The Kitchen Marriage

Montana Brides #2

by Gina Welborn, Becca Whitham

A Montana Brides Romance
 
Book 2
 
A bright future awaits the women of courage and faith who boldly chase their dreams across the wide-open Montana Territory, prepared to embrace adventure and forge their own destinies . . .
 
When French immigrant Zoe de Fleur is forced out of her position as household cook for a high society New Yorker, the pretty and talented chef seizes an unexpected chance to head west for a new beginning. She pursues what she thinks is a prestigious job in the frontier’s “finest kitchen,” but instead finds herself in a matchmaker’s agency . . .
 
Isaak Gunderson is one of Helena, Montana’s most eligible bachelors, but he’s too focused on running for mayor and his family’s business to think about a wife and family. His twin brother, Jakob, is supposed to be too busy as well, yet sends for a mail-order bride anyway. Isaak doesn’t want to fuel an ongoing rivalry with his twin, but this tempting newcomer can’t be ignored. If only she’d come to Helena a different way and loving her wasn’t a betrayal . . .

Genres: Romance, Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Fiction

369 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 1, 2018

About the author

Bestselling author Gina Welborn is a lifetime member of the National Corvette Museum. She is also graduate of the Ron Fellows Performance Driving School at Spring Mountain Motor Resort in Pahrump, Nevada, and she bought fabric (for her mother) at The Quilted Dragon. Should you not be a fan of the premier American Sports Car or of doing sewingy stuff with fabric, know Gina has actual writing credits.

Gina Welborn is the co-author of the new Montana Brides Series (Kensington Publishing). A longtime member of Romance Writers of America, she once served at president of the RWA-FHL chapter. Her manuscripts finaled in numerous contests, including the RWA Golden Heart© and ACFW Genesis. A few of her books are ECPA bestsellers. Gina currently serves on the ACFW Foundation Board, where she helps organize the silent auction which provides scholarships for ACFW members. Find more about her books at www.ginawelborn.com!

Reviews

[Dale Harcombe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Three and a half stars.
Born in France and having immigrated to America with her father years before, Zoe de Fleur finds herself suddenly out of a job as household cook. Not a chef because only men can be chefs. Instead of taking the option offered her by her ex employer, Zoe heads off in a completely different direction, heading west. However, thanks to her young friend Nico and his deceit, Zoe is not heading west to the job in a prestigious kitchen as she thinks she is. In the town of Helena, Montana, Jacob Gunderson has sent for a mail order bride. His twin Isaac, who is running for mayor, it determined to expose the newcomer, which is Zoe, as a fake. But what really happens after Zoe arrives in Helena, is something Isaac never expected.
This is the second book in the Montana Brides series. I had not read the first but it didn’t matter, I quickly became interested in this story set in the late 1880s. I liked the character of Zoe, although I did find the accent with the z instead of t a bit annoying. I initially liked Jacob and the some of the other inhabitants of Helena, especially the Forsythes, who quickly adopted Zoe and made her feel welcome. Isaac took a little longer to warm to. Nico, who becomes like an adopted brother to Zoe, is an interesting character, not above using deception to manipulate events. Some underhand behaviour is obviously dealt with in the earlier book but it didn’t take long to sort out what was going on. As the story progresses each of the three main characters learns something about themselves that had not previously been apparent to them.
Following my decision given the current situation at present to read lighter books, this was a good choice. It is a gentle, historical romance with a few less than savoury twists and turns thrown in to add interest and balance. The epilogue sets up a scenario which will obviously be dealt with in the next book in the series. While I enjoyed this as a nice light read, I’m not convinced I will read any more in the series. Jury still out on that. If you enjoy a gentle historical romance this could be a good choice as the characters were well developed. This enjoyable story held my interest throughout.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Kitchen Marriage

Gina Welborn
Becca Whitham

THE KITCHEN MARRIAGE is the second book in the Montana Brides series. Wow, all I can say is, this story blew me away! Keep the tissues close by as you are reading THE KITCHEN MARRIAGE by Gina Welborn and Becca Whitham. Once I started reading, it was very hard to stop! The twists and turns made it impossible to put down, as I had to know what was going to happen to Zoe after she was forced out of her job as a household cook! What an awesome story. All of Gina and Becca's characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again. You will also wonder how much heartache a person can stand before they completely break down and shatter.


