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Harper's Bride
With blistering humiliation, Melissa Logan stood by in mute horror as her husband sold her to pay a debt. She’d already realized that marrying Coy Logan to escape her miserable life with a drunken father and two lazy brothers had been a ghastly mistake. Coy dragged her to Dawson City to join the Yukon gold rush. Now worse off than ever, she was penniless with a new baby and “belonged” to Dylan Harper, a man said to have a heart of stone and a meat cleaver under his store counter that he wielded without hesitation. Melissa never felt so desperate in her life. Dylan Harper wanted his $1,200, not a wife. But afraid if he didn’t accept Logan’s offer, someone else would, Dylan couldn’t bear the idea of this woman with a bruised face suffering an even worse fate. To him, this marriage, conducted in a barroom with a dying Louisiana lawyer officiating, was nothing more than a business arrangement. Melissa would cook and clean for him, but not share his bed. But he didn’t dream this gentle female would grip his heart so fiercely. Yet, with all the hurt between them, would either be willing to take the first steps to trust again, to touch, to fall in love—
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 1997
About the author
Alexis Harrington
18 books192 followersI've been a self-employed working novelist for the past twenty years. Of all the books I've written I've had just one foreign sale, and that was THE IRISH BRIDE, which was translated into Norwegian, where I understand it was a big hit.
I also make jewelry and I'm a fine needlework artist, specializing in embroidery, thread crochet, and sewing. I love to cook, read, entertain friends, decorate, and pursue various crafts.
I live in the Pacific Northwest near the Columbia River, still within 10 miles of my old high school. I have a Great Pyrenees dog, one cat, a finch, and three chickens who all seem to want to be in my small office while I'm trying to work (except the chickens, although they'd be thrilled to get into the house if I let them). Getting up to step around them is like maneuvering an obstacle course, but they are my children and so dear to me. My hours are kind of goofy--I'm just not a morning person and tend to be up late when the rest of the world is sleeping--and QUIET. No phones, faxes, distractions. Just the kids and me, candles burning, and the elevator music coming out of my CD player.
Before I made the leap to full-time writer, I spent about 12 years working for consulting civil engineers. Riprap, anyone? How about a nice detention pond?
I also make jewelry and I'm a fine needlework artist, specializing in embroidery, thread crochet, and sewing. I love to cook, read, entertain friends, decorate, and pursue various crafts.
I live in the Pacific Northwest near the Columbia River, still within 10 miles of my old high school. I have a Great Pyrenees dog, one cat, a finch, and three chickens who all seem to want to be in my small office while I'm trying to work (except the chickens, although they'd be thrilled to get into the house if I let them). Getting up to step around them is like maneuvering an obstacle course, but they are my children and so dear to me. My hours are kind of goofy--I'm just not a morning person and tend to be up late when the rest of the world is sleeping--and QUIET. No phones, faxes, distractions. Just the kids and me, candles burning, and the elevator music coming out of my CD player.
Before I made the leap to full-time writer, I spent about 12 years working for consulting civil engineers. Riprap, anyone? How about a nice detention pond?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
July 2, 2012
I recently wrote a review for a book in which I stated the following:
"It definitely isn't one of those stories where the characters aren't communicating merely because the author can't think of a better way to drag out the story."
This book is one of those stories.
Melissa: I'm really starting to have feelings for Dylan, but he won't want to be with me. I'm not part of his "plan".
Dylan: I think I might be in love with Melissa, but she's made it clear she doesn't want another man in her life.
Melissa: I think Dylan might like me, but I'm not going to say anything because I'm a wimp with the emotional maturity of a Lego brick.
Dylan: Melissa seems to like being with me, but I know it's just a temporary thing because...well, just because. I know things. 'Cause I'm smart.
I can take this lazy obstacle for a little while. I can. But when it's employed throughout the whole damn story, it makes me want to toss my Kindle into a wood chipper. Not a good tactic for ensuring the enjoyment of your readers.
"It definitely isn't one of those stories where the characters aren't communicating merely because the author can't think of a better way to drag out the story."
This book is one of those stories.
Melissa: I'm really starting to have feelings for Dylan, but he won't want to be with me. I'm not part of his "plan".
Dylan: I think I might be in love with Melissa, but she's made it clear she doesn't want another man in her life.
Melissa: I think Dylan might like me, but I'm not going to say anything because I'm a wimp with the emotional maturity of a Lego brick.
Dylan: Melissa seems to like being with me, but I know it's just a temporary thing because...well, just because. I know things. 'Cause I'm smart.
I can take this lazy obstacle for a little while. I can. But when it's employed throughout the whole damn story, it makes me want to toss my Kindle into a wood chipper. Not a good tactic for ensuring the enjoyment of your readers.
September 14, 2026
Dawson, Yukon Territory, The Gold Rush 1898.
Melissa's husband, like her father, was abusive and the systematic abuse since childhood had turned her into a timid woman.
The couple had been in Dawson for the last six weeks. Dawson was not a lawless place, but it was dirty and crowded and filled with desperate men. The prices of goods were highly inflated.
One day Melissa's husband dragged her at Harper's Trading Company supplies store, a rough, two storey log building. Holding two-month old Jenny in her arms, Melissa watched the tensed exchange between her husband and Dylan Harper, the store owner, who was now angry:
"No more credit. You already owe me a lot of money"
"I got me a wife and a baby to feed. You wouldn't see them go hungry, would you?"
"You didn't come in here today to buy them something to eat. You bought tobacco and whisky. You'll pay or l'll bring in the Mounties, and they'll have you chopping on their woodpile again"
"I'm telling you, l ain't got nowhere near that much money. I ain't got nothing but... All's l got are her and the little one. She's a quiet type, and it don't take much to keep her in line. She can cook and keep house. And she ain't bad to look at when she's cleaned up and her face is washed "
"What the hell - Are you crazy?"
"Now she's all right, l s'pose, but she's holding me back. If it wasn't for her, l could be pouring heaps of dust"
"I came to the Yukon two years ago to make money. I'm not interested in your offer" said Harper.
