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Sweet Water Ranch #1
Cowboys Don't Marry Their Best Friend
One final summer
Before they’re parted forever.
Palmer wasn’t planning to get married. But when he got the unexpected letter, he knew he could pay the overdue medical bills and save the ranch.
Just one problem.
He needed a wife.
When Ames came home to North Dakota to spend the summer with her best friend before moving on to her dream job in LA, she thought there were would be work and fun, as always.
She didn’t expect him to say he planned to get married.
Why doesn’t she want to help him?
Will time run out before Ames and Palmer realize that love could be their answer?
Fall in love with Sweet Water, North Dakota. Small town, sweet romance that will warm your heart and stir your soul.
Before they’re parted forever.
Palmer wasn’t planning to get married. But when he got the unexpected letter, he knew he could pay the overdue medical bills and save the ranch.
Just one problem.
He needed a wife.
When Ames came home to North Dakota to spend the summer with her best friend before moving on to her dream job in LA, she thought there were would be work and fun, as always.
She didn’t expect him to say he planned to get married.
Why doesn’t she want to help him?
Will time run out before Ames and Palmer realize that love could be their answer?
Fall in love with Sweet Water, North Dakota. Small town, sweet romance that will warm your heart and stir your soul.
158 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 16, 2019
3698 people are currently reading
881 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
January 6, 2020
Romance, clean; series, but stand alone read; faith elements
Lovely sweet honest hurting hearts, friends who realize they care more about each other than they realize. Perfect escape read!
Glad to have found this author. She really knows how to tell the emotions, hurts, worries, feelings, and create longing, yearning and chemistry with her characters.
Lovely sweet honest hurting hearts, friends who realize they care more about each other than they realize. Perfect escape read!
Glad to have found this author. She really knows how to tell the emotions, hurts, worries, feelings, and create longing, yearning and chemistry with her characters.
April 9, 2019
An entertaining western romance…
Ames and Palmer were best friends ever since childhood but Palmer was content to spend his life on his family's ranch in North Dakota while Ames loved traveling around the world and winning Olympic medals in the biathlon. Whenever Ames return home for a visit her friendship with Palmer took right up where it left off but this time was different. Almost showed her a letter he had received from a reclusive billionaire offering him one billion dollars under the condition that he had to be married in six months and never leave North Dakota. It would be the answer to his prayers because he could afford to help his family and stay on the ranch that he loved, but he didn't even have a girlfriend so who would he marry. Ames has the answer. She has friends from the city that would love to date someone as hunky as Palmer but at the same time she knows his new wife would probably change her friendship with Palmer.
The story has romance, cowboys, and a happily ever after – all delivered in a clean, sweet plot. It is well written and I enjoyed reading it.
Ames and Palmer were best friends ever since childhood but Palmer was content to spend his life on his family's ranch in North Dakota while Ames loved traveling around the world and winning Olympic medals in the biathlon. Whenever Ames return home for a visit her friendship with Palmer took right up where it left off but this time was different. Almost showed her a letter he had received from a reclusive billionaire offering him one billion dollars under the condition that he had to be married in six months and never leave North Dakota. It would be the answer to his prayers because he could afford to help his family and stay on the ranch that he loved, but he didn't even have a girlfriend so who would he marry. Ames has the answer. She has friends from the city that would love to date someone as hunky as Palmer but at the same time she knows his new wife would probably change her friendship with Palmer.
The story has romance, cowboys, and a happily ever after – all delivered in a clean, sweet plot. It is well written and I enjoyed reading it.
April 10, 2019
I love this author's style and her characters. Her style gives us these warm feel good stories that have action and angst and above all that they are clean reads. Even without the steam and scenes written into the stories you can still feel the emotion and passion between her characters. Her female characters have flaws yet they are believable because of their strength and intelligence and this one is no different. Here she also adds in the plight and tenacity of the farmers and the hazardous conditions they face. It's a great story of best friends finding out they want more and can do it without losing their friendship. They are hysterical comrades in arms in more ways than one. But decisions have to be made and it's time to find out if cowboys really don't marry their best friends.
July 23, 2020
I am so glad that I stumbled upon Jessie Gussman. I was offered codes to listen to her books on Audible. One of the best decisions that I made was to give that a try.
I enjoyed Palmer story. I have fallen in love with Sweetwater Ranch and can't wait to read the rest of the stories. To give you a little heads up on this one. Palmer and Ames have been best friends for most of their lives. Palmer has received a letter that he can inherit 1 billion dollars if he marries 6 months after visiting the attorney who sent him the letter. There are several catches to the letter.
When Palmer visits the lawyer he takes his best friend Ames with him. She sets out to find him a bride. A really cute book that had me laughing at times and almost in tears at times because of the decisions they have to make and how they would affect everyone and not just Palmer.
Jay Dyess made the book even better. He puts his all into the story and using different voices that make it easy to identify who is talking. He does a wonderful job and is very easy to listen to. Makes the book more enjoyable.
Jessie Gussman and Jay Dyess have done a wonderful job together to make these some of the best books for us to enjoy.
I enjoyed Palmer story. I have fallen in love with Sweetwater Ranch and can't wait to read the rest of the stories. To give you a little heads up on this one. Palmer and Ames have been best friends for most of their lives. Palmer has received a letter that he can inherit 1 billion dollars if he marries 6 months after visiting the attorney who sent him the letter. There are several catches to the letter.
When Palmer visits the lawyer he takes his best friend Ames with him. She sets out to find him a bride. A really cute book that had me laughing at times and almost in tears at times because of the decisions they have to make and how they would affect everyone and not just Palmer.
Jay Dyess made the book even better. He puts his all into the story and using different voices that make it easy to identify who is talking. He does a wonderful job and is very easy to listen to. Makes the book more enjoyable.
Jessie Gussman and Jay Dyess have done a wonderful job together to make these some of the best books for us to enjoy.
April 23, 2019
You'll love this tender story of love between old friends! Ames travels the world and sometimes comes back to her hometown for a brief visit. Palmer loves his family farm in spite of all the work it entails and the shortage of money! A wealthy man has left Palmer a billion dollars on the condition that he marry! Ames begins inviting her friends to visit and meet Palmer so he will fall in love. I recommend this contemporary ranch book to others. I received a complimentary e-book from the author. This is my honest opinion.
April 8, 2019
What love is…”It’s a lot less about the tingly feelings and a lot more about finding someone with character who won’t quit on you.”
Powerful and enchanting story of love, friendship, and family!
This story is so sweet with Jessie’s signature humor…chuckling at the interactions and competitions between Ames and Palmer.
I just HAVE to read Louise’s story…can’t wait…
I received an ARC of this book for review. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.
Powerful and enchanting story of love, friendship, and family!
This story is so sweet with Jessie’s signature humor…chuckling at the interactions and competitions between Ames and Palmer.
I just HAVE to read Louise’s story…can’t wait…
I received an ARC of this book for review. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.
January 22, 2024
This was a new author for me, I went in with no expectations and came out loving her book, I have order the next two in the series plus started her Blueberry Beach Series. I'm very excited!
October 5, 2019
Lovely story
What a sweet heartwarming tale! Not usually a fan of contemporary romance books I have to say this one was a great surprise! Exciting and keeps your interest all the way! Great reaf!
What a sweet heartwarming tale! Not usually a fan of contemporary romance books I have to say this one was a great surprise! Exciting and keeps your interest all the way! Great reaf!
February 21, 2024
This was a good read. Ames and Palmer have been friends forever. They both like each other and want more. However, neither one has said anything. Thankfully in the end they finally get together. Needless to say, no one was surprised because everyone but them could see it.
March 2, 2023
A New Take on an Old Trope
Jessie Gussman begins her Sweet Water Ranch Western Cowboy Romance series with a title as old as the North Dakota hills—The Cowboy’s Best Friend. Any experienced romance reader knows what to expect—best friends become more and end up together— but Gussman has some surprises in store.
First, Ames is a gold medalist in the Olympic biathlon, a competition in which she has to cross-country ski from target to target, then calm her body and mind to load her gun and hit her target, multiple times over. She’s not the best skier, but she makes up for it with her fast loading and accuracy. She can beat her best friend, Palmer, in ATV races and shooting contests on his ranch in Sweet Water, North Dakota.
Second, Palmer is tied to his land and doesn’t belong anywhere else. Gussman throws a curve ball when she sends him to LA to join Ames on an interview for a job as a sports broadcaster with an Olympic specialty, and he gets threatened with a police call for greeting a stranger on the street. He’s not used to urban disconnection among neighbors! If Ames gets this job—her dream job—he’ll have to choose between the ranch and the woman he secretly loves. Ames has grown to love him, too, but as a rolling stone she can’t stay in one place very long. It looks hopeless.
When Ames gets the job, everyone assumes she’ll go to LA, and Palmer’s grandmother tells him he has to choose between the ranch and Ames. She’s more important, so he plans to propose, sell the ranch (which will kill him inside), and move with her to a city he hates. His sister volunteers to marry an acquaintance and stay there with her daughter to keep the ranch in the family. It’s second best, but he doesn’t know what else to do.
Third, Palmer has received a letter from a late eccentric billionaire who owned a ranch in Sweet Water and wanted to encourage young people to stay in the state. His lawyer offers a billion dollars as incentive to stay. The conditions: the recipient must marry within six months and stay married for a year, living in North Dakota, or return the billion dollars. Palmer initially doesn’t care about the money, but when his grandfather has a stroke and the family can’t afford to make the house accessible, he must think twice.
When he proposes to Ames and prepares to leave his home, she surprises him (and the reader—I did not see that coming!) by announcing that she’s done roaming the country and is ready to put down roots…in Sweet Water, with him. They’re happy, and now they’re billionaires!
The Epilogue hints at the answer to an unresolved question: Who is the father of Louise’s eight-year-old daughter? The next book in the series, The Cowboy’s Secret Baby, will probably lay it out in detail.
I highly recommend this book! The characters ring true and are not cookie cutter, and Palmer in particular is a man of good character, someone I’d like to know. Ames might be a bit too much for me, but she’s Palmer’s best friend, so she gets a pass. On the other hand, the three City girls prove to be excellent foils for a hapless rancher with a strong moral compass, and I had no qualms about rooting against them.
The rest of the series should be as good as this one, and I’m looking forward to the second one.
Jessie Gussman begins her Sweet Water Ranch Western Cowboy Romance series with a title as old as the North Dakota hills—The Cowboy’s Best Friend. Any experienced romance reader knows what to expect—best friends become more and end up together— but Gussman has some surprises in store.
First, Ames is a gold medalist in the Olympic biathlon, a competition in which she has to cross-country ski from target to target, then calm her body and mind to load her gun and hit her target, multiple times over. She’s not the best skier, but she makes up for it with her fast loading and accuracy. She can beat her best friend, Palmer, in ATV races and shooting contests on his ranch in Sweet Water, North Dakota.
Second, Palmer is tied to his land and doesn’t belong anywhere else. Gussman throws a curve ball when she sends him to LA to join Ames on an interview for a job as a sports broadcaster with an Olympic specialty, and he gets threatened with a police call for greeting a stranger on the street. He’s not used to urban disconnection among neighbors! If Ames gets this job—her dream job—he’ll have to choose between the ranch and the woman he secretly loves. Ames has grown to love him, too, but as a rolling stone she can’t stay in one place very long. It looks hopeless.
When Ames gets the job, everyone assumes she’ll go to LA, and Palmer’s grandmother tells him he has to choose between the ranch and Ames. She’s more important, so he plans to propose, sell the ranch (which will kill him inside), and move with her to a city he hates. His sister volunteers to marry an acquaintance and stay there with her daughter to keep the ranch in the family. It’s second best, but he doesn’t know what else to do.
Third, Palmer has received a letter from a late eccentric billionaire who owned a ranch in Sweet Water and wanted to encourage young people to stay in the state. His lawyer offers a billion dollars as incentive to stay. The conditions: the recipient must marry within six months and stay married for a year, living in North Dakota, or return the billion dollars. Palmer initially doesn’t care about the money, but when his grandfather has a stroke and the family can’t afford to make the house accessible, he must think twice.
When he proposes to Ames and prepares to leave his home, she surprises him (and the reader—I did not see that coming!) by announcing that she’s done roaming the country and is ready to put down roots…in Sweet Water, with him. They’re happy, and now they’re billionaires!
The Epilogue hints at the answer to an unresolved question: Who is the father of Louise’s eight-year-old daughter? The next book in the series, The Cowboy’s Secret Baby, will probably lay it out in detail.
I highly recommend this book! The characters ring true and are not cookie cutter, and Palmer in particular is a man of good character, someone I’d like to know. Ames might be a bit too much for me, but she’s Palmer’s best friend, so she gets a pass. On the other hand, the three City girls prove to be excellent foils for a hapless rancher with a strong moral compass, and I had no qualms about rooting against them.
The rest of the series should be as good as this one, and I’m looking forward to the second one.
April 24, 2019
This is the first book in a new series by Jessie Gussman. This series takes place in Sweet Water, North Dakota, population 500 including animals and pets. Palmer and Ames have been best friends since high school. Palmer has stayed in Sweet Water all this time but Ames has wandered the world, experiencing life away from the small town she grew up in. She was a two time olympic athlete, too. But, when she came back home, there was always Palmer, steady and dependable.
Now, Palmer has to make a decision. He needs to sell the ranch to pay his Pap's medical bills or he needs to get married and remain in North Dakota forever in order to claim his inheritance of $1 billion. The problem is that he doesn't have any prospects, no girlfriends or relationship other than Ames. But, Ames isn't one for settling down in one place. She's like a tumbleweed and already has her eyes set on a dream job in Los Angeles. But, as the time gets closer to having to make a decision, and she tries to set up Palmer with some of her friends from outside the area, she begins to realize that Palmer is more than just a best friend. He is what she wants. Isn't he? Would she be happy settling in Sweet Water? Palmer is always the one willing to sacrifice for others. Now, it's Ames' turn to decide if she is willing to sacrifice and gain her long-term happiness.
As with this authors other books, I thoroughly enjoyed reading the start of this new series and I look forward to reading the rest of the books in the series. She writes stories that are full of romance and good feels and that are clean and without foul language or descriptive sex scenes. They are a clean read that I would not hesitate to recommend to anyone.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
Now, Palmer has to make a decision. He needs to sell the ranch to pay his Pap's medical bills or he needs to get married and remain in North Dakota forever in order to claim his inheritance of $1 billion. The problem is that he doesn't have any prospects, no girlfriends or relationship other than Ames. But, Ames isn't one for settling down in one place. She's like a tumbleweed and already has her eyes set on a dream job in Los Angeles. But, as the time gets closer to having to make a decision, and she tries to set up Palmer with some of her friends from outside the area, she begins to realize that Palmer is more than just a best friend. He is what she wants. Isn't he? Would she be happy settling in Sweet Water? Palmer is always the one willing to sacrifice for others. Now, it's Ames' turn to decide if she is willing to sacrifice and gain her long-term happiness.
