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Ozark Mountain Romance #1
A Most Inconvenient Marriage
A Marriage of Convenience Turns Most Inconvenient in this Historical Charmer
Having fled a difficult home life, Civil War nurse Abigail Stuart feels like her only friend in the world is sweet but gravely wounded patient Jeremiah Calhoun. Fearing he won't survive, the Confederate soldier's last wish is that Abigail look after his sickly sister at home. Marry him, return to his horse farm, and it'll be hers.
Left with few choices, Abigail takes him up on his offer and moves to Missouri after his death, but just as the family learns to accept her, the real Jeremiah Calhoun appears--puzzled to find a confounding woman posing as his wife. Jeremiah is determined to have his life back to how it was before the war, but his own wounds limit what he can do on his own. Still not fully convinced Abigail isn't duping him, he's left with no choice but to let the woman stay and help--not admitting to himself she may provide the healing his entire family needs.
Having fled a difficult home life, Civil War nurse Abigail Stuart feels like her only friend in the world is sweet but gravely wounded patient Jeremiah Calhoun. Fearing he won't survive, the Confederate soldier's last wish is that Abigail look after his sickly sister at home. Marry him, return to his horse farm, and it'll be hers.
Left with few choices, Abigail takes him up on his offer and moves to Missouri after his death, but just as the family learns to accept her, the real Jeremiah Calhoun appears--puzzled to find a confounding woman posing as his wife. Jeremiah is determined to have his life back to how it was before the war, but his own wounds limit what he can do on his own. Still not fully convinced Abigail isn't duping him, he's left with no choice but to let the woman stay and help--not admitting to himself she may provide the healing his entire family needs.
330 pages, Paperback
First published November 25, 2014
556 people are currently reading
3264 people want to read
About the author
Regina Jennings
31 books1,291 followersRegina Jennings is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a history minor. She has worked at The Mustang News and First Baptist Church of Mustang, along with time at the Oklahoma National Stockyards and various livestock shows. She now lives outside Oklahoma City with her husband and four children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 479 reviews
September 18, 2018
The unusual plot made this story one that was hard to put down! Abigail and Jeremiah are both determined and stubborn, and it was fun to see their personalities clash before they began to work together for his family and the farm. There are complicated family dynamics with Jeremiah's grown sister who is dying and making everyone miserable with her, a sweet-hearted mother who is devoted to both Jeremiah and Abigail, and a community still dealing with the dangerous aftermath of war. Balancing out the entertaining banter are the themes of loss, grief, and forgiveness, which bring depth and purpose to the day to day efforts of the characters. A bright spot in the story is the mischievous neighbor children, Josiah and Betsy, who each have their own tales later in the series. There is some suspense and action as Josiah and Abigail defend their land against those who would take advantage.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
October 9, 2015
1.5 stars
It works like this....
I'm at the library and I spot a Christian Romance Novel. I know cognitively that I will not enjoy it. I know that it will tick me off with needless physical adoration and random Bible verses. But then I read the plot and I think, 'oh, but that sounds so promising! Maybe I should try it after all.'
And then I read it and get frustrated just like I knew I would.
All that basically being my experience with A Most Inconvenient Marriage. The author could have done something interesting with this plot. It sounded fun. Except it wasn't. I didn't like the main characters. They were obsessed with physical appearance. Everyone kept changing their mind about who they were in love with. Everything falls neatly into place.
*sigh*
Decent read if you like this genre.
It works like this....
I'm at the library and I spot a Christian Romance Novel. I know cognitively that I will not enjoy it. I know that it will tick me off with needless physical adoration and random Bible verses. But then I read the plot and I think, 'oh, but that sounds so promising! Maybe I should try it after all.'
And then I read it and get frustrated just like I knew I would.
All that basically being my experience with A Most Inconvenient Marriage. The author could have done something interesting with this plot. It sounded fun. Except it wasn't. I didn't like the main characters. They were obsessed with physical appearance. Everyone kept changing their mind about who they were in love with. Everything falls neatly into place.
*sigh*
Decent read if you like this genre.
December 9, 2014
This is one of my favourite books of the year, and we're into December.
Abigail Stuart is a war nurse who makes an agreement to marry a dying soldier who calls himself Jeremiah Calhoun. She's estranged from her family and needs a new home, and he claims to need a nurse to care for his ailing sister, and a competent horse woman to help with the family business. Abigail will have to break the news of his death to his fiance, but he's sure she'll understand. Everything seems to be going to plan, when the real Jeremiah Calhoun arrives home from the war. It seems the dead soldier was an imposter, playing some sort of twisted game, which sets these two up for a very rocky start.
I'm proud to say that I figured out the identity of the pretend Jeremiah, including his motivation for the act he played, on my own. It was great fun watching it dawn on the characters. There's a very lovable cast in this novel, including Josiah and Betsy, two very mischievous children from a neighbouring property, who steal the scenes they are in with their comic relief. There were plenty of humorous incidents to keep me smiling. Being an Aussie, I can only imagine the stench of a skunk.
As the novel isn't set during, but in the aftermath of the Civil War, there is a hopeful overall impression of building up and restoring. A lot of the action deals with some sneaky crooks who don't hesitate to kill.
Most of all, I adored the two main characters. Abigail is a capable, resilient woman who has made up her mind to guard her heart, determined to never experience hurt like she received from the hands of members of her family, but her tendency to love deeply is her vulnerable point. I found a scene where she cries silent tears at night most poignant simply because she's not the cry-baby type. The 'hillbilly boy' she'd made up her mind to resist has broken through her defenses, and he couldn't even seem to be bothered trying.
Jeremiah is a young man who was made head of his family too early, which may explain the control freak tendencies he's accused of during the story. He really only wants his family to be happy and prosperous. Jeremiah has learned to assume a gruff, suspicious persona through necessity, but hides a tender heart. Some of his revelations are great, such as what really constitutes a true home. Through him, we see that sometimes when things appear to be going haywire, they are really the best things that can happen.
I'd recommend this novel to anybody who wants a fun historical romance with a bit of depth.
Thanks to Net Galley and Bethany House for my review copy.
Abigail Stuart is a war nurse who makes an agreement to marry a dying soldier who calls himself Jeremiah Calhoun. She's estranged from her family and needs a new home, and he claims to need a nurse to care for his ailing sister, and a competent horse woman to help with the family business. Abigail will have to break the news of his death to his fiance, but he's sure she'll understand. Everything seems to be going to plan, when the real Jeremiah Calhoun arrives home from the war. It seems the dead soldier was an imposter, playing some sort of twisted game, which sets these two up for a very rocky start.
I'm proud to say that I figured out the identity of the pretend Jeremiah, including his motivation for the act he played, on my own. It was great fun watching it dawn on the characters. There's a very lovable cast in this novel, including Josiah and Betsy, two very mischievous children from a neighbouring property, who steal the scenes they are in with their comic relief. There were plenty of humorous incidents to keep me smiling. Being an Aussie, I can only imagine the stench of a skunk.
As the novel isn't set during, but in the aftermath of the Civil War, there is a hopeful overall impression of building up and restoring. A lot of the action deals with some sneaky crooks who don't hesitate to kill.
Most of all, I adored the two main characters. Abigail is a capable, resilient woman who has made up her mind to guard her heart, determined to never experience hurt like she received from the hands of members of her family, but her tendency to love deeply is her vulnerable point. I found a scene where she cries silent tears at night most poignant simply because she's not the cry-baby type. The 'hillbilly boy' she'd made up her mind to resist has broken through her defenses, and he couldn't even seem to be bothered trying.
Jeremiah is a young man who was made head of his family too early, which may explain the control freak tendencies he's accused of during the story. He really only wants his family to be happy and prosperous. Jeremiah has learned to assume a gruff, suspicious persona through necessity, but hides a tender heart. Some of his revelations are great, such as what really constitutes a true home. Through him, we see that sometimes when things appear to be going haywire, they are really the best things that can happen.
I'd recommend this novel to anybody who wants a fun historical romance with a bit of depth.
Thanks to Net Galley and Bethany House for my review copy.
November 25, 2014
I have been waiting for what feels like an eternity for this book, and Ms. Jennings did not disappoint; her excellence is as consistent as ever. This novel has it all- history, romance, Christian and moral elements, adventure, personal growth, humor, everything.
I loved every moment of this book.
I was frequently bursting out laughing over the shenanigans and antics that the Huckabee kids got into. I will admit that I don’t usually like children as supporting characters in this genre. They rarely are depicted realistically, but rather portrayed as little angels that highlight the heroine’s maternal instincts thus making the hero fall madly in love with her. Please. I have kids; you can’t pull the wool over my eyes. I love them more than my own life, but they can bring out the worst in me as easily as they bring out the best in me. Anyway, Ms. Jennings writes life into her characters of all ages. Josiah and Betsy were adorable and hysterical and innocent and mischievous and real. And I loved Abigail’s playful spirit. Oh, the piecrust. And Betsy’s “kitten!” I haven’t laughed like that in quite a while.
I loved that Abigail notes on a few occasions that Jeremiah is not classically handsome, and certainly not the most handsome man she’d ever laid eyes on. Her reflections on his appearance change naturally as her respect and admiration for him grows. I respected her for that.
I loved that Jeremiah didn’t know his own heart for most of the book. How accurate. How often do we convince ourselves that we want something, need something, deserve something, and plow on after it, trampling God’s opportunities in our path? Often we don’t even realize how wrong we were until we’ve gotten what we thought we wanted and it doesn’t satisfy. How grateful I am when He intervenes!
The plot was so well done. The suspense was never too extreme or outlandish. With about 80-90% of the book read, I considered the fact that this story might end in a very unexpected way. Books in the historical fiction/Christian romance department are often predictable. I mean, you know what the story is driving at and how it will likely end. But every so often an author blindsides you with an unexpected blow to take you through a different emotion or experience than the one you signed up for. Ms. Jennings had blindsided me before and I found myself wondering if the love story unfolding was really the story of people I hadn’t invested in.
The growth in some of the characters was natural and well paced, set off by realistic circumstances. I appreciated an honest portrayal of vices, virtues, pain, confusion, mistakes, and sacrifice.
I completely understood Abigail’s heart when it broke for rejection, yet rejoiced in the man that Jeremiah was. An impossible situation. But those seem to be God’s specialty. I cheered when Abigail decided she wouldn’t go down without a fight. But even more, I loved that ultimately it was neither what she did, nor what Jeremiah did, but what God did. From beginning to end, and every second in between, this was the very best kind of story.
I loved every moment of this book.
I was frequently bursting out laughing over the shenanigans and antics that the Huckabee kids got into. I will admit that I don’t usually like children as supporting characters in this genre. They rarely are depicted realistically, but rather portrayed as little angels that highlight the heroine’s maternal instincts thus making the hero fall madly in love with her. Please. I have kids; you can’t pull the wool over my eyes. I love them more than my own life, but they can bring out the worst in me as easily as they bring out the best in me. Anyway, Ms. Jennings writes life into her characters of all ages. Josiah and Betsy were adorable and hysterical and innocent and mischievous and real. And I loved Abigail’s playful spirit. Oh, the piecrust. And Betsy’s “kitten!” I haven’t laughed like that in quite a while.
