What do you think?
Montana Marriages #3
Wildflower Bride
Welcome to the wilds of Montana, where humor, romance, and suspense ride the range. Glowing Sun, a white woman raised by the Flathead tribe, has vague memories of her former life, including a name—Abby Lind. When she’s forced to sever all links with her adopted Shoshone family, Abby wonders if she’ll ever find a home again. Tenderhearted Wade Sawyer, responsible for Abby’s survival during the village massacre, convinces the knife-wielding woman to return with him to the Sawyer Ranch, never realizing danger lurks behind every corner. Can they survive long enough to fall in love?
346 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2010
About the author
Mary Connealy
115 books2,637 followersMary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys always with a strong suspense thread. She is a two time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy and Inspirational Reader's Choice finalist.
She is the bestselling author of 65 books and novellas.
Her most recent three book series are: Braced for Love, A Man with a Past and Love on the Range for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing and many novellas and several stand-alone books for multiple publishers.
Mary will be a published author for ten years in 2017 with nearly a million books in print. She has a degree in broadcast communications with an emphasis in journalism and has worked at her local newspaper.
Find Mary online at:
Seekerville
Petticoats & Pistols
My Website
She is the bestselling author of 65 books and novellas.
Her most recent three book series are: Braced for Love, A Man with a Past and Love on the Range for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing and many novellas and several stand-alone books for multiple publishers.
Mary will be a published author for ten years in 2017 with nearly a million books in print. She has a degree in broadcast communications with an emphasis in journalism and has worked at her local newspaper.
Find Mary online at:
Seekerville
Petticoats & Pistols
My Website
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
February 2, 2020
Barb and I discovered evangelical Christian author Mary Connealy through her Sophie's Daughters trilogy, partially set in Montana in the years from 1878 to 1884. Several characters who figure in her earlier Montana Marriages trilogy, of which this novel is the third, also play important roles in the later one. So we were interested in their back stories; and when I found this book in a thrift store, it was a natural purchase! (We've also just started reading the second installment; long story!) This means we're reading the trilogy in reverse order; so we started with much more knowledge of the characters' future than the original readers would have (the read was more like a visit with old friends). However, I'll avoid spoilers in this review. (Obviously, though, it might contain "spoilers" for the earlier Montana Marriages novels.)
This tale opens in late spring/early summer, 1877, as young Wade Sawyer is awakened by gunfire as he's sleeping in his small cabin high in the Montana Rockies. The shots come from the nearby small Indian village, which is being massacred by four masked whites. Arriving too late to prevent the deaths of most of the inhabitants, Wade manages to wound one of the fleeing murderers, and finds Glowing Sun, a young woman raised for the past dozen years by the Salish (called Flathead by the whites), ever since they found her alone at about the age of eight after disease killed her white family, still alive. (One of the killers had tried to abduct her, but she slashed his face with her knife and escaped.) Her white name, as she recalls, is Abby, and she and Wade have met previously (as recounted, apparently, earlier in the trilogy), last fall --and were in fact attracted to each other; but she had an Indian fiance at the time, through an arranged engagement. He's now dead; and when she's cast out by a surviving matriarch who never liked her (and who blames her for attracting the massacre, assuming that the attackers' motive was rape), she's left alone in the world again. Soon after, Wade's summoned to the bedside of his estranged rancher father, injured and maybe dying; and since he won't desert Abby, and she believes responding to the summons is his duty, she comes along with him.
Like all Connealy novels, this is a clean "romance" (in the modern-day book trade sense); but it has more going for it than romance (otherwise, I wouldn't have read and liked it!). For one thing, it's a perceptive exploration of cross-cultural romance, of the specific clashing cultures of whites and Indians in the late 19th-century West, and an ethically-aware indictment of the former's treatment of the latter. (Abby doesn't have much use for the attitudes and practices of a white culture she's mostly long abandoned, though she hasn't forgotten the language, and a lot of her criticisms strike home.) It's also a hard look at the dynamics of a dysfunctional, abusive family --because Wade's estranged from his dad for good reason!-- at co-dependency and how insidious it can be, and what does (or doesn't) contribute to familial healing. There's also a decided helping of Western-style mystery, because there's intrigue afoot on the Sawyer ranch. Who's behind the outbreak of cattle rustling in the area? And who were the attackers of Abby's village, and what was their real motive?
Connealy's a Christian author, whose world-view influences her writing. Christian characters are common in her novels (Red Dawson, a supporting character here, is a lay preacher as well as a rancher). Wade has a sincere Christian faith, as does Abby, fostered in her case by the missionary activity of real-life Jesuit Pierre-Jean De Smet (1801-1873) and his colleagues, who really did have considerable success in their work among the Salish, and whose treatment here is very positive. (The author's approach to Christian faith is --commendably, IMO-- nondenominational, though sectarian rivalries and animosities weren't nonexistent in the real 19th-century West.) It's seen here as a genuine source of moral reformation, courage in adversity, and guidance and help in daily life; but though it's referred to more here than in the later trilogy, I wouldn't describe this one as "preachy."
Christian ethics, with its basis in the love commands, also raises a serious issue for reflection, when it needs to be lived out in a violent environment, among people some of whom are perfectly willing to kill you, and others, to get things they want. Wade wrestles with this some, as does Abby --in fact, more so, since while Wade wears a gun and can use it, she's considerably more combat capable than he is. (She's also a stronger-willed personality than he is, and the more dominant partner in the relationship --okay, that word's not a spoiler, any reader knows these two are destined for each other!-- and Wade's willing to recognize that there's nothing wrong with that.) While she's not into guns (though if she slugs you in the head with one, you won't get up for awhile), she's handy with her knife, and it doesn't leave her person --unless she needs to throw it. Her personality could best be described as hot-tempered and fierce. The conclusion she comes to is that forcibly defending yourself and others IS morally right, but relishing the damage done isn't; and she's honest enough to admit that she needs to work on her attitude in that area. So when the chips are down here, the main question may not be, will our hero rescue the damsel in distress? Given their respective skill sets, it might be, will our tough damsel rescue her guy in distress? :-)
This tale opens in late spring/early summer, 1877, as young Wade Sawyer is awakened by gunfire as he's sleeping in his small cabin high in the Montana Rockies. The shots come from the nearby small Indian village, which is being massacred by four masked whites. Arriving too late to prevent the deaths of most of the inhabitants, Wade manages to wound one of the fleeing murderers, and finds Glowing Sun, a young woman raised for the past dozen years by the Salish (called Flathead by the whites), ever since they found her alone at about the age of eight after disease killed her white family, still alive. (One of the killers had tried to abduct her, but she slashed his face with her knife and escaped.) Her white name, as she recalls, is Abby, and she and Wade have met previously (as recounted, apparently, earlier in the trilogy), last fall --and were in fact attracted to each other; but she had an Indian fiance at the time, through an arranged engagement. He's now dead; and when she's cast out by a surviving matriarch who never liked her (and who blames her for attracting the massacre, assuming that the attackers' motive was rape), she's left alone in the world again. Soon after, Wade's summoned to the bedside of his estranged rancher father, injured and maybe dying; and since he won't desert Abby, and she believes responding to the summons is his duty, she comes along with him.
Like all Connealy novels, this is a clean "romance" (in the modern-day book trade sense); but it has more going for it than romance (otherwise, I wouldn't have read and liked it!). For one thing, it's a perceptive exploration of cross-cultural romance, of the specific clashing cultures of whites and Indians in the late 19th-century West, and an ethically-aware indictment of the former's treatment of the latter. (Abby doesn't have much use for the attitudes and practices of a white culture she's mostly long abandoned, though she hasn't forgotten the language, and a lot of her criticisms strike home.) It's also a hard look at the dynamics of a dysfunctional, abusive family --because Wade's estranged from his dad for good reason!-- at co-dependency and how insidious it can be, and what does (or doesn't) contribute to familial healing. There's also a decided helping of Western-style mystery, because there's intrigue afoot on the Sawyer ranch. Who's behind the outbreak of cattle rustling in the area? And who were the attackers of Abby's village, and what was their real motive?
Connealy's a Christian author, whose world-view influences her writing. Christian characters are common in her novels (Red Dawson, a supporting character here, is a lay preacher as well as a rancher). Wade has a sincere Christian faith, as does Abby, fostered in her case by the missionary activity of real-life Jesuit Pierre-Jean De Smet (1801-1873) and his colleagues, who really did have considerable success in their work among the Salish, and whose treatment here is very positive. (The author's approach to Christian faith is --commendably, IMO-- nondenominational, though sectarian rivalries and animosities weren't nonexistent in the real 19th-century West.) It's seen here as a genuine source of moral reformation, courage in adversity, and guidance and help in daily life; but though it's referred to more here than in the later trilogy, I wouldn't describe this one as "preachy."
Christian ethics, with its basis in the love commands, also raises a serious issue for reflection, when it needs to be lived out in a violent environment, among people some of whom are perfectly willing to kill you, and others, to get things they want. Wade wrestles with this some, as does Abby --in fact, more so, since while Wade wears a gun and can use it, she's considerably more combat capable than he is. (She's also a stronger-willed personality than he is, and the more dominant partner in the relationship --okay, that word's not a spoiler, any reader knows these two are destined for each other!-- and Wade's willing to recognize that there's nothing wrong with that.) While she's not into guns (though if she slugs you in the head with one, you won't get up for awhile), she's handy with her knife, and it doesn't leave her person --unless she needs to throw it. Her personality could best be described as hot-tempered and fierce. The conclusion she comes to is that forcibly defending yourself and others IS morally right, but relishing the damage done isn't; and she's honest enough to admit that she needs to work on her attitude in that area. So when the chips are down here, the main question may not be, will our hero rescue the damsel in distress? Given their respective skill sets, it might be, will our tough damsel rescue her guy in distress? :-)
August 12, 2026
Wildflower Bride (Petticoats and Cowboys 6) by Mary Connealy has the setting once again in the wilds of Montana. Abby and Wade’s story has the humor of the previous books but also more bite. Abby was raised by a tribe that was later massacred. Her view of “the white man’s” world is dim and much of her reasons have good merit. However, her opinion of Wade should stand on his own actions, which are kind, gentlemanly and quietly strong. As they face obstacles, the relationship grows. Isn’t that true in life that has you stand together you grow together. Different from the others in the series, but I like it the best.
August 18, 2010
I think my other reviews have established the fact that I am a big fan of Mary Connealy mainly because I love her humor!
All of the couples in this book have some really funny moments, not just the main characters. For example, Silas has to constantly repeat Belle's new last name to the townspeople over and over again and Cassie is trying to learn how to be tough and protect herself even though she is a marshmallow. One of my favorite lines in the book is when her little daughter says “Mama scary.” That just cracks me up! I loved the strong character of Abby juxtaposed against the sweet, submissive character of Cassie.
This book is part of the Montana Marriages series so we see familiar characters resurface in this book, Wildflower Bride. The book is the conclusion of the romance between Glowing Sun, now named Abby, and Wade that was started in The Husband Tree. We also get to see Belle and Silas again (The Husband Tree) and Cassie and Red (Montana Rose).
Hotness Factor: 3 stars Wade - our strong, manly hero - is kinda' scared of his woman. I liked that and it created a lot of physical tension, challenging each other and giving in. For instance “Wade was begging. He was planning on spending the rest of his life begging, because he was planning to spend it with the stubbornest woman he had ever known. He accepted it and looked forward to a lifetime of being overpowered.” That's pretty hot if you ask me! I think Husband Tree by this author was hotter but this is good stuff too!
Series info: 4 stars You don't have to read the other books in the series to understand this book but it is highly recommended that you do. I still love The Husband Tree of all the books in this series but this is good in its own way.
Overall Rating: 3 stars My heart just doesn't beat fast for stories with Indians but Glowing Sun/Abby really came alive for me when she came back to the “civilized” world and interacted with the “white man.” I loved how she was so different in her beliefs. Through her eyes, we see the foolishness of overusing natural resources and the complexity of fighting the land instead of living with it. I started wanting the simplicity of her life instead of the struggle to build bigger and better. I loved the idea of not wasting or consuming more than necessary too. I like this book better than I thought I would because the humor is stronger to me than Montana Rose or Wrangler in Petticoats so I am giving it a higher rating.
Christianity: 4 stars In this book, the main character has not been a good guy most of his adult life. When he was led to Christ by Red Dawson, he changed his ways but it's not been an easy road. He struggles with maturing his faith and walk with Christ. He has to put his faith into action daily in order to live with his father who is an abusive tyrant. This book really helps us see the daily struggle of walking with the Lord.
Summary Plot: Welcome to the wilds of Montana, where humor, romance, and suspense ride the range. Glowing Sun, a white woman raised by the Flathead tribe, has vague memories of her former life, including a name—Abby Lind. When she’s forced to sever all links with her adopted family, Abby wonders if she’ll ever find a home again. Tenderhearted Wade Sawyer, responsible for Abby’s survival during the village massacre, convinces the knife-wielding woman to return with him to the Sawyer Ranch, never realizing danger lurks behind every corner. Can they survive long enough to fall in love?
All of the couples in this book have some really funny moments, not just the main characters. For example, Silas has to constantly repeat Belle's new last name to the townspeople over and over again and Cassie is trying to learn how to be tough and protect herself even though she is a marshmallow. One of my favorite lines in the book is when her little daughter says “Mama scary.” That just cracks me up! I loved the strong character of Abby juxtaposed against the sweet, submissive character of Cassie.
This book is part of the Montana Marriages series so we see familiar characters resurface in this book, Wildflower Bride. The book is the conclusion of the romance between Glowing Sun, now named Abby, and Wade that was started in The Husband Tree. We also get to see Belle and Silas again (The Husband Tree) and Cassie and Red (Montana Rose).
Hotness Factor: 3 stars Wade - our strong, manly hero - is kinda' scared of his woman. I liked that and it created a lot of physical tension, challenging each other and giving in. For instance “Wade was begging. He was planning on spending the rest of his life begging, because he was planning to spend it with the stubbornest woman he had ever known. He accepted it and looked forward to a lifetime of being overpowered.” That's pretty hot if you ask me! I think Husband Tree by this author was hotter but this is good stuff too!
Series info: 4 stars You don't have to read the other books in the series to understand this book but it is highly recommended that you do. I still love The Husband Tree of all the books in this series but this is good in its own way.
Overall Rating: 3 stars My heart just doesn't beat fast for stories with Indians but Glowing Sun/Abby really came alive for me when she came back to the “civilized” world and interacted with the “white man.” I loved how she was so different in her beliefs. Through her eyes, we see the foolishness of overusing natural resources and the complexity of fighting the land instead of living with it. I started wanting the simplicity of her life instead of the struggle to build bigger and better. I loved the idea of not wasting or consuming more than necessary too. I like this book better than I thought I would because the humor is stronger to me than Montana Rose or Wrangler in Petticoats so I am giving it a higher rating.
Christianity: 4 stars In this book, the main character has not been a good guy most of his adult life. When he was led to Christ by Red Dawson, he changed his ways but it's not been an easy road. He struggles with maturing his faith and walk with Christ. He has to put his faith into action daily in order to live with his father who is an abusive tyrant. This book really helps us see the daily struggle of walking with the Lord.
Summary Plot: Welcome to the wilds of Montana, where humor, romance, and suspense ride the range. Glowing Sun, a white woman raised by the Flathead tribe, has vague memories of her former life, including a name—Abby Lind. When she’s forced to sever all links with her adopted family, Abby wonders if she’ll ever find a home again. Tenderhearted Wade Sawyer, responsible for Abby’s survival during the village massacre, convinces the knife-wielding woman to return with him to the Sawyer Ranch, never realizing danger lurks behind every corner. Can they survive long enough to fall in love?
July 10, 2009
As the third book in the Montana Marriages series, "Wildflower Bride" brings another comedic romance off the pages an into the imagination of readers. Although starting the novel knowing that this was a story of a character that I despised in the beginning of the series it was amazing how author Mary Connealy was able to bring a character's personality into favor for me. The first two books in this series are my favorite from Mary so far. I cannot wait for future stories!
Wade Sawyer, a man changed finds himself in love with Abby Linscott also known as Glowing Sun. Observing the changes in Wade's behavior and soul makes a painful yet hopeful example that anyone can change. Abby born to a white family yet raised by a Flathead Indian tribe after the early death of her birth family then finds herself alone again after the massacre of her tribe. Through the strength of God, Wade is able to return home to face his abusive father and Abby is given the opportunity to open her heart and trust that she will not be alone again. These pages provide a hopeful story of love that will entertain.
*Thanks to Angie Brillhart of Barbour Books for providing a copy for review.*
Wade Sawyer, a man changed finds himself in love with Abby Linscott also known as Glowing Sun. Observing the changes in Wade's behavior and soul makes a painful yet hopeful example that anyone can change. Abby born to a white family yet raised by a Flathead Indian tribe after the early death of her birth family then finds herself alone again after the massacre of her tribe. Through the strength of God, Wade is able to return home to face his abusive father and Abby is given the opportunity to open her heart and trust that she will not be alone again. These pages provide a hopeful story of love that will entertain.
*Thanks to Angie Brillhart of Barbour Books for providing a copy for review.*
June 15, 2011
After reading the first two books in this series, I was excited to read Wildflower Bride. Unfortunately it was my least favorite. I had a couple of major problems liking the main characters and I also felt that the main focus of the book was the mystery rather than the romance which is fine for others but not my thing. There was much more time spent finding the cattle thieves than spent developing any type of romance between Abby and Wade.
Abby began as a likeable character in The Husband Tree (my favorite of the series) but in Wildflower Bride she came across to me as being disrespectful, rude and judgemental. I understand that she was coming from a different culture but I felt that her reactions were not true to that culture either. From what I understand, elders and males are respected in most indian cultures. I don't think she would ever have talked to Wade's father the way she did because of that, not to mention she was a guest in his house. Her disrespect for Gertie was also heartbreaking to me. Although her methods were wrong, Gertie had dedicated her life to caring for and loving Wade in a time when children and women were often abused and had no way of escape. I've always heard that respect is earned not forced and I felt that Abby was trampling over everyone else to get the respect that she felt she deserved because she considered herself a Flathead and not a disgusting white.
In the beginning of the story, Wade was transforming into a strong male character who felt lead by the Lord to go and help his father but by the end was begging and groveling to Abby to try and get her to stay with him promising to leave his Dad and go anywhere with her if she would only marry him. He was well aware that he was begging and decided it was ok with him, "Wade was begging. He was planning on spending the rest of his life begging, because he was planning to spend it with the stubbornest woman he had ever known. He accepted it and looked forward to a lifetime of being overpowered.” What a turnoff for me! I have no problem with the woman being strong (I loved Belle in Husband Tree) but the man has to have enough backbone to at least do what the Lord is leading him to do!
On a more positive note, I really enjoyed how the characters from the other two books in the series were still focused on and we were able to see how they all interacted. They added many light, humorous moments to the story.
I hate to give a bad review but I barely made it through this one. Mary Connealy is a talented writer and I have enjoyed her other books immensely so I am not letting this discourage me from reading the other series. Sometimes a book and reader just don't connect and I feel like that is what happened here.
Abby began as a likeable character in The Husband Tree (my favorite of the series) but in Wildflower Bride she came across to me as being disrespectful, rude and judgemental. I understand that she was coming from a different culture but I felt that her reactions were not true to that culture either. From what I understand, elders and males are respected in most indian cultures. I don't think she would ever have talked to Wade's father the way she did because of that, not to mention she was a guest in his house. Her disrespect for Gertie was also heartbreaking to me. Although her methods were wrong, Gertie had dedicated her life to caring for and loving Wade in a time when children and women were often abused and had no way of escape. I've always heard that respect is earned not forced and I felt that Abby was trampling over everyone else to get the respect that she felt she deserved because she considered herself a Flathead and not a disgusting white.
In the beginning of the story, Wade was transforming into a strong male character who felt lead by the Lord to go and help his father but by the end was begging and groveling to Abby to try and get her to stay with him promising to leave his Dad and go anywhere with her if she would only marry him. He was well aware that he was begging and decided it was ok with him, "Wade was begging. He was planning on spending the rest of his life begging, because he was planning to spend it with the stubbornest woman he had ever known. He accepted it and looked forward to a lifetime of being overpowered.” What a turnoff for me! I have no problem with the woman being strong (I loved Belle in Husband Tree) but the man has to have enough backbone to at least do what the Lord is leading him to do!
On a more positive note, I really enjoyed how the characters from the other two books in the series were still focused on and we were able to see how they all interacted. They added many light, humorous moments to the story.
I hate to give a bad review but I barely made it through this one. Mary Connealy is a talented writer and I have enjoyed her other books immensely so I am not letting this discourage me from reading the other series. Sometimes a book and reader just don't connect and I feel like that is what happened here.
September 1, 2009
I love Mary Connealy's books but this one was a bit of a disappointment for me. Not because of the storyline or the writing, which as usual, is always fabulous and innovative and entertaining, but just a personal dislike.
We first met Glowing Sun, or Abby as she is now known as, in the last book. In this book, Wade (our hero) has been living in the wilderness in a small shack all winter, surreptitiously watching over Glowing Sun as she lives with her Salish (Flathead) tribe. One morning he hears gunfire and races to her tribe's encampment only to find a massacre has taken place. Glowing Sun, a small boy and Glowing Sun's future mother in law are the only survivors. As Wade tries to help them, her MIL decides she (Glowing Sun) is no longer Salish and banishes her. Glowing Sun is hurt but understands and leaves with Wade, now calling herself Abby. She agrees to travel with Wade back to his father's house, Wade having found out his father is badly injured and may die.
I really liked the character of Abby. She was rescued by the Salish when she was 8, her parents having died from an illness. She barely remembers them and had fully embraced the Salish way of life. To be thrust into an unknown world feeling that nobody wants you has to be an awful feeling. Abby deals with it using bravado and anger. She is quick to pull a knife on almost every man in the book and while humorous at times, to me also showed a vulnerability. She was determined to take care of herself and be beholden to no man.
My main problem with the book was with Wade. I am not, nor ever have been, a fan of the beta male. Wade is very much a beta male, even though he would like to be an alpha, even though at time she shows the potential for being an alpha male. Unlike Silas, from The Husband Tree, Wade seems to be content to let Abby call the shots to keep her happy and with him. I'm not saying he should have been a tyrant or mean to Abby, but it almost seemed a few times that Abby was the one making decisions for the both of them, instead of Wade. For the time period and the genre, it just seems as if Wade should have been a little more manly than he was.
I also found Red Dawson to be a little condescending in this book to his wife Cassie. Not enough for me to dislike him, but I didn't find it necessary.
All in all I would rate it 3.5 stars. Terrific writing, a good story and likable characters.
We first met Glowing Sun, or Abby as she is now known as, in the last book. In this book, Wade (our hero) has been living in the wilderness in a small shack all winter, surreptitiously watching over Glowing Sun as she lives with her Salish (Flathead) tribe. One morning he hears gunfire and races to her tribe's encampment only to find a massacre has taken place. Glowing Sun, a small boy and Glowing Sun's future mother in law are the only survivors. As Wade tries to help them, her MIL decides she (Glowing Sun) is no longer Salish and banishes her. Glowing Sun is hurt but understands and leaves with Wade, now calling herself Abby. She agrees to travel with Wade back to his father's house, Wade having found out his father is badly injured and may die.
I really liked the character of Abby. She was rescued by the Salish when she was 8, her parents having died from an illness. She barely remembers them and had fully embraced the Salish way of life. To be thrust into an unknown world feeling that nobody wants you has to be an awful feeling. Abby deals with it using bravado and anger. She is quick to pull a knife on almost every man in the book and while humorous at times, to me also showed a vulnerability. She was determined to take care of herself and be beholden to no man.
My main problem with the book was with Wade. I am not, nor ever have been, a fan of the beta male. Wade is very much a beta male, even though he would like to be an alpha, even though at time she shows the potential for being an alpha male. Unlike Silas, from The Husband Tree, Wade seems to be content to let Abby call the shots to keep her happy and with him. I'm not saying he should have been a tyrant or mean to Abby, but it almost seemed a few times that Abby was the one making decisions for the both of them, instead of Wade. For the time period and the genre, it just seems as if Wade should have been a little more manly than he was.
I also found Red Dawson to be a little condescending in this book to his wife Cassie. Not enough for me to dislike him, but I didn't find it necessary.
All in all I would rate it 3.5 stars. Terrific writing, a good story and likable characters.
April 18, 2017
Mary Connelly is such a fun writer. This was a great book. Abby and Wade are such a cute match! I like how Mary invites her sideline characters in her next books as the main focus. I kind of wish Abby became a touch softer towards the end of the book. Also, I didn't like how "the white man" was described as wasteful people or less than. Idk, but my garbage can has a huge recycling bin. Examples: Trees were used to build white man homes. Deer were used for t-pees and clothing. This all depends on who you ask on which people are wasteful... the person who is a tree hugger or the animal activist. One doesn't necessarily cancel the other one to be okay. Maybe this is what Abby was learning. People are just people trying to do the best within their environment. Just because you are comfortable within your peers doesn't mean another form of culture is wrong. Okay. I will go with that!
November 18, 2012
This was a sweet, gentle romance without all the physical stuff typically found in romance books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2026
This is book six in the Petticoats and Cowboys series and I am so sad to see it end as I have loved them all. Abby and Wade’s story is unique in the fact that each have had struggles and difficulties in life and have come out stronger but need to find trust in each other and to fully trust that God is the director of their lives. I love the sass Abby shows when push comes to shove with Wade’s father and his journey to change and faith. An all encompassing story of Faith, forgiveness, trust, sweet romance, family, and danger that keeps you engrossed and gobsmacked from beginning to end. An author you can count on with her timing and descriptive phrasing and characters that feel like family long after you have finished. I definitely will miss catching up with past characters and new ones in this series. Pick up a copy and step back in time to 1877 and feel like you are experiencing the Montana territory.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit/Wild Heart Books. The honest review and opinion are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit/Wild Heart Books. The honest review and opinion are my own and were not required.
March 22, 2012
"Don'tcha just love a good western?" That question just kept running through my head over and over again as I flew through another fun tale by the talented Mary Connealy. There is something about her style that always keeps me coming back for more. Mostly it's her knack of telling a hilarious story, but I usually end up loving the romantic elements and the action pretty equally, too.
But, I must confess...I'm not usually a fan of Indians in fiction. I don't know why that is. I don't have anything against them, but I think it's just a matter of relating with them. Being a city girl and accustomed to living indoors, I can't imagine what it must've been like to live in a tepee 24/7, not to mention moving from place to place to live off the land. I'd die in no less than a week!
But in spite of all that, this tale with it's inclusion of an Indian heroine just had me glued to the pages. I empathized with Abby (initially known as Glowing Sun) after she dealt with the heartache of a massacre of her people by the white man. I understood her reluctance to trust any white man, even one who had shown her nothing but kindness from the first day they met. And I marveled at her ability to take care of herself in any situation. (I lost count of how many times someone met her at knifepoint!) Her relationship with Wade blossomed slowly, but surely, and it fit the story perfectly. Normally, Mary's characters have an instant passion and attraction for one another that has a tendency to take over, but thankfully, that was not the case between Abby and Wade. Each one had their own inner struggles to sort through first before they could begin to fathom a relationship, and I appreciated that Mary delayed the romantic attraction between them just enough to make the story that much more enjoyable.
Now that I've got two series by Mary under my belt, I'm anxious to dive into another one. I've been trying to read her full-length novels in the order of their release, so next up will be the Sophie's Daughters Trilogy beginning with Doctor in Petticoats. I have no doubt it will be another rip-roaring adventure in the west that will be enjoyed thoroughly!
But, I must confess...I'm not usually a fan of Indians in fiction. I don't know why that is. I don't have anything against them, but I think it's just a matter of relating with them. Being a city girl and accustomed to living indoors, I can't imagine what it must've been like to live in a tepee 24/7, not to mention moving from place to place to live off the land. I'd die in no less than a week!
But in spite of all that, this tale with it's inclusion of an Indian heroine just had me glued to the pages. I empathized with Abby (initially known as Glowing Sun) after she dealt with the heartache of a massacre of her people by the white man. I understood her reluctance to trust any white man, even one who had shown her nothing but kindness from the first day they met. And I marveled at her ability to take care of herself in any situation. (I lost count of how many times someone met her at knifepoint!) Her relationship with Wade blossomed slowly, but surely, and it fit the story perfectly. Normally, Mary's characters have an instant passion and attraction for one another that has a tendency to take over, but thankfully, that was not the case between Abby and Wade. Each one had their own inner struggles to sort through first before they could begin to fathom a relationship, and I appreciated that Mary delayed the romantic attraction between them just enough to make the story that much more enjoyable.
Now that I've got two series by Mary under my belt, I'm anxious to dive into another one. I've been trying to read her full-length novels in the order of their release, so next up will be the Sophie's Daughters Trilogy beginning with Doctor in Petticoats. I have no doubt it will be another rip-roaring adventure in the west that will be enjoyed thoroughly!
March 6, 2018
Mary Connealy wraps up her Montana Marriages series by focusing on the redemption arc for Book One's villain. Wade has come to know the Lord and has been working on growing in his faith, as we saw in Book Two. Now he's hoping that drawing his strength from Christ will be enough to help him face his narcissistic father, whose health is failing. Can he really stand in grace before the one who caused him so much pain in the past?
This is also the story of Glowing Sun, a young woman who has been raised among the Salish Indian tribe after they rescued her, young and alone, when her family had died from illness. Now she is once again the sole survivor of tragedy, but this time it was a massacre instead of disease who took her people away from her. As she struggles to escape from the outlaws who killed her family, Wade comes to her rescue.
As Wade and Glowing Sun, who eventually remembers that her English name is Abby, make their way to his father's home, they don't know that the men who destroyed the Salish village are the same ones who have been rustling cattle and stealing gold in the nearby town of Divide. When the outlaws realize their witnesses will be around for a while, they make plans to kill Wade, Abby, and Wade's father so they can completely take over his ranch.
This was the best book in the series, because it dealt with very real issues and didn't have such over the top romance. Even though my own life story doesn't exactly match up with those of the main characters, it did in many areas of the heart. I applaud any author willing to tackle such tough subjects.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
This is also the story of Glowing Sun, a young woman who has been raised among the Salish Indian tribe after they rescued her, young and alone, when her family had died from illness. Now she is once again the sole survivor of tragedy, but this time it was a massacre instead of disease who took her people away from her. As she struggles to escape from the outlaws who killed her family, Wade comes to her rescue.
As Wade and Glowing Sun, who eventually remembers that her English name is Abby, make their way to his father's home, they don't know that the men who destroyed the Salish village are the same ones who have been rustling cattle and stealing gold in the nearby town of Divide. When the outlaws realize their witnesses will be around for a while, they make plans to kill Wade, Abby, and Wade's father so they can completely take over his ranch.
This was the best book in the series, because it dealt with very real issues and didn't have such over the top romance. Even though my own life story doesn't exactly match up with those of the main characters, it did in many areas of the heart. I applaud any author willing to tackle such tough subjects.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
May 14, 2010
I had some difficulty before finally finishing this book. I found all too easy to put down. I think part of it it was because I did not care for the main characters. I found it difficult to relate to the heroine and to some of the other female characters. Wade's father was also especially difficult to stomach. I can well understand why Wade found it difficult to return to the ranch to help him out. I found Glowing Sun or Abby as she was also known as a bit abrasive and judgmental. The bad guys were truly evil.
I also found that some parts of the stories dragged for me. I did find the insight into Golden Sun's life with the Flathead Indians was very interesting and it was obvious that the author did some research. That is something I can appreciate and approve of. All in all it was not a bad book. I was just hoping for more.
I also found that some parts of the stories dragged for me. I did find the insight into Golden Sun's life with the Flathead Indians was very interesting and it was obvious that the author did some research. That is something I can appreciate and approve of. All in all it was not a bad book. I was just hoping for more.
May 12, 2013
This was the last in the 'Montana Marriages' series, and I think it was my favourite! I really liked how the author brought us back into the lives of Cassie and Red (from book 1) more as she told the story of Wade and Abby/Glowing Sun.
This book was also laugh-out-loud funny. Of course, it's hard not to laugh when every time the hero (Wade) wants to kiss the girl he loves (Abby), she pulls a knife on him.
I also really liked the theme of 'Whom shall I fear?'. What a good reminder that if we're on God's side, no one can harm us in irrevocable ways.
Mary Connealy has sealed herself a place in my favourite authors list with this trilogy!
This book was also laugh-out-loud funny. Of course, it's hard not to laugh when every time the hero (Wade) wants to kiss the girl he loves (Abby), she pulls a knife on him.
I also really liked the theme of 'Whom shall I fear?'. What a good reminder that if we're on God's side, no one can harm us in irrevocable ways.
Mary Connealy has sealed herself a place in my favourite authors list with this trilogy!
June 16, 2010
Funny, sweet, beguiling, wonderful! Another delightful Connealy romance.
As much as it PAINS me to say it, Connealy only gets better with time.
"Abby" (Glowing Sun) is a great heroine. Sharp (pun totally intended) and to the point... Again, the pun is intended. Great with a knife and a tongue that sharpens with time, Abby is a wonderful character plucked from the annals of time.
Great job, kiddo.
As much as it PAINS me to say it, Connealy only gets better with time.
"Abby" (Glowing Sun) is a great heroine. Sharp (pun totally intended) and to the point... Again, the pun is intended. Great with a knife and a tongue that sharpens with time, Abby is a wonderful character plucked from the annals of time.
Great job, kiddo.
March 4, 2012
Great story and a fun read.
August 25, 2026
Wildflower Bride by Mary Connealy is a Christian Historical Romance.
Finding Home Where You Least Expect It
Mary Connealy delivers another captivating Western romance with a heroine who is anything but ordinary. Set against the rugged Montana Territory, this story blends adventure, romance, family conflict, and faith into a moving tale about finding where—and with whom—you truly belong.
Abby has spent most of her life with the Flathead tribe, the people who rescued and raised her after she was separated from her white family. After tragedy destroys her village, she is rescued by rancher Wade Sawyer. Fierce, independent, and wary of the white world, Abby has no intention of letting anyone control her future.
Wade is immediately drawn to Abby, but earning her trust won’t be easy. As danger from rustlers, family tensions, and painful memories threaten to pull them apart, both must confront the wounds of their past and learn to trust God’s plan.
I especially enjoyed the contrast between Abby’s fierce strength and Wade’s gentle nature. Their relationship feels like a journey rather than an instant romance, making their growing trust and connection all the more meaningful. Connealy also does a wonderful job weaving faith naturally into the story without overshadowing the adventure.
With plenty of action, heart, and an unconventional heroine who refuses to fit neatly into anyone’s expectations, this is a memorable historical romance about healing, belonging, and discovering that home can sometimes be found in the most unexpected place.
A heartfelt and adventurous read for fans of Christian historical romance, Western settings, and strong heroines.
So if you enjoy Christian Historical Romances, check out Wildflower Bride by Mary Connealy.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Finding Home Where You Least Expect It
Mary Connealy delivers another captivating Western romance with a heroine who is anything but ordinary. Set against the rugged Montana Territory, this story blends adventure, romance, family conflict, and faith into a moving tale about finding where—and with whom—you truly belong.
