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Marietta St Claire's #3
His Christmas Bride
Lucas lives in New York, but he's always loved Marietta. When he gets engaged, he decides Montana is exactly the place to get married. Tanner Ranch brings back happy memories of horseback riding and summer nights under the stars making it the perfect place to hold his wedding. However, Erin Tanner walks back into his life and other memories start to make him doubt whether he's chosen the right bride.
Erin Tanner is content to live a simple life in Marietta, helping her dad run the family ranch. However, things haven't been easy for the Tanners. With their ranch in financial trouble and in desperate need of repair, Erin knows she needs to do something. And fast... Even if that means saying goodbye to any hopes of a romantic future with Lucas St. Claire by hosting his wedding at the Tanner Ranch.
While Lucas struggles with his feelings, Erin tries to move past hers and accept that Lucas isn't part of her future. But the connection they felt years ago pulls them toward one another, and Lucas is forced to face the truth of what he really wants in life.
Erin Tanner is content to live a simple life in Marietta, helping her dad run the family ranch. However, things haven't been easy for the Tanners. With their ranch in financial trouble and in desperate need of repair, Erin knows she needs to do something. And fast... Even if that means saying goodbye to any hopes of a romantic future with Lucas St. Claire by hosting his wedding at the Tanner Ranch.
While Lucas struggles with his feelings, Erin tries to move past hers and accept that Lucas isn't part of her future. But the connection they felt years ago pulls them toward one another, and Lucas is forced to face the truth of what he really wants in life.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 30, 2017
1352 people are currently reading
544 people want to read
About the author
Lara Van Hulzen
20 books436 followersI write books. I read almost all genres. I love sports, tea, books, and cookies. My faves are my Great Dane, my husband, & my 3 kids. (Not always in that order. :)
I'm an author with Tule Publishing. I am all about people and I love character driven stories. I love history and am a curious person who consistently wants to learn. I can't remember a time in my life where I wasn't writing or reading. I had journals as soon as I could write words. And I would get lost in books for hours as a kid. Stories and writing are how I process the world around me, what I see and experience as well as what I learn. I could talk books for hours and am happy to do so with anyone. I also love to sip tea and watch baseball.
"You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me." - C.S. Lewis
Happy Reading Everyone!
I'm an author with Tule Publishing. I am all about people and I love character driven stories. I love history and am a curious person who consistently wants to learn. I can't remember a time in my life where I wasn't writing or reading. I had journals as soon as I could write words. And I would get lost in books for hours as a kid. Stories and writing are how I process the world around me, what I see and experience as well as what I learn. I could talk books for hours and am happy to do so with anyone. I also love to sip tea and watch baseball.
"You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me." - C.S. Lewis
Happy Reading Everyone!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
October 30, 2017
This is another story about the St Claire siblings, this time with the focus on the third son, Lucas. As a child and teen, Lucas loved their family stays in Marietta, especially his visits to the Tanner ranch where he used to go horse riding and helping out. His best friend in those days was Erin Tanner, the daughter of the ranch owner, who was a year younger than him. He hasn't an her since he went off to college and now he's returning to organise and plan his wedding to Vanessa. When Vanessa spots the ranch she wants to get married there. However, meeting Erin again brings back the dreams Lucas had of working on a ranch and outdoors, rather than endeavouring to follow his older brothers into the family business, which is what he has done. As he reevaluates his choices, the wedding plans continue..... but is he marrying the right bride?
This is a heart warming second chance romance with great characters, a superb setting and plenty of turmoil en route. Losing sight of your dreams whilst striving to fulfill what you assume others expect you to do is never the road to achieving your happy ever after, but realising it is hard to do. Erin has never lost sight of who she loves. She has accepted her dreams won't come true but has continued to be stalwart and a friend. As Lucas and Erin reconnect, Vanessa shows her real motivations and life is a tangle of threads slowly being sorted. This is an engaging story and lovely festive read.
I requested and received a copy of this novel, via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
This is a heart warming second chance romance with great characters, a superb setting and plenty of turmoil en route. Losing sight of your dreams whilst striving to fulfill what you assume others expect you to do is never the road to achieving your happy ever after, but realising it is hard to do. Erin has never lost sight of who she loves. She has accepted her dreams won't come true but has continued to be stalwart and a friend. As Lucas and Erin reconnect, Vanessa shows her real motivations and life is a tangle of threads slowly being sorted. This is an engaging story and lovely festive read.
I requested and received a copy of this novel, via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
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Blurb:
Lucas lives in New York, but he's always loved Marietta. When he gets engaged, he decides Montana is exactly the place to get married. Tanner Ranch brings back happy memories of horseback riding and summer nights under the stars making it the perfect place to hold his wedding. However, Erin Tanner walks back into his life and other memories start to make him doubt whether he's chosen the right bride.
Erin Tanner is content to live a simple life in Marietta, helping her dad run the family ranch. However, things haven't been easy for the Tanners. With their ranch in financial trouble and in desperate need of repair, Erin knows she needs to do something. And fast... Even if that means saying goodbye to any hopes of a romantic future with Lucas St. Claire by hosting his wedding at the Tanner Ranch.
While Lucas struggles with his feelings, Erin tries to move past hers and accept that Lucas isn't part of her future. But the connection they felt years ago pulls them toward one another, and Lucas is forced to face the truth of what he really wants in life.
Blurb:
Lucas lives in New York, but he's always loved Marietta. When he gets engaged, he decides Montana is exactly the place to get married. Tanner Ranch brings back happy memories of horseback riding and summer nights under the stars making it the perfect place to hold his wedding. However, Erin Tanner walks back into his life and other memories start to make him doubt whether he's chosen the right bride.
Erin Tanner is content to live a simple life in Marietta, helping her dad run the family ranch. However, things haven't been easy for the Tanners. With their ranch in financial trouble and in desperate need of repair, Erin knows she needs to do something. And fast... Even if that means saying goodbye to any hopes of a romantic future with Lucas St. Claire by hosting his wedding at the Tanner Ranch.
While Lucas struggles with his feelings, Erin tries to move past hers and accept that Lucas isn't part of her future. But the connection they felt years ago pulls them toward one another, and Lucas is forced to face the truth of what he really wants in life.
October 30, 2017
Lucas wants to get married in Marietta. His bride-to-be, Vanessa, is a city girl, but she wants to give Lucas his countryside wedding. She's even found the perfect location, the Tanner ranch, Erin's home and business. Erin and Lucas used to be good friends and Lucas is the one for Erin. She's loved him ever since she was a teenager. Seeing him with someone else is a huge blow. However, Lucas isn't completely immune when it comes to Erin either. What will he do, is he going to ignore his feelings for the girl he used to dream about when he was a teenager and marry Vanessa or are his feelings for Erin too strong?
His Christmas Bride is a terrific festive story. I love reading about weddings and Christmas is such a romantic time to get married. Lucas might not have chosen the right woman though and I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough to find out if he'd go through with his intended wedding or not. It's clear from the start that Erin is perfect for him and I was hoping he'd discover the true nature of his feelings. The question is if he'll see sense in time and this kept me on the edge of my seat.
Lara Van Hulzen has chosen a fantastic setting for her Christmas story, a beautiful ranch that could use some work. I liked how Erin loves her family home and how hard she works to keep it going. It gives the story an interesting and irresistible angle. His Christmas Bride is a story about money versus no money. In love money shouldn't play a role though and I loved the message Lara Van Hulzen gives her readers. His Christmas Bride is a wonderful story filled with beautiful romance, countryside charm and plenty of surprises.
His Christmas Bride is a terrific festive story. I love reading about weddings and Christmas is such a romantic time to get married. Lucas might not have chosen the right woman though and I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough to find out if he'd go through with his intended wedding or not. It's clear from the start that Erin is perfect for him and I was hoping he'd discover the true nature of his feelings. The question is if he'll see sense in time and this kept me on the edge of my seat.
Lara Van Hulzen has chosen a fantastic setting for her Christmas story, a beautiful ranch that could use some work. I liked how Erin loves her family home and how hard she works to keep it going. It gives the story an interesting and irresistible angle. His Christmas Bride is a story about money versus no money. In love money shouldn't play a role though and I loved the message Lara Van Hulzen gives her readers. His Christmas Bride is a wonderful story filled with beautiful romance, countryside charm and plenty of surprises.
November 21, 2017
Review written: November 21, 2017
Star Rating: ★★½☆☆
Heat Rating: ☀☀☼☼☼
An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.
The only thing I can say about Lucas is he's an idiot. He spends all his time trying to be someone he thinks his family wants him to be and for no reason whatsoever since his family neither wants him to be that/do that not are they particularly happy with his choices. No matter how hard I tried, I could not feel anything for him. He was completely blind and oblivious to the obvious.
Erin was a little better. I could understand her choices and I could understand why she wasn't fighting like crazy to make something happen. Lucas had never given her any reason to think he was interested in her. No point in pursuing that. I felt bad for Erin; she was doing her best in a bad situation.
I enjoyed seeing some of the Marietta mainstays, but overall His Christmas Bride did not have the usual Marietta vibe and it failed to integrate well into the larger set of stories. Mostly, it just fell flat. Even the grand gesture felt off; I suspect because Lucas just never worked for me. Overall, disappointing, but not a disaster.
This review is ©November 2017 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.
Star Rating: ★★½☆☆
Heat Rating: ☀☀☼☼☼
An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.
The only thing I can say about Lucas is he's an idiot. He spends all his time trying to be someone he thinks his family wants him to be and for no reason whatsoever since his family neither wants him to be that/do that not are they particularly happy with his choices. No matter how hard I tried, I could not feel anything for him. He was completely blind and oblivious to the obvious.
Erin was a little better. I could understand her choices and I could understand why she wasn't fighting like crazy to make something happen. Lucas had never given her any reason to think he was interested in her. No point in pursuing that. I felt bad for Erin; she was doing her best in a bad situation.
I enjoyed seeing some of the Marietta mainstays, but overall His Christmas Bride did not have the usual Marietta vibe and it failed to integrate well into the larger set of stories. Mostly, it just fell flat. Even the grand gesture felt off; I suspect because Lucas just never worked for me. Overall, disappointing, but not a disaster.
This review is ©November 2017 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.
December 19, 2017
I have one last Christmas themed book for you this week!
Lucas is a character you will be completely frustrated with. I was! He is trying to live up to what he thinks his family expects of him and he is slow in coming around to his own true desires. What is plain as day to us as readers, and to many of the characters in this book, is not what is obvious to Lucas. Silly man.
Erin, on the other hand, knows what she wants right from the very beginning. I enjoyed how the flashbacks and backstory filled in the blanks as I read. I got a very clear picture of Erin and her dreams and personality. I really loved Erin.
This is a sweet, gentle love story. It progressed slowly but I was never bored or discontent. The secondary characters really helped this story feel well rounded and familial. I loved the ending. So sweet.
This is the third book in this series but it can be read as a stand alone. Characters from previous books are in this book so you would appreciate them more if you do read in order, but you don't have to.
Content: mild swearing throughout, kissing
- I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley at my request. All opinions expressed are my own.
Lucas is a character you will be completely frustrated with. I was! He is trying to live up to what he thinks his family expects of him and he is slow in coming around to his own true desires. What is plain as day to us as readers, and to many of the characters in this book, is not what is obvious to Lucas. Silly man.
Erin, on the other hand, knows what she wants right from the very beginning. I enjoyed how the flashbacks and backstory filled in the blanks as I read. I got a very clear picture of Erin and her dreams and personality. I really loved Erin.
This is a sweet, gentle love story. It progressed slowly but I was never bored or discontent. The secondary characters really helped this story feel well rounded and familial. I loved the ending. So sweet.
This is the third book in this series but it can be read as a stand alone. Characters from previous books are in this book so you would appreciate them more if you do read in order, but you don't have to.
Content: mild swearing throughout, kissing
- I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley at my request. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 6, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up
Went in blind, enjoyed it, it was sweet. I did think that Lucas was a bit of an idiot more than once, friend zoning her twice. It was low angst and low drama
I wasn’t expecting a clean read but it didn’t bother me. What did was the 91% of the book for Lucas to pull his head out of his a$$ it all ended a bit abruptly
Went in blind, enjoyed it, it was sweet. I did think that Lucas was a bit of an idiot more than once, friend zoning her twice. It was low angst and low drama
I wasn’t expecting a clean read but it didn’t bother me. What did was the 91% of the book for Lucas to pull his head out of his a$$ it all ended a bit abruptly
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2018
This was a sweet, clean read, much like those ION Television holiday productions. Well-written, but a bit predictable.
November 24, 2017
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
His Christmas Bride is an emotional journey for Lucas and Erin… and even Vanessa. Lucas has gone off to New York to work in the family business not because it’s his passion but because it’s what he believes is expected of him. If he had made his heart’s choice he would have taken on a ranch in Marietta, Montana and been happy for the rest of his life. But he made a decision and he’s sticking to it. The woman he also made the decision to marry, on the surface, fits what he believes his perfect wife would be… wealthy, beautiful and well connected. Perfect for his life in New York and in his business. Reality begins to set in for Lucas when he returns to Marietta for Thanksgiving and his family meets his future bride… and wonders what the heck he is thinking. Complicate things when his wedding location becomes the ranch where he spent time as a teenager and had a huge crush on the young daughter of the ranch. Who knew she’d grow up so lovely, capable and even more perfect for what he dreamed for his future. As emotions get real, and his bride to be begins to show her true colors, Lucas has a decision to make… maybe more than one actually. It’s time to let his heart lead, and go for the future he honestly really wants.
Erin will do anything to save the family ranch that she loves… even host the wedding of the man she’s loved for years. To another woman. Erin isn’t surprised by the feelings that are still so strong for Lucas, if anything she’s surprised that he didn’t have a clue when he left town as to how she felt. Now, even though it’s going to break her heart she will offer up part of the ranch for a wedding location. And hope that Lucas comes to his senses before he makes a huge mistake in picking the wrong bride.
I enjoyed His Christmas Bride. Always a pleasure to revisit Marietta, Montana especially at Christmas time. I will admit that there were times I wanted to shake some sense into Lucas. Stubborn man. If you don’t live your life for your own happiness but for what you believe others expect of you… then you are doomed to an unhappy future. It’s really that simple in real life or in fiction. Erin often broke my heart with her unchanging love for a man who is so undecided about what really matters. For her family and the ranch she loves she will face heartache – and hope that in the end love will win for them all.
If you’re in the mood for a charming, emotional Christmas romance then this one is perfect for you. I’d recommend this one and the series to any Romance reader who loves small towns, interesting story lines and secondary characters who will always have you coming back to Marietta for more.
*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.*
His Christmas Bride is an emotional journey for Lucas and Erin… and even Vanessa. Lucas has gone off to New York to work in the family business not because it’s his passion but because it’s what he believes is expected of him. If he had made his heart’s choice he would have taken on a ranch in Marietta, Montana and been happy for the rest of his life. But he made a decision and he’s sticking to it. The woman he also made the decision to marry, on the surface, fits what he believes his perfect wife would be… wealthy, beautiful and well connected. Perfect for his life in New York and in his business. Reality begins to set in for Lucas when he returns to Marietta for Thanksgiving and his family meets his future bride… and wonders what the heck he is thinking. Complicate things when his wedding location becomes the ranch where he spent time as a teenager and had a huge crush on the young daughter of the ranch. Who knew she’d grow up so lovely, capable and even more perfect for what he dreamed for his future. As emotions get real, and his bride to be begins to show her true colors, Lucas has a decision to make… maybe more than one actually. It’s time to let his heart lead, and go for the future he honestly really wants.
Erin will do anything to save the family ranch that she loves… even host the wedding of the man she’s loved for years. To another woman. Erin isn’t surprised by the feelings that are still so strong for Lucas, if anything she’s surprised that he didn’t have a clue when he left town as to how she felt. Now, even though it’s going to break her heart she will offer up part of the ranch for a wedding location. And hope that Lucas comes to his senses before he makes a huge mistake in picking the wrong bride.
I enjoyed His Christmas Bride. Always a pleasure to revisit Marietta, Montana especially at Christmas time. I will admit that there were times I wanted to shake some sense into Lucas. Stubborn man. If you don’t live your life for your own happiness but for what you believe others expect of you… then you are doomed to an unhappy future. It’s really that simple in real life or in fiction. Erin often broke my heart with her unchanging love for a man who is so undecided about what really matters. For her family and the ranch she loves she will face heartache – and hope that in the end love will win for them all.
If you’re in the mood for a charming, emotional Christmas romance then this one is perfect for you. I’d recommend this one and the series to any Romance reader who loves small towns, interesting story lines and secondary characters who will always have you coming back to Marietta for more.
*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.*
June 29, 2022
Hero in live and gwtting married.
He loves his fiancee.
All is okay
Enter left OW
OW sees hero after decade. Says she loves him. Eye roll. Okay one more eye roll.
Oh yeah she's loved him. Boo hoo.
No the writer starts to change the fianced into a selfish, scheming woman while OW is now the heroine.
Isn't above borrowing glad rags from a friend to entice the hero.
Hero remembers her. Fiance realised and tried to give the OW a message to back off.
But OW is portrayed in the best light.
Add a twist, the fiancee is marrying him for his money to avoid bankruptcy (btw the hero who is so big on family has never met his future father-in-law 🙄🙄🙄🙄) OW finds out. Calls her friend and tries to manipulate her to tell the hero.
But said friend is too smart and says she'll look for proof.
But we're drawing to and end so the writer has the hero read a notebook where the fiancee had written her plan to marry him for money. Like she'd be that stupid.
Hero quarrels with fiancee and breaks it off.
Then he finds the OW and proposes.
In between. We have hero cheat on his fiancee and kiss OW.
OW and hero get married.
I can't call her the heroine so please dont ask me too.
My life wasted.
End of story
😤😤😤
He loves his fiancee.
All is okay
Enter left OW
OW sees hero after decade. Says she loves him. Eye roll. Okay one more eye roll.
Oh yeah she's loved him. Boo hoo.
No the writer starts to change the fianced into a selfish, scheming woman while OW is now the heroine.
Isn't above borrowing glad rags from a friend to entice the hero.
Hero remembers her. Fiance realised and tried to give the OW a message to back off.
But OW is portrayed in the best light.
Add a twist, the fiancee is marrying him for his money to avoid bankruptcy (btw the hero who is so big on family has never met his future father-in-law 🙄🙄🙄🙄) OW finds out. Calls her friend and tries to manipulate her to tell the hero.
But said friend is too smart and says she'll look for proof.
But we're drawing to and end so the writer has the hero read a notebook where the fiancee had written her plan to marry him for money. Like she'd be that stupid.
Hero quarrels with fiancee and breaks it off.
Then he finds the OW and proposes.
In between. We have hero cheat on his fiancee and kiss OW.
OW and hero get married.
I can't call her the heroine so please dont ask me too.
My life wasted.
End of story
😤😤😤
August 10, 2020
Who doesn’t have a spot in their heart for second chance romances?????? This one was one of the best. Lucas and Erin are meant to be together and I love how in these books you get to see what they don’t quite see yet but slowly they begin to see it. I could not stand Vanessa I knew the whole time she didn’t have pure intentions…...This book shows that true love cannot be ignored no matter how hard you try to move on��..and to go as far as planning a wedding with someone else. One thing that really bothered me was sometimes Lucas worried about his family more than himself. He put them before him which sometimes is ok but something you need to do things for yourself and not other people. This one really reminds me of your typical hallmark christmas movie. But reading is always so much better.
November 19, 2017
This should be another book with a Christmas plot whose couple quickly realizes that they have always loved each other, marry and live happily ever after.
But it is not!!!
Lucas St Claire, Daniel St Claire's third child of four, decided it was time to settle down and start his own family.
Some time now he's the CEO of marketing area of the family business, and lived in NY. But his heart and home would always be in Montana.
When he meets Vanessa, who also came from a wealthy family, he knew he had found his perfect match.
He wanted to get married in Montana while Vanessa wanted a beautiful Christmas ceremony.
The two wishes would be fulfilled soon as Lucas was traveling home to celebrate Thanksgiving with his family.
It was a shock when the family heard the news, but everyone was happy for him.
Vanessa arrives at the family mansion and although everyone welcome her, she prefers to stay at the hotel in the city.
She is enchanted by a certain landscape and decides that it would be the perfect place for their ceremony.
The Tanner Ranch.
Clayton Tanner was in rodeos for many years, and had love for his children, the twins Eric and Erin, for his truck and his ranch.
But an accident five years ago left him in a wheelchair and now, with serious financial problems, the ranch was run by his daughter Erin, who had a real passion for that place.
But Erin knew she needed a quick fix to their problems, or they would lose the lands.
That was when an invitation came from her friend Cynthia, the region's wedding planner, to rent the barn for a wedding. The couple would pay good money to renovate it and it would still be enough for Erin to drive the ranch.
There was only one problem: it's Lucas St Claire's wedding, Erin's crush since she was a teenager.
Erin and Lucas had not seen each other for years, since he'd kissed her behind the barn and then traveled to college. If he was going to marry an American high society woman now, there was nothing else Erin could do but be happy for him and have the money to pay her debts.
But their meeting was not so innocent, and with Erin and Vanessa so close - so he could compare - Lucas begins to think that perhaps the choice of the perfect wife for him was a little hasty...
The book has all the ingredients that appeal to me: a loved family reunited, a dream landscape, a couple with possibility of second chance.
Although some scenes are somewhat predictable, the outcome of the book is romantic and made me want to know the previous books.
Yes, this is the author's first book that I read and fell in love with.
The previous books bring the stories of brothers Wes and Mike. And now, I believe we will have the story of the youngest, McKenna, the only daughter.
5 stars
EBOOK provided by NetGalley in exchange of an honest review
But it is not!!!
Lucas St Claire, Daniel St Claire's third child of four, decided it was time to settle down and start his own family.
Some time now he's the CEO of marketing area of the family business, and lived in NY. But his heart and home would always be in Montana.
When he meets Vanessa, who also came from a wealthy family, he knew he had found his perfect match.
He wanted to get married in Montana while Vanessa wanted a beautiful Christmas ceremony.
The two wishes would be fulfilled soon as Lucas was traveling home to celebrate Thanksgiving with his family.
It was a shock when the family heard the news, but everyone was happy for him.
Vanessa arrives at the family mansion and although everyone welcome her, she prefers to stay at the hotel in the city.
She is enchanted by a certain landscape and decides that it would be the perfect place for their ceremony.
The Tanner Ranch.
Clayton Tanner was in rodeos for many years, and had love for his children, the twins Eric and Erin, for his truck and his ranch.
But an accident five years ago left him in a wheelchair and now, with serious financial problems, the ranch was run by his daughter Erin, who had a real passion for that place.
But Erin knew she needed a quick fix to their problems, or they would lose the lands.
That was when an invitation came from her friend Cynthia, the region's wedding planner, to rent the barn for a wedding. The couple would pay good money to renovate it and it would still be enough for Erin to drive the ranch.
There was only one problem: it's Lucas St Claire's wedding, Erin's crush since she was a teenager.
Erin and Lucas had not seen each other for years, since he'd kissed her behind the barn and then traveled to college. If he was going to marry an American high society woman now, there was nothing else Erin could do but be happy for him and have the money to pay her debts.
But their meeting was not so innocent, and with Erin and Vanessa so close - so he could compare - Lucas begins to think that perhaps the choice of the perfect wife for him was a little hasty...
The book has all the ingredients that appeal to me: a loved family reunited, a dream landscape, a couple with possibility of second chance.
Although some scenes are somewhat predictable, the outcome of the book is romantic and made me want to know the previous books.
Yes, this is the author's first book that I read and fell in love with.
The previous books bring the stories of brothers Wes and Mike. And now, I believe we will have the story of the youngest, McKenna, the only daughter.
5 stars
EBOOK provided by NetGalley in exchange of an honest review
January 24, 2018
Having enjoyed each book in this series, the voice the Ms Van Hulzen gives to her characters in each story is a delight. With Lucas and Erin's story there is a certain innocence to it that is apparent in their history and finally coming together. Their journey to a HEA brings emotions to the surface that literally grab your heart. The warmth they share is what makes their story unique...with Ms Van Hulzen ability to bring life to her characters, you can't help but fall in love with the couple. I'm looking forward to Kenzie's story, it promises to be a treat.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
December 23, 2018
True Love
Erin was running the family ranch and helping take care of her dad after her brother left. Lucas was back in town and was planning a wedding. His fiancee Vanessa saw the Taylor ranch and wanting to be married in their barn. Erin has always had a crush on Lucas but was willing to have the wedding because the money would pay off some of their debts. But things may be a little different.
Erin was running the family ranch and helping take care of her dad after her brother left. Lucas was back in town and was planning a wedding. His fiancee Vanessa saw the Taylor ranch and wanting to be married in their barn. Erin has always had a crush on Lucas but was willing to have the wedding because the money would pay off some of their debts. But things may be a little different.
January 24, 2019
A cute and sweet read.
October 31, 2017
His Christmas Bride by Lara Van Hulzen
Lucas lives in New York, but he’s always loved Marietta. When he gets engaged, he decides Montana is exactly the place to get married. Tanner Ranch brings back happy memories of horseback riding and summer nights under the stars making it the perfect place to hold his wedding. However, Erin Tanner walks back into his life and other memories start to make him doubt whether he’s chosen the right bride.
deperate need of repair, Erin knows she needs to do something. And fast… Even if that means saying goodbye to any hopes of a romantic future with Lucas St. Claire by hosting his wedding at the Tanner Ranch.
Erin Tanner is content to live a simple life in Marietta, helping her dad run the family ranch. However, things haven’t been easy for the Tanners. With their ranch in financial trouble and in desperate need of repair, Erin knows she needs to do something. And fast… Even if that means saying goodbye to any hopes of a romantic future with Lucas St. Claire by hosting his wedding at the Tanner Ranch.
While Lucas struggles with his feelings, Erin tries to move past hers and accept that Lucas isn’t part of her future. But the connection they felt years ago pulls them toward one another, and Lucas is forced to face the truth of what he really wants in life.
This is Erin Tanner and Lucas St. Claire's story.
Erin Tanner pulled her 1985 Toyota truck into the driveway and cut the engine. Even with three layers on, a shiver ran through her. The heater in the old truck wasn’t quite what it used to be, but what was? She dropped the keys in her purse, which sat beside her on the seat.
He’d been there for a week already and planning to stay through Thanksgiving and Christmas, but still batted around in his head how to tell his family there would be a wedding Christmas Eve. It was what Vanessa wanted and he wasn’t about to argue with that.
Did Lucas chose the right bride? read this book to find out.
His Christmas Bride by Lara Van Hulzen is a wonderful well written 4 star book.
I highly recommend reading.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Lara's Books with Tule:
Return to Silver Bay
Silver Bay
Loving Kate
Silver Bay
Saving Drew
Silver Bay
A Recipe for Romance
Bachelor Bake-Off
The Marietta St.Claires
Winning His Heart
The Marietta St.Claires
His Christmas Bride
The Marietta St.Claires
Lucas lives in New York, but he’s always loved Marietta. When he gets engaged, he decides Montana is exactly the place to get married. Tanner Ranch brings back happy memories of horseback riding and summer nights under the stars making it the perfect place to hold his wedding. However, Erin Tanner walks back into his life and other memories start to make him doubt whether he’s chosen the right bride.
deperate need of repair, Erin knows she needs to do something. And fast… Even if that means saying goodbye to any hopes of a romantic future with Lucas St. Claire by hosting his wedding at the Tanner Ranch.
Erin Tanner is content to live a simple life in Marietta, helping her dad run the family ranch. However, things haven’t been easy for the Tanners. With their ranch in financial trouble and in desperate need of repair, Erin knows she needs to do something. And fast… Even if that means saying goodbye to any hopes of a romantic future with Lucas St. Claire by hosting his wedding at the Tanner Ranch.
While Lucas struggles with his feelings, Erin tries to move past hers and accept that Lucas isn’t part of her future. But the connection they felt years ago pulls them toward one another, and Lucas is forced to face the truth of what he really wants in life.
This is Erin Tanner and Lucas St. Claire's story.
Erin Tanner pulled her 1985 Toyota truck into the driveway and cut the engine. Even with three layers on, a shiver ran through her. The heater in the old truck wasn’t quite what it used to be, but what was? She dropped the keys in her purse, which sat beside her on the seat.
He’d been there for a week already and planning to stay through Thanksgiving and Christmas, but still batted around in his head how to tell his family there would be a wedding Christmas Eve. It was what Vanessa wanted and he wasn’t about to argue with that.
Did Lucas chose the right bride? read this book to find out.
His Christmas Bride by Lara Van Hulzen is a wonderful well written 4 star book.
I highly recommend reading.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Lara's Books with Tule:
Return to Silver Bay
Silver Bay
Loving Kate
Silver Bay
Saving Drew
Silver Bay
A Recipe for Romance
Bachelor Bake-Off
The Marietta St.Claires
Winning His Heart
The Marietta St.Claires
His Christmas Bride
The Marietta St.Claires
November 7, 2017
His Christmas Bride is the third story in Lara van Hulzen’s St Claires of Montana series and features youngest brother Lucas St Claire and Erin Tanner, the woman who’s never managed to get over her teenage crush on him. Although there is a link between this story and its predecessors, it can easily be read as a stand-alone.
I loved both these characters from the start though I also wanted to knock some sense into Lucas from his first appearance. Apparently so did most of the secondary characters in the story. Meanwhile I was oozing sympathy for Erin, who is just lovely but faces so many challenges.
This sweet Christmas romance is set in a small country town I have grown to love. With a gorgeous setting, people to care about and a plot that kept me reading, this story has truly endeared itself to me. With one more St Clair sibling to be married off, I am happily anticipating another story in this series.
I loved both these characters from the start though I also wanted to knock some sense into Lucas from his first appearance. Apparently so did most of the secondary characters in the story. Meanwhile I was oozing sympathy for Erin, who is just lovely but faces so many challenges.
This sweet Christmas romance is set in a small country town I have grown to love. With a gorgeous setting, people to care about and a plot that kept me reading, this story has truly endeared itself to me. With one more St Clair sibling to be married off, I am happily anticipating another story in this series.
November 26, 2022
This is a quick simple sweet read. Perfect as a warm Christmas read. I enjoyed the smooth flow. The characters you wanted to know about and enjoyed taking their stories forward.
November 5, 2017
This is a terrific story about a man engaged to the wrong woman and the woman who was truly meant for him.
Lucas St. Claire is home for Christmas and to introduce the woman he is engaged to. His family is totally unaware that he was serious about any woman. Erin Tanner is the woman Lucas should be engaged to. She embodies all he really loves in his inner self: ranching and not business, the outdoors and not stuffy offices. She lives at the ranch he has loved since he was young and lives the life he loves and values.
The sections that talk about Lucas ST. Claire's inner struggle with his decision to marry are perfect. You can sense how years of fast decisions have haunted him into the position he is in. When he connects with Erin, there is a past he cannot deny and a future that has to change.
Lucas St. Claire is home for Christmas and to introduce the woman he is engaged to. His family is totally unaware that he was serious about any woman. Erin Tanner is the woman Lucas should be engaged to. She embodies all he really loves in his inner self: ranching and not business, the outdoors and not stuffy offices. She lives at the ranch he has loved since he was young and lives the life he loves and values.
The sections that talk about Lucas ST. Claire's inner struggle with his decision to marry are perfect. You can sense how years of fast decisions have haunted him into the position he is in. When he connects with Erin, there is a past he cannot deny and a future that has to change.
October 30, 2017
His Christmas Bride by Lara Van Hulzen is a sweet romantic Christmas story. It is long enough to become attached to the main characters while not becoming so involve in subplots or overarching themes. The past is a huge part of the story since Lucas has such fond memories of summers in Marietta. Who can blame him? My reading visits to this fictional town has made me wish I could visit there for real.
The story is centered around Lucas as he plans to have his wedding there. I like how at the beginning it was the place that drew him but as the story progressed he finds it is the people, especially Erin, who contributed to his wonderful memories that are important. There is a lesson here.
Satisfying read with likable characters in a wonderful place. The kind of Christmas read all romantic at heart will enjoy.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
The story is centered around Lucas as he plans to have his wedding there. I like how at the beginning it was the place that drew him but as the story progressed he finds it is the people, especially Erin, who contributed to his wonderful memories that are important. There is a lesson here.
Satisfying read with likable characters in a wonderful place. The kind of Christmas read all romantic at heart will enjoy.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
October 31, 2017
This is the third book that I have read by this author and each time I read one of her books I start to fall more and more in love with her style of writing.
Let me just throw a few things out there for you to chew on...Lucas spent summers in Marietta as a kid and the one thing he really wants is to be married here. In fact he insisted that is high NY city fiance that this is the ONLY place that they can be married. So Vanessa really has no choice. Enter stage right Erin Tanner and her ranch. Badly in need of repairs and yet the perfect place to host the wedding. Lucas and Erin are old friends from back in the day. Hum Hum Hum maybe this young man is not so much a city slicker as he let's on to be ya know.
This is a wonderful read to start this Holiday season of right.
Let me just throw a few things out there for you to chew on...Lucas spent summers in Marietta as a kid and the one thing he really wants is to be married here. In fact he insisted that is high NY city fiance that this is the ONLY place that they can be married. So Vanessa really has no choice. Enter stage right Erin Tanner and her ranch. Badly in need of repairs and yet the perfect place to host the wedding. Lucas and Erin are old friends from back in the day. Hum Hum Hum maybe this young man is not so much a city slicker as he let's on to be ya know.
This is a wonderful read to start this Holiday season of right.
October 29, 2017
Lara has put out another book to pull you into it. You will need some tissues before the end. Clayton Tanner was a bull rider. Now he is in a wheelchair on his ranch. Erin works the ranch with cowboys but they are still in the Red. Lucas St. Clair has come home for his wedding. His bride is a City person. Lucas lived at Erin's and worked the ranch until he went city. Now his fiancee' wants a wedding in the barn. Vanessa is telling Lucas what to do for this! Lucas always liked Erin. Erin has loved Lucas since childhood. Major Spoiler! The ranch has a lot of debts and this will help them. Vanessa is a nose in the air kind 1 of person. Erin tries to help Lucas . Spoiler! I hope you will check out this book. Make sure there is tissues here! Enjoy your reading! Don't let it get away! You won't be let down!
October 30, 2017
Lucas has returned home to Marietta with his fiance, Vanessa from New York, for his wedding. Since he has returned, he soon finds out what he is missing and that includes his childhood friend, Erin. Erin is the girl next door that everyone loves, where Vanessa is high maintenance and has a secret that she is keeping from Lucas. Will Lucas being marrying the right Christmas bride?
Loved these characters, Erin is just perfect, so simple in life and loves the St Claire family. Vanessa is just evil! Completely wrong for Lucas. Love the St Claire family, can't wait for the next book!!
Loved these characters, Erin is just perfect, so simple in life and loves the St Claire family. Vanessa is just evil! Completely wrong for Lucas. Love the St Claire family, can't wait for the next book!!
October 27, 2017
Lucas and Erin used to hang out summers on her family's ranch. He was the rich kid and she was a ranchers daughter. The grew very close their senior year and then they went their separate ways. Now he is back in Marietta to get married. Erin is working her dad's ranch and money is tight. So when Lucas wants to pay them to use the ranch for the wedding she can't say no. Erin has loved Lucas since they were kids. Will spending time with Erin at the ranch bring back memories and make Lucas realize what he really wants? Fun read.
October 28, 2017
So this book just grabbed me by the heart strings, Erin was so easy to love and root for, her rival Vanessa so easy to despise. Oh Lucas him I just wanted to shake or thump him on the head while yelling “Open your eyes to what your heart wants”.
Such a good country read, takes you right out there to breathe the country air,hear the cows moo.
I’m recommending to those who love a romance but can handle a little angst.
Such a good country read, takes you right out there to breathe the country air,hear the cows moo.
I’m recommending to those who love a romance but can handle a little angst.
October 30, 2017
I voluntarily read a advanced reader's copy of this book
His Christmas Bride, a great addition to The Marietta St Claire's series. Looking forward to seeing what the next book in the series brings to us.
His Christmas Bride, a great addition to The Marietta St Claire's series. Looking forward to seeing what the next book in the series brings to us.
October 23, 2017
I really enjoyed this one! The story is really great and there are characters you will love and hate but all of them are memorable. Lucas Hathaway is back in Marietta after spending years in New York. With him is his fiance Vanessa and they are planning to have their wedding in Marietta. It's the one thing about the wedding he's insisted on. Lucas' dream has always been to work a ranch in Marietta but family duty has kept him working for the family company in New York. The Tanner ranch is the perfect setting for the wedding but that means spending a lot of time with Erin Tanner. They were friends during the summers Lucas spent in Marietta and Erin has always had a crush on Lucas. Being around Erin has Lucas questioning his life, the marriage, and what he really wants.
Definitely a book I recommend.
Definitely a book I recommend.
January 14, 2018
In all honesty, I was a little miffed at Luca St.Claire. How could he be so oblivious to Erin and her feelings.? I felt that he may have been a tad fickle too. Can one truly be so preoccupied with living up to the expectations of his family that he could completely cut out the people who mean something to him? Erin though is a superwoman in her own right. Keeping the flame of her love burning for so many years then rising above her broken heart to actually help prep and plan for the wedding of the man she has always loved. Superwoman! Love this girl!
I received an Advanced Reviewers Copy from the Publisher via #NetGalley for voluntary review consideration.
I received an Advanced Reviewers Copy from the Publisher via #NetGalley for voluntary review consideration.
December 27, 2018
I had considered giving this book for stars, but decided three was more accurate. I did enjoy it for the most part, but some of the repetition of thoughts should have been cut and the ending fleshed out. The rushed ending was not only unsatisfying, it played right into the ongoing concern about Lucas making decisions without thinking them through. And seriously, it's been too many years for such a rush. All in all good, but could have been so much better.
January 2, 2019
Good story.
I liked the story but there were a lot of grammar mistakes. Just to mention a few, one sentence ended with you're and in another sentence it had could've have. There is more than these mistakes but these two stood out. The story is sweet and would have gotten a higher rating but for the grammar mistakes. I liked the story and the cute ending. I never did like Vanessa.
I liked the story but there were a lot of grammar mistakes. Just to mention a few, one sentence ended with you're and in another sentence it had could've have. There is more than these mistakes but these two stood out. The story is sweet and would have gotten a higher rating but for the grammar mistakes. I liked the story and the cute ending. I never did like Vanessa.
January 6, 2019
This one was sort of a friends to lovers romance. And I mean sort of because as kids they were friends when the St. Claire Family was in Montana but otherwise they never really kept in touch. This one had a typical storyline but although I felt like I have read this one before, I still enjoyed the characters and how everything came together.
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