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The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection
Twelve historical women, twelve special gifts, twelve chances at happily-ever-after
Christmas is the time for love--and weddings--and twelve historical women are on their way to the altar, whether they know it or not. In nineteenth century settings across the heartland of America, experience old-fashioned Christmas traditions and sweet romance from twelve acclaimed Christian authors.
The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer
The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley
The Christmas Star Bride by Amanda Cabot
The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy
The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis
The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell
The Evergreen Bride by Pam Hillman
The Gift-Wrapped Bride by Maureen Lang
The Gingerbread Bride by Amy Lillard
The Fruitcake Bride by Vickie McDonough
The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer
The Yuletide Bride by Michele Ule
Meet Alma, Lucy, Esther, Melanie, Polly, Deborah, Annabelle, Sophie, Maddie, Karen, Arabella, and Kate who are surprised by how God brings them the desires of their hearts. Watch as faith, courtship, and heartfelt gifts open each of their hearts to love.
Christmas is the time for love--and weddings--and twelve historical women are on their way to the altar, whether they know it or not. In nineteenth century settings across the heartland of America, experience old-fashioned Christmas traditions and sweet romance from twelve acclaimed Christian authors.
The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer
The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley
The Christmas Star Bride by Amanda Cabot
The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy
The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis
The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell
The Evergreen Bride by Pam Hillman
The Gift-Wrapped Bride by Maureen Lang
The Gingerbread Bride by Amy Lillard
The Fruitcake Bride by Vickie McDonough
The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer
The Yuletide Bride by Michele Ule
Meet Alma, Lucy, Esther, Melanie, Polly, Deborah, Annabelle, Sophie, Maddie, Karen, Arabella, and Kate who are surprised by how God brings them the desires of their hearts. Watch as faith, courtship, and heartfelt gifts open each of their hearts to love.
543 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2015
48 people are currently reading
1187 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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September 2, 2016
The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection*****
by Margaret Brownley, Mary Connealy, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer,
Amanda Cabot, Susan Page Davis, Miralee Ferrell, Pam Hillman,
Margaret Lang, Amy Lillard, Vickie McDonough, Davalynn Spencer,
Michelle Ule—
This is a collection of 12 novellas set in the historical 1800's during Christmas time where 12 young ladies find love and marriage.
1-The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer
Southern Illinois, 1886....Roy Gibbons is raising his two young daughters, Elisbet and Frances—alone, since his wife died in childbirth. Elisbet has asked for a momma for Christmas not realizing how difficult that really is. Alma Pickens promised her mother before she died she would care for her father. Which means an even slimmer chance of getting married, who would want to take on his new bride's father too. This is a sweet romance story that captured my heart along with the two little girls.
2-The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley
Kansas, 1880....Lucy Langdon is out gathering nuts when suddenly a man on a horse comes flying by and throws something into her wagon near by, calling out, “save that for me” as he races off. What is it he wants her to save for him? Three masked horsemen follow after the first man. Lucy jumps onto the wagon and races home and locks the door while trying not to upset her grandfather who has been forgetful lately. Texas Ranger Chat Prescott finally looses the Dobson gang and doubles back to locate the pretty lady whose wagon he threw the money into. He is able to find her home but she thinks he is one of the bandits and accidentally shoots when someone comes out of the shadows toward her—shoots Chat. Nutcrackers, hidden money, love and romance makes this a charming story. I really liked the story behind the nutcrackers Lucy's family makes.
3-The Christmas Star Bride by Amanda Cabot
Cheyenne, Wyoming Territory, 1885....Esther Hathaway owns a bakery in the small town of Cheyenne. Her great-grandparents started a tradition in which each married couple gets a painting of the bride on a Christmas star. Her niece's wedding is coming up and Esther is pondering who will paint her niece for her Christmas star. Then she hears of a newcomer to town, Jeremy Snyder, maybe he can help her. This is a sweet story with heartwarming characters and a unique tradition for brides.
4-The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy
Lone Tree, Nebraska, 1875....Teacher Melanie Douglas has her hands full with one rambunctious boy, Simon. Why was he here at school so very early each morning and where was his father? Henry O'Keeffe, Simon's father, was always late in the evening before he picked up his son. Will he listen to the concerns Melanie has about Simon's behavior or shrug it off—again? I loved the way Melanie tried to find a way to get Simon's attention on learning and not mischief. I loved this heartwarming story, the characters and the story behind the Advent box.
5-The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis
Oregon Trail, Wyoming, 1867....Poly Winfield works with her parents at their stage stop along the Wyoming Stage line. She has her heart set on a real Christmas tree this year, but where would they find one when fire wood is so scarce? She also has her heart set on a young man who works with the stage. I enjoyed reading this story and the hope and trusting in the Lord in all things, even a Christmas tree.
6-The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell
Goldendale, Washington, 1875....Curt Warren has a choice, stay and work the farm like his father wants him to or go off for five years and train as a craftsman in hopes to make a living crafting furniture. But that would mean leaving Deborah Summers behind. Deborah Summers' days are the same, care for her ailing mother and try to keep up the farm. Her heart longs for the one she loves but he is gone. Will he come back—come back for her? There is a lot to this story: anger, forgiveness, faith and love, I enjoyed it very much.
7-The Evergreen Bride by Maureen Lang
Sipsey Creek, Mississippi, 1887....Annabelle Denson dreams of going to visit her aunt in Illinois so she can experience a white Christmas. Will it be everything she dreamed of? Samuel Frazier doesn't want her to go, wants her to stay home and share Christmas with her family...with him. As in this story, sometimes—as the saying goes—“the grass is always greener on the other side”, but we don't realize that until we are on that other side. Really enjoyed Annabelle and Samuel's story.
8-The Gift-Wrapped Bride by Pam Hillman
Chicago, Illinois, 1848....Sophie Stewart and her family arrives in Chicago when a loud noise causes the team of horses pulling their wagon to bolt. A man—Noah Jackson—on horseback comes along-side one of the horses and jumps on and slows the wagon to a stop. Great, Noah Jackson—that bully who always humiliated her on many occasions when they lived in Ohio—saves the day as they arrive in Chicago. Noah can't believe it really is Sophie, she certainly has changed in the five years since he saw her last. Wonderful story of forgiveness, love and faith.
9-The Gingerbread Bride by Amy Lillard
Ozark Mountains, Arkansas, 1870....Can a special ingredient—love potion—added to gingerbread cookies really cause one Harlan Calhoun to fall in love with her, Maddie Sinclair certainly hopes so. When he proposes after eating the cookies, is he proposing because he really loves her or because of the cookies? How will she ever know? I really enjoyed this fun, humorous romance story.
10-The Fruitcake Bride by Vicki McDonough
Bakerstown, Missouri, 1890....Karen Briggs is on her way to Bakerstown to marry Pastor Clay Parsons, if she can overcome her doubts. And what of the young woman who seems to want Clay all to herself? This is a cute, heartwarming story showing love, forgiveness, faith and overcoming doubts. I enjoyed reading Karen and Clay's story.
11-The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer
Spruce City, Colorado, 1885....Arabella Taube leaves the train and hides from the man who appears to be following her. When she tries to retrieve her bag from the wagon bed she hid in, the dog wouldn't let her have it. As she prepares to leave without her bag a man—Nate Horne, jumps up on the wagon and heads out of town for the over two hour drive to his ranch not knowing he has a stowaway...until she sneezes. This is a fun, cute romance. I really enjoyed it.
12-The Yuletide Bride by Michele Ule
Fairhope, Nebraska, 1873....Ewan Murray returns to Fairhope and hopes to make
Kate MacDougall his bride...that is if her father will agree. He was not expecting to have competition with the banker's son or have to raise a large sum of money to prove he can provide for Kate. This is a fun story. I enjoyed Ewan and Kate's story very much.
~I won a copy of this book from the author, was not obligated to leave a review, this is my honest review~
by Margaret Brownley, Mary Connealy, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer,
Amanda Cabot, Susan Page Davis, Miralee Ferrell, Pam Hillman,
Margaret Lang, Amy Lillard, Vickie McDonough, Davalynn Spencer,
Michelle Ule—
This is a collection of 12 novellas set in the historical 1800's during Christmas time where 12 young ladies find love and marriage.
1-The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer
Southern Illinois, 1886....Roy Gibbons is raising his two young daughters, Elisbet and Frances—alone, since his wife died in childbirth. Elisbet has asked for a momma for Christmas not realizing how difficult that really is. Alma Pickens promised her mother before she died she would care for her father. Which means an even slimmer chance of getting married, who would want to take on his new bride's father too. This is a sweet romance story that captured my heart along with the two little girls.
2-The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley
Kansas, 1880....Lucy Langdon is out gathering nuts when suddenly a man on a horse comes flying by and throws something into her wagon near by, calling out, “save that for me” as he races off. What is it he wants her to save for him? Three masked horsemen follow after the first man. Lucy jumps onto the wagon and races home and locks the door while trying not to upset her grandfather who has been forgetful lately. Texas Ranger Chat Prescott finally looses the Dobson gang and doubles back to locate the pretty lady whose wagon he threw the money into. He is able to find her home but she thinks he is one of the bandits and accidentally shoots when someone comes out of the shadows toward her—shoots Chat. Nutcrackers, hidden money, love and romance makes this a charming story. I really liked the story behind the nutcrackers Lucy's family makes.
3-The Christmas Star Bride by Amanda Cabot
Cheyenne, Wyoming Territory, 1885....Esther Hathaway owns a bakery in the small town of Cheyenne. Her great-grandparents started a tradition in which each married couple gets a painting of the bride on a Christmas star. Her niece's wedding is coming up and Esther is pondering who will paint her niece for her Christmas star. Then she hears of a newcomer to town, Jeremy Snyder, maybe he can help her. This is a sweet story with heartwarming characters and a unique tradition for brides.
4-The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy
Lone Tree, Nebraska, 1875....Teacher Melanie Douglas has her hands full with one rambunctious boy, Simon. Why was he here at school so very early each morning and where was his father? Henry O'Keeffe, Simon's father, was always late in the evening before he picked up his son. Will he listen to the concerns Melanie has about Simon's behavior or shrug it off—again? I loved the way Melanie tried to find a way to get Simon's attention on learning and not mischief. I loved this heartwarming story, the characters and the story behind the Advent box.
5-The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis
Oregon Trail, Wyoming, 1867....Poly Winfield works with her parents at their stage stop along the Wyoming Stage line. She has her heart set on a real Christmas tree this year, but where would they find one when fire wood is so scarce? She also has her heart set on a young man who works with the stage. I enjoyed reading this story and the hope and trusting in the Lord in all things, even a Christmas tree.
6-The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell
Goldendale, Washington, 1875....Curt Warren has a choice, stay and work the farm like his father wants him to or go off for five years and train as a craftsman in hopes to make a living crafting furniture. But that would mean leaving Deborah Summers behind. Deborah Summers' days are the same, care for her ailing mother and try to keep up the farm. Her heart longs for the one she loves but he is gone. Will he come back—come back for her? There is a lot to this story: anger, forgiveness, faith and love, I enjoyed it very much.
7-The Evergreen Bride by Maureen Lang
Sipsey Creek, Mississippi, 1887....Annabelle Denson dreams of going to visit her aunt in Illinois so she can experience a white Christmas. Will it be everything she dreamed of? Samuel Frazier doesn't want her to go, wants her to stay home and share Christmas with her family...with him. As in this story, sometimes—as the saying goes—“the grass is always greener on the other side”, but we don't realize that until we are on that other side. Really enjoyed Annabelle and Samuel's story.
8-The Gift-Wrapped Bride by Pam Hillman
Chicago, Illinois, 1848....Sophie Stewart and her family arrives in Chicago when a loud noise causes the team of horses pulling their wagon to bolt. A man—Noah Jackson—on horseback comes along-side one of the horses and jumps on and slows the wagon to a stop. Great, Noah Jackson—that bully who always humiliated her on many occasions when they lived in Ohio—saves the day as they arrive in Chicago. Noah can't believe it really is Sophie, she certainly has changed in the five years since he saw her last. Wonderful story of forgiveness, love and faith.
9-The Gingerbread Bride by Amy Lillard
Ozark Mountains, Arkansas, 1870....Can a special ingredient—love potion—added to gingerbread cookies really cause one Harlan Calhoun to fall in love with her, Maddie Sinclair certainly hopes so. When he proposes after eating the cookies, is he proposing because he really loves her or because of the cookies? How will she ever know? I really enjoyed this fun, humorous romance story.
10-The Fruitcake Bride by Vicki McDonough
Bakerstown, Missouri, 1890....Karen Briggs is on her way to Bakerstown to marry Pastor Clay Parsons, if she can overcome her doubts. And what of the young woman who seems to want Clay all to herself? This is a cute, heartwarming story showing love, forgiveness, faith and overcoming doubts. I enjoyed reading Karen and Clay's story.
11-The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer
Spruce City, Colorado, 1885....Arabella Taube leaves the train and hides from the man who appears to be following her. When she tries to retrieve her bag from the wagon bed she hid in, the dog wouldn't let her have it. As she prepares to leave without her bag a man—Nate Horne, jumps up on the wagon and heads out of town for the over two hour drive to his ranch not knowing he has a stowaway...until she sneezes. This is a fun, cute romance. I really enjoyed it.
12-The Yuletide Bride by Michele Ule
Fairhope, Nebraska, 1873....Ewan Murray returns to Fairhope and hopes to make
Kate MacDougall his bride...that is if her father will agree. He was not expecting to have competition with the banker's son or have to raise a large sum of money to prove he can provide for Kate. This is a fun story. I enjoyed Ewan and Kate's story very much.
~I won a copy of this book from the author, was not obligated to leave a review, this is my honest review~
November 25, 2017
Chock-full of sweet Christmas romances! The novellas are on the short side -- just under 50 pages -- but each one is well developed with captivating characters which ensures a satisfying read. Every single time. There's warmth and laughter and the joy of finding love in unexpected ways. A strong collection that will bless historical romance fans during the holiday season...or any time for that matter.
October 17, 2015
This is a wonderful collection of twelve Christmas novellas I loved every single one of them. I bought them separately last year as e-books, but they are so great I decided to buy a print copy of all 12 in one book so I can enjoy it every Christmas. Here is what I thought about each individual novella.
The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer A wonderful Novella. I felt like I was Alma. This is well written and one I hated to see end. I will definitely read this one again.
The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley 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,
The Christmas Star Bride by Amanda Cabot Loved, Loved, Loved this one! What an awesome tradition found in this novella of a Christmas star with a painting of the bride in the star. This was such a sweet story and very well written. This is a Christmas novella I will want to read again.
The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy Wow! I loved this novella and could relate to Melanie in so many ways. I found it hard to stop reading. Loved Simon so much. Melanie sought the Lord and tried to depend on him in the conflict with enemies. I would love to read more about these characters.
Mary Connealy is a gifted author.
The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis Another delightful story in this series of 12 Christmas brides. A story of hope and trusting in the Lord. It is one I will want to read again.
The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell A Wonderful Christmas Novella of the importance of settling anger and differences and the power of forgiveness. I loved this story and it will be one that will be read again.
The Evergreen Bride by Pam Hillman Such a sweet novella. I love Christmas books and this was no exception! Sometimes what we think we want is minor to what we really want. I loved the message in this book. This is the first I have read from Pam Hillman and it will not be the last.
The Gift Wrapped Bride by Maureen Lang I enjoyed this book. The power of forgiveness is emphasized in this novella.
The Gingerbread Bride by Amy Lillard A delightful Christmas Novella! I thoroughly loved this short story. There was just enough humor as Maddie tries to put a love potion in cookies to make Harlan fall in love with her.
The Fruitcake Bride by Vickie McDonough I enjoyed it so much. I could relate to the characters, since I was a pastor's daughter and then a missionary. I know first hand what it is like to be in a fish bowl and having to worry what everyone in the church is thinking. The author nailed it on the head with the feeling and then the struggles of not worrying what everyone thinks but rather how does the Lord see you.
The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer I fell in love with these characters. This is the first book I have read from this author and look forward to reading more.
The Yuletide Bride by Michele Ule A wonderful Christmas novella of hope and proper priorities.
This whole series was awesome.
The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer A wonderful Novella. I felt like I was Alma. This is well written and one I hated to see end. I will definitely read this one again.
The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley 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,
The Christmas Star Bride by Amanda Cabot Loved, Loved, Loved this one! What an awesome tradition found in this novella of a Christmas star with a painting of the bride in the star. This was such a sweet story and very well written. This is a Christmas novella I will want to read again.
The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy Wow! I loved this novella and could relate to Melanie in so many ways. I found it hard to stop reading. Loved Simon so much. Melanie sought the Lord and tried to depend on him in the conflict with enemies. I would love to read more about these characters.
Mary Connealy is a gifted author.
The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis Another delightful story in this series of 12 Christmas brides. A story of hope and trusting in the Lord. It is one I will want to read again.
The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell A Wonderful Christmas Novella of the importance of settling anger and differences and the power of forgiveness. I loved this story and it will be one that will be read again.
The Evergreen Bride by Pam Hillman Such a sweet novella. I love Christmas books and this was no exception! Sometimes what we think we want is minor to what we really want. I loved the message in this book. This is the first I have read from Pam Hillman and it will not be the last.
The Gift Wrapped Bride by Maureen Lang I enjoyed this book. The power of forgiveness is emphasized in this novella.
The Gingerbread Bride by Amy Lillard A delightful Christmas Novella! I thoroughly loved this short story. There was just enough humor as Maddie tries to put a love potion in cookies to make Harlan fall in love with her.
The Fruitcake Bride by Vickie McDonough I enjoyed it so much. I could relate to the characters, since I was a pastor's daughter and then a missionary. I know first hand what it is like to be in a fish bowl and having to worry what everyone in the church is thinking. The author nailed it on the head with the feeling and then the struggles of not worrying what everyone thinks but rather how does the Lord see you.
The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer I fell in love with these characters. This is the first book I have read from this author and look forward to reading more.
The Yuletide Bride by Michele Ule A wonderful Christmas novella of hope and proper priorities.
This whole series was awesome.
November 1, 2015
An awesome collection of 12 Christmas Brides, just in time for the holidays! 12 awesome stories by 12 talented storytellers. I absolutely adored each and every story. It would be hard to pick a favorite story. Each author brought their own unique writing style to the collection.
The characters in each story were endearing, engaging and believable. I enjoy Christmas stories and gotta say, these are an absolute delight to read. A must read for the upcoming Christmas holidays. A sweet, heartwarming collection of Historical Romances. An enjoyable and satisfying read!
* Personal Buy *
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Sweet
Reviewed by: AprilR
The characters in each story were endearing, engaging and believable. I enjoy Christmas stories and gotta say, these are an absolute delight to read. A must read for the upcoming Christmas holidays. A sweet, heartwarming collection of Historical Romances. An enjoyable and satisfying read!
* Personal Buy *
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Sweet
Reviewed by: AprilR
December 30, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up for Goodreads. A good collection of 12 short Christmas novellas. Most were only okay for me. My absolute favorite of the entire collection was Amanda Cabot's "The Christmas Star Bride." That was a sweet story with two older main characters finding love in their 40's. I also really enjoyed "Snowbound Bride" by Davnlynn Spencer and The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer.
August 9, 2015
Title: The 12 Brides of Christmas Collections
Authors: Mary Connealy, Margaret Brownley, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Michele Ule, Amy Lillard, Miralee Ferrell, Susan Page Davis, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Davalynn Spencer, and Vickie McDonough.
Publishser: Barbour Publishing, Inc.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The 12 Brides of Christmas Collections" by: Mary Connealy, Margaret Brownley, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Michele Ule, Amy Lillard, Miralee Ferrell, Susan Page Davis, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Davalynn Spencer, and Vickie McDonough.
What I enjoyed about this novel.. .'12 Heartwarming Historical Romances for the Season of Love'
This was 12 beautiful novellas of Brides of Christmas Collection taking place in the 19th century. I loved reading each and everyone of the stories that were so sweet and loving showing each date and location of the story in front of each beginning chapter. This is definitely one book to read during the Christmas season. The recipes that accompanied most of the novellas were a plus to each read.
12 Brides of Christmas Collection.... 1-12
1. Festive Bride featuring... Roy and Alma
2. The Nutcracker Bride featuring... Lucy and Chad
3. The Christmas Star Bride Featuring Esther and Jeremy
4. The Advent Bride featuring Melanie and Henry
5. The Christmas Tree Bride featuring Polly and Jacob
6, The Nativity Bride featuring Curt and Deborah
7. The Evergreen Bride featuring Annebelle and Samuel
8. The Gift Wrapped Bride featuring Sophie and Noah
9. The Gingerbread Bride featuring Madeline and Harlon
10. The Fruitcake Bride featuring Karen and Clay
11. The Snowbound Bride featuring Arabella and Nate
12. The Yuletide Bride featuring Kate and Ewan
I wasn't able to pick my favorite because I loved them all of these wonderful novellas, so definitely I would recommend this collection to you as a good read.
I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Authors: Mary Connealy, Margaret Brownley, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Michele Ule, Amy Lillard, Miralee Ferrell, Susan Page Davis, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Davalynn Spencer, and Vickie McDonough.
Publishser: Barbour Publishing, Inc.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"The 12 Brides of Christmas Collections" by: Mary Connealy, Margaret Brownley, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Michele Ule, Amy Lillard, Miralee Ferrell, Susan Page Davis, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Davalynn Spencer, and Vickie McDonough.
What I enjoyed about this novel.. .'12 Heartwarming Historical Romances for the Season of Love'
This was 12 beautiful novellas of Brides of Christmas Collection taking place in the 19th century. I loved reading each and everyone of the stories that were so sweet and loving showing each date and location of the story in front of each beginning chapter. This is definitely one book to read during the Christmas season. The recipes that accompanied most of the novellas were a plus to each read.
12 Brides of Christmas Collection.... 1-12
1. Festive Bride featuring... Roy and Alma
2. The Nutcracker Bride featuring... Lucy and Chad
3. The Christmas Star Bride Featuring Esther and Jeremy
4. The Advent Bride featuring Melanie and Henry
5. The Christmas Tree Bride featuring Polly and Jacob
6, The Nativity Bride featuring Curt and Deborah
7. The Evergreen Bride featuring Annebelle and Samuel
8. The Gift Wrapped Bride featuring Sophie and Noah
9. The Gingerbread Bride featuring Madeline and Harlon
10. The Fruitcake Bride featuring Karen and Clay
11. The Snowbound Bride featuring Arabella and Nate
12. The Yuletide Bride featuring Kate and Ewan
I wasn't able to pick my favorite because I loved them all of these wonderful novellas, so definitely I would recommend this collection to you as a good read.
I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 31, 2015
First reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I love Christmas stories. I actually collect Christmas novels, and I have a special bookcase that is full of those treasures from years gone by. I add to it every year – but these days it seems that more of those additions are digital eReader books. The times change, the delivery of the stories change but the magic of a Christmas Romance novel never, ever changes.
Journey with these twelve brides as they make their ways to their own Christmas adventures with hopes of love and a happy ending.
The stories included in this collection are:
The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer
The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley
The Christmas Star Bride by Amanda Cabot
The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy
The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis
The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell
The Evergreen Bride by Pam Hillman
The Gift-Wrapped Bride by Maureen Lang
The Gingerbread Bride by Amy Lillard
The Fruitcake Bride by Vickie McDonough
The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer
The Yuletide bride by Michelle Ule
All are short stories, novella sized and of course, some are longer than others. Yet every single story is a celebration of Christmas and love. Can’t ask for much more than that. These stories are Christian Romance.
I enjoyed this Christmas collection and would recommend it to any reader who loves to celebrate the season with stories of love and devotion. Perfect for the holiday season or anytime throughout the year when you just want to go back to the serenity and celebration of a historical Christmas.
*I received an e-ARC of The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
I love Christmas stories. I actually collect Christmas novels, and I have a special bookcase that is full of those treasures from years gone by. I add to it every year – but these days it seems that more of those additions are digital eReader books. The times change, the delivery of the stories change but the magic of a Christmas Romance novel never, ever changes.
Journey with these twelve brides as they make their ways to their own Christmas adventures with hopes of love and a happy ending.
The stories included in this collection are:
The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer
The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley
The Christmas Star Bride by Amanda Cabot
The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy
The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis
The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell
The Evergreen Bride by Pam Hillman
The Gift-Wrapped Bride by Maureen Lang
The Gingerbread Bride by Amy Lillard
The Fruitcake Bride by Vickie McDonough
The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer
The Yuletide bride by Michelle Ule
All are short stories, novella sized and of course, some are longer than others. Yet every single story is a celebration of Christmas and love. Can’t ask for much more than that. These stories are Christian Romance.
I enjoyed this Christmas collection and would recommend it to any reader who loves to celebrate the season with stories of love and devotion. Perfect for the holiday season or anytime throughout the year when you just want to go back to the serenity and celebration of a historical Christmas.
*I received an e-ARC of The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
October 1, 2015
The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection by Various Authors: Mary Connealy, Margaret Brownley, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Michele Ule, Amy Lillard, Miralee Ferrell, Susan Page Davis, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Davalynn Spencer, and Vickie McDonough; Pub date: 10-1-15
This book is a collection of gentle, sweet, very clean Christian romantic tales. We have twelve brides in this collection that will find the love of their life at Christmas time. Each one is special in it’s owns way; all are historical Christian romances. They are not preachy or pushy in presenting Christian values and beliefs. The recipes were an added bonus. Barbour publishing has never failed me in publishing a wonderful story. These stories were a little too short to suit my taste, as I prefer more depth, but they are packed with the Christmas spirit and Christian values and are relaxing reads. These twelve authors are all acclaimed Christian authors and I have read most of them before.
Christmas is time for compassion, loving spirits and nothing is better than sweet Christmas romance, in this book you have twelve such tales. I recommend this collection to anyone that loves Christmas, Christian historical romance and happy ever after.
I received this book from the publisher and Netgalley in return for an honest review.
This book is a collection of gentle, sweet, very clean Christian romantic tales. We have twelve brides in this collection that will find the love of their life at Christmas time. Each one is special in it’s owns way; all are historical Christian romances. They are not preachy or pushy in presenting Christian values and beliefs. The recipes were an added bonus. Barbour publishing has never failed me in publishing a wonderful story. These stories were a little too short to suit my taste, as I prefer more depth, but they are packed with the Christmas spirit and Christian values and are relaxing reads. These twelve authors are all acclaimed Christian authors and I have read most of them before.
Christmas is time for compassion, loving spirits and nothing is better than sweet Christmas romance, in this book you have twelve such tales. I recommend this collection to anyone that loves Christmas, Christian historical romance and happy ever after.
I received this book from the publisher and Netgalley in return for an honest review.
October 9, 2015
In this collection you will find 12 short stories that are set during the 1800s in the frontier of our expanding country. As the name of the collection proclaims each story highlights a bride's journey to love and romance. This collection has a wide variety of stories and characters. While I thoroughly enjoyed each story, a couple of my favorites were: The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley and The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis.
What better way to get into the Christmas spirit than 12 novellas written by some of my favorite authors? Each author did a wonderful job of capturing the Spirit of Christmas in just 50 short pages. Every story drew me into the heart of the season. The blessing that God gave us in Jesus' birth is demonstrated beautifully. Love, forgiveness and redemption are the main focus of this collection. If you are looking for a good Christmas read, I recommend this collection. You can read one here and there or burn through the whole collection in a week like I did. Either way, you are sure to enjoy the festivity between the pages.
I received a free digital copy of The 12 Brides of Christmas from Barbour Publishing Inc. through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
What better way to get into the Christmas spirit than 12 novellas written by some of my favorite authors? Each author did a wonderful job of capturing the Spirit of Christmas in just 50 short pages. Every story drew me into the heart of the season. The blessing that God gave us in Jesus' birth is demonstrated beautifully. Love, forgiveness and redemption are the main focus of this collection. If you are looking for a good Christmas read, I recommend this collection. You can read one here and there or burn through the whole collection in a week like I did. Either way, you are sure to enjoy the festivity between the pages.
I received a free digital copy of The 12 Brides of Christmas from Barbour Publishing Inc. through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
July 22, 2015
Review copy provided via NetGallery in exchange for an honest review
Summery: The 12 Brides of Christmas
Each story is set in a different place and time, which is all indicated at the beginning of the story. Each story is faith based. Some Stories start with a bible versus and a few even have a recipe at the end of the story. Each story is heart felt.
Review:
Since this book is made up of 12 different novellas, it makes the review processes a little different. Each novella could have been published separately, but the publishing house choice to put them all in one book, which was very smart in my minds eye. You feel warm and cozy inside as you read these twelve novellas based in the heart of winter. Each story is complete, which many people who write novellas seem to leave you feeling as the story isn’t complete. Each story is well edited, as well as the characters well developed.
Summary:
Would I recommend this book to others? Yes
Would I read more stories written by these authors? Yes and have I recognized two of the authors as people I’ve read stories by in the past couple of years and I look forward to reading more for each of them.
Summery: The 12 Brides of Christmas
Each story is set in a different place and time, which is all indicated at the beginning of the story. Each story is faith based. Some Stories start with a bible versus and a few even have a recipe at the end of the story. Each story is heart felt.
Review:
Since this book is made up of 12 different novellas, it makes the review processes a little different. Each novella could have been published separately, but the publishing house choice to put them all in one book, which was very smart in my minds eye. You feel warm and cozy inside as you read these twelve novellas based in the heart of winter. Each story is complete, which many people who write novellas seem to leave you feeling as the story isn’t complete. Each story is well edited, as well as the characters well developed.
Summary:
Would I recommend this book to others? Yes
Would I read more stories written by these authors? Yes and have I recognized two of the authors as people I’ve read stories by in the past couple of years and I look forward to reading more for each of them.
December 29, 2015
The 12 Brides of Christmas (various authors) is a delightful collection of twelve, historical Christian stories written by well-known Christian authors. All of them take place in the late 1800s and revolve around Christmas (and Christmas items like the tree, star, advent, nutcrackers). Each story is set in a different place (Lone Tree, Kansas, Oregon Trail in Wyoming). I enjoyed these heartwarming Christmas stories. They are well-written and easy to read. Once you start reading them you will not want to stop. They are not preachy or overly religious. They all just have a nice, light Christian tone (so they can be read by younger readers as well). I give The 12 Brides of Christmas 4 out of 5 stars. I will be looking for more works by the authors in this book. If you enjoy reading historical romance books, then you will like this collection.
I received a complimentary copy of The 12 Brides of Christmas from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
http://bibliophileandavidreader.blogs...
I received a complimentary copy of The 12 Brides of Christmas from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
http://bibliophileandavidreader.blogs...
March 12, 2016
I love these collections from Barbour Books! They have introduced me to brand new authors and given me tastes of authors I knew of but hadn’t read before. But usually when you have this many different authors in one place, there are bound to be a couple of stories that I don’t like. That was not the case in The 12 Brides of Christmas. I have my favorite novellas of the group, certainly, but each story was very well-written with solidly developed & engaging characters and emotionally-satisfying plots. My only wish is that each novella had been its own full-length novel so that I could have more of the delightful characters.
I truly enjoyed this collection. Each author is extremely gifted at crafting a story. I think these would be great to read one a night on the 12 days leading up to Christmas!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
I truly enjoyed this collection. Each author is extremely gifted at crafting a story. I think these would be great to read one a night on the 12 days leading up to Christmas!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
July 17, 2015
The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection is an aptly titled as the book contains Christmas-themed short stories. Some of the short stories start with a Bible verse while others do not. Each story starts with a dateline showing a location and date, which reminded me of reading the start of a letter or postcard.
If you like wholesome, old-fashioned stories you should love reading The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection.
Recommend.
Review written after downloading a galley from NetGalley.
If you like wholesome, old-fashioned stories you should love reading The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection.
Recommend.
Review written after downloading a galley from NetGalley.
January 4, 2016
This book is a set of 12 Christmas novellas. Each one is wonderful. The book include books by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Margaret Brownley, Amanda Cabot, Mary Connealy, Susan Page Davis, Miralee Ferrell, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Amy Lillard, Vickie McDonough, Davalynn Spencer and Michele Ule.
Some of the authors I had not read before, but I enjoyed them so much I plan on making this an annual read.
I was given this book by NetGalley and Barbour books in exchange for my honest review.
Some of the authors I had not read before, but I enjoyed them so much I plan on making this an annual read.
I was given this book by NetGalley and Barbour books in exchange for my honest review.
September 20, 2015
I love these collections! This Christmas collection is so wonderful that I will be reading it many times during the Christmas season. The stories are magical, the authors are wonderful.
If you have not been able to read any stories by the authors listed in the book, this is a great introduction to the wonderful romance authors contained in these pages.
Enjoy the book, I know I did.
If you have not been able to read any stories by the authors listed in the book, this is a great introduction to the wonderful romance authors contained in these pages.
Enjoy the book, I know I did.
January 21, 2016
This was a lovely compilation of novellas. This publisher always puts together great authors who are write sweet stories that create a cohesive collection- and this book is no exception. I truly enjoyed reading through the different plots as well as seeing the range of characters as well as their depth. It most definitely made me a bit homesick for Christmas and the past.
January 1, 2016
I read 1/2 of the stories in this anthology last Christmas when they were published and sold separately. It's nice to have them all together. I enjoyed reading all these tales off Christmas in the old west but Snowbound Bride and Christmas Star bride were a couple of my favorites. This is an anthology that I will happily read again during a future Christmas season.
January 17, 2016
An easy heartwarming collection of short stories. As a rule I don't normally read short stories. I'm glad I took a chance on this seasonal collection of stories set in the 1800's. Sweet simple stories of courtship in the old west; the couples meet during the holidays and marry on Christmas. Thoroughly enjoyed!
Read
February 5, 2016Not just for Christmas.
What a heartwarming collection of stories. I began by reading Amy Lillard's The Gingerbread Bride. This story is cute, charming and funny. This convinced me to read about the other eleven Brides. Each story held your interest and delivered the Christmas spirit and a story of Faith. Any reader of Christian fiction will not be disappointed.
What a heartwarming collection of stories. I began by reading Amy Lillard's The Gingerbread Bride. This story is cute, charming and funny. This convinced me to read about the other eleven Brides. Each story held your interest and delivered the Christmas spirit and a story of Faith. Any reader of Christian fiction will not be disappointed.
January 6, 2022
This is a good Christmas collection. I enjoyed eleven of the twelve historical romances mostly set in the 1870’s and 1880’s. I always enjoy stories set in earlier times during the Christmas season. I love the simpler times. I would definitely recommend this book, if you need a bit of relaxation during the busy season—or any time.
January 1, 2020
The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection is a novella collection featuring twelve holiday-themed romances. It features novellas by Margaret Brownley, Mary Connealy, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Susan Page Davis, Miralee Ferrell, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Amy Lillard, Vickie McDonough, Davalynn Spencer, and Michelle Ule.
Love Christmas stories? Love historical romance? Love predictable-but-oh-so-sweet romances? Want to give the screen a rest and cuddle up with a good book instead? I do recommend The 12 Brides of Christmas. I read one to two stories per day this past Christmas vacation.
The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer
First sentence: Southern Illinois, 1886 Roy Gibbons stirred the pot of oatmeal while doing his best to ignore the state of his kitchen. “Papa, it shouldn’t look like that.” Eight-year-old Elisbet glared at him. “I can’t wait until our Christmas mama gets here.”
Premise/plot: Roy Gibbons is a widower who is looking for a marriage of convenience--his children have asked for a new mama for Christmas. Can he find them a mama by Christmas?!?!
My thoughts: I really LOVED this one. I thought Alma and Roy made a great couple! I'd rate this one 5/5.
The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley
First sentence: Kansas, 1880 Thunderous hoofbeats broke the silence on that gray December day.
Premise/plot: Lucy finds herself caught in the middle of an ADVENTURE or a predicament. Take your pick! It involves outlaws, a Texas ranger, and an ailing father....
My thoughts: As much as I enjoyed the first story, I loved this one even more!!! The ending was so incredibly satisfying. Definitely 5/5.
The Christmas Star Bride by Amanda Cabot
First sentence: November 27, 1885 Cheyenne, Wyoming Territory There had to be a way. Esther Hathaway punched the dough with more force than normal.
Premise/plot: Esther wants her niece to have a super-super-super special gift for her Christmas wedding. For five generations, there have been star ornaments with painted miniatures of happy couples. But Esther will have to find a painter--and fast if she wants the tradition to continue.
My thoughts: I take back what I've said before...this is my favorite...I just LOVED, LOVED, LOVED Esther and Jeremy!!!! 5/5
The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy
First sentence: Lone Tree, Nebraska Monday, November 29, 1875 Being a teacher was turning out to be a little like having the flu. Simon O’Keeffe. Her heart broke for him at the same time her stomach twisted with dread for herself.
Premise/plot: A school teacher is TROUBLED by one of her students...if only she could find a way to engage his interest...but in doing so...she might just have caught the attention of the boy's father....will she find love for Christmas.
My thoughts: I liked this one. I did. But I honestly didn't love it as much as the earlier novellas in this collection. 3/5
The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis
First sentence: Wyoming, 1867 Polly Winfield dashed about the dining room, setting up. On days the stage came through, she and her mother always prepared to serve a full table. The passengers would eat quickly, reboard the stagecoach, and hurry away toward the next station.
Premise/plot: Polly REALLY, REALLY, REALLY wants a Christmas tree for their western home--something to remind her of Christmases long, long ago. Will she get her tree and a love of her own this Christmas?
My thoughts: Compared to the other stories, I found this one a bit silly. Don't get me wrong. I enjoyed it enough to keep reading--I read at least one novella each night. But this one didn't wow me like some of the earlier stories. 3/5.
The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell
First sentence: Goldendale, Washington September 1875 A pillow connected with Curt Warren’s backside, and he staggered but caught himself. “Where did you come from, Deb? I didn’t even see you there.” He raised his down-filled pillow above his head and ran across the Summers’ kitchen after sixteen-year-old Deborah Summers as her laughter filled the air.
Premise/plot: Curt and Deborah have loved each other forever....but their relationship faces obstacles and hardships...will these two ever say I do?!
My thoughts: I think this story did a great job with redemption. 4/5
The Evergreen Bride by Pam Hillman
First sentence: Sipsey Creek, Mississippi, December 1887 Samuel Frazier’s heart skittered into double time when Annabelle Denson rushed into the sawmill. She grabbed his arm, her touch sending a jolt of awareness coursing through him.
Premise/plot: Annabelle is dreaming of a white Christmas, a trip to Chicago to visit her cousin, Lucy, and maybe just maybe a little bit of love. But what she doesn't realize is that she doesn't need a trip to find her one true love...she just needs to open her eyes to what is right in front of her...
My thoughts: The narrator seems a little silly and immature. I find myself drawn more to the stories where the heroines are a little older and wiser...that being said...this wasn't a bad story...just a tiny bit silly. 3/5
The Gift-Wrapped Bride by Maureen Lang
First sentence: Chicago, Illinois November 1848 Boom! Snap! Pop, pop, pop! Sophie’s scream echoed the sudden whinny of horses startled by shots exploding on the busy Chicago street.
Premise/plot: Sophie thinks she knows everything about Noah Jackson...but what she doesn't account for is time, maturity, and God's grace. Will Sophie end up falling in love with the BULLY from yesteryear?!
My thoughts: I definitely enjoyed this one. 4/5
The Gingerbread Bride by Amy Lillard
First sentence: Ozark Mountains, Arkansas, 1870 “Madeline!” Maddie Sinclair winced at the sharpness in her sister’s tone.
Premise/plot: Maddie just knows that the love potion she bought from her neighbor has worked and the man she's been dreaming of is noticing her at last....too bad she feels too guilty to say yes to his proposal.
My thoughts: I HATED this story. I thought it was all kinds of stupid. I don't know if a character could get any more annoying than Maddie. 1/5
The Fruitcake Bride by Vickie McDonough
First sentence: Bakerstown, Missouri December 1890 Sitting on the edge of her seat, Karen Briggs wiped the dust off the train window with her handkerchief and searched the crowded depot for her fiancé. With a loud hiss, the train shuddered to a stop. She’d had the whole journey to ponder her decision to marry Clay Parsons. Had she made the right choice?
Premise/plot: Karen has come to marry her sweetheart, a pastor, but begins feeling overwhelmed by the expectations the town has for what a preacher's wife should be...will he convince her that she is the one?!
My thoughts: I liked this one! 3/5
The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer
First sentence: Spruce City, Colorado 1885 Arabella Taube clutched her small carpetbag as tightly as her breath and turned her back to the coach car. The man in the brown bowler had watched her all the way from Denver. He was watching her now through the window. She was certain of it.
Premise/plot: Arabella Taube is running away from her family...but her plans go awry when she becomes snowbound with a stranger and his family. Will this happy accident lead to a happily ever after?!
My thoughts: I liked this one. 3/5
The Yuletide Bride by Michelle Ule
First sentence: Fairhope, Nebraska, 1873 Ewan Murray’s fingers shook so much, he had trouble tightening the tuning nut on his fiddle. After four long months, the moment he’d dreamed of beckoned. Surely she wouldn’t be late to church.
Premise/plot: Ewan loves, loves, loves, loves Kate. But her family thinks he doesn't have enough money to support her. Can he earn $70 by Christmas to prove that he can?!
My thoughts: I liked this one. It was sweet but slightly silly. Both Ewan and Kate are musicians. And Kate learns to play or "play" the bagpipes in this one. I liked it. 3/5
Love Christmas stories? Love historical romance? Love predictable-but-oh-so-sweet romances? Want to give the screen a rest and cuddle up with a good book instead? I do recommend The 12 Brides of Christmas. I read one to two stories per day this past Christmas vacation.
The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer
First sentence: Southern Illinois, 1886 Roy Gibbons stirred the pot of oatmeal while doing his best to ignore the state of his kitchen. “Papa, it shouldn’t look like that.” Eight-year-old Elisbet glared at him. “I can’t wait until our Christmas mama gets here.”
Premise/plot: Roy Gibbons is a widower who is looking for a marriage of convenience--his children have asked for a new mama for Christmas. Can he find them a mama by Christmas?!?!
My thoughts: I really LOVED this one. I thought Alma and Roy made a great couple! I'd rate this one 5/5.
The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley
First sentence: Kansas, 1880 Thunderous hoofbeats broke the silence on that gray December day.
Premise/plot: Lucy finds herself caught in the middle of an ADVENTURE or a predicament. Take your pick! It involves outlaws, a Texas ranger, and an ailing father....
My thoughts: As much as I enjoyed the first story, I loved this one even more!!! The ending was so incredibly satisfying. Definitely 5/5.
The Christmas Star Bride by Amanda Cabot
First sentence: November 27, 1885 Cheyenne, Wyoming Territory There had to be a way. Esther Hathaway punched the dough with more force than normal.
Premise/plot: Esther wants her niece to have a super-super-super special gift for her Christmas wedding. For five generations, there have been star ornaments with painted miniatures of happy couples. But Esther will have to find a painter--and fast if she wants the tradition to continue.
My thoughts: I take back what I've said before...this is my favorite...I just LOVED, LOVED, LOVED Esther and Jeremy!!!! 5/5
The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy
First sentence: Lone Tree, Nebraska Monday, November 29, 1875 Being a teacher was turning out to be a little like having the flu. Simon O’Keeffe. Her heart broke for him at the same time her stomach twisted with dread for herself.
Premise/plot: A school teacher is TROUBLED by one of her students...if only she could find a way to engage his interest...but in doing so...she might just have caught the attention of the boy's father....will she find love for Christmas.
My thoughts: I liked this one. I did. But I honestly didn't love it as much as the earlier novellas in this collection. 3/5
The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis
First sentence: Wyoming, 1867 Polly Winfield dashed about the dining room, setting up. On days the stage came through, she and her mother always prepared to serve a full table. The passengers would eat quickly, reboard the stagecoach, and hurry away toward the next station.
Premise/plot: Polly REALLY, REALLY, REALLY wants a Christmas tree for their western home--something to remind her of Christmases long, long ago. Will she get her tree and a love of her own this Christmas?
My thoughts: Compared to the other stories, I found this one a bit silly. Don't get me wrong. I enjoyed it enough to keep reading--I read at least one novella each night. But this one didn't wow me like some of the earlier stories. 3/5.
The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell
First sentence: Goldendale, Washington September 1875 A pillow connected with Curt Warren’s backside, and he staggered but caught himself. “Where did you come from, Deb? I didn’t even see you there.” He raised his down-filled pillow above his head and ran across the Summers’ kitchen after sixteen-year-old Deborah Summers as her laughter filled the air.
Premise/plot: Curt and Deborah have loved each other forever....but their relationship faces obstacles and hardships...will these two ever say I do?!
My thoughts: I think this story did a great job with redemption. 4/5
The Evergreen Bride by Pam Hillman
First sentence: Sipsey Creek, Mississippi, December 1887 Samuel Frazier’s heart skittered into double time when Annabelle Denson rushed into the sawmill. She grabbed his arm, her touch sending a jolt of awareness coursing through him.
Premise/plot: Annabelle is dreaming of a white Christmas, a trip to Chicago to visit her cousin, Lucy, and maybe just maybe a little bit of love. But what she doesn't realize is that she doesn't need a trip to find her one true love...she just needs to open her eyes to what is right in front of her...
My thoughts: The narrator seems a little silly and immature. I find myself drawn more to the stories where the heroines are a little older and wiser...that being said...this wasn't a bad story...just a tiny bit silly. 3/5
The Gift-Wrapped Bride by Maureen Lang
First sentence: Chicago, Illinois November 1848 Boom! Snap! Pop, pop, pop! Sophie’s scream echoed the sudden whinny of horses startled by shots exploding on the busy Chicago street.
Premise/plot: Sophie thinks she knows everything about Noah Jackson...but what she doesn't account for is time, maturity, and God's grace. Will Sophie end up falling in love with the BULLY from yesteryear?!
My thoughts: I definitely enjoyed this one. 4/5
The Gingerbread Bride by Amy Lillard
First sentence: Ozark Mountains, Arkansas, 1870 “Madeline!” Maddie Sinclair winced at the sharpness in her sister’s tone.
Premise/plot: Maddie just knows that the love potion she bought from her neighbor has worked and the man she's been dreaming of is noticing her at last....too bad she feels too guilty to say yes to his proposal.
My thoughts: I HATED this story. I thought it was all kinds of stupid. I don't know if a character could get any more annoying than Maddie. 1/5
The Fruitcake Bride by Vickie McDonough
First sentence: Bakerstown, Missouri December 1890 Sitting on the edge of her seat, Karen Briggs wiped the dust off the train window with her handkerchief and searched the crowded depot for her fiancé. With a loud hiss, the train shuddered to a stop. She’d had the whole journey to ponder her decision to marry Clay Parsons. Had she made the right choice?
Premise/plot: Karen has come to marry her sweetheart, a pastor, but begins feeling overwhelmed by the expectations the town has for what a preacher's wife should be...will he convince her that she is the one?!
My thoughts: I liked this one! 3/5
The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer
First sentence: Spruce City, Colorado 1885 Arabella Taube clutched her small carpetbag as tightly as her breath and turned her back to the coach car. The man in the brown bowler had watched her all the way from Denver. He was watching her now through the window. She was certain of it.
Premise/plot: Arabella Taube is running away from her family...but her plans go awry when she becomes snowbound with a stranger and his family. Will this happy accident lead to a happily ever after?!
My thoughts: I liked this one. 3/5
The Yuletide Bride by Michelle Ule
First sentence: Fairhope, Nebraska, 1873 Ewan Murray’s fingers shook so much, he had trouble tightening the tuning nut on his fiddle. After four long months, the moment he’d dreamed of beckoned. Surely she wouldn’t be late to church.
Premise/plot: Ewan loves, loves, loves, loves Kate. But her family thinks he doesn't have enough money to support her. Can he earn $70 by Christmas to prove that he can?!
My thoughts: I liked this one. It was sweet but slightly silly. Both Ewan and Kate are musicians. And Kate learns to play or "play" the bagpipes in this one. I liked it. 3/5
January 30, 2016
What is your favorite holiday and time of the year? Mine? It's during the Christmas season. What makes it special? It's the birthday of our Lord Jesus, a time of blessings, special love and gifts and joy and happiness, all in one. It is because of the warm fuzzy feeling one (at least I do) gets around the Christmas season, I love to read novels set around that time. When I am down or need a little cheering, I tend to gravitate towards a good Christmas story - the birth of Jesus, the Christmas stories from Richard Paul Evans (such as Lost December, The Christmas Box...etc.) and the many many great Christmas love stories. And with that I was thrilled to receive a copy of "The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection".
"The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection" is one book, with all 12 short stories. They are currently released and told separately on Amazon. Mary Connealy, Margaret Brownley, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Michele Ule, Amy Lillard, Miralee Ferrell, Susan Page Davis, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Davalynn Spencer, and Vickie McDonough each contributed to a story for this collection. With 12 acclaimed Christian authors as such, penning a story each, what more can a Christmas story lover like me want? I guess the answer is to have more. *wink wink. To be honest, I don't know all of the 12 authors, but I've heard of them, and after reading these short stories, I'm incline to read more of their "normal" full novels. You will be delighted with this collection. Some stories are stronger than others, but overall, each story gives us a lovely romance with inspiring faith and set in historical, mostly western states. And to top it off, add a special Christmas theme that will warm your hearts.
Here's a list of the stories available:
The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer
The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley
The Christmas Star Bride by Amanda Cabot
The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy
The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis
The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell
The Evergreen Bride by Pam Hillman
The Gift-Wrapped Bride by Maureen Lang
The Gingerbread Bride by Amy Lillard
The Fruitcake Bride by Vickie McDonough
The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer
The Yuletide Bride by Michelle Ule
Give them a try - great way to bring a little Christmas spirit to any time of the year.
NOTE: I won a copy of this book from Goodreads and a review was NOT required.
"The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection" is one book, with all 12 short stories. They are currently released and told separately on Amazon. Mary Connealy, Margaret Brownley, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Michele Ule, Amy Lillard, Miralee Ferrell, Susan Page Davis, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Davalynn Spencer, and Vickie McDonough each contributed to a story for this collection. With 12 acclaimed Christian authors as such, penning a story each, what more can a Christmas story lover like me want? I guess the answer is to have more. *wink wink. To be honest, I don't know all of the 12 authors, but I've heard of them, and after reading these short stories, I'm incline to read more of their "normal" full novels. You will be delighted with this collection. Some stories are stronger than others, but overall, each story gives us a lovely romance with inspiring faith and set in historical, mostly western states. And to top it off, add a special Christmas theme that will warm your hearts.
Here's a list of the stories available:
The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer
The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley
The Christmas Star Bride by Amanda Cabot
The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy
The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis
The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell
The Evergreen Bride by Pam Hillman
The Gift-Wrapped Bride by Maureen Lang
The Gingerbread Bride by Amy Lillard
The Fruitcake Bride by Vickie McDonough
The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer
The Yuletide Bride by Michelle Ule
Give them a try - great way to bring a little Christmas spirit to any time of the year.
NOTE: I won a copy of this book from Goodreads and a review was NOT required.
December 8, 2017
What better time to tell stories of brides or betrothals than in the Christmas season! This collection of twelve very different stories by twelve different authors is heartwarming, inspirational, and highly enjoyable. Set all across the US between the years of 1848 and 1890, this anthology is an historical fiction reader's delight. Journeying to such places as the Ozark Mountains, Nebraska, Washington, Mississippi, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, and Wyoming gives a wonderful look at the many ways people celebrated the Christmas season.
I am a real fan of historical fiction because I always learn so much about the past and am constantly amazed at how people accomplished so much with so little. I highly recommend this collection.
I am a real fan of historical fiction because I always learn so much about the past and am constantly amazed at how people accomplished so much with so little. I highly recommend this collection.
January 12, 2017
Every now and again, a book slips through my fingers and I don't realize it's still in my TBR pile. When I found this one, I sat down to start reading it. There are twelve humorous stories of romance during the Christmas season in this collection. I am sorry that I let this one slip by me.
The authors have a great talent to be able to write a complete story in less than a novel's length. I adored every single story in the olio, but my favorites were the first two or three and the last one. In the last one, I appreciated how Michelle Ule worked in how Ewan used different methods to teach the children their math facts. He was not tied into belly-button teaching (prop the book on your belly button and do not deviate from the book at all). Ewan was having to earn $70 by Kate's birthday to be able to marry her. When the teacher of the younger children eloped, he was offered the job, which helped him toward his goal of $70. He was a quick thinker when a blizzard came through and got the children to safety by tying knots in a rope and having them hold onto the knots to walk back to town.
This is a five star book, with two thumbs up, and a sprig of mistletoe to kiss under.
My thanks to Barbour Books for their patience in my tardiness with my review.
The authors have a great talent to be able to write a complete story in less than a novel's length. I adored every single story in the olio, but my favorites were the first two or three and the last one. In the last one, I appreciated how Michelle Ule worked in how Ewan used different methods to teach the children their math facts. He was not tied into belly-button teaching (prop the book on your belly button and do not deviate from the book at all). Ewan was having to earn $70 by Kate's birthday to be able to marry her. When the teacher of the younger children eloped, he was offered the job, which helped him toward his goal of $70. He was a quick thinker when a blizzard came through and got the children to safety by tying knots in a rope and having them hold onto the knots to walk back to town.
This is a five star book, with two thumbs up, and a sprig of mistletoe to kiss under.
My thanks to Barbour Books for their patience in my tardiness with my review.
May 30, 2017
12 brides in wintertime are reaching for their lifelong happiness. Lovely romance collection from both well-known authors and new ones to me.
