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The Brides of Bliss County #2
The Marriage Charm
The women of Bliss County have a pact—to find husbands. The right husbands.
One already has: Hadleigh Stevens, who married rancher Tripp Galloway a few months ago. Now Melody Nolan thinks it's her turn. Melody has recently found success as a jewelry designer, and her work is the focus of her life. She's not exactly unhappy, but she wants more. She's always been attracted to Spence Hogan, the local chief of police, but she's convinced that Spence, a notorious charmer, isn't what you'd call husband material.
Spence is a good cop who isn't scared of anything—except love. And he's done everything he can to preserve his reputation as a womanizer—a reputation that keeps marriage-minded women, including Melody, at bay. And yet…there's something about Melody he can't forget. Something his heart can't ignore.
One already has: Hadleigh Stevens, who married rancher Tripp Galloway a few months ago. Now Melody Nolan thinks it's her turn. Melody has recently found success as a jewelry designer, and her work is the focus of her life. She's not exactly unhappy, but she wants more. She's always been attracted to Spence Hogan, the local chief of police, but she's convinced that Spence, a notorious charmer, isn't what you'd call husband material.
Spence is a good cop who isn't scared of anything—except love. And he's done everything he can to preserve his reputation as a womanizer—a reputation that keeps marriage-minded women, including Melody, at bay. And yet…there's something about Melody he can't forget. Something his heart can't ignore.
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
378 people are currently reading
1827 people want to read
About the author
Linda Lael Miller
553 books3,221 followersThe daughter of a town marshal, Linda Lael Miller is a #1 New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of more than 100 historical and contemporary novels, most of which reflect her love of the West. Raised in Northport, Washington, Linda pursued her wanderlust, living in London and Arizona and traveling the world before returning to the state of her birth to settle down on a spacious property outside Spokane.
Linda traces the birth of her writing career to the day when a Northport teacher told her that the stories she was writing were good, that she just might have a future in writing. Later, when she decided to write novels, she endured her share of rejection before she sold Fletcher’s Woman in 1983 to Pocket Books. Since then, Linda has successfully published historicals, contemporaries, paranormals, mysteries and thrillers before coming home, in a literal sense, and concentrating on novels with a Western flavor. For her devotion to her craft, the Romance Writers of America awarded her their prestigious Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007.
Long a passionate Civil War buff, Linda has studied the era avidly for almost thirty years. She has read literally hundreds of books on the subject, explored numerous battlegrounds and made many visits to her favorite, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, where she has witnessed re-enactments of the legendary clash between North and South. Linda explores that turbulent time in The Yankee Widow, a May 7, 2019 MIRA Books hardcover, also available in digital and audiobook formats.
Dedicated to helping others, “The First Lady of the West” personally financed fifteen years of her Linda Lael Miller Scholarships for Women, which she awarded to women 25 years and older who were seeking to improve their lot in life through education. She anticipates that her next charitable endeavors will benefit four-legged critters.
More information about Linda and her novels is available at www.lindalaelmiller.com, on Facebook and from Nancy Berland Public Relations, nancy@nancyberland.com, 405-206-4748.
Linda traces the birth of her writing career to the day when a Northport teacher told her that the stories she was writing were good, that she just might have a future in writing. Later, when she decided to write novels, she endured her share of rejection before she sold Fletcher’s Woman in 1983 to Pocket Books. Since then, Linda has successfully published historicals, contemporaries, paranormals, mysteries and thrillers before coming home, in a literal sense, and concentrating on novels with a Western flavor. For her devotion to her craft, the Romance Writers of America awarded her their prestigious Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007.
Long a passionate Civil War buff, Linda has studied the era avidly for almost thirty years. She has read literally hundreds of books on the subject, explored numerous battlegrounds and made many visits to her favorite, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, where she has witnessed re-enactments of the legendary clash between North and South. Linda explores that turbulent time in The Yankee Widow, a May 7, 2019 MIRA Books hardcover, also available in digital and audiobook formats.
Dedicated to helping others, “The First Lady of the West” personally financed fifteen years of her Linda Lael Miller Scholarships for Women, which she awarded to women 25 years and older who were seeking to improve their lot in life through education. She anticipates that her next charitable endeavors will benefit four-legged critters.
More information about Linda and her novels is available at www.lindalaelmiller.com, on Facebook and from Nancy Berland Public Relations, nancy@nancyberland.com, 405-206-4748.
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January 29, 2015
3.5 stars
The Marriage Charm is the second book in the The Brides of Bliss County by Linda Lael Miller. It is aptly named as the heroine - Melody is the artist who has designed the charm bracelets that all three women wear as part of their pact to find husbands they love and all the delights that follows with family life.
Melody first proposed to Spence, who is now the town's chief of police nine years ago, and he declined! That really upset her so now she is a little wary as Spence begins to pay her more attention. After all she knows he has a bit of a reputation with the women! Slowly their relationship rebuilds, but Spence is treading warily too. When he was nine years old he was dropped off in Bliss County to his Aunt Libby who has reared him since. So he has some issues of abandonment. Now a letter from his mother sits unopened in a desk drawer. He can't decide whether to open it.
I liked the way the point of view alternated in this story in a fairly even way. It gave the reader a chance to really get to know both Melody and Spence and how they were feeling as they circled each other. We knew early on the reason why Spence had declined Melody and it wasn't all bad!
As always in a Linda Lael Miller animals play a small but endearing part. Melody's three cats were fun and Spence's dog Harley and Reb his horse are very much part of the scene. As in The Marriage Pact like Hadleigh, Melody is surprised by a gift from Spence that she very aptly names. Mind you it's very difficult to keep anything quiet or a surprise in this small country town in Wyoming. Mrs Arbuckle a wealthy member of the community also is involved with many plans - some endearing, some risky and some downright unpalatable.
There is some mystery in this book - someone is stealing items from homes and in doing so hit very close to some of the characters in the book. However finally with a few wily moves by other characters in the book this mystery is totally solved much to Spence's chagrin.
The Marriage Charm was a very pleasant, romantic story with familiar and likeable characters, a little humor thrown in and set in the beautiful Wyoming countryside.
The Marriage Charm is the second book in the The Brides of Bliss County by Linda Lael Miller. It is aptly named as the heroine - Melody is the artist who has designed the charm bracelets that all three women wear as part of their pact to find husbands they love and all the delights that follows with family life.
Melody first proposed to Spence, who is now the town's chief of police nine years ago, and he declined! That really upset her so now she is a little wary as Spence begins to pay her more attention. After all she knows he has a bit of a reputation with the women! Slowly their relationship rebuilds, but Spence is treading warily too. When he was nine years old he was dropped off in Bliss County to his Aunt Libby who has reared him since. So he has some issues of abandonment. Now a letter from his mother sits unopened in a desk drawer. He can't decide whether to open it.
I liked the way the point of view alternated in this story in a fairly even way. It gave the reader a chance to really get to know both Melody and Spence and how they were feeling as they circled each other. We knew early on the reason why Spence had declined Melody and it wasn't all bad!
