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Mail Order Bride
The bestselling author of the “clever spine-tingler” The Secretary returns with a vicious and suspenseful tale of love-gone-wrong.
When Joel answers an ad in the back of the Farmers’ Almanac that promises to deliver the perfect wife, he isn’t sure what to expect.
For sure, it isn’t Gina.
Gina was aware she possessed secret powers—that’s what her father called them—from a very young age. He always told her she would make a perfect bride. So that’s exactly what she became.
She knows she’s not supposed to use her “powers” for evil and destruction, but Pine Lake is a small place, and Gina has big dreams—plans, in fact. She also has charm, beauty, sex appeal, and intelligence.
Only two things stand in her way: the social norms of 1953, and her new husband, Joel.
The solution may call for desperate measures. But, then, if anyone can get away with murder, it’s Gina.
However, there’s something Gina has yet to realize. That handsome groom of hers? He’s a serial loner for a reason.
When Joel answers an ad in the back of the Farmers’ Almanac that promises to deliver the perfect wife, he isn’t sure what to expect.
For sure, it isn’t Gina.
Gina was aware she possessed secret powers—that’s what her father called them—from a very young age. He always told her she would make a perfect bride. So that’s exactly what she became.
She knows she’s not supposed to use her “powers” for evil and destruction, but Pine Lake is a small place, and Gina has big dreams—plans, in fact. She also has charm, beauty, sex appeal, and intelligence.
Only two things stand in her way: the social norms of 1953, and her new husband, Joel.
The solution may call for desperate measures. But, then, if anyone can get away with murder, it’s Gina.
However, there’s something Gina has yet to realize. That handsome groom of hers? He’s a serial loner for a reason.
269 pages, Unknown Binding
Published July 22, 2022
60 people are currently reading
3099 people want to read
About the author
Britney King
72 books1,621 followersBritney King lives Texas with her family, two literary dogs, one ridiculous cat, and a partridge in a pear tree.
When she’s not wrangling these characters, Britney crafts psychological, domestic, and romantic thrillers that dive deep into the complexities of human nature.
You can find Britney online here:
Website ➜ https://britneyking.com
Facebook ➜ https://www.facebook.com/BritneyKingA...
TikTok ➜ https://www.tiktok.com/@britneyking_
Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/britneyking_/
BookBub ➜ https://www.bookbub.com/authors/britn...
Newsletter ➜ https://britneyking.com/newsletter/
When she’s not wrangling these characters, Britney crafts psychological, domestic, and romantic thrillers that dive deep into the complexities of human nature.
You can find Britney online here:
Website ➜ https://britneyking.com
Facebook ➜ https://www.facebook.com/BritneyKingA...
TikTok ➜ https://www.tiktok.com/@britneyking_
Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/britneyking_/
BookBub ➜ https://www.bookbub.com/authors/britn...
Newsletter ➜ https://britneyking.com/newsletter/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
July 29, 2022
4.5/5 (rounded up)
I feel like I say this every single time, but Britney King has done it again with Mail Order Bride: A Psychological Thriller. Like all her books, this is a super quick read that you can easily get through in a few hours, and it is thoroughly engaging the entire time. I honestly think this is one of her best books yet, and I loved that it was a bit of a departure from her others. I was really thrown for a loop with this one, and the reveals shocked me to my core.
King's books are really hard to review without giving spoilers, so don't think it's bad that this review isn't very long because I can't think of anything that I can say without giving something away. King is a master of the fast-paced thriller, and even though this book isn't super short, it feels like it and you won't want to put it down. The story is told through a couple of different viewpoints as well as journal entries and it was perfect for keeping the reader guessing. Mail Order Bride is everything I wanted in a book right now and I highly recommend reading it and King if you haven't yet. Her books are always entertaining, and this was no exception!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I feel like I say this every single time, but Britney King has done it again with Mail Order Bride: A Psychological Thriller. Like all her books, this is a super quick read that you can easily get through in a few hours, and it is thoroughly engaging the entire time. I honestly think this is one of her best books yet, and I loved that it was a bit of a departure from her others. I was really thrown for a loop with this one, and the reveals shocked me to my core.
King's books are really hard to review without giving spoilers, so don't think it's bad that this review isn't very long because I can't think of anything that I can say without giving something away. King is a master of the fast-paced thriller, and even though this book isn't super short, it feels like it and you won't want to put it down. The story is told through a couple of different viewpoints as well as journal entries and it was perfect for keeping the reader guessing. Mail Order Bride is everything I wanted in a book right now and I highly recommend reading it and King if you haven't yet. Her books are always entertaining, and this was no exception!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 22, 2022
Another one sitting read from the queen of the twist, Britney King.
Well, what can I say about Mail Order Bride? I don’t want to say too much, you need to know very little going in to make this more enjoyable. Boy meets girl… love at first sight.Boy and girl get married and move to Texas. Life is good.. until it isn’t and boy and girl wonder what they have done.
Seriously, that is all I am going to tell you. Oh, and be suspicious and expect the unexpected
If you have read any books by this author before, you will know how she is so clever at sucking you to the story and then smacking you with a twist out of nowhere. I love it when that happens and there was an audible gasp on reading how this ended.
