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Flyboys of Sweet Briar Ranch in North Dakota #7
Just a Cowboy's Shotgun Wedding
After her husband died, leaving her with six kids to raise on her own, Piper Hughes struggles to hold everything together on a hairdresser's small wage. She has no hope of expanding her two bedroom ranch house and doesn't want to rely on the charity of the town, either. She definitely doesn't want some strange man coming in, being too kind, stealing her kids' hearts and turning her world upside down. He'll be leaving when he's done. After all, what man would want a woman with six kids?
Former airman, Gideon Marsh, would've had the single mother's addition done last spring, but he'd broken his leg and couldn't work. But a building project is just what he needs to fill the long, cold, North Dakota winter days. Snow days with the kids will be especially fun.
Except he doesn't know these kids have more in mind for him than being a general contractor. As he's looking into the serious gaze of Piper's oldest son, something in him just can't call the kid's bluff.
So he ends up married.
Shocked at first, he decides it might not be such a bad thing. After all, he's never met a woman who intrigues him quite like Piper. Can he convince her to allow him to be her husband for real?
Reviews for Just a Cowboy's Shotgun Wedding
★★★★★ "Gideon's and Piper's story is so sweet! And there is a shotgun wedding, but it's not what you probably think. This is a really fun story." - Leis
★★★★★ "I have loved all the books in this series but this is by far my favorite!" - Demi
★★★★★ "This one really delivers. Definitely recommend." - Sharon
★★★★★ "I absolutely LOVED this book! How can a broken foot, a huge family crowded into a two-bedroom house and a mega snowstorm be the fixin's for a sweet romance?
Only in Jessie Gussman's imagination!
I think you'll love it, too!" - PNG Lynn
★★★★★ "WOW! MY FAVORITE IN THIS SERIES! I love all the books by Jessie Gussman but this one! I don't want to ramble about how I loved I wouldn't change a line in it! I read it in a few days (and I have very full days!!). Thank you Jessie Gussman for this book!" - Soleil
Books in the Flyboys of Sweet Briar Ranch in North Dakota
Former airman, Gideon Marsh, would've had the single mother's addition done last spring, but he'd broken his leg and couldn't work. But a building project is just what he needs to fill the long, cold, North Dakota winter days. Snow days with the kids will be especially fun.
Except he doesn't know these kids have more in mind for him than being a general contractor. As he's looking into the serious gaze of Piper's oldest son, something in him just can't call the kid's bluff.
So he ends up married.
Shocked at first, he decides it might not be such a bad thing. After all, he's never met a woman who intrigues him quite like Piper. Can he convince her to allow him to be her husband for real?
Reviews for Just a Cowboy's Shotgun Wedding
★★★★★ "Gideon's and Piper's story is so sweet! And there is a shotgun wedding, but it's not what you probably think. This is a really fun story." - Leis
★★★★★ "I have loved all the books in this series but this is by far my favorite!" - Demi
★★★★★ "This one really delivers. Definitely recommend." - Sharon
★★★★★ "I absolutely LOVED this book! How can a broken foot, a huge family crowded into a two-bedroom house and a mega snowstorm be the fixin's for a sweet romance?
Only in Jessie Gussman's imagination!
I think you'll love it, too!" - PNG Lynn
★★★★★ "WOW! MY FAVORITE IN THIS SERIES! I love all the books by Jessie Gussman but this one! I don't want to ramble about how I loved I wouldn't change a line in it! I read it in a few days (and I have very full days!!). Thank you Jessie Gussman for this book!" - Soleil
Books in the Flyboys of Sweet Briar Ranch in North Dakota
216 pages, Paperback
Published April 21, 2023
468 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
April 19, 2023
Gideon and Piper’s story is sweet, engaging and wonderful. Piper is a young widow with six children under the age of ten. She is struggling to keep food on the table and the mortgage paid, but is reluctant to accept charity. She has, however, agreed to have the townspeople pay for the supplies for an addition and allow Gideon to build it. With only two bedrooms and one bathroom currently, her family is in dire need of more space. Even though construction of the addition was delayed due to his injury, Gideon is now ready to begin to build. He is happy to do his part in helping a widowed mother and her kids.
Gideon finds himself taking on more than just the addition when Piper is injured shortly after his arrival. Often called immature or just a big kid, Gideon is quick to take charge and take care of both Piper and her children. He has an easy rapport with her kids and has a knack for making Piper laugh even while she is in pain and worrying about her kids, her job and buying groceries. She sees the good, caring and compassionate man underneath the humour and sometimes child like behaviour. He chooses to see the lighter side of things while he tackles his work and helping Piper look after her children. He even gives Piper thoughts to ponder about her own behaviour toward those who have tried to help her. Gideon is unhappy to learn that the town’s matchmakers are looking to find Piper a husband, have even approached his friend as a possible groom, but have dismissed him as a possible choice. Even though only two days have passed, Gideon feels drawn to both Piper and her children, and he wants to be Piper’s husband. It is up to her to decide if she will have him as her husband and a new father for her children.
I loved that Piper’s children try to take the matter of marriage into their own hands and that so many matchmakers seem to have their hands or hooves in this situation. The humour throughout this story makes this book delightfully entertaining. The bible passages, marriage counselling and discussions about faith, relationships and marriage all leave me feeling hopeful and inspired. I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Gideon finds himself taking on more than just the addition when Piper is injured shortly after his arrival. Often called immature or just a big kid, Gideon is quick to take charge and take care of both Piper and her children. He has an easy rapport with her kids and has a knack for making Piper laugh even while she is in pain and worrying about her kids, her job and buying groceries. She sees the good, caring and compassionate man underneath the humour and sometimes child like behaviour. He chooses to see the lighter side of things while he tackles his work and helping Piper look after her children. He even gives Piper thoughts to ponder about her own behaviour toward those who have tried to help her. Gideon is unhappy to learn that the town’s matchmakers are looking to find Piper a husband, have even approached his friend as a possible groom, but have dismissed him as a possible choice. Even though only two days have passed, Gideon feels drawn to both Piper and her children, and he wants to be Piper’s husband. It is up to her to decide if she will have him as her husband and a new father for her children.
I loved that Piper’s children try to take the matter of marriage into their own hands and that so many matchmakers seem to have their hands or hooves in this situation. The humour throughout this story makes this book delightfully entertaining. The bible passages, marriage counselling and discussions about faith, relationships and marriage all leave me feeling hopeful and inspired. I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 30, 2023
Just a Cowboy's Shotgun Wedding is both funny and sad. When Piper's husband died from an accident he leaves her with 6 kids. She is a beautician from home where she can watch her 3 small children while the other 3 go to school. She is working as many customers as she could to pay the mortgage and the groceries. She is tired but knows she has everything to do at night after her clients are done, children to feed, baths and babies to get asleep. She is exhausted but she has been doing this now 2 years. She does not get to rest easy at night as they have only 2 bedrooms and each has 3 kids in them and she sleeps on the couch. The church had donated the materials for an addition to be added to the house and Gideon had agreed to do the work. When he comes to see what she has in mind she is taking him down the hallway while carrying the baby and stepped on a toy and fell. Gideon could tell by the looks of her foot it was broken.
Gideon has a good heart and loves joking and pranks. His last girlfriend refused to marry him calling him immature and that has stayed in his mind. But he takes Piper to the hospital and brings her back home to rest with her leg elevated. That is when he finds out she has to work as much as she could before the blizzard hits to get groceries. He wants to help her out while he is working on the addition. After just 2 days with Piper and the kids he starts having feelings for them. When he finds out the match makers in town plan on marrying Piper off to a widower in his 60's, Gideon gets mad. He thinks it is not fair to Piper. And he found out Piper has a sense of humor and they get along good. So with a talk with his buddy Baker, he decided to talk to Piper about making long term plans. But plans made no matter how good the intention may not always turn out good. Sometimes the people around have to take the situation into their own hands.
I received an advanced copy of this book for my review. I give it 5🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 just because they don't allow 10!
Gideon has a good heart and loves joking and pranks. His last girlfriend refused to marry him calling him immature and that has stayed in his mind. But he takes Piper to the hospital and brings her back home to rest with her leg elevated. That is when he finds out she has to work as much as she could before the blizzard hits to get groceries. He wants to help her out while he is working on the addition. After just 2 days with Piper and the kids he starts having feelings for them. When he finds out the match makers in town plan on marrying Piper off to a widower in his 60's, Gideon gets mad. He thinks it is not fair to Piper. And he found out Piper has a sense of humor and they get along good. So with a talk with his buddy Baker, he decided to talk to Piper about making long term plans. But plans made no matter how good the intention may not always turn out good. Sometimes the people around have to take the situation into their own hands.
I received an advanced copy of this book for my review. I give it 5🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 just because they don't allow 10!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2023
I enjoy reading Jessie Gussman’s books because I always get more than just entertainment out of them. In the sweet Western romance genre, Jessie brings in Christian values as applied to marriage and families. In the small town of Sweetwater, North Dakota, people struggle with their finances, relationships, and kids just like the rest of the world. But seen through a Christian world view the characters seek prayer and God and each other for answers. So it is with Just a Cowboy’s Shotgun Wedding. Don’t be put off by the title, no one is truly threatened and no one’s honor was stolen. However, we do peek into the world of Piper, a widow with six children, who has run out of money and nearly hope. When one of the Flyboys – Gideon volunteers to help her build a small addition to her house, he discovers someone who he admires and wants to help. And soon, when Piper breaks her foot, he has to step into fatherhood. It’s a good thing Gideon is a big kid because he uses his goofy energy and humor to navigate diapers and tears and grocery shopping. God’s hand has clearly been the guiding force for the couple but of course, there is some help from Billy the steer and Miss April and some mysterious squirt guns.
The pastor exhorts everyone to treat each other as we would treat Christ and we can’t go wrong. While that may be difficult to do the wisdom encourages everyone in the story, and always makes me look at my own life and relationships.
The pastor exhorts everyone to treat each other as we would treat Christ and we can’t go wrong. While that may be difficult to do the wisdom encourages everyone in the story, and always makes me look at my own life and relationships.
March 20, 2023
A fun enjoyable read. This book is full of realistic, fun characters that will make you smile. Piper was widowed while pregnant with her sixth child and she has no dreams of ever remarrying. Who in their right mind would want a widow with six young children? So, she supports them the best that she can as a beautician out of her home, while sleeping on the couch in her two bedroom house. Gideon grew up helping his father work on houses, so when the church raises money for the materials to build a small addition onto Piper’s house he is asked to provide the labor in his free time. Gideon has no plans to ever marry. His ex-fiancee made it perfectly clear that he was not marriage material but from the first meeting he is drawn to Piper’s kids and them to him. Even the reluctant two year old, who likes no one, accepts him. When Piper is injured and has no way to safely work, take care of the three preschoolers, or even buy groceries Gideon steps into the gap. Taking care of the young ones and Piper, providing general care, and getting the needed groceries but six kids. Mix in a matchmaking bull, some matchmaking women, and children armed (with squirt guns) and you have an enjoyable read. Please note this book is a Christian themed novel and has doctrinal discussion. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
March 20, 2023
Piper is struggling to raise her six children after her husband died two years ago but is managing a beauty shop out of her home. She's sleeping on the couch and desperately needs another bedroom. A few of the townspeople donate building supplies for this project. Gideon Marsh, a former Airman, has volunteered to do the carpentry work.
When Gideon shows up, Piper breaks her ankle on one of the kid's toy tractor. Gideon sees how frazzled she is and volunteers to take care of her and the kids for a few days. What he didn't expect was to fall for Piper and her precious kids. When one of the church ladies start looking for a husband for Piper, Gideon rushes to marry Piper!
June, a cancer victim in remission, learns some unsavory truths about her husband and must decide her next steps. Travis is finally graduating high school and is tempted by the beautiful but self- centered Shannon. He also cares for deeply for his loyal childhood friend, Ellen, who is secretly in love with him but is still too young to date.
There is much love and laughter as well as much valued spiritual comments on married couples. I hope to see both June and Travis get their stories in the near future too!
When Gideon shows up, Piper breaks her ankle on one of the kid's toy tractor. Gideon sees how frazzled she is and volunteers to take care of her and the kids for a few days. What he didn't expect was to fall for Piper and her precious kids. When one of the church ladies start looking for a husband for Piper, Gideon rushes to marry Piper!
June, a cancer victim in remission, learns some unsavory truths about her husband and must decide her next steps. Travis is finally graduating high school and is tempted by the beautiful but self- centered Shannon. He also cares for deeply for his loyal childhood friend, Ellen, who is secretly in love with him but is still too young to date.
There is much love and laughter as well as much valued spiritual comments on married couples. I hope to see both June and Travis get their stories in the near future too!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2023
Gideon's and Piper's story is so sweet! And there is a shotgun wedding, but it's not what you probably think. This is a really fun story.
We've met Piper before, and learned about her faith in God, and His provision since husband's death, and her struggle to raise six children alone. Gideon has been a minor character in the series so far, but we know that he's easygoing, fun loving, and a little impulsive.
Their attraction and relationship moves very quickly, but it seems quite natural because they relate well to each other, with a similar sense of humor. They also challenge each other to want to be better, and they are honest with each other.
My favorite part of the story is in Chapter 16 when Gideon tells Piper that although other people may see six children as a liability, he realizes that she is trusting him with her most precious possessions, and he sees them as a gift of tremendous value. He doesn't feel like he is doing her favor, he sees it as an honor and a privilege to be her husband and a father to her children. This passage between them brought me to tears, in a good way!
This story is a HEA standalone, but you will meet other characters from the series. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my honest opinion.
We've met Piper before, and learned about her faith in God, and His provision since husband's death, and her struggle to raise six children alone. Gideon has been a minor character in the series so far, but we know that he's easygoing, fun loving, and a little impulsive.
Their attraction and relationship moves very quickly, but it seems quite natural because they relate well to each other, with a similar sense of humor. They also challenge each other to want to be better, and they are honest with each other.
My favorite part of the story is in Chapter 16 when Gideon tells Piper that although other people may see six children as a liability, he realizes that she is trusting him with her most precious possessions, and he sees them as a gift of tremendous value. He doesn't feel like he is doing her favor, he sees it as an honor and a privilege to be her husband and a father to her children. This passage between them brought me to tears, in a good way!
This story is a HEA standalone, but you will meet other characters from the series. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my honest opinion.
April 23, 2023
After her husband died, leaving her with six kids to raise on her own, Piper Hughes struggles to hold everything together on a hairdresser's small wage. She has no hope of expanding her two bedroom ranch house and doesn't want to rely on the charity of the town, either. She definitely doesn't want some strange man coming in, being too kind, stealing her kids' hearts and turning her world upside down. He'll be leaving when he's done. After all, what man would want a woman with six kids?
Former airman, Gideon Marsh, would've had the single mother's addition done last spring, but he'd broken his leg and couldn't work. But a building project is just what he needs to fill the long, cold, North Dakota winter days. Snow days with the kids will be especially fun.
Except he doesn't know these kids have more in mind for him than being a general contractor. As he's looking into the serious gaze of Piper's oldest son, something in him just can't call the kid's bluff.
So he ends up married.
Shocked at first, he decides it might not be such a bad thing. After all, he's never met a woman who intrigues him quite like Piper. Can he convince her to allow him to be her husband for real?
Former airman, Gideon Marsh, would've had the single mother's addition done last spring, but he'd broken his leg and couldn't work. But a building project is just what he needs to fill the long, cold, North Dakota winter days. Snow days with the kids will be especially fun.
Except he doesn't know these kids have more in mind for him than being a general contractor. As he's looking into the serious gaze of Piper's oldest son, something in him just can't call the kid's bluff.
So he ends up married.
Shocked at first, he decides it might not be such a bad thing. After all, he's never met a woman who intrigues him quite like Piper. Can he convince her to allow him to be her husband for real?
June 10, 2023
Piper has six kids and is a widow. She struggles to make ends meet and provide for her family and she lives in a two bedroom home where she sleeps on the couch. The town of Sweet Water came together to provide the supplies for an addition to be added to her home and Gideon Marsh had stepped up offering his time to build the addition. The harsh winter of North Dakota seemed like the perfect time to accomplish this task. His first day on the job, while introducing himself to Piper and the kids, saw a terrible accident where Piper broke her foot. Gideon couldn't just leave her to struggle when she couldn't work or take care of the kids. His protective instinct surfaced and he stepped up to do whatever she needed him to do.
While her foot was healing, maybe her heart could, too. And, maybe, she could see herself happy again. And, maybe, just maybe, the tall cowboy who had come to her rescue could make her laugh again and feel love again.
This is a clean, wonderful contemporary romance with a handsome cowboy who has a heart of gold and a lonely widow who wants to laugh and be loved again. And the "shotgun" part of the wedding was adorable.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
While her foot was healing, maybe her heart could, too. And, maybe, she could see herself happy again. And, maybe, just maybe, the tall cowboy who had come to her rescue could make her laugh again and feel love again.
This is a clean, wonderful contemporary romance with a handsome cowboy who has a heart of gold and a lonely widow who wants to laugh and be loved again. And the "shotgun" part of the wedding was adorable.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
April 8, 2023
Piper hates taking charity, but she really does need more than just two bedrooms for her and her six kids. So having Gideon come to add an extension to her house feels like a somewhat mixed blessing. But she never bargained for him to step up and make himself so indispensable that her kids would start to get ideas about her marrying him - let alone for the kids to try to push them into a shotgun wedding! Could it be that God knew what she needed all along?
It's been clear for a while that these two have to end up together, so it was great to see it finally happen! The kids were a delightful addition to the story, and of course the steer and the pig made their mandatory appearances to add a bit of fun (somewhat unexpected fun, too...). I enjoyed watching a relationship developing between Piper and Gideon, and appreciated the thought-provoking conversations too. The wedding wasn't quite how I anticipated, but I'm sure that's all to the good. A good read.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
It's been clear for a while that these two have to end up together, so it was great to see it finally happen! The kids were a delightful addition to the story, and of course the steer and the pig made their mandatory appearances to add a bit of fun (somewhat unexpected fun, too...). I enjoyed watching a relationship developing between Piper and Gideon, and appreciated the thought-provoking conversations too. The wedding wasn't quite how I anticipated, but I'm sure that's all to the good. A good read.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
April 15, 2023
The shotgun wedding scene is the best! This is one of my faves in my vast library of Jessie Gussman books. If many more learning experiences come to Piper Hughes she’ll be at genius level-she lost her husband while pregnant with number 6 child and I has survived on being a hairdresser out of her kitchen for two years and then she breaks her foot within minutes of meeting Gideon who got volun-told to add an addition to her small house. Their sense of humor in the face of disaster after disaster and their commitment to do things the Lord’s way are hallmarks of this book. It’s so refreshing to see Gideon turn common perceptions upside down as he considered marriage to a woman with 6 kids. The kids are a boon to the story and Billy the cow makes an appearance along with squirt guns. We also see glimpses of the side stories we are following throughout the series; June and her trials and Ellen and Travis who graduates.
This is Jessie at her finest, imparting truths along with a healthy dose of humor. She almost convinces me to move to North Dakota. Clean with strong Christian themes. I received this as an ARC.
This is Jessie at her finest, imparting truths along with a healthy dose of humor. She almost convinces me to move to North Dakota. Clean with strong Christian themes. I received this as an ARC.
April 23, 2023
Beautiful story of courage, love and hope
Gideon, widow ‘Piper and her six beautiful children Lucas, Alice, Ingrid, Henry, Luna, and Theodora find themselves in the craziest situation when a tiny toy tractor upends Piper where she breaks 2 bones in her foot, Gideon shows up to build an addition to the small home and Carrie’s Piper off to the ER. Friends rally to help with child care, as Gideon and Piper quickly fall in love as a blizzard barrels down on them all. Lucas, Alice, Ingrid and Henry bring squirt guns to persuade Piper and Gideon to get married. The squirt guns that mysteriously arrived along with Billy the Town Steer and his friend Miss Pig who has since delivered piglets in the barn.
The quickly emerging love story between Gideon and Piper, their wedding, the pastor’s unusual but timely marriage ceremony, and Gideon’s proclamation of love and care for Piper becomes one of the most inspirational stories of God’s love, mercy and grace. This is a wonderful story.
Gideon, widow ‘Piper and her six beautiful children Lucas, Alice, Ingrid, Henry, Luna, and Theodora find themselves in the craziest situation when a tiny toy tractor upends Piper where she breaks 2 bones in her foot, Gideon shows up to build an addition to the small home and Carrie’s Piper off to the ER. Friends rally to help with child care, as Gideon and Piper quickly fall in love as a blizzard barrels down on them all. Lucas, Alice, Ingrid and Henry bring squirt guns to persuade Piper and Gideon to get married. The squirt guns that mysteriously arrived along with Billy the Town Steer and his friend Miss Pig who has since delivered piglets in the barn.
The quickly emerging love story between Gideon and Piper, their wedding, the pastor’s unusual but timely marriage ceremony, and Gideon’s proclamation of love and care for Piper becomes one of the most inspirational stories of God’s love, mercy and grace. This is a wonderful story.
March 20, 2023
I enjoyed reading Gideon and Piper’s story. Piper is a single mom of six wonderful children and is struggling but is doing her best and keeps pushing forward no matter what. When Gideon, a former airman shows up to add an addition to her small home that the town has helped to make happen for her, she hurts her ankle and needs help. Gideon who everyone thinks is too immature really steps up and shows just how strong and supportive he is. Gideon and Piper are actually similar in their personalities in some ways and just get each other. I loved watching Gideon, Piper and all the kiddos becoming a family. Jessie Gussman never fails to bring us lots of love, laughter and faith in her stories and this one is full of those as always! This book has wonderful characters who support and encourage each other, and don’t forget Billy the Steer and Munchy! You just never know what those two are going to be up to.
April 18, 2023
Piper is a widow with 6 small children to support. She's a hairdresser working at her home so she can take care of the children too young for school. The home only has 2 bedrooms so the church takes up money to buy material for an addition. Gideon volunteers to do the work since he had experience helping his dad built homes. The first day he shows up to start work Piper twists her ankle and has to be laid up for several weeks. Gideon helps out by buying groceries, cooking and looking after the kids in between working on the addition.
As Gideon and Piper spent a lot of time together they talk and really get to know each other. Gideon had no plans on getting married after a bad relationship and Piper wasn't looking for love after losing her husband. Can a woman with 6 children ever win the heart of a man who thinks he could never be what a woman needs.
I received a ARC copy in return for a honest review.
As Gideon and Piper spent a lot of time together they talk and really get to know each other. Gideon had no plans on getting married after a bad relationship and Piper wasn't looking for love after losing her husband. Can a woman with 6 children ever win the heart of a man who thinks he could never be what a woman needs.
I received a ARC copy in return for a honest review.
April 21, 2023
Piper is a widowed mother of six children. Gideon is ex-Airforce. When Gideon arrives at Piper’s house to plan an addition to her house, Piper falls and breaks her ankle. After Gideon takes her to the ER, the real fun begins, including a match-making steer that has decided to stay in her yard.
All of the Sweet Briar, North Dakota books are WONDERFUL. They are hilariously funny, contain witty dialogue, have delightful characters, and godly principles. They do not have to be read in order and are stand alone. I haven’t read all of Jessie Gussman’s books yet, but they are definitely on my to-be-read list.
There is a chapter included about Travis and Ellen, teenagers in Sweet Briar. I assume it is a preview of a book to come when they are grown.
There are too many great quotes to put in a review, but it is a wonderful reading experience.
I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
All of the Sweet Briar, North Dakota books are WONDERFUL. They are hilariously funny, contain witty dialogue, have delightful characters, and godly principles. They do not have to be read in order and are stand alone. I haven’t read all of Jessie Gussman’s books yet, but they are definitely on my to-be-read list.
There is a chapter included about Travis and Ellen, teenagers in Sweet Briar. I assume it is a preview of a book to come when they are grown.
There are too many great quotes to put in a review, but it is a wonderful reading experience.
I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
March 16, 2023
Made me think. I love Ms. Jessie’s books because they cause me to think about my walk with God and offer practical advice by example in the characters' lives.. There is Scripture in her stories, with the characters learning to live by God’s Word. It’s never preachy and the characters find out how to live the Christian walk. My favorite line is “She’d been doing the right things, cooking his meals, washing his laundry, cleaning his house, but she hadn’t been doing anything extra. All the times she could have been kinder had gone to waste as she sat and felt sorry for herself because he didn’t measure up to the ideal in her head.” What a lesson for life. What a wonderful world this would be if we were kind even when we didn’t feel like it as God wants us to be. Also enjoyed the “shotgun” part of the wedding. The kids are so cute!
Received ARC and this is my honest review.
Received ARC and this is my honest review.
March 19, 2023
I love the way Gideon and Piper get each other’s humor! Baker Gideon buddy has some sage advice. Some we can all use in making big decisions.
“Why don’t you think about it? Pray about it. If this is something that God wants you to do, I think you’ll feel at peace about it, even if there is still fear whenever you take your first steps.”
This advice Gideon takes to heart.
I also really enjoyed the point of view from the kids and the side stories that are developing throughout this series. It add so much more depth! Wow some good twist , some of them I was expected some not. Definitely a series you will want to start from the beginning and binge read. One of the side stories with Travis, Shanna and Ellen and the other with June. I need the next next book , I am anxiously awaiting to see what happens next.
“Why don’t you think about it? Pray about it. If this is something that God wants you to do, I think you’ll feel at peace about it, even if there is still fear whenever you take your first steps.”
This advice Gideon takes to heart.
I also really enjoyed the point of view from the kids and the side stories that are developing throughout this series. It add so much more depth! Wow some good twist , some of them I was expected some not. Definitely a series you will want to start from the beginning and binge read. One of the side stories with Travis, Shanna and Ellen and the other with June. I need the next next book , I am anxiously awaiting to see what happens next.
March 28, 2023
This is such a great story, might be my favorite in the series, but I think that is the same thought I have after reading each book, it amazes me how Jessie can write so many wonderful and thought-provoking things. Piper is a widow with 6 kids, Gideon is a retired military man, who learned construction from his dad in his youth. Thanks to the sweet ladies in the town, Gideon gets volunteered to add onto Piper’s way to small home. After some crazy events, and very quickly he feels like she is the woman for him. The things that Jessie writes for the marriage counseling is so wonderful and makes me really think and take a look at myself, which I find amazing since this is a fiction book for entertainment, but I feel like I learn as well.
March 29, 2023
Piper, a widow, is so overwhelmed with life taking care of her six kids. Just making ends meet is a daily challenge. Breaking her foot only makes things a thousand times worse, and there is a blizzard coming.
Gideon wants to get the addition on Piper’s house done before the blizzard, but when she breaks her foot right in front of him, he has to help. And in helping he finds she is the one he has been waiting on his whole life.
Their romance is gentle and the shotgun wedding is so cute; no spoilers here, read it for yourself!
This is a clean, faith-filled romance that will make you think about how you treat your spouse.
I received an ARC from the author for my voluntary opinion.
Gideon wants to get the addition on Piper’s house done before the blizzard, but when she breaks her foot right in front of him, he has to help. And in helping he finds she is the one he has been waiting on his whole life.
Their romance is gentle and the shotgun wedding is so cute; no spoilers here, read it for yourself!
This is a clean, faith-filled romance that will make you think about how you treat your spouse.
I received an ARC from the author for my voluntary opinion.
April 4, 2023
Gideon is going to build an extension on Piper's house, she has six children and only two bedrooms, which means she's been sleeping on the settee. Her husband died two years ago, without meeting his youngest daughter.
Piper has been doing her best but times are hard as a hairdresser.
When Gideon arrives to discuss the job, he's quite happy with the hustle and bustle of the children. All's going well until Piper falls over a toy tractor and damages her leg.
How will she cope without putting her foot on the ground? What are the children thinking when Gideon stays over, and they've read a lot of old western cowboy stories?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
An entertaining read from Jessie
Piper has been doing her best but times are hard as a hairdresser.
When Gideon arrives to discuss the job, he's quite happy with the hustle and bustle of the children. All's going well until Piper falls over a toy tractor and damages her leg.
How will she cope without putting her foot on the ground? What are the children thinking when Gideon stays over, and they've read a lot of old western cowboy stories?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
An entertaining read from Jessie
April 21, 2023
What a wonderful story as the children of this widowed mother will go to some crazy lengths to get her a shot gun husband.
Piper Hughes had a wonderful marriage that abruptly ended when her husband dies way too soon, leaving her pregnant with child number six and struggling to make ends meet by becoming a hairdresser. The wonderful people of Sweet Water have tried to help her out as much as they can. They have purchased the materials for an additional on her small two bedroom home. One of the new former airmen living in Sweet Water, Gideon Marsh has contracting experience and has donated his skills to put up the addition. Gideon shows up to start to build the same week a huge blizzard is expected. What happens next will have Gideon helping out with the kids and feeling very protective of Piper.
Gideon Marsh is a kid at heart and loves to play and kid around. The Hughes children seemed drawn to the man that had no trouble taking kids to play in the park or to play games with them at night. When their mom breaks her leg and needs help, it's Gideon that steps up to help her out. Now there are rumors in town that the ladies are trying to find a man to marry their mom. They have heard that no one wants a woman with six children but they are hoping that they can convince Gideon take on that role. When one of their friends suggest they have a shot gun wedding- one with water pistols they feel they have nothing to lose.
This is such a sweet story and I love the marriage counseling that the pastor gives the couple before marrying them. So much good spiritual wisdom for anyone reading this story.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
Piper Hughes had a wonderful marriage that abruptly ended when her husband dies way too soon, leaving her pregnant with child number six and struggling to make ends meet by becoming a hairdresser. The wonderful people of Sweet Water have tried to help her out as much as they can. They have purchased the materials for an additional on her small two bedroom home. One of the new former airmen living in Sweet Water, Gideon Marsh has contracting experience and has donated his skills to put up the addition. Gideon shows up to start to build the same week a huge blizzard is expected. What happens next will have Gideon helping out with the kids and feeling very protective of Piper.
Gideon Marsh is a kid at heart and loves to play and kid around. The Hughes children seemed drawn to the man that had no trouble taking kids to play in the park or to play games with them at night. When their mom breaks her leg and needs help, it's Gideon that steps up to help her out. Now there are rumors in town that the ladies are trying to find a man to marry their mom. They have heard that no one wants a woman with six children but they are hoping that they can convince Gideon take on that role. When one of their friends suggest they have a shot gun wedding- one with water pistols they feel they have nothing to lose.
This is such a sweet story and I love the marriage counseling that the pastor gives the couple before marrying them. So much good spiritual wisdom for anyone reading this story.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
April 22, 2023
This may be my favorite book in the series so far. I have a soft spot for women who are facing setback after setback and who are forging ahead bravely and doing their best so I particularly loved Piper, a widow with six kids who, despite all of her efforts, just couldn’t get everything done. The hero in this book was Gideon who had come as a volunteer to build an addition onto Piper’s house which had been funded by her friends. When he meets all of the children and sees how much Piper has to do as their mom, he wants to ease her burden. He is such a good man and all of the family loves him. The shotgun wedding was so cute and funny—you have to read the book to see. Highly recommend! I received an ARC and this voluntary review contains my honest opinions.
May 4, 2023
Another treasure by Jessie Gussman. This is such a sweet story of love and sacrifices. Such amazing role models through out all of Jessie’s books. The lessons that she teaches are phenomenal. Piper Hughes had lost her husband and now she is having to raise their six kids all on her own. She works hard to pay the mortgage and feed and clothe her children but it is tough making ends meet and when she breaks her leg it is nearly impossible. Gideon Marsh has an amazing sense of humor but he also has a great love for God. He is hired to add on an addiction to Piper’s house but things don’t quite go as planned. I absolutely love Billy the steer and Munchy the pig. I recommend that you pick up a copy of this book and sit back and let the fun begin.
June 16, 2025
shotgun or squirt gun?
This was a wonderful tale. You could God’s hands all through it. Piper is a single mom with 6 kids. Gideon comes (after recovering from a broken leg that sidelined him all winter) to start an addition to her house, but she slips on a toy truck and breaks her ankle. Unable to do her job as a beautician she is worried about an incoming blizzard. Gideon takes care of everything and her kids interrupt the pastor demanding that Gideon marry their mother because he stayed in her house the night before (understanding of course that the pastor was there at the couples request to marry them anyway). Again wonderful story with God working on many lives at the same time.
This was a wonderful tale. You could God’s hands all through it. Piper is a single mom with 6 kids. Gideon comes (after recovering from a broken leg that sidelined him all winter) to start an addition to her house, but she slips on a toy truck and breaks her ankle. Unable to do her job as a beautician she is worried about an incoming blizzard. Gideon takes care of everything and her kids interrupt the pastor demanding that Gideon marry their mother because he stayed in her house the night before (understanding of course that the pastor was there at the couples request to marry them anyway). Again wonderful story with God working on many lives at the same time.
March 17, 2023
I LOVE this book! It resonates with me on so many levels. I have 6 children. Piper is a widow trying to raise her six very young children by herself in a two bedroom home after the death of her husband 2 years ago. Gideon Marsh is a retired Air Force man living on Sweet Briar Ranch in North Dakota with his buddies, trying to make a living with the Ranch. When Miss April asks him to put an addition onto Piper's home, he agrees. When Piper breaks her foot in 2 places, Gideon feels protective of Piper and her adorable children. This delightful story is filled with inspirational advice based on Bible teachings. WONDERFUL!!
March 21, 2023
Sweet humor!
Gideon has a good sense of humor and is often labeled immature by people, including his ex-fiancé, but he has a good heart. He volunteered to build an addition on Piper’s house but has been late starting after breaking his leg. As a mother of six, Piper is sure no man will ever be interested in her. On his first day there Piper breaks her foot and Gideon's role expands to include whatever the family needs until she is better.
I really enjoyed the give-and-take humor between Piper and Gideon. It’s easy to think of the affection and more serious side of relationships but humor is important too. I received a free book but this review is voluntary and honest.
Gideon has a good sense of humor and is often labeled immature by people, including his ex-fiancé, but he has a good heart. He volunteered to build an addition on Piper’s house but has been late starting after breaking his leg. As a mother of six, Piper is sure no man will ever be interested in her. On his first day there Piper breaks her foot and Gideon's role expands to include whatever the family needs until she is better.
I really enjoyed the give-and-take humor between Piper and Gideon. It’s easy to think of the affection and more serious side of relationships but humor is important too. I received a free book but this review is voluntary and honest.
March 23, 2023
Good clean romance. No ugly words just sweet romance. Billy, the town steer, had taken up residence at Pipet’s house. Piper is a widow of two years or so. Richard was killed in an accident. Piper has six children two boys for girls. She is a hairdresser works out of her house. Gideon had come to her house to work on the addition of the small two bedroom one bath house. as she was walking in the kitchen, one of the children had left a toy tractor, piper fell, broke her foot in two places. Gideon took Piper to the ER, where it was confirmed that she had definitely broken her foot. Yes, I recommend this book highly. I love the author. She is so good thank you.
March 31, 2023
Loved Piper and Gideon's story. Piper was struggling with her 6 children, after the death of her husband. The church donated materials and Gideon donating his construction skills to build an addiction on to Piper's home. When he finally was ready to start the building project, he was in for a surprise. I read this book within a 24 hour period. I had to know the ending. The children were adorable and the sweet way Gideon interacted with them was a sight to behold. If you like clean inspiring stories, you will enjoy 'Just A Cowboys Shotgun Wedding'. I highly recommend it! I received this book from the publisher. The thoughts and comments are my own.
April 23, 2023
There’s a lid for every pot, even for a mother with 6 young children.
This was such a beautiful and authentic story, things just naturally flow.
Gideon arrived at Piper’s home to add an addition, he is a child at heart who likes to keep things light and Piper appreciates that about him. He enjoys spending time and playing with the kids.
Be warned, this is a book that is difficult to put down. Jessie is a brilliant story teller, building the characters, and again I just love the Word of God being incorporated throughout the book.
Get this book, and I’m positive you’ll be hooked as well.
I received and ARC and this is my honest review.
This was such a beautiful and authentic story, things just naturally flow.
Gideon arrived at Piper’s home to add an addition, he is a child at heart who likes to keep things light and Piper appreciates that about him. He enjoys spending time and playing with the kids.
Be warned, this is a book that is difficult to put down. Jessie is a brilliant story teller, building the characters, and again I just love the Word of God being incorporated throughout the book.
Get this book, and I’m positive you’ll be hooked as well.
I received and ARC and this is my honest review.
December 24, 2025
Jessie's books are edifying. I would say they are also light reads, but she does tackle difficult topics. Bad things happen to the characters or because of their choices, but there is redemption, grace, and forgiveness. She weaves in truths about how we should leave as Christians, which serve as reminders as I listen along.
Love the pig and cow story woven through this series.
I've listened to her books on YouTube, "Say With Jay." He's a great narrator, even for the women's voices. It's the type of book that you can listen to while doing something else. Any can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend starting the series in order as several connect characters and places.
Love the pig and cow story woven through this series.
I've listened to her books on YouTube, "Say With Jay." He's a great narrator, even for the women's voices. It's the type of book that you can listen to while doing something else. Any can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend starting the series in order as several connect characters and places.
March 17, 2023
Wow, what a great addition to the Fly Boy series by Jessie Gussman.
Piper is a single mom with six kids ages almost two to nine. Since her husband died two years ago, she’s been working hard to make ends meet as a hair stylist.
Gideon has taken on the job of adding an addition to her house. On his first day, Piper falls and breaks her ankle.
The ladies in town decide she needs to get married and start asking all the older widowers but don’t ask Gideon.
*I received this book as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
Piper is a single mom with six kids ages almost two to nine. Since her husband died two years ago, she’s been working hard to make ends meet as a hair stylist.
Gideon has taken on the job of adding an addition to her house. On his first day, Piper falls and breaks her ankle.
The ladies in town decide she needs to get married and start asking all the older widowers but don’t ask Gideon.
*I received this book as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
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