An August Bride

A Year of Weddings 1 #9

by Debra Clopton

A year's worth of novellas from twelve inspirational romance authors. Happily ever after guaranteed.
Kelsey vowed never to love a cowboy again. But then she meets Brent.
After a cowboy broke her heart, Kelsey Wilcox traded in her boots for flip-flops and a bistro on the beautiful sandy beach of Corpus Christi. Two years later, still not believing in happy endings, she is about to endure a weekend of torture at her cousin's beach wedding. Not only will she be forced to watch yet another wedding, but her great-aunt and her two best friends---aptly nicknamed 'the matchmaking posse of Mule Hollow'---are coming to the wedding, and Kelsey is sure to be on their radar.
Brent Corbin has had his share of bad luck with women and isn't looking for love or looking forward to the weekend of wedding festivities as a groomsman for his friend. When he sees a commotion on the beach and what appears to be a mermaid in distress, he doesn't hesitate to dive to the rescue. His attention is instantly captured by the woman he's saved and it turns out they're part of the same wedding party. But the instant Kelsey spots his soaking wet boots she wants no part of him.
Thrown together through the weekend and with the meddlesome encouragement from the matchmakers, Brent is determined to pursue Kelsey and change her mind about cowboys. Sparks fly at this August wedding as Kelsey and Brent dance a rocky Texas two-step toward a beach wedding of their own.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Christian Fiction, Novella, Audiobook, Christian, Christian Romance

120 pages, ebook

First published July 22, 2014

About the author

International Bestselling Author and Kindle All Star who has sold over 3 million books worldwide and been translated into 3 languages.
Debra Clopton writes wholesome contemporary women's fiction, romance, and contemporary western romances set in Texas and on the beaches of Florida. Her awards include: The Book Sellers Best, Romantic Times Magazine's Book of the Year the Readers Choice Award, and many more. She's also a Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Finalist, and a triple finalist in the American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award.

A sixth generation Texan, Debra lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband Chuck. She loves to travel and spend time with her family. She has written for Harlequin and Harper Collins Christian and now with DCP Publishing. She is thrilled to write for DCP Publishing and see her books being sold worldwide. On any day she usually has books on the Top 100 list and ranks on 80 to a 100 retailer Bestseller list in the USA and around the world.
She loves helping people smile with her fun, fast paced stories.

Visit Debra's website at http://www.debraclopton.com
Check out her Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/debra.clopton.5
Follow her on Twitter at https://twitter.com/debraclopton
Contact her at Debraclopton@yamil.com
Sign up for Debra's newsletter and contests at http://debraclopton.com/contest

COMING AUG 27 AND winter 2020 heartwarming women's fiction

1 WHAT DREAMS ARE MADE OF
2 WHAT DREAMS ARE MADE OF
3 WHAT HOPES ARE MADE OF


SUNSET BAY ROMANCE 2019
1 LONGING FOR FOREVER
2 LONGING FOR A HERO
3 LONGING FOR LOVE
4 LONGING FOR EVER AFTER
5 LONGING FOR YOU
6 LONGING FOR US

Ransom Creek 2018
1 HER COWBOY HERO
2 THE COWBOY'S BRIDE FOR HIRE
3 Cooper: CHARMED BY THE COWBOY
4 Shane: THE COWBOY'S JUNK-STORE PRINCES
5 Vance: HER SECOND CHANCE COWBOY
6 Drake: THE COWBOY AND MAISY LOVE
7 Brice: NOT QUITE LOOKING FOR A FAMILY

WINDSWEPT BAY SERIES 2017 & 2018
1 FROM THIS MOMENT ON (FREE)
2 SOMEWHERE WITH YOU
3 WITH THIS KISS short story
4 FOREVER AND FOR ALWAYS
5 HOLDING OUT FOR LOVE
6 WITH THIS RING (FREE)
7 WITH THIS PROMISE
8 WITH THIS PLEDGE
9 WITH THIS WISH
10 WITH THIS FOREVER
11 WITH THIS VOW

