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Christmas in a Cowboy's Arms
In the wild and untamed West, it takes cowboy's embrace to see you through a long winter's night. Stay toasty this holiday season with heart-warming tales from bestselling authors Leigh Greenwood, Rosanne Bittner, Linda Broday, Margaret Brownley, Anna Schmidt, and Amy Sandas.
The Beating Heart of Christmas
Whether it's a lonely spinster finding passion at last…an infamous outlaw-turned-lawman reaffirming the love that keeps him whole…a lost and broken drifter discovering family in unlikely places…a Texas Ranger risking it all for one remarkable woman…two lovers bringing together a family ripped apart by prejudice…or reunited lovers given a second chance to correct past mistakes…a Christmas spent in a cowboy's arms is full of hope, laughter, and―most of all―love.
The Beating Heart of Christmas
Whether it's a lonely spinster finding passion at last…an infamous outlaw-turned-lawman reaffirming the love that keeps him whole…a lost and broken drifter discovering family in unlikely places…a Texas Ranger risking it all for one remarkable woman…two lovers bringing together a family ripped apart by prejudice…or reunited lovers given a second chance to correct past mistakes…a Christmas spent in a cowboy's arms is full of hope, laughter, and―most of all―love.
492 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published October 3, 2017
138 people are currently reading
760 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
August 31, 2017
This is a collection of quick easy cowboy Christmas reads.
Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood - 2.5 to 3*
Joe Ryan was framed for a crime he didn't commit and to prove his innocence he's escaped from jail and the book opens with him heading to his ex-partners ranch.
Joe needs to find the gold his ex-partner Pete stole but the ranch is nothing like Joe is expecting.
Mary, Pete's widow is nothing like the harridan he expected he also didn't expect to find her very heavily pregnant.
This is a sweet insta-love romance which goes as expected.
A ChickaDee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner - 3 to 3.5*
This is the first time I've come across the Harkner family but reading this has made me want to continue on and read the Outlaw series.
Jake Harkner is the famous outlaw/lawman, he's known his share of pain and violence along with his family, they've all suffered.
We meet the Harkner family the day after thanksgiving and we're with them for Christmas.
Jake has seen an awful lot in his sixty plus years but when he looks at Tommy Tyler he sees a little of himself and while Jake is filled with regrets if he can help Tommy he'd feel better about himself.
I really enjoyed this little read and I'm looking forward to reading Jake's story from the beginning.
The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday - 2.5 to 3*
Hank Destry is drifting, after spending eight years in prison he's out but with no family and no home he's aimless. The weather is dreadful and he collapses into the snow lucky that Sidalee King is passing and gets him onto the warmth of her home.
This is a book of first loves and second chances, a nice sweet Christmas read.
A Texas Ranger for Christmas by Margaret Brownley - 2.5 to 3*
Sadie Carnes is struggling to manage a farm and a six month old baby alone, after promising he'd give up the Rangers her husband Richard got bored with the ranch and joined up again leaving her to cope, alone.
Captain Cole Bradshaw, Texas Ranger has the unpleasant job of informing Mrs Carnes her husband has been killed but he's shocked at the run down ranch and exhausted Mrs Carnes.
Sadie is distrustful of the Texas Rangers and despite her growing attraction to Cole she can't get her hopes up again.
Cole has been a Ranger for eleven years and it's all he's known but spending time with Sadie makes him want a different life.
A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt - 3*
Louisa and Rico have loved each other for years and all they want is to be together but Louisa's father doesn't approve of Rico because he's Mexican. Seeing no other option they elope and marry Louisa falls pregnant surely now her father will come round?
A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas - 2.5 to 3*
Warren is back out west this time as a doctor, he never thought he'd return after having his heart broken but what are the chances of running into Honey again after all these years.
But he does meet Honey and she's not happy to see him at all.
Can these two reconnect after all this time or is there just too much history and hurt between them?
December 17, 2023
Christmas in a Cowboy's Arms is a anthology that features six different stories from different authors who have written some westerns in their writing career. I have seen this duo of anthology's around for a while and I have to admit that I was highly curious on what it would contain. I have read from the majority of these authors and I was highly curious to see the type of stories that they would write.
Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood
In this delightful tale, we have a hero is on the run from the law. He was falsely accused of a crime he didn't commit, and he needs to find the gold his partner stole on his farm to redeem himself and clear his name. He ends up falling hard for the widow of his partner.
This tale was really endearing. I really enjoyed how Joe forms a bond to Mary and her little stepdaughter Sarah and their newborn baby. And it had some delightful Christmas ties to the story that got wrapped up in a bow.
A Chickadee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner
This story is where we are taken back to the Harkner family with Jake and Randy and this novella takes place between books 4 and 5. This was a truly delightful novella. And My favorite of the six stories because this couple is by far my favorite so I will never complain being brought back into the fold. This is where they celebrate the holiday season, they bring in an unlikely young man into their fold and some Christmas miracles happen for the family.
The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday
So this book takes place before book three in her Men of Legend series. Lonely Sidalee rescues a drifter who gets caught in a winter snowstorm and was in jail. But he needs to have a place where ppl will stand by him and he definitely finds that stability with Sidalee and Stoker Legend. I truly had a fun time with this one. I had forgotten how much I loved this group and was fun to get to revisit it.
A Texas Ranger for Christmas by Margaret Brownley
This novella is part of the "Match Made in Texas" series. This is where we have a heroine who is told she is a new widow. Sadie is a bit bitter against any rangers. Her father and late husband were both rangers and would put their service in place of their family. As she starts to fall hard for Cole, who she helped take care of when he takes ill, she starts to fall hard for Cole. Who is so much more than her late husband ever was. She doesn't believe his promises, and Cole will have to work hard to win over his lady and prove his devotion to her and their life ahead.
I really enjoyed this one and the author really had me so invested in this couple. I just loved them so deeply. They were so captivating. The heroine could wear on your emotions a bit though but its understandable after she is has been hurt so deeply in her life. Loved the hero and what he was willing to do to show her he was serious about them and standing by her. A bit crazy and wild but his love was so unyielding and strong.
A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt
This is the only author of the group that I haven't read before and I fell so hard for this one. There is something about a forbidden romance that I will always go to the bat for and that is how I felt about this one here. I really had a blast with this one. This is where we have an interracial romance. The hero is latino and the heroine is caucasian and her parents forbid the match. They wed in secret and now she has been disowned by her family. When she gets pregnant, all she wishes for is that their families can be together. This story really showcases a heartfelt miracle of two people that just fell in love and didn't think it mattered what race each other were. I loved the take on this book, an honest one, of a type of racism we rarely see addressed in books and I appreciated it so deeply. Definitely will be trying this author more soon.
A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas
This features a second chance romance with a mix of enemies to lovers in this. As much as I love Amy Sandas, this was my least favorite book from her. I am not sure if I just wasn't expecting an angsty book or what, but the heroine especially just grated on my nerves. Not sure exactly what it was, but wasn't a fan of how she treats the hero at times.
Overall I had a fun time with this anthology, it did feel longer than 500 pages, but I still enjoyed these stories. And they all had some fun Christmas aspects and a poignant emotional vibe that I was drawn to. Definitely eager to read "Longing for Christmas" shortly. Maybe I will do that one closer to Christmas.
Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood
In this delightful tale, we have a hero is on the run from the law. He was falsely accused of a crime he didn't commit, and he needs to find the gold his partner stole on his farm to redeem himself and clear his name. He ends up falling hard for the widow of his partner.
This tale was really endearing. I really enjoyed how Joe forms a bond to Mary and her little stepdaughter Sarah and their newborn baby. And it had some delightful Christmas ties to the story that got wrapped up in a bow.
A Chickadee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner
This story is where we are taken back to the Harkner family with Jake and Randy and this novella takes place between books 4 and 5. This was a truly delightful novella. And My favorite of the six stories because this couple is by far my favorite so I will never complain being brought back into the fold. This is where they celebrate the holiday season, they bring in an unlikely young man into their fold and some Christmas miracles happen for the family.
The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday
So this book takes place before book three in her Men of Legend series. Lonely Sidalee rescues a drifter who gets caught in a winter snowstorm and was in jail. But he needs to have a place where ppl will stand by him and he definitely finds that stability with Sidalee and Stoker Legend. I truly had a fun time with this one. I had forgotten how much I loved this group and was fun to get to revisit it.
A Texas Ranger for Christmas by Margaret Brownley
This novella is part of the "Match Made in Texas" series. This is where we have a heroine who is told she is a new widow. Sadie is a bit bitter against any rangers. Her father and late husband were both rangers and would put their service in place of their family. As she starts to fall hard for Cole, who she helped take care of when he takes ill, she starts to fall hard for Cole. Who is so much more than her late husband ever was. She doesn't believe his promises, and Cole will have to work hard to win over his lady and prove his devotion to her and their life ahead.
I really enjoyed this one and the author really had me so invested in this couple. I just loved them so deeply. They were so captivating. The heroine could wear on your emotions a bit though but its understandable after she is has been hurt so deeply in her life. Loved the hero and what he was willing to do to show her he was serious about them and standing by her. A bit crazy and wild but his love was so unyielding and strong.
A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt
This is the only author of the group that I haven't read before and I fell so hard for this one. There is something about a forbidden romance that I will always go to the bat for and that is how I felt about this one here. I really had a blast with this one. This is where we have an interracial romance. The hero is latino and the heroine is caucasian and her parents forbid the match. They wed in secret and now she has been disowned by her family. When she gets pregnant, all she wishes for is that their families can be together. This story really showcases a heartfelt miracle of two people that just fell in love and didn't think it mattered what race each other were. I loved the take on this book, an honest one, of a type of racism we rarely see addressed in books and I appreciated it so deeply. Definitely will be trying this author more soon.
A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas
This features a second chance romance with a mix of enemies to lovers in this. As much as I love Amy Sandas, this was my least favorite book from her. I am not sure if I just wasn't expecting an angsty book or what, but the heroine especially just grated on my nerves. Not sure exactly what it was, but wasn't a fan of how she treats the hero at times.
Overall I had a fun time with this anthology, it did feel longer than 500 pages, but I still enjoyed these stories. And they all had some fun Christmas aspects and a poignant emotional vibe that I was drawn to. Definitely eager to read "Longing for Christmas" shortly. Maybe I will do that one closer to Christmas.
June 20, 2019
AN AMAZING CHRISTMAS BOOK: TRULY INSPIRING!
The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday wraps around your heart and weaves a lasting stitch into your soul.
Welcome back to the famous sprawling Lone Star Ranch where miracles seem to always happen.
Sidalee's returning from helping Miss Mamie, an elderly lady, who lives in a line shack on the Lone Star Ranch, when she stumbles across an anxious dog demanding her to follow. As she treads through the knee-high snow, she discovers a lone drifter buried in the blizzard, barely alive.
Hank Destry is a lost soul trying to find his way through a persistent blinding blizzard with nothing but Beau and Boots by his side. As his toes and fingers start to loose all feeling, he slips from Boot's back into a ominous blackness.
Linda truly embraces faith, honoring second chances, family values-blood related or not, and the miracle of Christmas.
An inspiring story with a little mystery added, that will leave you smiling and believing that we all belong somewhere and fate plays a huge role in our destiny.
A Chick-A-Dee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner is a sweet story about laughter, family, and Christmas givings. Jake and all The Harkner's deliver a very special Christmas joy.
Jake and his little granddaughters, Sadie Mae and Trisha will melt your heart and show you the true meaning of Christmas.
But no Jake Harkner story would be complete without a little gunslinger drama, as Jake teaches a young cowboy that he's not to old to teach him a few lessons. Those who think they can outdraw him learn soon enough that Jake and his 44's can't be beat and Jake may very well have given this young man the best Christmas present ever, as only Jake himself could give.
As tragedy strikes the Harkner's and they continuously pray for death not to come knocking on the door, Jake finally starts to believe that he is deserving of this special family who was graced to him from, God.
The special bond between Jake and his two precious granddaughters is heartwarming and enduring. Sadie Mae & Trisha's "new" A Chick-A-Dee surprise to the newest member on the J & L Ranch, will have your heart melting.
An ending was so sweet and funny, that you'll be forever swept away with The Harkner's love.
Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood was truly a sweet uplifting story with an unexpected arrival.
Joe drifts into a farm to find the gold Pete, his former partner has stolen from him before setting him up to take the fall and face prison time.
Mary, Pete's wife meets him at the door with a gun, as her little daughter, Sarah stares in fright.
What transpires next is unexpected and little Sarah truly steals Joe's heart. Absolutely an incredible story of compassion, love, and believing in miracles, or better yet Pier Noel. Giving is far better than receiving... Love us truly what Christmas is about.
A Texas Ranger For Christmas by Margaret Brownley is spectacular. She definitely caught my attention with her wonderful Christmas story.
Cole Bradshaw, a Texas Ranger is on a mission he dreads more than anything, to deliver news that one of his own men has left his wife a widow.
Sadie has her hands full raising her baby, Adam, keeping her farm from falling down around her ankles, as well as keeping foxes and other predictors from coming around.
Sadie and Cole had the perfect chemistry, as these two lost souls found comfort, courage, and love from one another.
Oh Yes, she was in trouble. Big trouble. And Sadie didn't have the slightest idea what to do.
So grab a hot cup of cocoa and get ready to see what Christmas givings transpire.
A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt is truly a moving story of Prejudice, family estrangement, and a beautiful Christmas miracle.
Rico and Louisa have been friends from childhood which developed into true love.
As they become man and wife, her family disowns her. Louisa and Rico try to close the gap that's tearing Louisa apart, as she's now expecting their first child.
This story delves into a topic still regarded, even today, how many tragically feel. Which is very sad. The is no room for prejudice in this world, we all are human, no matter the tone of our skin.
But Ms. Schmidt' beautiful Christmas story certainly is very inspiring and will warm your heart and leave you believing in Christmas miracles and family unity, no matter what obstacles are in our paths.
A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas delivered a heartfelt message of love once lost and the surprise joy of a happy reunion.
Dr. Warren Reed was held at gun point and taken into the Shoshone Mountains to treat an injured Outlaw. What he found once he was delivered to the high mountain cabin was not what he expected.
This was a beautiful story of reunion, lost love, and new beginnings.
The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday wraps around your heart and weaves a lasting stitch into your soul.
Welcome back to the famous sprawling Lone Star Ranch where miracles seem to always happen.
Sidalee's returning from helping Miss Mamie, an elderly lady, who lives in a line shack on the Lone Star Ranch, when she stumbles across an anxious dog demanding her to follow. As she treads through the knee-high snow, she discovers a lone drifter buried in the blizzard, barely alive.
Hank Destry is a lost soul trying to find his way through a persistent blinding blizzard with nothing but Beau and Boots by his side. As his toes and fingers start to loose all feeling, he slips from Boot's back into a ominous blackness.
Linda truly embraces faith, honoring second chances, family values-blood related or not, and the miracle of Christmas.
An inspiring story with a little mystery added, that will leave you smiling and believing that we all belong somewhere and fate plays a huge role in our destiny.
A Chick-A-Dee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner is a sweet story about laughter, family, and Christmas givings. Jake and all The Harkner's deliver a very special Christmas joy.
Jake and his little granddaughters, Sadie Mae and Trisha will melt your heart and show you the true meaning of Christmas.
But no Jake Harkner story would be complete without a little gunslinger drama, as Jake teaches a young cowboy that he's not to old to teach him a few lessons. Those who think they can outdraw him learn soon enough that Jake and his 44's can't be beat and Jake may very well have given this young man the best Christmas present ever, as only Jake himself could give.
As tragedy strikes the Harkner's and they continuously pray for death not to come knocking on the door, Jake finally starts to believe that he is deserving of this special family who was graced to him from, God.
The special bond between Jake and his two precious granddaughters is heartwarming and enduring. Sadie Mae & Trisha's "new" A Chick-A-Dee surprise to the newest member on the J & L Ranch, will have your heart melting.
An ending was so sweet and funny, that you'll be forever swept away with The Harkner's love.
Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood was truly a sweet uplifting story with an unexpected arrival.
Joe drifts into a farm to find the gold Pete, his former partner has stolen from him before setting him up to take the fall and face prison time.
Mary, Pete's wife meets him at the door with a gun, as her little daughter, Sarah stares in fright.
What transpires next is unexpected and little Sarah truly steals Joe's heart. Absolutely an incredible story of compassion, love, and believing in miracles, or better yet Pier Noel. Giving is far better than receiving... Love us truly what Christmas is about.
A Texas Ranger For Christmas by Margaret Brownley is spectacular. She definitely caught my attention with her wonderful Christmas story.
Cole Bradshaw, a Texas Ranger is on a mission he dreads more than anything, to deliver news that one of his own men has left his wife a widow.
Sadie has her hands full raising her baby, Adam, keeping her farm from falling down around her ankles, as well as keeping foxes and other predictors from coming around.
Sadie and Cole had the perfect chemistry, as these two lost souls found comfort, courage, and love from one another.
Oh Yes, she was in trouble. Big trouble. And Sadie didn't have the slightest idea what to do.
So grab a hot cup of cocoa and get ready to see what Christmas givings transpire.
A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt is truly a moving story of Prejudice, family estrangement, and a beautiful Christmas miracle.
Rico and Louisa have been friends from childhood which developed into true love.
As they become man and wife, her family disowns her. Louisa and Rico try to close the gap that's tearing Louisa apart, as she's now expecting their first child.
This story delves into a topic still regarded, even today, how many tragically feel. Which is very sad. The is no room for prejudice in this world, we all are human, no matter the tone of our skin.
But Ms. Schmidt' beautiful Christmas story certainly is very inspiring and will warm your heart and leave you believing in Christmas miracles and family unity, no matter what obstacles are in our paths.
A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas delivered a heartfelt message of love once lost and the surprise joy of a happy reunion.
Dr. Warren Reed was held at gun point and taken into the Shoshone Mountains to treat an injured Outlaw. What he found once he was delivered to the high mountain cabin was not what he expected.
This was a beautiful story of reunion, lost love, and new beginnings.
October 30, 2017
I completely fell in love with this Christmas book not just because cause two of my favorite authors ever were in it. Linda Broday I recently discovered in the past couple of years and I must say has become a very rare gem to me I love her books tremendously and Rosanne Bittner I have read Bittner since around 1989 and I have been in love with her books ever since the first one I read so therefore she is really embedded in my book loving heart. So of course I loved their books but the real kicker was how the other authors in this anthology could make me hunger for more of their books. Never did I know a guy author could write with such heart pulling emotions but Leigh Greenwood did just that with his book and I must say I want to read more by him. Margaret Brownley, Anna Schmidt, Amy Sandas all have me wanting to read more of their books. This whole book was completely and expertly filled with the most wonderful delightful well chosen stories. Sourcebooks you outdid yourselves with this Christmas in a Cowboy's Arms Anthology hope to see more like this in the very near future
September 2, 2017
There is nothing more heartwarming then a story about Christmas add a cowboy and the wild west and you have a delightful read that keeps you entertained. Each of these stories are by wonderful very talented authors who know how to keep their reads hook giving sorrow, compassion, hopes, dreams and love with a little adventure, excitement and danger.
My favorite is
The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday
Hank is going to steal your heart with the love he gives to an old women as the Legend men pull together making it the best Christmas for so many people. Hank is a drifter after getting out of prison he has no place to go that is until a little lady runs across his path making him understand true love. Sidalee is just a sweet kind woman always putting others first giving so much of her self. Both she and Hank have lost so much, they are all alone in the world but find life goes on and new wonderful memories are made when you give your heart away. It really doesn’t matter what you do wrong or what people say you do. Even when you have reach the bottom look for the light and it will bring you lots of sunshine as it did these two. Hank is troubled he wants to make a wrong a right but he has so much against him. The Legend’s put faith in him giving him back his life as Sidalee steals his heart. This was a wonderful sweet romance that really grabs and holds your attention. I smiled a lot but I had so much sadness for these two. It was a pleasure seeing them find their away. I loved seeing the Legend men again with each of their stories they stole my heart. I have really loved this series and can’t wait to read more about these men and all they do for so many. I really didn’t want Hank’s and Sidalle’s story to end I wanted to see how their life turned out. Well written with wonderful characters you get lost in. I had no trouble picturing the snow deep with one lonely and a dog running for help. I just loved that dog that makes you smile more than anyone should. He is so full of his self he steals your heart.
Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood
There is nothing worse than being blamed for a crime you did not do and going to jail for it, the only thing on your mind is to get out and prove you didn’t do it. Joe breaks out heading to his partner’s ranch where he finds his partners widow. As things take off you feel the pain of these two and your heart really reaches out to them. When their eyes meet they finally know what true love is but what about the baby she is carrying? A very sweet read with delightful characters that you can relate to with the true meaning of compassion, love as these two learn to deal with the hand life gave them.
A Texas Ranger for Christmas by Margaret Brownley
Sadie life is full of sorrow having a young baby and a husband who can’t seem to keep his promise. He left her a lone to run their ranch why he goes back to his old job with the Texas Ranger. Sadie is tired it takes a lot to keep a ranch up, taking care of a child and it is taking its toll on her. When Cole shows up telling her, her husband is dead what he sees is a ranch that has seen better days and one beautiful lady who is running herself to an early grave he knows he can’t leave her. The attraction is strong but Sadie isn’t giving her heart to another man who rides off leaving her alone to take care of what should be his duties. Cole loves his job but the love he feels for Sadie really makes him want to settle down and start a family. Who will win Texas or Sadie? It is a very touching story that really reaches in grabbing your heart and twisting it. The characters are very likable. The author gives a wonderful plot with vivid details. I really enjoyed it and can’t wait to read more of her work.
Each story in this set has wonderful plots with vivid details pulling the reader in. What a wonderful way to find a new author as each one takes you a journey of sorrow, lost, love, romance giving a little twist that keeps you entertained.
*******************
My favorite is
The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday
Hank is going to steal your heart with the love he gives to an old women as the Legend men pull together making it the best Christmas for so many people. Hank is a drifter after getting out of prison he has no place to go that is until a little lady runs across his path making him understand true love. Sidalee is just a sweet kind woman always putting others first giving so much of her self. Both she and Hank have lost so much, they are all alone in the world but find life goes on and new wonderful memories are made when you give your heart away. It really doesn’t matter what you do wrong or what people say you do. Even when you have reach the bottom look for the light and it will bring you lots of sunshine as it did these two. Hank is troubled he wants to make a wrong a right but he has so much against him. The Legend’s put faith in him giving him back his life as Sidalee steals his heart. This was a wonderful sweet romance that really grabs and holds your attention. I smiled a lot but I had so much sadness for these two. It was a pleasure seeing them find their away. I loved seeing the Legend men again with each of their stories they stole my heart. I have really loved this series and can’t wait to read more about these men and all they do for so many. I really didn’t want Hank’s and Sidalle’s story to end I wanted to see how their life turned out. Well written with wonderful characters you get lost in. I had no trouble picturing the snow deep with one lonely and a dog running for help. I just loved that dog that makes you smile more than anyone should. He is so full of his self he steals your heart.
Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood
There is nothing worse than being blamed for a crime you did not do and going to jail for it, the only thing on your mind is to get out and prove you didn’t do it. Joe breaks out heading to his partner’s ranch where he finds his partners widow. As things take off you feel the pain of these two and your heart really reaches out to them. When their eyes meet they finally know what true love is but what about the baby she is carrying? A very sweet read with delightful characters that you can relate to with the true meaning of compassion, love as these two learn to deal with the hand life gave them.
A Texas Ranger for Christmas by Margaret Brownley
Sadie life is full of sorrow having a young baby and a husband who can’t seem to keep his promise. He left her a lone to run their ranch why he goes back to his old job with the Texas Ranger. Sadie is tired it takes a lot to keep a ranch up, taking care of a child and it is taking its toll on her. When Cole shows up telling her, her husband is dead what he sees is a ranch that has seen better days and one beautiful lady who is running herself to an early grave he knows he can’t leave her. The attraction is strong but Sadie isn’t giving her heart to another man who rides off leaving her alone to take care of what should be his duties. Cole loves his job but the love he feels for Sadie really makes him want to settle down and start a family. Who will win Texas or Sadie? It is a very touching story that really reaches in grabbing your heart and twisting it. The characters are very likable. The author gives a wonderful plot with vivid details. I really enjoyed it and can’t wait to read more of her work.
Each story in this set has wonderful plots with vivid details pulling the reader in. What a wonderful way to find a new author as each one takes you a journey of sorrow, lost, love, romance giving a little twist that keeps you entertained.
*******************
October 10, 2017
I was blessed with an advance copy from Linda! I loved this book. I was a little apprehensive about reading a Christmas book so early but they are all just beautiful little stories that happen at Christmas time. The Christmas season really didn't stand out that much to me. You won't regret going ahead and reading these heartwarming stories even though it's not even Halloween yet!
You can't go wrong with this book that has a lonely spinster, an outlaw turned lawman and rancher that ended up with an amazing wife, children and grandchildren that adore him, a broken drifter, a Texas Ranger, newlyweds that reunite a family, prejudice, hope, love, laughter, the Christmas spirit and adventure all in one book! A must read!
You can't go wrong with this book that has a lonely spinster, an outlaw turned lawman and rancher that ended up with an amazing wife, children and grandchildren that adore him, a broken drifter, a Texas Ranger, newlyweds that reunite a family, prejudice, hope, love, laughter, the Christmas spirit and adventure all in one book! A must read!
September 3, 2017
A great collection of Historical Cowboy Romance novellas. Only one of them didn't keep my attention, but I just skipped to the next one so no biggie. Some of the stories were part of series by that author. But all can be read as a stand alone.
December 1, 2017
I was going to write a review for each author, but then I realized that I was saying the same things about each story, so I am writing a collective review for all the authors. The book, "Christmas in a Cowboy's Arms", is so warm and inviting. I read all the stories but one and that is Rosanne Bittner's story because I was told to save it until I finished her Outlaw Series. However, from what I have read of the Outlaw Series, this story will whisk you back to the wild, wild west and make your heart glow. Of course, Linda Broday lived up to her usual with another tale of the Lone Star Ranch. It was magnificent. All the other stories were equally good and entertaining. Suffice it to say, each of these ladies has a new fan if I was not a fan already. Get in the Christmas spirit by reading this book and in the meantime, learn a little history of the way Christmas was celebrated in the old West. I highly recommend this book.
September 29, 2017
Working my way through the stories....
A Chick-A-Dee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner
This was a great Christmas story, and actually for me it became the pretty red bow to tie up the Outlaw Hearts series with. So many smiles and sweet moments mixed in with the ever present dangerous adventure of being a part of the Hawkner family. I'm always gonna love Jake, Randy, and their family. This story warmed my heart and filled me up!
The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday
Woohoo! We get to go back to the Lone Star Ranch!! The Men of Legend series is one of my favs of Linda Broday's stories and getting to get another little bit of time with them is always welcome. Hank and Sidalee's story overwhelmed me with feel good! Despite it's short length, this felt like a full length book and their hea was perfectly done. And gotta give some lovin' to Beau -- he kinda stole some scenes.
A Texas Ranger For Christmas by Margaret Brownley
This is the first book I've read by MB and I'm impressed! Sadie and Cole's story swept me away with how simple and beautiful and heartfelt it was. This was another short story that managed to grab my attention and deliver the feel-goods and connection I need in my stories.
Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood
Joe and Mary (haha, I'm ashamed to say how far I was into the story before I caught onto their names!) and Sarah's story totally sucked me in and gave me all the warm fuzzies I love to have. Plus good ol' Samson and the rest of the creatures made for awesome 2ndary characters. Sweet story and I'm looking forward to discovering more of Leigh Greenwood's books.
TBR:
A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas
A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt
A Chick-A-Dee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner
This was a great Christmas story, and actually for me it became the pretty red bow to tie up the Outlaw Hearts series with. So many smiles and sweet moments mixed in with the ever present dangerous adventure of being a part of the Hawkner family. I'm always gonna love Jake, Randy, and their family. This story warmed my heart and filled me up!
The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday
Woohoo! We get to go back to the Lone Star Ranch!! The Men of Legend series is one of my favs of Linda Broday's stories and getting to get another little bit of time with them is always welcome. Hank and Sidalee's story overwhelmed me with feel good! Despite it's short length, this felt like a full length book and their hea was perfectly done. And gotta give some lovin' to Beau -- he kinda stole some scenes.
A Texas Ranger For Christmas by Margaret Brownley
This is the first book I've read by MB and I'm impressed! Sadie and Cole's story swept me away with how simple and beautiful and heartfelt it was. This was another short story that managed to grab my attention and deliver the feel-goods and connection I need in my stories.
Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood
Joe and Mary (haha, I'm ashamed to say how far I was into the story before I caught onto their names!) and Sarah's story totally sucked me in and gave me all the warm fuzzies I love to have. Plus good ol' Samson and the rest of the creatures made for awesome 2ndary characters. Sweet story and I'm looking forward to discovering more of Leigh Greenwood's books.
TBR:
A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas
A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt
November 7, 2017
what a great read, it has a few of my favorite authors and some new one's I have never read before. I enjoyed the majority of the short stories. Easily since the stories are short only 100 pages this book could be read on a road trip or a flight. It really had me smiling and laughing and wanting more from the characters. I think some of the stories could of had more and been a stand alone book. grab a cup of hot coco , wrap up in a warm blanket and read this book, it will renew your faith in Christmas
April 23, 2020
A Chickadee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner
I am up for any excuse to revisit the Harkner family and this Christmas short hit the spot! Jake is as ornery as ever, but his sharp edges are softened by the cuteness with his granddaughter and his willingness to give a second chance.
I am up for any excuse to revisit the Harkner family and this Christmas short hit the spot! Jake is as ornery as ever, but his sharp edges are softened by the cuteness with his granddaughter and his willingness to give a second chance.
October 10, 2017
THis was a fun western historical Christmas romance.
October 4, 2017
Christmas in a Cowboy's Arms by Leigh Greenwood with Rosanne Bittner, Linda Broday, Margaret Brownley, Anna Schmidt, and Amy Sandas
A bad boy hero meets his match. An unexpected chance at love heals two broken hearts. A reunion that was years in the making and a chance at a fresh start that is well worth taking. Christmas In a Cowboy's Arms is modern storytelling with a historical theme. Romance at it's best develops when the authors keep readers guessing. Adventure meets scandal. There's a little rogue in every hero and a raging fire in each heroine. Sparks fly and hearts melt in this tempting read.
A bad boy hero meets his match. An unexpected chance at love heals two broken hearts. A reunion that was years in the making and a chance at a fresh start that is well worth taking. Christmas In a Cowboy's Arms is modern storytelling with a historical theme. Romance at it's best develops when the authors keep readers guessing. Adventure meets scandal. There's a little rogue in every hero and a raging fire in each heroine. Sparks fly and hearts melt in this tempting read.
December 3, 2017
What can better in a book about Christmas, then to have several of your favorite authors in the same book.
Rosanne Bittner's story is the wrap up I was wanting. It shows the softer side of Jake. The love he has for his family, especially his grandchildren. The sense that he could help a young man, that he saw as a person just like himself at that age, where you can go bad, or take another path and do good.
Linda Broday, brings you back to the Legend ranch, and all about second chances, and love.
Margaret Browley, Anna Schmidt, Amy Sandals are all new authors to me, but it won't be the last time reading them. Christmas, Texas, babies, love, what is better then that.
Rosanne Bittner's story is the wrap up I was wanting. It shows the softer side of Jake. The love he has for his family, especially his grandchildren. The sense that he could help a young man, that he saw as a person just like himself at that age, where you can go bad, or take another path and do good.
Linda Broday, brings you back to the Legend ranch, and all about second chances, and love.
Margaret Browley, Anna Schmidt, Amy Sandals are all new authors to me, but it won't be the last time reading them. Christmas, Texas, babies, love, what is better then that.
December 4, 2017
I’m not a regular reader of romance novels, so the novellas in this collection, Christmas in a Cowboy’s Arms were all new material for me. I suppose being more familiar with the authors’ various series would have been helpful, but I didn’t feel like I was missing any major puzzle pieces by coming to these stories as a new reader.
All six of the works in this collection have two things in common: they’re Christmas romances, and they’re set in the West in the 1800’s. It’s a fun period to explore, and an excellent region to choose. As I learned from several visits to the Cowgirl Museum in Fort Worth (not as hokey as it sounds), women of the west were strong, smart, and incredibly resourceful.
This is true even within their relationships.
And this book explored a variety of relationships. In no particular order, we have a woman defying prejudice to marry a Latino man, man who regularly converses with his horse and dog while on the road to clear his besmirched name and ends up helping a widow in distress, a woman who’s been burned by love for a Texas Ranger but finds herself falling for another, and a doctor being kidnapped by outlaws only to find his ex holding him at gunpoint. And that’s only four of the six stories.
Because each tale was written by a different person, the tone of each is distinctly different. I was most drawn to the stories by Margaret Brownley (“A Texas Ranger for Christmas”) and Anna Schmidt (“A Christmas Baby”) but each one was charming and sweet and full of the hope, wonder, and joy that fills the Christmas season.
Goes well with a salted caramel mocha (or hot chocolate) and a slice of gingerbread (I make mine with a candy cane frosting laced with peppermint schnapps).
All six of the works in this collection have two things in common: they’re Christmas romances, and they’re set in the West in the 1800’s. It’s a fun period to explore, and an excellent region to choose. As I learned from several visits to the Cowgirl Museum in Fort Worth (not as hokey as it sounds), women of the west were strong, smart, and incredibly resourceful.
This is true even within their relationships.
And this book explored a variety of relationships. In no particular order, we have a woman defying prejudice to marry a Latino man, man who regularly converses with his horse and dog while on the road to clear his besmirched name and ends up helping a widow in distress, a woman who’s been burned by love for a Texas Ranger but finds herself falling for another, and a doctor being kidnapped by outlaws only to find his ex holding him at gunpoint. And that’s only four of the six stories.
Because each tale was written by a different person, the tone of each is distinctly different. I was most drawn to the stories by Margaret Brownley (“A Texas Ranger for Christmas”) and Anna Schmidt (“A Christmas Baby”) but each one was charming and sweet and full of the hope, wonder, and joy that fills the Christmas season.
Goes well with a salted caramel mocha (or hot chocolate) and a slice of gingerbread (I make mine with a candy cane frosting laced with peppermint schnapps).
October 3, 2017
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Christmas In A Cowboy’s Arms is a fun, sassy, heart felt collection of Christmas romances set in the Old West. Some are related to series, others are not but each can be read as an enjoyable Christmas stand alone story.
The stories include: Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood – A ChickaDee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner – The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday – A Texas Ranger for Christmas by Margaret Brownley –A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt –A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas
It’s actually pretty amazing to have so many authors that I’ve read, enjoy and follow come together in one Christmas collection of stories. The stars don’t always align like this, so if you love Western Historical Romance and Christmas Romance then these are stories that are guaranteed to put a smile on your holiday reading face.
Sure, I have my favorites but I enjoyed every story in this collection. And I’m betting that you will, too. Get an early start on your holiday reading with Christmas In A Cowboy’s Arms. It will definitely get you in the Christmas spirit �� and while I enjoy going back in time for a reading moment, I certainly appreciate my warm home without worrying about chopping firewood in the cold of winter.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Christmas In A Cowboy’s Arms is a fun, sassy, heart felt collection of Christmas romances set in the Old West. Some are related to series, others are not but each can be read as an enjoyable Christmas stand alone story.
The stories include: Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood – A ChickaDee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner – The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday – A Texas Ranger for Christmas by Margaret Brownley –A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt –A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas
It’s actually pretty amazing to have so many authors that I’ve read, enjoy and follow come together in one Christmas collection of stories. The stars don’t always align like this, so if you love Western Historical Romance and Christmas Romance then these are stories that are guaranteed to put a smile on your holiday reading face.
Sure, I have my favorites but I enjoyed every story in this collection. And I’m betting that you will, too. Get an early start on your holiday reading with Christmas In A Cowboy’s Arms. It will definitely get you in the Christmas spirit �� and while I enjoy going back in time for a reading moment, I certainly appreciate my warm home without worrying about chopping firewood in the cold of winter.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
December 26, 2019
Like all anthologies, some stories grab you and others really don't. This has a few I had no interest in, others that were just okay, and one I really liked. A Christmas Reunion (Amy Sandas) was definitely the best. I liked this 2nd chance story about a couple that (unbeknownst to them) were lied to and spent about 7 years apart, angry and hurt. They meet again purely by chance (and luck). The truth came out and hopefully they have their HEA now.
June 25, 2018
I really enjoyed this book !
September 26, 2017
A good collection of stories. Quick, easy reads. I would recommend it.
September 21, 2017
Book Info
Paperback
Expected publication: October 3rd 2017 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
ISBN 1492656771 (ISBN13: 9781492656777)
Other Editions (1)
Source:Netgalley EARC
Buy book from
Amazon
B&N
In the wild and untamed West, it takes cowboy's embrace to see you through a long winter's night. Stay toasty this holiday season with heart-warming tales from bestselling authors Leigh Greenwood, Rosanne Bittner, Linda Broday, Margaret Brownley, Anna Schmidt, and Amy Sandas.
The Beating Heart of Christmas
Whether it's a lonely spinster finding passion at last...an infamous outlaw-turned-lawman reaffirming the love that keeps him whole...a lost and broken drifter discovering family in unlikely places...a Texas Ranger risking it all for one remarkable woman...two lovers bringing together a family ripped apart by prejudice...or reunited lovers given a second chance to correct past mistakes...a Christmas spent in a cowboy's arms is full of hope, laughter, and--most of all--love.
What People Are Saying:
"Greenwood is a master at westerns." —RT Book Reviews for Leigh Greenwood
"An emotional powerhouse! This classic historical western is destined for the "keeper" shelf." —RT Book Reviews, Top Pick for Rosanne Bittner
"Fun and sensual...great for fans of history, romance, and some good old Texas grit.”—Kirkus for Linda Broday
"A great story by a wonderful author."--#1 New York Times bestselling author DEBBIE MACOMBER for Margaret Brownley
"The perfect read." —RT Book Reviews for Anna Schmidt
"A genuine page-turner...electric and absorbing." —Kirkus for Amy Sandas
6 short tales of love, second chances, new beginnings, family and being true to ones self that encompass the true magic of Christmas and allow both those new to these authors as well as current fans to enjoy a small taste of their work as well.
This collection consists of authors I have read recently and even a couple that are new to me but all of them have things in common, their version of HEA romance at the holidays were all well crafted and all enjoyable to settle down with for a short visit.
FATHER CHRISTMAS BY LEIGH GREENWOOD
Joe Ryan, his dog Samson, horse General Burnside, Mary Wilson and her step-daughter Sarah together make a very touching tale of Christmas miracles come true.
Even Brother Samson, his sister Rachel and Sheriff Howells cannot ruin the magic for them as much as they would like to.
A short, quick, sweet read that still leaves a full feeling of joy on behalf of Joe, Mary and Sarah as they find themselves having the best family holiday despite having only met a week prior.
A CHICKADEE CHRISTMAS BY ROSEANNE BITTNER
Set in the late 1890’s the story begins day after Thanksgiving, when a group of strangers show up looking for work and some fresh horses. 1 of them is a brash young troublemaker, Tommy Tyler, who makes no bones he wants to cash in on the fame it would give him bringing down the notorious Jake Harkner. Having taught this upstart a lesson Jake and his family go on about their lives, the entire clan going into town to enjoy a few days of Christmas shopping and stocking up on supplies needed to take them through the winter months.
While there young Sadie Mae, Jake’s granddaughter and the apple of his eye, finds herself in danger at the hands of the same young man. Jake takes it upon himself to bring 18-year-old Tommy Tyler to the family ranch hoping to persuade him to change before someone guns him down.
The chain of events that follow are harrowing but all is resolved when the family celebrates Christmas and all the blessings they each have to be thankful for. Tommy Tyler finds himself with the unexpected realization of a new life and owes it all to the man he once tried to kill, Jake Harkner.
Set after book 4, The Last Outlaw this Harkner family novella gave me another chance to enjoy these beloved characters one more time.
THE CHRISTMAS STRANGER BY LINDA BRODAY
Set on the Legend ranch is a story which features Hank Destry, a drifter who recently spent time in prison and with no family of his own except his horse Boots and loyal dog Beau. This short tale finds Hank a home that he never expected to have and a love he never thought he would find.
When spinster Sidalee King found Hank Destry in a snowdrift, half-frozen, thanks to his Bordie Collie Beau who saved Hanks life by leading her to him. This lonely woman could not believe she had finally found the one man who made her dream of forever, a man whose fiddle-feet were not bound to any one place.
At least they weren’t until Hank found a job, a place where he was valued and a woman he could not think of leaving now that he managed to set the wrongs in his past to right thanks to ranch owner Stoker Legend.
A TEXAS RANGER CHRISTMAS BY MARGARET BROWNLEY
Captain Cole Bradshaw is given the task of getting the news to Mrs. Richard Carnes, wife of a fellow Texas Ranger, that her husband Richard has been killed by outlaws. Cole was shot in the same mission and when he falls ill from his still healing wound the widow nurses him back to health.
Sadie Carnes is a young, pretty, hard-working woman whose 6-month-old son Adam manages to capture the Rangers heart the longer he stays on the Carnes farm. Sadie herself causes him to rethink his chosen profession but to his chagrin the death of her father while in service to the Rangers, and now the death of her husband as well, made her mind up long ago never to allow another Texas Ranger into her life.
This is a short tale about second chances at love, starting over and love that cannot be denied or ignored. It was also another look into the town of Two-Time which I enjoyed too.
A CHRISTMAS BABY BY ANNA SCHMIDT
In the 1800’s a young woman marries the young man of her dreams, against the express wishes of her father. Even when she is expecting her parents first grandchild they do not relent in their stance to have nothing to do with her.
