What do you think?
Rate this book
Bowen #1
The Unexpected Bride
After the disaster of his first marriage, Haydon Bowen has no intention of marrying again. Unfortunately, his brother has some intentions of his own, and plans to see to it that Haydon finds happiness once more. So he answers a "groom wanted" advertisement--in Haydon's name--and sends Haydon to meet his new bride at the stagecoach stop!
For beautiful, cultured Rainelle Devonwood, any dangers she may face in the Idaho Territories are preferable to staying with her abusive brother. So even when Rainee learns she's a mistakenly ordered bride, she won't let Haydon drive her away. She's up to the challenge of life on the difficult, demanding frontier...and the greater challenge of opening Haydon's heart again.
For beautiful, cultured Rainelle Devonwood, any dangers she may face in the Idaho Territories are preferable to staying with her abusive brother. So even when Rainee learns she's a mistakenly ordered bride, she won't let Haydon drive her away. She's up to the challenge of life on the difficult, demanding frontier...and the greater challenge of opening Haydon's heart again.
280 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
15 people are currently reading
591 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
October 10, 2025
This is a sweet series.
August 9, 2011
Will an unsuspecting groom allow love and faith back into his heart so that he can claim "The Unexpected Bride?"
Placing an advertisement for a groom sends Rainee Devonwood into the arms of Haydon Bowen's family as she attempts to free herself from the evil abuse that her brother has insisted on inflicting upon her. Unbeknownst to Haydon, til the day of her arrival, his bother, Jess, has sent for her and now he must try to smooth out the situation and send her on her way since he has no intention of any marriage. Because of carrying the guilt of how his last marriage ended, Haydon must learn to allow his heart to love and follow his faith to see where this new relationship could lead him. Can he see Rainee for the sweet woman that she is or will he continue to compare her with his first wife? Can Rainee finally break free from the evils of her past without bringing harm into the Bowen's family home? Follow their journey as mistrust and uncertainty turn into a life filled with faith and a deep and tender love.
This book was a total delight for me. I was in the mood for something sweet and easy to enjoy and this definitely fit the bill. The characters are wonderfully written and you can definitely feel their emotions right along with them. The uncertainty of each other, the prayers when spoken, the tenderness between Katherine and Rainee and everything in between just keeps the story moving at a wonderful pace. I finished this book in less than a day so it did turn out to be a very quick read.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet, inspirational, and historical romance.
This book was won by me and kindly sent to me by it's wonderful author and this is my honest review!
Placing an advertisement for a groom sends Rainee Devonwood into the arms of Haydon Bowen's family as she attempts to free herself from the evil abuse that her brother has insisted on inflicting upon her. Unbeknownst to Haydon, til the day of her arrival, his bother, Jess, has sent for her and now he must try to smooth out the situation and send her on her way since he has no intention of any marriage. Because of carrying the guilt of how his last marriage ended, Haydon must learn to allow his heart to love and follow his faith to see where this new relationship could lead him. Can he see Rainee for the sweet woman that she is or will he continue to compare her with his first wife? Can Rainee finally break free from the evils of her past without bringing harm into the Bowen's family home? Follow their journey as mistrust and uncertainty turn into a life filled with faith and a deep and tender love.
This book was a total delight for me. I was in the mood for something sweet and easy to enjoy and this definitely fit the bill. The characters are wonderfully written and you can definitely feel their emotions right along with them. The uncertainty of each other, the prayers when spoken, the tenderness between Katherine and Rainee and everything in between just keeps the story moving at a wonderful pace. I finished this book in less than a day so it did turn out to be a very quick read.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet, inspirational, and historical romance.
This book was won by me and kindly sent to me by it's wonderful author and this is my honest review!
May 6, 2011
Wonderful Story! I absolutely loved this book. I was swept away in this beautiful love story from the first paragraph until the very last line. Debra's storytelling ability is phenomenal. Each scene was described in such detail, I felt like I was actually in Paradise Haven, in Idaho Territory. The story never slowed it's pace, it continued to build with each turn of the page.
Rainee Devonwood place a "groom wanted" advertisement in hopes of escaping a terrible and life threatening fate. As soon as she receives a response from her future husband, Rainee flees for her life into unfamiliar territory.
Haydon Bowen's, brother Jesse, answers the ad in Haydon's name, without Haydon's knowledge, until Jesse sends him to meet his future bride at the stagecoach stop. After the disaster of his first marriage, Haydon has NO intention of marrying ever again.
But, Rainee quickly falls in love with Haydon, and she refuses to let him drive her away.
This book is a "must read" for anyone looking for a heart-touching love story!!
Rainee Devonwood place a "groom wanted" advertisement in hopes of escaping a terrible and life threatening fate. As soon as she receives a response from her future husband, Rainee flees for her life into unfamiliar territory.
Haydon Bowen's, brother Jesse, answers the ad in Haydon's name, without Haydon's knowledge, until Jesse sends him to meet his future bride at the stagecoach stop. After the disaster of his first marriage, Haydon has NO intention of marrying ever again.
But, Rainee quickly falls in love with Haydon, and she refuses to let him drive her away.
This book is a "must read" for anyone looking for a heart-touching love story!!
May 8, 2016
3.5 stars
Read
November 15, 2024i need to confess a deep dark secret…when i was in middle school, my mom bought me several of these christian romance novels because 1. we were christian and 2. she knew the content would be family friendly. so while this isn’t my first time reading this book, it is my first time reading it in over a decade. i decided to revisit for nostalgia’s sake. i’m not doing a legit criticism of this book or even a real rating considering this is my own personal ‘dead dove do not eat’ scenario. like…how can i be mad that this was filled with cheesy and cliched scenarios and heavy-handed religious messaging when it is very much advertised that way?? truly the only thing that caught me off guard is the very blasé way in which the antebellum south is discussed. rainee talks about growing up on a plantation in the reconstruction era with um…formerly unpaid servants as though she’s discussing the weather and the topic is immediately dismissed. i know jane austen and works like gone with the wind were clear influences on this author, but i am begging historical fiction writers: PLEASE do not set your story in this time period and include references to the civil war if you are unwilling to approach these topics in a critical way!!! i’m begging!! rainelle could have been from new england and this wouldn’t have been a problem at all!!
August 30, 2024
I'm always a bit cautious about books involving widows/widowers because I find they always find that the new partner is competing with a ghost and that isn't something I'm interested in. It's done a little differently in this book. Haydon does compared Rainelle, but his marriage ended up being toxic as his high class wife couldn't handle the country and he's concerned that Rainee will do the same.
It was an entertaining read. The romance blossomed in a way that fit with a story. I'm normally not crazy about such explicit religion, but it made sense in this time period. I think it was a bold choice to address family history of slavery when it could have been glossed over. I enjoyed Haydon's family and Rainee's connection to them. She's been through a lot and that doesn't stop in this book. It's a solid read.
It was an entertaining read. The romance blossomed in a way that fit with a story. I'm normally not crazy about such explicit religion, but it made sense in this time period. I think it was a bold choice to address family history of slavery when it could have been glossed over. I enjoyed Haydon's family and Rainee's connection to them. She's been through a lot and that doesn't stop in this book. It's a solid read.
July 3, 2024
Wow, this was a wild ride!
Once I started I couldn't stop! I had to know what was going to happen next!
There was a lot of mentions of God, which I get, that was very prominent back then, but it got annoying after awhile. Think for yourself, don't just default to God's will all the time, people.
I was hoping there would be more justice for her brother. that we'd see her and Haydon return to her home. that we'd find out if the servant who helped her so much was alright and still there. But nope. Just a wedding and that's it.
Rather annoying.
The romance was cute. I wish it was a little more spicy, or that it didn't take them so long to freaking kiss, but I still loved them together.
Well worth the read, I really enjoyed this one.
Once I started I couldn't stop! I had to know what was going to happen next!
There was a lot of mentions of God, which I get, that was very prominent back then, but it got annoying after awhile. Think for yourself, don't just default to God's will all the time, people.
I was hoping there would be more justice for her brother. that we'd see her and Haydon return to her home. that we'd find out if the servant who helped her so much was alright and still there. But nope. Just a wedding and that's it.
Rather annoying.
The romance was cute. I wish it was a little more spicy, or that it didn't take them so long to freaking kiss, but I still loved them together.
Well worth the read, I really enjoyed this one.
November 3, 2019
Rainee is a character I really admired. She did not think of herself as a strong person, but her courage certainly appeared at exactly the right times. Haydon’s character was fascinating, and I loved the ways he grew during the novel. I will admit that I thought of the correct reason for Ferin’s anger and abuse very early in the book, but it did not rob my enjoyment. If you like historical fiction and mail order bride stories with a twist, this is a very good one.
December 24, 2020
She is running away from a abusive brother. His cruelty has left to many physical scars and emotional scars. She advertises for a husband and Jesse, Haydon's, brother answers it for Haydon.
It is so intense. Lots of tears and anger. Loved this book
It is so intense. Lots of tears and anger. Loved this book
March 20, 2025
The unexpected bride
This is a beautiful story! I never read a book by this author before! The plot moves through suffering and Christian victory through God! Hallelujah! I know you will enjoy it as much you as I have! God bless you!
This is a beautiful story! I never read a book by this author before! The plot moves through suffering and Christian victory through God! Hallelujah! I know you will enjoy it as much you as I have! God bless you!
August 20, 2017
Loved this series.
March 10, 2020
It started getting real sappy in the end. Was just to neat of a wrap up.
May 20, 2020
Rainee
Rainee was unexpected by Hayden. But this family story grows on you like Rainee grew on Hayden. Now Hayden feels worthy.
Rainee was unexpected by Hayden. But this family story grows on you like Rainee grew on Hayden. Now Hayden feels worthy.
June 7, 2020
Sweet and cute. Rainee was a very lovable heroine to follow along with.
September 15, 2020
I enjoyed reading.
February 25, 2012
The Unexpected Bride by Debra Ullrick
Hayden Bowen was married once and that was more than enough. His wife passed away and his brother thought he was doing Hayden a favor by answering an add a woman put out for a groom. Jess was wrong! Hayden picked the woman up at the stagecoach, after having to fight off a drunk who was trying to force himself upon her. He chose to let Jess tell her about what he did. Only Jess was too hurt from Hayden's horse, Rebel, kicking him because of Hayden's anger. Now what was he to do with this beautiful doe eyed gal? He reminded himself of his failure to Melanie constantly so that he would keep his heart protected. If he opened up at all, this gal would surely slip right under his shield.
Rainelle Victoria Devonwood, known as Rainee, was running from a dangerous situation into another unknown. From the letters Hayden has sounded like a wonderful Christian man. And he had protected her from that man by the stagecoach. He was a rather handsome man and well muscled. Her mother would turn over in her grave to know how improper Rainee was being by looking at a mans muscles. Her father was from England and her mother from the South. Her father liked all the proprieties he grew up with and mother went along with it. So Rainee had learned how to become a lady, but she was still rebellious on the inside. They had both died two years ago and for some reason her brother hated her. If she did not leave her home she would have either died at his hand or by the old man her brother had sold her too. Only she has arrived at Idaho and it seems Hayden does not want her either.
This book was so full of lovable characters. Hayden's family lives on their farm in three homes built close together. Hayden has a home, Jesse and his wife, Hannah and than the big home is his mother, Katherine, brother Michael and sisters Leah and Abby. Five year old Abby is so sweet and endearing as well as Miss Kitty the big pig who thinks she's a dog. Only problem is Rainee's great fear of pigs.
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Hayden Bowen was married once and that was more than enough. His wife passed away and his brother thought he was doing Hayden a favor by answering an add a woman put out for a groom. Jess was wrong! Hayden picked the woman up at the stagecoach, after having to fight off a drunk who was trying to force himself upon her. He chose to let Jess tell her about what he did. Only Jess was too hurt from Hayden's horse, Rebel, kicking him because of Hayden's anger. Now what was he to do with this beautiful doe eyed gal? He reminded himself of his failure to Melanie constantly so that he would keep his heart protected. If he opened up at all, this gal would surely slip right under his shield.
Rainelle Victoria Devonwood, known as Rainee, was running from a dangerous situation into another unknown. From the letters Hayden has sounded like a wonderful Christian man. And he had protected her from that man by the stagecoach. He was a rather handsome man and well muscled. Her mother would turn over in her grave to know how improper Rainee was being by looking at a mans muscles. Her father was from England and her mother from the South. Her father liked all the proprieties he grew up with and mother went along with it. So Rainee had learned how to become a lady, but she was still rebellious on the inside. They had both died two years ago and for some reason her brother hated her. If she did not leave her home she would have either died at his hand or by the old man her brother had sold her too. Only she has arrived at Idaho and it seems Hayden does not want her either.
This book was so full of lovable characters. Hayden's family lives on their farm in three homes built close together. Hayden has a home, Jesse and his wife, Hannah and than the big home is his mother, Katherine, brother Michael and sisters Leah and Abby. Five year old Abby is so sweet and endearing as well as Miss Kitty the big pig who thinks she's a dog. Only problem is Rainee's great fear of pigs.
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
May 15, 2011
Rainelle Devonwood is on the run. Desperate to escape her brother’s cruelty and avoid a forced marriage to a man whose heartlessness exceeds even that of her sibling, Rainee places a “Groom Wanted” ad and finds herself a husband in the Utah Territory.
Problem is, her groom-to-be doesn’t know he has a bride. Haydon Bowen has lived through one disastrous marriage, and has no plans to ever risk his heart again. So when his brother accepts a mail-order bride in Haydon’s name, he’s none too pleased. Still, since a member of his family is the sole reason the young woman is so far from home with nowhere to go, he and his family take Rainee into their home until she can find another groom.
Now Rainee and Haydon face a mutual problem…avoiding the lure of romance. Haydon is determined to never love again. Rainee, feeling the sting of his rejection, simply wants to find another groom and disappear from the Bowens’ lives.
But God has other plans.
THE UNEXPECTED BRIDE is chock full of joy and sorrow, laughter and tears, and a whole spectrum of other emotions. As Rainee peers over her shoulder in fear of her brother’s inevitable arrival, Haydon’s gentle nature and protective instincts leave him more than susceptible to the young beauty’s charms. Rainee’s bright spirit and curious nature make her a completely lovable character, while female readers will lose their hearts to Haydon within a few pages.
Debra Ullrick knows how to spin a tale, and how to develop living, breathing, walk-off-the-page characters. Readers will fall in love with this spunky heroine, the gentleman hero, and the entire Bowen family—especially little Abby. Kitty also becomes a valid character, but I won’t spoil the storyline by talking about her. Warning: Do not open this book unless you have time to read it all the way through…
Problem is, her groom-to-be doesn’t know he has a bride. Haydon Bowen has lived through one disastrous marriage, and has no plans to ever risk his heart again. So when his brother accepts a mail-order bride in Haydon’s name, he’s none too pleased. Still, since a member of his family is the sole reason the young woman is so far from home with nowhere to go, he and his family take Rainee into their home until she can find another groom.
Now Rainee and Haydon face a mutual problem…avoiding the lure of romance. Haydon is determined to never love again. Rainee, feeling the sting of his rejection, simply wants to find another groom and disappear from the Bowens’ lives.
But God has other plans.
THE UNEXPECTED BRIDE is chock full of joy and sorrow, laughter and tears, and a whole spectrum of other emotions. As Rainee peers over her shoulder in fear of her brother’s inevitable arrival, Haydon’s gentle nature and protective instincts leave him more than susceptible to the young beauty’s charms. Rainee’s bright spirit and curious nature make her a completely lovable character, while female readers will lose their hearts to Haydon within a few pages.
Debra Ullrick knows how to spin a tale, and how to develop living, breathing, walk-off-the-page characters. Readers will fall in love with this spunky heroine, the gentleman hero, and the entire Bowen family—especially little Abby. Kitty also becomes a valid character, but I won’t spoil the storyline by talking about her. Warning: Do not open this book unless you have time to read it all the way through…
April 20, 2011
Title: THE UNEXPECTED BRIDE
Author: Debra Ullrick
Publisher: Love Inspired Historical
May 2011
ISBN: 978-0-373-82870-8
Genre: Inspirational/historical romance
Rainelle Devonwood has been raised by a British father and a southern mother, so she is refined and cultured. When her parents are killed, signing up to be a mail-order bride to the wilderness of the Idaho Territories is preferable to staying with her abusive brother.
Haydon Bower has no intentions of marrying again. His first marriage was an absolute disaster, and he has decided that marrying isn’t worth it. Unfortunately, his brother has plans of his own, so he answers a “groom wanted” ad, in Haydon’s name, and then sends Haydon to meet his new bride.
When Rainee discovers that she’s been a *mistakenly* ordered bride, she is still determined to not let Haydon drive her away. She may not be wanted as a bride, but she is definitely up to the challenge of living on the difficult, demanding frontier…and maybe to opening Haydon’s heart?
THE UNEXPECTED BRIDE is the first Love Inspired Historical by Ms. Ullrick but I am certain it won’t be the last. Rainee is a delightful heroine, strong and courageous, definitely willing to take on challenges that are outside her realm of experiences. Haydon has been deeply hurt, but he is still more than willing to jump in to rescue Rainee when a drunken man attempts to accost her, even though this man threatens to make him pay for interrupting his pleasures…
I enjoyed reading THE UNEXPECTED BRIDE and am looking forward to reading more by this author. Discussion questions are included at the end of the book. $5.50. 280 pages.
Author: Debra Ullrick
Publisher: Love Inspired Historical
May 2011
ISBN: 978-0-373-82870-8
Genre: Inspirational/historical romance
Rainelle Devonwood has been raised by a British father and a southern mother, so she is refined and cultured. When her parents are killed, signing up to be a mail-order bride to the wilderness of the Idaho Territories is preferable to staying with her abusive brother.
Haydon Bower has no intentions of marrying again. His first marriage was an absolute disaster, and he has decided that marrying isn’t worth it. Unfortunately, his brother has plans of his own, so he answers a “groom wanted” ad, in Haydon’s name, and then sends Haydon to meet his new bride.
When Rainee discovers that she’s been a *mistakenly* ordered bride, she is still determined to not let Haydon drive her away. She may not be wanted as a bride, but she is definitely up to the challenge of living on the difficult, demanding frontier…and maybe to opening Haydon’s heart?
THE UNEXPECTED BRIDE is the first Love Inspired Historical by Ms. Ullrick but I am certain it won’t be the last. Rainee is a delightful heroine, strong and courageous, definitely willing to take on challenges that are outside her realm of experiences. Haydon has been deeply hurt, but he is still more than willing to jump in to rescue Rainee when a drunken man attempts to accost her, even though this man threatens to make him pay for interrupting his pleasures…
I enjoyed reading THE UNEXPECTED BRIDE and am looking forward to reading more by this author. Discussion questions are included at the end of the book. $5.50. 280 pages.
May 29, 2011
Rainelle (Rainee) Victoria Devonworth will do whatever it takes to get away from her abusive brother...even if it means putting out an ad for a husband. She could only hope the ad was answered sooner then later.
Haydon Bowen has had it with love. After the torment that Melanie put him through, he'll never marry again. However, Jesse has other plans in mind. To help his brother out, Jesse answers Rainee's ad and now Haydon finds himself looking for a woman at the train platform. Haydon is only slightly concerned about what happened to Jesse before he left when he sees a classy woman being accosted by a surly man. Haydon jumps in to the hero and finds out that he's rescuing Rainee.
How does one deal with a woman they don't want? Jesse is in no position to get rid of her, now will Mr. Bowen's mother hear anything of it. She's now a guest in her home. Rainee is thankful and will do whatever she can to stay away from her brother Ferrin, even if it means answering another man's ad for a wife.
I love stories like this! Often times I wish I could have lived back in those times! The formality used is sweet and stuffy at the same time (I cannot imagine calling my husband Mr in these days and times). I appreciated the romance and suspense that this book presented. I did see the ending happening as it did though, so this book was a bit predictable for me.
Haydon Bowen has had it with love. After the torment that Melanie put him through, he'll never marry again. However, Jesse has other plans in mind. To help his brother out, Jesse answers Rainee's ad and now Haydon finds himself looking for a woman at the train platform. Haydon is only slightly concerned about what happened to Jesse before he left when he sees a classy woman being accosted by a surly man. Haydon jumps in to the hero and finds out that he's rescuing Rainee.
How does one deal with a woman they don't want? Jesse is in no position to get rid of her, now will Mr. Bowen's mother hear anything of it. She's now a guest in her home. Rainee is thankful and will do whatever she can to stay away from her brother Ferrin, even if it means answering another man's ad for a wife.
I love stories like this! Often times I wish I could have lived back in those times! The formality used is sweet and stuffy at the same time (I cannot imagine calling my husband Mr in these days and times). I appreciated the romance and suspense that this book presented. I did see the ending happening as it did though, so this book was a bit predictable for me.
August 29, 2011
More like 4.5 stars...
Heartwarming and inspirational, The Unexpected Bride delighted me. For real. I love historical romance anyway, and the more interesting the characters the more I like it. This romance was more than a one-kiss-at-the-end novel, which I appreciated. There was humor, adventure, and enough action to hold my interest. I read the story quickly. The spiritual thread was well done and felt natural to me. I have read a number of books where there are misunderstandings, but they often feel forced. This story was believable to me and so was the conflict. I wanted to be part of Haydon's family as much as Rainee did. She was a lovable heroine and I could see why Haydon let down his guard despite his initial resistance. I loved watching him slowly melt because of her sweet spirit and tender personality, but at the same time she had some fire and strength in her. He admired that and so did I. I loved all of the characters in this story because they were well-developed. This is another example of why I enjoy Love Inspired Historical romances more than any other LI fiction imprint.
Heartwarming and inspirational, The Unexpected Bride delighted me. For real. I love historical romance anyway, and the more interesting the characters the more I like it. This romance was more than a one-kiss-at-the-end novel, which I appreciated. There was humor, adventure, and enough action to hold my interest. I read the story quickly. The spiritual thread was well done and felt natural to me. I have read a number of books where there are misunderstandings, but they often feel forced. This story was believable to me and so was the conflict. I wanted to be part of Haydon's family as much as Rainee did. She was a lovable heroine and I could see why Haydon let down his guard despite his initial resistance. I loved watching him slowly melt because of her sweet spirit and tender personality, but at the same time she had some fire and strength in her. He admired that and so did I. I loved all of the characters in this story because they were well-developed. This is another example of why I enjoy Love Inspired Historical romances more than any other LI fiction imprint.
May 30, 2011
A mail-order bride, an unwilling groom, and a pig
Marriage to a stranger from the rugged West is a far better choice for cultured Rainee Devonwood than staying in the home of her abusive brother. She hopes the Idaho Territory is far enough away that he will never find her. But all her plans go haywire when she arrives in Paradise Haven and discovers the man she came to marry didn’t order a bride and doesn’t want a wife. What will she do now?
Debra Ullrick does a great job of bringing to life the Bowen farm. Each character has its own unique personality, including the family’s pet pig, Kitty. She puts her heroine in an impossibly awkward situation, yet Rainee responds with grace and allows her faith to carry her through. Haydon is a great character. He’s a responsible man who loves family and home, but I wanted to smack him a time or two for the way he treated Rainee. Once I learned what motivated him, I could understand his hesitation to marry again. The Unexpected Bride is a fun and exciting historical romance that is sure to tug your heartstrings and make you smile. I really wanted to give this book a 4.5 but didn’t have that option.
Marriage to a stranger from the rugged West is a far better choice for cultured Rainee Devonwood than staying in the home of her abusive brother. She hopes the Idaho Territory is far enough away that he will never find her. But all her plans go haywire when she arrives in Paradise Haven and discovers the man she came to marry didn’t order a bride and doesn’t want a wife. What will she do now?
Debra Ullrick does a great job of bringing to life the Bowen farm. Each character has its own unique personality, including the family’s pet pig, Kitty. She puts her heroine in an impossibly awkward situation, yet Rainee responds with grace and allows her faith to carry her through. Haydon is a great character. He’s a responsible man who loves family and home, but I wanted to smack him a time or two for the way he treated Rainee. Once I learned what motivated him, I could understand his hesitation to marry again. The Unexpected Bride is a fun and exciting historical romance that is sure to tug your heartstrings and make you smile. I really wanted to give this book a 4.5 but didn’t have that option.
August 4, 2016
4 Stars! ~ I rarely reach for an unknown Inspirational author's book as each author is unique in how they introduce Christian content and I'm not fond of strong content. To me Christian content is easier to read in Historical settings, especially Frontier / Western. This holds true for Debra Ullrick's debut. The content is presented in the most appropriate places and fits well with the overall tone of the book.
This romance is a very nice twist on the "mail order bride" theme, in that this time it's a mail order groom! When Rainee proves to be well suited to Frontier life, Hayden finds his heart softening to her. And when danger comes to her and threatens to take her from him, his protective instincts flare. Ms. Ullrick has a very lovely writing voice which made me eager to read on to find out what would happen next. I'm looking forward to Michael's story in The Unlikely Wife.
This romance is a very nice twist on the "mail order bride" theme, in that this time it's a mail order groom! When Rainee proves to be well suited to Frontier life, Hayden finds his heart softening to her. And when danger comes to her and threatens to take her from him, his protective instincts flare. Ms. Ullrick has a very lovely writing voice which made me eager to read on to find out what would happen next. I'm looking forward to Michael's story in The Unlikely Wife.
January 10, 2012
This story takes place in the Idaho Territories in the 1870's.
Haydon Bowen has no intentions of marrying again after his first marriage ended in disaster, but his brother had other plans, when he answers a "groom wanted" ad in his brother's name, and doesn't tell him until it's time for Haydon to meet her at the stagecoach stop.
For beautiful and cultured Rainee Devenwood, any dangers she may face in the Idaho Territories are preferable to staying with her abusive brother, after their parents have died. So when she finds out she was mistakenly sent for, she is determined not to let Haydon drive her away before trying to open his heart again.
This story was somewhat predictable, but still a sweet story and an enjoyable read, with some action and adventure thrown in too.
Haydon Bowen has no intentions of marrying again after his first marriage ended in disaster, but his brother had other plans, when he answers a "groom wanted" ad in his brother's name, and doesn't tell him until it's time for Haydon to meet her at the stagecoach stop.
For beautiful and cultured Rainee Devenwood, any dangers she may face in the Idaho Territories are preferable to staying with her abusive brother, after their parents have died. So when she finds out she was mistakenly sent for, she is determined not to let Haydon drive her away before trying to open his heart again.
This story was somewhat predictable, but still a sweet story and an enjoyable read, with some action and adventure thrown in too.
February 12, 2013
What a sweet story. Following the abuse of her brother, Rainee flees in hopes of finding happiness in marriage as a mail order bride. What she finds is Haydon, a many who wears scars on his heart and never plans to marry again. His brother has requested Rainee, in hopes Haydon will give life and love a second chance. Though adamant that he cannot marry Rainee, Haydon shows his romantic and generous heart time and time again. Helping Rainee overcome her fear of pigs. His gentle treatment of the "snapping turtle horse." And especially in the way he fights to keep Rainee safe. The Unexpected Bride is a completely romantic, lovely tale of true love and putting someone else's needs above your own. Well done!
May 4, 2011
Anyone who has ever “gone out on a limb” to chase a dream or escape from reality will enjoy this romance. In a desperate attempt to get away from an abusive brother and a fiancée, Rainee advertises for a husband. She receives an answer, but it isn’t the answer she wants. After traversing to the wilderness to meet her groom, she finds him unwilling. She has no money, no place to go and now no husband! I could feel her desperation. I wanted to see what would happen next and every time I thought things would calm down, something new kept me reading and I ended up reading when I should have been doing housework.
May 2, 2011
Two brothers one married happily and one had been but marriage was not so happy and when she died he blamed himself promising never to marry again, sooooo happily married one answered a man wanted type ad in his brothers name and brought her out to be a bride, things got sticky at first but as circumstances had her stay with his mother for awhile and they were thrown together , I am happy to say both brothers were happy by the end of the story. this was a good tale by Debra Ullrick and you wont want to miss reading "The Unexpected Bride".
February 12, 2016
The Unexpected Bride is a good read - I plan to keep it for my daughter and granddaughters to read.
I've enjoyed MS Ullrick's books - especially the lighthearted previous books she's written.
TUB - is terrific in its plot - fun in the telling when one brother sets up an embittered sibling by providing what should have been ONE bride but turns out to be several.
Fun, thought-provoking for me and I believe, in my limited knowledge, it to be historically correct.
MS. Ullrick is an author to follow - she's got a talent for bringing out the best in her characters.
I've enjoyed MS Ullrick's books - especially the lighthearted previous books she's written.
TUB - is terrific in its plot - fun in the telling when one brother sets up an embittered sibling by providing what should have been ONE bride but turns out to be several.
Fun, thought-provoking for me and I believe, in my limited knowledge, it to be historically correct.
MS. Ullrick is an author to follow - she's got a talent for bringing out the best in her characters.
November 5, 2016
Despite Haydon Bowen's vow never to remarry after a disastrous first marriage, his brother Jesse answers an ad for a husband in his brother's name and tells him the day she arrives. Rainelle Devonwood is running from an abusive brother and cannot return and has no money. Feeling guilty Haydon's family lets her stay while she contacts another man who answered her ad. They hope Haydon will come around before he answers. Rain falls in love with his mother and sisters and brothers and adapts well to farm life. Now if only Haydon could change his views. A nice romance.
Read
September 17, 2011The cover of this book caught my eye and when I saw that Debra Ullrick was the author I knew I wanted to read it. Once again Debra has written a compelling book that is hard to put down. As the story unfolds the reader becomes drawn to these two broken hearted people that need one another. As the action picks up you find yourself on the edge of your seat. It's a lovely story with a very satisfactory ending. I would highly recommend it.
July 7, 2014
It was a little hard to believe someone who had gone through what she had gone through would be that bold but I guess the author wanted to show her spirit hadn't been broken. Technically written well. Once I was able to sit down and get into it, it was a fast read. Cute characters that you wanted to get together. Their actions may have been a little repetitive. Good read but not an overwhelmingly great piece of fiction. 3.75 stars.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews