Seven Brides For Seven Texans

by Gabrielle Meyer, Erica Vetsch, Amanda Barratt

Seven stubborn brothers navigate the delicate balance between duty and desire in this sweeping saga of romance, redemption, and second chances on the rugged Texas frontier.

In 1874 Texas, the wealthy patriarch of the 7-Heart ranch delivers an ultimatum to his seven independent sons: marry within the year or forfeit their inheritance. The directive sends these confirmed bachelors scrambling to secure their futures while protecting their fiercely guarded freedom

While the youngest brother races to be first at the altar, the other brothers are more reluctant to tie the knot. The Hart brothers face unique challenges on the road to romance with a cast of remarkable women: a long-lost love haunted by the past, a former sweetheart guarding her heart, a cave-dwelling lady with mysterious money, a mail-order bride who falls for the wrong man, and a Civil War nurse willing to heal a scarred soldier's heart.

Will they find true love under the pressure of their father's demands, or will they sacrifice their inheritance to maintain their independence?

Genres: Romance, Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Fiction, Westerns, Historical

574 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 1, 2016

About the author

Gabrielle Meyer grew up above a carriage house on a historic estate near the banks of the Mississippi River, imagining real and make-believe stories about the occupants who had lived there. She went on to work for the Minnesota Historical Society and loves writing fiction inspired by real people, places, and events. She currently resides in central Minnesota on the banks of the Mississippi River, not far from where she grew up, with her husband and four children. By day, she’s a busy homeschool mom, and by night she pens fiction and non-fiction filled with hope. Learn more about Gabrielle and her writing by visiting www.gabriellemeyer.com.

Reviews

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I stayed up late several nights in a row reading this because it was just that great!
Widower, George Washington Hart has seven sons. None of these sons are married. After a scare at the doctor's office he is not sure how much longer he will be around. He tells all of his sons they have to marry within a years time or forfeit their inheritance and land on his vast acreage to build a home.
I had such a fun time reading this collection of stories by different authors. I loved every story in this collection! It was a great adventure reading how the brothers met their future wives. War scarred Bowie did make me wonder if he'd take a wife but he did. It was refreshing to see him come to realize the woman that loved him, loved him for himself and did not judge him
because of his scars.
Every story seamlessly blended into the next story without a hitch.
I really loved this book and would love to see a sequel collection about the next generation of Hart family. I highly recommend this to lovers of Historical Christian Romance.
Published December 1st 2016 by Barbour Books

Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour Books for providing me with an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book grabbed my attention and held tightly onto it from the very beginning with author Erica Vetsch setting the scene around the dining room table in the Prologue, through each authors story of one a Hart brothers looking or not looking for a wife, to the very end with Erica Vetsch's Epilogue. To say that I LOVED this book would be an understatement. I began reading it one afternoon, stayed up all night to finish it and have since read it again. This collection by seven authors reads like one great big novel. The book takes place from New Year's Day 1874 where the Patriarch of the family G.W. Hart tells his sons that they must marry by the end of the year or lose their inheritance, to New Year's Day 1875 with G.W. talking to the portrait of his late wife Victoria, reliving the past year.

Author Gabrielle Meyer starts us out with "First Comes Love" the story of the youngest Hart brother, Hays. He is eager to be the first one to get married, to finally be the first at something in his family of seven brothers. He starts out by posting wanted posters around town. He runs into a challenge with the new pastor's daughter who is also the new school teacher Emma Longley.

Next, we have "The Heart of Texas" by Lorna Seilstad giving us the story of Texas Ranger Chisholm Hart, away from home on New Year's Day, he gets the news of his father's terms by letter. Chisholm is a busy Texas Ranger, how is he supposed to find a wife? While tracking cattle rustlers Chisholm happens upon a feisty Mexican woman named Caro Marie Cardova Valenzuela. His partner Whit sees there is an attraction there and teases Chisholm about it. This story is full of suspense and danger. I won't give any spoilers but it is so good!

Third, we have Amanda Barratt's "The Truest Heart." Annie Lawrence is returning to Hartsville a widow with a nine-year-old son. Her cruel father forced her to marry Stuart Lawrence while Travis Hart was away fighting in the war. She never stopped loving Travis and feels guilty for thinking of him on her one night with her husband before he too left for the war and never returned. Being the new midwife in town she is forced to work with Travis ,the town's doctor, on occasion. Clearly, they still have feelings for each other, can she overcome her guilty feelings? Can she stand up to her father? There is so much tension and drama in this story, the cruelness of Annie's father is unbearable and makes me hate him. But I loved how this turns out.

Next, we have author Keli Gwyn's "A Love Returned" the story of Houston Hart. Houston left for California instead of going to war with his older brothers, some townsfolk didn't care too much for that. Before Houston left Hartsville, he proposed to Coralee and asked her to go with him to California, but she turned him down saying she couldn't go. He left without finding out why. Now, after receiving a letter from Travis about his father's edict, he has returned home. Having a better head for business than ranching he would work hard to show his brothers and father that he was serious about his duties to the 7 Heart.
This story touched my heart so much, it is impossible to describe. Houston finds out why Coralee could not go with him with such a tender act of kindness, Coralee could not help but let a few of the bricks she had built around her heart fall. There is so much healing and love in this story. Make sure to have some tissues handy.

Number five, "For Love or Money" by author Susan Page Davis is the story of Crockett Hart. It's September, Crockett spends most of his time out tending the huge herd, he was away on a cattle drive and now he is out on the range looking for wondering cattle. Thinking, he just isn't ready to be married yet, or there aren't enough suitable candidates in Hartsville. Crockett smells smoke and rides off to a not so friendly neighbor's ranch to find their small house fully engulfed in flames. He sends up a prayer when he doesn't see any of the family. He gets off his horse to try to save the ramshackle barn. Jane Haymaker shows up and sees him, together they save what they can. Jane and her brother Ben had been friends with the Hart's when they were young but after the death of her mother she and Ben left school to work the small ranch with their father Boyd, who was a lazy drunkard.
You will need some tissues for this story as well. Drama and mystery, the kindness of the community coming together and perhaps the blossoming of love fill this story.

Author Vickie McDonough's "Mail-Order Mayhem" tells the story of the oldest Hart brother Austin. Was he making a mistake in writing for a mail-order bride? He has worked so hard on the ranch and could not lose it, he had no choice but to find a wife. He felt the full responsibility of the ranch was on his shoulders. When his bride stepped off the stage he couldn't believe how his heart bucked, but then she turns her back to him and helps her identical twin sister down. The second woman was Jenny, his bride, but where was the feeling in his heart? Rebekah, the sensible twin makes up for Jenny's lack of introduction and tries to smooth things over with Austin, Jenny had not told him that she was bringing her sister along. Jenny is not pleased with the town or Austin. Rebekah wishes she would be kinder, this has to work, they were about to be homeless. While in their room at the hotel, Jenny admits that Austin does not make her heartbeat speed up, Rebekah on the other hand, keeps it to herself that her heart took off like a racehorse more than once but she has agreed to wed someone else. This story is full of twists and surprises! Is it wrong that Austin feels for Rebekah what he should be feeling for Jenny? The ending of this story will have you on the edge of your seat!

Now we come to "Love at Last" by Erica Vetsch. The story of Bowie Hart, the second oldest brother was not the same after the war where he lost an eye and had been badly burned, still having dark scars from the black powder and a surly disposition. He preferred animals to people and did not go into town. No woman in the county would look at him, much less marry him. It was almost October what was he to do? He overhears his brother talking to their father about letting him out of the deal to marry or be disinherited clause. G.W says he has to try or he will be alone. Bowie is very upset to have people talking about him behind his back. He packs up his things taking a scrap of linen and lace that he's kept for more than ten years, gets his rifle and his dog and leaves. He stops by his brother's hardware store and asks him to take care of a few things for him. Giving him very little information about his plan Bowie leaves town taking his dog with him. He was going to track down the one woman he would ever consider asking to marry him and propose. If she was already married or refused him that would be it, he would never return to the 7 Heart ranch. Elise, being berated and slapped by the cruel uncle that employed her was braced for yet another slap when she opened her eyes to a massive man with his huge hand gripped around Uncle Zeb's fist. Where had she heard that voice before? Slowly, she recognized his one brown eye, Captain Hart. Bowie asks to speak to her in private. During their talk outside the factory, Bowie learns that Elise in unmarried. He asks if there is somewhere quiet they can talk. They go to a small park near the water. Explaining his father's demands, he proposes a deal. He needs a wife and she needs to escape her uncle. It will be in name only, she will have his protection, the run of the house and no other demands will be placed on her. Can Elise give up her childhood dreams of marrying for love? I cannot say anymore without giving away the secrets held in this beautiful story. You must read it for yourself.

This is the longest review I've ever written. My bottom line is this, if you like the time period, cowboys, love and Texas, you will want to read this book over and over. It is one of my all time favorite Barbour collections!
* I requested and received an early e-book form of this book from NetGalley. My review is my own and was not required or influenced by anyone.

[Karen R · Rating 5 out of 5]

George Washington Hart, the family patriarch, is getting impatient waiting for his sons to find wives and settle down. He issues an ultimatum: marry by the end of the year or lose the land they were set to inherit. Let the fun begin!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book about the seven Hart brothers set in 1874 Texas! All named after famous Texans, their unique personalities gave each story a distinct flavor of its own; from the charming Hays, the youngest brother and first to get married, to the oldest, steady responsible Austin. When they gathered together, they showed how a family can love and support each other, even with their differences. Each story built on the one before it, so the book flowed well and felt like a full length novel, complete with a satisfying wrap up at the end. Some action, danger, suspense and tender romances, plus a bit of faith, made this an outstanding set of novellas!
(See comments below for details on each story.)

While all the characters were interesting, I have to say that my favorite one was Bowie, the wounded warrior with a kind heart underneath his stoic, rough appearance. Going after Elise, the only woman who treated him like she genuinely cared, rescuing her from her own bad situation, remembering her kindness to him after ten years, just melted my heart. Their journey from New York back to Texas was just the start of the long way to becoming a real couple, other than a paper marriage. A swoonworthy ending to this one made it worth the wait!

Highly recommend this book to fans of historical romances with a little faith. 4.5 stars

(An e-book was provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.)

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is by far my very favorite collection of novellas! I first read it years ago and I’m so excited it has a rerelease. This is a collection of 7 stories about 7 brothers by 7 different authors that are all connected. If you loved, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, and love western books, then this is a must read for you! I loved every one of these stories. They are all wonderful and different. My particular favorite of the bunch is the last story with Bowie Hart written by Erica Vetsch. It’s a beauty and the beast trope. But like I said I love every one of these stories! The Hart brothers are fantastic. I highly recommend this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prologue by Erica Vetsch
First Comes Love by Gabrielle Meyer
The Heart of Texas by Lorna Seilstad
The Truest Heart by Amanda Barratt
A Love Returned by Keli Gwyn
For Love or Money by Susan Page Davis
Mail-Order Mayhem by Vickie McDonough
Love at Last by Erica Vetsch
Epilogue by Erica Vetsch

First Comes Love by Gabrielle Meyer

A wonderful story about the first of the Hart boys to marry, (according to their fathers stipulations) and receive his portion of the land/inheritance!
How to woo a woman who can't stand you! 
It's all fun and games until someone gets hurt!  I loved this story and could easily fall in love with a man like Hays!

The Heart of Texas by Lorna Seilstad

Brilliant!  This Texas Ranger has his work cut out for Him!  Can he discover who the cattle rustlers are and tame the Hot Tamale named Cara?  Can he give up his "duty" to Texas in exchange for honoring his heart's desire?  This book is about Chisholm the second youngest son!

The Truest Heart by Amanda Barratt

God heals the hearts that draw close to him!  Shamed by her father and the choices he made for her, Annie fights against God and her grief!  But when her lost first love, Travis, reenters her life, can she leave her guilt behind and accept a new life in Christ with Travis by her side?  Beautiful story of God's redeeming and healing love!

A Love Returned by Keli Gwyn

We're started to have a theme with these stories!  Each Hart son wants to marry a woman who refuses their interest at first!  I hope the next one is reversed!  I'd love to see a woman chase after the reserved brother!

I really enjoyed this sweet tale of a man who doesn't fit into his family like he thinks he should!  But the love of his life couldn't fit into his new life 12 years ago!   Now is the time for second chances and finding your true fit for both of them! 

So far all of the authors are new to me, but the remaining ones are long time favorites!  This anthology just keeps getting better and better!

For Love or Money by Susan Page Davis

What a fitting title!  I love how this romance blossoms slowly and naturally!  No matter what the tragedy Crockett and his kindness are there to comfort and assist his neighbor Jane!  Finally this story tells us Jane has had a childhood crush on Crockett!  So at least he's not chasing down an unwilling bride like his brothers before him!

After a terrible misfortune, God gives us beauty for ashes and this sweet ending!  I hope Susan writes a story to tell us more  about Jane's brother Ben and his story!  I sure hope his dreams come true! 

Mail-Order Mayhem by Vickie McDonough

Wowza!  Full of twists and turns!  You've got to read how twins throw a kink in the plans that Austin has prepared!  The first of the brothers to request a mail order bride, his decision can cost him everything!  I love Vickie's books and this one is another masterpiece!

Love at Last by Erica Vetsch

Finally Bowie's story!  He hid behind his scars and his surely temperament but finally, with the help of his older brother, Bowie finds the love of his life!  Truly a beautiful story and one we can all learn a little bit from!!  Let your guard down and let love in!!

[Julie Graves · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Setup:

GW Hart gives his 7 sons the ultimatum of marry within the year or lose your inheritance. Each brothers story is written by a different author.

FIRST COMES LOVE by Gabrielle Meyer:

Hays Hart is the youngest of the Hart brothers and he is determined to be the first to wed following his fathers ultimatum. Hays decides that he will put up posters asking for women to apply to be his wife. When Emma Longley the new school teacher catches him hanging one of his posters outside of the church she is highly offended. Hays has always tried to make people happy and Emma is no exception. When Hays finds out that Emma wants to build a schoolhouse he's happy to jump right in and help her. Working with Hays, Emma grows more and more attracted to him, but she mustn't allow that to happen because she is determined to move back to her home in Minnesota sure that God is calling her to teach among the Ojibwe Indians. Besides, how can she be sure Hays isn't attracted to her just to get a wife so he can get his inheritance?

I loved this beginning to the Hart brothers finding wives! I've never read any books by this author, but I was immediately drawn into her story and was quite pleased with how Hays's story turned out. I loved Hays's character. He was funny and yet he was serious in his goal to find a wife. He went after what he wanted. I liked that about him. I liked how sassy Emma was, she won't be pushed around by Hays that for sure! Great story!

THE HEART OF TEXAS by Lorna Seilstad

This is the story of Texas Ranger Chisholm Hart, the next youngest of the Hart brothers. When Chisholm and his partner Whit arrive to investigate cattle rustling they come upon Caro Cardova being overtaken by a group of men attempting to hang her cousin for the cattle rustling. Caro swears that Ricardo is innocent and Chisholm and Whit end up staying at the ranch that Caro and her mother work at. Caro is a spit-fire that captures Chisholms attention immediately. With her quick tongue and feisty behavior it isn't long before Chisholm is quite attracted to Caro. But Caro swears she will have nothing to do with a man who puts duty above those he loves like her father did. And Chisholm is all about his duty as a Ranger.

What a fun story! I loved how feisty Caro was. Yes, she did frustrate at points with not listening or heeding warnings, but that is what endeared her to Chisholm so I forgave her. ha! There was a touch of suspense throughout the story as well as some humor that kept me thoroughly entertained. Another Hart brother has found his match!

THE TRUEST HEART by Amanda Barratt

Years ago Annie Parker's father made her marry a man she did not love. Now a widow and wishing to give her 9 year old son a better upbringing Annie moves back to Hartville. Annie is now a midwife ready to serve in the community, but not ready to meet doctor Travis Hart, the man she has always loved, but the man she can never have.

Travis Hart knew when his father issued his edict that he must marry within a year in order to receive his inheritance that he would probably not get his. There was only one woman that Travis ever loved, and that woman was Annie Parker. Now that Annie is back in Hartville does Travis have a chance to win her heart?

Travis and Annie make a good team. I was definitely not a fan of Annie's father, and wanted to reach through the pages and give him a swift kick to the backside! Loved the way that Travis was with Annie's son Robbie. This is number 3 of the Hart brothers, will the rest find their matches?

A LOVE RETURNED by Keli Gwyn

Houston Hart has returned from California to prove to his father that he can be a cattle rancher like his brothers. Houston left years ago, leaving family and his love Coralee behind. Coralee broke his heart then and Houston has no intention of letting it happen again.

Coralee couldn't possibly leave with Houston years ago, but he didn't even give her a chance to explain why so she has no interest in renewing her relationship with him. Coralee has been happy with her life so she is definitely not interested in Houston being home again.

Awww, poor Houston and Coralee! Both so determined to ignore each other and be just friends, but their hearts have different ideas. I enjoyed this Hart brothers story very much. This couple really complement each other well. They are both very caring and love their families. I loved the way Houston stepped in to help Coralee's brother with their ranch and the way he was so caring to Coralee's father. I also loved that after Houston left the first time that Coralee didn't just whither up and fade away, but she became a part of the community and showed her love for people even in the midst of caring for her father. Another sweet story and another Hart brother to the alter! Three more to go!

FOR LOVE OR MONEY by Susan Page Davis

When Crockett Hart finds their neighbors house on fire he immediately jumps in to help put out the fire. Crockett has always liked his neighbor Jane, but her father is a drunk who has let their ranch sink into disarray. Jane and her brother have tried their best to keep up, but now with the fire they have nothing. Crockett enlists the help of his brothers and other neighbors to help Jane and her family rebuild. With his father's edict hanging over his head even though Crockett knows he must marry soon is he willing to let himself fall for Jane and all of her troubles?

I liked Crockett's care for his neighbors, and his willingness to rally everyone to help the Haymaker's get their home rebuilt. I also liked Jane's character. Even though she and Ben had a lazy father they somehow had developed a moral character that he didn't teach them. I did think that there was a giant leap from the normal concern for a neighbor to the hey, I think I love you, let's get married ending. I wish there had been a bit more character development along with some more romantic scenes between Crockett and Jane. That being said, I am happy to see another Hart boy happily paired up with his lady-love...Two more to go and only a couple of months left to fulfill the edict. Who's next?

MAIL-ORDER MAYHEM by Vickie McDonough

Austin Hart is running out of time to meet his father's edict of marrying in one year. He's come up with a plan to meet that deadline. Austin has sent for a mail-order bride.

Rebekah and her sister Jenny are soon to be penniless and homeless. The only way Rebekah sees out of their predicament is to marry. Rebekah's fiance refuses to allow Jenny to live with them so the only thing that Rebekah sees to do is for Jenny to marry Austin Hart. The problem is that Jenny is not ready to marry and Rebekah is already spoken for. Will Austin have to start all over again to find a wife?

I love mail-order bride stories and found MAIL-ORDER MAYHEM to be quite entertaining. I really like Austin's character and was hoping for he and Rebekah to realize that they were meant for each other. Only one Hart brother left, will Bowie find his perfect mate before the year is up?

LOVE AT LAST by Erica Vetsch

Bowie Hart is the last Hart brother left to fulfill his father's edict to marry in a year in order to receive his inheritance. Bowie knows that no woman around Hartville would ever consent to marry him, a broken and scarred replica of humanity. But Bowie has never forgotten his nurse during the war, the only person who never cringed at the sight of his wounds. Bowie sets off to find her and hope that she will consent to be his wife, at least on paper.

Awwwww, Bowie! I absolutely loved this last Hart brothers story! Bowie is such a wounded soul, and Elise is his perfect match. Both starving for affection, one so ready and willing to give and the other so wounded he pushes people away. I loved how Elise managed to break down Bowie's defenses and show him he wasn't the monster he thought he was. Excellent ending to the Hart brothers stories!

The Wrap Up:

What a fun read! I totally loved the whole book and looked forward to each brother's story. Each author did a great job in portraying their brother and gave each brother a unique character. I was attached to some brothers more than others, but I enjoyed all of them. The ending of the story had me crying happy tears for all of the brothers, and left me satisfied that they all were going to live their Happily Ever After lives with their special brides.

[Eden J. Blackwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a beautiful collection of stories! I could not put it down. I couldn't wait for Bowie's story, knowing he'll have a good one. Nevertheless, I loved all the stories and had an amazing time with the Hart family.

[Britney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seven Brides for Seven Texans is a top-notch collection, with each novella perfectly complimenting the next! From their famous names to their strong personalities, each of the seven Hart brothers boasts an undeniable charm, as does their father, GW. I absolutely delighted in the dashing heroes, the lovely heroines, and their unique love stories!

These dynamic Texans lassoed my heart, and I loved spending time with them on the 7-Heart Ranch. The Seven Brides for Seven Texans Collection is one of my favorites, and if you enjoy historical romance, I think you’ll love it too!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Outstanding" is an adjective that would accurately describe this endearing collection of Texas romances. Each and every story was well plotted, capitalized on extraordinary characterizations, and blended seamlessly among its counterparts, reading as if written by one author, rather than seven.

If I had to choose a favorite(and I would rather not), it would be Bowie and Elise; their rediscovery of each other, their sweet realization of true love, and their deep struggle to express it, was both heart breaking and heart warming. What a wonderful set of stories!

[Laurie Lucking · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very fun novella collection! I loved how the story line, setting, and characters connected through all the stories, while still allowing the authors' individual voices to shine through. Every story was well written and I became fond of each Hart brother by the end, but I did have a few favorites :) First Comes Love by Gabrielle Meyer was the most romantic, Mail-Order Mayhem by Vickie McDonough kept me guessing the most, and Love at Last by Erica Vetsch really tugged at my heartstrings! I would highly recommend this book to fans of Christian historical romance.

[Yvette · Rating 4 out of 5]

While most of the novella collections I’ve read from Barbour Books have a central theme to link the five to nine stories, with occasional cross-over of characters, this collection features the seven Hart brothers of Texas. Ordered by their father (in the prologue by Erica Vetsch) to marry within the year 1874, each Hart brother must find a bride to inherit their share of the family’s vast spread.

School teacher Emma is quick pull down the posters youngest son, Hays Hart, posts to advertise his bride search. Caro Cordova fights her attraction to Chisholm, a Texas Ranger she fears is more dedicated to his duty than he ever could be to a wife. Doctor Travis Hays is reunited with his Annie, but they must overcome hurt and fears before making a new family with Annie’s nine year old son.

Another second chance at love story awaits storekeeper Sam (Huey) Houston Hart and the woman who turned him down twelve years before, Coralee Culpepper. Crockett Hays, however, never let neighbor Jane Haymaker know about his long-time crush on her – and she never told him either. There is a mystery to solve and a drunken father to contend on their way to happily ever after.

In the cutest story of the lot, practical oldest brother Stephen Austin Hart writes away for a bride and find himself with a dilemma when she arrives with her twin sister, identical only in looks. And in the most romantic of the stories, Civil War veteran Bowie Hart tracks down the northern nurse who helped him heal. The one woman who never flinched from his injuries, Elise Rivers readily accepts his proposal of a marriage in name only to escape a dismal situation.

These are seven very different brothers whose bride hunting stories are wrapped up nicely in the epilogue, again by Erica Vetsch.

Highly recommended for those who love sweet romance with a faith element in novella length. A new favorite among the novella collections I've read from Barbour Books.

This review refers to an e-galley read, courtesy of the publisher, through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own. This is a summarized version of the review originally published on bookworlder.wordpress.com

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seven Brides for Seven Texans by Gabrielle Meyer, Erica Vetsch, Amanda Barratt, Lorna Steilstad, Keli Gwyn, and Vickie McDonough is a Christian Historical Romance that centers around a patriarch in 1874 and his seven single sons. This father wants to see his seven sons married within the year. From the youngest who sets out to be the first that marries to the doctor son who yearns for a second chance with the only woman he ever loved, this book will keep you reading.

Filled with interesting storylines, well-developed characters and more, I loved reading this seven novellas contained in one book. Written by different authors, the cohesion of the storylines and characters impressed me. When I started reading this book, I was unable to put it down. Each brother, named after a famous Texan, searches to find the right woman, even when they do not really want to settle down.

These clean wholesome romances provide the perfect book for a summer read. So if you want a Christian Historical Romance, check out Seven Brides for Seven Texans by Gabrielle Meyer, Erica Vetsch, Amanda Barratt, Lorna Steilstad, Keli Gwyn, and Vickie McDonough.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Marguerite Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

An original twist with some beloved authors and some new-to-me ones. Join some Texas Rangers as they fight the villains and somehow manage to find time for love. This family band of rangers follow the example of their captain and wife each wanting, though never admitting it, a wife of his own.

Think about how courageous and brave and dedicated the women have to be to know their men are always fighting evil men and putting themselves in danger. A tough life, but with God and love we can do a lot of things outside of our chosen dreams.
Bravo, ladies!

[Anne Rightler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it. Seven sons were told they needed to marry w/in the year or be disinherited. A great variety of love stories by 7 authors. The stories flowed well together. A couple new to me authors and some of my favorites too.

[Linda Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful anthology of seven brothers in need of wives. I love the creativity of each of the stories. I recommend this book for those who love Christian historical romance. I received a copy of this book and all opinions are my own.

[Sewveryblessed · Rating 4 out of 5]

Get married in 12 months or lose your inheritance. That was the ultimatum from the father to the seven brothers who were just lollygagging around at home deciding not to move out because they were too comfortable. This read more like 7 short stories than a connected saga.

[Melody · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this series. Such a fun premise 7 sons given an ultimatum to find a wife before the year ends.
Each story was wonderful, but Bowie's at the end really pulled it all together so perfectly.

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

At the beginning of 1874, G.W. Hart has given each of his seven sons an ultimatum: Get married by the end of the year or lose your inheritance. This ultimatum pushes the Hart Boys out of their comfort zones and on an unique trail that God Orchestrated just for them. Seven Brides for Seven Texans explores each Hart Son’s journey to find true love before the year is up.

First Comes Love by Gabrielle Meyer

I have heard wonderful things about the works of Gabrielle Meyer and was ecstatic to find out Ms. Meyer had a story in the Seven Brides for Seven Texans anthology published by Wild Heart Books. Ms. Meyer wrote First Comes Love in Seven Brides for Seven Texans. In First Comes Love Ms. Meyer tackles the story of Hays Hart, the youngest of the Hart Sons, in his quest for love. Hart Hays decides that the best way to find a wife is to put Wanted Posters up all over town in order to find one. Emma, the new Minister’s Daughter and Teacher, sees what Hays is doing and is infuriated by it, thinking it is tacky. When Hays sees Emma, he believes he has found the one, but Emma has no intention of staying around Texas—Emma has goals of building a school in Hartsville, Texas before returning to Missionary Work in Minnesota.

I enjoyed First Comes Love by Gabrielle Meyer and reading it was a fun escape for me. I loved meeting Hays and Emma! I thought Hays and his antics were a hoot to read! The banter between Emma and Hays was funny and you could tell from the get-go that they were meant to be together, even if Emma was the last to realize it. I loved the way Ms. Meyer explored Hays and Emma’s reasons for doing things and caused them to depend on the Lord. The way those portions of First Comes Love were fleshed out gave the story a novel-like feel to me. I thought First Comes Love was a great start to the Seven Brides for Seven Texans anthology and was a great way to introduce Readers to the work of Gabrielle Meyer!

The Heart of Texas by Lorna Seilstad

The Heart of Texas by Lorna Seilstad adds a bit of spitfire and spice mixed with mystery to the Seven Brides for Seven Texans anthology! Ms. Seilstad tells the story of the 6th Hart Son and Texas Ranger, Chisholm. Chisholm is on duty when he comes across a woman defending herself and protecting another man from a gang of wranglers. The woman, whose name is Caro, proceeds to tell Chisholm and his fellow Texas Ranger, Whit, that there has been a series of cattle thefts in the area. Chisholm takes it upon himself, with the help of Whit, to solve the case of the missing cattle. Unfortunately, for Caro, she doesn’t want the Texas Rangers help. After her Father’s death in the line of duty, Caro wants nothing to do with people who work in Law Enforcement. As Chisholm is working the case, he receives word from home in which his Father, G.W., informs him that Chisholm needs to marry by the end of the year or lose his inheritance. As Caro works alongside Chisholm and Whit to help solve the case, Caro finds herself at odds with Chisholm—and Chisholm loves it! The more Chisholm spends time with Caro, the more he realizes that Caro is the one for him and the answer to his Father’s ultimatum. If only, Caro can get over hesitation with Law Enforcement. As they follow clues that lead close to home, God teaches them what True Duty means and what they cannot live without.

I love The Heart of Texas by Lorna Seilstad! The Heart of Texas is the first story I’ve read by Lorna Seilstad, but it won’t be my last! I love that The Heart of Texas was a Romantic Mystery within Seven Brides for Seven Texans. I love the spitfire and spunk that was Caro and the sparks that flew between Chisholm and Caro, making the two perfect for each other. I loved the Mexican Heritage that was woven into The Heart of Texas. The descriptions of the food that Ms. Seilstand wrote into The Heart of Texas made my mouth water! I love how Caro and Chisholm turned to God for help. I especially love how Caro truly sought God and allowed Him to soften her heart from the things that made her heart turn hard. Lorna Seilstad’s The Heart of Texas gives a Romantic Suspense flair to the Seven Brides for Seven Texans anthology!

The Truest Heart by Amanda Barratt

In Amanda Barratt’s The Truest Heart in the Seven Brides for Seven Texans anthology tells the story of Dr. Travis Hart, the Doctor-Son of Patriarch G.W. Hart, on his quest not to find love and receive his inheritance. But the true love of Travis’ life, Annie, can no longer be Travis’ since she was forced to leave town many years ago and marry someone of her Father’s choosing. Annie returns to town a Widow with her young son, Robbie, in tow, and works as the Town’s Midwife. Inevitably, due to their line of work, Travis and Annie’s paths cross, often causing them to work together. Getting to know one another again, Travis wants to have a future with Annie, but Annie won’t let it go any further due to the guilt she has over her first marriage. When Travis realizes how much Annie’s guilt is affecting her life, it’s more important for Travis to remind Annie that because of Jesus she is guiltless then to pursue something more with Annie.

I loved getting to read The Truest Heart by Amanda Barratt in Seven Brides for Seven Texans! The Truest Heart was a sweet read within the anthology and I loved getting to meet Travis and Annie. Robbie was also a sweet element in the story too. I thought Travis and Annie were a perfect match personally and worked well together professionally. I loved how Annie and Travis worked together in the field seamlessly, as though they were working together for ages, instead of recently. I love how there was also a little danger in The Truest Heart. (Read Seven Brides for Seven Texans to find out why!). Most importantly, I loved the Message of Jesus that was in The Truest Heart, especially when it came to guilt and what Jesus did for us. The Truest Heart by Amanda Barratt is a great addition to the Seven Brides for Seven Texans anthology!

A Love Returned by Keli Gwyn

Keli Gwyn’s A Love Returned tells the homecoming of Houston Hart. Returning home to Texas after time out in California running a hardware store, Houston grapples with honoring his Father’s edict of getting married by the end of the year. Houston wants his share of his inheritance, but doesn’t want to run a ranch—just the business portion of ranching. Coralee, Houston’s sweetheart before he left, is trying to hold it all together after not accepting Houston’s proposal in order to keep a promise she made to her Family. When Coralee’s Family is in need, Houston rushes to their aid. Soon, Coralee and Houston realize what God placed in their hearts all those years ago is not misplaced, and God’s Plan is still unfolding.

I loved Keli Gwyn’s take on Houston Hart’s story in A Love Returned! I loved meeting Coralee and Houston! I love how Ms. Gwyn wove the thread of Serving One Another through the story. I love how Coralee and Houston fit together and were able to work in tandem on things. I love how Houston and Coralee Served Other without many people knowing about it. I love that Houston and Coralee worked through things individually in regards to each other and how they were both treated in the past, so that they could work together in the story. I love the Keli Gwyn’s A Love Returned and am happy it was in the Seven Brides for Seven Texans anthology!

For Love or Money by Susan Page Davis

For Love or Money by Susan Page Davis is Davy Crockett Hart’s love story in the Seven Brides for Seven Texans anthology. Crockett loves ranching, but really has no desire to honor his Father’s Marriage Ultimatum. One day, Crockett sees a fire at the nearby Haymaker property. When Crockett arrives, he’s too late, and all that remains is the Haymaker’s rough-looking barn, which Jane Haymaker pretty much single-handedly saved on her own. Jane Haymaker has always stayed to herself ever since her Mother passed away and because her Father is a drunkard. Crockett and Jane haven’t seen much of each other since school, but have always admired each other. Taking it upon himself to make sure the Haymaker’s house is rebuilt, Crockett starts to see Jane in a new light and believes Jane could be the one. Meanwhile, Jane finds it hard to accept help from the community, believing that they don’t deserve it because of her Dad, even though she has no choice due to the pressing need. Seeing Crockett everyday, Jane has begun seeing Crockett in a new light as well. Before Crockett and Jane can start a relationship together, the unthinkable happens that puts everything into jeopardy.

