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A Rocky Creek Romance #2
A Suitor for Jenny
While trying to find suitable husbands for her two sisters in Rocky Creek, Texas, Jenny Higgins is courted by Marshal Rhett Armstrong, a strong and handsome contender who will have to work hard to win Jenny's heart.
315 pages, Paperback
First published August 31, 2010
46 people are currently reading
657 people want to read
About the author
Margaret Brownley
67 books772 followersBEST-SELLING AUTHOR MARGARET BROWNLEY has penned nearly forty novels and novellas. Her books have won numerous awards, including Readers' Choice and Award of Excellence. She's was a two-time Romance Writers of American RITA® finalist and has written for a TV soap. She is currently working on a new series. Not bad for someone who flunked eighth grade English. Just don't ask her to diagram a sentence.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
June 7, 2017
I have not read book one in the series, but I didn't need to as each book is self-contained.
This was a pretty good inspirational (Christian non-denominational) historical romance. The religious aspect of the story was very much woven into the characters' lives. There was not any preaching or long lectures.
Jenny is responsible for her two sisters after the death of their parents years ago and now the sisters are old enough to marry. Jenny sets out to Rocky Creek, Texas to find suitable husbands for her sisters; she only heard of this town because of a newspaper article on towns with eligible bachelors. So Jenny, Mary Lou, and Brenda show up in this less than built up town to find suitable men. Joke's on them to a certain degree; they do end up married to suitable men, but not in the way Jenny had planned.
Jenny has a big secret that makes her feel unworthy to marry, so she wants to set up her sisters' futures so that if anything happens to Jenny, ML and Brenda are taken care of. There was no doubt that Jenny loves her sisters; there was no doubt that ML and Brenda loves Jenny. There was a strong bond among them which added depth to the characters' and the storyline.
Out of the three sisters' romances, my favorite was Kip and Brenda. Brenda grows a lot in this book, from a shy, people-pleaser who uses food to fill a void in her psyche. Kip's love and acceptance of her as she is helps her fight her over-eating. ML and Jeff's story is a little less deep; however, Jeff is definitely hero-material....ML is just not much of character of her own, but I love how she gets Jenny to see that their parents weren't perfect and she can still love them knowing their flaws. Then there is Jenny and Marshal/Sheriff Rhett - man, I am such a sucker for romances with sheriff heroes. Rhett has a deep pain of his own; his acceptance of Jenny's secret and his letting go of his pain made this romance a stronger one than usually found in this subgenre.
Since the book takes place just 11 years after the war, I really liked the way the author made a few side characters and Rhett Civil War veterans, with lingering issues about being in that war. As per usual, there is a town drunk that is saved only after having his neglected kids taken from him (temporarily), a kind pastor and his wife (hero and heroine of the first book), and a grumpy old guy who doesn't like change.
Overall, a good book to read on a lazy Saturday afternoon. Better than a lot of books within the inspirational romance subgenre.
This was a pretty good inspirational (Christian non-denominational) historical romance. The religious aspect of the story was very much woven into the characters' lives. There was not any preaching or long lectures.
Jenny is responsible for her two sisters after the death of their parents years ago and now the sisters are old enough to marry. Jenny sets out to Rocky Creek, Texas to find suitable husbands for her sisters; she only heard of this town because of a newspaper article on towns with eligible bachelors. So Jenny, Mary Lou, and Brenda show up in this less than built up town to find suitable men. Joke's on them to a certain degree; they do end up married to suitable men, but not in the way Jenny had planned.
Jenny has a big secret that makes her feel unworthy to marry, so she wants to set up her sisters' futures so that if anything happens to Jenny, ML and Brenda are taken care of. There was no doubt that Jenny loves her sisters; there was no doubt that ML and Brenda loves Jenny. There was a strong bond among them which added depth to the characters' and the storyline.
Out of the three sisters' romances, my favorite was Kip and Brenda. Brenda grows a lot in this book, from a shy, people-pleaser who uses food to fill a void in her psyche. Kip's love and acceptance of her as she is helps her fight her over-eating. ML and Jeff's story is a little less deep; however, Jeff is definitely hero-material....ML is just not much of character of her own, but I love how she gets Jenny to see that their parents weren't perfect and she can still love them knowing their flaws. Then there is Jenny and Marshal/Sheriff Rhett - man, I am such a sucker for romances with sheriff heroes. Rhett has a deep pain of his own; his acceptance of Jenny's secret and his letting go of his pain made this romance a stronger one than usually found in this subgenre.
Since the book takes place just 11 years after the war, I really liked the way the author made a few side characters and Rhett Civil War veterans, with lingering issues about being in that war. As per usual, there is a town drunk that is saved only after having his neglected kids taken from him (temporarily), a kind pastor and his wife (hero and heroine of the first book), and a grumpy old guy who doesn't like change.
Overall, a good book to read on a lazy Saturday afternoon. Better than a lot of books within the inspirational romance subgenre.
March 20, 2016
Really cute story. I liked the spiritual application. I enjoyed it and look forward to finishing the series.
July 15, 2020
Extra, Extra, 3.5 Stars for "A Suitor for Jenny", LOL.
This was a great follow-up to "A Lady Like Sarah". The book features many familiar Rocky Creek townsfolk from the first novel. However, the last couple of chapters kinda dragged, and felt slow in comparison to the first 75% of the novel, hence the 3.5 star rating.
In this second part of the series, Jenny arrives in town with her sisters, in tow, Brenda, and Mary Lou. And so begins the husband hunt, and all of the antics and drama. During this time, the town marshal, Rhett, decides to keep a close eye on the proceedings, and happens to catch Jenny's eye as well.
Both Jenny and Rhett overcome emotional damage throughout the novel... so it is a definite "pull on your heartstrings" sort of read.
"A Suitor for Jenny" is a sweet, fun book. Although it is only 315 pages in length, it took me a little over one day to read it. In other words, it was difficult to put down.
Okay, I am going to do a little scrapbooking this afternoon and start up, "A Vision of Lucy" (Book #3 of 3 in this series) later on tonight. Yee - haw!
Sorry, couldn't help myself :P :)
This was a great follow-up to "A Lady Like Sarah". The book features many familiar Rocky Creek townsfolk from the first novel. However, the last couple of chapters kinda dragged, and felt slow in comparison to the first 75% of the novel, hence the 3.5 star rating.
In this second part of the series, Jenny arrives in town with her sisters, in tow, Brenda, and Mary Lou. And so begins the husband hunt, and all of the antics and drama. During this time, the town marshal, Rhett, decides to keep a close eye on the proceedings, and happens to catch Jenny's eye as well.
Both Jenny and Rhett overcome emotional damage throughout the novel... so it is a definite "pull on your heartstrings" sort of read.
"A Suitor for Jenny" is a sweet, fun book. Although it is only 315 pages in length, it took me a little over one day to read it. In other words, it was difficult to put down.
Okay, I am going to do a little scrapbooking this afternoon and start up, "A Vision of Lucy" (Book #3 of 3 in this series) later on tonight. Yee - haw!
Sorry, couldn't help myself :P :)
October 26, 2020
When I started reading this, I predicted I wouldn't finish it. I was right. I think by the end of the 1st chapter I knew exactly what the story would be like! For me, I think the characters weren't very enjoyable to get to know...you get what I mean? The main girl (Jenny) was that snobbish kind of a girl. And to make matters worse, the main guy does something rash towards Jenny that shouldn't have happened by only the 2nd chapter... I don't usually do this, but I read the last scene of the book and of course it ends up the way I expected.
If you like cheesy, cliché romances, you might enjoy this one. I just didn't.
If you like cheesy, cliché romances, you might enjoy this one. I just didn't.
February 7, 2022
Jenny Higgins has two sisters, Mary Lou and Brenda. She is on a mission to find wealthy and refined husbands for her two sisters. She works hard on trying to train her sisters to act like proper ladies. Jenny uses her resources from a book written by, Miss Abigail Jenkins. They move to a town that is supposed to have the wealthiest men in Texas. What Jenny doesn't realize is the newspaper has misprinted the towns name. Will Jenny and her sisters find love in this town? If so, how refined are the men? Can Jenny stay in a town with none of her dreams? Will Marshall Rhett Armstrong be able to deal with Jenny and her outrageous ideas? What a fun book!
September 5, 2015
When Jenny Higgins arrives in Rocky Creek, Texas, she fully intends to secure suitable husbands for her two younger sisters. Why it only seems practical to begin the process by interviewing every bachelor in town who meets her very selective list of qualifications. Using her "Complete and Authoritative Manual for Attracting and Procuring a Husband", she soon snags the attention of the local marshal when her interviews nearly cause a town uproar.
US Marshal Rhett Armstrong strives to be in charge of his town and three attractive sets of petticoats aren't going to change that fact. But there is something about Jenny that both attracts and alarms him, especially after he so impulsively introduces himself with an impossible-to-ignore kiss. The beautiful little woman lives to confound him and her two sisters emphatically refuse to accept her carefully calculated choice of suitors; quite happily falling in love on their own. So where exactly does that leave Jenny?
Underneath the marshal's stoic demeanor and an older sister's honorable intentions, are two very wounded individuals; with hidden heartaches, mounds of regrets, and bitter, unresolved guilt. It is certainly going to take some bold steps of faith and unconditional forgiveness to find a "suitor for Jenny".
This often comedic story has rich, deep undercurrents that pull its readers into every page. A lovelier addition to Margaret Brownley's "Rocky Creek Romance" series could not have been written.
US Marshal Rhett Armstrong strives to be in charge of his town and three attractive sets of petticoats aren't going to change that fact. But there is something about Jenny that both attracts and alarms him, especially after he so impulsively introduces himself with an impossible-to-ignore kiss. The beautiful little woman lives to confound him and her two sisters emphatically refuse to accept her carefully calculated choice of suitors; quite happily falling in love on their own. So where exactly does that leave Jenny?
Underneath the marshal's stoic demeanor and an older sister's honorable intentions, are two very wounded individuals; with hidden heartaches, mounds of regrets, and bitter, unresolved guilt. It is certainly going to take some bold steps of faith and unconditional forgiveness to find a "suitor for Jenny".
This often comedic story has rich, deep undercurrents that pull its readers into every page. A lovelier addition to Margaret Brownley's "Rocky Creek Romance" series could not have been written.
November 22, 2010
I won this book in the firstreads contest on Goodreads so I want to thank them and the publisher, Thomas Nelson for providing the book. I read it in one day. That says something all by itself. I'm a reader who loves books that have great characters and this one does. You don't often read about a barber who sings opera - just as one example. All the "people" that inhabited the pages of this book became three dimensional and I found them funny and my heart broke for them as well. It was very well written.
I wouldn't hesitate to suggest you add this to your pile of books to read. I'm sure you'll love it.
I wouldn't hesitate to suggest you add this to your pile of books to read. I'm sure you'll love it.
November 12, 2010
I am a die hard romance junkie and I wonered, would this book be boring? lackluster? preachy? This book was none of that. It was well written, and the younger sister's will have you grinning! This book was definitely a good one to read.
June 3, 2017
I definitely did not enjoy this second book as well as I did the first in this series. The story didn't feel filled out in spots for one thing. What I mean by that is I could literally feel the holes and it felt like the writer was filling them in with useless information or even repeating herself a bit from time to time with information we already had. Then she rushed the ending a bit drawing all the couples together within the last few chapters...and the main characters didn't resolve anything until the very last chapter!
Secondly, Jenny's past was shady, and referred to frequently, but you don't find out exactly why until the last couple of chapters (though the hints aren't exactly subtle, so you can guess pretty well). However, Jenny's many flaws – her overbearing/protectiveness of her sisters, her shady past, and her great need to learn to accept God's plans instead of her own – make her the perfect flawed character because, like us, she is in need of grace and restoration by God's love and acceptance. Sheriff Rhett Armstrong, too, had his share of a past to overcome, and I connected more easily to his story of guilt and regret than I did to Jenny's.
There are some things I love about Brownley's stories: there are always flawed characters that deal with real human issues that we all face (even our circumstances are different), there is always lots of grace and truth to carry these flawed characters, and there is always a very grounded and beautiful raw faith message by the end. With Jenny, Rhett, Jenny's two sisters Brenda and Mary Lou, and a few prospective husbands...there were plenty of opportunities for raw characters in need of that love and grace from God and one another. So while I did not always like the flawed characters in this particular story as much, I do approve highly of the way the author manages the faith messages of her stories. :)
Thirdly, and I believe the reason I came to dislike the book the more I read along, was there were several kisses with each of the three couples before engagements had taken place. Mary Lou in particular and her fellow just kiss as an experiment of sorts to see if she liked him or not. :P With three couples, it was too much! Everything felt insincere in that respect. And Mary Lou's need to stuff bosom enhancers and knotted handkerchiefs down her dress was never addressed by her prospective fellow...as in he never even said he accepted her just the way she was. She still felt the need for them on her wedding day?! I hated that the author never did anything with this, didn't make any changes to Mary Lou in this area but just left it with almost no message at all to girls and women to take away from this unnecessary part of the story. :/
This one was not the lighthearted, entertainment book I was looking for during some physical recovery time, but it was still nice to at least get such a beautiful faith message. The most fun parts included an old rebel soldier who still lives as if he's in the war. It made for lively, hilarious and sweet moments between all the somewhat heavier parts of the story.
Secondly, Jenny's past was shady, and referred to frequently, but you don't find out exactly why until the last couple of chapters (though the hints aren't exactly subtle, so you can guess pretty well). However, Jenny's many flaws – her overbearing/protectiveness of her sisters, her shady past, and her great need to learn to accept God's plans instead of her own – make her the perfect flawed character because, like us, she is in need of grace and restoration by God's love and acceptance. Sheriff Rhett Armstrong, too, had his share of a past to overcome, and I connected more easily to his story of guilt and regret than I did to Jenny's.
There are some things I love about Brownley's stories: there are always flawed characters that deal with real human issues that we all face (even our circumstances are different), there is always lots of grace and truth to carry these flawed characters, and there is always a very grounded and beautiful raw faith message by the end. With Jenny, Rhett, Jenny's two sisters Brenda and Mary Lou, and a few prospective husbands...there were plenty of opportunities for raw characters in need of that love and grace from God and one another. So while I did not always like the flawed characters in this particular story as much, I do approve highly of the way the author manages the faith messages of her stories. :)
Thirdly, and I believe the reason I came to dislike the book the more I read along, was there were several kisses with each of the three couples before engagements had taken place. Mary Lou in particular and her fellow just kiss as an experiment of sorts to see if she liked him or not. :P With three couples, it was too much! Everything felt insincere in that respect. And Mary Lou's need to stuff bosom enhancers and knotted handkerchiefs down her dress was never addressed by her prospective fellow...as in he never even said he accepted her just the way she was. She still felt the need for them on her wedding day?! I hated that the author never did anything with this, didn't make any changes to Mary Lou in this area but just left it with almost no message at all to girls and women to take away from this unnecessary part of the story. :/
This one was not the lighthearted, entertainment book I was looking for during some physical recovery time, but it was still nice to at least get such a beautiful faith message. The most fun parts included an old rebel soldier who still lives as if he's in the war. It made for lively, hilarious and sweet moments between all the somewhat heavier parts of the story.
October 30, 2023
“A Suitor For Jenny” is an incredibly sweet and well written take. The plot of the book is simple enough in a post Civil War Texan town a stage coach arrives carrying 3 sisters. The eldest sister is a woman on a mission to land her younger sisters, rich husbands. But the backwater town doesn’t have too many prospects to fit that description. Will the sisters find eligible bachelors and will Jenny as well? I guess you’ll just have to read the book to find out.
As stated prior, I found this book to be a thoroughly enjoyable and delightful read. It’s lighthearted enough to be a beach read, but the historical and spiritual context in the book give it a deeper tone. The book is written a fast paced fashion and is very comical at times. The opening pages certainly made me laugh. Many times I found myself chuckling at the antics of this Wild West cast. The characters are warm and rich, entertaining and relatively friendly and mild mannered. Although the writing is fairly simple the pictures are well painted with the words and by the end you feel like you have spent a week in this small town and know it’s citizens very well.
That being said although I was intrigued and immensely entertained when I did read the book it wasn’t a page turner for me. It wasn’t an actioned packed story even the climax. It’s more like a Hallmark Channel Western. I guess I would compare it to When Calls the Heart.
There is a beautiful message that I think all Christians can learn from. God has a plan for all of us, we don’t have to plan out every aspect of our lives but trust in God to lead us to the right plans. The book does manage to touch upon other heavy handed topics such as murder, prostitution, alcoholism, child abuse and loss, but these are dealt with in a very mild way.
Overall, I give this book 4 stars, a sweet, peaceful, comedic, historical fiction. It’s fun! But I do wish there would have been some more action packed scenes.
As stated prior, I found this book to be a thoroughly enjoyable and delightful read. It’s lighthearted enough to be a beach read, but the historical and spiritual context in the book give it a deeper tone. The book is written a fast paced fashion and is very comical at times. The opening pages certainly made me laugh. Many times I found myself chuckling at the antics of this Wild West cast. The characters are warm and rich, entertaining and relatively friendly and mild mannered. Although the writing is fairly simple the pictures are well painted with the words and by the end you feel like you have spent a week in this small town and know it’s citizens very well.
That being said although I was intrigued and immensely entertained when I did read the book it wasn’t a page turner for me. It wasn’t an actioned packed story even the climax. It’s more like a Hallmark Channel Western. I guess I would compare it to When Calls the Heart.
There is a beautiful message that I think all Christians can learn from. God has a plan for all of us, we don’t have to plan out every aspect of our lives but trust in God to lead us to the right plans. The book does manage to touch upon other heavy handed topics such as murder, prostitution, alcoholism, child abuse and loss, but these are dealt with in a very mild way.
Overall, I give this book 4 stars, a sweet, peaceful, comedic, historical fiction. It’s fun! But I do wish there would have been some more action packed scenes.
December 12, 2017
Wow. This was so bad. So many things wrong with this book. The only good thing I can say is that despite being book two in a series and having many recurring characters from book one there is no gratuitous information or back story info on those characters. Chapter one was a delight as well.
As for the negatives:
Day one: boy meets girl. Later that night boy sexually assaults girl. Day two: boy 'apologizes' to girl by paying her for the favor of letting him sexually assault her. The rest of the book continues with her being ashamed of herself for selling herself in order to keep her two younger sisters alive when they were orphaned when she was fifteen. So, she doesn't feel worthy of the guy who sexually assaulted her because she was sexually abused as a young girl? What?! No. No problem he accidentally killed his bff in the war and feels bad about it so he graciously forgives her for saving her sisters lives the only way she knew how to. We'll just not think about the fact that on day one of their acquaintance he tried to "control her with a kiss" against her will.
And then there are the two younger sisters who are 18 & 19 years old. One is a spoiled, whiney brat who falls for a man who stalks her and domineers her into submitting to him. But the town thinks highly of him and he's a good kisser so it's all good. No recipe for disaster there.
The other sister has an eating disorder (addiction) that magically disappears when she meets a nice man who fed her pie, and then lured her out in the middle of the night to stuff her full of comfort foods. Ah, young love.
As for the negatives:
Day one: boy meets girl. Later that night boy sexually assaults girl. Day two: boy 'apologizes' to girl by paying her for the favor of letting him sexually assault her. The rest of the book continues with her being ashamed of herself for selling herself in order to keep her two younger sisters alive when they were orphaned when she was fifteen. So, she doesn't feel worthy of the guy who sexually assaulted her because she was sexually abused as a young girl? What?! No. No problem he accidentally killed his bff in the war and feels bad about it so he graciously forgives her for saving her sisters lives the only way she knew how to. We'll just not think about the fact that on day one of their acquaintance he tried to "control her with a kiss" against her will.
And then there are the two younger sisters who are 18 & 19 years old. One is a spoiled, whiney brat who falls for a man who stalks her and domineers her into submitting to him. But the town thinks highly of him and he's a good kisser so it's all good. No recipe for disaster there.
The other sister has an eating disorder (addiction) that magically disappears when she meets a nice man who fed her pie, and then lured her out in the middle of the night to stuff her full of comfort foods. Ah, young love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2018
The second book in the Rocky Creek romance series was just as good as the first if not maybe a little better. I really enjoyed reading about Jenny and watching her with her sisters. I loved how the sisters got minds of their own and found gentlemen that were suited to their wants and needs rather than that of their sister. I felt sorry for Jenny as we find out exactly what her shame was. This probably was a common issue of the time even as it is to some degree today. I like Brenda quite a bit and enjoyed her story of falling in love with Kip. And watching him blossom was wonderful as well. Seeing Sarah and the Reverend again was also nice. With the way they talk about her expanding belly you have to wonder whether there is more than one kid in there… But I suppose we have to wait for the next book to find that out. In general I enjoyed the lighthearted story and the subplot of scooter and his family. All of the subplot had happy endings, but not so happy as you make it seem easy and effortless. Everyone will have work towards the progress they wish to make and that is reality and not a magical fantasy and fairytale like so many books seem to lay out. I look forward to the next in the series.
January 6, 2025
Jenny and her two sisters lost their parents when Jenny was only 14 and her sisters were younger. They are now adults and the two sisters are looking for husbands. Jenny has promised her father that she will make sure the girls have the best matches. When she hears that Rock Creek Texas has a lot of men and few women, she feels sure this is the place to make matches for her sisters. But will Jenny's plan work or will it turn into a set of disasters?
I loved the humor, interesting characters, and wonderful storyline that Brownley penned. The authors focus throughout with all chapters was that God was in charge and would lead the girls to the right man no matter what marriage books told Jenny. This is a heartwarming story and I look forward to reading the last book.
I loved the humor, interesting characters, and wonderful storyline that Brownley penned. The authors focus throughout with all chapters was that God was in charge and would lead the girls to the right man no matter what marriage books told Jenny. This is a heartwarming story and I look forward to reading the last book.
October 1, 2024
A marshal, a logger and a barber find love with three women who blew into a Texas town.
Enjoyed being with this author again after a long absence. Rhett,Jenny, Mary Lou,Jeff and Kip and Brenda had interesting twist to it. Jenny wanted to find husbands for her sisters. But she wanted to do it her way. But the sisters had their own ideas and that what helped them in the end. Jenny wasn't looking for love and either was Rhett their pasts hindered them. But when they let go of the past love prevailed. The three women and men found love as God had in mind with a little help from Justin and Sarah his instruments. Will read more by this author.
Enjoyed being with this author again after a long absence. Rhett,Jenny, Mary Lou,Jeff and Kip and Brenda had interesting twist to it. Jenny wanted to find husbands for her sisters. But she wanted to do it her way. But the sisters had their own ideas and that what helped them in the end. Jenny wasn't looking for love and either was Rhett their pasts hindered them. But when they let go of the past love prevailed. The three women and men found love as God had in mind with a little help from Justin and Sarah his instruments. Will read more by this author.
December 13, 2016
A cute feel-good book. The writing is good, but the basis of the plot makes for some very walk-all-over-me type characters. Everyone seemed to fall in love very quickly, and I wished some parts of the plot would've been developed well. But not a terrible read either. If you like Christian historical fiction, you'll probably like this.
August 10, 2021
Jenny kind of drove me nuts until I learned why she behaved as she did. I kind of wish that information had been explained sooner. It was funny watching Jenny try to plan everything and it mostly not working out at all. This was a cute read as well. It was fun seeing how Sarah had changed and how she was still the same. I liked her better in this book than the first.
November 6, 2025
Good, humorous, light story. So often Christian romance stories have such devastation and loss in them, so it was a nice surprise to find a light, fun read like the previous one. It's not necessary to read the first one but it's nice to see the lives of the characters in the first one, followed up on in the second one.
August 16, 2023
God in our lives
M. Brown let has woven God in the lives of her characters. Some don’t remember God, or is far away from them, some come to Him in their daily lives…they all grow from knowing Him better in this fun story of letting go and letting God!
M. Brown let has woven God in the lives of her characters. Some don’t remember God, or is far away from them, some come to Him in their daily lives…they all grow from knowing Him better in this fun story of letting go and letting God!
July 19, 2017
This was a good, fast paced and fun book.
February 16, 2018
Didn't finish it. Didn't love the idea of Jenny's past.
November 9, 2019
Great series!!
Loved book two! Make sure to read these books in order. Love the story line, the humor and Romance wrapped together with Christian values!
Loved book two! Make sure to read these books in order. Love the story line, the humor and Romance wrapped together with Christian values!
December 28, 2019
Very enjoyable read. Good plot.
April 17, 2022
It was okay, nothing to write home about.
September 17, 2024
Listened on Audible (Included).
October 19, 2024
I like this author. She’s very fun and writes exciting stories.
September 8, 2023
Don't remember much at all; Jenny wants to find husbands for her sisters, not herself, yet we all know how that goes. I do remember themes of self-acceptance with the story arc of one sister, and Jenny's suitor (as the title implies is a relationship arc for her) being a sheriff or something in law enforcement. I think Jenny even goes to jail for a bit because of husband advertising, although memories are hazy.
