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The Copper Creek Brides #1
Sweet Annie
Annie Sweetwater wasn’t like other girls. All her life everyone she’d ever known had told her so. Except Luke Carpenter, who never let her limp blind him to seeing her as she really a woman grown, full of dreams, desires and hopes for a future — with him!
296 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2001
48 people are currently reading
1248 people want to read
About the author
Cheryl St. John
71 books554 followersCheryl is the author of more than fifty historical and contemporary romances. Her stories have earned numerous RITA nominations, Romantic Times awards and are published in over a dozen languages.
In describing her stories of second chances and redemption, readers and reviewers use words like, “emotional punch, hometown feel, core values, believable characters and real-life situations.”
With a 4.9 star rating on amazon, her bestselling non-fiction book, Writing With Emotion, Tension & Conflict by Writers Digest Books is available in print and digital.
In describing her stories of second chances and redemption, readers and reviewers use words like, “emotional punch, hometown feel, core values, believable characters and real-life situations.”
With a 4.9 star rating on amazon, her bestselling non-fiction book, Writing With Emotion, Tension & Conflict by Writers Digest Books is available in print and digital.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
September 20, 2020
As much as I liked the story, the narration was painfully slow.
The characters were pretty great, except Annie's mom who was bitchy because she didn't like her handicapped daughter walking and learning new things and falling in love with an amazing man. I had a hard time understanding her. But what is a good romance novel without such pain in the ass oppositions and the eventual triumph of the star crossed lovers?
3 stars only for Luke, Annie and her super sweet cousin!
The characters were pretty great, except Annie's mom who was bitchy because she didn't like her handicapped daughter walking and learning new things and falling in love with an amazing man. I had a hard time understanding her. But what is a good romance novel without such pain in the ass oppositions and the eventual triumph of the star crossed lovers?
3 stars only for Luke, Annie and her super sweet cousin!
March 6, 2024
Qué historia más bonita ... que pena que no haya sido más larga.
Es muy estilo Lavyrle Spencer.
Es muy estilo Lavyrle Spencer.
February 2, 2016
Reviewed for THC Reviews
Sweet Annie would be a perfect book to be turned into a Hallmark Channel movie. It's an incredibly sweet, tender story filled with very human emotions that really tug at the heartstrings. Annie's family could be very frustrating in the way they coddle her when all she wants is to be normal. I think that in general their hearts were in the right place, but their over-protectiveness and control of her, especially on her mother's part, was emotionally abusive, which is evidenced in Annie's lack of self-confidence even after she's experienced Luke's unconditional love and encouragement. At least her uncle, aunt, and cousin, Charmaine, treat her like a capable human being, but it's Luke who truly believes in her and shows her a whole new world she never knew existed.
Annie was born with a birth defect in her hip that causes her to walk with a pronounced limp. However, her parents never really allowed her to walk, always keeping her confined to a wheelchair. All she ever wanted was to do the things other children were doing, but her parents wouldn't let her. Then on her tenth birthday, Luke, a new boy in town, comes to her birthday party with his uncle. He doesn't ignore her or see her as incapable like the others do and offers to take her for a ride on his horse. Annie eagerly accepts and has never felt so free, but it leads to heartache for her when Luke gets beat up by her brother and her parents banish him from their house and Annie's life. She never forgot that day or Luke. She's seen him around town on occasion but never had the opportunity to talk with him again until ten years later when she and her cousin go to his new livery and Luke asks them both out for ice cream. I adored Annie and thought she was a wonderful heroine. All she wants is to be treated like a normal girl, but her family has always viewed her as a delicate china doll that will break at the slightest little thing. They've treated her that way so long, they've beaten her down emotionally. She can't imagine why a man as handsome and perfect as Luke would want a crippled young woman like her, but it doesn't stop her from lighting up like a firefly when he's around and reveling in his attentions. She's somewhat afraid to get involved with him, though, because she doesn't want her brother or father to beat Luke up again for coming near her. I admired her courage in sneaking out of the house to see Luke, when she knows her parents wouldn't approve, but most especially for eventually standing up to them and letting them know exactly what she wants in life.
I love how, from the start, Luke never saw Annie as being crippled. He only sees a lovely young woman who intrigues him and stirs his emotions and desires. It's really sweet how he only has eyes for her, even though her cousin flirts with him, thinking she's the one he wants at first. Luke is a smart, hard-working young man who saved up his money to build his own livery business, because he knew that Annie's father, the only banker in town, wouldn't give him a loan. Luke is just the sweetest most perfect hero ever. He isn't afraid of Annie's family or of standing up to them if he has to. I adore how he always encourages Annie to do what she wants to do as long as it won't cause her any pain or harm. He's a very responsible young man who wants to build a house for Annie and make sure that he can fully provide for her and any children they might have before marrying her, even though she's eager enough to be with him to not care where they live. I love how he's completely focused on Annie and on bringing her joy and happiness. Luke is tender and loving, a totally dreamy hero I'd love to have in real life.