For Love or Money by Susan Page Davis is a touching and unique story in the Seven Brides for Seven Texans anthology. The plot and the events in For Love or Money were nicely unexpected in the Seven Brides for Seven Texans anthology. I loved meeting Crockett and Jane! My heart broke for Jane and I thought Jane brought a sad aspect to the anthology as a whole. I loved that Crockett had the gumption not to let his Father’s Marriage Ultimatum be forced upon him. I thought For Love or Money was more sad than anything else I have read in the anthology and I’m glad that Ms. Davis wrote it that way. I love the tug-a-war of being undeserving that Jane felt and how Crockett tried to show Jane she was deserving that was in the story. For Love or Money by Susan Page Davis is an example of how a sad story can turn sweet in an anthology, and I loved it!

Mail-Order Mayhem by Vickie McDonough

I love Mail-Order Mayhem by Vickie McDonough! Mail-Order Mayhem tells the story of Austin Hart, oldest son of G.W. Hart in his quest to find a wife. Seeing his 5 youngest brothers in martial bliss, Austin seeks a bride via Mail-Order. When Mail-Order Bride Jenny arrives with her identical twin sister Rebecca in tow, Jenny is nothing like her letters portrayed her to be. Ironically, Rebecca is everything that Austin has looked for in a wife. Too bad Rebecca is already engaged. When Jenny makes it clear that she doesn’t want to marry Austin by doing the unthinkable, Austin wonders if he’ll ever find a wife by his Father’s deadline.

I love Mail-Order Mayhem by Vickie McDonough! I thought Ms. McDonough’s story added a unique aspect to the Seven Brides for Seven Texans anthology by adding a Mail-Order Bride complex to the mix of stories. I like it that Mail-Order Mayhem was not your typical Mail-Order Bride story. I also love that Mail-Order Mayhem wasn’t always a fluffy story to read. I did not like Jenny from the get-go, but loved Rebecca. I also loved that Austin was willing to go without his inheritance if he needed to. I also love how Mail-Order Mayhem showed how close and unique each of the Hart Sister-In-Laws are. I especially love how the Hart Sister-In-Laws meddled to get Austin a wife. (The Hart Sister-In-Laws’ antics made me chuckle!). Mail-Order Mayhem by Vickie McDonough is a great addition to the Seven Brides for Seven Texans anthology!

Love at Last by Erica Vetsch

Love at Last by Erica Vetsch is the last love story in the Seven Brides for Seven Texans anthology and tells the story of Bowie Hart, the battered Veteran of the War Between the States. When G. W. Hart gave his Ultimatum of getting all of his sons married by the end of the year, no really thought that Bowie would ever find a wife, especially by the end of the year. Scarred both emotionally and physically from the War, people tend to avoid Bowie like the plague and Bowie wouldn’t have it any other way. Overhearing a Family conversation regarding if Bowie would ever get married, Bowie hightails it away from 7-Heart Ranch and heads to New York to the only woman that ever looked at him as human, despite his injuries. Elise, a nurse for the Union Army during the War Between the States, finds herself in her 30s, unmarried, and working at her evil Uncle’s button factory in New York. When a former Patient from the War, Bowie, burst into her workplace, and offers Elise a way out by way of marriage, Elise gratefully accepts. Even though Bowie and Elise agree to a marriage on paper only, Bowie and Elise soon realize that it’s easier said than done.

I was excited to finally get to Bowie Hart’s love story through Love at Last! Seeing Bowie weaved through the previous stories in the Seven Brides for Seven Texans anthology, I kept wondering how Bowie’s story was going to go when I would finally get to it and Erica Vetsch did not disappoint me! I loved that Ms.Vetsch gave Bowie the gumption and the determination to set people wrong about being able to get a wife and the lengths Bowie went to to get a wife. I love Elise! I love the backstory Ms. Vetsch gave the Couple and how it aided in the foundation of their marriage, and that you actually got to read a story about a Hart Son after he got married. I love how Elise accepted Bowie, scars and all to the point that Elise did not see the outward appearance, but just Bowie’s heart. I love how Elise was protective of Bowie and how she wasn’t afraid to stand up for Bowie in public. I love how protective Bowie was of Elise, even if it was misplaced at times. Erica Vetsch’s Love at Last is a beautiful conclusion to this wonderful anthology!

Seven Brides for Seven Texans (As A Whole)

I absolutely love Seven Brides for Seven Texans from beginning to end! Each of the Hart Son’s stories was unique to them and their personalities. I will admit, I thought G.W.’s Ultimatum was a little harsh, but I understood why he gave it. I also love how El Regalo came to be and thought the sentiment behind it was beautiful. (Read Seven Brides for Seven Texans to find out why!) I love the lessons that each Couple learned and how Biblical lessons could be found in each story. I loved how the Authors’ stories were uniquely woven together to make this wonderful Anthology. I loved getting glimpses of the Wife’s bond with each Sister-In-Law as they were added to the Hart Clan. I love how Seven Brides for Seven Texans provided me the chance to read Authors that I had wanted to read for awhile (Barratt, Meyer, and Vetsch), reunited me with familiar Authors (Davis and McDonough), and introduced me to new-to-me Authors as well (Seilstad and Gwyn). I’m looking forward to reading more from these Authors in the future! I highly recommend Seven Brides for Seven Texans!

Have you read Seven Brides for Seven Texans? What did you think of the book?

I would like to thank the Publisher and Celebrate Lit Blogging Tours for giving me a copy of Seven Brides for Seven Texans to review, for letting me be a part of Seven Brides for Seven Texans Celebration Tour, and for providing the information needed for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most enjoyable novella collections I have ever read. Each story compliments the others and there's a great flow between them all. And I loved the prologue and epilogue which neatly bookends the collection of stories. And the play on the movie, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers is so much fun. Only here we have cowboys on a matrimonial deadline -- let the games begin!

First Comes Love by Gabrielle Meyer : There's something about a brash, determined cowboy with marriage on his mind. Thud. Hays is smooth, friendly and all too popular with the ladies. But he's sincere and kind and falling hard for Emma. She has marriage on the mind too --- how to avoid it. These two clash from the get-go and this light-hearted romance kept me smiling right to the end.

The Heart of Texas by Lorna Seilstad : I do so love a lawman with dimples. Swoon. And Chisholm has an easy-going nature and plenty of reasons to flash those dimples -- especially in Caro's direction. But she's too busy plotting against him to notice...much. The more put out Caro acts, the more Chisholm is amused. Love me some laughter with my romance. And a bit of suspense gives this story an extra kick.

The Truest Heart by Amanda Barratt : A moving story celebrating the joy of second chances. Annie is burdened by a guilt she doesn't need to carry and it's Travis who gently reminds her that God doesn't bestow blessings because we deserve them but rather, because He chooses to bless us through His love. A truly uplifting inspirational romance.

A Love Returned by Keli Gwyn : The importance of commitment to family shines through in this touching historical romance. A miscommunication in their youth pulled Houston and Coralee apart and broke both their hearts. Wounded and wary, Coralee spurns Houston's attempts to rekindle their romance but he's not a man easily deterred. A sweet romance that's sure to satisfy.

For Love or Money by Susan Page Davis : Crockett is a serious contender for cowboy hero of the month. He's a man of action so it's no surprise that when Jane's family home is burnt to the ground, Crockett is the man who orchestrates the rebuilding effort. And much to this reader's delight he ends up falling for his tenacious cowgirl neighbour in the process.

Mail-Order Mayhem by Vickie McDonough : I do so love a good mail-order bride story and this one definitely fits the bill -- with a unique twist that kept me grinning. And wincing. Poor Austin's clever plans to meet his father's inheritance requirements go awry when two ladies step off the stagecoach in Hartville. One is his intended, the other her chaperoning sister. Doesn't sound complicated, right? Wrong! Things get all twisty turny before they even out and I loved every minute of it.

Love at Last by Erica Vetsch : Bowie caught my attention in the prologue and I couldn't wait to get to his story. Disfigured in the war, Bowie has become somewhat of a recluse, working on the ranch and avoiding town and people in general. Finding a wife within the year time limit set by his father seems like an impossible task...until he latches onto the idea of contracting a marriage of convenience with his former nurse. What follows is a heart-tugging story of accepting one's worth and the power of love.

My thanks to author Lorna Seilstad for providing me with a copy of this book.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great collection of connected novellas!

Multi-author collections are always a bit tricky to review because there’s generally one or two stand-out stories, a couple of good ones, a couple not-so-good ones, and the rest are just “okay”. Not so with Seven Brides for Seven Texans. I truly enjoyed each and every novella in this collection – and, really, when you look at the author list, you can see why. Seven top-notch authors in Christian historical fiction coming together to write basically a seven book series in one volume.

