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Flyboys of Sweet Briar Ranch in North Dakota #5
Just a Cowboy's Love Story
Merrit and Sorrel Hines have been trying to find a husband for their mom because they want a dad. Their mom says to be patient, but at the rate she's going - always more concerned with what is happening at her diner than in looking for a husband - they'll be grown and out of the house until she gets around to finding someone.
So, they take matters into their own hands. If their mom is so into food, they'll concoct a dish that will make the first man who tastes it ask her to marry him.
Except it doesn't work.
Elias Stone intended to make a career out of the Air Force. But a secret that he was sworn not to tell caused him to be dishonorably discharged. Reeling from the unexpected turn, and betrayed by the one person he'd always thought would stand by him, he follows his crew to Sweet Briar Ranch in Sweet Water, North Dakota, where two cute little girls mark him as the man who needs to marry their mom. Unfortunately, marrying is the farthest thing from his mind.
Jane Hines knows her daughters are up to no good. She was married once, and has no desire to walk the aisle again. But a handsome stranger, a rumor of a love potion and a chicken recipe that could put her little restaurant on the map just might change her mind.
Can a bite of chicken, a little nudge by the town and a lot of trust create a family?
So, they take matters into their own hands. If their mom is so into food, they'll concoct a dish that will make the first man who tastes it ask her to marry him.
Except it doesn't work.
Elias Stone intended to make a career out of the Air Force. But a secret that he was sworn not to tell caused him to be dishonorably discharged. Reeling from the unexpected turn, and betrayed by the one person he'd always thought would stand by him, he follows his crew to Sweet Briar Ranch in Sweet Water, North Dakota, where two cute little girls mark him as the man who needs to marry their mom. Unfortunately, marrying is the farthest thing from his mind.
Jane Hines knows her daughters are up to no good. She was married once, and has no desire to walk the aisle again. But a handsome stranger, a rumor of a love potion and a chicken recipe that could put her little restaurant on the map just might change her mind.
Can a bite of chicken, a little nudge by the town and a lot of trust create a family?
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 17, 2023
465 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
March 13, 2023
This is one of my favorite books of Jessie Gussman’s ever! I laughed so much while reading this sweet and adorable story of Jane and Elias and Jane’s two little girls, Sorrell and Merritt, who want a Daddy and a husband for their Mama. Jane owns Sweet Water’s diner and Elias has just moved to Sweet Water after being dishonorably discharged from the Air Force, for not breaking his confidentiality with another person. So, although he still has his integrity, he’s lost everything else he’s worked for, except some property he invested in with some of his former crewmen. He is not the least bit interested in their cattle and crop dusting business, however, and declines the offer to go with them to a conference the day after he arrives. They tell him about where a few things are located-a store, the diner, the nearest neighbors. So, the next day, by evening, he is starving and decides to give the diner a try. Little does he know that the owner is short handed or that there is a person who has been texting the owner saying she is going to come to work for her but she has never met her and she knows she is not reliable at all! When Elias walks in, and Jane sees him, she feels so drawn to him, that it’s all she can do to keep heading toward the tables that need busing. Her body wants to walk straight toward him! Their eyes meet and hold for a moment. She clears off a table, cleaning it thoroughly, and immediately someone sits down. Then, she turns around and heads right back into the kitchen to get all of the food items out of the refrigerator that she had made a list of in her mind. How was she ever going to get through this night? Well, Elias thought, his guys had said Sweet Water was a very laid back place, so he guessed he’d clean a table off for himself! So, he goes behind the register and gets the tub and dishrag and suddenly a little voice says “Oh, you must be Lya! Mom’s gonna be so excited!” His eyebrows raised up and he was so shocked! Nobody had called him “Lia” except his sister, before she had died. He really preferred “Elias”. But, how did she know his name?? He goes ahead and cleans himself a table and when he turns to set the tub down, a family of four slide right in, the man nodding his head at him. Well, if that didn’t beat all! He cleans another table. Same thing happens! Well, had he not thought how badly he felt for the woman who looked so exhausted and had he not wished he could help her? “Excuse me, I need to pay out! I’ve got to get back to my son in the hospital”! Here’s the little girl at his elbow, showing him how simple the register is to operate. He checks out a few people. Then, he cleans off a few tables and realizes that these people sitting in the booths have nothing to drink and no menus. He quickly takes their orders and gets their drinks. At the end of the night, he is absolutely starved, but the cook leaves! He finally gets to talk to Jane and she confesses that she just couldn’t believe that he was a man! And that he worked so hard! She didn’t even really have to ask him to do anything, he just saw what needed to be done and did it! She was so, so grateful for him and right then, he decided he could do worse than being a waitress! He wanted to help her, to be near her. He couldn’t explain it, but they just worked so well together! I don’t want to tell you any more about it-just enough to make you want it!! It is absolutely fantastic! This book is very much worth your time to read and bring some joy and inspiration into your life! I hope you do buy your own copy; you’ll sure be glad you did! 🥰🥰 I received an advanced reader copy of the book and the opinion is completely my own. ♥️🙏♥️🙏
February 18, 2023
This was probably my favorite book so far in the series, although to be fair, I think that I say that almost every time, and the books just keep getting better.
In the earlier books in the series, we’ve seen Sorrell and Merritt trying to find a husband for their mother, and in this book, we finally get to see them succeed.
Jane has been stretched thin, trying to be a single parent and run a successful diner without reliable help. She doesn’t have time for romance, and her failed previous marriage has left her apprehensive about men in general. After all, she chose poorly once, so how can she trust her judgment about men again?
Elias has been dishonorably discharged from the Air Force, and although he has maintained his integrity, it has shaken his confidence. He finds himself adrift and with no concrete goals or plans for the future, and so he has closed himself off to the possibly of a relationship. What woman would choose to be with a man with a tarnished reputation and nothing to offer?
This is a slow burn romance at its finest, with Jane and Elias working together at the diner, becoming friends, and slowly learning to trust each other enough to consider becoming more.
My only critique, which in no way ruins the story for me, is that I would have liked more insight into Elias’s situation. Why was he dishonorably discharged? Who did he refuse to sell out? I understand and appreciate that had none of that happened, he would not have ever come to Sweet Water, and would not have met Jane. I like the message that sometimes, the trials we face are God’s way of testing us and bringing us to a time and place that he will give us something better. But, I was left with so many questions about Elias’s past, and it would have been nice to see him either forgive the person who put him in that situation, or have the truth come out and his name cleared.
I received an ARC copy of this book, but the opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
In the earlier books in the series, we’ve seen Sorrell and Merritt trying to find a husband for their mother, and in this book, we finally get to see them succeed.
Jane has been stretched thin, trying to be a single parent and run a successful diner without reliable help. She doesn’t have time for romance, and her failed previous marriage has left her apprehensive about men in general. After all, she chose poorly once, so how can she trust her judgment about men again?
Elias has been dishonorably discharged from the Air Force, and although he has maintained his integrity, it has shaken his confidence. He finds himself adrift and with no concrete goals or plans for the future, and so he has closed himself off to the possibly of a relationship. What woman would choose to be with a man with a tarnished reputation and nothing to offer?
This is a slow burn romance at its finest, with Jane and Elias working together at the diner, becoming friends, and slowly learning to trust each other enough to consider becoming more.
My only critique, which in no way ruins the story for me, is that I would have liked more insight into Elias’s situation. Why was he dishonorably discharged? Who did he refuse to sell out? I understand and appreciate that had none of that happened, he would not have ever come to Sweet Water, and would not have met Jane. I like the message that sometimes, the trials we face are God’s way of testing us and bringing us to a time and place that he will give us something better. But, I was left with so many questions about Elias’s past, and it would have been nice to see him either forgive the person who put him in that situation, or have the truth come out and his name cleared.
I received an ARC copy of this book, but the opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2023
Such a sweet story as two young sisters, Merrit and Sorrel Hines, desperately have been trying to find a husband for their mom because they want a dad. They see that every time there is a new single man in town someone else marries him before their mom even has a chance. They decide it's time to work on a way to get what they have been praying for - a husband for their mom so they can get a dad.
I loved the part where they went to Charlene, the former matchmaker in Sweet Water, to buy her romance formula. Since there wasn't one and they didn't really like the advice that Charlene gave them, they found a no fail chicken dish that will make a man fall in love with their mom.
But the Lord really did hear the prayers of these sister and already had something in the works as Elias Stone moved to Sweet Water. His former crew members from the Air force had purchased Sweet Briar Ranch and he had helped pay for it. His life had taken a new direction when he was dishonorably discharged from the Air Force. He could have gotten out of being charged but it was more important for him to keep a secret, he had vowed to keep. He's not cut out to be a rancher or farmer but he needs to find something to do. When a misunderstanding has him waiting tables at the diner Jane Hines owns, something begins to come alive in him. He feels drawn to Jane and wants to help carry her heavy load. But he hasn't planned on getting married for some time.
Jane Hines has her hands full raising her two daughters and running a diner that doesn't ever seem to have enough help. On a night when some of her staff were out sick, she thought someone who had asked for a job finally showed up. He wasn't quite what she pictured from their messages but he did a great job. When she finally found out, she had made a terrible mistake, he was willing to keep the job.
Jane had already had one man disappoint her when she got divorced so she really wasn't looking to get married. But she does appreciate how Elias steps in to go above and beyond in helping her.
This is another wonderful story in this series that is filled with wonderful spiritual insights. The town
steer also has gotten involved in matchmaking.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
I loved the part where they went to Charlene, the former matchmaker in Sweet Water, to buy her romance formula. Since there wasn't one and they didn't really like the advice that Charlene gave them, they found a no fail chicken dish that will make a man fall in love with their mom.
But the Lord really did hear the prayers of these sister and already had something in the works as Elias Stone moved to Sweet Water. His former crew members from the Air force had purchased Sweet Briar Ranch and he had helped pay for it. His life had taken a new direction when he was dishonorably discharged from the Air Force. He could have gotten out of being charged but it was more important for him to keep a secret, he had vowed to keep. He's not cut out to be a rancher or farmer but he needs to find something to do. When a misunderstanding has him waiting tables at the diner Jane Hines owns, something begins to come alive in him. He feels drawn to Jane and wants to help carry her heavy load. But he hasn't planned on getting married for some time.
Jane Hines has her hands full raising her two daughters and running a diner that doesn't ever seem to have enough help. On a night when some of her staff were out sick, she thought someone who had asked for a job finally showed up. He wasn't quite what she pictured from their messages but he did a great job. When she finally found out, she had made a terrible mistake, he was willing to keep the job.
Jane had already had one man disappoint her when she got divorced so she really wasn't looking to get married. But she does appreciate how Elias steps in to go above and beyond in helping her.
This is another wonderful story in this series that is filled with wonderful spiritual insights. The town
steer also has gotten involved in matchmaking.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
March 16, 2023
This book evoked lots of smiles and laughter. It features a sweet, clean and rather charming romance between Elias, a former airforce pilot who is new in town, and Jane, the owner of the town’s diner and a single mom of two young girls. Elias is trying to find a way forward in a direction he never would have picked for himself. Moving to town to be near his buddies and live on the property he co-owns with them seemed to be the best thing to do after losing his military career. Just as he decides that it is time to get back to listening to God and following God’s guidance and teachings, his life takes a strange turn. Who knew going to the diner for a meal would lead to a new job as a waiter and being drawn to a beautiful single mom. He has never felt this pull, this connection with any other person and he knows deep down that he is meant to be working with her. Jane also feels the connection between them, but she is wary of getting hurt again, and has the hearts of her two girls to protect as well. Neither know that God is not alone in wanting them to be more than friends. Though the town’s matchmakers might not agree with these two being matched, Jane’s daughters and their young friend are doing their best to nudge then together. Even the town’s free-roaming steer is doing a bit of nudging!
As is usually the case, this author has given her readers a beautifully written romance that both inspires and gladdens the heart. I loved the earnest planning of Jane’s daughters and the sweet conclusion. I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
As is usually the case, this author has given her readers a beautifully written romance that both inspires and gladdens the heart. I loved the earnest planning of Jane’s daughters and the sweet conclusion. I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
February 21, 2023
Sometimes bad things combine for the best outcome.
Sometimes the things that seem to be the worst lead us to the things that are the best. Elias left the Air Force under a cloud when he refused to break his word and reveal information he had agreed to keep secret. Set adrift with no real life plan, he buys a piece of property in North Dakota with some of his Air Force buddies, who are starting a crop dusting service. When he wanders into a small diner in the town one night, he has no idea what he is getting himself into. Jane a struggling, single mother of two little girls, owns and operates the diner and is expecting a new employee to show up. When Elias walks in and immediately begins clearing a table, he wanted a place to sit down, she assumes he is the new hire and puts him to work. When Elias notices the obvious tiredness of Jane, he decides that helping out at the diner is a good thing he can do easily. By the end of the night he has a new job and the beginnings of a new friendship with Jane and her daughters. Neither Jane nor Elias want more than a friendship, but mix in scheming little girls and a matchmaking steer and who knows what can happen. This is a Christian romance and so there are many references to teachings and beliefs generally presented just as conversation. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
Sometimes the things that seem to be the worst lead us to the things that are the best. Elias left the Air Force under a cloud when he refused to break his word and reveal information he had agreed to keep secret. Set adrift with no real life plan, he buys a piece of property in North Dakota with some of his Air Force buddies, who are starting a crop dusting service. When he wanders into a small diner in the town one night, he has no idea what he is getting himself into. Jane a struggling, single mother of two little girls, owns and operates the diner and is expecting a new employee to show up. When Elias walks in and immediately begins clearing a table, he wanted a place to sit down, she assumes he is the new hire and puts him to work. When Elias notices the obvious tiredness of Jane, he decides that helping out at the diner is a good thing he can do easily. By the end of the night he has a new job and the beginnings of a new friendship with Jane and her daughters. Neither Jane nor Elias want more than a friendship, but mix in scheming little girls and a matchmaking steer and who knows what can happen. This is a Christian romance and so there are many references to teachings and beliefs generally presented just as conversation. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
February 23, 2023
How can you not love this book? If you've read the other books in this series, you'll know what I'm talking about. Those little girl matchmakers finally succeed (with a couple of nudges from Billie) in matching up Jane, the owner of the diner. Two of the girls will be getting a dad! (They'll still continue on working towards a dad for Toni). Jane, who mistakes Elias for Lya, not only gets help in the diner but a Godly man she can count on. Elias, struggling to overcome the shame of a dishonorable discharge from the Air Force (even though he could have avoided it by not keeping his word), found a better future and a closer walk with God. And we got another glimpse of what was going on with Roger and Shanna. I still can't imagine why Shanna was wearing a cropped sweatshirt and tights with her short cheerleader skirt at a high school football game when she's already in college and is supposed to be an assistant cheer coach. Anyway I loved the characters in this book as well as getting to revisit characters in the previous books. It thrilled me to know that Brooklyn and Cormac were expanding their family but why wasn't Quinn at the diner with them? And what about Quinn's grandmother? Those three old coots are still looking for a lady!
March 5, 2023
Discovering that the hard changes in life can be Gods way of helping redirect and bless us at the same time.
I really enjoyed the other perspectives that Jessie has add to the last couple of books.
Jane and Elias aren’t looking for a relationship of anything more then friendship. But when a misunderstanding give Elias a job he wasn’t expecting and Jane the help she more than needs they both start realizing they want more from life.
Jane’s Daughter’s Sorrell & Merritt with their good friend Toni and try to figure out how to help their moms find someone who would be a good husband and father.
The plans and perspective of these girls brings a wonderful dimension to the series along with a few other characters stories that are developing throughout this series.
This book is definitely work grabbing your favorite drink a good blanket and snuggling up for a good read. Filled with tons of insight, wisdom woven through out this book. You will get a spiritual uplift.
I can’t wait to read the next one.
I really enjoyed the other perspectives that Jessie has add to the last couple of books.
Jane and Elias aren’t looking for a relationship of anything more then friendship. But when a misunderstanding give Elias a job he wasn’t expecting and Jane the help she more than needs they both start realizing they want more from life.
Jane’s Daughter’s Sorrell & Merritt with their good friend Toni and try to figure out how to help their moms find someone who would be a good husband and father.
The plans and perspective of these girls brings a wonderful dimension to the series along with a few other characters stories that are developing throughout this series.
This book is definitely work grabbing your favorite drink a good blanket and snuggling up for a good read. Filled with tons of insight, wisdom woven through out this book. You will get a spiritual uplift.
I can’t wait to read the next one.
March 17, 2023
Jane is a single mom and owns the local diner. When Elias enters the diner to eat, Jane’s daughter Merritt mistakes him for the new server and puts him to work. Elias is a dishonorably discharged Air Force officer, discharged for honorable reasons. Since Jane needs the help and Elias is new in town and doesn’t have a job, he decides to stay and help. They quickly realize they are interested in each other, but they each believe that the other one is not interested in marriage. When Jane’s matchmaking daughters get involved, the most unusual proposal ever occurs.
I love all the residents of Sweet Water, ND., especially the matchmaking quilters and the matchmaking steer.
As usual with Jessie Gussman’s books, many godly aspects are displayed, such as seeking God’s will, waiting on God’s timing, keeping your word, and trust.
I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
I love all the residents of Sweet Water, ND., especially the matchmaking quilters and the matchmaking steer.
As usual with Jessie Gussman’s books, many godly aspects are displayed, such as seeking God’s will, waiting on God’s timing, keeping your word, and trust.
I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
July 3, 2023
At first, I didn't know how well I would like the storyline simply based on the fact that the two girls of Jane's were the main characters at first. They were trying all they could to find a dad for themselves and a husband for their mom. How many ways could this go wrong?? Well, thanks to the author's wonderful writing skills, she wove the different viewpoints together to create a fun and entertaining story! Elias is brand new in town and stops at the diner to eat. Through a chain of unfortunate events, he ends up working the whole shift as a waiter/bus boy/cashier at the diner and never does get the meal he came in for! Luckily for him, Jane, the owner of the diner, was exactly what he needed and God put him in the right place at the right time to meet and help Jane when she really needed it. I really enjoyed this story and know you will too! I received an advance copy of this book from the author. That in no way influenced my review.
February 22, 2023
Elias Stone was dishonorably discharged from the Air Force as he wouldn’t compromise his integrity by ratting out a friend. He’s a born leader and had hoped to make the Air Force his lifelong career. Instead he now finds himself, along with his crew, moving to Sweet Briar Ranch in Sweet Water, North Dakota. Little does he know that two sweet young girls are praying in a daddy for themselves and a husband for their mother.
Jane Hines has been burned once and has no desire to marry again. Her two daughters and small cafe are all she needs in her life. Fortunately, God uses the town Highland cow and these sweet girls to push them together. There might even be a delectable Marry Me Chicken meal thrown in for good measure!
You don’t want to miss the laughs, the love, and the spiritual inspiration that happens to these two wonderful people!
Jane Hines has been burned once and has no desire to marry again. Her two daughters and small cafe are all she needs in her life. Fortunately, God uses the town Highland cow and these sweet girls to push them together. There might even be a delectable Marry Me Chicken meal thrown in for good measure!
You don’t want to miss the laughs, the love, and the spiritual inspiration that happens to these two wonderful people!
March 13, 2023
How Does Elias Come To Complete Merrit, Sorrel, and Jane's Family?
Jessie Gussman's "Just A Cowboy's Love Story", shows how God finally answers 2 little Girls' heartfelt 🙏ers for a Father! This is the 5th 📗 in the "Flyboys of Sweet Briar Ranch in North Dakota" Series. You'll understand it best, if you 📖 the Series in Chronological Order.
Elias kept his promise, but lost his Military Career. So why does God want this Man of Integrity in North Dakota? How does the town Cow help Elias figure it out?
Jane is busy juggling running the Sweet Water Restaurant, and being a single Mom to her 2 daughters. She's drawn to Elias, but can she trust him? How does God use Marry Me Chicken, to help Jane overcome her fears, to gain a Lifetime 💞?
I Highly Recommend You 📖 this Awesome, Engrossing, Small Town, Christian Romance, to find the answers! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Jessie Gussman's "Just A Cowboy's Love Story", shows how God finally answers 2 little Girls' heartfelt 🙏ers for a Father! This is the 5th 📗 in the "Flyboys of Sweet Briar Ranch in North Dakota" Series. You'll understand it best, if you 📖 the Series in Chronological Order.
Elias kept his promise, but lost his Military Career. So why does God want this Man of Integrity in North Dakota? How does the town Cow help Elias figure it out?
Jane is busy juggling running the Sweet Water Restaurant, and being a single Mom to her 2 daughters. She's drawn to Elias, but can she trust him? How does God use Marry Me Chicken, to help Jane overcome her fears, to gain a Lifetime 💞?
I Highly Recommend You 📖 this Awesome, Engrossing, Small Town, Christian Romance, to find the answers! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
March 31, 2023
I loved this wonderful romance between Jane and Elias. Jane owns the main diner in Sweet Water, ND, and she is a single Mom to two young daughters, Sorrell and Merritt. Elias is a newcomer to Sweet Water who owns part of Sweet Briar Ranch with men he served with in the Air Force before they got out. When Elias goes to the diner to get something to eat, he decides to help clean tables since there aren't any clean tables. It was funny because as soon as he cleaned a table for himself and got back from unloading the tub, a new customer had taken his table. This kept happening and he never got to eat but ended up hiring on as a waiter due to a misunderstanding. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy clean romance and lovable characters. I received an ARC of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
February 23, 2023
I was so happy to see that Merritt and Sorrell (the little matchmakers) finally found the “secret” to getting themselves a dad and their mom Jane a husband. We have heard of these sweet girls in previous books and I enjoyed reading about them and I loved the sweet romance building that went on between Elias and Jane. I was laughing at several situations in this book. Elias had just moved to Sweetwater after his life plans changed drastically. Jane is a single mom trying to raise her daughters on her own and running a restaurant. I love how they felt and recognized the power of God in their lives. I really love this series and can’t believe how I feel like each book is getting better and better if that is even possible since the first book was fantastic.
March 2, 2023
When Elias keeps his word and remains silent at a court-martial, he receives a dishonourable discharge - destroying his career (and life) plans. Understandably disgruntled with life, he heads for the ranch he part-owns, but his plans take an unexpected turn when he's mistaken for a new waiter when he goes to eat at the diner. He's ready to 'quit' but rethinks as he finds the owner increasingly intriguing. But neither of them is ready for marriage - though both her daughters and the steer Billy think they should be... Could this new life be something God has planned that is even better than Elias ever dreamed?
A new character and an old (well, several old!). We've seen Jane in and out of previous books in the series, along with her matchmaking kids, so it was lovely to see them finally get their wish - and Jane get what she hadn't wished for but was glad for in the end... Also hints of ongoing background story arcs, which I enjoy - but you probably need to have read the full series to appreciate, though the romance itself is a standalone story. As usual with this author, some thought-provoking and often deep conversations which I enjoyed, as well as people trying to match others up - which I'm not so keen on. :-) All in all, a delightful story with interesting characters and an inspiring message.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
A new character and an old (well, several old!). We've seen Jane in and out of previous books in the series, along with her matchmaking kids, so it was lovely to see them finally get their wish - and Jane get what she hadn't wished for but was glad for in the end... Also hints of ongoing background story arcs, which I enjoy - but you probably need to have read the full series to appreciate, though the romance itself is a standalone story. As usual with this author, some thought-provoking and often deep conversations which I enjoyed, as well as people trying to match others up - which I'm not so keen on. :-) All in all, a delightful story with interesting characters and an inspiring message.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
February 24, 2023
I received a free copy of this book and am giving this review voluntarily.
What a great love story! It all starts with a lot of misunderstandings, then blossoms into something only God could have had a hand in.
While Jane has her hands being a single mother and busy raising her two daughters and running her diner, her daughters are hoping and praying for a new father/husband. They decide to give destiny a little help when they spot Elias, a new single man in town. Thereafter hilarity ensues with one misunderstanding after another happening to these two, and other people in town who are hoping to match Elias up with someone else. This tale gives one hope that there truly is someone for everyone on this planet and all we have to do is wait for God to make it apparent.
What a great love story! It all starts with a lot of misunderstandings, then blossoms into something only God could have had a hand in.
While Jane has her hands being a single mother and busy raising her two daughters and running her diner, her daughters are hoping and praying for a new father/husband. They decide to give destiny a little help when they spot Elias, a new single man in town. Thereafter hilarity ensues with one misunderstanding after another happening to these two, and other people in town who are hoping to match Elias up with someone else. This tale gives one hope that there truly is someone for everyone on this planet and all we have to do is wait for God to make it apparent.
March 21, 2023
His plans, or God’s plan? His plans were all about a career in the Air Force, but that imploded when he was dishonorably discharged when he refused to break a confidence. Ending up in North Dakota in a small town, where the weather was miserable being a waiter was definitely not in his plans. Two little girls had plans though and it involved finding a good man for their mom who would also be a good dad for them. Jane hadn’t felt like this for a long time and couldn’t trust her feelings after messing up so bad the first time. This is Jessie at her best, showing how when we think life is dealing us the worst hand possible, God might really be setting us up for the best hand possible.
I received this as an ARC, clean with Christian overtones.
I received this as an ARC, clean with Christian overtones.
April 1, 2023
Loved Jane and Elias' story. Jane's daughters had been praying for a husband for their Mom, and a Dad for them, forever. Finally, Elias walked into their diner, and they put him to work bussing tables. Through every book in the series, these little girls were doing all they could think of to find a Dad. Finally, they think they found one and Miss April was snatching him away to the widow woman with 6 kids. I so enjoyed the life lesson they were learning from the adults they turned too. Wonderful characters throughtout this book. I read this book in a day, it was that good. If you like clean sweet heartfelt stories, you have found a great book and series. I highly recommend 'Just A Cowboy's Love Story'. I received this book from the publisher. The thoughts and comments are my own.
February 22, 2023
4.5* rounded to 5*
When God allows all your dreams to crash what do you do? Elias faced that decision and went to the only place he might be accepted, Sweetwater, ND and his crew. And it was cold! Jane had waited on the Lord, worked hard, and was a single mother who owned the diner. She was content after facing her crash and loved her work. Elias was lost and went to the diner to eat and that’s when the real fun started. Watching them choose integrity and God’s plan was quite interesting as they had help in discerning God’s will for their lives. Recommend this clean, Christian romance.
Received ARC and this is my honest opinion.
When God allows all your dreams to crash what do you do? Elias faced that decision and went to the only place he might be accepted, Sweetwater, ND and his crew. And it was cold! Jane had waited on the Lord, worked hard, and was a single mother who owned the diner. She was content after facing her crash and loved her work. Elias was lost and went to the diner to eat and that’s when the real fun started. Watching them choose integrity and God’s plan was quite interesting as they had help in discerning God’s will for their lives. Recommend this clean, Christian romance.
Received ARC and this is my honest opinion.
March 12, 2023
Elias: an honorable man treated dishonorably, betrayed by one he trusted, stripped of his career, lonely, lost, away from God but wanting to fix that, in a town in the middle of no where, not knowing what was next.
Jane: a sweet, kind, compassionate single mom, hard-working, wanting to raise her daughter for God, needing help in her diner to make it profitable.
They meet under amusing circumstances and she becomes his employer. Add to this mixture two adorable girls desperately wanting a daddy and you have a recipe for amazing things to happen.
A sweet romance with many Biblical teachings.
I received an ARC from the author for my voluntary opinion.
Jane: a sweet, kind, compassionate single mom, hard-working, wanting to raise her daughter for God, needing help in her diner to make it profitable.
They meet under amusing circumstances and she becomes his employer. Add to this mixture two adorable girls desperately wanting a daddy and you have a recipe for amazing things to happen.
A sweet romance with many Biblical teachings.
I received an ARC from the author for my voluntary opinion.
March 18, 2023
Another fun story by Jessie Gussman. Two cute kids desperately praying for a Dad decide to get active about it, (mind you they don't want just any Dad but a good Christian one that will love them and their mum) plus the matchmaking town mascot Billy the steer and a chicken recipe that supposedly makes one fall in love and marry, makes this a very enjoyable read, yet in all Jessies's books there is still things that make you think deeper. Elias sacrifices his career because he won't go back on his word, being willing to help when it is not convenient or even noticed. I received an ARC but this review is my own.
March 18, 2023
Just a Cowboy's Love Story is the story of Jane and Elias. Jane's 2 daughters, Sorrell and Merritt and their friend Toni has taken over matchmaking for their mother's in Sweet Water. They chose Elias for their new dad. I think the feelings that Elias said to Jane told the story of their love when he said "and maybe you're my reward, or maybe you're just the one God sent to me to let me know that I might have been giving up something, but I was gaining something so much better" . That is what Jane also thought that he was the one that was a reward to her.
I received an advanced copy for my review. I give this story 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟.
I received an advanced copy for my review. I give this story 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟.
March 20, 2023
Great, clean addition to the Fly Boy series by Jessie Gussman.
Sorrell and Merritt want a husband for their single mom, Jane, so they can have a dad. They also want to find one for their friend Toni’s mom.
Elias is new in town and part of the former Air Force guys who bought Sweet Briar Ranch. When he goes to town to eat at the diner, he’s mistaken for the new hire and is put to work waiting and bussing tables.
There just seems to be a magnetism between Jane and Elias that they can’t explain but still try to fight.
*I received this book as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
Sorrell and Merritt want a husband for their single mom, Jane, so they can have a dad. They also want to find one for their friend Toni’s mom.
Elias is new in town and part of the former Air Force guys who bought Sweet Briar Ranch. When he goes to town to eat at the diner, he’s mistaken for the new hire and is put to work waiting and bussing tables.
There just seems to be a magnetism between Jane and Elias that they can’t explain but still try to fight.
*I received this book as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
March 25, 2023
Just a Cowboys Love Story
Elias walks into the diner to get something to eat and he decides to wipe off his own table, Jane walks out and thinks he's the new employee so he starts working at the diner, eventually Jane figures out he was not the new employee after all. They get to know each other better but are afraid to follow their feelings. The three little girls want a dad and a husband for their mom's, they ask one of the Match maker's for her love potion and she gives them a recipe for Marry Me Chicken, fast forward the girls set up Elias and Jane with a romantic dinner, with Marry Me Chicken being the main course hoping that it will want them to get married
Elias walks into the diner to get something to eat and he decides to wipe off his own table, Jane walks out and thinks he's the new employee so he starts working at the diner, eventually Jane figures out he was not the new employee after all. They get to know each other better but are afraid to follow their feelings. The three little girls want a dad and a husband for their mom's, they ask one of the Match maker's for her love potion and she gives them a recipe for Marry Me Chicken, fast forward the girls set up Elias and Jane with a romantic dinner, with Marry Me Chicken being the main course hoping that it will want them to get married
March 25, 2023
God always repays when we surrender our will to His
There wasn't anything in this book I didn't like. I loved the little girls,Merrill and Sorrell. I loved the way they thought they needed to "help" God. I loved Jane and Elias's courtship. One of my favorite conversations is the one Elias has with Preacher. Preacher has his own story, you'll have to go back thru Jessie's books to find it. Jesse's a little preachy, but, it's said in such a way that it's not offensive. I have to say that I think this is my favorite book so far in this series, although I will say it is hard to chose.
There wasn't anything in this book I didn't like. I loved the little girls,Merrill and Sorrell. I loved the way they thought they needed to "help" God. I loved Jane and Elias's courtship. One of my favorite conversations is the one Elias has with Preacher. Preacher has his own story, you'll have to go back thru Jessie's books to find it. Jesse's a little preachy, but, it's said in such a way that it's not offensive. I have to say that I think this is my favorite book so far in this series, although I will say it is hard to chose.
March 25, 2023
This is Elias and Janes story thanks to two little girls looking for a father for them and a husband for their mother. Elias goes to the diner to grab a meal and the place was packed and Jane was backed up. Elias goes to clean a table and Jane accidentally thinks he is the new help she hired on line. The girls help train him while asking him questions about himself. These two soon start working on a plan to get Elias and their mom together. It's fun and heartwarming to see these girls work for something they want so bad while also wanting to see their mom happy.
I really loved this story and recommend reading it.
I received an arc copy in return for a honest review.
I really loved this story and recommend reading it.
I received an arc copy in return for a honest review.
December 24, 2025
Jessie's books are edifying. I would say they are also light reads, but she does tackle difficult topics. Bad things happen to the characters or because of their choices, but there is redemption, grace, and forgiveness. She weaves in truths about how we should leave as Christians, which serve as reminders as I listen along.
Love the pig and cow story woven through this series.
I've listened to her books on YouTube, "Say With Jay." He's a great narrator, even for the women's voices. It's the type of book that you can listen to while doing something else. Any can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend starting the series in order as several connect characters and places.
Love the pig and cow story woven through this series.
I've listened to her books on YouTube, "Say With Jay." He's a great narrator, even for the women's voices. It's the type of book that you can listen to while doing something else. Any can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend starting the series in order as several connect characters and places.
February 18, 2023
I don’t know how it’s possible but each book written by Jessie Gussman is better than the last. This is a part of the series set in Sweet Water with some old friends and new. Amazingly realistic characters and a storyline that makes you feel as if you’re a neighbor. Elias and Jane meet under bizarre but funny circumstances and with Jane’s young daughters searching for a husband for their mother it can make life interesting! Also love the insight of developing strong Christian values in a relationship.
February 19, 2023
The cover is pretty. The title is nice. The blurb will sound good and make sense if you've read the previous books in the series.
The story is lovely. It's written perfectly. Jane's not letting her ex-husband steal her joy, and how that affected the people around her in a good way, is a realisation that I hadn't stumbled upon before. It was gratifying to read this thought. My favourite characters were the three little girls: Merritt, Sorrell, and Toni.
I don't have words to explain how beautiful this book felt. I can only recommend it!
I obtained an e-ARC via the author's newsletter.
The story is lovely. It's written perfectly. Jane's not letting her ex-husband steal her joy, and how that affected the people around her in a good way, is a realisation that I hadn't stumbled upon before. It was gratifying to read this thought. My favourite characters were the three little girls: Merritt, Sorrell, and Toni.
I don't have words to explain how beautiful this book felt. I can only recommend it!
I obtained an e-ARC via the author's newsletter.
February 19, 2023
What an enjoyable story!
This is my voluntary review of a copy I received from the author.
The characters were all realistic, just really good people. The main characters were both hardworking, honest, and honorable. The rest of the townspeople look out for each other. I love that about this small town.
The story features a bit of a misunderstanding. Well, two actually. One gets sorted pretty quickly. The other takes a little longer, but all works out in the end.
I loved seeing characters from previous books appear in this one, too.
This is my voluntary review of a copy I received from the author.
The characters were all realistic, just really good people. The main characters were both hardworking, honest, and honorable. The rest of the townspeople look out for each other. I love that about this small town.
The story features a bit of a misunderstanding. Well, two actually. One gets sorted pretty quickly. The other takes a little longer, but all works out in the end.
I loved seeing characters from previous books appear in this one, too.
February 25, 2023
I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Jane has two daughters and runs the local diner. Her daughters want a father and husband for Jane. Elias Stone is new in town and when he goes to the diner he ends up with a waiter’s job. He decides he’s ok with that, and wants to help Jane out. He’s down on himself since he was dishonorably discharged from the Air Force when he wouldn’t divulge someone else’s secret. He and Jane neither of whom want a relationship, end up drawn to each other. A touching story about love, trust and second chances.
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