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Baker City Brides #1
Crumpets and Cowpies
Detestable! Arrogant! Insufferable!
He'd been called worse...
Rancher Thane Jordan reluctantly travels to England to settle his brother’s estate only to find he’s inherited much more than he could possibly have imagined.
Lady Jemma Bryan has no desire to spend a single minute in Thane Jordan’s intolerable presence much less live under the same roof with the handsome, arrogant American. Forced to choose between poverty or marriage to the man, she travels across an ocean and America to build a future on his ranch in Oregon.
Love a sweet romance with unforgettable characters? Give the Baker City Brides a try! Crumpets and Cowpies (Book 1) - Rancher Thane Jordan is about it meet his match in the lovely Lady Jemma Bryan. Thimbles and Thistles (Book 2) - Maggie Dalton doesn't need a man, especially not one as handsome as charming as Ian MacGregor. Scroll up and grab your copy today!402 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 12, 2015
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About the author
Shanna Hatfield
164 books1,324 followersA hopeless romantic with a bit of sarcasm thrown in for good measure, Shanna Hatfield is a best-selling author of clean romantic fiction written with a healthy dose of humor.
In addition to blogging and eating too much chocolate, she is completely smitten with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller.
Shanna creates character-driven romances with realistic heroes and heroines. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”
She is a member of Western Writers of America, Women Writing the West, and Romance Writers of America.
To learn more about Shanna or the books she writes, visit her blog http://shannahatfield.com
or find out news at her facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/shanna.hatfield
In addition to blogging and eating too much chocolate, she is completely smitten with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller.
Shanna creates character-driven romances with realistic heroes and heroines. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”
She is a member of Western Writers of America, Women Writing the West, and Romance Writers of America.
To learn more about Shanna or the books she writes, visit her blog http://shannahatfield.com
or find out news at her facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/shanna.hatfield
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews
March 9, 2015
Meet the ultimate odd couple. Thane Jordan who is a rugged, primitive, bachelor cowboy running a vast ranch in the wilds of northeastern Oregon and....Lady Jemma Bryan, English to a fault, beautiful, prim, proper, and fiercely independent.
It is the late 1800's and Thane journeys all the way to England to settle the estate of his late brother, whom he had not seen since he struck out for the wild west. He is blind-sided by the discovery of his brother's two young children and their guardian, Lady Jemma. The unusual stipulations of the will mandates him to become their new guardian. Being strangely left out of his brother Henry's will and wealth, Lady Jemma's future looks bleak.
In order to keep the three of them together and protect Lady Jemma's reputation, Thane reluctantly weds her and swears to keep it a marriage-in-name-only.
Thus begins the adventure of returning across the ocean and clear across the American continent with tons of Jemma's trunks, horses, a dog and two excited children. The author knows best how to make a good story better with the warmth and charm of two delightful orphan children: solemn 9-year old Jack and exuberant 3-year old Lily.
The "approach/avoidance" budding romance between Thane and Jemma is entertainment at its best as both of them attempt to settle into a routine while desperately trying to maintain their unconsummated marriage vow. The personalities of each partner are lovingly unfolded like the petals of a flower as each discovers the sterling qualities in the other. Aided by a cast of colorful side characters and the descriptions of the bleak and beautiful land surrounding historic Baker City, Oregon, this sweet, clean western romance is overflowing with great humor, emotional warmth and romantic longing.
I was also tied emotionally to Baker City having spent the night there with my family and thoroughly loving the remote and expansive beauty of that location. I'm looking forward to the author's next in this series of Baker City Brides, Thimbles and Thistles.
It is the late 1800's and Thane journeys all the way to England to settle the estate of his late brother, whom he had not seen since he struck out for the wild west. He is blind-sided by the discovery of his brother's two young children and their guardian, Lady Jemma. The unusual stipulations of the will mandates him to become their new guardian. Being strangely left out of his brother Henry's will and wealth, Lady Jemma's future looks bleak.
In order to keep the three of them together and protect Lady Jemma's reputation, Thane reluctantly weds her and swears to keep it a marriage-in-name-only.
Thus begins the adventure of returning across the ocean and clear across the American continent with tons of Jemma's trunks, horses, a dog and two excited children. The author knows best how to make a good story better with the warmth and charm of two delightful orphan children: solemn 9-year old Jack and exuberant 3-year old Lily.
The "approach/avoidance" budding romance between Thane and Jemma is entertainment at its best as both of them attempt to settle into a routine while desperately trying to maintain their unconsummated marriage vow. The personalities of each partner are lovingly unfolded like the petals of a flower as each discovers the sterling qualities in the other. Aided by a cast of colorful side characters and the descriptions of the bleak and beautiful land surrounding historic Baker City, Oregon, this sweet, clean western romance is overflowing with great humor, emotional warmth and romantic longing.
I was also tied emotionally to Baker City having spent the night there with my family and thoroughly loving the remote and expansive beauty of that location. I'm looking forward to the author's next in this series of Baker City Brides, Thimbles and Thistles.
June 23, 2021
This unlikely-titled 1890 story mostly took place in Oregon.
MOC.
Thane, an Oregon cattle rancher & mine owner, traveled
to England to settle his late brother's estate. Thane learned
he inherited cotton mills etc, but also became responsible for
his (unknown) young niece and nephew along with their
penniless prim/proper Aunt Jemma (his bro's sis-in-law.)
Thane needed a haircut & shave & more presentable clothing.
Jemma called him crude, unrefined, & without manners.
Thane wondered about this uptight, sassy, mule-headed
beautiful female.
Thane teased, goaded, and used innuendos to get a reaction
from Jemma. The H and h mutually agreed to a MOC, w/ no
sexual congress. Even though a 'clean romance,' rugged and
virile Thane got hot and bothered just thinking about Jemma.
This story had lightness, humor and love and a HEA from
an unlikely, yet electric couple. Onward to book #2.
Revised.
MOC.
Thane, an Oregon cattle rancher & mine owner, traveled
to England to settle his late brother's estate. Thane learned
he inherited cotton mills etc, but also became responsible for
his (unknown) young niece and nephew along with their
penniless prim/proper Aunt Jemma (his bro's sis-in-law.)
Thane needed a haircut & shave & more presentable clothing.
Jemma called him crude, unrefined, & without manners.
Thane wondered about this uptight, sassy, mule-headed
beautiful female.
Thane teased, goaded, and used innuendos to get a reaction
from Jemma. The H and h mutually agreed to a MOC, w/ no
sexual congress. Even though a 'clean romance,' rugged and
virile Thane got hot and bothered just thinking about Jemma.
This story had lightness, humor and love and a HEA from
an unlikely, yet electric couple. Onward to book #2.
Revised.
August 9, 2018
Once again another Wonderful books by The Lovely Lady of Sweet Romance Shanna Hatfield. Crumpets and Cowpies was a wonderful story with such a drastic difference in between the Beautiful lovely Jemma and the ruff and tuff Rancher Cowboy Thane. It was a fun adventure watching the sparks fly between these two and seeing them fall deeply in love. The children; the couple’s niece and nephew where also delightful addition to the story. As I say in almost every review I leave for this author she has added another favorite book to my list and this is definitely one book a reader will not want to miss! I look forward to more adventures in this series Baker City Brides!!
September 10, 2016
Another truly outstanding read my Ms, Hatfield! Come meet the ultimate odd couple. A handsome rugged bachelor who owns a cattle ranch in Oregon and a lady from England who is beautiful, proper, prim and totally independent. When the two come together sparks fly. She sees him as a backwards hillbilly who has no manners and no style. He sees her as prissy lady that needs to let her hair down and enjoy life a little more.
When finding out his brother has died Thane travels to England to take care of his estate, to his surprised there is more to the estate than selling it. He finds he has inherited a family and puts plans into motion to marry (in name only) Lady Jemma moving the family back to Oregon. You would think this would be easy as Thane finds out Lady Jemma has a few things to say. I would have to say Thane is my favorite character in this outstanding read with his witty teasing ways made this a pleasure to read. I loved how he liked to get under Jemma skin just to see the sparks fly in her eyes.
Lady Jemma finds Thane to be a handsome, outback, ill mannered, detestable, arrogant, and insufferable, the list goes on. The last thing she wants it to marry and move to Oregon with this man. There is no way he is taking the children away that she has raised as her own. What was Henry thinking leaving her penniless and no way to take care of his children. She has little choice but to marry him and move from her home to a place she doesn’t know in a house that is so small and oh my god the dirty in this new land it is everywhere not to mention the snakes and OH LORD an outhouse.
I have to say I loved how she out witted him on how many trunks she could take with her. I would have loved to see his face when he learned he had when out witted. It was a pleasure reading how these two found a happy medium and gave the children a wonderful life when they had lost so much. It does seem Henry has a few tricks up his sleeves which they will find out as the story goes along.
What a wonderful sweet read from a wonderful author who grabs your attention from the first page until the end. The adventure begins as they across the ocean on their way to American with all of Jemma's trunks, horses, a dog and two excited children this is one exciting trip. The author gives you a wonderful told story of warmth as they take two orphan children to their new home and the trials of learning to live together and raise a family that is not their own. This is a marriage in name only, but could be so much more if they follow their hearts and open their eyes.
This is one book I had trouble putting down as she brings the past back to life. Again Shanna brings back wonderful memories of my childhood of living life on a farm. My grandparents had a farm and we lived in a house less than a mile away. I spent all my free time growing up on the farm taking care of animals, with helping with the hay etc and bottle feeding the babies. Even though they had running water and a shower they never had a bathroom. I know firsthand about outhouses, how scary they are, as a small child I was always afraid of falling in, I wasn’t too happy with all the spiders and always wondered if there were snakes down in that deep hole. Going to the bathroom at night was not to thrilling. Even though they are gone I never understood why they never put a bathroom in. Thank you again for bring back wonderful memories of my childhood and two people I adored.
I highly recommend any book by Shanna Hatfield she has come to be one of my favorite authors with her wonderful tales of love, romance and adventure as she brings the west to life. Her stories are believable she does her research and tells a compelling story that you fall in love with. She has wonderful characters that are strong but bend when there is a need to. I am looking forward to try the recipe she gives you of crumpets they sound so wonderful. I for one can’t wait to read the next installment in this series which should be out in April. Thimbles and Thistles looks to be as exciting and entertaining as Crumpets and Cowpies has been.
When finding out his brother has died Thane travels to England to take care of his estate, to his surprised there is more to the estate than selling it. He finds he has inherited a family and puts plans into motion to marry (in name only) Lady Jemma moving the family back to Oregon. You would think this would be easy as Thane finds out Lady Jemma has a few things to say. I would have to say Thane is my favorite character in this outstanding read with his witty teasing ways made this a pleasure to read. I loved how he liked to get under Jemma skin just to see the sparks fly in her eyes.
Lady Jemma finds Thane to be a handsome, outback, ill mannered, detestable, arrogant, and insufferable, the list goes on. The last thing she wants it to marry and move to Oregon with this man. There is no way he is taking the children away that she has raised as her own. What was Henry thinking leaving her penniless and no way to take care of his children. She has little choice but to marry him and move from her home to a place she doesn’t know in a house that is so small and oh my god the dirty in this new land it is everywhere not to mention the snakes and OH LORD an outhouse.
I have to say I loved how she out witted him on how many trunks she could take with her. I would have loved to see his face when he learned he had when out witted. It was a pleasure reading how these two found a happy medium and gave the children a wonderful life when they had lost so much. It does seem Henry has a few tricks up his sleeves which they will find out as the story goes along.
What a wonderful sweet read from a wonderful author who grabs your attention from the first page until the end. The adventure begins as they across the ocean on their way to American with all of Jemma's trunks, horses, a dog and two excited children this is one exciting trip. The author gives you a wonderful told story of warmth as they take two orphan children to their new home and the trials of learning to live together and raise a family that is not their own. This is a marriage in name only, but could be so much more if they follow their hearts and open their eyes.
This is one book I had trouble putting down as she brings the past back to life. Again Shanna brings back wonderful memories of my childhood of living life on a farm. My grandparents had a farm and we lived in a house less than a mile away. I spent all my free time growing up on the farm taking care of animals, with helping with the hay etc and bottle feeding the babies. Even though they had running water and a shower they never had a bathroom. I know firsthand about outhouses, how scary they are, as a small child I was always afraid of falling in, I wasn’t too happy with all the spiders and always wondered if there were snakes down in that deep hole. Going to the bathroom at night was not to thrilling. Even though they are gone I never understood why they never put a bathroom in. Thank you again for bring back wonderful memories of my childhood and two people I adored.
I highly recommend any book by Shanna Hatfield she has come to be one of my favorite authors with her wonderful tales of love, romance and adventure as she brings the west to life. Her stories are believable she does her research and tells a compelling story that you fall in love with. She has wonderful characters that are strong but bend when there is a need to. I am looking forward to try the recipe she gives you of crumpets they sound so wonderful. I for one can’t wait to read the next installment in this series which should be out in April. Thimbles and Thistles looks to be as exciting and entertaining as Crumpets and Cowpies has been.
July 27, 2017
My first western romance, so I have nothing to compare it to. Actually, it’s a combination of historical and western, the first part being set in England.
There is one inaccuracy I could not overlook. I’m quite sure the church where the marriage took place was an Anglican one, and therefore the service would have been conducted by a priest and not a pastor. The other thing that bothered me was the sometimes stilted dialogue. Apart from those objections, I enjoyed the leisurely paced story, the atmosphere and the banter. It is different enough from what I usually read to round up the rating. In terms of characters, most were likable except for Jemma, but she did improve towards the end.
A special mention for the crumpets recipe!
There is one inaccuracy I could not overlook. I’m quite sure the church where the marriage took place was an Anglican one, and therefore the service would have been conducted by a priest and not a pastor. The other thing that bothered me was the sometimes stilted dialogue. Apart from those objections, I enjoyed the leisurely paced story, the atmosphere and the banter. It is different enough from what I usually read to round up the rating. In terms of characters, most were likable except for Jemma, but she did improve towards the end.
A special mention for the crumpets recipe!
March 28, 2017
Set in late 1800s, Thane gets word from a solicitor in England that his older brother (Henry) died and he must travel there to settle the estate. So he travels from his ranch in Oregon across the states and then across the Atlantic, which, for someone easily prone to seasickness, is utterly miserable. (In fact it starts out with him wanting to kiss the ground upon arrival in England.)
After the trip to Liverpool and meeting the lawyer in charge of Henry's holdings, they drive a conveyance to his brother's property a few hours away. There he gets a huge surprise. His brother left everything to him and this included Henry's now orphaned children he knew nothing about, and Henry's sister-in-law who has been with them since she was a teenager
His trial is to figure out what to do. Staying there was out of the question, but traveling with them back to Oregon meant Thane had to marry the sister-in-law to safeguard her reputation. This would be a marriage on paper only, no marital "expectations".
The rest of the book (really only half the book, because it took more than 50% to get to Thane's Oregon ranch) was the British born family acclimating to an arid, fairly rugged lifestyle, in a cabin, coming from their rather large home in England's countryside with servants.
The 2-star rating was for several reasons....
1) The premise is all about the marriage of two entirely different people, who clearly didn't even like each other. There would have been no story if Thane had done the logical thing...hire the butler and cook that lived with the family to travel to America with them...or at least hire another couple. He was, after all, rich.
2) An editor missed at least seven typos, but that's really quite minor compared to many books I've read with dozens of errors.
3) This was another book that dealt with attraction by looks only... how the female appeared in her dresses, the swish of her skirts, and her beautiful face. For the male lead it was about his broad shoulders, slim waist and handsome features. The bare chest, or less-clad appearance upon occasion was, of course, something to cause weak knees as well. All this (and in nearly every chapter) while they can't stand each other. Nothing but biting remarks and criticism. It was awful.
4) Jemma was not to be believed. For a gentile woman, bred and raised in a more noble class (Lady Jemma was her title), she was caustic, rude and nasty, and never said a nice thing about Thane, who was far more patient with her than she was of him. She even likened him to a horses hind end on one occasion. Plus she got angry at everything!
So, even though it ended well, it took all the way to the last 10th of the book for her to see Thane for the nice (albeit teasing) person he was, and for her to act like a normal human being.
The whole book would have been so much better if the author had just toned down Jemma's ridiculous attitude....AND made them develop a friendship rather than constant lusty thoughts about the looks and physique of the other person. It was just over the top. Maybe I'm just weird, but I never felt anything LIKE lust or even attraction towards someone I couldn't stand to even be around.
If you can overlook the caustic remarks, and overlook the stupid desire to kiss the person they are nasty toward, then you might just enjoy the book.
After the trip to Liverpool and meeting the lawyer in charge of Henry's holdings, they drive a conveyance to his brother's property a few hours away. There he gets a huge surprise. His brother left everything to him and this included Henry's now orphaned children he knew nothing about, and Henry's sister-in-law who has been with them since she was a teenager
His trial is to figure out what to do. Staying there was out of the question, but traveling with them back to Oregon meant Thane had to marry the sister-in-law to safeguard her reputation. This would be a marriage on paper only, no marital "expectations".
The rest of the book (really only half the book, because it took more than 50% to get to Thane's Oregon ranch) was the British born family acclimating to an arid, fairly rugged lifestyle, in a cabin, coming from their rather large home in England's countryside with servants.
The 2-star rating was for several reasons....
1) The premise is all about the marriage of two entirely different people, who clearly didn't even like each other. There would have been no story if Thane had done the logical thing...hire the butler and cook that lived with the family to travel to America with them...or at least hire another couple. He was, after all, rich.
2) An editor missed at least seven typos, but that's really quite minor compared to many books I've read with dozens of errors.
3) This was another book that dealt with attraction by looks only... how the female appeared in her dresses, the swish of her skirts, and her beautiful face. For the male lead it was about his broad shoulders, slim waist and handsome features. The bare chest, or less-clad appearance upon occasion was, of course, something to cause weak knees as well. All this (and in nearly every chapter) while they can't stand each other. Nothing but biting remarks and criticism. It was awful.
4) Jemma was not to be believed. For a gentile woman, bred and raised in a more noble class (Lady Jemma was her title), she was caustic, rude and nasty, and never said a nice thing about Thane, who was far more patient with her than she was of him. She even likened him to a horses hind end on one occasion. Plus she got angry at everything!
So, even though it ended well, it took all the way to the last 10th of the book for her to see Thane for the nice (albeit teasing) person he was, and for her to act like a normal human being.
The whole book would have been so much better if the author had just toned down Jemma's ridiculous attitude....AND made them develop a friendship rather than constant lusty thoughts about the looks and physique of the other person. It was just over the top. Maybe I'm just weird, but I never felt anything LIKE lust or even attraction towards someone I couldn't stand to even be around.
If you can overlook the caustic remarks, and overlook the stupid desire to kiss the person they are nasty toward, then you might just enjoy the book.
June 21, 2016
Super cute read! I'm excited to read the next in the series.
January 28, 2016
This book takes place in 1890, which is later than I normally read. The author added in historical facts into her work, so it can also serve as educational. I found the main female lead very annoying. I was about to forget the book but the character redeems herself...almost.
The book follows, Thane, a young frontiersman from Oregon. He is summoned to Liverpool, England, by a solicitor who wants to settle up on his brother's will. Upon his arrival, Thane, finds that his brother has died, leaving all his earthly possessions to him. Furthermore, Thane finds out that his brother has two children and a sister-in-law that he was supporting. Which means, Thane has inherited a family.
Jemma Bryan is a stubborn,prideful, proper sort of woman. She takes a strong dislike to Thane almost immediately. She has raised the children since they were born and feels threatened that her brother in law has left her penniless and Thane may take the children away from her. Her way of showing her dislike to her new circumstances was not enjoyable. I have several notes saying the same thing over and over, "Don't like her."
After a suggestion of marriage, Jemma and Thane take their vows and leave England. The new family moves to Oregon to live on Thane's farm. The book covers their journey across the Ocean and the adjustments they faced in Oregon.
After the family arrives on the ranch, which is about 50% into the book, the story and Jemma's character improves. Her attitude starts to fade away and she becomes somewhat humbled as she experiences culture shock. I liked how the author showed the growth with her character. She begins to try and learn about her new life. She begins to accept her feelings for Thane and become aware that they aren't strange to have.
The book reads like a sleazy romance novel. This was distracting since the book is, in fact, clean.
I was already bored at only 18% into the book. Jemma was constantly putting Thane down with her name calling or suggestions that he is some pig American. Her behavior was very annoying. She is always insulted about something. I really, really hated her character. I suppose Jemma was bitter that Thane is not British because she would make comments about his lack of proper attire and manners. Jemma also dropped hints that she was attracted to Thane but vehemently opposed those feelings. Either way her attitude was too over the top and I wanted to drop kick her off a very tall and unforgiving cliff.
Weston is the solicitor. He delivers, Thane, to the house of Jemma and the children. This character stays, as though on vacation. There were vague mentions that he was a good family friend but no other explanation of why he was staying in the house with them. However, his character serves an important purpose; Weston is the one who suggests the two characters marry.
The book describes Jemma's feelings as unafraid to leave England and "everything she'd ever known, including her friend and heritage. She had no fear of crossing the ocean or traveling across the vast country of America to a remote ranch in Oregon. Grave concerns about living somewhere that was no doubt primitive with a lack of civilized accouterments didn't bother her." What she was nervous about was Thane. This argument for the character was weak. Later in the book, Jemma goes against this belief and complains about leaving her lovely home and friends. The book also suggests that Jemma had tried to bite her tongue. I'm still wondering how that was because it didn't work so well for her.
Thane was a very nice, responsible and patient character. He had a great sense of humor and really enjoyed pushing Jemma's buttons.
The author isn't the most descriptive writer out there. There were times when I wondered what things looked like. Such as, Jemma's wedding dress, the land in Oregon among other things.
The family takes the Teutonic, which is a precursor to the Titantic, across the ocean. Thane struggles with seasickness. I really didn't like this part of the story. I found his faking drunk to save face from being sick on the ship to be lame. Also, Jemma offers Thane mint tea, should be ginger, Jemma. Ginger settles the stomach and calms nausea.
Overall, Jemma's character really ruined the book for me. I found her so appalling that I almost put the book down. But if you can stick with the book until half way, her character simmers down and becomes quite nice. Only after the family reaches the farm does this book take off. Their sparring became less annoying and their feelings became more pronounced. The romance in the book begins to blossom and the book is just more likable. I enjoyed the characters more and I enjoyed reading about everyday farm life. I would recommend this book if one can handle Jemma. I wish Jemma and the kids would have traveled alone to Thane's ranch instead because the second half was much more enjoyable for me than the first half. I think the author created great tension and kept my interest with the romance. I liked how the author stayed true to the time period and kept me in check with the setting. I liked how the author added in facts of the time. I liked how the author explains the title of the book.
Content: clean
The book follows, Thane, a young frontiersman from Oregon. He is summoned to Liverpool, England, by a solicitor who wants to settle up on his brother's will. Upon his arrival, Thane, finds that his brother has died, leaving all his earthly possessions to him. Furthermore, Thane finds out that his brother has two children and a sister-in-law that he was supporting. Which means, Thane has inherited a family.
Jemma Bryan is a stubborn,prideful, proper sort of woman. She takes a strong dislike to Thane almost immediately. She has raised the children since they were born and feels threatened that her brother in law has left her penniless and Thane may take the children away from her. Her way of showing her dislike to her new circumstances was not enjoyable. I have several notes saying the same thing over and over, "Don't like her."
"I wouldn't want to intrude on Mr Jordan's time spent with those much more akin to his class and temperament. In fact, were he to ride in a northern direction, I believe he'd find a striking resemblance to himself if he viewed the southern-most quarters of his mount."
After a suggestion of marriage, Jemma and Thane take their vows and leave England. The new family moves to Oregon to live on Thane's farm. The book covers their journey across the Ocean and the adjustments they faced in Oregon.
After the family arrives on the ranch, which is about 50% into the book, the story and Jemma's character improves. Her attitude starts to fade away and she becomes somewhat humbled as she experiences culture shock. I liked how the author showed the growth with her character. She begins to try and learn about her new life. She begins to accept her feelings for Thane and become aware that they aren't strange to have.
The book reads like a sleazy romance novel. This was distracting since the book is, in fact, clean.
I was already bored at only 18% into the book. Jemma was constantly putting Thane down with her name calling or suggestions that he is some pig American. Her behavior was very annoying. She is always insulted about something. I really, really hated her character. I suppose Jemma was bitter that Thane is not British because she would make comments about his lack of proper attire and manners. Jemma also dropped hints that she was attracted to Thane but vehemently opposed those feelings. Either way her attitude was too over the top and I wanted to drop kick her off a very tall and unforgiving cliff.
Weston is the solicitor. He delivers, Thane, to the house of Jemma and the children. This character stays, as though on vacation. There were vague mentions that he was a good family friend but no other explanation of why he was staying in the house with them. However, his character serves an important purpose; Weston is the one who suggests the two characters marry.
The book describes Jemma's feelings as unafraid to leave England and "everything she'd ever known, including her friend and heritage. She had no fear of crossing the ocean or traveling across the vast country of America to a remote ranch in Oregon. Grave concerns about living somewhere that was no doubt primitive with a lack of civilized accouterments didn't bother her." What she was nervous about was Thane. This argument for the character was weak. Later in the book, Jemma goes against this belief and complains about leaving her lovely home and friends. The book also suggests that Jemma had tried to bite her tongue. I'm still wondering how that was because it didn't work so well for her.
Thane was a very nice, responsible and patient character. He had a great sense of humor and really enjoyed pushing Jemma's buttons.
The author isn't the most descriptive writer out there. There were times when I wondered what things looked like. Such as, Jemma's wedding dress, the land in Oregon among other things.
The family takes the Teutonic, which is a precursor to the Titantic, across the ocean. Thane struggles with seasickness. I really didn't like this part of the story. I found his faking drunk to save face from being sick on the ship to be lame. Also, Jemma offers Thane mint tea, should be ginger, Jemma. Ginger settles the stomach and calms nausea.
Overall, Jemma's character really ruined the book for me. I found her so appalling that I almost put the book down. But if you can stick with the book until half way, her character simmers down and becomes quite nice. Only after the family reaches the farm does this book take off. Their sparring became less annoying and their feelings became more pronounced. The romance in the book begins to blossom and the book is just more likable. I enjoyed the characters more and I enjoyed reading about everyday farm life. I would recommend this book if one can handle Jemma. I wish Jemma and the kids would have traveled alone to Thane's ranch instead because the second half was much more enjoyable for me than the first half. I think the author created great tension and kept my interest with the romance. I liked how the author stayed true to the time period and kept me in check with the setting. I liked how the author added in facts of the time. I liked how the author explains the title of the book.
"As he stared from the woman of noble birth to the man who worked hard every day to wrest his ranch from the Eastern Oregon scrub-land, Tully couldn't help the snort of laughter that escaped. Thane glanced at him as he took a bite of jam filled cookie. Care to share your joke with the rest of us? The two of you go together like crumpets and cowpies."
Content: clean
November 3, 2025
Choices
If you're looking for a captivating read, this sweet and lovely story is a must! I found myself wanting to knock some sense into Thane and shake some into Jemna at times, which speaks to the depth of the characters. Thane, who is introduced in the prequel, truly won my heart in this installment. The book is packed with action, mystery, and adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
I can't recommend it enough! It made me laugh, cry, and even feel frustration—there were moments when I wanted to reach right through the pages. The emotional connection is so strong that you'll feel like you're right there with the characters, experiencing every twist and turn alongside them. Don’t miss out on this incredible journey!
If you're looking for a captivating read, this sweet and lovely story is a must! I found myself wanting to knock some sense into Thane and shake some into Jemna at times, which speaks to the depth of the characters. Thane, who is introduced in the prequel, truly won my heart in this installment. The book is packed with action, mystery, and adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
I can't recommend it enough! It made me laugh, cry, and even feel frustration—there were moments when I wanted to reach right through the pages. The emotional connection is so strong that you'll feel like you're right there with the characters, experiencing every twist and turn alongside them. Don’t miss out on this incredible journey!
July 1, 2018
Thane, Jemma, Jack and Lily's Story
Henry, Thane's deceased brother, has plans beyond the grave for those he loved. From England to the NorthWest of America, a love grows beyond restraint. A family evolves from the changes brought into all their lives. Shanna has us in tears of joy and frustration at times. This journey crosses the ocean and through our hearts. Join in the ride.
Henry, Thane's deceased brother, has plans beyond the grave for those he loved. From England to the NorthWest of America, a love grows beyond restraint. A family evolves from the changes brought into all their lives. Shanna has us in tears of joy and frustration at times. This journey crosses the ocean and through our hearts. Join in the ride.
April 18, 2020
2.5 stars. The narration style really pulled me out of the story. I would have preferred chapters with alternating perspectives, but the author would change from paragraph to paragraph, and it made for some confusing scenes. The story itself was cheesy but cute.
June 3, 2022
Such a sweet and fun MOC story about a prim and proper English lady who marries a rugged American rancher, and returns to America's Old West, in order to remain a guardian for her niece and nephew. Lots of banter and chemistry ensue!
February 9, 2017
Close to Perfect
I loved this story and all the characters, I just it never had to end . Everyone who loves a good western romance should read this book
I loved this story and all the characters, I just it never had to end . Everyone who loves a good western romance should read this book
April 21, 2015
I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review.
Absolutely Perfect!
Crumpets and Cowpies is a heartwarming story set in the 1800’s. Thane Jorden is summoned to England to wrap up is brother estates after his untimely death, only to find that his brother not only left him is wealth but his children and his late wife’s sister Jemma. A rouged country man who resides in planes of Southern Oregon and had no desire to wed or have a family of his own, finds himself taking a his new family to the wild west to live on his ranch. Certainly accustom to a higher standard of living Jemma buts heads with Thane and his uncivilized ways; while fighting thier desire to love each other. This story truly inspires love in a traditional way that makes you want to simply get giddy over the fine details of love. Simple touches and adoring looks revile the innocents of love that aspire us all. This story was refreshing change! I hope you enjoyed this read as much as I did!
I give Crumpets and Cowpies 5 stars.
Absolutely Perfect!
Crumpets and Cowpies is a heartwarming story set in the 1800’s. Thane Jorden is summoned to England to wrap up is brother estates after his untimely death, only to find that his brother not only left him is wealth but his children and his late wife’s sister Jemma. A rouged country man who resides in planes of Southern Oregon and had no desire to wed or have a family of his own, finds himself taking a his new family to the wild west to live on his ranch. Certainly accustom to a higher standard of living Jemma buts heads with Thane and his uncivilized ways; while fighting thier desire to love each other. This story truly inspires love in a traditional way that makes you want to simply get giddy over the fine details of love. Simple touches and adoring looks revile the innocents of love that aspire us all. This story was refreshing change! I hope you enjoyed this read as much as I did!
I give Crumpets and Cowpies 5 stars.
March 27, 2016
I enjoy a well written sweet marriage of convenience story and this definitely fits that description. Thane and Jemma were the last living relatives to his brother and her sister's children. She had been with them since their births, he was named as their guardian and received his brother's fortune in the terms of his will. The story involved an adversarial relationship with a promise to keep it a chaste marriage, followed by proximity and situations guaranteed to nurture a growing attraction. I loved the banter between the two, the personality conflicts, delightful secondary characters, and the fact that the author didn't allow the characters to waste too much time getting in their own way. When both had realized that they no longer wanted a chaste marriage, a critical misunderstanding and an industrial accident separate our couple and convince them that, if they get the chance, they must confess their love and welcome a"complete marriage." I look forward to future stories in the series.
July 31, 2016
I try to stay away from Romantic novels from a traumatizing event in my past which including being gifted a shopping bag full of Harlequin Romance novels at 13, but this was surprisingly good. It had the normal trope of -
1. Intrigue at first encounter but general dislike to one another.
2. Situation forces them together to live in close proximity.
3. Grudging emotions rise over initial prejudices of one another to mutual secretive attraction.
4. Outright misunderstanding from fighting to separation between the two. To finally:
5. Reunion and open confessions of love and happily ever after commence.
The general 5 steps to Romance Paperbooks.
Still, I liked the initial oddness of this couple, it seemed to me like they would definitely be perfect for each other. I like their repertoire between each other the most. Even when they started to like one another. I appreciate the recipe for crumpets at the end of the book and the annotations of research went in to the book. I can always respect an author's who does proper research.
1. Intrigue at first encounter but general dislike to one another.
2. Situation forces them together to live in close proximity.
3. Grudging emotions rise over initial prejudices of one another to mutual secretive attraction.
4. Outright misunderstanding from fighting to separation between the two. To finally:
5. Reunion and open confessions of love and happily ever after commence.
The general 5 steps to Romance Paperbooks.
Still, I liked the initial oddness of this couple, it seemed to me like they would definitely be perfect for each other. I like their repertoire between each other the most. Even when they started to like one another. I appreciate the recipe for crumpets at the end of the book and the annotations of research went in to the book. I can always respect an author's who does proper research.
May 31, 2016
Sweet!
When Thane travels to England to take care of his late brother's estate, he finds more than he ever imagined. He has a niece, a nephew, and their beautiful, yet infuriating aunt to take care of.
I loved the idea of the proper English lady and the rough frontiersman. I also enjoyed the verbal banter and the way the sparks flew between Thane and Jemma.
I am glad that Shanna Hatfield is an author I can trust to write compelling passionate stories, that keep that passion within marriage (and behind closed doors). I will gladly read more of her books.
Content: clean (no language, some kissing)
When Thane travels to England to take care of his late brother's estate, he finds more than he ever imagined. He has a niece, a nephew, and their beautiful, yet infuriating aunt to take care of.
I loved the idea of the proper English lady and the rough frontiersman. I also enjoyed the verbal banter and the way the sparks flew between Thane and Jemma.
I am glad that Shanna Hatfield is an author I can trust to write compelling passionate stories, that keep that passion within marriage (and behind closed doors). I will gladly read more of her books.
Content: clean (no language, some kissing)
September 21, 2024
Sweet Historical Romance
What a fun book! I absolutely loved everything about this book! From their sparking, to the tender touches, to being on both sides of the world! It was just wonderful! I especially appreciated the sweetness of this romance all left behind closed doors! Thank you for such wonderful entertainment! I cried at the end! I think this is one of the best books I've read in a loonnngggg time!!!!!
What a fun book! I absolutely loved everything about this book! From their sparking, to the tender touches, to being on both sides of the world! It was just wonderful! I especially appreciated the sweetness of this romance all left behind closed doors! Thank you for such wonderful entertainment! I cried at the end! I think this is one of the best books I've read in a loonnngggg time!!!!!
February 3, 2015
Crumpets and Cowpies is my new favorite Shanna Hatfield book. Thane and Jemma are perfectly matched, and it's just beautiful how she created a blended family in a time when that wasn't all that common. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
January 22, 2015
I'm never disappointed when I read one of Shanna's books and I absolutely loved this one. I only wish she could write faster.
May 20, 2016
For me, a little too much unnecessary attitude from the heroine for about 50% of the book. Luckily she redeems herself towards the end, eventually!
May 20, 2016
really interesting combination of Regency perspective and western time period.
Kiss me Kate /Taming of the Shrew
Kiss me Kate /Taming of the Shrew
July 28, 2022
I really loved this story and could hardly put it down. It was so nice to read a story that did not need any huge or life-threatening drama to make the story a good read. Even without that type of drama, the story was one that kept your interest. The interaction between Thane, Jemma, Jack and Lily was just great story telling.
Thane had to travel to England to settle his brother’s estate and this is when you get to see Thane, a rough and tough man, showing his softer side. This review will probably have spoilers but I will try to keep them at a minimum but they are necessary to really tell how much I loved this story. So just stop here if you don’t want spoilers and just go and read it yourself.
It is hard to imagine life in the 1800s especially out in the wilds of the Pacific Northwest. To watch Jemma and the children who have never known anything but the modern conventions of England at the time adapt to what would be almost the complete opposite was fun to watch. The cruise ship across the Atlantic was so different from how cruise ships are today. It was interesting to get a look at how things were and to think animals also traveled with their owners.
The interplay between Jemma and Thane is very funny at times. You could just imagine Thane purposely provoking Jemma just to see her temperature rise. Jemma is one very strong woman with so much family loyalty. She will do anything for her family and she really doesn’t like this American who comes in and disrupts their entire world.
Can both of them get past their first impressions and dislikes of each other to provide a good foundation for Jack and Lily?
Thane had to travel to England to settle his brother’s estate and this is when you get to see Thane, a rough and tough man, showing his softer side. This review will probably have spoilers but I will try to keep them at a minimum but they are necessary to really tell how much I loved this story. So just stop here if you don’t want spoilers and just go and read it yourself.
It is hard to imagine life in the 1800s especially out in the wilds of the Pacific Northwest. To watch Jemma and the children who have never known anything but the modern conventions of England at the time adapt to what would be almost the complete opposite was fun to watch. The cruise ship across the Atlantic was so different from how cruise ships are today. It was interesting to get a look at how things were and to think animals also traveled with their owners.
The interplay between Jemma and Thane is very funny at times. You could just imagine Thane purposely provoking Jemma just to see her temperature rise. Jemma is one very strong woman with so much family loyalty. She will do anything for her family and she really doesn’t like this American who comes in and disrupts their entire world.
Can both of them get past their first impressions and dislikes of each other to provide a good foundation for Jack and Lily?
December 23, 2023
Crumpets and Cowpies
Shanna Hatfield
Imagine Thane’s dilemma. After travelling from his ranch in Eastern Oregon and crossing the Atlantic, seasick, to Bath at his brother’s lawyer’s insistence Thane discovers that his brother whom he has not seen in twelve years is indeed dead but that he had become a millionaire cotton magnate. The lawyer he meets was his brother’s best friend who takes him to his brother’s baronial mansion managed by his brother’s sister-in-law. Not only was his brother married but lost his wife 3 years past in childbirth leaving Thane’s nephew, Jack age 9, his father’s spitting image and 3-year-old Lily in the care of his brother’s sister-in-law Jeamma. His brother’s will leaves the entire kit and caboodle in Thane’s care. Well the spitfire sister-in-law is just the icing on the cake. Throw in Rigsley, a rather large dog. Dressing properly for dinner, served by a butler, is the least of his issues.
Yes, this book is a romance. Can Thane move this lot to a log cabin on a cattle ranch in Oregon? What will the ranch hands say. At least Jack can ride.
To Jemma Thane is a specimen of some confusion. A lady who has never seen a gentlemen in shirt sleeves comes upon him playing in the mud with his niece and nephew; but the sight of his naked torso!
The man gets violently seasick and resists being nursed. And the pair natter away at one another until passion conquers all.
Shanna Hatfield
Imagine Thane’s dilemma. After travelling from his ranch in Eastern Oregon and crossing the Atlantic, seasick, to Bath at his brother’s lawyer’s insistence Thane discovers that his brother whom he has not seen in twelve years is indeed dead but that he had become a millionaire cotton magnate. The lawyer he meets was his brother’s best friend who takes him to his brother’s baronial mansion managed by his brother’s sister-in-law. Not only was his brother married but lost his wife 3 years past in childbirth leaving Thane’s nephew, Jack age 9, his father’s spitting image and 3-year-old Lily in the care of his brother’s sister-in-law Jeamma. His brother’s will leaves the entire kit and caboodle in Thane’s care. Well the spitfire sister-in-law is just the icing on the cake. Throw in Rigsley, a rather large dog. Dressing properly for dinner, served by a butler, is the least of his issues.
Yes, this book is a romance. Can Thane move this lot to a log cabin on a cattle ranch in Oregon? What will the ranch hands say. At least Jack can ride.
To Jemma Thane is a specimen of some confusion. A lady who has never seen a gentlemen in shirt sleeves comes upon him playing in the mud with his niece and nephew; but the sight of his naked torso!
The man gets violently seasick and resists being nursed. And the pair natter away at one another until passion conquers all.
December 12, 2022
laughed till I cried great book
Shanna Hatfield definitely knows how to bring out the characters, to make you laugh and Crumpets and Cowpies definitely did. I loved this book, you have a sassy ,hot tempered Irish redhead and a long term bachelor who won’t put up with anyone ordering him around, going nose to nose on everything!!!
Thane Jordan just received the unbelievable news his brother has died and he had to take a ship and get to England for the reading of the will. He hadn’t seen his brother for 10 years , didn’t even know where he had run off to. Thane is a bachelor, swore he’d NEVER marry, women are nothing but trouble!
Jemma Bryan has given her life to take care of her sister till her passing, even then she has stayed to love and cherish her beautiful children till the the untimely death of their father Henry. Jemma will not let anyone hurt the children, especially some good for nothing uncle that nobody even knew about.
Jemma and Thane are about to learn the meaning of fighting like 2 cats tied together. The sparks fly, and the war is on, and to add to the flame is the mischievous little 3 year old Lily, and her brother Jack who tries to keep Lily out of trouble.
I laughed so much in this book, I loved everything thing about book . I can’t wait to read the rest of the Baker City Brides series.
Shanna Hatfield definitely knows how to bring out the characters, to make you laugh and Crumpets and Cowpies definitely did. I loved this book, you have a sassy ,hot tempered Irish redhead and a long term bachelor who won’t put up with anyone ordering him around, going nose to nose on everything!!!
Thane Jordan just received the unbelievable news his brother has died and he had to take a ship and get to England for the reading of the will. He hadn’t seen his brother for 10 years , didn’t even know where he had run off to. Thane is a bachelor, swore he’d NEVER marry, women are nothing but trouble!
Jemma Bryan has given her life to take care of her sister till her passing, even then she has stayed to love and cherish her beautiful children till the the untimely death of their father Henry. Jemma will not let anyone hurt the children, especially some good for nothing uncle that nobody even knew about.
Jemma and Thane are about to learn the meaning of fighting like 2 cats tied together. The sparks fly, and the war is on, and to add to the flame is the mischievous little 3 year old Lily, and her brother Jack who tries to keep Lily out of trouble.
I laughed so much in this book, I loved everything thing about book . I can’t wait to read the rest of the Baker City Brides series.
July 16, 2025
Both Thane in his rough cowboy ways and Jemma in her reserved lady like behaviors were a delight. And both the niece and nephew were too ! The little girl was proving to be more than a lady in training but also a fearless little handful I loved that. And the overly serious nephew beginning to come out of his shell caused by the death of his mother and father was also a delight to watch.
The teasing that Thane put proper Jemma through was funny as was her reactions ! Thane's cowboy crew were helpful even when Emma began to be uppity. She was never mean but she hated dirt, dust, and just about everything in the beginning. Snakes, wolves you name it ! The kids though loved it on Thane's ranch and didn't want to go back to England !
The angst that developed between Thane and Jemma was interesting to watch as they struggled; often dangerously to stay away from each other.
The ending and Epilogue was excellent. Leaving me very satisfied with the story and wanting to read more about Jemma and Thane as a couple.
P.S I liked the cover I saw on FACEBOOK better- where the man holds the little girl in his arms. She says you smell like Papa. I think I'll keep you !
The teasing that Thane put proper Jemma through was funny as was her reactions ! Thane's cowboy crew were helpful even when Emma began to be uppity. She was never mean but she hated dirt, dust, and just about everything in the beginning. Snakes, wolves you name it ! The kids though loved it on Thane's ranch and didn't want to go back to England !
The angst that developed between Thane and Jemma was interesting to watch as they struggled; often dangerously to stay away from each other.
The ending and Epilogue was excellent. Leaving me very satisfied with the story and wanting to read more about Jemma and Thane as a couple.
P.S I liked the cover I saw on FACEBOOK better- where the man holds the little girl in his arms. She says you smell like Papa. I think I'll keep you !
June 2, 2017
Shanna did a wonderful job bringing the different personalities to life. Thane and Jemma reminded me of a couple that I knew. While on their own they were lovely people, as a couple they were headache-inducing. What Thane and Jemma called healthy banter bordered on abuse. Their nephew even had words with each of them and expressed his perception of the way they treated each other and how it affected him and that didn't change their behavior. Thane could have chosen to respect Jemma and her differences as well as her boundaries but he didn't. He was aggressive and manhandled her. Instead of explaining nicely the differences that she would face in America that would require her to change the way she dressed, rode a horse etc, he just laid down the law in a way that he knew would get her back up. It might be fun for him but it isn't fun to witness.
Fortunately, the rest of the characters made up for this couple's shortcomings and made the story worth reading.
Fortunately, the rest of the characters made up for this couple's shortcomings and made the story worth reading.
May 17, 2023
Thane has a ranch in Baker City and he receives word that his brother has passed away.
A brother he hasn't seen in years. He has to go to England where his brother lived
at the request of a lawyer.
Once there he finds out that his brother's wealth, holdings have been left to him. He
also learns that his brother has two children - a boy and a girl. Also living at the
residence is his brother's sister-in-law, who came after his brother's wife had died.
This is Thanes story - a confirmed bachelor who never wanted to get married -
and wants to get back to the ranch - has asked Jemma to be his wife in name only.
He will look after her and the children.
What does the future hold for these 4 people?
A brother he hasn't seen in years. He has to go to England where his brother lived
at the request of a lawyer.
Once there he finds out that his brother's wealth, holdings have been left to him. He
also learns that his brother has two children - a boy and a girl. Also living at the
residence is his brother's sister-in-law, who came after his brother's wife had died.
This is Thanes story - a confirmed bachelor who never wanted to get married -
and wants to get back to the ranch - has asked Jemma to be his wife in name only.
He will look after her and the children.
What does the future hold for these 4 people?
January 6, 2025
All is well
So it ended up as planned even though the principal players didn’t know it. Long story short: a western cowboy goes to England to settle his dead brother’s estate, only to find out his niece and nephew (who knew?) were in the care of their aunt in their father’s estate. now, to be fair, the lawyer did try to warn him but it just didn’t work out. So enter a marriage of convenience (happens a lot truthfully be told), and two people as different as night and day need to work it out on the way back to his ranch in Oregon. So the crumpets are her, the cowpies are him, but as you can probably figure out, they fall in love after all. Welcome to the Western United States as westward expansion finds them.
So it ended up as planned even though the principal players didn’t know it. Long story short: a western cowboy goes to England to settle his dead brother’s estate, only to find out his niece and nephew (who knew?) were in the care of their aunt in their father’s estate. now, to be fair, the lawyer did try to warn him but it just didn’t work out. So enter a marriage of convenience (happens a lot truthfully be told), and two people as different as night and day need to work it out on the way back to his ranch in Oregon. So the crumpets are her, the cowpies are him, but as you can probably figure out, they fall in love after all. Welcome to the Western United States as westward expansion finds them.
August 17, 2017
This romantic historical fiction book was such a pleasant contrast from the last novel I read! It was just what I needed. Set in 1890, the setting took place both in England and eastern Oregon. It was a love story of two people connected by the children of his brother and her sister. With the parents deceased the children's aunt and uncle (Jemma and Thane) decide to marry to provide a home for them. Of course, the Thane and Jemma don't get along at first but love eventually prevails. Throughout there is lively retorts between the two. Thane is quite a tease and knows just how to "twist her bloomers" so that is fun.
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