This collection is one of the good quality. Feel-good read! The overall level of quality is quite high and there is never a dull moment (which is not always true about the collections).
I particularly loved these novellas:
The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley because of the trademark humour (I find Ms Brownley a most funny and witty author amongst Christian writers) and also for the mouth-watering baking-related feels.
The Christmas Star Bride by Amanda Cabot - because the story is SO warm and tender!
The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy - because the story of Simon (and his rugged father) just touched by heart.
The Gift-Wrapped Bride by Maureen Lang - because I would smack Sophie for her stubbornness as much as I DID understand her.
The Fruitcake Bride by Vickie McDonough - because the story is simple and touching.
The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer - the story is just pure West with city girls lost and silent bear of men!
Read this under the tree or anywhere else and savor the tender and touching read!
This collection is one of the good quality. Feel-good read! The overall level of quality is quite high and there is never a dull moment (which is not always true about the collections).
I particularly loved these novellas:
The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley because of the trademark humour (I find Ms Brownley a most funny and witty author amongst Christian writers) and also for the mouth-watering baking-related feels.
The Christmas Star Bride by Amanda Cabot - because the story is SO warm and tender!
The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy - because the story of Simon (and his rugged father) just touched by heart.
The Gift-Wrapped Bride by Maureen Lang - because I would smack Sophie for her stubbornness as much as I DID understand her.
The Fruitcake Bride by Vickie McDonough - because the story is simple and touching.
The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer - the story is just pure West with city girls lost and silent bear of men!
Read this under the tree or anywhere else and savor the tender and touching read!
September 11, 2015
The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection is a collection of 12 stories. The stories include:
The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer
The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley
The Christmas Star by Amanda Cabot
The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy
The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis
The Nativity Bride by Miralee Farrell
The Evergreen Bride by Pam Hillman
The Gift-Wrapped Bride by Maureen Lang
The Gingerbread Bride by Amy Lillard
The Fruitcake Bride by Vickie McDonough
The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer
The Yuletide Bride by Michelle Ule
Wow! The book was awesome. It was a book full of author "all stars" with my favorite authors: Margaret Brownley, Mary Connealy, Susan Page Davis, Pam Hillman, and Vickie McDonough. This has got to be one of my favorite collections I have read.
A definite must read for the Christmas season!
100 plus stars.
The Festive Bride by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer
The Nutcracker Bride by Margaret Brownley
The Christmas Star by Amanda Cabot
The Advent Bride by Mary Connealy
The Christmas Tree Bride by Susan Page Davis
The Nativity Bride by Miralee Farrell
The Evergreen Bride by Pam Hillman
The Gift-Wrapped Bride by Maureen Lang
The Gingerbread Bride by Amy Lillard
The Fruitcake Bride by Vickie McDonough
The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer
The Yuletide Bride by Michelle Ule
Wow! The book was awesome. It was a book full of author "all stars" with my favorite authors: Margaret Brownley, Mary Connealy, Susan Page Davis, Pam Hillman, and Vickie McDonough. This has got to be one of my favorite collections I have read.
A definite must read for the Christmas season!
100 plus stars.
January 15, 2017
BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB
(copied from Amazon.com)
Christmas is the time for love--and weddings--and twelve historical women are on their way to the altar, whether they know it or not. In Nineteenth Century settings across the heartland of America, readers will experience heartfelt gifts, old-fashioned Christmas traditions, sweet romance, and inspiring faith from twelve acclaimed Christian authors, including Mary Connealy, Margaret Brownley, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Michele Ule, Amy Lillard, Miralee Ferrell, Susan Page Davis, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Davalynn Spencer, and Vickie McDonough.
MY REVIEW
Put some of my of my favorite authors and some new authors together and what do you get? Twelve, yes twelve, wonderful short Christmas stories sure to bring a smile to your face. There is some great writing in this book so it is a winner in 'my book'.
(copied from Amazon.com)
Christmas is the time for love--and weddings--and twelve historical women are on their way to the altar, whether they know it or not. In Nineteenth Century settings across the heartland of America, readers will experience heartfelt gifts, old-fashioned Christmas traditions, sweet romance, and inspiring faith from twelve acclaimed Christian authors, including Mary Connealy, Margaret Brownley, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Michele Ule, Amy Lillard, Miralee Ferrell, Susan Page Davis, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Davalynn Spencer, and Vickie McDonough.
MY REVIEW
Put some of my of my favorite authors and some new authors together and what do you get? Twelve, yes twelve, wonderful short Christmas stories sure to bring a smile to your face. There is some great writing in this book so it is a winner in 'my book'.
February 6, 2017
BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB
(copied from Amazon.com)
Christmas is the time for love--and weddings--and twelve historical women are on their way to the altar, whether they know it or not. In Nineteenth Century settings across the heartland of America, readers will experience heartfelt gifts, old-fashioned Christmas traditions, sweet romance, and inspiring faith from twelve acclaimed Christian authors, including Mary Connealy, Margaret Brownley, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Michele Ule, Amy Lillard, Miralee Ferrell, Susan Page Davis, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Davalynn Spencer, and Vickie McDonough.
MY REVIEW
Put some of my of my favorite authors and some new authors together and what do you get? Twelve, yes twelve, wonderful short Christmas stories sure to bring a smile to your face. There is some great writing in this book so it is a winner in 'my book'.
(copied from Amazon.com)
Christmas is the time for love--and weddings--and twelve historical women are on their way to the altar, whether they know it or not. In Nineteenth Century settings across the heartland of America, readers will experience heartfelt gifts, old-fashioned Christmas traditions, sweet romance, and inspiring faith from twelve acclaimed Christian authors, including Mary Connealy, Margaret Brownley, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Michele Ule, Amy Lillard, Miralee Ferrell, Susan Page Davis, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Davalynn Spencer, and Vickie McDonough.
MY REVIEW
Put some of my of my favorite authors and some new authors together and what do you get? Twelve, yes twelve, wonderful short Christmas stories sure to bring a smile to your face. There is some great writing in this book so it is a winner in 'my book'.
February 2, 2016
Twelve different authors joined forces to write twelve stories about women who became brides at Christmas time. Each story is a stand alone, but they all fit together with the theme of the title. Each of these stories was sold separately as an e-book and the whole collection was put together in paperback for the season.
This is the perfect glimpse into the writing style of a lot of different authors. Each story was well written and I enjoyed the opportunity to catch a quick story during my short breaks. The stories all center around Christmas and love, but also include faith as an integral part of the story. This would make an excellent gift to the reader in your life.
I received this book free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This is the perfect glimpse into the writing style of a lot of different authors. Each story was well written and I enjoyed the opportunity to catch a quick story during my short breaks. The stories all center around Christmas and love, but also include faith as an integral part of the story. This would make an excellent gift to the reader in your life.
I received this book free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
August 10, 2017
Review for THE EVERYGREEN BRIDE:
I couldn’t help but fall in love with this story.
The heroine, like myself, is a Mississippi girl who loves snow. Only Mississippi doesn’t see snow that often, especially enough to cover the ground in white.
Samuel had my heart from the beginning. His quiet, gentle interest in Annabelle is portrayed so well, though he hides it from the heroine until he thinks he’s going to lose her to a fellow up north!
Their tender exchanges and the push-pull is so sweet and sigh-worthy. Especially the gift at the end. Makes my heart smile. Definitely a worthy read, like all Ms. Hillman’s works.
I couldn’t help but fall in love with this story.
The heroine, like myself, is a Mississippi girl who loves snow. Only Mississippi doesn’t see snow that often, especially enough to cover the ground in white.
Samuel had my heart from the beginning. His quiet, gentle interest in Annabelle is portrayed so well, though he hides it from the heroine until he thinks he’s going to lose her to a fellow up north!
Their tender exchanges and the push-pull is so sweet and sigh-worthy. Especially the gift at the end. Makes my heart smile. Definitely a worthy read, like all Ms. Hillman’s works.
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