2017
She has released 13 books in Enhanced Editions with extra audio clips and photos inside of her Texas Matchmakers series set in her world of Mule Hollow. These Christian Romances will soothe your heart and tickle your soul.
(Previous titles listed)
1 Dream With Me Cowboy (The Trouble with Lacy Brown)
2 Be My Love Cowboy (And Baby Makes Five)
3 This Hearts Yours Cowboy (No Place Like Home)
4 Hold Me Cowboy (Dream a Little Dream)
5 Be Mine Cowboy (Meeting Her Match)
6 Marry Me Cowboy (Operation: Married by Christmas)
7 Cherish Me Cowboy (Next Door Daddy)
8 Surprise Me Cowboy (Her Baby Dreams)
9 Serenade Me Cowboy (The Cowboy Takes a Bride)
10 Return To Me Cowboy (Texas Ranger Dad)
11 Love Me Cowboy (A Mule Hollow Match)
12 Ride With Me Cowboy (His Cowgirl Bride)
13 Dance With Me Cowboy (A Mother for Mule Hollow)
The Turner Creek Ranch (Men of Mule Hollow) 1 1 TREASURE ME COWBOY (Lone Star Cinderella)
2 RESCUE ME COWBOY (Her Forever Cowboy)
3 COMPLETE ME COWBOY (Cowboy For Keeps)
4 SWEET TALK ME (Yultide Cowboy)

What readers are saying:
Debra always delivers...
Couldn't put it down!
Debra gives readers what they want.
I've read every book Debra Clopton has written and as usual I couldn't put this one down!


Follow her on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/#!/debraclopton

Reviews

[Aerykah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so happy with this book-- especially after the last 3 in this series being 1- or 2-star reads. The "posse" was quite funny and entertaining and I loved them! I really liked Kelsey and Brent too and enjoyed seeing their relationship develop.

Overall, a fun read! :)

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel like I just licked the icing off a cupcake. This was a sweet, entertaining read with many comical moments. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys dialogue that tosses "ya'lls" around like candy at a parade, hunky cowboys at the beach and posse's of old women who like to play matchmaker. I think fans of Becky Wade and Denise hunter would be glad they read this.

[Amanda (BookLoverAmanda) · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5
This is book 9 in the "A Year of Weddings" series - which are wedding novella in each month. I have read the Winter Brides group and this was my first in the Summer Brides group. Each novella can be very hit or miss for me. It's hard to truly connect in novellas sometimes and these romance novellas surrounding weddings can be usually instalove and not my favorites. This one, An August Bride by Debra Clopton, had good characters and writing so I would be interested in reading some of her other books. However, the instalove and unrealistic relationship in the end just wasn't my favorite so I give this 2.5 stars, rounding up to 3 on Goodreads.

This novella is about Kelsey who was left at the alter by a cowboy. She vows to never love a cowboy again until Brent shows up. She is going to her cousin's beach wedding Brent isnt really looking for love but he's at the wedding as a groomsman for his friend. He sees someting crazy going on at the beach and a "mermaid" in distress in the water so he dives in to rescue her, cowboy boots and all. Turns out, its Kelsey who needed saving. She sees his boots and doesn't want anything to do with him after her experience with her ex. But as they go through the weekend, sparks fly and all that jazz.

As I mentioned, this had some good writing and likeable character but this is a cheesy, cowboy Instalove, unrealistic relationship and while I liked the setting and chracters and had a good time buddy reading it with my friend, the instalove ultimatley took me out of this. It wasn't my favorite but my friend and I were laughing at all the cheese 🧀 🤣 Just a good time.

[De'Siree Fairley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ohhhhhh how I loved this one!! That's how you write a novella!! All the characters' personalities shone through in this one!! Brent makes me want to read about more cowboys, it might just become a new weakness of mine. As a southerner myself, I do have a soft spot for down home charm. The storyline was cute and creative, but simple. I was never bored and always invested in the characters from the very first line.

[Jen · Rating 2 out of 5]

My thanks to NetGalley and Zondervan Fiction for an eARC of this book to read and review.

It is with a heavy heart that I give this book only two starts. It's not bad, but in comparison to the other books in the series that I have read, this one doesn't hold a candle to them.

The characters were more like caricatures and the aunt and her "matchmaking posse" got on my nerves. I guess I'm too independent to appreciate busy bodies who get their jollies by sticking their noses into the business of other people. Yes, yes, they were using their powers for good and not evil, but good needs to be respectful of the feelings and privacy of others.

This was definitely too short of a work. Granted I skimmed after about 70%, but character development needed work. The love was insta' and the male MC had next to no respect for the meaning of the word "no". This is a clean novel, but regardless of what the word "no" is in reference to, it should always be respected. The way I see it, if the word "no" isn't respected, then the person who is saying "no" is also not respected, because then word means nothing to the listeners.

Sorry, pet peeve of mine, but I HATE it when what someone says is completely ignored as having no value or weight. The female MC actually had very good reasons for not dating cowboys and the cowboy who professed to love her ignored what she said, repeatedly. So how did he love her, exactly?

Also, this book is put out by Zondervan, so I expected God to be more in the picture in this work than He was. He made a few guest appearances and they were more like cameos than anything else. I understand that many people do not like having religion/religious ideas crammed down their throat, but if you pick up a book put out by Zondervan, you expect, at least, for there to be SOME of that in the book. I kind of like it and really wanted more. I didn't get it until the end of the book and by then, I was skimming, because no one was paying attention to the female MC.

Usually I complain about repetition, but the female MC HAD to repeat, and repeat and repeat what she said because no one LISTENED. And then she just caved in. Granted, she did love the male MC, but it's not believable, as the character development wasn't there and I'm sorry, I don't care HOW much I love a person, if they don't respect my boundaries, however silly they may think they are, I'm not going to hang around them. If he ignores her "no" now, what else will he steamroller over in their married life?

So I have to say, this one wasn't one of my favorites. My apologies for sounding harsh. The other books that I have read in this series so far have been anywhere from ok to fantastic, more on the fantastic side, so I'm going to assume this is a slight aberration.

On the positive side, it was a quick read and the setting was well done. I could see the beach and the bistro and the horses on the ranch as I read about them. The descriptions are done well.

[Jessie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short and sweet, An August Bride is the story of a girl who's had her heart broken by a cowboy and never wants to date one again. Brent breaks through all of her defenses, showing Kelsey that cowboy or not, falling in love with him is the right choice. I loved how sweet Brent was, and how he didn't give up on Kelsey. I also loved the meddling "match making posse". They were obvious, but so well intentioned.
An August Bride was also one of those stories that made me wish I lived on a farm or ranch.

Content: clean

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again, I was rewarded with a cute meet from this series. Kelsey's cousin is getting married on a beach in Texas and when Kelsey tries to do something heroic, she finds herself being rescued by a tall, dark, and handsome cowboy. The only problem is, she was jilted by a cowboy and never wants to date one again. I absolutely loved the way they met and the way the sparks flew--not completely in a good way.

I could understand Kelsey's feelings and they were made clear throughout the course of the story. She's a great character and fiercely loyal. Brent is determined to prove that all cowboys aren't bad and I love the creative ways he goes about proving it.

With the help of the adorable, yet crazy, matchmaking posse, this sweet, clean romance is sure to make a reader swoon. I loved the humor, the setting, and the fun characters. It kind of makes me want to own a ranch on a beach.

Content: mild romance (kissing); very mild religious elements. Clean!

*I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*

[Kathy * Bookworm Nation · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one and I'm excited I've found a new author to follow! This is my second book by Ms. Clopton and I can't wait to read more of her books, and it looks like I have quite a few to catch up on, lucky me!

Kelsey was jilted at the alter and soon after her father lost their ranch, one he had spent his whole like working. She has a bad opinion of cowboys and sworn to never date one again. Then Brent enters the picture and has her questioning everything she thought she wanted. I liked Kelsey and Brent and together they definitely had great chemistry. I thought things did move a little fast, but considering that this was a novella it was expected. I also loved the setting and Kelsey's bistro and Brent's ranch. Sounds like a lovely place to visit.

Overall, a sweet read and fun way to pass the time.

Content
Romance: Clean
Religion: Mild

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed this series of novellas. At around 100 pages in length they stand alone and are perfect when I just have just a couple hours and want to get through a book. They are long enough for story and character development but short enough to read in one sitting.

An August Bride is one of my favorites of the series. It's Christian fiction but there is no preaching and it is just an great little romance. I enjoyed the humor and fun as Brent and Kelsey's relationship developed with the help of the matchmaking Posse.

If you enjoy clean romance with a happily ever after ending then pick up An August Bride.


Rating: 4.5 Stars - Highly Recommend

Content: Squeaky Clean

Source: Netgalley.com

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun novella with plenty of humor, angst, and romance. It was entertaining to see the matchmakers of Mule Hollow on vacation and still going at it! Brent and Kelsey have great chemistry and even though she fights falling for a cowboy the inevitable happy ending occurs with lots of fun and drama along the way.

(Thank you to Zondervan Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great reread! I was in the mood for a good, fun, contemporary read and this book definitely is that! Loved it!

I loved how Brent kept pursuing Kelsey, even though she would NOT date another cowboy after a past relationship ended badly. I also loved her aunt and aunt's friends and how they sort of played "matchmaker" with them and tried to get them together. Oh, and the scene where Kelsey and Brent have an impromptu horse race on the beach was FUN. :)

[Sara Mccarthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very cute, loved all the characters.

[Alysia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gosh, Kelsey is stubborn and spooked. Granted, she has a reason to be...but, come on already and get over it! Glad she finally figured things out! Because Brent is a pretty good hero. The matchmaking trio were a cute addition to the story.

[Jessica · Rating 2 out of 5]

The fact that I didn't care for this book should not in any way reflect on the other novellas in this series. I've read 8 of them at this point, I believe, and enjoyed each and every one to a varying degree. This is to date my least favorite book in the series, primarily for three reasons.

1) I don't believe in love at first sight. Especially not reciprocated love at first sight. Call me a cynic, but following the heroic opening rescue sequence, when the word 'love' was introduced my thoughts immediately went to the movie "Speed" where Sandra Bullock (Annie) and Keanu Reeves (Jack) have the following conversation:
Annie: You're not going to get mushy on me, are you?
Jack: Maybe. I might.
Annie: I hope not, 'cause you know, relationships that start under intense circumstances, they never last.
Jack: Oh yeah?
Annie: Yeah, I've done extensive study on this.

2) I didn't see much evidence of searching for or acceptance of God's plans by either Brent or Kelsey. Neither took the time to learn about the person's faith, family goals, and all the other things that in real life you should discuss before choosing to give your heart to someone you hope will become your partner in life.

3) In relation to the previous point, Brent's single-minded pursuit of Kelsey seemed to be his personal choice rather than divine leading. For me, it felt more like a lustful pursuit rather than a loving desire for a true relationship with Kelsey--a woman he still barely knew.

Thank you to the publisher, Zondervan Fiction, for providing me with a free electronic copy of the book for review purposes.

[Lisa (Bookworm Lisa) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought that this book was very sweet and cute.

Kelsey is afraid to enter into a relationship. Her heart was broken by a cowboy when she was left at the alter. While I could see her taking time off from relationships, I didn't think that she should lump all cowboys into the same category. Not every cowboy leaves broken hearts behind him.

Brent was a fun character. He is immediately taken by Kelsey. He wants her to see him as an individual.

The setting was romantic. Kelsey's cousin was married on the beach. Romance was in the air, Kelsey just tried to hide from it.

This book takes place in just a few weeks. While Kelsey was reluctant, Brent was persistent. I really enjoyed the different ways he thought up to get her to give him a chance.

This is a cute and fun novella that is a clean romance.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

AN AUGUST BRIDE is one of the Year of Wedding books I was so looking forward to reading. One of my favorite cowboy romance writers, Debra Clopton won my heart with her first book and the heroine riding into town and knocking the whole place off kilter. Her romances always have that special touch, and I couldn't wait to read AN AUGUST BRIDE.

Brent fell in love with the mermaid immediately upon rescuing her and he won over the heart of the posse and the dog in the same swoop. The only one who needs convincing is Kelsey--but she won't have anything to do with him. He's a cowboy. She hates cowboys. The end.

Except, it's not. Brent doesn't give up so easily. But will Kelsey ever learn to trust a cowboy?

[Kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another book in the Year of Wedding series.

Kelsey had her heart broken by a cowboy and has vowed to never date another. Brent took over his father's ranch and has his fair share of disastrous relationships. When he saves her at a Wedding Rehearsal dinner - he is struck by how he feels about her.

The lovely trio of matchmakers are a delightful addition to the story- everyone has an aunty who fancies herself as a matchmaker to the boy next door!


With thanks to the Publisher and Net Galley for a copy of this book.

[Jenn Blunstone · Rating 1 out of 5]

I think I must have been reading a different story to the rest of the reviewers. It just wasn’t for me. It is predictable and sickly. Kelsey just made me want to roll my eyes at her and tell her to grow up. Lots of other reviews use the word ‘cute’. I know exactly what they mean and am struggling to see how that is a positive.

[Kathleen Fuller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really cute story. Perfect for an afternoon read. This my first book by Debra Clopton, but it won't be my last.

[Kathryn Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you don't like fast cute romance then this series is not your thing. I'm loving these audio books. Short and sweet. I loved this Cowboy with ex-Cowgirl relationship. 💗

[Anna Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A short, sweet, barely spiritual book. ((For being put out by Zondervan Christian Publishers.))

Kelsey was jilted at the altar (overdone literary plot) by a cowboy who felt shackled from his rodeo circuit. Two months later, her daddy loses the ranch. She's soured on all things cowboy, as a result, and takes off for the beach, setting up a bistro on the Gulf in Corpus Christie, and trading her boots for flip-flops.

It was cute, her in a heavy ballgown diving into the ocean to save an over-exuberant puppy, but then getting so dragged down SHE needs saving... by a cowboy. Who happens to be best man at her cousin/best friends wedding.

But I'm not okay with him railroading her. He knows she doesn't want a ranch life, that she's been burned by a cowboy, and... he's all about gettin' her on horseback, taking her to his spread... and relying on a handsome face to try to get past her decisions/mindset. It was kind of demeaning.

I did, however, like the ending. He was willing to leave the ranch for HER, in order to show her his love. That's... so unusual, I can't say. I just wish their 'faith' wasn't so pat and unbelievable (you pray every sunrise? Whaddya know, so do I! Let's git hitched!), but at least it's more than I see in most books I read, anymore...

[Blake Malcom · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it!!!! We all have fears that's so often keep us from having the greatest of joys. This book reminds me to let go of the fears, step into the dark, trust the Lord, and the man of my heart! All of Debra Clopton books make me laugh and sigh! Though I did not marry the richest man in the worldly wealth, and i am not a ravishing beauty, my sweet husband is truly like the heroes of her books! And so every time I read one of her books, it makes me appreciate my husband all the more! For God has truly blessed me with a man that is better than any fairy tale story hero!

I loved it!!!! We all have fears that's so often keep us from having the greatest of joys. This book reminds me to let go of the fears, step into the dark, trust the Lord, and the man of my heart! All of Debra Clopton books make me laugh and sigh! Though I did not marry the richest man in the worldly wealth, and i am not a ravishing beauty, my sweet husband is truly like the heroes of her books! And so every time I read one of her books, it makes me appreciate my husband all the more! For God has truly blessed me with a man that is better than any fairy tale story hero!

[January · Rating 4 out of 5]

An August Bride by Debra Clopton 120 ebook pages (more but no page numbers)
A Year of Weddings 1 #9 according to series and publication date Incorrectly #8 on Goodreads

Genre: Contemporary Christian Clean Romance, Novella, Christian Fiction,

Featuring: Corpus Christi, Texas and nearby town; Small Towns, Matchmakers, Cowboy, Bistro, Ranch, Instalove, God's Plan, Discussion Questions, Next Book Preview

Rating as a movie: PG for adult themes

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⅓

My thoughts: 13% - You have got to be kidding me! This is like a fairytale for adults.
40% - It is clear that I am missing something, but I couldn't find a series on the author's page; maybe she has a universe. These characters are written as if we're supposed to know them.

This book was interesting. It was well written but plot wise it's very rare circumstances. The main character is prejudiced against cowboys because of her ex and the love interest is a rancher but I guess that makes him a cowboy by default and off limits. For all of the conflict it resolved too quickly which is why it didn't get 5 stars.

Recommend to others?: Yes. The series is good.

[Ana Lopez · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars.
This was a new to me author and I absolutely love her style of writing.
Even though this is a love at first sight and then denial of being in love novella that doesn't have a lot of pages to slow the story down to a more realistic timeline, I still did not feel like the storyline felt rushed. Yes it all happens very quickly but at the same time you are able to really understand Kelsey's heartbreak and her distrust, as well as see her heal and be able to open up her heart to Brent. You are also able to see into Brent's thought process that it might be too fast and not logical but when is love ever logical.
I really fell in love with Brent and his chemistry with Kelsey was amazing.
I also really enjoyed the humor in the story like the matchmaking posse that loves to meddle in the relationship between Brent and Kelsey.

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. I thought the 'meetcute' was done very well, and loved the Matchmaking Posse from Mule Hollow. (What a hoot!) I also liked that, even though it was very subtle, both Kelsey and Brent were honestly seeking God's will for their lives.
The ending was a bit rushed to my way of thinking. Perhaps it was a case of the novella format needing to have the story end sooner than later, but I would have loved to see Brent build a stronger friendship foundation with Kelsey before the final scene played out.
3.5 stars

[Grace Tolman · Rating 3 out of 5]

I listened to this one and it was cute. I liked the beginning of how they met and the reference to mermaids. That was funny and adorable! I also really love Kelsey's aunt and her friends, being the matchmakers. I wished there were more of them at the end of the story. They were a hoot! Over all I think that this was a cute story and I have to say that the reading, with the matching Texas accent, made it more engaging for me.

[TheModestMillennial · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a good read! Almost a five-star, but it didn't quite blow my mind. The intro was magnificent and hooks you right away. Brent is a total stud. I love stories where the male characters are actually masculine (surprising, I know), and Debra did a great job of working from a man's perspective. I felt like I was missing tiny part of the story, not having read the Mule Hallow books, but I guess I just found some more material for my to-read list.

Very entertaining.

[C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

An August Bride
By Debra Clopton. Narrated by Amber Quick
5 Stars
March 5
I think this was the best book of this series! The narrator did a PERFECT sexy Texas cowboy drawl with that slow tender voice, and I am head over heals in love with this character! I love how God played his part as well as the three matchmaking women! Such a wonderful story and blending my favorite locations of a beach and a ranch is brilliant! If I could give more stars I would!

[Karen Antonaitis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sweet story based out of TX. Each month there is a new story and so far this is my favorite. Kelsey is very headstrong but it is so touching how Brent is with her. Very patient and the description of each of their feelings captivates u. The great aunt and her posse are funny and something u might encounter in your own family. This was a great read. I actually listened on Hoopla and it was awesome voices. Good job.

[Anima · Rating 3 out of 5]

After a terrible experience leaves her devastated she’s found herself a new love. She made Brent work very hard to change her prejudice about cowboys. He’s too good to be true but he’s very sweet, thoughtful, and religious. Although the story was relatively short with lovely characters I liked him more than her, she was too hardheaded and not someone likable. Received a copy years ago and finally found again to read and review.