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Spring for Susannah
Hundreds of miles from home, Susannah faces an uncertain future as a mail-order bride on the untamed Dakota prairie.
When her parents die suddenly, and no suitors call, Susannah resigns herself to the only option available: becoming a mail-order bride. Agreeing to marry her pastor's brother, Jesse, Susannah leaves the only home she's ever known for the untamed frontier of the Dakota Territory.
Her new husband is more loving and patient with her than she believes she deserves. Still, there is also a wildness to him that mirrors the wilderness surrounding them. And Susannah finds herself constantly on edge. But Jesse's confidence in her--and his faith in God's perfect plan--slowly begin to chip away at the wall she hides behind.
When she miscarries in the brutal Dakota winter, Susannah's fledgling faith in herself and in God begins to crumble. Still, Jesse's love is unwavering. Just when it seems like winter will never end, Susannah finally sees the first tentative evidence of spring. And with it, the realization that more than the landscape has changed.
She looks to the future with a renewed heart. Yet in her wildest dreams, she couldn't predict all that awaits her.
When her parents die suddenly, and no suitors call, Susannah resigns herself to the only option available: becoming a mail-order bride. Agreeing to marry her pastor's brother, Jesse, Susannah leaves the only home she's ever known for the untamed frontier of the Dakota Territory.
Her new husband is more loving and patient with her than she believes she deserves. Still, there is also a wildness to him that mirrors the wilderness surrounding them. And Susannah finds herself constantly on edge. But Jesse's confidence in her--and his faith in God's perfect plan--slowly begin to chip away at the wall she hides behind.
When she miscarries in the brutal Dakota winter, Susannah's fledgling faith in herself and in God begins to crumble. Still, Jesse's love is unwavering. Just when it seems like winter will never end, Susannah finally sees the first tentative evidence of spring. And with it, the realization that more than the landscape has changed.
She looks to the future with a renewed heart. Yet in her wildest dreams, she couldn't predict all that awaits her.
343 pages, Paperback
First published June 14, 2011
28 people are currently reading
1285 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Richmond
7 books132 followersYou are worthy.
Even if you’re shy like the heroine of Spring for Susannah.
Even if you fail at your mission like Sophia in Through Rushing Water.
Even if you can’t convince your boss of your competence like Mabel in Gilding the Waters.
Even if you have a child with a disability like Caroline in Third Strand of the Cord.
The world says you’re lacking, but God knows better. He loves you so much, He sacrificed His son for you. He wiped your sin-slate clean and made a way for you to go to Heaven. So join me on the porch – take the air chair and put your feet up – and let me tell you about this God who loves you!
Even if you’re shy like the heroine of Spring for Susannah.
Even if you fail at your mission like Sophia in Through Rushing Water.
Even if you can’t convince your boss of your competence like Mabel in Gilding the Waters.
Even if you have a child with a disability like Caroline in Third Strand of the Cord.
The world says you’re lacking, but God knows better. He loves you so much, He sacrificed His son for you. He wiped your sin-slate clean and made a way for you to go to Heaven. So join me on the porch – take the air chair and put your feet up – and let me tell you about this God who loves you!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
May 31, 2011
Some books are just plain good! Some books are so engrossing, it’s easy to stay put for 3+ hours. And some books are so enjoyable you can’t help smiling when you think about the story.
“Spring for Susannah” fits that bill for this reader. I think what I loved the most about the novel, were the characters. Yes…all books have to have characters, but Susannah and Jesse were so loveable and completely charmed my heart- Jesse especially. Talk about a loveable hero! Susannah had so much growth to do and started out the book as a very meek heroine, but my goodness as the story progressed you saw HER progressing. The author trusted her reader to get it and I loved seeing the little subtleties all through the story that crescendoed into a character that could stand on her own two feet.
I sat in one place until this book was finished and I never once tired of reading. I snorted and giggled over the little bits of humor that added spice. The secondary characters are the perfect mix of level-headedness and quirky. I hope if there are more books we get more of them!
A sweet faith message, a loving romance and characters I won’t soon forget, this historical romance is that perfect antidote for cold days, the kind you want to curl up with and become lost within the pages.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers through Litfuse Publicity for my copy to review.
“Spring for Susannah” fits that bill for this reader. I think what I loved the most about the novel, were the characters. Yes…all books have to have characters, but Susannah and Jesse were so loveable and completely charmed my heart- Jesse especially. Talk about a loveable hero! Susannah had so much growth to do and started out the book as a very meek heroine, but my goodness as the story progressed you saw HER progressing. The author trusted her reader to get it and I loved seeing the little subtleties all through the story that crescendoed into a character that could stand on her own two feet.
I sat in one place until this book was finished and I never once tired of reading. I snorted and giggled over the little bits of humor that added spice. The secondary characters are the perfect mix of level-headedness and quirky. I hope if there are more books we get more of them!
A sweet faith message, a loving romance and characters I won’t soon forget, this historical romance is that perfect antidote for cold days, the kind you want to curl up with and become lost within the pages.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers through Litfuse Publicity for my copy to review.
June 27, 2011
Susannah leaves her home in Detroit to head to the Dakota territory as a mail-order bride for her minister's brother, Jesse Mason. Upon her arrival, Dakota is nothing like she expects. Even worse, marriage demands far more than she expected. Shy and wounded, she believes Jesse could never lover her.
Jesse is patient with Susannah, waiting until she learns to love him. They grow to love each other. Then a locust plague wipes out their crop. With few options left, Jesse leaves to find work in the growing towns. Somehow he ends up in Fort Lincoln, and things continue to get worse. Will Susannah and Jesse ever be able to rekindle their new found love?
I initially found myself excited about this book. My excitement, however, soon diminished as I began to read the book. I'm not sure if it's the author's voice or the writing itself, but I found this book a very hard read. It became entirely too confusing at times. The proportion in this novel proved to be an issue. Some scenes were so fast-paced, jumping from one location to the next--or from one action to the next--that it became near impossible to discern what was taking place or even form a solid idea of the story itself. Some events needed to be slow-placed to build important tension, yet they were glossed over some much so that one had to wonder what just took place.
The dialogue lent much confusion as well. At times it became difficult to know who was speaking as character reactions and actions had been placed with the wrong dialogue.
The conflict itself seemed too devised and unnatural, almost forced. Arguments often sprung out of nowhere, the heroine's past hurt didn't seem to justify her current state of mind, and it seemed like the stakes were never high enough to make me understand the true conflict.
I wish I could have enjoyed this story, but overall, I found it very difficult to do so.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, through Bookneeze, for the purpose of providing an honest review of the material.
Jesse is patient with Susannah, waiting until she learns to love him. They grow to love each other. Then a locust plague wipes out their crop. With few options left, Jesse leaves to find work in the growing towns. Somehow he ends up in Fort Lincoln, and things continue to get worse. Will Susannah and Jesse ever be able to rekindle their new found love?
I initially found myself excited about this book. My excitement, however, soon diminished as I began to read the book. I'm not sure if it's the author's voice or the writing itself, but I found this book a very hard read. It became entirely too confusing at times. The proportion in this novel proved to be an issue. Some scenes were so fast-paced, jumping from one location to the next--or from one action to the next--that it became near impossible to discern what was taking place or even form a solid idea of the story itself. Some events needed to be slow-placed to build important tension, yet they were glossed over some much so that one had to wonder what just took place.
The dialogue lent much confusion as well. At times it became difficult to know who was speaking as character reactions and actions had been placed with the wrong dialogue.
The conflict itself seemed too devised and unnatural, almost forced. Arguments often sprung out of nowhere, the heroine's past hurt didn't seem to justify her current state of mind, and it seemed like the stakes were never high enough to make me understand the true conflict.
I wish I could have enjoyed this story, but overall, I found it very difficult to do so.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, through Bookneeze, for the purpose of providing an honest review of the material.
June 23, 2011
After Susannah's parents died, she was almost killed by a man. To escape, she agreed to marry a man she had never met, although they had been exchanging letters. Jesse had been lving alone for awhile, so he welcomed his new bride, even though she's not quite what he had in mind. Spring for Susannah is the story of how they grow to know each other and live during tough times.
I loved that Susannah is not your typical leading lady. She's 30, very shy and described as plain and skinny. I found it refreshing to read about just a normal girl. Jesse is very talkative, which I found humorous. Catherine actually has humor, almost discreetly, sprinkled throughout the book. I laughed out loud on several occasions!
Since this is a story of newlyweds learning about each other, I don't really recommend it to younger readers. Although there's no details at all, I don't think some of the scenes are appropriate for younger, unmarried readers.
I loved reading Spring for Susannah, and I will definitely be keeping an eye out for Catherine's future books!!! It was a beautiful story!
I loved that Susannah is not your typical leading lady. She's 30, very shy and described as plain and skinny. I found it refreshing to read about just a normal girl. Jesse is very talkative, which I found humorous. Catherine actually has humor, almost discreetly, sprinkled throughout the book. I laughed out loud on several occasions!
Since this is a story of newlyweds learning about each other, I don't really recommend it to younger readers. Although there's no details at all, I don't think some of the scenes are appropriate for younger, unmarried readers.
I loved reading Spring for Susannah, and I will definitely be keeping an eye out for Catherine's future books!!! It was a beautiful story!
Read
March 20, 2025Set in Dakota Territory, somewhere around 1861-1889.
Arranged marriage/mail-order bride trope. More spicy than I’m used to, but all in the context of marriage and nothing explicit.
A lot about getting to know each other — he’s talkative and upbeat; she’s scared and keeps thoughts to herself. Also a lot about homesteading/farming. He disappears for a big part at the end of the book.
Trigger warning: miscarriage.
Arranged marriage/mail-order bride trope. More spicy than I’m used to, but all in the context of marriage and nothing explicit.
A lot about getting to know each other — he’s talkative and upbeat; she’s scared and keeps thoughts to herself. Also a lot about homesteading/farming. He disappears for a big part at the end of the book.
Trigger warning: miscarriage.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2011
A mail-order bride. One of my favorite type of historical fiction books to read. I’ve always loved reading about two people marrying, though never knowing or seeing each other beforehand, and learning how to live and love each other. And that was the story that Catharine Richmond brought to readers with her debut novel, Spring for Susannah.
The personalities of Susannah and Jesse were great—opposites in just about every way, they made a great team. Almost instantly I liked Jesse’s talkative and gentle way that he handled the sudden marriage to Susannah. He didn’t force her and when he learned of the attempted rape, he was willing to give her the space and time she needed. She’d never been loved, so Jesse saw to it that she knew what it was liked to be loved and treasured as a wife. A very sweet guy. I didn’t warm to Susannah as much as I’d have liked. In the beginning, the way she was so reserved and withdrawn towards Jesse, when he really tried hard to put her at ease, was a little annoying. Even after they consummated the marriage she was standoffish and unwilling to admit her feelings for him. She got better towards the end, and I was glad of it!
