What do you think?
Rate this book
Sweet Water Ranch #8
The Cowboy's Bargain Bride
Can love bloom between a woman who was forced to sell herself and the man who bought her to get her ranch?
*Previously titled Cowboys Don't Buy Their Bride at Auction*
Roxane Peterson is up for auction. Well, her and her ranch. She knew it would be too much to hope for that the man who bought her would be more interested in her than in the property, and money, that came with her. But she’s been down this road before – a marriage that isn’t perfect. Her only concern now is protecting her son and making sure she keeps her independence.
Boone Stryker is disillusioned and restless. Seeing a ranch, and a woman, up for auction challenges his soul and gives him a reason to live again. He risks everything he owns to win the ranch. But in order to win the lady’s heart, he could lose so much more.
Trigger Warning: This book contains sensitive content, not graphic, for anyone who has lost a child. It also contains a "fade to black" scene between an unmarried couple, necessary for the plot.
Books in the Sweet Water Ranch series:
1. The Cowboy's Best Friend
2. The Cowboy's Secret Baby
3. The Cowboy's Beauty
4. The Cowboy's Best Friend's Sister
5. The Cowboy's Convenient Marriage
6. The Cowboy's Fairy Tale
7. The Cowboy's Secret Romance
8. The Cowboy's Bargain Bride
9. The Cowboy's Enemy
10. The Cowboy's Mistletoe Christmas
11. The Cowboy's Marriage Mistake
*Previously titled Cowboys Don't Buy Their Bride at Auction*
Roxane Peterson is up for auction. Well, her and her ranch. She knew it would be too much to hope for that the man who bought her would be more interested in her than in the property, and money, that came with her. But she’s been down this road before – a marriage that isn’t perfect. Her only concern now is protecting her son and making sure she keeps her independence.
Boone Stryker is disillusioned and restless. Seeing a ranch, and a woman, up for auction challenges his soul and gives him a reason to live again. He risks everything he owns to win the ranch. But in order to win the lady’s heart, he could lose so much more.
Trigger Warning: This book contains sensitive content, not graphic, for anyone who has lost a child. It also contains a "fade to black" scene between an unmarried couple, necessary for the plot.
Books in the Sweet Water Ranch series:
1. The Cowboy's Best Friend
2. The Cowboy's Secret Baby
3. The Cowboy's Beauty
4. The Cowboy's Best Friend's Sister
5. The Cowboy's Convenient Marriage
6. The Cowboy's Fairy Tale
7. The Cowboy's Secret Romance
8. The Cowboy's Bargain Bride
9. The Cowboy's Enemy
10. The Cowboy's Mistletoe Christmas
11. The Cowboy's Marriage Mistake
190 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2021
1341 people are currently reading
258 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
September 29, 2019
She’d been married to a player, a womanizer. It had ended badly. Now, in order to get her inheritance, she’d have to be married-at an auction, like cattle. She’d always done what she’d been told. She just wanted one last chance to do what she wanted before getting married. One last, wild moment. But she never thought of what the consequences might be. Neither of them did...
-‘“When you look at me like that, it makes me feel like it might not matter that I’m junior high and you’re way out of my league.”’-
These cowboys sure don’t do love easily! They really do have pretty complicated love lives. I have to say, I don’t know how Mrs. Gussman comes up with the ideas for her stories, but they sure are original! I love her books and I’m very curious to read Abner’s story after all the mystery surrounding his past.
I definitely recommend this book and all the books in the series. Readers should read them in order. Although she doesn’t give away too much about the other characters in the stories (theoretically they could be read out of order), it is best to read them chronologically.
-‘“When you look at me like that, it makes me feel like it might not matter that I’m junior high and you’re way out of my league.”’-
These cowboys sure don’t do love easily! They really do have pretty complicated love lives. I have to say, I don’t know how Mrs. Gussman comes up with the ideas for her stories, but they sure are original! I love her books and I’m very curious to read Abner’s story after all the mystery surrounding his past.
I definitely recommend this book and all the books in the series. Readers should read them in order. Although she doesn’t give away too much about the other characters in the stories (theoretically they could be read out of order), it is best to read them chronologically.
October 7, 2019
The highest bid does not always win the prize!
Boone Stryker was line dancing to classical music with his niece, Gina, at her father’s wedding when he noticed the young boy and his mother. The boy was uncomfortably dressed in a suit, but his slender, cultured mother had the look of a woman who would be more at home on 5th Avenue in New York than on a dance floor in North Dakota. While teaching her to line-dance he could not resist the urge to hold her slender hands in his large, rough ones wishing they were dancing to a song that would allow him to hold her close. He was in town to attend his brother’s wedding and an auction. With any luck, he would be the high bidder and win the Sweet Water Ranch and the unknown woman who came with it.
Roxie Peterson had never had a dance partner like the tall cowboy with the crisp blue shirt and deep blue eyes but it did not matter. She loved the Sweet Water Ranch and agreed to fulfill the terms of her eccentric uncle’s will to be able to raise her son on the ranch she loved and free her brother to marry the woman he loved. In two weeks, she would be auctioned off to the highest bidder and the ranch would be hers even if it meant marrying a man she had never met.
His mother had raised Boone to high standards, but the connection between him and his beautiful dance partner was undeniable. His grace and grin made Roxie’s heart float. She had never done this before but she was determined to have one last chance to act on her feelings before the auction. After an amazing hour together, Roxie left immediately without Boone ever learning her name, sure that they would never see each other again, but God had other plans.
This story has likable characters and all the elements that make for a good cowboy romance. I finished it in one sitting and enjoyed every minute of it.
Boone Stryker was line dancing to classical music with his niece, Gina, at her father’s wedding when he noticed the young boy and his mother. The boy was uncomfortably dressed in a suit, but his slender, cultured mother had the look of a woman who would be more at home on 5th Avenue in New York than on a dance floor in North Dakota. While teaching her to line-dance he could not resist the urge to hold her slender hands in his large, rough ones wishing they were dancing to a song that would allow him to hold her close. He was in town to attend his brother’s wedding and an auction. With any luck, he would be the high bidder and win the Sweet Water Ranch and the unknown woman who came with it.
Roxie Peterson had never had a dance partner like the tall cowboy with the crisp blue shirt and deep blue eyes but it did not matter. She loved the Sweet Water Ranch and agreed to fulfill the terms of her eccentric uncle’s will to be able to raise her son on the ranch she loved and free her brother to marry the woman he loved. In two weeks, she would be auctioned off to the highest bidder and the ranch would be hers even if it meant marrying a man she had never met.
His mother had raised Boone to high standards, but the connection between him and his beautiful dance partner was undeniable. His grace and grin made Roxie’s heart float. She had never done this before but she was determined to have one last chance to act on her feelings before the auction. After an amazing hour together, Roxie left immediately without Boone ever learning her name, sure that they would never see each other again, but God had other plans.
This story has likable characters and all the elements that make for a good cowboy romance. I finished it in one sitting and enjoyed every minute of it.
February 17, 2021
Potential
Lovely characters, but too much doubt and negativity breaks up the flow of the work. Characters are very memorable. But this constant replay of strong insecure women, all of whom are the most beautiful, is becoming taxing. The title and plot position it strongly but baring one's soul to the audience but not to your happily ever after discredits credibility of text.
But this is a pattern that is repeated in these novels over and over again. So could it be the culture of writing, teaching of writing and editing that has evolved into this normalcy?
Nevertheless, Boone, Roxane, Spencer are quite more memorable than many others, so for the depiction of characters five stars, the totality of the work, three. Do I regret reading it? Never. There are moments in this book where author leaves normal beaten path and demonstrates ingenuity and beautiful craft. But the amount of negative dialogue in the characters' head space is a cause for concern especially when the unwillingness to accept the Grace and peace of God seems to be a life choice while insisting that someone knows Jesus. Don't insult Him, exalt Him. Thank you very much for wonderful intentions.
Lovely characters, but too much doubt and negativity breaks up the flow of the work. Characters are very memorable. But this constant replay of strong insecure women, all of whom are the most beautiful, is becoming taxing. The title and plot position it strongly but baring one's soul to the audience but not to your happily ever after discredits credibility of text.
But this is a pattern that is repeated in these novels over and over again. So could it be the culture of writing, teaching of writing and editing that has evolved into this normalcy?
Nevertheless, Boone, Roxane, Spencer are quite more memorable than many others, so for the depiction of characters five stars, the totality of the work, three. Do I regret reading it? Never. There are moments in this book where author leaves normal beaten path and demonstrates ingenuity and beautiful craft. But the amount of negative dialogue in the characters' head space is a cause for concern especially when the unwillingness to accept the Grace and peace of God seems to be a life choice while insisting that someone knows Jesus. Don't insult Him, exalt Him. Thank you very much for wonderful intentions.
October 1, 2019
As much as I enjoyed the other books in the series, this one is one of the best yet.
We are back in Sweet Water , and this time the story centers around Boone Stryker and Roxanne Rosthchild.
They meet at his brother’s wedding, and the attraction is immediate. But neither expected their paths would cross again.
SIngle mom Roxanne and her uncle’s ranch are up for auction. Boone has always wanted this ranch. When he finds out Roxie is the one up for bid, he wants to do all he can to get the ranch…and the girl.
The ride was not smooth. Neither sure what to expect of the other. Boone felt she was classier than her, but he wants her and the ranch , and will everything to succeed.
It was a sweet story of overcoming many obstacles, and finding love where least expected with someone seeming their opposite.
At times heartbreaking , it was also heartwarming. Will they find their HEA, or will a loss, the will and “a test” keep them from ever reaching it?
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
We are back in Sweet Water , and this time the story centers around Boone Stryker and Roxanne Rosthchild.
They meet at his brother’s wedding, and the attraction is immediate. But neither expected their paths would cross again.
SIngle mom Roxanne and her uncle’s ranch are up for auction. Boone has always wanted this ranch. When he finds out Roxie is the one up for bid, he wants to do all he can to get the ranch…and the girl.
The ride was not smooth. Neither sure what to expect of the other. Boone felt she was classier than her, but he wants her and the ranch , and will everything to succeed.
It was a sweet story of overcoming many obstacles, and finding love where least expected with someone seeming their opposite.
At times heartbreaking , it was also heartwarming. Will they find their HEA, or will a loss, the will and “a test” keep them from ever reaching it?
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
October 4, 2019
Each time I read one of Jessie Gussman's books I think it's my favorite until I read the next one. So this book is now my favorite of Jessie's. She creates characters with a sense of duty and loyalty to family and friends. The characters in this story "feel". They feel guilt, shame at violating a trust and failing to live up to the values instilled in them. Roxie feels the emotional trauma of her past. But together, they also feel love - love of family, faith, doing the right thing but most of all, love for each other. As a reader I could "feel" all the emotions brought out in this book. I became invested in Boone and Roxie's inspirational story. I knew it would be a happily-ever-after but I couldn't wait to find out how they would get to that point. I was not disappointed and can't wait to read the next book in the series.
I received this copy free from the author and am under no obligation to leave a review. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am freely sharing my opinion.
I received this copy free from the author and am under no obligation to leave a review. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am freely sharing my opinion.
October 2, 2019
I've been reading through this wonderful series and have really enjoyed every book but this one is my favorite. It features two opposites who both behave in a way that is totally out of character and then wind up married. Their courtship comes after the nuptials. I loved Boone's easygoing personality when he was introduced in an earlier installment of the series and I liked the feisty, somewhat prickly but fiercely loyal Roxane--but I never would have paired the two. In the providence of God and the wisdom of the author they were made for each other and it was such an unpredictable plot to watch how God (and Ms. Gussman) made a mess into an amazing marriage. I couldn't put the book down and read it in one sitting. Don't miss it! Highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy of this book; my review is voluntarily given and is my honest opinion.
October 19, 2019
Loved it!
Great addition to this series! Each one is better than the last! A great series with real love portrayed! The characters have true hearts and find true love, they have great morals and know right from wrong! Doesn't mean they don't mess up sometimes, but that just adds to the story! Loved it! Great read!
Great addition to this series! Each one is better than the last! A great series with real love portrayed! The characters have true hearts and find true love, they have great morals and know right from wrong! Doesn't mean they don't mess up sometimes, but that just adds to the story! Loved it! Great read!
September 29, 2021
Very good
It was confusing, exasperating, well written, and I'm not sure why I finished the book; I almost didn't. I guess I really had to know that she had enough sense to love.
It was confusing, exasperating, well written, and I'm not sure why I finished the book; I almost didn't. I guess I really had to know that she had enough sense to love.
April 22, 2023
A Bittersweet Story Full of Love
In The Cowboy’s Bargain Bride, book 8 in Jessie Gussman’s Sweet Water Ranch series, a backward romance turns into a love match that survives tragedy.
Boone Stryker, brother of Clay (The Cowboy’s Secret Romance) and member of his harvest crew, unexpectedly has a one-night stand at his brother’s wedding with a stranger. It goes against his moral code, and he regrets not only his actions but his inability to reach the woman he was with. Roxie, in turn, knows him only as “the cowboy “ and likewise can’t track him down. She has to plan for her wedding in two weeks, after all—she’s being auctioned with the Sweet Water Ranch as its owner—a consequence of her brother Ryder changing his mind at the ball (The Cowboy’s Fairy Tale). Boone doesn’t know it, and thinks she’s getting married in a planned wedding. A bad beginning for both of them.
The day of the auction, Roxie discovers she’s pregnant. That distress compounds the stress of preparing for the auction, and by the time Boone wins, she’s ready to go to sleep. Morning sickness doesn’t help her mood, and Boone thinks she hates him. She later explains she thought he only wanted the ranch, not her, and his insistence that he did want her comforts her a little.
Boone says he’ll sleep in the barn until it’s time to move into the house and her room. She tries to argue but learns he’s just as stubborn as she is, and she lets him go.
Roxie’s son, Spencer, takes to Boone and likes operating the equipment—terrifying his mother, who thinks he’ll be maimed or killed. She’s especially worried when Boone gives her son a pocketknife. Parenting styles are something else they’ll need to discuss during their belated courtship.
Boone takes Roxie to the local diner and freezes when he sees Angela working there….the same Angela Clay had courted and given up. Boone, who admired her, had asked her to marry him and been refused because he didn’t have the billion dollars promised to Clay. She makes them uneasy and questions the truth of their claim to be married. Boone is shocked into silence, and Roxie thinks he still has feelings for Angela due to a comment she made in front of them.
Seven weeks after the auction and nine weeks after their encounter at Clay’s wedding, Roxie begins bleeding. The miscarriage causes them both to acknowledge the love they have for each other and to commit more firmly to keeping their vows. Boone gives Roxie his vision of their daughter playing with other children in heaven, and her closed-off pain eases.
At the Thanksgiving dinner Sweet Water Ranch is hosting for the town, the lawyer arrives to administer a “test” per her eccentric uncle’s will. They must divorce, and one of them must leave the ranch; the other will get the now-famous billion dollars. They both tell the lawyer they’d rather give up the ranch and the money than each other, and the lawyer says they’ve passed the test!
I loved the growth of Boone and especially Roxie in faith through unimaginable pain, and I loved the development of their relationship as husband and wife. (Roxie’s dismissal of Angela was satisfying, too.) I’m a big Jessie Gussman fan, and I think this is her best yet!
In The Cowboy’s Bargain Bride, book 8 in Jessie Gussman’s Sweet Water Ranch series, a backward romance turns into a love match that survives tragedy.
Boone Stryker, brother of Clay (The Cowboy’s Secret Romance) and member of his harvest crew, unexpectedly has a one-night stand at his brother’s wedding with a stranger. It goes against his moral code, and he regrets not only his actions but his inability to reach the woman he was with. Roxie, in turn, knows him only as “the cowboy “ and likewise can’t track him down. She has to plan for her wedding in two weeks, after all—she’s being auctioned with the Sweet Water Ranch as its owner—a consequence of her brother Ryder changing his mind at the ball (The Cowboy’s Fairy Tale). Boone doesn’t know it, and thinks she’s getting married in a planned wedding. A bad beginning for both of them.
The day of the auction, Roxie discovers she’s pregnant. That distress compounds the stress of preparing for the auction, and by the time Boone wins, she’s ready to go to sleep. Morning sickness doesn’t help her mood, and Boone thinks she hates him. She later explains she thought he only wanted the ranch, not her, and his insistence that he did want her comforts her a little.
Boone says he’ll sleep in the barn until it’s time to move into the house and her room. She tries to argue but learns he’s just as stubborn as she is, and she lets him go.
Roxie’s son, Spencer, takes to Boone and likes operating the equipment—terrifying his mother, who thinks he’ll be maimed or killed. She’s especially worried when Boone gives her son a pocketknife. Parenting styles are something else they’ll need to discuss during their belated courtship.
Boone takes Roxie to the local diner and freezes when he sees Angela working there….the same Angela Clay had courted and given up. Boone, who admired her, had asked her to marry him and been refused because he didn’t have the billion dollars promised to Clay. She makes them uneasy and questions the truth of their claim to be married. Boone is shocked into silence, and Roxie thinks he still has feelings for Angela due to a comment she made in front of them.
Seven weeks after the auction and nine weeks after their encounter at Clay’s wedding, Roxie begins bleeding. The miscarriage causes them both to acknowledge the love they have for each other and to commit more firmly to keeping their vows. Boone gives Roxie his vision of their daughter playing with other children in heaven, and her closed-off pain eases.
At the Thanksgiving dinner Sweet Water Ranch is hosting for the town, the lawyer arrives to administer a “test” per her eccentric uncle’s will. They must divorce, and one of them must leave the ranch; the other will get the now-famous billion dollars. They both tell the lawyer they’d rather give up the ranch and the money than each other, and the lawyer says they’ve passed the test!
I loved the growth of Boone and especially Roxie in faith through unimaginable pain, and I loved the development of their relationship as husband and wife. (Roxie’s dismissal of Angela was satisfying, too.) I’m a big Jessie Gussman fan, and I think this is her best yet!
November 11, 2022
The Cowboy's Bargain Bride was so good! For reals, Jessie Gussman just makes it really hard to choose a favorite from her series, but what I especially love about her writing is that, the "messier" the topic/subject the story deals with, the more beautiful and touching it is.
Confession time: I had my reservations about that disclaimer at the end of the blurb, and that may have been the reason why it took me so long to pick it up, but I shouldn't have doubted it. The author deals beautifully with the "sex before marriage" in that it's closed-door, it's never glorified since it's a sin, but also doesn't take away from the beauty of the intimacy (again, we're not shown it. It just comes up in the characters' memories of the encounter and their feelings toward the experience). Oh, and it all happens within the two chapters, so if you wanna see if it's a good fit for you, you should probably check the "look inside" feature of the eBook on Amazon. Having gotten all of that out of the way, seriously, I just loved how Jessie crafted this story between Boone and Roxane. There's no easy fix for anything, sin is never left in the dark, and yet it's exactly what the characters need for their growth to happen (both personally as well as for their relationship). There are some hard talks that needed to happen, challenges bring them together, and the romance/chemistry was really sweet.
Of course, this all was even more enjoyable thanks to the audiobook experience and to Jay as its narrator. I love his range for all the voices in the story (from kids to adults), as well as all the different nuances in his performance (and Jessie's descriptions can be quite thorough regarding voices!) plus the accents (though there aren't that many in this one. Only for a side character).
Overall, this is a sweet and nice addition to the Sweet Water Ranch Contemporary Christian Romance series that deals beautifully with some heavy topics. Perfect for fans of this genre, author, narrator, and/or the marriage of convenience trope. ~ 5 stars
Confession time: I had my reservations about that disclaimer at the end of the blurb, and that may have been the reason why it took me so long to pick it up, but I shouldn't have doubted it. The author deals beautifully with the "sex before marriage" in that it's closed-door, it's never glorified since it's a sin, but also doesn't take away from the beauty of the intimacy (again, we're not shown it. It just comes up in the characters' memories of the encounter and their feelings toward the experience). Oh, and it all happens within the two chapters, so if you wanna see if it's a good fit for you, you should probably check the "look inside" feature of the eBook on Amazon. Having gotten all of that out of the way, seriously, I just loved how Jessie crafted this story between Boone and Roxane. There's no easy fix for anything, sin is never left in the dark, and yet it's exactly what the characters need for their growth to happen (both personally as well as for their relationship). There are some hard talks that needed to happen, challenges bring them together, and the romance/chemistry was really sweet.
Of course, this all was even more enjoyable thanks to the audiobook experience and to Jay as its narrator. I love his range for all the voices in the story (from kids to adults), as well as all the different nuances in his performance (and Jessie's descriptions can be quite thorough regarding voices!) plus the accents (though there aren't that many in this one. Only for a side character).
Overall, this is a sweet and nice addition to the Sweet Water Ranch Contemporary Christian Romance series that deals beautifully with some heavy topics. Perfect for fans of this genre, author, narrator, and/or the marriage of convenience trope. ~ 5 stars
May 5, 2020
***This book previously was titled Cowboys Don't Buy Their Bride At Auction***
The Cowboy's Bargain Bride is an unusual story full of strange circumstances that pull Boone and Roxie together into a marriage that Boone is determined to be more than a marriage of convenience. Like the story in the Bible of David and Bathsheba, Roxie had coaxed Boone into something he immediately regretted doing as it was against his morals and the way he was taught to treat women the night of Clay's wedding. But even though they could not get each other off their minds, their little sin was about to become known to the entire town. Roxie talks to Boone hateful and he always is so kind and nice to her that she sees what a good man he is and they both start pulling to make the most of their marriage no matter if it means loosing her family ranch and the money from her Uncle's will. This book does leave us hanging as it brings up a call that Boone's friend Abner gets at the end where he is having to decide if he will go back to his hometown for his Grandmother's funeral and to see what is going on with someone he used to know 10 years ago.
The Cowboy's Bargain Bride is an unusual story full of strange circumstances that pull Boone and Roxie together into a marriage that Boone is determined to be more than a marriage of convenience. Like the story in the Bible of David and Bathsheba, Roxie had coaxed Boone into something he immediately regretted doing as it was against his morals and the way he was taught to treat women the night of Clay's wedding. But even though they could not get each other off their minds, their little sin was about to become known to the entire town. Roxie talks to Boone hateful and he always is so kind and nice to her that she sees what a good man he is and they both start pulling to make the most of their marriage no matter if it means loosing her family ranch and the money from her Uncle's will. This book does leave us hanging as it brings up a call that Boone's friend Abner gets at the end where he is having to decide if he will go back to his hometown for his Grandmother's funeral and to see what is going on with someone he used to know 10 years ago.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2023
Can love bloom between a woman who was forced to sell herself and the man who bought her to get her ranch?
*Previously titled Cowboys Don't Buy Their Bride at Auction*
Roxane Peterson is up for auction. Well, her and her ranch. She knew it would be too much to hope for that the man who bought her would be more interested in her than in the property, and money, that came with her. But she’s been down this road before – a marriage that isn’t perfect. Her only concern now is protecting her son and making sure she keeps her independence.
Boone Stryker is disillusioned and restless. Seeing a ranch, and a woman, up for auction challenges his soul and gives him a reason to live again. He risks everything he owns to win the ranch. But in order to win the lady’s heart, he could lose so much more.
Trigger Warning: Tear-jerker. This book contains sensitive content, not graphic, for anyone who has lost a child. It also contains a "fade to black" scene between an unmarried couple, necessary for the plot.
*Previously titled Cowboys Don't Buy Their Bride at Auction*
Roxane Peterson is up for auction. Well, her and her ranch. She knew it would be too much to hope for that the man who bought her would be more interested in her than in the property, and money, that came with her. But she’s been down this road before – a marriage that isn’t perfect. Her only concern now is protecting her son and making sure she keeps her independence.
Boone Stryker is disillusioned and restless. Seeing a ranch, and a woman, up for auction challenges his soul and gives him a reason to live again. He risks everything he owns to win the ranch. But in order to win the lady’s heart, he could lose so much more.
Trigger Warning: Tear-jerker. This book contains sensitive content, not graphic, for anyone who has lost a child. It also contains a "fade to black" scene between an unmarried couple, necessary for the plot.
January 22, 2020
Boone & Roxie journey
Jessie has wrote another great book. The story line was different, but it provided the lead to the love story of Boone & Roxie. I really like Boone's character, who has lived a godly life and has sustain from the worldly ways until the night he meet Roxie. It was interesting story, with indications of sex in the beginning, then Roxie gets pregnant. Boone came to her when she was being auctioned off with her ranch and deterred the bidders with the knowledge that she was pregnant with his child. It was a rocky marriage at first, but Boone was a honorable man and he was going to prove to her that he valued her.
Then the heartache they both felt when she miscarriage. You will have many emotions with their journey, but with a commitment to their marriage vows & God they would have a great life together on the ranch.
Jessie has wrote another great book. The story line was different, but it provided the lead to the love story of Boone & Roxie. I really like Boone's character, who has lived a godly life and has sustain from the worldly ways until the night he meet Roxie. It was interesting story, with indications of sex in the beginning, then Roxie gets pregnant. Boone came to her when she was being auctioned off with her ranch and deterred the bidders with the knowledge that she was pregnant with his child. It was a rocky marriage at first, but Boone was a honorable man and he was going to prove to her that he valued her.
Then the heartache they both felt when she miscarriage. You will have many emotions with their journey, but with a commitment to their marriage vows & God they would have a great life together on the ranch.
October 12, 2021
This was sweet. Boone and Roxie were married right in the beginning of this read…the day she discovered she was pregnant with his baby. This was about growing trust out of a hardened heart. It was also, sadly, about the heartbreak of losing a child. My heart shattered when Roxie accused Boone of not caring and how he responded. He is very gracious and very much trusts the lord.
I’m enjoying this series, but I must admit I feel as though I should have taken notes from the first book forward as far as all the players and who is married to who. It seems like that’d help me feel closer to the characters and know the connection of all the people because everybody knows everyone in some way or another.
Next book is number 9 The Cowboy’s Enemy and according to book 8 it should be about the love between Abner and Cora.
I’m enjoying this series, but I must admit I feel as though I should have taken notes from the first book forward as far as all the players and who is married to who. It seems like that’d help me feel closer to the characters and know the connection of all the people because everybody knows everyone in some way or another.
Next book is number 9 The Cowboy’s Enemy and according to book 8 it should be about the love between Abner and Cora.
June 29, 2023
The auction
Boone and Roxie started out all wrong but ended up together. Roxie is being auctioned off with the family ranch because of the stipulations of her uncle's will. If she fails to agree to this she will lose the family ranch and left with no money or way to raise her son. I thought she was very brave to do the things she did.
They don't exchange names when they first meet so they are unable to get in touch. They have to really work at their relationship in ways that are anything but normal. Boone is one of my favorite in this series. He is so understanding and loving when it isn't easy. Roxie has been hurt by her ex husband and has a difficult time trusting anyone enough to allow herself to love.
I was anticipating roxie's story but it was nothing like I has expected. I loved their story. It presented christian values without being overpowering
Boone and Roxie started out all wrong but ended up together. Roxie is being auctioned off with the family ranch because of the stipulations of her uncle's will. If she fails to agree to this she will lose the family ranch and left with no money or way to raise her son. I thought she was very brave to do the things she did.
They don't exchange names when they first meet so they are unable to get in touch. They have to really work at their relationship in ways that are anything but normal. Boone is one of my favorite in this series. He is so understanding and loving when it isn't easy. Roxie has been hurt by her ex husband and has a difficult time trusting anyone enough to allow herself to love.
I was anticipating roxie's story but it was nothing like I has expected. I loved their story. It presented christian values without being overpowering
July 19, 2024
First, I just want to say that I listened to this book on YouTube, and I have NEVER seen an audiobook on there have moving pictures in the background that match the story! It was such a vibe. I found myself propping up my phone as I went to sleep so I could see it. I hope to find more like it. It made me feel more like I was in the story. The only downside to this book is how unrealistic it is. I mean *spoiler* bidding on a woman to get a ranch like she is a slave? lol would never happen in the real world and no one would make that a stipulation in their will. But other than that I loved the story. And it seems like they said he was virgin in the beginning? Surely not. But other than that I really enjoyed it. And I’m not always huge on contemporary stories. I may go find more of hers from this series.
May 23, 2022
Heartwarming, heartbreaking, funny!
This book sure does run the gamut of emotions. Ms Jessie Gussman has shown her talent for writing heartwarming, and heartbreaking emotions with this one with great comedic interludes. These characters are very relatable with real life experiences. I can easily say that you won’t get through this book without crying at times, rejoicing at other times and laughing with these character’s antics. I can definitely say that when an author is able to pull all these emotions out of the reader in one fell swoop then they truly have a five star talent. I also believe that Jay Dyess’ performing talent in this audio book knows just where to emphasize the ups and downs as well as the comedy. This is easily a five star read. Highly recommended!
This book sure does run the gamut of emotions. Ms Jessie Gussman has shown her talent for writing heartwarming, and heartbreaking emotions with this one with great comedic interludes. These characters are very relatable with real life experiences. I can easily say that you won’t get through this book without crying at times, rejoicing at other times and laughing with these character’s antics. I can definitely say that when an author is able to pull all these emotions out of the reader in one fell swoop then they truly have a five star talent. I also believe that Jay Dyess’ performing talent in this audio book knows just where to emphasize the ups and downs as well as the comedy. This is easily a five star read. Highly recommended!
August 1, 2020
I have really enjoyed these SweetWater Ranch books. This is a really good one. It seems every one I read I think it may be better than the last. Jessie Gussman writes great stories and Jay Dyess brings them to life with his awesome narration. I can't seem to get enough of the Sweetwater clan.
This one features Boone and Roxy. Their story is gives you all kinds of feels but it makes you wish you could have a sweet caring gentlemen like Boone even though sometimes he makes Roxy so mad.
A must read and in my case a must listen to on Audible. I really have enjoyed the audio books of this series.
This one features Boone and Roxy. Their story is gives you all kinds of feels but it makes you wish you could have a sweet caring gentlemen like Boone even though sometimes he makes Roxy so mad.
A must read and in my case a must listen to on Audible. I really have enjoyed the audio books of this series.
Read
February 15, 2021Barely okay
This book is 'sweet' in the romance genre sort of way. It's heavy on the treacle, way too heavy. It's preachy. The only way it could be preachier is if all the characters were pounding on a pulpit & thumping on a bible simultaneously. I gave it 4 stars for editing & writing excellence. I would give it 2 stars for the sappy, syrupy, smug, self satified holier-than-thou ambience in the storyline. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy 'sweet' fiction that is devoid of swearing & gratuitous sex. However, I dislike being sermonized to death. I don't need to be beat about the head & shoulders with a bible by a well meaning but smug author. No thanks.
This book is 'sweet' in the romance genre sort of way. It's heavy on the treacle, way too heavy. It's preachy. The only way it could be preachier is if all the characters were pounding on a pulpit & thumping on a bible simultaneously. I gave it 4 stars for editing & writing excellence. I would give it 2 stars for the sappy, syrupy, smug, self satified holier-than-thou ambience in the storyline. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy 'sweet' fiction that is devoid of swearing & gratuitous sex. However, I dislike being sermonized to death. I don't need to be beat about the head & shoulders with a bible by a well meaning but smug author. No thanks.
July 1, 2022
Boone and Roxane wasn’t your typical couple. He a cowboy her from New York, they met at Clay’s wedding and she talked him into something that changed things for them. They had a lot of hurt and difficulties to work through. I love how God is all through this book and they keep him at the forefront of their relationship. Jessie Gussman hit this whole series out of the ballpark. This is by far my favorite series surpassing even the Baxter Boys. Jessie Gussman is an amazing author. I have read a lot of her books and I have loved everyone of them so far. I still have more to go and I am looking forward to reading them all.
December 13, 2022
Clean Modern Western Romance
This book is the eighth in a series that does not need to be read in order. Although, since all of the books share characters, you will love knowing all of the backgrounds. This book has both an off-screen intimacy between a non-married couple and the loss of a pregnancy. Either of these things could act as a trigger, but both are very tastefully presented. The romance is very fulfilling. As with all of this author's work, there is plenty of Christian faith in the pages, but less than in many of her books. The story just sailed past and I was surprised to have finished it in one sitting.
This book is the eighth in a series that does not need to be read in order. Although, since all of the books share characters, you will love knowing all of the backgrounds. This book has both an off-screen intimacy between a non-married couple and the loss of a pregnancy. Either of these things could act as a trigger, but both are very tastefully presented. The romance is very fulfilling. As with all of this author's work, there is plenty of Christian faith in the pages, but less than in many of her books. The story just sailed past and I was surprised to have finished it in one sitting.
December 23, 2025
Jessie's books are edifying. I would say they are also light reads, but she does tackle difficult topics. Bad things happen to the characters or because of their choices, but there is redemption, grace, and forgiveness. She weaves in truths about how we should leave as Christians, which serve as reminders as I listen along.
I've listened to her books on YouTube "Say With Jay." He's a great narrator, even for the women's voices. It's the type of book that you can listen to while doing something else. Any can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend starting the series in order as several connect characters and places.
I've listened to her books on YouTube "Say With Jay." He's a great narrator, even for the women's voices. It's the type of book that you can listen to while doing something else. Any can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend starting the series in order as several connect characters and places.
March 27, 2020
This Cowboy does!
Boone and Roxie have a wild and crazy first meeting. Neither of them even knows the other's name! It gets even wilder when Boone chances upon Dixie buying a pregnancy test in a small convenience store. She tells him she's getting married later that day to the highest auction bidder of her Ranch...the very same one he's bidding on too.
Boone winds up winning both Dixie and the ranch of his dreams. Now the real life begins as they try to make this marriage in name only into a godly marriage of love.
The book is a wonderful read!
Boone and Roxie have a wild and crazy first meeting. Neither of them even knows the other's name! It gets even wilder when Boone chances upon Dixie buying a pregnancy test in a small convenience store. She tells him she's getting married later that day to the highest auction bidder of her Ranch...the very same one he's bidding on too.
Boone winds up winning both Dixie and the ranch of his dreams. Now the real life begins as they try to make this marriage in name only into a godly marriage of love.
The book is a wonderful read!
May 14, 2020
Loved it!
It had to be the craziest premise for a book I've ever heard...but then I don't think I've ever known anyone from North Dakota. Maybe they're normally abnormal???😀
However, this story runs the gamut of emotions without leaving you in a negative place for long. And just like other Jessie Gussman books, there are plenty of times I laughed out loud. And I will never again see blue and red jello without laughing!
It had to be the craziest premise for a book I've ever heard...but then I don't think I've ever known anyone from North Dakota. Maybe they're normally abnormal???😀
However, this story runs the gamut of emotions without leaving you in a negative place for long. And just like other Jessie Gussman books, there are plenty of times I laughed out loud. And I will never again see blue and red jello without laughing!
February 24, 2021
I randomly came across this series and now I have to read them all. I don't love them, but the fact I can't stop reading the series must say something! These are a lot like junk food, but books. I can't stop eating them, but I kind of hate that I can't stop eating them.
Honestly these are fine. Nothing spectacular, but at least a nice, clean story. Worth the time I took on them. I definitely got my value on my Kindle Unlimited Value.
Honestly these are fine. Nothing spectacular, but at least a nice, clean story. Worth the time I took on them. I definitely got my value on my Kindle Unlimited Value.
May 14, 2021
I like that this was written with a match made in heaven sort of theme and enjoyed how the relationship developed throughout the whole story. They become a couple earlier in the book so the story is more focused on overcoming strife in the relationship and growing their bond to the end of the book. It is a heartwarming story that seemed to conclude with a hint to a sequel. What news did the attorney have for them? Will they try again for children together? Where?
September 20, 2021
mistakes and blessings
A great romance showing even mistakes can be made into blessings, and love covers a multitude of sins.
According to her uncle’s Will Roxie is about to be auctioned off along with Sweet Water Ranch but a one night mistake becomes the basis for a marriage between Roxie and Boone. Can they put that behind them and meet the stipulation in the will requiring them to pass a test? Will love be enough?
A great romance showing even mistakes can be made into blessings, and love covers a multitude of sins.
According to her uncle’s Will Roxie is about to be auctioned off along with Sweet Water Ranch but a one night mistake becomes the basis for a marriage between Roxie and Boone. Can they put that behind them and meet the stipulation in the will requiring them to pass a test? Will love be enough?
May 13, 2023
“The Cowboy’s Bargain Bride” by Jessie Gussman performed by Jay Dyess
A Sweet Clean Contemporary Romance
A listen I thoroughly enjoyed. I loved the story and Jay does a great job of bringing it to life. The copy I listened to was on the YouTube channel of Say With Jay. It was a free audiobook. I do enjoy resting my eyes and going to live in a story. Happy Reading ! !
Note This review expresses my honest opinion.
A Sweet Clean Contemporary Romance
A listen I thoroughly enjoyed. I loved the story and Jay does a great job of bringing it to life. The copy I listened to was on the YouTube channel of Say With Jay. It was a free audiobook. I do enjoy resting my eyes and going to live in a story. Happy Reading ! !
Note This review expresses my honest opinion.
July 14, 2025
This was a very interesting story. I don't quite understand the whole thing of auctioning herself off, but obviously her benefactor wanted to humble her. I thought the author did a good job of dealing with the issues of poor choices, their consequences, and admitting those mistakes and accepting the consequences. There were several difficult issues raised here, and overall I appreciated how the characters dealt with them.
August 14, 2020
Auctioned Bride
God had a better plan for Boone and Roxie. The storyline was fast-moving and terrific. The many characters were great. It was interesting how God had a mistake become something that they could build their relationship into something God. It shows there is hope in God's love for us.
God had a better plan for Boone and Roxie. The storyline was fast-moving and terrific. The many characters were great. It was interesting how God had a mistake become something that they could build their relationship into something God. It shows there is hope in God's love for us.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews