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Montana Mail Order Brides #3
Westward Bound
A historical western cowboy romance novel about a mail order bride.
** A clean romance novel **
Claire O’Connor is the youngest of the three O’Connor sisters. Unlike her older siblings, Claire doesn’t have great skills in social niceties. Even though she tries to fit in, Claire will never be popular in the elite world in which she was born. Claire would much rather be in school or learning business strategy from her father than do anything else. When she travels to Montana for her sister Maddie’s wedding to Seth Samuels, she meets the youngest Samuels brother, Marcus.
She’s attracted to his dark good looks and flashing gray eyes but knows he thinks of her as annoying kid who happens to be extremely intelligent. During the time she spends in Montana, she and Marcus develop an antagonistic relationship, which Claire purposely fosters to hide her crush on him. She dreams of snaring Marcus’ heart one day, and begins her secret mission as soon as she arrives back in Pittsburgh.
Marcus Samuels’ wicked sense of humor, keen intelligence, and reckless streak endear him to most people-except Tessa and Maddie’s youngest sister Claire. When the O’Connor family comes west for Maddie and Seth’s wedding, it becomes apparent that she harbors ill will towards him. Marcus is relieved when Claire goes home to Pittsburgh, but there’s only a short reprieve until she starts sending letters to him that start debates about all things scholarly. He can’t resist the challenge and he responds.
Three years later, their long distant debates continue. Claire has graduated from college and now turns her focus on making a life of her own. Marcus is part of that plan, but he doesn’t know that. When Maddie and Seth return to Montana after attending her graduation, Claire goes with them to put her plan into action.
Marcus’ life is turned upside down by an unforeseen event that threatens to tear his family apart forever. Despite their antagonism, Marcus turns to Claire for help, unwittingly falling into her trap. Together they will face an uncertain future. Can they find the fortitude to withstand the tests that come their way or will they both end up with broken hearts?
** A clean romance novel **
Claire O’Connor is the youngest of the three O’Connor sisters. Unlike her older siblings, Claire doesn’t have great skills in social niceties. Even though she tries to fit in, Claire will never be popular in the elite world in which she was born. Claire would much rather be in school or learning business strategy from her father than do anything else. When she travels to Montana for her sister Maddie’s wedding to Seth Samuels, she meets the youngest Samuels brother, Marcus.
She’s attracted to his dark good looks and flashing gray eyes but knows he thinks of her as annoying kid who happens to be extremely intelligent. During the time she spends in Montana, she and Marcus develop an antagonistic relationship, which Claire purposely fosters to hide her crush on him. She dreams of snaring Marcus’ heart one day, and begins her secret mission as soon as she arrives back in Pittsburgh.
Marcus Samuels’ wicked sense of humor, keen intelligence, and reckless streak endear him to most people-except Tessa and Maddie’s youngest sister Claire. When the O’Connor family comes west for Maddie and Seth’s wedding, it becomes apparent that she harbors ill will towards him. Marcus is relieved when Claire goes home to Pittsburgh, but there’s only a short reprieve until she starts sending letters to him that start debates about all things scholarly. He can’t resist the challenge and he responds.
Three years later, their long distant debates continue. Claire has graduated from college and now turns her focus on making a life of her own. Marcus is part of that plan, but he doesn’t know that. When Maddie and Seth return to Montana after attending her graduation, Claire goes with them to put her plan into action.
Marcus’ life is turned upside down by an unforeseen event that threatens to tear his family apart forever. Despite their antagonism, Marcus turns to Claire for help, unwittingly falling into her trap. Together they will face an uncertain future. Can they find the fortitude to withstand the tests that come their way or will they both end up with broken hearts?
173 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 28, 2014
880 people are currently reading
299 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
November 20, 2019
Westward Bound made me laugh a whole lot more than the first 2 books. Marcus and Claire were hilarious in how they interacted with one another. Both were wickedly smart and could use their wit as a weapon against the other. Actually, at first it really annoyed me but once the couple came to the understanding that they truly cared for each other and that their debating wasn't out of anger but almost a form of foreplay they became adorable in their arguing.
Marcus was different than his brothers in so many ways actually more ways than even his brothers knew. But, when his daughter is dropped off at his door step he knows he has to open up to the family about everything. I loved how Claire stepped right in and assumed the role as Marcus's other half (she would surely say superior half).
I will definitely read on in this series. Kudos Ms. Bridey!
Marcus was different than his brothers in so many ways actually more ways than even his brothers knew. But, when his daughter is dropped off at his door step he knows he has to open up to the family about everything. I loved how Claire stepped right in and assumed the role as Marcus's other half (she would surely say superior half).
I will definitely read on in this series. Kudos Ms. Bridey!
March 6, 2018
My favourite of the series so far. Good storyline. Very enjoyable as long as you remember it’s a novel and not a history book.
July 18, 2016
Audiobook - Narration, J. Scott Bennet. Loved his narration, such a wonderfully pleasant grand-pappy telling a story by the fire kinda voice!
I'm really enjoying this series. This book definitely showed more of the mail exchange between the characters and a little more development of relationship. Marcus and Claire are happiest when they are bantering back and forth and that's what they do best - first in their letters - and then in person.
They are both smart and opinionated, but I especially enjoyed the maturity and level headedness of Marcus in this book. There was a little bit of a silly misunderstanding that either could have been a bit more believable or left out entirely but I was impressed with the character displayed by Marcus in dealing with it.
These are sweet, clean stories with characters that are enjoyable and easy to like!
I receive a copy of this audiobook free of charge from AudiobookBoom in exchange for an unbiased review.
I'm really enjoying this series. This book definitely showed more of the mail exchange between the characters and a little more development of relationship. Marcus and Claire are happiest when they are bantering back and forth and that's what they do best - first in their letters - and then in person.
They are both smart and opinionated, but I especially enjoyed the maturity and level headedness of Marcus in this book. There was a little bit of a silly misunderstanding that either could have been a bit more believable or left out entirely but I was impressed with the character displayed by Marcus in dealing with it.
These are sweet, clean stories with characters that are enjoyable and easy to like!
I receive a copy of this audiobook free of charge from AudiobookBoom in exchange for an unbiased review.
September 11, 2016
A Simple Romance..
The characters from the previous books make an appearance in this one.
This book has a couple of "surprises" that I will not spoil.
The relationship between Marcus and Claire in the beginning felt a bit strained
or rather, they acted more like siblings,
fast forward three years and the story actually begins.
Overall the story was entertaining.
I would like to read a follow-up book about the three couples.
J. Scott Bennett did well with the narration.
Note:
"This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of Audiobook Blast."
April 12, 2016
Out of the three in this series. This one is the best. The story line is realistic, and I loved Claire and Marcus. They work together and there's a lot of chemistry between them. I'm glad I went on and read Westward bound. Happy reading!
June 9, 2016
1.5 stars
I must have read the wrong book compared to other reviewers. Marcus was ridiculous and childish. He was cruel at one point. This book was more of a tell you story than show you story. I felt like it was written by a teen, and needed editing and to help with the story telling.
I must have read the wrong book compared to other reviewers. Marcus was ridiculous and childish. He was cruel at one point. This book was more of a tell you story than show you story. I felt like it was written by a teen, and needed editing and to help with the story telling.
November 20, 2018
Westward Winds (Mail Order Bride #3) — Linda Bridey (22 chapters + Epilogue) Nov. 11-14, 2018
Note: These are considered "clean" books, but there are some scenes, though not descriptive, that could be taken as not so wholesome.
The last sister, Claire, finally has her day, with the last brother, Marcus. Both are book smart and sensitive and see things differently than the other siblings. However, Marcus is keeping a secret that when exposed, cracks the family apart.
It took me a while to think about how I was going to review this book, being the last one of this set (it seems to continue, though with a different set of characters.) I was relieved I was finished, bit looking forward to reading something different. I had a gamut of emotions.
This was actually my favorite book of the three in this book set. The first book was the strongest, and I liked that one too, but this one was mostly fun to read. It felt original and gave a different perspective than the other ones. I say mostly because like the first two books, this one gets bogged down at times and I found myself distracted and losing interest at times. But, this would be a boon for readers who like filler about life and events surrounding these two families. For that, all three books would be loved for those readers.
Claire and Marcus are likable enough characters, but their romance wasn’t set up as well as it could’ve been. I feel like the author tried to do this, but it wasn’t as successful as it could’ve been. It didn’t feel believable when it happened .
But Marcus’ secret was a nice surprise. I wasn’t expecting that from what I read in the earlier books that mention him. And Claire is almost a disappointment for me, but for a different reason .
Three stars.
Note: These are considered "clean" books, but there are some scenes, though not descriptive, that could be taken as not so wholesome.
The last sister, Claire, finally has her day, with the last brother, Marcus. Both are book smart and sensitive and see things differently than the other siblings. However, Marcus is keeping a secret that when exposed, cracks the family apart.
It took me a while to think about how I was going to review this book, being the last one of this set (it seems to continue, though with a different set of characters.) I was relieved I was finished, bit looking forward to reading something different. I had a gamut of emotions.
This was actually my favorite book of the three in this book set. The first book was the strongest, and I liked that one too, but this one was mostly fun to read. It felt original and gave a different perspective than the other ones. I say mostly because like the first two books, this one gets bogged down at times and I found myself distracted and losing interest at times. But, this would be a boon for readers who like filler about life and events surrounding these two families. For that, all three books would be loved for those readers.
Claire and Marcus are likable enough characters, but their romance wasn’t set up as well as it could’ve been. I feel like the author tried to do this, but it wasn’t as successful as it could’ve been. It didn’t feel believable when it happened .
But Marcus’ secret was a nice surprise. I wasn’t expecting that from what I read in the earlier books that mention him. And Claire is almost a disappointment for me, but for a different reason .
Three stars.
June 20, 2017
POWERFUL!
I have to say I have so many favorite authors and love all there books, but I do believe Linda Bridey ranks up there with my favorite. This book has to be the most touching moving book I have read in a long time. The two prior to this, set this one up nicely, but this one was awesome! The author got the descriptions of the characters, their lives, their emotions even the scenery nailed spot on. It was as though you where watching a movie unfold in your mind. I have not felt so many emotions reading one book, this one even made me cry! It was amazing how this author was able to depict, describe and discern so many things, from the dynamics of the family to the fears and insecurities of life. Those that they had back then which are, in some part, still true to this day. It is my recommendation that if anyone is looking for a powerful moving engrossing story they read this book. To get the full impact of it they need to read books one and two first. POWERFUL! Thank you so much Linda Bridey for these stories can't wait to read the rest.
I have to say I have so many favorite authors and love all there books, but I do believe Linda Bridey ranks up there with my favorite. This book has to be the most touching moving book I have read in a long time. The two prior to this, set this one up nicely, but this one was awesome! The author got the descriptions of the characters, their lives, their emotions even the scenery nailed spot on. It was as though you where watching a movie unfold in your mind. I have not felt so many emotions reading one book, this one even made me cry! It was amazing how this author was able to depict, describe and discern so many things, from the dynamics of the family to the fears and insecurities of life. Those that they had back then which are, in some part, still true to this day. It is my recommendation that if anyone is looking for a powerful moving engrossing story they read this book. To get the full impact of it they need to read books one and two first. POWERFUL! Thank you so much Linda Bridey for these stories can't wait to read the rest.
July 6, 2022
Claire is a smart, Eastern heiress, and the youngest sister of the heroines of books 1 and 2 in this series. Marcus, the youngest brother of the heroes of books 1 and 2, is a young rancher from Montana. Thrown together by family events, the two first develop an antagonism, but then must work together to save the family.
While the books in series are not all mail order bride stories, the origin of the series in the book 1 in the series is. However, this book is not a mail order bride story, because they are the in-laws from book 1 and 2 and meet via those couples.
While the books in the series function as stand alone stories, characters and story lines do carry over. Also, characters have enough charm that you will want to follow them chronologically, so I recommend reading in series order.
As of June 2022, many books in this series are available for free at the website freeaudiobookcodes com.
This is book 3 of 23. It is a sweet, clean, no graphic sex Western Ranching entertaining story with a very competent audio narrator.
While the books in series are not all mail order bride stories, the origin of the series in the book 1 in the series is. However, this book is not a mail order bride story, because they are the in-laws from book 1 and 2 and meet via those couples.
While the books in the series function as stand alone stories, characters and story lines do carry over. Also, characters have enough charm that you will want to follow them chronologically, so I recommend reading in series order.
As of June 2022, many books in this series are available for free at the website freeaudiobookcodes com.
This is book 3 of 23. It is a sweet, clean, no graphic sex Western Ranching entertaining story with a very competent audio narrator.
March 20, 2020
This is a clean romantic historical western that will capture your heart. Claire and Marcus have been protagonists ever since they met at a family wedding 3 years ago. They have been writing back and forth ever since--and always semi arguing. Claire is a highly intelligent female who will be getting a college degree. Marcus is highly intelligent also--but no college for him. He is too busy helping out at his families ranch.
Marcus has been hiding a secret ever since his Mom died. Then something is delivered to his door--the secret has to come out. Claire has come for another family get together and he tells her his secret--she agrees to help him--they end up getting married.
Will his family come to terms with the secret--what will it take? The road is a rocky one to put it mildly.
I ended up reading this in one sitting--it was too good to put down--and besides I wanted to know what happened!
Marcus has been hiding a secret ever since his Mom died. Then something is delivered to his door--the secret has to come out. Claire has come for another family get together and he tells her his secret--she agrees to help him--they end up getting married.
Will his family come to terms with the secret--what will it take? The road is a rocky one to put it mildly.
I ended up reading this in one sitting--it was too good to put down--and besides I wanted to know what happened!
November 9, 2017
Ah, I had high hopes for Claire and Marcus. The fact that the author relied on a disagreement, again, as a story line was disappointing. Claire and Marcus have been pen pals for a long time. Nobody read their letters, so nobody knows if they fell in love or not. Their body language and the way they were treating each other really should have clued in the rest of the family, but nobody seemed to care too much. When Marcus wouldn't talk to anyone but Claire, that drove me nuts. The way he changed was disturbing. Kind of like he was Bipolar or Schizophrenic. Maybe a split personality? It was VERY off. The way the conflict came to an end was also odd.
Eh. I know what happened with all three sisters now. Do I really want to read the other 20 books? Probably not. Maybe not. If I get them for free, I would.
Eh. I know what happened with all three sisters now. Do I really want to read the other 20 books? Probably not. Maybe not. If I get them for free, I would.
January 14, 2020
Westward Bound: Historical Cowboy Romance (Montana Mail Order Brides Book 3)
I do like reading about cowboys and their hard work on the ranch and brothers to boot. All of the personalities and family love and concern for each other in this book was exceptional, the history behind Marcus and the full story was so well thought out and put on paper to be enjoyed by your readers I am so thankful for your gift of writing and imagination. The book was not a cliff hanger thankfully,, just romantic, funny at times, sad at times, and lots of family goings on and love. I could go on but I truly suggest you all read these books yourselves.
I do like reading about cowboys and their hard work on the ranch and brothers to boot. All of the personalities and family love and concern for each other in this book was exceptional, the history behind Marcus and the full story was so well thought out and put on paper to be enjoyed by your readers I am so thankful for your gift of writing and imagination. The book was not a cliff hanger thankfully,, just romantic, funny at times, sad at times, and lots of family goings on and love. I could go on but I truly suggest you all read these books yourselves.
June 7, 2019
All In The Family
This is book three of the series. It should be read in order. To get the full effect and knowledge of all the characters. This book is about the youngest of the brothers. And the youngest of the sisters. Marcus is Ann of many talents and many more secrets. Until one shows up on his door step. Claire is a recent college graduate. Frustrated with how sexist the world is. She sets off to Montana from Pittsburgh to start her life they way she wants to live it.
This is book three of the series. It should be read in order. To get the full effect and knowledge of all the characters. This book is about the youngest of the brothers. And the youngest of the sisters. Marcus is Ann of many talents and many more secrets. Until one shows up on his door step. Claire is a recent college graduate. Frustrated with how sexist the world is. She sets off to Montana from Pittsburgh to start her life they way she wants to live it.
February 8, 2020
Yet another Samuels/O'Connor match is made in this book. but this one is somewhat different. Claire, the 3rd sister, wants out of her life back East and proposes a marriage of convenience to Marcus. When heat emerges between them, she doubts his sincerety. The 3rd brother has a very rough year, unexpectedly falling in love, finding out he has a daughter, and disclosing to his other brothers a long kept secret. This book does not at all feel like you're reading more of the same. The character development takes an interesting turn.
June 10, 2020
This one is my favorite so far.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this series. This is my second time tea them. And I must say the series gets better and better as it goes. But I think Marcus story will always be my favorite. The discovery of his heritage and the introduction of his Lakota family added a wonderful dynamic that kept me engaged and entertained. The characters just came to life even more so in this one.
I recommend this series if you like warm ,adventurous, historical romances with a bit sweet and spice.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this series. This is my second time tea them. And I must say the series gets better and better as it goes. But I think Marcus story will always be my favorite. The discovery of his heritage and the introduction of his Lakota family added a wonderful dynamic that kept me engaged and entertained. The characters just came to life even more so in this one.
I recommend this series if you like warm ,adventurous, historical romances with a bit sweet and spice.
January 8, 2020
I love a good western, this book is just what I needed. I received a audible code for a good honest review on this book. Though the narrator was a little too much for me. I really enjoyed the book. I was worried for the relationship between Claire and Marcus but in the end I was happy with the outcome. I am now interested in reading the other books in the series. Good look western romance with a little bit of sass to it.
February 2, 2020
Compelling
The characters seem to come alive as their personalities developed. It seemed a little strange that Claire could accept Marcus’s daughter so quickly. Marcus had just lost his lover who was the mother of the child. Why was Claire not jealous about his relationship with her? If she had lived would Marcus have expressed his love for Claire since his two worlds had different ideas on marriage
The characters seem to come alive as their personalities developed. It seemed a little strange that Claire could accept Marcus’s daughter so quickly. Marcus had just lost his lover who was the mother of the child. Why was Claire not jealous about his relationship with her? If she had lived would Marcus have expressed his love for Claire since his two worlds had different ideas on marriage
January 25, 2021
These keep getting better. I loved Claire and Marcus hate to love thing they had going on. It was sweet with just enough hint of spicy. Also, jeez these folks keep making me mad. Dean had to go and stir stuff up again. I really don’t care much for his character at all. And the Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde move Marcus pulled was also frustrating, even though I understood it. A great read though and ready to dig more into this series.
February 1, 2025
Marcus is the youngest brother of Dean AND Claire are the last single sister of Tessa. Claire longs to visit her 2 sisters in Montana and find a husband. Marcus starts to write to Claire and she returns a letter. She sends him books which he eagerly reads and they discuss them in their letters. Claire continues her studies at a college to become a teacher. When she graduates Marcus must stay in Montana to watch over the family ranch. But have no fear as Claire finds a way to visit him after graduation. The two argue all the time but somehow find a way to make up afterwards. A lot of surprises in Book #3 and I eagerly read it from start to finish!
January 31, 2018
This is going to be a review for books 2-4 in the series. This was a really great read. I have fallen in love with this series. The romance and the characters are just great. I really just enjoyed all of the stories. I cannot put these down. If you are looking for a good clean romance series then give it a shot!
June 1, 2018
A Sweet historical romance with Claire O'Connor the rich and smart youngest sister of the O'Connor women. She falls in love with Marcus Samuel's whom she corresponds with over the years with witty banter and arguments. Such wonderful characters and we get updates on Claire's sisters who have married into the Samuel's family. This is a sweet, clean historical romance with wonderful characters.
December 31, 2018
Good and Clean Love Story!
Don't get me wrong I love a good love story with smut but there is something to be said about a story that can tell a great love story without any smut at all. This is one of them! Just like with the first 2 in the series. I plan on reading the whole series as soon as I can.
Don't get me wrong I love a good love story with smut but there is something to be said about a story that can tell a great love story without any smut at all. This is one of them! Just like with the first 2 in the series. I plan on reading the whole series as soon as I can.
April 24, 2023
Quite the surprise for the family
Without giving away the plot, I did like the characters and how they dealt with adversities. The two young romantic characters are at odds with each other, but settle into a better relationship. Interesting how prejudice can rear its ugly head even within a loving family.
I like the series, especially the characters and their personalities.
Without giving away the plot, I did like the characters and how they dealt with adversities. The two young romantic characters are at odds with each other, but settle into a better relationship. Interesting how prejudice can rear its ugly head even within a loving family.
I like the series, especially the characters and their personalities.
November 30, 2019
Insecurities of two smart youngsters
You touch a lot of hearts with stories about how how persons risk their lives and comfort to find love and fulfilling wishes of better life and success despite insecurities
You touch a lot of hearts with stories about how how persons risk their lives and comfort to find love and fulfilling wishes of better life and success despite insecurities
March 24, 2022
They were both So smart and argumentive
They had to learn lessons in trust and forgiveness. His older brother had to learn to forgiveness and his younger brother needed to learn they loved him no matter what.
They had to learn lessons in trust and forgiveness. His older brother had to learn to forgiveness and his younger brother needed to learn they loved him no matter what.
December 23, 2025
I grew to very much enjoy Marcus and Claire as a couple. The Lakota family was an interesting plot twist and woven in to make the story more engaging. All characters from books 1-3 present. As written above, just wish it was longer. Like 1-3, felt a bit rushed at the end.
December 9, 2017
Enjoyed this book, it was a fun easy read.
Enjoyed this book, it was a fun and easy read. I like to read and relax on my lunch break and this was a good distraction.
Enjoyed this book, it was a fun and easy read. I like to read and relax on my lunch break and this was a good distraction.
June 7, 2018
Maybe it's the fact that half this one takes place among a tribe of Native American Indians, but this one was my favorite.
August 20, 2018
Fun reading
Just goes to show us that love comes in many sizes and types. Hard work does pay off. Author does great job of reality and fun.
Just goes to show us that love comes in many sizes and types. Hard work does pay off. Author does great job of reality and fun.
August 30, 2018
I just love this series. I love the characters as they developed throughout the series. I laughed and cried through the entire set.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews