What do you think?
Rate this book
Frontier Matches #1
The Perfect Mail-Order Bride
Close to perfection
Ada Williamson lived her whole life in the shadow of her charismatic, capricious sister. But when the beautiful Melinda decides to jilt her mail-order groom on the way to meet him in Seattle, Washington Territory, Ada’s conscience demands that she continue the journey and tell Thomas Rankin the truth. After all, she wrote most of the letters the couple exchanged, and she’s already halfway in love with the man herself. Yet somehow, one look at Thomas and the future he offers, and the truth never comes out. Suddenly, Ada finds herself not only out of the shadows, but living the life meant for her sister.
After making his fortune on the goldfields, Thomas “Scout” Rankin found he could buy almost anything he wanted, including the perfect mail-order bride in a territory where women are still few and far between. But past betrayals have left him wary, so he immediately notices that the woman who claims to be his mail-order bride doesn’t quite act the part. Still, someone wrote those letters that spoke to his heart. If getting to know Ada better will reveal the truth, he’s willing to try, even if he must protect his own secrets along the way.
But someone knows both their secrets and aims to use them to advantage. Can Thomas and Ada discover the truth, about their enemy, about their pasts, and about the love they both yearn to share?
If you like warm, witty historical romances, then you’ll love this frontier historical romance by an award-winning author that continues her popular Frontier Bachelors series.
Ada Williamson lived her whole life in the shadow of her charismatic, capricious sister. But when the beautiful Melinda decides to jilt her mail-order groom on the way to meet him in Seattle, Washington Territory, Ada’s conscience demands that she continue the journey and tell Thomas Rankin the truth. After all, she wrote most of the letters the couple exchanged, and she’s already halfway in love with the man herself. Yet somehow, one look at Thomas and the future he offers, and the truth never comes out. Suddenly, Ada finds herself not only out of the shadows, but living the life meant for her sister.
After making his fortune on the goldfields, Thomas “Scout” Rankin found he could buy almost anything he wanted, including the perfect mail-order bride in a territory where women are still few and far between. But past betrayals have left him wary, so he immediately notices that the woman who claims to be his mail-order bride doesn’t quite act the part. Still, someone wrote those letters that spoke to his heart. If getting to know Ada better will reveal the truth, he’s willing to try, even if he must protect his own secrets along the way.
But someone knows both their secrets and aims to use them to advantage. Can Thomas and Ada discover the truth, about their enemy, about their pasts, and about the love they both yearn to share?
If you like warm, witty historical romances, then you’ll love this frontier historical romance by an award-winning author that continues her popular Frontier Bachelors series.
218 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 6, 2022
331 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
About the author
Regina Scott
134 books1,009 followersRegina Scott started writing novels in the third grade. Thankfully for literature as we know it, she didn’t actually sell her first novel until she had learned a bit more about writing. Since her first Regency romance was published in 1998, her stories have traveled the globe, with translations in many languages including Dutch, German, Italian, and Portuguese. She is now the author of more than 50 works of warm, witty historical romance.
She and her husband of 30 years reside in Washington State on the way to Mt. Rainier. Regina Scott has driven four in hand, learned to fence, sailed on a tall ship, and dressed as a Regency dandy, all in the name of research, of course. Sign up for her free alert service to hear when the next book will be out or on sale at https://subscribe.reginascott.com/. You can find her online blogging at www.nineteenteen.com. Learn more about her at www.reginascott.com and connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorreginascott .
She and her husband of 30 years reside in Washington State on the way to Mt. Rainier. Regina Scott has driven four in hand, learned to fence, sailed on a tall ship, and dressed as a Regency dandy, all in the name of research, of course. Sign up for her free alert service to hear when the next book will be out or on sale at https://subscribe.reginascott.com/. You can find her online blogging at www.nineteenteen.com. Learn more about her at www.reginascott.com and connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorreginascott .
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 6, 2022
It’s always hard to say goodbye to a series when you’ve fallen in love with the characters, so when an author lets you return to that world in some way (whether by cameos in other books or another series set in the same community) it’s a bit like a family reunion. Such is the case with Regina Scott’s new Frontier Matches series & her previous Frontier Bachelor books. And while it’s not necessary to have read those books before you start The Perfect Mail-Order Bride, if you did read them you will find yourself familiar with several supporting characters as well as our hero, ‘Scout’ Rankin. The author does a great job of appealing to fans of her previous series as well as making it easy for a newbie to feel right at home.
I’m so glad that Scout gets his own story; he deserved a happily ever after with a woman as kind and thoughtful as Ada. Both of them have suffered from other people’s selfishness, something which could have made them selfish in return but instead shaped them into people of integrity and grace. Which is a) how Ada ended up pretending to be her sister and b) why she felt so badly about it. The author’s rendering of Ada’s dilemma allowed us to really see the layers in her character and connect with her on a relatable level. Ada initially just doesn’t want Scout to lose face in front of the whole town – after all, she’s grown fond of him while answering his letters to her sister – and then she doesn’t want to lose him. For his part, Scout treated her with such tenderness, even when he suspected something wasn’t quite right. While I do think she could have told him the truth sooner and he would have understood, that particular plot point definitely made sense for her character with her insecurities and low self-confidence.
Bottom Line: The Perfect Mail-Order Bride by Regina Scott is everything I hoped it would be – swoony, sweet, and full of heart. Visiting with familiar & beloved characters felt like a warm hug, and meeting the new ones brought the promise of more delightful adventures to come. I also enjoyed the glimpse of Seattle in its early days, as a small Old West town with dreams of greatness. I can’t wait to see where this series takes us, and I’m definitely along for the ride!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
I’m so glad that Scout gets his own story; he deserved a happily ever after with a woman as kind and thoughtful as Ada. Both of them have suffered from other people’s selfishness, something which could have made them selfish in return but instead shaped them into people of integrity and grace. Which is a) how Ada ended up pretending to be her sister and b) why she felt so badly about it. The author’s rendering of Ada’s dilemma allowed us to really see the layers in her character and connect with her on a relatable level. Ada initially just doesn’t want Scout to lose face in front of the whole town – after all, she’s grown fond of him while answering his letters to her sister – and then she doesn’t want to lose him. For his part, Scout treated her with such tenderness, even when he suspected something wasn’t quite right. While I do think she could have told him the truth sooner and he would have understood, that particular plot point definitely made sense for her character with her insecurities and low self-confidence.
Bottom Line: The Perfect Mail-Order Bride by Regina Scott is everything I hoped it would be – swoony, sweet, and full of heart. Visiting with familiar & beloved characters felt like a warm hug, and meeting the new ones brought the promise of more delightful adventures to come. I also enjoyed the glimpse of Seattle in its early days, as a small Old West town with dreams of greatness. I can’t wait to see where this series takes us, and I’m definitely along for the ride!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
April 20, 2023
I started out liking this book. I love a good mail order bride, frontier story. I liked how Thomas wanted to court Ada…or rather Melinda…before he proposed. And their courtship was cute. Now, I usually hate miscommunication and someone pretending to be someone they’re not when it’s just as easy to tell the truth in books. But I was ok with this one at first because from the beginning Thomas knows Ada is not completely who she says she is, but he wants her to be comfortable enough with him to tell him. It quickly became annoying for me though. It got to where it was the same thing over and over. Thomas and Ada hanging out, having sweet moments, Ada about to open up to Thomas and tell him the truth….but then something interrupts them and stops her from telling him. There were also so many internal monologues from both Thomas and Ada about how she really wanted and needed to tell him the truth or he wouldn’t want to marry her and how he really wished she would tell him what she was hiding. There was also a HUGE cast of side characters that there was absolutely know way I could keep up with. I think this is the start of a spin off series of another of the authors series, but still. I don’t know why I had to have a mass meeting of all of those characters as well as each couples multiple children along with everyone’s physical descriptions, and detailed accounts of what they were all wearing, in one scene. 😳 I also didn’t care for the writing. It wasn’t bad, but it was super cheesy feeling. I probably won’t continue this series, but I do want to try her regency books.
Ps I also didn’t read the last chapter because it was just an overly detailed account of their wedding and everything else had already been resolved sufficiently
Ps I also didn’t read the last chapter because it was just an overly detailed account of their wedding and everything else had already been resolved sufficiently
April 11, 2024
I'm only at 35 percent, but I hate secrets. There wouldn't be a story if Ada would tell Thomas the truth.
I love mail order bride books and I really want to read it. I just keep thinking, Just tell him, just tell him, this is stupid, just tell him. It's ruining a good story by just making it about Ada not telling Thomas the truth. It's just too frustrating.
I love mail order bride books and I really want to read it. I just keep thinking, Just tell him, just tell him, this is stupid, just tell him. It's ruining a good story by just making it about Ada not telling Thomas the truth. It's just too frustrating.
April 11, 2022
Regina Scott writes fun, engaging historical romance that transports you to whatever time and place her characters are. This book extends her previous Frontier Bachelors series into a new series called Frontier Matches but it can be read as a stand-alone. I’ve only read a couple of books in her previous Frontier Bachelors series and enjoyed seeing a few of the characters again but didn’t feel confused during this story. I loved seeing Seattle in 1876 through the eyes of a newcomer as well as a hometowner working to improve his beloved town. Thomas is an absolute sweetheart - so valiant yet tender in heart, mind, and spirit. Ada is just as lovely in temperament though she’s always been overshadowed by her vivacious older sister. Their hearts knitting together is so natural and heart-warming. The book is a quick read and sure to leave you with a smile on your face at the end.
I received the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
I received the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
April 27, 2022
Every once in a while, a secondary character seems demand a story of his or her own, and this is one case where I was excited to read a follow-up story to a previous series. Thomas “Scout” Rankin is all grown up, and the booming town of Seattle provides the backdrop for his own happily ever after.
Her sister’s poor choices and selfishness have left Ada the bearer of bad news, but delivering that news is made even more difficult by the man she finds waiting to greet his mail-order bride. The man she has been writing to on behalf of her sister is kind and seems to appreciate Ada for who she is, even if she isn’t who she seems to be.
I loved these two characters; while from different backgrounds and facing different challenges, both had largely risen beyond their circumstances and overcome. They aren’t perfect, but they paint a realistic portrait of people learning to be themselves, despite the expectations or limitations others place on them.
I really enjoyed this story. It has a sweet romance, some heartfelt moments, a touch of mystery, and some good growth and introspection by the characters. All of this is set in a growing Seattle, with a few historical personages inserted in the story to really ground the reader in the setting and give us a feel of another time and place. I highly recommend it for fans of Scott’s Frontier Bachelors series, though anyone with an interest in historical Seattle, mail-order brides, or simply sweet romance can enjoy this novel as a standalone book.
I received a review copy of this book from the author but was not required to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
Her sister’s poor choices and selfishness have left Ada the bearer of bad news, but delivering that news is made even more difficult by the man she finds waiting to greet his mail-order bride. The man she has been writing to on behalf of her sister is kind and seems to appreciate Ada for who she is, even if she isn’t who she seems to be.
I loved these two characters; while from different backgrounds and facing different challenges, both had largely risen beyond their circumstances and overcome. They aren’t perfect, but they paint a realistic portrait of people learning to be themselves, despite the expectations or limitations others place on them.
I really enjoyed this story. It has a sweet romance, some heartfelt moments, a touch of mystery, and some good growth and introspection by the characters. All of this is set in a growing Seattle, with a few historical personages inserted in the story to really ground the reader in the setting and give us a feel of another time and place. I highly recommend it for fans of Scott’s Frontier Bachelors series, though anyone with an interest in historical Seattle, mail-order brides, or simply sweet romance can enjoy this novel as a standalone book.
I received a review copy of this book from the author but was not required to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
March 21, 2022
This one is a follow up to one of Regina Scott's earlier series, one which readers have been asking for and she has delivered. Here is Scout Wallin's story. He has paid for a mail order bride to come, but her sister comes instead. Can they make this work, or will Scout turn shy at the lie?
I am a fan of Regina Scott's work and she once again proves why that is. She simply tells a great story! I recommend this author.
My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book.
I am a fan of Regina Scott's work and she once again proves why that is. She simply tells a great story! I recommend this author.
My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book.
April 15, 2022
This was such a sweet story! It was great to get back to the historic Seattle setting in this book, which is the first in the Frontier Matches series. If you have read the Frontier Bachelors series, you will recognize the hero of this novel as Thomas “Scout” Rankin. This story can easily be read and enjoyed on its own, though, even if you haven’t read any books from the other series.
I really liked Thomas and the way he tried to keep an open mind toward his mail order bride who seemed to be harboring a secret. His patience toward Ada, even though he had been deceived in the past, was admirable. I thought he did a good job of recognizing that while not every fact fit, she seemed to be an honorable and caring person and felt like the woman he had been corresponding with.
I believe that Ada could have probably shared her secret with Thomas at any time and that he would have listened and given her a chance, however, it was easy to see that Ada did not consider herself special or worthy in any way after her challenging upbringing. So, her reticence did make sense. I loved the way the author wrapped things up for these two.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I really liked Thomas and the way he tried to keep an open mind toward his mail order bride who seemed to be harboring a secret. His patience toward Ada, even though he had been deceived in the past, was admirable. I thought he did a good job of recognizing that while not every fact fit, she seemed to be an honorable and caring person and felt like the woman he had been corresponding with.
I believe that Ada could have probably shared her secret with Thomas at any time and that he would have listened and given her a chance, however, it was easy to see that Ada did not consider herself special or worthy in any way after her challenging upbringing. So, her reticence did make sense. I loved the way the author wrapped things up for these two.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
May 22, 2022
Good PNW Frontier Story
When Seattle was young, people where still making their way in Washington Territory, and mail-order brides where commonplace.
Ada was kind, but flawed in her ongoing desire to not upset Thomas by revealing her secret. I liked how her kindness extended to everyone, even those some thought less desirable. Thomas had been burned before, but managed to find the faith needed to look beyond Ada’s secret and continue getting to know her. He struggles with his past but is a man of perseverance and extreme generosity.
Tea Moment: “Roy brought a pot of tea and began pouring it into their cups. Thomas thanked him, then reached for the silver sugar bowl. Ada watched as he dropped six teaspoons into his cup. “Someone has a sweet tooth,” she realized.”
Ada’s sister, Melinda, is a spoiled brat. It will be interesting to see if her character gets an opportunity to mature in the series.
The cover sets the stage perfectly and there are plenty of lovely descriptions throughout the book, particularly of Wallin Landing where I can’t wait to return to.
I recommend this clean story with plenty of characters to keep it interesting.
For my honest review I was gifted an eBook from the author without further compensation or expectation. All opinions are my own.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3 Stars 🌟🌟🌟
⭐=Bad/Did NOT like it
⭐⭐ = Meh/Didn't care for it
⭐⭐⭐=Good/ I liked it
⭐⭐⭐⭐=Very Good/I really liked it
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐=Excellent/I loved it
SERIES: Frontier Matches
#1 The Perfect Mail-Order Bride 4/18/2022
#2 Her Frontier Sweethearts tba
I think most know, but just in case: PNW = Pacific North West 😉
When Seattle was young, people where still making their way in Washington Territory, and mail-order brides where commonplace.
Ada was kind, but flawed in her ongoing desire to not upset Thomas by revealing her secret. I liked how her kindness extended to everyone, even those some thought less desirable. Thomas had been burned before, but managed to find the faith needed to look beyond Ada’s secret and continue getting to know her. He struggles with his past but is a man of perseverance and extreme generosity.
Tea Moment: “Roy brought a pot of tea and began pouring it into their cups. Thomas thanked him, then reached for the silver sugar bowl. Ada watched as he dropped six teaspoons into his cup. “Someone has a sweet tooth,” she realized.”
Ada’s sister, Melinda, is a spoiled brat. It will be interesting to see if her character gets an opportunity to mature in the series.
The cover sets the stage perfectly and there are plenty of lovely descriptions throughout the book, particularly of Wallin Landing where I can’t wait to return to.
I recommend this clean story with plenty of characters to keep it interesting.
For my honest review I was gifted an eBook from the author without further compensation or expectation. All opinions are my own.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3 Stars 🌟🌟🌟
⭐=Bad/Did NOT like it
⭐⭐ = Meh/Didn't care for it
⭐⭐⭐=Good/ I liked it
⭐⭐⭐⭐=Very Good/I really liked it
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐=Excellent/I loved it
SERIES: Frontier Matches
#1 The Perfect Mail-Order Bride 4/18/2022
#2 Her Frontier Sweethearts tba
I think most know, but just in case: PNW = Pacific North West 😉
April 19, 2022
Perfectly delightful!
Have you ever been afraid of hurting someone by telling them the truth? And then discovered that because you didn't speak up sooner, your silence had them believing a lie? Poor Ada! Her kind heart wasn't made to keep secrets like she did.
I really liked Ada's kind and gentle spirit. She wasn't humble necessarily, she just didn't think she had much worth due to the way she had always been treated by her family. With her sister's beauty and talent overshadowing her, she never expected much of herself.
Thomas, aka Scout, was a delight to get to know! He was generous and expected the best of others, which had caused him a good deal of hurt. It hadn't embittered him, however. He continued to help others and do what was good and right.
The depiction of Seattle before it began to grow was fun! Having driven through it, it was a stretch for my imagination to see it as a smallish town where many people knew each other. Author Regina Scott did a great job describing this, allowing me to see how things could have been.
Readers who enjoy historical romance set in the West will enjoy this lovely story! I can't wait to read more from this series.
Originally Reviewed on Among The Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own."
Have you ever been afraid of hurting someone by telling them the truth? And then discovered that because you didn't speak up sooner, your silence had them believing a lie? Poor Ada! Her kind heart wasn't made to keep secrets like she did.
I really liked Ada's kind and gentle spirit. She wasn't humble necessarily, she just didn't think she had much worth due to the way she had always been treated by her family. With her sister's beauty and talent overshadowing her, she never expected much of herself.
Thomas, aka Scout, was a delight to get to know! He was generous and expected the best of others, which had caused him a good deal of hurt. It hadn't embittered him, however. He continued to help others and do what was good and right.
The depiction of Seattle before it began to grow was fun! Having driven through it, it was a stretch for my imagination to see it as a smallish town where many people knew each other. Author Regina Scott did a great job describing this, allowing me to see how things could have been.
Readers who enjoy historical romance set in the West will enjoy this lovely story! I can't wait to read more from this series.
Originally Reviewed on Among The Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own."
April 15, 2024
Ada Williamson and her older sister, Melinda, are left destitute when their parents die in an accident. Melinda is the pretty one, attracting men like flies, and swatting them away when she's bored with them. Thinking that Melinda could save them by marrying a rich man, she places an ad in a newspaper, attracting the attention of Thomas "Scout" Rankin, a wealthy man in Seattle who made his fortune by finding gold. It isn't explained why Ada thought Melinda would marry a total stranger when she had plenty of opportunities to marry rich men in Boston. Nevertheless, Scout answers the ad and begins a correspondence with Melinda, in which Ada does all the writing.
Upon their arrival in San Francisco, Melinda backs out of the deal, deciding to stay in SF, where she is attracting a lot of attention. Ada floats on up to Seattle to inform Scout that Melinda has changed her mind. Her reception makes it difficult for her to tell him publicly. Thus we are subjected to an entire book full of her finding excuses for not telling him. Oh, she's going to tell him now! Nope. Another interruption. Ah, here it comes! No again. She needs to wait until hell freezes over. That was it. Waiting for the truth to come out. It makes no sense. Thomas "Scout" Rankin was a nice guy who didn't deserve such nonsense.
Upon their arrival in San Francisco, Melinda backs out of the deal, deciding to stay in SF, where she is attracting a lot of attention. Ada floats on up to Seattle to inform Scout that Melinda has changed her mind. Her reception makes it difficult for her to tell him publicly. Thus we are subjected to an entire book full of her finding excuses for not telling him. Oh, she's going to tell him now! Nope. Another interruption. Ah, here it comes! No again. She needs to wait until hell freezes over. That was it. Waiting for the truth to come out. It makes no sense. Thomas "Scout" Rankin was a nice guy who didn't deserve such nonsense.
April 21, 2022
Reader’s will enjoy re-visiting characters from other novels in this mail-order bride romance. It was fun to get a different view of the Wallen clan through Ada’s eyes. I may need to go back and read the other novels!
In this story, Thomas “Scout” from the Frontier Bachelor’s collection, gets his well-deserved match in this sweet, sometimes frustrating tale. Thomas is expecting a well-endowed blond bombshell to arrive in Seattle as his mail-order bride. Only the woman who shows up looks nothing like her. Rather than call her out for the obvious discrepancy, Scout gives her time to come clean. The characters are wonderful - mostly. I had a hard time believing that such a sweet, thoughtful, honorable (mostly), and loving woman like Ada could carry on a tall tale for so long.
The descriptions of Seattle during its rough beginning years were eye-opening. Sometimes exciting, occasionally disheartening. I gain a better understanding of American history each time I read a novel by Regina Scott.
In this story, Thomas “Scout” from the Frontier Bachelor’s collection, gets his well-deserved match in this sweet, sometimes frustrating tale. Thomas is expecting a well-endowed blond bombshell to arrive in Seattle as his mail-order bride. Only the woman who shows up looks nothing like her. Rather than call her out for the obvious discrepancy, Scout gives her time to come clean. The characters are wonderful - mostly. I had a hard time believing that such a sweet, thoughtful, honorable (mostly), and loving woman like Ada could carry on a tall tale for so long.
The descriptions of Seattle during its rough beginning years were eye-opening. Sometimes exciting, occasionally disheartening. I gain a better understanding of American history each time I read a novel by Regina Scott.
August 17, 2024
I enjoyed this historical romance.
A young woman, Ada, travels to tell a hopeful young man, Thomas, that her flighty sister, Melinda, has turned him down. Thomas thinks Ada is Melinda. Ada has fallen in love with Thomas through the letters she wrote for her sister, as well as by meeting him and seeing his character and personality. She has difficulty telling Thomas the truth of her identity, because she keeps getting interrupted. Then when the perfect moment arrives, instead of telling him, she kisses him. She keeps putting it off because he does something nice for her, or he has a big project.
There were some strange turns of phrase:
“Guilt shoved on her shoulders. She shook it off.”
“Was he some sort of charlatan to think she’d dive into his butter sauce?” (she’d fall for his flattery?)
“her eyes wide and speaking”
“Ada dimpled up at him.”
“She selected a lemon drop and snapped a bite.”
“Ada flamed” (she blushed)
“Fear tiptoed up to the table.”
“Fear shoved her to his side.”
Contains: Premarital kissing, deception, arson.
A young woman, Ada, travels to tell a hopeful young man, Thomas, that her flighty sister, Melinda, has turned him down. Thomas thinks Ada is Melinda. Ada has fallen in love with Thomas through the letters she wrote for her sister, as well as by meeting him and seeing his character and personality. She has difficulty telling Thomas the truth of her identity, because she keeps getting interrupted. Then when the perfect moment arrives, instead of telling him, she kisses him. She keeps putting it off because he does something nice for her, or he has a big project.
There were some strange turns of phrase:
“Guilt shoved on her shoulders. She shook it off.”
“Was he some sort of charlatan to think she’d dive into his butter sauce?” (she’d fall for his flattery?)
“her eyes wide and speaking”
“Ada dimpled up at him.”
“She selected a lemon drop and snapped a bite.”
“Ada flamed” (she blushed)
“Fear tiptoed up to the table.”
“Fear shoved her to his side.”
Contains: Premarital kissing, deception, arson.
April 24, 2022
Perfect Mail-Order Bride by Regina Scott
Frontier Matches Book One
Thomas “Scout” Rankin has made a good life in Seattle. But, he chose not to be like his father. Now, he wanted a family of his own, and his friend Beth had talked him into a mail-order bride. The Wallins were like family to him, but to have his own family would be a dream come true.
Ada Williamson had grown up knowing her parents didn’t want her. After all, they had her perfect sister. Melinda was beautiful, talented, and very selfish. It was only the two of them now, and the only life they could have would be if Melinda married.
Ada arrives in Seattle to give Thomas news about her sister, only everything goes wrong, and she keeps the information to herself. But, of course, secrets never stay buried forever. I enjoyed Regina’s Frontier Brides series, and this series continues from that. Loved the characters…new and old…in this book.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Frontier Matches Book One
Thomas “Scout” Rankin has made a good life in Seattle. But, he chose not to be like his father. Now, he wanted a family of his own, and his friend Beth had talked him into a mail-order bride. The Wallins were like family to him, but to have his own family would be a dream come true.
Ada Williamson had grown up knowing her parents didn’t want her. After all, they had her perfect sister. Melinda was beautiful, talented, and very selfish. It was only the two of them now, and the only life they could have would be if Melinda married.
Ada arrives in Seattle to give Thomas news about her sister, only everything goes wrong, and she keeps the information to herself. But, of course, secrets never stay buried forever. I enjoyed Regina’s Frontier Brides series, and this series continues from that. Loved the characters…new and old…in this book.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
May 25, 2022
Ada Williamson has grown up in Boston in the shadow of her older sister Melinda. When their parents die, they find out that their father has left them nothing but debts. Melinda has had plenty of suitors but she doesn't stay with any man long enough to get serious. Ada talks Melinda into running an advertisement to become a mail-order bride. Thomas Rankin grew up in Seattle in the home of an abusive father. He finally escapes the abuse and is taken in by the Wallin family. Beth is like a sister to Thomas so when she recommends he reply to a mail-order bride advertisement, he complies. On the trip from Boston, Melinda gets distracted by all the fine men in San Francisco but after writing letters for Melinda to Thomas, Ada will not let Melinda write a letter to let Thomas down. Ada arrives in Seattle and Thomas believes her to Melinda even though she looks nothing like her picture. This story is sweet and entertaining. The characters are likable and complex.
August 1, 2022
Regina Scott has delivered an enjoyable, clean, historical romance for all fans of her book. Thomas and Ada really do have a beautiful story with great plot points that help to develop their stories. The twists and turns, the experiences that get placed before them make an enjoyable story. I caught on that Thomas was a side character from previous books and I think I would have enjoyed the story more if I had read those first. Doesn't mean you can't start here at all, that is just something that I wish I had done, and I will go back and read.
Scott did a great job though bringing Ada and Thomas together through experiences that keep a reader interested and wanting to see the book through to the end. I'm excited to see where the Frontier series goes and which character's story she goes with next!
*I received a complimentary copy from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. A review was not required, and all opinions are my own.
Scott did a great job though bringing Ada and Thomas together through experiences that keep a reader interested and wanting to see the book through to the end. I'm excited to see where the Frontier series goes and which character's story she goes with next!
*I received a complimentary copy from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. A review was not required, and all opinions are my own.
February 9, 2025
I enjoyed this book about a mail-order bride mix-up. Ada has felt less than her sister all her life. When their parents die and leave them practically penniless in Boston, Ada knows their only hope is for her beautiful, talented, but spoiled, sister Melinda to marry. They answer an ad for a mail-order bride but Ada is so much better at writing. Thomas "Scout" Rankin had a rough childhood but has become a wealthy man in Seattle. He's been burned once by a woman he thought he would marry. When the sisters travel to the west coast, Melinda decides to stay in California instead of traveling on to Seattle to meet Thomas. Ada goes in her place to tell him in person but gets caught up in a lie when everyone assumes she's Melinda. She's half in love with Thomas already because of their letters and wonders if she can be loved for herself.
April 23, 2023
I like the main characters in this book - Ada and Thomas are good people which makes following them on their "journey" toward relationship enjoyable. Also, seeing Seattle in its early days was interesting and seemed like an accurate portrayal. The supporting cast was also likable, but there were too many such characters for this story. Although I read it as a standalone and found it easy to read, it is part of a series which includes the many supporting characters. I just found the mention of so many to be a bit confusing, but they were only in a few places in the book so I basically skipped some of that. The story of Ada meeting Thomas and falling in love was sweet and moved along well, and I enjoyed the book.
April 10, 2024
I was stunned by Regina Scott's poor story. She can be expected to deliver great stories with lots of character development. I don't know what other reviews see in this book, but I thought it was slow and tedious. Fortunately, the author brought Melinda into the story because she seemed the main character for much of the story.
The "I can't tell this secret because " trope in this story was trite. Ada was on the point of telling it numerous times, only to be saved by the bell (interruptions aplenty). There were too many coincidences to make this book realistic. Melinda just happened to arrive during the Centennial Celebration.
This tired storyline didn't have any interesting twists to lift it out of its meh state, and I was disappointed.
The "I can't tell this secret because " trope in this story was trite. Ada was on the point of telling it numerous times, only to be saved by the bell (interruptions aplenty). There were too many coincidences to make this book realistic. Melinda just happened to arrive during the Centennial Celebration.
This tired storyline didn't have any interesting twists to lift it out of its meh state, and I was disappointed.
April 20, 2022
The Perfect Mail-Order Bride, by Regina Scott, is book one in her new Frontier Matches series. The book follows Ada Williamson and Thomas “Scout” Rankin in a sweet, heartwarming story as they overcome obstacles to find true love. From the very beginning, the author draws you in and sweeps you back to the frontier days to live the lives of the characters on the page.
If you love historical fiction filled with romance, then The Perfect Mail-Order Bride is one of those books that will keep you captivated until the very end.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, but was under no obligation to leave a review.
If you love historical fiction filled with romance, then The Perfect Mail-Order Bride is one of those books that will keep you captivated until the very end.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, but was under no obligation to leave a review.
October 20, 2025
Regina Scott’s The Perfect Mail Order Bride is a heartwarming and gracefully told romance that captures the charm and resilience of frontier life. Through Ada Williamson’s quiet courage and Thomas Rankin’s guarded strength, Scott weaves a story rich in emotional honesty, faith, and redemption. The novel beautifully explores the power of truth, love, and second chances, showing how two imperfect souls can find wholeness in each other. With its vivid historical detail and tender character development, The Perfect Mail Order Bride is both a nostalgic frontier tale and a timeless reflection on self worth and the transformative nature of love.
December 15, 2022
My opinion of this book is completely average. I didn't think it was an amazing read, but it wasn't a bad one either. It was your typical mail-order bride story when they want to date for a little bit before getting married. She of course is lying because her sister was supposed to be the bride, but she came instead. It was a nice little story, especially if you don't mind when the main character is lying about something the whole book and everything can be resolved if she just told people the truth. Personally, I was kind of indifferent to it.
April 25, 2024
It was ok
While this is a clean read, for me this story was just ok because personally, I am not partial to the whole 'secret keeping' plot plan. It was hard to conjure up sympathy for her constant excuses as to why she couldn't tell him. Later in the book when she does tell him, one can understand better, but it was too little too late. The story is somewhat predictable. I also found it difficult to keep track of the MANY characters in the story. After a while I didn't even try. I will admit that the latter part of the book is far more enjoyable and the ending is sweet.
While this is a clean read, for me this story was just ok because personally, I am not partial to the whole 'secret keeping' plot plan. It was hard to conjure up sympathy for her constant excuses as to why she couldn't tell him. Later in the book when she does tell him, one can understand better, but it was too little too late. The story is somewhat predictable. I also found it difficult to keep track of the MANY characters in the story. After a while I didn't even try. I will admit that the latter part of the book is far more enjoyable and the ending is sweet.
May 1, 2024
This is the second mail-order-bride book I have read recently with a similar theme of one sister stepping in to the role her sister was to fill, as the bride. It's not a favorite of mine, to have a theme of mistaken identity, and continued deception to keep that identity secret. Beyond that irritant, I did enjoy the historical setting and the details of an early Seattle. The characters were fun to get to know and seemed varied and interesting.
June 23, 2024
This sweet and clean romance was an enjoyable read. Other than being annoyed that the main conflict was a lack of communication that could have been resolved by a simple conversation in less than 5 minutes, I liked the story and characters. Lack of communication is not a fav trope for me but I still liked the book.
I liked how the main characters both overcame troubled childhoods to be good people. And I loved the support system.
No sex, language or violence
I liked how the main characters both overcame troubled childhoods to be good people. And I loved the support system.
No sex, language or violence
April 20, 2022
I'll start by saying that the pretend/mistaken identity trope is not my favorite, but once again, Ms. Scott pulls it off!
Scout Rankin deserved to have a story of his own and I enjoyed the trip back to Wallin's Landing.
The characters are well drawn and the ending most satisfying. I'm looking forward to more trips to Wallin's Landing!!
Scout Rankin deserved to have a story of his own and I enjoyed the trip back to Wallin's Landing.
The characters are well drawn and the ending most satisfying. I'm looking forward to more trips to Wallin's Landing!!
April 16, 2023
Cute Romance
I thought this was a cute story. The characters all had troubles to overcome. The MCs were honorable and had good motives, but they weren't perfect. The story is clean and easy to read. If you're looking for a sweet, historical romance to curl up with, this might be a good book to try.
I thought this was a cute story. The characters all had troubles to overcome. The MCs were honorable and had good motives, but they weren't perfect. The story is clean and easy to read. If you're looking for a sweet, historical romance to curl up with, this might be a good book to try.
November 8, 2023
I loved the set up of this story but about half way through, I found myself wanting to scream at Ada "JUST TELL HIM ALREADY". It got frustrating. I haven't read the other series this was spun off from, but I got so overwhelmed with all the side characters. And I really wanted to see some of the letters. The epistolary aspect drew me in, so I was disappointed we didn't see any of that
April 12, 2024
When Ada's beautiful sister remains behind after receiving a mail-order match, Ada continues on believing the man needs the courtesy of an explanation. Little did she realize that she would become an instrument in deception when they fall for one another. Now how to tell him the truth without his rejection of her. A sweet and clean mail-order bride Western that's perfect for a good bedtime read.
April 26, 2024
Nice adventure
I enjoyed this adventurous story of stepping out for what You want. I liked the town and the characters. Understood the angst of wanting to be accepted and valued for yourself alone. A nice, clean read with enough drama to keep it interesting. Enjoyed the desire to be of use and assistance in what do. Liked the ending. Made me want to read the rest of the series.
I enjoyed this adventurous story of stepping out for what You want. I liked the town and the characters. Understood the angst of wanting to be accepted and valued for yourself alone. A nice, clean read with enough drama to keep it interesting. Enjoyed the desire to be of use and assistance in what do. Liked the ending. Made me want to read the rest of the series.
January 20, 2026
Thomas
This book was one that I was unable to put down. I was always left at a spot where I wondered what would happen next, or so it seemed. Excitement! Two sisters and one man. Who will he decide to marry. Did I mention that one of the sisters has a secret? I wonder how that will affect Thomas and his plans. A great book!
This book was one that I was unable to put down. I was always left at a spot where I wondered what would happen next, or so it seemed. Excitement! Two sisters and one man. Who will he decide to marry. Did I mention that one of the sisters has a secret? I wonder how that will affect Thomas and his plans. A great book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews