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Cactus Creek Cowboys #2
To Love and to Cherish
When Laurie Spencer said I do, she never realized she'd be trading one pair of shackles for another - until her husband's unexpected death leaves her with an opportunity to escape her controlling family for good. Determined to be independent, Laurie approaches sexy rancher Jared Smith with an offer she hopes he can't refuse. When unconsciously sensual Laurie offers a partnership, and she throws herself in as part of the deal, Jared's not sure he'll be able to respect the terms of their agreement and keep his eyes-and his hands to himself. There's something about Laurie that awakens every protective instinct Jared has...and when all hell breaks loose, there's nothing and no one who'll be able to keep this cowboy from her side.
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First published January 1, 2014
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did-not-finish
February 24, 2024Dead in the water at 10%.
This was so male gaze-y: the heroine is just a pair of boobs with hair and the hero is the manliest man ever to man. Call me a misandrist but the second I found out this author was a man I checked out completely.
This is a self-insert male cowboy fantasy. 🤮
This was so male gaze-y: the heroine is just a pair of boobs with hair and the hero is the manliest man ever to man. Call me a misandrist but the second I found out this author was a man I checked out completely.
This is a self-insert male cowboy fantasy. 🤮
December 27, 2015
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
To Love and To Cherish is the second book and this story features Laurie Spencer and Jared Smith. Laurie Spencer is another of the three female cousins that were introduced to us in the first book. Laurie has just become a widow, her husband having passed away from a heart attack. Laurie is a beautiful woman, but her husband was very controlling in every aspect. He was insanely jealous, and forced her to wear unattractive clothing and she was always by his side, since he didn't want her to attract male attention. Laurie is shocked to learn that she didn't inherit everything so that she could be financially secure. He left it to his brother to dish out to her when he felt she needed it. The last thing Laurie wants is to be controlled and have no freedom once more. But she has money, lots of it....money only she knows about. So she makes a pact with handsome rancher, Jared Smith. She will give him her money so he can purchase his cattle if he will let her be his partner in the ranch and so she goes to cook and clean for his crew while learning the ropes of the ranch. Jared will have to be forced to choose over Laurie and the love he has for her or making sure his brother and his men get the money that is owed them.
To Love and To Cherish is a spectacular story that I couldn't get enough of. I was able to listen to this one, since it was available through Hoopla (my library's audiobook system). It was great to see a continuation of the first book....the people of the wagon train have settled in Arizona, built a nice town and are prospering. It was great fun to see characters from the first book in this story. I grew to really like Laurie. She has great strength and character, bold and goes after what she wants. She isn't about to bow down to another man and stands on her own which was quite amusing to watch at times. The romance between Jared and Laurie is full of great chemistry from the beginning. It was a different experience seeing them act on their desire for each other pretty early in the book. We see how their emotional bond is built and gets put to the test. This was quite a wonderful story to read, and I couldn't get enough of it. I loved seeing the love story take place on a ranch, and seeing the way the ranch hands are all like a family and they take to Laurie instantly. A great spin of a romance, and a western that I would recommend to anyone that loves a great historical love story!! The ending just about made me tear up like crazy....we see some great emotional bonds that get formed and not just between our main couple....It will knock your socks off.
Forever and Always is the third and most latest release....I am not sure if this is just a trilogy or if there will be more books. You never know with Leigh Greenwood. Now Forever and Always is probably my favorite book of the series...which is saying quite a bit since I couldn't put down the previous two books. In this story we have Logan Holstock and Libby Spencer. Logan is the last of the three brothers and he has come out west to find them. Logan is dying from what his doctor tells him, and he knows he will be gone soon and must find his brothers before then. Libby Spencer, has recently become widowed when her husband was shot in his bank while a robbery was taking place. Logan saved Libby's life. Libby takes in Logan when he become too sick, but there is something suspicious about his illness. Libby and her daughter instantly take to Logan, Libby has never known affection or care until she meets Logan. Libby will fight for him no matter the stakes that are involved.
This was quite a beautiful story and I honestly couldn't get enough of seeing the last of the cousin and the brother get together. This had quite a mystery tone to the story as well. We see the evil workings of his ex fiancee who is only after his money and has been working to poison him, but Logan has no clue. We see her manipulations and how far they go. It was quite a unique experience to see how this aspect of the story balanced out so well with the other workings of the story. I loved seeing this and the way it came together in the end. The bond that forms between the three brothers that were seperated when they were just children, and are now reunited and having found love for themselves. I honestly wanted more of these three couples....so enchanting to see their families and their connection to each other and the way that they fight and banter for and with each other. It makes me want to read more of this author. I would highly recommend this trilogy and the audio narrative was done excellent!!
[foogallery id="17767"]
To Love and To Cherish is the second book and this story features Laurie Spencer and Jared Smith. Laurie Spencer is another of the three female cousins that were introduced to us in the first book. Laurie has just become a widow, her husband having passed away from a heart attack. Laurie is a beautiful woman, but her husband was very controlling in every aspect. He was insanely jealous, and forced her to wear unattractive clothing and she was always by his side, since he didn't want her to attract male attention. Laurie is shocked to learn that she didn't inherit everything so that she could be financially secure. He left it to his brother to dish out to her when he felt she needed it. The last thing Laurie wants is to be controlled and have no freedom once more. But she has money, lots of it....money only she knows about. So she makes a pact with handsome rancher, Jared Smith. She will give him her money so he can purchase his cattle if he will let her be his partner in the ranch and so she goes to cook and clean for his crew while learning the ropes of the ranch. Jared will have to be forced to choose over Laurie and the love he has for her or making sure his brother and his men get the money that is owed them.
To Love and To Cherish is a spectacular story that I couldn't get enough of. I was able to listen to this one, since it was available through Hoopla (my library's audiobook system). It was great to see a continuation of the first book....the people of the wagon train have settled in Arizona, built a nice town and are prospering. It was great fun to see characters from the first book in this story. I grew to really like Laurie. She has great strength and character, bold and goes after what she wants. She isn't about to bow down to another man and stands on her own which was quite amusing to watch at times. The romance between Jared and Laurie is full of great chemistry from the beginning. It was a different experience seeing them act on their desire for each other pretty early in the book. We see how their emotional bond is built and gets put to the test. This was quite a wonderful story to read, and I couldn't get enough of it. I loved seeing the love story take place on a ranch, and seeing the way the ranch hands are all like a family and they take to Laurie instantly. A great spin of a romance, and a western that I would recommend to anyone that loves a great historical love story!! The ending just about made me tear up like crazy....we see some great emotional bonds that get formed and not just between our main couple....It will knock your socks off.
Forever and Always is the third and most latest release....I am not sure if this is just a trilogy or if there will be more books. You never know with Leigh Greenwood. Now Forever and Always is probably my favorite book of the series...which is saying quite a bit since I couldn't put down the previous two books. In this story we have Logan Holstock and Libby Spencer. Logan is the last of the three brothers and he has come out west to find them. Logan is dying from what his doctor tells him, and he knows he will be gone soon and must find his brothers before then. Libby Spencer, has recently become widowed when her husband was shot in his bank while a robbery was taking place. Logan saved Libby's life. Libby takes in Logan when he become too sick, but there is something suspicious about his illness. Libby and her daughter instantly take to Logan, Libby has never known affection or care until she meets Logan. Libby will fight for him no matter the stakes that are involved.
This was quite a beautiful story and I honestly couldn't get enough of seeing the last of the cousin and the brother get together. This had quite a mystery tone to the story as well. We see the evil workings of his ex fiancee who is only after his money and has been working to poison him, but Logan has no clue. We see her manipulations and how far they go. It was quite a unique experience to see how this aspect of the story balanced out so well with the other workings of the story. I loved seeing this and the way it came together in the end. The bond that forms between the three brothers that were seperated when they were just children, and are now reunited and having found love for themselves. I honestly wanted more of these three couples....so enchanting to see their families and their connection to each other and the way that they fight and banter for and with each other. It makes me want to read more of this author. I would highly recommend this trilogy and the audio narrative was done excellent!!
[foogallery id="17767"]
November 2, 2014
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review
Laurie's husband has just died and the only thing she is feeling is a sense of sweet freedom. Her husband Noah was incredibly controlling and looked for ways to constantly demean her. However, even from the grave Noah has found a way to command Laurie's life as his will is set up to give his brother Norman authority to dole out the estate money how and whenever he sees fit. As Norman is quite possibly worse than Noah, Laurie is justifiably upset. When Laurie finds out the new rancher, Jared, in town was denied a loan for a herd of cattle he wants, she approaches him with a deal. With money Laurie has secretly acquired, a plot point from To Have and To Hold book one in the series, she offers Jared the money in exchange for a fifty percent partnership in his ranch. This partnership will provide Laurie with an independent means of income and the sense of freedom she craves. While giving up half of his ranch profits is the last thing he wants to do, Jared also can't say no to money that will buy the cattle he desperately wants and not to mention the way he feels when he looks into Laurie's eyes. With their business partnership sealed, Laurie and Jared start to realize that keeping pleasure out of the mix is going to be harder than they thought.
Along with medievals it seems like westerns have went the way of the buffalo in the last couple years, so it was fun to visit this time period and atmosphere again. The author does a wonderful job of setting the scenery and immersing the reader into everyday American western settlers. In fact, it may be too good of a job as a lot of the story is devoted to this which left the main couple's relationship faded to the background. It also created a slower moving story; it wasn't boring, just a more attention to everyday life with nothing hurried. With my fast talking Northern ways though, maybe this pace was perfectly fitting for a western ;) If the white horse on the cover doesn't tip you off, this story is a little bit of a throwback to older romance books. The prose had a tendency to veer towards flowery and purple but is not of the bodice ripper variety, more of a gently romantic tone. There were also a couple times when I thought this could have been edited down to make it more streamlined, some repeated lines especially dealing with describing Jared as sensual, but after the 32% mark the story started to come together and I quit focusing on the technical aspects and became more involved with Laurie and Jared.
Laurie's anger and pain will reach a tender spot for every woman as we all will be thankful of the equality and advantages our modern times provide us with that Laurie did not have. She develops a strong backbone in negotiating with Jared so that she can have control of her life in the future but displays a heartbreaking vulnerability when it comes to Jared expressing emotions for her and feelings of self-worth. Jared is sensitive and caring but has a strong resolve to make his ranch a success that keeps him busily occupied and a little late to the party about how much he cares about Laurie now that she is in his life. Their romance is subtle and tender with both very leery as to how to proceed but find they can't ultimately live without one another.
There are a couple plot points that carryover from book one but I never felt lost or confused by them and a couple side stories involving Jared searching for two missing brothers and a town stocked with secondary characters looking for romance. If looking to read a western this definitely has the feel for one and would provide a nice pleasant read about two individuals trying to make it in that world who come together To Love and To Cherish.
Laurie's husband has just died and the only thing she is feeling is a sense of sweet freedom. Her husband Noah was incredibly controlling and looked for ways to constantly demean her. However, even from the grave Noah has found a way to command Laurie's life as his will is set up to give his brother Norman authority to dole out the estate money how and whenever he sees fit. As Norman is quite possibly worse than Noah, Laurie is justifiably upset. When Laurie finds out the new rancher, Jared, in town was denied a loan for a herd of cattle he wants, she approaches him with a deal. With money Laurie has secretly acquired, a plot point from To Have and To Hold book one in the series, she offers Jared the money in exchange for a fifty percent partnership in his ranch. This partnership will provide Laurie with an independent means of income and the sense of freedom she craves. While giving up half of his ranch profits is the last thing he wants to do, Jared also can't say no to money that will buy the cattle he desperately wants and not to mention the way he feels when he looks into Laurie's eyes. With their business partnership sealed, Laurie and Jared start to realize that keeping pleasure out of the mix is going to be harder than they thought.
Along with medievals it seems like westerns have went the way of the buffalo in the last couple years, so it was fun to visit this time period and atmosphere again. The author does a wonderful job of setting the scenery and immersing the reader into everyday American western settlers. In fact, it may be too good of a job as a lot of the story is devoted to this which left the main couple's relationship faded to the background. It also created a slower moving story; it wasn't boring, just a more attention to everyday life with nothing hurried. With my fast talking Northern ways though, maybe this pace was perfectly fitting for a western ;) If the white horse on the cover doesn't tip you off, this story is a little bit of a throwback to older romance books. The prose had a tendency to veer towards flowery and purple but is not of the bodice ripper variety, more of a gently romantic tone. There were also a couple times when I thought this could have been edited down to make it more streamlined, some repeated lines especially dealing with describing Jared as sensual, but after the 32% mark the story started to come together and I quit focusing on the technical aspects and became more involved with Laurie and Jared.
Laurie's anger and pain will reach a tender spot for every woman as we all will be thankful of the equality and advantages our modern times provide us with that Laurie did not have. She develops a strong backbone in negotiating with Jared so that she can have control of her life in the future but displays a heartbreaking vulnerability when it comes to Jared expressing emotions for her and feelings of self-worth. Jared is sensitive and caring but has a strong resolve to make his ranch a success that keeps him busily occupied and a little late to the party about how much he cares about Laurie now that she is in his life. Their romance is subtle and tender with both very leery as to how to proceed but find they can't ultimately live without one another.
There are a couple plot points that carryover from book one but I never felt lost or confused by them and a couple side stories involving Jared searching for two missing brothers and a town stocked with secondary characters looking for romance. If looking to read a western this definitely has the feel for one and would provide a nice pleasant read about two individuals trying to make it in that world who come together To Love and To Cherish.
November 25, 2014
I wonder what it is about this book that makes people rate it so highly. I also wonder what it is about this book that makes people say good things about it even when they rate it low. It's a weird sort of literary no man's land that few authors find their work in. But I suppose I can see why it would be hard to dislike the story itself. It's a good premise, if not maybe a bit overdone, and it's a comfortably formulaic romance. That's not always a good thing, but it certainly doesn't challenge us as readers in any way, so the comfort outweighs the boredom...? Maybe.
In any case, I couldn't bring myself to like this book at all simply because the two main characters were so god-awful stupid. From the very beginning, I knew that all of their problems could be solved by one thing; marriage. Instead, they made it far more complicated than any of it ever needed to be. As I was reading, I just sat shaking my head at the idiocy of their choices. Everything they do is stupid and wrong, and yet they can't seem to stop.
To top off the character hatred, I also had to deal with two of my very favorite things in literature; incessant, repetitive questions and unnecessary, unrealistic dialogue.
"'I thought I knew what making love to a woman was all about," Jared whispered, "but I didn't understand anything t all until I met you. I was just going through the motions, waiting for someone to make me understand what they meant.'
'I've been locked away somewhere, unable to move forward or backward, unable even to breathe, waiting for you to come along and tear open the prison door. I feel liberated. You've given me my life back. I'll be eternally grateful for that.'"
But you know what? It's OK because Laurie is just so unfuckingbelievably beautiful. Everything's OK as long as Laurie's around. She's beautiful, smart, sweet, shy, strong, everything a man could want, yet Jared takes forfuckingever to figure out that he might actually care about the Mary Sue he deflowered and then was ready to toss aside. Yeah, that's right, he took her virginity and then was all, "Well, guess I'd better court this other girl and think about marrying her so I can get that loan from the bank."
Jared's an asshole. And Laurie can do no wrong.
I need to write a book with characters like this so they can be kidnapped and tortured to death by bandits.
In any case, I couldn't bring myself to like this book at all simply because the two main characters were so god-awful stupid. From the very beginning, I knew that all of their problems could be solved by one thing; marriage. Instead, they made it far more complicated than any of it ever needed to be. As I was reading, I just sat shaking my head at the idiocy of their choices. Everything they do is stupid and wrong, and yet they can't seem to stop.
To top off the character hatred, I also had to deal with two of my very favorite things in literature; incessant, repetitive questions and unnecessary, unrealistic dialogue.
"'I thought I knew what making love to a woman was all about," Jared whispered, "but I didn't understand anything t all until I met you. I was just going through the motions, waiting for someone to make me understand what they meant.'
'I've been locked away somewhere, unable to move forward or backward, unable even to breathe, waiting for you to come along and tear open the prison door. I feel liberated. You've given me my life back. I'll be eternally grateful for that.'"
But you know what? It's OK because Laurie is just so unfuckingbelievably beautiful. Everything's OK as long as Laurie's around. She's beautiful, smart, sweet, shy, strong, everything a man could want, yet Jared takes forfuckingever to figure out that he might actually care about the Mary Sue he deflowered and then was ready to toss aside. Yeah, that's right, he took her virginity and then was all, "Well, guess I'd better court this other girl and think about marrying her so I can get that loan from the bank."
Jared's an asshole. And Laurie can do no wrong.
I need to write a book with characters like this so they can be kidnapped and tortured to death by bandits.
February 19, 2015
I received this from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoy watching a good western, but I have only read two books set in that era. Why is that? It looks like I have a new genre to look into. To Love and to Cherish is the second book by Leigh Greenwood that I have read and loved.
Laura Spencer should not feel relieved after burying her husband, but she does. After her father sold her to Noah, a man she didn't love and who didn't love her, Laura thought things could not get worse, but they did. Laura thinks Noah can no longer control her, but the grave won't stop him. She wants her independence and believes a partnership with a handsome rancher, Jared, may be the solution. Laura may have to offer more than money to seal the deal. Will working with Jared be the escape Laura is looking for or lead to more problems?
Laura is a strong, loving and giving woman who has been wronged by men. She has sworn off marriage after the death of her controlling husband. Is it possible to find love and finally put the past to rest? Jared is an honest, hard working man who is trying to turn a failing ranch around. What a lovely story! It is full of heart break, compassion, anger, greed but most of all love...love of family and friends. The complexity of the characters and their struggles is what captivated me. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I enjoy watching a good western, but I have only read two books set in that era. Why is that? It looks like I have a new genre to look into. To Love and to Cherish is the second book by Leigh Greenwood that I have read and loved.
Laura Spencer should not feel relieved after burying her husband, but she does. After her father sold her to Noah, a man she didn't love and who didn't love her, Laura thought things could not get worse, but they did. Laura thinks Noah can no longer control her, but the grave won't stop him. She wants her independence and believes a partnership with a handsome rancher, Jared, may be the solution. Laura may have to offer more than money to seal the deal. Will working with Jared be the escape Laura is looking for or lead to more problems?
Laura is a strong, loving and giving woman who has been wronged by men. She has sworn off marriage after the death of her controlling husband. Is it possible to find love and finally put the past to rest? Jared is an honest, hard working man who is trying to turn a failing ranch around. What a lovely story! It is full of heart break, compassion, anger, greed but most of all love...love of family and friends. The complexity of the characters and their struggles is what captivated me. I look forward to reading more from this author.
October 26, 2014
4 1/2 stars
At seventeen years old Laurie's father married her off to a man who did not love her, and in the four years of their marriage Noah never grew to love her and controlled every facet of her life, down to the tent dresses he insisted she wear to not draw attention to her womanly curves. Now a widow, Laurie wants to control her destiny and is determined she will never again give up control of her life and remarry. Jared Smith, the new rancher in the area, will be the perfect partner for her new venture.
Laurie has a rebirth of sorts when her husband unexpectedly dies. She is more intent on finding independence than love. Sadly I am not sure she ever felt love from anyone other than her cousins. Her determination was something that drew me to her; never again was she going to be dependent on someone who wanted to control her more than love her. Jared had admired Laurie for a long time, but due to her being married properly kept his distance. His focus on his duty to the men who worked for him was evident and at times seemed to blind him. At one point Jared is described as sensual and that is a very accurate description. He is definitely a man who knows what he wants, but he has a softer side when it comes to Laurie. There was and deep attraction between these characters, but they fought internal battles with personal expectations on their way to love.
The plot was simple to follow and had a small subplot that relates to the first book. To Have And To Hold. I suggest reading the first book prior to this one to get the full depth of the characters in this town. I will confess I even skimmed the book to refresh my memory of a few details. Leigh Greenwood is a wonderful historical writer and I found I enjoyed the "story" more than the romance. There are romantic elements but definitely not to the scope of other books I have read, which is fine because the dynamics of the characters kept me entertained and found me sneaking minutes from chores to read.
The only sad part about this book - I know I will have to wait about a year until the next one in the series is published. I truly love this town and its members. The Colby missing brothers subplot was carried over from book 1 and I imagine will definitely finish in the next book and I can't wait to meet the last brother.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest review.
At seventeen years old Laurie's father married her off to a man who did not love her, and in the four years of their marriage Noah never grew to love her and controlled every facet of her life, down to the tent dresses he insisted she wear to not draw attention to her womanly curves. Now a widow, Laurie wants to control her destiny and is determined she will never again give up control of her life and remarry. Jared Smith, the new rancher in the area, will be the perfect partner for her new venture.
Laurie has a rebirth of sorts when her husband unexpectedly dies. She is more intent on finding independence than love. Sadly I am not sure she ever felt love from anyone other than her cousins. Her determination was something that drew me to her; never again was she going to be dependent on someone who wanted to control her more than love her. Jared had admired Laurie for a long time, but due to her being married properly kept his distance. His focus on his duty to the men who worked for him was evident and at times seemed to blind him. At one point Jared is described as sensual and that is a very accurate description. He is definitely a man who knows what he wants, but he has a softer side when it comes to Laurie. There was and deep attraction between these characters, but they fought internal battles with personal expectations on their way to love.
The plot was simple to follow and had a small subplot that relates to the first book. To Have And To Hold. I suggest reading the first book prior to this one to get the full depth of the characters in this town. I will confess I even skimmed the book to refresh my memory of a few details. Leigh Greenwood is a wonderful historical writer and I found I enjoyed the "story" more than the romance. There are romantic elements but definitely not to the scope of other books I have read, which is fine because the dynamics of the characters kept me entertained and found me sneaking minutes from chores to read.
The only sad part about this book - I know I will have to wait about a year until the next one in the series is published. I truly love this town and its members. The Colby missing brothers subplot was carried over from book 1 and I imagine will definitely finish in the next book and I can't wait to meet the last brother.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest review.
November 3, 2014
Howdy Hoe from the meddlesome town of Cactus Creek, Arizona, where a luscious inner scarred widow & a yummy cowboy dust up the town!
Laurie Spencer has never been happier as she is now, watching her "control freak" hubby being lowered to his grave. She was sold by her controlling dad to her hubby, who taught her that her lush curves made her an object of pity, watched her 24/7, never touched her as a hubby should & made her hide her body under tent-sized dress. Now she is finally free to make her own decisions about her clothes, food, home furnishings & her daily schedule with her family all in Cactus Creek. That was until her evil brother-in-law says that her hubby's will left him in charge of everything aspect of her life & would maybe give her an allowance, well she was going to carve out her own path even if she had to use the "found" money from the dead man's saddlebags from 6 years earlier. She had to invest her money & hide where it came from & the pissed off & yummy cowboy Jared Smith leaving her evil-in-law bank might be her ticket to her FREEDOM!
Jared Smith was orphaned on the Arizona wagon train & he & his 2 brothers were adopted by different families, but he always planned to look for them, but the war got in the way. Now he is an ex soldier tried of fighting, so he took his only living adopted relative, his nephew Steve, & 4 other tried soldiers, Loomis from Virginia, the Cajun Clay, the European Nick & crusty old Odell, to buy a ranch outside of Cactus Creek, Arizona (also to look for his brothers) & with all their money combined for a herd of Hereford cattle. They have a ranch grazing land, 6 strong backs to work it, some longhorn cattle to get rid off & a herd of Hereford on the way, but not enough money to buy them. When Jared went to he local bank, Norman Spencer said no, but there has to be a way to get the money, but he was out of ideas.
Until the knock on his door from the luscious widow, Laurie Spencer, says she wants to invest in his Hereford herd, but wants a complete partnership with 1/2 ranch being hers. Jared is floored that he has found the money, but with giving Laurie 1/2 partnership it would mean less profits to split with his men, but with her doing some cooking & cleaning it could work. As she thinks about his offer, her penny pitching executor gives her a list of what to eat, wear & only give a pitiful allowance, so she rides back out to the ranch & becomes the newest member of the ranching team, but 15 old Steve will drive her home at night, sleep there & bring her back for breakfast, 6 days a week. That was the plan, but plans are so overrated!
Snow comes to Arizona & traps Laurie at the ranch, Steve bunks in the bunkhouse, she stays in his old room with Jared across the hall, coldness weaves it way into the house, Jared just (keep telling yourself that) goes to check on her & winds up cuddling for warmth. Laurie has never imagined that having a man beside her cruel hubby in her bed, but dang Jared was so warm & smells so good, his hands create a spell of intoxication & BOOM not a virgin anymore! Soon her evil-in-law sticks his nose into the ranch, offers to loan Jared the money if he gets himself a wife & Laurie off his ranch, plus her Cousins Naomi & Sibyl are meddling & the small town gossip goes on overdrive! Will Jared take the money & forget his lush bedmate? How will Laurie control her life if men always try steamroll over her? Can these 2 discover love before the choice is taken out of their hands? Could Jared's brothers be really close at hand? Pretty please, can I have 5 minutes alone with controlling Norman & totally set him straight?
This is my 1st Leigh Greenwood romance & I found out that Leigh is a man & if my romance peeps know me, I am a true romance sexist & male author just don't do it for me, but I was not going to be dish this book until I read it. Laurie was a female who men loved to control, she talked the tough talk & did a lot of whining, but she just let them walk all over her. I didn't like poor little old Laurie until she pulled her BIG GIRL UNDIES & got UNDIES DROPPING with Jared, then she got interesting for me. Jared was a sexy cowboy with bruised heart because he missed his birth brothers & he collected other misplaced males to complete his own little family, so I totally loved him as Mr. Greenwood's loved craved hero. This tale was all about misunderstandings & NO COMMUNICATION between the h/h, which started to get on my nerves. Mr. Greenwood created a cast of unique, hilarious, kooky & completely meddling townsfolk in the small town of Cactus Creek & 5 manly males at the ranch who made me chuckle with their mommy issues, so they totally saved this book & started to draw me into this tale. Now all romances need some sparks & Mr. Greenwood had only one night of PG rated tangled sheets & a busted afternoon of delights, but I did want so much more. Mr. Greenwood built the small town of Cactus Creek & filled it with a crazy meddlers, had a strong yummy cowboy hero, had a pack of little boys who needed a mom in Laurie, a great HATEable villain in Norman & a great pair of BFF in Naomi & Sibyl, but I had a hard time liking indecisive Laurie, so this romance wasn't my personal cuppa of tea. Mr. Greenwood gets my score of 2 fingers up & 5 toes, but I would try another of his romances!
NetGalley ARC given for my honest review.
Laurie Spencer has never been happier as she is now, watching her "control freak" hubby being lowered to his grave. She was sold by her controlling dad to her hubby, who taught her that her lush curves made her an object of pity, watched her 24/7, never touched her as a hubby should & made her hide her body under tent-sized dress. Now she is finally free to make her own decisions about her clothes, food, home furnishings & her daily schedule with her family all in Cactus Creek. That was until her evil brother-in-law says that her hubby's will left him in charge of everything aspect of her life & would maybe give her an allowance, well she was going to carve out her own path even if she had to use the "found" money from the dead man's saddlebags from 6 years earlier. She had to invest her money & hide where it came from & the pissed off & yummy cowboy Jared Smith leaving her evil-in-law bank might be her ticket to her FREEDOM!
Jared Smith was orphaned on the Arizona wagon train & he & his 2 brothers were adopted by different families, but he always planned to look for them, but the war got in the way. Now he is an ex soldier tried of fighting, so he took his only living adopted relative, his nephew Steve, & 4 other tried soldiers, Loomis from Virginia, the Cajun Clay, the European Nick & crusty old Odell, to buy a ranch outside of Cactus Creek, Arizona (also to look for his brothers) & with all their money combined for a herd of Hereford cattle. They have a ranch grazing land, 6 strong backs to work it, some longhorn cattle to get rid off & a herd of Hereford on the way, but not enough money to buy them. When Jared went to he local bank, Norman Spencer said no, but there has to be a way to get the money, but he was out of ideas.
Until the knock on his door from the luscious widow, Laurie Spencer, says she wants to invest in his Hereford herd, but wants a complete partnership with 1/2 ranch being hers. Jared is floored that he has found the money, but with giving Laurie 1/2 partnership it would mean less profits to split with his men, but with her doing some cooking & cleaning it could work. As she thinks about his offer, her penny pitching executor gives her a list of what to eat, wear & only give a pitiful allowance, so she rides back out to the ranch & becomes the newest member of the ranching team, but 15 old Steve will drive her home at night, sleep there & bring her back for breakfast, 6 days a week. That was the plan, but plans are so overrated!
Snow comes to Arizona & traps Laurie at the ranch, Steve bunks in the bunkhouse, she stays in his old room with Jared across the hall, coldness weaves it way into the house, Jared just (keep telling yourself that) goes to check on her & winds up cuddling for warmth. Laurie has never imagined that having a man beside her cruel hubby in her bed, but dang Jared was so warm & smells so good, his hands create a spell of intoxication & BOOM not a virgin anymore! Soon her evil-in-law sticks his nose into the ranch, offers to loan Jared the money if he gets himself a wife & Laurie off his ranch, plus her Cousins Naomi & Sibyl are meddling & the small town gossip goes on overdrive! Will Jared take the money & forget his lush bedmate? How will Laurie control her life if men always try steamroll over her? Can these 2 discover love before the choice is taken out of their hands? Could Jared's brothers be really close at hand? Pretty please, can I have 5 minutes alone with controlling Norman & totally set him straight?
This is my 1st Leigh Greenwood romance & I found out that Leigh is a man & if my romance peeps know me, I am a true romance sexist & male author just don't do it for me, but I was not going to be dish this book until I read it. Laurie was a female who men loved to control, she talked the tough talk & did a lot of whining, but she just let them walk all over her. I didn't like poor little old Laurie until she pulled her BIG GIRL UNDIES & got UNDIES DROPPING with Jared, then she got interesting for me. Jared was a sexy cowboy with bruised heart because he missed his birth brothers & he collected other misplaced males to complete his own little family, so I totally loved him as Mr. Greenwood's loved craved hero. This tale was all about misunderstandings & NO COMMUNICATION between the h/h, which started to get on my nerves. Mr. Greenwood created a cast of unique, hilarious, kooky & completely meddling townsfolk in the small town of Cactus Creek & 5 manly males at the ranch who made me chuckle with their mommy issues, so they totally saved this book & started to draw me into this tale. Now all romances need some sparks & Mr. Greenwood had only one night of PG rated tangled sheets & a busted afternoon of delights, but I did want so much more. Mr. Greenwood built the small town of Cactus Creek & filled it with a crazy meddlers, had a strong yummy cowboy hero, had a pack of little boys who needed a mom in Laurie, a great HATEable villain in Norman & a great pair of BFF in Naomi & Sibyl, but I had a hard time liking indecisive Laurie, so this romance wasn't my personal cuppa of tea. Mr. Greenwood gets my score of 2 fingers up & 5 toes, but I would try another of his romances!
NetGalley ARC given for my honest review.
October 31, 2014
Laurie was forced to marry a controlling man she didn't love, but now that he has recently passed away, she believes that his money and property will now belong to her and she will have the means to be in charge of her own life. However, her deceased husband intended to control her even from the grave, and his brother is determined to see it through. Buying a partnership in Jared's ranch may be just what Laurie needs to be independent, but when she doesn't have enough money for the partnership, she agrees to become his housekeeper. But Laurie's former brother-in-law, the town's banker, doesn't like this idea and certainly doesn't like when he doesn't have control of something, and he is adamant that Laurie and Jared will do what he wants.
First, I am going to admit that I had a preconceived notion that men can't write romance novels as well as women (even though I know I'm going to get some backlash from that revelation), so when I found out that Leigh Greenwood is a man, I was skeptical that I was going to like this book. I'm glad I gave it a chance because To Love and to Cherish is an amazing historical romance novel with a great plot and full of interesting characters, vivid setting, and spicy romance.
Laurie is sweet and sassy, resigned to do what's expected of her but in her own way. She's determined that she will never marry again, even though she is only 21 when she becomes a widow. Jared is proud and arrogant but also honorable and caring, with a strong need to turn a profit on his new ranch and find his long-lost brothers. Norman (Laurie's former brother-in-law and the banker) is the perfect villain that you love to hate, and there are several well described secondary characters that add richness to this story. Just based on what I read of Naomi and Colby, I want to read the first book in this series to learn more about their story. And let me just say, a freak snowstorm in the desert never seemed quite so hot before.
I got so caught up in these characters and this story that at one point I wanted to slap Jared and remind him that he knew she was a virgin. (Because yes, she really was, even though she had been married for four years. You will have to read to find out why.) If you like romance, I am most definitely recommending this book. (In fact, I think my only complaint about this book is that the copy I won was not signed.)
I won a copy through Goodreads. I was not required to write a review.
First, I am going to admit that I had a preconceived notion that men can't write romance novels as well as women (even though I know I'm going to get some backlash from that revelation), so when I found out that Leigh Greenwood is a man, I was skeptical that I was going to like this book. I'm glad I gave it a chance because To Love and to Cherish is an amazing historical romance novel with a great plot and full of interesting characters, vivid setting, and spicy romance.
Laurie is sweet and sassy, resigned to do what's expected of her but in her own way. She's determined that she will never marry again, even though she is only 21 when she becomes a widow. Jared is proud and arrogant but also honorable and caring, with a strong need to turn a profit on his new ranch and find his long-lost brothers. Norman (Laurie's former brother-in-law and the banker) is the perfect villain that you love to hate, and there are several well described secondary characters that add richness to this story. Just based on what I read of Naomi and Colby, I want to read the first book in this series to learn more about their story. And let me just say, a freak snowstorm in the desert never seemed quite so hot before.
I got so caught up in these characters and this story that at one point I wanted to slap Jared and remind him that he knew she was a virgin. (Because yes, she really was, even though she had been married for four years. You will have to read to find out why.) If you like romance, I am most definitely recommending this book. (In fact, I think my only complaint about this book is that the copy I won was not signed.)
I won a copy through Goodreads. I was not required to write a review.
June 28, 2015
I loved this journey back to a much simpler yet infinitely more complicated time. Greenwood makes it very easy for readers to picture themselves transported into the story. Her spot on descriptions bring the Arizona territory to live in a real way. This carries through to her exquisitely vivid descriptions throughout the novel. Greenwood’s eloquent yet inviting writing style really allows you to focus on the story at hand. The subplots were just as intriguing as the main story and added to the complexity and enjoyment of the novel as a whole.
I fell in love with the main characters in this novel through Greenwood’s presentation of them. They were such unique yet realistic individuals fighting against both their pasts and their presents that you can’t help but appreciate them. My heart was on the line alongside these two. Watching Laurie gain her independence and belief in herself as she overcomes her past was very empowering. The contrast between the different characters was very marked but, as they say, it takes all kinds to make a village. There is someone for everyone to love and there is someone for everyone to hate. I thoroughly enjoyed this variety of characters. The close knit relationship between those at the ranch and those within the village as a whole was nice to see. The dialogue and exchanges between the characters in this novel made me laugh out loud more than once.
This is one of those stories that ends perfectly even though you never want it to end.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
I fell in love with the main characters in this novel through Greenwood’s presentation of them. They were such unique yet realistic individuals fighting against both their pasts and their presents that you can’t help but appreciate them. My heart was on the line alongside these two. Watching Laurie gain her independence and belief in herself as she overcomes her past was very empowering. The contrast between the different characters was very marked but, as they say, it takes all kinds to make a village. There is someone for everyone to love and there is someone for everyone to hate. I thoroughly enjoyed this variety of characters. The close knit relationship between those at the ranch and those within the village as a whole was nice to see. The dialogue and exchanges between the characters in this novel made me laugh out loud more than once.
This is one of those stories that ends perfectly even though you never want it to end.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2014
Laurie is one smart cookie and nothing really passes by her, "I know you've been staring at me in a manner that indicates you have some very improper thoughts in your head. Yet you've done your best to make sure it doesn't show." I mean she has some self esteem issues, "my husband never made love to me. he said it was because he found my body offensive. He said I was unfeminine and insisted I wear clothes that would diguise my body as much as possible." Jared, he's a man's man and doesn't like seeing his girl hurt, "what did he say to cause you to cry? I swear I'll knock the man down if he comes here again and upsets you." I enjoyed reading this book.
January 21, 2023
This is a story about sensuality. Sexuality. Attraction. Fantasies.
You'll get to hear all about Jared's sexual fantasies about a woman he just met. His sexual response to her physical appeal is so strong that he can hardly hold a conversation with her without giving in to the need to touch her intimately. He tries not to let it show too much, but he's also not ashamed to tell her how sexually appealing she is. Again, this is when they have only just met. *eye roll* Laurie is flattered by his carnal response, and she blushes at the feelings and thoughts stirred up within her.
That's pretty much the flavor of the whole story. Bon appetit.
You'll get to hear all about Jared's sexual fantasies about a woman he just met. His sexual response to her physical appeal is so strong that he can hardly hold a conversation with her without giving in to the need to touch her intimately. He tries not to let it show too much, but he's also not ashamed to tell her how sexually appealing she is. Again, this is when they have only just met. *eye roll* Laurie is flattered by his carnal response, and she blushes at the feelings and thoughts stirred up within her.
That's pretty much the flavor of the whole story. Bon appetit.
November 2, 2014
This is a pure 3 stars. I liked it. Liked the characters, liked the plot, but I just liked it. The last 3rd dragged a bit, with conversations and such being repeated for the characters' benefit, not the readers. If you like straight forward western romances, this will do the trick.
November 14, 2019
I liked it. This was the first book that I've read by this author, and I would read another. The story line was good, maybe somewhat predictable, but had me interested enough to read the rest of the book.
I think my "problem" with the book was that I liked but didn't love the characters, Laurie and Jared. I could recognize that Laurie had been treated very badly by her deceased husband, and maybe I couldn't truly empathize because luckily I've never been treated like this, at least not to this extent, but the author didn't make either Laurie or Jared leap off the page with their personalities. Does this make sense?
I guess what I'm saying is that the book was good, but not great. It's missing the wow factor that makes me hunt down every book in a series or that the author has written, or better yet; its missing the wow factor that makes the book so good the story comes alive and I feel as if I'm part of it, so good that its all I think about and I continue to think about the book weeks after I've finished. These books I label - book hangover.
I think my "problem" with the book was that I liked but didn't love the characters, Laurie and Jared. I could recognize that Laurie had been treated very badly by her deceased husband, and maybe I couldn't truly empathize because luckily I've never been treated like this, at least not to this extent, but the author didn't make either Laurie or Jared leap off the page with their personalities. Does this make sense?
I guess what I'm saying is that the book was good, but not great. It's missing the wow factor that makes me hunt down every book in a series or that the author has written, or better yet; its missing the wow factor that makes the book so good the story comes alive and I feel as if I'm part of it, so good that its all I think about and I continue to think about the book weeks after I've finished. These books I label - book hangover.
January 1, 2019
After the death of her husband Laurie only wants independence. She's almost found it, too, investing in Jared's ranch. She's just a little bit short but offering up herself as housekeeper she's able to bridge the difference. Keeping house is nothing new to her but the fact that the home is part of her investment is even more motivating. Close quarters with such a sexy cowboy is something new and she's not quite sure how to deal with her desires, especially since Jared desires her back. Can these two who entered in to a business deal suddenly mix business with pleasure and still come out with a HEA? A really sweet historical cowboy romance. I always enjoy the manners of a cowboy. Fun read!
**I won a copy of this book from GoodReads**
**I won a copy of this book from GoodReads**
June 26, 2017
I was disappointed by this novel. I found it boring at times and the insta-love between Laurie and Jared was pretty cheesy. I was hoping for more with this novel, since it had received decent marks on Goodreads, but it just didn't work for me.
January 6, 2022
The story might sounds good from the description but the whole romance and story became irritating for me because the hero is indecisive and was easily swayed to disregard the heroine just to get money. The heroine is much relatable with her desire for self governance and her flaws.
August 12, 2022
For a 50 cent thrift store find, trying something completely new, I got my money’s worth of entertainment. However, it was extremely repetitive and boringly predictable. Still worth it to flush out my cowgirl phase in life
January 5, 2025
Great read
I recommend this book to anyone who loves a good wholesome story of love, a spice of sex and coming to know love. A great portrayal of women coming into their own despite male dominance
I recommend this book to anyone who loves a good wholesome story of love, a spice of sex and coming to know love. A great portrayal of women coming into their own despite male dominance
March 8, 2020
Really good!
April 28, 2020
An inspiring read. A woman taking the reins to her own life and not settling for anything less than what she knows she deserves. Not after what she'd already experienced. Not having it anymore! Nice!
May 29, 2025
DNF from boredom.
March 19, 2017
His books are always good. You cantnwait to start a new book as soon as you finish one
The storyline is super awesome you start then can't put book down I have all of his books. These are ones to keep and read over
The storyline is super awesome you start then can't put book down I have all of his books. These are ones to keep and read over
October 7, 2014
Who knew a desert snowstorm could be so sexy? Find out why the heat gets turned up when the temperature goes down in TO LOVE AND TO CHERISH.
It's 1868 in the Verde River Valley and Laurie Spencer has just buried her husband. The husband she loathed and whose death she dreamed of since her father sold her hand in marriage to him four years ago. Vowing never again to allow a man to exert control over her life, Laurie can't help but be excited to live a life of freedom and independence.
But she's thwarted from the grave as her late husband's will requests his brother Norman, the town's banker, to manage her finances. Devastated that she's once again under a man's thumb, she approaches the new rancher in town, Jared Smith, to be his partner in his cattle operation with some money she's squirreled away for a rainy day.
Jared is hesitant to accept, but since Norman turned down his loan to expand his herd, he's run out of options. As part of their deal, Laurie spends her days at the ranch cooking and cleaning up after Jared and his ranchers, loving the attention and adoration that they give her. If Jared was going to marry, it would be to someone like Laurie, but she's insistent that she'll never take a husband again, which is just as well as Norman makes Jared a bargain that is tough to resist. With the nosy residents of Cactus Creek involved at every turn, will Jared and Laurie wake up and discover their true feelings for each other before it's too late?
TO LOVE AND TO CHERISH is book 2 in the Cactus Creek Cowboys series by Ms. Greenwood and can be read as a standalone novel. I'm a huge fan of historical western romances, and this one started out admirably. The one thing that brought the rating down for me was my dislike of the main dude, Jared. He was so easily swayed by money and talk and everything else that I really didn't feel like he was "THE GUY" for Laurie. She had dealt with so much from her late husband--the mental and emotional abuse just for starters--that it was clear to me that she deserved a man that would put her first in all ways. Jared wasn't that guy.
It's 1868 in the Verde River Valley and Laurie Spencer has just buried her husband. The husband she loathed and whose death she dreamed of since her father sold her hand in marriage to him four years ago. Vowing never again to allow a man to exert control over her life, Laurie can't help but be excited to live a life of freedom and independence.
But she's thwarted from the grave as her late husband's will requests his brother Norman, the town's banker, to manage her finances. Devastated that she's once again under a man's thumb, she approaches the new rancher in town, Jared Smith, to be his partner in his cattle operation with some money she's squirreled away for a rainy day.
Jared is hesitant to accept, but since Norman turned down his loan to expand his herd, he's run out of options. As part of their deal, Laurie spends her days at the ranch cooking and cleaning up after Jared and his ranchers, loving the attention and adoration that they give her. If Jared was going to marry, it would be to someone like Laurie, but she's insistent that she'll never take a husband again, which is just as well as Norman makes Jared a bargain that is tough to resist. With the nosy residents of Cactus Creek involved at every turn, will Jared and Laurie wake up and discover their true feelings for each other before it's too late?
TO LOVE AND TO CHERISH is book 2 in the Cactus Creek Cowboys series by Ms. Greenwood and can be read as a standalone novel. I'm a huge fan of historical western romances, and this one started out admirably. The one thing that brought the rating down for me was my dislike of the main dude, Jared. He was so easily swayed by money and talk and everything else that I really didn't feel like he was "THE GUY" for Laurie. She had dealt with so much from her late husband--the mental and emotional abuse just for starters--that it was clear to me that she deserved a man that would put her first in all ways. Jared wasn't that guy.
November 13, 2014
I received this book for free through Goodreads, and although romance isn't my main genre, after reading this book I have to say that I thoroughly enjoy romance when written like this.
I'll start off by saying that my favorite thing about the book was the strength and resolve of the main character. She wasn't sitting around crying and waiting for a man to come around and pick her up, and she wasn't above a little bit of hard work to achieve what she wanted.
With that being said, there were a few flaws in the book, at least in my opinion. I felt as if a few of the descriptions used in the book were repetitive. Others may not even notice, but I didn't see the need to use the phrases "he was a very sensual man" or "she was sure her lips would be bruised" more than once.
I also found it a bit unbelievable how seemingly all of the characters were incredibly attractive. There were maybe one or two that were noted as being unattractive, but the rest were blessed with beauty. Even those only mentioned once or twice were noted as being good-looking. You've got to wonder what was in the water in that town, to make everyone so darned good-looking!
However, those are minor mistakes at most and the book was an enjoyable read. The romance was tasteful; it showed the intensity of the desire between the two main characters without being overpowering. I'd be willing to read any other books in the series, or try another series by Leigh Greenwood.
I'll start off by saying that my favorite thing about the book was the strength and resolve of the main character. She wasn't sitting around crying and waiting for a man to come around and pick her up, and she wasn't above a little bit of hard work to achieve what she wanted.
With that being said, there were a few flaws in the book, at least in my opinion. I felt as if a few of the descriptions used in the book were repetitive. Others may not even notice, but I didn't see the need to use the phrases "he was a very sensual man" or "she was sure her lips would be bruised" more than once.
I also found it a bit unbelievable how seemingly all of the characters were incredibly attractive. There were maybe one or two that were noted as being unattractive, but the rest were blessed with beauty. Even those only mentioned once or twice were noted as being good-looking. You've got to wonder what was in the water in that town, to make everyone so darned good-looking!
However, those are minor mistakes at most and the book was an enjoyable read. The romance was tasteful; it showed the intensity of the desire between the two main characters without being overpowering. I'd be willing to read any other books in the series, or try another series by Leigh Greenwood.
December 27, 2014
This is book 2 in the Cactus Creek Cowboys series.
Determined to be independent after her husband's death, Laurie Spencer invests in Jared Smith's ranch. She doesn't have enough money for a full partnership, so she throws in herself as the housekeeper for the ranch to make up the difference. Knowing that she will never marry again, Laurie is dismayed by her attraction to Jared.
Jared needs to save his ranch. His taking Laurie's money was a last ditch effort to do so. But in doing so, he cuts out his other partners in the ranch. If he can get a loan from the bank, that will save his problems. Unfortunately the owner, Laurie's former brother in law, will only loan him the money if Laurie no longer works for Jared.
Can Jared set aside the woman he has come to love to save his ranch?
Leigh Greenwood is a master of telling western romance. His descriptions of the frontier have me wanting to travel back in time, just to experience it.
I really enjoyed Jared and Laurie's story. I think Greenwood did a great job of depicting the trouble that women had during this time of establishing themselves without a husband. They don't have many choices and Laurie did want she needed to do to gain herself the independence she craved.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thanks go to Sourcebooks via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
Determined to be independent after her husband's death, Laurie Spencer invests in Jared Smith's ranch. She doesn't have enough money for a full partnership, so she throws in herself as the housekeeper for the ranch to make up the difference. Knowing that she will never marry again, Laurie is dismayed by her attraction to Jared.
Jared needs to save his ranch. His taking Laurie's money was a last ditch effort to do so. But in doing so, he cuts out his other partners in the ranch. If he can get a loan from the bank, that will save his problems. Unfortunately the owner, Laurie's former brother in law, will only loan him the money if Laurie no longer works for Jared.
Can Jared set aside the woman he has come to love to save his ranch?
Leigh Greenwood is a master of telling western romance. His descriptions of the frontier have me wanting to travel back in time, just to experience it.
I really enjoyed Jared and Laurie's story. I think Greenwood did a great job of depicting the trouble that women had during this time of establishing themselves without a husband. They don't have many choices and Laurie did want she needed to do to gain herself the independence she craved.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thanks go to Sourcebooks via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
September 15, 2015
3.75 stars
This is book two in the Cactus Corner series and it is Laurie and Jared's story. Laurie was married to Noah Spencer and has recently died, making her a very young widow. She thinks she is finally free to live her life but her brother-in-law Norman, the banker and Sybil's husband, is going to be controlling her money. That doesn't sit too well with her and she comes up with an idea to invest in a ranch and become independent from any man.
I have to say that this independence and Laurie's strong will throughout the story made it the best part of the story for me. She wasn't going to compromise her life again for any man without love. After she set herself up as a partner/cook/housekeeper for Jared at his ranch, and we got to know her and the men there, things got a little muddled in the middle. Took a long to explore their feelings and no one was talking to the other person. Towards the end it got better and ended on a much better note. I'm happy for Laurie finally getting what she so deserves and finding herself as well. The news that Jared and Colby share is the cherry on top.
This is book two in the Cactus Corner series and it is Laurie and Jared's story. Laurie was married to Noah Spencer and has recently died, making her a very young widow. She thinks she is finally free to live her life but her brother-in-law Norman, the banker and Sybil's husband, is going to be controlling her money. That doesn't sit too well with her and she comes up with an idea to invest in a ranch and become independent from any man.
I have to say that this independence and Laurie's strong will throughout the story made it the best part of the story for me. She wasn't going to compromise her life again for any man without love. After she set herself up as a partner/cook/housekeeper for Jared at his ranch, and we got to know her and the men there, things got a little muddled in the middle. Took a long to explore their feelings and no one was talking to the other person. Towards the end it got better and ended on a much better note. I'm happy for Laurie finally getting what she so deserves and finding herself as well. The news that Jared and Colby share is the cherry on top.
October 23, 2014
To love and to Cherish begins when Laurie Spencer’s husband died, thinking she was finally going to be free from controlling males in her life, she got the unsettling news that her dead husband’s brother is going to be controlling her money.
I didn’t really like her brother –in –Law he was what children in today society would call a big douche bag. He not only tried to control Laurie but everyone else in the town. Since he was the only bank accessible to these people he thought it was his right to be overbearing.
Jared Smith is a rancher looking to obtain a loan to purchase herd for his ranch. When he is unable to obtain the loan, Laurie Spencer steps in and the adventure begins.
I really fell in love with Laurie plight. What women in today society don’t want to live life on her own terms…
I didn’t really like her brother –in –Law he was what children in today society would call a big douche bag. He not only tried to control Laurie but everyone else in the town. Since he was the only bank accessible to these people he thought it was his right to be overbearing.
Jared Smith is a rancher looking to obtain a loan to purchase herd for his ranch. When he is unable to obtain the loan, Laurie Spencer steps in and the adventure begins.
I really fell in love with Laurie plight. What women in today society don’t want to live life on her own terms…
February 11, 2015
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads for an honest review. I found this story to be well written and endearing. Leigh Greenwood's character development easily allowed me to like (or dislike) all of Cactus Creek's citizens. I liked the plot because it wasn't just a love story; it was a story about a young and smart woman finding her resolve and about a kind man not giving up on finding a long lost family member. Overall, I found this to be a nice "Happily Ever After" with a western twist. I recommend 'To Love and to Cherish' if you enjoy historical romances and are looking for a quick and delightful read.
November 3, 2015
Another great hit.
I like an author who is consistent with a good story about love and family.
Also the way the love, honor, respect between couples keep me reading these books. Sex scenes are excellent.
I like an author who is consistent with a good story about love and family.
Also the way the love, honor, respect between couples keep me reading these books. Sex scenes are excellent.
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