An Improper Proposal

Front Range Brides #1

by Davalynn Spencer

Sweet Historical Western Romance
An Improper Proposal – First in the Front Range Brides collection of stories about strong women who find and defend love in 1880s Colorado.


Love hadn’t brought her to Colorado, but it might be the one thing that keeps her there.


Mail order bride Mae Ann Remington won’t let circumstances get in her way. When someone else’s greed costs her everything—including her groom—she does the only thing she can in a new town with no money or friends. She asks a stranger to marry her.


Cattleman Cade Parker stops at the bank to withdraw cash for his sister, not find himself a wife. But that’s exactly what happens after a bank robbery leaves a farmer dead and his headstrong bride-to-be making a desperate business proposition.


Convinced he’s gone loco, Cade accepts the spirited young woman’s offer, and they stop by the church before heading to the ranch, his horses, and the herd. He’s soon adding to Mae Ann’s fine cooking skills by teaching her to ride, shoot, and do what he tells her. She manages the first two fairly well, but gets her back up at the third.


Cade struggles to keep his emotional distance from the stubborn gal whose gentle ways start drawing him in. But when a greedy neighbor challenges Mae Ann’s inheritance of her former intended’s run-down farm, Cade and Mae Ann drive to court at the county seat and into the jaws of a deadly storm. Not only must Cade fight to keep his new bride safe, he’s got to keep his heart from stampeding out of control.


Taking on snakes, scoundrels, and second chances is one thing, but falling in love wasn’t part of the deal.

Genres: Romance, Historical Romance, Fiction, Marriage Of Convenience, Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Westerns

278 pages, ebook

First published January 1, 2017

About the author

Cowboys. Gotta love 'em, right? That's why I write about them and their sweethearts, whether they live in 1800s Colorado or on a modern California ranch. My personal background in rodeo journalism helps me add a bit of cowboy reality to those stories.

My contemporary books are often found under Davalynn C. Spencer.

The Rocky Mountains offer rich settings for my historical novels, from actual cities with Wild West history to fictional towns tucked into the fold where granite ramparts meet grassy plains.

I've collected three "Bestseller" labels for novellas in Barbour collections, two Will Rogers Gold Medallions for Western Inspirational Fiction, and an international first-place award for my historical romance series, "Front Range Brides."

For information on my cowboy brides - whether runaway or mail-order - sign up for my quarterly newsletter at https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor....

Connect with me at http://www.davalynnspencer.com and http://www.Facebook.com/AuthorDavalyn.... And for a visual peek at what I'm thinking when I write, check out the images collected at https://pinterest.com/davalynnspencer....

Reviews

[Davalynn Spencer]

Thank you all for your reviews! This story is one of my "heart-stories" because I fell in love with Mae Ann and her plight. I'm so glad you all enjoy reading inspirational Western romance!

[NancyC · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book by Davalynn Spencer that I have read, and I will definitely be reading more by her. The book immediately hooked me and kept me reading. The main characters are strong, well drawn and with a few flaws, as we all are. They are changed by their circumstances as the story goes along. The setting was well described, helping me see their surroundings and feel that I was there. The only minor thing in the story, for me, was that the antagonist wasn't fully developed. He was, well, just a bad man. I was hoping for a better end for him but his story was just dropped. As I said, it's only a minor quibble, not enough for me to knock off a star.

[The Flipped Page (Susan K) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Romance, clean, period
This was a fun read. Definitely some misunderstandings between the two characters, but lovely, honest chemistry and attraction. Bit of suspense with the criminal element.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.75 stars.

Sweet and clean, with nice historical details, I enjoyed this story quite a bit. The beginning really catches your attention straight away, and the story did a fair job of keeping my attention until the end. However, I do think that this should've been a novella length work as the conflict and angst between the MCs could've been solved with literally one honest conversation. As it was written, the story itself felt a little drawn out. The lack of meaningful communication was a bit frustrating, and the ending also felt a bit rushed. Overall a decent read.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5.0

This sharp-witted romance has the power to take modern readers and allow them to believe for a moment they are in 1880, though some of the dialogue still holds a modernistic twang.

Read full review in the 2018 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Kitcatscratch · Rating 2 out of 5]

I confess I love westerns. All types of western books. And what's better than western historical romance? I also read a WIDE range of books from extremely graphic to Christian, from sci-fi/horror to romance. I didn't realize going in to this story that it had a strong Christian element which is totally ok with me. Just surprised me.

I think the author has potential and I admit that I found the first 50% truly amusing and enjoyable. But the last half started to lose me. The h was very stubborn about the strangest things like her safety or rather, her constant risking her safety (!).

I think if you want clean and light then this is the book for you. If you're looking for a little more substance then I'd recommend Maggie Osborne's Silver Lining or The Promise of Jenny Jones. Or actually anything by author Ellen O'Connell. HOWEVER one caveat to those recommended is that there IS violence and at times there are some graphic (but short) intimate scenes. Still, if you like a more gritty western historical romance (warning that they are not Christian themed though), I'd definitely rec them.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Improper Proposal (2017) by Davalynn Spencer is the first book in her Fort Range Bride series. This book comes in all forms including eBook, and is 278 pages in length. With a full-time job and a very busy five-year old, this novel took me four days to read. I received a review copy in eBook form from the author through the BookCrash book review group. In no way has this influenced my opinion of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own. I give this book 5 STARS. An Improper Proposal is a Christian Historical Romance set in Colorado in 1880.

An Improper Proposal is a fantastic read! It has everything a girl wants in a great romance. It’s well-written, the characters are endearing, and the romance builds sweetly. There is quite a bit of tension; not just between the main characters as they are working towards a real romantic entanglement, but also from the villain. The villain is so well written that with each page turned the tension mounts higher and higher. As the reader, I knew the villain would eventually strike, but so much was built up that when he did my heart jumped into my throat! Man, this book is a page-turner!!!

My most favorite character in this story is Cade. He is a perfectly written hero. He is SO kindhearted, strong, and assertive. He is a man’s man capable of almost singlehandedly caring for his cattle ranch. And he has a protective streak a mile wide. His need to safeguard Mae Ann from the very first chapter is endearing. But, my most favorite aspect to his character is his ability to allow Mae Ann to be the woman she is. He never tries to change her to fit what he thinks is the appropriate rancher’s wife. He never makes her feel badly when she doesn’t know something. He just patiently teaches her what she needs to know. And, when Mae Ann is in one of her stubborn streaks, he allows her the independence she wants even when he is worried that independence may get her into a sticky situation. He never tries to control her. Cade sees Mae Ann as a strong, responsible, capable woman and he completely respects her. Oh yeah, and the kisses are pretty darn awesome! Overall, I would rate Cade a pretty swoon-worthy hero.

I really enjoyed reading this story, and I am sad to see my time with Cade and Mae Ann over. But, I am thrilled that book 2, An Unexpected Redemption, releases on April 26, 2018. If you are looking for an excellently written, fast-paced, and highly engaging Christian Historical Western then I highly recommend An Improper Proposal.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by this author, but it won't be my last. It is a delightful mail order bride story with a twist. I thoroughly enjoyed following Mae Ann and Cade's journey from a most unusual start as man and wife to discovering their love for each. I was pulled in from the first pages and the story line kept me reading to see what was going to happen next. I was given a copy of this book, but a positive review was not required. The opinions expressed are my own, and this is a wonderful story that I certainly recommend. I will be definitely be reading more by this author

[Clare Revell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book was a sheer delight. Cade and Mae Ann have very little in common, apart from both being in the wrong place at the wrong time. A marriage in name only, of convenience seems the way to go, but neither of them reckon on how things will turn out. I loved the descriptions that not just set the scene but immerse the reader in the story itself.
A real page turner, this one kept me reading and reading. Definitely one to read again.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Kelly Tyree · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed An Improper Proposal. It is about Mae Ann Remington who comes to Colorado to be a mail order bride. Her intended is shot in a bank robbery and is killed. Mae Ann has no family and no money.

Cade Parker is in the bank when it is robbed. He helps Mae Ann get her intended to the undertaker and asks Mae Ann if she needs anything. She makes him a proposal that the two get married and that she can help him around the house and he can provide safety and a home for her.

As the days go by, Mae Ann makes the ranch a home. She is able to slowly break down the walls Cade has built around his heart. When Mae Ann has a property dispute with a dangerous cattleman, Cade vows to protect her. Even if it means sending her back to Missouri. Easier said then done when she holds his heart in her hand.

This book is a nice western romance that just feels good to read. The characters are likeable and you find yourself rooting for them to realize how much they care for one another. When both seek God, they find the answers they are looking for. What a great lesson behind this book. Well written and very enjoyable.

[Kremena Koleva · Rating 3 out of 5]

Толкова боли когато думата компромис води след себе си думата разочарование!А очакването на личното ни щастие се бори с задълженията и оттоварността ни .

* " Какво попречи на човек да каже нещата, които искаше, или го подтикна да върви срещу сърцето си по даден въпрос? "

[Rita · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love to read mail order bride type stories and this one had a twist to it right at the start! This was a nice western romance and enjoyed seeing how Cade and Mae Ann come to fall in love. I will be adding more of Davalynn's books to my to read list. I received this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Kella · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ya’ll better hold on to your cowboy hats because Davalynn Spencer is about to take you on the ride of your life in her latest Western novel!

An Improper Proposal lassoed my attention from the very first paragraph. I really enjoyed meeting Cade with his charming smiles and fierce protectiveness, and Mae Ann with her quiet determination and strength. This is my first read of Davalynn’s works, but I’m quite confident to say I will be adding her previous novels to my TBR list. I’m intrigued to see where Davalynn takes her readers next in the Front Range Bride series and already itchy with anticipation for book two. 🙂

I was graciously provided a free copy of this novel from Davalynn Spencer in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun book! So many unexpected things happen in this Wild West Romance, it will keep you turning pages as quickly as possible. The characters are well developed and believable; as is the situation Mae Ann and Cade find themselves in given the time in which they “lived”.

Author Davalynn Spencer hooked me right at the beginning. There is a lot to enjoy in this warm and witty book and I recommend it. I’m eagerly awaiting Book 2!

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Strong characters, desperate circumstances, and a gentle romance pave the way for a western adventure readers are sure to love in Spencer's first offering of the Front Range Brides series! When Mae Ann Remington answers a mail order bride ad after her mother's death, her hopes are settled on the prospect of a home and a secure future. However, when her fiance is killed in a bank robbery before they can say " I do," she is left with no money, no home, no family, and no future. With nothing to lose- and a husband to gain- Mae Ann boldly proposes a "business arrangement" with the handsome hero at the bank, Cade Parker. After Cade agrees, the two set off straight to the preacher to tie the knot. Together, they try to make the best of an unexpected situation and eventually fall into a steady daily cadence running their ranch as "husband and wife". In time, however, both of their feelings develop into something deeper without each knowing how the other feels. As they fight for the land Mae Ann's intended groom left her and her stubborn ways put her in danger, Cade realizes he must share what's in his heart before he loses her.

Spencer offers a heartwarming romance laced with savvy wit and unforgettable characters. Sensing their attraction from the beginning despite the unusual circumstances, Cade and Mae Ann's change of heart shifts subtley as during their day-to-day life together their attraction builds into affection and mutual respect which then blooms into love. I loved Spencer's choice of characters and the traits each possessed. Cade embodies the Western hero- he's brave, strong in both character and brute, and he will do anything to protect his woman. Mae Ann is not a fainting flower- she's strong, resilient and independent yet wholly feminine and soft offering the men of the house the gentle touches only a woman can provide that makes life a little more bearable and a house a home. And Deacon- oh, my I loved this old coot! Especially how he straightens up and seems totally smitten in Mae Ann's presence! An Improper Proposal deserves not just an INSPY in my opinion, but I can totally see it playing out as a Hallmark movie, too! Great read!

This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I was offered a complimentary copy of this book from the author.

[Glenda Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review today is on the Western Romance, An Improper Proposal. I was sent this book to read, I wasn't told I had to review it. I have to tell you I really enjoyed this book; it's well written, humorous, and heart warming. All in all it's delightful. I know you are going to love this one. She has also interwoven her faith thought the story, I always like that.

Mae Ann Remington came to Olin Springs to marry a farmer, Henry Reiker. They had corresponded for several months and then he had sent her the money. Mae Ann had no family and nothing left for her in Missouri. On the way to the church to get married Henry wanted to stop at the bank. Two bank robbers came in and stole money from the bank and stole her reticule from Mae Ann and shot Henry. A strange man told the thieves that the sheriff was coming so they ran out the back door. The stranger helped her with Henry. At the undertakers Mae Ann asked the stranger if he is married and then asked him to marry her.

Cade Parker couldn't believe it when Henry was shot. He had heard; everyone had heard about his mail order bride. Henry was so excited. Now the bride was left penniless. Mae Ann shocked him when the beautiful woman offered him a business arrangement. If he would marry her then she would care for his house, feed him, and do the chores. If he didn't find her pleasing they could live their marriage in name only. Cade accepted the arrangement but soon found he had a lot more woman than he had bargained for.

A journey of two strangers trying to make a bad situation right. A struggle of trying to keep their vows and not break them as love grows between them. God has a plan for these two, a good plan and not for evil. God has a plan for you too. Surrender your heart to Him and watch Him turn your life around.

[Carmen · Rating 1 out of 5]

I read the sample and found the story promising. However, I was really disappointed by the time I was halfway through the book. This is a Christian book, something I didn't know when I bought it but I have read Christian books before and I didn't think that was going to affect the story in any way. That being said, it did. It felt preachy and a bit tedious, which was a shame. Then the romance aspect was hard to understand. He fell in love with her because she was there and she could cook and wasn't a snob. While, she fell in love with him because he provided her with a house and security. It is hard to call that love. There was little mention of their personalities and personal attributes that made them care for each other. The story also didn't have a proper conclusion. They just confessed they cared for each other and that was it. While the start was original, the story lost itself pretty soon. The conflicts were superficial and due to their pride and inability to try and communicate with each other. They both held onto their pride and refused to discuss anything or try to understand each other's point of view. I didn't hate the book, but I didn't like it and it felt like a waste of money and time. I skimmed the last one third of the book.

Their inability to consider that other people could have a better solution to a problem than them was the main antagonist of the story. I wished they had learned to see this point of view by the end of the book. She never learned to listen to others and maybe take their opinions into consideration. I have no problems with a book that tries to teach me some type of moral value, however this book was not one of those.

[Barbara Lee Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

MAIL ORDER BRIDES

Mae Ann Remington a mail order bride who left St. Louis, Missouri to marry Henry Reiker who was killed in a bank robbery. Now the poor soul has no money or any home to go back to. Mae Ann is in a hard place but she ways her situation as many women do, she asked Cade Parker an unmarried rancher if he would marry her, as a business arrangement, she would clean, cook and in return for a place to live and food to eat. Well Cade Parker agreed to this of marriage, but who knows how it will turn out.
Lots of mail order brides, didn't fair to well with these types of marriages, but you do what you have to do to survive your circumstances. I'm not mad at her..and once you read this part of western history, you'll understand. This adventure Isn't all sadness but there are parts that will have you smiling or a quick giggle. It's a pleasurable peek at frontier living. You know your closest neighbor might be twenty miles away. Possible medical care might be a hundred miles from where you live...rough, rough....

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Davalynn Spencer is a new author to me and she writes westerns. I have been looking for an author like her for a long time.
An Improper Proposal is the first book in the series Front Range Brides
I love books about mail order brides and cowboys. This book has both!!
This mail order bride, Mae Ann, plans didn't quite work out the way she and Henry had planned.
The first paragraph starts out with a bang and I was hooked.
Davalynn book is so beautifully written that I felt like I was there in the book. I love a book that makes me smile and I smiled a lot with this book.
If you like books with a great hero/cowboy and outlaws, mail order bride and a little suspense. Plus the love of our Lord was woven throughout this western.
Then An Improper Proposal is the book for you. I'm so looking forward to the second book in this series. I will also be buying the rest of her books she has written.
I will be reading this book again!
I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own and I gave my honest opinion.

[Lillie Meland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good fast read

Because I enjoyed the book from cover to cover my type of fun reading. It keeps suspended but also romance going through out the book. I loved every minute of room to read it. I also want to read book 2

[Tammy Rolle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bride to be widow

Mae Ann's husband to be is killed during a bank robbery jut before their wedding. Cade Parker comes to her rescue. Trying to deal with Henry's sudden demise, Mae Ann struggles to find a solution to finding herself alone in a strange place with no means of support. Desperate, she purposes a business arrangement. She offers Cade a marriage of convenience in return for a home and security. At the end of a day filled with chaos, Cade finds himself headed for home with a new bride. Now if they can just find a way to meet each other half. way.
I look forward to reading more of this author' s work.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read from this author and it was beautiful. I’m excited to see she has other books available to read. I really enjoyed this sweet inspirational tale set in the old west. The plot was interesting and I found the love that developed between Cade and Mae Ann realistic, respectful and heartwarming. Their love was not based on appearances and although their marriage started as a business arrangement they realized God had brought them together through unusual and difficult circumstances. The book is well written, clean and engaging.

[Marie Pinkham · Rating 5 out of 5]

First comes marriage, then comes love?

Mae Ann and Cade's story of learning to trust and love after a marriage of convenience was tender and heartwarming. Mae Ann shows courage and tenacity, while Cade finds himself with a slowly thawing heart as the two work together to try to forge a bond that began out of necessity. Another wonderful story (one of my favorites) from Davalynn Spencer.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Improper Proposal was a sweet read straight from the author's heart. From the very first page I felt invested in the lives of these characters. I wanted to know and feel their story. The end was not predictable. There were a lot of wonderful surprises along the way. This story was an easy read in that it was so loveable and enjoyable. Please get this book if you don't have it already. You will be happy you did!

I was given a free copy of this book for a true and honest review.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner from my favorite local Colorado author, Davalynn Spencer. Great character development and a heartwarming story and set of circumstances. Beautiful historical novel with loads of period information. Suspense, romance and even a lovable dog who helps save the day. You won't be disappointed with any of Davalynn's books, and this one is great.

[S Unknown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful Romance!

I loved this historical western romance with Cade and Mae Ann! The very beginning of this book pulled me into the story and I couldn't stop reading it. I also loved Deacon , his character really added to the story. I can't wait for book two in the series. I look forward to reading to reading more books by Davalynn Spencer.

[Niki Farkas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

I just loved this story! So romantic! I felt the writing flowed beautifully, and I just really cared for the characters. I loved Cade and just everything about this story. I have become a fan of Ms. Spencer's writing and can't wait her other books.

[Dorothy Labbe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book I read the whole book in one day .I couldn't put it down.

[Lenora Siblal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful

I choose this rating because I enjoyed this book so much I loved the characters the setting and the times

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a cute, clean, vaguely Christian twist on a mail order bride story. I would like to read more by this author.