Thanks so much to Britney and Enticing Journey Book Promotions for my advanced copy of this book and having me on another tour.
Well, what can I say about Mail Order Bride? I don’t want to say too much, you need to know very little going in to make this more enjoyable. Boy meets girl… love at first sight.Boy and girl get married and move to Texas. Life is good.. until it isn’t and boy and girl wonder what they have done.
Seriously, that is all I am going to tell you. Oh, and be suspicious and expect the unexpected
If you have read any books by this author before, you will know how she is so clever at sucking you to the story and then smacking you with a twist out of nowhere. I love it when that happens and there was an audible gasp on reading how this ended.
Thanks so much to Britney and Enticing Journey Book Promotions for my advanced copy of this book and having me on another tour.
July 20, 2022
Favorite Quote:
But just so you know: never trust a girl who looks like a pinup model or Playboy centerfold, because nine times out of ten, they're dirty-dealing heartbreakers that could gut a man like a @ing fish.
My Review:
The brilliant Mistress of Misdirection has struck again – and like a moron, I haplessly fall for it every time! When will I learn? This prickly story was gripping and gritty and had me all itchy and tense while waiting for the other shoe to drop. And drop it certainly did. Although, it was definitely not the style of shoe I was expecting. The storylines were intense and gritty and kept me captivated while on edge and chewing my cuticles. I was willingly hooked and unable to put my Kindle down as well as resentful of all intrusions. I read this in an afternoon as I couldn’t leave these oddly enthralling yet rather horrid and untrustworthy characters to their own devices. Britney King has mad skills.
But just so you know: never trust a girl who looks like a pinup model or Playboy centerfold, because nine times out of ten, they're dirty-dealing heartbreakers that could gut a man like a @ing fish.
My Review:
The brilliant Mistress of Misdirection has struck again – and like a moron, I haplessly fall for it every time! When will I learn? This prickly story was gripping and gritty and had me all itchy and tense while waiting for the other shoe to drop. And drop it certainly did. Although, it was definitely not the style of shoe I was expecting. The storylines were intense and gritty and kept me captivated while on edge and chewing my cuticles. I was willingly hooked and unable to put my Kindle down as well as resentful of all intrusions. I read this in an afternoon as I couldn’t leave these oddly enthralling yet rather horrid and untrustworthy characters to their own devices. Britney King has mad skills.
July 27, 2022
Gina’s dad is concerned about what will happen to her when he is gone, so he places an ad in the Farmer’s Almanac for a Mail Order Bride. I do wonder if there is more behind his desire to have her married. What could be in it for him?
Joel responds and comes to Tennessee. He propose and Gina grasps at her chance to get out, but it’s to Texas. She wants to be an actress and her goal is to get to Hollywood.
In the beginning I was confused. We were jumping from one point of view to another. It took me a while to figure out who was writing in the diary, and that is a good thing, a little mystery to stir my curiosity. I never felt a sense of urgency, though I was curious about how it would end.
I did enjoy my time with the characters and seeing this is an ARC, that may be why I thought Mail Order Bride was not polished, was a bit jumbled, not fleshed out. It did not grab me, making me want to read into the early hours of the morning.
I have enjoyed all the Britney King books that I have read, and some of them have blown me away, so she will always be a must read for me.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Mail Order Bride by Britney King.
Joel responds and comes to Tennessee. He propose and Gina grasps at her chance to get out, but it’s to Texas. She wants to be an actress and her goal is to get to Hollywood.
In the beginning I was confused. We were jumping from one point of view to another. It took me a while to figure out who was writing in the diary, and that is a good thing, a little mystery to stir my curiosity. I never felt a sense of urgency, though I was curious about how it would end.
I did enjoy my time with the characters and seeing this is an ARC, that may be why I thought Mail Order Bride was not polished, was a bit jumbled, not fleshed out. It did not grab me, making me want to read into the early hours of the morning.
I have enjoyed all the Britney King books that I have read, and some of them have blown me away, so she will always be a must read for me.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Mail Order Bride by Britney King.
July 22, 2022
It is 1953 and Joel decides to answer an ad in the back of the Farmers’ Almanac for a “Mail Order Bride”. He doesn’t know what to expect and then Gina shows up. She has charm, beauty, and intelligence. One thing Joel is really unsure of is what are Gina’s real motives.
This was another exciting book from Britney King. I enjoyed the different points of view and the journal entries of an unknown author. Be prepared for the unexpected. Overall, an enjoyable read that I was able to read in a days time.
Many thanks to Britney King for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
This was another exciting book from Britney King. I enjoyed the different points of view and the journal entries of an unknown author. Be prepared for the unexpected. Overall, an enjoyable read that I was able to read in a days time.
Many thanks to Britney King for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
August 1, 2022
I loved this so so much!! I did NOT expect this story to have SO many moving parts!! I fell hard for Joel and even harder for Gina! Full review to come. Five hard-earned stars from this ARC reader. LOVED THIS.
FULL REVIEW
Mail Order Bride is a story about a father and daughter who live in Franklin, TN. The book takes place in 1953. Gina has a special gift and because of her “special powers,” as her father refers to them, he has always said she would make “the perfect bride.”
Gina happens to be drop-dead gorgeous and a little bit feared in her town, and she doesn’t let anything stop her from going after what she wants - except for the social norms of life in the 1950s. Gina has BIG dreams and she has the brains, the looks, and the sexual prowess to match them! Her dad thinks she is ridiculous and believes Gina should just settle down and get married to someone with financial means, a businessman is his preference. So, dear ol’ Dad posts an ad in the Farmers Almanac to try and speed this process along and secure Gina’s future after he passes.
Enter Joel Miller: not a businessman, not super wealthy, NOT what Dad was expecting…but extremely handsome and a man who comes on strong from the moment he meets Gina. Joel gives me John Cusack from Gross Pointe Blank vibes and I am totally here for it. He seems to be an intelligent, problem-solving…grave digger. That’s right. He tells Gina, and just about everyone else, that his occupation is grave digging. But that’s not all he does to make a living.
Gina’s special powers indicate there’s something awry with her new hubby but she’s not quite sure what it is. Joel becomes increasingly aware that something is up with his new wife but he’s a little freaked out to find out exactly what it might be.
Alternating POVs and a mysterious serial killer, along with a crazy love story the likes of a Tarantino film made this book unputdownable and unforgettable for me!! Britney King, you have a life long fan right here!!
I fell hard for Joel and even harder for Gina! Hop onto KU and pick this one up! It’s one hell of a ride.
Thank you to Britney King and Enticing Journey for an early copy of this fantastic story!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
FULL REVIEW
Mail Order Bride is a story about a father and daughter who live in Franklin, TN. The book takes place in 1953. Gina has a special gift and because of her “special powers,” as her father refers to them, he has always said she would make “the perfect bride.”
Gina happens to be drop-dead gorgeous and a little bit feared in her town, and she doesn’t let anything stop her from going after what she wants - except for the social norms of life in the 1950s. Gina has BIG dreams and she has the brains, the looks, and the sexual prowess to match them! Her dad thinks she is ridiculous and believes Gina should just settle down and get married to someone with financial means, a businessman is his preference. So, dear ol’ Dad posts an ad in the Farmers Almanac to try and speed this process along and secure Gina’s future after he passes.
Enter Joel Miller: not a businessman, not super wealthy, NOT what Dad was expecting…but extremely handsome and a man who comes on strong from the moment he meets Gina. Joel gives me John Cusack from Gross Pointe Blank vibes and I am totally here for it. He seems to be an intelligent, problem-solving…grave digger. That’s right. He tells Gina, and just about everyone else, that his occupation is grave digging. But that’s not all he does to make a living.
Gina’s special powers indicate there’s something awry with her new hubby but she’s not quite sure what it is. Joel becomes increasingly aware that something is up with his new wife but he’s a little freaked out to find out exactly what it might be.
Alternating POVs and a mysterious serial killer, along with a crazy love story the likes of a Tarantino film made this book unputdownable and unforgettable for me!! Britney King, you have a life long fan right here!!
I fell hard for Joel and even harder for Gina! Hop onto KU and pick this one up! It’s one hell of a ride.
Thank you to Britney King and Enticing Journey for an early copy of this fantastic story!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 22, 2022
Oh my, how much do I love Britney King books??? Of course I read this in one sitting as I knew I wouldn't be able to put it down! Gina and Joel are newlyweds but of course there's nothing truly happy about this couple (except maybe the sex)! Just go in blind (I went in hyperventilating a little as I know how creepy awesome her novels are)! I love that you never really know who the good or bad guys are until the bitter end so I don't even try to figure it out anymore! But I will continue to be a fan as long as she writes and I can read!
August 4, 2022
A huge 𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗞 𝗬𝗢𝗨 to the author for gifting me a complimentary ebook!
——
I have read only 2 Britney King books and I will now safely presume she can never go wrong with her psychological thrillers and tough, female leads! Mail Order Bride follows Gina, a fearless and independent woman who’s happy to be on her own and taking care of her father with Hollywood aspirations. But this is 1953 we’re talking about when a woman can’t even open a bank account for herself. So her father insists on passing an ad for a good suitor. Gina has no problem finding many suitors and much to her father’s dismay, settles on Joel, a tough guy who writes her spicy letters while digging graves for a living.
The problem? Joel is keeping very dark and fatal secrets from Gina. But so is Gina from Joel. And the bodies keep on piling in the small town of Pine Lake, Texas. Anyone who crosses Gina or Joel’s paths end up dead. Who is responsible for this body count and how does the couple reconcile with each other’s secrets? You’ll have to read to find out!
If you like a salacious and entertaining thriller with plenty of spice, this book is for you! The cast of characters are also easy to keep up with, which is much appreciated but seldom found in books. However on the flip side, because of the small cast, I had the major twist figured out. Personally, I would have preferred another ending but that’s a “me” thing and doesn’t take away from devouring this thriller!
——
I have read only 2 Britney King books and I will now safely presume she can never go wrong with her psychological thrillers and tough, female leads! Mail Order Bride follows Gina, a fearless and independent woman who’s happy to be on her own and taking care of her father with Hollywood aspirations. But this is 1953 we’re talking about when a woman can’t even open a bank account for herself. So her father insists on passing an ad for a good suitor. Gina has no problem finding many suitors and much to her father’s dismay, settles on Joel, a tough guy who writes her spicy letters while digging graves for a living.
The problem? Joel is keeping very dark and fatal secrets from Gina. But so is Gina from Joel. And the bodies keep on piling in the small town of Pine Lake, Texas. Anyone who crosses Gina or Joel’s paths end up dead. Who is responsible for this body count and how does the couple reconcile with each other’s secrets? You’ll have to read to find out!
If you like a salacious and entertaining thriller with plenty of spice, this book is for you! The cast of characters are also easy to keep up with, which is much appreciated but seldom found in books. However on the flip side, because of the small cast, I had the major twist figured out. Personally, I would have preferred another ending but that’s a “me” thing and doesn’t take away from devouring this thriller!
July 29, 2022
Here's one that will hook you in from the get go! A psychological thriller with a bit of spice 🌶 thrown in makes for entertaining reading!
A fast-paced, easy read that will keep you guessing all the way! The anonymous journal entries were a great concept that I really enjoyed and kept my mind reeling!
A fast-paced, easy read that will keep you guessing all the way! The anonymous journal entries were a great concept that I really enjoyed and kept my mind reeling!
September 23, 2025
The ending was perfect!
July 26, 2022
Britney King knows how to write a psychological thriller and she has out done herself with her latest, Mail Order Bride. This is a well written, fast paced story that will keep you completely captivated you will not be able to put it down!! This is a sexy provocative story with deep dark secrets, you will be on the edge of your seat for the entire book!! Ms. King has placed the twistiest of twists throughout this one you will never see them coming! She has written an unpredictable storyline you will not be able to figure out until the very end, and even then you will be shocked and your jaw will drop to the floor. This one will take your breath away!! Thank you Britney King for such an astonishing story that I am only happy to highly recommend!!! I am so looking forward to see what will come next.
Thank you Britney King and Enticing Journey Book Promotions for allowing me to be a part of this book tour and providing an advanced copy of this most suspenseful book in exchange for my honest review.
#mailorderbride. #britneyking. #arc
#enticingjourneybookpromotions #psychologicalthriller
Thank you Britney King and Enticing Journey Book Promotions for allowing me to be a part of this book tour and providing an advanced copy of this most suspenseful book in exchange for my honest review.
#mailorderbride. #britneyking. #arc
#enticingjourneybookpromotions #psychologicalthriller
August 3, 2022
Britney King executes another thriller that might be my new favorite from her!
It’s told from 2 POVS Joel & Gina and in the unlikeliest circumstances they quickly marry. Without giving spoilers I can’t say too much, but I highlighted so many great lines King had intertwined in the story.
“Here lies a weak man. The world is full of them. But now is not the time to bite off more than I can chew.”
“She's ten miles of bad road. She's so ugly, she has to keep a pork chop tied around her neck to get the dog to play with her.”
Amazing!
It’s told from 2 POVS Joel & Gina and in the unlikeliest circumstances they quickly marry. Without giving spoilers I can’t say too much, but I highlighted so many great lines King had intertwined in the story.
“Here lies a weak man. The world is full of them. But now is not the time to bite off more than I can chew.”
“She's ten miles of bad road. She's so ugly, she has to keep a pork chop tied around her neck to get the dog to play with her.”
Amazing!
July 24, 2022
Grab Your Stuffing & Hold On For Life! 😳😯🤯😳
Well this was one mother fluffin' intense thriller! I was absolutely enthralled with this super unique and fun thriller! The ending had me absolutely shocked and speechless. Undeniably conniving and delicious. This was absolutely yummy with the suspense, the constant wondering and the delivery of an exceptional and unseen conclusion. Once again, King nails it on target with this fun thriller!
Mყ 𝐒ყɴ𝐨ρѕιѕ: Joel is different. A loner, if you will. His career is not of the normal variety. After his most recent job, he comes across an ad offering up a perfect wife. Who is that perfect bride-to-be? Meet Gina. Gina is special with "powers" as her Father calls it, and he's put the ad in the paper to find the right suitor for her. Gina has dreams of making it big as an actress and she looks to Joel when they meet, to help get there. But soon she'll find out they've met each other's match, and love? Well it can be deadly.
I loved Gina & Joel and their "different" character. Being the black sheep of the community, if you will. This was extremely fast-paced and you didn't want it to end. You'll want more! But the ending tied up so perfectly & full circle, I was happier than a cat with catnip. Be ready for a real mind-bender T-bone crash twister!
Thank you to Enticing Journey Book Promo & Britney King for this ARC.
Release Date: Out Now!
𝐌𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭: 4 / 5 Beach Waves! 🌊
Well this was one mother fluffin' intense thriller! I was absolutely enthralled with this super unique and fun thriller! The ending had me absolutely shocked and speechless. Undeniably conniving and delicious. This was absolutely yummy with the suspense, the constant wondering and the delivery of an exceptional and unseen conclusion. Once again, King nails it on target with this fun thriller!
Mყ 𝐒ყɴ𝐨ρѕιѕ: Joel is different. A loner, if you will. His career is not of the normal variety. After his most recent job, he comes across an ad offering up a perfect wife. Who is that perfect bride-to-be? Meet Gina. Gina is special with "powers" as her Father calls it, and he's put the ad in the paper to find the right suitor for her. Gina has dreams of making it big as an actress and she looks to Joel when they meet, to help get there. But soon she'll find out they've met each other's match, and love? Well it can be deadly.
