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The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek #4
Twice a Bride: A Novel
Love lost doesn’t mean love lost forever.
Can unexpected romance deliver a second chance for two deserving widows?
Full of resolve, young widow Willow Peterson decides to pursue her dreams to be an artist as she settles into a new life in the growing mountain town of Cripple Creek. When she lands a job working as a portrait painter with handsome entrepreneur and photographer Trenton Van Der Veer, the road before Willow seems to be taking a better-than-anticipated turn.
With questions tugging at several hearts in town, including the Sinclair Sisters’ beloved Miss Hattie, change is traveling down the tracks as several unexpected visitors make their way out West. Will the new arrivals threaten the deep family bonds of the Sinclair sisters and the roots of love that are just taking hold for Willow?
Filled with the resonating questions that all women face, this romance awakens hope against grief, love against loss, and dreams against life’s unexpected turns.
Can unexpected romance deliver a second chance for two deserving widows?
Full of resolve, young widow Willow Peterson decides to pursue her dreams to be an artist as she settles into a new life in the growing mountain town of Cripple Creek. When she lands a job working as a portrait painter with handsome entrepreneur and photographer Trenton Van Der Veer, the road before Willow seems to be taking a better-than-anticipated turn.
With questions tugging at several hearts in town, including the Sinclair Sisters’ beloved Miss Hattie, change is traveling down the tracks as several unexpected visitors make their way out West. Will the new arrivals threaten the deep family bonds of the Sinclair sisters and the roots of love that are just taking hold for Willow?
Filled with the resonating questions that all women face, this romance awakens hope against grief, love against loss, and dreams against life’s unexpected turns.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2012
37 people are currently reading
351 people want to read
About the author
Mona Hodgson
33 books170 followersMona from Arizona writes Inspirational, Historical Romance and Children's Books. Her favorite stories include a community of women, sisters and friends, and romance. Her bestselling children's books include: Bedtime in the Southwest and Real Girls of the Bible: A 31-Day Devotional, Follow Mona on her blog at www.monahodgson.com, on Instagram at www.Instagram.com/monahodgsonauthor, and at http://www.facebook.com/mona.hodgson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
December 21, 2012
I received a copy of this book after winning it in a Goodreads giveaway. Thought I'd get that out of the way in order to continue with my explanation. I signed up for the giveaway without realizing it was part of a series. But as I began the book, I realized it didn't matter. It can stand alone, though some of the information I gathered makes me want to read the other books.
Willow Petersen has returned to Cripple Creek after suffering a breakdown after the death of her husband, Sam. She is staying in the boardinghouse owned by Miss Hattie, close to her brother Tucker and his wife Ida, who is pregnant. Along with her sisters Vivian and Kat. Sadly, Ida suffers a miscarriage and Willow helps her by working at Ida's store. But it's not the career she's looking for. Willow is a painter and she wants to do that.
Her wish is granted by a new arrival in town--Trenton van der Veer, a photographer. He decides to hire an artist to colorize his photographs and chooses Willow. There is a spark between him but he is hesitant due to his stutter and she believes her deceased husband was her one and only. So she leads Mr. van der Veer to believe she is married and he refuses to pursue a married woman. But in an argument, Willow reveals her true marital status. This is a turning point in their relationship and they start to bond. As they grow closer, they are unaware a person from Trenton's past is on her way to Cripple Creek.
Meanwhile, the Sinclair Sisters (Kat, Ida, Vivian and Nell) await their father's return from Paris. When he arrives--via a crashed train--they are surprised to see he has a child with him. He hopes one of his daughters will take her in, which causes tension as the sisters feel their father is more attentive to her than them. Miss Hattie agrees the man seems less preoccupied with his daughters' welfare than fobbing the girl off on one of them. He dislikes Miss Hattie, The Sinclair Sisters--and Willow--smell romance and hope something comes to fruition.
The characters are interesting and though I came into the stories later, I don't feel like I missed much. Important facts are presented in a natural way in the narrative and not in an infodump. But relationships in Ms. Hodgson's book seem pretty shallow. Now, it's not like when I complain romances are shallow because the author thinks lots of sex=good, healthy relationship. There are no sex scenes in this book but I feel both the Willow/Trenton and Harlan/Miss Hattie relationships go from "initial getting-to-know you" stage full of the excitement of new love straight to marriage. Each relationship has a hurdle to get over so it can start and the one to get over to reach marriage. And most of the relationships become romances toward the end of the book. I feel it was too much build up for a rushed resolution. Each couple had sparks, which is what kept me reading. I only wish we got to see where those sparks had led rather than being told everyone was in love.
I feel Susannah's build up also led to a let down. We follow her from Kansas to Cripple Creek, determined to get Trenton back so he could take her to New York so she could become a famous singer. We spend longer there than with her in town trying to win Trenton back. She is not as big a hurdle as she is made out to be. Yes, she comes to town and creates a problem for Trenton and Willow. But this problem is cleared up within the next chapter and Susannah gives up a lot easier than what we've learned about her suggests. I think Hodgson shouldn't have spent so much time focusing on Susannah's journey. If she had blown into town and continually made trouble for Trenton and Willow, the romance would've benefitted from the growth it could provide. As for the Harlan/Hattie romance, we are told they have a lot of conversations in the boardinghouse. I feel Hodgson should've shown more of these to help build the relationship. Because I did like her romances, especially Willow and Trenton's.
I also think I'd like to read the other books just to get a better idea of the Sinclair Sisters. Especially Vivian, who seemed to have a great backstory. The town of Cripple Creek and its citizens are interesting as well. Like Mollie Kathleen, the mine owner. I would love to have seen more of her, but what was in the book was great.
One more thing to note: The religious aspect of the book. I'm a devout Catholic and I know my faith influences my writing as well. I just hope mine isn't as much of a sledgehammer like Hodgson's. Not so much in the beginning, but one of the later subplots involves Trenton returning to church. Willow resolves to make sure he returns to the church, though she doesn't know he's already done so for her. And because Willow's brother, the minister, is more understanding and welcoming than the one who thought Trenton's stuttering was from demonic possession when he was younger. But all the talk about how the Lord was the answer and would save him and would provide for them even made me roll my eyes. And it also made it seem like the characters were becoming passive in their lives by placing it in the Lord's hands.
Otherwise, it's a good, easy read for a lazy, rainy day.
Willow Petersen has returned to Cripple Creek after suffering a breakdown after the death of her husband, Sam. She is staying in the boardinghouse owned by Miss Hattie, close to her brother Tucker and his wife Ida, who is pregnant. Along with her sisters Vivian and Kat. Sadly, Ida suffers a miscarriage and Willow helps her by working at Ida's store. But it's not the career she's looking for. Willow is a painter and she wants to do that.
Her wish is granted by a new arrival in town--Trenton van der Veer, a photographer. He decides to hire an artist to colorize his photographs and chooses Willow. There is a spark between him but he is hesitant due to his stutter and she believes her deceased husband was her one and only. So she leads Mr. van der Veer to believe she is married and he refuses to pursue a married woman. But in an argument, Willow reveals her true marital status. This is a turning point in their relationship and they start to bond. As they grow closer, they are unaware a person from Trenton's past is on her way to Cripple Creek.
Meanwhile, the Sinclair Sisters (Kat, Ida, Vivian and Nell) await their father's return from Paris. When he arrives--via a crashed train--they are surprised to see he has a child with him. He hopes one of his daughters will take her in, which causes tension as the sisters feel their father is more attentive to her than them. Miss Hattie agrees the man seems less preoccupied with his daughters' welfare than fobbing the girl off on one of them. He dislikes Miss Hattie, The Sinclair Sisters--and Willow--smell romance and hope something comes to fruition.
The characters are interesting and though I came into the stories later, I don't feel like I missed much. Important facts are presented in a natural way in the narrative and not in an infodump. But relationships in Ms. Hodgson's book seem pretty shallow. Now, it's not like when I complain romances are shallow because the author thinks lots of sex=good, healthy relationship. There are no sex scenes in this book but I feel both the Willow/Trenton and Harlan/Miss Hattie relationships go from "initial getting-to-know you" stage full of the excitement of new love straight to marriage. Each relationship has a hurdle to get over so it can start and the one to get over to reach marriage. And most of the relationships become romances toward the end of the book. I feel it was too much build up for a rushed resolution. Each couple had sparks, which is what kept me reading. I only wish we got to see where those sparks had led rather than being told everyone was in love.
I feel Susannah's build up also led to a let down. We follow her from Kansas to Cripple Creek, determined to get Trenton back so he could take her to New York so she could become a famous singer. We spend longer there than with her in town trying to win Trenton back. She is not as big a hurdle as she is made out to be. Yes, she comes to town and creates a problem for Trenton and Willow. But this problem is cleared up within the next chapter and Susannah gives up a lot easier than what we've learned about her suggests. I think Hodgson shouldn't have spent so much time focusing on Susannah's journey. If she had blown into town and continually made trouble for Trenton and Willow, the romance would've benefitted from the growth it could provide. As for the Harlan/Hattie romance, we are told they have a lot of conversations in the boardinghouse. I feel Hodgson should've shown more of these to help build the relationship. Because I did like her romances, especially Willow and Trenton's.
I also think I'd like to read the other books just to get a better idea of the Sinclair Sisters. Especially Vivian, who seemed to have a great backstory. The town of Cripple Creek and its citizens are interesting as well. Like Mollie Kathleen, the mine owner. I would love to have seen more of her, but what was in the book was great.
One more thing to note: The religious aspect of the book. I'm a devout Catholic and I know my faith influences my writing as well. I just hope mine isn't as much of a sledgehammer like Hodgson's. Not so much in the beginning, but one of the later subplots involves Trenton returning to church. Willow resolves to make sure he returns to the church, though she doesn't know he's already done so for her. And because Willow's brother, the minister, is more understanding and welcoming than the one who thought Trenton's stuttering was from demonic possession when he was younger. But all the talk about how the Lord was the answer and would save him and would provide for them even made me roll my eyes. And it also made it seem like the characters were becoming passive in their lives by placing it in the Lord's hands.
Otherwise, it's a good, easy read for a lazy, rainy day.
November 26, 2012
In Book 4 of the Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek series the young widow Willow Peterson knows what she wants to do with her life and that is to be an artist and sell her paintings in order to support herself. Her mother doesn't seems to think being an artist as a career is practical and that she should work at the families Ice Company.
Willow notices an add in the local paper by a photographer, Trent Van Der Veer that just opened a shop in town. He is needing artist to paint portraits from the photographs he has taken. She can't believe her luck. This is just the opportunity she has been hoping for her future as an artist.
Trent receives several answers to his add and notices one applicant, Willow Peterson lives in Cripple Creek and decide to ask her to come in for an interview and bring an example of her work. He is very impressed but not sure about hiring a woman. But he decides to give her chance at the job. Trent finds he is attracted to Willow but he is under the impression she is married. Just so happens Willow seems to be attracted to Trent.
Evidently Willow and Trent are not the only couple in town that has caught the love bug and that is none other than Miss Hattie. Miss Hattie has fallen for a new comer to Cripple Creek and it surprises not only herself but the Sinclair Sisters are ecstatic over this possible match.
Will there be another wedding or two in Cripple Creek. Or will the two women prefer to continue there life as widows?
The author managed to write another heartwarming story of family ties, new babies and reconciliation with our Lord Jesus Christ. She shows the reader that if a person would ask God into their hearts and pray asking Him to heal their suffering heart He will fill them with Peace living their lives fuller in Him.
I love all the characters she has created in this series. I enjoyed reading about their trials and tribulations as the Sinclair family grew in numbers and most importantly Spiritually.
I highly recommend this book.
I rated this book a 5 out of 5.
Disclosure
I received a free copy of this book from Waterbrook Press/Blogging for Books for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. It is my own opinion.
If you found this review helpful vote yes or no here.
Willow notices an add in the local paper by a photographer, Trent Van Der Veer that just opened a shop in town. He is needing artist to paint portraits from the photographs he has taken. She can't believe her luck. This is just the opportunity she has been hoping for her future as an artist.
Trent receives several answers to his add and notices one applicant, Willow Peterson lives in Cripple Creek and decide to ask her to come in for an interview and bring an example of her work. He is very impressed but not sure about hiring a woman. But he decides to give her chance at the job. Trent finds he is attracted to Willow but he is under the impression she is married. Just so happens Willow seems to be attracted to Trent.
Evidently Willow and Trent are not the only couple in town that has caught the love bug and that is none other than Miss Hattie. Miss Hattie has fallen for a new comer to Cripple Creek and it surprises not only herself but the Sinclair Sisters are ecstatic over this possible match.
Will there be another wedding or two in Cripple Creek. Or will the two women prefer to continue there life as widows?
The author managed to write another heartwarming story of family ties, new babies and reconciliation with our Lord Jesus Christ. She shows the reader that if a person would ask God into their hearts and pray asking Him to heal their suffering heart He will fill them with Peace living their lives fuller in Him.
I love all the characters she has created in this series. I enjoyed reading about their trials and tribulations as the Sinclair family grew in numbers and most importantly Spiritually.
I highly recommend this book.
I rated this book a 5 out of 5.
Disclosure
I received a free copy of this book from Waterbrook Press/Blogging for Books for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. It is my own opinion.
If you found this review helpful vote yes or no here.
September 28, 2012
Twice a Bride is an intriguing novel about second chances at love, which come because of death of a spouse, parents, or a broken engagement. Each character's story is told with compassion and insight, giving the reader a look into the life in the new country of Colorado. It follows the stories of the Sinclair sisters, and unlike a lot of serials where the characters from former novels only made token appearances, you do follow their families' lives closely. With the exception of Suzanne, the ex-fiance, the persons in the novel are well developed and move from being trapped in their bereavement to experiencing God's Love and understanding that He is all about second chances. In the case of Suzanne, perhaps there was a little haste at getting her out of the picture without creating too much sympathy for her, and I do think there might be a story following up on her, as well as the fifth Sinclair sister Cherise.
Although this is definitely about second opportunities at love, I found my thoughts going to second chances with God, and how He is not limited by our choices, nor does he cease to call us to Himself when we have left Him.
I read this as an ebook, which I received free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers through their Blogging For Books Program for the purpose of reading and writing an honest review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions stated are my own.
Although this is definitely about second opportunities at love, I found my thoughts going to second chances with God, and how He is not limited by our choices, nor does he cease to call us to Himself when we have left Him.
I read this as an ebook, which I received free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers through their Blogging For Books Program for the purpose of reading and writing an honest review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions stated are my own.
January 7, 2015
Twice a Bride is Book#4(final book) in "The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek" by Mona Hodgson
I read the other books during the year and it was good to read the last one and read all the news of the sisters along with Ms Hattie and Willow.
Willow has been helping one of the sisters who has lost a baby and not coping so good at the beginning of the story but her heart is in painting and she hopes one day to be able to do this and make a living.
Willow lost her husband "Sam" a few years ago and she knows about grief. Cripple Creek has grown and they now have a photographer who has moved here for a new beginning after his love-life was torn asunder.
Come read how Love will be given a second chance in so many ways in this story. Faith will grow along with babies being born and the population growing by leaps and bounds helped along by the Sinclair sisters.
I read the other books during the year and it was good to read the last one and read all the news of the sisters along with Ms Hattie and Willow.
Willow has been helping one of the sisters who has lost a baby and not coping so good at the beginning of the story but her heart is in painting and she hopes one day to be able to do this and make a living.
Willow lost her husband "Sam" a few years ago and she knows about grief. Cripple Creek has grown and they now have a photographer who has moved here for a new beginning after his love-life was torn asunder.
Come read how Love will be given a second chance in so many ways in this story. Faith will grow along with babies being born and the population growing by leaps and bounds helped along by the Sinclair sisters.
August 15, 2015
Great finish to the series
Characters kept me interested and rooting for 2nd chances and growing Sinclair family members. Great way to end the series.
Characters kept me interested and rooting for 2nd chances and growing Sinclair family members. Great way to end the series.
October 4, 2012
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Twice A Bride ~ The Fourth and Final Story, The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series!
Today's the day!! October 2, 2012! All four books in this series are available for you today!!
It's Here!!! Twice a Bride ~ waiting for you!!
Mine to Mine Challenge 2012
Date: October 13, 2012
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Where: The race will take place in Cripple Creek, Colorado; starting across from the Mollie Kathleen Mine at the Cripple Creek Heritage Center and ending at the Cripple Creek and Victor Gold Mine.
Did you get that date? The current-day Cripple Creek with the mention of the Mollie Kathleen Mine?
I love Historical Fiction!!!
Come and join the Sinclair Sisters and the anticipated arrival of their father in 1898 gold country. All of them do have changes since they last were together. You will want to get to know Willow and pert Miss Hattie.
~ Whoa! Westward Expansion! ~ What part will the shifting of new arrivals bring to their settling lives in Cripple Creek?
BOOK 4
TWICE A BRIDE
Available October 2, 2012
Mona Hodgson
Love lost doesn’t mean love lost forever.
Can unexpected romance deliver a second chance for two deserving widows?
Full of resolve, young widow Willow Peterson decides to pursue her dreams to be an artist as she settles into a new life in the growing mountain town of Cripple Creek. When she lands a job working as a portrait painter with handsome entrepreneur and photographer Trenton Van Der Veer, the road before Willow seems to be taking a better-than-anticipated turn.
With questions tugging at several hearts in town, including the Sinclair Sisters’ beloved Miss Hattie, change is traveling down the tracks as several unexpected visitors make their way out West. Will the new arrivals threaten the deep family bonds of the Sinclair sisters and the roots of love that are just taking hold for Willow?
Filled with the resonating questions that all women face, this romance awakens hope against grief, love against loss, and dreams against life’s unexpected turns.
Mona Hodgson is the author of Two Brides Too Many, Too Rich for a Bride, and The Bride Wore Blue, the first three historical fiction novels in The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek series. Mona's writing credits also include nearly thirty children's books, including Real Girls of the Bible: 31-Day Devotional, Bedtime in the Southwest, and The Princess Twins and the Tea Party. Mona lives in Arizona with her husband, Bob.
I really like Mona Hodgson's writing style, bringing you right there with the happenings that are alive in Cripple Creek. I enjoyed the first three stories of the arrival of the sisters and their learning to trust the Lord's provision for them. I looked forward to Willow's story. I like the every day living and how they bond together. They are brave! This final story brings it all together but not without heartache for some. Such is real life. Learning to lean on the One Who knows us best, brings great joy and we discover we are on the right path after all!
Praise for
The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series
“A beautiful tale. Intriguing. Inviting. Inspiring.”
—Cindy Woodsmall, author of The Hope of Refuge and When the Soul Mends
“It’s always a joy to read a historical novel that isn’t afraid to let its women escape the farm. Cripple Creek’s cast of colorful characters play host to a new romance, as well as pulling back the curtain on a local family tragedy. This sequel does more than simply tell the “next” story; it revisits the characters we’ve already come to love and creates a complementary depth to an entertaining new tale.”
—Allison Pittman, author of Stealing Home and The Bridegrooms
“Ida believes her future is secure in a man’s world. After all, she has drive and determination. But what happens when she meets a man who makes a withdrawal from her heart? Author Mona Hodgson makes discovering the answer to this question a rich, rewarding adventure.”
—DiAnn Mills, author of A Woman Called Sage and the Texas Legacy Series
“All the ups and downs of a romance with a delightful dose of history, with characters that will sneak into your heart and take up residence. More, more, we want more.”
—Lauraine Snelling, author of No Distance Too Far and the Daughters of Blessing Series
Excerpt
1898
Jagged edges marked the sculpted granite at Willow’s feet. Love was like that. Smooth in places. Sharp and dangerous in others.
’Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.
Willow stared at the white rose in her hand. She agreed with Alfred Lord Tennyson’s statement. But on this last day of August, churned clods of Colorado dirt formed a blanket over her father’s grave. Was it the loss of her father so soon after their reunion, or was it fear threatening to rob her of air? Both were cunning adversaries.
She glanced at the shiny black carriage where her loved ones awaited her. Aunt Rosemary hadn’t looked at her today, but Willow had seen the apprehension clouding Mother’s eyes. Her brother, Tucker, had stared at her during the graveside service, worry rutting his brow. Even her sister-in-law watched her the way one would watch a pot on the brink of a boil.
