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The Westons of Montana #4
The Rancher’s Christmas Bride
Willow Weston, a well-known artist, is working on an upcoming exhibition in Seattle when her brother Hayden puts Hunter Grant in charge of managing The Weston Ranch.
She’s seen the big cowboy with the killer smile around town but so far has managed to ignore the instant tug at her heart when he’s around. But now he’s living on their ranch and is constantly getting in her way, even intruding when she’s swimming naked in her favorite private hot spring.
Like her grandmother, Willow is fey as her mother calls it. She knows when something is wrong and she experiences the feelings of those she loves. She’s made peace with the fact that she’ll never have a family or even consider marriage, but when she and Hunter ended up being fake-engaged, things get complicated. Apart from the fact that she doesn’t want the responsibility of one more person’s feelings to consider, Hunter has made it clear he’s only on the Weston Ranch temporarily. There’s a family ranch waiting for him in Colorado.
There’s no way they can be together forever, is there?
She’s seen the big cowboy with the killer smile around town but so far has managed to ignore the instant tug at her heart when he’s around. But now he’s living on their ranch and is constantly getting in her way, even intruding when she’s swimming naked in her favorite private hot spring.
Like her grandmother, Willow is fey as her mother calls it. She knows when something is wrong and she experiences the feelings of those she loves. She’s made peace with the fact that she’ll never have a family or even consider marriage, but when she and Hunter ended up being fake-engaged, things get complicated. Apart from the fact that she doesn’t want the responsibility of one more person’s feelings to consider, Hunter has made it clear he’s only on the Weston Ranch temporarily. There’s a family ranch waiting for him in Colorado.
There’s no way they can be together forever, is there?
198 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2025
10 people are currently reading
9 people want to read
About the author
Elsa Winckler
118 books293 followersI have been reading love stories for as long as I can remember and when I ‘met’ the classic authors like Jane Austen, Elizabeth Gaskell, Henry James The Brontë sisters, etc. during my studies, I was hooked for life.
I married my college boyfriend and soul mate and we are fortunate to live in the picturesque little seaside village of Betty's Bay, South Africa with the ocean a block away and a beautiful mountain right behind us. And although life so far has not always been an easy ride, it has always been an exiting and interesting one!
I like the heroines in my stories to be beautiful, feisty, independent and headstrong. And the heroes must be strong but possess a generous amount of sensitivity. They are of course, also gorgeous! My stories typically incorporate the family background of the characters to better understand where they come from and who they are when we meet them in the story.
I married my college boyfriend and soul mate and we are fortunate to live in the picturesque little seaside village of Betty's Bay, South Africa with the ocean a block away and a beautiful mountain right behind us. And although life so far has not always been an easy ride, it has always been an exiting and interesting one!
I like the heroines in my stories to be beautiful, feisty, independent and headstrong. And the heroes must be strong but possess a generous amount of sensitivity. They are of course, also gorgeous! My stories typically incorporate the family background of the characters to better understand where they come from and who they are when we meet them in the story.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
November 13, 2025
I do love Marietta and especially at Christmas time, this is book four in this series and Willow’s story, Willow is fey and very determined not to marry, ever but when her brother hires cowboy Hunter Grant to help on the ranch Willow is having trouble keeping the wall around her heart up, how will this turn out?
Because Willow is fey getting too close to someone can be emotional hence no marriage for her, but Hunter what can she say the man is gorgeous and he just gets under her skin in so many ways and she is finding it hard to ignore him, she is busy painting for an exhibition in Seattle and has no time for romance anyway but her mother has other ideas and soon she finds herself in a fake engagement to the one man who maybe could steal her heart.
Hunter originally from Colorado has every intention of going back to his family ranch but being in Marietta not only is he learning about the Weston’s way of ranching he is losing his heart to Willow, will he be able to convince her that they can love, she is very stubborn and has her reasons for not wanting to marry, he is very determined to win her without being pushy.
This is a beautiful story a beautiful setting and wonderful characters, will Willow and Hunter find their way to a HEA? I do highly recommend this one to any lover of a romance that is filled with emotions and so much sensuality, I loved this one and I am sure you will as well.
My thanks to Tule Publishing for my copy to read and review.
Because Willow is fey getting too close to someone can be emotional hence no marriage for her, but Hunter what can she say the man is gorgeous and he just gets under her skin in so many ways and she is finding it hard to ignore him, she is busy painting for an exhibition in Seattle and has no time for romance anyway but her mother has other ideas and soon she finds herself in a fake engagement to the one man who maybe could steal her heart.
Hunter originally from Colorado has every intention of going back to his family ranch but being in Marietta not only is he learning about the Weston’s way of ranching he is losing his heart to Willow, will he be able to convince her that they can love, she is very stubborn and has her reasons for not wanting to marry, he is very determined to win her without being pushy.
This is a beautiful story a beautiful setting and wonderful characters, will Willow and Hunter find their way to a HEA? I do highly recommend this one to any lover of a romance that is filled with emotions and so much sensuality, I loved this one and I am sure you will as well.
My thanks to Tule Publishing for my copy to read and review.
