Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows : A Marriage of Convenience Anthology

by Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams, Misty M. Beller

From bestselling and award winning authors, experience Christmas on the rugged western frontier with three novellas filled with unforgettable adventures, enduring romance, and the timeless message of hope found in the Savior’s birth.

Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund
Serena Taylor is hiding in Colorado’s high country to keep her son safe, and she knows the best way to protect him is by marrying again and giving him a father. Weston Oakley needs a wife by Christmas to placate his meddling family, but after being spurned one too many times in love, he’s reluctant to give his heart away again. When they agree on a marriage of convenience, both of them get much more than they bargained for.

Doctor's Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams
Minnie steps off the train ready to become a mail-order bride, but she finds the well-dressed man waiting for her isn't her intended husband. The protective oath Jed took when he became a doctor doesn't cover stranded women, but he can't leave the beautiful stranger alone in a building blizzard two days before Christmas. When circumstances force them into close proximity, Jed and Minnie find that their growing feelings aren't convenient at all.

Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller
Two Stones, a Salish warrior accustomed to navigating between tribes and miners, unexpectedly finds himself summoned to the side of a dying friend in Virginia City. Sworn to honor the miner’s last wish, Two Stones agrees to marry his daughter, Heidi, but plans to take her to live with his parents. He’ll provide all her needs, make sure she’s safe, and visit her on occasion when his path leads him that direction. As they set out on the journey, their path is fraught with challenges that defy Two Stones' plans and reveal a surprising depth to Heidi's character. As they near the end of their trail and join the Christmas festivities at the Coulter Ranch, Two Stones begins to realize this inconvenient marriage might really be a Christmas gift he’ll always treasure.

Genres: Christmas, Historical Fiction, Romance, Historical, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Christian

340 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 1, 2023

About the author

Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over fifty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle. Find out more at jodyhedlund.com.

Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.

Reviews

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas novellas and marriage of convenience...a great combination!

Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund is set in 1878 Fairplay, Colorado. For readers of the Colorado Cowgirls Series, this novella features Weston who had his heartbroken by one of the Courtney sisters.

Doctor's Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams is set in Wyoming. It's a marriage of convenience story where the bride ends up with a different groom than originally intended.

Marrying the Mountain Man's Best Friend by Misty M Beller is set in 1868 Virginia City, Montana Territory. This is a tale feature a Native American and the daughter of his best friend, a white man originally from the east coast.

All three sweet tales set during the Christmas holidays.

My gratitude to author Jody Hedlund for a complimentary e-copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.

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

I adore a good historical marriage of convenience story! This collection features three of my favorite authors, and I enjoyed each novella. The men and women are in circumstances that call for creative problem-solving, and forming a marriage bond strengthened their partnership to face the challenges before them. A strong work ethic is an admirable quality that all the characters shared, which helped make their match equally yoked as they take time to learn more about each other and deepen their affection. The first story by Jody Hedlund is especially romantic and is my favorite of the three. Novellas are a perfect way to give secondary characters from the author's other books their own story, and it's fun to see the characters we've grown to love as they encourage their friends and family on the path to love.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Three talented authors. Three entertaining Christmas novellas. Three swoony romances. Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows highlights the storytelling skills of Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams, and Misty M. Beller, with some breath-stealing kissing scenes to boot!

In Hedlund’s Claiming the Cowgirl, young widow Serena Taylor needs the protection of marriage to keep her adorable son out of the clutches of her former father-in-law. Weston Oakley would love to avoid the teasing that’s sure to come from his overly-involved family if he shows up to Christmas with no wife to show for his previous assurances. When a mistaken identification (that I’m still not sure wasn’t on purpose lol) precipitates a speedy marriage arrangement, the little trio form a tentative family. I loved watching Weston be a ‘pa’ to Serena’s two-year-old – he took to it so naturally, and who doesn’t swoon a little over a sweet cowboy daddy? While Serena and Weston are taking things slowly when it comes to – ahem – acting on their marriage vows, the chemistry between them becomes more sizzling by the day and their first kisses are STICK-YOUR-HEAD-IN-THE-FREEZER swoonilicious. I’m still recovering, to be honest. This is such a layered story with well-developed characters despite the shorter word count, and a Hedlund romance is always the perfect way to warm yourself up as the weather begins to cool. (Note: This story is related to Hedlund’s Colorado Cowgirls series but can read fine as a standalone.)

Williams’ Doctor’s Snowflake Bride is what I would call ‘marriage of convenience adjacent’ lol. Yes, the heroine has traveled to this Wyoming town with the purpose of being a mail order bride, but not for the story’s hero. This clever plot twist keeps the suspense high in the story, along with a tragic and unique accident early on that results in some touch-and-go situations. I loved how almost-effortlessly Minnie fits in & finds her place in the town – and in the lives of Dr. Jed and his 12-year-old son. She facilitates more than one kind of healing while she’s stuck there, and these themes give the story a poignant tone that will resonate in readers’ hearts. In fact, I could easily see this becoming a sweet Hallmarkesque Christmas film at some point. The forced close proximity between Minnie and Jed acts somewhat like a marriage-of-convenience when it comes to accelerating their feelings for one another, so expect some instalove but also expect to be cheering it on. (Note: I believe this is a standalone story, not connected to one of the author’s series, but I could be wrong.)

In Beller’s Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend, I was delighted to see that Two Stones is the story’s hero. I loved his character in Healing the Mountain Man’s Heart and loved him again in this tender romance. After a deathbed promise to a close friend, Two Stones marries the man’s newly-arrived (and widowed) daughter Heidi to keep her safe from the rough-and-rowdy men of the area. Their journey to Two Stones’ village – where he promises to deposit his reluctant bride safely with his parents and leave her alone – is fraught with various dangers, and you will be holding your breath until they make it to the Coulter brothers’ ranch (yay!) for refuge. Beller is so skilled at making the Montana territory and its elements come alive in her stories, and Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend is no exception. She also excels at creating layered characters, and she has done so again with Two Stones and Heidi. I enjoyed watching them bond over their faith in God and how their differences make them the perfect fit for each other. I thought their gradually-building romance was written so sweetly, and I melted more than once as their feelings grew. (Note: This story is part of Beller’s Brothers of Sapphire Ranch series but can be read as a standalone.)

Bottom Line: What do you get when you combine my fave holiday (Christmas), one of my fave tropes (marriage-of-convenience), and three fabulous authors of historical/western romance (Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams, and Misty M. Beller)? You get total reading enjoyment, and Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows gives you exactly that. Sweet & swoony romance, layered & engaging characters, and three distinct writing voices keep you engrossed in each story. Whether you’re a longtime fan of these authors or are reading one (or more) for the first time, this novella collection is a must-read for the Christmas season!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a fan of Jody Hedlund's writing and stories for a while now and was so excited that she was a part of this collection! I jumped at the chance to read it! As for Lacy Williams and Misty Beller, I haven't really read anything by them. Except their newsletters. I have several of their books I'd picked up from different places and have wanted to read their books for quite some time but just haven't had the time. So this was a bonus having both of them in this collection and getting to read and enjoy their writing. I was completely drawn in to each novella and have definitely had my appetite whet to read more by these two "newish" to me authors! I loved the aspects of faith that was woven beautifully throughout the stories. I loved the setting and time period. I loved the characters and their struggles and their trying to work through them. The heroes were fabulous and swoony!

~Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund~ 5* ~
I read all of this author's Colorado Cowgirl series and loved it! And let me tell you, I was very excited that this book featured Weston and Serena! Yay!!! If you've read the series you'll know a little about them. If you haven't, no worries because you can read this as a standalone and love these characters. You'll probably want to go dive into the rest of the series afterwards. Weston was one of those characters that you could tell was a good guy but just needed to find the right person for him. And oh my heavens! I loved getting to see more of him and understand him and his background more! Plus he's just beyond adorably heart melting with Serena's young son. Sweet, clean and swoony!

~Doctor's Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams~ 5* ~
Minnie and Jed's story was very sweet. She's a mail-order bride and arrives in town thinking her soon to be groom will be waiting for her. What she doesn't expect is the handsome stranger whom she mistakes for her groom. And he mistakes her for the nurse he's been waiting for to help in his practice. Once some misunderstandings are cleared up, Minnie finds out she'll be unable to get to her groom for a while due to the weather. Which then leads to forced proximity with Jed and becoming a temporary help in his practice. This was such a sweet and tender story. Finding peace and healing through little moments and realizations. Jed was a little standoffish but Minnie is sweeter than honey and had a way of breaking down his resistance. Loved it!!!

~Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller~ 5* ~
Two Stones, a Salish warrior, and Heidi find themselves in a marriage of convenience through a promise to her dying father. After both of them having sorrows in their childhood, they have to work through those feelings of abandonment and learn to gain trust in each other as they journey to Two Stones family. I loved watching Heidi's walls come down slowly as her husband showed her that he was a man of his word and someone who could truly (and did) care for her. A sweet and sometimes perilous romance builds between these two until they come to realize they love each other. Happy sigh!!!


Content for all three novellas: Each novella was clean and sweet. There are a few mild moments of peril in them but nothing graphic. Great characters. Nothing more than kisses and some very mild innuendos.

I received a copy from an author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[Connie Saunders · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three talented authors have joined together to share three special stories and the result is a very entertaining anthology. Each novella in Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows is different but they all feature a marriage of convenience, a Western setting, and the universal need for faith, trust, and love. These novellas are filled with swoon-worthy kisses, undeniable chemistry, and the sweet promise that a marriage of convenience might really work! Throw in the mention of Christmas and the results are pure reading enjoyment!

If you're a fan of Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams, or Misty Beller, do yourself a favor and grab a copy of Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows. It's a perfect choice for anyone who enjoys historical western romance!

I purchased a copy of this novella collection. I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts.

I invite you to check out my full review at https://connie-oldersmarter.blogspot....

[Laura Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this Christmas anthology with stories from 3 different authors! Jody Hedlund is an autobuy author for me and the other two authors were new to me. All three shared beautiful marriage of convenience stories in the historical romance genre. The romance is front and center but all three also bring in some adventure and suspense that will keep you turning the pages.

Claiming the Cowgirl - I absolutely adore Jody Hedlund’s books and after reading the Colorado Cowgirl series I was excited to see Weston get his own story and his chance at a happily ever after. Weston needs to be married by Christmas and Serena is trying to escape her father-in-law who wishes to raise her son. She is looking for a father for her son to prevent that from happening and Weston seems to fit the bill. This story is very sweet and full of the sizzling romance that Jody Hedlund does so well. I loved how Serena’s kindness shined and surprised Weston when she chose to make gift baskets for his employees instead of spending the money he offered on herself.

Doctor’s Snowflake Bride - Lacy Williams is a new-to-me author but I definitely plan to read more from her. This one begins with Minnie, who is a mail order bride showing up to meet her husband-to-be Mr. Black. After a case of mistaken identity and a huge snowstorm preventing her from traveling further she ends up staying with Jed Dawson, the town's doctor, and his son. Minnie quickly forms a bond with Jed’s son and is totally taken by Jed. Should she continue with her plans to marry Mr. Black? I loved Minnie. She is super strong and also caring. I loved how she took care of Jed when he was overworked with unexpected patients. I also love the difference she makes in his son's life. This story warmed my heart!

Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend - Misty M. Beller is another new-to-me author with a wonderful, romantic, adventurous story. Heidi arrives in Virginia City to visit her father who dies unexpectedly. It is her father’s dying wish that she marry his friend Two Stone to keep her safe from the danger she is now in. Reluctantly, and seeing no other options, she agrees. On their journey to Two Stone’s parent’s house they find themselves thrown into several dangerous situations. They both need to heal from the past and discover if this marriage of convenience can turn into something real.

I enjoyed these three stories. I picked this one up because I was dying to read Jody Hedlund’s story and see what happened to Weston, but I really loved getting to read two new authors as well and I plan to add some of their books to my TBR. The stories are short but read like complete novels and are done so well. All three stories also include light faith themes that I enjoyed. I love that you can binge all of these or quickly read them between other novels. Pick this one up as we head into the holiday season and get yourself in the holiday mood.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Readingintheweehours · Rating 5 out of 5]

Readers return to Fairplay, Colorado (home of the Colorado Cowboys and Colorado Cowgirls). Our MMC, Weston Oakley, returns to Jody’s pages and our hearts!
Weston meets Serena Taylor - a single widowed mom - who (unbeknownst to Weston) is looking for a husband in an effort to keep her son from being claimed by her former father-in-law. After a happy accident, Weston and Serena marry and the chemistry between them is undeniable - but first, they must learn to open their hearts.
Filed with Jody’s signature swoon-worthy moments and high-adventure, readers will not be disappointed on their trip to Fairplay. ❤️

Fans of Lacy’s Wyoming Legacy series will enjoy a trip back to Bear Creek!
Minnie Bannister arrives in Bear Creek to answer a mail-order bride ad and mistakenly thinks the tall, dark, and handsome widower Doctor Jed Dawson is her betrothed Adam Black.
Jed has been waiting for the arrival of a nurse by train and mistakes Minnie for her. As the air clears, a catastrophe hits the town Minnie jumps in to help.
Over the next few days, compassion and tender care warms the hearts of not only Jed, but his son Jamie as well.
Minnie and Jed quickly realize that perhaps their dual cases of mistaken identity are the greatest Christmas gift.
This is such a sweet story and a delight to read!

Heidi Morgan has known much tragedy in her life. After years of abandonment as young teenager and an abusive marriage (ended in the death of her abuser), she travels to Virginia City, Montana to work on healing her relationship with her formerly estranged father. Tragedy hits again and her father’s life ends from illness. In his last wishes he asks Two Stones, a friend and follower of Jesus, to marry and care for Heidi.
Heidi cannot imagine trusting a man again, but sees the value in protection while living in a strange place with few women.
As Two Stones and Heidi journey to his family’s camp, they get to know one another better and see that maybe God’s plans for their union are greater than they can imagine.
As a wonderful bonus, we spend time with the Coulter family from Misty’s Brothers of Sapphire Ranch series. ❤️

[Rose | Adventurous Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Claiming the Cowgirl (Jody Hedlund)- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Doctor’s Snowflake Bride (Lacy Williams)- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend (Misty M Broker) - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

My only critique of all of them is that I wish they were full novels since there were very quick timelines.

[Betsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a pleasing and enjoyable collection that I think readers of Christian historical romance will love! Authors Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams and Misty Beller each contributed an inspiring marriage of convenience story which happens to occur around Christmas and is connected to one of their own series. I now want to check out each one! What I love about anthologies is that they are a great way to find new-to-you authors as well as revisit favorite authors. The stories take place in the mountain west states of Colorado, Wyoming and Montana and provide a great backdrop for wintry scenes that are rugged, beautiful and potentially dangerous. That the heroes and heroines of each book had their own distinct personalities and problems made the compilation all the more interesting to read. Although the setting revolves around Christmas, this collection can and should be enjoyed any time of the year!

I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher and Celebrate Lit. A positive review was not required and the opinions expressed here are my own.

[Ayla Will · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows is a collection of three novellas from authors Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams, and Misty M. Beller. Each novella is--you guessed it--Christmas themed, but can easily be enjoyed any time of year!

The anthology begins where Jody Hedlund's Colorado Cowgirls series ended with her new novella: Claiming the Cowgirl. Weston Oakley was convinced he was going to marry Felicity Courtney; so convinced, in fact, that he told his meddlesome family that he would be married by the time he came home for Christmas. So, whoops. Because Felicity is married now, but definitely not to Weston, and he's done with searching for a wife. Enter Serena. Serena Taylor is on the run with her toddler son, Tate, and the only way she can think of to keep him out of her former-father-in-law's clutches is to find a husband--and quickly. She's worked her way through her list of possibly-suitable husbands and finds herself sitting in Weston's house while he searches for her (not) missing horse when a simple misunderstanding leads to a marriage of convenience.

I think this was my favourite out of the collection. I loved Hedlund's last two series and I was a big fan of Weston in Felicity's story, so I was thrilled to see that he was getting a book of his own. He was such a fantastic hero and Serena was the perfect match in every way. I loved watching their relationship grow and his relationship with Tate was so sweet to see. I also really enjoyed "meeting" Weston's family.

The second novella Doctor's Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams. Minnie has just arrived in town as a mail-order bride...in the middle of a snowstorm. Jed, the local doctor, is anxiously waiting for his new nurse to arrive and help shoulder the responsibility of caring for the town's medical needs. But it turns out the woman stepping off the train isn't his nurse--and he isn't her intended groom. Because the blizzard has prevented Minnie's fiance from meeting her at the station, Jed feels obligated to help her find somewhere to stay until her future husband can make it into town, but a freak accident leaves the two of them working together to save lives. And maybe fall in love?

I think this was my first time reading anything by Lacy Williams, but it won't be my last. This was a sweet, fun little novella. I enjoyed seeing Jed work on his relationship with his son and realize that it wasn't just the town who needed him. Minnie's story was a sad one, so I loved seeing her find a place to belong, and finally being chosen by someone who loved her.

The final novella is Marrying the Mountain Man's Best Friend by Misty M. Beller. Two Stones is a Salish warrior who has never quite fit in with his family, but also doesn't have place in the white mans' world. He's spent his life as a trader of sorts, searching for unique and special requests for his customers and friends. When his best friend asks him to come, he arrives to find his friend on his deathbed. And he has a request; he wants Two Stones to marry his recently widowed daughter. Heidi wants nothing to do with this arrangement. She's finally free from an abusive husband and she will never allow herself to be controlled by a man ever again. Some sketchy situations lead to a quick wedding despite Heidi's misgivings, and Two Stones promises he will take her to his family's village where she can live in safety--without him. But Heidi and Two Stones accidentally made an enemy before they left, and their journey won't be as simple as he had hoped for.

This one might actually have to be a tie with Claiming the Cowgirl. I loved Two Stones. He was a true gentleman, kept his word, and did his best to keep his promise to his friend while still respecting Heidi's wishes. Heidi was stronger than she appeared and I really enjoyed her character as well. Two Stones' adoptive family was incredible, and I'm definitely going to be looking into Beller's previous books to see if they have a series as well.

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this novella collection. Each story was captivating and well-done without feeling rushed as novellas sometimes are. If you enjoy a good historical Christmassy story or if you just want to check out a few new authors in one book, I highly recommend Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows. This one is also a must-read for anyone who has enjoyed the Colorado Cowboys and Colorado Cowgirls series.

*As a launch team member, I received a complimentary copy of Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows through one of the authors. All thoughts and opinions are my own. My positive review is not required.

[Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This anthology had me captivated from start to finish! It was such an entertaining collection. Each story was a marriage of convenience, but they all had unique aspects to make them stand out from each other. All well-balanced, all well-written, these tales bring to life Western Historical Romance and the joy of the Christmas season.

Claiming the Cowgirl

Weston finally gets his happily ever after in Claiming the Cowgirl. Serena Taylor is on the run from her father-in-law who is trying to steal her son away from her after the death of her husband. Weston needs to find a wife by Christmas, or he'll never hear the end of it from his boisterous family. Through a well-orchestrated meeting and a few miscommunications, Serena and Weston decide it would be best to join in a marriage of convenience. Tate, Serena's adorable little boy, falls in love with his new Pa almost instantly. Weston and Serena are drawn to each other, helping to erase the heartache from a loss in Weston's past and giving Serena hope of a marriage filled with love which would be vastly different from her first marriage. Even though this is a shorter story the characters still have rich backstories with challenges to overcome and danger still threatening their future. Even though the characters don't know each other for very long, the story does a great job of making you feel the passage of time as they get to know each other and figure out their rhythms as a new family. The ending was much more dramatic than I was expecting! The confrontation with Serena's former father-in-law brought the story to a thrilling conclusion that freed Serena and Weston to have a bright and hopeful future. This sweet romantic story held all the joy of family, Christmas, and new beginnings.