I loved that Abigail notes on a few occasions that Jeremiah is not classically handsome, and certainly not the most handsome man she’d ever laid eyes on. Her reflections on his appearance change naturally as her respect and admiration for him grows. I respected her for that.
I loved that Jeremiah didn’t know his own heart for most of the book. How accurate. How often do we convince ourselves that we want something, need something, deserve something, and plow on after it, trampling God’s opportunities in our path? Often we don’t even realize how wrong we were until we’ve gotten what we thought we wanted and it doesn’t satisfy. How grateful I am when He intervenes!
The plot was so well done. The suspense was never too extreme or outlandish. With about 80-90% of the book read, I considered the fact that this story might end in a very unexpected way. Books in the historical fiction/Christian romance department are often predictable. I mean, you know what the story is driving at and how it will likely end. But every so often an author blindsides you with an unexpected blow to take you through a different emotion or experience than the one you signed up for. Ms. Jennings had blindsided me before and I found myself wondering if the love story unfolding was really the story of people I hadn’t invested in.
The growth in some of the characters was natural and well paced, set off by realistic circumstances. I appreciated an honest portrayal of vices, virtues, pain, confusion, mistakes, and sacrifice.
I completely understood Abigail’s heart when it broke for rejection, yet rejoiced in the man that Jeremiah was. An impossible situation. But those seem to be God’s specialty. I cheered when Abigail decided she wouldn’t go down without a fight. But even more, I loved that ultimately it was neither what she did, nor what Jeremiah did, but what God did. From beginning to end, and every second in between, this was the very best kind of story.
did-not-finish
June 19, 2023DNF at 43%.
It's not bad but it's not great. I could go into it more but I refuse to spend my time.
It's not bad but it's not great. I could go into it more but I refuse to spend my time.
December 26, 2015
I enjoyed this book so much that I waltzed out and bought the paperback after reading the ebook!
I could have sworn I reviewed this already, but I guess I just left it on the Nook site instead of here.
Abigail is a young woman in a tight enough spot that she's willing to take a chance on Jeremiah Calhoun's deathbed proposal, especially since it makes him so much happier. After the marriage and his death, she leaves her work as a nurse and goes to the Ozarks farm where his mother and sister live. She's just beginning to make her way into the people's hearts...when Jeremiah Calhoun returns home from the war, crippled, and most definitely not the Jeremiah she married. And he's not about to let this spunky imposter stay around. But she has no other place to go and has to make something work.
Of course, interesting things ensue! I will definitely be buying the next Regina Jennings book!
I could have sworn I reviewed this already, but I guess I just left it on the Nook site instead of here.
Abigail is a young woman in a tight enough spot that she's willing to take a chance on Jeremiah Calhoun's deathbed proposal, especially since it makes him so much happier. After the marriage and his death, she leaves her work as a nurse and goes to the Ozarks farm where his mother and sister live. She's just beginning to make her way into the people's hearts...when Jeremiah Calhoun returns home from the war, crippled, and most definitely not the Jeremiah she married. And he's not about to let this spunky imposter stay around. But she has no other place to go and has to make something work.
Of course, interesting things ensue! I will definitely be buying the next Regina Jennings book!
January 28, 2016
Thoroughly enjoyable up to the end!
Peppered with witty dialogue and southern phrases, it made me laugh out loud many times. Probably not a book you'd want to read if you need to be quiet. Had me guessing at poor Abigail's fate--what a great heroine-- hardworking, with a positive outlook, wanting what's best for everyone, keeping her promise to the dying soldier no matter what it cost her. The Civil War history of Missouri was interesting also, pitting neighbor against neighbor, and not really ending after the war was over. Overall, a satisfying read. Recommend!
4.5 stars
Peppered with witty dialogue and southern phrases, it made me laugh out loud many times. Probably not a book you'd want to read if you need to be quiet. Had me guessing at poor Abigail's fate--what a great heroine-- hardworking, with a positive outlook, wanting what's best for everyone, keeping her promise to the dying soldier no matter what it cost her. The Civil War history of Missouri was interesting also, pitting neighbor against neighbor, and not really ending after the war was over. Overall, a satisfying read. Recommend!
4.5 stars
August 12, 2015
Super great book! I just wish Laurel hadn't been so... wishy-washy. And I did get kinda annoyed at Jeremiah there toward the end too. But still a great book!
October 13, 2018
Sometimes we focus so hard on a goal that we don't realize the treasures found on the way.
Abigail is a young woman who has faced some sore trials. She works as a nurse during the Civil War. She cares for Confederate Soldiers who don't have much hope of making it home. One patient captured her attention with tales of home and the lady he loves. He wouldn't be making the journey home and grants his dying wish to marry him and return home to care of his ailing sister.
Life at the Calhoun home is not what Abigail imagined. There is one problem, Jeremiah Calhoun is not dead, he is not the man she exchanged vows with. Now there is a mystery to solve and some misunderstandings to clear up.
This book is full of humor. Regina Jennings always does a wonderful job at creating characters that are relatable and finding the humor in difficult situations. Abigail and Jeremiah join forces as reluctant allies, and then friends to care for the farm, hunt some horse thieves, and help Jeremiah decide which woman he loves. Abigail, or the woman he left before the war.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the setting, the characters, and the resolution. This book is clean with a little kissing. There is also some non-graphic violence.
Abigail is a young woman who has faced some sore trials. She works as a nurse during the Civil War. She cares for Confederate Soldiers who don't have much hope of making it home. One patient captured her attention with tales of home and the lady he loves. He wouldn't be making the journey home and grants his dying wish to marry him and return home to care of his ailing sister.
Life at the Calhoun home is not what Abigail imagined. There is one problem, Jeremiah Calhoun is not dead, he is not the man she exchanged vows with. Now there is a mystery to solve and some misunderstandings to clear up.
This book is full of humor. Regina Jennings always does a wonderful job at creating characters that are relatable and finding the humor in difficult situations. Abigail and Jeremiah join forces as reluctant allies, and then friends to care for the farm, hunt some horse thieves, and help Jeremiah decide which woman he loves. Abigail, or the woman he left before the war.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the setting, the characters, and the resolution. This book is clean with a little kissing. There is also some non-graphic violence.
September 29, 2015
Pretty good book. I had a difficult time getting into the story though. There were some parts that really grabbed my attention like when Jeremiah comes home to find that he is "married" and the times with the bushwhackers. I thought Abigail's secret was kind of lame and it was silky that she kept her secret so guarded. Laurel also bothered me because she was Jeremiah's sweetheart before he goes off to war but she obviously fell in love with the local doctor while Jeremiah was gone. When Dr. Hopkins gets frustrated with how long Laurel is taking to decide between him and Jeremiah, she dumps him and tells Jeremiah she wants to marry him. It was dumb! I liked aspects of the book but was also irritated by it... Ages 12+
August 5, 2016
I loved A Most Inconvenient Marriage! The characters were endearing, the romance was sweet, and the writing was great. I loved the ending and thought things wrapped up well.
I liked how the book starts off with you thinking something, which ends up not being the case later on. It was really fun and made the story quite interesting for me. :)
All in all, I loved this book and recommend it!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
I liked how the book starts off with you thinking something, which ends up not being the case later on. It was really fun and made the story quite interesting for me. :)
All in all, I loved this book and recommend it!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
August 7, 2017
Abigail is a Civil War nurse with no home to go back to after the war. When a dying patient named Jeremiah asks her to marry him, offering her his horse farm in the Ozarks in exchange for the promise that she will care for his mother and ill sister, Abigail agrees.
And after his death, off to the Ozarks she goes. Then promptly sets about winning over everyone who thinks she has no business being there whatsoever. She’s about achieved it too.
When Jeremiah Calhoun shows up at the door. Not dead. And definitely not the patient she watched dye under her care. And not at all—well, maybe a little—attracted to her.
I loved the characters in A Most Inconvenient Marriage, especially Abigail. She is a breath of life in a very tough world. The challenges of war, illness, and death come her way, but her joyous, determined personally make the entire book a pleasure to read.
And after his death, off to the Ozarks she goes. Then promptly sets about winning over everyone who thinks she has no business being there whatsoever. She’s about achieved it too.
When Jeremiah Calhoun shows up at the door. Not dead. And definitely not the patient she watched dye under her care. And not at all—well, maybe a little—attracted to her.
I loved the characters in A Most Inconvenient Marriage, especially Abigail. She is a breath of life in a very tough world. The challenges of war, illness, and death come her way, but her joyous, determined personally make the entire book a pleasure to read.
August 23, 2022
Abigail Stuart has been serving as a nurse during the Civil War. Her final dying patient asked her to marry him and take charge of his farm in Missouri as well as his ma and his sister. Abigail agreed and as soon as the war ended she headed for the home of Jeremiah Calhoun. His ma greeted her kindly and his sister who was weak from scarlet fever was suspicious; but the biggest surprise of all was when another man showed up claiming he was Jeremiah Calhoun. How will this mess get straightened out or will Abigail be heading back to a home where she wasn't wanted?
Another thoroughly enjoyable historical romance from Regina Jennings.
Another thoroughly enjoyable historical romance from Regina Jennings.
July 24, 2024
I absolutely loved this book!!! Very well written! I loved how straightforward the characters were with each other and there were some great comedy moments as well as very serious moments. The romance between the two main characters was great! I definitely recommend this one!
August 25, 2019
A wonderful story by this first time by author to this reader. I truly enjoyed the gradual build of love by Abigail and Jeremy. This was a nicely written clean historical romance.
4-Stars
4-Stars
December 4, 2014
This was a really fun book. There was never a dull moment or a slow part. I enjoy books about horses and that was Abagail's love. Abigail was a strong character I never got frustrated with her as I sometimes do with a heroin. She was smart, quick witted and had a sweet spirit about her. The hero, Jeremiah, was soldier who comes home from war with expectations that just aren't realistic. Not to mention a women who claims to be his wife. I thought this book was comical but not too silly. It has a couple of "steamy" romance scenes (clean of course). I have to say this was my favorite so far by Jennings. Followed by her first release, Sixty Acres and a Bride. My third favorite would be Love in the Balance, followed by her novella An Unforeseen Match and then Caught in the Middle. I hope all of my goodread friends will check this one out!
February 11, 2015
Another delightful novel by Regina Jennings. Abigail and Jeremiah are strong characters, believable, flawed, and likable. I truly wanted these two hurting people to find happiness with each other. And the humor! The incidents with the skunks and the pie dough…well, you just have to read them yourself! I loved this story and highly recommend it.
March 4, 2016
Read two of her novellas so I decided to read one of her novels! This one was pretty good!! I can't wait to read more by her.
January 3, 2021
I liked the history lessons throughout, of the complicated story of how the civil war played out in this region. Also, the characters were well-developed and easy to follow.