I have a feeling that some readers may find the tragic event toward the end of the book too melodramatic. I didn't, but it did make my heart ache for this sweet couple who'd fought so hard to be together and shared so much happiness up to that point. It was also a little disappointing and difficult to see both of them seemingly giving up on their love, but when I really stopped to consider it, the author had stayed true to their characterizations. Both Luke and Annie are highly sensitive people who take their perceived failures deeply to heart. Also everything Annie had feared might happen, mostly fears that had been instilled in her by her mother, as well as her mother's constant reminders that she was basically a handicapped invalid incapable of living a normal life, had actually occurred, like a prophecy fulfilled. Not to mention, I'm sure a form of clinical depression was probably involved as well, leaving Annie feeling like a complete failure. Luke didn't fare much better, feeling that he'd been careless and negligent in his care of Annie. They certainly could have communicated better during that bleak time, but what's important is that Luke and Annie learned something from their mistakes and found their way back to each other and to the happiness that only each of them could bring into the other's life. It also gave Annie's family a chance to do the right thing for a change and talk some sense into her.
Every time I read a book by a new-to-me author, I never know what to expect. Even if the cover blurb sounds great, it isn't always as good as I think it will be, but that was definitely not the case here. Sweet Annie was everything I could have hoped for in a romance and more. I loved Luke and Annie. They're two sweet, wonderful people who make a perfect couple. I liked many of the secondary characters too, especially Annie's cousin, Charmaine. I had hoped she might be the heroine of the next book in the Copper Creek Brides series, but that doesn't seem to be the case. While some readers may find this story too sweet, it was just right for me. I had such a great experience reading this book that I honestly don't mind who the next hero and heroine are as long it's as good as this one was. I very much look forward to continuing the series and checking out some of Cheryl St. John's other books. Sweet Annie was originally published in the Harlequin Historical romance line, but was later reprinted in the special Harlequin Close to Home series of reissued favorites.
Sweet Annie would be a perfect book to be turned into a Hallmark Channel movie. It's an incredibly sweet, tender story filled with very human emotions that really tug at the heartstrings. Annie's family could be very frustrating in the way they coddle her when all she wants is to be normal. I think that in general their hearts were in the right place, but their over-protectiveness and control of her, especially on her mother's part, was emotionally abusive, which is evidenced in Annie's lack of self-confidence even after she's experienced Luke's unconditional love and encouragement. At least her uncle, aunt, and cousin, Charmaine, treat her like a capable human being, but it's Luke who truly believes in her and shows her a whole new world she never knew existed.
Annie was born with a birth defect in her hip that causes her to walk with a pronounced limp. However, her parents never really allowed her to walk, always keeping her confined to a wheelchair. All she ever wanted was to do the things other children were doing, but her parents wouldn't let her. Then on her tenth birthday, Luke, a new boy in town, comes to her birthday party with his uncle. He doesn't ignore her or see her as incapable like the others do and offers to take her for a ride on his horse. Annie eagerly accepts and has never felt so free, but it leads to heartache for her when Luke gets beat up by her brother and her parents banish him from their house and Annie's life. She never forgot that day or Luke. She's seen him around town on occasion but never had the opportunity to talk with him again until ten years later when she and her cousin go to his new livery and Luke asks them both out for ice cream. I adored Annie and thought she was a wonderful heroine. All she wants is to be treated like a normal girl, but her family has always viewed her as a delicate china doll that will break at the slightest little thing. They've treated her that way so long, they've beaten her down emotionally. She can't imagine why a man as handsome and perfect as Luke would want a crippled young woman like her, but it doesn't stop her from lighting up like a firefly when he's around and reveling in his attentions. She's somewhat afraid to get involved with him, though, because she doesn't want her brother or father to beat Luke up again for coming near her. I admired her courage in sneaking out of the house to see Luke, when she knows her parents wouldn't approve, but most especially for eventually standing up to them and letting them know exactly what she wants in life.
I love how, from the start, Luke never saw Annie as being crippled. He only sees a lovely young woman who intrigues him and stirs his emotions and desires. It's really sweet how he only has eyes for her, even though her cousin flirts with him, thinking she's the one he wants at first. Luke is a smart, hard-working young man who saved up his money to build his own livery business, because he knew that Annie's father, the only banker in town, wouldn't give him a loan. Luke is just the sweetest most perfect hero ever. He isn't afraid of Annie's family or of standing up to them if he has to. I adore how he always encourages Annie to do what she wants to do as long as it won't cause her any pain or harm. He's a very responsible young man who wants to build a house for Annie and make sure that he can fully provide for her and any children they might have before marrying her, even though she's eager enough to be with him to not care where they live. I love how he's completely focused on Annie and on bringing her joy and happiness. Luke is tender and loving, a totally dreamy hero I'd love to have in real life.
I have a feeling that some readers may find the tragic event toward the end of the book too melodramatic. I didn't, but it did make my heart ache for this sweet couple who'd fought so hard to be together and shared so much happiness up to that point. It was also a little disappointing and difficult to see both of them seemingly giving up on their love, but when I really stopped to consider it, the author had stayed true to their characterizations. Both Luke and Annie are highly sensitive people who take their perceived failures deeply to heart. Also everything Annie had feared might happen, mostly fears that had been instilled in her by her mother, as well as her mother's constant reminders that she was basically a handicapped invalid incapable of living a normal life, had actually occurred, like a prophecy fulfilled. Not to mention, I'm sure a form of clinical depression was probably involved as well, leaving Annie feeling like a complete failure. Luke didn't fare much better, feeling that he'd been careless and negligent in his care of Annie. They certainly could have communicated better during that bleak time, but what's important is that Luke and Annie learned something from their mistakes and found their way back to each other and to the happiness that only each of them could bring into the other's life. It also gave Annie's family a chance to do the right thing for a change and talk some sense into her.
Every time I read a book by a new-to-me author, I never know what to expect. Even if the cover blurb sounds great, it isn't always as good as I think it will be, but that was definitely not the case here. Sweet Annie was everything I could have hoped for in a romance and more. I loved Luke and Annie. They're two sweet, wonderful people who make a perfect couple. I liked many of the secondary characters too, especially Annie's cousin, Charmaine. I had hoped she might be the heroine of the next book in the Copper Creek Brides series, but that doesn't seem to be the case. While some readers may find this story too sweet, it was just right for me. I had such a great experience reading this book that I honestly don't mind who the next hero and heroine are as long it's as good as this one was. I very much look forward to continuing the series and checking out some of Cheryl St. John's other books. Sweet Annie was originally published in the Harlequin Historical romance line, but was later reprinted in the special Harlequin Close to Home series of reissued favorites.
September 14, 2011
I'm torn here...I want to give this a horrible rating but I liked the character Annie...
First off, having a limp because one leg is longer than the other is a cheap ass way of writing a crippled character. Own it and give her something really gimpy; this is fiction, I want DRAMA!
Second, this is yet another cripple-discovers-s/he-is-more-capable-than-previously-thought-once-a-3rd-party-treats-them-like-a-normal-person. I know this seems like it's not a bad thing but I cannot get on my milk carton every time I review a book so just trust me on this.
Annie was good though. She was the only character that seemed human in this book...she needs to find her potential in a better story.
First off, having a limp because one leg is longer than the other is a cheap ass way of writing a crippled character. Own it and give her something really gimpy; this is fiction, I want DRAMA!
Second, this is yet another cripple-discovers-s/he-is-more-capable-than-previously-thought-once-a-3rd-party-treats-them-like-a-normal-person. I know this seems like it's not a bad thing but I cannot get on my milk carton every time I review a book so just trust me on this.
Annie was good though. She was the only character that seemed human in this book...she needs to find her potential in a better story.
November 28, 2019
This was a sweet, cozy little book. Annie was born with one leg shorter than the other. She has been in a wheelchair her entire life. But now that she is 20, she is growing discontent with being the useless crippled adornment her parents want her to be.
Luke met Annie when they were kids and always admired her. When they have the chance to get reacquainted, he pursues her relentlessly. Luke knows Annie is capable of doing more, being more. I loved him!
This romance is so sweet. Luke is crazy about Annie and he risks a lot to be with her. Her family hate Luke (for a really stupid reason) and they don't want to see Annie as a grown and capable woman. Annie is smart and stubborn and she begins to question her life and her dreams.
I liked the H/h in this book a lot. They were perfect for each other. The h's family took too long to change and her mom was a bi#@h for most of the book. Just horrible.
The pacing is OK. Most of the book is Annie coming into her own and their courtship. They don't even get married until and the ending drama dragged on for me.
The book is sweet and romantic but then in the last 15% it suddenly slips into a Soap Opera and the plot goes haywire and the H/h become ninnies. The last minute drama was a bit too much drama llama for me and I had to drop a star for that.
3 stars for the sweet romance, but you have to be willing to overlook a few flaws.
Safety
Luke met Annie when they were kids and always admired her. When they have the chance to get reacquainted, he pursues her relentlessly. Luke knows Annie is capable of doing more, being more. I loved him!
This romance is so sweet. Luke is crazy about Annie and he risks a lot to be with her. Her family hate Luke (for a really stupid reason) and they don't want to see Annie as a grown and capable woman. Annie is smart and stubborn and she begins to question her life and her dreams.
I liked the H/h in this book a lot. They were perfect for each other. The h's family took too long to change and her mom was a bi#@h for most of the book. Just horrible.
The pacing is OK. Most of the book is Annie coming into her own and their courtship. They don't even get married until and the ending drama dragged on for me.
The book is sweet and romantic but then in the last 15% it suddenly slips into a Soap Opera and the plot goes haywire and the H/h become ninnies. The last minute drama was a bit too much drama llama for me and I had to drop a star for that.
3 stars for the sweet romance, but you have to be willing to overlook a few flaws.
Safety
September 24, 2022
Once in a while a book comes along that touches you. As I read Sweet Annie, I realized I was reading one of those special stories. I am a huge fan of Cheryl St. John. She has never shied away from difficult subjects in her novels. In her story Sweet Annie, Annie Sweetwater is a young woman who was born with a bad leg and lives in a wheelchair, never permitted to do anything that might endanger her by her overprotective family. On her tenth birthday party, a visiting Luke Carpenter,14 years old, takes her for a horseback ride and she soars with a sense of freedom for the very first time in her life; a sensation quickly quenched when an overly-protective brother beats Luke when they return from riding. Annie's entire family shelters and keeps her child-like, but her mother is the most dominating figure, intent on keeping her daughter dependent, her own personal porcelain doll to dress in lacy dresses. She continually reminds Annie that she is not like other girls and never will be, leaving a sensitive young girl feeling suffocated and useless with no self-worth at all. At nineteen Annie once again meet Luke, the boy whom she never forgot has now turned into a handsome man. To Luke, he fell in love with her at first sight and never forgot Annie. He did not see any limitations and only wanted to love and make her happy. This story touches issues of family love and influences, self awareness, and incredible sadness due to loss. Ms. St. John can write these important and life changing issues with such grace and tenderness that only a few gifted writers can accomplish. One again I a reminded why Cheryl St. John is one of my favorite authors.
July 13, 2011
I was really enjoying this story of a disabled woman breaking out of her shell and demanding people see her as the fully-actualized woman she was, until the author went and annoyed me at the end. Until then, it was a lovely story of two people who left lasting impressions on each other as children falling in love many years later as adults. Luke was patient, determined and kind as he encouraged Annie to live life on her own terms. Both laughed, loved and enjoyed life just a little bit more in each other's presence. They were an object lesson in seeing beneath the surface. She a banker's daughter, and he a mere farrier.
The story's weaknesses were a tendency to blandly tell instead of show and a frustrating hiccup at the end where Annie reverts to a weak, self-pitying creature.
The story's weaknesses were a tendency to blandly tell instead of show and a frustrating hiccup at the end where Annie reverts to a weak, self-pitying creature.
September 25, 2011
Book #1 in the Copper Creek Bride Series
"Out of all the men who could have ridden into her life and received her favor, he'd been the one she wanted. He would do anything for her, anything to please her, anything to see her smile, hear her laugh, win her kiss."
-------
"Look at you. You're a strong, healthy man. Why would you want a girl like Annie, who can't possibly do everything a normal woman can? Those words pierced Luke's heart- and lodged anger in his soul."
-------
......"Lord, she was a talker."
-------
"Don't cry," he said gruffly.
"I'm not crying," she denied....."Sometimes my eyes leak when I'm happy."
-------
"I'm not going to break, you know."
"I am," he replied.
"Out of all the men who could have ridden into her life and received her favor, he'd been the one she wanted. He would do anything for her, anything to please her, anything to see her smile, hear her laugh, win her kiss."
-------
"Look at you. You're a strong, healthy man. Why would you want a girl like Annie, who can't possibly do everything a normal woman can? Those words pierced Luke's heart- and lodged anger in his soul."
-------
......"Lord, she was a talker."
-------
"Don't cry," he said gruffly.
"I'm not crying," she denied....."Sometimes my eyes leak when I'm happy."
-------
"I'm not going to break, you know."
"I am," he replied.
January 7, 2022
En 2021 se cumplieron veinte años de este clásico y aproveché para leerlo, y publicar crítica en mi blog.
Se ambienta en el Colorado de finales del siglo XIX, con gente que lucha por salir adelante en un entorno nada amable. Annie Sweetwater es de buena familia, pero por su cojera la tienen sobreprotegida. Luke Carpenter es el tipo trabajador que se enamora de ella y, contra viento y marea, le ayuda a extender sus alas. Dulce y cuqui, esta vez en el buen sentido. Muy sencillo todo, pero, ¡tan bien contado...!
La leí en inglés, así que no sé cómo estará la traducción.
Se ambienta en el Colorado de finales del siglo XIX, con gente que lucha por salir adelante en un entorno nada amable. Annie Sweetwater es de buena familia, pero por su cojera la tienen sobreprotegida. Luke Carpenter es el tipo trabajador que se enamora de ella y, contra viento y marea, le ayuda a extender sus alas. Dulce y cuqui, esta vez en el buen sentido. Muy sencillo todo, pero, ¡tan bien contado...!
La leí en inglés, así que no sé cómo estará la traducción.
September 16, 2019
My opinion hasn't changed. For the time it was perfect. A real Hallmark Hall of Fame, not that ridiculous silliness on the TV channel.
Ahh, those were the days.
Ahh, those were the days.
November 24, 2025
Absolutely lovely; a simple, satisfying, heartsoaring story. Lavyrle Spencer vibes.
March 3, 2015
Looked for this for quite a while. Thank you Scribd. Very nice story of a wheelchair bound girl in the 1800s. Her family treats her as an invalid when really she just walks with a bad limp. The hero is a guy who met her as a child and never thought she was any less capable than any other girl. I wish there had been more of them together as children to justify the instant love they felt when they finally get together as adults. It was really sweet though and charming. The ending was too predictable but all in all I liked this book.
October 24, 2016
Thanks to the amazing sale at Harlequin, I’ve been picking up some much beloved books as ebooks. I picked up a number of Cheryl St John books since I love her writing and have just about all her print books. The first one up is Sweet Annie, originally published in 2010.
As with all her Westerns, this is a sweet gentle book, a cozy kind great for reading on chilly, wet days under a blanket. Annie Sweetwater has been over sheltered all her life. Though she has what I think is a hip displacement, walking is difficult for her. Doesn’t matter though as her family, in particular her mother and brother, have keep her wrapped like spun glass. She’s in a wheel chair and pretty much allowed no real life at all. She’s not happy but she’s resigned. At her 10th birthday party, of which she is excluded due to her ‘frail health she meets a boy, Luke Carpenter, who isn’t fazed and in fact takes her for a ride on a horse which she loves, but he is beaten up by her brother when it’s discovered and not allowed any contact with Annie.
Years go by and both remember each other, it was a defining moment for them both. They encounter each other again years later and there is a definite attraction between Annie and Luke but she is still living her life as an invalid. But Luke doesn’t see her that way. He ‘sees’ her as the person she is, not someone who has to be coddled at all costs and this is so wonderful for Annie. As their feelings for each other deepen, they must fight for her independence from her over protective family.
Cheryl St John is a wonderful author and writes the most wonderful characters. Both Luke and Annie are such well-defined people and the reader can’t help but route for them. As I said, this is a gentle kind of story, without a lot of angst in many of the books I’ve been reading lately and it’s perfect for a warm cup of cocoa, a cozy blanket, if you have a cat, a purring cat on your lap. That’s how I read it and it was a most excellent way to spend a cold, rainy Sunday.
As with all her Westerns, this is a sweet gentle book, a cozy kind great for reading on chilly, wet days under a blanket. Annie Sweetwater has been over sheltered all her life. Though she has what I think is a hip displacement, walking is difficult for her. Doesn’t matter though as her family, in particular her mother and brother, have keep her wrapped like spun glass. She’s in a wheel chair and pretty much allowed no real life at all. She’s not happy but she’s resigned. At her 10th birthday party, of which she is excluded due to her ‘frail health she meets a boy, Luke Carpenter, who isn’t fazed and in fact takes her for a ride on a horse which she loves, but he is beaten up by her brother when it’s discovered and not allowed any contact with Annie.
Years go by and both remember each other, it was a defining moment for them both. They encounter each other again years later and there is a definite attraction between Annie and Luke but she is still living her life as an invalid. But Luke doesn’t see her that way. He ‘sees’ her as the person she is, not someone who has to be coddled at all costs and this is so wonderful for Annie. As their feelings for each other deepen, they must fight for her independence from her over protective family.
Cheryl St John is a wonderful author and writes the most wonderful characters. Both Luke and Annie are such well-defined people and the reader can’t help but route for them. As I said, this is a gentle kind of story, without a lot of angst in many of the books I’ve been reading lately and it’s perfect for a warm cup of cocoa, a cozy blanket, if you have a cat, a purring cat on your lap. That’s how I read it and it was a most excellent way to spend a cold, rainy Sunday.
June 2, 2024
Sweet Annie is a book that has been on my TBR shelf at Goodreads for the longest time along with its duo companion novel “His Secondhand Wife” which I will be grabbing up very soon. I have been in sucha mood for a sweet western and this book definitely fit the bill here. I had such a blast with this book and I honestly couldn’t put this sweet romance down at all. Its a story that while there is low heat (which I am totally cool with) the romance is on fire. I really loved the way this story was written and I definitely need to read more of this author. In Sweet Annie we have a story where our heroine was born lame, or rather its difficult for her to walk. Her family is way overprotective and stifling her spirit. And then she meets a boy, and he is sweet and kind and takes her on a ride and she falls for him quickly but her brother is furious and their love is forbidden. But now they are adults, and their love is still vibrant and strong and they are determined to find their own way towards their happily ever after despite the barriers.
Sweet Annie is a story that I was really wondering how it would progress but thankfully the tension of the story isn’t dragged all the way through especially with the conflict dealing with her family and I was thankful for that in many ways. I honestly fell hard for this story here to be honest. Its such a strong yet sweet love story and seeing these two overcome the obstacles was so empowering. I loved how protective Luke is, but always encouraging Annie to LIVE life. Her family while loving her has only harmed her in some ways by treating her as an invalid. When she is anything but. She finds her own path and way and a life worth carving for herself with the man she loves. Seeing Annie and Luke come together and fight for their love was beautiful and inspiring. And you do fall for her family eventually, except her mother, never cared for her at all. But the rest of them did redeem themselves. Definitely eager to see what the next book will bring.
Sweet Annie is a story that I was really wondering how it would progress but thankfully the tension of the story isn’t dragged all the way through especially with the conflict dealing with her family and I was thankful for that in many ways. I honestly fell hard for this story here to be honest. Its such a strong yet sweet love story and seeing these two overcome the obstacles was so empowering. I loved how protective Luke is, but always encouraging Annie to LIVE life. Her family while loving her has only harmed her in some ways by treating her as an invalid. When she is anything but. She finds her own path and way and a life worth carving for herself with the man she loves. Seeing Annie and Luke come together and fight for their love was beautiful and inspiring. And you do fall for her family eventually, except her mother, never cared for her at all. But the rest of them did redeem themselves. Definitely eager to see what the next book will bring.
March 27, 2011
Annie Sweetwater has always been different from the rest of her family and friends in the small town of Copper Creek, Colorado. She was born with a bad hip that makes her limp. Her family adores her but also are over protective of her, at times thinking of her as a doll rather than a person.
When she was ten years old, Annie met Luke Carpenter - who had just moved to Copper Creek with his uncle - and he made her two wonderful gifts: took her for a horse ride, and he treated her like a normal girl. Sadly, her parents didn't take well to Luke, and from then on they didn't let Annie have anything to do with Luke, even though they lived in the same town.
Ten years later, Luke owns his own livery, which he build on his own since Annie's father is the town's banker and wasn't inclined to give him a loan; and he hasn't forgotten Annie; in fact, he's more in love than ever. And it is her love for him that will give her the strength to finally claim the 'normal' life she longs for.
Oh, I completely loved this book, it's the first Cheryl St. John book I've read and it was lovely. The way Luke sees Annie for the beautiful person that she is rather than pass judgment on her for her physical imperfections made me fall in love with him as well. And as Annie begins to fight for what she wants made her a great heroine.
When she was ten years old, Annie met Luke Carpenter - who had just moved to Copper Creek with his uncle - and he made her two wonderful gifts: took her for a horse ride, and he treated her like a normal girl. Sadly, her parents didn't take well to Luke, and from then on they didn't let Annie have anything to do with Luke, even though they lived in the same town.
Ten years later, Luke owns his own livery, which he build on his own since Annie's father is the town's banker and wasn't inclined to give him a loan; and he hasn't forgotten Annie; in fact, he's more in love than ever. And it is her love for him that will give her the strength to finally claim the 'normal' life she longs for.
Oh, I completely loved this book, it's the first Cheryl St. John book I've read and it was lovely. The way Luke sees Annie for the beautiful person that she is rather than pass judgment on her for her physical imperfections made me fall in love with him as well. And as Annie begins to fight for what she wants made her a great heroine.
July 17, 2012
ANNIE SWEETWATER WAS A LITTLE CRIPLED YOUNG WOMAN, BUT THAT DID NOT STOP HER FOR MARRYING THE GORGEOUS LUKE CARPENTER. SHE LOVED HIM, SINCE SHE WAS TEN YEARS OLD AND NEVER FORGOT, HOW HE TREATED HER AS A PERSON AND NOT A WEAK LITTLE GIRL, LIKE HER PARENTS AND BROTHER. HE GAVE HER, HER INDEPENDENCE, THAT SHE ALWAYS WANTED!!!
October 12, 2023
This was so good! Such a sweet, romantic story. And I was BAWLING at the end.
Something low key traumatic and sad happened which did make this a slightly less feel-good read but overall I really liked it. Annie and Luke were perfect for each other.
Edit: Just reread. I cried once again. Saddest third act ever. Loved Annie and Luke though.
Something low key traumatic and sad happened which did make this a slightly less feel-good read but overall I really liked it. Annie and Luke were perfect for each other.
Edit: Just reread. I cried once again. Saddest third act ever. Loved Annie and Luke though.
August 2, 2023
Just as enjoyable the second time around
October 19, 2025
A hug in a book! Super cosy will definitely reread. 💖
July 25, 2015
No sé por qué este harlequín tiene tantas buenas críticas. Se dice de él que es muy romántico, a mi me parece pasteloso. Demasiado azúcar para mi gusto.
A ver, siempre me han gustado los libros con protagonistas con defectos físicos o con enfermedades concretas, me gusta que no sean tan perfectos. Aquí en ese punto empezábamos bien, Annie tiene un problema que le impide caminar y el protagonista es el único, en un principio, que no la trata como si se fuera a romper con solo mirarla.
El problema viene después, cuando él empieza a decirle "amén" a todo, porque claro, ella es tan dulce, tan pequeña que todo le parece bien con tal de que ella sea feliz, ni una sola discusión, ni una palabra mas alta que otra, ni siquiera al final cuando sucede algo definitivo.
¡Por Dios! Cuando leo una novela romántica me gusta tanto una escena de amor como una buena discusión para ver cómo se va resolver, me da igual que se tiren platos a la cabeza si luego van a reconciliarse de forma apasionada, pero en este "libro" falta todo eso y más.
Faltan escenas de cama, faltan discusiones, reconciliaciones e incluso que él le de un buen puñetazo al hermano de ella en más de una ocasión, pero no... todo eso falta porque como dice el título, el amor es tan dulce...
A ver, siempre me han gustado los libros con protagonistas con defectos físicos o con enfermedades concretas, me gusta que no sean tan perfectos. Aquí en ese punto empezábamos bien, Annie tiene un problema que le impide caminar y el protagonista es el único, en un principio, que no la trata como si se fuera a romper con solo mirarla.
El problema viene después, cuando él empieza a decirle "amén" a todo, porque claro, ella es tan dulce, tan pequeña que todo le parece bien con tal de que ella sea feliz, ni una sola discusión, ni una palabra mas alta que otra, ni siquiera al final cuando sucede algo definitivo.
¡Por Dios! Cuando leo una novela romántica me gusta tanto una escena de amor como una buena discusión para ver cómo se va resolver, me da igual que se tiren platos a la cabeza si luego van a reconciliarse de forma apasionada, pero en este "libro" falta todo eso y más.
Faltan escenas de cama, faltan discusiones, reconciliaciones e incluso que él le de un buen puñetazo al hermano de ella en más de una ocasión, pero no... todo eso falta porque como dice el título, el amor es tan dulce...
May 18, 2017
This book is summed up in one word for me: BORING
I've heard it said that there is no story in a romance that lacks conflict, and this is a perfect example. Two young people love each other, get married, have a baby and get on with their lives.
Yes, there is a bit of added drama because her family is initially against them, but they come round without any major problems, and the heroine has a minor physical disability she needs to overcome, but again that is pretty easily done.
So, what is the story. They love each other and go about their lives, talking to their friends, building their house, etc, etc. I was so bored it was an effort even to skim, but I did, just to see if anything more interesting happens. It did not. If you haven't tried this author before, skip this one and go straight to book two in the series, His Secondhand Wife.
I've heard it said that there is no story in a romance that lacks conflict, and this is a perfect example. Two young people love each other, get married, have a baby and get on with their lives.
Yes, there is a bit of added drama because her family is initially against them, but they come round without any major problems, and the heroine has a minor physical disability she needs to overcome, but again that is pretty easily done.
So, what is the story. They love each other and go about their lives, talking to their friends, building their house, etc, etc. I was so bored it was an effort even to skim, but I did, just to see if anything more interesting happens. It did not. If you haven't tried this author before, skip this one and go straight to book two in the series, His Secondhand Wife.
September 1, 2014
I loved this sweet love story! It was uplifting and simple with just enough drama to keep you interested! I did get frustrated at one or two points in the book, but that is also why I loved it. If there was no drama or misunderstandings, there would be no story. I teared up while reading twice. Very well written and the characters are lovable. It is a must read for anyone wanting a simple historical !
August 31, 2016
Great storyline, tender romance showing the vulnerabilities of the two protagonists. Nicely developed plot and characters too.
May 16, 2013
A very sweet read. Love books written by Cheryl St John.
December 28, 2012
It was a beautiful book conveying a beautiful message
"When you love someone dearly, you love them with all their flaws"
"When you love someone dearly, you love them with all their flaws"
January 21, 2013
Matame, la cosa más romántica que he leído.
April 7, 2013
4.5 to 5 stars;)
February 16, 2014
Classic Cheryl St. John, a well-crafted story and characters you care about!
October 28, 2009
it is wondeful story I enjoyed it.
February 19, 2019
Annie Sweetwater wasn't like other girls...and she desperately wanted to be.
Born with a malformed leg, she is cosseted by her parents, especially her mother, and isn't allowed to do anything other than sit in her wheelchair in her frilly dresses and watch as the rest of her family walks, runs, moves, and enjoys life. On her tenth birthday, Luke Carpenter shows up with his Uncle Gil, and while his uncle talks to her parents, Luke offers her a ride on his horse, Wrangler. Annie immediately agrees, and for the first time in her life, feels like she's been allowed to live. Her ecstasy lasts until they arrive back at her house, where her family flips out and her brother physically confronts Luke.
For the next ten years, her family goes out of their way to keep the two apart. Annie is the daughter of the town banker, while Luke is a mere horseman, recently buying the livery and slowly making his way in the world. Her family feels that he isn't good enough for her, but they also feel like she's a porcelain doll, too fragile to do anything for herself. Annie feels stifled, and when Luke comes back into her life, she desperately wants to live like a normal young woman.
This is a very sweet (almost saccharine) love story. Annie and Luke are too precious for words sometimes, but they are determined to be together, and they face her family head-on in order to make those dreams come true. Annie's mother is a stone-cold bitch, however, and does everything in her power to mow down her daughter's newfound self esteem, even managing to drive a wedge between the happy couple when tragedy strikes They are both bereft, but Annie turns in on herself, feeling piteous and helpless, just like the invalid she fought so hard from being.
I didn't like Annie during this last third of the book. She'd spent the entire novel growing and learning and coming into her own, but the moment something bad happens, she runs back to her mother like a frightened little girl and shuts her husband out. She's stupid and selfish and self-pitying, but luckily the rest of her family doesn't put up with it this go-around. She purposefully misconstrues her husband's regrets to pick yet another fight with him, which only sets up the Grand Romantic Gesture at the end. It was a sour note on which to end this otherwise quiet, simple love story.
I can definitely see why this author turned to inspirational novels as her career progressed. The explicit scenes were a bit cringey; she seems to have a better handle on emotions than on physical lust. I believed Annie and Luke were in love with each other, and that their bond had formed on her tenth birthday, when he treated her like a normal girl instead of a glass doll.
Nothing so far has come close to the exquisiteness that was The Doctor's Wife for me, but I will definitely continue reading her backlist.
Born with a malformed leg, she is cosseted by her parents, especially her mother, and isn't allowed to do anything other than sit in her wheelchair in her frilly dresses and watch as the rest of her family walks, runs, moves, and enjoys life. On her tenth birthday, Luke Carpenter shows up with his Uncle Gil, and while his uncle talks to her parents, Luke offers her a ride on his horse, Wrangler. Annie immediately agrees, and for the first time in her life, feels like she's been allowed to live. Her ecstasy lasts until they arrive back at her house, where her family flips out and her brother physically confronts Luke.
For the next ten years, her family goes out of their way to keep the two apart. Annie is the daughter of the town banker, while Luke is a mere horseman, recently buying the livery and slowly making his way in the world. Her family feels that he isn't good enough for her, but they also feel like she's a porcelain doll, too fragile to do anything for herself. Annie feels stifled, and when Luke comes back into her life, she desperately wants to live like a normal young woman.
This is a very sweet (almost saccharine) love story. Annie and Luke are too precious for words sometimes, but they are determined to be together, and they face her family head-on in order to make those dreams come true. Annie's mother is a stone-cold bitch, however, and does everything in her power to mow down her daughter's newfound self esteem, even managing to drive a wedge between the happy couple when tragedy strikes They are both bereft, but Annie turns in on herself, feeling piteous and helpless, just like the invalid she fought so hard from being.
I didn't like Annie during this last third of the book. She'd spent the entire novel growing and learning and coming into her own, but the moment something bad happens, she runs back to her mother like a frightened little girl and shuts her husband out. She's stupid and selfish and self-pitying, but luckily the rest of her family doesn't put up with it this go-around. She purposefully misconstrues her husband's regrets to pick yet another fight with him, which only sets up the Grand Romantic Gesture at the end. It was a sour note on which to end this otherwise quiet, simple love story.
I can definitely see why this author turned to inspirational novels as her career progressed. The explicit scenes were a bit cringey; she seems to have a better handle on emotions than on physical lust. I believed Annie and Luke were in love with each other, and that their bond had formed on her tenth birthday, when he treated her like a normal girl instead of a glass doll.
Nothing so far has come close to the exquisiteness that was The Doctor's Wife for me, but I will definitely continue reading her backlist.
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