I loved Gina & Joel and their "different" character. Being the black sheep of the community, if you will. This was extremely fast-paced and you didn't want it to end. You'll want more! But the ending tied up so perfectly & full circle, I was happier than a cat with catnip. Be ready for a real mind-bender T-bone crash twister!
Thank you to Enticing Journey Book Promo & Britney King for this ARC.
Release Date: Out Now!
𝐌𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭: 4 / 5 Beach Waves! 🌊
July 25, 2022
BUCKLE UP BUTTERCUP BRITNEY KING HAS NEW THRILL RIDE! I've been thinking about Mail Order Bride non stop since I devoured it in short order, wondering how the hell does she keep creating these stories that blow my mind, and I've come up with nothing! Every new book seems to be more diabolical, and I'll NEVER NOT ONCE get enough! I made a promise to myself a while back that I wouldn't give any details away going forward because I'm telling y'all, going in blind is the best way to go so you get the more intense shock value. I can tell you that there a ton of f-bomb worthy twists with the dropping bodies in this story, and once again I didn't even come close to figuring things out. I also have learned that you never start reading one of her books before bedtime because sleep will be nonexistent since they're impossible to put down, not to mention the creepy factor that does tend to get the heart racing, and Mail Order Bride has leveled up even more. Each new book has become my favorite to date, and I say to date since I know the next one will replace the previous book since this author is always evolving to new heights! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
July 23, 2022
Britney King writes salacious thrillers that are always a fun time! Mail Order Bride was certainly fun and wickedly ridiculous in plot: it's 1953 and Joel, a cowboy, decides to marry after seeing an ad in the Farmer's Almanac promising the perfect bride. Gina is beautiful, smart, and just dying for a good time. After a steamy correspondence they get together and things get wild. They seem to be leaving a trail of bodies in their wake... the only question is who is doing the killing?!?
Because this is a Britney King novel there are twists and turns and lots of wondering whodunnit. Usually I eat these books up and this was no different except somewhere between the sexy stuff and the gravedigging I lost the plot and got bored. Idk, I read it in a day, but didn't love it as much as Kill Sleep Repeat or Room 553.✰✰✰/5
If this review intrigued you check out Mail Order Bride yourself
Because this is a Britney King novel there are twists and turns and lots of wondering whodunnit. Usually I eat these books up and this was no different except somewhere between the sexy stuff and the gravedigging I lost the plot and got bored. Idk, I read it in a day, but didn't love it as much as Kill Sleep Repeat or Room 553.✰✰✰/5
If this review intrigued you check out Mail Order Bride yourself
August 1, 2022
This is my second @britneyking_ novel and as per usual, I am impressed. I felt this one much different from the other I read (Fever Dream) and I love that!
This was gritty, dark and hooked me from the beginning. I love the 1950s era so I was already going into this with excitement. There are “Author Unknown” chapters, which I really loved and added to the element of the story. I have to also give MAJOR props to this cover. It is truly fabulous!
The marriage was fierce; there was death, destruction and mayhem. What more could you ask for?!
This was gritty, dark and hooked me from the beginning. I love the 1950s era so I was already going into this with excitement. There are “Author Unknown” chapters, which I really loved and added to the element of the story. I have to also give MAJOR props to this cover. It is truly fabulous!
The marriage was fierce; there was death, destruction and mayhem. What more could you ask for?!
July 15, 2022
I think this may be Britney's best book to date, now don't mistake that for my favorite book of hers, because it is not my favorite but it is a close second. Her writing improves with every book of hers I read and her stories get a bit more involved and complex. Once again she has left me wanting to keep reading until the very last page because I NEEDED to know who did it? Who is the author of these journal entries. I will admit I kept bouncing around and couldn't decide who I thought it was, one of my guesses was correct, but I'll be honest, I had four people in mind. Although Gina and Joel didn't seem like a good match and like they'd be a disaster together, they really did love and care for each other. Gina's father and Mona add a whole new dimension to the story and then when they move...oh dear..total chaos follows. If you've never read a Britney King book this is a great one to start with and if you're a seasoned reader of hers, this is one you need to make sure you pick up ASAP but be warned once you start reading you won't want to put it down.
August 2, 2022
Joel answers an ad for a mail-order bride. The ad claims perfection - guaranteed. When Joel meets Gina, the attraction is undeniable. Joel and Gina fall fast and hard in love. But can they truly be happy when both are holding on to secrets?
Britney King continually surprises me. Things are never as they seem, and even when I thought I figured it out, I’m entirely wrong.
What I loved:
✨The 1950s setting - makes Gina’s actions more rebellious
✨3 POVs - Gina, Joel, and the serial killer.
✨Gritty, explosive, & dark - almost Tarantino-esque in both the plot and the relationship between Gina & Joel.
✨Twists that had me questioning who were the “good guys” and who were the “bad guys.”
Britney King continually surprises me. Things are never as they seem, and even when I thought I figured it out, I’m entirely wrong.
What I loved:
✨The 1950s setting - makes Gina’s actions more rebellious
✨3 POVs - Gina, Joel, and the serial killer.
✨Gritty, explosive, & dark - almost Tarantino-esque in both the plot and the relationship between Gina & Joel.
✨Twists that had me questioning who were the “good guys” and who were the “bad guys.”
July 30, 2022
I've been reading Britney King for some time now, and I've come to the conclusion that her mind is one twisted place, and I love when she gives us a peek Mail Order Bride is the latest trip into this author's imagination and it's as intense and dark as I expected.
There's a tone to Britney King's stories, a mood kind of, that sets her apart - I'm probably explaining that badly, but that's the way her books feel to me. Regardless of the subject matter, I know I'm going to be drawn in, and there's no getting loose until the very last word. Then I have to sit with it and think about it for a while. Mail Order Bride is no different. I couldn't put it down, and it kept my mind whirling.
We get three points of view in this one, and I don't think I'm giving anything away by saying don't trust anybody and suspect everyone. That's as far as I'll go toward spoiler territory, so I'll just finish up by saying that this author has done it again. Another impossible to put down, twisty, shocking psychological thriller.
There's a tone to Britney King's stories, a mood kind of, that sets her apart - I'm probably explaining that badly, but that's the way her books feel to me. Regardless of the subject matter, I know I'm going to be drawn in, and there's no getting loose until the very last word. Then I have to sit with it and think about it for a while. Mail Order Bride is no different. I couldn't put it down, and it kept my mind whirling.
We get three points of view in this one, and I don't think I'm giving anything away by saying don't trust anybody and suspect everyone. That's as far as I'll go toward spoiler territory, so I'll just finish up by saying that this author has done it again. Another impossible to put down, twisty, shocking psychological thriller.
July 28, 2022
This was quite a Texas for me. Also really happening there. But was not all strage. We have to know we are in 50s and no internet was avaible. It was a crazy adventure if I think about getting a wife like that on an advertisement. I loved the attraction between the man and the woman. That was really great chemistry I felt. Expect a totaly different reading that will turn you up side down.
Thank you Britney King for this arc.
Thank you Britney King for this arc.
July 21, 2022
Edgy. Sexy. Original.
Three words I can use to describe just about every Britney King novel. And she never disappoints!
This was a quick read and the excerpts from the diary of unknown origins were such a great touch.
Thank you to @britneyking and @enticingjourney for the gifted eARC!
𝗡𝗢𝗧𝗘𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗛𝗬 𝗤𝗨𝗢𝗧𝗘𝗦:
“Betrayal is always painful. No matter how cynical you are, it hurts.”
Three words I can use to describe just about every Britney King novel. And she never disappoints!
This was a quick read and the excerpts from the diary of unknown origins were such a great touch.
Thank you to @britneyking and @enticingjourney for the gifted eARC!
𝗡𝗢𝗧𝗘𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗛𝗬 𝗤𝗨𝗢𝗧𝗘𝗦:
“Betrayal is always painful. No matter how cynical you are, it hurts.”
July 22, 2022
This was definitely an interesting book, not quite what I was expecting but I still enjoyed it.
I never knew what was going to happen from one page to the next and I was kept on the edge of my seat from the very beginning. That ending definitely left me wanting more
I never knew what was going to happen from one page to the next and I was kept on the edge of my seat from the very beginning. That ending definitely left me wanting more
August 7, 2022
I really enjoy this authors books but I wasn’t sure about this one. I’m not much about back in the day books but once again Ms. King has put me under her spell. Unusual, suspenseful, surprising are only some of the adjectives I would use to describe this story. The characters are extremely interesting. The storyline was well written and engaging. Each character was capable of deceit and subterfuge and readers are left to question who is responsible for the murders. An extremely satisfying read!
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
July 20, 2022
This is a story that will keep you on your toes! I enjoyed the anonymous journal entries! I was totally wrong as to who it was. If you think you know, you don’t! This one was a wild ride of a story!
Thank you to the author for an early copy in exchange for an honest opinion.
Thank you to the author for an early copy in exchange for an honest opinion.
July 23, 2022
WOW! I read this in one sitting. I just couldn't put it down. Brittany King has a knack for making her readers second guess every thought about who the killer is with each turn of the page. The red herrings were perfect. The ending was absolutely exceptional. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, Mail Order Bride should be at the top of your list. I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
July 29, 2022
King’s books ALWAYS start off with a bang and this one followed suit! Her beginnings always draw me in where I just can’t stop! I loved the concept of the mail order bride especially the way this one was done. The ‘Author Unknown’ chapters were an added bonus! I did figure out the twist but not very far from it being revealed. Another great one by King!!
Thank you @britneyking_ for my gifted eARC in exchange for my honest review! ❤️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you @britneyking_ for my gifted eARC in exchange for my honest review! ❤️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
July 25, 2022
Mail Order Bride wasn’t what I expected. You would think after reading most of Britney King’s books I would know better than trying to figure out what is going on.
I won’t go into too much detail as I don’t want to give any spoilers. What I will say is:
Joel? I fell a little in love with him. The sexy scenes were really good, but his heart won me over.
A few chapters in I thought I knew who the mysterious writer of the journal entries is – epic fail on my part.
I wish I could’ve read this book in one sitting.
Fans of Britney King will not be disappointed.
A big thank you to Britney King for the eARC in return for my honest review.
I won’t go into too much detail as I don’t want to give any spoilers. What I will say is:
Joel? I fell a little in love with him. The sexy scenes were really good, but his heart won me over.
A few chapters in I thought I knew who the mysterious writer of the journal entries is – epic fail on my part.
I wish I could’ve read this book in one sitting.
Fans of Britney King will not be disappointed.
A big thank you to Britney King for the eARC in return for my honest review.
July 21, 2022
“Maybe it’s the secrets you keep that kill you in the end.”
Mail Order Bride is the latest release in Britney King’s long list of first-rate psychological thrillers. It is characterized by the attributes I have come to expect and admire in Britney’s earlier novels. Specifically, her interesting and complex protagonists, unique secondary characters with their agendas, a gripping, complex, and unpredictable storyline, pitch-perfect pacing, and multiple unpredictable twists and turns.
Gina and Joel are well-matched protagonists. Both have many secrets. Joel is a grave-digger. But he is also involved in several shady and vicious activities that create a need for some of the graves that he digs. Joel is a handsome, rugged, and complex man who kills as needed but also helps those in need. Gina is a strong-willed, ambitious, complex, independent, multi-dimensional woman who readily expresses her sexuality and satisfies her sexual desire. Gina has a life-long desire to go to Hollywood and become an actress. Gina does not live her life in accord with the patriarchal social norms of 1953, the year in which the story is set.
Joel lives on a failing farm in Pine Lake, Texas, where he also engages in other occupations. By chance, he notices an advertisement in the back of the Farmer’s Almanac for a promise to deliver “the perfect wife.” Without her knowledge, Gina’s father had placed the ad.
Gina receives many letters in response to the ad, answers some of them, and soon has several suitors visiting her in person at her home in Franklin, Tennessee. Let’s just say that doing so wasn’t a good idea for them in hindsight. While having some initial trepidation, Joel answered the ad. When Joel visits, he is immediately smitten with Gina, and Gina likewise is attracted to Joel. They especially quickly develop a mutual sexual attraction. After Joel paid her father Gina’s dowry, they married and started their life together in Pine Lake, Texas. Soon Gina’s dad and Mona, his caretaker, joined them in Texas.
Some chapters are written from Gina’s point of view, and others from Joel’s. Then there are several chapters written as an “unknown journal entry.” Britney has used this effective device in previous books.
The final third of the book includes revelations of some of Gina’s and Joel’s secrets and other characters’ secrets. To be more specific would constitute “spoilers.”
I often fall in love with Britney King’s well-developed and exquisitely described female protagonists. So, perhaps thanks to the sizzling sex scenes that Britney wrote for Gina, I currently have Gina on my mind!
Mail Order Bride is another 5-star book to add to Britney King’s portfolio of psychological thrillers. I loved it. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, so will you!
I received an advanced reading copy (ARC) for an honest review. My review is provided voluntarily and enthusiastically.
Mail Order Bride is the latest release in Britney King’s long list of first-rate psychological thrillers. It is characterized by the attributes I have come to expect and admire in Britney’s earlier novels. Specifically, her interesting and complex protagonists, unique secondary characters with their agendas, a gripping, complex, and unpredictable storyline, pitch-perfect pacing, and multiple unpredictable twists and turns.
Gina and Joel are well-matched protagonists. Both have many secrets. Joel is a grave-digger. But he is also involved in several shady and vicious activities that create a need for some of the graves that he digs. Joel is a handsome, rugged, and complex man who kills as needed but also helps those in need. Gina is a strong-willed, ambitious, complex, independent, multi-dimensional woman who readily expresses her sexuality and satisfies her sexual desire. Gina has a life-long desire to go to Hollywood and become an actress. Gina does not live her life in accord with the patriarchal social norms of 1953, the year in which the story is set.
Joel lives on a failing farm in Pine Lake, Texas, where he also engages in other occupations. By chance, he notices an advertisement in the back of the Farmer’s Almanac for a promise to deliver “the perfect wife.” Without her knowledge, Gina’s father had placed the ad.
Gina receives many letters in response to the ad, answers some of them, and soon has several suitors visiting her in person at her home in Franklin, Tennessee. Let’s just say that doing so wasn’t a good idea for them in hindsight. While having some initial trepidation, Joel answered the ad. When Joel visits, he is immediately smitten with Gina, and Gina likewise is attracted to Joel. They especially quickly develop a mutual sexual attraction. After Joel paid her father Gina’s dowry, they married and started their life together in Pine Lake, Texas. Soon Gina’s dad and Mona, his caretaker, joined them in Texas.
Some chapters are written from Gina’s point of view, and others from Joel’s. Then there are several chapters written as an “unknown journal entry.” Britney has used this effective device in previous books.
The final third of the book includes revelations of some of Gina’s and Joel’s secrets and other characters’ secrets. To be more specific would constitute “spoilers.”
I often fall in love with Britney King’s well-developed and exquisitely described female protagonists. So, perhaps thanks to the sizzling sex scenes that Britney wrote for Gina, I currently have Gina on my mind!
Mail Order Bride is another 5-star book to add to Britney King’s portfolio of psychological thrillers. I loved it. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, so will you!
I received an advanced reading copy (ARC) for an honest review. My review is provided voluntarily and enthusiastically.
July 21, 2022
This is just an incredible read, a new book by Britney is always a special event it always feels like the best day of the year probably because it is. Its hard to not be excited I've yet to read or hear a better story teller ever,
All Her characters the main and the side have to be watched admired or 😨 feared. Gina is the main character even if Joel steels a lot of the chapters but your gonna see what I mean as you enter the .ind and imagination of the most imaginative mind alive today or possibly ever. You may think that biased but your in for a treat just read this out any of Her books.
Gina becomes jobless and Joel is a grave digger plus a whole lot more since would say honourable others well justice isn't always the right course of justice. Gina is maybe not the girl next door you bring home to your Mum but the Girl most guys (maybe lasses as well) would want and even "die for" but I let you decide your views on that one.
Some of the side characters that just have to be there and you want to see Gina's parents very important, Layla ( not her real name) Ray, Martin and his niece Sarah. They are a very mixed bagged of characters some will annoy you and others you will love.
This is simple put the best book you will read so far this year I have to say so far because everytime Britney realises a book they just get better I think this will be impossible to do but every time I've been proved to be wrong in that point. But this is the best book I've read and I would challenge you to find a better in this Category as if it's not your type of book then you'll be maybe disagree just you'd be wrong in my view that is.
A great read by a great writer 5 stars seems an insult no more like a sky full of stars in my estimation.
Thanks Britney your Awesome and some more yet still getting better.
All Her characters the main and the side have to be watched admired or 😨 feared. Gina is the main character even if Joel steels a lot of the chapters but your gonna see what I mean as you enter the .ind and imagination of the most imaginative mind alive today or possibly ever. You may think that biased but your in for a treat just read this out any of Her books.
Gina becomes jobless and Joel is a grave digger plus a whole lot more since would say honourable others well justice isn't always the right course of justice. Gina is maybe not the girl next door you bring home to your Mum but the Girl most guys (maybe lasses as well) would want and even "die for" but I let you decide your views on that one.
Some of the side characters that just have to be there and you want to see Gina's parents very important, Layla ( not her real name) Ray, Martin and his niece Sarah. They are a very mixed bagged of characters some will annoy you and others you will love.
This is simple put the best book you will read so far this year I have to say so far because everytime Britney realises a book they just get better I think this will be impossible to do but every time I've been proved to be wrong in that point. But this is the best book I've read and I would challenge you to find a better in this Category as if it's not your type of book then you'll be maybe disagree just you'd be wrong in my view that is.
A great read by a great writer 5 stars seems an insult no more like a sky full of stars in my estimation.
Thanks Britney your Awesome and some more yet still getting better.
August 2, 2022
What Did I Just Read????
This was my second whodunnit in as many days. Although the books couldn't have been more different, I had no idea what I was in for when choosing this book for review. Britney King has one heck of an imagination that's for sure.
Joel and Gina are a little bit of an opposites attract situation. He's a loner in a small town, happy with his small town life, while she's a big personality looking to go to L.A. and becoming a star. This is 1953 mind you, so Hollywood was still glamourous to those on the outside of it. Both of these characters were quirky in their own way. Joel with his "side job", besides the fact that he was a grave digger for his real job and Gina with her "special powers" that I'm still not too sure of.
Gina's father places the mail order bride ad and Gina finally figures what the heck and goes for it. After some no shows and no thank yous, Joel's steamy letters win out and Gina decides that he is the man of her dreams. Joel on the other hand can't decide if this crazy lady is worth it or not. All the while there is definite darkness surrounding these two. So we follow along with the newlyweds, as the dead bodies are piling up around them and we are left trying to figure out what in the heck is going on.
The book is well written and and bizarre as all get out. The main characters were each highly likeable in their own way. Along with them, we have Gina's dad and caretaker to help move the storyline along. Mail Order Bride reads as a standalone.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
This was my second whodunnit in as many days. Although the books couldn't have been more different, I had no idea what I was in for when choosing this book for review. Britney King has one heck of an imagination that's for sure.
Joel and Gina are a little bit of an opposites attract situation. He's a loner in a small town, happy with his small town life, while she's a big personality looking to go to L.A. and becoming a star. This is 1953 mind you, so Hollywood was still glamourous to those on the outside of it. Both of these characters were quirky in their own way. Joel with his "side job", besides the fact that he was a grave digger for his real job and Gina with her "special powers" that I'm still not too sure of.
Gina's father places the mail order bride ad and Gina finally figures what the heck and goes for it. After some no shows and no thank yous, Joel's steamy letters win out and Gina decides that he is the man of her dreams. Joel on the other hand can't decide if this crazy lady is worth it or not. All the while there is definite darkness surrounding these two. So we follow along with the newlyweds, as the dead bodies are piling up around them and we are left trying to figure out what in the heck is going on.
The book is well written and and bizarre as all get out. The main characters were each highly likeable in their own way. Along with them, we have Gina's dad and caretaker to help move the storyline along. Mail Order Bride reads as a standalone.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
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