October 25, 2025
Willow Weston, a well-known artist and working on her paintings for a Seattle showing. Hunter Grant has been hired by her brothers to help with the family ranch. Willow has been avoiding him since before he came to work on the ranch. They are forced together more that she likes; she has no intention of getting involved with the handsome man.
Willow is fey and doesn't want to get married and have to feel her husband's feelings it's just too hard. When she is searching for inspiration for her next painting, she ends up painting Hunter on his horse on the ranch.
Wonderful story of falling in love when it's not convenient.
Willow is fey and doesn't want to get married and have to feel her husband's feelings it's just too hard. When she is searching for inspiration for her next painting, she ends up painting Hunter on his horse on the ranch.
Wonderful story of falling in love when it's not convenient.
October 24, 2025
Finally the story I have been waiting for. Throughout the past couple books of this series Willow and her attitude towards Hunter have left me craving more, absolutely needing to know their story. And it did not fail, I loved it so much and it is the perfect Christmas time romance
October 20, 2025
Loved this book. Hunter and Willow have a lot of chemistry but Willow is afraid to commit to anyone as she is a Fae who feels everyone’s emotions and doesn’t want to take on more emotions of anyone she loves as knows that she won’t cope if she loses them as she nearly didn’t recover from losing her brother. After a misunderstanding they become fake engaged and well I’ll just let you read the book to find out the rest!
I received a copy from Booksirens and leave my review voluntarily.
I received a copy from Booksirens and leave my review voluntarily.
November 21, 2025
Hunter and Willow meet briefly in a bar, she shuts him down as she can't get over the fact that her brother died, she blames herself, she's not coping with people leaving her, and the thoughts and feelings of family and friends.
Hunter thinks she's way out of his league!
They meet again when he works on the family ranch, he has to try to keep away from her because his feelings are so strong, but she's hiding from him too.
Willow is an artist getting ready for a gallery show, but she's a couple of paintings short. Hunter saw her when she was hiding at her favourite spot, swimming.
She goes home, grabs her paint and brushes and is amazed by what she's subconsciously painted.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Another great read in the series from Elsa.
Hunter thinks she's way out of his league!
They meet again when he works on the family ranch, he has to try to keep away from her because his feelings are so strong, but she's hiding from him too.
Willow is an artist getting ready for a gallery show, but she's a couple of paintings short. Hunter saw her when she was hiding at her favourite spot, swimming.
She goes home, grabs her paint and brushes and is amazed by what she's subconsciously painted.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Another great read in the series from Elsa.
December 18, 2025
A ROMANCE THAT YOU WILL GET LOST IN
Hunter and Willow. He draws at her heart. She ignores it. But when he comes to manage her families ranch things get harder to ignore. Things get tangeled. Like feelings. Her ability lets the people she cares about intrude in her heart. She knows she'll never have anyone with her emotional baggage. But a misunderstanding puts them together. But Hunter is only at the ranch temporarily. They make a plan that will break their hearts. WOW what a well written romance with a whimsical undertone. The main charecters are amazing and with all the other charecters in the story its like seeing a movie that you get pulled into and dont want to end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Hunter and Willow. He draws at her heart. She ignores it. But when he comes to manage her families ranch things get harder to ignore. Things get tangeled. Like feelings. Her ability lets the people she cares about intrude in her heart. She knows she'll never have anyone with her emotional baggage. But a misunderstanding puts them together. But Hunter is only at the ranch temporarily. They make a plan that will break their hearts. WOW what a well written romance with a whimsical undertone. The main charecters are amazing and with all the other charecters in the story its like seeing a movie that you get pulled into and dont want to end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 9, 2025
Willow and Hunter’s love story is one for the ages. I really enjoyed that the story wasn’t insta love, and that they worked through and overcame so many struggles and difficulties that many couples face in real life. I loved the tie in of the brothers and family elements, and I also really enjoyed the art element. Willow’s character and her special abilities were a beautiful addition to the story. I loved this Christmas bride and her journey 💖
October 9, 2025
reluctance
What better gift can there be than finding love, but nothing in life comes easy, so Hunter and Willow have to overcome quite a few obstacles to make their relationship work - I kept reading and wishing for the best.
What better gift can there be than finding love, but nothing in life comes easy, so Hunter and Willow have to overcome quite a few obstacles to make their relationship work - I kept reading and wishing for the best.
October 9, 2025
This was another great book by Elsa Winckler!! This is a great stand alone or better yet read the series!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 19, 2025
The book is part of a series but you do not need to read the previous books to understand how the characters relate to the two main characters in the book.
I went through an entire roller coaster of emotions as I read the book. But in the end a happily ever after is delivered.
I went through an entire roller coaster of emotions as I read the book. But in the end a happily ever after is delivered.
November 10, 2025
The ranchers Christmas bride by Elsa Winckler
Release date November 11, 2025
This book is part of the Weston’s of Montana series. But most definitely can be read as a standalone.
This is Willow, Weston and Hunter Grant‘s story.
Willow never wants to get married or fall in love. She has a six sense and can feel what her loved ones are feeling and she just feels she could not do it.
And the other reason this relationship just will not work is because Hunter knows that he belongs on his family ranch, which happens to be in Colorado.
This story is unputdownable! The Westons are just a lovely family. They’ve had their tragedies, but they get through them together.
You definitely need to grab this book to see if Willow and Hunter could work things out. You are definitely in for a good read.
Release date November 11, 2025
This book is part of the Weston’s of Montana series. But most definitely can be read as a standalone.
This is Willow, Weston and Hunter Grant‘s story.
Willow never wants to get married or fall in love. She has a six sense and can feel what her loved ones are feeling and she just feels she could not do it.
And the other reason this relationship just will not work is because Hunter knows that he belongs on his family ranch, which happens to be in Colorado.
This story is unputdownable! The Westons are just a lovely family. They’ve had their tragedies, but they get through them together.
You definitely need to grab this book to see if Willow and Hunter could work things out. You are definitely in for a good read.
November 11, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book. It was fun to see how the fake engagement between Hunter and Willow came about. You could really feel their love even though neither one admitted it to the other one. It was also interesting to learn that the Irish beauty had a sixth sense and how that had made her close off her heart to love and marriage. She never wanted to feel that pain again. If only Hunter could tear down her walls. "For the first time she understood what love meant: it wasn't shielding yourself, it was opening yourself up in spite of the fear of getting hurt."I received an advance copy of this book, and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
November 11, 2025
The Rancher’s Christmas Bride (The Westons of Montana Book 4) by Elsa Winckler has a fake engagement between Willow Weston and Hunter Grant. Of course this leads to more that is real instead of pretending. Willow has what the family calls “fey” but it means having a sixth sense. This is a big part of her life and story. Hunter is helping out short term, so this makes for a conflicted story for this couple. A Christmas magical time bring the solutions that they need. A Montana Christmas story of overcoming problems when love is in the air.
November 9, 2025
Great addition to this series. I have been waiting for Willow and Hunter's book and it did not disappoint. Willow is a well known artist and Hunter is working on her family's ranch. These two have so much chemistry between them. Willow and Hunter and not looking for a relationship but a misunderstanding has them fake engaged. The more time they spend together the more their feelings and chemistry grow. Will these two be able to figure out what they both truly want is each other. Highly recommend. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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November 12, 2025One hot brooding cowboy and a complicated woman with a sixth sense used my sixth sense. Willow using her sixth sense as an excuse not to be with Hunter as she is petrified of getting hurt. The heart don't listen to excuses though.
November 10, 2025
I loved this one! Fake engagement, Christmas, small town, just the most fabulous story!
October 28, 2025
Willow knows what everyone calls her "weird" but she can't help being gifted. Her art helps calm her, she loves losing herself in her painting. The problem is she feels too much. Now he's in her head. Hunter should go back to his own families ranch. But working on the Weston's ranch in Marietta is enought forthe time being. Now faking that they are engaged just till she leaves for her art display at the gallery. Then he'll go back to Colorado and work his families ranch. I love reading this series.The closeness of the family is perfect. Yet the story shows how sometimes feelings are hard to fully understand. Can Willow every admit how she feels for Hunter. Will absence finally make the both see what's important. I really hope that there's more in this series.
November 28, 2025
This is Willow and Hunter's story. She's scared of making a commitment to someone because she doesn't want to loose them. Can he show her that you have to live and let other's in and not miss out on love because of fear. Letting the past go is key to her success.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 11, 2025
The Rancher’s Christmas Bride is the fourth book in Elsa Winckler’s heartwarming series, The Weston’s of Montana. I have enjoyed each book in this series about the Weston siblings and this was a terrific addition. This book features Willow Weston, the only daughter and Hunter Grant. She is an artist and has the ability to know things about the people she most cares about. Her mom calls her fey like her Irish grandmother. Hunter Grant was hired by Willow’s brothers as ranch manager to help them out. He is originally from Colorado but has been working in Marietta, Montana. His family has a ranch in Colorado and his intent is to return there in a few weeks. The book is set at the Christmas holidays and we get to enjoy the events in Marietta.
Willow doesn’t plan to ever get married because of her gift to see people’s emotions and know what is happening to them. People in town call her weird and refer to her as cold, one who never cries. She knows all her baggage will turn off any prospective guys. So she focuses on her painting of Montana landscapes. We learn that a year earlier, she had gone to Grey’s saloon and gotten drunk and Hunter had to bring her home. She was embarrassed knowing he had undressed her and put her to bed after she threw up. As the book opens, she is trying to finish her paintings for an exhibit of her work in Seattle. At the family dinner, her mom hears a conversation between Hunter and Willow and she thinks he asked her to marry him. Her mom is trying to get her to get married and she is thrilled. Willow decides to use this to her advantage and announces they are engaged. Hunter goes along with it as he’s been attracted to her. He also realizes he’s moving back to Colorado so that could create issues.
The couple spend time together and their kisses are magical. Willow realizes she is falling for him but she refuses to do anything about it since she doesn’t plan to get married. Her brothers give him a hard time. They are skeptical about the relationship and guilt him into buying a ring. When she puts the ring on, she isn’t able to get it off even though it isn’t tight on her finger. She finds herself painting in a different style which includes Hunter in the pictures. Willow, like her brothers all believed their other brother’s death was their fault. Her brothers have finally gotten past their guilt and suggest that she visit the grave and talk to their brother. Hunter realizes he has fallen in love and knows that he will end up heartbroken when he has to leave. Their plan is to “break up” from their fake engagement when she leaves for her show and he returns to his family’s ranch. She too, is heartbroken.
I loved this story. It is a beautiful romance between two wonderful people. Willow and Hunter are genuine, real people with strong family ties. I enjoyed the inclusion of all their family members and close friends. The interactions between them as well as their family and friends made for an enjoyable story. I also found Lee Hyatt’s cover to be gorgeous and a great accompaniment to this book. It is great to see the people from the prior books and other series in this story as well. Elsa Winckler has given us a well written book with lots of heartfelt moments that I’m happy to recommend. This is another five star book.
I was fortunate to receive this ARC from Tule Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
Willow doesn’t plan to ever get married because of her gift to see people’s emotions and know what is happening to them. People in town call her weird and refer to her as cold, one who never cries. She knows all her baggage will turn off any prospective guys. So she focuses on her painting of Montana landscapes. We learn that a year earlier, she had gone to Grey’s saloon and gotten drunk and Hunter had to bring her home. She was embarrassed knowing he had undressed her and put her to bed after she threw up. As the book opens, she is trying to finish her paintings for an exhibit of her work in Seattle. At the family dinner, her mom hears a conversation between Hunter and Willow and she thinks he asked her to marry him. Her mom is trying to get her to get married and she is thrilled. Willow decides to use this to her advantage and announces they are engaged. Hunter goes along with it as he’s been attracted to her. He also realizes he’s moving back to Colorado so that could create issues.
The couple spend time together and their kisses are magical. Willow realizes she is falling for him but she refuses to do anything about it since she doesn’t plan to get married. Her brothers give him a hard time. They are skeptical about the relationship and guilt him into buying a ring. When she puts the ring on, she isn’t able to get it off even though it isn’t tight on her finger. She finds herself painting in a different style which includes Hunter in the pictures. Willow, like her brothers all believed their other brother’s death was their fault. Her brothers have finally gotten past their guilt and suggest that she visit the grave and talk to their brother. Hunter realizes he has fallen in love and knows that he will end up heartbroken when he has to leave. Their plan is to “break up” from their fake engagement when she leaves for her show and he returns to his family’s ranch. She too, is heartbroken.
I loved this story. It is a beautiful romance between two wonderful people. Willow and Hunter are genuine, real people with strong family ties. I enjoyed the inclusion of all their family members and close friends. The interactions between them as well as their family and friends made for an enjoyable story. I also found Lee Hyatt’s cover to be gorgeous and a great accompaniment to this book. It is great to see the people from the prior books and other series in this story as well. Elsa Winckler has given us a well written book with lots of heartfelt moments that I’m happy to recommend. This is another five star book.
I was fortunate to receive this ARC from Tule Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
November 12, 2025
Willow Weston is a gifted artist whose world is made of colors, brushstrokes, and emotions she can’t turn off. Like her grandmother, she’s “fey”—deeply connected to the feelings of those she loves. It’s both a gift and a burden, one that has convinced her she can never handle the closeness of marriage or a family of her own. To love someone means to feel too much—and after losing her brother, she’s not sure she could survive that kind of heartbreak again.
Enter Hunter Grant, the tall, capable rancher with a smile that could thaw even a Montana winter. He’s been hired to help manage the Weston Ranch, and though Willow has done her best to ignore him, fate (and a few hilarious misunderstandings) have other plans. When a mix-up leads her family to believe they’re engaged, Willow plays along to keep the peace. Hunter agrees—for now. But the more time they spend together, the more pretend starts to feel dangerously real.
Winckler writes with an emotional honesty that makes every scene glow. The chemistry between Willow and Hunter is undeniable—sweet, slow-burn, and full of that quiet tenderness that sneaks up on you. Their journey isn’t just about love; it’s about letting go of guilt, rediscovering joy, and learning that real connection doesn’t drain you—it heals you.
And the setting? Perfection. The snowy Montana landscape, the family dinners, the ranch life—it all feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie with depth, heart, and just the right amount of Christmas sparkle. Fans of the Weston family series will adore seeing familiar faces, but newcomers will fall in love just as easily.
The Rancher’s Christmas Bride is a story about love that feels destined, even when it seems impossible. It’s about choosing vulnerability over fear, and finding home not just in a place—but in a person who sees your light and stays anyway.
If you crave small-town warmth, emotional depth, fake fiancés who turn into forever, and a love that feels touched by a bit of magic, this book will melt your heart faster than snow on Christmas morning.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Enter Hunter Grant, the tall, capable rancher with a smile that could thaw even a Montana winter. He’s been hired to help manage the Weston Ranch, and though Willow has done her best to ignore him, fate (and a few hilarious misunderstandings) have other plans. When a mix-up leads her family to believe they’re engaged, Willow plays along to keep the peace. Hunter agrees—for now. But the more time they spend together, the more pretend starts to feel dangerously real.
Winckler writes with an emotional honesty that makes every scene glow. The chemistry between Willow and Hunter is undeniable—sweet, slow-burn, and full of that quiet tenderness that sneaks up on you. Their journey isn’t just about love; it’s about letting go of guilt, rediscovering joy, and learning that real connection doesn’t drain you—it heals you.
And the setting? Perfection. The snowy Montana landscape, the family dinners, the ranch life—it all feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie with depth, heart, and just the right amount of Christmas sparkle. Fans of the Weston family series will adore seeing familiar faces, but newcomers will fall in love just as easily.
The Rancher’s Christmas Bride is a story about love that feels destined, even when it seems impossible. It’s about choosing vulnerability over fear, and finding home not just in a place—but in a person who sees your light and stays anyway.
If you crave small-town warmth, emotional depth, fake fiancés who turn into forever, and a love that feels touched by a bit of magic, this book will melt your heart faster than snow on Christmas morning.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2025
What a delightful Christmas story from Elsa Winckler, and a welcome return to the Weston Ranch.
Beautiful Willow Weston had what her grandmother called " the Irish Fey "she cold feel the emotions of the people that she loved, she sensed when something was wrong, as she had sensed when her brother Walker had been killed, a death for which she blamed herself.
Willow knew that she would never get married, she couldn't take on another person's emotions, she would put all her love and her energy into her art.
Willow had lived on the beautiful Weston Ranch in the small Montana town of Marietta, as did her mother and her three overprotective brothers, she was preparing for an exhibition in Seattle when her eldest brother had thrown a curved ball into her world, a curved ball in the shape of ruggedly handsome Hunter Grant, who he had appointed as Ranch Manager, the same Hunter who had occupied her dreams, the same Hunter that she would try unsuccessfully to avoid.
Willow's mother desperately wanted to see Willow happily married despite Willows protestations, when she overheard a snippet of conversation between Willow and Hunter she took it out of context and thought that they were engaged.
After the Christmas festivities, Willow was leaving for Seattle, and Hunter, who had always been in love with Willow, but knew that he was punching above his weight, was leaving to take over the family ranch in Colorado, it was because of this that they decided to go along with a fake engagement to keep everyone happy until after Christmas.
Willow and Hunters journey wasn't an easy one, it was funny, it was emotional but most of all, it was filled with a love that they had both tried unsuccessfully to fight. When Hunter saw Willows latest painting, all bets were off, she was his no matter what hurdles they had to jump, but could a long distance romance work ?
A beautiful story that will have you smiling and will have you reaching for the tissue box.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary
Beautiful Willow Weston had what her grandmother called " the Irish Fey "she cold feel the emotions of the people that she loved, she sensed when something was wrong, as she had sensed when her brother Walker had been killed, a death for which she blamed herself.
Willow knew that she would never get married, she couldn't take on another person's emotions, she would put all her love and her energy into her art.
Willow had lived on the beautiful Weston Ranch in the small Montana town of Marietta, as did her mother and her three overprotective brothers, she was preparing for an exhibition in Seattle when her eldest brother had thrown a curved ball into her world, a curved ball in the shape of ruggedly handsome Hunter Grant, who he had appointed as Ranch Manager, the same Hunter who had occupied her dreams, the same Hunter that she would try unsuccessfully to avoid.
Willow's mother desperately wanted to see Willow happily married despite Willows protestations, when she overheard a snippet of conversation between Willow and Hunter she took it out of context and thought that they were engaged.
After the Christmas festivities, Willow was leaving for Seattle, and Hunter, who had always been in love with Willow, but knew that he was punching above his weight, was leaving to take over the family ranch in Colorado, it was because of this that they decided to go along with a fake engagement to keep everyone happy until after Christmas.
Willow and Hunters journey wasn't an easy one, it was funny, it was emotional but most of all, it was filled with a love that they had both tried unsuccessfully to fight. When Hunter saw Willows latest painting, all bets were off, she was his no matter what hurdles they had to jump, but could a long distance romance work ?
A beautiful story that will have you smiling and will have you reaching for the tissue box.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary
November 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Magical, Snow-Kissed Romance Filled With Heart, Heat, and Holiday Charm. The Rancher’s Christmas Bride is a beautifully written, emotionally rich western romance that swept me away from the very first chapter. Elsa Winckler delivers a heartfelt slow burn full of family, fate, and Christmas magic—with two characters you can’t help but root for.
Willow Weston is such a unique and compelling heroine. A talented artist with a sensitive, almost mystical connection to the feelings of the people she loves, she’s spent years convincing herself that marriage and motherhood just aren’t options for her. Her emotional “fey” nature makes her afraid of letting anyone in—and that vulnerability makes her instantly relatable.
Then comes Hunter Grant… the quiet, rugged cowboy with a smile that could melt Montana snow. He arrives to help manage the Weston Ranch, but what he really does is turn Willow’s carefully ordered life upside down. The forced proximity is delightful—whether he’s stumbling across her in her private hot spring (unforgettable!) or challenging her walls without even realizing it.
Their fake engagement is the perfect setup for sparks, tension, and tenderness. Hunter is steady, loyal, and far more thoughtful than he gives himself credit for. Willow is cautious but irresistibly drawn to him. Watching their connection deepen felt like watching a Christmas miracle unfold in slow motion.
Even as they fight their growing feelings—burdened by fear, distance, and plans pulling them in opposite directions—you can’t help believing they’re meant for each other.
This is the kind of comforting holiday romance that leaves you smiling long after the final page. A perfect winter read and an absolute five-star experience.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Willow Weston is such a unique and compelling heroine. A talented artist with a sensitive, almost mystical connection to the feelings of the people she loves, she’s spent years convincing herself that marriage and motherhood just aren’t options for her. Her emotional “fey” nature makes her afraid of letting anyone in—and that vulnerability makes her instantly relatable.
Then comes Hunter Grant… the quiet, rugged cowboy with a smile that could melt Montana snow. He arrives to help manage the Weston Ranch, but what he really does is turn Willow’s carefully ordered life upside down. The forced proximity is delightful—whether he’s stumbling across her in her private hot spring (unforgettable!) or challenging her walls without even realizing it.
Their fake engagement is the perfect setup for sparks, tension, and tenderness. Hunter is steady, loyal, and far more thoughtful than he gives himself credit for. Willow is cautious but irresistibly drawn to him. Watching their connection deepen felt like watching a Christmas miracle unfold in slow motion.
Even as they fight their growing feelings—burdened by fear, distance, and plans pulling them in opposite directions—you can’t help believing they’re meant for each other.
This is the kind of comforting holiday romance that leaves you smiling long after the final page. A perfect winter read and an absolute five-star experience.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 22, 2025
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
The Rancher’s Christmas Bride is the fourth title in The Westons of Montana series. Sometimes I’ll be fascinated by (and perhaps a bit impatient for the story of) a recurring character, one that I know will one day have their story told. For me, in this series, that character was Willow, with her unique empathic abilities, a touch of fey, and her hidden strength as events happened within the Weston family. She certainly has the right to protect herself from the onslaught of emotions flowing off of those she loves… yet, she’s also created a bit of a prison cell for herself as she keeps her heart locked behind high walls. Those emotions that she shelters flow through her paintings, some often speak a truth that her heart (or her mind) hasn’t yet acknowledged. One of those things would be Hunter, and the feelings she simply cannot control for this annoying, stubborn cowboy, who she’s certain is not the staying kind.
I loved every aspect of The Rancher’s Christmas Bride by Elsa Winckler. It answered every question, fulfilled every hope I’d had for this couple, and delivered a heartfelt story that is everything I want in a romance… especially one set in my favorite fictional town of Marietta, Montana. It’s well-written, full of laughter and tears, comfort and fear, discovery and finding that safe haven we all need. Willow and Hunter’s story lingered long after I closed the book. If that’s your kind of romance, then you’d love their story.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author’s team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review, giving my personal opinion about this book.*
The Rancher’s Christmas Bride is the fourth title in The Westons of Montana series. Sometimes I’ll be fascinated by (and perhaps a bit impatient for the story of) a recurring character, one that I know will one day have their story told. For me, in this series, that character was Willow, with her unique empathic abilities, a touch of fey, and her hidden strength as events happened within the Weston family. She certainly has the right to protect herself from the onslaught of emotions flowing off of those she loves… yet, she’s also created a bit of a prison cell for herself as she keeps her heart locked behind high walls. Those emotions that she shelters flow through her paintings, some often speak a truth that her heart (or her mind) hasn’t yet acknowledged. One of those things would be Hunter, and the feelings she simply cannot control for this annoying, stubborn cowboy, who she’s certain is not the staying kind.
I loved every aspect of The Rancher’s Christmas Bride by Elsa Winckler. It answered every question, fulfilled every hope I’d had for this couple, and delivered a heartfelt story that is everything I want in a romance… especially one set in my favorite fictional town of Marietta, Montana. It’s well-written, full of laughter and tears, comfort and fear, discovery and finding that safe haven we all need. Willow and Hunter’s story lingered long after I closed the book. If that’s your kind of romance, then you’d love their story.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author’s team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review, giving my personal opinion about this book.*
November 10, 2025
From the very beginning of the series, I’ve been eager for Willow’s story and it didn’t disappoint. Willow has always been a fascinating character: what her mother lovingly calls fey, she possesses an extraordinary gift that allows her to sense the emotions of those she loves. It’s a blessing and a burden that’s left her guarded, especially after the heartbreaking loss of her brother. She pours her feelings into her art, keeping her world small and her heart safe…or so she thinks. Enter Hunter, the steadfast ranch manager temporarily helping her family out. He’s planning to return to Colorado to take over his parents’ ranch, but fate (and one awkward misunderstanding at dinner) throws him and Willow into a fake engagement. What starts as a mix-up soon turns into something real, as Willow and Hunter’s chemistry grows into a tender, emotional connection neither can deny. Their journey isn’t smooth, it’s raw, funny, and deeply moving, but it’s the kind of love story that sneaks up on you and stays. I especially loved how Hunter didn’t just find a place in Willow’s heart, but in her art as well. The moment he sees her latest paintings and recognizes their story in her brushstrokes, it’s pure magic. This is a beautifully written, heartfelt romance about healing, vulnerability, and the courage to open your heart again. Willow and Hunter are two genuine, deeply rooted souls who remind us that sometimes love finds you exactly when you stop looking. If you enjoy emotional, character-driven stories with warmth, humor, and family ties that tug at your heart, this one’s a must-read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 17, 2025
I for one am loving this series of books. To get to really know the members of the Weston family has been great. This book, "The Rancher’s Christmas Bride" is fantastic, and I highly recommend it to you all. I just know you are going to love the book as much as I did.
In this book we meet Willow Weston and Hunter Grant. Willow is a well-known artist, and she is working on getting everything ready for her next exhibition in Seattle. She has so many paintings that she wants to finish. Hunter is the new manager of the Weston Ranch. She has seen Hunter around town with his killer smile and so far, has managed to ignore the instant tug on her heart with he is around. But now with him living at the ranch and constantly getting in her way. He even caught her swimming naked at her favorite private hot spring. Willow has sworn off marriage and commitment to anyone because she cannot stand to lose someone else that she loves. She has a physic ability to know when something is wrong and the feelings of those she loves. After losing her brother Walker she cannot stand that pain again.
Somehow her and Hunter become fake-engaged and things get complicated. Apart from the fact that she does not want to feel anyone else's feelings. Besides Hunter has made it clear that he is moving on to his ranch in Colorado. So why put yourself out there just to get hurt? She has done some paintings, and they are her best work of how she sees Hunter and her true feelings for him. But there is still no way that they could be together forever, could they?
In this book we meet Willow Weston and Hunter Grant. Willow is a well-known artist, and she is working on getting everything ready for her next exhibition in Seattle. She has so many paintings that she wants to finish. Hunter is the new manager of the Weston Ranch. She has seen Hunter around town with his killer smile and so far, has managed to ignore the instant tug on her heart with he is around. But now with him living at the ranch and constantly getting in her way. He even caught her swimming naked at her favorite private hot spring. Willow has sworn off marriage and commitment to anyone because she cannot stand to lose someone else that she loves. She has a physic ability to know when something is wrong and the feelings of those she loves. After losing her brother Walker she cannot stand that pain again.
Somehow her and Hunter become fake-engaged and things get complicated. Apart from the fact that she does not want to feel anyone else's feelings. Besides Hunter has made it clear that he is moving on to his ranch in Colorado. So why put yourself out there just to get hurt? She has done some paintings, and they are her best work of how she sees Hunter and her true feelings for him. But there is still no way that they could be together forever, could they?
October 20, 2025
His beer, she’s champagne, but deep down, they both love ranch life and small towns.
Hunter and Willow’s story is the sweetest romance I have read in a long time. Who knew Willow would have her own emotional issues and burdens with her brother Walker’s sudden death years ago, especially since she was the one guiding her brothers to spend time at Walker’s grave and talk to him.
Since their first encounter a year ago, there has been ‘something’ between these two. Willow tried to avoid Hunter most of the time until he found her in the hot springs like a nymph in the woods…her secret place. Suddenly, her typical Montana landscape paintings changed; it was as if her brush and paints had a will of their own. But when her mother heard and misunderstood a conversation between them, it led to a fake engagement. And although these two are playing make-believe, they constantly remind themselves that it is only fake. Or is it?
Can Willow open up her heart for one more person to feel and know everything due to her Irish grandmother’s ‘gift’, and what will Hunter do regarding their Colorado ranch, which he needs to take over from his dad?
This book has kept me wondering how, when, or even if these two will find their happily ever after, but in true Weston’s style, everything works out as it should. Be prepared to swoon, to cry, but smile for a long time after you finish this book.
Hunter and Willow’s story is the sweetest romance I have read in a long time. Who knew Willow would have her own emotional issues and burdens with her brother Walker’s sudden death years ago, especially since she was the one guiding her brothers to spend time at Walker’s grave and talk to him.
Since their first encounter a year ago, there has been ‘something’ between these two. Willow tried to avoid Hunter most of the time until he found her in the hot springs like a nymph in the woods…her secret place. Suddenly, her typical Montana landscape paintings changed; it was as if her brush and paints had a will of their own. But when her mother heard and misunderstood a conversation between them, it led to a fake engagement. And although these two are playing make-believe, they constantly remind themselves that it is only fake. Or is it?
Can Willow open up her heart for one more person to feel and know everything due to her Irish grandmother’s ‘gift’, and what will Hunter do regarding their Colorado ranch, which he needs to take over from his dad?
This book has kept me wondering how, when, or even if these two will find their happily ever after, but in true Weston’s style, everything works out as it should. Be prepared to swoon, to cry, but smile for a long time after you finish this book.
November 18, 2025
This was a really sweet story. Landscape artist Willow is the sister of the other Weston's. They all struggled to find their HEA after the loss of their brother Walker. Willow especially still feels guilt about his death because the trip into town was at her instigation. She also has a bit of a gift of foresight and it failed her that night, so she blames herself for being distracted by a potential love interest who turned out to be nothing.
So Willow is fighting as hard as ever to not get a happy ending she doesn't feel she deserves. Besides, Hunter Grant isn't even local and there is no way she is ever going to pull up stakes and move nearly 700 miles away to Colorado.
Hunter has a thing for Willow. Ever since they first met, she's intrigued him, despite the reputation of Willow and her family for being a bit weird. He even delayed returning to Colorado and the family ranch when he had the chance to come work on the Weston ranch. It was about learning their ranching technique. Of course it was.
With random mishaps meaning Willow ends up naked in front of Hunter and a misunderstanding leading to a fake relationship. They find that spending time together is only making the attraction worse. Because neither of them want this. Do they?
There were some emotional moments in this story, to do with Walker, that pushed my tearducts enough to earn that extra star.
A lovely resolution.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
So Willow is fighting as hard as ever to not get a happy ending she doesn't feel she deserves. Besides, Hunter Grant isn't even local and there is no way she is ever going to pull up stakes and move nearly 700 miles away to Colorado.
Hunter has a thing for Willow. Ever since they first met, she's intrigued him, despite the reputation of Willow and her family for being a bit weird. He even delayed returning to Colorado and the family ranch when he had the chance to come work on the Weston ranch. It was about learning their ranching technique. Of course it was.
With random mishaps meaning Willow ends up naked in front of Hunter and a misunderstanding leading to a fake relationship. They find that spending time together is only making the attraction worse. Because neither of them want this. Do they?
There were some emotional moments in this story, to do with Walker, that pushed my tearducts enough to earn that extra star.
A lovely resolution.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 30, 2025
I was waiting for this book seeing their interactions in the other books and needing to know more. I got everything I wanted and more from this book.
Willow and Hunter were such a sweet pair. Willow an artist who closed off her heart and Hunter a temporary rancher on her family’s farm. What happens when her mother hears the m word and thinks they are engaged? Will sparks fly or will their fake engagement end when she goes to Seattle for her exhibition?
I loved seeing them discover their feelings and wondering will Willow let those feelings happen or will she stick to her belief that she can’t be with anyone because of her sixth sense.
I also loved the fact that she was an artist and her art was showing her things she wasn’t wanting to admit.
This book made me feel a rollercoaster of emotions. There were times my heart was breaking only to be put back together again and broken by something else.
Overall I loved this book and every other book in this series. I read this book as an arc.
Willow and Hunter were such a sweet pair. Willow an artist who closed off her heart and Hunter a temporary rancher on her family’s farm. What happens when her mother hears the m word and thinks they are engaged? Will sparks fly or will their fake engagement end when she goes to Seattle for her exhibition?
I loved seeing them discover their feelings and wondering will Willow let those feelings happen or will she stick to her belief that she can’t be with anyone because of her sixth sense.
I also loved the fact that she was an artist and her art was showing her things she wasn’t wanting to admit.
This book made me feel a rollercoaster of emotions. There were times my heart was breaking only to be put back together again and broken by something else.
Overall I loved this book and every other book in this series. I read this book as an arc.
November 13, 2025
Another Christmasish story from Marietta. Lots of the same locations and people that we see in most of these stories based in Marietta Montana.
This story is about a couple who know what they want, but don't or can't talk about their feelings. Willow Westin and Hunter Grant have known each other for a while and Hunter has already seen Willow naked!!
Now, an overheard totally taken out of context conversation. has Willow's mother taking over, and we're off to the figurative races! With Hunter needing to leave to take over his parent's ranch in Colorado and Willow, a well known landscape artist, not wanting to take on more heartache, can this couple ever make a go of their love for each other? 'Pretending' to be engaged, they begin to see that maybe...just maybe...something might work out.
This story is about a couple who know what they want, but don't or can't talk about their feelings. Willow Westin and Hunter Grant have known each other for a while and Hunter has already seen Willow naked!!
Now, an overheard totally taken out of context conversation. has Willow's mother taking over, and we're off to the figurative races! With Hunter needing to leave to take over his parent's ranch in Colorado and Willow, a well known landscape artist, not wanting to take on more heartache, can this couple ever make a go of their love for each other? 'Pretending' to be engaged, they begin to see that maybe...just maybe...something might work out.
November 15, 2025
The Rancher’s Christmas Bride ~ The Westons of Montana #4 by Elsa Winckler
I’ve read this series from the very beginning, and in my honest opinion, this fourth book is my favourite so far. The chemistry between Willow and Hunter is incredible—natural, warm, and effortless. Elsa Winckler brings these characters to life so vividly that they practically step off the page.
The storyline has a wonderful, festive vibe and is incredibly easy to fall into. I also adored Willow’s brother and the way he and others look out for her—it added heart and depth without overshadowing the romance.
I won’t give any spoilers, but I highly recommend this book, as well as the first three in the series. It’s a perfect cozy read, especially if you love heartfelt Western romances with strong characters and beautiful connections.
I’ve read this series from the very beginning, and in my honest opinion, this fourth book is my favourite so far. The chemistry between Willow and Hunter is incredible—natural, warm, and effortless. Elsa Winckler brings these characters to life so vividly that they practically step off the page.
The storyline has a wonderful, festive vibe and is incredibly easy to fall into. I also adored Willow’s brother and the way he and others look out for her—it added heart and depth without overshadowing the romance.
I won’t give any spoilers, but I highly recommend this book, as well as the first three in the series. It’s a perfect cozy read, especially if you love heartfelt Western romances with strong characters and beautiful connections.
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