The Lassoed by Marriage Romance Collection

by Mary Connealy, Angela Bell, Angela Breidenbach

Arranged marriage without romance was once a rather common occurrence, and if love developed, they counted themselves fortunate. From England to the American west, nine historical couples enter marriage agreements by both coercion and necessity. After beginnings involving a bride swap, the gossip mill, angry brothers, ulterior motives, a child’s parentage, jail time, a family feud, mistaken identity, and a well-played trick, can love possibly grow for these couples who have married as virtual strangers? And will there be faith to hold them together forever?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Romance, Historical Fiction, Westerns, Historical Romance, Historical, Christian

511 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2016

About the author

Mary 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

Reviews

[SheLove2Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a collection of inspirational shorts centered on the theme of love found after marriage. All of these were very good stories, and it was one of the better anthologies I've had the pleasure to read. Some of my favorite ones were:

The Substitute Bride by Angela Bell is a nice little story about a man who finds himself not wed to his bride but his bride's spinster sister, after a switcheroo by his mother-in-law. Now you might think "how in the world could the spinster have not been in on it?", but you'll just have to read to find out why! This one made me cry. I loved it.

Bridal Whispers by Angie Breidenbach is set in 1900 middle America and is the story of a "shotgun" type wedding between a young woman and her now-deceased cousin's husband. I could easily see this happening in a small community where tradition and values run high. Good story!

The Sweetwater Bride by Mary Conneally was my favorite read. Young Tanner (son of Belle and Silas from the author's previous books) is grown and in the process of settling down for his first night at his new home on a windswept mountain in Montana. Hearing a woman scream, he discovers not only a hidden pass, but a young woman who has been on her own for years after the death of her parents. Tanner knows he can't leave her behind, so he kidnaps her and takes her to his Ma. Ma can fix anything! I really loved this story. It touched my heart and made me tear up a bit.

I received this anthology from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite fiction themes, and here is a fabulous historical collection chock full of them! All the stories had vibrant characters with great chemistry, realistic settings, and well-rounded plots that wrap up nicely for the length of a novella. The majority I would rate 5 stars, a few would be 4 stars. My favorite was "The Sweetwater Bride" by Mary Connealy, focusing on Tanner, the son of Silas and Belle from her earlier book The Husband Tree. He is scouting his land in the harsh mountains and discovers Debba McClain, living alone on her family's hidden ranch, forgotten and completely isolated from society for five years. His protective instincts immediately creates a bond which takes a romantic turn as they get to know each others strengths and their attraction develops. Unfortunately, Tanner comes up with a creative way to get her off her land to meet his family, which puts him in hot water not only with Debba but also his mother when she finds out his methods. I highly recommend this collection and will definitely be reading it again.

(Thank you to Barbour Books for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lassoed by Marriage Romance Collection: 9 Historical Romances Begin After Saying “I Do”*****

by Mary Connealy, Lisa Carta, Rebecca Jepson, Amy Lillard, Gena Welborn,
Kathleen Y'Barbo, Rose Ross Zediker, Angela Bell, Angela Breidenbach

1-The Substitute Bride by Angela Bell
London, England, June 1865. After 7 seasons in London society, spinster Gwendolyn—Gwen Brandbury, remains unmarried....However her parents form a scheme to get her married to Lord Elliott Carlyle—a deception really. Lord Carlyle does not discover the deception until after the wedding when he lifts the bridal veil to kiss his bride and discovers Gwen instead of Cynthia, her sister. Furious, he takes his substitute bride to his country home, Briarcliff Park.
It was fun watching Gwen and Elliot as they tried to make the best of a seemingly disastrous situation. I felt for “plain” Gwen who felt so unloved and unwanted, even by her groom. And hurt for Elliot, his pride as he was so deceived, not realizing he was far better off with Gwen than flighty Cynthia. There are some surprising developments that they both were not expecting. Will they learn to trust each other and possibly find love? I really liked the characters, could feel their struggles and challenges as they learned to open their hearts to love. There are some unexpected surprises in this interesting and fun story.

2-Bridal Whispers by Angie Breidenbach
Saint Paul, MN March 1900...After being away for nine years, nurse Maila Holmes is headed home to Fergus Falls after receiving notice of the flu epidemic at home and her family very ill with the flu. Many have died during the flu epidemic, including her cousin Rose. Store owner Burton Rutherford—Rose's husband—meets Maila at the train depot and takes her to his store in town. They will travel to her family's homestead in the morning when it is safer to travel. Weeks later, due to some gossip, Maila and Burton find themselves in a potential scandalous situation and must marry. Can Burton get over the loss of his beloved Rose and learn to love his bride Maila? Will Maila forever struggle with feelings of being unwanted and unloved, even by her family, chasing after allusive dreams that may or may not make her feel loveable?
I felt Burton's grief over the loss of his beloved wife and uncertainty about Maila and their marriage. I wanted to reassure Maila that her family really loved her, she was seeing things all wrong. It was interesting to see the developments that follow their marriage and the outcome.

3-Mule Dazed by Lisa Carter
Hitching Post, Montana Territory 1885....Sheriff Braxton—Brax Cashel is about to arrest the cowboy—no bigger than a little feller who was responsible for setting the mules loose from the corral. When the little feller turned around Brax got a shock, as did the little feller—“crazy hair?” The little feller was no little feller but was in fact Harriet—Hattie Brimfield—or crazy hair as he nicknamed her because of her wild, untamed hair—from the Bronco B ranch, who always got into trouble when they were kids in Wyoming Territory. Hattie couldn't believe young Brax grew into such a handsome man...a handsome man who was arresting her. Well, nothing's changed, she was still getting into trouble—again and Brax was there to get her out of it—again....well not this time. She finds herself locked in the local jail. Due to a situation at the jail, Hattie's 5 brothers demand Hattie and Brax marry immediately.
This is a funny romance and had me laughing out loud a few times and shaking my head at other times. It was fun watching Brax and Hattie figure out what they really wanted.

4-The Sweetwater Bride by Mary Connealy
Montana July 1897...Rancher Tanner Harden is proud of his property in the Rockies and hopes to prosper there. Due to the drought his streams have dried up, so he goes out in search for much needed water for his cattle herd and hears a scream followed by gunfire and another scream—a woman's scream. But there is no woman up here. No trail in sight, only solid rock reaching over fifty feet and no way up it. His horse finds a trail and up he goes on a barely visible trail. He goes through a crack in the stone and a beautiful green mountain valley opens up before him. Amazed, he travels on and finds buildings and a lone woman—looking as wild as the land—standing in front of one of the buildings. Debba McClain was shocked to see someone coming into her valley—she doesn't go out of her valley so doesn't know anyone.
Things get pretty interesting, tense and funny in this delightful story. Oh, and the “kidnapping” scene was a surprise and had me laughing as I read. The importance of family, home, love and faith make this a heartwarming story.

5-A Highbrow Hoodwink by Rebecca Jepson
Aspen, Colorado 1883...21 year old Katie Dupont works as a serving girl at the very busy local hotel's dinning room. This day was no different, however there was a mysterious, wealthy-looking man sitting in the shadows watching her. He looked so familiar, but she couldn't place him. What he told her was a shock and put fear into her heart—her past lead him here. No way was she going to agree with what he proposes—his planned deception. What can she do? This story has one surprise after another and twists and turns with unexpected results. Fun read.

6-Not So Pretty Penny by Amy Lillard
Cooper, Kansas 1867....After much prayer, Penelope—Penny Pinehurst knows what she must do...she marches into the Sheriff's office and informs Sheriff Riley, “I am in need of a husband—today”. To, in fact, buy a husband from one of his prisoners set to for the gallows to help bring in a crop on her farm. Of the three prisoners, she chose George Washington—Wash Brannock for her husband. Wash was now married, free from jail. He planned to go ofter the person who framed him once he fulfilled his part of the bargain—plant and bring in the crops for Penny. However, he didn't plan on his heart falling for Penny. Penny's neighbor, who insisted that they marry...as he wanted her land...was shocked when he learned of her marriage. Then a man shows up on the farm which brings an unexpected situation and Wash has to decide if he will follow up on his plan or to forgive.
There are many humerus scenes in this story...like when Penny goes to “buy” a husband and the response from the sheriff and the potential groom, which had me chuckling. Have to say Penny was a determined woman but she didn't see her own beauty. It was fun to watch as Penny and Wash did a kind of dance as they settled down into “married” life. I really enjoyed reading this delightful, heartwarming story.

7-All's Fair by Gina Welborn
Wathena, Kansas 1900....The feud between the Davies and Kent families has been part of the community for many years. As Hiram Kent talks with Coral Davies, their families rush over and a fight breaks out. During the scuffle, Coral is thrown into the river, smacking the left side of her head with the cold water and a sharp pain burst in her ear. Years later, Coral works as a social secretary for the Judge with hopes to move away from Wathena. Dr. Jack Kent hopes to apologize and make things right for Coral. But things don't go as he planned when his cousin shows up and another fight breaks out landing them all in jail. The judge gives them a choice: either face 90 days in jail with fines or a Kent marrying a Davies...thus Coral finds herself married to Jack. Was there really no other choice? Family feuds—which no one remembers the cause, anger, humor, faith and love are woven into a heartwarming story and a fun read. Of all the characters, Jack and Coral were my favorites.

8-The Colorado Coincidence by Kathleen Y'Barbo
San Francisco 1878...Illegitimate son of the Duke of Crenwright, Mack McCoy, packed his bags in preparation to leave the city he has come to love and head to Denver. His half-brother, Colin, wants him to never return to England and threatens to harm someone Mack loves dearly if he does.
Callyville, Colorado, Gloree Lowe has buried her husband and her babies and still grieves for them. Her husband told her to marry again if something happened to him and even wrote to his cousin to come and marry her. She is about to loose her cabin and properly if she doesn't pay the bank what she owes soon. Three unsavory characters want her properly and are willing to get it one way or another and only gives her a couple days to leave. A stranger—Mack—shows up just in time and they leave. Of course Gloree thinks Mack is the man her husband said would come. But the men come back and after a shoot out, they are dead. Mack and Gloree take the men into town to the sheriff, things get even more confusing as he too thinks Mack is the man Gloree's husband sent for. Before he knows it, Mack and Gloree are married. But Gloree's troubles are not over yet. It seems others in town want her ranch too.
I enjoyed Gloree and Mack's story and the twists and turns involved in getting things for the ranch settled. Some of the characters had me guessing if they were friend or foe, humor and some unexpected, pleasant surprises make this a charming story.

9-Railroaded into Love by Rose Ross Zediker
Montana 1895....Noah Manning is now a missionary preacher on the railroad chapel, Emmanuel where he also lives. He is excited to start his new—single—life as a traveling preacher. But he didn't expect his brother, Seth, to show up with a young woman in hand-cuffs, wanting her to stay on the train with Noah.
Molly Callahan's brother, Cass, had dumped her at the saloon to live and work after their parents died in the influenza outbreak five years ago and left town. Seth says that Cass is a cattle rustler and is hoping having Molly along at the trains next scheduled stop will bring Cass out of hiding so he could arrest him. Noah's supervisor will allow Molly to stay with Noah if they are married and performs the wedding.
There are some unexpected surprises in store for Molly and Noah as they are parked at the next town. An adorable, loveable orphaned boy, Tom, captures Molly's heart and mine. I enjoyed this fun story.

~I received an e-book from Amy Lillard via Netgalley for my honest review~

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Substitute Bride
Angela Bell

In a way, The Substitute Bride reminds me of the Biblical story of Jacob and Leah. Except, in this book Lord Elliot does not win his beautiful Cynthia, too. Instead he finds himself married to the ugly older sister and not quite sure how to proceed! His servants suggest that he should get to know Gwen, but Elliot has not the slightest interest in knowing her--until a horrific event shakes both of their worlds in the one place they mesh and they find themselves drawn together to save their personal, private retreats. The language was a bit formal, but probably true for the era in Britain. I enjoyed the story. Truly related to both Elliot and Gwen. 4.5 stars.

Bridal Whispers
Angela Brieidenbach

Wow, wow, wow! This was a totally great book! Burton was a grieving widow and no thanks to gossips he was forced into a marriage he never wanted. Maila dreamed of marrying Benjamin and working as a nurse in St. Paul. A short trip home to help out her family after so many died ends in an unwanted marriage? She can't compete with Burton's first love--and he can't compete with hers. It was great watching them navigate the rocky ground and find the possibilities that could be. 5 stars.

Mule Dazed
Lisa Carter

A cute and funny story about "Crazy Hair" and Brax who grew up together, but she was the bane of his existence. When a simple mistake results with Brax and Harriet sharing a jail cell, Hattie's five brothers (named after the first five books of the Old Testament!) insist that he make an honest woman out of her. Forced to marry at gun-point, Brax only wants the judge to come and annul the wedding... Nothing new or exciting, but still funny and enjoyable. Several funny moments. I couldn't help but fall in love with these characters, though at time it felt a bit contrived. 4 stars.

The Sweetwater Bride
Mary Connealy

A hidden valley containing a young woman all alone in the world are discovered by a young cattle rancher starting out on his own. Tanner thinks he hears a woman scream so he goes to investigate. He discovers Debba who is so excited to see another human she latches on and pretty much won't let go. She won't let him leave but she won't go with him, so he hog-ties her and takes her to his mama. Except they are followed by a herd of long horns. A funny story that is unrealistic at times but that just adds to the humor. This really didn't have them finding love after marriage though as the collection claims. Still a decent story. Classic Mary Connealy. I enjoyed it. 4 stars.

A Highbrook Hoodwink
Rebecca Jenson

This was a sweet, well-told story of a woman who made one mistake, her small son with no father (a result of the mistake) and the father's brother come to claim an heir to save his family's reputation and legacy. Henry is a (by his own admittance) a drunk and a gambler, yet he dares hold Katie in contempt. Both he and his mother treat her as nothing better than dirt. There is a very slight mystery in the story, A quick read, classic tale. 3 stars.

Not So Pretty Penny
Amy Lillard

This is a totally sweet story of Penny and her crazy plan to buy a husband from the gallows. With only three to choose from, one too old, one too young, and one just right, she choses the obvious choice... but he is charged with murder! Wash (George Washington Bannock) is an adorable character that I couldn't help but love. And Penny, the poor dear. I wanted to hug her and remind her of the verse that says beauty is vain. . . She is truly lovely on the inside which is what matters. 4.5 stars.

All's Fair
Gina Welborn

A family feud - think Hatfields and McCoys. Two very different people marry--just to get out of jail after yet another family rumble in the middle of downtown. Jack is a doctor who wants to stay in town. Coral wants nothing more than to leave. Despite both families coming to blows, somehow they manage to find a little common ground but is it enough to stay together? Jack's temper and disregard for Coral's feelings say otherwise. But on the other hand, Coral is mighty demanding at times. A truly good story. 4 stars.

The Colorado Coincidence
Kathleen Y'Barbo

Another wow story. Mack is an illegitimate son of a Duke, on the run for his life. Gloree (love her name) is a recent widow. Her husband promised to send someone to take care of her when he died, and when Mack shows off during a gunfight where she's defending her land and herself, she marries him. Brilliant resolution to this story. Moments of intrigue are mixed with romance. A very sweet story. 4.5 stars.

Railroaded into Love
Rose Ross Zediker

A very sweet story of a missionary preacher who has been selected to travel on a chapel railroad car to preform funeral services, church services, and weddings. (I'd like to find out more about this type of ministry and how common it was). He finds himself married to save a once-upon-a-time neighbor from jail. His brother is spouting nonsense about her brother being a cattle rustler and abandoning her at a saloon. A very cute story that has several twists. Enjoyed it. 4.5 stars.

4.22 stars average for the collection. Recommended.

[Tima · Rating 4 out of 5]

Each of these stories begins with the marriage. But love follows shortly after. In all nine stories the couple is lassoed into marriage without the benefit of courtship or often on just a limited acquaintance. But each couple finds the common thread of faith and commitment which soon develops into love.

I'm a pushover for a good marriage of convenience story. Combine that with some big name authors and I knew I was going to enjoy this book. I wasn't disappointed. Each author brought a different style of writing and perspective to the table. But each story hit high in regards to enjoyable plot, lovable characters, faith themes, and sweet romance. Nine stories is quite a bit to put in one book, but since they can be read as stand-alones, I was able to put the book down and come back without any interruption to the book. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romance, Christian fiction, and well written novellas.

I received this book free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

[Angela Breidenbach · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've had the distinct pleasure of reading the 8 other novellas in this collection. Also of acting as emcee for our online book club to get to know the stories and inspirations behind these novellas. I've laughed and enjoyed learning the historical highlights from Mule training to book binding to hanging husbands, 19th Century trains, and more. I think you will too. If you'd like to enjoy getting to know the authors, there's a Lassoed by Marriage Author Events playlist on Youtube where you'll see everything from the authors chatting, to true historical artifacts, to Victorian hats and details about antique books, to real Victorian automatons like the Silver Swan, and so much more.

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list...

But the reason I gave this book 5 stars is the voices that came through in the stories. As I got to personally know the authors, their voices are so distinct and fun that I could hear them when I read. Bravo, sister authors!

[Karen R · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enjoyable collection of stories featuring a wide variety of couples whose beginnings are all quite unusual. With each one in a different setting, from 1880's London to the Wild West of Montana and Colorado, they all have a unique charm of their own.
I liked them all, especially the western ones by Lisa Carter and Mary Connealy, having a soft spot for cowboys and pioneers; also really enjoyed the one by Amy Lilliard about the husband purchased from the jail.
Good examples of couples working out their differences, being committed to their vows, and finding love in the process. Recommend for fans of Christian historical romance! 4.5 stars

(Book provided by NetGalley and Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.)

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Lassoed by Marriage Romance Collection is a collection of 9 historical romances. These romances include:
The Substitute Bride by Angela Bell
Bridal Whispers by Angie Breidenbach
Mule Dazed by Lisa Carter
The Sweetwater Bride by Mary Connealy
A Highbrow Hoodwink by Rebecca Jepson
Not So Pretty Penny by Amy Lillard
All's Fair by Gina Wellborn
The Colorado Coincidence by Kathleen Y'Barbo
Railroaded into Love by Rose Ross Zediker
I really enjoyed these stories - some more than others, but all are worth reading.
4 stars.

[Vera mallard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This collection of nine stories are unique in that the romance does not start until after the marriage takes place. Each is penned by a talented author and you will spend wonderful hours immersing yourself in this clean romance collection. Each is a unique story of love after marriage and the problems that each must solve to reach a solid firm foundation for their marriage. The authors had the plot, pacing and development of the characters spot on. This book will leave you wanting more.

The Substitute Bride by Angela Bell

This story is a different take on the story book "The Ugly Duckling", and takes place in England. Gwendolyn is the ugly duckling old maid sister to a beautiful out going Cynthia. Cynthia is to marry Lord Carlyle; she has hooked a bigger fish and Gwendolyn is persuaded by her ham fisted mother and manipulating Cynthia to step in at the altar and marry Lord Carlyle. Follow Gwen and Lord Carlyle through all the missteps and happenings. This story is paced well and the character growth of Gwen from a shy introverted wall flower was wonderful; this story will keep you interested to the end as we watch two shy inverted people grow and mature.

Bridal Whispers by Angie Breidenbach

This is a story of love and family. Maila is a nurse in Saint Paul MN in 1900 America. She considers herself the odd duck as her Swedish mother sent her from home to find her own way. Now that same mother has sent for her as the family needs her help with the farm as the flu of 1900 has struck them hard, and her deceased Cousin Rose's husband, Burton, needs help with his General Store while he helps the family. Due to gossip, Maila finds herself married to Burton. Ms Briedenbach created a story that shows how family and family structure impact your life. She weaves a story of family love, misunderstandings, and growth as they live daily life. I loved watching Burton and Maila come to terms with their feelings for each other and the situation they found themselves.

Mule Dazed by Lisa Carter

This is a story of mules, lawmen, vengeful brothers protecting their baby sister's reputation, and the feisty baby sister. Don't miss this story. I laughed from the first of the story, and howled in some places. Ms. Carter has a way with a story; this one has a lawman, Sheriff Braxton Caldwell Cashel and the lady he arrests, Harriet Margaret Brimfield, aka Crazy Hair, arrested for releasing the mules in town; included in this story are her brothers named for books of the Bible and the quaint western town of Hitching Post. Sheriff Cashel is forced by Harriet's brothers to marry her; read and find out why. It only gets better from there. Ms. Carter did a wonderful job pacing this story and it kept my interest from the first page. This is one you will read with a smile.

The Sweetwater Bride by Mary Connealy

This is a very humorous story of a young woman living alone in an isolated valley all her life with her horses and long steer cattle that are as tame as kittens; she is suddenly kidnapped by our hero and forced to civilization. Ms. did a wonderful job of plotting and pacing this story as well as portraying the vulnerable emotional state of Debba. I couldn't wait to see what would happen next and if our hero, Tanner, would find the love of his life in Debba and could Debba adapt to civilization. Ms. Connealy created a wonderful family unit for Tanner, I loved his family. This is one you wont want to miss. Kudos Ms. Connealy; I loved this story.

A Highbrow Hoodwink by Rebecca Jepson

This story tells of a young naive woman , a wealthy scoundrel Jackson Baxter, who left her to never return eventually dying from consumption, and his brother, Henry. Left pregnant and unwed after one night of sex, naive Katie Dupont, finds herself a fallen woman with a 10 month old son living hand to mouth. Henry and his mother have a scheme to keep their social position as Katie's son Georgie has inherited the family monies; oh, what tangled webs we weave as first we practice to deceive as they all try to turn Katie into what they need. Ms. Jepson filled this story with twists and turns, the plotting was excellent, and the character growth was wonderful to see. Ms. Jepson created a strong character in Katie. Lovely story I truly enjoyed.

Not So Pretty Penny by Amy Lillard

Penny Pinehurst is a plain homely woman not given to pretty at all; she is desperately need of a husband to help with the farm and crops after the Civil War as she prays her father and brother will return. So begins a tale of a husband brought from the gallows. As the crops grow so does the feelings between Penny and Wash. This story is paced well and the plotting was good as we watch Penny and Wash grown into a lasting relationship from an uncertain beginning and problems in-between. Ms Lillard wove a wonderful story of patience, love, acceptance and demonstrated that true beauty has nothing to do with outward appearance.

All Fair by Gina Welborn

Coral Davies was born into a family that is feuding with the Kents. Young attraction to Hiram Kent led to a fight between the two warring families that left Coral deaf in one ear, and the blame lies at the feet of Jackson Kent. After years Jackson, Hiram, and Coral meet again and after a huge bawl in the streets between the families, Jackson and Coral are forced to marry or the family faces jail and misdemeanor criminal records. Ms. Welborn skillfully showed how destructive feuding and holding on to old grudges, hurts and slights can be; no one can even remember what started the feud. A skillfull blending of love, action, and emotion. Very good story of love between too people trying to overcome their families destructive history and forge new history.


The Colorado Coincidence by Kathleen Y'Barbo

This is the story of two people, Mack and Gloree, joined together to save a ranch and Gloree from the unscrupulous men trying to take her farm. Widowed Gloree is left pregnant and alone; she needs a husband, and her before his husband passed he sent for his relative to marry Gloree after his death. Mack is mistaken for this man and so begins a wonderful courtship filled with mystery, misunderstandings, evil men, and of course love. Don't miss this tale of two people that find a lasting love. Ms. Y'Barbo skillfully took two mismatched people with secrets and created a family unit. Follow these two thru all the pit falls, secrets, and mystery to reach their happy ever after.

Railroaded Into Love by Rose Ross Zediker

Noah Manning has his first appointment as the pastor of the church on wheels. Before the train can pull out with his ministry car, he is surprised by his brother who has a prisoner in tow. Circumstances will change Noah's life forever as the prisoner is a childhood friend Molly Callahan. Forced to marry to keep Molly safe and ferret out her outlaw brother, Molly and Noah begin a journey of renewal and love. Each has demons to overcome and lessons to learn. Ms. Zediker did a wonderful job of bringing Noah and Molly from strangers to lifelong mates. She paced this story skillfully and the character development was spot on. I enjoyed this story very much.

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this collection of stories. They were sweet, hopeful, and well written. Though each story was novella length, there was enough substance to them that I would still love to read them had they each been written as full length novels. Although, it is rather nice to have some short and sweet stories to read when there isn't as much time for reading as I'd hoped. I thoroughly enjoyed all nine stories- the characters were well written and the dynamics between the spouses as they transitioned from not-so-willing to wanting a happily ever after were interesting and varied for the different stories. And even though they were short, the transformations in no way felt rushed. I will definitely be rereading this collection, and hope the publisher has similar collections available.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this collection. My favorite stories (in order they appear in the book) are The Substitute Bride, Mule Dazed, The Sweetwater Bride (love the mom in that family!) and The Colorado Coincidence. The main reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 is because the stories are REALLY short and I prefer at least novella length stories. As short as these are, everything happens too fast for reality (with the exception of the Substitute Bride story, it was spaced out over months). Mary Connealy gave away a free copy of this book thru a drawing and I was the very happy recipient. She requested (did not require) that I review the book when I was done.

[Valri Western · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had such an interesting premise to it! Nine stories about couples who were "forced" to marry basically due to circumstances beyond their control and right on the spot, several without even knowing each other! They are not "mail order bride" stories and some of them even had the annulment papers ready to go as soon as possible but never used them! Come along and see how these 9 couples found their happily ever after without ever expecting to with a partner they certainly would never have chosen but who was very right for them!

THE SUBSTITUTE BRIDE by Angela Bell
This story takes place in England. How would you feel if you lifted the veil of your bride at the end of your wedding to "kiss the bride" and there was the face of a different woman staring back at you?!! This is what happened to Elliot! The sister of his intended is there in the place of his real bride and he's shocked! Where is his real bride? However, now he is married to Gwen so off they go to his home and when he finally talks to his former "bride", he's hurt & confused. He and Gwen settle into a "live-under-the-same-roof-but-don't-talk-to-each-other" existence until Elliot's butler gives him advice to get to know his bride. A storm that destroys the library sets them on course. Fun!
BRIDAL WHISPERS by Angie Breidenbach
I learned quite a bit about Swedish culture in this story! It was set in Minnesota. Maila has become a nurse and lives in the big city. However, her family needs her so she returns to her small community to help with the illness there temporarily. She stays with Burton, who recently lost his wife, so she can run his store while he helps on her family's farm. The townspeople find that scandalous so they have to marry. Burton is still grieving his wife and Maila wanted to marry another man. They even have different religions! Maila is an opinionated woman and it's hard for her to accept Burton's "directions". However, they learn to work things out. I really liked how the author had an epilogue that was way in the future showing their adult children and grandkids on this! That was really a great idea!
MULE DAZED by Lisa Carter
Brax is a fairly new sheriff and he's about to catch a thief red-handed stealing a mule during Mule Days, the town's annual celebration. When the thief turns around, he can't believe it's "Crazy Hair" (actually Hattie, his childhood friend who always got him into so much trouble!). What is she doing in his town? So it goes that he has to arrest her and as he puts her in jail, he closes the cell door behind him and they are locked in! NO! When they are found later, her brothers demand they marry. Brax is fine on his own and doesn't want to be married but will do it until the marriage can be annulled. However, he kind of gets used to it in a couple days...having someone to come home to, meals being ready for him, etc.! Then dangerous criminals and with the help of Hattie's brothers, Brax is able to capture them, even when they take Hattie hostage! Brax has to convince Hattie they should stay together!
The Sweetwater Bride by Mary Connealy
Tanner comes from a large family. He's finally got himself a nice ranch and looks forward to doing this on his on. However, he needs water for his animals and it's been very dry lately so he goes out scouting. He happens upon a secret mountain valley that has a woman living there! She hasn't seen another human in years! Debba lost her parents years ago and only has animals as her friends. When she sees Tanner, she literally aches for human contact! Tanner wants her to meet his Ma so he "kidnaps" her and takes her to his family! She wont leave her valley otherwise. Debba likes his family but wants to return home. Tanner decides to marry her so he can take care of her since she's all alone.
A HIGHBROWN HOODWINK by Rebecca Jepson
Katie is working as a serving girl in a Denver restaurant. She has an illegitimate son, Georgie, and regrets daily about her one bad choice of being with her son's father (a wealthy banker). She doesn't know why she did it. A man, Henry, comes to see her at the restaurant and he's the uncle of her son. Her son's father is dead and Henry needs too take over the bank. Georgie has an inheritance coming to him but Henry needs to pass him off as his son. He can't be known as an "illegitimate" child. First he tries to "buy" Georgie. Katie wont give him up. Then he asks Katie to marry him and she agrees because it'll take her away from poverty and give Georgie a better life. Several "cloak and dagger" things happen but finally Katie and Henry end up discovering that they love each other.
NOT SO PRETTY PENNY by Amy Lillard
This story had an interesting storyline! It is after the Civil War and Penny has a farm that she can't keep up on her own. She has tried for a couple years but she's barely survived. She thinks her father and brother (who were soldiers) are going to come back and help her but until then, she needs some help! SO, she goes to the local sheriff and says she wants to BUY a husband from one of the inmates in his jail! She has saved a little money! She's heard she can do that! The sheriff lets her pick one at the jail and she finally picks a guy named "Wash" whose real name is George Washington Brannock. She makes him sleep in the barn, of course! He's a hard worker and she's glad about that. He tells her that he was framed for murder and how he'll help her on the farm but then he's leaving to find the man who framed him. She tries to talk him out of it. She is falling for him and wants him to stay. By crazy coincidence, that man, comes to their house looking to water him horse one day! Interesting ending......
ALL'S FAIR by Gina Wellborn
There has been a feud between two families in this Kansas town for so long, people don't even remember how it started anymore! During one celebration, Coral is talking to Hiram (two opposing family members) when Coral is thrown into the river by Jack and she is injured - she becomes deaf in one ear. Years later, Carol is counting the days until she can leave this town and move to a big city. She's working for a judge and is close to having his recommendation as a social secretary. Jack is a doctor and feels terrible about throwing Coral in the river years ago. He wants to apologize face-to-face so when he see her on the street one day, he now has his chance. However, things get out of hand because of other family members being around and everyone lands in the mud with some punches being thrown. The judge is about to hand out sentences down at the jail until he decides that two people, one from each feuding family, could marry! Coral and Jack decide to marry. Of course Jack has annulment papers ready to go after a certain length of time because he knows Carol hates him due to her lack of hearing. BUT Coral doesn't feel that way. They eventually overcome their obstacles....a really sweet story that I really enjoyed!
THE COLORADO COINCIDENCE by Kathleen Y'BARBO
Gloree has recently buried her husband and babies. She is about to lose her land too. Three no-good men show up to buy her land but she chases them off her property. They tell her they are coming back. Just then, another man comes by. She think it's the man that her husband said he was going to send to marry her when he died! Mack is the illegitimate son of an English duke. He just happened to be riding by! The 3 men come back and Mack helps her take care of them. When they take them into town, Gloree finds out she doesn't have rights to her land anymore so Mack marries her to get the land back. He helps her get things back into working order on the ranch again but doesn't tell her about his own problems. Eventually, the Duke comes from England to find his son just as Mack gets kidnapped. Gloree and Mack have come to realize they love each other and make a home together.
RAILROADED INTO LOVE by Rose Ross Zediker
Noah is all ready to be a missionary preacher on the railroad chapel. He is excited to start his new life as a traveling preacher. However, his brother, Seth, shows up with a woman in handcuffs! Noah knows Molly from his childhood. Seth tells Noah that Molly's brother is an outlaw and he's taken Molly away from a saloon where her brother left her. He's trying to catch the brother but doesn't know what to do with Molly. He needs Noah to keep her. What?!! Molly feels ashamed at having to be a burden. She has no place to go. She didn't want to be in a saloon but her brother left her there and she didn't have anywhere to go. The senior pastor marries Noah and Molly so Noah can continue his preaching. They are cute together. Molly doesn't know how to cook but Noah tries to eat her food! Molly befriends a poor child and I though that part was sweet! She finds out that this child knows her brother so they have a link to him and finally find him, only to discover he IS an outlaw. The little boy is actually her nephew so she & Noah adopt him! A sweet story!

[Rhonda]

The Substitute Bride by Angela Bell: London, England, June, 1865, Gwen's mother convinces her to be the substitute bride for her sister, Cynthia, in her marriage to Lord Elliott Carlyle. Elliott is not happy about the arrangement that he was tricked into, but their love for books and art may just save the day and make their marriage work.

My REVIEW of The Substitute Bride: This is a very well written and touching novella. I felt great empathy for Gwen and Elliott who were both placed in an awkward situation which is now permanent. I was just disappointed that the story ended and I wanted to know more about Gwen and Elliott's relationship. I rate this novella 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers.

Bridal Whispers by Angela Breidenbach: Saint Paul, MN, March 5, 1900, Maila and Burton work to help their family rebuild itself when Burton's wife and many other family members due of influenza. Maila has been away studying to be a nurse and finally practising as one. But now it is her duty to help her family. Burton needs her help too. But the townswomen spread rumors that Burton and Maila are behaving shamefully. Maila's mother insists they marry when she hears this. Will Burton ever be able to forget his beautiful first wife, Rose? Will Maila be stuck forever in a loveless marriage?

MY REVIEW of Bridal Whispers: This is such a fun novella to read. It must have been very sad and frightening for so many people to die of influenza. I felt so sorry for Maila as it seemed she had to give up her nursing position and the man she loved as well. I rated this novella 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers.


Mule Dazed by Lisa Carter: Montana Territory, 1885, Hattie runs away from her home when her brothers promise her in marriage to a man she doesn't love, and meets up with the sheriff of Hitching Post, Montana. He promptly arrests her for releasing the mules ready to race in the town's annual Mule Days' race. Sheriff Braxton Cashel recognizes her as the girl from his childhood, known as "Crazy Hair". Her brothers ride into town and force them to marry when they say he has compromised her virtue by sleeping in the cell with her all night. Their marriage gets off to a rough start, but Braxton begins to enjoy her cooking, her lovely curls, and her constant chatter. Will their marriage last? or will he have it annuled when the judge returns to town as promised?

MY REVIEW of Mule Dazed: What a cute novella ! I love the annual tradition of Mule Days when the men and women have all sorts of activities planned to hook up as couples and a minister is there to marry all the lucky couples at the end of the festivities. This novella had me laughing and hoping for things to work out for Braxton and Hattie.
I rated this novella 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers.

The Sweetwater Bride by Mary Connealy: Montana, July, 1897, Tanner Harden rides out on his land to find a creek to water his cattle and animals, and finds a hidden cover behind a huge rock formation. In that cove, he finds an even bigger surprise....a woman who has lived alone for 4 or 5 years (she is not sure of the exact time) and has not even traveled out to a town in all this time! He kidnaps her and takes her to his home to meet his mother, and in the process, he falls in love with Debba. Will Debba marry him or will she insist on going back to live in her own cabin alone?
MY REVIEW: This is a delightful novella. Debba and Tanner are precious characters. He truly cares about her and fears for her loneliness in living alone. I loved this novella and rated it 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers.

A Highbrow Hoodwink by Rebecca Jepson: Aspen, Colorado, February 1883, Katie has an illegimate son, Georgie, who is ten months old and Henry comes to find her and tell her the father of her baby is dead and he wants to take her son as Georgie is now the heir to a huge family fortune. She refuses to let her son go and Henry then asks her to marry him. She agrees, but life is not good between Henry and Katie. He resents her and her son. Will he ever look at her and her son with love in his eyes?
MY REVIEW: This was a surprising novella to read as many events popped up that I wasn't expecting. This made the book very excited. It is a light, quick read and well worth the time. I rated this novella 5 stars and highly recommend it.

Not So Pretty Penny by Amy Lillard:Kansas, 1867, Penny's brother and father have not returned from fighting in the Civil War and she needs a man to help her plant the crops and keep the farm going for when her loved ones return. So she does the only thing she can think of in desperation, she goes to the jail to buy a prisoner to be her husband. She marries Wash in this way and he agrees, but plans to leave after the crops are in to exact revenge on the man who murdered his sister and framed him for the murder. What will happen with Penny and Wash living on the farm and not loving each other?

MY REVIEW: This novella made me imagine the agony that many experienced from the Civil War. Women had little choice in many cases but to marry men out of necissity. I found the characters believable and likable. I was drawn into the story and hopeful for the future for Wash and Penny. I rated this novella 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers.

All's Fair by Gina Welborn: Wathens, Kansas, July 4, 1900, Coral Davies and Hiram Kent were secretly seeing each other but the Davies and Kent families had a long feud running and the Kent and Davies' boys saw them together one day. They fought Hiram and Jack Kent threw Coral into the icy waters of the river and caused her to be deaf in one ear. They fight again years later and all end up thrown in jail. The judge orders a Kent and Davies to marry or he will charge them all. Jack Kent and Coral Davies volunteer to marry. How will their marriage ever work though? Will this end the families' feud?

MY REVIEW: This is a very touching novella focusing on forgiveness and stopping generational sins. Forgiveness is certainly not easy but Coral and Jack both work hard to make it happen, and this book inspires others to do the same. I rated this novella 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers.

The Colorado Coincidence by Kathleen Y'Barbo: May 1878, Callyville, Colorado, Gloree Lowe's husband and children have died after they moved from Texas to Colorado, and a man from the town and his two sons come to buy her farm and home from her....ordering her to accept their offer. Mack McCoy happens to ride up on the scene and helps Gloree and ends up marrying her and paying the debt on the farm to the bank. It is a marriage of convenience and both Gloree and Mack have secrets they are keeping. Will love come to them and will they share their secrets and resolve their differences?

MY REVIEW: Again, I felt so bad for women in this time period as they had no rights to ownership of land. The land went to a man as in the case here. The will stipulated it could belong to a man who would become her husband. It must have felt very lonely for women in many ways, especially being physically far from other families. I fell in love with this couple and just wanted the best for them, as if they were true friends of mine. I rated this novella 5 stars and definitely recommend it to readers.

Railroaded into Love by Rose Ross Zediker: Montana, 1895, Molly was picked up by the deputy where she was living in a saloon after her brother dropped her there and left. The deputy takes her to his brother, Noah, who is a new minister serving the Railroad and living and preaching from a railroad car. He wants Noah to let her stay with him but the minister in charge of Noah says it would be improper unless they were married, so they get married so that Molly can stay there. She plays the organ and sings for the services and helps Noah. But her outlaw brother, Cass, is trouble and means to harm them all. Will they find love in their marriage or have it annulled? Will Cass be found and straighten up?

MY REVIEW: This was very interesting as I had never heard of preachers working out of the railroad cars in this manner. I was married to a minister and it actually sounds very exciting. This novella addresses prejudice and tolerance for others in a lovely way. I rated this novella 5 stars and would be glad to recommend it to readers.
I received a copy of this book from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

[Joelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are nine short stories in this book which makes it hard to rate bc some of the stories I would give 5 stars to and others just one. The first story was my favorite and I'm aggravated that Angela Bell hasn't written any full length regency's because she's good at it. I'm a sucker for period books where the heroine loves the same books I do (Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Sense and Sensibility, and Jane Eyre) and references them in the story.

[Yvette · Rating 4 out of 5]

With a subtitle like '9 Historical Romances Begin After Saying "I Do"' you know you are in for some surprises. The biggest surprise? That this might be my favorite collection from Barbour so far.

The first story surprised me partly by being set in London and a country estate. I enjoyed the story so much that I almost didn't want to continue with the collection, fearing that the rest would not live up to it. All Elliott wants to do is continue to work with clockwork automata figures (bestill my Steampunk loving heart). He marries because it is time and his duty as Lord Carlyle, but he is not expecting the bookish Gwen, who is coerced into replacing his vibrant bride at the altar. This story actually had me tearing up because of Gwen's childhood Ugly Duckling book.

What follows are eight more thoroughly enjoyable stories, set in the 1860's-1900 American West, any of which I would gladly read as full novels. Maila marries her deceased cousin's husband, Burton, to stop the appearance of wrong-doing. Brax and Hattie are former childhood friends reunited when, as sheriff, he is forced to arrest her. Tanner ties Debba up and drags her home to meet his ma. Henry marries Katie, the mother of his brother's son, for the sake of his family (the one story which needed a little editing as it seems to jump a bit and George's age seemed a bit inconsistent). Coral and Jackson are from feuding families, Mack marries Glory in a case of mistaken identity, and railroad missionary Noah must marry Molly or she has nowhere to go but back to the saloon.

4/5 stars. If you enjoy shorter fiction, and Historical Christian Romance in particular, then this is a highly recommended read.

This review refers to an ebook read courtesy of the publisher, through NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. It was originally published on my WordPress blog at http://wp.me/p5Tcfi-Ab

[Stella Potts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this collection of historical love stories of marriage before love or marriages of convenience. I especially enjoyed Mary Connealy's, Rebecca Jepson's and Gina Wellborn's stories. It took me quite awhile to read this book because I would mainly read one story then read another book before going back to the next story. That was not due to lack of interest I just enjoyed it more by splitting up the short novellas instead of reading them all at one sitting. I give this book five stars overall (some are better than others of course) as it is a clean romantic read with well rounded characters. This book was given to me by one of the Authors and there was no requirement for a positive review. All views are my own.

[Cheryl Baranski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a collection of nine Historical Romances Began After Saying “I Do”. Angela Bell, Angela Breidenbach, Lisa Carter, Mary Connealy, Rebecca Jepson, Amy Lillard, Gina Welborn, Kathleen Y’Barbo, and Rose Ross Zediker wrote a story in this most wonderful collection. There is so mush faith, hope, devotion, frustration, and laughter throughout this story. I was captured right from the start. Each story that was just as mesmerizing as the first one. Be sure to order your copy of The Lassoed by Marriage Romance Collection today. 5 stars!

[Alecia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a fun book…quick fun reads that just seemed never ending, in a good way of course;)
I’m not sure I have a favorite…but I did LOVE that Mary connelly’s novella had a character from a past series (or rather more then one series since the family showed up in more then one series;) )
Anyway Loved seeing them again
I received this book free from netgalley in exchange for my honest review
https://cherishedbyalecia.wordpress.c...

[Cas H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love compilations! Not only do you get to sample the short stories of amazing authors, you get to read shorter stories.
Sometimes, I know I feel like I should finish a book even though it is terrible. Now, you can do that in a lot less time.
If you don't like a story, skip it and go on to the next.
I enjoyed this compilation and will recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.

[namericanwordcat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Come along on a romantic journey jam-packed with all the angst of marriages founded upon practical choices as well as coercion. Meet nine couples who barely know each other before they find themselves suddenly married to please family, to stem the tide of gossip, to save the land and joined for life. But can love grow when duty comes before romance?

All's Fair by Gina Welborn

September, 1904 / Wathena, Kansas

No two people are more ill-suited than Miss Coral Davies and Dr. Jack Kent. Jack loves tradition and stability. Coral loves change. To top it all off, their orchard-owning families have hated one another for decades. When a mudslinging in the middle of town lands them—and a dozen family members—in jail amid the apple harvest, Coral and Jack have a choice. Marry and free everyone. Or all of them spend the next ninety days in jail for causing a public disturbance. Can Coral and Jack overlook the odd (and humorous to everyone else in town not named Davies or Kent) beginning of their marriage to see God’s blessing in disguise?

The Substitute Bride by Angela Bell

London, England, June 1865.

After seven seasons in London society, spinster Gwendolyn—Gwen Brandbury, remains unmarried. However her parents form a scheme to get her married to Lord Elliott Carlyle—a deception really. Lord Carlyle does not discover the deception until after the wedding when he lifts the bridal veil to kiss his bride and discovers Gwen instead of Cynthia, her sister. Furious, he takes his substitute bride to his country home, Briarcliff Park.

Bridal Whispers by Angie Breidenbach

Saint Paul, MN March 1900.

After being away for nine years, nurse Maila Holmes is headed home to Fergus Falls after receiving notice of the flu epidemic at home and her family very ill with the flu. Many have died during the flu epidemic, including her cousin Rose. Store owner Burton Rutherford—Rose's husband—meets Maila at the train depot and takes her to his store in town. They will travel to her family's homestead in the morning when it is safer to travel. Weeks later, due to some gossip, Maila and Burton find themselves in a potential scandalous situation and must marry. Can Burton get over the loss of his beloved Rose and learn to love his bride Maila? Will Maila forever struggle with feelings of being unwanted and unloved, even by her family, chasing after allusive dreams that may or may not make her feel loveable?

Mule Dazed by Lisa Carter

Hitching Post, Montana Territory 1885

Sheriff Braxton—Brax Cashel is about to arrest the cowboy—no bigger than a little feller who was responsible for setting the mules loose from the corral. When the little feller turned around Brax got a shock, as did the little feller—“crazy hair?” The little feller was no little feller but was in fact Harriet—Hattie Brimfield—or crazy hair as he nicknamed her because of her wild, untamed hair—from the Bronco B ranch, who always got into trouble when they were kids in Wyoming Territory. Hattie couldn't believe young Brax grew into such a handsome man...a handsome man who was arresting her. Well, nothing's changed, she was still getting into trouble—again and Brax was there to get her out of it—again....well not this time. She finds herself locked in the local jail. Due to a situation at the jail, Hattie's five brothers demand Hattie and Brax marry immediately.


The Sweetwater Bride by Mary Conneally

Montana July 1897

Rancher Tanner Harden is proud of his property in the Rockies and hopes to prosper there. Due to the drought his streams have dried up, so he goes out in search for much needed water for his cattle herd and hears a scream followed by gunfire and another scream—a woman's scream. But there is no woman up here. No trail in sight, only solid rock reaching over fifty feet and no way up it. His horse finds a trail and up he goes on a barely visible trail. He goes through a crack in the stone and a beautiful green mountain valley opens up before him. Amazed, he travels on and finds buildings and a lone woman—looking as wild as the land—standing in front of one of the buildings. Debba McClain was shocked to see someone coming into her valley—she doesn't go out of her valley so doesn't know anyone.


Highbrow Hoodwink by Rebecca Jepson

Aspen, Colorado 1883

21 year old Katie Dupont works as a serving girl at the very busy local hotel's dinning room. This day was no different, however there was a mysterious, wealthy-looking man sitting in the shadows watching her. He looked so familiar, but she couldn't place him. What he told her was a shock and put fear into her heart—her past lead him here. No way was she going to agree with what he proposes—his planned deception. What can she do?

Not So Pretty Penny by Amy Lillard

Cooper, Kansas 1867

After much prayer, Penelope—Penny Pinehurst knows what she must do...she marches into the Sheriff's office and informs Sheriff Riley, “I am in need of a husband—today”. To, in fact, buy a husband from one of his prisoners set to for the gallows to help bring in a crop on her farm. Of the three prisoners, she chose George Washington—Wash Brannock for her husband. Wash was now married, free from jail. He planned to go ofter the person who framed him once he fulfilled his part of the bargain—plant and bring in the crops for Penny. However, he didn't plan on his heart falling for Penny. Penny's neighbor, who insisted that they marry...as he wanted her land...was shocked when he learned of her marriage. Then a man shows up on the farm which brings an unexpected situation and Wash has to decide if he will follow up on his plan or to forgive.

The Colorado Coincidence by Kathleen Y'Barbo

San Francisco 1878

Illegitimate son of the Duke of Crenwright, Mack McCoy, packed his bags in preparation to leave the city he has come to love and head to Denver. His half-brother, Colin, wants him to never return to England and threatens to harm someone Mack loves dearly if he does.

Callyville, Colorado, Gloree Lowe has buried her husband and her babies and still grieves for them. Her husband told her to marry again if something happened to him and even wrote to his cousin to come and marry her. She is about to loose her cabin and properly if she doesn't pay the bank what she owes soon. Three unsavory characters want her properly and are willing to get it one way or another and only gives her a couple days to leave. A stranger—Mack—shows up just in time and they leave. Of course Gloree thinks Mack is the man her husband said would come. But the men come back and after a shoot out, they are dead. Mack and Gloree take the men into town to the sheriff, things get even more confusing as he too thinks Mack is the man Gloree's husband sent for. Before he knows it, Mack and Gloree are married. But Gloree's troubles are not over yet. It seems others in town want her ranch too.

Railroaded into Love by Rose Ross Zediker

Montana 1895.

Noah Manning is now a missionary preacher on the railroad chapel, Emmanuel where he also lives. He is excited to start his new—single—life as a traveling preacher. But he didn't expect his brother, Seth, to show up with a young woman in hand-cuffs, wanting her to stay on the train with Noah.

Molly Callahan's brother, Cass, had dumped her at the saloon to live and work after their parents died in the influenza outbreak five years ago and left town. Seth says that Cass is a cattle rustler and is hoping having Molly along at the trains next scheduled stop will bring Cass out of hiding so he could arrest him. Noah's supervisor will allow Molly to stay with Noah if they are married and performs the wedding.

Review

I love Westerns and I adore the Marriage of Connivence theme so this collection was a big hit with me as all the writers are talented and love stories engaging.

Each story is like a course of a meal. You can read a little bit at a time when you have time and have the best time.

This collection does fall into the Inspirational sub genre but because of the historical setting the weaving of the religious into the plot fits well.

I love the Mary Conneally piece the best because of the mixture of utter competence and aloneness in the heroine. The hero just doesn't know what to do with her and the animals are awesome. So good.

Amy Lillard supplies another of my favorite tropes in saving a man from the noose and a plain Jane. Much tender fun here.

Rebecca Jepson's take unwed mother trying to do the best for her child is not to be missed.

These are my very favorites but they are all wonderful.

I was given this book for my honest review. So, there you have it.

[Marilyn Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nine Novellas all in one book. These are all quick, independent reads centering around an unexpected marriage and maybe finding love in the mix. I was given a copy of this book from net galley for my honest opinion. If you enjoy reading short stories that all take place around the late 1800’s to early 1900’s you will enjoy reading this book. There is love, mystery, romance, surprise and laughter throughout all these novellas.

The Substitute Bride - by Angela Bell

Elliott never imagined being married to Gwen. When all is unveiled will there be a chance at friendship or even love?

Gwen has always felt like an ugly duckling. When she finds herself married will she be doomed to loneliness still? Even among so many wonderful books, Gwen finds a loneliness she never felt possible.

Bridal Whispers - by Angie Breidenbach

Malia has accomplished much since leaving home. Now she must return home to help her family. Will she loose everything she holds dear or will God change her desires. When Malia finds herself married will she ever find a true marriage? She is a strong willed, spirited woman. What is God trying to teach her?

Burton is not sure he can ever get over the loss of his wife. When he finds he must marry again, can they find happiness in just being roommates? He is a determined, hardworking, Godly man. Can he ever find a place in his heart for his new bride before he pushes her away?

Mule Dazed - by Lisa Carter

I loved the characters and their sparks. Both Brax and Hattie have a lot to learn and I enjoyed watching them ignite each other in more ways than one.

Brax has his world just how he wants it. When Hattie comes crashing through it once more he is not real sure what to expect. She has always found trouble and this time it may be more than he can handle. When tempers fly and he finds himself married he can’t wait to get it back to normal. Yet is it to late for him and Hattie?

Hattie just wants true love. Trouble always seems to find her, even when she is only trying to do what is right. After discovering who the actual Sheriff is, she wonders if God has given her a second chance. Hattie is strong willed, opinionated and not afraid of much. Yet will she loose the only man she ever really loved? She can not be the quiet, calm woman he desires.

The Sweetwater Bride - by Mary Connealy

Tanner never imagined what he would find just around the bend. Maybe it is the answer to his problems in more ways than one. He comes from a large loving family. When he feels the only help Debba needs is his ma’s, he may go to strange lengths to see it done.

Debba has not needed anyone in a long long time. When Tanner comes riding in she is not sure of all the feelings he is stirring. When she finally meets his family she wonders if this is more than she can handle. Debba is an independent young woman who has not had much contact with others. She has a unique relationship with her animals, yet people scare her.

A Highbrow Hoodwink - by Rebecca Jepson

Katie has much to learn, forgiveness of self is probably the hardest. When she finds herself with a very difficult decision to make she must decide what is best for her son. When her secrets are on the verge of being revealed will all fall apart?

Henry will do anything to protect his family. When his life is turned upside down will he be able to accept all that is involved? Even when the secrets are on the verge of being uncovered can he find true love or will he ever be able to forgive and have a happily ever after.

Not so Pretty Penny - by Amy Lillard

Penny feels she has no choice but to find a husband, even if it is unconventional. She knows this is the only option she has. When She find him will things be all she expected, but what did she expect? Penny knows she is not a pretty woman but she needs someone to help her on her farm and maybe there could be a possibility of more.

Wash never really saw himself getting married. He has plans of his own, wether God likes them or not. When he feels his only way out of his current problem is to marry, will he be able to do what is right by her and still keep his plans. Penny has a lot to teach Wash and the patience to do it. But is he just to stubborn to learn?

All’s Fair - by Gina Welborn

The Davies and the Kents have been feuding for years. So when Coral Davies finds herself in a situation she never dreamed, she marries a Kent. Will there marriage be the answer to their prayers or will it end before it ever really gets started. Coral is determined to leave the small town she has grown up in, yet her new husband has every intention on staying.

Dr. Kent knows he needs to make things right, yet becoming the husband of a Davies is not what he expected. He knows God has done a lot with his life but will he be strong enough to stop all the hate? What is the best thing he can do for his new bride? love her or let her go?
The Colorado Coincidence - by Kathleen Y’Barbo

Gloree does not always understand God’s plan yet trust that he has one. When she finds herself in desperate need of a hero, in more ways than one, she is surprised when it is this handsome stranger.

Mack can’t explain why he feels he needs to help this damsel in destress, but feels led to do so. Even though he has secrets of his own will their marriage stand the test. Will God show his mighty power to him?

Railroaded into Love - by Rose Ross Zediker

Noah has his life planned out, even if it is not exactly what his family has planned on him doing. When Molly is unexpectedly in need he can’t believe what he is considering. Once they are married will Noah be able to keep his distance and find out the truth behind her brother and his actions.

Molly can’t believe her brother is an outlaw. When she finds herself married to a railroad preacher she knows this may be her only out and her only way to find out the truth. She is a kind hearted girl that has had to go through more than most. Her soft heart just may lead her to her long lost brother. When the truth comes out will Noah be who she thinks he is or will her brother? Maybe they will both disappoint.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received this book for free though Goodreads Giveaways*

First let me say that if you can, try buying the print copy of this book. It's a gorgeous book with deckle edges on the front side. It gives it an old timey look, feels great in your hands, is a feast for the fingers as you turn pages, and it called out to the bookbinder in me. :)

All these authors were new to me as I've read very very little Christian Romance. After reading this book I am wondering why I haven't read more! I loved it. The book is filled with such sweet stories, all well written. I enjoyed almost every one of them. I look forward to reading more from many of these authors. And I loved the theme of each story starting off with a marriage. Overall I have to give to give the book 5 stars. It was just that enjoyable. But here are my thoughts on the individual stories:

The Substitute Bride by Angela Bell

The only one not set in the west (this one was set in England), was one of my very favorites. I loved that Elliot built automatons and Gwen was a bit of a bookbinder. Gwen and Elliot had a rough start but it was wonderful watching them discover each other. I didn't want the story to end. My only problem is that this is a new author who hasn't had any full length novels printed yet. I really wanted to read more of her work!! :) Can't wait to see how her career unfolds.

Bridal Whispers by Angela Breidenbach

This one was very well written but just wasn't my cup of tea. I wound up feeling sorry for all involved especially poor Benjamin. Honestly I would have rather seen Maila marry him. It just left me feeling icky.

Mule Dazed by Lisa Carter

I liked this one. It had plenty of amusing parts and I liked both Brax and Harriet. Her bit of wildness worked well with his stuffiness. It had a nice little action scene as well. I loved Harriet's brothers too. I would have loved to see full length novels for this family. They were very memorable.

The Sweetwater Bride by Mary Connealy

Anoter favorite! I don't know who wrote the blurb on the book cover but it didn't match the story at all. And the wedding came at the end instead of the beginning like the others. That being said I loved it. The characters were great and it had plenty of laugh out loud moments. I was so excited to see that the author has a series that feature Tanner's parents and some others who were mentioned in the story. Can't wait to read those! I wish this one had been a full length novel as I didn't want it to end. I hope we see more of Tanner's brothers some day.

A Highbrow Hoodwink by Rebecca Jeps

An interesting story but I wish so much emphasis had not been put on Katie's "shamefulness". There wasn't any shame being heaped on the scoundrel of a man who got her in that position. And the fault lay more with him as she was naive and didn't even know what going on until it was too late. I know it was par for the times but still. I felt sorry for her. All's well that ends well in this story but if I had a nickle for every time her "shame" was mentioned...

Not so Pretty Penny by Amy Lilliard

An interesting premise that a woman could get a condemned man released if he married her, had me doing Google searchs. The only thing I could find was reference to a Jack Nicohlson movie that used this plot. I don't know if the premise was original to the movie or based on fact. Either way, it made for a fun story. I like the transformation we saw in George. I only wish so much emphasis had not been put on Penny's looks. I loved that it showed beauty is only skin deep and what a wonderful woman Penny is but I didn't needed pointed out every other paragraph.

All's Fair by Gina Welborn

A cute story about two members of rival families forced to marry. I like Coral and Jack and they were so sweet together once they conquered some of their issues.

The Colorado Coincidence by Kathleen Y'Barbo

A little far fetched in places but a great story. I was so happy for good things to come Gloree's way and seeing Mack's sweet side come out was wonderful.

Railroaded into Love by Rose Ross Zediker

I loved that this one was set on the railroad in a "Chapel Car". I had never heard of this before. I probably spent way too much time searching the internet about the history of the Chapel Car but once I started I couldn't stop. The author did a great job of bringing the setting to life in the story. I loved Molly and Noah. They were both such sweet, kind, and loving people. And of course I loved Tom. There was a little mystery, a little action and some suspense as the story progressed. I would have loved this one as a full length novel so I could learn more about what happened to Cass. It never did tell the history of that or what happened after. Plus I just didn't want the story to end. This is another author I will be reading more of. I'd love to see a story about Seth some day.

All in all definitely a book to pick up and one that will have a home on my bookshelf. I am always thrilled to find new authors I like. I'll be checking out more from the publisher as well. I saw that they have another anthology coming soon that's about the California Gold Rush. Gotta have that one!

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm a sucker for a good marriage of convenience story, and this collection certainly fits the bill! Of course, I enjoyed some of these stories more than others, but I'd say most would rate between 3-1/2 and 4 stars.

[Jennifer Reiser · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet mix of different stories, roughly the same timeline. Definitely enjoyable! If I find it in paper back, I would probably buy it😂

[Angela Bycroft · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Substitute Bride
Angela Bell

Reminiscent of the Biblical story Jacob and Leah this first tales sees a scheming mother manage to marry off her not so pretty older daughter to a Lord of the Realm in this regency style story.
Gwen's and Elliot's marriage gets off to a pretty shaky start but it's makes for great entertainment as they slowly thaw to each other. Gwen with her books and Elliot and his clockwork figures.
Can they get past the initial falsehood and realise that they have more in common than not?

Bridal Whispers
Angela Brieidenbach

This was one of those tales of shotgun wedding with everything bar the shotgun. Grieving widower pushed into a marriage he didn't intend or want but eventually realised was meant to be.
I found it an interesting look at two souls slowly letting go of their different defences and finding new common ground.

Mule Dazed
Lisa Carter

Such a cute and funny little tale about Sherif Bax and Harriet (Hattie), childhood sweethearts although he wouldn’t admit it. There were several laugh out loud moments which had me in stitches. From initial arrest for releasing the mules before the town event, to both getting locked inside the jail during a snow storm. Meeting Hattie’s brothers, Genesis, Exodus, Deuteronomy, Numbers and Leviticus (and there suitable nicknames from those mouthfuls), this was one total delight to read. Noting new plot wise but that didn’t make it any less enjoyable.

The Sweetwater Bride
Mary Connealy

A hidden Valley, a young woman all alone in the world and a young cattle rancher starting out on his own.
When Tanner stumbles unwittingly into Debbie home hidden from most by is isolation, he finds this young woman who had tamed huge long horned Bulls and draught horses to be like how cats.
But she knows nothing of the outside world or people.
But hog- tying her and dragging her back to his folks may not be the best way to adjust to the real world.
Comedy ensues as Debbie critters track get back to the homestead. A fun tale but would have done better for a bit more length to better develop the relationship bid still good fun.

A Highbrook Hoodwink
Rebecca Jenson

This was a clever story of a woman who made one mistake, her small son with no father and the father's brother come to claim an heir.
Classic tale of a slow burn romance long after the vows are spoken. And also with just a hint of mystery. Good story!!

Not So Pretty Penny
Amy Lillard

Loved this sweet story of Penny and her crazy plan to buy a husband from the gallows. Luckily for her her pick is a man framed for murder. Very fortunate.
Despite that little convenient plot twist I will adored the dark allure of Wash (George Washington Bannock not less) and the sweet nature of Penny. Her convincing herself of her lack of beauty and Wash being able to show her just what true beauty truly is. Lovely!!

All's Fair
Gina Welborn
Another cracking tale. This set never disappoints. This time with a family feud as backdrop two very different people with a history find themselves at the alter to literally get out of jail. Despite both family's nearly coming to blows, somehow they manage to find common ground and Forge a life together....hopefully setting a different example to their respective families.

The Colorado Coincidence
Kathleen Y'Barbo
Tale of an illegitimate son and a recently widowed young woman. He’s running from his past and she’s trying to escape hers. A bunch of lawless men try and take by force her home and Gloree does the only thing she knows how - she fights with her deceased husband’s gun. Mack McCoy, passing at the physiological moment steps in to help. They now find themselves bound together by one moment of horror - but both have secrets and histories they would rather forget. A lot is packed into this short tale and it’s well worth the read.

Railroaded into Love
Rose Ross Zediker
Another sweet tale of a missionary preacher who has been selected to travel on a chapel rail car to preform services and wedding, and finds himself using the chapel before he had intended. His brother arrives with his soon to be bride in hand cuffs and declare that it’s either the jail or matrimony. Never an easy way to starts ones married life, but this novella had enough twists and turns to keep it interesting and as ever a sweet ending.

[Rochelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lassoed by Marriage

1. The Substitute Bride by Angela Bell - 4 stars - This story would've made an amazing full length novel! What a terrible position for both the H&H to be put in! I loved that the hero created automata, that part of history is so cool and I love reading about it. I also loved that the heroine wore spectacles, I don't know if I've come across that in any other historical romances I've read, and I've read a lot. It ended far too abruptly to get 5 stars and the lack of an epilogue was also a bummer! I wish we could've read more story when they were actually in love with eachother. Oh well, the atmosphere was great and I was completely entertained otherwise.

2. Bridal Whispers by Angie Breidenbach - 4 stars - I very much enjoyed this story! I loved reading at the end that the author's grandparents were forced to marry because of gossip, in real life. That epilogue left me all emotional! It was almost like there were two epilogues which is such a treat!

3. Mule Dazed by Lisa Carter - 3 stars - Overall this story was funny and cute. However, although I found it enjoyable overall, I thought the romance was a little too saccharine sweet at the end, and that the story was wrapped up just a little to tidily.

4. The Sweetwater Bride by Mary Connealy - 4 stars - So, all I knew when I checked this out from the library was that one of the stories was by Mary Connealy, but what I didn't know was that it was a story about Tanner Harden, Belle and Silas' son. I was so excited when I read his name! The story itself was very sweet and humorous. I think it got a little too sappy at the end and there were some incredible happenings peppered throughout, but it was still very much a joy to read. I love a good laugh!

6. Not So Pretty Penny by Amy Lillard - 3.5 stars - This one went by really quickly! I enjoyed it, and I appreciated that the heroine wasn't supernaturally beautiful. She was striking, as described by the hero, and completely brave! I admired her spirit, she was strong, she was vulnerable. The author did a good job creating living breathing characters. Things got wrapped up a little too tidily there at the end, in novella fashion, but as a whole I thought it was a very good story. I would've loved an epilogue!

7. All's Fair by Gina Welborn - 5+ stars - I was BLOWN AWAY with this story! I've never read anything like it before! I don't think it really fits with the "Lassoed by Marriage" title, because it wasn't a western but that being said, the setting was perfect! I don't often read stories that take place in the very early 1900s. I felt like I was right there, walking on the wooden board sidewalks, watching the new Ford automobiles intermingling with the horses and wagons on the street. It was completely atmospheric! I loved it!! Now I need to find other stuff by this author!

8. The Colorado Coincidence by Kathleen Y'Barbo - 4 stars - I think this one would make a great movie! The action was a little abrupt at the beginning but again, a great movie premise--with someone like Tom Hiddleston to play Mack ;) It was awesome, who doesn't love the idea of a rancher who happens to be English. I kept picturing him talking with his British accent and I loved it! A delightful tale with a delightful epilogue.

9. Railroaded Into Love - 3 stars - I liked that the majority of the story took place in a railroad car chapel. I thought it was unique and it's not something I've ever read about before. The romance, action, and emotions were all pretty middle-of-the-road, in novella fashion, but overall the story definitely kept my attention. I really would've appreciated an epilogue!

*I skipped novella number five because it didn't interest me.

[Cheesecake · Rating 1 out of 5]

A selection of stories about couples tricked into or accidentally getting married. Very PG (Aka no sex, but yes to romance)

'The Substitute Bride' by Angela Bell *** 3 stars
Lord Carlyle (Elliott) and Gwen (not Cynthia). Elliott was supposed to marry Gwen's pretty empty headed conniving vain sister, Cynthia. But through Cynthia and her mother's deceit, he ends up wed to Gwen. Now a thoroughly pissed off married man, he treats Gwen as though she doesn't exist. Gwen feels bad about the trick and lets him treat her poorly. She's a bit of a quiet mouse anyways. Little do they both know, they have a lot in common though it takes months for them to even try to get aquainted. It's cute but kinda meh.

'Bridal Whispers' by Angie Breidenbach ****3.5 stars
Maila (not Rose) and Burton (not Ben). This story takes place during the Spanish Flu epidemic at the end of WW1. Maila was being courted by Ben when she learns that her family has fallen ill and travels north to aid them. She had recently graduated nursing school. There she is greated by Burton whose wife Rose (Maila's cousin) had recently died of the flu. Maila stays with him while helping her family and the town gossip mongers force them to marry. Burton, understandably was not emotionally prepared to love a new wife and weeks pass as housemates. Then Burton starts making decisions that will affect Maila's life without her input, not considering that she should have input. So he needs to learn that his new marriage cannot be expected to fit the same mold as his first marriage. Rose is sad that she will never live up to his expectations when compared to her cousin Rose. It's a rather sad tale but the ending was very romantic with a lovely epilogue.

'Mule Dazed' by Lisa Carter *** three stars
Brax and Harriet aka 'Crazy Hair'. They knew each other as kids. She is a tomboy raised with not mother and several older brothers. He is always worried about doing a good job and living up to everyone's expectations. she had a crush on him when she was a girl, but he just called her 'Crazy Hair'. They meet again and through strange circumstances end up at the wrong end of a shot gun wedding by the locals. Brax wants an annulment but they have to wait til the local judge comes back to town. I didn't care for the way Brax treated her. So I liked her character more than his. He does manage to pull his head out of his arse in the end though.

'The Sweetwater Bride' by Mary Conneally ***stars
Tanner and Debba. This is a sweet little tale of a girl who has lived in isolation since her pa died years ago. She has a kind of Snow White thing going on in that wild animals tend to become tame and love her like devoted pets. Tanner is her prince who happens upon her secret canyon by accident. There's some push and pull but with the help of his parents, they fall in love.

'A Highbrow Hoodwink' by Rebecca Jepson


'Not so Pretty Penny' by Amy Lillard

'All's Fair' by Gina Welborn

'The Colorado Coincidence' by Kathleen Y'Bardo

'Railroaded into Love' by Rose Ross Zediker

[Lisa M. · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Lassoed by Marriage Romance Collection is a collaboration of novellas by nine different popular authors in the inspirational fiction genre (including Mary Connealy and Kathleen Y'barbo, two of my favorites). The book was just released January 1, 2016, so it's brand new on the market!! In this romance collection you will meet nine different couples who are thrust into marriage because of
practical choices, as well as coercion!

Some do it to please family, to stem the tide of gossip, or to save land...and some...well, because they are forced to unless they want to go to jail! Each story examines the question of whether love can grow, even when marriage is started in less than stellar circumstances!

All in all, this collection is a fun and easy read. All of them are historical fiction with a western touch. I found the three best were the novellas by Mary Connealy (The Sweetwater Bride), Kathleen Y'Barbo (The Colorado Coincidence), and Gina Welborn (All's Fair). Each of these had enough information about the characters to let you get to know them and the stories went fast enough to be a novella length, but slow enough to not feel rushed. They didn't feel like the author crammed a lot of information in a small amount of pages, just to flush out a story.

I really enjoyed Mary Connealy's story the best, simply because it was yet another visit to the Montana Marriages Trilogy to be with the Harden family again of the The Husband Tree novel. I loved that series and it was fun to see the characters again.

I really think putting NINE stories together in one book, really was pushing it. I believe I prefer collections of 4 or 5 different stories tops, so that i can have more time to get to know the characters.

I give the book a 3 1/2 star rating because it was good and I enjoyed it, but I think some of the other stories (besides the three I said were well done) could have been better. The characters in those stories were just a bit to shallow for me.

I still recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a good historical inspirational romance fiction collection. It's not going to be deep or require a lot of thinking, but it will still be just a good all around read.

[Kathleen E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thursday, January 14, 2016
The Lassoed by Marriage Romance Collection: 9 Historical Romances Begin After Saying "I Do" © 2016

Review of Rebecca Jepson's A Highbrow Hoodwink novella

Aspen, Colorado ~ 1883
It has been a little over a year and a half that I agreed for a frequent diner at the Claredon Hotel to give me a ride home on a warm July evening. So naive, unaware what a simple kiss unknowingly could lead to. Jackson Baxter was his name; he hasn't come and seen his son.

My little Georgie is almost a year old when the father's family comes to claim him. As hard as it is to work in town in the hotel dining room and have his care in the country where I must leave him until my day off, I stand my ground. I will not be separated from him.

Marriage-of-convenience is offered to me in exchange for a safe harbor.

Worried that my past will be discovered as not measuring up to their social status resulting in loss of their business ventures in Denver, the prestigious family must find where their true alliance stands.

A surprise ending brings another change for the family.

***Thank you to author Rebecca Jepson for sending me a print copy of The Lassoed by Marriage Romance Collection so I may review A Highbrow Hoodwink novella. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***

[Callie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed novella collections this fall because with school and life, I haven't had a whole lot of time to sit down and read a full novel. Plus, novellas are a great way to be introduced to new authors without committing to read a full novel of theirs. I think I may have read two of these authors before, but mostly it was a bunch of new ones for me. I was shocked at first to see that there was nine stories in one book, but found that they were still a good length and all had good plots. Usually, in a novella collection, there are a few stories that I don't care for, but I really enjoyed every single selection in this collection.

Each storyline involves a couple who has just been married, but aren't necessarily in love. For some, it was a marriage of convenience; for others, they married to save face. Others had a mix-up and married the wrong person. One went and picked out an outlaw awaiting hanging in the local jail. Each was unique, and stood alone. I loved how I could read a story or two in a sitting because of the length, but none of the plots felt rushed.

Thank you so much to Net Galley and Barbour publishing for providing me with an e-book edition of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own and were not required to be positive.