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Martin's Crossing #2

The Rancher Takes a Bride

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His Secret Daughter

Duke Martin is a father! The former army medic is stunned when old love Oregon Jeffries tells him the news. Given his troubled past, the hardworking rancher and diner owner understands why Oregon kept his daughter a secret for twelve years. But now Duke desperately wants to make up for lost time. As he sets out to be a true father to Lilly, he soon realizes his feelings for Oregon are growing stronger. When Oregon's health falters, he's ready to care for her and prove that he's worthy of her love. Could this be Duke's second chance with the woman he never should have let get away?

224 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published April 21, 2015

32 people are currently reading
181 people want to read

About the author

Brenda Minton

114 books213 followers
Brenda Minton lives, procrastinates, writes, drinks coffee, raises her kids and is wife to her husband, in the Ozarks.

Okay, now to first person because a third person bio sounds like someone else wrote it about me, and is just license to create flowery prose about myself.

I grew up on a farm in the Ozarks. It was long ago and far away, in a land before cable TV, video games and the internet. To pass the time we read books, watched (gasp) network TV that rarely came in clear, and had friends over on weekends to play music on the front porch, or card games in the dining room.

The result of growing up 'country' was an active imagination. For fun I wrote stories to entertain myself and I dreamed of being an author. Oh, but first, before writing, I wanted to be a jockey.

Writing won out over being a jockey. In the spring of 2006 I got the call that made those dreams come true: the call that welcomed me into the Steeple Hill family of authors.

The moral of this story, never stop dreaming.

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5 stars
92 (45%)
4 stars
72 (35%)
3 stars
25 (12%)
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9 (4%)
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3 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...).
1,673 reviews582 followers
August 10, 2022
I'm not a big fan of the secret baby trope, but I think the author did this one right! The story jumps right into action with a car accident, and we learn about the characters along the way through their thoughts and reactions. I just loved each of them and especially the chemistry that flares between Duke and Oregon. It's interesting how they were simply neighbors and acquaintances until Lily's injury provides the impetus to change everything. Duke warms up to the idea of having a daughter and family quickly, and it's Oregon that struggles to adjust to having another adult in her daughter's life. She's so independent and there is a theme of having faith that God is aware of us and our circumstances, that we are not alone, even when we feel that way. Duke learns to turn back to God as he finds support from Oregon in coping with his post-traumatic stress symptoms. I loved how the community and Duke's family embraces Oregon and Lilly and draws them in. It was a really feel-good story!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Profile Image for Aerykah.
465 reviews40 followers
August 12, 2015
When the electricity goes out -- and stays out for hours -- what do you do? You pull out a book light and read! And that's what I did... I read this book. Yes, within hours. It was short and sweet and over in no time. But it was a fun read that I really enjoyed!
Profile Image for Tash.
1,288 reviews106 followers
May 23, 2015
Reviewed for Confessions From Romaholics
Review copy kindly provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a honest review
The Rancher Takes A Bride is a fun inspirational tale about second chances with a twist. Oregon Jefferies is a woman on a mission. A single mom is she wants to protect her beautiful daughter and give her a better life. So she has moved to Martin’s Crossing with the hopes of giving her daughter a better life but secretly she is there for another reason as well. To give Lilly a father, however he doesn’t know and she worried about the news will affect him .

She is building up the courage to tell Duke who has enter her life as a friend unaware of their shared past when the decision is taken out of her hands when Lily is hurt. Giving Duke the news he isn’t expecting. He is a father and Oregon doesn’t want or expect anything from him for herself. She knows too well how it is to be a child of a single parent and she wants to give Lily the chance she never had .

Oregon is a woman in trouble as whilst she may have her life together for her daughter. Personally she is holding on to the past and how it is has affected her . Guilt and pain are clouding her life whilst she deals with the changes as she focused on the past which is haunting her once again. And she not alone as God has a great plan for her and whilst she aware of Duke’s she has no clue what this decision has in store for her.

Duke is a man haunted by his past and he lost his way because of it and now that he wants to be part of their lives. He is a bill in a china shop unaware he needs to rely not on his own strength but others and God’s’. Faith is something of a foreign word for him and the author writes a heart warming tale that will touch this small town as they come together for this rancher and single mom.

A beautiful story from this author that will warm the hearts of any romance lover . Whilst it is a bit on the light side with God and how he played in a role in this story. I enjoyed the story a lot and that why I give it 4 couples

For more of my reviews, visit Confessions From Romaholics.And drop by the blog's Facebook page
Profile Image for Clare O'Beara.
Author 25 books371 followers
April 22, 2015
This is a nice, gentle romance, set in a small town where the respectable people are open-minded enough to help a young woman raise her child alone. We don't know how hard it was to start with, but by now her daughter is a fine, independently-minded girl and they're getting by.

The absent father didn't know he was responsible, having gone off to the army and then taken up heavy drinking. When he does find out he's got to start facing up to responsibilities; and both parents have to face the fact that their daughter is furious at her parentage being kept from her. Well, maybe she had a hard time in school, though this aspect isn't stressed.

I found the lack of action makes the story slow and the title does rather give away the outcome. Still, it's a pleasant read and a sweet, never-too-late romance in well-written atmosphere.
Profile Image for June Jacobs.
Author 50 books152 followers
May 11, 2015
This book is a great read. All of the main characters in this story have lots of problems and baggage from the past. I liked the way everyone worked together to get past some very big obstacles to come together as a family. The setting is appealing if you like ranch-style living (I do). Recommended to readers of inspirational and clean romance. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.

I borrowed this book from the new book shelves at our local public library.

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Profile Image for Colleen.
142 reviews
October 15, 2018
I enjoyed reading about Duke Martin this time. He finds out he has a daughter with Oregon. Lilly is 12 years old and Duke never knew she was his daughter until Lilly was hit by a car. Oregon had come to Martin’s Crossing to tell Duke he had a daughter. Duke had been in Afghanistan as a soldier and was hurt. He didn’t even remember he had met Oregon before he went overseas because he had lost part of his memories. Now, they have to tell Lilly that Duke is her dad. This was a nice story of second chances and the second story in the Martin’s Crossing series.
466 reviews
October 6, 2024
The second story is jus as good as the first now on to the next one

I’m loving these stories the characters are great the story line very real to life with the ups and downs in life. Keep the Kleenex handy and enjoy the great happy ending ♥️
428 reviews2 followers
June 24, 2018
I love this series!! Brenda writes beautifully and it makes reading her books fun, entertaining...and real. It’s like you can see yourself walking down the street and say hi to these characters.
Profile Image for Jenna Martin.
18 reviews
August 5, 2025
Liked this book a lot. My only wish is that they let the love story of Duke and Oregon play out a bit more since they didn’t officially become a thing until quite close to the end of the book.
Profile Image for Carol Cassada.
Author 39 books105 followers
April 23, 2016
Oregon Jeffries returned to Martin’s Crossing with her daughter, Lilly. A health scare puts Oregon’s priorities in order; she wants Lilly to meet her father and make sure she’ll be taken care of. Duke Martin is a former army medic, who’s haunted by his past. Upon learning, that he is Lilly’s father, Duke’s life takes a sudden turn. As he adjusts to parenthood, his love for Oregon grows. Will the two reignite the love or will secrets from the past threaten their union?

The story is very heartwarming and inspirational. Not only does it focus on the love between the main characters, but it also sends the message about the importance of family. I loved Oregon and Duke, and how they came together to be a family for Lilly. Speaking of Lilly, I enjoyed her character; she offered a dose of humor throughout the story which lightened the mood. As for Oregon and Duke, even though they proclaimed their love for each other, there were times when I couldn’t sense it between them. I felt like their relationship was too rushed and I think have more time to develop would’ve helped with the story.

As Duke and Oregon’s relationship starts to blossom, they’re faced with obstacles which include Oregon’s health issues and their troubled families. I love how the author wove their families into the book and the supporting characters play a big role in the story, including the mysterious stranger Joe, whose new in town.

The story is good, but to me it was a bit too short. Just as I was getting into it, it was nearing the end. So I would’ve liked more details added, for instance I would’ve liked more of the confrontation between Oregon and her mother. Plus, I also would’ve liked some closure with Duke and his younger brother, Brody, but I guess I’ll have to wait until the next installment to see what happens there.
Author 3 books25 followers
May 13, 2015
I have to admit, I made a huge mistake. That being I started to read THE RANCHER TAKES A BRIDE by BRENDA MINTON on Amazon, long before it was due out. Not a good idea. Something I should not have done. There was no question I was going to purchase it, so there was no need to read a portion of it before doing so. With BRENDA MINTON books I don’t need to know the title or the synopsis. Nope. I know that I’m going to get it, and quite frankly I can’t wait. So you can imagine how hard it was to get a glimpse into THE RANCHER TAKES A BRIDE and have to wait for what felt like forever for it to finally come out.

Oregon Jeffries has a secret. One that will change the life of one tall, dark, and handsome cowboy. But it’s not the only secret she has.

Duke Martin is doing fine just the way his life is. Being a husband and a father are not two things that entered his mind. When he discovers what has been kept from him for years, his life is turned upside down – in a good way.

Every story I've read by MS MINTON takes me to a place I love to go, in what I call, living the dream. One that includes a cowboy and a ranch. All of her stories are well written, with distinct characters you will fall in love with. I am amazed how she continues to come up with lines I have yet to hear. Not an easy task when you have read as many “cowboy” books as I have.

I feel another plot brewing. Bring on Brody Martin’s story, please!
Profile Image for Kame.
802 reviews38 followers
March 6, 2015
4 Stars

Oregon has moved to this small town to make a better life for her daughter, and to get up the courage to do something that will change her life forever.

Oregon is holding on to a lot of pain and fear. In some places it just drips off the page. Given her situation I can understand her reluctance to allowing Duke into her heart. Duke is strong and trying very hard not to make the same mistakes he has in the past. Their acceptance of their new normal is a little to smooth for my liking, or should I say as I would expect to happen in the real world. Their daughter also adjusts to her normal a little to easy in my opinion. The Christian aspect of this book is light, not heavy handed at all. Actually I would have liked faith to take a little more of a focus in the book, I think Duke had many issues to work through and his rediscovery of faith could have been a very moving part of the book, but it was done very low key and sort of privately.

The plot is easy to follow and if like me you hadn't read any other books in this series there really is no issue. If I see the next book in the series or more books from this author I would be inclined to pick them up.

I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest review.
1,759 reviews33 followers
May 17, 2015
I knew I would love Duke's story but I was surprised at HOW much I loved it! I read the book in 2 days because I had a hard time putting it down. Both main characters were flawed (more than usual!) but they work through a lot of their past mistakes BEFORE they meet again which I found very refreshing! They both had some difficult things in their pasts and they had worked hard to overcome them, although they still had some things to work on. Oregon Jeffries brings her daughter to the same town that Duke lives in a year before the story takes place. She wants her daughter, Lily to get to know him before se tells Duke that Lily is his daughter. The reasons for that, I will leave up to the reader but she has valid ones. Duke is, of course, angry at first, but then understanding. There are several other "subplots" going on which enhance the storyline and I found it to be a great book because of everything going on! I love all the characters and I enjoyed having the characters from the first book in the series come back but even if someone hasn't read that book, you would still enjoy this book! I loved the "realness" of the emotions, the storyline and the characters actions. The author has written another wonderful book!
2,323 reviews38 followers
April 20, 2015

4 STARS

This is the second Martin's Crossing book. I would like to live there. This has lots of drama, especially dealing with parents, romance and a clean read.
Oregon Jeffries has come to Martin's Crossing a year ago with her daughter Lily. She is a single mother with her own business.

Lily was hit by a car crossing the street between her mother's store and Duke's restraint. Lily was going to sweep up for Duke's to earn money for her horse.

Oregon knows she can not keep the secret anymore that Duke Martin is Lily's father.

Duke used to drink a lot and has lots of black outs. He does not remember Oregon from years ago. He does not doubt that he is Lily's father. He wants to be part of her life. He moves Oregon and Lily into the cottage on the ranch he was living in while he was fixed up the old house.

There are more secrets that come out in Martin's Crossing dealing with the homeless man Joe.

This is a nice fast read with characters that I like and would love to see more about.

I was given this ebook by Harlequin and Net Galley. In return I agreed to give honest review of The Rancher Takes A Bride.
Profile Image for Trinity Rose.
434 reviews17 followers
April 19, 2015
The Rancher Takes a Bride by Brenda Minton is a really sweet book. I like the characters and settings very much. The story line is excellent.
You follow Oregon {love that name} as she and her young daughter start over in a new town. You meet the friends they make. It all starts as Lilly {Oregon’s daughter} runs across the road to work at Duke’s place so she can buy a horse. Lilly gets hit and then the action takes place. You find out that Duke is her Dad and why Oregon never told him.
Duke and Oregon grew up with similar backgrounds where parents were missing or only thought of themselves and how that affected them all of their lives.
I think this novel tells us everyone wants love and someone to trust. I recommend this book and the 5 others.

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one of the products mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Profile Image for Brenda.
1,150 reviews15 followers
April 30, 2015
Oregon Jefferies is a single mother living in Martin's Crossing, Texas with her daughter Lilly. When an accident happens with Lilly, Oregon decides it's time to come clean about who Lilly's father is with the hopes that he will be someone that Lilly can depend on, thing is he wants a second chance with Oregon as well. Will Oregon finally have a chance at love?
The Rancher Takes a Bride by Brenda Minton was such an easy book to connect with. The author creates realistic characters with very realistic problems that really touch the heart. I easily found myself drawn to Oregon's character and found myself hoping she would realize what was right in front of her eyes. The author provides a few twists that kept the plot zipping along creating a story that was far from predictable. While this book was the second in the Martin's Crossing series I had no problems reading this book as a stand alone story. predictable. The blending of faith and hope woven together with a heartwarming romance make these books a great afternoon read.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review.
Profile Image for Heather Hart.
Author 69 books90 followers
April 9, 2015
Duke and Oregon have a past... only he was too drunk to remember it.

All I can say is, "Wow. There is a ton of family drama in this book." His mom walked out on them, her mom wouldn't tell her who her father was. She didn't tell him he had a daughter. If you think your family is messed up, you might feel a little bit better about it after you read this book from Brenda Minton, but she will keep you engaged every step of the way.

Thankfully, this book is just a work of fiction, but Minton wove it together so seamlessly that it could have been reality. But of course, as with all good fiction, it came with the perfect happy ending.

I'd love to find out if she ties up some of the rest of the family drama in future books, because inquiring minds want to know what happens to everyone else.
934 reviews4 followers
May 24, 2015
The Rancher Takes A Bride by Brenda Minton is one of the Martin's Crossing books in a series. Duke Martin owns a grill in his home town for three years. He had ween away for twelve years with drinking problems and in the service. A year ago Oregon Jeffries and her 12 year old daughter move to town and open a little store. Oregon moved to the town to tell Duke that the girl is his. Duke has already loves the girl. Everyone in the little town love Oregon and her daughter. Oregon is not sure Duke has changed but everyone says he is a good man. A stranger who has been in town a year keeps talking to the daughter. Come to fine out the stranger is related to someone in the small town. A must read.
Profile Image for Laura.
37 reviews2 followers
June 8, 2015
DNF.. Seriously, I read 20 pages or so? And could not believe what an immature mother the h is. In five minutes she watches her daughter get hit by a car and freezes so bad she doesn't go to her daughter while maybe 20 other people go take care of the her, gets near and doesn't know what to say and all she does is cry, latter on she tells the father he is the father 12 years to late and 1 year of him having known the kid, how cruel is that? The daughter is 10 times more mature than the h, gets very rightfully upset over the situation and the h keep going on about how she sobs and can't stand that her daughter is upset! Bleh. So not worth the buy.
And how the hell is the 12 year old taller than the mother? She's what? 4 feet tall?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
504 reviews1 follower
March 22, 2015
I really enjoyed this next book in the series Martin's Crossing. The character's we met in the first book were there for us in the second with their own stories, I look forward to the next book in this series and meeting up with old friends again. I will recommend this title to all my customers.
Profile Image for Harlequin Books.
18.4k reviews2,806 followers
Read
January 12, 2016
"The second book in Minton’s Martin’s Crossing series shows that life can be messy, but it is possible to trust, start over and rely on others, all the while staying strong and true to oneself" (RT Book Reviews, 4 stars).

Miniseries: Martin's Crossing
37 reviews
June 15, 2015
I have been waiting for this book since I read "A Rancher For Christmas," and it did not disappoint. I have to say that I did figure out the two big secrets in the first book but from the beginning the book pulled me in. Really enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Tahleen.
655 reviews23 followers
February 2, 2017
Ugh, this one was tough to slog through. I really didn't feel a particular fondness for anyone here, and I hated the name Oregon. The whole thing didn't seem believable to me, and I hope the rest of the series is better since I bought them all when they were on sale.
588 reviews1 follower
May 7, 2015
i loved this story with its strong characters and the growth journey. also the family n friends create a fun element to the story
Profile Image for Mishael.
Author 30 books50 followers
April 29, 2015
Cute story. Interesting, believable characters. Another great sweet romance read from Love Inspired.
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