Abby has spent most of her life with the Flathead tribe, the people who rescued and raised her after she was separated from her white family. After tragedy destroys her village, she is rescued by rancher Wade Sawyer. Fierce, independent, and wary of the white world, Abby has no intention of letting anyone control her future.
Wade is immediately drawn to Abby, but earning her trust won’t be easy. As danger from rustlers, family tensions, and painful memories threaten to pull them apart, both must confront the wounds of their past and learn to trust God’s plan.
I especially enjoyed the contrast between Abby’s fierce strength and Wade’s gentle nature. Their relationship feels like a journey rather than an instant romance, making their growing trust and connection all the more meaningful. Connealy also does a wonderful job weaving faith naturally into the story without overshadowing the adventure.
With plenty of action, heart, and an unconventional heroine who refuses to fit neatly into anyone’s expectations, this is a memorable historical romance about healing, belonging, and discovering that home can sometimes be found in the most unexpected place.
A heartfelt and adventurous read for fans of Christian historical romance, Western settings, and strong heroines.
So if you enjoy Christian Historical Romances, check out Wildflower Bride by Mary Connealy.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
August 19, 2026
This author is one of my top five authors of all time. Let me explain why. She delivers stories that can transport a reader to where the setting of the book is. The description is so perfect that if it is raining in the story I can feel the raindrops on me. That is how vivid her writing is. This story is no exception with the rustle of cattle that kick up dust to the emotional struggle when trying to work on the land.
Both main characters have qualities that illustrate strength, courage and family values. Abby is a fierce woman who must try to adapt to a lifestyle that she can barely remember as a child. Being taken away from her family she only remembers life with Native Americans. Not everyone around accepted her with her flowing blonde hair but I think she adapted well. Then one day everything changed and she was left with no one. It had to be hard to trust a stranger after what she had witnessed. Her desperate need to survive is felt deep within her.
Wade has been given a second chance in this story. If you are a fan of this series you may remember him as a ruthless person. I do love redemption stories and Wade is definitely a man who has been changed by God. I appreciate how the author reminds us that God does rescue those that have fallen and need hope.
In the story we find two people looking for acceptance and find that working together will strengthen them as well as lead them to a new beginning where love, faith and family can be found.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Both main characters have qualities that illustrate strength, courage and family values. Abby is a fierce woman who must try to adapt to a lifestyle that she can barely remember as a child. Being taken away from her family she only remembers life with Native Americans. Not everyone around accepted her with her flowing blonde hair but I think she adapted well. Then one day everything changed and she was left with no one. It had to be hard to trust a stranger after what she had witnessed. Her desperate need to survive is felt deep within her.
Wade has been given a second chance in this story. If you are a fan of this series you may remember him as a ruthless person. I do love redemption stories and Wade is definitely a man who has been changed by God. I appreciate how the author reminds us that God does rescue those that have fallen and need hope.
In the story we find two people looking for acceptance and find that working together will strengthen them as well as lead them to a new beginning where love, faith and family can be found.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
August 27, 2026
What I think you should know:
Wildflower Bride by Mary Connealy is the sixth book in the Petticoats and Cowboys series. Set in 1877 Montana Territory this book features Wade Sawyer and Glowing Sun, also known as Abby. While this book could be a standalone I highly recommend that you read the previous books in the series prior to starting this book.
What you might need to know:
Glowing Sun, who later becomes known as Abby has been raised among the Salish people since she was 10. When her village is massacred by white men she goes back to the “white” world with Wade. This is not a fluffy book, Abby has had her family torn from her twice and has much mistrust for the white world.
What I think about this book:
This series has featured a lot of spunky heroines, and it seems that they were all just building up to Abby. Abby may have been born white, but she has the spirit of a warrior. More than once in this book we see Abby face situations that would make a grown man run but instead she stands and fights usually with her trusty knife. This book is not a relaxing book, Wade and Abby seem to be facing danger at every turn. I found myself frustrated with both main characters at times but was so invested in the story that I wanted to know what was going to happen to them next. I am definitely looking forward to Doctor in Petticoat and can’t wait to see what adventures Connealy takes her readers on next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Wildflower Bride by Mary Connealy is the sixth book in the Petticoats and Cowboys series. Set in 1877 Montana Territory this book features Wade Sawyer and Glowing Sun, also known as Abby. While this book could be a standalone I highly recommend that you read the previous books in the series prior to starting this book.
What you might need to know:
Glowing Sun, who later becomes known as Abby has been raised among the Salish people since she was 10. When her village is massacred by white men she goes back to the “white” world with Wade. This is not a fluffy book, Abby has had her family torn from her twice and has much mistrust for the white world.
What I think about this book:
This series has featured a lot of spunky heroines, and it seems that they were all just building up to Abby. Abby may have been born white, but she has the spirit of a warrior. More than once in this book we see Abby face situations that would make a grown man run but instead she stands and fights usually with her trusty knife. This book is not a relaxing book, Wade and Abby seem to be facing danger at every turn. I found myself frustrated with both main characters at times but was so invested in the story that I wanted to know what was going to happen to them next. I am definitely looking forward to Doctor in Petticoat and can’t wait to see what adventures Connealy takes her readers on next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
July 27, 2025
I enjoyed the series and I’m going to be looking for more titles by this author. Her use of humor and development of the characters was very well done. Sometimes I felt that the characters were somewhat inconsistent in their decisions and rationale for making them. Not to say that the decisions themselves weren’t good. It just felt that it wasn’t very smooth. transition from our readers perspective. That’s just my opinion, though. I did like the characters and watching Cassie‘s knife wielding skills develop…
This is where we wander a little bit into spoiler territory… So I’ve given enough of a lead before we got to this point and didn’t want to market as a spoiler because it doesn’t really talk about the end of the story. I think Abby‘s approach to Gertie wasn’t necessarily fair. I think the whole situation was messed up and everybody played apart, but I think Wade and Abby made some accusations to Gerdy that I didn’t think were completely reflective of the situation. I have not been in this sort of Family dynamic before so it’s very possible that I am incorrect and how I’m perceiving it. And it’s possible that psychiatrist and professional therapist would agree with Abby and Wade. I think it was a very messed up dynamic for sure. I also think it was a realistic way of addressing how emotional and physical abuse affect more than just the abuser and the targeted individual… it really is a sad and circular cycle and I have to say that I applaud Wade for breaking it.
This is where we wander a little bit into spoiler territory… So I’ve given enough of a lead before we got to this point and didn’t want to market as a spoiler because it doesn’t really talk about the end of the story. I think Abby‘s approach to Gertie wasn’t necessarily fair. I think the whole situation was messed up and everybody played apart, but I think Wade and Abby made some accusations to Gerdy that I didn’t think were completely reflective of the situation. I have not been in this sort of Family dynamic before so it’s very possible that I am incorrect and how I’m perceiving it. And it’s possible that psychiatrist and professional therapist would agree with Abby and Wade. I think it was a very messed up dynamic for sure. I also think it was a realistic way of addressing how emotional and physical abuse affect more than just the abuser and the targeted individual… it really is a sad and circular cycle and I have to say that I applaud Wade for breaking it.
August 30, 2026
Sometimes doing the right thing can be so hard....
Wow, I didn't think I could meet a heroine who could give Belle Tanner (Harden!) a run for her money in the toughness department, but, oh, did Abby do just that...
On one hand, I've been really looking forward to reading Wildflower Bride since finishing the last Petticoats And Cowboy novel, but, on the other hand, I wasn't too sure about Wade as a hero. He was so unhinged in Montana Rose that I was skeptical of whether I could come to like him or not. I shouldn't have questioned it. Mary Connealy knows her stuff and she had me in both Wade and Abby's corner right away.
I found Wildflower Bride to be every bit as humorous and entertaining as the previous books in the Petticoats And Cowboys series, but Mary Connealy also takes on the toxic father-son dynamic in a way that felt compassionate but surprisingly real. I think the struggle for adult children to balance honoring difficult parents, particularly if there is a history of any kind of abuse, and setting personal boundaries will really resonate with a lot of readers.
As I've said before, the Petticoats And Cowboys series has been an enjoyable one. I would recommend it, and pretty much any other Mary Connealy series to anyone who loves historical romance with a western/cowboy theme. Don't miss Wildflower Bride or the rest of the series....
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
Wow, I didn't think I could meet a heroine who could give Belle Tanner (Harden!) a run for her money in the toughness department, but, oh, did Abby do just that...
On one hand, I've been really looking forward to reading Wildflower Bride since finishing the last Petticoats And Cowboy novel, but, on the other hand, I wasn't too sure about Wade as a hero. He was so unhinged in Montana Rose that I was skeptical of whether I could come to like him or not. I shouldn't have questioned it. Mary Connealy knows her stuff and she had me in both Wade and Abby's corner right away.
I found Wildflower Bride to be every bit as humorous and entertaining as the previous books in the Petticoats And Cowboys series, but Mary Connealy also takes on the toxic father-son dynamic in a way that felt compassionate but surprisingly real. I think the struggle for adult children to balance honoring difficult parents, particularly if there is a history of any kind of abuse, and setting personal boundaries will really resonate with a lot of readers.
As I've said before, the Petticoats And Cowboys series has been an enjoyable one. I would recommend it, and pretty much any other Mary Connealy series to anyone who loves historical romance with a western/cowboy theme. Don't miss Wildflower Bride or the rest of the series....
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
August 21, 2026
Wildflower Bride is a wonderful series continuation plus just a fun historical fiction novel on its own accord. It takes a villain from the first book in the series and makes him a hero!
Abby is our heroine. Well, she’s Abby again now. She was Abby, and then she was Glowing Sun, and now that she’s back with the white people, she’s Abby again. If she can remember who that is.
You see, her family died from a fever, and the tribe took her in. They loved her, and they raised her from the age of 10. But as an adult, her tribe is massacred, and she survives. And now she has to figure out who she is and where she belongs in the white world.
Enter Wade.
He’s changed since his debut in another novel in the series. He became a Christian. And that’s a very important change that really and truly does change everything about a person. Now he’s trying to become a different man.
Wade falls in love with Abby, but can she trust him? And what happens when she finds an older brother who survived? Will she choose family or love?
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Abby is our heroine. Well, she’s Abby again now. She was Abby, and then she was Glowing Sun, and now that she’s back with the white people, she’s Abby again. If she can remember who that is.
You see, her family died from a fever, and the tribe took her in. They loved her, and they raised her from the age of 10. But as an adult, her tribe is massacred, and she survives. And now she has to figure out who she is and where she belongs in the white world.
Enter Wade.
He’s changed since his debut in another novel in the series. He became a Christian. And that’s a very important change that really and truly does change everything about a person. Now he’s trying to become a different man.
Wade falls in love with Abby, but can she trust him? And what happens when she finds an older brother who survived? Will she choose family or love?
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
November 18, 2021
This whole series I keeping thinking I've read these books before but it shows I haven't. So, I'm not sure what's going on there. This book series took me longer to finish them because I know I've read them before but couldn't remember how they ended. I seemed to have dragged reading them. Plus life is busy.
Glowing Sun is a white woman who grew up with the Flathead Indians because her family died of a sickness when she was very young. Then her people in her village were slaughtered she didn't have any where else to go.
Wade has left his dad's ranch because of his dad mistreating him all his life. He heard noise from where he was staying and went to help because he knew Glowing Sun was living close with her indian family. Now Glowing Sun remembers her name and wants to be called Abby for now on.
When his dad may be dying from falling and breaking his back, he heads home with Abby who doesn't want to go.
I love Abby's sassy and strong willed personality to help Wade get through with his dad's crankiness and bad temper.
Also, Abby needs to watch out for the men who slaughtered her Flathead family because the men don't want any survivors to recognize them. The problem is these men work at Wade's dad's ranch.
Let you read and find out what happens.
Such a good story!
Glowing Sun is a white woman who grew up with the Flathead Indians because her family died of a sickness when she was very young. Then her people in her village were slaughtered she didn't have any where else to go.
Wade has left his dad's ranch because of his dad mistreating him all his life. He heard noise from where he was staying and went to help because he knew Glowing Sun was living close with her indian family. Now Glowing Sun remembers her name and wants to be called Abby for now on.
When his dad may be dying from falling and breaking his back, he heads home with Abby who doesn't want to go.
I love Abby's sassy and strong willed personality to help Wade get through with his dad's crankiness and bad temper.
Also, Abby needs to watch out for the men who slaughtered her Flathead family because the men don't want any survivors to recognize them. The problem is these men work at Wade's dad's ranch.
Let you read and find out what happens.
Such a good story!
January 8, 2020
A great conclusion to the series!
I thoroughly enjoyed this final instalment featuring Glowing Sun aka Abby and Wade. I honestly didn't know how I would like Wade after his actions in book 1, but slowly in book 2 I gradually came to like him, and finally in this one LOVE him!
I loved his interactions with Abby, and it was fun to see him try to protect her even when she could protect herself (probably sometimes even better than he could!)
As much as I liked Abby and Wade, Silas and Belle would probably have to be my favourite couple from this series... but never fear! They feature prominently in this book alongside Red and Cassie. This was probably my favourite book in the series because I got to read about all the couples.
The villain in this story was in my opinion the best as well (as in, the most 'villainy'), and I loved the action in this book too. I also found this book to be the most humorous in the series which was an extra bonus.
Overall another great novel by Mary Connealy. I would recommend this to all lovers of clean, sweet romance with a touch of humour!
I thoroughly enjoyed this final instalment featuring Glowing Sun aka Abby and Wade. I honestly didn't know how I would like Wade after his actions in book 1, but slowly in book 2 I gradually came to like him, and finally in this one LOVE him!
I loved his interactions with Abby, and it was fun to see him try to protect her even when she could protect herself (probably sometimes even better than he could!)
As much as I liked Abby and Wade, Silas and Belle would probably have to be my favourite couple from this series... but never fear! They feature prominently in this book alongside Red and Cassie. This was probably my favourite book in the series because I got to read about all the couples.
The villain in this story was in my opinion the best as well (as in, the most 'villainy'), and I loved the action in this book too. I also found this book to be the most humorous in the series which was an extra bonus.
Overall another great novel by Mary Connealy. I would recommend this to all lovers of clean, sweet romance with a touch of humour!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A heartwarming romance that you can cheer for throughout.
Wade Sawyer has lived constantly being beat down by his overbearing father, and I admired him for living out his faith even when it was hard. Abby lived her life among the natives for years, but when her people are massacred, she feels incredibly lost and torn between two worlds, longing for the simpler ways of the tribe. Can she trust the gentle rancher who is carving a place into her heart?
Wade is an admirable man, doing his best to honor his father and live his faith. I liked that Abby stands up for herself and isn't afraid to say things how they are. The bad guys were just so wicked in this story, I didn't really enjoy reading the parts that were in their heads.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read with likable characters, great plot, and a sweet romance. I liked the strong themes of family, faith and forgiveness.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Wade Sawyer has lived constantly being beat down by his overbearing father, and I admired him for living out his faith even when it was hard. Abby lived her life among the natives for years, but when her people are massacred, she feels incredibly lost and torn between two worlds, longing for the simpler ways of the tribe. Can she trust the gentle rancher who is carving a place into her heart?
Wade is an admirable man, doing his best to honor his father and live his faith. I liked that Abby stands up for herself and isn't afraid to say things how they are. The bad guys were just so wicked in this story, I didn't really enjoy reading the parts that were in their heads.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read with likable characters, great plot, and a sweet romance. I liked the strong themes of family, faith and forgiveness.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 12, 2020
This is a wonderful conclusion to a fantastic series! The redemption arcs of all the characters in this series have been so rewarding. I'm sad that its over!!! Wade has been a coward and a failure to his father all his life, but when his Dad breaks his back in a fall Wade comes home. Abby, who has been raised among a group of Native Americans, finds herself a lone survivor of a massacre and the only witness of her family's killers. As Wade fights to get his father's ranch ready for a cattle drive with incompetent help, Abby has to decide where she wants to go now. And to cap it off, the local cattle rustlers/massacring monsters, are working on Wade's ranch and trying to finish off Abby, Wade, Wade's father, and Gertie the housekeeper to steal the ranch for themselves. Luckily, Wade has a posse of feisty women and some honorable men to help him restore order (and maybe while he's at it, talk Abby into being his wife).
August 19, 2026
Evil men are stealing cattle and rebranding them. Plans are to takeover the Sawyer Ranch, especially since son Wade is far away. He has waited all winter on Abby who has lived in the Indian village where she was raised. When her village is destroyed and all the residents killed she is at a loss. Wade takes her with him when he learns his father is dying and asking for him.
Red and Cassie, Silas and Belle from previous stories were also included which I enjoyed. Wade and Abby had a hard time keeping ahead of these evil men intent on destruction and murder. It was never brought out but I figured out why they burnt down the village. Shhhh….
Abby was a joy to get to know. She was a spitfire that carried a knife with her always. Wade had his hands full with her but I loved the ending!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review.
Red and Cassie, Silas and Belle from previous stories were also included which I enjoyed. Wade and Abby had a hard time keeping ahead of these evil men intent on destruction and murder. It was never brought out but I figured out why they burnt down the village. Shhhh….
Abby was a joy to get to know. She was a spitfire that carried a knife with her always. Wade had his hands full with her but I loved the ending!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review.
August 31, 2026
A continuation from two of the characters in The Husband Tree take center page in Wildflower Bride. Wade Sawyer had fallen for the blond girl raised by the Indians who rescued her as a child, but she chose to remain with her tribe, planning to marry a warrior. That life felt familiar, and they cared about her. Wade tries to convince her to give him a chance, and he exerts great effort to convince her. The story of their growing relationship and all the struggles the face presents a powerful tale of overcoming adversity and growing in faith. In addition, there is Wade’s wealthy father who has written him off and whom Wade wants nothing to do with—except he faces dire need. Of course, there is suspense as a plot brews among unsavory characters, which could affect Wade’s very life. If you enjoy Westerns, this one should entertain you. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This story takes us back to the Montana Territory in 1877 when the law was difficult to enforce out in the wilds. Cattle rustling, murder, massacre and more were part of life. Abby’s Flathead village was one of those that was massacred - gentle people who had taken an orphaned white child and gave her a home. Now it was all gone.
Wade Sawyer knew God wanted him to return to his father, forgive him for abusing him as a child and help him see his need for salvation. The only problem was summed up by Abby - Your father built a fortress to keep happiness out. Could things change for all of them? Time and the Lord would answer that question.
An early copy of Petticoats and Cowboys #6 was received through Wild Heart Books and BookFunnel. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
Wade Sawyer knew God wanted him to return to his father, forgive him for abusing him as a child and help him see his need for salvation. The only problem was summed up by Abby - Your father built a fortress to keep happiness out. Could things change for all of them? Time and the Lord would answer that question.
An early copy of Petticoats and Cowboys #6 was received through Wild Heart Books and BookFunnel. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
August 25, 2026
This series has the toughest, knife wielding, sharpshooting, out riding women you'll ever meet. Combined with lots of humor and danger. Wade is captivated by Abby, who had been adopted and raised by Indians as a small child. Outlaws kill her tribe and are trying to take over his estranged father's ranch - he's in the way without realizing it, and she's a witness. Realistic struggles of confidence and living with abuse, healing. Easy to read, romantic, realistic, original, page turner. Gotta love these characters.
I received this book free from the author, publisher and CelebrateLit book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#WildflowerBride #MaryConnealy #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #CelebrateLit #ChristianWesterns #WildHeartBooks #PetticoatsAndCowboys
I received this book free from the author, publisher and CelebrateLit book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#WildflowerBride #MaryConnealy #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #CelebrateLit #ChristianWesterns #WildHeartBooks #PetticoatsAndCowboys
September 27, 2020
Just too funny and too good for words!
Though this story starts with and has plenty of drama, the laughs are just as plentiful. So thrilled that all the couples from the first two books are here as well and the wit and humour between them is superb! Red Dawson to his sweet wife Cassie - "honey, can we pls have lunch before you start stabbing the barn again". Silas Harden to his tough wife - "Belle, honey, I might need you to shoot a man.” “Now, Silas? Or can it wait until after lunch?” Wade Sawyer to his wildflower, Abby - "Don’t pull a knife on the sheriff, Ab. He can arrest you for it.” But my all time favorite line - “No babies allowed in our posse." This is definitely a must read, the whole series is highly recommended. Kudos to Mary Conneally's talent!
Though this story starts with and has plenty of drama, the laughs are just as plentiful. So thrilled that all the couples from the first two books are here as well and the wit and humour between them is superb! Red Dawson to his sweet wife Cassie - "honey, can we pls have lunch before you start stabbing the barn again". Silas Harden to his tough wife - "Belle, honey, I might need you to shoot a man.” “Now, Silas? Or can it wait until after lunch?” Wade Sawyer to his wildflower, Abby - "Don’t pull a knife on the sheriff, Ab. He can arrest you for it.” But my all time favorite line - “No babies allowed in our posse." This is definitely a must read, the whole series is highly recommended. Kudos to Mary Conneally's talent!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews