A Mother in the Making

by Gabrielle Meyer

Matchmaking with a Mission  

Practical, steady, levelheaded: all qualities single father Dr. John Orton expects in both a governess and a wife. But his children's temporary governess Miss Marjorie Maren seems set on finding him an impractical woman to love…despite his plans of marrying solely for convenience. Nothing could be more exasperating to the handsome widower—except his increasing interest in Marjorie. 

Vivacious and fun-loving: that's the kind of bride the reserved doctor needs. Before Marjorie leaves to pursue her acting dreams, she intends to match him with a suitable wife candidate. Yet growing affection for her four charges and their dashing father has awakened a new hope—that she might be his perfect bride. But can she convince her employer to take a chance on love and claim real happiness before it slips away?

Genres: Love Inspired, Romance, Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Historical, Love Inspired Historical, Historical Romance

281 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published September 1, 2016

About the author

Gabrielle Meyer grew up above a carriage house on a historic estate near the banks of the Mississippi River, imagining real and make-believe stories about the occupants who had lived there. She went on to work for the Minnesota Historical Society and loves writing fiction inspired by real people, places, and events. She currently resides in central Minnesota on the banks of the Mississippi River, not far from where she grew up, with her husband and four children. By day, she’s a busy homeschool mom, and by night she pens fiction and non-fiction filled with hope. Learn more about Gabrielle and her writing by visiting www.gabriellemeyer.com.

Reviews

[Alicia Willis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Appropriate for all ages. Best for 13+.

When I found out about the opportunity to jump on-board Gabrielle's street team for this book, I was thrilled. I was even more thrilled when the book arrived at my door. Yes, I did jump up and down. I was made even happier by the story itself.

When an aspiring actress shows up as his new governess, Dr. Orton doesn't know what to think. Miss Marjorie Maren is way too beautiful, fun loving, and, well...impractical. How could she possibly be a good governess to his children? And what is she hiding from her past?

Marjorie wants to make people happy with her life. Before she leaves to fulfill that goal as a movie actress, she is determined to leave the Orton family in good hands. Dr. Orton needs a good wife so his children can have a mother again. But what if she never finds the perfect woman? Time is running out...and her heart is getting way too drawn toward the Orton children...and their father.

With a touch of whimsy, overall sweetness, and the occasional similarity to The Sound of Music, A Mother in the Making is a fun, quick read. I enjoyed the story, loved the ending, and liked the two POVs. While I would have preferred a bit more character growth and historical details, that is not easy to achieve with a limited word count. The book was written in the style I've come to expect with Love Inspired books, and it was the perfect length for a quiet afternoon of reading.

Recommended for sweet romance and light historical-fiction fans.

[Gretchen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Recommended on a governess trope thread! It honestly wasn’t bad. A little cheesy as expected but developed fine. 3.5⭐️

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anytime a book makes me feel every emotion and makes me sob happy tears in the end, it's a solid 5 stars! This book was SO GOOD. One of my favorites in the genre. I loved the characters because they did stupid things sometimes, sometimes did good things, sometimes got things right and sometimes got things way wrong. They weren't perfect. They were very real and that is realistic and what I enjoy reading about.

[Kate Willis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Me: I want to buy some ebooks since library lockdown (fortunately nearly over as I write this review!) is a killjoy. What should I buy?
*browses my list of books to buy*
Me to me: That looks cute. You like adoption-y stories and need to switch up your genres. Pick it up.

Narrator: It did not in fact go well.

The kids were a huge highlight. They were delightful and messy and quite kiddish. Especially Petey with the airplane. *melts*

Marjorie’s fear of leaving yet another something undone (and the comical way it leads her to try her hand at matchmaking XD) was relatable and not something I see often in books.

Unfortunately, the rest of the book was very similar to another book I've read, though not as enjoyable or compelling. I also found the lack of communication regarding The Scandal maddening and felt that John got over his distaste for the idea of remarrying far too easily. (And I felt terrible for the nurse…)

Just a note, there is talk around a scandal that ends up being much tamer than people assume. There was also kissing, one episode of which was prior to any commitment between characters.

Altogether, while this was a somewhat interesting read, I lean away from recommending it. ;)

[Rose | Adventurous Bookworm · Rating 3 out of 5]

Solid read. Now on to the next Gabrielle Meyer book.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mercy, but Marjorie is a force to be reckoned with! Something John soon discovers much to the amusement of the reader. A touch of whimsy, a whole lot of laughter and the hope of romance bring this story to life. Loved the children, the indomitable Marjorie and the rather befuddled John who is way out of his element. The romance has a kind of Captain Von Trapp and Maria vibe to it which was fun to read. There's plenty of heart-tugging drama as well though. A great combination of love, laughter and hope.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was so sweet! I fell in love with those kids myself. Plus there’s plenty of humorous situations that arise. So fun!

[Trixi · Rating 5 out of 5]

What will it take for a woman determined to marry for love and a man who’s love died along with his wife to see eye to eye?
Dr. John Orton needs a nanny for his four young children and Marjorie can fill that role, at least temporarily! She’s going to be an actress after all and only needs the funds from this job to get her to California. Even though she’s never worked with children before, how hard can it really be? And she’s definitely NOT the kind of woman John expects; she’s quite the opposite of him; fun-loving, vivacious, go with the flow to his staid, serious, steady nature. This causes many sparks between the two. What will it take for God to heal this family and for love to flow free again?

This was one book that I could hardly put down! Marjorie is determined to do a good job and learn how to be the best nanny. With the help of her young charge Lilly, she does just that! She’s kind-hearted, loving and can’t help but fall in love with each child. She carries her own secrets and the reason she fled Chicago, but is determined to make her own way in the world. John is a devoted father and doctor for the community. He’s overly protective of them especially since he lost his wife due to an influenza epidemic, where he blames himself for her death. He’s also closed his heart to loving another woman, wanting a wife in name only to provide for the children’s needs & upbringing. Marjorie takes it upon herself to find him the perfect wife, but that often leads to disaster! The story is full of humorous scenes & scenes so touching it will bring tears to your eyes. You can’t help but fall in love with the four children, they bring delight, fun and laughter to each page. I found this a tender story of two hearts reawaking to feel again, poignant in the sense of gently bringing the reader along for the ride. This was the authors debut Love Inspired Historical and I think she did a wonderful job of involving her readers in the story, engrossing their hearts and bringing smiles to their faces! A highly recommended story that will leave you with a satisfied sigh after “The End”.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review which I have provided here. Thank you Gabrielle for a sweetly tender story that touched my heart, I look forward to more from you! *

[Patrice Doten · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun, clean, sweet historical romance with likable characters and strong themes of family, loyalty, commitment and grace. The meticulously researched details make for a vibrant setting.

Disclaimer: I don't generally read (even clean) romances; they're not my thing. I do, however, read some historical romance authors, because their research is outstanding and I enjoy being immersed in the historical periods they recreate. A native Minnesotan, I particularly enjoy Gabrielle Meyer's books set in Little Falls, MN.

[Beverly Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've now read this book twice -- and loved it both times. Wonderful characters. Well-told story.
I read many books and most are good. But when I pick up a book by Gabrielle Meyer my insides sigh with relief. I can settle in for a delightfully good time. I feel refreshed.

[Abby Breuklander · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is hands down one of the best books that I've ever read! I hope there's a movie someday! :)

[Francine Maximiliano · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first time reading historical fiction, and I confess that I was skeptical about the genre. However I am surprised by how enjoyable this first experience was. I got so wrapped up in Gabrielle’s writing that I read faster than I intended.

____________________________________________________

A Mother in the Making is set in Little Falls, Minnesota in the year of 1918.
Marjorie Maren runs away from a marriage for convenience and finds herself in the Orton family’s house to be new governess. John Orton is a doctor working non-stop to fight the flu pandemic, he is now a single parent searching for a wife that must be practical, steady and levelhead… everything Miss Maren isn’t.

This narrative is well described, even not knowing much about US history facts I could follow and picture what the author was portraying, the characters are charming and accurate, Marjorie's sparkling personality got me smiling a lot as well as her interactions with John’s children, all she wanted was to bring happiness into people’s lives and she did it with them, the climax is really good, and their love story is captivating. Another great point is the faith-related aspect, they are all learning to trust in God’s will and authority.

I love that this story is full of humor and emotion. I love it so much that I’m giving it 5stars.

[Jeanne Alfveby Crea · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a sweet and funny historical romance. Perfect for young adults and adults alike! Well developed and lovable characters and a fun plot. These characters have stayed with me long after I finished reading. I would love it if there was a follow up to their story! My first book by Gabrielle Meyer, and I will definitely be seeking out more of her stories!

[Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED THIS ONE SO MUCH!! SO BEAUTIFUL!

[Terry Yaceyko · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read.

[Sarina · Rating 2 out of 5]

Hmm. This book is a nice simple read. I picked it up because as a new mother I liked the idea of an inexperienced-with-children woman suddenly being saddled with four of varying ages. And it was a romance and I'm a romantic.

I liked Marjorie, I liked that she was a quitter. I wanted to see her get into shenanigans with taking care of the children. She never changed a diaper before, she didn't even know if Petey was old enough to speak. But Oh no the oldest Lilly has her covered, ok then. And she slips into the role fairly easy which I guess is the point cause then she's a good replacement mom and wife but i don't know. Lost some fun potential I thought.

So instead we get to follow Marjorie around matchmaking, and yes that was what the books says on the back but it was boring.

And there was little romantic relationship building between Marjorie and John. And it felt fake when it did. I did like that Marjorie would pretty much do as she pleases but Honestly that man should have kicked that woman out on her butt but he didn't cause the author says so. He's immediately comparing potential wives to Marjorie even if she's been there for a week, too.
She forgot the children's cinnamon oil which prevents them from getting sick and DYING just like his wife. And when one child gets sick, John is furious with her and good! And then a couple days later the kid breaks his fever and wakes up and John goes and proposes to this woman after only barely knowing her for two months, also after she got his kid sick with a potential death sentence. Then they get married the next day. Seriously? Rushed, artificial romance. A book that is advertised as a romance was barely romantic in my eyes. The kissing scene was nice I suppose but that's it?

What else, what else...

Good god, the amount of times they say practical (in that form or another ie impractical, practicality, etc).. if I took a shot every time that word popped up I'd be dead and pickled not even half way through! I should have made a count but I'm not re reading.

Also the religion. I don't mind characters that are religious but I hate it when the authors religious beliefs seep through. It wasn't so bad but for me personally it was kinda barf. I tried to remind myself that this is the US and the US is very religious and even more so in the past. Also the author basically admits to this being a self insert of her family.

EDIT: some of my review didn't save so I'm adding in:

This book didn't tickle my romantic or maternal feelings and that was disappointing. But that's just my rambling opinion. Art is subjective after all.

[Just Commonly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful is not the only word I can think of when it comes to Gabrielle Meyer's debut full novel, A Mother in the Making. No, not at all, but it sure sums it up quite nicely. First off, lets give that cover another good stare. Here, I'll give you another image of it so you can just fall in love with it again. The sweetness and tenderness one sees in this cover is exactly what we'll encounter as you read A Mother in the Making, as well as the slight mischievousness in the little boy's face. I'll stop there so not to spoil anything.

Gabrielle has such a way with a story that speaks volumes. With whimsy and depth, we find comical moments when we need a laugh, as well as emotional ones when circumstances are beyond our and the characters' control. As Marjorie tries to find a wife for Dr. Orton so she can leave the children in good hands, she didn't expect to fall for not only the kids, but the practical doctor, himself. Now, what is a girl to do? When the impossible seems possible, will distrust and uncertainty drive this new family apart?

Sometimes God's answers may just be right there in front of us all along, but our eyes and heart are blind to it. It may not be what we had hope for, but sometimes, all we need to do is blindly trust that God has our back, and He knows exactly what and who we need. This message in A Mother in the Making had me contemplate for a bit. It may not be obvious, but it could also be that I had blinders on. *wink wink. Keep your blinders off and grab a hold of A Mother in the Making. Keep it on your shelf for some shelf candy and spend an afternoon reading this light, yet insightful story of when practicality meets God's plan.

This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog.

NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in Little Falls, MN during the flu pandemic of 1918, author Gabrielle Meyer tells the story of two broken people who find each other under trying circumstances. Marjorie Maren, a socialite from Chicago, arrives in Little Falls, not knowing a thing about caring for children, to become the governess for the children of Dr. John Orton. He is searching for a new wife, but a governess will fit the bill for the time being.

Marjorie is on her way to California to become a movie actress. She is on her own, having been thrown out of her parents' Chicago home when she cannot go through with an arranged marriage to a wealthy businessman, who didn't love her. She convinces John to give her until the end of the year as the temporary governess while she saves the money for a train ticket to CA. John is a dedicated physician, who is not used to the woman in his life having a voice. Marjorie challenges him and not always in a good way. Deeply grieving, he is searching for a wife in name only, who will raise his children. He cannot think of loving anyone other than his deceased wife. Marjorie won't marry for anything but love.

Meyer does a wonderful job of describing the life and times of Little Falls in this time period. Her characters are real. John's mother in law is taking her daughter's death hard and it comes across in dialogue. The children each have their own personalities and shine in this book. It was hard to put the book down.

[Bobbi Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miss Marjorie Maren is a young woman you can fall in love with.

She arrives in Little Falls, MN to be a governess to the Orton children after their mother has died of the Spanish flu. She is the bright light in their life, the one that brings them out if their grief state and helps them to start living again. Miss Maren feels she has to find a wife for Dr. Orton before she leaves to be an actress. Her father has told her numerous times that she is a quitter, and this is one job she refuses to quit or fail at. Along the way, she helps Dr. Orton to love again.

I loved the description of Little Falls as Miss Maren and Dr. Orton go for an afternoon drive and during the snowstorm adventure. I could picture Little Falls in my head so well. It made me miss living in Little Falls. I fell in the love with the Orton children and felt sad for them to have lost their mother so young and my heart cheered as they fell in love with Marjorie.

This is Gabrielle Meyer's first full length novel. I am so excited to see where her writing career takes her!

[Wanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabrielle Meyer is one of my favorite up-and-coming authors. Her writing is so strong and is growing! She helps the reader live in the world with those characters described.

In the case of A Mother in the Making, that world is Little Falls, Minnesota and the time is 1918. I knew this era saw the end of the First World War and the Spanish Flu pandemic. People also began to earn more money and the Great Depression was not even a raindrop in the flood to come.

Gabrielle takes this factual background and writes it into a story that warms the heart. I had not thought before about people living 100 or more years ago having the same problems, sins and issues that we do today. But they did. They were not perfect and they make the same bad choices we do.

I especially liked the setting. Little Falls is very close geographically to me and I recognized the area and some of the names. I like that! I recommend this book to all Minnesotans, those who read historical fiction and those who are romantics at heart.

Can't wait for the next in the series!

[Shelli Littleton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabrielle's writing is soft and tender, gracious. A Mother in the Making is a sweet love story that begins with Dr. Orton's mother sending him a new governess to help with his children. What mothers will do to help their children along! The story reveals that sometimes our answers are right under our noses. And that sometimes the answers have to grow on us, just a little ... grow to love. And Marjorie's story is something so familiar to most of us--trying so hard and everything seemingly going all wrong, but all the best intentions. Her methods of finding Dr. Orton a wife had me constantly chuckling. And then proof that when we stop trying so hard and simply start being ourselves, blessings come.
My favorite moment:
Dr. Orton paused and he looked as if he had to concede. "Everyone is welcome in my home."
Marjorie toyed with a silk flower on her hat. "I don't feel welcome at the moment."
~I was given this book for an honest review.

[Becky Dempsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A Mother in the Making" has an adorable cover that drew me in and made me want to read it. I know they say not to judge a book by its cover, but it helps when the cover draws your attention! At first, this book had me thinking a little bit of Sound of Music with the widower and the governess and later on a little bit of Emma as Marjorie tried to find John a wife. Mostly, it was its own story. I loved Marjorie's enthusiasm and her love for the children. I found myself getting frustrated at John for fighting his attraction to Marjorie! But there wouldn't be much of a story if she walks in and he instantly falls in love with her and wants to get married! I liked the children in the story and watching Petey as he warmed up to Marjorie. I look forward to reading more of Gabrielle Meyer's stories.

I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and no other compensation was received.

[Ness · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put down Gabrielle Meyer's debut full novel!! I wanted so badly to know how Marjorie and John ended up together! As I read, I loved the back story of characters and the details of clothing they wore, the homes, shops and their surroundings. It was very easy to imagine the characters. It was very fun to be able to pinpoint the setting and imagine the characters there, moving about town, shopping, going to visit Dr. Orton at the hospital and such. (I am from the Little Falls, MN area.) Just when I thought I knew what was going to happen, there was a twist! I cannot wait for more from Gabrielle!!

NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. John Orton is in desperate need of a governess for his 4 children. His mother-in-law thinks she has the solution, marry her other daughter. She lives across the street with her and they are helping with the children. John's mother sends a young lady his way in need of a job and a place to stay. He reluctantly agrees to let her stay for 2 months. It's quickly apparent they have a great prospect with each other. But they don't see it. She makes a list and he does too of what he needs in a wife. It's quite humorous to read about the process. The author does a fabulous job with this book and I found myself reading whenever I could to find out what happens next! Such a wonderful, sweetly written book!

[Britney · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Mother in the Making is a delightful story! I immediately fell in love with the Orton children and my heart ached for their loss. When Miss Marjorie Maren joins their family as a governess, changes begin to take place and love and laughter blossom. I enjoyed Marjorie’s humorous match-making hijinks and the heartwarming relationship that developed between the impetuous governess and the practical doctor. Gabrielle Meyer has penned a charming romance that is sure to make readers smile!

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts expressed are my own.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Mother In The Making by Gabrielle Meyer. This book takes place in 1918. Dr. John Orton lost his wife and raising four children. He is looking for a Governess and a mother for his children. Marjorie Maren becomes the children's governess. John wants to marry her in name only but Marjorie won't marry except for love. John won't give his heart he says. Marjorie invites single women over to have dinner with John in hopes to find a wife for John. John is not happy about that. John's oldest son becomes very sick. John blames Marjorie and tells her to leave. Later when John finds out things and his son is better he goes looking for Marjorie. A very good historical romance.

[Wilani Wahl · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thoroughly enjoyable book. Loved the characters from the very start. They were so life like and real. I felt like I was right there in Little Falls, Minnesota with them. The story was also so much fun. I had to keep reading to see if it would end the way I wanted it to. I was not disappointed. I look forward to reading more from this author. I also loved the inspirational thread running through the book.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved it. I don't know why but I always enjoy a story with children that belongs to either the hero or heroine of the story. I feel like its really more believable when they are involved within the love story the revolves around the H & H. I found them very charming, their personalities and descriptions of them to be very accurate. I will definitely be interested in reading more of Gabrielle Meyer's novels.

[Chris Trout · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sweet story takes you along on a young lady's journey from youthful self-centeredness to that magical moment when love of a child(ren) takes over your life. The time and geographic setting adds to the overall depth of the story.

[Caryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written historical romance. I loved Marjorie Maren. She is kind, determined and very loving. Dr. John Orton is wonderful father. I enjoy watching their romance blossom. These characters are very endearing.