As always in a Linda Lael Miller animals play a small but endearing part. Melody's three cats were fun and Spence's dog Harley and Reb his horse are very much part of the scene. As in The Marriage Pact like Hadleigh, Melody is surprised by a gift from Spence that she very aptly names. Mind you it's very difficult to keep anything quiet or a surprise in this small country town in Wyoming. Mrs Arbuckle a wealthy member of the community also is involved with many plans - some endearing, some risky and some downright unpalatable.
There is some mystery in this book - someone is stealing items from homes and in doing so hit very close to some of the characters in the book. However finally with a few wily moves by other characters in the book this mystery is totally solved much to Spence's chagrin.
The Marriage Charm was a very pleasant, romantic story with familiar and likeable characters, a little humor thrown in and set in the beautiful Wyoming countryside.
September 28, 2019
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
I love Miller's books. For me, they are part of my comfort reads. Those authors that you know will give you a good story without over complicating it. Nothing worse than a too-busy plot. Comfort reads are like watching your favorite episodes of Modern Family. You always know what you are getting...a good story!
The Marriage Charm is the second book in the series and is a second chance love story. Melody and Spence already tried their hands at romance. Of course, it was way back and they were much younger but been there done that. Right?
Wrong. These two weren't done even if they didn't know it. Both put up a good fight I will say that. But in the end, they are meant to be.
I loved learning about Melody's business. To be so creative. I understood her attitude in the beginning with Spence and knew most of it came from being hurt.
I was glad the Spence got over his issues and was able to see past everything to the woman he loves. I also enjoyed visiting with Melody's friends. They made the story better. As a whole a good read that reminds me why I enjoy her books.
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I love Miller's books. For me, they are part of my comfort reads. Those authors that you know will give you a good story without over complicating it. Nothing worse than a too-busy plot. Comfort reads are like watching your favorite episodes of Modern Family. You always know what you are getting...a good story!
The Marriage Charm is the second book in the series and is a second chance love story. Melody and Spence already tried their hands at romance. Of course, it was way back and they were much younger but been there done that. Right?
Wrong. These two weren't done even if they didn't know it. Both put up a good fight I will say that. But in the end, they are meant to be.
I loved learning about Melody's business. To be so creative. I understood her attitude in the beginning with Spence and knew most of it came from being hurt.
I was glad the Spence got over his issues and was able to see past everything to the woman he loves. I also enjoyed visiting with Melody's friends. They made the story better. As a whole a good read that reminds me why I enjoy her books.
Follow me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://twitter.com/Romancingreader
February 17, 2016
Once again Miller transports readers to the wilds of Wyoming with vivid descriptions and romance that will make you swoon. I enjoy the way that she brings a second chance romance forward, showing how it isn’t just possible, but also probable.
Spence’s uncertainty combined with Mel’s gun-shy nature made for an interesting and at times laugh inducing relationship. I enjoy how both of their individual personalities shine through. Even as a couple, they remain individuals.
This is a romance that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to those who enjoy western romance. Miller easily combines everyday small town life with real life second chance romance in a way that you won’t soon forget.
Spence’s uncertainty combined with Mel’s gun-shy nature made for an interesting and at times laugh inducing relationship. I enjoy how both of their individual personalities shine through. Even as a couple, they remain individuals.
This is a romance that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to those who enjoy western romance. Miller easily combines everyday small town life with real life second chance romance in a way that you won’t soon forget.
March 5, 2015
Good book. Now that Hadleigh has found her true love and married him, it's Melody's turn. Working on Hadleigh's wedding has brought Melody and Spence back together. Nine years ago she and Spence had been a hot and heavy item, or so she thought, enough that she actually proposed to him. She was heartbroken when he turned her down and moved on to pursue other women. Since then she has avoided him whenever possible, something hard to do in a town as small as theirs. Being forced together for the wedding has made her realize that there is still something there between them.
Spence had been in love with Melody back then, but she was only twenty years old. He felt that it would not be fair to her to tie her down, and forced himself to let her go. It was one of the hardest things he'd ever done, but he wasn't sure that he was ready either. He then moved on to date a lot of other women, always trying to find someone who could get Melody off his mind. This gained him the reputation of being something of a player. Spending this time with Melody has made him realize that she's the only woman he wants.
Spence is ready to see what they might still have together, and his opening move is a doozy. Melody is pretty ticked by what he does, but by the next day realizes she may have overreacted. I loved watching her screw up her courage and go apologize. What happened then was a bit unexpected, but became the motivation for them to see if they can overcome their past and have a future together.
I liked seeing them realize that they needed to get to know each other again. Melody has to see if she is able to trust Spence again. She's wary of opening her heart up to the risk of being broken again. She has a few instances of jealousy over his past behavior, but his current actions give her hope. Spence knows that it will be an uphill battle to win her trust again and he is determined to do it. He has some ideas that may be a little underhanded, but he hopes they will work.
I really enjoyed their times together, as the heat between them kept things moving along. One of the best things was getting the events from both their points of view. Melody's heart was engaged pretty early, and I enjoyed seeing the way she fell deeper the more they were together. It was especially fun to see the effect the trail ride had on her feelings for Spence. I loved Spence's protectiveness when Melody's house was robbed, and how he used that to get her to come stay with him. Seeing him deal with her cats was especially sweet, and I loved the attitude he got from his fellow cops. I liked being able to see the progression of his feelings as they moved closer to each other. I loved the ending, as Melody screws up her courage to risk it all, but still hangs on to what she really wants.
I loved the obvious friendship between the girls and also among the guys. Melody, Hadleigh and Becca have the sort of friendship that allows great support for each other, but also terrific honesty. I liked seeing Hadleigh and Becca encourage her to give Spence a chance, but also protect her if she wants it. I loved seeing them on the trail ride together. The friendship between Spence and Tripp is long standing, and they have no trouble including the new guy, Trent, into their group. I really loved the conversations between Spence and Tripp, where Tripp freely confesses that anything Spence says will be shared with his wife.
I also enjoyed the other secondary characters, especially Mrs. Arbuckle and Junie. Mrs. A was an interesting woman. I loved her kind of crusty old lady attitude, but she seemed to have a really good heart underneath. I loved her commission for the ring and the reason for it. It was also fun to see her get involved in the robbery mystery and how proud of herself she was. I liked Junie and the relationship she had with Spence. I loved her conspiracy with Melody about the robbery.
The bit of mystery in the story about the robberies that were plaguing the town was very good. At first it seemed like a small, secondary story line to show Spence in his role as police chief. But as it went on, it became an important part of the story. I did suspect the connection pretty quickly, but I didn't guess the perpetrator until the end. I loved seeing everyone get involved in trying to catch the crook. The end was quite satisfactory.
Spence had been in love with Melody back then, but she was only twenty years old. He felt that it would not be fair to her to tie her down, and forced himself to let her go. It was one of the hardest things he'd ever done, but he wasn't sure that he was ready either. He then moved on to date a lot of other women, always trying to find someone who could get Melody off his mind. This gained him the reputation of being something of a player. Spending this time with Melody has made him realize that she's the only woman he wants.
Spence is ready to see what they might still have together, and his opening move is a doozy. Melody is pretty ticked by what he does, but by the next day realizes she may have overreacted. I loved watching her screw up her courage and go apologize. What happened then was a bit unexpected, but became the motivation for them to see if they can overcome their past and have a future together.
I liked seeing them realize that they needed to get to know each other again. Melody has to see if she is able to trust Spence again. She's wary of opening her heart up to the risk of being broken again. She has a few instances of jealousy over his past behavior, but his current actions give her hope. Spence knows that it will be an uphill battle to win her trust again and he is determined to do it. He has some ideas that may be a little underhanded, but he hopes they will work.
I really enjoyed their times together, as the heat between them kept things moving along. One of the best things was getting the events from both their points of view. Melody's heart was engaged pretty early, and I enjoyed seeing the way she fell deeper the more they were together. It was especially fun to see the effect the trail ride had on her feelings for Spence. I loved Spence's protectiveness when Melody's house was robbed, and how he used that to get her to come stay with him. Seeing him deal with her cats was especially sweet, and I loved the attitude he got from his fellow cops. I liked being able to see the progression of his feelings as they moved closer to each other. I loved the ending, as Melody screws up her courage to risk it all, but still hangs on to what she really wants.
I loved the obvious friendship between the girls and also among the guys. Melody, Hadleigh and Becca have the sort of friendship that allows great support for each other, but also terrific honesty. I liked seeing Hadleigh and Becca encourage her to give Spence a chance, but also protect her if she wants it. I loved seeing them on the trail ride together. The friendship between Spence and Tripp is long standing, and they have no trouble including the new guy, Trent, into their group. I really loved the conversations between Spence and Tripp, where Tripp freely confesses that anything Spence says will be shared with his wife.
I also enjoyed the other secondary characters, especially Mrs. Arbuckle and Junie. Mrs. A was an interesting woman. I loved her kind of crusty old lady attitude, but she seemed to have a really good heart underneath. I loved her commission for the ring and the reason for it. It was also fun to see her get involved in the robbery mystery and how proud of herself she was. I liked Junie and the relationship she had with Spence. I loved her conspiracy with Melody about the robbery.
The bit of mystery in the story about the robberies that were plaguing the town was very good. At first it seemed like a small, secondary story line to show Spence in his role as police chief. But as it went on, it became an important part of the story. I did suspect the connection pretty quickly, but I didn't guess the perpetrator until the end. I loved seeing everyone get involved in trying to catch the crook. The end was quite satisfactory.
February 1, 2015
I started reading The Marriage Charm when I was in a reading slump. For the past several weeks I have just not been interested in reading. This is awful, I always want to read. It is a joke around my house that my Kindle is attached to me because I am never without it. Yet here is am, having no desire to read.
I started reading and the next thing I know I was heavily involved in the story. I became interested in Melody and her jewelry business and in her relationship with Spence. I couldn’t wait to see how everything played out.
By the time I had finished reading my reading slump was over and I was once again myself! I am really thankful that this sweet and enjoyable romance helped me become myself again.
The Marriage Charm is the second book in the The Brides of Bliss County series. I highly recommend it; it is a good book to snuggle with. I am so very much looking forward to the next book, The Marriage Season, when it comes out May 2015.
I started reading and the next thing I know I was heavily involved in the story. I became interested in Melody and her jewelry business and in her relationship with Spence. I couldn’t wait to see how everything played out.
By the time I had finished reading my reading slump was over and I was once again myself! I am really thankful that this sweet and enjoyable romance helped me become myself again.
The Marriage Charm is the second book in the The Brides of Bliss County series. I highly recommend it; it is a good book to snuggle with. I am so very much looking forward to the next book, The Marriage Season, when it comes out May 2015.
March 6, 2015
My review for The Marriage Charm will be featured later this month on Romancing the Book Blog. I hope to see you there. 3.5 rounded to 4
September 3, 2017
3.5
Being chief of police in a small town and the most notorious bachelor can get dicey for your reputation. Where there's gossips, there can be a false rumor or two. Spence Hogan's notoriety as a player may be exaggerated, but everyone knows he doesn't do commitment. He never believed in happily ever after, but that's about to change. Or at least, he's ready to try for the one he believe is The One.
Melody Nolan tried love with Spence before, but he wasn't ready for it and he thought she was not either. When she was twenty and him twenty-seven they shared a summer fling who ended not long after she humiliated herself with a marriage proposition to the man she loved. These days, she do what she can to avoid him, but it's not easy when you're living in the same village, share common friends and have to take part in their wedding. Almost a decade after their affair, he suddenly realize he never stopped having feeling for her and seem determined to seduce her. Can Melody trust Spence with her heart again? He's certainly gonna try to convince her to give him a second chance. He's also gonna have to solve a problem of robberies in town.
I can understand Melody to be wary, but she was prickly too and combine with the knack the hero had to put his foot in his mouth, it was not an easy courtship, even if she fall in bed with him a little too quickly. I love cowboy romance because it's always sweet and romantic, because friends and family are as important as HEA and it's exactly what this author give us. I just feel that in this one, there was more talking than doing and for having seen Spence and Melody and heard about their love story before in an other LLM's series, I guess I expected something more spectacular. And I didn't like that Melody's friend spoiled Spense's surprise.
But it was not my first time reading this author and it won't be the last.
Being chief of police in a small town and the most notorious bachelor can get dicey for your reputation. Where there's gossips, there can be a false rumor or two. Spence Hogan's notoriety as a player may be exaggerated, but everyone knows he doesn't do commitment. He never believed in happily ever after, but that's about to change. Or at least, he's ready to try for the one he believe is The One.
Melody Nolan tried love with Spence before, but he wasn't ready for it and he thought she was not either. When she was twenty and him twenty-seven they shared a summer fling who ended not long after she humiliated herself with a marriage proposition to the man she loved. These days, she do what she can to avoid him, but it's not easy when you're living in the same village, share common friends and have to take part in their wedding. Almost a decade after their affair, he suddenly realize he never stopped having feeling for her and seem determined to seduce her. Can Melody trust Spence with her heart again? He's certainly gonna try to convince her to give him a second chance. He's also gonna have to solve a problem of robberies in town.
I can understand Melody to be wary, but she was prickly too and combine with the knack the hero had to put his foot in his mouth, it was not an easy courtship, even if she fall in bed with him a little too quickly. I love cowboy romance because it's always sweet and romantic, because friends and family are as important as HEA and it's exactly what this author give us. I just feel that in this one, there was more talking than doing and for having seen Spence and Melody and heard about their love story before in an other LLM's series, I guess I expected something more spectacular. And I didn't like that Melody's friend spoiled Spense's surprise.
But it was not my first time reading this author and it won't be the last.
May 30, 2015
Originally published at Reading Reality
Bliss County Wyoming is a place where second chances at romance turn into happily ever after on a wonderfully regular basis. It’s also a place where lifelong best friends don’t just stay friends, but help each other find, or maybe finally recognize, the loves of their lives.
Of course, nothing wonderful ever happens without a few challenges along the way.
In the first book in this series, The Marriage Pact, we meet Hadleigh, Bex and Melody, three women who have been friends all their lives. Now that they are all pushing 30, they make a pact - none of them are going to settle for second-best. They all want the whole thing, happy marriages with men who adore them, and whom they love completely in return. Children if they want them, but most importantly, a marriage where they never feel like they settled for anything less than someone who loves them unquestionably as they are, successful and happy with themselves and who they have become.
Melody, the jewelry maker among them, makes them each a charm bracelet to symbolize the marriage pact. In that first story, Hadleigh finally recognizes that her happiness lies with the man who slung her over his shoulder and carried her out of her first attempt at a wedding. Tripp was right, Oakley was no good. It takes them ten years to admit they belong together.
Sheriff Spence Hogan slings Melody over his shoulder to rescue her and her impossibly high heels from Hadleigh and Tripp’s wedding reception. It’s not the first time Spence has swept Melody off her feet. Ten years ago, for one glorious summer, Spence and Melody were everything to each other. But Melody was still in college, and Spence did the right thing and let her go.
Unfortunately for him, he let her down by refusing her offer of marriage. Since that awful day, Melody and Spence have tried their best to avoid each other whenever possible - difficult in a small town where everyone knows everyone else’s business.
The wedding of their best friends has thrown them back together, and made them both think, not about what might have been, but about what might yet be now that they are both adults and more sure of who they are and what they are going to be.
The road to a possible happy ever after has more than a few roadblocks. Spence’s refusal of Melody’s long-ago proposal has left her untrusting of men in general, and Spence in particular. Spence has spent the last decade looking for a woman who might take Melody’s place in his heart - and everyone in town knows just how wide that net has been cast, even if they didn’t know the reason for it. Spence has acquired quite the reputation as a player, a fact that doesn’t engender any trust in Spence’s motives when he pursues Melody again.
Not that Melody runs very fast, but just because they still have amazing sexual chemistry (and way more knowledge about what to do with it) doesn’t mean that they are both heading down the same road.
Melody wants a happy ever after or nothing. Spence’s refusal all those years ago wasn’t all that tactful - enough to make Melody sure that he isn’t ready to settle down with anyone, including her. And she has zero interest in being a notch on what is rumored to be Spence’s well notched bedpost.
Adding a little zest and some serious danger into Spence’s and Melody’s mutual pursuit is an antiques thief who is robbing anyone in town who might have some antiques or even just unique and valuable items in their Mustang Creek homes. While the thief is targeting any home where there are antiques on the mantle, he or she seems to have a special vendetta against Spence and Melody. Or maybe because Spence is finally after Melody.
While Spence is glad of the excuse to get Melody to move in with him, he’s seriously concerned about the series of thefts on his watch, and the very real danger to the woman he loves.
Escape Rating B+: Just like Thunder Point in Robyn Carr’s series (see Tuesday’s review of The Chance), Mustang Ridge is one of those places that sounds like it would be terrific to live in, especially if you want to live in Big Sky Country. The town in the heart of Bliss County seems almost, but not quite, too good to be true. And the people are terrific.
One of the things that is great about this series is the celebration of women’s friendships. Hadleigh, Bex and Melody really are BFFs forever. They grew up together and with each other. Even though their lives are changing, they still make time for each other and support each other. They also tell each other the unvarnished truth, the kind that you may not want to hear, but that you need to hear. In the end, they’ll support each other even when one of them (in this case Melody) is being pig-headed.
Spence broke Melody’s heart ten years ago. He also did exactly the right thing. She was only 20, and she needed to get out and see the world a bit, finish her education and decide (or not) that Bliss County was where she wanted to be. Unfortunately, he didn’t tell it to her quite that way. He may have thought his seeming heartless was for her own good, but it left her with a lot of justified resentment.
The background mystery in this love story wove into the main thread remarkably well for a second-strong plot. While I had a guess at what kind of person it was, narrowing down the actual suspect was difficult, not just for me but also for Spence. And it was terrific the way that the whole town came together to root out the perpetrator.
This series is a delight to read. I’m looking forward to Bex’ story and seeing who her friends matchmake her with. Unlike Hadleigh and Melody, there is no one in Bex past for her second chance. The full story will be in The Marriage Season, coming in May.
Bliss County Wyoming is a place where second chances at romance turn into happily ever after on a wonderfully regular basis. It’s also a place where lifelong best friends don’t just stay friends, but help each other find, or maybe finally recognize, the loves of their lives.
Of course, nothing wonderful ever happens without a few challenges along the way.
In the first book in this series, The Marriage Pact, we meet Hadleigh, Bex and Melody, three women who have been friends all their lives. Now that they are all pushing 30, they make a pact - none of them are going to settle for second-best. They all want the whole thing, happy marriages with men who adore them, and whom they love completely in return. Children if they want them, but most importantly, a marriage where they never feel like they settled for anything less than someone who loves them unquestionably as they are, successful and happy with themselves and who they have become.
Melody, the jewelry maker among them, makes them each a charm bracelet to symbolize the marriage pact. In that first story, Hadleigh finally recognizes that her happiness lies with the man who slung her over his shoulder and carried her out of her first attempt at a wedding. Tripp was right, Oakley was no good. It takes them ten years to admit they belong together.
Sheriff Spence Hogan slings Melody over his shoulder to rescue her and her impossibly high heels from Hadleigh and Tripp’s wedding reception. It’s not the first time Spence has swept Melody off her feet. Ten years ago, for one glorious summer, Spence and Melody were everything to each other. But Melody was still in college, and Spence did the right thing and let her go.
Unfortunately for him, he let her down by refusing her offer of marriage. Since that awful day, Melody and Spence have tried their best to avoid each other whenever possible - difficult in a small town where everyone knows everyone else’s business.
The wedding of their best friends has thrown them back together, and made them both think, not about what might have been, but about what might yet be now that they are both adults and more sure of who they are and what they are going to be.
The road to a possible happy ever after has more than a few roadblocks. Spence’s refusal of Melody’s long-ago proposal has left her untrusting of men in general, and Spence in particular. Spence has spent the last decade looking for a woman who might take Melody’s place in his heart - and everyone in town knows just how wide that net has been cast, even if they didn’t know the reason for it. Spence has acquired quite the reputation as a player, a fact that doesn’t engender any trust in Spence’s motives when he pursues Melody again.
Not that Melody runs very fast, but just because they still have amazing sexual chemistry (and way more knowledge about what to do with it) doesn’t mean that they are both heading down the same road.
Melody wants a happy ever after or nothing. Spence’s refusal all those years ago wasn’t all that tactful - enough to make Melody sure that he isn’t ready to settle down with anyone, including her. And she has zero interest in being a notch on what is rumored to be Spence’s well notched bedpost.
Adding a little zest and some serious danger into Spence’s and Melody’s mutual pursuit is an antiques thief who is robbing anyone in town who might have some antiques or even just unique and valuable items in their Mustang Creek homes. While the thief is targeting any home where there are antiques on the mantle, he or she seems to have a special vendetta against Spence and Melody. Or maybe because Spence is finally after Melody.
While Spence is glad of the excuse to get Melody to move in with him, he’s seriously concerned about the series of thefts on his watch, and the very real danger to the woman he loves.
Escape Rating B+: Just like Thunder Point in Robyn Carr’s series (see Tuesday’s review of The Chance), Mustang Ridge is one of those places that sounds like it would be terrific to live in, especially if you want to live in Big Sky Country. The town in the heart of Bliss County seems almost, but not quite, too good to be true. And the people are terrific.
One of the things that is great about this series is the celebration of women’s friendships. Hadleigh, Bex and Melody really are BFFs forever. They grew up together and with each other. Even though their lives are changing, they still make time for each other and support each other. They also tell each other the unvarnished truth, the kind that you may not want to hear, but that you need to hear. In the end, they’ll support each other even when one of them (in this case Melody) is being pig-headed.
Spence broke Melody’s heart ten years ago. He also did exactly the right thing. She was only 20, and she needed to get out and see the world a bit, finish her education and decide (or not) that Bliss County was where she wanted to be. Unfortunately, he didn’t tell it to her quite that way. He may have thought his seeming heartless was for her own good, but it left her with a lot of justified resentment.
The background mystery in this love story wove into the main thread remarkably well for a second-strong plot. While I had a guess at what kind of person it was, narrowing down the actual suspect was difficult, not just for me but also for Spence. And it was terrific the way that the whole town came together to root out the perpetrator.
This series is a delight to read. I’m looking forward to Bex’ story and seeing who her friends matchmake her with. Unlike Hadleigh and Melody, there is no one in Bex past for her second chance. The full story will be in The Marriage Season, coming in May.
January 9, 2015
http://www.readertoreader.com/index.c...
The Marriage Charm (Brides of Bliss County)
By Linda Lael Miller
HQN
February 2015
Brides of Bliss County ~ Book Two
The big wedding in Mustang Creek, Wyoming, joining Hadleigh Stevens and Tripp Galloway is officially over and in less than ten minutes Tripp’s Best Man, Police Chief Spencer Hogan, is out of his rented tux and shoes and back into his jeans and boots. Spence is very happy for his best friend, but does not see marriage in his future, even though he has a special woman embedded in his heart, and she is always on his mind. But, the lawman is truly gun-shy of making commitments. Spence was lovingly raised by his Aunt Libby from the time he was nine-years-old, but the first nine years of his life was not good. Between Libby and his childhood friend Junie, Spence turned out to be a wonderful man. Everyone in town believes that he and Junie have been “good” friends, but neither one cares enough about the gossip to tell the truth. The only woman Spence wants is Melody Nolan, but she has never shown any interest in him. Before Spence can go home to his dog, Harley, and his horse Reb, he has to make one stop at the Moose Jaw saloon to check on drunks and/or fights.
Melody is more than ready to go home, but like a good bridesmaid she came to the Moose Jaw to continue the celebration. She wants to get out of this Daffodil yellow dress and the killer shoes that will probably leave her a cripple. Her car is blocked in and it’s too far to walk, so she accepts a ride with Spence. Melody is a successful jewelry designer and she designed charm bracelets for herself, Hadleigh, and their other sister-of-the-heart, Becca Stuart, better known as Bex. These bracelets represent the women’s deepest desires of marriage, children, and the proverbial picket fence. Melody is convinced that Spence and Junie are involved, so she is surprised when Spence starts showing up at her apartment with pizzas, beer, and friendship. This could be the start of something big.
THE MARRIAGE CHARM is a classy, witty, and sexy yarn spun by one of the best of the best romantic comedy artistes, Ms. Linda Lael Miller. Her characters come alive with their personalities, fantasies, chemistry, and humor. Melody and Spence know what is in their hearts, and hopefully they will quickly figure out a way to make dreams come true.
Betty Cox, ReaderToReader.com
The Marriage Charm (Brides of Bliss County)
By Linda Lael Miller
HQN
February 2015
Brides of Bliss County ~ Book Two
The big wedding in Mustang Creek, Wyoming, joining Hadleigh Stevens and Tripp Galloway is officially over and in less than ten minutes Tripp’s Best Man, Police Chief Spencer Hogan, is out of his rented tux and shoes and back into his jeans and boots. Spence is very happy for his best friend, but does not see marriage in his future, even though he has a special woman embedded in his heart, and she is always on his mind. But, the lawman is truly gun-shy of making commitments. Spence was lovingly raised by his Aunt Libby from the time he was nine-years-old, but the first nine years of his life was not good. Between Libby and his childhood friend Junie, Spence turned out to be a wonderful man. Everyone in town believes that he and Junie have been “good” friends, but neither one cares enough about the gossip to tell the truth. The only woman Spence wants is Melody Nolan, but she has never shown any interest in him. Before Spence can go home to his dog, Harley, and his horse Reb, he has to make one stop at the Moose Jaw saloon to check on drunks and/or fights.
Melody is more than ready to go home, but like a good bridesmaid she came to the Moose Jaw to continue the celebration. She wants to get out of this Daffodil yellow dress and the killer shoes that will probably leave her a cripple. Her car is blocked in and it’s too far to walk, so she accepts a ride with Spence. Melody is a successful jewelry designer and she designed charm bracelets for herself, Hadleigh, and their other sister-of-the-heart, Becca Stuart, better known as Bex. These bracelets represent the women’s deepest desires of marriage, children, and the proverbial picket fence. Melody is convinced that Spence and Junie are involved, so she is surprised when Spence starts showing up at her apartment with pizzas, beer, and friendship. This could be the start of something big.
THE MARRIAGE CHARM is a classy, witty, and sexy yarn spun by one of the best of the best romantic comedy artistes, Ms. Linda Lael Miller. Her characters come alive with their personalities, fantasies, chemistry, and humor. Melody and Spence know what is in their hearts, and hopefully they will quickly figure out a way to make dreams come true.
Betty Cox, ReaderToReader.com
January 21, 2015
Originally Reviewed For: Tea and Book
In book two of her Bliss County Series, Author Linda Lael Miller once again shows us why she is the queen of the cowboy romance. I think Linda writes these stories so beautifully because she truly loves these characters. Truly gets them and wants to share them with us. All I have to say is thank you Linda!
Melody Nolan believes in love, true love, a real happily ever after forever love. She just doesn't know how it will find her. Of course she fell in love as a very young adult and had the love of her life turn down her marriage proposal. Sort of shattered her dreams for a while. But it's been a few years and Melody thinks it's her turn. She and her two best friends made a Marriage pact and now...
Spencer Hogan is the Love 'em and Leave 'em type. At least that's his reputation. He isn't quite sure he believes in the whole ever after thing. After all, the girl he turned down the proposal from the girl he loved. She was way too young to make that kind of decision. He was right in his thinking, wrong in his handling. And even though they lived in the same small town, amazingly enough they managed to avoid each other. That is until the wedding of their mutual best friends..
Sparks fly between these two and when Melody is burglarized and several of her beautiful jewelry pieces go missing, Melody is rather lost and not sure where to go. Of course Spencer steps up and offers her a place to stay.
This is just a really good book. Linda writes romance pure and simple.. She creates these wonderful small towns that make me want to go and find them. They are endearing, town gossip and all, and fun.
Of course I recommend this book, how could I not? It's sweet, simple and sizzling!! Check it out.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of The Marriage Charm, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on January 27, 2015
In book two of her Bliss County Series, Author Linda Lael Miller once again shows us why she is the queen of the cowboy romance. I think Linda writes these stories so beautifully because she truly loves these characters. Truly gets them and wants to share them with us. All I have to say is thank you Linda!
Melody Nolan believes in love, true love, a real happily ever after forever love. She just doesn't know how it will find her. Of course she fell in love as a very young adult and had the love of her life turn down her marriage proposal. Sort of shattered her dreams for a while. But it's been a few years and Melody thinks it's her turn. She and her two best friends made a Marriage pact and now...
Spencer Hogan is the Love 'em and Leave 'em type. At least that's his reputation. He isn't quite sure he believes in the whole ever after thing. After all, the girl he turned down the proposal from the girl he loved. She was way too young to make that kind of decision. He was right in his thinking, wrong in his handling. And even though they lived in the same small town, amazingly enough they managed to avoid each other. That is until the wedding of their mutual best friends..
Sparks fly between these two and when Melody is burglarized and several of her beautiful jewelry pieces go missing, Melody is rather lost and not sure where to go. Of course Spencer steps up and offers her a place to stay.
This is just a really good book. Linda writes romance pure and simple.. She creates these wonderful small towns that make me want to go and find them. They are endearing, town gossip and all, and fun.
Of course I recommend this book, how could I not? It's sweet, simple and sizzling!! Check it out.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of The Marriage Charm, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on January 27, 2015
May 10, 2015
I liked this book better then the first that's for sure. I loved melody and spencer from the beginning.
I loved they spent a lot of time together trying to figure out if they were truly meant to be or not. Spence was sweet, a hard worker and loved melody for 9 years. When she asked him to marry her then he had declined not because he didn't love her but because he wanted her to finish college. I loved how they interacted from page to page it let me see the Sparks that were there.
Melody was fun and creative. For her it was always spence. I liked how she asked him for time to make sure this is what she wanted and to think everything through. That was a plus. Besides she didn't want to make the same mistake again. I loved when spencer kept putting his foot in his mouth when he was a around her. It was so cute that he would get so flustered.
The friendship between the 3 girls continues to get better and better since they can read each other and have known each other a long time. I liked the banter with spence and Tripp some of it was pretty amusing.
This book had a series of break ins that added to the story and I didn't even figure out who it could be until the end when things started to come together. As this series continues the storylines seem to be getting better and better.
I loved they spent a lot of time together trying to figure out if they were truly meant to be or not. Spence was sweet, a hard worker and loved melody for 9 years. When she asked him to marry her then he had declined not because he didn't love her but because he wanted her to finish college. I loved how they interacted from page to page it let me see the Sparks that were there.
Melody was fun and creative. For her it was always spence. I liked how she asked him for time to make sure this is what she wanted and to think everything through. That was a plus. Besides she didn't want to make the same mistake again. I loved when spencer kept putting his foot in his mouth when he was a around her. It was so cute that he would get so flustered.
The friendship between the 3 girls continues to get better and better since they can read each other and have known each other a long time. I liked the banter with spence and Tripp some of it was pretty amusing.
This book had a series of break ins that added to the story and I didn't even figure out who it could be until the end when things started to come together. As this series continues the storylines seem to be getting better and better.
December 25, 2014
Book two of The Brides of Bliss County finds Melody Nolan the focus of Spence Hogan, the local chief of police. The problem – Melody does not trust Spence. It seems they were an item years ago and Spence ended up breaking Melody’s heart. Now Spence wants her back and he must work very hard to win her trust.
I like the fact that it was Spence that had to do the hard work in getting back with Melody. He has know for some time that he wants her back but she is having none of it. That gives the story a different twist. Spence has to show a lot of patience and it is fun to watch him suffer as he does.
Miller is good at putting together a fun romance and The Marriage Charm is no exception. Melody and Spence have a great story for this second book in the series. It can stand-alone but I recommend reading The Marriage Pack first. Some of the action and dialog would be better understood if you had.
I like the fact that it was Spence that had to do the hard work in getting back with Melody. He has know for some time that he wants her back but she is having none of it. That gives the story a different twist. Spence has to show a lot of patience and it is fun to watch him suffer as he does.
Miller is good at putting together a fun romance and The Marriage Charm is no exception. Melody and Spence have a great story for this second book in the series. It can stand-alone but I recommend reading The Marriage Pack first. Some of the action and dialog would be better understood if you had.
March 3, 2015
The Marriage Charm was a second chance love story. Although it started out a bit on the slow side, in my opinion, pacing eventually picked up and so did the drama. The story itself had a touch of intrigue, a sprinkle of conflict, and a whole lot of romantic tension.
Overall, I liked the main characters. Melody and Spence had something special that obviously stood the test of time. What really attracted my attention, however, was the friendship that existed between the three girlfriends. Also, I liked the friendship that Spence had with Tripp. Another character that drew me in almost immediately was Tate. (I would love to hear his story.)
Rating: 3/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: Adult
Status: M
HEA: Yes
Stand Alone: Yes
Overall, I liked the main characters. Melody and Spence had something special that obviously stood the test of time. What really attracted my attention, however, was the friendship that existed between the three girlfriends. Also, I liked the friendship that Spence had with Tripp. Another character that drew me in almost immediately was Tate. (I would love to hear his story.)
Rating: 3/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: Adult
Status: M
HEA: Yes
Stand Alone: Yes
February 3, 2019
This was a second chance romance. I like that the couple got a second chance, but I didn't like this couple as much as the couple in the first book. Also, I like that this takes place just after the first book. There is a mystery in this book involving a series of thefts, but I didn't like that part as much as the romance.
October 8, 2019
Reviewed by Julie
Book provided by NetGalley
You know it's a good sign when a book starts off with a wedding. Tripp and Hadleigh tie the knot and this time around there were no interruptions. But, will the book end as well as it began?
Melody and Spence were once lovers, but it ended after Melody proposed marriage and Spence declined. Spence is not a big believer in marriage or happy ever afters due to his own parents divorce and the major upheaval he endured as a result. He stands by his decision not to marry Melody back then, but now that they are older he is beginning to think a relationship with Melody might be worth a try.
Once bitten, twice shy. Melody is still carrying a torch for Spence, but she fights it tooth and nail. His reputation precedes him so Melody thinks Spence only wants a sexual relationship - his drawer full of condoms helps to prove her case. But, Spence is pulling out all the stops to show Melody he will be there for her and this time around he won't let her down.
To add more intrigue to the issues the couple face, there are a string of robberies Spence has been investigating, but when the crimes hit too close to home, Spence fears for Melody's safety and wants her as close by as possible.
I know I have said this before, but I'm always a sucker for second chance love stories, however this one was just a little bit too predictable, although the chemistry between Spence and Melody is firecracker hot. Melody's character was not as fleshed out as Spencer's and for some reason I found it hard to warm up to her. Spence's character, on the other hand, showed real growth and I found myself falling in love with him right along with Melody.
The story line was boosted up a little by the romantic suspense element and the prominently featured pets and animals, which was right up my alley since romantic suspense is my favorite genre and I love, love, love animals. I did grow to like Spence a great deal and felt bad for him in regards to his childhood. While this experience shaped him, he realizes he is his own man, is not like his father, and all relationships are not doomed from the start. As Spence grows up emotionally, he begins work on mending Melody's broken heart and this time around, he is the one wanting to propose. But, will karma give him a taste of his own medicine if Melody refuses to commit?
This book is a quick and easy read, not too heavy on the drama and angst, had some funny moments, suspense and mystery, some super hot sensuality, but also some really sweet romantic moments.
Book provided by NetGalley
You know it's a good sign when a book starts off with a wedding. Tripp and Hadleigh tie the knot and this time around there were no interruptions. But, will the book end as well as it began?
Melody and Spence were once lovers, but it ended after Melody proposed marriage and Spence declined. Spence is not a big believer in marriage or happy ever afters due to his own parents divorce and the major upheaval he endured as a result. He stands by his decision not to marry Melody back then, but now that they are older he is beginning to think a relationship with Melody might be worth a try.
Once bitten, twice shy. Melody is still carrying a torch for Spence, but she fights it tooth and nail. His reputation precedes him so Melody thinks Spence only wants a sexual relationship - his drawer full of condoms helps to prove her case. But, Spence is pulling out all the stops to show Melody he will be there for her and this time around he won't let her down.
To add more intrigue to the issues the couple face, there are a string of robberies Spence has been investigating, but when the crimes hit too close to home, Spence fears for Melody's safety and wants her as close by as possible.
I know I have said this before, but I'm always a sucker for second chance love stories, however this one was just a little bit too predictable, although the chemistry between Spence and Melody is firecracker hot. Melody's character was not as fleshed out as Spencer's and for some reason I found it hard to warm up to her. Spence's character, on the other hand, showed real growth and I found myself falling in love with him right along with Melody.
The story line was boosted up a little by the romantic suspense element and the prominently featured pets and animals, which was right up my alley since romantic suspense is my favorite genre and I love, love, love animals. I did grow to like Spence a great deal and felt bad for him in regards to his childhood. While this experience shaped him, he realizes he is his own man, is not like his father, and all relationships are not doomed from the start. As Spence grows up emotionally, he begins work on mending Melody's broken heart and this time around, he is the one wanting to propose. But, will karma give him a taste of his own medicine if Melody refuses to commit?
This book is a quick and easy read, not too heavy on the drama and angst, had some funny moments, suspense and mystery, some super hot sensuality, but also some really sweet romantic moments.
August 12, 2025
Only reason I finished this is so I can read book 3. This is the worst couple of all this author’s books i have read. I usually love her work. First the MMC never apologizes for his awful actions of breaking the FMC’s heart and dumping her. His inner monologue the whole time was that he had nothing to apologize for and he was right in what he did. If he was correct in taking her virginity and then saying she needed to finish college and dumping her then he never should have gotten involved with her in the first place. He knew exactly how old she was and she was on school before doing that. So yeah it’s all on him. The FMC went into this thinking it was a forever relationship because he was telling her it was and he was making plans with her. Second why out of the blue 9 years later after being a manwhore is he just wanting to get back together with her now? If it was just because he wanted her to finish school then he would have gone back to her right after graduation if he was so in love with her not continuing to sleep around. This author made no sense. Then the FMC had no backbone and fell back into his bed by chapter 3. No making him grovel. No apologies. Then he asks for her to live with him without even exchanging I love you’s yet. She even considers this. Who does this? This whole book was a mess from start to finish. Oh and don’t get me started on use of a condom without asking him for STD tests or even talks of last sexual encounter etc when knowing how much of a manwhore he’s been. If there’s a 0 rating I’d give it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2017
The Marriage Charm is the 2nd book in the Brides of Bliss County trilogy. The Marriage Charm picks up right where the 1st book left off - at Hadleigh's wedding. This book follows Melody Nolan, the jewelry designer who created the charm bracelets for the three friends. She has been in love with Spence Hogan since she was a little girl. After she turned 18, they dated for 2 years but had a bad break-up. They have spent the last nine years avoiding each other in their small town.
I had a really hard time believing how it could take so long for them to finally get back together when they lived in the same town and traveled in the same circles. And after nine years of avoiding each other, suddenly they realize that they have always been in love with each other. In spite of the unbelievability factor, I enjoyed this book more than the first one.
Although this is book 2 in the trilogy, it works as a standalone because there is sufficient background from book 1 to bring the reader up to speed.
I had a really hard time believing how it could take so long for them to finally get back together when they lived in the same town and traveled in the same circles. And after nine years of avoiding each other, suddenly they realize that they have always been in love with each other. In spite of the unbelievability factor, I enjoyed this book more than the first one.
Although this is book 2 in the trilogy, it works as a standalone because there is sufficient background from book 1 to bring the reader up to speed.
October 11, 2023
I’m shocked this book got rated so well. It’s soo cliche and I’ve literally ready a dozen books just like it. There’s nothing original about these characters . The man being the stereotypical man whore who breaks the woman he loves heart instead of communicating properly about why he denies his loves purposal, sleeps with “37 woman” but none of them “count” cause they don’t mean anything to him. And of course it’s because none of them are his one and only love Melody who miraculously make him want to get married instantly (out of the blue, after breaking her heart and ignoring her for 9 years) , he now wants to change his ways and never look at another woman again. And the silly animosity the two have for eachother, annoying the hell out of eachother but not being able to resist the burning lust they have for eachother. Again, I’ve read this story line sooo many times . Also This book is full of so many lines that are cringey corny and make me want to roll my eyes. This author is clearly not for me
December 31, 2021
Melody Nolan can't help watching Police Cheif Spencer Hogan whenever circumstances throw them together. After all he was the one that broke her heart and she just never really got over him. But is he the one that will add her charm to her and her two best friends charm bracelets?
Spence thought when he ended it 9 years ago with Melody he was doing the right thing for her, still believed he did. Despite breaking both their hearts. But the one thing Melody never knew, and he's now determined to prove, he never stopped loving her. But can he convince her to take that chance on him again? With a little help from his godmother and a plan, Spence hopes Melody will be his wife as he always dreamed one day she would be.
Linda Lael Miller has a way with a story and characters you can't help but enjoy. Once you get to know both you can't help but reach for more!
Spence thought when he ended it 9 years ago with Melody he was doing the right thing for her, still believed he did. Despite breaking both their hearts. But the one thing Melody never knew, and he's now determined to prove, he never stopped loving her. But can he convince her to take that chance on him again? With a little help from his godmother and a plan, Spence hopes Melody will be his wife as he always dreamed one day she would be.
Linda Lael Miller has a way with a story and characters you can't help but enjoy. Once you get to know both you can't help but reach for more!
March 26, 2019
Book two in the Mustang Creek series of three best friends. This time it is Melody and Spence. Who of course grew up in Mustang Creek but also dated until Melody blurts out: Will you marry me?!
Fast forward several years and these two still have an attraction for the other but go out of their way to avoid one another. Sort of hard when they are in Hadleigh and Tripp’s wedding.
These two forget to speak from the heart. It takes a while for each other not to get riled up over what the other said. Yet in true Linda Lael Miller style it is the animals that bring them closer. There is a mystery involved and the mysterious Mrs A.
LLM makes Wyoming a place everyone wants to live in. This is a feel good, entertaining story. What we all need. Enjoy.
Fast forward several years and these two still have an attraction for the other but go out of their way to avoid one another. Sort of hard when they are in Hadleigh and Tripp’s wedding.
These two forget to speak from the heart. It takes a while for each other not to get riled up over what the other said. Yet in true Linda Lael Miller style it is the animals that bring them closer. There is a mystery involved and the mysterious Mrs A.
LLM makes Wyoming a place everyone wants to live in. This is a feel good, entertaining story. What we all need. Enjoy.
April 20, 2021
THE MARRIAGE CHARM, Book 2 of The Brides of Bliss County by Linda Lael Miller is a reissued book with a new cover but the same story about Spencer Hogan, the local chief of police, who is good cop and not afraid of anything—except love. After Spencer broke her heart years ago, Melody Nolan has put as much distance between them as possible which is difficult in a small town. Spencer has done everything to preserve his reputation as a heartbreaker to keep marriage-minded women at bay, including Melody but the chemistry they once felt on that one perfect summer night is as strong as ever. Linda Lael Miller mixes wit and humor, unforgettable characters, and a small town of well-intended townsfolks to make THE MARRIAGE CHARM a delightful romance.
July 15, 2025
Successful jewelry designer Melody Nolan’s work is her life. But while she loves her job, she can’t help but want more…like local chief of police Spence Hogan. Years ago, after one perfect summer night together, he broke her heart and she put as much distance between them as possible in little Bliss County. But when they are forced into close proximity at her best friend’s wedding, the chemistry is as strong as ever.
Spence is a good cop who isn’t scared of anything—except love. And he’s done everything he can to preserve his reputation as a heartbreaker—a reputation that keeps commitment seekers at bay. And yet…there’s something about Melody he can’t forget. Something his heart can’t ignore.
Spence is a good cop who isn’t scared of anything—except love. And he’s done everything he can to preserve his reputation as a heartbreaker—a reputation that keeps commitment seekers at bay. And yet…there’s something about Melody he can’t forget. Something his heart can’t ignore.
October 21, 2025
Honestly, I picked up this book out of pure curiosity — I didn’t expect much at first. But to my surprise, I ended up really liking it. The world Linda Lael Miller created felt so different from what I usually read: the cowboy life, the small-town warmth, and the sense of community that feels both distant and comforting.
The Marriage Charm is the second book in The Brides of Bliss County series. It tells a second chance romance between Melody, who serves as her friend’s bridesmaid, and Spence Hogan, her old flame who now works as a sheriff. Getting back together with Spence isn’t exactly easy — especially since he’s known as the kind of man who can easily win a woman’s heart. But when they’re thrown back into each other’s lives through a series of thefts and break-ins, Melody begins to realize that maybe Spence never truly forgot about her.
While the pacing felt a bit fast, I actually enjoyed how natural and organic the interactions between Melody and Spence were. Their chemistry didn’t feel forced — it grew from genuine emotions, unspoken fears, and shared memories. Miller managed to capture both their vulnerabilities and the lingering feelings that tied them together.
For a second chance romance story, I think I liked this one more than I expected to. It’s warm, simple, and quietly emotional in the best way.
The Marriage Charm is the second book in The Brides of Bliss County series. It tells a second chance romance between Melody, who serves as her friend’s bridesmaid, and Spence Hogan, her old flame who now works as a sheriff. Getting back together with Spence isn’t exactly easy — especially since he’s known as the kind of man who can easily win a woman’s heart. But when they’re thrown back into each other’s lives through a series of thefts and break-ins, Melody begins to realize that maybe Spence never truly forgot about her.
While the pacing felt a bit fast, I actually enjoyed how natural and organic the interactions between Melody and Spence were. Their chemistry didn’t feel forced — it grew from genuine emotions, unspoken fears, and shared memories. Miller managed to capture both their vulnerabilities and the lingering feelings that tied them together.
For a second chance romance story, I think I liked this one more than I expected to. It’s warm, simple, and quietly emotional in the best way.
August 25, 2023
Another fun, comforting romance from Miller. Melody and Spence have a history so there are a lot of sparks flying around throughout this novel as they find their way back to each other and learn to trust again. Surrounded by friends and family and a small town where everyone has an opinion and is not afraid to share it, their relationship is alternately funny, sad, and frustrating . . . but ultimately satisfying as they find their HEA.
January 14, 2018
I did not read the first book of this series and jumped to reading this one as it was available in my library. I would recommend reading the series in order but if you don't I think you can pretty much figure out what happened in the previous book as it is mentioned to fill the reader in. I thought it was a nice love story and gave it 3.5 stars.
May 25, 2018
This is a really sweet story. I always enjoy LLM's books. The editing is non-existent though. Harlequin should be ashamed of themselves. A couple of places I actually thought somebody had ripped a page from the book because I couldn't figure out what the heck was going on. No line breaks, and the typeset is off. Good book, but you really have to pay attention.
June 17, 2022
3.5 ⭐️ The second book in the Brides of Bliss County finds Spence, local sheriff, and Melody, a jewelry designer, have been avoiding each other for 9 years when he broke her heart. Since the wedding of their best friends, they have been thrown back together and are finding that the passion they once had still burns. But, will their past interfere with their future?
March 23, 2017
I love the way this author has an "Abandoned" "stray" "Abused" animal being rescued by one of the main characters for each book.
It really adds a bit of heart warming feeling to the whole story, and gives you a true glimpse into the character of each of the people the story revolves around. Even if the main character is supposed to be "a criminal" or "Just plain tough" it shows they have a heart of gold.
It really adds a bit of heart warming feeling to the whole story, and gives you a true glimpse into the character of each of the people the story revolves around. Even if the main character is supposed to be "a criminal" or "Just plain tough" it shows they have a heart of gold.
January 31, 2021
I enjoyed this a lot. The writing was good, the characters interesting and the storyline flowed quite well. The "push-pull" between Melody and Spence kept the tension going right to the end. The robberies and Mrs. A were nice touches.
Well done.
Well done.
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