I really loved the first half of the book, reading about the first few months together. I found it easy to keep reading and stayed up until the wee hours. A lot of sweet moments as Susannah opened herself to Jesse’s gentle love. I admit that sometimes I had to stop and reread portions to understand what had just happened—events often happened so fast and with little or no explanation that I was left wondering what was going on. And the first ‘fight’ between Jesse and Susannah seemed really unnatural and forced. It just didn’t flow. When I reached the halfway point, two things happened—Jesse left and I started losing interest in the book. I’m not sure why, but I didn’t like it when he left to try to find work. The whole thing was rather sudden and extreme. Sure, Jesse wanted to provide for her…but he left her alone on their homestead. My interest caught back on when Jesse was finally able to head for home, though. Very sweet reunion.
The writing was pretty well done. There were a few times that the actions or emotions of Jesse or Susannah were a bit forced or abrupt, but not much. As you can imagine, there is a lot of adult content in regards to their marriage life—they consummate their marriage, but the chapter stops before going into too much detail. Leading up to the end of that chapter things are pretty intimate between them, but maybe that’s just me. There is one scene when they go to the doctor that I would advise to skip altogether—the doc explains to Jesse ways to avoid getting Susannah pregnant. Besides what I’ve mentioned, it was a sweet love story that I enjoyed.
Spring for Susannah is Catharine’s first novel and is descriptive, engaging, and sure to please a wide range of readers. I wouldn’t be surprised if I found myself rereading the first half of the book—Jesse was a fun character and I loved reading how he handled shy and reserved Susannah. So, all in all, there were areas that I had a few problems with in this book, but I’m glad I read it! ;-) I will definitely be keeping an eye out for future books by this author.
The personalities of Susannah and Jesse were great—opposites in just about every way, they made a great team. Almost instantly I liked Jesse’s talkative and gentle way that he handled the sudden marriage to Susannah. He didn’t force her and when he learned of the attempted rape, he was willing to give her the space and time she needed. She’d never been loved, so Jesse saw to it that she knew what it was liked to be loved and treasured as a wife. A very sweet guy. I didn’t warm to Susannah as much as I’d have liked. In the beginning, the way she was so reserved and withdrawn towards Jesse, when he really tried hard to put her at ease, was a little annoying. Even after they consummated the marriage she was standoffish and unwilling to admit her feelings for him. She got better towards the end, and I was glad of it!
I really loved the first half of the book, reading about the first few months together. I found it easy to keep reading and stayed up until the wee hours. A lot of sweet moments as Susannah opened herself to Jesse’s gentle love. I admit that sometimes I had to stop and reread portions to understand what had just happened—events often happened so fast and with little or no explanation that I was left wondering what was going on. And the first ‘fight’ between Jesse and Susannah seemed really unnatural and forced. It just didn’t flow. When I reached the halfway point, two things happened—Jesse left and I started losing interest in the book. I’m not sure why, but I didn’t like it when he left to try to find work. The whole thing was rather sudden and extreme. Sure, Jesse wanted to provide for her…but he left her alone on their homestead. My interest caught back on when Jesse was finally able to head for home, though. Very sweet reunion.
The writing was pretty well done. There were a few times that the actions or emotions of Jesse or Susannah were a bit forced or abrupt, but not much. As you can imagine, there is a lot of adult content in regards to their marriage life—they consummate their marriage, but the chapter stops before going into too much detail. Leading up to the end of that chapter things are pretty intimate between them, but maybe that’s just me. There is one scene when they go to the doctor that I would advise to skip altogether—the doc explains to Jesse ways to avoid getting Susannah pregnant. Besides what I’ve mentioned, it was a sweet love story that I enjoyed.
Spring for Susannah is Catharine’s first novel and is descriptive, engaging, and sure to please a wide range of readers. I wouldn’t be surprised if I found myself rereading the first half of the book—Jesse was a fun character and I loved reading how he handled shy and reserved Susannah. So, all in all, there were areas that I had a few problems with in this book, but I’m glad I read it! ;-) I will definitely be keeping an eye out for future books by this author.
December 10, 2014
I’ve written this review over several times, so let’s give it one more go, shall we?
What I want from a novel is something to think about, to excite my imagination, and maybe to challenge my viewpoint. I also want to be entertained. I admit, I demand a lot from a novel. I want good writing, characters I can either love or hate (depending on whether we are talking about the villain or the hero), and a story that is about something more than just … emotions. I love emotion in a good book. I love exploring it. But it kind of needs to be the backbone of a story, rather than at the forefront. For this reason, I do not read straight up romances. Growing up, I was more of a Sherlock Holmes kind of girl than a Jane Austen kind of girl.
I ran across this book because I was doing research into what Christian audiences believe is appropriate and non-appropriate within the Christian fiction department. The author and the book title was cited by some as an example of “racy” Christian fiction (which it isn’t, in my mind), but also was on the Christian best-seller list, indicating a general acceptance of it. As a writer, I’m always curious to see how other writers deal with interesting and/or potentially scandalous topics like arranged marriages, so I wanted to read it and see how she chose to handle sex. In these kinds of books, sex is either ignored in an arranged marriage (doesn’t exist) or is exploited for tawdry’s sake (in bodice rippers). Here, it plays a large part in the first three fourths of the plot (hubby wants it, she is afraid) but other than references to Song of Solomon and some playful banter between husband and wife, there’s nothing that I can see that might “lead readers’ thought lives astray.”
That being said, I have mixed feelings about this book. I lost interest in it midway through when the hero departed and was no longer interacting with the heroine. The entire first half of the book is based around them becoming emotionally and physically intimate with one another after an arranged marriage and a previous trauma in her life, so when Jesse left, my attention started to wander and I found myself skipping huge sections and skim-reading just to reach the last few pages where I knew they would be reunited. I also had a hard time not becoming frustrated with both main characters, because a lot of their decisions are completely irrational. I know that it was intentionally written that way, but there were pages where I wanted to shake both of them.
Overall, for what it is, and the genre it is marketed in (prairie romance), it’s a good book. Just not to my particular taste.
What I want from a novel is something to think about, to excite my imagination, and maybe to challenge my viewpoint. I also want to be entertained. I admit, I demand a lot from a novel. I want good writing, characters I can either love or hate (depending on whether we are talking about the villain or the hero), and a story that is about something more than just … emotions. I love emotion in a good book. I love exploring it. But it kind of needs to be the backbone of a story, rather than at the forefront. For this reason, I do not read straight up romances. Growing up, I was more of a Sherlock Holmes kind of girl than a Jane Austen kind of girl.
I ran across this book because I was doing research into what Christian audiences believe is appropriate and non-appropriate within the Christian fiction department. The author and the book title was cited by some as an example of “racy” Christian fiction (which it isn’t, in my mind), but also was on the Christian best-seller list, indicating a general acceptance of it. As a writer, I’m always curious to see how other writers deal with interesting and/or potentially scandalous topics like arranged marriages, so I wanted to read it and see how she chose to handle sex. In these kinds of books, sex is either ignored in an arranged marriage (doesn’t exist) or is exploited for tawdry’s sake (in bodice rippers). Here, it plays a large part in the first three fourths of the plot (hubby wants it, she is afraid) but other than references to Song of Solomon and some playful banter between husband and wife, there’s nothing that I can see that might “lead readers’ thought lives astray.”
That being said, I have mixed feelings about this book. I lost interest in it midway through when the hero departed and was no longer interacting with the heroine. The entire first half of the book is based around them becoming emotionally and physically intimate with one another after an arranged marriage and a previous trauma in her life, so when Jesse left, my attention started to wander and I found myself skipping huge sections and skim-reading just to reach the last few pages where I knew they would be reunited. I also had a hard time not becoming frustrated with both main characters, because a lot of their decisions are completely irrational. I know that it was intentionally written that way, but there were pages where I wanted to shake both of them.
Overall, for what it is, and the genre it is marketed in (prairie romance), it’s a good book. Just not to my particular taste.
July 9, 2011
Riveting! That's the best word I can think of to describe this novel. I loved how each chapter began with an unspoken thought that Jesse had regarding his wife. That was so well done because it increased my anticipation of each chapter's contents and gave a hint at the lesson that would be learned by the characters.
Have you ever wondered how in the world people survived the winter on the frontier with little to no humanity around them and so much snow that they were holed up in soddies for days at a time? Well, this story gives you a glimpse into that life. It also tosses in a bit about the Lakota Indian tribe and the PTSD suffered by many men who served and survived the Civil War. There were many excellent thoughts about a number of situations slipped into this novel that make you think as you enjoy the story.
I have always enjoyed Mail-Order-bride-type stories, but this one was uniquely different from the typical format and incredibly well-done. Susannah had a lot of baggage, but she was likable and a very believable character. I totally adored her husband, Jesse. He had pride and the desire to protect and provide for his family like a typical man, but he was also a spiritual leader and an emotional healer in her life. He showed her what true love was, and I enjoyed experiencing their relationship as it grew stronger and finally bloomed.
This story was written so naturally in regards to the sexual relationship and the spiritual growth in their individual lives and marriage that they seemed like real people to me, even friends. Oftentimes these elements in a story feel a bit forced. Not in this book. I never would have guessed this story was a debut novel. The writing was beautiful and in some ways reminded me of a Laura Frantz novel. If you love her writing, you will definitely enjoy this book. It was refreshingly realistic and I got a lot out of the story on a personal level. I even found myself smiling as Susannah discovered some spiritual truths and learned to be honest with God. That's a good Christian novel...one that not only inspires you to be a better person, but one that encourages spiritual growth and being honest with yourself. Wonderful, wonderful story. It's definitely a favorite of mine for 2011. Don't miss this one if you want an inspiring read this year.
Have you ever wondered how in the world people survived the winter on the frontier with little to no humanity around them and so much snow that they were holed up in soddies for days at a time? Well, this story gives you a glimpse into that life. It also tosses in a bit about the Lakota Indian tribe and the PTSD suffered by many men who served and survived the Civil War. There were many excellent thoughts about a number of situations slipped into this novel that make you think as you enjoy the story.
I have always enjoyed Mail-Order-bride-type stories, but this one was uniquely different from the typical format and incredibly well-done. Susannah had a lot of baggage, but she was likable and a very believable character. I totally adored her husband, Jesse. He had pride and the desire to protect and provide for his family like a typical man, but he was also a spiritual leader and an emotional healer in her life. He showed her what true love was, and I enjoyed experiencing their relationship as it grew stronger and finally bloomed.
This story was written so naturally in regards to the sexual relationship and the spiritual growth in their individual lives and marriage that they seemed like real people to me, even friends. Oftentimes these elements in a story feel a bit forced. Not in this book. I never would have guessed this story was a debut novel. The writing was beautiful and in some ways reminded me of a Laura Frantz novel. If you love her writing, you will definitely enjoy this book. It was refreshingly realistic and I got a lot out of the story on a personal level. I even found myself smiling as Susannah discovered some spiritual truths and learned to be honest with God. That's a good Christian novel...one that not only inspires you to be a better person, but one that encourages spiritual growth and being honest with yourself. Wonderful, wonderful story. It's definitely a favorite of mine for 2011. Don't miss this one if you want an inspiring read this year.
May 31, 2011
Such a great romantic debut novel!! I was really impressed by the story of Spring for Susannah! I LOVE stories about mail-order brides and this one was great! Unlike other mail-order brides stories I've read this one the main hero and heroine were sort of set-up by a mutual person. The hero Jesse has a minister brother, and Jesse gets lonely and asks his brother if he knows anyone looking to be a bride? So then the minister thinks the quiet shy girl Susannah who just lost her parents and needs a husband is a perfect match for Jesse and that's how they end up together!
What's different about this Christian Romance than most is the couple gets married before they even meet each other and then they fall in love later instead of the other way around! Susannah is terribly shy and has dealt with some horrible things in her past so she has a hard time opening up to Jesse even though Jesse is everything one could want in a mate!
I really loved this story! I could really relate to Susannah because I am a shy person myself and find I related to her inner voice a lot. Susannah kept telling herself she shouldn't do this and he wouldn't like her if she said that and so on and it reminded me of myself!
There was so much to love about the hero Jesse. He isn't perfect and has dealt with some pretty hard trials in his life but he places a lot of faith in God and does everything he can to get Susannah to open up to him. I loved his teasing and flirting with Susannah.
Some people gave a negative comment about the bedroom scenes but I personally enjoyed them. They were married and I thought the flirting and teasing just made them seem more like a realistic character and marriage then other books but I do think some people might not like that sort of talk.
My only complaint of the book is the ending. There was so many things going on and I wish they would have gotten to the ending way sooner than they did and I also wish there was more after the ending! It's hard to word exactly what I felt was lacking in the ending without spoiling the book!
I can't wait to read more by Catherine Richmond because I'm sure her writing will just continue to get better!
A Big Thank You to Litfuse for providing a review copy of the book. I was not obligated to provide a positive review.
What's different about this Christian Romance than most is the couple gets married before they even meet each other and then they fall in love later instead of the other way around! Susannah is terribly shy and has dealt with some horrible things in her past so she has a hard time opening up to Jesse even though Jesse is everything one could want in a mate!
I really loved this story! I could really relate to Susannah because I am a shy person myself and find I related to her inner voice a lot. Susannah kept telling herself she shouldn't do this and he wouldn't like her if she said that and so on and it reminded me of myself!
There was so much to love about the hero Jesse. He isn't perfect and has dealt with some pretty hard trials in his life but he places a lot of faith in God and does everything he can to get Susannah to open up to him. I loved his teasing and flirting with Susannah.
Some people gave a negative comment about the bedroom scenes but I personally enjoyed them. They were married and I thought the flirting and teasing just made them seem more like a realistic character and marriage then other books but I do think some people might not like that sort of talk.
My only complaint of the book is the ending. There was so many things going on and I wish they would have gotten to the ending way sooner than they did and I also wish there was more after the ending! It's hard to word exactly what I felt was lacking in the ending without spoiling the book!
I can't wait to read more by Catherine Richmond because I'm sure her writing will just continue to get better!
A Big Thank You to Litfuse for providing a review copy of the book. I was not obligated to provide a positive review.
April 12, 2011
Following the death of her father in Michigan, Susannah Underhill is left rootless, and she agrees to go west to the Dakota Territory to marry Jesse Mason, brother of Susannah's minister. At the urging of the minister's wife, Susannah has corresponded with Jesse for several months, but meeting in letters is nothing like meeting in person.
Susannah is quiet and shy, a stark contrast to Jesse's outgoing personality. She doesn't know what to talk to him about or how, and is often more comfortable talking to the dog. He is less threatening than this man who seems to overpower her sometimes just by his mere presence. And he is so confident about God and God's love. How can anyone be that confident?
Before her father died, Susannah helped him in his veterinary practice in Detroit, and that experience helps save Jesse's ox and twin calves. She also helps neighboring farmers with their animals, and Jesse realizes that she is an asset and a blessing in this land that challenges the strongest of men and women. For her part, Susannah starts to feel a part of this desolate land and begins to appreciate what made Jesse come out here to homestead. While it is harsh and stark with many challenges, the Dakota prairie is beautiful in spring.
As Susannah works through her awkwardness and feelings of unworthiness the bond that unites these two people grows stronger. This is a beautifully written story with language and descriptions that bring the prairie to life like the sun brings new growth in the spring. The characters are true and believable, and the testimony to faith is woven seamlessly throughout the story with a deft hand. As Susannah learns to trust the love of Jesse, she learns to trust in the love of God.
This is a book that will appeal to fans of inspirational fiction, but it also has a wider appeal because of the strength of the love story.
May 4, 2012
Susannah becomes a mail order bride due to the fact her parents are dead and she was attacked by a man. She head to the Dakota territory as the bride of a man named Jesse. She soon finds out he is nothing like she expected. He cares for her and lets her be herself. Can she find true love in this new territory?
Jesse is smitten with his new bride the minute he lays eyes on her but soon find she seems to be shy with him not talking about herself and always trying to please him. He soon finds himself falling in love with her but can she over come her past and can he be the husband she needs?
This appears to be a new author so I was excited to read this book. I was not disappointed. I had trouble putting it down. I loved how this book explains homesteading and I felt the author did a great job of bring the time period to life. The characters came to life for me and had lots of depth and felt real. I have read a few books about mail order brides and this book took the time to explore how such a relationship could develop and I really found myself drawn to this couple. This is a Christian Romance but the author did deal some with the sexual relationship. It was clean but pushed the limit enough that some people might be a little uncomfortable with a few of the scenes but nothing that would warrant not reading it.
I found myself at the end of the book hoping for a sequel for some of the side characters we got to know. Susannah went from a shy self-conscious woman to a lady who had faith in herself and also had a husband who was approving of who she became. I look forward to more books from this author!
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2011/0...
Jesse is smitten with his new bride the minute he lays eyes on her but soon find she seems to be shy with him not talking about herself and always trying to please him. He soon finds himself falling in love with her but can she over come her past and can he be the husband she needs?
This appears to be a new author so I was excited to read this book. I was not disappointed. I had trouble putting it down. I loved how this book explains homesteading and I felt the author did a great job of bring the time period to life. The characters came to life for me and had lots of depth and felt real. I have read a few books about mail order brides and this book took the time to explore how such a relationship could develop and I really found myself drawn to this couple. This is a Christian Romance but the author did deal some with the sexual relationship. It was clean but pushed the limit enough that some people might be a little uncomfortable with a few of the scenes but nothing that would warrant not reading it.
I found myself at the end of the book hoping for a sequel for some of the side characters we got to know. Susannah went from a shy self-conscious woman to a lady who had faith in herself and also had a husband who was approving of who she became. I look forward to more books from this author!
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2011/0...
June 11, 2011
I have had some real winners lately. This was a beautiful love story. I could relate to Susannah more than I would like to admit. Her background has made her doubt her worth and the possibility that she could ever find real love. She has a lot of fears controlling her. As the book progresses you get to know what an intelligent and talented woman she truly is and we can appreciate her nearly as much as Jesse does.
Jesse. I don't know that I can totally capture him for you. It's almost like trying to put lightning in a bottle. He's kind and patient but he's also carefree and energetic. His enthusiasm for life and for their marriage catches Susannah totally off guard and she doesn't know how to trust him. I loved that he was a red-head - it fit his personality perfectly.
She also has a host of other characters. My favorites were their neighbors, Ivar and Marta Vold. They're Norwegian and good friends to the couple as they go through the ups and downs of life in the territory. Ivar has almost as big a sense of humor as he does honor. He loves how Jesse seems to have a verse for every situation. Marta is newer in the territory and doesn't learn English until after Susannah comes and helps her learn.
One of my favorite parts of the book was reading Jesse's short prayers that head each chapter. This is just the kind of thing that gives you insight into the character. The author does a great job handling tricky issues like the roles of women, prejudice against foreigners, overcoming your past, and what genuine faith looks like. She does it all without sounding preachy either. This doesn't read like a first book and I can't wait to read her next one. I want to thank Thomas Nelson for sending me a copy in exchange for my review.
Jesse. I don't know that I can totally capture him for you. It's almost like trying to put lightning in a bottle. He's kind and patient but he's also carefree and energetic. His enthusiasm for life and for their marriage catches Susannah totally off guard and she doesn't know how to trust him. I loved that he was a red-head - it fit his personality perfectly.
She also has a host of other characters. My favorites were their neighbors, Ivar and Marta Vold. They're Norwegian and good friends to the couple as they go through the ups and downs of life in the territory. Ivar has almost as big a sense of humor as he does honor. He loves how Jesse seems to have a verse for every situation. Marta is newer in the territory and doesn't learn English until after Susannah comes and helps her learn.
One of my favorite parts of the book was reading Jesse's short prayers that head each chapter. This is just the kind of thing that gives you insight into the character. The author does a great job handling tricky issues like the roles of women, prejudice against foreigners, overcoming your past, and what genuine faith looks like. She does it all without sounding preachy either. This doesn't read like a first book and I can't wait to read her next one. I want to thank Thomas Nelson for sending me a copy in exchange for my review.
March 15, 2021
I am always nervous when it comes to reading a new author, but overall I enjoyed Catherine Richmond’s debut and will look for more from her in the future. Starting with a gorgeous cover I began reading this book with much anticipation. I was back and forth at first, but even though this is a different type of Christian Historical Romance that I am usually familiar with, this was quite enjoyable. I absolutely love how each chapter starts with one quote, or thought that pretty much sums up how Jesse is thinking. It really brought out the story for both characters and not just Susannah.
This is a book that delves deep. It shows the harshness of the prairie, but the hope as well. There is uncertainty, and convenience, but there is more than that. I find that this is very rich historically, and do not doubt that this story could have happened. Even in today, I think that people could benefit from the learning and growing that these characters experienced. I will look for more from Catherine Richmond in the future, definitely.
*Thanks to Litfuse Publicity for providing a copy for review.*
Originally posted: http://creativemadnessmama.com/blog/2...
This is a book that delves deep. It shows the harshness of the prairie, but the hope as well. There is uncertainty, and convenience, but there is more than that. I find that this is very rich historically, and do not doubt that this story could have happened. Even in today, I think that people could benefit from the learning and growing that these characters experienced. I will look for more from Catherine Richmond in the future, definitely.
*Thanks to Litfuse Publicity for providing a copy for review.*
Originally posted: http://creativemadnessmama.com/blog/2...
October 8, 2011
I couldn't put this book down. Felt like I had moved in with Susannah and Jesse. Even though this story takes place in the 1800's, before the Dakota's become States it seems so real...it could be happening today. Loved the frank discussions that went on, and how a Woman was supposed to be so prim and proper.
Susannah was brought up to be invisible by her Mother, and her Father [although he encouraged her Vet skills, he was not interested in any of her other accomplishments.]
Jesse was a member of a large family growing up, and is trying to put the Civil War behind him. He has moved to the Dakota prairie, and receives word from his brother [a Minister] of an available wife. So Susannah becomes a Mail Order Bride...kind of!
What a great Christian Man Jesse is and what a wonderful understanding, giving person he is. Love the interaction between him and Susannah...when the Elkhound jumps into their wagon and Chicken feathers fly. Jesse says "I guess we won't have to pluck the ones we are going to eat"...and Susannah's reply..."and I'll have to knit sweaters for the ones were keeping!!" Too cute!
This is a wonderful Christian romance story, I just wish there had been more!!
Susannah was brought up to be invisible by her Mother, and her Father [although he encouraged her Vet skills, he was not interested in any of her other accomplishments.]
Jesse was a member of a large family growing up, and is trying to put the Civil War behind him. He has moved to the Dakota prairie, and receives word from his brother [a Minister] of an available wife. So Susannah becomes a Mail Order Bride...kind of!
What a great Christian Man Jesse is and what a wonderful understanding, giving person he is. Love the interaction between him and Susannah...when the Elkhound jumps into their wagon and Chicken feathers fly. Jesse says "I guess we won't have to pluck the ones we are going to eat"...and Susannah's reply..."and I'll have to knit sweaters for the ones were keeping!!" Too cute!
This is a wonderful Christian romance story, I just wish there had been more!!
February 13, 2016
I am so miffed right now. To put that this book ended abruptly AND prematurely, is the understatement of the century!
Pros:
I found Susannah's character to be one of, if not the most, historically accurate female characters I've read in a long while.
I found Susannah's and Jesse's relationship refreshingly realistic.
I found the book to be very readable and well written, and I had a hard time putting it down.
Cons:
I thought there was too much emphasis on the physical aspect of their relationship, and early on I found myself uncomfortable on Susannah's behalf.
This book is definitely an adult read. They ARE a married couple, but I wasn't expecting detailed scenes, descriptions, unwanted information etc. Hence, I wouldn't exactly describe it as clean.
Aside from all of that, I actually thought their relationship was very sweet.
The second half dragged on a bit, and I found my self skimming the pages only to get to an entirely insufficient ending.
Pros:
I found Susannah's character to be one of, if not the most, historically accurate female characters I've read in a long while.
I found Susannah's and Jesse's relationship refreshingly realistic.
I found the book to be very readable and well written, and I had a hard time putting it down.
Cons:
I thought there was too much emphasis on the physical aspect of their relationship, and early on I found myself uncomfortable on Susannah's behalf.
This book is definitely an adult read. They ARE a married couple, but I wasn't expecting detailed scenes, descriptions, unwanted information etc. Hence, I wouldn't exactly describe it as clean.
Aside from all of that, I actually thought their relationship was very sweet.
The second half dragged on a bit, and I found my self skimming the pages only to get to an entirely insufficient ending.
March 31, 2013
Twice I have started to review this book, and twice I have lost it before even finishing it. I pray this is the magic number!
It seems that most romantic novels succeed in identifying the two main characters at the outset, and the rest of the book is devoted to "will he/will she." This book is a refreshing exception. Yes, the characters are clearly identified immediately. The difference is that "she" is a mail-order bride and "he" is the new husband. She arrives with emotional baggage that takes him a long time to help her work out. He is a wonderful , loving, Christian man who cares deeply for her, loves her, and eventually succeeds in helping her become the woman God intended her to be. They live through many hardships and the story ends with hope for the future.
My only negative comment is that I want to see more of this couple. What happened the next summer? Do they have more children? Catherine Richmond, please make this the first of a trilogy!
It seems that most romantic novels succeed in identifying the two main characters at the outset, and the rest of the book is devoted to "will he/will she." This book is a refreshing exception. Yes, the characters are clearly identified immediately. The difference is that "she" is a mail-order bride and "he" is the new husband. She arrives with emotional baggage that takes him a long time to help her work out. He is a wonderful , loving, Christian man who cares deeply for her, loves her, and eventually succeeds in helping her become the woman God intended her to be. They live through many hardships and the story ends with hope for the future.
My only negative comment is that I want to see more of this couple. What happened the next summer? Do they have more children? Catherine Richmond, please make this the first of a trilogy!
December 3, 2014
3 Stars
This book started out strong, but it was kind of hard to follow at certain points. Sometimes I didn't know who was talking or that we had switched to a different day. I also didn't like how so much info was given on the back cover. It says she has a miscarriage- so right when she was pregnant I knew she would lose the baby. Why tell such a big part of the story on the cover??
I really liked Jesse. He was very patient and kind. Susannah was lucky to have him. I liked seeing Susannah grow and find herself as well.
The book kind of left me hanging at the end with a lot of loose ends. An epilogue would have been nice. But I actually liked how Jesse was so flirty and acted like a normal MALE when it came to "marital relations." A lot of Christian romances don't even mention sex which isn't really realistic. I liked that Jesse was REAL. He cracked me up and made it interesting.
This book started out strong, but it was kind of hard to follow at certain points. Sometimes I didn't know who was talking or that we had switched to a different day. I also didn't like how so much info was given on the back cover. It says she has a miscarriage- so right when she was pregnant I knew she would lose the baby. Why tell such a big part of the story on the cover??
I really liked Jesse. He was very patient and kind. Susannah was lucky to have him. I liked seeing Susannah grow and find herself as well.
The book kind of left me hanging at the end with a lot of loose ends. An epilogue would have been nice. But I actually liked how Jesse was so flirty and acted like a normal MALE when it came to "marital relations." A lot of Christian romances don't even mention sex which isn't really realistic. I liked that Jesse was REAL. He cracked me up and made it interesting.
February 27, 2015
I will definitely admit this book was interesting to me. With Catherine Richmond's vivid descriptions I could visualize the one room soddy and the barren fields of Dakota; and unfortunately I could visualize with way too much detail a lot of sexual moments in this book. I don't think Christian Fiction needs this amount of detail; it's not important to create a moving story. It also took me a long time to warm up to Susannah; but in the end she felt like a friend I would have liked to have. Something happened after Jesse set off to find work; the story came un-glued. I actually lost my way a little bit and even needed to re-read some areas. I just felt disconnected from the story. Almost like I was reading two different tales in one. The many cast of characters was quite nice; I love a novel with many faces to hear from.
June 30, 2013
For a debut novel, Catherine Richmond blazes out into the christian romance scene with a fantastic book. The main characters, Susannah and Jesse are very likable and their characters develop and grow as the story unfolds. The story of mail order bride Susannah and her husband Jesse is the basis for the story and for the most part, it is about building the foundation for their marriage. God does play a part in their life but for a christian novel, the bedroom scenes could have had less detail. Sometimes less is more. Also, the ending was rushed, which I wish more time had been spent there. I was left satisfied but yet still hungry. All in all though, a great read and I will be anticipating Catherine's next novel.
May 1, 2014
Terrific book! I was caught up in Susannah's life as she headed out to the Dakota Territory to meet her husband, a perfect stranger. Jesse was the complete opposite of Susannah which was exactly what she needed to help bring her out of her shell. Around the last quarter of the book Jesse has to leave to find work away from the farm. At first I was frustrated but after finishing the book I saw that Susannah really needed that time to find herself, her strength and the courage to become the wife Jesse needed and the child of God she deeply longed to be.
NOTE: this book, unlike many Christian Romance novels, is NOT recommended for young girls. There are a lot of sexual references in it. Nothing too dirty but more than would be appropriate for teenage girls.
NOTE: this book, unlike many Christian Romance novels, is NOT recommended for young girls. There are a lot of sexual references in it. Nothing too dirty but more than would be appropriate for teenage girls.
April 20, 2016
Was war denn das? Erst jammert diese Tante hundert Jahre (sprich das halbe Buch) in der Gegend herum, weil Minderwertigkeitskomplex oder Kindheitstrauma oder so und geht mir furchtbar auf den Senkel und dann verschwindet der Typ auch noch für spontan 7 Monaten aus komplett unsinnigen Gründen hängt bei Indianern ab (nicht freiwillig zugegebnermaßen). Warum?! Und das ganze ist furchtbar sprunghaft geschrieben, man hat immer das Gefühl gerade was verpasst zu haben. Schlimm...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2013
Bravo for Catherine Richmond!! What a delightful read! This book kept me turning pages to see what happened next :) I can't wait for this authors next book! I'm hoping there will be a part two for this book!
July 26, 2013
This book reminds me of an adult version of Sarah, Plain and Tall. The main character is a mail order bride who is going westward to meet her new husband. The bride experiences many trials of being a homesteader and strengthens her relationship with God because of them.
October 4, 2013
I enjoyed this book overall but struggled to finish it about half way through when Jesse leaves to find work. At that point I felt the story dragging until the final chapter. It's not your typical mail order bride book, Susannah was too shy and Jesse was too outgoing for me.
April 13, 2016
I loved the beginning. The middle to end of the book dragged on. I had a hard time with Jesse decision to go look for work because it didn't feel like it fit his character. I wish the middle was shortened and that the author would have extended the ending.
September 13, 2011
My mom's book drops June 14th!
June 15, 2012
My friend Catherine's book!!! It's terrific!!!
July 11, 2013
Lovely historical romance w/ rich setting details and warm, witty dialogue.
July 14, 2013
Good Dakota soddy story but many travails until I got my happy ending.
May 24, 2015
A HUGE departure from my recently reading habits. A bit saccharine, but interesting and decent story.
March 27, 2014
I would say 3.5 but that's not an option
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