved what she set out to do…shower refreshment and happiness on anyone having experienced the story.
Marcia lives in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. There she writes her stories surrounded by her beloved friends and family...and the beautiful desert landscape of New Mexico!
These influential people and the family legends they detailed, coupled with her own life experiences and utterly romantic nature, led Marcia to begin writing novels as Christmas gifts for her closest friends…friends who long for a breath of the past and miss the romance of bygone eras; friends searching for moments of distraction from the stressful, demanding times we live in.
And so, knowing that it is the breath of the past and the "take me in you arms and kiss me" kind of moments that so many women long to relive, Marcia spins her tales of love, life and laughter…adventures woven around those compelling, romantic instances that most appeal to a woman's loving heart. Marcia feels that if her readers close one of her books with a contented sigh and a delighted smile, feeling rejuvenated, cheerful and edified, then she has achieved what she set out to do…shower refreshment and happiness on anyone having experienced the story.
Marcia lives in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. There she writes her stories surrounded by her beloved friends and family...and the beautiful desert landscape of New Mexico!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
October 20, 2013
LOVED! LOVED! LOVED!
Seriously this is just the type of book I love to escape into. My only wish is that it was longer but it was still completely satisfying. (It's a novella that I read in one sitting). If you are looking for a quick escape with a swoon worthy hero then pick up A Bargained-For Bride. It's got all Marcia's classic touches that make her books something I always look forward to reading. In a world filled with so much heartache and evil I appreciate the honest, loving, family centered, hard-working moral characters Marcia creates. Combined that with the guilt-free passionate romance she writes with nothing more than kissing and you've got a book I can love.
The author's notes at the end are always an added bonus and made me love this book even more.
Rating: 5 Stars - I Loved It!
Content: clean (although the word jackass was used repeatedly) for the few who have thought there was too much kissing in some recent books this one doesn't have as much.
Source: Review Copy
Purcahse: Amazon * Distractions Ink
Seriously this is just the type of book I love to escape into. My only wish is that it was longer but it was still completely satisfying. (It's a novella that I read in one sitting). If you are looking for a quick escape with a swoon worthy hero then pick up A Bargained-For Bride. It's got all Marcia's classic touches that make her books something I always look forward to reading. In a world filled with so much heartache and evil I appreciate the honest, loving, family centered, hard-working moral characters Marcia creates. Combined that with the guilt-free passionate romance she writes with nothing more than kissing and you've got a book I can love.
The author's notes at the end are always an added bonus and made me love this book even more.
Rating: 5 Stars - I Loved It!
Content: clean (although the word jackass was used repeatedly) for the few who have thought there was too much kissing in some recent books this one doesn't have as much.
Source: Review Copy
Purcahse: Amazon * Distractions Ink
December 4, 2013
When I bought A Bargained-For Bride, my first thought was, "I just paid $8.95 for a novella?" In reading it though, I realized that Marcia Lynn McClure's idea of a novella is different from my own. I think of a novella as a book that is less than 100 pages. I think Marcia's definition is a story less than 200. She also classified Sudden Storms, Love Me, Sweet Cherry Ray, and The Prairie Prince as novellas. I didn't resent paying full price for those, and I don't regret buying A Bargained-For Bride.
A Bargained-For Bride is the story of Jilly Adams and Boone Ramsey. Boone Ramsey is the local hero, who keeps to himself, yet is still the first man to help in any situation. He rescues children from rivers and wells, helps during fires, and joins posses to capture outlaws. When he finds out that Jilly's Grandfather is ill, he once again steps in to make sure that Jilly will be taken care of. He proposes marriage. What follows is a sweet romance of discovering that a marriage formed out of pity, really might have been formed by stronger feelings on both sides.
I loved that Boone didn't want attention, and seemed like a quieter man, but was really so caring, and funny. I loved that he included Jilly when he thought to play a prank.
Another great book from Marcia Lynn McClure!
A Bargained-For Bride is the story of Jilly Adams and Boone Ramsey. Boone Ramsey is the local hero, who keeps to himself, yet is still the first man to help in any situation. He rescues children from rivers and wells, helps during fires, and joins posses to capture outlaws. When he finds out that Jilly's Grandfather is ill, he once again steps in to make sure that Jilly will be taken care of. He proposes marriage. What follows is a sweet romance of discovering that a marriage formed out of pity, really might have been formed by stronger feelings on both sides.
I loved that Boone didn't want attention, and seemed like a quieter man, but was really so caring, and funny. I loved that he included Jilly when he thought to play a prank.
Another great book from Marcia Lynn McClure!
October 29, 2013
Marcia is, hands down, a fabulous romance writer. She has the ability to bring swooning kisses to any plot, any character. When I read Marcia's books, I am transported to another place and I feel, well, happy. Sweet romance that doesn't lose the fun of the chase and the kisses that make it worth it.
Another reason I love MLM books is that the men are always MEN. They are strong and loyal and of course, handsome. They don't pussyfoot around. Ever. No whining and no excuses.
I loved both Boone and Jilly. They are both fantastic characters. They have both been orphaned but Jilly has been raised by her grandparents. This gives them something in common. Boone is independent and the first to jump in to help the community with whatever hardship is before them. He is a rescuer and a protector. He plays his part well. Jilly is strong and sweet. She is a perfect match for Boone and I love how their story plays out.
There isn't as much kissing in this book so depending on who you are you may or may not love that fact. :)
I really loved this sweet novella. It was fun and romantic.
Content: mild swearing
Another reason I love MLM books is that the men are always MEN. They are strong and loyal and of course, handsome. They don't pussyfoot around. Ever. No whining and no excuses.
I loved both Boone and Jilly. They are both fantastic characters. They have both been orphaned but Jilly has been raised by her grandparents. This gives them something in common. Boone is independent and the first to jump in to help the community with whatever hardship is before them. He is a rescuer and a protector. He plays his part well. Jilly is strong and sweet. She is a perfect match for Boone and I love how their story plays out.
There isn't as much kissing in this book so depending on who you are you may or may not love that fact. :)
I really loved this sweet novella. It was fun and romantic.
Content: mild swearing
December 20, 2013
Why on earth did I wait so long to read this book? I was scheduled to review this one some time ago, but I ran out of time. I had a few minutes, so I thought I would give this book a try yesterday, and I was immediately immersed in the book. I discovered this is only a novella, but it honestly makes no difference. The story is as involving as a full-length novel, and I was able to read this book in practically no time. There is only very minimal profanity (one of the words I don't see as profanity, and it was quite humorous), and there are no intimate scenes. The couple wait to have sex until after marriage (imagine), and the book is entirely appropriate for young adults and older.
I was sharing with my mom about why McClure books are such amazing books. This story includes 3-dimensional characters, emotionally involving action, and a lot of humor. So many books do not choose to include any humor, and I always miss it no matter how great the book is. This author writes genuinely clean romance that never come off as being sappy. I don't mind having a happily ever after when the characters can be as much fun as Boone and Jill.
As a side note, I also love the author's remarks concerning the writing of this novella. She shared tidbits about the process and the story behind the story. It is an extended note, but I think you will find the same genuinely warm and funny voice even in this author's note. Anyone who enjoys a good romance will love this book--at least in my opinion.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
I was sharing with my mom about why McClure books are such amazing books. This story includes 3-dimensional characters, emotionally involving action, and a lot of humor. So many books do not choose to include any humor, and I always miss it no matter how great the book is. This author writes genuinely clean romance that never come off as being sappy. I don't mind having a happily ever after when the characters can be as much fun as Boone and Jill.
As a side note, I also love the author's remarks concerning the writing of this novella. She shared tidbits about the process and the story behind the story. It is an extended note, but I think you will find the same genuinely warm and funny voice even in this author's note. Anyone who enjoys a good romance will love this book--at least in my opinion.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
October 28, 2013
Marcia Lynn McClure can really write a good, clean romance that draws a reader right in. She can write Westerns, Regency, and Contemporary books and they're fantastic!! I think one thing that I love about her books, is she always adds a little something to them that connects the book for me. For example, with this one, I'll always connect it with oranges. She has one that I always think of when I see a tootsie pop. Those little details really make it fun. I think the author's notes at the end are the icing on the cake--I love the little snippets into the making of the story or into MLM's personal life. Those experiences really add to the story and bring it to life.
Jilly is in love with Jack. I was a little disappointed at first. I hadn't read the book description, because I knew I'd love it, and I didn't want the book to start out with the couple already together. I love to "watch" the couple fall in love and I thought they were already there. If you're the same way, KEEP READING!! I was sure in for a surprise--but that's what I get for assuming. I loved it, just as I knew I would. True to MLM fashion, this book took me on a delightful, romantic journey and was just adorable.
Content: kissing, some swearing. Clean!!
Jilly is in love with Jack. I was a little disappointed at first. I hadn't read the book description, because I knew I'd love it, and I didn't want the book to start out with the couple already together. I love to "watch" the couple fall in love and I thought they were already there. If you're the same way, KEEP READING!! I was sure in for a surprise--but that's what I get for assuming. I loved it, just as I knew I would. True to MLM fashion, this book took me on a delightful, romantic journey and was just adorable.
Content: kissing, some swearing. Clean!!
March 8, 2022
I’m a sucker for marriage of convenience stories and I thought this was a cute one. Boone has had his eye on Jilly for a long time and when he sees her starting to fall for the town “tomcat” he decides to step in. I thought Boone and Jilly were cute together. This is one of MLMs novellas that I wish were full length. It’s a fun read and perfect for those busy days when you only have time to fit in a little reading.
Content Rated PG
Romance: Kissing
Language: Mild
Violence: Mild
Content Rated PG
Romance: Kissing
Language: Mild
Violence: Mild
October 9, 2013
A Bargained-For Bride by Marcia Lynn McClure is a deliciously romantic and ravishingly thrilling story of not settling for anything but the best. This was a truly magical and swoon worthy love story that unreservedly captured my heart and gave it wings to fly to the heights of Heaven and back. My heart was swept away by the quiet yet simmering passion that we see being accidentally discovered, lovingly nurtured, and desperately pursued by the enchanting characters that we come to know.
I think that women need to realize that we shouldn’t be settling for just any guy that will show us some attention and dish out some affection our way. We should be much more discerning when it comes to our heart. Why would you ever think about handing your heart over to a one night stand or to a player who only wants to add another notch to his bedpost? We are so much more valuable and precious then these types of men give us credit for. We deeply infuse passionate love, tender gentleness, and endless heart into our society. Not only would men wither and fade without us, but they would never know the heart-pounding pleasure of performing a task in order to see the room light up with a smile from his love or the pulse spiking passion of his lady’s tender kiss of gratitude and love. We complete them, and the smart ones know that any sacrifice is worth the endless ecstasy and soul-filling wholeness that only we can offer them. The truly lucky ones know the heavenly benefits and pure joy that comes from finding the one that completes him and loving her with everything in him. He doesn’t need to go looking for more because he knows he has more than enough woman on his hands then he could ever tame and love in a lifetime.
On that same note, we as women need to realize the power that we hold in our own hands. If we choose, we can tease as well as they can if not better, but if we are true women of virtue and wisdom, we will use that power to honor the men worthy of our love and life through our actions and our words. By showing these men that we are worthy of their precious attention, their fierce love, and their boundless devotion, we can begin to heal the great rift that has been created since the fall of mankind. Men have no less depth of the soul and passion of the heart then we do. They have just been taught not to be as quick in showing it as we are. Society teaches them to be hard and show no emotion, and in so doing they will be perceived as strong and invincible. In reality, they crave our attention and desire our love just as much, and I would venture to say that they hunger for it even more than we do for they are taught to suppress that natural desire in light of appearing aloof and independent. So let us learn to not only control our own yearnings but to show each other the respect that both men and women deserve. If we fall, so does our society.
McClure is quickly becoming one of my favorite romance authors because she focuses on the immense value and the infinite important of the family. We are not much without the love and guidance provided to us by our family. True family will do whatever is needed in order to take care of and look out for each other. We need to remember to always love and appreciate our family – whoever they might be.
I think that women need to realize that we shouldn’t be settling for just any guy that will show us some attention and dish out some affection our way. We should be much more discerning when it comes to our heart. Why would you ever think about handing your heart over to a one night stand or to a player who only wants to add another notch to his bedpost? We are so much more valuable and precious then these types of men give us credit for. We deeply infuse passionate love, tender gentleness, and endless heart into our society. Not only would men wither and fade without us, but they would never know the heart-pounding pleasure of performing a task in order to see the room light up with a smile from his love or the pulse spiking passion of his lady’s tender kiss of gratitude and love. We complete them, and the smart ones know that any sacrifice is worth the endless ecstasy and soul-filling wholeness that only we can offer them. The truly lucky ones know the heavenly benefits and pure joy that comes from finding the one that completes him and loving her with everything in him. He doesn’t need to go looking for more because he knows he has more than enough woman on his hands then he could ever tame and love in a lifetime.
On that same note, we as women need to realize the power that we hold in our own hands. If we choose, we can tease as well as they can if not better, but if we are true women of virtue and wisdom, we will use that power to honor the men worthy of our love and life through our actions and our words. By showing these men that we are worthy of their precious attention, their fierce love, and their boundless devotion, we can begin to heal the great rift that has been created since the fall of mankind. Men have no less depth of the soul and passion of the heart then we do. They have just been taught not to be as quick in showing it as we are. Society teaches them to be hard and show no emotion, and in so doing they will be perceived as strong and invincible. In reality, they crave our attention and desire our love just as much, and I would venture to say that they hunger for it even more than we do for they are taught to suppress that natural desire in light of appearing aloof and independent. So let us learn to not only control our own yearnings but to show each other the respect that both men and women deserve. If we fall, so does our society.
McClure is quickly becoming one of my favorite romance authors because she focuses on the immense value and the infinite important of the family. We are not much without the love and guidance provided to us by our family. True family will do whatever is needed in order to take care of and look out for each other. We need to remember to always love and appreciate our family – whoever they might be.
August 12, 2015
This book wasn't terribly awful, I guess, but I still did not enjoy it at all. It seemed so... fake to me. And I also went into it believing it to be Christian fiction only to be disappointed. Though there is mention of God, prayer, etc. I wouldn't classify it as Christian. There is cussing -- might be considered mild, but still -- among other things that I did not like.
It was absolutely not worth my time at all!
I thought that it might just be this book, so I opened up another book I have by this author... You can see my review for Weathered Too Young here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
It was absolutely not worth my time at all!
I thought that it might just be this book, so I opened up another book I have by this author... You can see my review for Weathered Too Young here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
October 10, 2014
Once again I fell in love with Marcia's characters. I think I literally smiled through about 90% of this book. :) Loved it!
Contains some mild language
Contains some mild language
November 3, 2013
Marcia Lynn McClure is fast becoming one of those authors whose every book I must read. I love her writing. They are perfect romance novels (or novellas in some cases) that leave you sighing when you are done. Her men are always the type of men that leave us swooning. A Bargained-For Bride was no exception.
Jilly has been sparking with Jack. I’m not telling you what sparking means, I kind of love that term. Sparking is harmless, I promise. Anyways, she has been sparking with Jack and has bigger aspirations in mind for him, at least she did once her grandpa arranges a marriage for her, a marriage with Boone. Boone intimidates her. She doesn’t want to marry Boone. Whatever shall she do? I’m not saying. I promise not to spoil it for you.
A Bargained-For Bride is a sweet quick read. I loved it, just as I love all of Marcia’s books. I love her notes at the end to. Her acknowledgements are always fun to read, but the little bits of trivia from her life in comparison to things that happened during the story are a treat.
This is a good clean romance that takes me back to the romance books my grandma used to let me read as a teen (which she hid her hot steamy romance novels from me). It was just a beautiful story.
Jilly has been sparking with Jack. I’m not telling you what sparking means, I kind of love that term. Sparking is harmless, I promise. Anyways, she has been sparking with Jack and has bigger aspirations in mind for him, at least she did once her grandpa arranges a marriage for her, a marriage with Boone. Boone intimidates her. She doesn’t want to marry Boone. Whatever shall she do? I’m not saying. I promise not to spoil it for you.
A Bargained-For Bride is a sweet quick read. I loved it, just as I love all of Marcia’s books. I love her notes at the end to. Her acknowledgements are always fun to read, but the little bits of trivia from her life in comparison to things that happened during the story are a treat.
This is a good clean romance that takes me back to the romance books my grandma used to let me read as a teen (which she hid her hot steamy romance novels from me). It was just a beautiful story.
November 6, 2013
Love has a way of finding us at the right moments.
This was a sweet and tender story of young love. I liked how the story was able to portray both sides of romance heartbreak and real love. The characters had to go through a bit of a growing up phase. Jilly learned the hard way the difference between fake love and true love.
Jilly was a sweet, but naive girl in the beginning. I liked that we got to see her grow from the beginning of the book to the end. She was definitely a wiser and much happier person by the end. She also learned that appearances can be deceiving.
The romance was nicely paced and although marriage came first the characters still had time to get to know each other before getting serious. I loved the interactions between Jilly and Boone, they were quite the pair!
Boone was a sweet man and very honorable, but he was also a bit antisocial. (Which I can totally relate with) it's because of this that Jilly is a bit wary of him at first. I really enjoyed getting to know him. I also liked finding out a bit more about his and Jilly's past as the story progressed.
For a sweet and romantic read check out "A Bargained for Bride"
This was a sweet and tender story of young love. I liked how the story was able to portray both sides of romance heartbreak and real love. The characters had to go through a bit of a growing up phase. Jilly learned the hard way the difference between fake love and true love.
Jilly was a sweet, but naive girl in the beginning. I liked that we got to see her grow from the beginning of the book to the end. She was definitely a wiser and much happier person by the end. She also learned that appearances can be deceiving.
The romance was nicely paced and although marriage came first the characters still had time to get to know each other before getting serious. I loved the interactions between Jilly and Boone, they were quite the pair!
Boone was a sweet man and very honorable, but he was also a bit antisocial. (Which I can totally relate with) it's because of this that Jilly is a bit wary of him at first. I really enjoyed getting to know him. I also liked finding out a bit more about his and Jilly's past as the story progressed.
For a sweet and romantic read check out "A Bargained for Bride"
March 5, 2014
I loved this book, just the perfect escape I needed! I understand the need for cute short novellas, but this is one I would love to see expanded, but only if the beginning stays the same. I love books where characters fall in love after the marriage. Or at least come to full realization of their feelings. That twist never gets old to me!
Love the cover too, just have to throw that in. Love a cover that just makes me smile.
Delightfully delicious as only Marcia can do, giving me the boost I need to keep on keeping on... :)
Love the cover too, just have to throw that in. Love a cover that just makes me smile.
Delightfully delicious as only Marcia can do, giving me the boost I need to keep on keeping on... :)
February 17, 2014
What a wonderful story!!!
February 4, 2015
I discovered Marcia Lynn McClure's books in my early teen years, and was turned on to all things romance and kissing after that first book, Shackles of Honor. Fifteen years later I am still in love with that story and the poetic, wistful writing style of its author. This fun novella is bringing me back to all things Marcia, as I rediscover her fun, lighthearted humor and likeable characters.
A Bargained For Bride is sweet in its simplicity and direct in its intent. Not too fluffy and not too stuffy as my mom likes to say. Jilly and Boone make the perfect clueless couple with their inability to realize the love each one has for the other. After recently reading about some seriously screwed up couples in the communication department, the direct dialogue between the two main characters was refreshing. This quick romance fix did not disappoint, and I enjoyed the clean aspect of it. Though this novella doesn't explore the kind of charged emotions that made me fall in love with titles such as Shackles of Honor, The Highwayman of Tanglewoodor Saphyre Snow (A Snow White retelling that I highly recommend) it wasn't meant to, and certainly did little to make me feel as if I had missed out on anything important.
I recommend this sweet novella to anyone looking for a quick romance fix without any crazy emotional roller coaster rides. WARNING: You will feel like making out with a hot cowboy once finished. I recommend having one handy!
A Bargained For Bride is sweet in its simplicity and direct in its intent. Not too fluffy and not too stuffy as my mom likes to say. Jilly and Boone make the perfect clueless couple with their inability to realize the love each one has for the other. After recently reading about some seriously screwed up couples in the communication department, the direct dialogue between the two main characters was refreshing. This quick romance fix did not disappoint, and I enjoyed the clean aspect of it. Though this novella doesn't explore the kind of charged emotions that made me fall in love with titles such as Shackles of Honor, The Highwayman of Tanglewoodor Saphyre Snow (A Snow White retelling that I highly recommend) it wasn't meant to, and certainly did little to make me feel as if I had missed out on anything important.
I recommend this sweet novella to anyone looking for a quick romance fix without any crazy emotional roller coaster rides. WARNING: You will feel like making out with a hot cowboy once finished. I recommend having one handy!
November 6, 2013
Marcia McClure's books are always fun to read and this was no exception! I love that it's a novella so it didn't take long to read. Jilly is an orphan and in love with Jack (yes, there is a reference made to the nursery rhyme). She's being raised by her grandparents and they don't have a high opinion of Jack. Her grandfather makes an arrangement for her to marry someone else. She's not happy about it but is allowed to tell Jack so he can make an offer for her instead. Will she and Jack have their happily ever after or is there someone else for Jilly? The characters are entertaining and I found myself laughing at some of the things that happened. And, of course, there's some clean kissing involved! This is a great story to read when you want to unwind and enjoy a good, clean romance!
Another thing I love are the Author's Notes she always includes at the end. She explains Christmas oranges (I was curious about that myself) and the background for using that in her story. It's always fun to get some inside information on her process. She also discusses the early days of ebooks. I remember when it seemed amazing to get a book you could read right away, without leaving home or waiting for it to show up at your door, and hers were some of the first I purchased. We've come a long way in a very short period of time.
Content: Mild swearing and clean kissing
Mel's Shelves
Another thing I love are the Author's Notes she always includes at the end. She explains Christmas oranges (I was curious about that myself) and the background for using that in her story. It's always fun to get some inside information on her process. She also discusses the early days of ebooks. I remember when it seemed amazing to get a book you could read right away, without leaving home or waiting for it to show up at your door, and hers were some of the first I purchased. We've come a long way in a very short period of time.
Content: Mild swearing and clean kissing
Mel's Shelves
November 2, 2013
My Thoughts
Loved it
Jilly, raised by her grandparents after being orphaned, is used to their old fashioned ways and thinks she is in love with Jack, since sparks fly when they kiss, but something just doesn't ring true with him. Boone, also orphaned, meets Jilly when he is twelve and she is just eight, she also gifts him with something precious to her at Christmas that Boone never forgets. So when Boone asks for her hand in marriage, her grandfather says yes, and Jilly is not sure what to expect since he never really paid her any attention. This being the west, Boone is accustom to taking charge and going after what he wants. I can't tell you the whole circumstance between this somewhat arranged marriage since it might ruin it for it.
In true McClure fashion, the kiss at the wedding makes Jilly's toes curl and she realizes exactly what a kiss can do to a girl. That and the fact that she has always had a crush on Boone. Once they are married, Boone sets her up in a separate bedroom, Jilly becomes a bit confused but accepts it and thinks since they haven't really known each other long, it will help them connect. And then, Boone leaves and Jilly worries about his safety. This historical western is just very romantic and this is what this author does best. I love the dialogue and the tension between the characters. Another wonderfully clean romance from McClure that will let you escape for a few hours.
Loved it
Jilly, raised by her grandparents after being orphaned, is used to their old fashioned ways and thinks she is in love with Jack, since sparks fly when they kiss, but something just doesn't ring true with him. Boone, also orphaned, meets Jilly when he is twelve and she is just eight, she also gifts him with something precious to her at Christmas that Boone never forgets. So when Boone asks for her hand in marriage, her grandfather says yes, and Jilly is not sure what to expect since he never really paid her any attention. This being the west, Boone is accustom to taking charge and going after what he wants. I can't tell you the whole circumstance between this somewhat arranged marriage since it might ruin it for it.
In true McClure fashion, the kiss at the wedding makes Jilly's toes curl and she realizes exactly what a kiss can do to a girl. That and the fact that she has always had a crush on Boone. Once they are married, Boone sets her up in a separate bedroom, Jilly becomes a bit confused but accepts it and thinks since they haven't really known each other long, it will help them connect. And then, Boone leaves and Jilly worries about his safety. This historical western is just very romantic and this is what this author does best. I love the dialogue and the tension between the characters. Another wonderfully clean romance from McClure that will let you escape for a few hours.
December 15, 2013
Mourning Dove Creek is a town that boasts two very handsome men, Boone Ramsey and Jack Taylor. Young Jilly Adams is sparking with one and wishing for the other. She is with one because she does not think she can ever have the other. She is orphaned at a very young age and goes to live with her Grandma Effie and Grandpa Doolin.
Ms McClure writes very rich characters and she has you vested in their happiness from the very first. The desire of Jilly to be loved, treasured and have a relationship like her grandparents is uppermost in this reader’s mind. Grandpa Doolin’s need to know Jilly is going to be taken care of and treasured becomes a priority for him and he does not see it being with the young man Jilly is sparking with. Our hero steps in after overhearing a conversation between Grandpa Doolin and Doc Haversham and asks Jilly’s hand in marriage.
Both Jilly and Boone have to figure out how to trust and share their feelings. Ms McClure takes us and them on a wonderful road to discovery. From shenanigans with skinny dippers to dangerous posses and mine shafts; this is a charming and engaging story. I look forward to reading more from Ms McClure.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Ms McClure writes very rich characters and she has you vested in their happiness from the very first. The desire of Jilly to be loved, treasured and have a relationship like her grandparents is uppermost in this reader’s mind. Grandpa Doolin’s need to know Jilly is going to be taken care of and treasured becomes a priority for him and he does not see it being with the young man Jilly is sparking with. Our hero steps in after overhearing a conversation between Grandpa Doolin and Doc Haversham and asks Jilly’s hand in marriage.
Both Jilly and Boone have to figure out how to trust and share their feelings. Ms McClure takes us and them on a wonderful road to discovery. From shenanigans with skinny dippers to dangerous posses and mine shafts; this is a charming and engaging story. I look forward to reading more from Ms McClure.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
November 6, 2013
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
A Bargained for Bride is a short, sweet novella that will leave the reader smiling. It's so refreshing to read something that's pure and simple, without subterfuge. Just two people finding love in each other.
Jilly is an adorable character. She's definitely naïve, but her spirit and intelligence shines through on every page and in every encounter. Jilly dreams of love and romance like any other girl. Though she's not one to wallow in self-pity when played the fool. I really liked Jilly, enjoyed following along on her journey of self-discovery.
Romantic interest Boone is definitely sigh worthy. Independent, successful, gorgeous, and selfless - who could ask for more. That and he actually cares about Jilly - well that makes him aces in my book. To think, had he not happened along, Jilly would've continued her 'sparking' with that dastard Jack. Well my favorite scene in the novella is when that jackass, Jack, gets his due.
I recommend A Bargained for Bride to everyone middle school and up (for those young voracious readers) that enjoys a sweet romance. It's also a clean romance; just toe curling kisses and no bad language (other than jackass - and Jack really deserves that title).
A Bargained for Bride is a short, sweet novella that will leave the reader smiling. It's so refreshing to read something that's pure and simple, without subterfuge. Just two people finding love in each other.
Jilly is an adorable character. She's definitely naïve, but her spirit and intelligence shines through on every page and in every encounter. Jilly dreams of love and romance like any other girl. Though she's not one to wallow in self-pity when played the fool. I really liked Jilly, enjoyed following along on her journey of self-discovery.
Romantic interest Boone is definitely sigh worthy. Independent, successful, gorgeous, and selfless - who could ask for more. That and he actually cares about Jilly - well that makes him aces in my book. To think, had he not happened along, Jilly would've continued her 'sparking' with that dastard Jack. Well my favorite scene in the novella is when that jackass, Jack, gets his due.
I recommend A Bargained for Bride to everyone middle school and up (for those young voracious readers) that enjoys a sweet romance. It's also a clean romance; just toe curling kisses and no bad language (other than jackass - and Jack really deserves that title).
October 10, 2013
I feel Marcia does her best work with a historical western romances. I really loved this sweet romance! Boone is our hero and seems to be running off to save the day. Jilly is raised by her grandparents after they died in a train crash. It is funny how grandparents seem to know best. I liked the easy banter between Jilly's grandparents. When Boone asks for Jilly's hand in marriage. And a quick marriage is made. Can a marriage that starts in pity turn into something more? One of my favorite parts of the story is the orange gift when Jilly and Boone where younger. It pulled at my heart. Another memorable event I was cracking up over was the boys skinny dippin'. This is a fun, simple romance that will have your heart a fluttering. This is a quick historical romantic escape MLM style!
Just FYI~ This does contain some swearing, but NO sexual situations.
Just FYI~ This does contain some swearing, but NO sexual situations.
November 5, 2013
Jilly thinks that she has life figured out. She loves her grandparents who are her guardians. She has fun "sparking" with the handsome Jack. She thinks that he may love her and plan on spending the rest of his life with her.
Her dreams change when the handsome hero Boone asks her grandfather for her hand. She finds that she will be a bride, but the groom is not who she originally planned on.
This book is a fun one to read. Jilly takes an maturity journey. She learns some hard lessons and begins to realize the things that are important and find out what her heart really wants.
Boone is a great romantic hero. He takes care of everyone else, except himself. He also had some life lessons to be learned.
Her dreams change when the handsome hero Boone asks her grandfather for her hand. She finds that she will be a bride, but the groom is not who she originally planned on.
This book is a fun one to read. Jilly takes an maturity journey. She learns some hard lessons and begins to realize the things that are important and find out what her heart really wants.
Boone is a great romantic hero. He takes care of everyone else, except himself. He also had some life lessons to be learned.
January 22, 2015
Lovely sweet clean old fashioned romance.
This is a really sweet old fashioned clean romance, after being orphaned at the age four Jilly has been brought up by her grandparents, now eighteen she's being courted by Jack Taylor who is almost the most handsome man in town and Jilly wonders how she ever got so lucky, but for all her happiness she still wonders occasionally if Jack's not quite the catch he's made out to be but then no he is a catch everyone thinks so....it's just Jilly's always had a soft spot for the grumpy and sullen town hero Boone Ramsey but since he's not an option she's so lucky to have Jack.
Jilly will learn that things don't always go as planned but that's not necessarily a bad thing.
This is a really sweet old fashioned clean romance, after being orphaned at the age four Jilly has been brought up by her grandparents, now eighteen she's being courted by Jack Taylor who is almost the most handsome man in town and Jilly wonders how she ever got so lucky, but for all her happiness she still wonders occasionally if Jack's not quite the catch he's made out to be but then no he is a catch everyone thinks so....it's just Jilly's always had a soft spot for the grumpy and sullen town hero Boone Ramsey but since he's not an option she's so lucky to have Jack.
Jilly will learn that things don't always go as planned but that's not necessarily a bad thing.
October 29, 2013
LOVED!!!!
This is my second taste of Marcia's work and I must say by the end of each one, I'm dying to start a new one lol.
I absolutely loved the historical western theme, it's been a long time since I've read anything like it and it was such a breath of fresh air from what I've had my head into lately. There's nothing like sitting back with a great book and getting lost in a sweet (clean) romantic story, with characters you'll form bonds with, stollen kisses that'll give you butterflies and a you won't stop reading till you're finished. Another brilliant story from a brilliant author.
This one is definitely a keeper. ^_^
Go snap up a copy for yourself.
This is my second taste of Marcia's work and I must say by the end of each one, I'm dying to start a new one lol.
I absolutely loved the historical western theme, it's been a long time since I've read anything like it and it was such a breath of fresh air from what I've had my head into lately. There's nothing like sitting back with a great book and getting lost in a sweet (clean) romantic story, with characters you'll form bonds with, stollen kisses that'll give you butterflies and a you won't stop reading till you're finished. Another brilliant story from a brilliant author.
This one is definitely a keeper. ^_^
Go snap up a copy for yourself.
September 20, 2013
Marcia did it again. This novella is a simple escape. It is a way to get away from the world and smile. Marcia's novellas never seem like novellas to me. Yes, the story is shorter than her full length novels, but it is still developed enough for me to feel satisfied, like I got a real story. In this story Jilly thinks she has found true love in her boyfriend Jack. When her grandfather promises her in marriage to the brooding and aloof Boone she is devastated. What follows is a discovery of true love. Boone and Jilly are so fun together. I just adore them!
December 26, 2023
12/5/23
I love it! I love the secret hidden true love amidst the travail. I love this sweet quick love story.
I read this in one day and I'm not a fast reader! I LOVED IT! Fast past to the point. Feel good moment you feel like your there. Sweet romance. I literally to me was perfect. GET IT READ IT LOVE IT!
A sweet and strange love story. I'm glad Jilly figured out the jerk. The age difference is a bit strange but still kind of works.
I love it! I love the secret hidden true love amidst the travail. I love this sweet quick love story.
I read this in one day and I'm not a fast reader! I LOVED IT! Fast past to the point. Feel good moment you feel like your there. Sweet romance. I literally to me was perfect. GET IT READ IT LOVE IT!
A sweet and strange love story. I'm glad Jilly figured out the jerk. The age difference is a bit strange but still kind of works.
October 23, 2013
Loved this one. Very romantic, and clean except a few LIGHT cuss words. I Love MLM!! She really is so light, easy, and fun. When I'm done reading her books I'm always taking the deep breath, and relaxed. Girl is in love with the town tom-cat, when her Grandfather agrees to give her hand to someone else. It's a novella, and I would love for it to have been full length. But it was fun anyway. I'd let my teen daughter read this. It's always fun to read McClure.
September 19, 2013
This has the same feel as Visions of Ransom Lake...you know, a hot, intimidating man and the sweet, naive girl who has a crush on him. Since I'm crazy about Visions, this was a winner for me. I just wish it was longer! I understand Marcia's author note at the end about wanting to write more novellas, but there was so much potential here to make this a longer story with all that sizzling chemistry!
October 10, 2014
It has been awhile since I found a book that I couldn't put down... probably since my last Marcia book. :)So nothing got done today but I sure loved every moment of this novella. Cute, quick, "swoon" worthy story.
There were a few cuss words thrown in that made me sad, mainly because I know there are still tough guys out there that don't have to talk that way, but nothing to offending.
There were a few cuss words thrown in that made me sad, mainly because I know there are still tough guys out there that don't have to talk that way, but nothing to offending.
September 26, 2013
Another fun little short story by MLM. Only took me a few hours to read and it was the perfect little escape with my crazy schedule. Loved the characters and would be so happy if Marcia decides to turn this one into a full length novel!
October 25, 2013
It was a boring night by myself when I decided I wanted to read something really good. I get out my kindle and found this book my Marcia Lynn McClure and bought it right then. I couldn't stop reading until I finished it. Really good. My favorite of her books so far.
October 28, 2013
sweet (and clean) romance novella. I've read another one of Marcia's books and just really enjoy the simplicity of her stories...love winning out in the end between two people that don't realize how much the other means to them. Definitely worth a read!
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