December 20, 2010
Disclaimer: I received this book through Goodread's FirstReads program, so I'd like to thank them and Thomas Nelson for my copy. No compensation was received and the opinions expressed are my own.
This is my first Margaret Brownley book and while it is the second of the “Rocky Creek Romance” series, I feel that I still was able to enjoy it as a “stand alone.” From reading the summary of book one, “A Lady Like Sarah,” I believe some characters from that book are present in “A Suitor for Jenny” (“aSfJ”) and may have some spoilers for the first book, but I never felt confused even though I haven't read the first novel. I also loved her style of writing –a laugh out loud, quirky, entertaining read-- definitely a romantic comedy. (Forgive me, I'll be using that description many times in this review.)
What prompted me to enter the giveaway for this book was the premise: Jenny Higgins plots to find husbands for her two sisters, but her matchmaking plans go awry when they fall in love with men that don't meet the qualifications their older sister has set up. Add the complication of the matchmaker herself slowing falling for the handsome sheriff, and my oh, my –it just sounded like a “darn cute” romantic comedy, I couldn't help myself but to enter. “aSfJ” lived up to my expectations and I fairly devoured it in one night, staying up past midnight to finish it.
I loved the three Higgins sisters, though very different from one another, I found myself relating to different aspects of them. As an oldest child, I could relate to Jenny's feelings of responsibility and her need to watch over her siblings. I felt for Mary Lou and her frustration with those in authority over her, and Brenda's quiet desire to be loved as just as she was. The rest of the townspeople, from the sheriff, barber, logger, etc. to the old retired gossip came to life and were very likeable in a quirky, small town way.
One of my favorite parts of this novel was seeing the “quotes” from fictional “Complete and Authoritative Manual for Attracting and Procuring a Husband” by Abigail Jenkins that headed each chapter. Not only were the quotes laugh out loud (or at least giggle aloud) amusing, they also pertained to events that happen in the chapter. It's probably one of the best novels I've read that integrates something like that into the story and really enhances it.
Yes, it is sort of predictable, but as others mentioned, there is a surprising amount of depth in the issues touched upon in this novel. Nothing graphic of course, but appropriate and tasteful in its approach. The secrets, hurt, and guilt Jenny and Rhett faced in themselves brought some tears to my eyes and while portions of the conclusion seemed a tad rushed, I still enjoyed the novel very much.
If you'd like a fun, romantic comedy western, I'd wholeheartedly recommend this book for everyone from teens to adults. Get ready to laugh, smile, and maybe even shed a tear or two as Margaret Brownley's Rocky Creek prepare to greet you and the Higgins sisters in their town.
This is my first Margaret Brownley book and while it is the second of the “Rocky Creek Romance” series, I feel that I still was able to enjoy it as a “stand alone.” From reading the summary of book one, “A Lady Like Sarah,” I believe some characters from that book are present in “A Suitor for Jenny” (“aSfJ”) and may have some spoilers for the first book, but I never felt confused even though I haven't read the first novel. I also loved her style of writing –a laugh out loud, quirky, entertaining read-- definitely a romantic comedy. (Forgive me, I'll be using that description many times in this review.)
What prompted me to enter the giveaway for this book was the premise: Jenny Higgins plots to find husbands for her two sisters, but her matchmaking plans go awry when they fall in love with men that don't meet the qualifications their older sister has set up. Add the complication of the matchmaker herself slowing falling for the handsome sheriff, and my oh, my –it just sounded like a “darn cute” romantic comedy, I couldn't help myself but to enter. “aSfJ” lived up to my expectations and I fairly devoured it in one night, staying up past midnight to finish it.
I loved the three Higgins sisters, though very different from one another, I found myself relating to different aspects of them. As an oldest child, I could relate to Jenny's feelings of responsibility and her need to watch over her siblings. I felt for Mary Lou and her frustration with those in authority over her, and Brenda's quiet desire to be loved as just as she was. The rest of the townspeople, from the sheriff, barber, logger, etc. to the old retired gossip came to life and were very likeable in a quirky, small town way.
One of my favorite parts of this novel was seeing the “quotes” from fictional “Complete and Authoritative Manual for Attracting and Procuring a Husband” by Abigail Jenkins that headed each chapter. Not only were the quotes laugh out loud (or at least giggle aloud) amusing, they also pertained to events that happen in the chapter. It's probably one of the best novels I've read that integrates something like that into the story and really enhances it.
Yes, it is sort of predictable, but as others mentioned, there is a surprising amount of depth in the issues touched upon in this novel. Nothing graphic of course, but appropriate and tasteful in its approach. The secrets, hurt, and guilt Jenny and Rhett faced in themselves brought some tears to my eyes and while portions of the conclusion seemed a tad rushed, I still enjoyed the novel very much.
If you'd like a fun, romantic comedy western, I'd wholeheartedly recommend this book for everyone from teens to adults. Get ready to laugh, smile, and maybe even shed a tear or two as Margaret Brownley's Rocky Creek prepare to greet you and the Higgins sisters in their town.