THE KITCHEN MARRIAGE takes place in 1887. Zoe answers an ad for a cook in Denver but in actuality, she is really answering a mail order bride ad. It had me flipping through the pages like a woman on a mission. I had to know what was going to happen to Zoe and Jakob and his brother Izaak and all of the secondary characters. THE KITCHEN MARRIAGE is a heart felt story that will hold you hostage until the very last page. Once you start reading, it will be very hard to put down! I found myself wishing and hoping that Zoe would follow her heart and choose the right brother. I also wanted to taste every dish Zoe made while reading this beautiful story. I loved the proposal scene and found myself laughing out loud while reading!


THE KITCHEN MARRIAGE isn't your typical historical romance. It is filled with quite a few subjects that aren't usually included in a historical romance story, but the authors handled the situations perfectly. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters. Gina and Becca really know how to write about personal struggles, trusting in ones faith, and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more by these wonderful and heart tugging authors. This is the very first book I've read by Ms. Whitham and Ms. Welborn. I'm excited to continue with this series.


I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books and CelebrateLit. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed The Kitchen Marriage. It took me a bit of time to sort out who everyone was in the book. I was fairly confused about some of the underhanded things going on in town that were hinted at. I think it might have helped to have read the first book in the series to understand some of the backstory.

I enjoyed the mail order bride aspect of this book and the resulting relationship issues that developed between Zoe and the Gunderson brothers. The fact that Zoe was the focus between these two brothers added good tension to the story. All three characters grew a lot emotionally by the end of the book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very different type of mail order bride story, especially when the perspective bride is lied to when she only reads French. Now who was the culprit who lied? Well, a delightful youngster who is very street smart, and becomes our Zoe’s unofficial brother, or a brother of the heart.
This is the second book in this series that I have read, and as enjoyable as the first. When our Zoe arrives, she is pledged to a twin brother, one who seems to like her and the other thinks she is a gold digger.
There is a theme of danger here, and if you read the first book you know what is happening, but if now there is enough information provided. Will Zoe find her happiness ever after? I found her speaking English with her French accent delightful, and she sure found food as a way into the hearts of the locals, but as you will see she needs to be careful of whom she trusts, not all are as they appear.
Will Jakob wake up and see what a treasure he is being offered, and will Isaak wake up and realize whom Zoe really is? There are answers here, but there is also danger, and our girl is way too trusting and loving!
A read you don’t want to miss, and yes, it can be read alone.

I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Leslie McKee · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the second installment in the “Montana Brides Romance” series. I enjoy mail-order bride stories, so I was glad to have the chance to read this one. I didn’t read the first one, but I wasn’t lost with this story. It has a love triangle, which is a bit of a twist for this type of story.

The writing in this historical romance flows seamlessly, so you don’t realize it’s actually written by two separate writers. The faith element is woven throughout, and there are some difficult themes addressed (such as rescuing women and children from prostitution). I do wish the book had included some recipes, as food is frequently mentioned in the story. This book has a bit of everything: romance, mystery, obstacles, and its share of heroes and villains. While some parts are a bit predictable, this is still an enjoyable read overall.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I voluntarily read and reviewed an copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of this book via Netgalley

I didn't like author's style, I got lost with so many names, I think you should read first book..
The heroine was a French girl, and she talked "zis is fine, zat would be good...". It was annoying.
I didn't like the Hero, he was lusting after his brother's bride....
I skipped a lot...

[Renee · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was so hoping that this book would center around gourmet food and romance like the title suggests, but The Kitchen Marriage reads like most other historical romances set in the west. I love historical romances, so It’s not a bad thing, just a little disappointing. That being said, this book also has a love triangle which I tend to loath these days since it seems to be an overused trope in tv, film, and books. Still, I actually still like this book in spite of it having checked off that major Renee no no.

Issak Gunserson, the gruff and starched hero of the book is catnip for me. He was really quite arrogant and holier than thou initially, but learned the error of his ways and actually apologizes to Zoe. I honestly feel like romance heroes nevertheless apologize even when they act like tools. It always seems to fall on the heroine to just forgive him. I like when a man, even a fictional one, can admit he’s in the wrong. ;-)

The Kitchen Marriage is just what I expected it to be as far as inspirational content. It was squeaky clean without being preachy. I’m definitely checking out more romance from this publisher in future!

* I received a free copy from the publisher. I was not obligated to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

The Kitchen Marriage is a mail-order bride book with a couple of twists. First, the bride doesn't realize she's responding to an ad for a bride. Second are the twin brothers who have big, but completely different personalities.

Gina Welborn and Becca Whitham take readers to the bustling city of Helena, Montana and expose some of the challenges of a growing city as well as the difficulty of a newcomer finding their place.
Zoe de Fleur is a memorable character--originally from France, a chef who can't claim it because she's female, and a sweet, even-tempered woman who is alone in the world. When she makes friends in Helena, she thinks maybe she's found a place to call home.

The only problem? Isaak Gunderson--the twin brother of Zoe's intended. Isaak comes over as gruff as first with a couple flaws (even if the man is the one everyone depends on). But maybe what he needs is a woman to balance those flaws out.

While I would have enjoyed a couple more scenes from Jakob’s perspective (the brother who placed the ad), I enjoyed watching Isaak’s initial animosity toward Zoe change to appreciation as he watched her genuineness. Then a friendship is formed and the leader is left wondering how everything is going to work out to everyone’s benefit.


Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Cheryl Baranski · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Kitchen Marriage is book two in the Montana Brides series by Gina Welborn and Goodreads Author (Becca Whitman.) This is the first book that I have read in this series. This was a unique story. I received a complementary copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion. 3.0 stars

[Gina Holder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Zoe de Fleur is a chef…uh I mean, home cook, in a time when women could not be chefs no matter how brilliant their cooking expertise. At the recommendation of a grumpy old chef, Zoe loses her job and the only home she’s known for many years. Zoe speaks English, but cannot read or write it, and is therefore tricked by the young boy she’s befriended into uprooting herself and heading for Denver to a chef’s position that doesn’t exist. Here’s where the fun begins.
This mail-order bride romance becomes a love-triangle as two brothers begin pursuing the same woman! The story has some quirky and fascinating characters. Since I love cooking, I could relate well to this character. She is sweet and gullible and quickly endeared herself to me.
I loved how this story brought out the importance of marrying the right person. It’s better that feelings are hurt, and hearts are broken before the knot is tied and before ending up in a mix-matched marriage.
Although, the brothers names are Isaak and Jakob, I loved the parallel to the Biblical story of Jacob and Esau. I'll let you determine which brother is which.
The overall theme is humility, a lesson one of the characters desperately needs to learn. It reminds us that there is a substantial difference in being responsible, loyal, and trust-worthy verses believing that the world would fall apart if we weren’t in charge and in control. Sometimes, we just have to let go and let others make mistakes. Neither nations nor the small town of Helena, Montana would fall apart if time is taken to enjoy life every now and again.
The only negative I saw was all the Ze’s in Zoe’s dialogue. I realize the authors were trying to emphasize her French accent, but after a while it became overwhelming.
There are references to brothel’s and prostitution as this is part of the overall plot of the series itself.
Although, The Kitchen Marriage works as a stand-alone, I did feel like I was piecing a piece of the puzzle by not having read book one of the Montana Brides series. This book did make frequent references to events from book one and it ends with a bit of a cliff-hanger and surprise twist leading into book 3 of the series.
I enjoyed this book very much and recommend The Kitchen Marriage for those who love mail-order bride romances and love-triangles.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

For the most part I enjoyed The Kitchen Marriage. The plot was a unique take on the mail order bride theme with a bride who was mistakenly led to believe she was answering an ad for a position as a chef. The fact that the intended groom had a twin brother who was antagonistic toward the bride made the story even more interesting, especially when the plot took an unexpected twist or two.

Characters were well-rounded and interesting although Zoe's accent was sometimes distracting. I would have liked to see Isaak's character developed more but enjoyed seeing the changes in Jakob as the story progressed. The bit of mystery was a nice touch but could have been developed further to make the story even better.

I did enjoy this story and would not mind reading more by these authors.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Kitchen Marriage has a couple of unexpected twists and a mystery. It was enough to keep my interest and keep me turning pages. I won’t say what happened as I don’t want to spoil it, but do be on the lookout!

This is the second book in a series, and while you can read it as a standalone I wouldn’t recommend it. I haven’t read book one and got lost periodically. But I always found my way back and enjoyed the story.

I did find a few flaws with phrasing etc. and the time period but I could overlook them and become absorbed in the story. The characters were well defined. Some I really liked and others I didn’t, which is the way a good story should be. Not your typical romance, there was enough tension to make it interesting and keep me wondering. If you enjoy historical romance then I recommend giving this a read.

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

[Patti Pierce · Rating 4 out of 5]

oe de Fleur, a kitchen cook, finds herself without a job when a male chef takes issue with her and forces her employer to fire Zoe. Without any recourse, her young friend Nico convinces Zoe to go west to become a chef at a hotel. Because Zoe is French and cannot read English well, she embarks on a journey laced with deception. Rather than sending her to become a chef, her actual destination involves matrimony. Also, Nico fails to mention that he plans on coming west as well. Living in today’s time, I felt incredible sympathy for Zoe being forced from her job as well as her home only because a man decided she needs to go.

Isaak and Jakob Gunderson are twin brothers who are nothing alike. Both are strong-minded and determined. Unbeknownst to Isaak, Jakob sends for a mailorder bride, namely Zoe de Fleur. Isaak’s immediate dislike for Zoe is understandable, but not appreciated by his brother or Zoe. Of the three characters, I have to say I liked Zoe the best. She was down-to-earth, charming and incredibly giving.

From the moment Jakob comes into the story along with Isaak, I felt that Jakob was the wrong man for Zoe. The story seemed to slow down at parts while capturing my interest and attention at other parts. I found Jakob to be somewhat petulant, irresponsible, and at times annoying. At the same time, I found Isaak to be condescending and rude to Zoe. Once it became clear Isaak and Zoe were meant to be together, I could not wait for them to realize that fact.

One of my absolute favorite things in this story is reading about Zoe cooking and her use of herbs and other items in her cooking. I also enjoyed reading about Zoe’s relationship with her father before he died. The attention to detail in these sections captured my attention and my heart.

By the end of the story, I had fallen in love with the idea of Zoe, Isaak, and Nico becoming a family. But I found myself distracted by the extra characters in the background plotting, scheming and otherwise attempting to cause problems without having any real details about what was actually going on. Having not read the first book in this series, I have to wonder if I would have benefited from reading it first. This book is definitely not a stand-alone book, I feel anyone reading it needs to read any and all other books in the series to truly grasp what is going on with the overall story.

I do recommend reading this book, but I recommend reading it in context. Otherwise, you may find yourself as frustrated as I did about not knowing the whole story. Still, I have to say the authors did an excellent job capturing the mood of the time and the potential difficulties and traumas that could result from choosing to order or to become a mailorder bride.

[Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sparks fly in the kitchen and in the heart...

I've been looking forward to The Kitchen Marriage since I read book 1 in the Montana Brides Romance series last year. Within a few pages I was immersed in the lives of Zoe, a certain young rapscallion, and the equally charming and frustrating Gunderson brothers.

The Kitchen Marriage was a lovely blend of sweet romance, a dash of humor, and a continuing thread of suspense. There were some real twists and turns in the story, not so much in the romance end but in the suspense thread, that left me quite surprised.

One of the reasons that I really liked this book, and its predecessor, is that the authors consulted with one of most knowledgeable people at the Montana Historical Society, and it really shows in the quality of the historical details and sense of setting. The streets and people of New York, Denver, and especially Helena, Montana came alive under the talented hands of Gina Welborn & Becca Whitham.

Gina Welborn & Becca Whitham make a great writing team, one that I enjoy quite a bit, and I am definitely looking forward to my next adventure with them in historic Helena, Montana...

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

[Hallie (Hallie Reads)]

I do love a good mail-order bride story—especially when it starts with mishaps and miscommunications. The Kitchen Marriage is just that, and it is a whole lot of fun to read.

Chef Zoe de Fleur heads west in need of a job without realizing she’s actually responding to an ad for a bride. Upon her arrival in Helena, Montana, she gets to know Jakob Gunderson, the man who sent for her, and his twin brother, Isaak. Naturally, a problematic love triangle ensues, along with a story full of danger, mystery, faith, and delicious cooking.

A sweet, romantic story, The Kitchen Marriage is an enjoyable read. It is sure to please readers of historical romance—check it out!

This review is also posted on Book by Book.

Thanks to Celebrate Lit, I received a complimentary copy of The Kitchen Marriage and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Sydney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Authors Gina Welborn and Becca Whitham have come together and written an enjoyable historical mail-order bride romance in The Kitchen Marriage, book two in the Montana Brides series. Although the pacing of the book is a bit slow, the story is still fun and enjoyable. It introduces readers to the prejudices of true mail-order brides vs. those that are acting fraudulently, as well as to the idea of making a life for oneself and finding true love. Welborn and Whitham’s novel is one that readers that enjoy mail-order bride romance stories will appreciate.

Series: Montana Brides
Genre: historical, mail-order bride, romance
Publisher: Zebra
Publication date: September 25, 2018
Number of pages: 352

Other books in the series:
0.5-Come Fly with Me
1-The Promise Bride
1.5-To Catch a Bride

A review copy of this book was provided by CelebrateLit. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

[Deana Dick · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was hoping that the story would move faster as I read but for me it seemed to drag. I did like the idea of mail order brides as the theme. It seemed to be very popular during the time period of this story. Zoe is the main character of the book and I had a like/hate relationship with her. For some reason she bothered me with her over the top sugary personality or perhaps she went to Helene on false pretenses. She did have some redeeming qualities of caring for others and staying committed.

Jacob is excited when he says Zoe. She was beautiful, graceful and I think he may have hit the jackpot. I did not feel any connection between him and Zoe through the entire story. At times the story seemed to drag and become repetitive. When Jacob's twin brother enters the story I had figured out what would happen. Isaac is very different from his brother. Isaac is arrogant, rude and just plain unfriendly. I wanted to know more about Jacob, but the story seemed to focus on Isaac more. That confused me since the book was about a mail order bride which Jacob was looking for. I didn't like all the deceit going on between characters and hoped for more of how Jacob comes to court Zoe to woe her over. I wanted the story to not focus so much on how beautiful Zoe was. It was almost prideful to read that because she was beautiful she would make the perfect bride.

The story does pick up towards the end and I enjoyed the intrigue that developed as we learn of something illegal going on in the town. I was pleased with who Zoe ended up with, but it was a bit obvious with the not so subtle hints throughout the book. Overall a pleasant read, but a little long winded at times.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I saw the title and summary of this book, I was very intrigued. I have never met a French mail order bride before, or even a female chef from this time period. Unfortunately, it did take me a bit to really get into the story. The first part of the book didn't hold my interest a whole lot. I think I would have enjoyed it more if it had been shortened. I wanted for Zoe to quickly answer an ad and be on her way to Montana, but it took a while to get to that point. And then when she did arrive, I felt like she was a little bit too easily taken with Jakob. Typically in a mail order bride series the "couple" are a little shy, or maybe don't get along. I can't put my finger on it exactly, but it just wasn't my cup of tea.

At first anyway. Once I reached probably about the half way point or so, the story line got a little more interesting. The authors held my interest, and I found myself starting to really enjoy the story line. I loved how Zoe kept her french accent, which I imagine can be difficult to put on paper. But I was easily able to imagine a french dialect in my mind whenever she spoke. The tension between her and Isaak was good, and probably what I had expected in the beginning. This turn of events made the book enjoyable to read, and made me glad that I stuck with it until to the end.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an delightful author collaboration from two wonderful women, Gina Welborn and Becca Whitham. Both these ladies have worked together to create such a wonderful story for our reading pleasure. A beautiful friendship spun into words that leave your heart filled with joy and warmth.

Zoe de Fluer ends up losing her job and finding herself in an agency for mail-order brides. Really, she's unsure of her next steps in life. Being a chef for a high society NY socialite was the biggest achievement but when it ends, she needs to find a new way to care for herself and the West is new and exciting territory.

In comes Twin Trouble with Isaak and Jakob Gunderson. Jakob is looking for love but Isaak is intrigued by this beautiful lady between his focus wasn't on business and politics. Plus there's the fact that she was "ordered" by his own brother. Still there's something about Zoe that is just beyond explanation.

This one leaves you intrigued throughout the story. Who will win the heart of Zoe? And will they forgive the other when they do? Read it to find out!

[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Kitchen Marriage

I enjoy mail order bride stories and especially during this book in history. This one has a different version of mail order bride. Zoe just needs to find a home since was being kick out from where she lived. So, her and Nico travel across country to Helena, Montana. Nico is like a brother to her but read the book to find out more about him.

Isaak and Zoe has quite an interesting time actually finding their way to each other. I loved the scene where she is getting a bunch of books in French from his resale shop. Of course, there is lot more to the story, this is also 2nd in the but a stand alone but appears the next one in the series will be more of a continuation. I definitely recommend reading this book.

I received an complementary copy of the book from NetGalley through the publisher and Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.

[Debbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

"The Kitchen Marriage" by Gina Welborn & Beccan Whitham is a story about a cook who loses her job and is tricked into being a mail order bride. This is a story of twin brothers rivalry and love.

There are surprises all throughout this story.

It is the second book in the series. I didn't read the first book but I have added it to my to be read list and there are others coming. I hope the other books revealed that a certain couple gets justice dealt to them because they deal in selling young girls into prostitution. No, the story doesn't have any scenes in the story, it is just talked about.

At first, the book was slow reading but it does pick up after awhile and I knew how I wanted the story to end.

I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.

[Virginia Winfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this series and it would be helpful to have read the first book in the series but not imperative. I so enjoyed Zoe and Jakob and Isaak. This is a great historical western romance. This really shows how family members need to learn to communicate. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[Karen Hadley · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY THOUGHTS:

What could be more stressful and awkward than to be attracted to your twin brother’s fiancée? Yet, Isaac finds himself in that very situation. I loved all three of the main characters in this story. Isaac who strives to do right and what is expected from him. Jakob who struggles to grow up and prove he can finish what he starts. Zoe, I love her French accent, strength and courage as she faces decisions for her future and that of her sort-of brother. I would so like to taste the many tempting desserts that she creates through out the book. What a talent to create art with food! She’s wise in seeking the counsel of those she can trust but can she find the courage to tell each brother she can’t marry either of them.

Blessings,
Karen Hadley
Rating: 5*
I received this book as a gift and all opinions are my own.

[Sandybear76]

Zoe needs to move on from her old job of Household cook. Her friend Nico, a sorta brother, tells her of a chance to move to Denver to be a chef. But Nico's plan is a buff. The job isn't real. Zoe is meeting a lady in charge of mail order brides to the wilds of Montana.

[Betti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carpe diem - seize the day. This motto fit Zoe very well, who because she was female, was known as a home cook, even though she was a Paris trained chef. Having left Paris for New York City, it wasn't difficult to seize the opportunity to head west to seek her dreams. A mail-order bride was not what she had in mind, but it seemed to be the right ting to do at the time. Read on to find a story of twin brothers always trying to best each other, lies, intrigue, family and maybe even love.
This was my first book in this series, and I throughly enjoyed my introduction and am looking forward to more.
I received this ebook through CelebrateLit and this review gives my personal impressions and opinions.

[Deanna Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story of matchmaking and mail order brides. It definitely took bravery and faith to chase dreams into the Montana territory. Zoe’s story is a wonderful adventure! Fun reading her French accent and ideas on cooking.. I was gifted a copy, no review was required. My review is voluntary...

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great read. I really enjoyed this story line. From the beginning we get to know these characters and their desires.

I loved that there was a mystery character thrown in and we don’t know who it is, but we get to hear his or her thoughts and they aren’t good. That adds some tension to the book.

It was such an intriguing plot because Jakob was a nice guy and you want things to work out for him but by reading the backcover you know there could potentially be a twist that could really hurt him.

Overall, a very enjoyable read.

A copy of this book was given to me through the Celebrate Lit Team. All opinions are my own.

[Jodie Wolfe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first introduction to the Montana Brides Romance series by Gina Welborn and Becca Whitham. I admit that the beginning was quite confusing to me at first because of the introduction of a slew of characters all at once. Being new to the series, I found it hard to follow for a bit, but once I got into the story, I found it quite delightful. I loved the French heroine and was rooting for her to find her heart's desires. While both of these authors were new to me, they are ones that I will look to read again.

While this book was provided for free, I was not obligated in any way to write a positive review, that pleasure was mine - 2018.

[Jennifer J. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Slightly improbable but true to its historical romance genre, here’s a story about dashed hopes, future dreams, the trials and travails of the mail-order bride era, and women’s continual struggle for fair treatment and opportunity. With an easy writing style and a story that unfolds comfortably, The Kitchen Marriage succeeds as a pleasant read with some very interesting historical details woven throughout. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Isaak and Jakob Gunderson are twins who have spent their lives as each other’s best friend in spite of their competitive nature toward one another. They have a great relationship, or so it seems until Zoe de Fleur, a young woman who comes to Montana thinking she is going to have a job as a chef but in actuality is a mail-order bride, enters their lives. It was great fun to watch the word play between the three of them. This is a story of two brothers and a girl, of them coming into their own, realizing what is most important in life and how they ought not to make comparisons between themselves and others. They each have a lot to learn!

There is a proposal scene (not a spoiler) that I found to be hilarious. I was actually sitting outside at the time, and laughed out loud. Then a few moments later I was engrossed in another scene that had me voicing my thoughts about a certain no-good woman. My neighbors probably think I am crazy since I was the only one on the porch.

Several other characters wormed their way into my heart too and I hope to see them make a cameo in the next book. It was great fun getting a glimpse of Mac and Emilia after their honeymoon. They are the hero and heroine of The Promise Bride (Montana Brides #1). I recommend reading their story first to get the full palate of characters and backstory.

This is a clean and inspirational read with a light element of faith so I think any fan of historical romantic fiction will enjoy this story. The authors have suffused The Kitchen Marriage with abundant humor, familial bonds that ring true-to-life and a mystery of the most surprising nature. I just closed the book and I am all astonishment at the last line. An identity has been revealed and it is a shocker, at least to me.

I was provided an advanced uncorrected proof of the book from one of the authors. No review required. No compensation received.