The prologue and epilogue are written by Erica Vetsch, and they introduce us to GW Hart – who is a fantastic character, by the way – and his plan to have his seven sons married off within the year. The prologue begins New Year’s Day 1874 and the epilogue takes place New Year’s Day 1875… and throughout the course of that year (and the collection) we get to meet all seven Hart brothers and watch them fall in love.

In First Comes Love by Gabrielle Meyer, we watch Hays Hart, the baby of the family, as he decides to put up signs all around Hartville advertising his availability as a husband. Hays is a bit of a flirt (understatement) but when he runs into the new pastor’s daughter Emma he decides to put his energy into wooing her. Emma is a tough case, though. She isn’t impressed (understatement) by his Wife Wanted signs and her heart is still back in Minnesota with the Ojibwe Indians. This is a cute story with heart and humor and a great first kiss! Their attraction is palpable, even though Emma at least tries to fight it. Watching Emma slowly fall in love with Texas, as she falls in love with Hays … and watching Hays’ priority switch from his inheritance to Emma are both highlights of this novella.

The Heart of Texas by Lorna Seilstad adds a little bit of suspense to the mix, as well as a swoonworthy Texas Ranger named Chisholm Hart and a feisty heroine to complement him. Caro and Chisholm may seem like an unlikely pairing in personalities but their chemistry sizzles. Lots of great back-and-forth between these two as they try to figure out who is behind the cattle rustling at the ranch where Caro works. You won’t be quite sure whom you can trust, but your mouth will be watering at all the mention of delicious-sounding food!

Amanda Barrett’s The Truest Heart has a little bit of everything good – drama, suspense, first loves, an adorable child, and strong emotion. Midwife (and widow) Annie Lawrence returns to Hartville with her nine-year-old son Robbie to face two men she’s been dreading: her father and her first love. Her father, she can’t do much about. But she certainly try to avoid her first love, Dr. Travis Hart. That resolve lasts about as long as one of her first deliveries, which proves more difficult than she anticipated, and Travis is brought in to lend support. Old wounds between them run deep but must compete with the affection and attraction that has never gone away. Excellent tension – both the dramatic kind and the romantic – and Robbie is one of my favorite secondary characters across the collection.

In A Love Returned by Keli Gwyn, the Texas air simmers with another reunion between first loves whose wounds and affections still run deep. Instead of fighting in the War Between the States, Sam Houston Hart headed out to California. Twelve years ago, he asked Coralee Culpepper to join him but she refused, saying she couldn’t leave her family. Houston goes off to California in a snit. Coralee stays home in one. Twelve years later, they’ve never gotten over it – or each other. But in one startling moment, Houston realizes why Coralee had to refuse him…. and his tenderness, his acts of service to her and her family, from that point forward are so sweet and incredibly touching. Very tender and romantic novella!

For Love or Money by Susan Page Davis is a story of tragedy and heartache as well as redemption and romance. When a tragedy leaves a neighboring family homeless, Crockett Hart takes them under his wing and oversees the community’s efforts to rebuild their cabin and meet their needs. In the process, he falls in love with a girl he’s known since childhood. Get all cozied up in the warm glow of young love, but don’t get too relaxed. Lots of drama, a little bit of intrigue, and additional tragedy that may end the romance before it has a chance to take root. This is another sweet novella with frequent appearance from the rest of the “cast”, so to speak, that really helps unite the collection even further.

Vickie McDonough’s Mail Order Mayhem is a case of the title perfectly fitting the story. Oldest Hart brother Austin has decided to bypass all the shenanigans his other brothers have gone through to find their brides and sends away for a mail order bride. She finally arrives with her sister, identical twins who couldn’t be more different in personality. While Jenny seems spoiled and immature and flighty, Rebekah is grounded and sensible. Complications abound in this novella – mayhem ensues – and the ending may not be as predictable as you first think. It will make you swoon, though. That I can absolutely guarantee!! Lots of heart fluttering to be had in this story as well!

Finally, in Love at Last by Erica Vetsch, we get the story I’d been waiting on since the prologue – Bowie Hart’s story. Bowie is the Hart brother who most intrigued me right from the very beginning, and I knew that when his story came around it would be a fantastic one. I was not wrong. From the moment Bowie goes all knight-in-shining-armor for the woman he means to marry (even if she doesn’t know it yet), I knew I needed to hasten to the safety of my figurative fainting couch for the duration of this novella. Much swooning to be had, for sure. But also, such an incredibly sweet message of self-value and accepting love – lessons needed for both Bowie and Elise.

Bottom Line: Seven Brides for Seven Texans is an excellent novella collection all the way around. From the characters to the cohesiveness to the setting and the theme, every element in every story is presented with excellence. You will laugh. You will cry. You will swoon. And then repeat seven or so times! I highly recommend this one for anyone who loves historical Western romance.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)

See my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

And, no, this is not about the movie/play of the same name. This is about Seven Brides for Seven Texans published by Barbour Publishing.

Seven critically acclaimed authors collaborated to bring together seven Hart brothers and their brides. George Washington Hart has written his will and added a codicil that would shake even the mightiest of men. He has declared that each son will receive a part of the 7 Heart Ranch (which by the descriptions in the various novellas is HUGE) as soon as they are married. The kicker is that each son must be married before the year is out. The youngest son, Hays, decided that he would take the plunge first by posting advertisements around town. Travis, the doctor of the family, was the next to fall into the hands of love, and then one by one, each domino fell. Along the way, each man had to overcome reluctance of his bride, possibly solve a mystery, fall in love, and then present his bride to his family. Each son found a bride who was a perfect fit in personality and grace.

I absolutely loved this collection of short novels. There's just enough intrigue in each one to keep the reader engaged and there's enough romance to satisfy my heart. Five Stars, Two Thumbs Up, and a HUGE family reunion.

My thanks to Barbour Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book.

[Paula-O · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yesterday I read about the youngest brother of seven who now have been told they must find and marry a woman to be able to inherit their plot of land at the 7 Heart ranch.
George Washington Hart has found out he has a bad heart and wants this all settled while he is still here.
Hays is smitten as soon as he meets the new teacher and though she tells him she is leaving in a couple of months, he continues to befriend her in hopes that she will change her mind.
The only problem I can see with this book is that the stories are too short, I could read many more pages filled with the antics of this young man.
these brothers caught my heartstrings and pulled all the way through this book. The brides were amazing women that learned to love soon after meeting the brothers.
Authors Erica Vetsch-Amanda Barrat-Susan Page Davis-Keli Gwyn-Vickie McDonough-Gabrielle Meyer and Lorna Seilstad did a great job with the characters of their stories. I enjoyed each and every story from young Hays to the one that had been wounded in the war and was in prison camp who had emotional and physical wounds who needed Love -yet he pushed it away - Bowie Hart.
You must read this story, readers.

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN TEXANS Romance Collection - 4.25 stars overall

Nice collection of clean, fun, Christian, short stories that all flowed together quite well. Love the Hart family - seven hunky men of God searching for wives due to their father's ultimatum. (I wish they could have saved one of the seven for me!!?! I did have a favorite .... but, seriously, any of the seven would have been perfectly fine for me!) Almost each story had some bit of silly romance melodrama, which had me rolling my eyes and lowering my rating. And yet, despite my "glass-half-empty" reviews below, I truly enjoyed them all. (I forgot to rate the "cleanness" as I went along, but looking back I would say they were all pg or very mild pg13?)

First Comes Love by Gabrielle Meyer - 4.25 stars - Loved Hays (the hero) => 5.00 stars; not nearly as thrilled with Emma (the heroine) => 3.50 stars. Overall a quite good story, but women with silly notions just get on my nerves. Emma was sweet, but her "pain from the past", which causes her to react and assume things, seemed a bit contrived and silly to me. My paraphrasing: "I wanted loyalty from every single person in the whole town, but you betrayed my wishes! Blah, blah, blah." => what the fliparoo is wrong with her??? Ughh!!! ~~~~ Thankfully, Hays is fun, charming and wonderful , and he carried the story to 4 stars!!

The Heart of Texas by Lorna Seilstad - 3.85 stars - Another nice story; a bit hokey in places. But once again, I loved the hero, Chisholm, and was annoyed by the heroine, Caro. She's an okay heroine, but..... Because of her childhood misperceptions of her father, she now despises any "man of duty" who tries to help women and others; her loathing and pre-judgment of all such men is a bit silly and taken to an extreme. The complete, every-other-page, fixation on just the word "duty" seems carried a bit too far! Also, I guess she's supposed to be portrayed as a strong woman, but, to me, she just seems like a ridiculous bit-of-an-uber-feminist twitzoid. ~~~~ Chisholm is a hunky, praying, Texas Ranger! So, naturally, Caro doesn't like, or need, this "man of duty". She harps nonstop that she doesn't need him or any man to "save her" ..... so he takes her at her adamant word and doesn't reach out and "save her" when she trips and lands on her backside => I loved him!!! (My eyes did roll a few times, such as when Caro noticed the "hills and valleys of his muscular arms" in his rolled up shirtsleeves while they were out trying to track the bad guys.)

The Truest Heart by Amanda Barratt - 4.15 stars - Each of these stories seems to have a slightly over-the-top, annoying character; in the first two stories it was the super-independent heroines, and in this story it's the taciturn father. Yet again, the hero was great. (Hmmm?? I'm noticing a pattern in myself. Maybe I just have an issue with someone other than me snagging the hunky man of God!?!) And yet again, the heroine drove me a bit bonkers, this time not for uber-independence, but for uber-guilt. Paraphrased: "I don't deserve to be happy. I don't deserve his love. I don't even deserve to be thinking about him." => Argh!! Eye rolls!! ~~~~ Actually, my eyes rolled quite a bit throughout this story. But , the spiritual message in this story hit home with me more than in the first two stories. And I learned some new, fun exclamation phrases to use: "Sweet Texas Thunder!!" and "Thunder in Texas!!" ~~~~ "The thing about God giving out blessings, is that we don't deserve a lick of them. Life isn't about getting what we deserve. It's about getting what He, in His love, chooses to give us. Sometimes what He chooses isn't always easy. Sometimes it's full of so much pain that it leaves us aching. And other times, God smiles down and throws so much joy into our laps that we cannot help but rejoice at the beauty of it. I'm not going to make any attempts to grasp His path for you. But I will say this. Don't let guilt over something that happened years ago determine the way you face your tomorrows. God isn't like that, Annie." <= And that's why I loved the hero of this story!

A Love Returned by Keli Gwyn - 3.65 stars - Nice story with another ridiculous female (although I think I might like her better than the heroines of the first three stories). Paraphrased: "He shattered my heart and left me twelve years ago, woe is me. (Sniff. Sniff. Dab at tears.) But now I'll be strong and show him I don't need him and I've moved on. So there, take that! Blah. Blah. Blah." <= In reality, she refused his marriage proposal years ago and so he left Texas to make a name for himself in California. She was mad because he took her marriage refusal at face value and couldn't read her little mind and figure out why she really refused. Therefore, she's the wounded party, not him. <= Silly twit females!! Eye roll! ~~~~ The ending was quite hokey and abrupt, with dialogue that became stilted.)

For Love or Money by Susan Page Davis - 4.35 stars - Evidently I got tired of making notes! The only thing I wrote down was "4++".

Mail-Order Mayhem by Vickie McDonough - 4.45 stars - For this one I wrote down "4+++"!

Love at Last by Erica Vetsch - 4.65 stars - For this one I wrote "4.5 - 4.8 stars". This story was not as spiritually strong as the others, but it was the best story of the seven! Erica Vetsch also wrote the entertaining Prologue and Epilogue.

Side note: I purchased the actual book, as well as the Kindle version. The paperback book is beautiful with thick, cream-colored stock paper pages, with rough "torn" edges so that the book looks sort of old and raw and western. It's lovely! ..... except when you want to turn the page -- it's quite difficult to turn those lovely rough edges, for some reason they stick together.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great collection of novellas with a wonderful prologue and epilogue written by Erica Vetsch that ties it all together. Erica also writes the concluding brother, Bowie, who is my favorite. Each author has their own style that is perfect for the brother they are writing about. I enjoyed each story and how it tied in to the previous one. Each one flowed into the other like ripples on the river. You will laugh and get teary eyed, cheer and say what were you thinking. Most important is the theme of faith that binds this family together in love. Thank you authors for such a well written, inspiring book.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel. The honest review and opinions are not required.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seven Brides for Seven Texans Romance Collection: The Hart Brothers Must Marry or Lose Their Inheritance is a collection of seven historical stories. Which include:
Prologue by Erica Vetsch
First Comes Love by Gabrielle Meyer
The Heart of Texas by Lorna Seilstad
The Truest Heart by Amanda Barratt
A Love Returned by Keli Gwyn
For Love or Money by Susan Page Davis
Mail-Order Mayhem by Vickie McDonough
Love at Last by Erica Vetsch
Epilogue by Erica Vetsch
This is one if my favorite Barbour collections yet. I enjoyed every one of the stories and can not pick a favorite.
5 plus stars.

[Caryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

SPECTACULAR! With hearts as big as Texas, these seven Hart brothers will sweep you off your feet. The sights, sounds and smells will carry you away to the heart of Texas. I adored all the characters. Each story in this collection is beautifully written. Swoon worthy moments and sizzling kisses will have you fanning for relief. Love and redemption are strong elements in these stories. I highly recommend this collection.

[Regina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers

“Epilogue” by Erica Vetsch
Erica starts us out by setting the scene of all five boys (two are not there) and George Washington Hart around their dining room table. GW gives each boys an edict....they each have to find a wife by the end of the year in order to receive their land and inheritance! They are shocked!

“First Comes Love” by Gabrielle Meyer
I loved this story of Hays and Emma! Emma has arrived in Texas with her parents and siblings, she is the new schoolmistress in Hartville. Hays is the youngest of the seven brothers. He does everything to make everyone happy because of his childhood. Sparks fly when these two first meet but that electricity continues throughout the story! A delightful love story!

“The Heart of Texas” by Lorna Seilstad
This story is so packed full of action and surprises! Caro is tough as nails and a spitfire. Chisholm has met his match with her! The story is lassoed with knowing who the cow rustler is and Chisholm getting his bride.

“The Truest Heart” by Amanda Barratt
This third story is about Travis. He's the town doctor. He's always loved Annie, she is a widowed mother with a young son coming back to Hartville. She has a father that is condescending and belittles her. Annie finds her back bone. Annie has always loved him but she never figured could ever love Travis again because of the guilt she carries in her heart. Their love match is truly one that was meant to be, meant by God!

“A Love Returned” by Keli Gwyn
Houston has been away for a number of years. He returns to his hometown to prove to his father he will pick up his weight as a rancher but he finds something much more valuable in the end.
Coralee was a young woman very much in love when Houston left. She had a huge responsibility on her shoulders taking care of her father. A secret no one knew.
A misunderstanding that could've cost them years of lost love finally reunites them because of a father's edict for his sons to find a wife in a year.

“For Love or Money” by Susan Page Davis
This story is about Crockett. He comes to his neighbors rescue when he notices smoke. Jane and her brother Ben have taken care of things for over ten years. Sparks fly between Crockett and Jane, one thing leads to another, they discover there's more between them than a fire.

“Mail-Order Mayhem” by Vickie McDonough
Wow this story of Austin's turned out to be fun! A complete turnaround I didn't expect! I was thinking we may have a biblical twist to them getting married. I'm not going to spill the beans on which sister ends up marrying the oldest Hart boy!

“Love at Last” by Erica Vetsch
This last story of the brothers was about Bowie. Bowie was scarred in the war and lost an eye. He hid behind those scars for years, becoming a recluse, except with his family. When his father makes the edict, he's the last Hart to hold out and become married.
He met his girl when she nursed him a decade ago. She was one woman that didn't turn away from him. He goes to her and asks her to be his bride in name only.
She's determined to show him that she loves him scars and all. Once all barriers are down love comes at all cost.

“Prologue” by Erica Vetch
Erica, lassos up the stories with a roundup of the year. We see him talking to his beloved wife’s picture and holding….. (uhhh not going to spoil it!), talking to her about their sons and the wonderful wives they chosen. GW is mighty proud of himself.

**My thoughts**
Yeehaw! Have fun reading these fun stories!!A wonderful set of seven stories that are cohesive together. All the writers did a fabulous job of maintaining each story to piggyback with each others story. You will fall in with each story and each Hart brother as they discover their wives by the end of the year!

Disclosure statement
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

[BlueJeansAndTeacups · Rating 4 out of 5]

1) •First Comes Love by Gabriella Meyer•
Endearing novella set in Texas, late 1800s.
Hays Hart is one of seven brothes who must wed to gain his inheritance, and he embraces the edict with a flourish and a smile!
Emma Longley, newly arrived school teacher is having none of his shenanigans and immediately determines to loathe him!
Their sweet romance gently builds and I was well-pleased.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read: 9/3/2025

2)•The Heart of Texas by Lorna Seilstad• Texas Ranger Chisolm Hart & Housekeeper/Cook Caro Cadova are forced to work together. His duty conflicts with her spicy temper. I rarely have the pleasure of reading about Mexicans in romance novels, so this was a nice change considering my kids are half Mexican 😊. There's a cattle rustling mystery & bit of danger. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read 9/4/25

3) •The Truest Heart by Amanda Barrett• Dr. Travis Hart has long carried a torch for Annie Lawrence. The war and years separated them. Her heart always belonged to him, but guilt has wrapped itself around her heart. Now, a widowed midwife with a son, she has walls she plans to keep firmly erected.
Too bad her father was such an @$$😑.
Good, sweet story with plenty of faith.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read 9/4/25

4) •A Love Returned by Keli Gwyn• Houston Hart set out for California, a brokenhearted young man, to make his way in the world. Twelve years later he's returned to claim his inheritance, intent on avoiding the woman who rejected him. Coralee Culpepper serves her community well, but carries a secret burden on her shoulders and her own shattered heart, caused by the love of her youth who didn't bother to fight for her. I enjoyed this story very much and how these two servants are forced back together and meshed so well that their love could not be denied.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read 9/5/25

5) •A Love Returned by Susan Page Davis• Crockett Hart works hard ranching for his family & discovers his neighbor's home on fire. He joins Jane, an old classmate he and his family have steered clear of since her father is a good-for-nothin, and battles the blaze. They save the barn, but he determines to help her rebuild & finds himself falling for her. Her sweetness & work ethic draw him in. I continue to enjoy each brother's story.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read 9/6/25

6) •Mail-Order Mayhem by Vickie McDonough• Austin Hart, eldest of 7 brothers has until the end of the year to marry, but it's already October. With no other viable options, he sends for a mail-order bride. What he gets is a set of sisters & his heart leaps for the wrong one! Another great story that me smiling wide by the end 😁.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read 9/6/25

7) •Love at Last by Erica Vetsch• Cpt. Bowie Hart returned broken & damaged after Gettysburg. Ten years ago, his nurse Elise Rivers had nursed him back to health until she cried as he was mercilessly hauled off to a confederate prison. They each went on feeling unloved & unworthy. But, with little time left to meet his father's mandatory deadline of married by New Years, he heads to New York to try to find her. These 2 had strong emotional issues to work through & it was very satisfying in the end.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read 9/6/25

Prologue & Epilogue featured the Patriarch, GW Hart, also very well written by Erica Vetsch
⭐⭐⭐⭐

I purchased this book and rate it ⭐⭐⭐⭐ overall.
Multiple Novellas within "Seven Brides for Seven Texans", Barbour Publishing / Updating as I read each one.

All thoughts and opinions are mine alone without expectation or compensation.

[Chloe H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. The ten days that I read this book in were wonderful days.

I loved each of the seven Hart brothers, their unique personalities, their unique paths to finding love, and their unique wives.

Hays, the playful youngest, the first to find love. He was intrigued from the moment he laid eyes on Emma Longley. It eventually became not about getting his land, but about her. His land suddenly didn't matter anymore. And he won her heart. 💜

Then there's Chisholm, the closest brother in age to Hays. A courageous, heroic Texas Ranger who meets Caro Cardova. Caro hates him because he reminds her of her father, who she feels abandoned her and her mother during the war. But eventually Chisholm and Caro fall for each other and Chisholm saves her. 💜

Third, we have sweet, dear Travis. A compassionate doctor who has determined not to marry, ever since the only woman he ever loved, Annie Parker, married Stuart Lawrence. But one day Annie, a widow, returns to Hartville to live with her father and be the new midwife with her nine-year-old son, Robbie. Travis was the only man she ever loved, but she was forced to marry Stuart by her abusive father. Before Travis can propose, he must help her work past her guilt and shame over her hatred of Stuart and love of Travis during their marriage. 💜

After that, there's Houston. He is not a rancher, much to the disappointment of his father, but a businessman. He went to California twelve years before, after Coralee turned down his proposal. But he returns to Hartville and he and Coralee get a second chance at love. 💜

Crockett is number five. Crockett has a big heart, so when he sees smoke at the neighboring ranch, he runs to help. Thus begins the saga of helping the Haymakers, Jane especially. Jane was closer to Hays' age, but they went to school together. It isn't long before they fall for each other. 💜

Austin's story is one of my favorites because it is like none of his brothers'. He sends for a mail-order bride, but she is flighty and nervous. Her sister, Rebekah, comes with her as a chaperone. Jenny, his mail-order bride, ends up falling for one of the ranch hands instead of Austin! They run off together, much to the embarrassment of her sister. But Rebekah and Austin end up falling for each other, so all is not lost. 💜

And then Bowie. Dear, sweet Bowie. Bowie lost an eye and his face was permanently marred during the war. He lives in silence and self-pity. Toward the end of the year, he rides to find the only one who ever did not recoil at the sight of his face, the nurse who cared for him. He offers her a marriage of convenience. She accepts, but they soon find themselves falling for each other. Bowie must learn to look past his scars and let Elise love him. 💜

Each story was so sweet and beautiful. Chisholm's kind of annoyed me because Caro was really annoying, but the story eventually got better. This was a really fun idea, and I will miss the Hart family. 💜

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Comes Love by Gabrielle Meyer

The youngest Hart boy, Hayes, is determined to beat his older brothers to the altar, so he puts up posters advertising for a wife all over town. The preacher's daughter, Emma, who also is the local schoolteacher, is a headstrong goal setter. She doesn't like his plan, and takes his signs down at every turn. But can these two motivated individuals find middle ground and perhaps, love?

A cute romance, a little more lighthearted than the other stories, it has great chemistry and opposites attract protagonists.

The Heart of Texas by Lorna Seilstad

Chisholm Hart is a Texas Ranger, devoted to his job, he helps a young woman rescue her cousin, and get to the bottom of a cattle rustling scheme.

Caro is a fiery woman, who loves her family and isn't afraid to stand her ground. It is a cute story with lots of action, adventure, and a dash of romance.

The Truest Heart by Amanda Barratt

Old love is rekindled in this sweet second chance romance.

Annie is a devoted mother, and starting over has been challenging. Her son Robby loves getting to now the Hart family, and especially takes to Travis and his father. Travis and has never loved anyone but Annie and is happy to have her back in his life, he doesn't want to waste any time convincing her to become his bride.

Such a sweet story, with great interaction, and a wonderful plot! One of my favorites of the collection.

A Love Returned by Keli Gwyn

Houston Hart has become a successful business owner out in California, but he comes home to claim his piece of the inheritance. Once he get's home he is determined to show his family that he can pull his weight on the ranch. He reunites with childhood sweetheart, Coralee from the neighboring ranch.

A sweet story of rekindled love and coming home.

For Love or Money Susan Page Davis

Crockett Hart sees smoke and rushes to help the neighbors. Jane is a clever young woman who makes the best of a bad situation. Crockett comes over to help when he can, and he brings his brother too. I liked seeing their relationship grow, they have good interaction, and it was a heartwarming story of good things coming out of tragedy.

Mail-Order Mayhem by Vickie McDonough

Austin Hart is the oldest of the brothers, and as his younger brothers are all getting married around him he writes for a mail-order bride. Rebekah accompanies her sister, Jenny, to Texas to meet Austin.

Rebekah and Jenny are sisters in a tough situation, with little other options available to them but to marry well. Rebekah encourages her sister to marry Austin, as she can see what a good man he is. But the more she tries to convince her sister to give Austin a try the more it becomes harder to hide her growing feelings for Austin.

A mixed-up mail-order bride situation that has you cheering for the protagonists to end up together against all odds.

Love At Last by Erica Vetsch

Bowie fought in the Civil War and through it all he never forgot the one nurse who showed him kindness, despite his disfigurement. He decides to take a stab in the dark and find Elise, the woman who left such an imprint on his heart. Elise has been struggling after the war working in her uncle's button factory, so she takes Bowie up on his offer of marriage.

Can this marriage of convenience turn to real love? A sweet romance, with likable characters and plenty of heart. Bowie has a gentle hand with animals, and I like the slow build relationship.

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