If Willow dared to look in a mirror, she’d see the same question lurking in her own features. Could this insatiable sorrow pull her back into a tide she couldn’t withstand any more than Sam could survive the undercurrent in the San Joaquin River?
She bent to the ground. “Father, I’m sorry for the anguish I’ve caused you. I wanted to be strong.” She laid the rose on the grave. “I won’t be a Weeping Willow this time.” Squaring her shoulders, she brushed away the tears spilling onto her cheeks. At what point after Sam’s death had her mourning become abnormal? Would she recognize warning signs if it were to happen again?
“Willow?” Tucker’s voice wafted on the breeze, just above a whisper.
Drawing in a fortifying breath, she looked at her brother and stood. His eyes narrowed as though he expected her to crumple. Tucker had been the only one to visit her at the asylum after Father had her committed, and he’d visited her once a week despite never receiving notable response from her.
Tucker met her gaze. “Are you all right?”
“Yes.” She brushed a blade of grass from her mourning gown. “I needed some time.”
“I can’t help but worry about you.”
She offered him a slight grin. “I know.”
He slid his hands into his trouser pockets. “You shouldn’t be alone.”
Willow agreed. She’d expected by this time in her life to be a pastor’s wife and herding at least two or three little Peterson tykes.
“I’m not alone.” Was she trying to convince him or herself ? “Mother and Aunt Rosemary are at the boardinghouse with me.”
He looked at the rose she’d placed on their father’s grave. “Saturday they’ll return to Colorado Springs.”
“But Miss Hattie is under the same roof, and she’s not going anywhere.”
Willow added a lilt to her voice to see if she could cause his brow to soften. “And I have you.”
Perhaps it was a mistake to live this close to her brother. He had a wife, a church to shepherd, and the Raines Ice Company to oversee. Worrying about her was not a pleasant way for Tucker to live. But if she didn’t settle in Cripple Creek, where would she go? Nothing, and no one, awaited her in Stockton, California, where she’d grown up and married Sam.
Tucker’s shoulders sagged. “It’s not the same as having a spouse to… I’d feel better if you’d agree to move into the parsonage.”
Willow pressed the squared toe of her dull black shoe into the grass. “We’ve already talked about this, and my answer is the same.”
“You can’t blame a brother for trying.”
“I don’t.” She patted his bristled cheek. “I love you for it.”
Tucker offered his arm. “We best get to the house. A supper awaits us.”
A bereavement supper, to be exact, replete with long faces and self-conscious commiseration. She matched Tucker’s pace, determined to remain above the shared sadness.
At the wagon, Willow stepped onto the wrought-iron foot brace and seated herself beside her sister-in-law, Ida.
Concern laced Mother’s green eyes—the source of Willow’s own eye color. “Are you all right, dear?”
Willow nodded, her lips pressed against another swirl of grief. She wasn’t the only one burying a father or a husband today. “What about you, Mother? Are you all right?”
“As well as can be expected, I suppose.”
Tucker raised the reins. As the wagon jerked forward, Ida’s tender hand rested on Willow’s palm, and she squeezed her sister-in-law’s hand. Tears stung Willow’s eyes. She needed to find her own path, but she didn’t let go.
Uncharacteristically quiet, Tucker guided the horses down Second Street toward the rustic home their parents bought when they left Stockton. How ironic that when Father’s consumption got the best of him, nearly two years ago, he ended up in a sanitorium. An institution, of sorts. Mother had moved in with her sister in Colorado Springs to be close to him. Tucker lived in the cabin until he and Ida married and moved into the parsonage. Now Otis and Naomi Bernard and their four sons called the cabin home.
As they approached the creek-side property, Tucker slowed the horses. Mother let out a fragile moan, and Tucker reached over and patted her arm.
Willow had seen the place once when she first came to Cripple Creek for her brother’s wedding, but she’d never viewed it as her parents’ home. Home was the clapboard two-story house in Stockton where she and Tucker had grown up. The house where she’d planned her wedding.
She wanted to believe everything happened for a reason—that God had a divine plan. Last year she’d found it easy to believe He’d left her here on earth and healed her so she could help her parents through her father’s illness. But now? Father was gone. Mother planned to return to Colorado Springs with Aunt Rosemary. And her brother had a new life with a pregnant wife.
“Here we are,” Tucker said. A few horses and wagons formed a line between the cabin and the barn. Otis, the biggest man Willow had ever seen, stepped off the porch. His oldest son stood at his side. Even at ten years old, Abraham was already a miniature of his father—dark skinned and broad shouldered.
His wife, Naomi, awaited them at the open door. A paisley-print apron added a bright spot to her black broadcloth dress. “Please accept our condolences, Missus Raines.” The petite woman reached for Mother’s hands. “Mr. Raines was good to us. You both were, and I’ll never forget that.” Sincerity shone in her dark eyes.
“Thank you.” Mother glanced at Abraham. “We appreciate all you and your father did to keep the ice deliveries going when Mr. Will took sick.”
Nodding, Abraham twisted a floppy hat in his hands. “Ma’am, Mr. Will did have a big bark, but he never bit me.”
Tucker was the first to laugh, but Willow and Mother soon joined him.
Naomi didn’t laugh. She glared first at Otis, then at her son. “Abraham, you will apologize for your disrespect.”
Abraham’s brow crinkled. The boy obviously didn’t realize that what he’d said was, by some standards, inappropriate. He straightened nonetheless, his arms tucked into his sides in a contrite manner. “I apologize, Missus Raines. I didn’t mean any disrespect. I liked Mr. Will. He always gave me a penny for candy or gave me a Tootsie Roll—my favorite.”
Mother smiled. “He liked you too, Abraham.” She patted the child’s head, then looked at his mother. “Naomi, your son is right. My husband did sound off with quite a bark now and then.”
Willow remembered her father’s bark, and she already missed it.
Naomi opened her mouth to speak, but Mother beat her to it. “No harm done.”
“Thank you.” Naomi stepped away from the open door. “Lots of folks have come to pay their respects.”
They entered the cabin one after the other, Willow stepping into the front room last. Before she reached the food tables, a stout woman stepped in front of her.
“I’m Mrs. Henry.”
“Your husband drives one of the ice wagons.”
“Yes.” Mrs. Henry narrowed her hazel eyes, looking at Willow but not meeting her gaze. “According to everything I’ve read in Scripture, if your father is in heaven, he’s in a far better place.”
If? Willow coughed as if she’d just swallowed something sour. She covered her mouth, more in an attempt to stifle her retort than as an act of propriety. Mrs. Henry had good intentions, didn’t she? Offering the woman the benefit of her doubt, Willow nodded, then glanced across the crowded room. Hattie Adams stood with Ida at the dessert table, and Willow suddenly had a hankering for something sweet—their company.
Her sister-in-law brushed a tear from her cheek. Tucker had found a good wife. Ida had a big heart and was mourning the loss of a man she barely knew. Hattie pulled a handkerchief from her apron pocket.
Willow regarded the stout woman still planted in front of her. “If you’ll excuse me.”
“Of course.” Mrs. Henry tugged the white collar on her black shirtwaist. “Just remember, it’s always darkest before the morning.”
Excerpted from Twice a Bride by Mona Hodgson Copyright © 2012 by Mona Hodgson. Excerpted by permission of WaterBrook Press, a division of Random House, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
Thank you to author Mona Hodgson for this copy of Twice a Bride from publisher WaterBrook Press for review in my own words.
Twice A Bride ~ The Fourth and Final Story, The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series!
Today's the day!! October 2, 2012! All four books in this series are available for you today!!
It's Here!!! Twice a Bride ~ waiting for you!!
Mine to Mine Challenge 2012
Date: October 13, 2012
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Where: The race will take place in Cripple Creek, Colorado; starting across from the Mollie Kathleen Mine at the Cripple Creek Heritage Center and ending at the Cripple Creek and Victor Gold Mine.
Did you get that date? The current-day Cripple Creek with the mention of the Mollie Kathleen Mine?
I love Historical Fiction!!!
Come and join the Sinclair Sisters and the anticipated arrival of their father in 1898 gold country. All of them do have changes since they last were together. You will want to get to know Willow and pert Miss Hattie.
~ Whoa! Westward Expansion! ~ What part will the shifting of new arrivals bring to their settling lives in Cripple Creek?
BOOK 4
TWICE A BRIDE
Available October 2, 2012
Mona Hodgson
Love lost doesn’t mean love lost forever.
Can unexpected romance deliver a second chance for two deserving widows?
Full of resolve, young widow Willow Peterson decides to pursue her dreams to be an artist as she settles into a new life in the growing mountain town of Cripple Creek. When she lands a job working as a portrait painter with handsome entrepreneur and photographer Trenton Van Der Veer, the road before Willow seems to be taking a better-than-anticipated turn.
With questions tugging at several hearts in town, including the Sinclair Sisters’ beloved Miss Hattie, change is traveling down the tracks as several unexpected visitors make their way out West. Will the new arrivals threaten the deep family bonds of the Sinclair sisters and the roots of love that are just taking hold for Willow?
Filled with the resonating questions that all women face, this romance awakens hope against grief, love against loss, and dreams against life’s unexpected turns.
Mona Hodgson is the author of Two Brides Too Many, Too Rich for a Bride, and The Bride Wore Blue, the first three historical fiction novels in The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek series. Mona's writing credits also include nearly thirty children's books, including Real Girls of the Bible: 31-Day Devotional, Bedtime in the Southwest, and The Princess Twins and the Tea Party. Mona lives in Arizona with her husband, Bob.
I really like Mona Hodgson's writing style, bringing you right there with the happenings that are alive in Cripple Creek. I enjoyed the first three stories of the arrival of the sisters and their learning to trust the Lord's provision for them. I looked forward to Willow's story. I like the every day living and how they bond together. They are brave! This final story brings it all together but not without heartache for some. Such is real life. Learning to lean on the One Who knows us best, brings great joy and we discover we are on the right path after all!
Praise for
The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series
“A beautiful tale. Intriguing. Inviting. Inspiring.”
—Cindy Woodsmall, author of The Hope of Refuge and When the Soul Mends
“It’s always a joy to read a historical novel that isn’t afraid to let its women escape the farm. Cripple Creek’s cast of colorful characters play host to a new romance, as well as pulling back the curtain on a local family tragedy. This sequel does more than simply tell the “next” story; it revisits the characters we’ve already come to love and creates a complementary depth to an entertaining new tale.”
—Allison Pittman, author of Stealing Home and The Bridegrooms
“Ida believes her future is secure in a man’s world. After all, she has drive and determination. But what happens when she meets a man who makes a withdrawal from her heart? Author Mona Hodgson makes discovering the answer to this question a rich, rewarding adventure.”
—DiAnn Mills, author of A Woman Called Sage and the Texas Legacy Series
“All the ups and downs of a romance with a delightful dose of history, with characters that will sneak into your heart and take up residence. More, more, we want more.”
—Lauraine Snelling, author of No Distance Too Far and the Daughters of Blessing Series
Excerpt
1898
Jagged edges marked the sculpted granite at Willow’s feet. Love was like that. Smooth in places. Sharp and dangerous in others.
’Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.
Willow stared at the white rose in her hand. She agreed with Alfred Lord Tennyson’s statement. But on this last day of August, churned clods of Colorado dirt formed a blanket over her father’s grave. Was it the loss of her father so soon after their reunion, or was it fear threatening to rob her of air? Both were cunning adversaries.
She glanced at the shiny black carriage where her loved ones awaited her. Aunt Rosemary hadn’t looked at her today, but Willow had seen the apprehension clouding Mother’s eyes. Her brother, Tucker, had stared at her during the graveside service, worry rutting his brow. Even her sister-in-law watched her the way one would watch a pot on the brink of a boil.
If Willow dared to look in a mirror, she’d see the same question lurking in her own features. Could this insatiable sorrow pull her back into a tide she couldn’t withstand any more than Sam could survive the undercurrent in the San Joaquin River?
She bent to the ground. “Father, I’m sorry for the anguish I’ve caused you. I wanted to be strong.” She laid the rose on the grave. “I won’t be a Weeping Willow this time.” Squaring her shoulders, she brushed away the tears spilling onto her cheeks. At what point after Sam’s death had her mourning become abnormal? Would she recognize warning signs if it were to happen again?
“Willow?” Tucker’s voice wafted on the breeze, just above a whisper.
Drawing in a fortifying breath, she looked at her brother and stood. His eyes narrowed as though he expected her to crumple. Tucker had been the only one to visit her at the asylum after Father had her committed, and he’d visited her once a week despite never receiving notable response from her.
Tucker met her gaze. “Are you all right?”
“Yes.” She brushed a blade of grass from her mourning gown. “I needed some time.”
“I can’t help but worry about you.”
She offered him a slight grin. “I know.”
He slid his hands into his trouser pockets. “You shouldn’t be alone.”
Willow agreed. She’d expected by this time in her life to be a pastor’s wife and herding at least two or three little Peterson tykes.
“I’m not alone.” Was she trying to convince him or herself ? “Mother and Aunt Rosemary are at the boardinghouse with me.”
He looked at the rose she’d placed on their father’s grave. “Saturday they’ll return to Colorado Springs.”
“But Miss Hattie is under the same roof, and she’s not going anywhere.”
Willow added a lilt to her voice to see if she could cause his brow to soften. “And I have you.”
Perhaps it was a mistake to live this close to her brother. He had a wife, a church to shepherd, and the Raines Ice Company to oversee. Worrying about her was not a pleasant way for Tucker to live. But if she didn’t settle in Cripple Creek, where would she go? Nothing, and no one, awaited her in Stockton, California, where she’d grown up and married Sam.
Tucker’s shoulders sagged. “It’s not the same as having a spouse to… I’d feel better if you’d agree to move into the parsonage.”
Willow pressed the squared toe of her dull black shoe into the grass. “We’ve already talked about this, and my answer is the same.”
“You can’t blame a brother for trying.”
“I don’t.” She patted his bristled cheek. “I love you for it.”
Tucker offered his arm. “We best get to the house. A supper awaits us.”
A bereavement supper, to be exact, replete with long faces and self-conscious commiseration. She matched Tucker’s pace, determined to remain above the shared sadness.
At the wagon, Willow stepped onto the wrought-iron foot brace and seated herself beside her sister-in-law, Ida.
Concern laced Mother’s green eyes—the source of Willow’s own eye color. “Are you all right, dear?”
Willow nodded, her lips pressed against another swirl of grief. She wasn’t the only one burying a father or a husband today. “What about you, Mother? Are you all right?”
“As well as can be expected, I suppose.”
Tucker raised the reins. As the wagon jerked forward, Ida’s tender hand rested on Willow’s palm, and she squeezed her sister-in-law’s hand. Tears stung Willow’s eyes. She needed to find her own path, but she didn’t let go.
Uncharacteristically quiet, Tucker guided the horses down Second Street toward the rustic home their parents bought when they left Stockton. How ironic that when Father’s consumption got the best of him, nearly two years ago, he ended up in a sanitorium. An institution, of sorts. Mother had moved in with her sister in Colorado Springs to be close to him. Tucker lived in the cabin until he and Ida married and moved into the parsonage. Now Otis and Naomi Bernard and their four sons called the cabin home.
As they approached the creek-side property, Tucker slowed the horses. Mother let out a fragile moan, and Tucker reached over and patted her arm.
Willow had seen the place once when she first came to Cripple Creek for her brother’s wedding, but she’d never viewed it as her parents’ home. Home was the clapboard two-story house in Stockton where she and Tucker had grown up. The house where she’d planned her wedding.
She wanted to believe everything happened for a reason—that God had a divine plan. Last year she’d found it easy to believe He’d left her here on earth and healed her so she could help her parents through her father’s illness. But now? Father was gone. Mother planned to return to Colorado Springs with Aunt Rosemary. And her brother had a new life with a pregnant wife.
“Here we are,” Tucker said. A few horses and wagons formed a line between the cabin and the barn. Otis, the biggest man Willow had ever seen, stepped off the porch. His oldest son stood at his side. Even at ten years old, Abraham was already a miniature of his father—dark skinned and broad shouldered.
His wife, Naomi, awaited them at the open door. A paisley-print apron added a bright spot to her black broadcloth dress. “Please accept our condolences, Missus Raines.” The petite woman reached for Mother’s hands. “Mr. Raines was good to us. You both were, and I’ll never forget that.” Sincerity shone in her dark eyes.
“Thank you.” Mother glanced at Abraham. “We appreciate all you and your father did to keep the ice deliveries going when Mr. Will took sick.”
Nodding, Abraham twisted a floppy hat in his hands. “Ma’am, Mr. Will did have a big bark, but he never bit me.”
Tucker was the first to laugh, but Willow and Mother soon joined him.
Naomi didn’t laugh. She glared first at Otis, then at her son. “Abraham, you will apologize for your disrespect.”
Abraham’s brow crinkled. The boy obviously didn’t realize that what he’d said was, by some standards, inappropriate. He straightened nonetheless, his arms tucked into his sides in a contrite manner. “I apologize, Missus Raines. I didn’t mean any disrespect. I liked Mr. Will. He always gave me a penny for candy or gave me a Tootsie Roll—my favorite.”
Mother smiled. “He liked you too, Abraham.” She patted the child’s head, then looked at his mother. “Naomi, your son is right. My husband did sound off with quite a bark now and then.”
Willow remembered her father’s bark, and she already missed it.
Naomi opened her mouth to speak, but Mother beat her to it. “No harm done.”
“Thank you.” Naomi stepped away from the open door. “Lots of folks have come to pay their respects.”
They entered the cabin one after the other, Willow stepping into the front room last. Before she reached the food tables, a stout woman stepped in front of her.
“I’m Mrs. Henry.”
“Your husband drives one of the ice wagons.”
“Yes.” Mrs. Henry narrowed her hazel eyes, looking at Willow but not meeting her gaze. “According to everything I’ve read in Scripture, if your father is in heaven, he’s in a far better place.”
If? Willow coughed as if she’d just swallowed something sour. She covered her mouth, more in an attempt to stifle her retort than as an act of propriety. Mrs. Henry had good intentions, didn’t she? Offering the woman the benefit of her doubt, Willow nodded, then glanced across the crowded room. Hattie Adams stood with Ida at the dessert table, and Willow suddenly had a hankering for something sweet—their company.
Her sister-in-law brushed a tear from her cheek. Tucker had found a good wife. Ida had a big heart and was mourning the loss of a man she barely knew. Hattie pulled a handkerchief from her apron pocket.
Willow regarded the stout woman still planted in front of her. “If you’ll excuse me.”
“Of course.” Mrs. Henry tugged the white collar on her black shirtwaist. “Just remember, it’s always darkest before the morning.”
Excerpted from Twice a Bride by Mona Hodgson Copyright © 2012 by Mona Hodgson. Excerpted by permission of WaterBrook Press, a division of Random House, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
Thank you to author Mona Hodgson for this copy of Twice a Bride from publisher WaterBrook Press for review in my own words.
April 25, 2025
“Twice a Bride” by Mona Hodgson
3.75 stars
I just came off the heels of an attempt to absorb the writings of another author, Jill Marie Landis, which soured me for the Inspirational Fiction genre. I am glad that I pushed past and tried this author and book.
This was a clean, faith-inspiring read, which was by no means boring or even predictable. The only criticism that comes to mind is the ending: It was far too short and blunted to respect the reader’s investment of time into this work. When a reader is carried along on a story, she or he deserves to be considered with an ending that allows them to absorb and come to terms with the finish. That did not happen here. It was almost like a wham-bam, thanks for reading, but I’m out of here.
But for that, this could have been an even more enjoyable and respectful read.
I do find it interesting that the very thing that this author states to be her writing objective on her website (see last line of this review), she has accomplished for me in the reading of this book, “And I'd love to serve you and yours some rest, delight, entertainment and inspiration through my book and stories.”.
Thank you, Mona Hodgson. You surely did just that.
Can’t wait for her next book!
Mona Hodgson | Sister Friend | Fellow Sojourner | Author
3.75 stars
I just came off the heels of an attempt to absorb the writings of another author, Jill Marie Landis, which soured me for the Inspirational Fiction genre. I am glad that I pushed past and tried this author and book.
This was a clean, faith-inspiring read, which was by no means boring or even predictable. The only criticism that comes to mind is the ending: It was far too short and blunted to respect the reader’s investment of time into this work. When a reader is carried along on a story, she or he deserves to be considered with an ending that allows them to absorb and come to terms with the finish. That did not happen here. It was almost like a wham-bam, thanks for reading, but I’m out of here.
But for that, this could have been an even more enjoyable and respectful read.
I do find it interesting that the very thing that this author states to be her writing objective on her website (see last line of this review), she has accomplished for me in the reading of this book, “And I'd love to serve you and yours some rest, delight, entertainment and inspiration through my book and stories.”.
Thank you, Mona Hodgson. You surely did just that.
Can’t wait for her next book!
Mona Hodgson | Sister Friend | Fellow Sojourner | Author
March 10, 2022
A nice ending to this series about a group of sisters who move and make new lives in Cripple Creek, Colorado in the late 1800s. This book featured Willow, a sister-in-law to the other Sinclair sisters. After suffering from depression after the death of her husband, she is finally starting to live again. She is hoping to use her talents as an artist to support herself and is not looking for love. Trenton is a photographer also trying to start over after a bad break-up with his fiance. There are a bit of fireworks when they first meet but working together helps them to see who they are really are. There is also a bit of a side love-story featuring the landlady, Miss Hattie, that is delightful. No sex or profanity.
March 16, 2020
I need more!
I have loved this series and getting to know all the characters! My only complaint is I need more, I need to know what happens next how Ms Hattie and Mr Sinclair and Charisse settle in to being a family, what lies ahead for Willow and Trenton and starting their family, do Boney and Etta get married, and if Ida has a boy or girl in June! I would love for a sequel series to happen and I promise I will be the first to buy them!
I have loved this series and getting to know all the characters! My only complaint is I need more, I need to know what happens next how Ms Hattie and Mr Sinclair and Charisse settle in to being a family, what lies ahead for Willow and Trenton and starting their family, do Boney and Etta get married, and if Ida has a boy or girl in June! I would love for a sequel series to happen and I promise I will be the first to buy them!
March 30, 2019
I loved the series, hated that it had to end!
absolutely loved the series, this being book 4 and the last. It was a terrific read full of love, surprised and some heartache. Mona Hogsdon is a fantastic author! Make sure you add these books to your to read list!
absolutely loved the series, this being book 4 and the last. It was a terrific read full of love, surprised and some heartache. Mona Hogsdon is a fantastic author! Make sure you add these books to your to read list!
March 3, 2018
I think this was my favorite of the 4 books. Great message of starting over and allowing God to lead a person's new life.
December 9, 2018
Really easy and fun read. Loved the characters.
May 25, 2020
Great conclusion to this four part series!!
November 11, 2022
Very enjoyable series
July 2, 2019
Heart warming
I look forward to reading more of Mona’s books very soon. This was a wonderful series that I did not want to end
I look forward to reading more of Mona’s books very soon. This was a wonderful series that I did not want to end
October 7, 2012
This book is the forth in a series of historical romances that revolve around the Sinclair family set in Colorado in the late 1800′s. In this book, all four Sinclair sisters are happily married. The protagonist is the sister-in-law of one of the Sinclair sisters. She is widowed and her husband’s death has wreaked havoc on her life. She was so depressed that she was in an asylum for a couple of years. The book opens with the death of her father and everyone wondering how Willow is going to handle it. Will she go over the deep end and end up in the asylum again? No, of course not. This is a historical romance so we know at some point we should have a happy ending.
The good: I was pleased with the plotting of the novel. There were a lot of characters, plots and sub plots so it wasn’t as one-dimensional as some romances can be. The author did a great job of setting up the plot lines and getting me interested in the characters. Coming into the 4th in a series, I was still able to follow along with enough of the back story to know what was going on in this novel.
The not so good: The best plot lines resolved too quickly. After this great set up, *poof* the story was over. The author didn’t make the characters jump through many hoops before resolving the plot conflicts. So my anticipation of what I expected to be an interesting story was over and left me unsatisfied. (I’m in it for the story, not the romance).
Theology: Typical Christian fiction
There were no surprises in the author’s theology. Jesus came to save us. When your life is messed up, that’s a great time to turn to Him and believe. I know this sounds flippant because believing in Jesus – the Gospel – is the most important thing a person can do in their life, hands down. But in a Christian novel with Christian readers, the conversion of the hero half-way through the story was predicable and cliche.
Willow’s conflict was with the sovereignty of God: “She wanted to believe everything happened for a reason–that God had a divine plan.” I think this is pretty typical for many of us. Life isn’t going the way we expected, in fact it might be going very poorly. Do you trust that God is in control and that He has a plan for you?
One character struggled with a bad religious experience that turned him off to the church for good, causing him to think God didn’t care for him. “Maybe Trenton did need someone, but it wasn’t God. “If G-God cared about me like you’ve said, things wou-would’ve been different.” (Trenton stammers).
The highlight of this book for me was in the author’s dedication section. She wrote:
“My prayer is that in whatever state you find yourself as you read, my stories will lead you to the Rock that is higher than you and I. Higher than any heartbreak of success. Higher than any circumstance.”
Amen, sister!
Rating: G
Family friendly. A safe read for anyone but it will appeal most to romantics.
Social issues:
Because the book is historical, it mainly deals with the role of women inside and outside the home at the turn of the century (1900′s, not 2000′s). :)
Twice A Bride is a better-than-I-expected historical romance. I liked the plot lines but hated that the story ended so quickly and neatly. If you mainly read romance novels, I think you would enjoy this one.
The good: I was pleased with the plotting of the novel. There were a lot of characters, plots and sub plots so it wasn’t as one-dimensional as some romances can be. The author did a great job of setting up the plot lines and getting me interested in the characters. Coming into the 4th in a series, I was still able to follow along with enough of the back story to know what was going on in this novel.
The not so good: The best plot lines resolved too quickly. After this great set up, *poof* the story was over. The author didn’t make the characters jump through many hoops before resolving the plot conflicts. So my anticipation of what I expected to be an interesting story was over and left me unsatisfied. (I’m in it for the story, not the romance).
Theology: Typical Christian fiction
There were no surprises in the author’s theology. Jesus came to save us. When your life is messed up, that’s a great time to turn to Him and believe. I know this sounds flippant because believing in Jesus – the Gospel – is the most important thing a person can do in their life, hands down. But in a Christian novel with Christian readers, the conversion of the hero half-way through the story was predicable and cliche.
Willow’s conflict was with the sovereignty of God: “She wanted to believe everything happened for a reason–that God had a divine plan.” I think this is pretty typical for many of us. Life isn’t going the way we expected, in fact it might be going very poorly. Do you trust that God is in control and that He has a plan for you?
One character struggled with a bad religious experience that turned him off to the church for good, causing him to think God didn’t care for him. “Maybe Trenton did need someone, but it wasn’t God. “If G-God cared about me like you’ve said, things wou-would’ve been different.” (Trenton stammers).
The highlight of this book for me was in the author’s dedication section. She wrote:
“My prayer is that in whatever state you find yourself as you read, my stories will lead you to the Rock that is higher than you and I. Higher than any heartbreak of success. Higher than any circumstance.”
Amen, sister!
Rating: G
Family friendly. A safe read for anyone but it will appeal most to romantics.
Social issues:
Because the book is historical, it mainly deals with the role of women inside and outside the home at the turn of the century (1900′s, not 2000′s). :)
Twice A Bride is a better-than-I-expected historical romance. I liked the plot lines but hated that the story ended so quickly and neatly. If you mainly read romance novels, I think you would enjoy this one.
September 25, 2012
Love lost doesn’t mean love lost forever.
Can unexpected romance deliver a second chance for two deserving widows?
Full of resolve, young widow Willow Peterson decides to pursue her dreams to be an artist as she settles into a new life in the growing mountain town of Cripple Creek. When she lands a job working as a portrait painter with handsome entrepreneur and photographer Trenton Van Der Veer, the road before Willow seems to be taking a better-than-anticipated turn.
With questions tugging at several hearts in town, including the Sinclair Sisters’ beloved Miss Hattie, change is traveling down the tracks as several unexpected visitors make their way out West. Will the new arrivals threaten the deep family bonds of the Sinclair sisters and the roots of love that are just taking hold for Willow?
Filled with the resonating questions that all women face, this romance awakens hope against grief, love against loss, and dreams against life’s unexpected turns.
Twice a Bride by Mona Hodgson is the fourth novel in the Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek series, and this novel explores the lives of the Sinclair sisters' beloved Miss Hattie and sister-in-law Willow Peterson. The novel picked up about a year after the third novel, The Bride Wore Blue. The plot line of Twice a Bride is similar to the rest of the series and for me seemed rather predictable. There were several of unexpected events that did occur that added suspense to the story. Another positive aspect of the story was the the courage and faith that the Sinclair sisters displayed as their friends and relatives were struggling in different areas of their lives. I did enjoy seeing how the characters all worked together and helped bear one another's burdens. Overall, I was not really taken in by the storyline, and I thought that the plot did not flow well nor did the speed at which events moved in the story seem very realistic.
The characters of Twice a Bride were also hard to connect with and follow in the story. The character development seemed very limited, and I felt separated and disconnected from the characters. Even when the reader was allowed to glimpse Willow's thoughts, I had trouble sympathizing or identifying with her struggles because there was little development of her character. The man that Willow begins to fall in love with has even less character development, which works out alright because it adds to his mysterious background, but it makes it hard to experience his feelings and thoughts. While I was not pulled in my Willow's love story, Miss Hattie's love story was more of a surprise for me, and I did enjoy seeing her growth. I felt the most connection with her, and I had more background on her struggles and character from the previous novels. I wish the romance between Miss Hattie and her man (not to give it away!) had been more prolonged; I felt like that the couple had little time to understand each other and made their romance seem contrived and unrealistic.
Overall, while I enjoyed Twice a Bride as a quick, easy read, I was somewhat disappointed by the story line and the lack of development in the characters.
I received this novel for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Press in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2013
My first impression of Mona Hodgson's novel was the gorgeous cover with a picture of a young woman that reminded me of a young Judy Garland in appearance, and that's the way I saw Willow Raines Peterson throughout this entire warm and involving read.
Having not read the first three books in The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek series did not detract from my getting to know the characters and story behind the Sinclair sisters and their brother-in-law Pastor Tucker Raines, Willow's brother, prior to this story written around Willow. Even though placed in the year of 1898, we see that Cripple Creek is a burgeoning town filled with like characters working hard to build their town that we might still see across our nation in the present day. Of course, we have much more modern day conveniences now, but it was a time of running water, plumbing, telephones, iceboxes, (refrigerators) ovens and other inventions of rough nature. It worked for those living in this historical era.
We first meet Willow, Tucker and his wife Ida Sinclair Raines at the graveside of their father. The family watched Willow closely, because she now felt twice the sorrow having just lost her husband, Sam, in a drowning incident; and just having spent time in an asylum for depression. Ida and Tucker tried to convince Willow to live with them at the parsonage, but Willow preferred to live independently. Willow soon became a boarder at Hattie Adams' Boarding House, the same home of the Sinclair sisters for a length of time after their mother's death and their father, Harlan Sinclair moved to Paris to conduct business.
Willow depending deeply on God's grace and mercy is determined to find employment to support herself. She is a talented artist. Enters Trenton Van Der Veer, a professional photographer a new resident of Cripple Creek whose heart had recently been broken by his ex-fiancé'. Trenton has a speech impediment and has been scarred by a temperamental and controlling father all his life. Even though Willow and Trenton can't seem to understand one another after their first meeting - he puts her to a test to prove her talent before he decides to finally hire her as his assistant. Their relationship evolves into one of admiration and respect. Could this be a potential romance?
Mona Hodgson artistically and talentedly twists story into story to bring about this delightful town of characters all closely related in one respect or another. The story becomes even more fun and complicated when the sister's father re-enters their lives. He brings with him a big mysterious surprise that baffles one and all. That dear landlady, Hattie, became my favorite character as she is beloved of all the book's personalities.....and turns Harlan's head just enough to make one wonder if there is romance in the air for Hattie.
Ms Hodgson writes in an entertaining manner, holding interest and particularly proficient in showing God at work and bringing the conclusion of her story to show Gods glory. Well done, Mona Hodgson - thank you for adding to my joy in reading.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah for this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Having not read the first three books in The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek series did not detract from my getting to know the characters and story behind the Sinclair sisters and their brother-in-law Pastor Tucker Raines, Willow's brother, prior to this story written around Willow. Even though placed in the year of 1898, we see that Cripple Creek is a burgeoning town filled with like characters working hard to build their town that we might still see across our nation in the present day. Of course, we have much more modern day conveniences now, but it was a time of running water, plumbing, telephones, iceboxes, (refrigerators) ovens and other inventions of rough nature. It worked for those living in this historical era.
We first meet Willow, Tucker and his wife Ida Sinclair Raines at the graveside of their father. The family watched Willow closely, because she now felt twice the sorrow having just lost her husband, Sam, in a drowning incident; and just having spent time in an asylum for depression. Ida and Tucker tried to convince Willow to live with them at the parsonage, but Willow preferred to live independently. Willow soon became a boarder at Hattie Adams' Boarding House, the same home of the Sinclair sisters for a length of time after their mother's death and their father, Harlan Sinclair moved to Paris to conduct business.
Willow depending deeply on God's grace and mercy is determined to find employment to support herself. She is a talented artist. Enters Trenton Van Der Veer, a professional photographer a new resident of Cripple Creek whose heart had recently been broken by his ex-fiancé'. Trenton has a speech impediment and has been scarred by a temperamental and controlling father all his life. Even though Willow and Trenton can't seem to understand one another after their first meeting - he puts her to a test to prove her talent before he decides to finally hire her as his assistant. Their relationship evolves into one of admiration and respect. Could this be a potential romance?
Mona Hodgson artistically and talentedly twists story into story to bring about this delightful town of characters all closely related in one respect or another. The story becomes even more fun and complicated when the sister's father re-enters their lives. He brings with him a big mysterious surprise that baffles one and all. That dear landlady, Hattie, became my favorite character as she is beloved of all the book's personalities.....and turns Harlan's head just enough to make one wonder if there is romance in the air for Hattie.
Ms Hodgson writes in an entertaining manner, holding interest and particularly proficient in showing God at work and bringing the conclusion of her story to show Gods glory. Well done, Mona Hodgson - thank you for adding to my joy in reading.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah for this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
October 20, 2012
Mona Hodgson in her new book, “Twice A Bride” Book Four in The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek series published by WaterBrook Press brings us into the life of Willow Peterson, Ida Sinclair’s sister-in-law.
From the back cover: Love lost doesn’t mean love lost forever.
Can unexpected romance deliver a second chance for two deserving widows?
Full of resolve, young widow Willow Peterson decides to pursue her dreams to be an artist as she settles into a new life in the growing mountain town of Cripple Creek. When she lands a job working as a portrait painter with handsome entrepreneur and photographer Trenton Van Der Veer, the road before Willow seems to be taking a better-than-anticipated turn.
With questions tugging at several hearts in town, including the Sinclair Sisters’ beloved Miss Hattie, new developments promise more uncertainty as some unexpected visitors make their way to Cripple Creek. Will the arrivals threaten the deep family bonds of the Sinclair sisters and the roots of love that are just taking hold for Willow?
Filled with resonating questions that all women face, this romance awakens hope against grief, love against loss, and dreams against life’s unexpected turns, revealing the ways a loving God turns brokenness into beauty.
I like Cripple Creek. I like what the name implies, that this place is a haven for wounded people to go to be refreshed and healed. Reminds me of the Gospel story where Jesus went to the pool where the ill were for healing and, of course, He healed a man who needed Him. When Willow Peterson comes to Cripple Creek to settle down she is carrying a lot of emotional wounds and trauma. Ms. Hodgson does a wonderful job of showing us how Willow’s unresolved issues affect her relationship with her family, Trenton Van Der Veer and her choices. ”Twice A Bride” is more than just a great romance it is a story about love and loss, mental illness, miscarriage and how God can make something good out of all trauma. Not only that Ms. Hodgson gives us some excitement and adventure in this story as well. Ms. Hodgson gets us caught up in the story and the characters to the point that we actually hate to say goodbye to them when the book ends. While it is sad that this series is actually ending with this book, the good news is that a series is coming soon with some of the Cripple Creek characters.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from WaterBrook Press for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Love lost doesn’t mean love lost forever.
Can unexpected romance deliver a second chance for two deserving widows?
Full of resolve, young widow Willow Peterson decides to pursue her dreams to be an artist as she settles into a new life in the growing mountain town of Cripple Creek. When she lands a job working as a portrait painter with handsome entrepreneur and photographer Trenton Van Der Veer, the road before Willow seems to be taking a better-than-anticipated turn.
With questions tugging at several hearts in town, including the Sinclair Sisters’ beloved Miss Hattie, new developments promise more uncertainty as some unexpected visitors make their way to Cripple Creek. Will the arrivals threaten the deep family bonds of the Sinclair sisters and the roots of love that are just taking hold for Willow?
Filled with resonating questions that all women face, this romance awakens hope against grief, love against loss, and dreams against life’s unexpected turns, revealing the ways a loving God turns brokenness into beauty.
I like Cripple Creek. I like what the name implies, that this place is a haven for wounded people to go to be refreshed and healed. Reminds me of the Gospel story where Jesus went to the pool where the ill were for healing and, of course, He healed a man who needed Him. When Willow Peterson comes to Cripple Creek to settle down she is carrying a lot of emotional wounds and trauma. Ms. Hodgson does a wonderful job of showing us how Willow’s unresolved issues affect her relationship with her family, Trenton Van Der Veer and her choices. ”Twice A Bride” is more than just a great romance it is a story about love and loss, mental illness, miscarriage and how God can make something good out of all trauma. Not only that Ms. Hodgson gives us some excitement and adventure in this story as well. Ms. Hodgson gets us caught up in the story and the characters to the point that we actually hate to say goodbye to them when the book ends. While it is sad that this series is actually ending with this book, the good news is that a series is coming soon with some of the Cripple Creek characters.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from WaterBrook Press for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
October 11, 2012
From the book:
"With questions tugging at several hearts in town, including the Sinclair Sisters’ beloved Miss Hattie, change is traveling down the tracks as several unexpected visitors make their way out West. Will the new arrivals threaten the deep family bonds of the Sinclair sisters and the roots of love that are just taking hold for Willow? Filled with the resonating questions that all women face, this romance awakens hope against grief, love against loss, and dreams against life’s unexpected turns. Full of resolve, young widow Willow Peterson decides to pursue her dreams to be an artist as she settles into a new life in the growing mountain town of Cripple Creek. When she lands a job working as a portrait painter with handsome entrepreneur and photographer Trenton Van Der Veer, the road before Willow seems to be taking a better-than-anticipated turn. "
Background:
Willow is a widow, full of resolve, and a talented artist who is seeking a new life, in Cripple Creek, Colorado. She's thrilled to be able to be around her brother, pastor Tucker Raines, his wife, Ida Sinclair Raines, and the other Sinclair sisters (who were introduced in the 1st book). Jobless and still trying to make sense of her life after the death of her husband, Willow accepts Ida's offer of a job at the family store, but is searching for more. She finds a help-wanted listing for someone to colorize photographs and paint portraits from them and applies for the job with Trenton Van Der Veer, the town's new handsome photographer. When he sees a sample of Willow's work, he knows he's found his artist.
As Trenton and Willow are trying to find their way as employer/employee, they both secretly desire more. Susanna comes to town to throw a wrench into the works, because she wants Trenton's affections.
When their father arrives, he brings a HUGE surprise, an eight-year-old orphaned girl from France. The four Sinclair girls: Kat, Ida, Vivan and Nell, who have been expecting their father to come, now have new obstacles to face at each of life’s unexpected turns. With unexpected twists and turns, the whole story still comes together seamlessly. Filled with the resonating questions that all women face, this romance awakens hope against grief, love against loss, and dreams against life's unexpected turns.
My Opinion:
This is the fourth and final book in the Brides of Cripple Creek Series, but for the most part it stands alone and the author gives good enough backdrop from her previous books to catch you up to speed. I found the characters to be delightful, energetic and loveable. I would recommend this book to all historical fiction lovers and romance lovers alike.
Extras:
Click here to download chapter one of Twice a Bride.
Legal:
"I received this book for review from Water Brook Publishers. My thoughts and opinions are my own."
Review:
www.pirategrl1014.blogspot.com
July 31, 2018
I will admit, I started this series because I thought it was only the first two books and that they'd be quick easy reads in the midst of a busy couple of weeks. I'm so glad I kept reading and got my hands on the second half of the series! Definitely gentle reads, these stories nevertheless continued to piece together a close-knit community that I grew to love. I very much appreciated the openness of the characters, and their willingness to communicate (a breath of fresh air in the world of fiction!), and I loved how straightforward the author was with her spiritual content. While my visit to Cripple Creek was begun halfheartedly, much like the Sinclair sisters, I soon joined them in becoming attached to the places and people of the Colorado mining town. So glad I decided to stay!
January 8, 2013
I got this to review from Blogging for Books.
This book is the fourth and final book in a series centered around the Sinclair sisters of Cripple Creek, Colorado.
From reading this book, I suppose the other three books are about:
* They are all married although one got left at the alter.
* They moved to Cripple Creek because their father made them. He moved to Paris.
* Two have children; one really wants a child.
* Miss Hattie takes care of them.
* I think one may have gotten sick.
And, although it was pretty easy to catch on I really disliked the fact that I didn't know going in that this was the 4th a series, as there were still some parts that kept me hanging and annoyed. I appreciate that it is not about a Sinclair sister at all, but about the sister of the pastor's wife (the pastor's wife being one of the sisters), although I think bits of her story are in one of the other books. I suppose we get enough through flashbacks...maybe.
Mona Hodgson is an excellent writer at setting the scene and in terms of creating great characters who trust in God as they head out West, I'll gladly compare her to Janette Oke. Hodgson's characters are likeable and real. I especially like Trenton Van der Veer. His dislike of going to church is truly believable and transcends time. I love that he is a real man with real feelings and Hodgson's let's us know that while he may have a stutter he appreciates women, gets confused by women, and, is a little lost, because of a woman. The scene in the church parlor is just lovely. There are also many other scenes that Hodgson renders so completely that I felt like I was there and, well, I wanted to be.
Pick up this book is you want a romance with a true look at what it means to be a Christian and to trust in the Lord at all times. Pick up this book if you like a good historical romance, I promise you will not be disappointed.
The more I write about this book, the more I realize that I need to give it 4-stars, not my original 3-stars...I think those were based soully on the fact that I wasn't prepared to read the fourth book in a series and it made me a little perturbed. It would seem this book can stand alone pretty well. I am little sad that I don't feel the need to read the other three books, as I feel I've received enough of their stories.
This book is the fourth and final book in a series centered around the Sinclair sisters of Cripple Creek, Colorado.
From reading this book, I suppose the other three books are about:
* They are all married although one got left at the alter.
* They moved to Cripple Creek because their father made them. He moved to Paris.
* Two have children; one really wants a child.
* Miss Hattie takes care of them.
* I think one may have gotten sick.
And, although it was pretty easy to catch on I really disliked the fact that I didn't know going in that this was the 4th a series, as there were still some parts that kept me hanging and annoyed. I appreciate that it is not about a Sinclair sister at all, but about the sister of the pastor's wife (the pastor's wife being one of the sisters), although I think bits of her story are in one of the other books. I suppose we get enough through flashbacks...maybe.
Mona Hodgson is an excellent writer at setting the scene and in terms of creating great characters who trust in God as they head out West, I'll gladly compare her to Janette Oke. Hodgson's characters are likeable and real. I especially like Trenton Van der Veer. His dislike of going to church is truly believable and transcends time. I love that he is a real man with real feelings and Hodgson's let's us know that while he may have a stutter he appreciates women, gets confused by women, and, is a little lost, because of a woman. The scene in the church parlor is just lovely. There are also many other scenes that Hodgson renders so completely that I felt like I was there and, well, I wanted to be.
Pick up this book is you want a romance with a true look at what it means to be a Christian and to trust in the Lord at all times. Pick up this book if you like a good historical romance, I promise you will not be disappointed.
The more I write about this book, the more I realize that I need to give it 4-stars, not my original 3-stars...I think those were based soully on the fact that I wasn't prepared to read the fourth book in a series and it made me a little perturbed. It would seem this book can stand alone pretty well. I am little sad that I don't feel the need to read the other three books, as I feel I've received enough of their stories.
November 26, 2012
Twice a Bride is the fourth book in the series The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek by Mona Hodgson. This book focuses on Willow Peterson and Miss Hattie.
Willow Peterson is a widow and the sister-in-law of Ida Sinclair. She has decided to stay on at the boarding house after her fathers funeral in her pursuance of a new start. She is a very talented artist and wants to be able to secure employment that would allow her to pursue it. After coming across an ad in the newspaper that the new photography studio was looking for a skilled portrait painter she realizes that she may be able to finally start her new life and open up to new possibilities.
The other character is Miss Hattie the owner of the boarding house and has taken care of all the Sinclair sisters upon their arrival in Cripple Creek, Colorado. She has been running the boarding house for 10 years after her husband passed away. She is the mother hen to all the ladies and have watched each of them find someone to love. She, herself, has never opened her heart to love since her husbands passing. Not until Mr. Sinclair comes to town with his mystery guest and turns the Sinclair sisters lives upside down.
The author keeps this book flowing with interesting characters. Immediately I could start to see the town and characters and what it would be like to live in the late 1800s. I was pulled into the story and couldn't put it down. The plot has been used before but the author has found a new way of freshening it up with beautiful story telling that will make you cry and laugh out loud. Each of these woman are strong and are not The story has a great message that if you believe and pray God opens you up to new and exciting possibilities. He even is there when you are not ready waiting for you to call on him. Mona Hodgson proves with this series of books that we can have a great story of romance without any intimate details.
Willow Peterson is a widow and the sister-in-law of Ida Sinclair. She has decided to stay on at the boarding house after her fathers funeral in her pursuance of a new start. She is a very talented artist and wants to be able to secure employment that would allow her to pursue it. After coming across an ad in the newspaper that the new photography studio was looking for a skilled portrait painter she realizes that she may be able to finally start her new life and open up to new possibilities.
The other character is Miss Hattie the owner of the boarding house and has taken care of all the Sinclair sisters upon their arrival in Cripple Creek, Colorado. She has been running the boarding house for 10 years after her husband passed away. She is the mother hen to all the ladies and have watched each of them find someone to love. She, herself, has never opened her heart to love since her husbands passing. Not until Mr. Sinclair comes to town with his mystery guest and turns the Sinclair sisters lives upside down.
The author keeps this book flowing with interesting characters. Immediately I could start to see the town and characters and what it would be like to live in the late 1800s. I was pulled into the story and couldn't put it down. The plot has been used before but the author has found a new way of freshening it up with beautiful story telling that will make you cry and laugh out loud. Each of these woman are strong and are not The story has a great message that if you believe and pray God opens you up to new and exciting possibilities. He even is there when you are not ready waiting for you to call on him. Mona Hodgson proves with this series of books that we can have a great story of romance without any intimate details.
December 27, 2012
The year is 1898 and Willow Peterson had a tough time after the death of her husband Sam, and her father even had her committed to an asylum, where she felt she had wasted two years of her life. When her father dies she is determined to be strong. She decides she will settle in Cripple Creek close to her brother Tucker and pursue her dreams of becoming an artist. When a newspaper ad leads her to a job being offered by the new photography studio in town she wonders if her luck might be changing. Trenton Van Der Veer has just opened his studio and needs someone to paint portraits of the pictures he has taken, and Willow Peterson seems to fit the bill. Thing is once they start working together each start to have feelings for the other, but neither act upon their feelings because of issues they are carrying from their past. Will Trenton and Willow allow God to help them get past their issues so that they can have a future together?
Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres, so I was excited to read this one. While it was a bit predictable, I knew that the main characters would get together, I was interested in reading how they finally find their way to their happily ever after. The historical aspect of the novel was quite appealing, the time period came to life and it was easy to imagine the town of Cripple Creek. I enjoyed the characters but my favorite character had to be Miss Hattie the owner of the boarding house in Cripple Creek.I loved the road the way her life turned out. While this is the fourth book in The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series it can easily be read as a stand alone work, the author provides enough background information so that it is easy to understand the characters. Overall, I found this story to be a bit predictable, but still a very worthwhile read.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres, so I was excited to read this one. While it was a bit predictable, I knew that the main characters would get together, I was interested in reading how they finally find their way to their happily ever after. The historical aspect of the novel was quite appealing, the time period came to life and it was easy to imagine the town of Cripple Creek. I enjoyed the characters but my favorite character had to be Miss Hattie the owner of the boarding house in Cripple Creek.I loved the road the way her life turned out. While this is the fourth book in The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series it can easily be read as a stand alone work, the author provides enough background information so that it is easy to understand the characters. Overall, I found this story to be a bit predictable, but still a very worthwhile read.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2012
Willow Peterson has finally recovered from the death of her husband, and finds a job as a portrait painter in the studio of Trenton Van Der Veer in Cripple Creek, Colorado. Trenton is still single, his previous relationship with Susanna not having ended well and leaving him distrustful where women are concerned. Well, having an employee who he thinks is married turn out to be single is really going to help that. Meanwhile, Susanna is on her way to Cripple Creek to reunite with Trenton, then move to New York with him (not that he is privy to this plan).
Some of the vocabulary seems out of place for the 1898 setting (e.g. ‘mental health’ and ‘businesswoman’).
As the fourth book in the Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek series, Twice a Bride obviously expands on the characters in the previous books. This makes it a little hard to get in to, and I suspect it would be best read as part of the series rather than on its own. As well as Willow, Trenton and Susanna, there are four Sinclair sisters: Nell, Kat, Vivian and Ida, along with their respective husbands and children as well as assorted friends and neighbours. It’s a lot of names and relationships to keep straight.
The author does a good job of adding enough backstory to make the plot understandable, but not so much that it gets bogged down. What does slow the book down is the sub-plots around the minor characters, which distract from the main plot. They are all fully-developed characters (which is excellent), but the effect is like having walked into a party or a church where you don’t know anyone, yet everyone else does know every other person and has done for years. It’s confusing and uncomfortable. An enjoyable story, but best read as part of the series.
Thanks to WaterBrook Press and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
Some of the vocabulary seems out of place for the 1898 setting (e.g. ‘mental health’ and ‘businesswoman’).
As the fourth book in the Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek series, Twice a Bride obviously expands on the characters in the previous books. This makes it a little hard to get in to, and I suspect it would be best read as part of the series rather than on its own. As well as Willow, Trenton and Susanna, there are four Sinclair sisters: Nell, Kat, Vivian and Ida, along with their respective husbands and children as well as assorted friends and neighbours. It’s a lot of names and relationships to keep straight.
The author does a good job of adding enough backstory to make the plot understandable, but not so much that it gets bogged down. What does slow the book down is the sub-plots around the minor characters, which distract from the main plot. They are all fully-developed characters (which is excellent), but the effect is like having walked into a party or a church where you don’t know anyone, yet everyone else does know every other person and has done for years. It’s confusing and uncomfortable. An enjoyable story, but best read as part of the series.
Thanks to WaterBrook Press and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
November 20, 2012
Author Mona Hodgson completes her wonderful "The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek" series with Book 4: "Twice a Bride", a thoughtful exploration of the difficult choices many women must make during their lifetime. The series is set in the late 1800's, an era in which so much occurred during a relatively short period of time. Changes to technology, transportation, communications, social mores, religion, fashions, science and medicine, literature, art and entertainment. The American Civil War and its long-lasting aftereffects. The glory and grit of the American Old West. A very rich and revolutionary period in history. Mona Hodgson has added depth and involving detail to each of her inspirational historical romances with the inclusion of at least one real-life character from the setting and timeframe. In "Twice a Bride", young widow Willow Peterson decides to join her brother and his wife in Cripple Creek, hoping to find healing for heart and new hope for the future. Her lifelong dream is to become a successful artist, and she finds work as a portrait painter with entrepreneurial photographer Trenton Van Der Veer. After the tragic loss of her husband, Willow suffered a breakdown and spent time recovering in a mental asylum. Trenton stammers in his speech, and at times, he has faced public humiliation due to his stuttering. Two vulnerable hearts, each seeking happiness, and both with many issues to overcome. Abiding faith is there to guide them--will a true and lasting love light their way? All of the Sinclair sisters have walked a path with surprising twists and turns before finding peace and contentment, and "Twice a Bride" offers even more new and unexpected developments for each of the women and their families. If you love historical romance which illuminates and inspires, then you will love this series!
Review Copy Gratis WaterBrook Press
Review Copy Gratis WaterBrook Press
December 16, 2012
Full of resolve, young widow Willow Peterson decides to pursue her dreams to be an artist as she settles into a new life in the growing mountain town of Cripple Creek. When she lands a job working as a portrait painter with handsome entrepreneur and photographer Trenton Van Der Veer, the road before Willow seems to be taking a better-than-anticipated turn.
With questions tugging at several hearts in town, including the Sinclair Sisters’ beloved Miss Hattie, change is traveling down the tracks as several unexpected visitors make their way out West. Will the new arrivals threaten the deep family bonds of the Sinclair sisters and the roots of love that are just taking hold for Willow?
This book was a nice surprise. I had not read the earlier books in the series, so I was coming in to this fresh. The thing I liked most about this book was the lack of a big misunderstanding between the main characters. It seems a good portion of books these days--especially romances--spend half of the book (or more) concentrating on some huge misunderstanding that could easily be fixed by a conversation. It gets so frustrating for the reader. What a breath of fresh air that the characters actually talk about what happened and what the truth really is very quickly.
I really enjoyed the characters with all their little quirks, flaws and charms. I came away from this book wanting to go back and read the others in the series. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and want more!
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. All opinions stated are my own.
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With questions tugging at several hearts in town, including the Sinclair Sisters’ beloved Miss Hattie, change is traveling down the tracks as several unexpected visitors make their way out West. Will the new arrivals threaten the deep family bonds of the Sinclair sisters and the roots of love that are just taking hold for Willow?
This book was a nice surprise. I had not read the earlier books in the series, so I was coming in to this fresh. The thing I liked most about this book was the lack of a big misunderstanding between the main characters. It seems a good portion of books these days--especially romances--spend half of the book (or more) concentrating on some huge misunderstanding that could easily be fixed by a conversation. It gets so frustrating for the reader. What a breath of fresh air that the characters actually talk about what happened and what the truth really is very quickly.
I really enjoyed the characters with all their little quirks, flaws and charms. I came away from this book wanting to go back and read the others in the series. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and want more!
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. All opinions stated are my own.
http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalo...
http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/author...
December 26, 2012
A second chance at love. Great historical romance!
This is the second book I have read in The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek series. My first read was "The Bride Wore Blue," and I enjoyed that story so much that I really couldn't imagine Hodgson could possibly top that book. I was wrong and I have found Twice a Bride to be better than I expected. Twice a Bride centers around two widows, Hattie the owner of the towns boarding house and friend of the sisters, and Willow an artist and sister-in-law to the Sinclair sisters. I found it very interesting to read and learn about the lives of widows back in the late 1800's and their struggles and hardships. Even though there is a generation gap between Willow and Hattie, they are both looking for one thing, a second chance at love and this story centers around the romance of these two woman, as well as the families and I didn't find a dull moment throughout the book. There is even a little twist in the story between Trenton, town photographer, (Willow's love interest) and an old flame. This little drama sparked my interest and found I myself anticipating the outcome every time I turned the page. Another topic the author highlights in this novel is the depression Willow struggled with after the death of her husband which is timeless. As in her other novels Hodgson captures and describes the beautiful scenery and historical aspects of the town of Cripple Creek and surrounding areas for the reader, which is breathtaking, to say in the very least. I felt this book could be read out-of-order without it taking away from the story, but I would certainly recommend the series be read from the start for added depth and meaning when it comes to the charcters and their past history.
This is the second book I have read in The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek series. My first read was "The Bride Wore Blue," and I enjoyed that story so much that I really couldn't imagine Hodgson could possibly top that book. I was wrong and I have found Twice a Bride to be better than I expected. Twice a Bride centers around two widows, Hattie the owner of the towns boarding house and friend of the sisters, and Willow an artist and sister-in-law to the Sinclair sisters. I found it very interesting to read and learn about the lives of widows back in the late 1800's and their struggles and hardships. Even though there is a generation gap between Willow and Hattie, they are both looking for one thing, a second chance at love and this story centers around the romance of these two woman, as well as the families and I didn't find a dull moment throughout the book. There is even a little twist in the story between Trenton, town photographer, (Willow's love interest) and an old flame. This little drama sparked my interest and found I myself anticipating the outcome every time I turned the page. Another topic the author highlights in this novel is the depression Willow struggled with after the death of her husband which is timeless. As in her other novels Hodgson captures and describes the beautiful scenery and historical aspects of the town of Cripple Creek and surrounding areas for the reader, which is breathtaking, to say in the very least. I felt this book could be read out-of-order without it taking away from the story, but I would certainly recommend the series be read from the start for added depth and meaning when it comes to the charcters and their past history.
February 3, 2013
Twice a Bride is book 4 in The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series. All of which have been very enjoyable. Willow is actually the sister-in-law to the Sinclair sisters, but has been welcomed into the family with open arms, especially now that she is returned from being institutionalized for depression after her first husband died in a tragic accident. Everyone treats Willow as if she's fragile, afraid she can't stand on her own and make a new life for herself, but Willow is determined to prove them wrong. To show them the faith she has learned to depend on and to prove to herself that she can move forward and be happy. She never anticipated that love or marriage would be a part of her life again.
Trenton Van Der Veer isn't your average romance hero. He has a speech impediment that has left him with all kinds of scars in his life, spiritually and emotionally. He's had his heart broken and abused by a selfish young girl. The last thing he wants is a wife. He hires Willow under mistaken impression she's married. When he discovers she's a widow, he realizes he's relieved. Willow is talented, they seem to fit like two pieces of a puzzle, but can they overcome their past to find a happy future?
Willow and Trenton are both and inspiration, their frailty becomes their strength as they grow in faith and it's so encouraging. The surrounding stories with the sisters, and the family dynamics keep things light hearted and rolling along at a fast pace. Romance blooms between more than just the Willow and Trenton as well, so you get more sweetness for your buck.
A great read over all. I do recommend you read the earlier books first. They're great and it makes the read smoother, but Twice a Bride can be read as an individual novel if you chose to be a rebel. :)
December 5, 2012
Here is the final chapter in the story of the Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek. The first book, Two Brides Too Many focused on two women rather than the standard one, and Twice A Bride does the same. We’re out of official Sinclair sisters so our main characters are the delightful Miss Hattie and Ida’s sister-in-law, Willow. Both have featured in previous books. We also have the return of Harlan Sinclair, who left for France two years previously.
The relationship between Harlan and his daughters is the sizable B story. Life has changed for the sisters since their father left them. They have married, and children are in the picture. It isn’t a surprise that they have trouble adjusting to their father’s arrival and the turn his life has taken. This part of the plot is deftly woven in with the main tale and the conclusion doesn’t feel forced.
Once again, Mona Hodgson has created a charming story of life and love in a western mining town. New characters mingle with familiar ones, antagonists are suitably disagreeable. It is a shame that we have come to the end of the series as I feel there are still tales to tell. However, in the author’s end note, Hodgson teases the audience by saying that two Cripple Creek characters will appear in her new Hearts Seeking Home series. Can I wait until Summer 2013 to find out who they are? I guess I’ll have to.
Thank you to Waterbrook Multnomah’s Blogging for Books program for my free copy of Twice a Bride, which I received in exchange for an honest review.
The relationship between Harlan and his daughters is the sizable B story. Life has changed for the sisters since their father left them. They have married, and children are in the picture. It isn’t a surprise that they have trouble adjusting to their father’s arrival and the turn his life has taken. This part of the plot is deftly woven in with the main tale and the conclusion doesn’t feel forced.
Once again, Mona Hodgson has created a charming story of life and love in a western mining town. New characters mingle with familiar ones, antagonists are suitably disagreeable. It is a shame that we have come to the end of the series as I feel there are still tales to tell. However, in the author’s end note, Hodgson teases the audience by saying that two Cripple Creek characters will appear in her new Hearts Seeking Home series. Can I wait until Summer 2013 to find out who they are? I guess I’ll have to.
Thank you to Waterbrook Multnomah’s Blogging for Books program for my free copy of Twice a Bride, which I received in exchange for an honest review.
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