January 30, 2015
About this book:
“Having fled a difficult home life, Civil War nurse Abigail Stuart feels like her only friend in the world is sweet but gravely wounded patient Jeremiah Calhoun. Fearing he won't survive, the Confederate soldier's last wish is that Abigail look after his sickly sister at home. Marry him, return to his horse farm, and it'll be hers.
Left with few choices, Abigail takes him up on his offer and moves to Missouri after his death, but just as the family learns to accept her, the real Jeremiah Calhoun appears--puzzled to find a confounding woman posing as his wife. Jeremiah is determined to have his life back to how it was before the war, but his own wounds limit what he can do on his own. Still not fully convinced Abigail isn't duping him, he's left with no choice but to let the woman stay and help--not admitting to himself she may provide the healing his entire family needs.”
Series: As of now, no.
Spiritual Content- Praising God; Prayers; Wonders of God’s opinion of the War; Scriptures are quoted.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blasted’; Abigail is a nurse at a prison, so there’s mentions of blood & patients hurting (barely-above-not-detailed); Smoking; Smelling moonshine & alcohol.
Sexual Content- not-detailed kisses, three semi-detailed kisses, a detailed kiss and a very-detailed kiss; Almost kisses; a mention of stealing kisses; Touches & Wanting to touch (semi-detailed); Noticing & Staring; a mention of a wife’s privilege; two mentions of the intimate part of marriage; Mentions & hints of horses and their uh, mating & seasons; Abigail accidentally sees Jeremiah in his drawers (not-detailed); Love, falling in love, & the emotions.
-Abigail Stuart
-Jeremiah Calhoun
P.O.V. switches between them.
Set in 1865
324 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)
Was this a bad book? Well, no, but it wasn’t for EHST and down. It could have been a lot better. All the Sexual Content really took away from the plot. :( I do think the cover is fun, however!
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Bethany House Publishers) for this review.
“Having fled a difficult home life, Civil War nurse Abigail Stuart feels like her only friend in the world is sweet but gravely wounded patient Jeremiah Calhoun. Fearing he won't survive, the Confederate soldier's last wish is that Abigail look after his sickly sister at home. Marry him, return to his horse farm, and it'll be hers.
Left with few choices, Abigail takes him up on his offer and moves to Missouri after his death, but just as the family learns to accept her, the real Jeremiah Calhoun appears--puzzled to find a confounding woman posing as his wife. Jeremiah is determined to have his life back to how it was before the war, but his own wounds limit what he can do on his own. Still not fully convinced Abigail isn't duping him, he's left with no choice but to let the woman stay and help--not admitting to himself she may provide the healing his entire family needs.”
Series: As of now, no.
Spiritual Content- Praising God; Prayers; Wonders of God’s opinion of the War; Scriptures are quoted.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blasted’; Abigail is a nurse at a prison, so there’s mentions of blood & patients hurting (barely-above-not-detailed); Smoking; Smelling moonshine & alcohol.
Sexual Content- not-detailed kisses, three semi-detailed kisses, a detailed kiss and a very-detailed kiss; Almost kisses; a mention of stealing kisses; Touches & Wanting to touch (semi-detailed); Noticing & Staring; a mention of a wife’s privilege; two mentions of the intimate part of marriage; Mentions & hints of horses and their uh, mating & seasons; Abigail accidentally sees Jeremiah in his drawers (not-detailed); Love, falling in love, & the emotions.
-Abigail Stuart
-Jeremiah Calhoun
P.O.V. switches between them.
Set in 1865
324 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)
Was this a bad book? Well, no, but it wasn’t for EHST and down. It could have been a lot better. All the Sexual Content really took away from the plot. :( I do think the cover is fun, however!
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Bethany House Publishers) for this review.
November 5, 2015
A Most Inconvenient Marriage by Regina Jennings is a Christian historical romance. It is a highly amusing read that had me smiling over some of the situations portrayed. It was a comedy of errors with various plots and match making.
Abigail nurses the injured prisoners during the American Civil War. On his deathbed Jeremiah Calhoun marries her, leaving her his ranch and horses, and extracting a promise that she will nurse his sister Rachel, and take care of his mother. Following the war, Abigail is welcomed with open arms by Jeremiah's Ma. Abigail is making a success of the farm when her life is interrupted by the arrival of Jeremiah himself! This is most inconvenient, especially as Abigail has never seen this Jeremiah Calhoun before. Who did Abigail marry? Who is the real Jeremiah?
The novel deals with a number of themes, including that of forgiveness. Rachel harbours unforgiveness in her soul, it oozes from every pore, making her bad tempered and bitter. Can she ever be persuaded to let go of her grudge and anger?
Regina Jennings shows that the state of one's soul can be revealed in ones personality. Abigail has a sunny disposition, is concerned with justice, and goes out of her way to help and to work hard. She has her eyes and heart on God, always trying to do what is right.
A Most Inconvenient Marriage has its very light-hearted moments. The neighbours children, Josiah and Betsy, love playing pranks on Abigail. She in her turn, turns the tables on them - the results are highly amusing.
Regina Jennings portrays very real and likeable characters. There are some wonderful moments of sparring between Abigail and Jeremiah. Both can give as good as they get, and the reader is royally entertained. The characters are in a close knit community. They help each other when needed, and band together to fight a group of bushwhackers.
God's plans are revealed within the story, showing that His plans are not always our plans. His plans are far better for us, than we could ever imagine.
The theme of healing runs throughout the novel. There is physical healing needed for wounds from the war and illness, as well as healing needed for the soul.
There are several love matches and triangles within the novel. These make wonderful reading, and are reminiscent of some of Shakespeare's comedies - A Midsummer Night's Dream springs immediately to mind. I found myself laughing at some of the scenarios, particularly those involving the skunk.
A Most Inconvenient Marriage was the first novel I had read by Regina Jennings, but I will be reading more. She is a highly amusing writer whose work is very much grounded in God, and I can certainly recommend picking up her book for a highly entertaining read.
Abigail nurses the injured prisoners during the American Civil War. On his deathbed Jeremiah Calhoun marries her, leaving her his ranch and horses, and extracting a promise that she will nurse his sister Rachel, and take care of his mother. Following the war, Abigail is welcomed with open arms by Jeremiah's Ma. Abigail is making a success of the farm when her life is interrupted by the arrival of Jeremiah himself! This is most inconvenient, especially as Abigail has never seen this Jeremiah Calhoun before. Who did Abigail marry? Who is the real Jeremiah?
The novel deals with a number of themes, including that of forgiveness. Rachel harbours unforgiveness in her soul, it oozes from every pore, making her bad tempered and bitter. Can she ever be persuaded to let go of her grudge and anger?
Regina Jennings shows that the state of one's soul can be revealed in ones personality. Abigail has a sunny disposition, is concerned with justice, and goes out of her way to help and to work hard. She has her eyes and heart on God, always trying to do what is right.
A Most Inconvenient Marriage has its very light-hearted moments. The neighbours children, Josiah and Betsy, love playing pranks on Abigail. She in her turn, turns the tables on them - the results are highly amusing.
Regina Jennings portrays very real and likeable characters. There are some wonderful moments of sparring between Abigail and Jeremiah. Both can give as good as they get, and the reader is royally entertained. The characters are in a close knit community. They help each other when needed, and band together to fight a group of bushwhackers.
God's plans are revealed within the story, showing that His plans are not always our plans. His plans are far better for us, than we could ever imagine.
The theme of healing runs throughout the novel. There is physical healing needed for wounds from the war and illness, as well as healing needed for the soul.
There are several love matches and triangles within the novel. These make wonderful reading, and are reminiscent of some of Shakespeare's comedies - A Midsummer Night's Dream springs immediately to mind. I found myself laughing at some of the scenarios, particularly those involving the skunk.
A Most Inconvenient Marriage was the first novel I had read by Regina Jennings, but I will be reading more. She is a highly amusing writer whose work is very much grounded in God, and I can certainly recommend picking up her book for a highly entertaining read.
December 16, 2014
4.5
This the third book I've read by Regina Jennings and I have to say, I keep liking each new book more then the last. The writing is smooth and the story flows. Plus, Regina has the ability to take a well known type of story and put a new twist on it and give it a fresh feel.
I've read many marriage of convince stories, this is the first inconvenient marriage story and I have to say, it was pulled off beautifully. It had a very realistic feel to how it was done. Having the Civil War as a backdrop really made everything possible and made me wonder if something like this hadn't really happened.
Abigail was a girl who had a big heart. She cared for anyone, despite their temperament or which side of the war they were on, and did her best to make everyone comfortable and cared for. You couldn't help but like her. With her ability to care, comes a strong determination with her character. She could handle the snide and mean quips that came with her profession and it made her all the more endearing.
Jeremiah Calhoun, the real one, was one who took a bit of warming up to. He is freshly back from a war where he was injured and lost friends. He closed up and only caring about his family and the hurt he caused his sister. He also just wants to get back to his fiancee. How he can't wait to get back to her. As his character starts to unravel and you see who he is, is devotion to his family is wonderful to see, despite having a tension that follows him. He cares and shows it by trying his hardest for his family.
Abigail and Jeremiah balance each other out. While Jeremiah is one who can be loud and out there, Abigail offers a calming. Their arguments and interactions were interesting and funny.
I enjoyed watching this story unfold. The secondary characters offered a wonderful presence. I was happy to see that Regina Jennings was going to put out a short story on one of them. I will let you find out who. It should be a fun story.
This was a unique and fun story.
Thank you to the author, I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
This review was originally posted @ http://wordsfromabookaholic.blogspot....
This the third book I've read by Regina Jennings and I have to say, I keep liking each new book more then the last. The writing is smooth and the story flows. Plus, Regina has the ability to take a well known type of story and put a new twist on it and give it a fresh feel.
I've read many marriage of convince stories, this is the first inconvenient marriage story and I have to say, it was pulled off beautifully. It had a very realistic feel to how it was done. Having the Civil War as a backdrop really made everything possible and made me wonder if something like this hadn't really happened.
Abigail was a girl who had a big heart. She cared for anyone, despite their temperament or which side of the war they were on, and did her best to make everyone comfortable and cared for. You couldn't help but like her. With her ability to care, comes a strong determination with her character. She could handle the snide and mean quips that came with her profession and it made her all the more endearing.
Jeremiah Calhoun, the real one, was one who took a bit of warming up to. He is freshly back from a war where he was injured and lost friends. He closed up and only caring about his family and the hurt he caused his sister. He also just wants to get back to his fiancee. How he can't wait to get back to her. As his character starts to unravel and you see who he is, is devotion to his family is wonderful to see, despite having a tension that follows him. He cares and shows it by trying his hardest for his family.
Abigail and Jeremiah balance each other out. While Jeremiah is one who can be loud and out there, Abigail offers a calming. Their arguments and interactions were interesting and funny.
I enjoyed watching this story unfold. The secondary characters offered a wonderful presence. I was happy to see that Regina Jennings was going to put out a short story on one of them. I will let you find out who. It should be a fun story.
This was a unique and fun story.
Thank you to the author, I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
This review was originally posted @ http://wordsfromabookaholic.blogspot....
December 4, 2014
Abigail Stuart has just developed a knack for getting herself into the most amusing and annoying situations. When she accepts the marriage proposal of a dying soldier, Jeremiah Calhoun, with the promise to care for his ailing sister little does Abigail know she has been hoodwinked. After delivering the sad news of her husband's death to his family Abigail is welcome (somewhat) into the family and she soon begins efforts to get their farm back into shape -starting with the horses she dearly loved. But everything is thrown into disarray when her "husband" return from the dead - and isn't the man she married.
Filled with humor, action and drama this is a story you won't want to miss. Between Abigail's crazy antics and Jeremiah's frustrations this book kept me entertained for a few hours and had me laughing out loud. It's a perfect blend of history and craziness, which I love. If this is a story you have considered reading but haven't decided yet put aside all those misgiving and pick up A Most Inconvenient Marriage.
As a note the version I received was about half of the full story and as a result I felt I missed out on a lot of vital details. References were made throughout the story that left me flipping back through the previous pages to ensure I didn't miss anything. All in all it was a great story that I don't regret. I'm sure the full version is just as excellent.
DISCLAIMER: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” we would like to note that we received an electronic copy of “A Most Inconvenient Marriage” provided by the publishers, Bethany House, through Netgalley.com in exchange for our honest review.
reetchampionbookreviews.wordpress.com
Filled with humor, action and drama this is a story you won't want to miss. Between Abigail's crazy antics and Jeremiah's frustrations this book kept me entertained for a few hours and had me laughing out loud. It's a perfect blend of history and craziness, which I love. If this is a story you have considered reading but haven't decided yet put aside all those misgiving and pick up A Most Inconvenient Marriage.
As a note the version I received was about half of the full story and as a result I felt I missed out on a lot of vital details. References were made throughout the story that left me flipping back through the previous pages to ensure I didn't miss anything. All in all it was a great story that I don't regret. I'm sure the full version is just as excellent.
DISCLAIMER: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” we would like to note that we received an electronic copy of “A Most Inconvenient Marriage” provided by the publishers, Bethany House, through Netgalley.com in exchange for our honest review.
reetchampionbookreviews.wordpress.com
December 8, 2014
After reading a novella by this author several months ago and really enjoying it, I was very much looking forward to reading more of her books! I was not disappointed with this book! It has been a while since I read a book with a main female character that I really liked and could really relate to, but Abigail was absolutely that heroine! I loved how strong (Some might even say stubborn) she was, how determined she was to make sure everyone else was taken care of without a thought for herself, and of course her love for horses touched this horsewoman's heart! Jeremiah was also a great character, and this book was filled with an awesome cast of supporting characters, I adored the neighbor children Josiah and Betsy, and some of the pranks that took place between them and Abigail had me laughing out loud! The setting was really cool, and it was written so realistically that I kept having to remind myself that I was indeed in my living room not the Ozarks of Missouri in 1865! For fear of spoiling something I will stop here, but let me just say that I loved this book from start to finish! However there were a couple of horse related details that were either incorrect and/or not believable, which because I am a life long student of all things equine, really bothered me, but being that it was a fictional story I chose to give it the benefit of the doubt that these details were written this way simply for the sake of the story, and did not let it affect my enjoyment of the story as a whole which was very great indeed!
Again I loved this book and highly recommend it. I can't wait to read the next installment in this great new series. I also have Regina Jennings' first three novels on my Kindle and I am very much looking forward to reading them when I get a chance!
I was honored to receive a review copy of this amazing book from Bethany House publishers, in exchange for my honest review!
Again I loved this book and highly recommend it. I can't wait to read the next installment in this great new series. I also have Regina Jennings' first three novels on my Kindle and I am very much looking forward to reading them when I get a chance!
I was honored to receive a review copy of this amazing book from Bethany House publishers, in exchange for my honest review!
April 16, 2020
A fun, but frustrating read.
I loved the premise of the book, because I love 'marriage of convenience' stories, but this one just didn't quite live up to my expectations.
I guess I thought they'd actually be married and act as a couple, but they kept skirting around their feelings for AGES! Look, I know that feelings are hard to decipher, but I did wish that they finally came together for more
I really liked Abigail. I found her relatable and also lots of fun, however I didn't like Jeremiah as much.
He was so frustrating at times! He kept going back and forth on his feelings. Even after kissing her (and enjoying it a whole lot), spending time with her (and admittedly loving her 'friendship') he still tells her he doesn't have feelings for her and then afterwards the book said, "why did he feel like he had wronged Abigail?" Duh, no kidding dude! I mean, this is all apart of character growth etc. but it didn't make it any less annoying.
Well I was pretty mad at him, but then the ending was just too cute and I had to forgive him, but I dropped a star because I was frustrated for like 75% of the book.
Maybe I just wasn't in the right mood for this, but I just couldn't like Jeremiah that much...
But it was still a fun read. I really enjoyed some of the secondary characters (especially the kids!), and although the plot was kind of slow-paced and lighthearted, it was still enjoyable.
I loved the premise of the book, because I love 'marriage of convenience' stories, but this one just didn't quite live up to my expectations.
I guess I thought they'd actually be married and act as a couple, but they kept skirting around their feelings for AGES! Look, I know that feelings are hard to decipher, but I did wish that they finally came together for more
I really liked Abigail. I found her relatable and also lots of fun, however I didn't like Jeremiah as much.
He was so frustrating at times! He kept going back and forth on his feelings. Even after kissing her (and enjoying it a whole lot), spending time with her (and admittedly loving her 'friendship') he still tells her he doesn't have feelings for her and then afterwards the book said, "why did he feel like he had wronged Abigail?" Duh, no kidding dude! I mean, this is all apart of character growth etc. but it didn't make it any less annoying.
Well I was pretty mad at him, but then the ending was just too cute and I had to forgive him, but I dropped a star because I was frustrated for like 75% of the book.
Maybe I just wasn't in the right mood for this, but I just couldn't like Jeremiah that much...
But it was still a fun read. I really enjoyed some of the secondary characters (especially the kids!), and although the plot was kind of slow-paced and lighthearted, it was still enjoyable.
August 23, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is maybe the 5th time i’ve read this book this book and AHHHH, I love it 🙂↕️.
All the characters just MADE sense and that was so refreshing. The plot is just so delicious, I need movie recommendations and more book recs like this one immediately 😫!!
The war, love triangles, first romances, family problems, the right amount of miscommunication, the confusion, the “arranged” marriage?! Just so good!
I might be glazing the book just a bit but I just like to express how much I enjoy reading this!
>> May contain spoilers! >>
Jeremiah’s thinking was frustrating a lot of times but he was a man of his word, and that I love. Abigail’s character was just so girlboss and relatable I couldn’t get enough of her. As for Rachel’s character development? Amazing. Sad and tragic of course, but they could never make me hate her. Some of the first times that I’ve read this book I didn’t pay much attention to Laurel, but as I re-read I can say that she was a bit annoying sometimes. She was very selfish a lot of times but in a way I can understand her.
I think that if you want a cute read, that isn’t a typically boring rom-com. This one is in a historical war, “farm” setting and I definitely recommend!
Already waiting for when I will read this again?! 🥰
This is maybe the 5th time i’ve read this book this book and AHHHH, I love it 🙂↕️.
All the characters just MADE sense and that was so refreshing. The plot is just so delicious, I need movie recommendations and more book recs like this one immediately 😫!!
The war, love triangles, first romances, family problems, the right amount of miscommunication, the confusion, the “arranged” marriage?! Just so good!
I might be glazing the book just a bit but I just like to express how much I enjoy reading this!
>> May contain spoilers! >>
Jeremiah’s thinking was frustrating a lot of times but he was a man of his word, and that I love. Abigail’s character was just so girlboss and relatable I couldn’t get enough of her. As for Rachel’s character development? Amazing. Sad and tragic of course, but they could never make me hate her. Some of the first times that I’ve read this book I didn’t pay much attention to Laurel, but as I re-read I can say that she was a bit annoying sometimes. She was very selfish a lot of times but in a way I can understand her.
I think that if you want a cute read, that isn’t a typically boring rom-com. This one is in a historical war, “farm” setting and I definitely recommend!
Already waiting for when I will read this again?! 🥰
December 9, 2014
I didn't know it was possible to swoon while convulsing with laughter until I read A Most Inconvenient Marriage! What an incredible mix of gripping emotion and light-hearted humour. I was in a tizzy of ecstasy the whole read!
Jeremiah is exasperating in his cluelessness when it comes to women and that makes him endearing in an irritating sort of way. LOL And Abigail is pure stubbornness -- so determined to do it all alone. What an ill-fated pair, especially when you take into account the unusual circumstances that bring them together. Add in the complications and dangers of the post-civil war South and a host of engaging secondary characters and you get a story as thought-provoking and inspiring as it is entertaining.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Jeremiah is exasperating in his cluelessness when it comes to women and that makes him endearing in an irritating sort of way. LOL And Abigail is pure stubbornness -- so determined to do it all alone. What an ill-fated pair, especially when you take into account the unusual circumstances that bring them together. Add in the complications and dangers of the post-civil war South and a host of engaging secondary characters and you get a story as thought-provoking and inspiring as it is entertaining.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
January 13, 2015
This book was an absolute delight to read! So entertaining, from beginning to end.
I loved the chemistry between the main characters... There were several times I laughed out loud at some of their shenanigans. In fact, all the characters were well-developed and each brought their own flavor to the story.
The tension was thick and well-sustained, keeping me reading late into the night. Also, the author wasn't afraid to tackle the tough questions and issues that took place as the nation began to rebuild after the Civil War. Kudos for that.
This is my favorite of Regina's books, but it won't be the last.
(I received an e-copy of this book through Netgalley and Bethany House in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
I loved the chemistry between the main characters... There were several times I laughed out loud at some of their shenanigans. In fact, all the characters were well-developed and each brought their own flavor to the story.
The tension was thick and well-sustained, keeping me reading late into the night. Also, the author wasn't afraid to tackle the tough questions and issues that took place as the nation began to rebuild after the Civil War. Kudos for that.
This is my favorite of Regina's books, but it won't be the last.
(I received an e-copy of this book through Netgalley and Bethany House in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
January 14, 2015
A most interesting book, I tell you this. Abigail Stuart marries a dying man in a Civil War hospital and goes leaves for his home when he passes. No one welcomes her and a short while later her dead 'husband' shows up. Very much alive.
All sorts of entanglements show up, but maybe Abigail and Jeremiah really do care for each other.
This book has some seriously funny dry humor. Found myself laughing out loud several times. Enjoyed it very much.
All sorts of entanglements show up, but maybe Abigail and Jeremiah really do care for each other.
This book has some seriously funny dry humor. Found myself laughing out loud several times. Enjoyed it very much.
June 18, 2018
What a sweet love story! I was looking for a light, fun read, and this certainly fit the bill. There were still moments of action and tension, and I loved the details that made the historical aspect realistic.
Nice job, Regina Jennings!
Recommended for fans of clean historical fiction.
Nice job, Regina Jennings!
Recommended for fans of clean historical fiction.
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