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Heart of the Frontier
Venture into the heart of the Wild West in this collection of four romantic novellas by some of your favorite best-selling authors.
“The Gamble” by Brittany Larsen
British aristocrat Thomas Clayborne anticipated a grand adventure in America—but what he imagined is a far cry from the rough-and-tumble reality. When his journey West brings a bold young woman into his life, will he risk everything for true love?
“Celebration for Celia” by Carolyn Frank
Though Celia generally adores Fourth of July festivities, she finds herself weighed down by uncertainties that dim her anticipation of the holiday. Then fate brings into her life a dashing stranger who is determined to give Celia a celebration she’ll never forget.
“Her Frontier Bandit” by Jen Johnson
When Rebecca and her physician father relocate to a frontier town in desperate need of a doctor, Rebecca believes it will be an opportunity to mend her recently broken heart. But she quickly realizes that no matter how far you run, true love always finds a way.
“Sagebrush Sally” by Jennie Hansen
English rose Sally is finding it difficult to bloom in the rugged wasteland of the West. But with two handsome cowboys vying for her affections, it seems that even amid cattle thieves and gunfights, the truest danger lies in losing her heart.
“The Gamble” by Brittany Larsen
British aristocrat Thomas Clayborne anticipated a grand adventure in America—but what he imagined is a far cry from the rough-and-tumble reality. When his journey West brings a bold young woman into his life, will he risk everything for true love?
“Celebration for Celia” by Carolyn Frank
Though Celia generally adores Fourth of July festivities, she finds herself weighed down by uncertainties that dim her anticipation of the holiday. Then fate brings into her life a dashing stranger who is determined to give Celia a celebration she’ll never forget.
“Her Frontier Bandit” by Jen Johnson
When Rebecca and her physician father relocate to a frontier town in desperate need of a doctor, Rebecca believes it will be an opportunity to mend her recently broken heart. But she quickly realizes that no matter how far you run, true love always finds a way.
“Sagebrush Sally” by Jennie Hansen
English rose Sally is finding it difficult to bloom in the rugged wasteland of the West. But with two handsome cowboys vying for her affections, it seems that even amid cattle thieves and gunfights, the truest danger lies in losing her heart.
304 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2021
20 people are currently reading
1604 people want to read
About the author
Brittany Larsen
31 books252 followersBrittany Larsen is the author of fourteen full-length and three novella-length sweet romantic comedies, plus a couple more historical romance novellas set in the Old West. Brittany’s stories range across time and place, but they’re always about one thing: connection. They’re guaranteed to make you laugh and maybe even tear up a little.
Born and raised in Idaho, Brittany has spent the past twenty years (maybe more) living the California dream… If that dream includes wearing sweatpants all day and gorging herself on red Australian licorice–Australia’s second-best export (Chris Hemsworth being the obvious first). When not writing, she teaches hot yoga, walks her dog, and takes naps. Her sweater-sporting, mini Aussi-doodle, Bo, is her favorite writing companion. But her favorite people are her husband and three daughters.
Born and raised in Idaho, Brittany has spent the past twenty years (maybe more) living the California dream… If that dream includes wearing sweatpants all day and gorging herself on red Australian licorice–Australia’s second-best export (Chris Hemsworth being the obvious first). When not writing, she teaches hot yoga, walks her dog, and takes naps. Her sweater-sporting, mini Aussi-doodle, Bo, is her favorite writing companion. But her favorite people are her husband and three daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
June 23, 2021
I loved this cover! Heart of the Frontier is four novellas that are clean romances that captured the nuances of starting life in a new world. All the women were out of their depth but met every challenge head on. It was a new place with new challenges. Cattle barons, bandits, ruffians and bank robbers were some of the new norms of the American frontier. These were fun and adventurous. I smiled as I watched them fall in love. Nothing deep, just some good ole escapism.
If you haven’t read these authors works then this is a good place to start.
I recommend them if you like clean historical romance.
Thanks Covenant Communication via Netgalley.
If you haven’t read these authors works then this is a good place to start.
I recommend them if you like clean historical romance.
Thanks Covenant Communication via Netgalley.
September 26, 2021
Nice refreshing end of summer read
I did enjoyed the stories being more partisan to the 1st 3rd and fourth
I love and I am a glutton for a well written we stern romance this collection was good and I did enjoyed reading it
Celia and Vrice story was my favourite
These are clean PG romances and I lo like a little action not much but a little to find a flaw . #HeartoftheFrontier #NetGalley
I did enjoyed the stories being more partisan to the 1st 3rd and fourth
I love and I am a glutton for a well written we stern romance this collection was good and I did enjoyed reading it
Celia and Vrice story was my favourite
These are clean PG romances and I lo like a little action not much but a little to find a flaw . #HeartoftheFrontier #NetGalley
October 29, 2021
This was a fun collection about characters moving to or already living out on the western frontier. I really enjoyed how the four different authors approached their stories differently and brought a great variety for readers to enjoy.
My favorite of the collection was Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson. But, that being said, I really enjoyed all of the different stories. The characters were fun. They all had their own struggles with living out west. But I loved watching how they took their struggles and worked through them, embracing their lives and finding joy and love in them.
Another aspect of the stories that I really enjoyed was the theme of family. It brought a nice added layer to these characters.
A fun collection and one I'd recommend for western story lovers!
Content: All stories are clean. Some have kissing but nothing further than kissing. Some have mild moments of peril but think clean western peril.
I won a copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
My favorite of the collection was Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson. But, that being said, I really enjoyed all of the different stories. The characters were fun. They all had their own struggles with living out west. But I loved watching how they took their struggles and worked through them, embracing their lives and finding joy and love in them.
Another aspect of the stories that I really enjoyed was the theme of family. It brought a nice added layer to these characters.
A fun collection and one I'd recommend for western story lovers!
Content: All stories are clean. Some have kissing but nothing further than kissing. Some have mild moments of peril but think clean western peril.
I won a copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
February 1, 2022
I was so excited to see an anthology of stories with a western setting. I believe I've read stories by each of these authors before. They were all enjoyable, but I felt like they were a bit surface-level. I didn't find myself connecting with the characters or experiencing their emotions with them. I would say that these novellas were more plot-focused, and there is good variety between them.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
July 11, 2021
Great collection of four Western romances. I loved how each of these stories were different but they all took us on a journey to the west. I liked how each of the characters weren’t looking for love but they found it anyways. I loved how clean and uplifting they were. They made me smile while I read them. Each story was well done.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
July 14, 2021
I always love a good collection. It’s easy to read the novellas in it quickly. I’m not sure why but something about that is satisfying to me. This collection was so fun. I haven’t read something like this in a while, so that was nice.
Brittany Larsen’s The Gamble starts out the book very well. I enjoyed Thomas and Ella as characters. One of my favorite parts of this one is the way Thomas looks out for Ella. Even going so far as to sleep in front of her door to protect her. I liked that Ella was not one to be swayed by money or power. She knew what she wanted from life and she was going to get it.
Next up is Jen Geigle Johnson’s Her Frontier Bandit. This might have been my favorite one. I have a hard time with favorites though. I loved the way Rebecca was willing to go west with her father. Having no idea how their experience would be. And it was crazy with bandits and bullets whizzing every where. I loved how things turned out for her in this one.
Then we have Jennie Hansen’s Sagebrush Sally. I really liked Sally. It was fun to see the sights and sounds of the west through her eyes. I loved that she was a young woman not afraid of hard work and getting dirty when she needed to. She also kept a cool head during a dangerous time. And that was a necessary thing.
Last up is Carolyn Twede Frank’s Celebration for Celia. I really liked Celia in this one. She is a young woman who wants color and fun in her life in Idaho. I loved that she was willing to help with a hurt young man when she needed to. And she learns to listen to her heart as well. It was really fun to see City of Rocks in Idaho make an appearance in this one.
I loved reading the novellas in this book! It’s always fun to travel through a book to the old west.
I was sent a copy of Heart of the Frontier by the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Brittany Larsen’s The Gamble starts out the book very well. I enjoyed Thomas and Ella as characters. One of my favorite parts of this one is the way Thomas looks out for Ella. Even going so far as to sleep in front of her door to protect her. I liked that Ella was not one to be swayed by money or power. She knew what she wanted from life and she was going to get it.
Next up is Jen Geigle Johnson’s Her Frontier Bandit. This might have been my favorite one. I have a hard time with favorites though. I loved the way Rebecca was willing to go west with her father. Having no idea how their experience would be. And it was crazy with bandits and bullets whizzing every where. I loved how things turned out for her in this one.
Then we have Jennie Hansen’s Sagebrush Sally. I really liked Sally. It was fun to see the sights and sounds of the west through her eyes. I loved that she was a young woman not afraid of hard work and getting dirty when she needed to. She also kept a cool head during a dangerous time. And that was a necessary thing.
Last up is Carolyn Twede Frank’s Celebration for Celia. I really liked Celia in this one. She is a young woman who wants color and fun in her life in Idaho. I loved that she was willing to help with a hurt young man when she needed to. And she learns to listen to her heart as well. It was really fun to see City of Rocks in Idaho make an appearance in this one.
I loved reading the novellas in this book! It’s always fun to travel through a book to the old west.
I was sent a copy of Heart of the Frontier by the publisher. All opinions are my own.
July 17, 2021
A collection of four sweet romances set out west. Each can be read in less than a couple of hours, depending on how fast you read. All of these are wonderful stories and it's a great way to find new authors.
The Gamble by Brittany Larsen
Thomas Clayborne is reformed gambler moving from Britain to Wyoming. He's been asked by the young woman he intends to court to escort a Miss Ella Merriweather out to Wyoming. This was a great story to start off this book. I really liked Thomas and Ella and thought they suited each other perfected. Thomas was such a gentleman and took great care of her on the long trip from NY to WY. My favorite part was Ella at the Howe's party. I won't spoil it for everyone but I LOVED it!!
Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson
Rebecca Bailey and her father move from Boston to Grant's Landing because they needed another doctor. Rebecca hopes moving far away from Boston will help mend the heart that Ray Harrison broke when he suddenly disappeared. She's in for a big surprise to find Ray in the same town! This was one of my favorites in this collection. I don't want to give anything away, but I thought Rebecca and her father were brave moving out to the frontier with bandits and such, although the townspeople were very welcoming.
Sagebrush Sally by Jennie Hansen
Sally and her father move move from England to Idaho when the landowner decided to raise sheep instead of allowing tenant farmers to continue to raise crops. With no place to live it was either go to the city and look for work or emigrate to America. Sally's life in Idaho living on her uncle's farm is much different than in England, but she works hard, despite her homesickness, to start a new life. On the bright side she has two men vying for her attention. I really liked the mystery surrounding the cattle rustling in this story.
Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank
Celia loves the 4th of July but her father, once a happy man, hasn't celebrated it for the past several years, and he won't explain why. While out exploring with a younger sister, a young man, Bruce, is injured warning them of a rock slide. While at their home recuperating from his injury he develops feelings for Celia, but she's practically engaged to a young man attending medical school. I really liked Bruce--he found ways to help despite his injury. I was glad the reader finds out why Celia's father's attitude about the 4th of July had changed.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher Covenant Communications via NetGalley. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
The Gamble by Brittany Larsen
Thomas Clayborne is reformed gambler moving from Britain to Wyoming. He's been asked by the young woman he intends to court to escort a Miss Ella Merriweather out to Wyoming. This was a great story to start off this book. I really liked Thomas and Ella and thought they suited each other perfected. Thomas was such a gentleman and took great care of her on the long trip from NY to WY. My favorite part was Ella at the Howe's party. I won't spoil it for everyone but I LOVED it!!
Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson
Rebecca Bailey and her father move from Boston to Grant's Landing because they needed another doctor. Rebecca hopes moving far away from Boston will help mend the heart that Ray Harrison broke when he suddenly disappeared. She's in for a big surprise to find Ray in the same town! This was one of my favorites in this collection. I don't want to give anything away, but I thought Rebecca and her father were brave moving out to the frontier with bandits and such, although the townspeople were very welcoming.
Sagebrush Sally by Jennie Hansen
Sally and her father move move from England to Idaho when the landowner decided to raise sheep instead of allowing tenant farmers to continue to raise crops. With no place to live it was either go to the city and look for work or emigrate to America. Sally's life in Idaho living on her uncle's farm is much different than in England, but she works hard, despite her homesickness, to start a new life. On the bright side she has two men vying for her attention. I really liked the mystery surrounding the cattle rustling in this story.
Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank
Celia loves the 4th of July but her father, once a happy man, hasn't celebrated it for the past several years, and he won't explain why. While out exploring with a younger sister, a young man, Bruce, is injured warning them of a rock slide. While at their home recuperating from his injury he develops feelings for Celia, but she's practically engaged to a young man attending medical school. I really liked Bruce--he found ways to help despite his injury. I was glad the reader finds out why Celia's father's attitude about the 4th of July had changed.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher Covenant Communications via NetGalley. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
July 1, 2021
The Gamble by Brittany Larsen - Thomas and Ella come from different worlds, yet they fit. I really liked Ella's character. She was strong and spunky and I liked that. Thomas had his moments where he wasn't my favorite, but he came around in the end. I wish this story had an epilogue, because I would love to know what happened to certain unsavory characters.
Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson - Wow, Rebecca and Ray have quite the story. I wasn't sure how Rebecca would handle the West, especially right after they arrived, but she showed her spunk and determination. Ray was an interesting character with a lot of secrets. This was a sweet suspenseful romance.
Sagebrush Sally by Jennie Hansen - Every time I read this title I get the song Mustang Sally stuck in my head. This story had plenty of the suspense and mystery you'd expect from the Old West. I'm impressed with Sally. She was really unhappy when she arrived, but she quickly put that behind her and got to work helping her aunt. There wasn't much of a relationship or interaction between her and Gabe, but I was still rooting for him.
Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank - This was my favorite out of this collection. I felt it had the most relationship development between the main characters. Also, who wouldn't love Bruce? He was so thoughtful and kind, even if he didn't have the best upbringing. I loved him and Celia together. My only complaint was I wish there had been a little more to the resolution of the conflicts at the dance.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley, but this is my honest review.
Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson - Wow, Rebecca and Ray have quite the story. I wasn't sure how Rebecca would handle the West, especially right after they arrived, but she showed her spunk and determination. Ray was an interesting character with a lot of secrets. This was a sweet suspenseful romance.
Sagebrush Sally by Jennie Hansen - Every time I read this title I get the song Mustang Sally stuck in my head. This story had plenty of the suspense and mystery you'd expect from the Old West. I'm impressed with Sally. She was really unhappy when she arrived, but she quickly put that behind her and got to work helping her aunt. There wasn't much of a relationship or interaction between her and Gabe, but I was still rooting for him.
Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank - This was my favorite out of this collection. I felt it had the most relationship development between the main characters. Also, who wouldn't love Bruce? He was so thoughtful and kind, even if he didn't have the best upbringing. I loved him and Celia together. My only complaint was I wish there had been a little more to the resolution of the conflicts at the dance.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley, but this is my honest review.
June 22, 2021
This western romance collection has four amazing stories inside! I loved each and every one of them. I love collections because if I don’t have a ton of time to read, I can at least read one of the novellas!
The Gamble by Brittany Larsen was a great piece about an English gambler turned investor in the cattle business in America. He is asked to escort a girl on his way to Wyoming. He ends up with a big surprise in Ella. I loved her spark and tenacity.
Next up is Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson. This was a story I could not put down! I loved Rebecca’s adventures with her Dad our west. Her culture shock from moving from Boston to Grant’s Landing out west was significant. This story is packed with action and suspense. I loved it!
Sagebrush Sally by Jennie Hansen was an adventure in moving from England to rural Idaho. Sally encounters handsome cowboys and cattle rustlers. I loved watching her blossom and become more confident in herself throughout the story.
Last but certainly not least is Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank. I loved this story of redemption and love. Celia was quite the chronic complainer yet such a kind person. Bruce was the happiest guy around and I loved his attitude in life. This love story was a journey and I enjoyed each step of it.
This is a wonderful collection of western romance novellas and I highly recommend them to fans of clean and historical romance. I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Gamble by Brittany Larsen was a great piece about an English gambler turned investor in the cattle business in America. He is asked to escort a girl on his way to Wyoming. He ends up with a big surprise in Ella. I loved her spark and tenacity.
Next up is Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson. This was a story I could not put down! I loved Rebecca’s adventures with her Dad our west. Her culture shock from moving from Boston to Grant’s Landing out west was significant. This story is packed with action and suspense. I loved it!
Sagebrush Sally by Jennie Hansen was an adventure in moving from England to rural Idaho. Sally encounters handsome cowboys and cattle rustlers. I loved watching her blossom and become more confident in herself throughout the story.
Last but certainly not least is Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank. I loved this story of redemption and love. Celia was quite the chronic complainer yet such a kind person. Bruce was the happiest guy around and I loved his attitude in life. This love story was a journey and I enjoyed each step of it.
This is a wonderful collection of western romance novellas and I highly recommend them to fans of clean and historical romance. I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 23, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this ARC!
It is always difficult to decide how many stars to give a book when it’s a collection of stories. I rounded up to 4 stars, but only the last novella of the four deserved it, in my opinion.
“The Gamble” 3,5 stars
“Her Frontier Bandid” 3 stars
“Sagebrush Sally” 2,5 stars
“Celebration for Celia” 4 stars
There’s nothing fatally wrong with any of them. I had a lot of fun with the first two, “The Gamble” and “Her Frontier Bandid”, but there were also a few things in them that bothered me a bit. I found both stories to be fun and entertaining, they even made me laugh at times and I did ship both couples. “The Gamble” was my favorite of the two, though it was very nearly a tie. That’s just because of my own need of ranking stuff, really. I quite enjoyed the banter between Ella and Thomas, just wished there were less ‘she’s not like other girls’ moments. Also, I felt a bit uncomfortable with them talking about “Indians” instead of “Indigenous people”, but that might be a stretch for a story set in 1878.
“Her Frontier Bandid”, however, did try to fit way too much history in such a short novella and I noticed that Rebecca, the main character, kept making decisions that never went anywhere. Besides that, the lack of conversation and the promises to come clean from Ray–which he never did–annoyed me after a while, since I could clearly see it was just a ploy to stall the story a while longer. It was very frustrating being left in the dark just because the character didn’t say what he actually meant.
The third novella, “Sagebrush Sally”, was the least interesting one in my opinion. I knew nothing about the authors before, but this novella, though it had many compelling moments and a few engaging scenes, was built on such a flimsy foundation that it felt like it was one of the author’s first stories. The love triangle was weak and so unnecessary that it was discarded as soon as possible. The background of the characters was also quite random and generic. Not only that, I think the portrait of the Chinese character here was borderline offensive and needs serious reconsideration. This was the novella that made me rethink how many stars I would give this book overall.
But that wasn’t the only thing, really. It was the fact that all three of these novellas had at least one scene in which men tried to grab and/or abuse the main character and the girl would be saved right on time by the love interest. These kinds of scenes come across so phony and sexist nowadays, I’d really hoped the authors knew better. I’m not saying that portraying the abuse women suffered then is a bad thing, it was the way it was solved, by another man, making it clear that the woman needed him to defend her. It would have been so refreshing to see each of these three girls who went through that defend themselves and put those men in their places.
“Celebration for Celia” was the only novella of this book that didn’t have a scene like that. It was my favorite for other reasons though, mostly because it focused on the relationship of the characters and because Bruce, the love interest, was so endearing! He was kind and thought he wasn’t good enough to be loved by Celia and, I’m sorry, if there’s one thing that makes me ship a couple, it’s when one of them pines for the other and thinks they’re not good enough. Nothing is better than that moment when they realize they are good enough, that they are loved and get their happy-ever-after too. The plot of this novella is so much simpler and down to earth, but damn! I was enthralled from the beginning to the very end! I wish it were longer. It is sweet and caring like its characters and I will definitely remember it.
Overall, I think this was an entertaining and fun book to read and I’m so glad that I got the ARC for it, though now I want a physical copy of it too! Besides, that cover is striking, isn’t it?
It is always difficult to decide how many stars to give a book when it’s a collection of stories. I rounded up to 4 stars, but only the last novella of the four deserved it, in my opinion.
“The Gamble” 3,5 stars
“Her Frontier Bandid” 3 stars
“Sagebrush Sally” 2,5 stars
“Celebration for Celia” 4 stars
There’s nothing fatally wrong with any of them. I had a lot of fun with the first two, “The Gamble” and “Her Frontier Bandid”, but there were also a few things in them that bothered me a bit. I found both stories to be fun and entertaining, they even made me laugh at times and I did ship both couples. “The Gamble” was my favorite of the two, though it was very nearly a tie. That’s just because of my own need of ranking stuff, really. I quite enjoyed the banter between Ella and Thomas, just wished there were less ‘she’s not like other girls’ moments. Also, I felt a bit uncomfortable with them talking about “Indians” instead of “Indigenous people”, but that might be a stretch for a story set in 1878.
“Her Frontier Bandid”, however, did try to fit way too much history in such a short novella and I noticed that Rebecca, the main character, kept making decisions that never went anywhere. Besides that, the lack of conversation and the promises to come clean from Ray–which he never did–annoyed me after a while, since I could clearly see it was just a ploy to stall the story a while longer. It was very frustrating being left in the dark just because the character didn’t say what he actually meant.
The third novella, “Sagebrush Sally”, was the least interesting one in my opinion. I knew nothing about the authors before, but this novella, though it had many compelling moments and a few engaging scenes, was built on such a flimsy foundation that it felt like it was one of the author’s first stories. The love triangle was weak and so unnecessary that it was discarded as soon as possible. The background of the characters was also quite random and generic. Not only that, I think the portrait of the Chinese character here was borderline offensive and needs serious reconsideration. This was the novella that made me rethink how many stars I would give this book overall.
But that wasn’t the only thing, really. It was the fact that all three of these novellas had at least one scene in which men tried to grab and/or abuse the main character and the girl would be saved right on time by the love interest. These kinds of scenes come across so phony and sexist nowadays, I’d really hoped the authors knew better. I’m not saying that portraying the abuse women suffered then is a bad thing, it was the way it was solved, by another man, making it clear that the woman needed him to defend her. It would have been so refreshing to see each of these three girls who went through that defend themselves and put those men in their places.
“Celebration for Celia” was the only novella of this book that didn’t have a scene like that. It was my favorite for other reasons though, mostly because it focused on the relationship of the characters and because Bruce, the love interest, was so endearing! He was kind and thought he wasn’t good enough to be loved by Celia and, I’m sorry, if there’s one thing that makes me ship a couple, it’s when one of them pines for the other and thinks they’re not good enough. Nothing is better than that moment when they realize they are good enough, that they are loved and get their happy-ever-after too. The plot of this novella is so much simpler and down to earth, but damn! I was enthralled from the beginning to the very end! I wish it were longer. It is sweet and caring like its characters and I will definitely remember it.
Overall, I think this was an entertaining and fun book to read and I’m so glad that I got the ARC for it, though now I want a physical copy of it too! Besides, that cover is striking, isn’t it?
June 7, 2021
What a fun collection of stories! All completely different and delightful! I don't usually like novellas because I love getting deep into a story with the characters and often that's hard to do with such a short story. But these talented authors brought their characters up front and on stage quickly, not wasting time with a lot of backstory - just enough to give you the basics and then they took off. I loved something different about each of them - but in each story I loved the protagonist for a different reason. One for her intelligence, one for her devotion, one for her adaptability and courage, and one for her compassion. I hate to give away the stories - that's part of the intrigue of a new book. Suffice it to say, I highly recommend this even if you aren't a fan of western/frontier stories or even of romance. They are different enough to keep up your interest - the "what comes next" factor is high- and you can learn a lot about what the frontier was like. I especially liked Jennie Hansen's description of the lavas in Idaho - that's where I was born and raised and we crawled all over those when I was young. It was like reliving my teen years, her description was so on target.
June 23, 2021
4 stories, each by a different author. This book was a fun read, great for your summer reading as the stories are short and entertaining. There were a couple that I would have enjoyed seeing as a full-length novel. Usually in compilations, there is a book or two that I don't really care for and never end up finishing, but I enjoyed all four of these and would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fiction with a western frontier setting.
June 23, 2021
A cute collection of Western romance. The only reason it got 4 stars instead of 5 is because the romantic conflict in the second story could have been cleared up with the hero explaining a few things. Novella anthologies are a great way to go for those who don't have a lot of time to read.
June 3, 2021
Delightful compilation of stories of young women whose families have moved to the Wild West from the East. My favorite stories were The Gamble by Brittany Larsen and Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson. With plenty of romance as well as the struggles inherent in making a new life in the West, these stories capture what it was like to live in the late 1800’s. Each novella is a quick enjoyable read that can easily be read in one sitting. I enjoyed the clean romances and the Happily Ever After endings.
The Gamble by Brittany Larsen is about Thomas Clayborne, an aristocratic Englishman who gambled his inheritance away. Looking to redeem his fortune, he agrees to travel to the US West and invest in a cattle baron’s ranch. It also doesn’t hurt that the man has a beautiful daughter whom he would like to court. Landing in NY, he expects to meet up with the beautiful daughter, but instead receives a note asking him to accompany a “family friend” on the train West. This beautiful woman upends his plans and as he gets to know her better, he has to decide if he is willing to risk everything for love.
Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson is about a young woman named Rebecca whose father has decided to answer the call for doctors in the West. Fleeing a recent heartbreak, Rebecca is hoping to start anew far away from her Boston home. When they arrive, everything is much rougher than they expected including the inhabitants of the town. When a local bandit captures her attention, she realizes love has a way of catching up to you.
Sagebrush Sally by Jennie Hansen tells the story of Sally and her father who have decided to leave England to travel to Idaho to live with her uncle’s family. The West is nothing like England. While Sally adjusts to her new life, her father and uncle are working with other ranchers to find out who is stealing their cattle. Two men capture Sally’s imagination, but who will ultimately capture her heart?
Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank is a cute story about a family who has left the East to make a go of farming in the West. Celia’s small town never has celebrated the 4th of July which is one of the holiday celebrations she’s missed. When a handsome stranger saves her sister and in the process breaks his leg, Celia’s family takes him in. Determined to redeem himself and show his love for Celia, Bruce is determined to give her a July 4th celebration she won’t forget.
If you like Western stories with plenty of romance, I definitely recommend this compilation. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Covenant Communications and NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review and all opinions are my own. #Heartofthefrontier #CovenantCommunications #netgalley
The Gamble by Brittany Larsen is about Thomas Clayborne, an aristocratic Englishman who gambled his inheritance away. Looking to redeem his fortune, he agrees to travel to the US West and invest in a cattle baron’s ranch. It also doesn’t hurt that the man has a beautiful daughter whom he would like to court. Landing in NY, he expects to meet up with the beautiful daughter, but instead receives a note asking him to accompany a “family friend” on the train West. This beautiful woman upends his plans and as he gets to know her better, he has to decide if he is willing to risk everything for love.
Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson is about a young woman named Rebecca whose father has decided to answer the call for doctors in the West. Fleeing a recent heartbreak, Rebecca is hoping to start anew far away from her Boston home. When they arrive, everything is much rougher than they expected including the inhabitants of the town. When a local bandit captures her attention, she realizes love has a way of catching up to you.
Sagebrush Sally by Jennie Hansen tells the story of Sally and her father who have decided to leave England to travel to Idaho to live with her uncle’s family. The West is nothing like England. While Sally adjusts to her new life, her father and uncle are working with other ranchers to find out who is stealing their cattle. Two men capture Sally’s imagination, but who will ultimately capture her heart?
Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank is a cute story about a family who has left the East to make a go of farming in the West. Celia’s small town never has celebrated the 4th of July which is one of the holiday celebrations she’s missed. When a handsome stranger saves her sister and in the process breaks his leg, Celia’s family takes him in. Determined to redeem himself and show his love for Celia, Bruce is determined to give her a July 4th celebration she won’t forget.
If you like Western stories with plenty of romance, I definitely recommend this compilation. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Covenant Communications and NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review and all opinions are my own. #Heartofthefrontier #CovenantCommunications #netgalley
February 22, 2021
Heart of the Frontier is a wonderful collection of four novellas that are written by: Brittany Larsen, Jen Geigle Johnson, Jennie Hansen & Carolyn Twede Frank. This is an excellent group of historical fiction stories that collectively involve the western lands and experiences of four different women forging their own respective paths in the great American wild west.
I really enjoyed each short story individually, however I think their true delight is the collection as a whole. Yes, each are different: different women, different times, circumstances, and outcomes...yet they are all similar. Similar in the hopes, dreams, stacked odds, losses, slips, friendships and relationships forged, battles won...all the while each woman growing, changing, maturing, and evolving.
I cannot choose one I like the most, as they are all excellent in their own right. I highly recommend this collection for anyone that loves a good historical fiction and romance, especially ones that feature the American western frontier.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Covenant Communications for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 7/1/21.
I really enjoyed each short story individually, however I think their true delight is the collection as a whole. Yes, each are different: different women, different times, circumstances, and outcomes...yet they are all similar. Similar in the hopes, dreams, stacked odds, losses, slips, friendships and relationships forged, battles won...all the while each woman growing, changing, maturing, and evolving.
I cannot choose one I like the most, as they are all excellent in their own right. I highly recommend this collection for anyone that loves a good historical fiction and romance, especially ones that feature the American western frontier.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Covenant Communications for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 7/1/21.
June 3, 2021
I have always been attracted to stories about the west and the frontier. Heart of the Frontier is different stories that revolve around conflict, love, determination, and grit. Each other has a unique story to offer readers that encapsulates her version of the frontier. People loved hard on the frontier and these stores depict the harshness and beauty Of the life but also struggles they endured. I liked all the stories, but I was partial to the two men fighting over one woman. Yes, modernists would scream provincial and be horrified, but that plot appeals to me. Thanks to Covenant Communications and NetGalley for the early read.
September 17, 2021
I think I would have enjoyed these stories even more if fleshed out into a longer story. I have nothing against novellas. I read a lot of them. But sometimes I just want more. Each had something good about it. I liked some characters more than others which is to be expected I suppose. Some characters showed good growth over the course of their story. I believe my favorite part of the book was in one story where the "bad guy" got a real comeuppance. I always hate it when bad people get away with the garbage they are doing and in one story in particular the comeuppance was pretty spectacular. I loved it. In each story, I felt the dirt and difficult life many experienced while living on the frontier. It was not a fluff life. A big plus to having a novella collection (and the reason I chose to read this when I did) is that you can finish a story without staying up all night as I am prone to do.
No sex or language
Mild violence
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book through NetGalley and voluntarily chose to review it.
No sex or language
Mild violence
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book through NetGalley and voluntarily chose to review it.
May 19, 2021
I loved this collection of stories! I thought they were so unique in that they were East vs West in them! I have enjoyed so many of these womens other stories so I knew it would be a win! !I thought they were all very enjoyable and took me on a fun journey through each story! Enjoy!
Read
June 15, 2021Full review to come!
March 30, 2021
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to review HEART OF THE FRONTIER. I’m a sucker for western type books, so seeing the title of this book I jumped at the chance to read. I did not truly know that it was four stories within one book. I also did not know they would be romance. I’m not a huge romance fan, but I gave it a go!
The first story is about a gambler, Mr. Clayborne, who met a cattle rancher and his beautiful (albeit pretentious) daughter. The cattle rancher, Mr. Howe, convinced him to move to America and invest in their cattle industry. Things are not always as they seem…and upon landing in New York to travel to Wyoming, Mr. Howe’s daughter asks Mr. Clayborne to escort an “orphan”. That “orphan” turns out to be a 23 year old woman, which leaves Mr. Clayborne in a very peculiar situation and worrying about the way the Howe’s see people and do business.
I liked this short story! It flowed easily.
~
The second story is about Dr. Bailey and his daughter, Rebecca, who move from Boston to Grant’s Landing out west. Her father was to be the new doctor in this dangerous town. Low and behold, Rebecca comes in contact with the man who she was in love with but disappeared two years ago.
This story (and I hate to give a negative review) was choppy. I was lost with the conversations. Rebecca, to me, seemed flaky and ignorant. This story just didn’t do it for me and I was anxious to get through.
~
The third story was sweet. It was about a father, Arthur Cranston and his daughter, Sally, who move from England to America to find work on his brother, John’s ranch. Once there, Sally is a bit disappointed with the ‘wild frontier’, but meets Gabe who she becomes attracted to. When her uncle and other surrounding land owners start losing cattle they band together to try and find out who is responsible. Due to lack of men to help patrol, Gabe enlists Sally as an extra hand.
This was a charming little short story! There were times, unfortunately, when the buildup to something exciting and treacherous left me on the edge of my seat only to leave me disappointed…the overall story was good.
~
Finally, the fourth story was probably my favorite!
After saving Celia’s sister, Bruce has a broken leg and is being nursed back to health by Celia. Bruce is happy as a lark because Celia is kind and pretty. However, Celia is promised to Wesley who is currently attending Harvard to become a doctor. Celia and Wesley haven’t seen each other in three years and his last letter seems distant.
Celia notices how Bruce looks at her and she is very much attracted to him. To keep the distance and her thoughts pure she tells him how she loves the fourth of July and wishes that her family would celebrate the holiday in the fashion that they used to before they moved here and her father became all work.
Well sparks fly as Bruce plans a fourth of July celebration …
~
I really did enjoy all of these stories. They were feel good, down home western romances. I don’t often read romances so it was a nice change! If you enjoy romance and western style books, this is four short stories that will fill your heart!
Happy reading!!
The first story is about a gambler, Mr. Clayborne, who met a cattle rancher and his beautiful (albeit pretentious) daughter. The cattle rancher, Mr. Howe, convinced him to move to America and invest in their cattle industry. Things are not always as they seem…and upon landing in New York to travel to Wyoming, Mr. Howe’s daughter asks Mr. Clayborne to escort an “orphan”. That “orphan” turns out to be a 23 year old woman, which leaves Mr. Clayborne in a very peculiar situation and worrying about the way the Howe’s see people and do business.
I liked this short story! It flowed easily.
~
The second story is about Dr. Bailey and his daughter, Rebecca, who move from Boston to Grant’s Landing out west. Her father was to be the new doctor in this dangerous town. Low and behold, Rebecca comes in contact with the man who she was in love with but disappeared two years ago.
This story (and I hate to give a negative review) was choppy. I was lost with the conversations. Rebecca, to me, seemed flaky and ignorant. This story just didn’t do it for me and I was anxious to get through.
~
The third story was sweet. It was about a father, Arthur Cranston and his daughter, Sally, who move from England to America to find work on his brother, John’s ranch. Once there, Sally is a bit disappointed with the ‘wild frontier’, but meets Gabe who she becomes attracted to. When her uncle and other surrounding land owners start losing cattle they band together to try and find out who is responsible. Due to lack of men to help patrol, Gabe enlists Sally as an extra hand.
This was a charming little short story! There were times, unfortunately, when the buildup to something exciting and treacherous left me on the edge of my seat only to leave me disappointed…the overall story was good.
~
Finally, the fourth story was probably my favorite!
After saving Celia’s sister, Bruce has a broken leg and is being nursed back to health by Celia. Bruce is happy as a lark because Celia is kind and pretty. However, Celia is promised to Wesley who is currently attending Harvard to become a doctor. Celia and Wesley haven’t seen each other in three years and his last letter seems distant.
Celia notices how Bruce looks at her and she is very much attracted to him. To keep the distance and her thoughts pure she tells him how she loves the fourth of July and wishes that her family would celebrate the holiday in the fashion that they used to before they moved here and her father became all work.
Well sparks fly as Bruce plans a fourth of July celebration …
~
I really did enjoy all of these stories. They were feel good, down home western romances. I don’t often read romances so it was a nice change! If you enjoy romance and western style books, this is four short stories that will fill your heart!
Happy reading!!
October 13, 2021
Heart of the Frontier shares four different western romance novellas set in the time of the Wild West. The stories are each unique, engaging and fit the western theme from bandits to cattle ranchers to pioneer fronts.
The Gamble shares how a young woman's life changes and how she tries to help a British aristocrat from a cattle rancher's Ponzi-scheme. This novella was really interesting and I wished there was more background information in the back of the book on how the author came up with the idea and if there was any historical context. It was very different and I liked the boldness in the characters and in the story.
Her Frontier Bandit has a mystery for the main character to discover. The story's suspense turned this into quite the page turner. It was well written and the characters seemed to come alive in the story.
Sagebrush Sally gave me several misdirects as a reader. I felt like the author did a good job in a short amount of time to provide a plot twisting, suspenseful story with exciting action scenes.
Celebration for Celia is a sweet story on second chances and doing something for others.
Although each of these stories are different, I found them to be diverting and captivating reads.
Please note that I received a free copy to review, however, I shared my honest opinion on this book.
The Gamble shares how a young woman's life changes and how she tries to help a British aristocrat from a cattle rancher's Ponzi-scheme. This novella was really interesting and I wished there was more background information in the back of the book on how the author came up with the idea and if there was any historical context. It was very different and I liked the boldness in the characters and in the story.
Her Frontier Bandit has a mystery for the main character to discover. The story's suspense turned this into quite the page turner. It was well written and the characters seemed to come alive in the story.
Sagebrush Sally gave me several misdirects as a reader. I felt like the author did a good job in a short amount of time to provide a plot twisting, suspenseful story with exciting action scenes.
Celebration for Celia is a sweet story on second chances and doing something for others.
Although each of these stories are different, I found them to be diverting and captivating reads.
Please note that I received a free copy to review, however, I shared my honest opinion on this book.
February 13, 2023
This wasn't what I expected. It is actually 4 small stories in one book, but I enjoyed it because sometimes you just need a short story.
Four stories are all set in the west but all very different. All four are strong, well-written stories that will pull you in and keep you reading.
The first is a tale of an English aristocrat heading to the American West to make his fortune and those that would use his naivete against him and the young woman who has the education to help not only him but others around her. It is charming with a strong female lead.
The second is of a doctor heading to the West with his daughter to help those in need. The daughter has been pining for her lost love who had left and not been in touch. When he appears in a strange and surprising way, she needs to decide where her heart and future lie.
The third is of a girl Sally who is unhappy with her father and her forced move from green England to her uncle’s ranch in the west where everything appears gray and barren. Soon she discovers that things are different but not necessarily bad. The people there are ready to not only accept her and her father but welcome and include them.
The last is about Celia. She and her family have moved west while her fiancée, Wesley, completes medical school. Now it has been three years and Celia wonders if the engagement is still in place especially when a handsome, caring stranger is injured and needs to heal at the family home.
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this read.
Four stories are all set in the west but all very different. All four are strong, well-written stories that will pull you in and keep you reading.
The first is a tale of an English aristocrat heading to the American West to make his fortune and those that would use his naivete against him and the young woman who has the education to help not only him but others around her. It is charming with a strong female lead.
The second is of a doctor heading to the West with his daughter to help those in need. The daughter has been pining for her lost love who had left and not been in touch. When he appears in a strange and surprising way, she needs to decide where her heart and future lie.
The third is of a girl Sally who is unhappy with her father and her forced move from green England to her uncle’s ranch in the west where everything appears gray and barren. Soon she discovers that things are different but not necessarily bad. The people there are ready to not only accept her and her father but welcome and include them.
The last is about Celia. She and her family have moved west while her fiancée, Wesley, completes medical school. Now it has been three years and Celia wonders if the engagement is still in place especially when a handsome, caring stranger is injured and needs to heal at the family home.
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this read.
July 8, 2021
Four historical novellas about the struggles of moving west and finding love in a new and unexplored land.
Heart of the Frontier is a lovely collection of historical novellas set in the West of the United States.
The collection comprises four novellas: The Gamble by Brittany Larsen, Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson, Sagebrush Sally by Jennie Hansen, and Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank. All are new-to-me authors, and I truly enjoyed their stories.
The Gamble by Brittany Larsen
Sir Thomas Clayborne was the 4th son of a baron. After gambling away part of his heritage, he decided to immigrate to America and become a cattle baron.
The plan had two advantages: he would finally leave the shadow of his more prominent brothers, and; he would be able to court the beautiful Clara Howe, the daughter of the rancher who was guiding him in his investments.
His mind changed when Clara asked Tom to escort her friend Ella Merriweather from Boston to Cheyenne. Miss Merriweather did not have Clara’s height, gold locks, or refinement, but she had an intelligence (including business acumen) and a free spirit that enchanted Thomas.
The story was very romantic, and Ella was a wonderful heroine. Thomas had his flaws, but he recognized them and made efforts to improve and change.
Lovely Novella
Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson
When Rebecca Bailey arrived in the west with her father, she was shocked by the lack of minimal comforts, the danger, and the absence of friends or society.
She was surprised to find out that the man she loved but refused to wed was living in the same end-of-the-world town and was actually a bandit!
I have to confess that I could not warm to Rebecca; she was a little passive for my taste. On the other hand, I loved Ray right from the start. He was so sweet and yet so strong and confident. I wish Ray’s situation had had a little more room to develop.
I’m a fan of second-chance romances, and it was a sweet read.
Sagebush Sally by Jennie Hansen
Sally immigrated to Idaho from England and was homesick, living with her father at her uncle’s farm. The only good thing about her new situation was the two handsome cowboys who seemed interested in her: the lovely and helpful Marvin and the brave and friendly Gabe.
As the story progresses, the love triangle yields to a true adventure amidst the rocked terrain of the area involving a bobcat, a snake, a river crossing, and even some fighting with thieves.
It was very immersive, adventurous, and romantic. I loved it!
Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank
This was such a delightful story!
Bruce was a man alone in the world. He was dirty and tired but could not stop himself from warning two sisters about the danger of rock sliding in the area they were visiting.
When a rock fell from the cliff, he jumped to save one of them and got severely hurt. Celia, the older sister, stayed with him while Sally went for help.
Taken to their ranch, Bruce fell in love with Celia and her whole family. Unfortunately, Celia was practically betrothed to a rich man from Boston and could not return his feelings.
Bruce is the loveliest of heroes. He was so loyal, kind, hard-working, and so committed to thank Celia and her family for taking him in and nurse him back to health.
Celia was so caring and compassionate. Her love for Bruce was pure and kind.
This is one of those stories that leave a smile on one’s face and brings light to one’s heart.
My favorite story in the book!
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
*For more reviews, book art, and book-related articles, please visit https://lureviewsbooks.com *
Heart of the Frontier is a lovely collection of historical novellas set in the West of the United States.
The collection comprises four novellas: The Gamble by Brittany Larsen, Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson, Sagebrush Sally by Jennie Hansen, and Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank. All are new-to-me authors, and I truly enjoyed their stories.
The Gamble by Brittany Larsen
Sir Thomas Clayborne was the 4th son of a baron. After gambling away part of his heritage, he decided to immigrate to America and become a cattle baron.
The plan had two advantages: he would finally leave the shadow of his more prominent brothers, and; he would be able to court the beautiful Clara Howe, the daughter of the rancher who was guiding him in his investments.
His mind changed when Clara asked Tom to escort her friend Ella Merriweather from Boston to Cheyenne. Miss Merriweather did not have Clara’s height, gold locks, or refinement, but she had an intelligence (including business acumen) and a free spirit that enchanted Thomas.
The story was very romantic, and Ella was a wonderful heroine. Thomas had his flaws, but he recognized them and made efforts to improve and change.
Lovely Novella
Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson
When Rebecca Bailey arrived in the west with her father, she was shocked by the lack of minimal comforts, the danger, and the absence of friends or society.
She was surprised to find out that the man she loved but refused to wed was living in the same end-of-the-world town and was actually a bandit!
I have to confess that I could not warm to Rebecca; she was a little passive for my taste. On the other hand, I loved Ray right from the start. He was so sweet and yet so strong and confident. I wish Ray’s situation had had a little more room to develop.
I’m a fan of second-chance romances, and it was a sweet read.
Sagebush Sally by Jennie Hansen
Sally immigrated to Idaho from England and was homesick, living with her father at her uncle’s farm. The only good thing about her new situation was the two handsome cowboys who seemed interested in her: the lovely and helpful Marvin and the brave and friendly Gabe.
As the story progresses, the love triangle yields to a true adventure amidst the rocked terrain of the area involving a bobcat, a snake, a river crossing, and even some fighting with thieves.
It was very immersive, adventurous, and romantic. I loved it!
Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank
This was such a delightful story!
Bruce was a man alone in the world. He was dirty and tired but could not stop himself from warning two sisters about the danger of rock sliding in the area they were visiting.
When a rock fell from the cliff, he jumped to save one of them and got severely hurt. Celia, the older sister, stayed with him while Sally went for help.
Taken to their ranch, Bruce fell in love with Celia and her whole family. Unfortunately, Celia was practically betrothed to a rich man from Boston and could not return his feelings.
Bruce is the loveliest of heroes. He was so loyal, kind, hard-working, and so committed to thank Celia and her family for taking him in and nurse him back to health.
Celia was so caring and compassionate. Her love for Bruce was pure and kind.
This is one of those stories that leave a smile on one’s face and brings light to one’s heart.
My favorite story in the book!
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
*For more reviews, book art, and book-related articles, please visit https://lureviewsbooks.com *
June 29, 2021
I enjoyed each of the novellas. Jen Johnson's was probably my favorite. I would recommend this collection to lovers of western fiction.
March 18, 2021
I really enjoyed this collection of Novellas. I enjoyed the frontier locations of the stories. I also loved that I was able to experience a couple of new (to me) authors. I have read other books by Jen Geigle Johnson and Carolyn Twede Frank and have loved those, so it was no surprise to me that I loved their additions to this collection. I enjoyed getting to experience Brittany Larsen and Jennie Hansen and I look forward to finding and reading more of their books. Overall, I enjoyed each of the stories, while I have my favorites, they all were engaging and well written. I cannot wait to read more from these wonderful authors!
Want to read
June 29, 2021I look forward to anthologies of Novellas. This gives me the opportunity for a shorter read and more stories to read. This one did not disappoint,
Each of these stories was unique in the subject matter and characters and I was able to find connection to each one. There were bad guys and good guys, train robbers, ranchers, farmers, and a little bit of everything. These were complete stories with compelling characters. I did not feel that I was missing anything with them being shorter stories.
The first story was the Gamble. In this story an English Lord invests in American Cattle and is to help escort a young lady to the ranch in which he is investing. What follows is a story of trust, of self-discovery, and of love. It was compelling and surprising, It was a delightful tale that I will gladly read again.
The second story, Her Frontier Bandit, was possibly my favorite based on the main characters alone. Rebecca and her father moved west only to find that the man who had left her was already there and all was not what it seemed. In this world of lawmen and bandits, it's difficult to know who is who.
Story number three, Sagebrush Sally, hit me in the feelings right away as it occurred in the very places I knew growing up. Sally had come from England with her father to her uncle's ranch in Idaho Territory. She got there during a bout of cattle rustling and worked to learn to live in the wild west. She showed gumption and fortitude in the things that were faced as well as compassion and caring. She learned her heart. I was charmed by this little story.
The final story was also set in Idaho. Celebration for Celia found Celia waiting for her beau to propose to her and marry her. She and her sister came across a stranger while looking through a rock formation. Her sister is saved by the stranger but not before his leg is pinned. What follows is Celia and her family nursing him back to health, during which time Celia finds herself reexamining what she wants. This is a story with compassion and depth.
All in all, I loved this compilation and look forward to reading it again. I received an early copy through the publisher and NetGalley and this is my honest review.
Each of these stories was unique in the subject matter and characters and I was able to find connection to each one. There were bad guys and good guys, train robbers, ranchers, farmers, and a little bit of everything. These were complete stories with compelling characters. I did not feel that I was missing anything with them being shorter stories.
The first story was the Gamble. In this story an English Lord invests in American Cattle and is to help escort a young lady to the ranch in which he is investing. What follows is a story of trust, of self-discovery, and of love. It was compelling and surprising, It was a delightful tale that I will gladly read again.
The second story, Her Frontier Bandit, was possibly my favorite based on the main characters alone. Rebecca and her father moved west only to find that the man who had left her was already there and all was not what it seemed. In this world of lawmen and bandits, it's difficult to know who is who.
Story number three, Sagebrush Sally, hit me in the feelings right away as it occurred in the very places I knew growing up. Sally had come from England with her father to her uncle's ranch in Idaho Territory. She got there during a bout of cattle rustling and worked to learn to live in the wild west. She showed gumption and fortitude in the things that were faced as well as compassion and caring. She learned her heart. I was charmed by this little story.
The final story was also set in Idaho. Celebration for Celia found Celia waiting for her beau to propose to her and marry her. She and her sister came across a stranger while looking through a rock formation. Her sister is saved by the stranger but not before his leg is pinned. What follows is Celia and her family nursing him back to health, during which time Celia finds herself reexamining what she wants. This is a story with compassion and depth.
All in all, I loved this compilation and look forward to reading it again. I received an early copy through the publisher and NetGalley and this is my honest review.
July 2, 2021
The Heart of the frontier
The Gamble by Brittnay Larsen
This is a collection of sweet historical western story’s. The first one is of a man that comes to the wild frontier from England. He has made a large investment in the cattle industry. I enjoyed the writing of this story and the strong willed character of Ella. She was smart and sassy. I that the story was solid and entertaining.
Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson
Another cute story about a young women and her father, moving to the Wild West, from Boston. Her father is going to be the new Doctor in town. On their journey, their train was held up by bandits. When Becky caught a glimpse of one of the bandits, she couldn’t believe her eyes. A young man who had proposed to her and then fled the area, two years prior, with nairy a word. Great characters and story. I was wondering how the happily ever after would work out in this story. But the author did her amazing writing and with some twists and turns, she brought a smile to my lips!
Sagebrush Sally by Jennie Hanson
This story follows a young woman and her father that came to the wild frontier, after losing the farm in England. Arriving to help his Brother work his ranch in Idaho. Sally is immediately smitten with two handsome cowboys. The story was filled with young love and many dangerous moments, but through it all Sally found her forever love. Nice writing and good characters.
Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank
Celia thought she had her life all figured out. But when a grimy face man was hurt, she nursing skills kick to gear. From then on her life was turned upside down. I enjoyed this story a lot. Sometimes your life changes and throws you off course. Celia was strong and wise, she had a choice to make. Great writing and storyline.
Over all I really enjoyed this book. Short stories you can read in an hour for a mini break.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Gamble by Brittnay Larsen
This is a collection of sweet historical western story’s. The first one is of a man that comes to the wild frontier from England. He has made a large investment in the cattle industry. I enjoyed the writing of this story and the strong willed character of Ella. She was smart and sassy. I that the story was solid and entertaining.
Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson
Another cute story about a young women and her father, moving to the Wild West, from Boston. Her father is going to be the new Doctor in town. On their journey, their train was held up by bandits. When Becky caught a glimpse of one of the bandits, she couldn’t believe her eyes. A young man who had proposed to her and then fled the area, two years prior, with nairy a word. Great characters and story. I was wondering how the happily ever after would work out in this story. But the author did her amazing writing and with some twists and turns, she brought a smile to my lips!
Sagebrush Sally by Jennie Hanson
This story follows a young woman and her father that came to the wild frontier, after losing the farm in England. Arriving to help his Brother work his ranch in Idaho. Sally is immediately smitten with two handsome cowboys. The story was filled with young love and many dangerous moments, but through it all Sally found her forever love. Nice writing and good characters.
Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank
Celia thought she had her life all figured out. But when a grimy face man was hurt, she nursing skills kick to gear. From then on her life was turned upside down. I enjoyed this story a lot. Sometimes your life changes and throws you off course. Celia was strong and wise, she had a choice to make. Great writing and storyline.
Over all I really enjoyed this book. Short stories you can read in an hour for a mini break.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 19, 2021
Four marvelous books of new beginnings, hope and struggles
This collection is a wonderful read. Four stories all set in the west but all very distinct and individual. All four are strong, well-written stories that will pull you in and keep you reading. The first is a tale of an English aristocrat heading to the American West to make his fortune and those that would use his naivete against him and the young woman who has the education to help not only him but others around her. It is charming with a strong female lead. The second is of a doctor heading to the West with his daughter to help those in need. The daughter has been pining for her lost love who had left and not been in touch. When he appears in a strange and surprising way, she needs to decide where her heart and future lie. The third is a of a girl Sally who is unhappy with her father and her forced move from green England to her uncle’s ranch in the west where everything appears strange, gray and barren. Soon she discovers that things are different but not necessarily bad. That people there are ready to not only accept her and her father but welcome and include them. Mix in two handsome cowboys and the frontier does indeed look better. The last is a book about deciding what is important in life. Celia and her family have moves west while her fiancée, Wesley, completes medical school. Now it has been three years and Celia wonders if the engagement is still in place especially when a handsome, caring stranger is injured and needs to heal at the family home all while Wesley’s letters become more distant, disinterested and judgemental of all who do not meet his social standing. Now Celia must decide what her priorities and future should hold. A great read I highly recommend it. I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
This collection is a wonderful read. Four stories all set in the west but all very distinct and individual. All four are strong, well-written stories that will pull you in and keep you reading. The first is a tale of an English aristocrat heading to the American West to make his fortune and those that would use his naivete against him and the young woman who has the education to help not only him but others around her. It is charming with a strong female lead. The second is of a doctor heading to the West with his daughter to help those in need. The daughter has been pining for her lost love who had left and not been in touch. When he appears in a strange and surprising way, she needs to decide where her heart and future lie. The third is a of a girl Sally who is unhappy with her father and her forced move from green England to her uncle’s ranch in the west where everything appears strange, gray and barren. Soon she discovers that things are different but not necessarily bad. That people there are ready to not only accept her and her father but welcome and include them. Mix in two handsome cowboys and the frontier does indeed look better. The last is a book about deciding what is important in life. Celia and her family have moves west while her fiancée, Wesley, completes medical school. Now it has been three years and Celia wonders if the engagement is still in place especially when a handsome, caring stranger is injured and needs to heal at the family home all while Wesley’s letters become more distant, disinterested and judgemental of all who do not meet his social standing. Now Celia must decide what her priorities and future should hold. A great read I highly recommend it. I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2021
A nice collection of western novellas, Heart of the Frontier is a clean and wholesome anthology.
Overall, this book is about four stars for me.
The Gamble by Brittany Larsen: I really loved the characters in this one and the buildup was pretty strong. However, the ending felt a little abrupt after all the buildup, which I am not sure if that's due to being a novella in length, or if it is setting up for maybe more western novels by this author. I would actually really enjoy more westerns from this author as her characters were interesting to me and I'd like to see more of them.
Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson: The plot of this one had so much promise and I was intrigued with the characters’ pasts, but pieces of the story felt a little incomplete at times for me. I wasn't always certain what was happening exactly, though I liked the idea of this lawman working undercover as a bandit. It felt like it needed just a little more editing to polish it and make it a bit stronger of a story. It wasn't bad, I just didn't feel like it reached its full potential either.
Sagebrush Sally by Jennie Hansen: This story felt super true to the setting and I enjoyed it and the last one probably the most in this collection. The tiny love triangle kept me wondering who Sally would choose and I felt like there was a good combination of action and romance.
Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank: I think this is my favorite of the four novellas. The plot was well paced for the length and the story felt the most complete. I really liked the characters. The vibe of the story also felt like a true western.
I received an advance reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Overall, this book is about four stars for me.
The Gamble by Brittany Larsen: I really loved the characters in this one and the buildup was pretty strong. However, the ending felt a little abrupt after all the buildup, which I am not sure if that's due to being a novella in length, or if it is setting up for maybe more western novels by this author. I would actually really enjoy more westerns from this author as her characters were interesting to me and I'd like to see more of them.
Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson: The plot of this one had so much promise and I was intrigued with the characters’ pasts, but pieces of the story felt a little incomplete at times for me. I wasn't always certain what was happening exactly, though I liked the idea of this lawman working undercover as a bandit. It felt like it needed just a little more editing to polish it and make it a bit stronger of a story. It wasn't bad, I just didn't feel like it reached its full potential either.
Sagebrush Sally by Jennie Hansen: This story felt super true to the setting and I enjoyed it and the last one probably the most in this collection. The tiny love triangle kept me wondering who Sally would choose and I felt like there was a good combination of action and romance.
Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank: I think this is my favorite of the four novellas. The plot was well paced for the length and the story felt the most complete. I really liked the characters. The vibe of the story also felt like a true western.
I received an advance reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 29, 2021
Overall, a fun collection of historical western novellas! These are all quick and easy reads that can be read in one sitting, and I appreciated that they were all sweet and clean romances!
As with any anthology, I enjoyed some of the stories more than others. My favorite novellas in the collection were Sagebrush Sally and Celebration for Celia because of the characters, the storyline, and the smooth writing though I wished both could have been longer!
If you enjoy sweet historical western, then this is a collection you are definitely going to want to check out!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
As with any anthology, I enjoyed some of the stories more than others. My favorite novellas in the collection were Sagebrush Sally and Celebration for Celia because of the characters, the storyline, and the smooth writing though I wished both could have been longer!
If you enjoy sweet historical western, then this is a collection you are definitely going to want to check out!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
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