Harper only wanted to be paid, not assume the burden of this silent, haggard-looking woman. The damned man volunteered her and the baby as though they were nothing more than heads of livestock. A worn-out female and her child were not part of his plans. But when he looked again he noticed that she had bruises all over, probably souvenirs from her husband's fists.
He thought that the man would either keep beating her, or he'll sell them both to someone else who might treat them even worse. His conscience would give him no peace so he agreed to take in the mother and child.
Later that day Harper told Melissa:
"Look, this is how it's going to be. Since l was a damn-fool to agree to this arrangement, l plan to take advantage of it. I keep the store open long hours, and my days are hard. I need someone to tidy up the place, do my washing and cooking. My place upstairs isn't very big. I'll pay you, and l'll look out for you and the baby. But this is only a business deal, and a lousy one at that since l'm still out my twelve hundred dollars. You can call yourself Mrs Harper if you want, so people won't think you're just living with me, and l won't deny that we're married to anyone who asks. But that's as far as things will go between us. You're not going to be my wife, and l won't expect to claim any rights as your husband. I'm up here to make money, and when l have enough for my plans, l'm going back to Oregon. I'll give you some cash for a new start here or wherever you want to go"
Further desolation awaits Melissa on the road ahead, but she was forever changed from the browbeaten woman who'd gone North with her bully husband. A woman hiding in the shadows, who had never offered an opinion or spoken up to defend anyone but her child. But she had now realised that what she thought and felt had value, that she had worth.
The book is well written, it's heartbreaking but also heart-warming!!!
Melissa's husband, like her father, was abusive and the systematic abuse since childhood had turned her into a timid woman.
The couple had been in Dawson for the last six weeks. Dawson was not a lawless place, but it was dirty and crowded and filled with desperate men. The prices of goods were highly inflated.
One day Melissa's husband dragged her at Harper's Trading Company supplies store, a rough, two storey log building. Holding two-month old Jenny in her arms, Melissa watched the tensed exchange between her husband and Dylan Harper, the store owner, who was now angry:
"No more credit. You already owe me a lot of money"
"I got me a wife and a baby to feed. You wouldn't see them go hungry, would you?"
"You didn't come in here today to buy them something to eat. You bought tobacco and whisky. You'll pay or l'll bring in the Mounties, and they'll have you chopping on their woodpile again"
"I'm telling you, l ain't got nowhere near that much money. I ain't got nothing but... All's l got are her and the little one. She's a quiet type, and it don't take much to keep her in line. She can cook and keep house. And she ain't bad to look at when she's cleaned up and her face is washed "
"What the hell - Are you crazy?"
"Now she's all right, l s'pose, but she's holding me back. If it wasn't for her, l could be pouring heaps of dust"
"I came to the Yukon two years ago to make money. I'm not interested in your offer" said Harper.
Harper only wanted to be paid, not assume the burden of this silent, haggard-looking woman. The damned man volunteered her and the baby as though they were nothing more than heads of livestock. A worn-out female and her child were not part of his plans. But when he looked again he noticed that she had bruises all over, probably souvenirs from her husband's fists.
He thought that the man would either keep beating her, or he'll sell them both to someone else who might treat them even worse. His conscience would give him no peace so he agreed to take in the mother and child.
Later that day Harper told Melissa:
"Look, this is how it's going to be. Since l was a damn-fool to agree to this arrangement, l plan to take advantage of it. I keep the store open long hours, and my days are hard. I need someone to tidy up the place, do my washing and cooking. My place upstairs isn't very big. I'll pay you, and l'll look out for you and the baby. But this is only a business deal, and a lousy one at that since l'm still out my twelve hundred dollars. You can call yourself Mrs Harper if you want, so people won't think you're just living with me, and l won't deny that we're married to anyone who asks. But that's as far as things will go between us. You're not going to be my wife, and l won't expect to claim any rights as your husband. I'm up here to make money, and when l have enough for my plans, l'm going back to Oregon. I'll give you some cash for a new start here or wherever you want to go"
Further desolation awaits Melissa on the road ahead, but she was forever changed from the browbeaten woman who'd gone North with her bully husband. A woman hiding in the shadows, who had never offered an opinion or spoken up to defend anyone but her child. But she had now realised that what she thought and felt had value, that she had worth.
The book is well written, it's heartbreaking but also heart-warming!!!
January 24, 2016
Imposible no sentirte afectada por esta dura historia de una mujer maltratada y del crecimiento de su personaje.
Es un tópico ya la novela de la mujer vejada que se enamora de su salvador. Pero sigue funcionando
He disfrutado mucho de la ambientación de la novela, esa vida dura de las tierras a los que llegaron los buscadores de oro.
El estilo de la autora es muy visual y realmente te acerca muy bien a su forma de vida y sus calles llenas de barro.
Dylan es un amor y la historia entre ambos de las que me gustan. A fuego lento
Es un tópico ya la novela de la mujer vejada que se enamora de su salvador. Pero sigue funcionando
He disfrutado mucho de la ambientación de la novela, esa vida dura de las tierras a los que llegaron los buscadores de oro.
El estilo de la autora es muy visual y realmente te acerca muy bien a su forma de vida y sus calles llenas de barro.
Dylan es un amor y la historia entre ambos de las que me gustan. A fuego lento
May 21, 2011
Really loved it; it encompasses some of my favorite themes - fake/temporary marriage of convenience, starchy hero comes undone, damaged souls find solace and peace in each other...these are some of the reasons I love romance novels.
Melissa Logan and her baby, Jenny, are 'sold' off as payment for a debt Melissa's abusive husband cannot afford to pay.
As the owner of a trading post in the Gold Rush Yukon, Dylan Harper didn't want a wife and child - he wanted his money. But when he saw the terrified look in Melissa's eyes and the fading bruise on her cheek, Dylan knew it was only a matter of time before she got abandoned or sold anyway, and quite possibly to someone even worse than her good-for-nothing husband. His conscience will not allow that to happen.
So he takes her in, and they make a deal to stick together long enough for them both to make enough money to leave the Yukon and make better lives for themselves elsewhere - and separately. In the meantime, she will cook and keep house, and he promises not to touch her. But time and close quarters have other plans, as these two damaged souls go through many trials together, learn the other's strengths and weaknesses, and come to realize what love really means.
It was beautiful, sweet, and charming to watch these two characters come together. It was a slow burning romance during which the characters realistically go from being strangers, to forming a real friendship and partnership, to falling in love.
Melissa Logan and her baby, Jenny, are 'sold' off as payment for a debt Melissa's abusive husband cannot afford to pay.
As the owner of a trading post in the Gold Rush Yukon, Dylan Harper didn't want a wife and child - he wanted his money. But when he saw the terrified look in Melissa's eyes and the fading bruise on her cheek, Dylan knew it was only a matter of time before she got abandoned or sold anyway, and quite possibly to someone even worse than her good-for-nothing husband. His conscience will not allow that to happen.
So he takes her in, and they make a deal to stick together long enough for them both to make enough money to leave the Yukon and make better lives for themselves elsewhere - and separately. In the meantime, she will cook and keep house, and he promises not to touch her. But time and close quarters have other plans, as these two damaged souls go through many trials together, learn the other's strengths and weaknesses, and come to realize what love really means.
It was beautiful, sweet, and charming to watch these two characters come together. It was a slow burning romance during which the characters realistically go from being strangers, to forming a real friendship and partnership, to falling in love.
September 20, 2026
3.5 stars
Unique setting, unoriginal plot, accomplished prose, piled-on pathos, and an MMC dumber than a tree stump.
When Dylan Harper demanded Coy Logan pay his unpaid balance of $1200 dollars at Dylan’s general store in Dawson, Yukon Territory, during the Klondike Gold Rush, Logan had a counter offer: he’d sell Dylan his wife and baby daughter for the amount he owed. Dylan didn’t want the thin, dirty woman with a bruise on her cheek or the baby, but he knew Logan would just offer her to someone else if he didn’t take her and he was gentleman enough to stop that from happening. A few dubious legal papers were drafted and presto! Melissa Logan became Melissa Harper, and Coy’s debt was wiped clean. Dylan made it clear he planned to be a hands-off “husband.” Melissa would cook and clean and launder for him, and nothing else would happen. Soon Dylan would have enough money to buy land close to where he grew up back in Oregon, and when he left Dawson Melissa would be free to go wherever she wanted to make a life for herself.
How, Melissa wondered. She had gone from living with an abusive and drunken father and brothers to living with a drunken and abusive husband. How was she to provide a decent life for herself and her daughter, a better life than the one she’d had? And how was she supposed to share the one room above his store with a man she feared was just as bad as every other man she’d known?
The characters said and did exactly what the plot required them to say and do, which made them feel more like plot drivers than real people, and which made the drama feel more manufactured than organic. Dylan refused to have feelings because a woman played him false once upon a time, so he was done with women forever. Then he had feelings, but Melissa and the baby didn’t fit into his plans so he stayed silent. Then he wanted to speak but was afraid of rejection. What a dumbass. Melissa also wanted to speak but made assumptions instead. They worked so hard at splitting up I decided to let them, and disengaged emotionally.
The story wasn’t unique but it had potential, and the setting was different and interesting. This author handles prose beautifully, and many scenes were moving. I could have gotten truly absorbed in this if the characters had felt less like puppets.
Unique setting, unoriginal plot, accomplished prose, piled-on pathos, and an MMC dumber than a tree stump.
When Dylan Harper demanded Coy Logan pay his unpaid balance of $1200 dollars at Dylan’s general store in Dawson, Yukon Territory, during the Klondike Gold Rush, Logan had a counter offer: he’d sell Dylan his wife and baby daughter for the amount he owed. Dylan didn’t want the thin, dirty woman with a bruise on her cheek or the baby, but he knew Logan would just offer her to someone else if he didn’t take her and he was gentleman enough to stop that from happening. A few dubious legal papers were drafted and presto! Melissa Logan became Melissa Harper, and Coy’s debt was wiped clean. Dylan made it clear he planned to be a hands-off “husband.” Melissa would cook and clean and launder for him, and nothing else would happen. Soon Dylan would have enough money to buy land close to where he grew up back in Oregon, and when he left Dawson Melissa would be free to go wherever she wanted to make a life for herself.
How, Melissa wondered. She had gone from living with an abusive and drunken father and brothers to living with a drunken and abusive husband. How was she to provide a decent life for herself and her daughter, a better life than the one she’d had? And how was she supposed to share the one room above his store with a man she feared was just as bad as every other man she’d known?
The characters said and did exactly what the plot required them to say and do, which made them feel more like plot drivers than real people, and which made the drama feel more manufactured than organic. Dylan refused to have feelings because a woman played him false once upon a time, so he was done with women forever. Then he had feelings, but Melissa and the baby didn’t fit into his plans so he stayed silent. Then he wanted to speak but was afraid of rejection. What a dumbass. Melissa also wanted to speak but made assumptions instead. They worked so hard at splitting up I decided to let them, and disengaged emotionally.
The story wasn’t unique but it had potential, and the setting was different and interesting. This author handles prose beautifully, and many scenes were moving. I could have gotten truly absorbed in this if the characters had felt less like puppets.
July 18, 2010
I picked this up for a song from Smashwords after seeing it on the Smart Bitches blog and I'm glad I did. It was a charming western historical romance with two damaged souls I couldn't help but root for.
After a grueling trip through the cold to reach the Yukon, giving birth in a tent along the way, Melissa Logan is almost speechless at the latest affront to her dignity. To settle a large debt with a store, her husband offers his wife and child as payment to the owner, Dylan Harper. Although she wouldn't mind escaping her drunken, lazy and abusive husband, she can't be certain the shopkeeper isn't worse. He's considered a dangerous man no one in Dawson would cross, lest he make use of the knife he wears on his belt, or the cleaver he keeps behind his counter. She's not only concerned for her safety, but also that of her infant daughter, Jenny.
Dylan doesn't want a wife, he wants his money. He's in the Yukon to make enough money to return to Oregon and raise horses, a goal he's mere months from accomplishing, and an instant family would offer complications. All the same, he can plainly see the man is a wastrel and his wife a bruised and battered hulk. As much as he neither needs nor wants them around, he worries she'd eventually find herself worse off, perhaps sold to a violent man, and ultimately agrees to the bargain. With his lawyer friend Rafe presiding, Melissa Logan becomes Melissa Harper in a pseudo-legal ceremony in a saloon.
Walking her back to the room they'll share he outlines the specifics of their bargain - she'll do the chores and cooking, he won't expect his marital rights in bed, and when he leaves to go back home he'll settle money on her and send her on her way.
At first, Melissa's terrified of the man. She may not have liked her husband, but he was the devil she knew. Though Dylan swore he wouldn't touch her, her panic at having to share a bed with him prompts her to drag a 75lb bag of rice onto the bed to separate herself from him. Her deeply ingrained fear of getting hit keeps her from meeting his eyes or standing too near him. She doesn't drop this fear suddenly after noticing how handsome he is, or any of the usual marriage of convenience nonsense, it takes time and Dylan's constant efforts to help her conquer her fear.
As much as Dylan enjoys how her labors have made his home comfortably domestic, he dislikes frightening her. He's not an angry man or a drinker. The only people that need to fear anything from him are those who'd cheat him or accuse him of being a cheat. He sets out to help Melissa get comfortable with standing on her own two feet.
The romance is therefore a slow growing one. When the "marriage" starts, Melissa is filthy and beat up - not exactly the most enticing picture of womanhood - and Dylan feels pity rather than desire for her. Melissa's freaking terrified. So there's no quivering, burning or otherwise -ing lust getting resisted from the beginning. Both have character arcs that span the book, and both need to grow before any kind of attraction can form.
All the little ways she shows them growing and changing as people - Melissa setting up her laundry business, Dylan lugging the rocking chair and cradle up the stairs to surprise Melissa, her surreptitiously watching him shave, him cooing to the baby when he thinks no one sees him - endeared the characters to me. Melissa isn't fixed by Dylan's love, she picks herself up and sets herself straight. She's no pitiable creature, she's determined to work hard to make sure she and her daughter never hit rock bottom again. Dylan slowly works his way free of the memory of the woman who betrayed him to accept what grows between him and Melissa.
The slow-burning romance and deep character growth contributes to my biggest complaint with the book, though. Because the two work so hard for this, and change so much, the ending felt rushed. I needed more resolution, more closure, after all of the angst they worked through. It wasn't enough to close out the resolution in a single bit of dialog only a page and a half long. I'm not usually one for epilogues, but this book could have used one.
Books like this make me wish they still published western historicals. I love the themes so much - the self-made man, the self-reliant woman, forging order out of chaos - and it's such a welcome break from the steady march of the ton, Almack's and simpering virgins.
After a grueling trip through the cold to reach the Yukon, giving birth in a tent along the way, Melissa Logan is almost speechless at the latest affront to her dignity. To settle a large debt with a store, her husband offers his wife and child as payment to the owner, Dylan Harper. Although she wouldn't mind escaping her drunken, lazy and abusive husband, she can't be certain the shopkeeper isn't worse. He's considered a dangerous man no one in Dawson would cross, lest he make use of the knife he wears on his belt, or the cleaver he keeps behind his counter. She's not only concerned for her safety, but also that of her infant daughter, Jenny.
Dylan doesn't want a wife, he wants his money. He's in the Yukon to make enough money to return to Oregon and raise horses, a goal he's mere months from accomplishing, and an instant family would offer complications. All the same, he can plainly see the man is a wastrel and his wife a bruised and battered hulk. As much as he neither needs nor wants them around, he worries she'd eventually find herself worse off, perhaps sold to a violent man, and ultimately agrees to the bargain. With his lawyer friend Rafe presiding, Melissa Logan becomes Melissa Harper in a pseudo-legal ceremony in a saloon.
Walking her back to the room they'll share he outlines the specifics of their bargain - she'll do the chores and cooking, he won't expect his marital rights in bed, and when he leaves to go back home he'll settle money on her and send her on her way.
At first, Melissa's terrified of the man. She may not have liked her husband, but he was the devil she knew. Though Dylan swore he wouldn't touch her, her panic at having to share a bed with him prompts her to drag a 75lb bag of rice onto the bed to separate herself from him. Her deeply ingrained fear of getting hit keeps her from meeting his eyes or standing too near him. She doesn't drop this fear suddenly after noticing how handsome he is, or any of the usual marriage of convenience nonsense, it takes time and Dylan's constant efforts to help her conquer her fear.
As much as Dylan enjoys how her labors have made his home comfortably domestic, he dislikes frightening her. He's not an angry man or a drinker. The only people that need to fear anything from him are those who'd cheat him or accuse him of being a cheat. He sets out to help Melissa get comfortable with standing on her own two feet.
The romance is therefore a slow growing one. When the "marriage" starts, Melissa is filthy and beat up - not exactly the most enticing picture of womanhood - and Dylan feels pity rather than desire for her. Melissa's freaking terrified. So there's no quivering, burning or otherwise -ing lust getting resisted from the beginning. Both have character arcs that span the book, and both need to grow before any kind of attraction can form.
All the little ways she shows them growing and changing as people - Melissa setting up her laundry business, Dylan lugging the rocking chair and cradle up the stairs to surprise Melissa, her surreptitiously watching him shave, him cooing to the baby when he thinks no one sees him - endeared the characters to me. Melissa isn't fixed by Dylan's love, she picks herself up and sets herself straight. She's no pitiable creature, she's determined to work hard to make sure she and her daughter never hit rock bottom again. Dylan slowly works his way free of the memory of the woman who betrayed him to accept what grows between him and Melissa.
The slow-burning romance and deep character growth contributes to my biggest complaint with the book, though. Because the two work so hard for this, and change so much, the ending felt rushed. I needed more resolution, more closure, after all of the angst they worked through. It wasn't enough to close out the resolution in a single bit of dialog only a page and a half long. I'm not usually one for epilogues, but this book could have used one.
Books like this make me wish they still published western historicals. I love the themes so much - the self-made man, the self-reliant woman, forging order out of chaos - and it's such a welcome break from the steady march of the ton, Almack's and simpering virgins.
September 30, 2010
More like 2.5 stars. I don't know. Maybe three stars. This started out well for me. I enjoyed the premise and setting. However, as the story progressed I just go SO TIRED of it. There is too much self-reflection going on by the MC's. A whole lot of "whoa is me, I've been so disappointed by love" type of thing, over and over again. Bleh. Then, the first sex scene didn't occur until almost the end of the book, and by then I didn't even care anymore. I was so tired of these two characters. Plus, the sex scene was punctuated with a lot of these self-reflection moments--going back to past sexual experience, blah blah blah.
I only have about 20 pages left of the book, but I just am not interested enough to finish it. Both MC's are in love, but neither wants to reveal it because "what if I'm hurt again" whinge whinge whine.
I only have about 20 pages left of the book, but I just am not interested enough to finish it. Both MC's are in love, but neither wants to reveal it because "what if I'm hurt again" whinge whinge whine.
May 1, 2026
I was not convinced with this one to be completely honest.
I don’t know if it was because gold mining is not my favourite, because it felt too long, because the heroine and the hero didn’t seem to feel attracted to each other or because the end was completely off.
I think the best of the book was Rafe and Jenny and nobody can convince me otherwise.
I don’t know if it was because gold mining is not my favourite, because it felt too long, because the heroine and the hero didn’t seem to feel attracted to each other or because the end was completely off.
I think the best of the book was Rafe and Jenny and nobody can convince me otherwise.
October 20, 2013
This is my first book by Alexis Harrington and it wont be my last. I find myself drawn to Western Romance books from time to time. I guess for me they're like that old blanket that just gives you the warm comfortable feeling. It's truly a gem to find one this good. That doesn't downplay the time period for the sake of the romance.
In Harpers Bride we meet Melissa and her daughter Jenny, her husband like her father is abusive and this systematic abuse from childhood has turned Melissa into a meek woman. That's not who she really is, but it's what she's done to survive. In a twist of fate that's shocking but lucky Melissa and Jenny find themselves in the hands of Dylan Harper owner of the local shop where Gold miners come for supplies.
As the story progresses here are a few of the plot lines that really moved me.
1. The relationship that Melissa had with her baby Jenny, that mother/daughter connection is sometimes lost in books. Either the mother is jealous of the daughter or vise versa. Jenny is a helpless infant, she's dependent on her mother for everything. Melissa is not only an amazing mother but her dreams for Jenny go beyond money but how she emotionally wants her to feel. Unafraid like Melissa felt her whole life. It was also beautiful the way Miss Harrington wrote the daily duties of taking care of a baby, yes, the baby must nurse and needed diapers changed. Many people find those simples acts annoying. I as a mother do not. It's always fun to see that an infants basic needs haven't changed much in over a 100 years.
2. The relationship between Dylan and Melissa. This is something that had your pulse racing. Both stubborn and set in their ways they're unable to deny the physical response each has to the other. Beautifully written!
3. The little town, never before have I really thought what a mining town would be like. It's a little embarrassing because I grew up in Sacramento, classic Gold panning town. It was fun to imagine what it would be like to see men trying make it rich only to lose it all and head home with nothing to show for the effort. The town was filled with characters, strong female leads who inspired Jenny to work for herself. Rafe, Harpers friend who was allying but so supportive of his budding attraction to Melissa.
In conclusion, as you can tell i enjoyed this book. I found Harpers Bride to be sweet, steamy and filled with history. I cannot wait to read another book by this author.
In Harpers Bride we meet Melissa and her daughter Jenny, her husband like her father is abusive and this systematic abuse from childhood has turned Melissa into a meek woman. That's not who she really is, but it's what she's done to survive. In a twist of fate that's shocking but lucky Melissa and Jenny find themselves in the hands of Dylan Harper owner of the local shop where Gold miners come for supplies.
As the story progresses here are a few of the plot lines that really moved me.
1. The relationship that Melissa had with her baby Jenny, that mother/daughter connection is sometimes lost in books. Either the mother is jealous of the daughter or vise versa. Jenny is a helpless infant, she's dependent on her mother for everything. Melissa is not only an amazing mother but her dreams for Jenny go beyond money but how she emotionally wants her to feel. Unafraid like Melissa felt her whole life. It was also beautiful the way Miss Harrington wrote the daily duties of taking care of a baby, yes, the baby must nurse and needed diapers changed. Many people find those simples acts annoying. I as a mother do not. It's always fun to see that an infants basic needs haven't changed much in over a 100 years.
2. The relationship between Dylan and Melissa. This is something that had your pulse racing. Both stubborn and set in their ways they're unable to deny the physical response each has to the other. Beautifully written!
3. The little town, never before have I really thought what a mining town would be like. It's a little embarrassing because I grew up in Sacramento, classic Gold panning town. It was fun to imagine what it would be like to see men trying make it rich only to lose it all and head home with nothing to show for the effort. The town was filled with characters, strong female leads who inspired Jenny to work for herself. Rafe, Harpers friend who was allying but so supportive of his budding attraction to Melissa.
In conclusion, as you can tell i enjoyed this book. I found Harpers Bride to be sweet, steamy and filled with history. I cannot wait to read another book by this author.
March 2, 2011
I really liked this one, it's the second book by Alexis Harrington that I've read and so far I really like her as an author.
Dylan (H) after being completely let down by his family and spurned by his love went to the Yukon to get away. When a man who owes him 1200.00 for suplies from his store, can't pay him offers to sell him his wife and infant daughter to cover the debt. Knowing that if he turns him down the man will only sell her to someone else and she could end up in a worse situation he buys her.
Melissa (h) running from an abusive family decides to marry Coy Logan and it turns out to be the worst mistake in her life. Beaten and down on her luck she can't believe when her husband sells her to the man at the store to cover his debt.
I loved the scenes with these two in the begining, so awkward and Melissa being so scared. I was however way ready to get rid of the bag of rice! lol
Dylan (H) after being completely let down by his family and spurned by his love went to the Yukon to get away. When a man who owes him 1200.00 for suplies from his store, can't pay him offers to sell him his wife and infant daughter to cover the debt. Knowing that if he turns him down the man will only sell her to someone else and she could end up in a worse situation he buys her.
Melissa (h) running from an abusive family decides to marry Coy Logan and it turns out to be the worst mistake in her life. Beaten and down on her luck she can't believe when her husband sells her to the man at the store to cover his debt.
I loved the scenes with these two in the begining, so awkward and Melissa being so scared. I was however way ready to get rid of the bag of rice! lol
May 17, 2015
I really enjoyed Dylan and Melissa's story. For some stupid reason I kept reading Marissa instead of Melissa.
June 29, 2008
It’s kind of odd rereading a book years after reading it the first time. Back in the 90’s when I originally read these books, this was my favourite book. But now, so far anyway, this one has been replaced by Desperate Hearts, the Homeward Hearts. That’s not to say that I’m not thoroughly enjoying this one – I am – it’s just not at the top now.
This book takes place somewhere towards the end of the Yukon Gold Rush. Dylan Harper and Melissa Logan meet when Melissa’s good for nothing husband tries to trade her to store owner Dylan to pay off a debt owed to him by her husband. Dylan is naturally horrified as such a suggestion, but it’s pointed out to him by his friend, a witness to the whole thing, that this useless excuse for a human being will only try the same thing again sometime, putting Melissa and her daughter Jenny, at possible greater risk than him.
So Dylan agrees to this ludicrous plan and takes on this drab and colourless young woman. He agrees she can stay and cook and clean for him. As he lives in a tiny apartment above his trading store, this doesn’t take up much time for her, and determined never to be helpless again, Melissa comes up with the idea of taking in washing to make some money so she can leave this sad and desolate locale.
Melissa slowly starts coming back to life as she is being treated with respect for the first time in her young life. And Dylan does respect her. He’s nursing deep pain himself. He’s been rejected by his family all his life and the final cut was when his fiancé marries his brother. He didn’t know where he was headed, he just knew he had to get away and ended up somehow in Dawson City, Yukon. He had realized early that panning for gold was a no-win situation. Most of the claims had been panned out already. So instead he’d become a successful trader.
The author does an excellent job of showing the hopeless and desperateness of the effects of the gold rush. Broken families, lonely people, squalor and loneliness are all well described.
Where it’s not so much the favourite as is was previously is a misunderstanding/big stupid error by Logan causing hurt to Melissa. I wanted to smack him and tell him to grow up! He was too hung up on past hurts which seemed to me anyway, leading to disrespectful treatment to Melissa who I loved to pieces. He came across as kind of selfish and self-centered towards the end and wasn’t redeemed quite enough for me. Melissa gave in a tad to easily.
But, despite these issues, I’m still loving Ms. Harrington's books and just ordered two more today.
This book takes place somewhere towards the end of the Yukon Gold Rush. Dylan Harper and Melissa Logan meet when Melissa’s good for nothing husband tries to trade her to store owner Dylan to pay off a debt owed to him by her husband. Dylan is naturally horrified as such a suggestion, but it’s pointed out to him by his friend, a witness to the whole thing, that this useless excuse for a human being will only try the same thing again sometime, putting Melissa and her daughter Jenny, at possible greater risk than him.
So Dylan agrees to this ludicrous plan and takes on this drab and colourless young woman. He agrees she can stay and cook and clean for him. As he lives in a tiny apartment above his trading store, this doesn’t take up much time for her, and determined never to be helpless again, Melissa comes up with the idea of taking in washing to make some money so she can leave this sad and desolate locale.
Melissa slowly starts coming back to life as she is being treated with respect for the first time in her young life. And Dylan does respect her. He’s nursing deep pain himself. He’s been rejected by his family all his life and the final cut was when his fiancé marries his brother. He didn’t know where he was headed, he just knew he had to get away and ended up somehow in Dawson City, Yukon. He had realized early that panning for gold was a no-win situation. Most of the claims had been panned out already. So instead he’d become a successful trader.
The author does an excellent job of showing the hopeless and desperateness of the effects of the gold rush. Broken families, lonely people, squalor and loneliness are all well described.
Where it’s not so much the favourite as is was previously is a misunderstanding/big stupid error by Logan causing hurt to Melissa. I wanted to smack him and tell him to grow up! He was too hung up on past hurts which seemed to me anyway, leading to disrespectful treatment to Melissa who I loved to pieces. He came across as kind of selfish and self-centered towards the end and wasn’t redeemed quite enough for me. Melissa gave in a tad to easily.
But, despite these issues, I’m still loving Ms. Harrington's books and just ordered two more today.
June 19, 2014
I really loved A Taste Of Heaven by this author however, I was disappointed with this story.
It started off great. It had a great premise however, it just didn't fully deliver for me. The couple did way too much of the "I want you but can't have you" the ENTIRE book. That made me lose love and interest for the book however, I did finish it. It also had too many "death" conveniences to make the story pan out, for my tastes.
My favorite character in this whole book was Rafe. Too bad there won't be any stories about him.
What I did enjoy about this story:
1. Rafe Dubois.
2. The beginning of the story.
3. Had the expected happy ending.
4. Mrs. Harper's Laundry business.
5. Dylan was good and sweet mostly with Melissa and took great care of her and Jenny.
6. How Dylan felt about baby Jenny.
It started off great. It had a great premise however, it just didn't fully deliver for me. The couple did way too much of the "I want you but can't have you" the ENTIRE book. That made me lose love and interest for the book however, I did finish it. It also had too many "death" conveniences to make the story pan out, for my tastes.
My favorite character in this whole book was Rafe. Too bad there won't be any stories about him.
What I did enjoy about this story:
1. Rafe Dubois.
2. The beginning of the story.
3. Had the expected happy ending.
4. Mrs. Harper's Laundry business.
5. Dylan was good and sweet mostly with Melissa and took great care of her and Jenny.
6. How Dylan felt about baby Jenny.
July 29, 2011
Yukon territory during the gold rush. Melissa's husband Coy Logan owes money to Dylan Harper and gives Melissa to him to settle his debt. Dylan, seeing the abuse on her face and the baby in her arms, agrees. Very heart-wrenching at times but not as dark as it could have been. Likable characters and moved at a good pace.
March 5, 2016
Interesting setting, the Yukon during the goldrush. The h is a downtrodden battered wife with a small baby, sold to the H by her awful husband. The H is nursing a deep bitterness about a woman in his past. He reluctantly helps the h and her resilience surprises him. She's the hero in the story as she and her baby thrive in the safety of his one room home.
March 10, 2022
3.5
It wasn't a bad book, but sorta sad and boring. Not much happened...which was the problem, I think. Just a slow pace, where everything conveniently worked out. The drama was all crammed into the first few chapters and the rest was simple. I wanted more drama, more fight...more BR, I guess?
It wasn't a bad book, but sorta sad and boring. Not much happened...which was the problem, I think. Just a slow pace, where everything conveniently worked out. The drama was all crammed into the first few chapters and the rest was simple. I wanted more drama, more fight...more BR, I guess?
January 27, 2025
Overall: 4.5 stars
This is schmaltzy western romance at its absolute best. A marriage of convenience; a strong, rugged cowboy man who defends his woman; a frontier woman taking care of herself; and a strong dose of romantic tension - what more do you need?
The plot is pretty much 100% what you'd expect, filled with longing and sad backstories and some misunderstandings, all challenges overcome by the power of love. It's predictable as hell, and I don't care. The writing is good with lots of aforementioned longing and pining and romantic tension.
If you like western romances and are down for good writing mixed with tropey goodness, give this book a shot. It's as cheesy as a cheddar biscuit but just as comforting.
This is schmaltzy western romance at its absolute best. A marriage of convenience; a strong, rugged cowboy man who defends his woman; a frontier woman taking care of herself; and a strong dose of romantic tension - what more do you need?
The plot is pretty much 100% what you'd expect, filled with longing and sad backstories and some misunderstandings, all challenges overcome by the power of love. It's predictable as hell, and I don't care. The writing is good with lots of aforementioned longing and pining and romantic tension.
If you like western romances and are down for good writing mixed with tropey goodness, give this book a shot. It's as cheesy as a cheddar biscuit but just as comforting.
August 23, 2021
A cute and predictable slow burn.
She is "given" to the H as a payment for something because her husband is broke, and the H wants her as a housekeeper only *he actually wanted only the money but he saw that the heroine was abused and he tried to save her from her husband*. Months later, they fell in love.and that's all:P
She is "given" to the H as a payment for something because her husband is broke, and the H wants her as a housekeeper only *he actually wanted only the money but he saw that the heroine was abused and he tried to save her from her husband*. Months later, they fell in love.and that's all:P
July 29, 2022
3,5 estrellas
Una historia muy bonita pero hubo un momento que le hubiese dado con la mano abierta a los dos por no hablar. Final muy precipitado y le falto un epílogo, por eso le bajo la nota.
Una historia muy bonita pero hubo un momento que le hubiese dado con la mano abierta a los dos por no hablar. Final muy precipitado y le falto un epílogo, por eso le bajo la nota.
February 21, 2018
Buena historia pero muy descriptiva/narrativa.
April 13, 2011
Indebted scoundrel Coy Logan offers his wife, Melissa and their new baby daughter, Jenny as payment for a $1,200 debt his to Dylan Harper, a work-hardened shop owner. Melissa looks upon the transaction with horror and resignation, while Dylan sees the deal as a burden he must accept to keep Melissa and Jenny from ending up in worse straits.
Harper's Bride, originally published in 1997 and re-released for Kindle, is a charming story about two people trapped in a situation neither wants. Stranded in Dawson City during the Yukon gold rush, Melissa knows that she's made a huge mistake marrying Coy to escape her drunken father and brothers. After her experience with Coy, Melissa has an ingrained fear of men, while Dylan has foresworn women altogether because of a failed relationship in his past. This is not a good start for a romance. Nevertheless, Harrington weaves together a sweet story of two individuals trying to overcome their pasts and find a better future.
This is not a love story in the current style with sexual tension almost at first glance, these are two gun-shy individuals determined to earn enough money working in the Yukon gold rush territory to establish a better life for them somewhere else. The relationship between Melissa and Dylan builds slowly, but it is definitely worth the wait.
I enjoyed this book in spite of the slower pace and I think it's worth 3.5 stars for the quality of the writing and the detail of the characterization.
More reviews from Barb Manning are available at www.barbmanning.net
Harper's Bride, originally published in 1997 and re-released for Kindle, is a charming story about two people trapped in a situation neither wants. Stranded in Dawson City during the Yukon gold rush, Melissa knows that she's made a huge mistake marrying Coy to escape her drunken father and brothers. After her experience with Coy, Melissa has an ingrained fear of men, while Dylan has foresworn women altogether because of a failed relationship in his past. This is not a good start for a romance. Nevertheless, Harrington weaves together a sweet story of two individuals trying to overcome their pasts and find a better future.
This is not a love story in the current style with sexual tension almost at first glance, these are two gun-shy individuals determined to earn enough money working in the Yukon gold rush territory to establish a better life for them somewhere else. The relationship between Melissa and Dylan builds slowly, but it is definitely worth the wait.
I enjoyed this book in spite of the slower pace and I think it's worth 3.5 stars for the quality of the writing and the detail of the characterization.
More reviews from Barb Manning are available at www.barbmanning.net
September 23, 2013
Alexis Harrington writes romances with characters that carry baggage of some sort. Family members are usually the villains (or villainesses). HARPER'S BRIDE is no different.
Physically abused by her father, Melissa thought she might better herself if she married Coy Logan. Too soon, she learned he was no different. Like the male members of her family, Coy drinks heavily and continues the cycle of abuse. The one saving grace from her short marriage is her sweet infant daughter, Jenny.
With little self-respect she follows Coy north to Yukon Territory. He then 'sells' her to Dylan Harper to settle a large debt. Mousy-looking and timid, Melissa agrees to cook and clean for the shopkeeper until they part ways.
Dylan doesn't want an additional burden but is coached by a friend to "marry" her. He will have time to make more money and she will have a safe place to stay until they separate. Over a period of months, attraction takes place and tension builds. Secretly, they each want more from the other but sharing their feelings is not a skill that either one has. And because of this the romance suffers.
It was both heartwarming and very predictable at times. I would read a few pages and think they were making progress and then, usually Dylan, would overthink things and have a TSTL moment. Dylan's constant dwelling on a relationship from the past caused some stumbling blocks. I am giving this love story three stars because of the sweet tender moments and because the romance had potential.
Physically abused by her father, Melissa thought she might better herself if she married Coy Logan. Too soon, she learned he was no different. Like the male members of her family, Coy drinks heavily and continues the cycle of abuse. The one saving grace from her short marriage is her sweet infant daughter, Jenny.
With little self-respect she follows Coy north to Yukon Territory. He then 'sells' her to Dylan Harper to settle a large debt. Mousy-looking and timid, Melissa agrees to cook and clean for the shopkeeper until they part ways.
Dylan doesn't want an additional burden but is coached by a friend to "marry" her. He will have time to make more money and she will have a safe place to stay until they separate. Over a period of months, attraction takes place and tension builds. Secretly, they each want more from the other but sharing their feelings is not a skill that either one has. And because of this the romance suffers.
It was both heartwarming and very predictable at times. I would read a few pages and think they were making progress and then, usually Dylan, would overthink things and have a TSTL moment. Dylan's constant dwelling on a relationship from the past caused some stumbling blocks. I am giving this love story three stars because of the sweet tender moments and because the romance had potential.
August 29, 2010
I learned many things about the Yukon goldrush. The writer wrote it so vividly I could see the town in my mind as I read the story. The hero, Dylan is the sweetest most understanding man. The heroine, Melissa was a very timid, battered young woman. She blossomed under Dylan's care.
The story starts with Melissa's horrible no good husband selling her and their sweet baby girl, Jenny to Dylan for his bill he ran up in Dylan's store. Dylans afraid if he doesn't take them someone far worse would. Dylan doesn't want her and the baby but... his best friend, Rafe says to take her. Rafe is a lawyer and he invents a document and a pretend marriage for Dylan and Melissa. Their relationship grows and it so sweet. Melissa learns to earn money of her own by washing all the miners in towns dirty laundry. She sings to the baby while she washes the clothes and soon the whole town knows of the "singing washer lady." She earns more money than she thought she ever could. This builds her selfworth. If you're interested in a sweet and interesting love story I highly recommend this book.
The story starts with Melissa's horrible no good husband selling her and their sweet baby girl, Jenny to Dylan for his bill he ran up in Dylan's store. Dylans afraid if he doesn't take them someone far worse would. Dylan doesn't want her and the baby but... his best friend, Rafe says to take her. Rafe is a lawyer and he invents a document and a pretend marriage for Dylan and Melissa. Their relationship grows and it so sweet. Melissa learns to earn money of her own by washing all the miners in towns dirty laundry. She sings to the baby while she washes the clothes and soon the whole town knows of the "singing washer lady." She earns more money than she thought she ever could. This builds her selfworth. If you're interested in a sweet and interesting love story I highly recommend this book.
September 16, 2010
I bought this for my Sony Reader. I always wonder about a book when the print version shows 300 some pages and the ebook was just 188. Am I missing something?
I liked the book. There was a lot of information about the Klondike gold rush. I always appreciate authors who have done their historical research. The heroine was a nice character who grew and came out of her shell after getting "sold" to the hero. He was a decent guy but his characterization was lacking just a bit. I guess I didn't get quite as clear a picture of him. The ending was just a bit lame. By that I mean it was one of those books where they split up because neither would be the first to open up and say that they wanted to stay together. I thinkg most people are more courageous than that in real life. You gotta fess up or how will the other person know. I kind of kept flashing on other historical romances I've read where the hero just refuses to let the heroine go. I generally like that kind of hero better. It was a "sweet" romance without super explicit love scenes.
I liked the book. There was a lot of information about the Klondike gold rush. I always appreciate authors who have done their historical research. The heroine was a nice character who grew and came out of her shell after getting "sold" to the hero. He was a decent guy but his characterization was lacking just a bit. I guess I didn't get quite as clear a picture of him. The ending was just a bit lame. By that I mean it was one of those books where they split up because neither would be the first to open up and say that they wanted to stay together. I thinkg most people are more courageous than that in real life. You gotta fess up or how will the other person know. I kind of kept flashing on other historical romances I've read where the hero just refuses to let the heroine go. I generally like that kind of hero better. It was a "sweet" romance without super explicit love scenes.
November 17, 2014
Melissa Logan married to escape abuse, got far worse in the bargain. Melissa's luck changed when her husband sold her. Dylan Harper in saving a woman gradually looses his bitterness but he may not learn to value his gift in time.
It is a tale of quiet dignity and opening a window to a world where woman can be treated with respect even if unwillingly thrust upon a man. Also a different perspective of life in a gold rush town.
It is a tale of quiet dignity and opening a window to a world where woman can be treated with respect even if unwillingly thrust upon a man. Also a different perspective of life in a gold rush town.
February 20, 2021
I had every intention of going back to this book and trying to finish it, but it was just SO BORING. If it gets better past the first 100 pages or so I'll likely never know. Every time I thought something exciting was gonna happen, it didn't... it just kept going on and on about laundry. I don't really find laundry all that fascinating. 😕 So I called it quits.
November 8, 2017
As somebody else has already said "it has great premises but it doesn't deliver". Emotional connection between H and h is non-existing.
September 26, 2025
I’m surprised how much I enjoyed this book 🤭
The love the character brought was genuinely so good and slow burn I was screaming into my pillow with happiness reading this at 3am🥹
I’m definitely gonna be checking out other books by this author 🫶
The love the character brought was genuinely so good and slow burn I was screaming into my pillow with happiness reading this at 3am🥹
I’m definitely gonna be checking out other books by this author 🫶
November 1, 2023
SO SO SO GOOOOOOOOOOOD! I literally loved this. I do wish the miscommunication at the end didn’t happen + we got an epilogue, but other than that I adored this.
October 8, 2016
Que historia tan hermosa.
Me ha encantado. He tenido muchos sentimientos con esta historia.
Se me hizo tan corta, hubiera preferido que fuera más larga.
He terminado de leerlo con una gran sonrisa dibujada en mi rostro. Me siento toda enamorada y romanticona en este momento.
Me ha encantado. He tenido muchos sentimientos con esta historia.
Se me hizo tan corta, hubiera preferido que fuera más larga.
He terminado de leerlo con una gran sonrisa dibujada en mi rostro. Me siento toda enamorada y romanticona en este momento.
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