As with this authors other books, I thoroughly enjoyed reading the start of this new series and I look forward to reading the rest of the books in the series. She writes stories that are full of romance and good feels and that are clean and without foul language or descriptive sex scenes. They are a clean read that I would not hesitate to recommend to anyone.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
April 7, 2019
Palmer and Ames have been best friends since they were adolescents. They have always been competitive and adventurous together, and have always confided in each other. Palmer is a rancher who is struggling to find a way to keep the family ranch and also pay for the mounting medical bills for his grandparents. He can’t imagine living anywhere other than his beloved ranch in North Dakota. When he receives a letter that indicates he will inherit a billion dollars if he marries and stays in North Dakota, Palmer doesn’t know what to do. He could marry, but he is in love with Ames and has been for as long as he can remember. The trouble is, Ames doesn’t see living in North Dakota in her future. Worse, she only sees Palmer as her friend, not as a future husband. She is an Olympic athlete and has traveled the world. She has her heart set on being a sports broadcaster in LA. When Palmer mentions his inheritance and a need to wed, she sets about introducing him to some of her girlfriends as candidates for his bride to be. This doesn’t sit well with him, but he tries to go along with her scheme. As things progress with this plan, Ames suddenly realizes she doesn’t want any of her friends to end up in Palmer’s arms. She wants to be the one in his arms and his heart. But how will this work? She wants to be in LA, he wants to be on the ranch in North Dakota. He can’t imagine a his future family without her as his bride, but can he leave the ranch and sell it for her? Read this sweet, funny romance to see how this couple achieves their happily ever after. Love sometimes means compromise and sacrifice or even letting go. I loved this book!
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 24, 2022
I can't believe I've waited this long to start this series!!! (OK, I have actually already read a couple of books, but when I saw the audio box set, I knew I had to jump on that chance 😍 and oh, wow!) Jessie has written such an incredible story!!
I loved Palmer and Ames' best friendship. :) Seriously, this one was done so well! I loved that they had known each other since school, yet have been there for each other throughout the years, with him being her rock, home, and safe place. I loved how it takes seeing him with other women to make Ames realize her feelings for Palmer. Oh, and their chemistry? It was off the charts yet thoroughly sweet and swoony and sigh-worthy. I definitely love the community, both the intrigue surrounding Louise's past, the grandparents, and the people of Sweet Water we get to see. As always, there are plenty of farm life anecdotes going around, and the love of the land is pretty much palpable. Seriously, now I want to visit North Dakota and experience the vast blue sky. :)
Jay is as great as ever bringing to life all the characters and their voices (from kids to grandparents and male and female adults alike). Having listened to other of his (more recent) audiobooks I can understand when the author said this was part of the first work Jay did for her, but not in a "he was bad at the beginning" kind of way, but rather a "he was good when he started and has gotten even better with time" way. Loved all the emotions he evoked and I can't wait to listen to the rest of the series. 💕 ~ 5+ stars!
I loved Palmer and Ames' best friendship. :) Seriously, this one was done so well! I loved that they had known each other since school, yet have been there for each other throughout the years, with him being her rock, home, and safe place. I loved how it takes seeing him with other women to make Ames realize her feelings for Palmer. Oh, and their chemistry? It was off the charts yet thoroughly sweet and swoony and sigh-worthy. I definitely love the community, both the intrigue surrounding Louise's past, the grandparents, and the people of Sweet Water we get to see. As always, there are plenty of farm life anecdotes going around, and the love of the land is pretty much palpable. Seriously, now I want to visit North Dakota and experience the vast blue sky. :)
Jay is as great as ever bringing to life all the characters and their voices (from kids to grandparents and male and female adults alike). Having listened to other of his (more recent) audiobooks I can understand when the author said this was part of the first work Jay did for her, but not in a "he was bad at the beginning" kind of way, but rather a "he was good when he started and has gotten even better with time" way. Loved all the emotions he evoked and I can't wait to listen to the rest of the series. 💕 ~ 5+ stars!
January 3, 2025
Palmer and Ames were best friends. Palmer lived on a ranch and in spite of the hard work required, he loved ranch work and he was devoted to his family. In spite of financial hardships and family illness, he was dedicated to make the ranch a success so his grandparents would not lose their home. A multi-billionaire offered Palmer one billion dollars, but there were stipulations involved. He had to get married within 6 months and he had to agree to live in the state all his life and his wife had to agree to that, also. His best friend, Ames, decided to help him find a wife and invited some of her friends for him to meet. City girls did not like country life, nor did Palmer approve of the city girls that Ames had invited for him to meet. Ames realized that each of her friends was wrong for him and she began to see Palmer in a different light and actually became jealous. Ames was offered a job in California and it was a job she had longed for. After going for the interview and actually been offered the job, she began to realize that leaving Palmer, her best friend, wasn't going to be easy. She also knew that if Palmer didn't get the money from the billionaire that he would lose his ranch and his grandparents would have to be placed in a home for the elderly. The six months to inherit the billion dollars was almost up. Palmer decided that Ames meant more to him than the ranch, and had made up his mind to sell the ranch and accompany Ames o California.
February 27, 2020
Ames and Palmer
While Ames has been out in the world reaching for the things she wants, Palmer her best friend has been at home in North Dakota working his farm and taking care of his family. She has won two gold biathlon Olympic medals and taken a job in New York for a while but now she is back home for the summer and waiting for the phone call about a job interview of her dreams. If she gets it and gets the job she's off to LA! Palmer just has to make up his mind after receiving a letter if he is going to get married, to whom he doesn't know, or will he have to sell the farm to pay for the health care his grandparents need? Ames isn't making it easy to make his decision by being home. No instead she has decided to "help" him. Only by "helping" him, she discovers something about herself, she doesn't want him to be with any other woman but her - what? That can't be! They are bestfriends! What happens when she fixes him up with Katie? Then Mindy and Janelle? What about when she talks him into going to LA with her and then doesn't spend any time with him due to her interview? Only one way to find out, read this great story by Jessie Gussman! You wont want it to end!
While Ames has been out in the world reaching for the things she wants, Palmer her best friend has been at home in North Dakota working his farm and taking care of his family. She has won two gold biathlon Olympic medals and taken a job in New York for a while but now she is back home for the summer and waiting for the phone call about a job interview of her dreams. If she gets it and gets the job she's off to LA! Palmer just has to make up his mind after receiving a letter if he is going to get married, to whom he doesn't know, or will he have to sell the farm to pay for the health care his grandparents need? Ames isn't making it easy to make his decision by being home. No instead she has decided to "help" him. Only by "helping" him, she discovers something about herself, she doesn't want him to be with any other woman but her - what? That can't be! They are bestfriends! What happens when she fixes him up with Katie? Then Mindy and Janelle? What about when she talks him into going to LA with her and then doesn't spend any time with him due to her interview? Only one way to find out, read this great story by Jessie Gussman! You wont want it to end!
May 19, 2022
Palmer and Ames or Ames and Palmer?
This is Palmer and Ames’ story. I listened to this story on Audible and thoroughly enjoyed the narration/performance of Jay Dyess. He has an easy smooth voice which transitions seemlessly from voice to voice. The story followed Palmer and Ames as they grew up as best friends but turned into more. Watching the two of them grow into more was very entertaining. I felt as if I knew not only the two of them but many of the residents as well. Although this has a happily ever after, it didn’t come without its challenges. I ached for the two of them as they battled with the decisions they needed to make. It was Palmer’s decision to make as many sacrifices as he needed in order to be with Ames which included letting the ranch go and go to LA with Ames. Until Ames came to the realization that she needed to change things around. When she did, they became the happiest couple in Sweet Water Ranch. I loved that this is a good clean Christian romance that wasn’t preachy; just an understanding of a Christian lifestyle as befits the town of Sweet Water Ranch. I can easily highly recommend reading this book for anyone regardless of religious affiliation.
This is Palmer and Ames’ story. I listened to this story on Audible and thoroughly enjoyed the narration/performance of Jay Dyess. He has an easy smooth voice which transitions seemlessly from voice to voice. The story followed Palmer and Ames as they grew up as best friends but turned into more. Watching the two of them grow into more was very entertaining. I felt as if I knew not only the two of them but many of the residents as well. Although this has a happily ever after, it didn’t come without its challenges. I ached for the two of them as they battled with the decisions they needed to make. It was Palmer’s decision to make as many sacrifices as he needed in order to be with Ames which included letting the ranch go and go to LA with Ames. Until Ames came to the realization that she needed to change things around. When she did, they became the happiest couple in Sweet Water Ranch. I loved that this is a good clean Christian romance that wasn’t preachy; just an understanding of a Christian lifestyle as befits the town of Sweet Water Ranch. I can easily highly recommend reading this book for anyone regardless of religious affiliation.
November 11, 2024
As a single, Christian girly that loves reading romance but felt convicted by Holy Spirit not to read smut anymore—I absolutely loved this book and ate up every morsel of Ames and Palmer’s love story.
It was so sweet and their banter was so funny (which makes sense since they’re childhood besties). I loved the tension between both Ames and Palmer throughout the entire story. It never felt drawn out or unreasonable and was sooo wonderful to read. More than once I giggled and kicked my feet like a little girl at their love story. And Palmer??? Goodness gracious, I was torn between rooting for Ames to get with him or wanting to jump in the story and marry him myself 😭♥️.
Thank you so much for writing a book that I could love without feeling like I’m compromising my walk with Christ and mental purity in the process. This book felt like a warm fire after being in the snow-bitten cold. Or a steaming mug of hot cocoa.
P.s. I also loved the subtle foreshadowing of future couples throughout the book. I am so excited to jump into Louise and Ty’s story and discover what happened all those years ago!!
It was so sweet and their banter was so funny (which makes sense since they’re childhood besties). I loved the tension between both Ames and Palmer throughout the entire story. It never felt drawn out or unreasonable and was sooo wonderful to read. More than once I giggled and kicked my feet like a little girl at their love story. And Palmer??? Goodness gracious, I was torn between rooting for Ames to get with him or wanting to jump in the story and marry him myself 😭♥️.
Thank you so much for writing a book that I could love without feeling like I’m compromising my walk with Christ and mental purity in the process. This book felt like a warm fire after being in the snow-bitten cold. Or a steaming mug of hot cocoa.
P.s. I also loved the subtle foreshadowing of future couples throughout the book. I am so excited to jump into Louise and Ty’s story and discover what happened all those years ago!!
April 6, 2019
This book is the first in the author’s series titled Sweet Water Ranch Billionaires. Sweet Water is a town where everyone knows each other, where the winters are tough and the summers filled with work and beautiful skies.
But ranch work is hard and this story proves it.
Ames and Palmer have been best friends since HS . Ames, very competitive, was an Olympian athlete and always seeking adventure. Now living in LA and hoping for a promotion, comes home for a visit.
Palmer is now the one running his family’s ranch. It’s hard work specially when the family is struggling. When a letter arrives that might change his future, life is viewed differently.
Love starts to blossom but sacrifices will have to be made . Can they accomplish that and still be happy or will they each go their separate way.
A sweet romance and a series that promises to bring an array of stories to keep us enchanted with the town and it’s inhabitants.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
But ranch work is hard and this story proves it.
Ames and Palmer have been best friends since HS . Ames, very competitive, was an Olympian athlete and always seeking adventure. Now living in LA and hoping for a promotion, comes home for a visit.
Palmer is now the one running his family’s ranch. It’s hard work specially when the family is struggling. When a letter arrives that might change his future, life is viewed differently.
Love starts to blossom but sacrifices will have to be made . Can they accomplish that and still be happy or will they each go their separate way.
A sweet romance and a series that promises to bring an array of stories to keep us enchanted with the town and it’s inhabitants.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
June 27, 2019
BFF’S Marrying Are Awesome!!!
I loved reading Cowboys Don’t Marry Their Best Friend(Sweet Water Ranch Billionaire Cowboy Book 1). All about Palmer Olsen a Cowboy/Rancher & Ames his BFF and Biathlon Olympic winner. They have lived in Sweet Water, North Dakota most of there lives and are considered native to the town. In all the places Ames has been, living & traveling since high school Sweet Water is home, because that is where her BFF lives & works on the 1,000 acre homestead of his ancestors! The author wrote a story about a Cowboy, who loves his way of life, and though his family is facing many challenges he still wants to continue working his land! Read about Palmer & Ames and see what their future might hold if they both give in and see what is right in front of them all along!! I absolutely loved reading this book! The author captured my attention on page one and I could not put the book down!! Give it a shot, it’s down to earth living and loving in today’s reality!!!
I loved reading Cowboys Don’t Marry Their Best Friend(Sweet Water Ranch Billionaire Cowboy Book 1). All about Palmer Olsen a Cowboy/Rancher & Ames his BFF and Biathlon Olympic winner. They have lived in Sweet Water, North Dakota most of there lives and are considered native to the town. In all the places Ames has been, living & traveling since high school Sweet Water is home, because that is where her BFF lives & works on the 1,000 acre homestead of his ancestors! The author wrote a story about a Cowboy, who loves his way of life, and though his family is facing many challenges he still wants to continue working his land! Read about Palmer & Ames and see what their future might hold if they both give in and see what is right in front of them all along!! I absolutely loved reading this book! The author captured my attention on page one and I could not put the book down!! Give it a shot, it’s down to earth living and loving in today’s reality!!!
November 11, 2021
Palmer never married, because he could never find another girl who had the qualities of his "best friend". He could not let Aimes know his true feelings, for fear of losing their friendship.
Aimes was home for a brief visit before moving on to her next venture.
Palmer finally shared with Aimes the ultimatum he was given.. He had to marry or lose the historical family ranch. Although she couldn't settle down, she decided to help him by having him spend time with her three good friends. This would solve their problems, or would it?
This is a fun story of opposites and not knowing one's friends as well as one thinks. It is also a story of tough choices.
The characters are endearing, the situations entertaining, the background scenes were easily visualized.
I listened to the audio The Narrator, Jay Dyess, does an outstanding job of "bringing the story to life" through his vocal emphasis and "voices".
I was gifted this book with no pressure to give a positive review. This is my honest review.
Aimes was home for a brief visit before moving on to her next venture.
Palmer finally shared with Aimes the ultimatum he was given.. He had to marry or lose the historical family ranch. Although she couldn't settle down, she decided to help him by having him spend time with her three good friends. This would solve their problems, or would it?
This is a fun story of opposites and not knowing one's friends as well as one thinks. It is also a story of tough choices.
The characters are endearing, the situations entertaining, the background scenes were easily visualized.
I listened to the audio The Narrator, Jay Dyess, does an outstanding job of "bringing the story to life" through his vocal emphasis and "voices".
I was gifted this book with no pressure to give a positive review. This is my honest review.
June 4, 2022
Who Wants to Be A Billionaire?.
Landon has lived on a family farm all his life. A billionaire who has roots in the area is enticing residents not to move away from family farms and ranches by offering selected ranchers one billion dollars if they remain on their property instead of selling it. The only thing is that they must marry within a certain period of time to collect the money.
Ames is a young woman who has always loved Landon. She is excited when she learns about the windfall, but is disappointed to learn about the provision that Landon must remain on the property. She lives on a nearby property but her family was not given the opportunity for the cash.
Ames, however, was given the opportunity to go to Hollywood, with the possibility of going to cover the Olympic Games. She and Landon travel to California to check out the possibilities of getting this job and meet with network officials. Will they go to the Olympics and turn down the opportunity to become billionaires or make another choice?
I enjoyed this book. I hope you enjoy it also.
Landon has lived on a family farm all his life. A billionaire who has roots in the area is enticing residents not to move away from family farms and ranches by offering selected ranchers one billion dollars if they remain on their property instead of selling it. The only thing is that they must marry within a certain period of time to collect the money.
Ames is a young woman who has always loved Landon. She is excited when she learns about the windfall, but is disappointed to learn about the provision that Landon must remain on the property. She lives on a nearby property but her family was not given the opportunity for the cash.
Ames, however, was given the opportunity to go to Hollywood, with the possibility of going to cover the Olympic Games. She and Landon travel to California to check out the possibilities of getting this job and meet with network officials. Will they go to the Olympics and turn down the opportunity to become billionaires or make another choice?
I enjoyed this book. I hope you enjoy it also.
May 19, 2023
I really enjoyed this sweet story. Palmer loves living on the Ranch with his grandparents, sister and niece, and love working the land but with the health of his grandparents getting worse, the doctor bills piling up, and only him and his sister to do all the work, he knows eventually they would have to sell the ranch that has been in his family for generations…until, he is presented will an offer that would solve all their financial problems, but was it worth it? The one stipulation that he didn’t think he could do.
Ames has been Palmer best friend forever, but since she travels all over the world, she doesn’t get home to North Dakota much. This time things are different between them, but they both know they want different things in life, so Ames comes up with an idea to help Palmer solve the stipulation. He’ll try but he knows in his heart that it will never work. This is a wonderful story of love, true friendship, sacrifice, and determination. I highly recommend reading this book, it will warm your heart!
Ames has been Palmer best friend forever, but since she travels all over the world, she doesn’t get home to North Dakota much. This time things are different between them, but they both know they want different things in life, so Ames comes up with an idea to help Palmer solve the stipulation. He’ll try but he knows in his heart that it will never work. This is a wonderful story of love, true friendship, sacrifice, and determination. I highly recommend reading this book, it will warm your heart!
April 17, 2019
Ames and Palmer have been best friends for years, but it isn’t until he is offered a billion dollars if he marries within six months and both he and his wife promise to stay in North Dakota for the rest of their lives and she is offered a sportscaster job in CA that they start to wonder if there could be more to their relationship. But one of them would have to give something up to make that happen. Is love worth it? Or do dreams change? This was a sweet and funny romance. Ames tried to set Palmer up with girls she used to know who really weren’t right for him. Palmer has always been in love with Ames, but he’s afraid his responsibilities to his grandparents and siblings will hold her back from her dreams. I thought it was cool that Ames is a biathlon gold medalist and despite all her fame she’s still willing to pitch in a help Palmer out with the ranch work. I can’t wait to read Louise’s story next.
July 5, 2019
I received an ARC from the author and then I bought it; this is my honest review.
-Palmer and Ames' story could be like any rural town love story - except for the money attached to the ranch - Some people want to get out of town; some others are born to live and die at the same place.
-Palmer has strong ties to his family, friends and ranch. Will he give up everything for love?
-I wasn't too sure about Ames at first, but she won me over at the end. The scenes with her three friends made me thing a lot because of what each of them presupposed. Aren't we all like that in some way?
-Funny: "He dumped a cup of sugar in the tea and stirred it" Want a bit of tea with your sugar? Then I realized, much later I must say, that Palmer was making a batch of sweet tea, not just a cup. LOL
-Weird laws: In North Dakota, where this book is set it's: "It's illegal to nap with your shoes on in ND". Here in Canada: "It is illegal to remove a band aid in public in Canada".
-Palmer and Ames' story could be like any rural town love story - except for the money attached to the ranch - Some people want to get out of town; some others are born to live and die at the same place.
-Palmer has strong ties to his family, friends and ranch. Will he give up everything for love?
-I wasn't too sure about Ames at first, but she won me over at the end. The scenes with her three friends made me thing a lot because of what each of them presupposed. Aren't we all like that in some way?
-Funny: "He dumped a cup of sugar in the tea and stirred it" Want a bit of tea with your sugar? Then I realized, much later I must say, that Palmer was making a batch of sweet tea, not just a cup. LOL
-Weird laws: In North Dakota, where this book is set it's: "It's illegal to nap with your shoes on in ND". Here in Canada: "It is illegal to remove a band aid in public in Canada".
June 24, 2020
This was my first book (audiobook) by Jessie Gussman and she did not disappoint! The story was clean and wholesome which is refreshing. I enjoyed the story and cannot wait to listen to her next audiobook in this series to find out what happens to Louise and Ty. This audiobook was hard to stop listening too but with my limited time I would listen for a half hour or so before going to bed! My bedtime story, LOL. Really it is a great story to listen to at anytime and anywhere. It was a fun read! I will definitely be listening to all her other audiobooks. Jessie has found another new fan!
The narrator Jay Dyess was awesome and very talented too! He makes the story come alive. Some narrator’s voices I cannot take listening to so I do not listen to those books even if I like the author. But Jay Dyess is not one of those. I enjoyed his different voices. I am so glad he is doing all of Jessie’s books.
The narrator Jay Dyess was awesome and very talented too! He makes the story come alive. Some narrator’s voices I cannot take listening to so I do not listen to those books even if I like the author. But Jay Dyess is not one of those. I enjoyed his different voices. I am so glad he is doing all of Jessie’s books.
January 28, 2023
He's a cowboy with a billion dollar problem. His best friend can solve it, but it might break his heart.
*Previously titled Cowboys Don't Marry Their Best Friend*
Palmer wouldn't trade his family's land for the world. But the only way to save the ranch from financial disaster and claim his billion-dollar inheritance is to find himself a wife. His happily-ever-after would be complete if he could just hitch his wagon to the woman who sees him only as her best friend.
Ames' free spirit can't be tied down. So she's more than willing to help Palmer find the perfect bride before she takes off to pursue her dreams in LA. But every time she thinks about the rugged cowboy with another girl, her heart burns with jealousy.
Though Palmer tries to enjoy his new match-made companions, he can't keep his mind off Ames. And now he worries her wanderlust is blinding her to what's right in front of her eyes.
Can Palmer and Ames find the truth in their hearts before it's too late?
*Previously titled Cowboys Don't Marry Their Best Friend*
Palmer wouldn't trade his family's land for the world. But the only way to save the ranch from financial disaster and claim his billion-dollar inheritance is to find himself a wife. His happily-ever-after would be complete if he could just hitch his wagon to the woman who sees him only as her best friend.
Ames' free spirit can't be tied down. So she's more than willing to help Palmer find the perfect bride before she takes off to pursue her dreams in LA. But every time she thinks about the rugged cowboy with another girl, her heart burns with jealousy.
Though Palmer tries to enjoy his new match-made companions, he can't keep his mind off Ames. And now he worries her wanderlust is blinding her to what's right in front of her eyes.
Can Palmer and Ames find the truth in their hearts before it's too late?
November 30, 2023
I recently discovered Jessie Gussman and have been devouring her books. I've enjoyed them all and decided to grab her booklist and work through her series starting with the oldest listed. This is book 1 of that series and while I enjoyed the story, there were parts of the book that disappointed me.
I read Christian Fiction which, for me, is more than just clean fiction. I don't want a preachy book, but I want faith to be a part of the lives portrayed in the story. I didn't find that here.
Also.. there was a small bit of language, something I felt was unnecessary. But what bothered me more was one of the main characters participated in yoga. I know many Christians are fine with that, so it may not be an issue for you. But I do have issues with it and I know others do also. So this can serve as a bit of a warning.
I would label this clean fiction not Christian Fiction.
I am continuing with the series, hopeful that the other books are more Christian than just clean.
I read Christian Fiction which, for me, is more than just clean fiction. I don't want a preachy book, but I want faith to be a part of the lives portrayed in the story. I didn't find that here.
Also.. there was a small bit of language, something I felt was unnecessary. But what bothered me more was one of the main characters participated in yoga. I know many Christians are fine with that, so it may not be an issue for you. But I do have issues with it and I know others do also. So this can serve as a bit of a warning.
I would label this clean fiction not Christian Fiction.
I am continuing with the series, hopeful that the other books are more Christian than just clean.
April 10, 2019
I loved this sweet, western romance and can't wait for the next in the series!
Palmer and Ames, best friends since high school, have to find a bride for Palmer, one who would be willing to live in North Dakota for the rest of her life. When Ames, an Olympic medalist hoping for her dream job in LA, convinces Palmer to meet her friends to see if he could be happy with one of them, Ames discovers that she has her own feelings for Palmer to deal with.
Palmer, a rancher who loves the land of his ancestors, has always loved Ames but knew that she had aspirations of moving to LA. He also has his Gram, Pap, his sister, and her daughter to worry about as he continued to run the ranch where they lived together. His love for Ames meant that he would never interfere with her dreams.
How can two people with such different dreams make their love work?
Palmer and Ames, best friends since high school, have to find a bride for Palmer, one who would be willing to live in North Dakota for the rest of her life. When Ames, an Olympic medalist hoping for her dream job in LA, convinces Palmer to meet her friends to see if he could be happy with one of them, Ames discovers that she has her own feelings for Palmer to deal with.
Palmer, a rancher who loves the land of his ancestors, has always loved Ames but knew that she had aspirations of moving to LA. He also has his Gram, Pap, his sister, and her daughter to worry about as he continued to run the ranch where they lived together. His love for Ames meant that he would never interfere with her dreams.
How can two people with such different dreams make their love work?
August 15, 2019
Palmer and Ames have been best friends forever. Palmer is the homebody, he has no desire to leave the place where he has lived all his life. Ames on the otherhand is the wanderer. Ames has been all over the world and is an Olympic champion. Palmer has romantic feelings for Ames but knows she's not settling down anytime soon. Palmer asks Ames to help him find a wife because at 28 he's ready for a wife and family. But there's more to the story than that. Palmer has been left money with a whole lot of stipulations attached. So the romance begins with Ames setting up Palmer with some of her girlfriends. And the fun begins as Ames is torn by her feelings for Palmer and knowing the stipulations set in Palmer's inheritance and her feelings to wander. The story moves along nicely to, of course, a HEA.
August 6, 2021
Is a person worth giving up all you love?
Amis and Palmer were friends from when they were young. Amis went off to college and was an Olympic medal winner and came home during summers and whenever she could. She spent time with Palmer helping him on the farm and her parents' at their store. Palmer got a letter from a lawyer about being left some money. The man that left the billion dollars required him to get married within six months and they both had to always live in North Dakota. If they moved they would have to pay the money back. Amis tried to set him up with her girlfriends, but they didn't work out, she found herself jealous of these girls. Amis got the call concerning the job she had worked so hard for. Can she take the job or stay home, because Palmer would never leave? Read to find out if she can give up this great paying job.
Amis and Palmer were friends from when they were young. Amis went off to college and was an Olympic medal winner and came home during summers and whenever she could. She spent time with Palmer helping him on the farm and her parents' at their store. Palmer got a letter from a lawyer about being left some money. The man that left the billion dollars required him to get married within six months and they both had to always live in North Dakota. If they moved they would have to pay the money back. Amis tried to set him up with her girlfriends, but they didn't work out, she found herself jealous of these girls. Amis got the call concerning the job she had worked so hard for. Can she take the job or stay home, because Palmer would never leave? Read to find out if she can give up this great paying job.
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