Doctor's Snowflake Bride

This was such a heartfelt little story. Minnie is a mail-order bride waiting for her groom at the train station in a snowstorm. Jed is the town doctor who mistakes Minnie for his new nurse. The story really packed a punch with the snow disaster, true nature of Minnie's intended, Minnie's past, and the turmoil between Jed and his son. Living in the North, I have seen the destructive power of snow firsthand, so to have this type of disaster included in the story really hit home. The romance is fast, but they go through so much together in that time that it is very easy to overlook. Minnie also fits seamlessly into Jed's family. She has such a way of dispensing compassion and wisdom when needed. The way she helps to knit Jed and Jamie back together is a beautiful thing to witness. This sweet romance woven together with the hope of Christmas was a heartwarming read.

Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend

The tale of Two Stones and Heidi begins with a lot of bumps in the road. Heidi moves to a strange new mining town, her father dies, her father’s last wish is for her to marry someone she just met, the town is filled with ruffians, and even as Two Stones attempts to take her to safety, their trail is fraught with dangers. Despite this, Two Stones and Heidi demonstrate the strength of their character and the power of their faith as they navigate these challenges. The more time they spend together, the more they are drawn to each other. Two Stones helps to show Heidi that things between a husband and wife can be different than what she experienced in the past, and Heidi gives Two Stones the hope for a future he thought closed to him. The ending is surprising and dangerous, bringing this powerful little tale to an exciting conclusion. The final pages are sweet and hopeful, the perfect Christmas ending.

If you are looking for some entertaining, historical, and romantic reads this Christmas season, then this anthology does not disappoint! I received an advanced reader copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY REVIEW

What a great collection of stories about marriage of convenience. Each story is beautifully written and has wonderful characters.



Claiming The Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund

I could tell this story was going to be filled with a journey that will take us into 1878 . It is December and our heroine named Serena is out in the bitter cold with her son Tate. She used to have a home with her husband but now that he has passed away she needs to find a safe place for her and her son. It is no wonder she left the home she thought would be a great place to raise children. At the mention that her father-in-law wants to raise her child, she bolted out of there as fast as she could. Now she is on her own and needs to find a husband.

Weston needs to get married and fast. After all he told his family he would be by Christmas. When he helps Serena and her little boy out, he starts thinking maybe they could help each other out. I loved that Weston was a true gentleman and explained that getting married was to benefit both their situations. Weston takes to Tate very well and that probably helped Serena to say yes to getting married. There is a little secret Serena is keeping that could be dangerous for everyone.

The story is fun to read as these two characters dance around their feelings. Serena is so worried that she will be rejected by Weston that she apologizes for everything. I wanted to tell her to get a grip and let those feelings known. Christmas is a whirlwind of family and a start to a relationship that can stand the test of time. Be prepared for a little scrimmage in the story between a man desperate to kidnap his grandson and the man who will risk everything to protect the ones he loves.

Doctor’s Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams

I loved this story from the beginning pages. A young woman named Minnie travels to a small town in snow to meet her soon to be husband. Standing there she realizes that she may be stood up. When a tall man appears she thinks he has finally come. What happens next can only be God’s plan. I loved how Minnie helps the doctor when a disaster happens.

Jed is relieved to see the woman standing there on the steps. Finally his nurse has arrived and maybe he can get some much needed help. Instead of a nurse, he finds Minnie. The way they meet is an answer to prayer when a building collapses.I loved how they both worked together to save people who had been trapped. My question is where is the nurse and Minnie’s husband to be?

Sometimes the path we take is not the one Hod has planned for us. Jed wants Minnie to stay to help with the injured and assures her that Mr. Black won’t be coming for her anytime soon due to the snow. Minnie needs a place to stay so it only made sense to help the doctor out. Jed has other problems beside finding a nurse. His relationship with his son is so strained they barely talk. With such a demanding job, Jed is hardly there to bond with his son. Their bitterness is starting to show and I thought that at any minute someone would say something they would regret.

Minnie may just be what the doctor ordered in this emotional story of forgiveness and finding love. Will Jed choose her or let her walk out and go off to marry Mr. Black? I held my breath as the author delivers an emotional ending. A great reminder in the story is that God loves each of us unconditionally.

Marrying The Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Belle

Two Stones is an honorable man and comes to see his dear friend who is gravely ill. What Two Stones hears his friend whisper to him is surprising but he promises the man his dying wish. Now he must convince Heidi to go with him and marry him.

Heidi is beside herself as she knows her father has passed away. What was he thinking asking this stranger to marry her? She is defiant and refuses to marry this man. Heidi believes that she can take care of herself. Little does she know that Two Stones will honor his friend’s wish and take her as his bride. His word is everything to him. Now he has to convince this stubborn woman to be his bride.

This story takes us on a journey through treacherous snow as they travel to their destination. I like that Two Stones is kind and respectful to Heidi. He is not afraid to show his faith and assures her that he will honor her at all times. He wants her to feel comfortable around his people and make the village her home. What a beautiful story of sacrifice and honor that illustrates how someone doesn’t go make on their promise. A love story that shows how God puts two people together and prepares their hearts as husband and wife. Honor, trust and unconditional love is illustrated beautifully in this story.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund

Serena and Weston both have different reasons for pursuing matrimony, but a marriage of convenience could be the answer to both their prayers.

An engaging read with likable characters, and great chemistry in this Christmastime marriage of convenience novella that serves as both a sequel and a prequel, that can also be read as a stand alone. I was so happy to see Serena and Weston getting a shot at love in this story. Tate is such a sweet child, and I loved his big heart, and how he glowed under the love from others. Weston is a good man, and he wants to be a good protector and provider, I liked that he realized his mistake and came through for Serena when she needed him to. It was so fun meeting his close knit, and hilariously nosy family, and I can't wait to read more about them in the future!

Doctor's Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams

Beginning with a mix up this was a sweet romance, with an engaging plot and likable main characters. Minnie is a kind-hearted woman, and I liked how she bonds with Jed's young son, Jamie. Jed is a decent and honorable man, used to lending hand and he is surprised to find his heart opening again. Jamie is especially sweet and I loved how he lit up under Minnie's attention.

A sweet Christmastime romance, with good interaction and relationship building. Highly enjoyable!

Marrying the Mountain Man's Best Friend by Misty M. Beller
A deathbed promise made to a friend binds Two Stones to Heidi in a marriage of convenience. As they travel together, they see how their differences make them stronger and bond over their shared faith. Great interaction, it was fun seeing them getting to know each other, not knowing what they had gotten into with their marriage. Two Stones is a an of noble character, he walks the line between two worlds and in some ways it has made life more difficult for him.

An engaging romance with strong faith and great characters!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Charity · Rating 5 out of 5]

Claiming the Cowgirl:
This story is the PERFECT wrap-up to Jody Hedlund's Colorado Cowgirls series, and I LOVED watching Weston get his happily-ever-after. But even if you haven't read those other books, you can still enjoy this one. And you definitely will.

Doctor's Snowflake Bride:
If you like insta-love, you'll enjoy this novella. It was written in such a way that I was right in the midst of the snowstorm and the hustle and bustle of a busy doctor's office and home.

Marrying the Mountain Man's Best Friend:
I LOVED this novella. Loved it, and I was completely lost in the world of Two Stones and Heidi. I've read quite a few of Misty Beller's books, but didn't recognize any of the names here, so even though it must be part of a series, you'll enjoy it even without all the background info. Background info? Is that the right phrase? Anyway, this is easily a stand-alone, but now I want to read the rest of this series!

~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~

[Jennie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This holiday anthology is the perfect book to curl up with cup of cocoa and travel to the past to overcome hardships and find love.

Any of these stories can be read as a stand-alone but is also a good opportunity to discover your next series.

Claiming the Cowgirl
I was so happy to see this sequel contained Weston’s story. In a previous book he was the nice guy you felt bad for because he did not get the girl. It was heartwarming to watch him come into his own happy ending. We also learn more of Serena’s background and what she is hiding. It is a very touching story of healing past hurts and building the life you have dreamed.

The Doctor’s Snowflake Bride
Anyone who who as felt unseen will feel a kinship Minnie, a mail order bride who just wants to important to someone . She arrives in town during a terrible storm to find her intended was not there to meet her. A kind but overburdened doctor offers to take her to the minister’s house when tragedy strikes. Minnie jumps in and becomes appreciated by the town and the finds opportunity for real love.

Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend

After being widowed from an abusive marriage, Heidi reunites with her estranged father out west. Their reunion is short lived when her father becomes ill. Just as he is leaving this world he makes his good friend Two Stones promise to marry her and protect her. This action packed story story shows that sometimes you can find love where you least expect it.

These are three very sweet stories about finding love peace and at Christmas time.

I received an advanced copy from the author (Thank you Jody Hedlund) and these views are my own.

[Paty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing collection of Christmas Novellas! Swoon! I was so interested in this book because of the three fantastic authors all together, and it didn’t disappoint!
Also, Marriage of Convenient is one of my absolutely favorite tropes so this book couldn’t get any better!
Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund
Serena Taylor, recently widowed, is running away from her father-in-law who wants to take away her son from her. Hiding in Colorado, her time is running short, and she knows the only way to protect her son is getting him a new -and legal- father. Weston Oakley is tired of his meddling family and wishes he had a wife for Christmas, but he is reluctant to give his heart away after being spurned more than once. When he meets Serena and she is in need of a husband, they both agree to a marriage of convenience, that will soon turn into so much more than that. Can they make their marriage real before Serena is found by her father?
This was a beautiful story! Even if it was short, it was enough to get to know these characters and fall in love with them. My heart ached for Weston and his reluctance to fall in love again. And Serena! She deserved to be loved and cherished! So, they were the perfect match to each other! They hit it off, tentatively but surely. But things aren’t going to be made easy for them. Not if Serena’s ex father-in-law has anything to say about it. And he does! It was so enjoyable and I enjoyed the twists at the end! The romance was so endearing!
Doctor’s Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams
Minnie Bannister, an orphan, has decided to risk it all as a mail-order-bride to a Mr. Black. But when she arrives, she confuses widowed Doctor Jed Dawson for Mr. Black, and he confuses her for Miss Plum, the nurse he was expecting. Since a blizzard is building up, he can’t allow himself to leave her stranded and alone, so Jed takes Minnie with him. She proves to be an asset in many ways: as a nurse, as a very needed mother figure for his teenage son, etc. As feelings start also to grow, they both wonder if their chance encounter can be more providential than a mere circumstance. But Mr. Black still has his say over Minnie… Will Jed allow to escape a once in a lifetime chance? This story was sweet! I loved Jed’s selflessness in tiring himself out for his patients. How difficult it must be to be a single father and the town’s only Doctor! His situation was relatable, and I loved how Minnie helped him out with his son and gave him tips for winning him over. The characters were lovable and the story was engaging until the end.
Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller
Two Stones, a Salish Warrior who navigates between tribes and miners, finds himself at the dying bed of a good friend in Virginia City. His friend’s dying wish is for him to marry his daughter, who was left widowed and recently arrived to live with him, and to vow to protect her and keep her safe. Heidi does not wish to marry a stranger, on the contrary, she cherishes her newly acquired independence, but as she discovers the dangerous place she’s at and the leery men that threaten her, she decides that marrying Two Stones might not be such a bad idea after all. Two Stones plans to take her to his family, but the journey home is a dangerous one, and the things they face prove both their worth to each other. May this marriage of convenience, be more than convenient after all? This was a wonderful novella too! I loved Two Stones, he was an honest, protective and very kind man who has been rejected before and hardly expects love from Heidi. Heidi comes from an abusive marriage and distrusts easily, but the way Two Stones proves to her how dependable and caring he is was a sight to behold. Sweet! And with enough adventure to keep me hooked until the last page!
All in all, this collection of Novellas is amazing and has the perfect Christmas vibe of love and sacrifice. I fell in love with each of the couple’s story, so different and so sweet and endearing. I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy from one of the authors but wasn’t required a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Melissa’s Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this new favorite Christmas anthology! Three amazing authors share three memorable marriage of convenience Christmas novellas all set in the Rocky Mountain West. All three highly anticipated novellas are part of a series, yet can easily be read on their own or as a great introduction to these authors if you’re a new fan. Each are romantic, heartwarming, at times suspenseful, with a touch of faith, and are so well written they feel like a complete novel.

Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund is the final story in the Colorado Cowgirls series. Ever since meeting Weston I’ve been dying for his story! This unlucky in love, swoony hero needs to wed before Christmas. Serena & her young son flee to Fairplay, Colorado to escape her father-in-law bent on taking her son after her husband dies. Weston’s & Serena’s whirlwind swoony courtship is filled with sizzling romance, suspense, & all the Christmas feels. I loved spending Christmas with Weston’s family & watching their romance bloom.

Doctor’s Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams starts off with mistaken identity. When Minnie disembarks from the train in Cooper’s Hollow, she hopes the handsome man on the platform is her new husband. Dr. Jed Dawson is looking for his new nurse. When a snowstorm & dire circumstances throw them together, Minnie must decide whether to marry her intended when her heart’s been captured by the doc & his son. I loved Minnie & Jed. Minnie’s so supportive & Jed recognizes the difference she’s made in his & his son’s life. It’s a sweet, tender romance I throughly enjoyed.

Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller is an epic tale of a Salish warrior & the woman he marries to fulfill his dying friend’s wish. When Heidi arrives in Virginia City, she doesn’t expect to marry. After her father’s unexpected death & realizing the danger she’s in, she agrees to marry the handsome Two Stone. They embark on a perilous journey to Two Stone’s parents’ home & encounter all sorts of danger which brings them closer together. As they celebrate Christmas with Two Stone’s friends, they need to decide if they want their marriage of convenience to be real. I loved Heidi & Two Stone & how they came to rely on & love each other. They both carry past hurts but find a kindred spirit in each other.

All three of these stories were fantastic! It’s honestly hard to pick a favorite because each one was so good. I loved Jody Hedlund’s Colorado Cowgirls series and picked this anthology up mainly for Claiming the Cowgirl, but I loved the other two stories so much that I’m excited to read the other books in Lacy Williams’ & Misty Beller’s series. Highly recommend this swoony collection that’ll definitely put you in the Christmas spirit. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the authors through CelebrateLit. All opinions are completely my own and voluntarily provided.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three entertaining stories of unexpected romance, escape from precarious situations, and strong women and men, pretty nuch standard historical romance with the odd twist to make them worth a read.
The first story is of a woman on the run. Her scornful and emotionally abusive husband has died, and her wealthy father-in-law is determined to lie, cheat, and steal his way to keeping her son, declaring her an unfit mother when nothung could be further from the truth. She is seeking a marriage to protect them both. I loved the housekeeper in the tale.
The second tale is of an orphaned woman expecting to be met with by a mail order husband but is instead met by a tired and harried doctor expecting a nurse. As they are on their way to the parsonage to give her a place to stay until the snows clear, recent heavy snows collapse the roofs of 2 shops with 2nd floor apartments, injuring multiple people. Her quick thinking and ability to stay composed under heavy situations, plus the rapport she develops with his troubled son, makes him re-evaluate whether or not he truly needed the nurse who had abandoned him anyway. Meanwhile, the prospective groom is discovered to have misrepresented hinself in the extreme. Is there any way out of this mail order marriage?
The final story involves a woman married to a controlling and abusisve man, who dies of a prolonged illness. Her father sends for her to come to the Montana Territory, where he is a miner, but an accident just prior to her arrival ends his life. He has a friend whose world spans that of his Salish tribe and the white world, and he begs Two Stones to marry his daugter and protect her. For her part, she wants nothu3ng to do with marriage, and so Two Stones promises her, after rescuing her from a brothel owner, to escort her to his tribe, and allow her to live as a single woman should she choose. As the eventful trip proceeds, she discovers not all men are alike.
The 3rd book has many incomplete sentences, discontinued thoughts, interrupted paragraphs, and is somewhat disjointed. While not impossible to read, it is not easy to connect the flow all the time, and it detracts from an otherwise beautiful story. It seems to me this novella was written in haste to meet a deadline and never proofread prior to publication. As a result, this is one author whose other books I am reluctant to read. I made only one note and that was on a generally misspelled and mispronounced word, rendered "sawdered" in the text (which is actually how the word is pronounced), but which is correctly spelled "soldered" (see what comes of being raised by an engineer & married to a man who, before retirement, soldered test computer boards?😉). That's more a point of information. After that, the errors came so often it wasn't worth individual notes, just an overall notation here. A lot of potential resides with this author, but she needs to take more care with continuity and flow to make her books realize their full potential.

[Meagan Myhren-Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows
A Marriage of Convenience Anthology
By Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams,
and Misty M. Beller

There is nothing better than a Christmas book, and Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows offers 3 stories within its pages. In each, love is not an expectation as three couples agree to marriages of convenience. But with Christmas taking center stage in each story, you know a little bit of romance will make its way into each.
Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund is a must-read for fans of her Colorado Cowboys and her Colorado Cowgirls series. In this story Weston Oakley gets his chance at marriage when Serena Taylor decides he'd be the perfect father for her son. And with his claim that he'd be married by Christmas her need for a husband couldn't have come at a better time. But will the secrets between them destroy their chance for love?

Doctor's Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams finds Minnie stuck in town while her intended rides out a blizzard hours away in his cabin. Meanwhile she makes a place for herself in the small town when disaster strikes. Aiding Doctor Jeb Dawson and befriending his son gives her glimpse at life she's always dreamed of but never had. No matter what the future holds this is one Christmas she'll never forget. But will she finally find a place to belong and be wanted?

Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller finds Two Stones, a Salish warrior, making a deathbed promise to his dearest friend, to marry his daughter Heidi. But marriage is the last thing Heidi wants. Not now that she is widowed and free of her late husband. But she needs protection and agrees to marry Two Stones but only for the protection it provides against the danger Virginia City provides to any and all unmarried women. But could her father's final plea actually be the life she has long desired?

These delightful Christmas tales of Historical Fiction are just what you are looking to find under your pre-Christmas TBR list. Each is a standalone novella that introduces the reader to a series by each author. Reading the previous books in the various series isn't necessary to enjoy these Christmas tales. Experience talking here as I've only read Jody Hedlund's coresponding series and enjoyed all three with no issues.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

[Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve only gotten a chance to read Jody’s book so far so this review is for that novella: If you love Jody’s other cowboy books, you will love this novella. It has the same swoony cowboy moments. I love both MC characters so much as well as Serena’s son Tate. Weston’s family was hilarious and fantastic and I hope we get more of them in future books. I love the Christmas moments sprinkled in. I love all the swoony moments that come from marriage of convenience. A ton of romance jam packed into this book people. And it didn’t feel rushed at all. It definitely left me wanting more just like all the rest of her books.

SPOILERS and book notes:
FairPlay Colorado 1878 December
The name Weston Oakley is quite a cowboy name. Ahhh they are both sweet souls. Marriage of convenience at its finest. He has a nice house with only one bed hehe. And a dog that loves the little boy Tate. Poor sweet Serena just wants to make her new husband happy so he won’t have mistresses like her stupid late husband. Also has to get married so her father in law doesn’t take Tate! Awww she knows how to write swoony conversations. I love how sweet he is with Tate and that he already calls him Pa. And Weston wants to spoil Serena with everything! And told her she could get what ever her heart desires. And her heart desires to buy all the Christmas gifts and baskets for all his workers!! I love it so much. Awww I love that they cut a Christmas tree down together. Weston relishes every second he is with his family. I love this. For Christmas they were sleeping in the loft together with his whole family down in the living room and that is where they had their first make out kiss. And they didn’t know it but there family yelled up and could hear their “hanky panky” and I am dead. Bahaha I was laughing so hard. Weston defended Tate and Selena with a duel with her father in law. And then chasing after her declaring her and his love! And Tate declaring his love for his pa!! He claimed and owned that woman! Gah!! My heart!! “Gently, he slipped the ring down her finger. “I’m claiming you, sweetheart. Now you’re mine.””

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows is a sweet historical collection of Christmas stories you’re guaranteed to enjoy. Each is short enough to satisfy your need to start and finish a story in one sitting while full enough to fill your heart with the magic of love at Christmas.

Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund. A delightful marriage of convenience that left my heart smiling and content. Serena just wants to protect her son. She comes up with a plan that falls right into the best option for Weston as well. Together, they are delightful. Weston is a true gentleman who has been waiting to give his heart away. Serena has only ever wanted to be chosen and when Weston chooses her…wow! I loved the holiday feels set in this beautiful Colorado mountain town.

Doctor’s Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams. Winnie and Jed are so much fun! I love their introduction and how quick Winnie is to jump into action. Both of them have what the other needs and eventually, they find out that love is sometimes part of the bargain as well. I love the events that pushed them together. Add in a wonderful little boy and a supportive community with some Christmas magic and you have a truly enjoyable, sweet and clean marriage of convenience historical fiction story.

Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller. Two Stones, a Salish warrior and Heidi come together quickly and unexpectedly. Two Stones is a man of honor and desires to protect Heidi. Heidi is determined to never come under the thumb of a man again. I love how Two Stones cares for her and shows her what real love looks like. I really enjoyed the support of friends who affirmed them, encouraged them, and supported them. A sweet western, historical fiction story set in the beautiful mountains during Christmas. Curl up and enjoy the holiday romance.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

[Alena Mentink · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows features three novels sure to get you into the Christmas spirit!

Sometimes, novellas get a rap for being too rushed and underdeveloped. I’ve read a few of those, but I felt that each of the novellas in this collection had plenty of depth to them. Well done to each of the authors!

Claiming the Cowgirl: Of course, a story featuring a cute three-year-old boy is bound to be heart-warming. I loved watching the way Weston took care of Serena and her son–and of course, the romance was very sweet. I wasn’t so fond of all the deception in the beginning, but Jody did resolve it well.

Doctor’s Snowflake Bride: I really loved the opening scene for this story. It hooked me right away and made me chuckle. The novella read quickly–maybe too quickly where the romance was involved. I was a little skeptical about that element, but overall, it was a fun little story.

Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend: I am very much loving the new Coulter brother series by Misty Beller, so I could hardly wait to get to this story. And I was not disappointed. Misty’s novella is easily my favorite out of the whole collection. What’s not to love about a man who would make such self-less choices? The romance felt very genuine and real, and I was cheering for Two stones and Heidi to make their marriage “real.”

Throughout each of the novellas, the mention of snow, spices, and Christmas trees definitely bring the Christmas-feeling. And the marriage-of-convenience trope definitely gets more complicated when the holidays get involved–or maybe it becomes not so convenient.

Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows makes a perfect collection for readers who love a clean western with a sweet romance.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this collection, but my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved all three novellas in the anthology.
Misty M. Beller was the reason I picked up this anthology. I have read many of her books and knowing that her contribution was about a character I had already met, I had to read this. Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend is not really part of the Brothers of Sapphire Ranch series but it is about a character we first met in the first book of the series. We also visit with the Coulter family for a portion of the story. In this story the marriage of convenience is for protection “only.”
Jody Hedlund’s contribution was Claiming the Cowgirl which is the fifth book in her Colorado Cowgirls series. I have not read any of the other books in that series yet but did not feel I was missing any information. I’m not sure how much the books in the series are interconnected but Claiming the Cowgirl can be read as a stand alone. I would like to read more of this series in the future. The “convenience” part of this story is a widow who wants to keep her father-in-law from getting her son and she thinks if she marries she’ll be able to keep her son.
Doctor’s Snowflake Bride was contributed by Lacy Williams. This is a standalone. It made me want to read more of her work. In this story the “convenience” actually comes before the marriage. A mail order bride shows up on the train right after a snow storm. She helps out the town doctor, a widower with a teen son, while waiting for her intended to come get her.
Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows is an adult anthology. While two of the three novellas are appropriate for a K-12 Christian school audience, the third one contains some marriage scenes that are probably only appropriate for adults. I encourage librarians to read for themselves and make a decision based on their audience.
I received a complimentary copy of Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows. This is my honest review.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marriage of convenience stories are so much fun. In this case I am reviewing Jody Hedlund’s Claiming the Cowgirl, this is part of the Colorado Cowgirls series which takes place in Fairplay, Colorado.

These are sweet romances. There are four other romances in this series, of which I’ve read the first two. Marriage of convenience can be beneficial to one or the other people in the situation or they may be both benefiting from it as in this story.

Mother and widow Serena Taylor is hiding from her deceased husband’s father who is determined to take her young son and raise him. Her young son is all that matters, and she will do everything in her power to keep him with her including a marriage of convenience.

Weston Oakley lost his fiancée years ago and has endured failed relationships ever since. He just hasn’t had his heart in them. His family has been on him to find and keep someone special for himself and by the upcoming Christmas season.

This chance meeting has them both benefitting. It was such an emotional read to see the little boy being accepted by Weston, he is overjoyed to have a son. He is a humbled man. The little boy is so happy to have a compassionate and gentle Pa. The relationship between Serena and Weston is sure and steady, developing romantically slowly and respectfully.

When a chance encounter between Weston and Serena’s former Father-in-law leaves Weston leaves Weston with more questions than answers he knows he must find the answers to his questions. Will what he finds out be a determent to this relationship?

This is a fun, historical cowgirl western series.

I’ve always enjoyed the author’s books, though a novella length story this is a full and satisfying one.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Heather Greer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical romance, marriage of convenience, and Christmas. If you enjoy any of these elements in the books you read, you're going to enjoy Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows. Three unrelated (except by the three elements I just shared) novellas by three great authors makes for an evening or two of reading pleasure. I can't pick my favorite story of the three.

A couple of them gave me all the feels multiple times in the story. The characters in each were easy to like. Each author put their own spin on the marriage of convenience trope. This kept that element from becoming dull. The only issue I found, and to me it isn't really a problem, is that the characters tended to fall deeply in love after only a few days. If they'd known each other in the past, heard all about each other from a mutual friend, or something like that, it would not be an issue at all. I'd say they had a base to form that depth of bond. And for the most part, the authors did a good job of providing a few outside forces that helped move that bond along with more speed than one would typically consider normal. But if you're a reader who doesn't go for the whole instant deep love idea, you may not enjoy these as much as other books.

That said, I don't usually go for that. I want a reason for the depth of their bond. However, the addition of instant love did not detract from my enjoyment of the stories at all. In fact, this is a book I'll probably read multiple times because when you find a book that makes you want for the characters and have all the feels with each new chapter, that's a book worth reading more than once.

I give this book 5 stars. I received an ARC of this book through Celebrate Lit. The reviews and opinions are my own and freely given.

[Madeleine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Christmas/Marriage of Convenience Anthology features three novellas by some of the best Christian historical fiction authors.

“Claiming the Cowgirl” by Jody Hedlund concludes the Colorado Cowgirls series. It centres on the story of Weston and Serena, both of whom are desperate to enter into marriage, albeit for different reasons. For Weston, marriage symbolises a sense of independence and the end of his meddlesome family. For Serena, marriage offers the hope of protection and the ability to maintain custody of her young son. Fearing for his reaction, Serena initially withholds vital information from Weston about her ex father-in-law. Yet, her concerns are unfounded as Weston showed no hesitation in accepting the boy and treating him as his own from the start.

“Doctor’s Snowflake Bride” by Lacy Williams follows the story of Jed, an overworked doctor and Minnie, a mail-order bride. Originally intended as a mail-order bride for someone else, Minnie ends up stranded in town where she helps out at the doctor’s office. Here she bonds with Jed’s teenage son and ultimately helps to alleviate the strain between father and son.

“Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend” by Misty M. Beller tells of the story of Two Stones, a Salish warrior and Heidi, his best friend’s daughter. On his deathbed, Heidi’s father asked Two Stones to marry Heidi and take her away from the unsafe mining town. Although Heidi initially refuses, she later realizes that a marriage of convenience is the only way to survive with her dignity, leading to her consent.

Despite their rocky starts, all three couples eventually find their happy ending.

I can’t wait until the next release dates for these amazing authors!

[Margaret Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What fun to have an anthology with marriage of convenience novellas by three of my favorite authors, with Christmas themes to boot!

Jody Hedlund’s Claiming the Cowboy is a fun novella that fits in with her Colorado Cowgirls series. Weston Oakley couldn’t get Felicity Courtney to fall in love with him (for the back story, read Captivated by the Cowgirl), but was so sure she’d finally say yes that he told his family he’d bring his wife to their Christmas celebration. Now that she’s married someone else, what is he going to do? Serena Taylor needs a husband to protect her son from her dead husband’s family. I really enjoyed reading how the two get together and fall in love for real. Watch out for cute kids and dogs.

Lacy Williams’ The Doctor’s Snowflake Bride has a mail order bride mistaken for a new nurse coming to help an overworked doctor. The mail ordering groom is snowed in, giving time for said bride and doctor to get to know each other. Lots of well done plot twists help the process along. Again, watch out for kids and cats.

Misty Beller’s Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend fits in with her Brothers of Sapphire Ranch series, so reading Healing the Mountain Man’s Heart will give you some back story for this novella. Being set in December, Beller gets to include her favorite theme of traveling through mountains in snowstorms. There are plenty of scary plot twists (but not with children and pets).

I thoroughly enjoyed all three novellas.

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful trilogy of sweet marriage of convenience stories set in the western frontier at Christmas time! These three short novellas, written by three consummate storytellers, each provide a complete and satisfying reading experience. I think fans of historical romance will love this collection as much as I do, and I highly recommend it.
CLAIMING THE COWGIRL: Set in 1878 in Coldplay, Colorado, this novella fits in perfectly with Ms. Hedlund’s awesome Colorado Cowgirl series. I love the way Serena and Weston’s story unfolds as they fight against past hurts and fears and learn to trust each other. This story combines adventure, romance, and faith in just the right doses to make an enjoyable, inspiring read. Note: You can totally enjoy this story without having read the other books in the series, but I highly recommend the series also!
DOCTOR’S SNOWFLAKE BRIDE: Set in Cooper’s Hollow, Wyoming, this touching story centers around heroine Minnie Hollister who just wants to be chosen and belong somewhere and hero Jed Dawson a dedicated doctor who is struggling in his relationship with his son Jamie. This emotionally charged read features a fast-moving plot with well-placed twists, lovable characters, and a gentle faith thread which combine to make a captivating read.
MARRYING THE MOUNTAIN MAN’S BEST FRIEND: This moving story set in the Montana Territory is a beautiful complement to the Brothers of Sapphire Ranch series. This short missive is packed with adventure and feelings. Wonderful characters, a cleverly crafted storyline, sweet romance, and an encouraging faith thread create an exciting, endearing read.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Becky Dempsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

**All three of the stories contained in this book are set around Christmas and feature marriage of convenience/unexpected marriage. They all are also tied to a series by the author. They are not connected to each other in anyway. **

"Claiming the Cowgirl" by Jody Hedlund

After having met Weston and Serena in "Captivated by the Cowgirl", I enjoyed getting to read this story and finding out what Serena was hiding and to see Weston find his happily ever after. I found the story to be well written and easy to read. I liked watching Weston interact with Tate and how Tate warmed up to him. I hope to be able to get to know Weston's family more.

"Doctor's Snowflake Bride" by Lacy Williams

I enjoyed reading this story. It was well written and flowed well. I liked the characters and how the things they were going through and the way they handled them seemed realistic. The romance happens really fast, but it didn't really feel that rushed. I just wished we would get to spend more time with the characters, but the novella ended.

"Marrying the Mountain Man's Best Friend" by Misty M. Beller

I loved that we got to read Two Stones's story. I liked him when I met him in the first book of the Brothers of Sapphire Mountain Ranch series, so it was nice to get to know him a little more. It was also nice to see the Coulter family again. There was a nice biblical faith thread. The romance didn't feel rushed but developed naturally. There were several typos/wrong version of a word or editing issues, but my copy might have been an early version. I look forward to reading more books in this series.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Claiming the Cowgirl: Is the final story in the Cowgirls series. This tells the story of Serene and Weston. Weston needs to be married by Christmas and Serena and her young son are on the run trying to avoid her father in law because he is trying to steal her son after her husband’s death. After a happy accident Weston and Serena marry and both have to open their hearts to each other after what happens to them in previous relationships.

Doctor’s Snowflake Bride: Minnie travels to a small town to meet her soon to be husband. While thinking he stood her up a tall man appears but it turns out to be Jed the town doctor who is looking for his new nurse. They both think they are who they are looking for but they soon realize they aren’t. Because of the blizzard Minnie’s soon to be husband cannot make it to town and the doctor tries to find her a place until the snow melts some. But an accident in town changes everything and Minnie and Jed work together and start having feelings for each other.

Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend: Two Stones is a Salish warrior who doesn’t quite fit in with his family and doesn’t have a place in the white man’s world either. When is best friend asks hi to marry is recently widowed daughter while on his death bed Two Stones agrees. Heidi doesn’t want anything to do this arrangement. Some situations happen and Heidi agrees to the wedding. Two Stones promises her to take her to his family so she can live safely but will not have to live with him. But along the way they run into all kinds of problems which brings them closer together and needing to rely on each other.