June 16, 2011
The second book in the Rocky Creek Romance Series, 'A Suitor For Jenny', I found just as enjoyable (if not more) than the first book, 'A Lady Like Sarah'.
Many of the same characters from 'A Lady Like Sarah' make appearances in this book, including old man Hank Applegate, Pastor Justin Wells, Kip Barrel the barber, etc. I found some of the new characters funny, especially Mary Lou Higgins and Jeff Trevor.
I also found the plot interesting - three sisters coming to Rocky Creek, Texas to find 'suitable' husbands (ones that have adequate funds, pass the 'potential husband aptitude test', along with other requirements).
"I don't need a husband," Jenny said with as much regret as bitterness. The burdens of her past weighed heavily on her shoulders. At times she resented her sisters, resented the choices she'd made to provide for them after their father died. She loved them both dearly, of course. Still, it was hard not to resent the circumstances that had forced her to relinquish her own dreams of marriage. No decent man would ever want her as a wife, not after what she had done. - Page 12
The major themes in 'A Suitor For Jenny', from my viewpoint, was guilt, forgiveness and God's grace. Jenny Higgins and U.S. Marshall, Rhett Armstrong both struggled with guilt.
"There's a big difference between guilt and godly sorrow," she said. "Godly sorrow helps us to grow. Guilt is more likely to destroy us. There's only one cure that I know of, and that's God's grace." - Page 103
I don't feel it is necessary to read 'A Lady Like Sarah' first; however, I do think it adds something extra to 'A Suitor For Jenny' - mainly the background story to the people of Rocky Creek, Texas. I realize now that most of the duplicated words in 'A Lady Like Sarah' were part of the story. Mrs. Hitchcock often repeats herself.
Overall, I loved 'A Suitor For Jenny' and that's why I'm giving it such a high rating.
Many of the same characters from 'A Lady Like Sarah' make appearances in this book, including old man Hank Applegate, Pastor Justin Wells, Kip Barrel the barber, etc. I found some of the new characters funny, especially Mary Lou Higgins and Jeff Trevor.
I also found the plot interesting - three sisters coming to Rocky Creek, Texas to find 'suitable' husbands (ones that have adequate funds, pass the 'potential husband aptitude test', along with other requirements).
"I don't need a husband," Jenny said with as much regret as bitterness. The burdens of her past weighed heavily on her shoulders. At times she resented her sisters, resented the choices she'd made to provide for them after their father died. She loved them both dearly, of course. Still, it was hard not to resent the circumstances that had forced her to relinquish her own dreams of marriage. No decent man would ever want her as a wife, not after what she had done. - Page 12
The major themes in 'A Suitor For Jenny', from my viewpoint, was guilt, forgiveness and God's grace. Jenny Higgins and U.S. Marshall, Rhett Armstrong both struggled with guilt.
"There's a big difference between guilt and godly sorrow," she said. "Godly sorrow helps us to grow. Guilt is more likely to destroy us. There's only one cure that I know of, and that's God's grace." - Page 103
I don't feel it is necessary to read 'A Lady Like Sarah' first; however, I do think it adds something extra to 'A Suitor For Jenny' - mainly the background story to the people of Rocky Creek, Texas. I realize now that most of the duplicated words in 'A Lady Like Sarah' were part of the story. Mrs. Hitchcock often repeats herself.
Overall, I loved 'A Suitor For Jenny' and that's why I'm giving it such a high rating.
August 1, 2013
Recommend: Read book one, A Lady Like Sarah, first then continue to this book.
A Suitor for Jenny is about a twenty-two year old girl by the name of Jenny Higgins. Jenny sold the family farm and arrived with her two sisters nineteen year old Mary Lou and eighteen year old Brenda. She has raised her sisters since her parents died when she was fifteen. Marshal Rhett Armstrong believes he can control strong-willed "Colonel" Jenny from taking over the town. As time flies by Jenny has the single townsmen apply for the process of dating one of her two sisters. Her plans fail as she tries to control her sisters and her own hearts from falling in love. The preacher's wife Sarah Wells helps guide her in the direction of asking God to lead the path. Can Jenny learn that it's not to late to turn back to trusting god? After Brenda finds love with less then perfect opera barber Kip Barrel and Mary Lou falls for persistent sawmill manager Jeffrey Trevor who can't read nor write, Jenny tosses her 'how to find a husband' books and considers that God's book of five hundred or so passages on love and marriage was right. Jenny will do all she can to to punish her self from the past and ignore the feelings of falling in love with Rhett. Will all three sisters fall in love a marry? Can Rocky Creek Texas survive Three sisters, a marshal, a small town full of single men, two neglected boys, a preacher's family, an unofficial school, and a person from the past? Most of all can Jenny Higgins and Rhett Armstrong over come their own personal guilt of their past to live a life together? I like how it's kind of a continuation of book one so you know about most of the characters. Only part that I wasn't happy about was the epilogue. I wish it a little longer and it talked more about the main characters then the president's death and four mothers coming to town to look for suitable husbands for their daughters.
A Suitor for Jenny is about a twenty-two year old girl by the name of Jenny Higgins. Jenny sold the family farm and arrived with her two sisters nineteen year old Mary Lou and eighteen year old Brenda. She has raised her sisters since her parents died when she was fifteen. Marshal Rhett Armstrong believes he can control strong-willed "Colonel" Jenny from taking over the town. As time flies by Jenny has the single townsmen apply for the process of dating one of her two sisters. Her plans fail as she tries to control her sisters and her own hearts from falling in love. The preacher's wife Sarah Wells helps guide her in the direction of asking God to lead the path. Can Jenny learn that it's not to late to turn back to trusting god? After Brenda finds love with less then perfect opera barber Kip Barrel and Mary Lou falls for persistent sawmill manager Jeffrey Trevor who can't read nor write, Jenny tosses her 'how to find a husband' books and considers that God's book of five hundred or so passages on love and marriage was right. Jenny will do all she can to to punish her self from the past and ignore the feelings of falling in love with Rhett. Will all three sisters fall in love a marry? Can Rocky Creek Texas survive Three sisters, a marshal, a small town full of single men, two neglected boys, a preacher's family, an unofficial school, and a person from the past? Most of all can Jenny Higgins and Rhett Armstrong over come their own personal guilt of their past to live a life together? I like how it's kind of a continuation of book one so you know about most of the characters. Only part that I wasn't happy about was the epilogue. I wish it a little longer and it talked more about the main characters then the president's death and four mothers coming to town to look for suitable husbands for their daughters.
March 11, 2015
A Suitor for Jenny - Margaret Brownley
(*SPOILER ALERT!!!*)
Don't you just love the cover?! And the sign too! Ha!
Though I really did enjoy this novel, it didn't have much action, much peril, in it. In the first one, it had the threat of Sarah being hung. But there wasn't really any threat in this one. Well, Blackman was a threat, but he couldn't do anything to Jenny anymore. He no longer had any power over her, so he wasn't a physical threat.
I liked how Rhett ran after Jenny's stage. Got a little Love-Comes-Softly-twist there.
Jenny was sweet, sassy, and proper. I really liked her for the most part. Her bossiness got on my nerves though, same as her disapproval for certain men. Seriously, though. Kip is so adorable. And Jeff is so sweet. Who cares if they have their faults. Doesn't everybody?
Rhett. He was awesome as well. He was strong, loving, and generous. I just wish he'd been more romantic. No offense, but, while he was sweet and all, he wasn't too great on the romance. I also wish had reached out to Jenny when she was in jail. I'm pretty sure she would've opened up to him.
Mary Lou - Talk about spoiled! That was so annoying how she deliberately went against Jenny's wishes. Then again, I can't really blame her. If my older sister was hunting for a husband for me, I'd probably protest in every way possible too. What was up with the stupid bosom pads?
Jeff and Mary Lou are so perfect for each other. Though I thought Jeff was a little irritating at times, it was kind of funny to see someone make Mary Lou sputter!
Brenda was so sweet, and gentle, and understanding. She was one of my favorite characters.
As soon as it so much as mentioned his name, I knew Kip and Brenda would be great together. And he's so romantic. I thought the early morning banquet was sweet - though I can understand how Jenny got so upset, seeing as Brenda was in her nightgown. That would've been a ginormous deal back then!
Well, my review is over and done. A Vision of Lucy here I come!
(*SPOILER ALERT!!!*)
Don't you just love the cover?! And the sign too! Ha!
Though I really did enjoy this novel, it didn't have much action, much peril, in it. In the first one, it had the threat of Sarah being hung. But there wasn't really any threat in this one. Well, Blackman was a threat, but he couldn't do anything to Jenny anymore. He no longer had any power over her, so he wasn't a physical threat.
I liked how Rhett ran after Jenny's stage. Got a little Love-Comes-Softly-twist there.
Jenny was sweet, sassy, and proper. I really liked her for the most part. Her bossiness got on my nerves though, same as her disapproval for certain men. Seriously, though. Kip is so adorable. And Jeff is so sweet. Who cares if they have their faults. Doesn't everybody?
Rhett. He was awesome as well. He was strong, loving, and generous. I just wish he'd been more romantic. No offense, but, while he was sweet and all, he wasn't too great on the romance. I also wish had reached out to Jenny when she was in jail. I'm pretty sure she would've opened up to him.
Mary Lou - Talk about spoiled! That was so annoying how she deliberately went against Jenny's wishes. Then again, I can't really blame her. If my older sister was hunting for a husband for me, I'd probably protest in every way possible too. What was up with the stupid bosom pads?
Jeff and Mary Lou are so perfect for each other. Though I thought Jeff was a little irritating at times, it was kind of funny to see someone make Mary Lou sputter!
Brenda was so sweet, and gentle, and understanding. She was one of my favorite characters.
As soon as it so much as mentioned his name, I knew Kip and Brenda would be great together. And he's so romantic. I thought the early morning banquet was sweet - though I can understand how Jenny got so upset, seeing as Brenda was in her nightgown. That would've been a ginormous deal back then!
Well, my review is over and done. A Vision of Lucy here I come!
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