This story now would be pretty much a different story, you see the young woman is white and her husband is of Mexican descent. Those two race mixtures back then were taboo and the end result was often something unpleasant on one side or another of the couples family.
Louisa Johnson and Rico Mendez basically grew up around each other, at one time her father George was a huge fan of the hardworking cowboy. However once he learned that Rico had eyes for his daughter that changed overnight.
Taking steps to thrawt the two did not turn out the way he planned as they ran off together and were married soon after.
This caused a huge rift between Louisa and her family, a rift that only grew bigger over time until it seemed insurmountable.
Will the true spirit of Christmas bring this fractured family together or will they lose their daughter and her child forever due to stubborn prejudice and pride?
I heartily suggest you read the book and find out for yourself.
A CHRISTMAS REUNION BY AMY SANDAS
7 years have gone by since Warren Reed left Wyoming with his heart broken by 17-year-old Honey Prentice, the young woman he wanted to marry who instead apparently took leaving for his dying father’s bedside as desertion. Honey was said to have married a wealthy man named Freeman and that is the last Warren heard about her as he stayed back east to throw himself into studying medicine as a balm to his shattered heart. Now a full fledged doctor Warren has returned to Wyoming to take over an abandoned medical practice in a small western town.
Brought together again by chance Honey and Warren find that after all those years apart, due to some misinformation given to both of them that they believed to be truth, this unexpected Christmas reunion was well worth waiting for.
Paperback
Expected publication: October 3rd 2017 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
ISBN 1492656771 (ISBN13: 9781492656777)
Other Editions (1)
Source:Netgalley EARC
Buy book from
Amazon
B&N
BOOK BLURB
In the wild and untamed West, it takes cowboy's embrace to see you through a long winter's night. Stay toasty this holiday season with heart-warming tales from bestselling authors Leigh Greenwood, Rosanne Bittner, Linda Broday, Margaret Brownley, Anna Schmidt, and Amy Sandas.
The Beating Heart of Christmas
Whether it's a lonely spinster finding passion at last...an infamous outlaw-turned-lawman reaffirming the love that keeps him whole...a lost and broken drifter discovering family in unlikely places...a Texas Ranger risking it all for one remarkable woman...two lovers bringing together a family ripped apart by prejudice...or reunited lovers given a second chance to correct past mistakes...a Christmas spent in a cowboy's arms is full of hope, laughter, and--most of all--love.
What People Are Saying:
"Greenwood is a master at westerns." —RT Book Reviews for Leigh Greenwood
"An emotional powerhouse! This classic historical western is destined for the "keeper" shelf." —RT Book Reviews, Top Pick for Rosanne Bittner
"Fun and sensual...great for fans of history, romance, and some good old Texas grit.”—Kirkus for Linda Broday
"A great story by a wonderful author."--#1 New York Times bestselling author DEBBIE MACOMBER for Margaret Brownley
"The perfect read." —RT Book Reviews for Anna Schmidt
"A genuine page-turner...electric and absorbing." —Kirkus for Amy Sandas
My Thoughts
6 short tales of love, second chances, new beginnings, family and being true to ones self that encompass the true magic of Christmas and allow both those new to these authors as well as current fans to enjoy a small taste of their work as well.
This collection consists of authors I have read recently and even a couple that are new to me but all of them have things in common, their version of HEA romance at the holidays were all well crafted and all enjoyable to settle down with for a short visit.
FATHER CHRISTMAS BY LEIGH GREENWOOD
Joe Ryan, his dog Samson, horse General Burnside, Mary Wilson and her step-daughter Sarah together make a very touching tale of Christmas miracles come true.
Even Brother Samson, his sister Rachel and Sheriff Howells cannot ruin the magic for them as much as they would like to.
A short, quick, sweet read that still leaves a full feeling of joy on behalf of Joe, Mary and Sarah as they find themselves having the best family holiday despite having only met a week prior.
A CHICKADEE CHRISTMAS BY ROSEANNE BITTNER
Set in the late 1890’s the story begins day after Thanksgiving, when a group of strangers show up looking for work and some fresh horses. 1 of them is a brash young troublemaker, Tommy Tyler, who makes no bones he wants to cash in on the fame it would give him bringing down the notorious Jake Harkner. Having taught this upstart a lesson Jake and his family go on about their lives, the entire clan going into town to enjoy a few days of Christmas shopping and stocking up on supplies needed to take them through the winter months.
While there young Sadie Mae, Jake’s granddaughter and the apple of his eye, finds herself in danger at the hands of the same young man. Jake takes it upon himself to bring 18-year-old Tommy Tyler to the family ranch hoping to persuade him to change before someone guns him down.
The chain of events that follow are harrowing but all is resolved when the family celebrates Christmas and all the blessings they each have to be thankful for. Tommy Tyler finds himself with the unexpected realization of a new life and owes it all to the man he once tried to kill, Jake Harkner.
Set after book 4, The Last Outlaw this Harkner family novella gave me another chance to enjoy these beloved characters one more time.
THE CHRISTMAS STRANGER BY LINDA BRODAY
Set on the Legend ranch is a story which features Hank Destry, a drifter who recently spent time in prison and with no family of his own except his horse Boots and loyal dog Beau. This short tale finds Hank a home that he never expected to have and a love he never thought he would find.
When spinster Sidalee King found Hank Destry in a snowdrift, half-frozen, thanks to his Bordie Collie Beau who saved Hanks life by leading her to him. This lonely woman could not believe she had finally found the one man who made her dream of forever, a man whose fiddle-feet were not bound to any one place.
At least they weren’t until Hank found a job, a place where he was valued and a woman he could not think of leaving now that he managed to set the wrongs in his past to right thanks to ranch owner Stoker Legend.
A TEXAS RANGER CHRISTMAS BY MARGARET BROWNLEY
Captain Cole Bradshaw is given the task of getting the news to Mrs. Richard Carnes, wife of a fellow Texas Ranger, that her husband Richard has been killed by outlaws. Cole was shot in the same mission and when he falls ill from his still healing wound the widow nurses him back to health.
Sadie Carnes is a young, pretty, hard-working woman whose 6-month-old son Adam manages to capture the Rangers heart the longer he stays on the Carnes farm. Sadie herself causes him to rethink his chosen profession but to his chagrin the death of her father while in service to the Rangers, and now the death of her husband as well, made her mind up long ago never to allow another Texas Ranger into her life.
This is a short tale about second chances at love, starting over and love that cannot be denied or ignored. It was also another look into the town of Two-Time which I enjoyed too.
A CHRISTMAS BABY BY ANNA SCHMIDT
In the 1800’s a young woman marries the young man of her dreams, against the express wishes of her father. Even when she is expecting her parents first grandchild they do not relent in their stance to have nothing to do with her.
This story now would be pretty much a different story, you see the young woman is white and her husband is of Mexican descent. Those two race mixtures back then were taboo and the end result was often something unpleasant on one side or another of the couples family.
Louisa Johnson and Rico Mendez basically grew up around each other, at one time her father George was a huge fan of the hardworking cowboy. However once he learned that Rico had eyes for his daughter that changed overnight.
Taking steps to thrawt the two did not turn out the way he planned as they ran off together and were married soon after.
This caused a huge rift between Louisa and her family, a rift that only grew bigger over time until it seemed insurmountable.
Will the true spirit of Christmas bring this fractured family together or will they lose their daughter and her child forever due to stubborn prejudice and pride?
I heartily suggest you read the book and find out for yourself.
A CHRISTMAS REUNION BY AMY SANDAS
7 years have gone by since Warren Reed left Wyoming with his heart broken by 17-year-old Honey Prentice, the young woman he wanted to marry who instead apparently took leaving for his dying father’s bedside as desertion. Honey was said to have married a wealthy man named Freeman and that is the last Warren heard about her as he stayed back east to throw himself into studying medicine as a balm to his shattered heart. Now a full fledged doctor Warren has returned to Wyoming to take over an abandoned medical practice in a small western town.
Brought together again by chance Honey and Warren find that after all those years apart, due to some misinformation given to both of them that they believed to be truth, this unexpected Christmas reunion was well worth waiting for.
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
December 9, 2017
If you love Cowboys, Christmas and the Wild West - then you need to read this book!
The six authors bring us back to the late 1800's when the west was wild and life was nothing like what we know today. But more than just a look into the past - these stories are of love, whether it be lost love, new found love or a love that has endured for decades. In each story the main characters have some sort of issue to resolve, and each author weaves that tale into a succinct story that leaves us with a happy ending.
I don't know if I can choose a favorite because they are all good! I do think I liked the stories that included a dog a bit more, but that is the dog lover in me. Animals always have their own personality that adds to the story.
Each story warmed my heart despite the difficulties that the characters faced in the beginning. There are situations that probably everyone could relate to whether it was family issues, secrets or wanting more from life.
We give this book and all six novellas 5 paws up. Perfect to read during this holiday season and since each story is about 100 pages, it won't take long to enjoy each of the novellas.
The six authors bring us back to the late 1800's when the west was wild and life was nothing like what we know today. But more than just a look into the past - these stories are of love, whether it be lost love, new found love or a love that has endured for decades. In each story the main characters have some sort of issue to resolve, and each author weaves that tale into a succinct story that leaves us with a happy ending.
I don't know if I can choose a favorite because they are all good! I do think I liked the stories that included a dog a bit more, but that is the dog lover in me. Animals always have their own personality that adds to the story.
Each story warmed my heart despite the difficulties that the characters faced in the beginning. There are situations that probably everyone could relate to whether it was family issues, secrets or wanting more from life.
We give this book and all six novellas 5 paws up. Perfect to read during this holiday season and since each story is about 100 pages, it won't take long to enjoy each of the novellas.
December 12, 2017
This was a quick and easy holiday read, perfect to get you into the holiday spirit! I haven’t read a lot of these authors or a lot of cowboy romances, so this was definitely a nice introduction. From what I gathered, a lot of these novellas fit into bigger series by the authors, but you don’t need to have read them to enjoy these stories.
There’s a mix of sweet family-centric holiday stories and a few strangers riding into town and having to win over the girl(s). This was a bit different for me in that the setting is a little different than your traditional historical romances, with it being set in the wild west. I also really like that a lot of heroines in these cowboy stories are very rarely damsel in distresses!
Overall, a nice anthology of cowboy romances that’ll have you curled up and ready for the holiday!
{*Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. Original review at Bookmunchies
There’s a mix of sweet family-centric holiday stories and a few strangers riding into town and having to win over the girl(s). This was a bit different for me in that the setting is a little different than your traditional historical romances, with it being set in the wild west. I also really like that a lot of heroines in these cowboy stories are very rarely damsel in distresses!
Overall, a nice anthology of cowboy romances that’ll have you curled up and ready for the holiday!
{*Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. Original review at Bookmunchies
December 30, 2019
This was a great collection of short Christmas stories from some great author's. I liked every story in this collection. I love stories that take place in the western frontier and all of these satisfied my interests.
November 22, 2017
I could not pass up such a line up including a few favorite authors and a few new to me ones telling historical western Christmas romances all in one book.
Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood
Joe needs to clear his name from being accused of stealing gold. He hunts down his betraying partner and stumbles upon a little family in need. Mary hated her husband and now he's dead. She thought she had no place for a man until Joe helps her through her sickness, mends things around the farm, befriends shy little Sarah, and makes her believe there is goodness again. I loved the humor, sweetness, and heartwarming quality of this story that harks back to the Joseph, Mary and baby in a stable story.
A Chickadee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner
An Outlaw Hearts Novella
Just when I was feeling the blues after reading The Last Outlaw and saying good-bye to the Harkers and especially Jake, here was an exciting and gritty, but heartwarming Harker family Christmas. The Harkers go Christmas shopping, find trouble, Jake brings home an angry, bitter stray man, and then they all pray for a Christmas miracle for little Sadie Mae.
This was a lovely reunion with a cast of characters I love. The spotlight on Jake and his grandchildren was just precious.
The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday
A Men of Legend Novella
This is a side story that takes place just before book three, Luke's book. Lonely Sidalee rescues a drifter caught out in the cold and snow and brings him back to the Lone Star. Hank did his time and now he just wants to find a place where he'll be accepted. Stoker Legend and the people of the Lone Star, particularly Sidalee, seem too good to be true. Dare he stay?
Another fantastic story from a series I love with a bit of Christmas shine to make it even better.
A Texas Ranger for Christmas by Margaret Brownley
A Match Made in Texas Novella
Sadie has had a tough row to hoe in life and then a Texas Ranger comes to tell her that she's a widow. First her father and then her husband die in the Rangers. She is bitter and lacking in trust, but taking care of Cole, the Ranger who collapsed ill on her and seeing his honorable and tender care for her and her baby start to sway her. But... he's a Ranger and will leave her like the others did.
My first time with the author and the series. It stood alone just fine. I was vested in this story and was rooting on Sadie to heal and accept what the wonderful man was offering her. Definitely will come back for more.
A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt
A Last Chance Cowboys Novella
Two young people from two different races buck the system and marry. Her family turns their backs and his accept, but worry about the hard road they have chosen. They hope for a Christmas miracle to bring peace and acceptance in the family.
On the surface, it seems like a clear cut case of how ethnic prejudice can affect an interracial pairing, but the author digs deeper and shows that for parents in this story, it is fighting how they were taught and fears for the children they love that have them unwilling to accept the possibility of watching their child and grandchild ridiculed or worse. There is a heavy lesson here and it does push forward aside other story elements at the time, but its a worthy lesson.
A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas
A Runaway Brides Novella
Warren Reed returns to the west to set up his medical practice only to be kidnapped by outlaws to tend to one of their own. And, there he gets the biggest shock of all. The woman who left him is glaring at him over the barrel of a pistol for leaving her.
This fast paced story is a second chance at romance for two people who thought they hated each other. Things progress quickly, but I enjoyed seeing Warren and Honey get their chance if she can reach past her fear. He's a special man and I was glad to see him find her again.
In summary, this was a heartwarming and engaging variety of stories set in the Old West. I enjoyed the reunion with favorite authors and some series I adore, but also the opportunity to read three new to me authors and sample their writing. Each had a strong Christmas theme and I enjoyed that the romances were well-developed and included some great western action. I can definitely recommend this great holiday novella sampler.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood
Joe needs to clear his name from being accused of stealing gold. He hunts down his betraying partner and stumbles upon a little family in need. Mary hated her husband and now he's dead. She thought she had no place for a man until Joe helps her through her sickness, mends things around the farm, befriends shy little Sarah, and makes her believe there is goodness again. I loved the humor, sweetness, and heartwarming quality of this story that harks back to the Joseph, Mary and baby in a stable story.
A Chickadee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner
An Outlaw Hearts Novella
Just when I was feeling the blues after reading The Last Outlaw and saying good-bye to the Harkers and especially Jake, here was an exciting and gritty, but heartwarming Harker family Christmas. The Harkers go Christmas shopping, find trouble, Jake brings home an angry, bitter stray man, and then they all pray for a Christmas miracle for little Sadie Mae.
This was a lovely reunion with a cast of characters I love. The spotlight on Jake and his grandchildren was just precious.
The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday
A Men of Legend Novella
This is a side story that takes place just before book three, Luke's book. Lonely Sidalee rescues a drifter caught out in the cold and snow and brings him back to the Lone Star. Hank did his time and now he just wants to find a place where he'll be accepted. Stoker Legend and the people of the Lone Star, particularly Sidalee, seem too good to be true. Dare he stay?
Another fantastic story from a series I love with a bit of Christmas shine to make it even better.
A Texas Ranger for Christmas by Margaret Brownley
A Match Made in Texas Novella
Sadie has had a tough row to hoe in life and then a Texas Ranger comes to tell her that she's a widow. First her father and then her husband die in the Rangers. She is bitter and lacking in trust, but taking care of Cole, the Ranger who collapsed ill on her and seeing his honorable and tender care for her and her baby start to sway her. But... he's a Ranger and will leave her like the others did.
My first time with the author and the series. It stood alone just fine. I was vested in this story and was rooting on Sadie to heal and accept what the wonderful man was offering her. Definitely will come back for more.
A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt
A Last Chance Cowboys Novella
Two young people from two different races buck the system and marry. Her family turns their backs and his accept, but worry about the hard road they have chosen. They hope for a Christmas miracle to bring peace and acceptance in the family.
On the surface, it seems like a clear cut case of how ethnic prejudice can affect an interracial pairing, but the author digs deeper and shows that for parents in this story, it is fighting how they were taught and fears for the children they love that have them unwilling to accept the possibility of watching their child and grandchild ridiculed or worse. There is a heavy lesson here and it does push forward aside other story elements at the time, but its a worthy lesson.
A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas
A Runaway Brides Novella
Warren Reed returns to the west to set up his medical practice only to be kidnapped by outlaws to tend to one of their own. And, there he gets the biggest shock of all. The woman who left him is glaring at him over the barrel of a pistol for leaving her.
This fast paced story is a second chance at romance for two people who thought they hated each other. Things progress quickly, but I enjoyed seeing Warren and Honey get their chance if she can reach past her fear. He's a special man and I was glad to see him find her again.
In summary, this was a heartwarming and engaging variety of stories set in the Old West. I enjoyed the reunion with favorite authors and some series I adore, but also the opportunity to read three new to me authors and sample their writing. Each had a strong Christmas theme and I enjoyed that the romances were well-developed and included some great western action. I can definitely recommend this great holiday novella sampler.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 11, 2020
Anthologies are usually a mixed bag; some are superb and there are some also-rans. Amy Sandas is the only author of this group of stories with which I'm not familiar. One note: Leigh Greenwood's story has been printed twice before this collection.
FATHER CHRISTMAS (Leigh Greenwood) -- 4 stars
Joe Ryan has traveled to his old partner's home, looking for the gold Pete stole and blamed on Joe. Pete is dead now and his wife is in a bad way. Mary is very pregnant and unable to take care of the farm, or even feed herself. Joe needs to get out of the area because he escaped from jail to find the money (from Pete), return it, and regain his good name. However, Mary's baby arrives and Joe can't leave her. My only complaint about this pleasant story was the pat nature of the solution.
A CHICK-A-DEE CHRISTMAS (Rosanne Bittner) -- 3.5 stars
This entry was written about the same time as the last book of the Outlaw Hearts series was published (1) OUTLAW HEARTS, 2) DO NOT FORSAKE ME, 3) LOVE'S SWEET REVENGE, and 4) THE LAST OUTLAW). This is one of my favorite authors but this story suffers from the same malady as the last 2 stories of this series -- too much explanation of past trials-and-tribulations, and too much discussion of deep emotions (folks of that time didn't do that very often; the repeated explanations only cheapened the drama), and constant hugging - men, as well as women. I haven't finished the last two books in that series because of this over-talking every emotion and event.
This story has the same problem; the author was afraid that you might miss some nuance of the previous stories and she dragged it all out again. This might have been an interesting story about Jake Harkener trying to help a stupid youngster to see the right road (instead of getting killed, which was the road he was headed down). However, after wading through all the previous difficulties, I didn't really care to finish the story. Finally, I did. The story was great; the constant dig-up of old history was not.
THE CHRISTMAS STRANGER (Linda Broday) -- 3.5 stars
Attracted by a barking dog, Sidalee King finds a stranger covered in snow. She gets him back to her mercantile store and takes care of him. Hank Destry, the stranger, wakes up on the Legend Ranch (some of the characters are from the MEN OF LEGEND series). The Legends just happen to need a telegraph operator and Hank just happens to have learned it at his father's knee. This story is pretty syrupy.
A TEXAS RANGER FOR CHRISTMAS (Margaret Brownley) -- 5 stars
Capt. Cole Bradshaw of the Texas Rangers rides to tell Sadie Carnes that her Ranger husband has died in the line of duty. He looks around and sees a ranch in poor repair and a widow with a 6-month-old son. He collapses because he has lead poisoning (he was shot at the same time Richard Carnes was killed). As Cole gets better, he does more things around the farm. He decides that he will leave the Rangers and settle down with Sadie. But Sadie lost both her father and her husband to the Rangers and does not believe Cole will quit for good.
A CHRISTMAS BABY (Anna Schmidt) -- 1 star
This story starts out with several chapters of anger, murder threats, and hostility. Then a Christmas baby brings peace and love over all the anger. Give me a break. This kind of story does not fit in with the uplifting nature of most Christmas tales. This one was a downer. Absolutely awful.
A CHRISTMAS REUNION (Amy Sandas) -- 5 STARS
Physician Warren Reed is accosted at his new office in Chester Springs by two men with guns. He's taken to treat a fellow outlaw. When he arrives, he meets his former lover and they express considerable anger with each other. Honey Prentice's twin brother, Luke is the one seriously injured. Seven years before, Warren went back home because his father was dying. Not long after, he received a letter that Honey had married another. Honey received a letter that Warren wasn't coming back and planned to marry another.
Overall evaluation (from best to worst): Margaret Brownley (wonderful dialogue), Amy Sandas, Leigh Greenwood, Rosanne Bittner, Linda Broday, Anna Schmidt.
FATHER CHRISTMAS (Leigh Greenwood) -- 4 stars
Joe Ryan has traveled to his old partner's home, looking for the gold Pete stole and blamed on Joe. Pete is dead now and his wife is in a bad way. Mary is very pregnant and unable to take care of the farm, or even feed herself. Joe needs to get out of the area because he escaped from jail to find the money (from Pete), return it, and regain his good name. However, Mary's baby arrives and Joe can't leave her. My only complaint about this pleasant story was the pat nature of the solution.
A CHICK-A-DEE CHRISTMAS (Rosanne Bittner) -- 3.5 stars
This entry was written about the same time as the last book of the Outlaw Hearts series was published (1) OUTLAW HEARTS, 2) DO NOT FORSAKE ME, 3) LOVE'S SWEET REVENGE, and 4) THE LAST OUTLAW). This is one of my favorite authors but this story suffers from the same malady as the last 2 stories of this series -- too much explanation of past trials-and-tribulations, and too much discussion of deep emotions (folks of that time didn't do that very often; the repeated explanations only cheapened the drama), and constant hugging - men, as well as women. I haven't finished the last two books in that series because of this over-talking every emotion and event.
This story has the same problem; the author was afraid that you might miss some nuance of the previous stories and she dragged it all out again. This might have been an interesting story about Jake Harkener trying to help a stupid youngster to see the right road (instead of getting killed, which was the road he was headed down). However, after wading through all the previous difficulties, I didn't really care to finish the story. Finally, I did. The story was great; the constant dig-up of old history was not.
THE CHRISTMAS STRANGER (Linda Broday) -- 3.5 stars
Attracted by a barking dog, Sidalee King finds a stranger covered in snow. She gets him back to her mercantile store and takes care of him. Hank Destry, the stranger, wakes up on the Legend Ranch (some of the characters are from the MEN OF LEGEND series). The Legends just happen to need a telegraph operator and Hank just happens to have learned it at his father's knee. This story is pretty syrupy.
A TEXAS RANGER FOR CHRISTMAS (Margaret Brownley) -- 5 stars
Capt. Cole Bradshaw of the Texas Rangers rides to tell Sadie Carnes that her Ranger husband has died in the line of duty. He looks around and sees a ranch in poor repair and a widow with a 6-month-old son. He collapses because he has lead poisoning (he was shot at the same time Richard Carnes was killed). As Cole gets better, he does more things around the farm. He decides that he will leave the Rangers and settle down with Sadie. But Sadie lost both her father and her husband to the Rangers and does not believe Cole will quit for good.
A CHRISTMAS BABY (Anna Schmidt) -- 1 star
This story starts out with several chapters of anger, murder threats, and hostility. Then a Christmas baby brings peace and love over all the anger. Give me a break. This kind of story does not fit in with the uplifting nature of most Christmas tales. This one was a downer. Absolutely awful.
A CHRISTMAS REUNION (Amy Sandas) -- 5 STARS
Physician Warren Reed is accosted at his new office in Chester Springs by two men with guns. He's taken to treat a fellow outlaw. When he arrives, he meets his former lover and they express considerable anger with each other. Honey Prentice's twin brother, Luke is the one seriously injured. Seven years before, Warren went back home because his father was dying. Not long after, he received a letter that Honey had married another. Honey received a letter that Warren wasn't coming back and planned to marry another.
Overall evaluation (from best to worst): Margaret Brownley (wonderful dialogue), Amy Sandas, Leigh Greenwood, Rosanne Bittner, Linda Broday, Anna Schmidt.
October 18, 2017
This anthology of stories was a real pleasure to read, each one having drama but most of all romance and love set around and at Christmas. There's nothing like reading a book with so many romances with happy ever afters all set at such a wonderful time of year.
Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood:
This was a wonderful story of two soul mates meeting and falling in love. Joe is the sweetest cowboy ever and he is just what Mary and Sarah need. There were some very funny moments in this story, and some very beautiful ones too. I smiled most of the time that I was reading it.
A ChickaDee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner:
Although this story does involve couples very much in love, it didn't revolve around those romances. It was very much Tommy's story and how Jake and his family help him. There were some beautifully emotional scenes, drama, and of course, the festive spirit abounded which I loved. This was reminiscent of the TV shows Bonanza and Little House on the Prairie rolled into one, both of which I loved, so of course, I loved this story too.
The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday:
This was a very sweet accounting of a wronged man, Hank Destry. He is a drifter after having spent 8 years in prison for a crime he didn't commit. Now he has the chance of clearing his name at the same time as finding true love and a home with a woman, Sidalee King, who pretty much fell in love with him at first sight after rescuing him from dying in a snow storm.
A Texas Ranger for Christmas by Margaret Brownley :
This was a truly beautiful story of a woman, Sadie Carnes who very much needed some love and affection and finding it in the strong arms of Cole. The only problem is that he is a Texas Ranger. Sadie's father and her husband were both killed in the line of duty as Texas Rangers and Sadie can't see any future with the man she has fallen for. He is the perfect hero for her and I loved watching Cole trying to win her over, and could have cried at what he does to prove his trustworthiness to her.
A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt:
Louisa, a white woman, and Rico a Mexican, are in love, and although his parents welcome their relationship, hers disown her over it. This story showed racism at it's finest, mainly from friends of Louisa's family. But when it comes to her parents, it's more than just racism and it was interesting to watch both her and Rico realise just what was really behind her parent's anger. A wonderful story of love conquering all.
A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas:
This was a very quick read that still managed to include outlaws, broken hearts, family loyalties, lies, lust and love. Warren and Honey were in love and a lie separated them with both believing the other had married somebody else. When they meet years later in less than perfect circumstances their love has a chance of blossoming again, and it was a delight to see/read it happen. An absolutely beautiful feel-good story with a fabulous Christmas day.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers' copy of this book.
Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood:
This was a wonderful story of two soul mates meeting and falling in love. Joe is the sweetest cowboy ever and he is just what Mary and Sarah need. There were some very funny moments in this story, and some very beautiful ones too. I smiled most of the time that I was reading it.
A ChickaDee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner:
Although this story does involve couples very much in love, it didn't revolve around those romances. It was very much Tommy's story and how Jake and his family help him. There were some beautifully emotional scenes, drama, and of course, the festive spirit abounded which I loved. This was reminiscent of the TV shows Bonanza and Little House on the Prairie rolled into one, both of which I loved, so of course, I loved this story too.
The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday:
This was a very sweet accounting of a wronged man, Hank Destry. He is a drifter after having spent 8 years in prison for a crime he didn't commit. Now he has the chance of clearing his name at the same time as finding true love and a home with a woman, Sidalee King, who pretty much fell in love with him at first sight after rescuing him from dying in a snow storm.
A Texas Ranger for Christmas by Margaret Brownley :
This was a truly beautiful story of a woman, Sadie Carnes who very much needed some love and affection and finding it in the strong arms of Cole. The only problem is that he is a Texas Ranger. Sadie's father and her husband were both killed in the line of duty as Texas Rangers and Sadie can't see any future with the man she has fallen for. He is the perfect hero for her and I loved watching Cole trying to win her over, and could have cried at what he does to prove his trustworthiness to her.
A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt:
Louisa, a white woman, and Rico a Mexican, are in love, and although his parents welcome their relationship, hers disown her over it. This story showed racism at it's finest, mainly from friends of Louisa's family. But when it comes to her parents, it's more than just racism and it was interesting to watch both her and Rico realise just what was really behind her parent's anger. A wonderful story of love conquering all.
A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas:
This was a very quick read that still managed to include outlaws, broken hearts, family loyalties, lies, lust and love. Warren and Honey were in love and a lie separated them with both believing the other had married somebody else. When they meet years later in less than perfect circumstances their love has a chance of blossoming again, and it was a delight to see/read it happen. An absolutely beautiful feel-good story with a fabulous Christmas day.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers' copy of this book.
September 10, 2022
Father Christmas - Leigh Greenwood
A very short novella of only 7 chapters. As expected, the romance progressed very fast, too fast for my liking but how Joe was so nice and caring to Mary, I could see how Mary fell for Joe. A heartwarming story. 4 out of 5 stars
A Chick-a-dee Christmas - Rosanne Bittner
Reading this after finishing the Last Outlaw, so my memories were still very fresh. This is a Christmas story about the events after the Last Outlaw. As expected of a Rosanne Bittner, this book was not without the action, which made it all the more exciting. The close brush with death has made the Harkner family even closer than ever, united when something happens to Jake’s granddaughter. From this story, they also gain a new member. All in all, a wonderful book once again by Rosanne. Loved and enjoyed it very much. Rating: 5 out of 5 stars.
The Christmas stranger - Linda broday
It’s been a while since I’ve read a book by Linda Broday. But I remember I really enjoyed some of her books because they were very heartwarming.
This novella was rushed, unfortunately. Though the author tried to make the bonding between the hero and heroine, there was just too little chapters to make the romance believable to me. Nevertheless, it was a a sweet and short read. 3 out of 5 stars
A Texas ranger for Christmas - margaret brownley
A nice novella, though the romance was rushed. However I did like that Cole sacrificed something he loved in order to convince Sadie he was here to stay. It was heartwarming to see Cole and Sadie interact. 3 stars out of 5 stars
A Christmas baby - Anna Schmidt
Out of the few novellas I’ve read in this book, this one did not interest me in the least. Too rushed. They married in the first chapter, with barely any context into how they were in love / bonding. The writing style was not to my liking as well. Didn’t continue to read after chapter 1. Won’t be giving a rating for this.
A Christmas reunion - amy sandas
I remember I enjoyed Amy Sandas’ cowboys series so I was hoping this one would be good as well. I wasn’t disappointed! As far as novellas go, they are usually rushed and lack the sufficient bonding and romance. She used the “young lovers separated and meeting again as adults” trope. This trope allowed the romance to be believable and not seem rushed. Because they already had a connection in the past which was also mentioned in some sentences, I didn’t feel the romance was bad.
It was a quite enjoyable book, with a good pacing and nice characters.
4 out of 5 stars
A very short novella of only 7 chapters. As expected, the romance progressed very fast, too fast for my liking but how Joe was so nice and caring to Mary, I could see how Mary fell for Joe. A heartwarming story. 4 out of 5 stars
A Chick-a-dee Christmas - Rosanne Bittner
Reading this after finishing the Last Outlaw, so my memories were still very fresh. This is a Christmas story about the events after the Last Outlaw. As expected of a Rosanne Bittner, this book was not without the action, which made it all the more exciting. The close brush with death has made the Harkner family even closer than ever, united when something happens to Jake’s granddaughter. From this story, they also gain a new member. All in all, a wonderful book once again by Rosanne. Loved and enjoyed it very much. Rating: 5 out of 5 stars.
The Christmas stranger - Linda broday
It’s been a while since I’ve read a book by Linda Broday. But I remember I really enjoyed some of her books because they were very heartwarming.
This novella was rushed, unfortunately. Though the author tried to make the bonding between the hero and heroine, there was just too little chapters to make the romance believable to me. Nevertheless, it was a a sweet and short read. 3 out of 5 stars
A Texas ranger for Christmas - margaret brownley
A nice novella, though the romance was rushed. However I did like that Cole sacrificed something he loved in order to convince Sadie he was here to stay. It was heartwarming to see Cole and Sadie interact. 3 stars out of 5 stars
A Christmas baby - Anna Schmidt
Out of the few novellas I’ve read in this book, this one did not interest me in the least. Too rushed. They married in the first chapter, with barely any context into how they were in love / bonding. The writing style was not to my liking as well. Didn’t continue to read after chapter 1. Won’t be giving a rating for this.
A Christmas reunion - amy sandas
I remember I enjoyed Amy Sandas’ cowboys series so I was hoping this one would be good as well. I wasn’t disappointed! As far as novellas go, they are usually rushed and lack the sufficient bonding and romance. She used the “young lovers separated and meeting again as adults” trope. This trope allowed the romance to be believable and not seem rushed. Because they already had a connection in the past which was also mentioned in some sentences, I didn’t feel the romance was bad.
It was a quite enjoyable book, with a good pacing and nice characters.
4 out of 5 stars
December 19, 2017
This book contains stories by a couple of my favorite authors and others by new to me authors. The anthology leads off with FATHER CHRISTMAS by Leigh Greenwood, an author I have been wanting to try. This is a story of a man on the run paying for something he didn't do and a woman and child struggling to keep their farm going. They are connected by a good for nothing man who has betrayed them all. They deserve better than the hand life has dealt them.
Next is A CHICK-A-DEE CHRISTMAS by Rosanne Bittner. This story is an epilogue to the Outlaw Hearts series. This family has known tragedy, hard times, and worked hard for the good they have in their lives. The main character started out as a ruthless killer, reformed, and was a lawman. He is now a husband, father, and grandfather, but still fights the demons of his youth. In this story, he confronts a young man who reminds him much of his younger self. He attempts to show the young tough what kind of life he is heading for if he doesn't change his ways. Next is THE CHRISTMAS STRANGER by Linda Broday. This is a side story to her MEN OF LEGEND series and contains the same sense of time and place. I have read this series and highly recommend it. A man with no future and no place to go gets trapped in a blizzard. He is found by a woman from the Legend ranch and brought there to recover. A good man has been wronged, a lonely woman finds hope, an old woman regains something lost, and a crime will finally be punished.
A TEXAS RANGER FOR CHRISTMAS by Margaret Brownley. Can a Texas Ranger with no initial interest in settling down and a young widow with
an infant make a future together when she doesn't like or trust the call to duty all Texas Rangers feel. She has no desire to be left alone again.
A CHRISTMAS BABY by Anna Schmidt. A marriage her parents do not approve of and a baby on the way have a young couple facing rejection and prejudice. Not everyone is against them, but that doesn't stop the hurt of rejection. As the future looks brighter a near tragedy and small Christmas miracle help set things right.
A CHRISTMAS REUNION by Amy Sanders. The new doctor in a remote Wyoming Territory town is kidnapped by outlaws to tend to one of their gang who has been shot. What he discovers at the hide-out is a surprise from his past.
This book is a strong 4.5 stars.
Next is A CHICK-A-DEE CHRISTMAS by Rosanne Bittner. This story is an epilogue to the Outlaw Hearts series. This family has known tragedy, hard times, and worked hard for the good they have in their lives. The main character started out as a ruthless killer, reformed, and was a lawman. He is now a husband, father, and grandfather, but still fights the demons of his youth. In this story, he confronts a young man who reminds him much of his younger self. He attempts to show the young tough what kind of life he is heading for if he doesn't change his ways. Next is THE CHRISTMAS STRANGER by Linda Broday. This is a side story to her MEN OF LEGEND series and contains the same sense of time and place. I have read this series and highly recommend it. A man with no future and no place to go gets trapped in a blizzard. He is found by a woman from the Legend ranch and brought there to recover. A good man has been wronged, a lonely woman finds hope, an old woman regains something lost, and a crime will finally be punished.
A TEXAS RANGER FOR CHRISTMAS by Margaret Brownley. Can a Texas Ranger with no initial interest in settling down and a young widow with
an infant make a future together when she doesn't like or trust the call to duty all Texas Rangers feel. She has no desire to be left alone again.
A CHRISTMAS BABY by Anna Schmidt. A marriage her parents do not approve of and a baby on the way have a young couple facing rejection and prejudice. Not everyone is against them, but that doesn't stop the hurt of rejection. As the future looks brighter a near tragedy and small Christmas miracle help set things right.
A CHRISTMAS REUNION by Amy Sanders. The new doctor in a remote Wyoming Territory town is kidnapped by outlaws to tend to one of their gang who has been shot. What he discovers at the hide-out is a surprise from his past.
This book is a strong 4.5 stars.
December 7, 2017
All six novellas in Christmas in a Cowboy’s Arms are enchanting and perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit. Every time I finished a story, I would say it was my favorite, until I realized all of them were my favorite. While they all take place in the late 1800s, each one is unique and will cast a heartwarming, amorous spell on you. A word of caution: the shortness of the stories means attraction, passion, and all things romantic are whirlwind. No time to waste!
The best part about this Christmas collection is that each story has the central themes of family, trust, forgiveness, and second chances. I thoroughly enjoyed all six novellas, but I will admit that I shed a tear or two at the end of A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt.
Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood: Sometimes when you go looking for gold as payment for a betrayal, you find something much more valuable instead.
A Chick-a-Dee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner: Nothing and no one had better come between a grandpa and his family, because no matter how long it’s been, you can bet your bottom dollar grandpa hasn’t lost his gun slinging skills.
The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday: That strong-willed, independent woman who just saved your life is about to steal your heart as well.
A Texas Ranger for Christmas by Margaret Brownley: Sometimes when you ride up to deliver bad news to a widow, you discover the family you never knew you wanted or needed.
A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt: There is no place for prejudice and hardheartedness at any time of the year, especially at Christmas and a baby’s birth.
A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas: True love will always find a way, even if it takes years, miles, and sabotage.
The best part about this Christmas collection is that each story has the central themes of family, trust, forgiveness, and second chances. I thoroughly enjoyed all six novellas, but I will admit that I shed a tear or two at the end of A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt.
Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood: Sometimes when you go looking for gold as payment for a betrayal, you find something much more valuable instead.
A Chick-a-Dee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner: Nothing and no one had better come between a grandpa and his family, because no matter how long it’s been, you can bet your bottom dollar grandpa hasn’t lost his gun slinging skills.
The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday: That strong-willed, independent woman who just saved your life is about to steal your heart as well.
A Texas Ranger for Christmas by Margaret Brownley: Sometimes when you ride up to deliver bad news to a widow, you discover the family you never knew you wanted or needed.
A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt: There is no place for prejudice and hardheartedness at any time of the year, especially at Christmas and a baby’s birth.
A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas: True love will always find a way, even if it takes years, miles, and sabotage.
February 23, 2022
I received this book as an advanced reader’s copy.
There are 6 stories/novellas included in this collection. Leigh Greenwood’s “Father Christmas” is the strongest and longest. The characters have more chance to evolve. Joe Ryan finds his old partner’s widow and daughter at their dirt poor, neglected farm. That partner stole gold, and Joe did time for the theft. Now he’s trying to find the gold and restore his good name.
The others are: RoseAnne Bittner’s “A Chick-a-dee Christmas,” an Outlaw Hearts novella; Linda Broday’s “The Christmas Stranger,” a Men of Legend novella; Margaret Brownley’s “A Texas Ranger for Christmas”; Anna Schmidt’s “A Christmas Baby,” a Last Chance Cowboys novella; and Amy Sandas’ “A Christmas Reunion,” A Christmas Reunion,” a Runaway Brides novella.
They all have happy endings. They share the warm holiday tone. Most romance readers will enjoy the stories and find them comfortable and comforting, but they won’t be favorites to remember. Fans of the series will enjoy the extra view of their characters.
Readalikes:
Jodi Thomas – The Cowboy Who Saved Christmas; Karen Witemeyer – Under the Texas Mistletoe; Diana Palmer – Christmas Kisses with My Cowboy; Linda Broday – A Cowboy of Legend; Cheryl St. John – Western Winter Wedding Bells; June Faver – The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever; Carolyn Brown – Billion Dollar Cowboy; Donna Grant – The Christmas Cowboy Hero; Katee Robert – Wild Cowboy Nights.
Pace: Moderately paced
Characters: Uneven, mostly likeable
Storyline: Plot-driven
Writing style: Engaging
Tone: Mostly upbeat, some suspense
Frame: Western territories; 1870’s – 1890’s
Themes: Second chance at love
There are 6 stories/novellas included in this collection. Leigh Greenwood’s “Father Christmas” is the strongest and longest. The characters have more chance to evolve. Joe Ryan finds his old partner’s widow and daughter at their dirt poor, neglected farm. That partner stole gold, and Joe did time for the theft. Now he’s trying to find the gold and restore his good name.
The others are: RoseAnne Bittner’s “A Chick-a-dee Christmas,” an Outlaw Hearts novella; Linda Broday’s “The Christmas Stranger,” a Men of Legend novella; Margaret Brownley’s “A Texas Ranger for Christmas”; Anna Schmidt’s “A Christmas Baby,” a Last Chance Cowboys novella; and Amy Sandas’ “A Christmas Reunion,” A Christmas Reunion,” a Runaway Brides novella.
They all have happy endings. They share the warm holiday tone. Most romance readers will enjoy the stories and find them comfortable and comforting, but they won’t be favorites to remember. Fans of the series will enjoy the extra view of their characters.
Readalikes:
Jodi Thomas – The Cowboy Who Saved Christmas; Karen Witemeyer – Under the Texas Mistletoe; Diana Palmer – Christmas Kisses with My Cowboy; Linda Broday – A Cowboy of Legend; Cheryl St. John – Western Winter Wedding Bells; June Faver – The Best Cowboy Christmas Ever; Carolyn Brown – Billion Dollar Cowboy; Donna Grant – The Christmas Cowboy Hero; Katee Robert – Wild Cowboy Nights.
Pace: Moderately paced
Characters: Uneven, mostly likeable
Storyline: Plot-driven
Writing style: Engaging
Tone: Mostly upbeat, some suspense
Frame: Western territories; 1870’s – 1890’s
Themes: Second chance at love
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