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The Most Eligible Bachelor Romance Collection
Meet nine men from bygone days who have all the qualities of a true hero and who all the single ladies wish to court—though some are unassuming and overlooked until their worth is revealed. The socialite, the architect, the doctor, the masked vigilante, the missionary, the postmaster, archaeologist, the wealthy widower, and the heir can have their pick of brides, but which one will they choose?
448 pages, Paperback
First published April 17, 2015
7 people are currently reading
387 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Barratt
18 books392 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Amanda Barratt is the bestselling author of numerous historical novels and novellas including THE WARSAW SISTERS, WITHIN THESE WALLS OF SORROW, and THE WHITE ROSE RESISTS. Her work has been the recipient of the Christy Award and the Carol Award, as well as an Honorable Mention in the Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards.
Amanda is passionate about illuminating oft-forgotten facets of history through a fictional narrative. She lives in Michigan and can often be found researching her next novel, catching up on her to-be-read stack, or savoring a slice of her favorite lemon cake.
To connect with Amanda, visit: www.amandabarratt.net.
Amanda Barratt is the bestselling author of numerous historical novels and novellas including THE WARSAW SISTERS, WITHIN THESE WALLS OF SORROW, and THE WHITE ROSE RESISTS. Her work has been the recipient of the Christy Award and the Carol Award, as well as an Honorable Mention in the Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards.
Amanda is passionate about illuminating oft-forgotten facets of history through a fictional narrative. She lives in Michigan and can often be found researching her next novel, catching up on her to-be-read stack, or savoring a slice of her favorite lemon cake.
To connect with Amanda, visit: www.amandabarratt.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
October 1, 2015
This is my favorite of these collections so far! Each story is engaging, historically vivid, and with great characters. I still find the first is my favorite, but these were just each delightful in their own way! I'll look forward to owning my own copy.
August 25, 2015
The Most Eligible Bachelor Romance Collection*****
by Erica Vetsch, Kathleen Y'Barbo, Amanda Barratt, Susanne
Dietze, Cynthia Hickey, Shannon McNear, Gabrielle Meyer, Connie
Stevens and Gina Welborn
~~A Bride for a Bargain by Amanda Barratt
I enjoyed watching Ada and Geoffrey as they pretended to be in love and about to marry. The reactions of his mother was priceless. However, a certain young woman will do anything to stop this engagement and be his bride. Things get complicated along the way and don't turn out as planned. I liked the surprising ending.
~~Love's Reward by Susanne Dietze
Because of an ad in the local newspaper offering a contest for a young woman to win the heart of Daniel Blair. I felt sorry for Daniel, but it was comical watching these young ladies vie for Daniel's heart. Some of the antics they pulled are funny and had me laughing along with them. I could feel Daniel's frustration with all the unwanted attention. Josie went out of her way to not fall all over Daniel as the other ladies did. She is a strong woman and does not always follow the fashions of the young ladies of the time—wearing trousers while biking around town—I like her spunk. Very good story.
~~A Doctor's Agreement by Cynthia Hickey
Due to an ad in the paper, Dr. Ezekie Philp finds he is part of a contest—he is to choose one women out of the women competing for his heart—to marry. I felt kinda bad for Ezekiel having all those young women competing for his heart. But after his initial shock, he went along with it. There were some creative ways these women came up with to out do the competition. Some of them funny and others slightly deceptive with some surprising outcomes. Sadie, who placed the ad, soon learns what happens when she doesn't think things through before jumping in—a good lesson.
~~The Highwayman by Shannon McNear
I really enjoyed this story. Sally is a hard worker at her families inn, a very giving and caring young lady. She has her heart set on a certain young gentleman who does not seem to notice her. I like the way shy Samuel begins to open up and share his feelings. A highwayman adds adventure, mystery and romance to the story. Who is the highwayman? There are surprises along the way, heartache and romance in unexpected places. The ending was perfect.
~~Four Brides and a Bachelor by Gabrielle Meyer
Luke Longley is a missionary in the Minnesota Territory—1852 and learns that a change in policy means he has to be married in order to stay. He travels to the Indian mission hours away to marry the unmarried lady there. What a shock for Luke when he gets to the mission and finds, not one, but three young ladies to choose from. Each young lady tries to get Luke to pick them over the others. I knew right off who I wanted him to pick and enjoyed how he went about choosing one young lady to be his bride. A surprise visitor brings some anxious moments with an even surprising outcome. Enjoyed this story very much.
~~The Most Ineligible Bachelor in Town by Connie Stevens
Kansas 1885...I felt bad for Micah being so shy and wanting so much to talk with Gabby without getting all tongue-tied. I could feel Abby's frustration with Micah, not understanding why he wouldn't talk to her when they have known each other all their lives. Troublesome Rod adds some spice to the story and mystery as well as potential danger. Great story.
~~The Archaeologist's Find by Erica Vetsch
New York, 1898...It was fun to watch archaeologist James Kirkland side-step his friend's match-making endeavors. Alicia spends a lot of her time at the Metropolitan Museum of Art drawing the pieces she sees there—which sound lovely. James had a co-worker who was jealous of him and his success which added some tense moments. Neither James and Alicia had revealed their social classes to each other, which brings about some anxious moments and hurt feelings once it is revealed. I was hoping they could work things out. Very good.
~~Baker's Dozen by Gina Welborn
Fort Worth,Texas 1910...Duke Baker is a widowed shipping baron raising his young daughter, Tabitha, alone. Irie LaCroix loves to cook and dreams to open her own cooking school. Enter 12 socialites who are out to win Duke's hand in marriage. How confusing is that, taking out 12 women at the same time in order to find a wife!? I certainly would be confused. Of course, he doesn't want just any woman, he wants someone who will be a good mother to his daughter. Hopefully Tabitha will approve of the one he does choose. Some of these women I wanted to shake and tell them to just leave. Some of the others were not so bad. I did have my choice. It was interesting to see how Duke made his choice. I really liked sweet Tabitha. There is humor in the story as well, the part at the cattle auction was so funny.
~~The Final Baker Bride by Kathleen Y'Barbo
New Orleans, Louisiana 1889...Rit Baker and his two brother's are to receive a large inheritance, with one stipulation—they must all marry first. Rit is the only remaining bachelor and is not in a hurry to marry, despite the inheritance. Wealthy Octavia Derby is determined to show her father she is very capable of taking care of herself—without his money or help. I don't think Octavia had any idea what she was getting herself into. She didn't know how to “do” anything in regards to working, like typing. She does have some skills, but not for the job she does get. I enjoyed Rit's reaction when Octavia meets him at the train station and she orders him around like he was the hired help. Rit is ever a gentleman and takes her to her hotel despite her treatment of him. What a shock they both have later when they meet again at the office where Octavia is now working. Funny situations had me chuckling along with them, struggles and challenges along the way all provide a very interesting story. Really enjoyed the story.
~I received a gift copy of this book from Carrie Fancett Pagels~
by Erica Vetsch, Kathleen Y'Barbo, Amanda Barratt, Susanne
Dietze, Cynthia Hickey, Shannon McNear, Gabrielle Meyer, Connie
Stevens and Gina Welborn
~~A Bride for a Bargain by Amanda Barratt
I enjoyed watching Ada and Geoffrey as they pretended to be in love and about to marry. The reactions of his mother was priceless. However, a certain young woman will do anything to stop this engagement and be his bride. Things get complicated along the way and don't turn out as planned. I liked the surprising ending.
~~Love's Reward by Susanne Dietze
Because of an ad in the local newspaper offering a contest for a young woman to win the heart of Daniel Blair. I felt sorry for Daniel, but it was comical watching these young ladies vie for Daniel's heart. Some of the antics they pulled are funny and had me laughing along with them. I could feel Daniel's frustration with all the unwanted attention. Josie went out of her way to not fall all over Daniel as the other ladies did. She is a strong woman and does not always follow the fashions of the young ladies of the time—wearing trousers while biking around town—I like her spunk. Very good story.
~~A Doctor's Agreement by Cynthia Hickey
Due to an ad in the paper, Dr. Ezekie Philp finds he is part of a contest—he is to choose one women out of the women competing for his heart—to marry. I felt kinda bad for Ezekiel having all those young women competing for his heart. But after his initial shock, he went along with it. There were some creative ways these women came up with to out do the competition. Some of them funny and others slightly deceptive with some surprising outcomes. Sadie, who placed the ad, soon learns what happens when she doesn't think things through before jumping in—a good lesson.
~~The Highwayman by Shannon McNear
I really enjoyed this story. Sally is a hard worker at her families inn, a very giving and caring young lady. She has her heart set on a certain young gentleman who does not seem to notice her. I like the way shy Samuel begins to open up and share his feelings. A highwayman adds adventure, mystery and romance to the story. Who is the highwayman? There are surprises along the way, heartache and romance in unexpected places. The ending was perfect.
~~Four Brides and a Bachelor by Gabrielle Meyer
Luke Longley is a missionary in the Minnesota Territory—1852 and learns that a change in policy means he has to be married in order to stay. He travels to the Indian mission hours away to marry the unmarried lady there. What a shock for Luke when he gets to the mission and finds, not one, but three young ladies to choose from. Each young lady tries to get Luke to pick them over the others. I knew right off who I wanted him to pick and enjoyed how he went about choosing one young lady to be his bride. A surprise visitor brings some anxious moments with an even surprising outcome. Enjoyed this story very much.
~~The Most Ineligible Bachelor in Town by Connie Stevens
Kansas 1885...I felt bad for Micah being so shy and wanting so much to talk with Gabby without getting all tongue-tied. I could feel Abby's frustration with Micah, not understanding why he wouldn't talk to her when they have known each other all their lives. Troublesome Rod adds some spice to the story and mystery as well as potential danger. Great story.
~~The Archaeologist's Find by Erica Vetsch
New York, 1898...It was fun to watch archaeologist James Kirkland side-step his friend's match-making endeavors. Alicia spends a lot of her time at the Metropolitan Museum of Art drawing the pieces she sees there—which sound lovely. James had a co-worker who was jealous of him and his success which added some tense moments. Neither James and Alicia had revealed their social classes to each other, which brings about some anxious moments and hurt feelings once it is revealed. I was hoping they could work things out. Very good.
~~Baker's Dozen by Gina Welborn
Fort Worth,Texas 1910...Duke Baker is a widowed shipping baron raising his young daughter, Tabitha, alone. Irie LaCroix loves to cook and dreams to open her own cooking school. Enter 12 socialites who are out to win Duke's hand in marriage. How confusing is that, taking out 12 women at the same time in order to find a wife!? I certainly would be confused. Of course, he doesn't want just any woman, he wants someone who will be a good mother to his daughter. Hopefully Tabitha will approve of the one he does choose. Some of these women I wanted to shake and tell them to just leave. Some of the others were not so bad. I did have my choice. It was interesting to see how Duke made his choice. I really liked sweet Tabitha. There is humor in the story as well, the part at the cattle auction was so funny.
~~The Final Baker Bride by Kathleen Y'Barbo
New Orleans, Louisiana 1889...Rit Baker and his two brother's are to receive a large inheritance, with one stipulation—they must all marry first. Rit is the only remaining bachelor and is not in a hurry to marry, despite the inheritance. Wealthy Octavia Derby is determined to show her father she is very capable of taking care of herself—without his money or help. I don't think Octavia had any idea what she was getting herself into. She didn't know how to “do” anything in regards to working, like typing. She does have some skills, but not for the job she does get. I enjoyed Rit's reaction when Octavia meets him at the train station and she orders him around like he was the hired help. Rit is ever a gentleman and takes her to her hotel despite her treatment of him. What a shock they both have later when they meet again at the office where Octavia is now working. Funny situations had me chuckling along with them, struggles and challenges along the way all provide a very interesting story. Really enjoyed the story.
~I received a gift copy of this book from Carrie Fancett Pagels~
May 25, 2015
I have to say that I was really impressed with this anthology. Most of the other volumes I've read in this Romance Collection contained a few stories that I liked, but I seriously loved every story in this one! The last volume I read, consisting of stories from the Oregon Trail, was good, too. But this is the best volume I've read in this historical collection to date. Very well done, ladies!
July 23, 2021
This has a little bit of something for everyone who enjoys clean romances!
May 30, 2015
A WINNER!!!
WONDERFUL collection of nine Christian historic romance novellas! The earliest story is set in colonial times and the latests in the early 1900s.
I predict this will become a CBA Bestseller! This is one of the best collections from Barbour I have ever read. This will be on my Best of 2015 list on this blog!
*****
Love's Reward by Susanne Dietz
I absolutely loved this novella by debut author, Susie Dietz.
When a rather mean-spirited "friend's" ad drives unmarried ladies to pursue talented architect, Daniel Blair, the San Franciscan's life takes a turn. I felt so badly for the young women who believed the advertisement was genuine. Life at the rooming house begins to sour as his landlady tires of the deliveries made by young women to her home. Meanwhile his longtime friend, a sweet and spunky young lady, finally seems to be realizing what a wonderful man Daniel is. Josie is definitely her own woman and a bit avant grade for the times. Her brother is a piece of work.
The scheming behind the scenes was especially well done. Even thought this was a novella, Susanne did a great job of working in the elements of a large architectural contest and also used that to show the competitive nature of various characters. Many characters, and their situations, aren't at all what you think they are. This is the kind of complex and layered novella that I love to read.
Lovely job of showing the whys and the why nots of Josie's and Daniel's relationship. I see Josie as rather adorable and ADHD and when... (never mind--I won't spoil that one scary scene for you!!!)
This was a darling story and Daniel was a sigh-worthy hero! Fantastic debut!
*****
The Highwayman by Shannon McNear
This lovely colonial story features a young wagon master who simply cannot get his tongue to work properly when he is around Long Tall Sally, the daughter of the main innkeeper on the Great Wagon Road in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. However, she's frustrated by his lack of communication, especially since she has known him for years. Her brothers constantly thrill over the adventures of "The Highwayman" a savior who swoops in and rescues people. When Sally is rescued from a local miscreant, by the famed masked man, her heart thrills. But she doesn't know the wagon master is the one risking all for her. Shannon was a Rita nominee for her first colonial era novella and this new release is a great read!
Four Brides And A Bachelor by Gabrielle Meyer
I love this story set in the 1800s in Minnesota. Being from upper Michigan myself, this particularly interested me. In this novella, the your women teaching in a mission are told they MUST be married to continue in their jobs. One of the teachers was originally supposed to marry a minister from another mission. This eligible bachelor has been summoned forth but doesn't realize that NOW he has four young women to select from, which was decided by the directors of the mission as being most fair. Very nicely done, especially with the little twist with the father at the end!
Baker's Dozen by Gina Welborn
I had high expectations of this story, which were fulfilled. As per usual, Gina writes a compelling story which great characterization. Set in the household of Duke, a wealthy widower whose daughter needs a mother, he has decided to bring in a bevy of young women to find a wife to be mother to his child. Having grown up in the household, Irie secretly was in love with Duke before she left for training school. Her mother is employed by his father. Duke's father asks her to help his son find the best woman to be his wife and mother to the granddaughter. This is one of the first stories I have read with a divorced heroine in it, so that was an interesting twist and far overdue.
A Doctor's Agreement by Cynthia Hickey
I had the privilege of reading this excellent story as a Beta reader but then forgot I'd read it! Cynthia Hickey consistently writes great books and this is no exception. When the newspaper owner's daughter places an ad for a lottery to obtain a spouse for the single physician, she doesn't realize she'll be entered!
The Final Baker Bride by Kathleen Y'Barbo
Determined that she can prove herself capable of being self-sufficient, heiress Octavia doesn't realize there are many forces at work. She finds a "taxi cab driver" in New Orleans, Merritt Baker who may be the antidote to her marriage avoidance. Charming tale.
The Most Ineligible Bachelor In Town by Connie Stevens
Turn of the century Kansas is the setting for an unappreciated postmaster's fine traits to finally be noticed. But first it will take a visit from his flashy cousin, supposedly a Pinkerton agent, to have the pastor's daughter finally be able to see who the best man in town is. But when danger comes to town, will they survive to finally express their affection to one another?
"A Bride For A Bargain" by Amanda Barratt
Fired from her lousy job, Ada McClane calls out to God to help her figure out how to pay for her younger brother's treatment for his lung ailment (t.b.). Meanwhile the richest bachelor in the city, Geoffrey Buchanan wonders how he can get his mother off his back. The society matron has set up yet another weekend at their posh country home in which she'll parade more single women from the proper "set" in front of him. Geoffrey contracts with Ada to act as his fiance for this event and offers her too much to refuse. But when the farce ends, will Geoffrey be able to leave Ada behind?
Archeologist's Find- by Erica Vetsch
This is the most unique of the stories which made it just a little jarring although it was good. A wealthy young lady, Ally, is given an ultimatum by her mother to either find herself a husband within three weeks or agree to be courted by someone her parents approve of. Egyptologist and archeologist Max falls for the young art student who has so beautifully captured the essence of his collection. But when he discovers her true identity can their relationship survive?
WONDERFUL collection of nine Christian historic romance novellas! The earliest story is set in colonial times and the latests in the early 1900s.
I predict this will become a CBA Bestseller! This is one of the best collections from Barbour I have ever read. This will be on my Best of 2015 list on this blog!
*****
Love's Reward by Susanne Dietz
I absolutely loved this novella by debut author, Susie Dietz.
When a rather mean-spirited "friend's" ad drives unmarried ladies to pursue talented architect, Daniel Blair, the San Franciscan's life takes a turn. I felt so badly for the young women who believed the advertisement was genuine. Life at the rooming house begins to sour as his landlady tires of the deliveries made by young women to her home. Meanwhile his longtime friend, a sweet and spunky young lady, finally seems to be realizing what a wonderful man Daniel is. Josie is definitely her own woman and a bit avant grade for the times. Her brother is a piece of work.
The scheming behind the scenes was especially well done. Even thought this was a novella, Susanne did a great job of working in the elements of a large architectural contest and also used that to show the competitive nature of various characters. Many characters, and their situations, aren't at all what you think they are. This is the kind of complex and layered novella that I love to read.
Lovely job of showing the whys and the why nots of Josie's and Daniel's relationship. I see Josie as rather adorable and ADHD and when... (never mind--I won't spoil that one scary scene for you!!!)
This was a darling story and Daniel was a sigh-worthy hero! Fantastic debut!
*****
The Highwayman by Shannon McNear
This lovely colonial story features a young wagon master who simply cannot get his tongue to work properly when he is around Long Tall Sally, the daughter of the main innkeeper on the Great Wagon Road in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. However, she's frustrated by his lack of communication, especially since she has known him for years. Her brothers constantly thrill over the adventures of "The Highwayman" a savior who swoops in and rescues people. When Sally is rescued from a local miscreant, by the famed masked man, her heart thrills. But she doesn't know the wagon master is the one risking all for her. Shannon was a Rita nominee for her first colonial era novella and this new release is a great read!
Four Brides And A Bachelor by Gabrielle Meyer
I love this story set in the 1800s in Minnesota. Being from upper Michigan myself, this particularly interested me. In this novella, the your women teaching in a mission are told they MUST be married to continue in their jobs. One of the teachers was originally supposed to marry a minister from another mission. This eligible bachelor has been summoned forth but doesn't realize that NOW he has four young women to select from, which was decided by the directors of the mission as being most fair. Very nicely done, especially with the little twist with the father at the end!
Baker's Dozen by Gina Welborn
I had high expectations of this story, which were fulfilled. As per usual, Gina writes a compelling story which great characterization. Set in the household of Duke, a wealthy widower whose daughter needs a mother, he has decided to bring in a bevy of young women to find a wife to be mother to his child. Having grown up in the household, Irie secretly was in love with Duke before she left for training school. Her mother is employed by his father. Duke's father asks her to help his son find the best woman to be his wife and mother to the granddaughter. This is one of the first stories I have read with a divorced heroine in it, so that was an interesting twist and far overdue.
A Doctor's Agreement by Cynthia Hickey
I had the privilege of reading this excellent story as a Beta reader but then forgot I'd read it! Cynthia Hickey consistently writes great books and this is no exception. When the newspaper owner's daughter places an ad for a lottery to obtain a spouse for the single physician, she doesn't realize she'll be entered!
The Final Baker Bride by Kathleen Y'Barbo
Determined that she can prove herself capable of being self-sufficient, heiress Octavia doesn't realize there are many forces at work. She finds a "taxi cab driver" in New Orleans, Merritt Baker who may be the antidote to her marriage avoidance. Charming tale.
The Most Ineligible Bachelor In Town by Connie Stevens
Turn of the century Kansas is the setting for an unappreciated postmaster's fine traits to finally be noticed. But first it will take a visit from his flashy cousin, supposedly a Pinkerton agent, to have the pastor's daughter finally be able to see who the best man in town is. But when danger comes to town, will they survive to finally express their affection to one another?
"A Bride For A Bargain" by Amanda Barratt
Fired from her lousy job, Ada McClane calls out to God to help her figure out how to pay for her younger brother's treatment for his lung ailment (t.b.). Meanwhile the richest bachelor in the city, Geoffrey Buchanan wonders how he can get his mother off his back. The society matron has set up yet another weekend at their posh country home in which she'll parade more single women from the proper "set" in front of him. Geoffrey contracts with Ada to act as his fiance for this event and offers her too much to refuse. But when the farce ends, will Geoffrey be able to leave Ada behind?
Archeologist's Find- by Erica Vetsch
This is the most unique of the stories which made it just a little jarring although it was good. A wealthy young lady, Ally, is given an ultimatum by her mother to either find herself a husband within three weeks or agree to be courted by someone her parents approve of. Egyptologist and archeologist Max falls for the young art student who has so beautifully captured the essence of his collection. But when he discovers her true identity can their relationship survive?
October 13, 2025
My favorites were
A Bride for a Bargain by Amanda Barratt
Ada loses her job and is approached by a stranger to play the part of his fiance. Dare she risk her heart to a very rich, young man?
The Highwayman by Shannon McNear
Cute story of a barmaid in Colonial times who is smitten by the dashing Highwayman. But what about the shy Wheeler boy who follows her with his eyes every time he passes through?
The Archeologist's Find by Erica Vetsch
A debutante who escapes her mother's attempts to marry her off to the highest bidder by drawing artifacts in the museum. Too bad the young archeologist putting together the Egyptian room isn't on her mother's short list.
Four Brides and a Bachelor by Gabrielle Meyer: On the frontier, a handsome, young missionary must chose a bride within a week in order to keep his position. Hazel is all practical. Mary is jolly and fun. Genevieve is gorgeous. What chance does Sarah have since she's young and gawky, always in trouble for carelessness? She has the heart but lacks the polish and experience of the other girls.
A Bride for a Bargain by Amanda Barratt
Ada loses her job and is approached by a stranger to play the part of his fiance. Dare she risk her heart to a very rich, young man?
The Highwayman by Shannon McNear
Cute story of a barmaid in Colonial times who is smitten by the dashing Highwayman. But what about the shy Wheeler boy who follows her with his eyes every time he passes through?
The Archeologist's Find by Erica Vetsch
A debutante who escapes her mother's attempts to marry her off to the highest bidder by drawing artifacts in the museum. Too bad the young archeologist putting together the Egyptian room isn't on her mother's short list.
Four Brides and a Bachelor by Gabrielle Meyer: On the frontier, a handsome, young missionary must chose a bride within a week in order to keep his position. Hazel is all practical. Mary is jolly and fun. Genevieve is gorgeous. What chance does Sarah have since she's young and gawky, always in trouble for carelessness? She has the heart but lacks the polish and experience of the other girls.
July 11, 2016
1) "A Bride For A Bargain"- Amanda Barratt
Poor Ada McClane agrees to be wealthy Geoffrey Buchanan's pretend fiance. She desperately needs the money for her brother's medical treatments. How much longer can they keep pretending? A darling story. Geoffrey is a dear and Ada is a hoot. I enjoyed getting to know this couple and seeing how things would work out. Ms. Barratt is a new author to me, but I would not be adverse to reading another story by her. 4.5 stars.
2) "Love's Reward"- Susanne Dietz
A prank advertisement makes architect Daniel Blair the most eligible bachelor in San Francisco, but he's always had one girl in mind to end his bachelorhood. A story that has some laugh out loud moments. Some of the story is rather stiff, but there were other times the author let the words come out and play. I enjoyed getting to know Daniel and seeing how he loses everything. Ms. Dietz is good at making the characters hurt. As with the first story in this collection, Ms. Dietz is a new author to me, but one I would consider reading again. 4 stars
3) "A Doctor's Agreement"- Cynthia Hickey
To drum up sales for her father's newspaper, a young woman places an ad for a most eligible bachelor lottery to find the town doctor a wife. Little did she know she would be one of the candidates! I have to admire Ms. Hickey's ability to put stories out quickly and get picked up by publishers. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this story. Zeke was likeable enough but seemed a bit wishy-washy and able to be dragged around by a nose ring. And Sadie was just plain immature. The writing is good enough. The story, not so much. 3 stars.
4) "The Highwayman"- Shannon McNear
Set during American Revolution, an innkeeper's daughter becomes enamored by a masked crusader the locals called the Highwayman. An apprentice wagon master wishes he were the object of her affections. Who will she choose? This story seemed terribly familiar, but I can't remember who I read the similar one by. An innkeeper's daughter, harassed by an "outstanding" citizen's son and a masked man (the Lone Ranger type) who rides in and saves her... multiple times. But while the son asked for a kiss (admittedly he was prepared to force it), the masked man also ... took... without asking. I wasn't impressed by this story, a romance born out of deceptive measures, especially since she wouldn't give the man behind the mask a second glance... until she knew. 3 stars.
5) "Four Brides And A Bachelor"- Gabrielle Meyer
A missionary minister has five days to choose a wife from a group of four missionary teachers in an 1852 Minnesota mission. Will sensibility or his heart win out? Okay, so far, this has been the cutest story in the bunch. I couldn't help but fall in live with the sweet, funny, dear Sarah. I wasn't sure how I felt about Luke. He was judging on the outside appearance and not on the heart. The story is beautifully told and I loved the happy ending . 5 stars.
6)"The Most Ineligible Bachelor In Town"- Connie Stevens
Set in 1885 Kansas, a shy postmaster has an unrequited love for a preacher's daughter. Will she ever notice him? Another dear story. Micah was a real dream. Shy and quiet, working behind the scenes and not realizing his own worth. Gabby was a dear too, and Micah loved her with all his heart but was so scared to speak to her. But then her ex-fiance returns, as well as his much more outgoing cousin... I loved this story about how Micah had to discover his own worth in God's eyes. Beautifully told. 5 stars.
7)"Archeologist's Find"- Erica Vetsch
Max is an archaeologist who has no interest in matrimony until he meets Ally, an aspiring artist. This one is infused with lots of exotic Egyptology background. This story started a bit stiff. I wasn't sure I could relate to Ally or Max. But once we got past the first chapter, the stiffness left and it turned into an absolutely wonderful read, one I didn't want to put down! I enjoyed getting to know Max and Ally and would love to travel along with them on their adventures. A beautiful story. Faith message is rather weak, but as a whole, a good book. 4.5 stars.
8)" Baker's Dozen"- Gina Welborn
Irie has always been in love with Duke, the wealthy son of her mother's employer. Unfortunately, Duke doesn't even notice her. When she's asked to help him find a wife, will her heart be able to withstand it? This story was cute. Duke is a true Texas cattleman, emphasis on man. Unobservant. Except when it comes to cattle. When his father decides to invite 12 women for him to court for three weeks to find a bride for Duke and a mother for Duke's daughter Duke is forced out of his comfort zone. A bunch of high-society women, deemed suitable by his dad... but he is too blind to see. A lovely story. 5 stars.
9)"The Final Baker Bride"- Kathleen Y'Barbo
Set in New Orleans, wealthy Octavia Derby runs away from an arranged marriage. She meets an equally marriage-shy Merritt Baker. Another charming story! I loved the fun Tavia and Rit. Such a fun couple. I loved the secretary ruse and the fact that neither of them saw it coming. A great story! 5 stars.
I loved most of the stories in this collection and highly recommend it. 4,33 stars for the collection.
October 19, 2021
This collection of stories was so cute! If you have already read "To Catch a Bachelor", you will find that these will be repeats in this book. But they are all really sweet, clean reads.
Erica Vetsch's "The Archaeologist's Find" was so cute. I loved reading about when all the Egyptian Pyramids were being found and museums were displaying new things. Erica Vetsch is one of my favourite authors and this book was really great.
"The Final Baker Bride" by Kathleen Y'Barbo was funny and sweet.
Cynthia Hickey's, "The Doctor's Agreement" was hilarious! 5 women in town are vying in a contest to win the Doctor's heart.
Anyone who has read "Seven Brides for Seven Texans" will be interested to know that "Four Brides and a Bachelor" by Gabrielle Meyer is about Emma's parents. It was fun getting to know more about her family.
Erica Vetsch's "The Archaeologist's Find" was so cute. I loved reading about when all the Egyptian Pyramids were being found and museums were displaying new things. Erica Vetsch is one of my favourite authors and this book was really great.
"The Final Baker Bride" by Kathleen Y'Barbo was funny and sweet.
Cynthia Hickey's, "The Doctor's Agreement" was hilarious! 5 women in town are vying in a contest to win the Doctor's heart.
Anyone who has read "Seven Brides for Seven Texans" will be interested to know that "Four Brides and a Bachelor" by Gabrielle Meyer is about Emma's parents. It was fun getting to know more about her family.
November 28, 2015
An absolute "treasure trove" of clever, delightful, and quite unique romances, full of chivalry at its best and happy endings deserving of hearty applause. Join nine eligible bachelors traveling very different paths to "meet their match", as you enjoy being introduced to the equally lovely ladies that capture their hearts.
June 13, 2015
Five stars!
Be pulled back into time by reading nine great stories with equally gifted authors. I really liked the stories, they are funny, serious, and the stories have a spiritual message in each book.
Be pulled back into time by reading nine great stories with equally gifted authors. I really liked the stories, they are funny, serious, and the stories have a spiritual message in each book.
May 22, 2015
very good for short stories (I generally don't read shorts - I always want more!) Gabrielle's and the archeologist stories we're my favorites :)
September 8, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed reading all of these great stories by some really good authors! History, love,adventure, and humor all stuffed in between these beautiful written pages. So worth my time!!!!!
April 18, 2020
It amazes me how the authors can put so much emotion into such short stories. I feel what the character(s) is/are feeling. Such talent.
September 11, 2020
Good collection of novellas, some written by authors that were new to me.
November 9, 2020
Good read
August 29, 2015
It depends completely on your expectations. If you are looking for premise-focused, almost gimmick-focused novellas where the focus is 98% romance and 2% history, then this collection of nine novellas may very well satisfy.
The nine novellas are: "A Bride for a Bargain" by Amanda Barratt, "Love's Reward" by Susanne Dietze, "A Doctor's Agreement," by Cynthia Hickey, "The Highwayman" by Shannon McNear, "Four Brides and a Bachelor" by Gabrielle Meyer, "The Most Ineligible Bachelor in Town," by Connie Stevens, "The Archaeologist's Find," by Erica Vetch, "Baker's Dozen," by Gina Welborn, and "The Final Baker Bride," by Kathleen Y'Barbo.
The book starts off relatively strong with Amanda Barratt's A Bride for a Bargain. Of course, at the time, I didn't know it would be one of the strongest stories, and, I remember finding it a bit shallower than I would have liked. But looking back, it is one of the best of the book. Yes, the characters are not as developed as I'd like--in comparison with a full-length novel. But in comparison to most of the stories in the book, the characters are indeed developed. Ada McClane is a poor woman--tending a sick brother--who has just lost her job. Geoffrey Buchanan offers her a job: pretending to be his fiancee for three weeks. The job pays very, very well. Readers can predict that he will fall in love with her, and she with him, but it will take a while for both to declare their love for one another.
Love's Reward by Susanne Dietze was enjoyable enough, I suppose. But the premise didn't sit well with me. A "friend" writes an ad in a paper: WANTED: THE HEART OF SAN FRANCISCO'S MOST ELIGIBLE BACHELOR REWARD OF $1,000 TO THE UNMARRIED FEMALE WHO CAPTURES THE HEART OF DANIEL BLAIR, ARCHITECT, GUARANTEED PAYMENT BY A GENTLEMAN OF INTEGRITY. The problem? A gentleman of integrity wouldn't actually ever think of posting an ad like that about a supposed friend...let alone actually do it. And the ad is taken oh-so-seriously, and the readers have to put up with all these women throwing themselves at Daniel. Except for one, of course, who's known him for years and years. The story was slightly confusing at times. At best I feel neutral about this one.
A Doctor's Agreement by Cynthia Hickey annoyed me almost from start to finish. Why did it annoy me so much? I think because the heroine, Sadie, was so very, very stupid AND the hero, Zeke, was just as stupid. Sadie works for her father's newspaper, and, it is her oh-so-brilliant idea to have a contest to marry the town's new doctor off. Five women, I think, will be chosen to actively compete for the doctor's affection. He'll write up his thoughts and perspective about the contest for the paper. At the end, he'll choose one to be "the one." Reading the inner thoughts of the hero and heroine was incredibly annoying. She's madly in love with him but just KNOWS that he doesn't care for her in that way at all, that he could never, ever love her in return. And he's madly in love with her and just knows that she could never, ever, ever love him in return. And it's just pure ridiculousness that pushes this story forward.
The Highwayman by Shannon McNear is a story that the twelve-year-old me would have probably found giddy-making and just loved. But the adult-me liked it well enough. A shy hero finds courage to court the woman he loves, but, only undercover dressed as a highwayman.
Four Brides and a Bachelor by Gabrielle Meyer was probably my favorite of the book. Probably. Luke Longley was my favorite hero. He is a missionary in need of a wife. There are four women for him to choose from. Most, if not all, are eager to be missionaries themselves and are in need of a husband in order to qualify for the mission field. I actually enjoyed the romance of this one.
The Most Ineligible Bachelor in Town by Connie Stevens was an okay story for me. It features an oh-so-shy hero, Micah North, who is in love with a beautiful young woman, Gabrielle, a woman who happens to already love him in return. She's just waiting for him to speak up and take an interest. The story may not have wowed me, but, it was a good read.
The Archaeologist's Find by Erica Vetsch is an enjoyable novella. I liked this one very much. Definitely in my top three. The hero and heroine share a love of archaeology and an interest in all things Egypt. She's not aware that he's rich and therefore "suitable" according to her mother. And he's not aware that she's rich, so he doesn't think of her as out-of-bounds. He thinks marrying a rich socialite would mean giving up his dream. He wants someone to travel with him and live half the year or more in foreign lands. Overall, this is one of the better stories.
Baker's Dozen by Gina Welborn, what can I say? The hero wasn't very likable at all, in my opinion. And I almost cheered when the heroine who had been in love with him for years and years and years refused his proposal and said she was going to move on with her life. But then there was another chapter. This was another story where a LOT of women seem to be competing for a guy, for a proposal. It seemed very calculating. I just didn't care for it.
The Final Baker Bride by Kathleen Y'Barbo was a strong finish for the collection. I liked the way it started especially. But it didn't hold my attention start to finish, that could be more about my mood as reading than the story itself. Overall, I'd say it was definitely good.
More than a handful seem to be "inspired by" The Bachelor, and have women actually competing for the chance of getting the guy--getting a proposal. Many if not most of the women are very forward, let's say, and blunt. I will say, however, that the heroines always seem to be the exception to the rule. Every female character except the heroine from each of the stories, seem to be very forward, very blunt, very pushy, very competitive, more than a little immodest. Is that a generalization? Yes. Is it unfair? Somewhat. Because it isn't true for all nine stories. I know this. But is it true for at least five or six of the stories? Probably. Enough so that it overpowers the book so that that is what you remember.
Another issue I had with a handful of the stories was the stupidity of the main characters. For example, readers are expected to like a hero and heroine so incredibly, INCREDIBLY stupid that it feels like they couldn't recognize their own faces in the mirror.
I personally would have preferred stronger historical setting and details. At times, I thought the characters acted at odds with the times in which they supposedly lived. How they acted. How they spoke. It felt like contemporary characters dressing up, if that makes sense.
The nine novellas are: "A Bride for a Bargain" by Amanda Barratt, "Love's Reward" by Susanne Dietze, "A Doctor's Agreement," by Cynthia Hickey, "The Highwayman" by Shannon McNear, "Four Brides and a Bachelor" by Gabrielle Meyer, "The Most Ineligible Bachelor in Town," by Connie Stevens, "The Archaeologist's Find," by Erica Vetch, "Baker's Dozen," by Gina Welborn, and "The Final Baker Bride," by Kathleen Y'Barbo.
The book starts off relatively strong with Amanda Barratt's A Bride for a Bargain. Of course, at the time, I didn't know it would be one of the strongest stories, and, I remember finding it a bit shallower than I would have liked. But looking back, it is one of the best of the book. Yes, the characters are not as developed as I'd like--in comparison with a full-length novel. But in comparison to most of the stories in the book, the characters are indeed developed. Ada McClane is a poor woman--tending a sick brother--who has just lost her job. Geoffrey Buchanan offers her a job: pretending to be his fiancee for three weeks. The job pays very, very well. Readers can predict that he will fall in love with her, and she with him, but it will take a while for both to declare their love for one another.
Love's Reward by Susanne Dietze was enjoyable enough, I suppose. But the premise didn't sit well with me. A "friend" writes an ad in a paper: WANTED: THE HEART OF SAN FRANCISCO'S MOST ELIGIBLE BACHELOR REWARD OF $1,000 TO THE UNMARRIED FEMALE WHO CAPTURES THE HEART OF DANIEL BLAIR, ARCHITECT, GUARANTEED PAYMENT BY A GENTLEMAN OF INTEGRITY. The problem? A gentleman of integrity wouldn't actually ever think of posting an ad like that about a supposed friend...let alone actually do it. And the ad is taken oh-so-seriously, and the readers have to put up with all these women throwing themselves at Daniel. Except for one, of course, who's known him for years and years. The story was slightly confusing at times. At best I feel neutral about this one.
A Doctor's Agreement by Cynthia Hickey annoyed me almost from start to finish. Why did it annoy me so much? I think because the heroine, Sadie, was so very, very stupid AND the hero, Zeke, was just as stupid. Sadie works for her father's newspaper, and, it is her oh-so-brilliant idea to have a contest to marry the town's new doctor off. Five women, I think, will be chosen to actively compete for the doctor's affection. He'll write up his thoughts and perspective about the contest for the paper. At the end, he'll choose one to be "the one." Reading the inner thoughts of the hero and heroine was incredibly annoying. She's madly in love with him but just KNOWS that he doesn't care for her in that way at all, that he could never, ever love her in return. And he's madly in love with her and just knows that she could never, ever, ever love him in return. And it's just pure ridiculousness that pushes this story forward.
The Highwayman by Shannon McNear is a story that the twelve-year-old me would have probably found giddy-making and just loved. But the adult-me liked it well enough. A shy hero finds courage to court the woman he loves, but, only undercover dressed as a highwayman.
Four Brides and a Bachelor by Gabrielle Meyer was probably my favorite of the book. Probably. Luke Longley was my favorite hero. He is a missionary in need of a wife. There are four women for him to choose from. Most, if not all, are eager to be missionaries themselves and are in need of a husband in order to qualify for the mission field. I actually enjoyed the romance of this one.
The Most Ineligible Bachelor in Town by Connie Stevens was an okay story for me. It features an oh-so-shy hero, Micah North, who is in love with a beautiful young woman, Gabrielle, a woman who happens to already love him in return. She's just waiting for him to speak up and take an interest. The story may not have wowed me, but, it was a good read.
The Archaeologist's Find by Erica Vetsch is an enjoyable novella. I liked this one very much. Definitely in my top three. The hero and heroine share a love of archaeology and an interest in all things Egypt. She's not aware that he's rich and therefore "suitable" according to her mother. And he's not aware that she's rich, so he doesn't think of her as out-of-bounds. He thinks marrying a rich socialite would mean giving up his dream. He wants someone to travel with him and live half the year or more in foreign lands. Overall, this is one of the better stories.
Baker's Dozen by Gina Welborn, what can I say? The hero wasn't very likable at all, in my opinion. And I almost cheered when the heroine who had been in love with him for years and years and years refused his proposal and said she was going to move on with her life. But then there was another chapter. This was another story where a LOT of women seem to be competing for a guy, for a proposal. It seemed very calculating. I just didn't care for it.
The Final Baker Bride by Kathleen Y'Barbo was a strong finish for the collection. I liked the way it started especially. But it didn't hold my attention start to finish, that could be more about my mood as reading than the story itself. Overall, I'd say it was definitely good.
More than a handful seem to be "inspired by" The Bachelor, and have women actually competing for the chance of getting the guy--getting a proposal. Many if not most of the women are very forward, let's say, and blunt. I will say, however, that the heroines always seem to be the exception to the rule. Every female character except the heroine from each of the stories, seem to be very forward, very blunt, very pushy, very competitive, more than a little immodest. Is that a generalization? Yes. Is it unfair? Somewhat. Because it isn't true for all nine stories. I know this. But is it true for at least five or six of the stories? Probably. Enough so that it overpowers the book so that that is what you remember.
Another issue I had with a handful of the stories was the stupidity of the main characters. For example, readers are expected to like a hero and heroine so incredibly, INCREDIBLY stupid that it feels like they couldn't recognize their own faces in the mirror.
I personally would have preferred stronger historical setting and details. At times, I thought the characters acted at odds with the times in which they supposedly lived. How they acted. How they spoke. It felt like contemporary characters dressing up, if that makes sense.
February 7, 2025
Book 1. A Bride for a Bargain By Amanda Barratt,I give it a 1 star. It was just to classic,a poor girl with a sick brother and no living parents loses her job, she's crying in the corner and then the richest guy in New York City happens to be walking by and happens to notice this girl and just happens to need a girl to pretend to be his girlfriend/fiancee so that he can go to his moms house and doesn't have to deal with her constantly trying to find him a girlfriend, not to mention the fact that he's paying this girl $1,000 to do this and when there doing this they also happen to fall in love with each other and get married and live happily ever after,The End. I skipped books 2,3 and 4 but I did read book 5. Four brides and a Bachelor by Gabrielle Meyer I give it a 5 star rating it was a really good book I actually enjoyed it. I also read the last one, The Last Baker Bride. It was actually really good so I would give it a 5 star rating also, but overall judging by the books I read I give it a 4 star, but it's also really hard to rate a book with 9 books inside
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2017
Reading these allowed me to pinpoint what about Christian romances are silly. In most of them, a man could be attentive, kind, flirtatious, and even propose to her, and she would mope about thinking "he could never be interested in me."
Baloney. In real life, women are likely to think a man is interested in them with little provocation.
On the whole, the stories weren't as bad as some Christian romances, hence the one star. Mind dessert.
Baloney. In real life, women are likely to think a man is interested in them with little provocation.
On the whole, the stories weren't as bad as some Christian romances, hence the one star. Mind dessert.
April 26, 2019
Alright started this about three years ago.
Still want to finish it as the stories I did read were pretty good. Problem is I probably won't get to it this year. So I'm marking this as DNF for now, with every intention of coming back to it and finishing later.
Still want to finish it as the stories I did read were pretty good. Problem is I probably won't get to it this year. So I'm marking this as DNF for now, with every intention of coming back to it and finishing later.
October 30, 2024
Some of these stories were great, and some were not. The ones that I really enjoyed made up for the ones that I didn’t like though! So I’d recommend reading it and sticking around for the good ones.
June 7, 2025
Romantic and funny stories. Short stories are about 50 pages each with breaks every 2-3 pages. Perfect for busy women!
February 24, 2016
A Bride For A Bargain
Amanda Barratt
Delightful tale (think Prince and the Pauper) of two very different walks of life stumbling across one another and striking a bargain to aid the other.
Ada McClane is supporting her ailing brother when she is fired from her job and is struggling to find a way out of her predicament when she runs into one the the richest bachelor in the area. Geoffrey Buchanan has problems of his own with a scheming mother doing all within her power to marry him off. He offers Ada a job to "pretend" to be his fiancé but will the ruse stray into more real territory than either had predicted?
Love's Reward
Susanne Dietz
A ad placed by persons unknown announcing that any lady who can win the heart of architect Daniel Blair kicks off a unique (miss) adventure as the towns young ladies vie for a $1000 cash prize. Meanwhile Daniel has eyes only for childhood sweetheart Josie.
A clever little story that doesn't suffer from being of the shorter Novella format and it's author managed to multilayer several complex characters and storyline. It left me chuckling to the end.
A Doctor's Agreement
Cynthia Hickey
Probably my favorite story so far (I'm reviewing each individual one as I read) and will be hard pressed to be beaten.
Harlarious scenario as childhood sweethearts end up on opposite sides of a contest with with price marriage.
Loved the multitude of characters for a short story to include and the time frame which never felt rushed or too slow. Brillant.
The Highwayman
Shandon McNeal
Loved this Clark Kent/Superman (modern example I could think of) which pits a wagon master who travels by day with his brother and struggles to string two words together around the girl who loves, Sally the innkeepers daughter. But by night he dones the mask of a Highwayman and literally sweeps in to save the day.
Sally meanwhile has no idea of the connection between the two and soon is madly in love with said Highwayman and the mystery and danger that brings.
A cute little tale which let's the reader in on the plot before the character which I enjoyed. A different time and setting to most of the other stories kept it fresh too.
Four Brides and a Bachelor
Gabrielle Meyer
Another cute story - a old fashioned version of the bachelor tv show meets arranged marriage and that's not a sentence I imagined I'd be tying about this short story. Read it and you'll know what I mean.
The Most Ineligible Bachelor in Town
Connie Stevens
Loved this sweet tale of michah the post and Telegraph operator who had admired his beau from afar but didn't know what to do about it. Not a deeply absorbing take but still a fun little read.
The Archaeologist's Find
Erica Veatch
Another great little tale with a twist. The two protagonists think each other are the Pauper in this prince and pauper style set up. Misunderstanding and miscommunication abound. But you know it'll all work out in the end...somehow.
Baker's Dozen
Gina Welborn
Classic storyline of Duke Baker recently widowed and trying to bring up his daughter and his well meaning father insisting on helping him find a new wife. 12 socialites enter and the choosing begins. But might Duke's choice he closer to home than he could imagine?
The Final Baker Bride
Kathleen Y'Barbo
A cute little tale of initial mistaken identity - she thinks he’s a taxi cab and he’s destined to be her new boss. I loved the starting premise which drew out into a cute little story of two very different people from different walks of life finding common ground. Lovely finale novella.
Amanda Barratt
Delightful tale (think Prince and the Pauper) of two very different walks of life stumbling across one another and striking a bargain to aid the other.
Ada McClane is supporting her ailing brother when she is fired from her job and is struggling to find a way out of her predicament when she runs into one the the richest bachelor in the area. Geoffrey Buchanan has problems of his own with a scheming mother doing all within her power to marry him off. He offers Ada a job to "pretend" to be his fiancé but will the ruse stray into more real territory than either had predicted?
Love's Reward
Susanne Dietz
A ad placed by persons unknown announcing that any lady who can win the heart of architect Daniel Blair kicks off a unique (miss) adventure as the towns young ladies vie for a $1000 cash prize. Meanwhile Daniel has eyes only for childhood sweetheart Josie.
A clever little story that doesn't suffer from being of the shorter Novella format and it's author managed to multilayer several complex characters and storyline. It left me chuckling to the end.
A Doctor's Agreement
Cynthia Hickey
Probably my favorite story so far (I'm reviewing each individual one as I read) and will be hard pressed to be beaten.
Harlarious scenario as childhood sweethearts end up on opposite sides of a contest with with price marriage.
Loved the multitude of characters for a short story to include and the time frame which never felt rushed or too slow. Brillant.
The Highwayman
Shandon McNeal
Loved this Clark Kent/Superman (modern example I could think of) which pits a wagon master who travels by day with his brother and struggles to string two words together around the girl who loves, Sally the innkeepers daughter. But by night he dones the mask of a Highwayman and literally sweeps in to save the day.
Sally meanwhile has no idea of the connection between the two and soon is madly in love with said Highwayman and the mystery and danger that brings.
A cute little tale which let's the reader in on the plot before the character which I enjoyed. A different time and setting to most of the other stories kept it fresh too.
Four Brides and a Bachelor
Gabrielle Meyer
Another cute story - a old fashioned version of the bachelor tv show meets arranged marriage and that's not a sentence I imagined I'd be tying about this short story. Read it and you'll know what I mean.
The Most Ineligible Bachelor in Town
Connie Stevens
Loved this sweet tale of michah the post and Telegraph operator who had admired his beau from afar but didn't know what to do about it. Not a deeply absorbing take but still a fun little read.
The Archaeologist's Find
Erica Veatch
Another great little tale with a twist. The two protagonists think each other are the Pauper in this prince and pauper style set up. Misunderstanding and miscommunication abound. But you know it'll all work out in the end...somehow.
Baker's Dozen
Gina Welborn
Classic storyline of Duke Baker recently widowed and trying to bring up his daughter and his well meaning father insisting on helping him find a new wife. 12 socialites enter and the choosing begins. But might Duke's choice he closer to home than he could imagine?
The Final Baker Bride
Kathleen Y'Barbo
A cute little tale of initial mistaken identity - she thinks he’s a taxi cab and he’s destined to be her new boss. I loved the starting premise which drew out into a cute little story of two very different people from different walks of life finding common ground. Lovely finale novella.
July 16, 2016
The Most Eligible Bachelor Collection
1. A Bride for a Bargain by Amanda Barratt - 4.5 stars - I really enjoyed this story! I thought it was cute, and even though I worried that the concept would be too incredible, I didn't find the need to suspend my disbelief very much at all. A sweet, thoughtful story over all.
4. The Highwayman by Shannon McNear - 3.5 stars - I started to enjoy this story much more when I stopped picturing the H&H as teenagers. They weren't teenagers but for some reason that was how my mind read their individual personalities, traits, and actions. Anyways... it wasn't terrible by any means, but the H&H had little depth of character, and for the most part acted romantically cliche. I think the thing I appreciated the most was just the way the author skillfully wrote with the dialect and phraseology of Colonial times.
5. Four Brides and a Bachelor by Gabrielle Meyer - 5 stars - This story was SO good! And to think I almost didn't read it!? The best way to describe it is to liken it to a chaste, old fashioned, 1852 version of "The Bachelor." It had moments that made me giddy, and it had moments that were lovely and introspective. It literally made me cry!
6. The Most Ineligible Bachelor In Town by Connie Stevens - 3.5 stars - This story ended so abruptly! I never got to observe the H&H as an actual couple, which is such a shame because they obviously would've been one of the sweetest couples of all time! An introverted hero is not something you come across very often in stories. I enjoyed it very much as I was reading it, but I would've seriously appreciated at least an epilogue.
7. The Archaeologist's Find by Erica Vetsch - 4 stars - Erica Vetsch is quickly becoming a favorite of mine, and this story did not fail my expectations of her writing. Her characters are crafted very creatively, and the historical topics in her stories are very detailed and well researched. The way she weaves little facts about the period into conversation is not just informative, but entertaining as well. An epilogue would have been SO cool at the end of this particular story!
8. Baker's Dozen by Gina Welborn - 4.5 stars - O How I would've loved an epilogue! Gina Welborn is another author who has quickly risen to the top of my favorite authors list. I've come to expect gut-punching, heart-rending writing in her stories--I'm also enthralled that at the same time there is also laugh out loud humor peppered throughout. It is a major fete to accomplish both simultaneously and because of this, her characters are very beloved of mine. This story did not fail to intrigue and capture my full attention, and I sincerely wish it had been longer!
1. A Bride for a Bargain by Amanda Barratt - 4.5 stars - I really enjoyed this story! I thought it was cute, and even though I worried that the concept would be too incredible, I didn't find the need to suspend my disbelief very much at all. A sweet, thoughtful story over all.
4. The Highwayman by Shannon McNear - 3.5 stars - I started to enjoy this story much more when I stopped picturing the H&H as teenagers. They weren't teenagers but for some reason that was how my mind read their individual personalities, traits, and actions. Anyways... it wasn't terrible by any means, but the H&H had little depth of character, and for the most part acted romantically cliche. I think the thing I appreciated the most was just the way the author skillfully wrote with the dialect and phraseology of Colonial times.
5. Four Brides and a Bachelor by Gabrielle Meyer - 5 stars - This story was SO good! And to think I almost didn't read it!? The best way to describe it is to liken it to a chaste, old fashioned, 1852 version of "The Bachelor." It had moments that made me giddy, and it had moments that were lovely and introspective. It literally made me cry!
6. The Most Ineligible Bachelor In Town by Connie Stevens - 3.5 stars - This story ended so abruptly! I never got to observe the H&H as an actual couple, which is such a shame because they obviously would've been one of the sweetest couples of all time! An introverted hero is not something you come across very often in stories. I enjoyed it very much as I was reading it, but I would've seriously appreciated at least an epilogue.
7. The Archaeologist's Find by Erica Vetsch - 4 stars - Erica Vetsch is quickly becoming a favorite of mine, and this story did not fail my expectations of her writing. Her characters are crafted very creatively, and the historical topics in her stories are very detailed and well researched. The way she weaves little facts about the period into conversation is not just informative, but entertaining as well. An epilogue would have been SO cool at the end of this particular story!
8. Baker's Dozen by Gina Welborn - 4.5 stars - O How I would've loved an epilogue! Gina Welborn is another author who has quickly risen to the top of my favorite authors list. I've come to expect gut-punching, heart-rending writing in her stories--I'm also enthralled that at the same time there is also laugh out loud humor peppered throughout. It is a major fete to accomplish both simultaneously and because of this, her characters are very beloved of mine. This story did not fail to intrigue and capture my full attention, and I sincerely wish it had been longer!
July 29, 2015
This book is a collection of nine short romance stories, all set at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries. It's hard to rate a book of multiple stories, because some are so much better than the others. In general, I'm not a big fan of short stories, but two of these make the price of the book worth it.
There is one in here that really stood out to me titled "The Highwayman" by Shannon McNear. This story surpassed the others in the uniqueness of its main characters. Ms. McNear defied the stereotypical hero and heroine so commonly found in short romances. You can't help but connect with these two people and wish them their the desires of their hearts. I haven't read anything by this author before, but I'll be looking for her first full-length novel.
My second choice is "The Most Ineligible Bachelor in Town" by Connie Stevens for some of the same reasons. The hero and heroine are both down-to-earth people, the type you'd invite over for dinner after church. He's got his quirks and she's got some baggage, but you want them to get it figured out.
There aren't any bad stories in this collection. I just highlighted the two that really caught my eye. They are all light reading and suitable for all ages.
There is one in here that really stood out to me titled "The Highwayman" by Shannon McNear. This story surpassed the others in the uniqueness of its main characters. Ms. McNear defied the stereotypical hero and heroine so commonly found in short romances. You can't help but connect with these two people and wish them their the desires of their hearts. I haven't read anything by this author before, but I'll be looking for her first full-length novel.
My second choice is "The Most Ineligible Bachelor in Town" by Connie Stevens for some of the same reasons. The hero and heroine are both down-to-earth people, the type you'd invite over for dinner after church. He's got his quirks and she's got some baggage, but you want them to get it figured out.
There aren't any bad stories in this collection. I just highlighted the two that really caught my eye. They are all light reading and suitable for all ages.
January 17, 2025
I stumbled upon this title in a little free library in my hometown, and wow was this ever a pleasant surprise. I'm often not a huge fan of novella collections as usually I either end up feeling like the stories aren't developed enough for the short word count, or I end up only liking a few of the included ones. However, never before have I picked up a novella collection where I truly adored each and every title.
While each story is short and sweet, they were also heartwarming and swoon worthy, and each pointed to the importance of faith no matter what the circumstances may bring. I'm not going to review each individual title as I don't want this review to be as long as the book itself, but I will say that The Archeologist's Find was my personal favorite, although I ended up loving each one in its own way.
If you're looking for a clean, faith based novella collection that will tug at your heart strings, and leave you with a big smile on your face while you cheer on many happily ever afters, then this is definitely the book for you.
Final Rating: 4/5.
While each story is short and sweet, they were also heartwarming and swoon worthy, and each pointed to the importance of faith no matter what the circumstances may bring. I'm not going to review each individual title as I don't want this review to be as long as the book itself, but I will say that The Archeologist's Find was my personal favorite, although I ended up loving each one in its own way.
If you're looking for a clean, faith based novella collection that will tug at your heart strings, and leave you with a big smile on your face while you cheer on many happily ever afters, then this is definitely the book for you.
Final Rating: 4/5.
September 16, 2016
Another nice collection of novellas to entertain the historical fiction/historical romance reader without getting too deep into the subject matter. Lovely little vignettes that are nice for an afternoon or vacation. They are well written and easy to read.
June 6, 2018
9 in 1--Love & Romance Collection Series
May 17, 2015
Review to come!
July 20, 2015
I enjoyed spending time reading about the past and romance. Sometimes I felt money was an important need in romance (it's not).
July 10, 2015
The stories were short and sweet but it drove me nuts that the story ended without the couples actually making it to the altar. I felt like the stories were unfinished.
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