Ask Me to Marry You

Brides of Evergreen #2.1

by Heather Blanton

Though she’s loath to admit it, Audra Drysdale needs a man to save her ranch.

Her father has passed away and her hands are abandoning her like rats from a sinking ship. Worse, neighboring cattle baron Jess Fairbanks is making a play for the Diamond D and Audra, whichever he can get his hands on first.

Audra grudgingly accepts that the mere presence of a husband will keep her men working, and Fairbanks under control. It seems a perfectly reasonable idea, then, to ask her uncle, who is the town attorney and a matchmaker of sorts, to find her a groom—a “proxy” who will take her orders and dish them out to the men.

Dillon Pine is in jail for a conspiracy charge, but because of certain mitigating factors he’s deemed a good risk for an unusual form of probation: serving as Audra’s husband. After a year, he can abandon her and she won’t tell. By then, she will have proven to the cowboys she’s a competent rancher, and the cattle man next door will be looking elsewhere for a wife. But when word gets out that Dillon came to Audra via Evergreen’s matchmaker, he’s dubbed a “male order bride.” The resulting jokes at his expense are constant and brutal. Just how much abuse can Dillon’s pride stand?

When Audra discovers her father’s death was no accident, she realizes her new husband is in danger, too. And she cares . . . quite a lot, it turns out.

To save Dillon, she may have to let go of the one thing she’s fought her whole life to keep.

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Romance, Novella, Fiction, Marriage Of Convenience

79 pages, ebook

First published August 1, 2019

About the author

“Heather Blanton is blessed with a natural storytelling ability, an ‘old soul’ wisdom, and wide expansive heart. Her characters are vividly drawn, and in the western settings where life can be hard, over quickly, and seemingly without meaning, she reveals Larger Hands holding everyone and everything together.”
MARK RICHARD, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER, AMC’S HELL ON WHEELS, and PEN/ERNEST HEMINGWAY AWARD WINNER

I write Christian Historical Western Romance. Yes, that often entails the use of firearms in a threatening manner. Sometimes there are fistfights. There may even be politically incorrect but historically accurate language. But also, there is always an inspirational message and strong allusions (at least) to the gospel.

A former journalist, I am an avid researcher and endeavor to skillfully weave truth in among fictional story lines. I love exploring the American West, especially ghost towns and museums. I have walked parts of the Oregon Trail, ridden horses through the Rockies, climbed to the top of Independence Rock, and even held an outlaw's note in my hand.

I grew up in the mountains of Western North Carolina on a steady diet of Bonanza, Gunsmoke, and John Wayne Westerns. My most fond childhood memory is of sitting next to my daddy, munching on popcorn, and watching Lucas McCain unload that Winchester! My daddy also taught me to shoot and, trust me, I can sew buttons on with my rifle.

I can be reached several different ways:

http://ladiesindefiance.com/
https://www.facebook.com/authorheathe...
https://twitter.com/heatherfblanton
https://www.pinterest.com/heatherfbla...

I am a proud member of Western Writers of America.

My novels are all Christian Western Romance because this is the genre that lets me write about strong, pioneer women and men who struggle to find God and then live out their faith in real ways. Like good old fashioned Westerns, there is always justice, a moral message, American values, lots of high adventure, unexpected plot twists, and more than a touch of suspense. Of course, romance is always a strong element in my stories because it is such a beautiful gift from God and a perfect reflection of how he loves us: sacrificially and lavishly. My stories aren’t preachy or cheesy, but I hope they are inspirational, heart-warming, realistic, illuminating, and glorifying to God.

Reviews

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ask Me to Marry You by Heather Blanton was such a fun western romance. I really loved the characters and found therm interesting and likable. Dillon has a colorful past that he is trying to run away from and Audra needs a man to help her with her present situation. Audra has just lost her father and is in desperate need of some help. Her attorney thinks he has the perfect solution. Sounds like the perfect plan would be to work together, at least that was the plan.

These two are totally different from each other in personality and mannerism, which gives the story a nice spark of tension. Dillon Pine is a likable man and I found myself pulling for them to find their way past the in name only situation. I wanted Audra to see him as a good man like I did. Audra has just lost her father and is in desperate need of some help. Her attorney thinks he has the perfect solution.

The villain in this book, Jess Fairbanks is a vile neighbor and he is relentless in his pursuit of Audra. It was upsetting to see what lengths he would go to just to get what he wanted.

This book was so well written and entertaining, I only wish it were longer. I love to get lost in a book with these types of characters. I was provided an advanced copy by the author in exchange for my honest review.

[Diane Estrella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the twist in that this mail-order bride book is that it's a MALE-order bride. Clever and cute. A sweet, clean and wholesome story that keeps the reader turning pages quickly to the end.

[Julia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ask Me To Marry You by Heather Blanton is a Christian historical romantic novella. It is the second book in the Brides Of Evergreen series but can be read as a stand-alone.
God is at the centre of the story. His promises are to be trusted. "God You promised me." If God has said it will happen, then it will. Audra trusts God but cannot wait on His timing and the feisty female takes things into her own hands.
God's presence in one's life means that in the midst of life's storms, peace can be found. "He found her peace...calming." When we have a strong faith in God on the inside, this can be seen externally too.
The novella challenges the traditional male/female roles. Audra is very much a modern, strong woman. Leading man Dillon is no wimp but finds he has to prove this.
There is the theme of 'where your heart is, there is your treasure.' What is more important... people or property? Audra's treasure is misplaced at first. Can anything be done to change her heart's desire?
This theme is linked to the theme of earthly and heavenly treasures. Property, money, fame mean nothing in God's kingdom. It is people who matter to Him.
This is a very charming novella and just perfect for an afternoon's read.

I received this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun and enjoyable novella! It was a nice twist on the mail order bride type of story, with the groom being brought in to marry Audra and smooth things out on her ranch.

With danger lingering and a groom who was nursing a bruised ego about the way he was being treated in town, this marriage had a rocky beginning. The attraction between these two was well written and the storyline was one that I was able to sit back and enjoy reading. It was lots of fun!

I had not read the story that came before this one, yet this novella stood alone nicely.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Anne Rightler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ask Me to Marry You by Heather Blanton, is Western romance at its best! Audra is desperate to save her ranch and Dillon needs a way out of some trouble he’s landed in. Definitely not a match made in Heaven. And what a tangled mess it all becomes! Will they survive the agreement? It’s only for a year, right? With a little humor, several villains, and some shoot-‘em-up action, Blanton brings the old West to her readers. The story moves quickly and the characters are strong and likable. And, oh, you don’t want to forget a fan or make sure there’s a fainting couch nearby with the kisses that Audra and Dillon share for show! A novella not to be missed by Western romance fans!
I was given a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

"She'd been warned. A woman alone couldn't run a ranch." But, "her pa hadn't raised a quitter."

Audra Drysdale is desperate to save the Diamond D Ranch following the death of her father. Interestingly enough, it appears that her uncle thinks that Dillon Pine can solve this dilemma . . . . in spite of the fact that Dillon is sitting in jail on conspiracy charges.

Will this hot blooded man consent to a marriage of convenience in exchange for a year of probation? Will Audra be able to maintain a sliver of decency, when half the town of Evergreen is laughing behind her back over her "male-order-groom"? And can either of them forget that most unforgettable wedding day kiss?

Predictably, as danger rears its ugly head, first at Audra and then again at Dillon; will their farce of a marriage save them or backfire and destroy them? Heather Blanton has written a delightful conundrum of a tale, which her readers are guaranteed to enjoy.

I was given a copy of this novella by the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this was a cute and quick read. I did like the male-order-husband aspect of it as well. As a reader, I'm always looking for something different that will keep me on my toes or give me that surprise factor and this delivered on that. I don't know how often this may have happened in real life, but it was fun to read about.

I really like it when there is a strong female lead. I feel they give the storylines more depth and have a better chance to grow as a character. Weak female leads tend to bore me. I was completely happy with Audra in this story. I give her a lot of credit for trying to save her ranch, as well as her determination to stand up to Jess. I really think that Dillon was a perfect match for her, because she needed someone who was not going to always say yes or do what she wanted.

Overall I really liked this novella. Although it was short, I was able to connect with the characters and enjoyed how the story unfolded. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review which I have given.

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a cute and short novella with a marriage of convenience theme. The story jumps right into the action without much character development, but we get to know Audra and Dillon as they get to know each other. The plot moved swiftly so the pacing never slowed, however it kept the focus on the events happening and didn't allow me to connect with the emotions of the characters. Audra is conflicted with her desire to run the ranch independently but also feels that having a husband as her mouthpiece would compel the ranch hands into obedience. Dillon feels emasculated by his new role and struggles with his pride in delivering orders from a female. They are attracted to each other and quickly bond over their shared goal once they learn to compromise. I felt like there was more telling rather than showing, especially when it came to their feelings and falling in love. Overall it was a diverting story with a quick and convenient conclusion.

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

[Donita Corman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a charming Novella by Heather. After Audras father dies from mysterious circumstances she is faced with running the ranch . She faces many obstacles in the process . She goes to her uncle for help and this is where Dillon enters. What starts out as a marriage of convenience takes a turn and life becomes interesting for these two. I really enjoyed this story. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ..

[Stella Potts · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two short stories. Sweet romance but leaves you hanging so you need to be prepared to get the other books if you want to know how things end.

[Heather Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started this novella this afternoon and even though I had other work that I had been working on, I couldn't stop reading until I finished it!
I had read Brides of Evergreen #1, but I raced through "Ask Me to Marry You" much more quickly than I had read the first book.
What would happen to Dillon? Would Audra be able to keep the Diamond D? And what about Jess? I couldn't wait to find the answers to these questions.
The characters were believable and the plot kept me intrigued.
Heather's books invariably keep me reading from cover to cover.
I also appreciate the fact that she is true to her beliefs in her books.

I was given a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.




Heather Blanton

[Connie White · Rating 5 out of 5]

This new novella by Heather Blanton continues in the same wonderful little town of Evergreen, Wyoming where her fantastic story, Hang Your Heart On Christmas, took place last year. We even get to see Dent Hernandez, the gorgeous sheriff of the town, again in this book. However, this story revolves around the character of Audra Drysdale, a rancher's daughter who so badly needs a temporary husband in order to keep her ranch that she goes looking for a male mail order bride. It's a great idea and concept where many problems pop up for the cute couple they never expected, and neither does the reader. The man Audra"s lawyer uncle finds her is not exactly who or what she thinks he is.

Dillon Pine goes along with it only to a certain degree because he got caught up with the wrong people who are lying about the "crime" he is supposedly committed. He's not guilty of what they charge him with, but his involvement did skirt the law in a way. I loved the characters in this book, especially the interaction between Audra and Dillon. He tries his best to follow her plan where she gives the orders in private to him, then he gives her orders to her two remaining ranch hands. But, they are supposed to be a happily married couple and the respect he deserves crumbles as Audra forgets to tell him her orders in private. That, plus the fact that word gets out in town that she asked him to marry her is just too much for any man to bear, or is it?

She has no idea about Dillon's past and his accomplishments and thinks he is a drifter that breaks the law. She does not even think he can ride a horse! He let's her believe what she wants until he really starts to care about what she thinks of him. She thinks the most important thing in the world to her is to keep the ranch her father built that the Lord promised her she would be able to keep when she was a child, but her perspective changes when Dillon discovers that her father may have been murdered instead of a victim of an accident, and this puts both of them at risk from a deceitful rancher who wants the land and Audra too.

The ending is very exciting and their falling in love tops off a great short story that I read quickly. I hope they appear in other Evergreen books. I highly recommend this little gem and look forward to reading more of this series.

I was given this story for my honest review.

[Lanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick-moving western romance with a little twist. I enjoyed this one as much as the first in the series, Hang Your Heart on Christmas. Ask Me to Marry You kept my interest and left me wanting more.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Ask Me to Marry You” is a novella with an unusual twist on the age-old mail order bride story. In it, Audra Drysdale has come to realize that in order to save the family ranch after her father’s death, she needs a man to run it. Although she knows how to do it herself, her hands do not trust a woman to be in charge. Not only that but another rancher wants the ranch – and Audra. So…she has her uncle find her a temporary husband. Little does she expect she will want to make it permanent.

I am a new reader of Heather Blanton’s novels but what I have read to date has made me a fan. My only complaint about “Ask Me to Marry You” is that it ended much too quickly. I would have been quite happy with a full length novel. I loved her unique take on what she called a “male order bride”. The entire story was well-written and moved along at a fast clip. Her characters were well-rounded and realistic. There was just the right amount of action, danger, humor, and romance for a story of this length and the author made the characters’ faith seem natural and not out-of-place. I like the fact that Blanton is not afraid to present real life with all its grit yet manages to do so without offense. Did I say it ended too soon?

I have more of the author’s books on my Kindle. I really want to find time in my review schedule to work them into my reading. I am so happy that I ran across this author and would recommend her to anyone who enjoys a good Western romance.

A digital copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for my honest review.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ask Me To Marry You ( Brides Of Evergreen - Book 2 )
By: Heather Blanton

Ask Me To Marry You is book two in Brides of Evergreen series. I did not read book one in this series , but I did not have any problems with the story or the characters, both were easy to follow. I have read mail order brides stories before ,but male order husband! I really enjoyed Ask Me To Matty You . Audra’s father passed away and she knows how to run a ranch , but the men do not accept her as their boss. She is having a problem with one man that is not on the ranch and he wants her and her ranch. She is not giving in to him. She needs a husband and then the men will respect her as their boss. Dillon needs out of jail . He has an offer to many Audra for one year and he will be free of jail. How hard could that be, she is not bad looking. Will this arrangement work? How will the men treat Audra and Dillon ? This was a very delightful and fun read.
I was given a copy off this book by the author for men honest review.

[Melissa Ahlersmeyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic read by a fantastic author! This may be a novella but it is certainly not short on details or heart. It's a quick read with well developed characters and a spunky, fun plot! It makes a great addition to the Brides of Evergreen series. The Male order Bride, is an especially fun twist on the typical cowboy takes a wife storyline. If you're someone who enjoys a good mail order bride story then you will absolutely love this! In all of her books Heather has such a way of taking something that would be a typical plot line for this genre and turning it on its head; infusing it with history as well as some Wild West grit, bringing characters to life and she even ropes in some faith lessons. This book is no exception! It may be a page turner and you may finish quickly but you will end up feeling like you know the characters and like you can't wait for the next installment! Don't delay, read this male order bride story today!

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Lisa]

I loved this story. I enjoy mail-order brides books -- I love the theme of people being put together by circumstance and then learning to love each other. This was a neat twist on the theme, and I enjoyed getting to know the characters. I have read all Heather's books, and always enjoy seeing her flesh-out her characters. Even though this is a shorter story (comes-in at around 80 pages) she manages to develop the characters and makes them keep to their nature, while they sometimes struggle with that nature.

I highly recommend this story, but I recommend anything she's written to-date. You cannot go wrong if you enjoy stories that are well-written, have interesting characters who are not all saints (some of her characters are really, really sinister) and who struggle to choose the right thing when presented with opportunity to choose mayhem and ruin.

I was given a copy of this book for an honest review, which is what I've written: my honest opinion about this book.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ask Me to Marry You is my first read by Heather Blanton and it certainly has whetted my appetite for more. This was a cute twist on the mail order bride and the marriage of convenience story lines. Two complete strangers, Audra and Dillon, decide to marry for a year to each gain what they think is most important: Audra respect and Dillon his freedom and money. Unfortunately neither has really thought through this crazy scheme and they are quite unprepared for the lashing out of a very evil man who will stop at nothing to control Audra’s ranch and Audra herself. My only complaint: I wish this was a full length novel. I would so much like to read more about this very unconventional couple and their romance.
I received a free copy of this book from the author. The views and opinions expressed are my own.

[Dotty]

Heather Blanton is one of my favorite authors. Her characters are always real.
Audra needs a husband so she can run her ranch. Dillon is in jail. He is offered the chance to marry her in name only so he can get out of jail.
Danger lurks around the corner.
Want to know what happens then get the book find your comfy spot and read to find out.
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

[Regina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have not read a lot of books by this author. I have to say this book was well written and moved along at a fast pace. This was a good book, however, there were a few scenes I wasn't in favor of. There was some violence in this book. I also didn't like the language that was spoken in this book. I know some Christian's overlook the language because it's part of their life and words now. I'm not one of those Christians. I like a clean Christian read.

I received a copy of this book from the author for my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Deanna Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Christian Historical Western Romance and one I certainly enjoyed! It was just a great take on the mail order bride business, except... the bride ordered is a man! Oh my the razzing this poor fellow gets when he agrees to the arrangement. What a fun yet serious story that kept my attention wondering just what they would get caught up into next. This is one for my list for 'my favorite authors' and I can't wait to read more of her books! I was gifted a copy by the author for my honest opinion..

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for a quick read that has you turning pages then this is it. A sweet romance with a twist, as the mail order is a groom instead of a bride. It has other twists including an evil neighbor. I enjoyed this thoroughly and it kept me smiling, even if I wanted to kick the groom in the pants a few times.
I received a copy from the author for an honest review and I have done that.

[Tiffany Broome · Rating 5 out of 5]

Page-turner!

"Ask Me to Marry You" was a great story. It had a little bit of everything, to satisfy most any reader--love, curiosity, intrigue, resentment, passion, and more! Definitely recommend, especially if you are looking for a great story to read in a short period of time (a few hours to a week depending on your speed and "spare" time).

[Tammi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author cannot write fast enough for me! I enjoyed the trip back to Evergreen, WY, the cameo appearance of Dent, from "Hang Your Hat on Christmas", and the wonderful new characters of Audra, Winston, and Dillon. I love the setting and the time period. If you enjoy Westerns, you will love this book and all the others written by Blanton.

[Debi Srader · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love Heather Blanton, but...

This very short offering was not nearly as good or gripping as Dent and Amy's story or the Defiance trilogy. I like her gritty Westerns- just hope she puts a little more meat in the next one.

[Patti Brennan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book

My first book by this author and I really enjoyed it. A male mail order bride a different concept but The author made it work look forward to reading more books by Heather Blanton

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

More to come!

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really Enjoyed!

I always enjoy Heather's books!! I just wish it had been longer! I look forward to more books in the future! Thanks, Heather!

[Reggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first intro to the series and I thoroughly enjoyed it! In the first story, Audra inherits the family ranch when her father is thrown from his horse and dies. She is exasperated by the lack of respect from her ranch hands just because of her gender. In addition, the owner of the neighboring ranch is after her and her ranch...but she’ll die first before she admits defeat. She goes to her uncle, and attorney, who arranges for mail order brides. Audra requests a MALE order groom!! What better way to fend off the unwanted advances of her old neighbor as well as have control over her ranch hands? Dillion Pine is in jail, charged with conspiracy to murder and is looking at 3-5 years in prison. When his father’s friend, and matchmaking attorney, offers him a way out of his impending prison sentence, Dillon jumps at the chance. That is, until he gets the details...he’ll have to marry Audra for a year so she can keep her ranch. After some deliberation, Dillon agrees and he marries Audra. Now he just has to survive living with the bossy woman for a year. But when word gets out that he’s a male order groom, and the taunting begins, will Dillon stick around or run? Will Audra give up her dreams to keep Dillon safe? This is a quick story with more action than a re-run of the old western ‘Gunsmoke’! Narration was on point! The narrator did a great job with the various characters...even the males!
In the second story, school teacher, Amy, is settling down into her new job and new town...and new love with the town sheriff. She is hoping that he will soon propose...but that’s in jeopardy when a family friend arrives with the rest of her belongings and a hefty donation of books to the town library. Sheriff Dent Hernandez is an ex US Marshall...and hangman...something that he’s not particularly proud of...but he loves Amy and is ready to propose. However, Dent needs guidance and goes to the church to pray...there he meets the pastor, who explains the meaning of true love. Will Amy choose the right guy? Another quick story of choices, true love and waiting on God’s timing. Once again, narration was spot on!
I voluntarily accepted a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Bette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic Audible Listen🎧 I Love This Book & Series!

Ask Me to Marry You
The Brides of Evergreen, Book 2
By: Heather Blanton
Narrated by: Meghan Kelly

I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in “The Brides of Evergreen”, Dent and Amy’s story in “Hang Your Heart on Christmas” and this book is just as great and heartfelt. This novella contains two stories, it starts off with Audra and Dillon’s story and includes a nice switch from mail order bride to groom. After her Dad dies Audra inherits the ranch and is fully capable to do so, but in those days woman were not looked upon to do so, ranch hands not wanting to be bossed around by a woman leave, some were pressured to leave for other reasons as well. So her Uncle comes up with an idea to find her a husband. Dillon is was sitting in the jail cell being railroaded for a crime he did not commit is offered a plea deal to get him out of jail. That deal included being Audra husband for a year. I loved how this worked out and what it leads up to. This a short story but there is plenty of drama, twists, angst, and a nice build up to friendship and romance. The second story is a continuation of Amy and Dent’s story, they are furthering their relationship. Amy is settled nicely into the town and is a well respected teacher. Jeremy, a friend from her former home in Ohio comes bearing gifts for her and plans of his own. More twists and drama here but I love how it ended. It was nice seeing the other town folk including Audra and Dillon in this story too. I am forward to see what type of trouble Jeremy will be stirring up since he decided to stay in town. Heather Blanton, thanks for another great story!

I listened to the Audible edition, Meghan Kelly is an awesome narrator and voice performer. She brings the character to life, gives each their own voice and personality. She does a wonderful job projecting the emotions of the characters and the drama of the story in her performance. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thanks for another awesome listen🎧