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Her In convenient Husband

When a riding accident strands socialite Caroline Turner overnight with the new stable manager, she gets the one thing she never wanteda husband! Marrying the infuriatingly stubborn Duncan McKenna wouldn't have been her first choice, but with her reputation damaged, it's her only option. Still, there's something about the brash, rugged Scotsman that fascinates Caroline.

If Duncan wanted to wed a society girl, he would have stayed in Boston with his family and his fortune. He expects Caroline to balk at her new modest lifestyle, but instead the strong-willed beauty seems determined to prove him wrong, making her all the more irksomeand irresistible. The marriage of convenience isn't what Caroline and Duncan planned, but could they be a perfect match?

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288 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published February 1, 2017

88 people are currently reading
522 people want to read

About the author

Karen Kirst

77 books255 followers
Karen Kirst was born and raised in East Tennessee near the Great Smoky Mountains. A lifelong lover of books, it wasn't until after college that she had the grand idea to write one herself. The pursuit of her dream would take longer than she first anticipated...years, in fact. In the fall of 2010, she got the happy news that Harlequin Love Inspired Historical wanted to publish her manuscript-a true blessing from God. Now she divides her time between being a wife, homeschooling mom, and romance writer. She enjoys reading, hosting tea parties and spending time with friends.

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5 stars
131 (45%)
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93 (32%)
3 stars
49 (17%)
2 stars
9 (3%)
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5 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 29 of 42 reviews
Profile Image for Melanie.
2,215 reviews599 followers
December 25, 2018
Wed by Necessity is the 10th book in the Smoky Mountain Matches series. I haven't read all of the previous books, but I've enjoyed the ones I have read. I didn't expect to love this story like I did....it just pulled on my emotions and I got completely into the book.

I loved how the romance developed as it did. They didn't want to marry each other, but surprisingly things seemed meant to be. One of the scenes towards the end got me quite teary-eyed, as I found it to be so sweet!

All in all, I loved Wed By Necessity and recommend it to fans of historical romance.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
Profile Image for Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...).
1,677 reviews584 followers
August 29, 2021
I just love a marriage of convenience plot in a historical novel! This one was fun because Caroline and Duncan don't have the best first impression of each other, and it is difficult for them to overcome their assumptions until they are forced to interact with each other on a more personal level. It was interesting to see them learn more about each other through observation and discovering the secrets of the past. They each have their own hurts and walls up to protect their hearts, but a desire for a happier life together helps them draw closer and seek for more. A sweet read!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Profile Image for Lisa  (Bookworm Lisa).
2,240 reviews207 followers
June 13, 2017
This is the first Karen Kirst book that I have read. It is part of a series, but can be read as a stand alone.

The book takes place in Tennessee in the 1800's. Caroline has been raised as a socialite and has been taught to look down at men who may not be her social equal. Things change when Duncan comes into town. He has the look of a drifter, but has been hired by Caroline's father to take care of the horses.

Life gets harder for them when they find themselves wed or face scandal. Both are harboring secrets, neither fully trusts the other.

I found this book to be cute and fun to read. I enjoyed the pacing, I liked the dilemma's the characters found themselves in, and above all I liked that they believed in honor and fidelity, despite the uncertainties in their marriage.

There are a few couples mentioned in the book that I believe their relationships were the romance in previous books in the series. I may have to pick up a couple and read some more about this town and the people who live there.

Source: I requested a copy of the book from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Clare O'Beara.
Author 25 books371 followers
April 22, 2017
A socialite with a lot on her mind, is seen as an expense by her businessman father, and ordered to marry the stable manager. This is set in Gatlinburg on the day of Independence.

I am entirely unconvinced that a lady would come away from a ball in her long finely made gown and dainty slippers, get up on a horse and ride off into the night because she felt like it. Ladies changed to ride, wore appropriate skirts and boots, with a hairnet, and due to the shape of the side saddle they often had to use a spur on one heel with a whip in the other hand to give the signal on the legless side. Of course I know British riding better than American but I don't believe it would be all that different. This episode feels very contrived, which it is to ensure the lady and stable manager spend time alone so her reputation is compromised.

Once they are married the tale gets more interesting as she has to adapt to cooking, scrubbing and cleaning, even growing food, while the Scots man can't believe his luck but is unwise enough to dump all her fine dresses in a charity box. This is a lively and well described romance suitable for any age and there's an undercurrent of tension stemming from blackmail and sharp practices.

I downloaded an ARC from Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
Profile Image for Paula-O.
558 reviews
March 15, 2017
LIH "Wed by Necessity" by Karen Kirst.


This had a wonderful story about a socialite Caroline Turner who is not excited at all when her father hires Duncan McKenna to be stable manager. They seem to be like oil and water from their first meeting.
Things are not as they seem and when Caroline runs off with a storm pending Duncan goes along to keep her and the horses safe. Yep,the storm broke and they were out all night "alone". In earlier days this was not accepted and Caroline's father had the preacher come soon after they arrived home and this couple were hitched.
Now come read and see how they learn to accept what is and maybe even find "A little more".
I loved reading this story.
Profile Image for Leslie Books and Socks Rock.
899 reviews23 followers
August 21, 2017
It was great, their fighting chemistry of getting to know each other made you fall in love them and them to figure it out. It wasn't completely predictable at the end.
1,567 reviews12 followers
March 16, 2017
Loved It

Loved Duncan and Caroline, two stubborn people. Duncan saw Caroline as a spoiled rich girl, deep down she is a lot more than that. Caroline's parents were awful especially her mother everything Caroline did or what ever she wore didn't meet her mother' approval. Love marriage of convenience stories. Love the way Caroline and Duncan realized they loved each other the added touch of suspense was a plus. Wonderful story cannot wait for the next story in this series.
Profile Image for Carol.
733 reviews1 follower
March 7, 2017
This is a book about burdens, past pains, defensiveness, defiance, Faith, Renewal, and a new life of acceptance through JESUS CHRIST. Caroline is an heiress who acts like one and Duncan who isn't too bad off is running from his past and wants to start a new life - so he runs into Caroline and the two of them start something - but not out of love - Duncan is a man of Faith and He trusts GOD to lead his life to where HE wants him to be. Does it include Caroline, and if it does, what way? How are things going to work out with such a difference in the two lives that are so different as night and day? Only GOD knows. This book can be a tear jerker if you allow your heart to be touched by it. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com
Profile Image for Amy.
685 reviews42 followers
January 6, 2017
Having never read anything by this author, and seeing that it was Book 10 of a series, the way it's put together and presented, I expected a regular run of the mill story. While the plot is similar and there's plenty out there in these 'historical marriage of convenance types' I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the writing. Engaging, beautiful expressive descriptions transport the reader into eastern Tennessee and the heart of the Smoky Mountains. You would expect to heavily dislike Caroline Turner, heiress to a large business empire, who seemingly is self centered and looks down on everyone in their service. Duncan McKenna, Scottish immigrant has a secretive past, and is not all that he wants to show the people of Gatlinburg. He's on a quest, to leave behind the memories of his past that trouble his conscious. Taking the job of Stable Manager at the Turner Family estate, he just wants to live his life as a free man, following the direction his heart dictates. An unexpected turn of events forces the two together, with little option but to accept the new circumstances they find themselves in. I loved the way we got to witness a softening of Caroline, as we truly got to see the character that was lying within, hidden by the suppression of her upbringing emotionally. Duncan, is honorable and wants to respect his new found situation, while desperately attempting to protect himself from what he perceives Caroline's true nature to be - just more of the same frivolous high society girls he left behind in his former life in Boston.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story, this author certainly knows how to write a captivating story.

Thanks to Netgalley, Harlequin & Love Inspired for the complimentary copy. This is my honest review.
Profile Image for Donna.
180 reviews
March 19, 2017
This was the absolute worst of all the Smoky Mtn. books. I enjoyed all the others with the exception of one other besides this one.
I didn't see these two characters "becoming" a couple at all. It was as if the author snapped her fingers and voila, they love each other.
Two of the 'villains' in this story suddenly become heroes and all seems to be forgiven for them.
This was just an unbelievable book for me. I really wish I hadn't forced myself to finish, but based on her other books, I really thought this story would somehow redeem itself in the end. It did not.
I would recommend skipping this book, even if you've faithfully read all the other books in the Smoky Mtn. series.
Profile Image for Sherry.
94 reviews1 follower
May 27, 2017
Caroline Turner's family is a prominent one in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. But lately there has been some trouble brewing concerning her father's reputation. In order to protect him she's been paying hush money to a blackmailer with her inheritance money. If that isn't bad enough, her father goes and hires a new stable manager. Caroline's life is full of complications and it's about to get worse. Duncan McKenna has been kind of drifting around and decides to hire on as the Turner's stable manager. Sparks fly when they first meet but nothing will prepare them for what's ahead. When Caroline loses her temper she takes off on her horse full speed. Duncan followers her to make sure she and the horse are okay. But it isn't long before Caroline and the horse are injured. Duncan cares for both of them but now they've been together all night alone. When they return they are forced into a marriage neither of them wants. Caroline hates that Duncan is demanding she give up all her luxeries for a modest lifestyle. Duncan is upset that he got stuck with a society girl. However, as life settles in they begin to see the good in each other. But they each have things they're keeping from the other. Will those things destroy their tenuous relationship or will they find that the unwanted marriage was the best that every happened to them.

I always enjoy Karen Kirst's stories and Wed by Necessity is no exception. I love marriage of convenience stories so this was a 'must read'. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Gatlinburg and getting to know Caroline and Duncan. Both had issues they had to deal with and I think the author did a good job in presenting that in a realistic way. I loved how Duncan was really mindful of the Lord's direction. You can see how that made a difference in his life as well as Caroline's. Your heart breaks for Caroline as you learn about her upbringing and how that affected her. When I finished reading, the first thing that came to mind was the verse about God working all things together for good. Sometimes we sure don't see it that way but he always knows what's best. The story has a nice steady pace with a few tense moments along the way. And as you probably already guessed, you'll find a 'happily ever after'. So head on over to Gatlinburg and see what happens when Duncan and Caroline are Wed by Necessity.

*This complimentary copy was provided by Harlequin through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

Some favorite moments:

"Look around, Caroline. Everything has changed. This is your home and I'm your husband. As such, your money is now mine to use as I see fit. And we're not hiring someone else to do what's your place to do." Fear left an acrid taste in her mouth. If Duncan garnered control of her money, how would she meet the blackmailer's demands?

"What if I said it's because I want to spend time with my wife?" Her eyes grew round, the initial surge of wonder eclipsed by suspicion. Concern filled him. Why would she doubt him? The wounds of her upbringing must be more serious than he'd thought. Right then and there, he prayed for wisdom in how to proceed. If they were ever going to reach a state of mutual respect and, dare he hope, affection, they had to build a foundation of trust.

My father's favorite Burns quote is 'There is no such uncertainty as a sure thing.'

For more information about this book or other books by Karen Kirst, I encourage you to visit her website at http://www.karenkirst.com
Profile Image for Stephanie.
300 reviews
August 1, 2019
2.5 - 3 Stars... am feeling rather generous today and rounded up my official overall star rating.

"Wed by Necessity" had a strong start. I loved the concept of an old fashioned "shotgun wedding" and I am all for a hero with a hot Scottish brogue, however, there were times when the hero's words and actions came across as somewhat cruel towards the heroine.

Listen, I am sure the heroine wasn't initially his cup of tea, and came across as a bit uppity, but come on - it's supposed to be an inspirational romance novel.

And once again, I was not too keen on the fact that the WOMAN professed her love first... call me old fashioned, but it's all about the hero pursuing the heroine when it comes to relationships (that will have long term sustainability), be it in the 1880s, or the soon to be 2020s. I dunno... it is just a really big pet peeve of mine.

And phew! I will now begin book #11 of #12...
Profile Image for Carol.
733 reviews1 follower
March 7, 2017
This is a book about burdens, past pains, defensiveness, defiance, Faith, Renewal, and a new life of acceptance through JESUS CHRIST. Caroline is an heiress who acts like one and Duncan who isn't too bad off is running from his past and wants to start a new life - so he runs into Caroline and the two of them start something - but not out of love - Duncan is a man of Faith and He trusts GOD to lead his life to where HE wants him to be. Does it include Caroline, and if it does, what way? How are things going to work out with such a difference in the two lives that are so different as night and day? Only GOD knows. This book can be a tear jerker if you allow your heart to be touched by it. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com
Profile Image for Jennifer.
Author 23 books37 followers
September 18, 2025
(Potentially offensive items: mild violence against women, mature themes, dysfunctional families, technically inaccurate errors that could cause harm, lying)

This was a gripping novel about a couple who are forced into marrying when they don't even really know each other. Although I enjoyed it, I found it difficult to place in the correct time period--it had a more modern feel, especially in the beginning. It also seemed like the Scottish brogue slipped in and out. Like a lot of the more recent Harlequins, it has typos.
Profile Image for Mary.
379 reviews5 followers
May 24, 2024
What a wonderful romance

I haven't read anything by Karen Kirst before this book. I'm so glad to have found her! I definitely enjoyed this book, so much so that I read way past the time I normally go to bed. It's A great book! I plan to find out if she has more books available. I recommend her!
Profile Image for Kathy.
561 reviews5 followers
November 14, 2022
Quite Love

Caroline was not a snob as a lot of people thought, she was hurting. Duncan had just been hired to oversee her Father's ranch. Upon meeting they clashed and it was that way most of the time. Their marriage was a farce, that became a true union. Read you will enjoy.
Profile Image for Shelly Dabbs.
267 reviews1 follower
August 31, 2017
Love Karen's Smoky Mountain Matches stories. All of them are great stories.. Must read if you like love stories set in a great town in the Smoky Mountains.
Profile Image for Hannah.
46 reviews
January 30, 2018
This book reminded me of books by Tamera Alexander except it was a bit cleaner, shorter and fluffy due to being distributed by Loveinspired.
292 reviews4 followers
May 27, 2024
Sweet, Inspirational Romance

Really enjoyed Caroline and Duncan’s story. There are some good Christian values that they learn and interesting twists to keep the story flowing.
Profile Image for Daisey.
634 reviews
May 31, 2024
Clean. Typical only child wanting patents approval.
Profile Image for Beth.
90 reviews1 follower
June 29, 2025
marriage of convience best trope ever loved their connection good fun
Profile Image for Pam Graber.
1,135 reviews42 followers
March 16, 2017
If you haven't tried a Love Inspired Historical yet, start with this one! Karen Kirst tells the story of Caroline Turner (the definition of 'poor little rich girl') and Duncan McKenna who are forced into marriage when a thunderstorm traps them together overnight in a mountain cave. Duncan is the stable manager for Caroline's father and goes from the charmer who asks Caroline to dance at the town social to the angry tyrant who gives most of her clothing to charity because she has more than their cabin can hold. I confess, it was awfully hard to like Duncan for a while but as he gets to know his new wife and sees what her lifelong struggles have been like he becomes her champion and a man worthy of falling in love with. I thought both main characters were well-written, their strengths and flaws and insecurities on display for all to see. I would definitely recommend Wed by Necessity. (Or, pretty much any book by Karen Kirst. She's proven her writing skills to me in every book of hers I've picked up.)
620 reviews1 follower
March 20, 2017
i love reading this series, these two characters n their past experiences colouring misconceptions, love the ponds scene, art room scene... looking forward to café owners story
Profile Image for Jovita Reed.
36 reviews1 follower
February 6, 2017
I loved this book. Both the heroine and hero started out as a bit unlikeable, but they really grew on me throughout the story as they both began to work on their flaws and grow as people. The love story was sweet and believable, and there was also a mystery element, which only added to the entertainment of the story. I highly recommend this book and will be looking to add more from this series to my bookshelf.
Profile Image for Tima.
1,678 reviews128 followers
December 21, 2017
I wasn't sure what to make of this book. I loved the premise. I'm always ready for a good historical marriage of convenience story. But the characters didn't really jump out at me and the plot felt already done and weak. The main male character was so exasperating that I couldn't ever find myself liking him. It was a quick and somewhat entertaining story, but the religious parts weren't to my taste (even though Christian fiction is my favorite genre) and I wasn't fond of several of the characters. Overall, it's a story that I'm sure will appeal to some, but just didn't grab me.
Profile Image for Carol.
733 reviews1 follower
March 7, 2017
This is a book about burdens, past pains, defensiveness, defiance, Faith, Renewal, and a new life of acceptance through JESUS CHRIST. Caroline is an heiress who acts like one and Duncan who isn't too bad off is running from his past and wants to start a new life - so he runs into Caroline and the two of them start something - but not out of love - Duncan is a man of Faith and He trusts GOD to lead his life to where HE wants him to be. Does it include Caroline, and if it does, what way? How are things going to work out with such a difference in the two lives that are so different as night and day? Only GOD knows. This book can be a tear jerker if you allow your heart to be touched by it. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com
Displaying 1 - 29 of 42 reviews

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