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The Nutcracker Bride
New--The 12 Brides of Christmas! You're invited to a Christmas wedding...that is twelve of them! Discover the joy of an old-fashioned Christmas romance with these twelve heart-warming stories. Brand-new stories from renowned inspirational fiction authors that take you into the heartland of historical America will releas each week starting October 6.
#2: The Nutcracker Bride
While gathering walnuts, someone throws a bag of money into Lucy Langdon’s wagon. Now Chad Prescott, a Texas ranger, is determined to recover the bag, but not before he is shot as a prowler. Waking up in a house full of German nutcrackers is rather disconcerting for this lawman, but not as troublesome as feeling his heart fall for the lovely Lucy.
Don't be late! Watch for all 12 stories:
October 6 - #1: The Advent Bride
October 13 - #2: The Nutcraker Bride
October 20 - #3: The Evergreen Bride
October 27 - #4: The Gift-Wrapped Bride
November 3 - #5: The Yuletide Bride
November 10 - #6: The Gingerbread Bride
November 17 - #7: The Nativity Bride
November 24 - #8: The Christmas Tree Bride
December 1 - #9: The Festive Bride
December 8 - #10: The Christmas Star Bride
December 15 - #11: The Snowbound Bride
December 22 - #12: The Fruitcake Bride
...have yourself a Cozy Little Christmas!
#2: The Nutcracker Bride
While gathering walnuts, someone throws a bag of money into Lucy Langdon’s wagon. Now Chad Prescott, a Texas ranger, is determined to recover the bag, but not before he is shot as a prowler. Waking up in a house full of German nutcrackers is rather disconcerting for this lawman, but not as troublesome as feeling his heart fall for the lovely Lucy.
Don't be late! Watch for all 12 stories:
October 6 - #1: The Advent Bride
October 13 - #2: The Nutcraker Bride
October 20 - #3: The Evergreen Bride
October 27 - #4: The Gift-Wrapped Bride
November 3 - #5: The Yuletide Bride
November 10 - #6: The Gingerbread Bride
November 17 - #7: The Nativity Bride
November 24 - #8: The Christmas Tree Bride
December 1 - #9: The Festive Bride
December 8 - #10: The Christmas Star Bride
December 15 - #11: The Snowbound Bride
December 22 - #12: The Fruitcake Bride
...have yourself a Cozy Little Christmas!
50 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 13, 2014
12 people are currently reading
243 people want to read
About the author
Margaret Brownley
67 books772 followersBEST-SELLING AUTHOR MARGARET BROWNLEY has penned nearly forty novels and novellas. Her books have won numerous awards, including Readers' Choice and Award of Excellence. She's was a two-time Romance Writers of American RITA® finalist and has written for a TV soap. She is currently working on a new series. Not bad for someone who flunked eighth grade English. Just don't ask her to diagram a sentence.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
February 9, 2015
The Nutcracker Bride is the second book in the 12 Brides of Christmas series, but they are not connected to each other except in theme, so you can read them in any order you choose (me being me, I have to read them in order). This series of short story/novellas features the stories of love/courtship/marriage for one woman during the Christmas season. From what I have read so far (4 books) they appear to all be sent in the American western frontier in the late 1800s – a relatively new setting for me, and an entirely welcome change. As the description implies, they are historical romances and Christian fiction as well – however they all feature a different depth to the religion.
Lucy is a home baker who is known for the German delicacies that she makes and delivers to local friends, family, and customers. She is also taking care of her elderly grandfather in the home and all that entails. Oh, and she is also caring for the man who suddenly showed up on her property and whom she also shot out of fear. Seeing the interactions between Lucy and Chad develop from fear to care felt natural – considering it is a forced relationship and when you are with someone all the time a relationship can develop faster.
Chad Prescott was a very fun romantic hero. He certainly grew into the relationship faster than Lucy. He was also one that was a little hard to pin down – is he a good guy or bad guy? What is his mission? Will Lucy ever see him again? Lucy was a little more straightforward. She is caring for her grandfather and that is her sole mission at this point.
At the real heart of this story is the nutcrackers, as the title implies. I loved learning the old German tradition of the nutcrackers and how it was woven into the story plot, not just as a brief note in passing. It was also nice to see the interplay of old family traditions with Lucy’s Christian beliefs. It felt very, very natural.
Overall, I loved the characters and could certainly see myself enjoying them in a longer story arc.
This review was previously posted at The Maiden's Court blog.
Lucy is a home baker who is known for the German delicacies that she makes and delivers to local friends, family, and customers. She is also taking care of her elderly grandfather in the home and all that entails. Oh, and she is also caring for the man who suddenly showed up on her property and whom she also shot out of fear. Seeing the interactions between Lucy and Chad develop from fear to care felt natural – considering it is a forced relationship and when you are with someone all the time a relationship can develop faster.
Chad Prescott was a very fun romantic hero. He certainly grew into the relationship faster than Lucy. He was also one that was a little hard to pin down – is he a good guy or bad guy? What is his mission? Will Lucy ever see him again? Lucy was a little more straightforward. She is caring for her grandfather and that is her sole mission at this point.
At the real heart of this story is the nutcrackers, as the title implies. I loved learning the old German tradition of the nutcrackers and how it was woven into the story plot, not just as a brief note in passing. It was also nice to see the interplay of old family traditions with Lucy’s Christian beliefs. It felt very, very natural.
Overall, I loved the characters and could certainly see myself enjoying them in a longer story arc.
This review was previously posted at The Maiden's Court blog.
October 13, 2014
I absolutely loved reading this! I couldn’t put it down. Chad and Lucy are thrown together in a most unique way that makes you smile and laugh at their banter. I always love reading the books from authors who put dry humor into their characters and story. The danger lurking, the hardships of taking care of an aging grandfather, keeping up with chores and baking, all the while having an injured Ranger in your house make for an engaging story. Lucy had given up her dreams of ever finding a man and Chad has justice on his mind. Find out how they find a way to make it work and find their dreams!
I received the book for an honest review.
I received the book for an honest review.
October 28, 2014
The nutcracker bride
This book takes place in 1880, Lucy takes care of her grandfather, he has a problem with his mind after his wife passes away. A ranger shows up at her place, startled her and she shoots him by accident. She ends up taking care of him and then he helps her after he gets better. He has to leave to catch the bad guys, will he return? Read and find out. A good short read.
This book takes place in 1880, Lucy takes care of her grandfather, he has a problem with his mind after his wife passes away. A ranger shows up at her place, startled her and she shoots him by accident. She ends up taking care of him and then he helps her after he gets better. He has to leave to catch the bad guys, will he return? Read and find out. A good short read.
November 9, 2014
What a special Christmas novella. I enjoyed it so much. Now I will have to look for a nutcracker bride. As Usual this author wrote a tremendous story. I did not want to put the book down and will want to read this story again,
November 23, 2014
Cute. Cute. Cute!
I have fallen for short stories lately because they are perfect for my amount of time. :). This one was a great one and I really enjoyed it.
I do wonder what happens with the GrAndpa?
I have fallen for short stories lately because they are perfect for my amount of time. :). This one was a great one and I really enjoyed it.
I do wonder what happens with the GrAndpa?
December 17, 2014
Cute, super short Christmas novella... I liked learning more about the traditions & history of the nutcracker. And the romance was sweet. :)
December 18, 2014
Sweet novella to get you in the mood for Christmas!
December 7, 2017
Loved this one!
July 13, 2019
Title: The Nutcracker Bride
Author: Margaret Brownley
Series: The 12 Brides of Christmas, 2
Format: ebook, bind-up
Length: 50 pages
Rating: 3 stars
Synopsis: While gathering walnuts, someone throws a bag of money into Lucy Langdon’s wagon. Now Chad Prescott, a Texas ranger, is determined to recover the bag, but not before he is shot as a prowler. Waking up in a house full of German nutcrackers is rather disconcerting for this lawman, but not as troublesome as feeling his heart fall for the lovely Lucy.
Favourite character: Lucy
Least favourite character: N/A
Mini-review: Much better than the novella I read before this one. This is the kind of historical fiction I'm here for: falling in love naturally rather than an arranged marriage and having to listen to the two people complain about the other for more than half the book. I liked Lucy and Chad's relationship. I thought the nutcrackers were fascinating even though I'm pretty sure I'd be scared of them. I thought the addition of Lucy taking care of her grandfather who has dementia was a great addition.
Fan Cast:
Lucy Langdon - Deborah Ann Woll
Chad Prescott - Torrance Coombs
Author: Margaret Brownley
Series: The 12 Brides of Christmas, 2
Format: ebook, bind-up
Length: 50 pages
Rating: 3 stars
Synopsis: While gathering walnuts, someone throws a bag of money into Lucy Langdon’s wagon. Now Chad Prescott, a Texas ranger, is determined to recover the bag, but not before he is shot as a prowler. Waking up in a house full of German nutcrackers is rather disconcerting for this lawman, but not as troublesome as feeling his heart fall for the lovely Lucy.
Favourite character: Lucy
Least favourite character: N/A
Mini-review: Much better than the novella I read before this one. This is the kind of historical fiction I'm here for: falling in love naturally rather than an arranged marriage and having to listen to the two people complain about the other for more than half the book. I liked Lucy and Chad's relationship. I thought the nutcrackers were fascinating even though I'm pretty sure I'd be scared of them. I thought the addition of Lucy taking care of her grandfather who has dementia was a great addition.
Fan Cast:
Lucy Langdon - Deborah Ann Woll
Chad Prescott - Torrance Coombs
December 28, 2023
Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
This was my first time reading a Christmas story let alone a Historical Fiction by Margaret but i have to say THIS is MY Favorite by far in this Novella series!!
The research and facts she included in this story was so amazing to learn about. I love that there was history of why People would put Nutcrackers in their windows in Germany and the decendents kept doing that through the late 1880s. I also loved how there were 2 German Cookie Recipes featured in this book too. The first one i probably wont make cause im not a fan of Licorice tastes but the second one i definately will.
The Characters were fun and enjoyable to read about. Lucy was definately my favorite. I loved how she continued to care for her Grandfather long after her Grandma passed on and continued to make Nutcrackers while running a bakery out of their home.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Kansas 1880 especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a Phenomenal Book about a Nutcracker and Bakery Shop!! Can't wait to read more by Margaret in the future!!
Review:
This was my first time reading a Christmas story let alone a Historical Fiction by Margaret but i have to say THIS is MY Favorite by far in this Novella series!!
The research and facts she included in this story was so amazing to learn about. I love that there was history of why People would put Nutcrackers in their windows in Germany and the decendents kept doing that through the late 1880s. I also loved how there were 2 German Cookie Recipes featured in this book too. The first one i probably wont make cause im not a fan of Licorice tastes but the second one i definately will.
The Characters were fun and enjoyable to read about. Lucy was definately my favorite. I loved how she continued to care for her Grandfather long after her Grandma passed on and continued to make Nutcrackers while running a bakery out of their home.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Kansas 1880 especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a Phenomenal Book about a Nutcracker and Bakery Shop!! Can't wait to read more by Margaret in the future!!
March 7, 2021
This is a very quick read.
Lucy lives alone with her Grandfather. He is no longer responsive to her or anyone. He simply wants to go outside to find his wife of many years. She died and he is unable to find her.
Lucy is also a baker for people in the nearby town and neighbors all around her.
Chad is a Texas Ranger who dropped a bag in Lucy’s wagon as he was riding past her. It contained a great deal of money that Chad was trying to save from a group of outlaws.
Lucy is not sure whether Chad is an outlaw. When there is a blizzard, she hides the money under a floor board. Then when Chad comes back during the blizzard looking for the lost money, she shoots him.
It is nearly Christmas, there is a blizzard going on outside and Lucy and Chad are basically living in a small warm place within the blizzard.
This is a sweet story about two people who find that even the cold outside cannot end the warmth in a heart.
Lucy lives alone with her Grandfather. He is no longer responsive to her or anyone. He simply wants to go outside to find his wife of many years. She died and he is unable to find her.
Lucy is also a baker for people in the nearby town and neighbors all around her.
Chad is a Texas Ranger who dropped a bag in Lucy’s wagon as he was riding past her. It contained a great deal of money that Chad was trying to save from a group of outlaws.
Lucy is not sure whether Chad is an outlaw. When there is a blizzard, she hides the money under a floor board. Then when Chad comes back during the blizzard looking for the lost money, she shoots him.
It is nearly Christmas, there is a blizzard going on outside and Lucy and Chad are basically living in a small warm place within the blizzard.
This is a sweet story about two people who find that even the cold outside cannot end the warmth in a heart.
September 22, 2018
An adorable novella in the 12 Brides of Christmas collection from Barbour Publishing, this fun story has two great main characters, an outlaw gang, a blizzard, nutcrackers, Christmas cookies, and a winter romance! Short enough to read in one sitting, lunch break, or work commute yet entertaining enough to make you laugh and your heart smile! I really enjoyed this one!
December 10, 2019
Beautiful christmas story.
I love this story and have read it more than once. The nutcracker bride is a beautiful symbol of love and tradition in this story. I wish these traditions were kept alive in america
I love this story and have read it more than once. The nutcracker bride is a beautiful symbol of love and tradition in this story. I wish these traditions were kept alive in america
November 23, 2021
Broken made musical
Oh!!! Now this is an honest-to-goodness Christmas story. There is romance, but it does not dilute the Christmas message. To me, the best surprise was what became of the original nutcracker bride. Amazingly well done!!!
Oh!!! Now this is an honest-to-goodness Christmas story. There is romance, but it does not dilute the Christmas message. To me, the best surprise was what became of the original nutcracker bride. Amazingly well done!!!
December 11, 2023
I understand that Christians are not perfect but they usually don't lie on purpose and repeatedly, especially when given a second chance to tell the truth. I'm not impressed. Two ridiculous quotes in the book: 1. The fastest way to know a man’s true character is through his relationship to God. → Many non-church goers act better than church-goers. 2. A man who knew his Bible couldn’t be all bad. → My father knew 7 different Bibles by (his dark) heart.
December 8, 2017
read as part of 'The Twelve Brides of Christmas collection'
December 17, 2017
Short read for the money.
February 7, 2019
So far The Nutcracker Bride is my favorite out of the series. This story is driven by a clean romance with a dash of family and a sprinkle of the Wild West themes.
August 4, 2020
Very sweet book. Great book to read to get you in the holiday mood.
September 5, 2020
It was a nice quick read. However, I wished that it lasted longer. There are so many questions I want to know what happens to Lucy and Chad. Anyways quick read. Happy Reading.
November 23, 2020
The Nutcracker Bride
Good sweet story. I have always enjoyed Margaret Brownley's books. Asking for favorite Bible verses was a great idea. Clean romance.
Good sweet story. I have always enjoyed Margaret Brownley's books. Asking for favorite Bible verses was a great idea. Clean romance.
January 26, 2022
4.5 stars
This is so good. I had some moments of pure laughter:).
This is so good. I had some moments of pure laughter:).
October 20, 2014
Great novella!
The Nutcracker Bride is the second novella in Barbour Publishing’s 12 Brides of Christmas series. If you read my review for the first book, then you know I wasn’t a huge fan of it. I’m happy to say that this one is great!
Margaret Brownley is quickly becoming a favorite author of mine. Her books always make me laugh and smile, while also imparting some important spiritual truth. They take me back in time to a life so far removed from our modern one. I loved the historical details she includes, as she paints a picture of a past life and draws me into a story.
The story follows Lucy Langdon and Chad Prescott around Christmas time. I loved getting to know the characters! Lucy is a great heroine, strong and determined, while also showing a softer side on occasion. She has a very strong desire to always do the right thing, though she doesn’t always know what that is. I also loved her care for Chad and her grandfather, though they got on her nerves and definitely kept her on her toes, she was never intentionally unkind to them.
Chad is an interesting hero and I really liked his character. He is a Texas Ranger who ends up shot and being nursed by Lucy. I really enjoyed his wry sense of humor, which had me chuckling several times. He is also kind, stubborn, and strong, which means he and Lucy butt heads more often than not. My favorite thing about him? The care and attention he lavishes on Lucy, as he tries to shoulder some of her burden.
I also really enjoyed their relationship. They start as nothing more than strangers, then slowly become friends. The romance was understated for most of the story, which I appreciated. There were also no unrealistic declarations of love, something that generally bothers me. Novellas are so short, that most of the time, the characters don’t know each other well enough to have fallen in love. That was another thing I particularly enjoyed about this story. The characters spent a fair amount of time together, talking, getting to know one another and in the process, allowing the readers to know them better.
One thing I did find a little strange and is actually what kept me from giving this novella five stars, was something in the spiritual aspect. Lucy has nutcrackers all over the house, which explains the title, and at one point she tells Chad a bit of the history behind them. Which was fine, I enjoyed that part, but what bothered me is that while Lucy prays, there was a reference made to her turning a nutcracker face out, because the house needed all the protection it could get. That just sounded strange to me, because I would think that if you trust in the Lord, then you wouldn’t be thinking a wooden object would be any help whatsoever at protecting your home. It may not bother anyone else, but I felt that could have been left out.
Overall, I would say this is one of the best novellas I have read and I highly recommend it!
I received a free download of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
The Nutcracker Bride is the second novella in Barbour Publishing’s 12 Brides of Christmas series. If you read my review for the first book, then you know I wasn’t a huge fan of it. I’m happy to say that this one is great!
Margaret Brownley is quickly becoming a favorite author of mine. Her books always make me laugh and smile, while also imparting some important spiritual truth. They take me back in time to a life so far removed from our modern one. I loved the historical details she includes, as she paints a picture of a past life and draws me into a story.
The story follows Lucy Langdon and Chad Prescott around Christmas time. I loved getting to know the characters! Lucy is a great heroine, strong and determined, while also showing a softer side on occasion. She has a very strong desire to always do the right thing, though she doesn’t always know what that is. I also loved her care for Chad and her grandfather, though they got on her nerves and definitely kept her on her toes, she was never intentionally unkind to them.
Chad is an interesting hero and I really liked his character. He is a Texas Ranger who ends up shot and being nursed by Lucy. I really enjoyed his wry sense of humor, which had me chuckling several times. He is also kind, stubborn, and strong, which means he and Lucy butt heads more often than not. My favorite thing about him? The care and attention he lavishes on Lucy, as he tries to shoulder some of her burden.
I also really enjoyed their relationship. They start as nothing more than strangers, then slowly become friends. The romance was understated for most of the story, which I appreciated. There were also no unrealistic declarations of love, something that generally bothers me. Novellas are so short, that most of the time, the characters don’t know each other well enough to have fallen in love. That was another thing I particularly enjoyed about this story. The characters spent a fair amount of time together, talking, getting to know one another and in the process, allowing the readers to know them better.
One thing I did find a little strange and is actually what kept me from giving this novella five stars, was something in the spiritual aspect. Lucy has nutcrackers all over the house, which explains the title, and at one point she tells Chad a bit of the history behind them. Which was fine, I enjoyed that part, but what bothered me is that while Lucy prays, there was a reference made to her turning a nutcracker face out, because the house needed all the protection it could get. That just sounded strange to me, because I would think that if you trust in the Lord, then you wouldn’t be thinking a wooden object would be any help whatsoever at protecting your home. It may not bother anyone else, but I felt that could have been left out.
Overall, I would say this is one of the best novellas I have read and I highly recommend it!
I received a free download of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 5, 2014
This was a beautiful story about Lucy Langdon who during the time of 1880, while picking walnuts hears several horses approaching at a fast pace and one of the riders throws something in her wagon. Lucy finding something totally unexpected in the wagon, money, and lots of it, is not sure what to do about it. The cold December day does not make reporting this incident to the local authorities easy for her, especially while having to take care of her aged grandfather.
Her German grandfather, whom she calls “Opa” which is the German version of grandpa, tends to worry her because she isn’t sure if he will walk away or not, his mind no longer functioning as it should. She is now concerned as to whether there are unscrupulous thieves waiting to break into her home, looking for the pouch of money left which had been left in her wagon. She hides the pouch and later when someone approaches her home, is not sure if this is a “good guy” or a “bad guy”.
Texas Ranger Chad Prescott had been riding and searching for a band of thieves. And was near her home and she had no idea who was making the noises that she heard. Was it the thieves? Her shotgun that she carried went off and she wasn’t sure whether she had killed or injured anyone as someone began yelling and banging on her door to let him in. Who was this person and what did he want?
She finds herself fearful yet he convinces her to open her door. It is the person she has accidentally shot. And it becomes necessary for her to care for him.
Lucy provides for herself and her grandfather through her baked goods. Her house is over-filled with nutcrackers and Texas Ranger Chad Prescott is surprised to see them all, made by her German grandparents.
I enjoyed the story of their meeting and circumstances. It was a fun read and Book 2 in the 12 part Christmas Bride Series. You will enjoy this read and also the nummy German Cookie recipe at the end. Can’t wait to try it!
I received this book from Barbour Publishing for my honest review, which I have given.
December 7, 2014
Title: THE NUTCRACKER BRIDE
Author: Margaret Brownley
Publisher: Shiloh Run Studies
October 2014
ASIN: B00NTI2Z6C
Genre: Christmas Novella / Historical / Romance
The 12 Brides of Christmas! You're invited to a Christmas wedding...that is twelve of them! Discover the joy of an old-fashioned Christmas romance with these twelve heart-warming stories. Brand-new stories from renowned inspirational fiction authors that take you into the heartland of historical America will release each week starting October 6.
Author note: The earlier version of this story had some errors that occurred during the electronic conversion. My publisher has fixed the problem. Thank you for your patience and kind understanding.
#2: The Nutcracker Bride
When Texas ranger, Chad Prescott, wakes up from a gunshot injury in Kansas, he finds himself surrounded by German nutcrackers and nursed by the feisty Lucy Langdon. Could this be the start of a beautiful friendship or just a bad dream?
My thoughts: Margaret Brownley is another of my favorite historical authors. I absolutely loved THE NUTCRACKER BRIDE. I thought Lucy’s character was beautifully done and I couoldn’t help but fall in love with Chad. I wanted to see these two get together.
Great Christmas novella. The three stories I read in this collection were stellar (this one, The Christmas Star Bride, and The Gingerbread Bride.. Don't miss THE NUTCRACKER BRIDE.
51 pages.
Don't be late! Watch for all 12 stories:
October 6 - #1: The Advent Bride
October 13 - #2: The Nutcracker Bride
October 20 - #3: The Evergreen Bride
October 27 - #4: The Gift-Wrapped Bride
November 3 - #5: The Yuletide Bride
November 10 - #6: The Gingerbread Bride
November 17 - #7: The Nativity Bride
November 24 - #8: The Christmas Tree Bride
December 1 - #9: The Festive Bride
December 8 - #10: The Christmas Star Bride
December 15 - #11: The Snowbound Bride
December 22 - #12: The Fruitcake Bride
...have yourself a Cozy Little Christmas!
Author: Margaret Brownley
Publisher: Shiloh Run Studies
October 2014
ASIN: B00NTI2Z6C
Genre: Christmas Novella / Historical / Romance
The 12 Brides of Christmas! You're invited to a Christmas wedding...that is twelve of them! Discover the joy of an old-fashioned Christmas romance with these twelve heart-warming stories. Brand-new stories from renowned inspirational fiction authors that take you into the heartland of historical America will release each week starting October 6.
Author note: The earlier version of this story had some errors that occurred during the electronic conversion. My publisher has fixed the problem. Thank you for your patience and kind understanding.
#2: The Nutcracker Bride
When Texas ranger, Chad Prescott, wakes up from a gunshot injury in Kansas, he finds himself surrounded by German nutcrackers and nursed by the feisty Lucy Langdon. Could this be the start of a beautiful friendship or just a bad dream?
My thoughts: Margaret Brownley is another of my favorite historical authors. I absolutely loved THE NUTCRACKER BRIDE. I thought Lucy’s character was beautifully done and I couoldn’t help but fall in love with Chad. I wanted to see these two get together.
Great Christmas novella. The three stories I read in this collection were stellar (this one, The Christmas Star Bride, and The Gingerbread Bride.. Don't miss THE NUTCRACKER BRIDE.
51 pages.
Don't be late! Watch for all 12 stories:
October 6 - #1: The Advent Bride
October 13 - #2: The Nutcracker Bride
October 20 - #3: The Evergreen Bride
October 27 - #4: The Gift-Wrapped Bride
November 3 - #5: The Yuletide Bride
November 10 - #6: The Gingerbread Bride
November 17 - #7: The Nativity Bride
November 24 - #8: The Christmas Tree Bride
December 1 - #9: The Festive Bride
December 8 - #10: The Christmas Star Bride
December 15 - #11: The Snowbound Bride
December 22 - #12: The Fruitcake Bride
...have yourself a Cozy Little Christmas!
October 7, 2014
Lucy Langdon was a force to be reckoned with; with her eyes the color of Texas blue bonnets and her hair like shiny copper. At least, Texas Ranger Chad Prescott thought so, especially when she plugged him with a bullet from her shotgun; after all, he scared her out of her wits!
Lucy Langdon is horrified when she finds a gunnysack full of cash in the bed of her wagon. She has a feeling it came from a handsome rider on a black horse being chased by outlaws. When before mentioned rider shows up at Lucy's door and claims to be a Texas Ranger, she does not know whether or not to believe him; but as a blizzard rages and a man with a bullet hole begs refuge, she allows "Mr. Prescott" to remain in her home while she nurses him back to health. There, within the confines of her grandfather's farm, Lucy and Chad build a fragile friendship, while Lucy continues to bake German pastries(which is her livelihood) and to care for her aged, disoriented "Opa" (German term for grandfather) Chad learns the meaning behind all of the strange looking wooden "puppets" that are scattered through-out the sod rooms, which Lucy informs him that they are hand-carved nutcrackers; her favorite being the "nutcracker bride", painted many years prior by her grandmother.
All good things generally come to an end and when the Dobson gang of outlaws re-appear, Lucy and Chad's relationship is potentially "shattered" when Chad returns to his job as an officer of the law. . . . . . .or is it? Love just might coming knocking on Lucy's door in the shape of a "nutcracker bride"!
This is a clever and captivating little story with delightful humor sprinkled through-out. I received an advance copy of "The Nutcracker Bride" from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
Lucy Langdon is horrified when she finds a gunnysack full of cash in the bed of her wagon. She has a feeling it came from a handsome rider on a black horse being chased by outlaws. When before mentioned rider shows up at Lucy's door and claims to be a Texas Ranger, she does not know whether or not to believe him; but as a blizzard rages and a man with a bullet hole begs refuge, she allows "Mr. Prescott" to remain in her home while she nurses him back to health. There, within the confines of her grandfather's farm, Lucy and Chad build a fragile friendship, while Lucy continues to bake German pastries(which is her livelihood) and to care for her aged, disoriented "Opa" (German term for grandfather) Chad learns the meaning behind all of the strange looking wooden "puppets" that are scattered through-out the sod rooms, which Lucy informs him that they are hand-carved nutcrackers; her favorite being the "nutcracker bride", painted many years prior by her grandmother.
All good things generally come to an end and when the Dobson gang of outlaws re-appear, Lucy and Chad's relationship is potentially "shattered" when Chad returns to his job as an officer of the law. . . . . . .or is it? Love just might coming knocking on Lucy's door in the shape of a "nutcracker bride"!
This is a clever and captivating little story with delightful humor sprinkled through-out. I received an advance copy of "The Nutcracker Bride" from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 9, 2014
Crack this one open for a real treat!
Kindling the Christmas spirit within you to glowing is this absolutely delightful festive tale ‘The Nutcracker Bride’. From the intricately carved, painted nutcrackers adorning Lucy Langdon’s home and the aromas of baking filling its nooks, to heartfelt Christmas carols and gifts, the warmth and joy of the Yuletide season is captured among the pages, infusing happiness, love, and hope in our hearts.
Lucy Langdon is out collecting walnuts for her home-baking business when she is unexpectedly taken by surprise with a flurry of hoof beats and a sudden handsome face with flashing blue eyes, before he then disappears just as quickly on his black steed from masked pursuers. But not before giving her a cryptic message!
Texas Ranger Chad Prescott’s next encounter with the pretty copper-haired woman named Lucy, leaves him with a gunshot wound, a surprising friendship, and more nutcrackers than he’s ever seen in his life. As he tries to figure out this feisty gal, has he also brought trouble to her doorstep?
Lucy’s aged German grandfather whom she lives with, is becoming more disoriented all the time. She has her hands full trying to take of him, tending their farm, and running her bakery. The last thing she needs is a stranger to look after… Or is it?
I always know I’m going to thoroughly enjoy a story when it’s written by Margaret Brownley, and whether it’s a short story like this or a full-length novel, I’m truly never disappointed! While definitely a sweet, heart-warming romance, ‘The Nutcracker Bride’ is also generously sprinkled with laugh-out-loud humor, and served with morsels of fascinating history and traditions of nutcrackers, creatively dispersed throughout this gift of a story!
Kindling the Christmas spirit within you to glowing is this absolutely delightful festive tale ‘The Nutcracker Bride’. From the intricately carved, painted nutcrackers adorning Lucy Langdon’s home and the aromas of baking filling its nooks, to heartfelt Christmas carols and gifts, the warmth and joy of the Yuletide season is captured among the pages, infusing happiness, love, and hope in our hearts.
Lucy Langdon is out collecting walnuts for her home-baking business when she is unexpectedly taken by surprise with a flurry of hoof beats and a sudden handsome face with flashing blue eyes, before he then disappears just as quickly on his black steed from masked pursuers. But not before giving her a cryptic message!
Texas Ranger Chad Prescott’s next encounter with the pretty copper-haired woman named Lucy, leaves him with a gunshot wound, a surprising friendship, and more nutcrackers than he’s ever seen in his life. As he tries to figure out this feisty gal, has he also brought trouble to her doorstep?
Lucy’s aged German grandfather whom she lives with, is becoming more disoriented all the time. She has her hands full trying to take of him, tending their farm, and running her bakery. The last thing she needs is a stranger to look after… Or is it?
I always know I’m going to thoroughly enjoy a story when it’s written by Margaret Brownley, and whether it’s a short story like this or a full-length novel, I’m truly never disappointed! While definitely a sweet, heart-warming romance, ‘The Nutcracker Bride’ is also generously sprinkled with laugh-out-loud humor, and served with morsels of fascinating history and traditions of nutcrackers, creatively dispersed throughout this gift of a story!
October 17, 2014
The Nutcracker Bride – The 12 Brides of Christmas Book #1, "Heartland Christmas Brides" - 4 Novellas)
Margaret Brownley
•°o•:*¨¨*:•. COZY CHRISTMAS READ.•:*¨¨*:• o°•
Chad Prescott is a Texas Ranger in the late 1800s, hunting outlaws in Kansas. Lucy takes care of her aging Opa who suffers from Alzheimer’s. Chad's hunt leads him straight into her path, and their worlds collide. This is a fast paced novella filled with tender moments, a bit of danger, baking Christmas goodies and of course, romance. The setting is Lucy’s home during a blizzard, so it makes for a cozy atmosphere. I have enjoyed Margaret Brownley’s work before, and equally enjoyed this quick read. Since it is a novella, I will not try to give to much away.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars and would recommend it to others as cozy Christmas read.
Included at the end of the book: Recipe for German Zimt Makronen Cookies (almond cookies)
This is BOOK #1 (with 4 authors/stories) included. I am reviewing each story separately as I read them. There are also other books:
Book #2 White Christmas Brides
Book #3 Christmas Wedding Bell Brides
or you can download any of the individual stories alone.
I am offering my honest opinions for no compensation.
©2014 Barbour Publishing
95 Pages (approx.)
Read 10/15/2014
Reviewed 10/16/2014
Margaret Brownley
•°o•:*¨¨*:•. COZY CHRISTMAS READ.•:*¨¨*:• o°•
Chad Prescott is a Texas Ranger in the late 1800s, hunting outlaws in Kansas. Lucy takes care of her aging Opa who suffers from Alzheimer’s. Chad's hunt leads him straight into her path, and their worlds collide. This is a fast paced novella filled with tender moments, a bit of danger, baking Christmas goodies and of course, romance. The setting is Lucy’s home during a blizzard, so it makes for a cozy atmosphere. I have enjoyed Margaret Brownley’s work before, and equally enjoyed this quick read. Since it is a novella, I will not try to give to much away.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars and would recommend it to others as cozy Christmas read.
Included at the end of the book: Recipe for German Zimt Makronen Cookies (almond cookies)
This is BOOK #1 (with 4 authors/stories) included. I am reviewing each story separately as I read them. There are also other books:
Book #2 White Christmas Brides
Book #3 Christmas Wedding Bell Brides
or you can download any of the individual stories alone.
I am offering my honest opinions for no compensation.
©2014 Barbour Publishing
95 Pages (approx.)
Read 10/15/2014
Reviewed 10/16/2014
October 8, 2014
The second addition to the 12 Brides of Christmas, The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley was such a fun read. This story starts with Lucy Langdon gathering walnuts for her Christmas baking when a man races by her wagon yelling "I'll be back for that" and pursued by a group of outlaws. After returning to her grandfather's farm, she discovers a bag stuffed with cash. Soon Texas Ranger, Chad Prescott, returns for his hidden stash to find himself shot by a nervous Lucy. What follows is a cute, easy read that also made my mouth water for some good German baking. I loved Brownley's stories behind the Nutcracker traditions. I've been a fan of nutcrackers since seeing my first performance of the ballet as a young girl, but had never heard some of the traditions behind the carved dolls before this story. Now I want to start a collection of my own! I enjoyed Margaret's addition to this fun Christmas series, and am excited for the next installment.
January 23, 2024
The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley -This one is sweet and sad! I think that many of us feel the weight of bitter sweet Christmas memories. Lucy is preparing for her first Christmas without the grandmother that raised her while trying to take care of her grandfather who is suffering from Alzheimer's. When a gang robs a stage near her house, the Texas ranger chasing them tosses their bad of loot into Lucy's wagon for safe keeping. When he doubles back to reclaim the money, he startles Lucy and gets a bullet in the arm for his trouble. Snowed in right before Christmas, Lucy juggles her last minute bakery orders for her neighbors, her grandfather's care, and patching up the Texas Ranger she shot and is quickly falling for. Sometimes God sends us help is really strange ways! Happy Holiday Reading!
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