By Mary Connealy, Robin Lee Hatcher, Debra Clopton, Margaret Brownley
Thomas Nelson, 2014
The Old West truly comes alive with these stories by popular veteran authors - Mary Connealy, Robin Lee Hatcher, Debra Clopton, and Margaret Brownley. Described as "tales of feisty heroines, stubborn heroes, and unlikely love in the Wild West," these stories capture the spirit, atmosphere, and romance of America's West in the 1800's.
Especially intriguing to me is the way these stories are set up. Preachers on their way home after a revival meeting gather around the campfire one night and listen as a fellow pastor bemoans his recent breakup with a woman that he loved, but considered unsuitable for a man in his position. What follows is the sharing of stories, four most unlikely couples brought together for God's purpose. I also loved the way each pastor connects with his respective couples. Reverend Alden leads with, "Reminds me of a couple I once knew. You never saw two more mismatched people in your life . . ."
Spitfire Sweetheart by
Mary Connealy
Maisy MacGregor’s reckless ways injured rancher Rylan Carstens, endangering his livelihood. So she signs on as his caregiver – but just until he’s well enough to run his ranch. Maisy’s tender care soon has Ryan falling hard and fast. Can these two willful souls give up their solitary ways to embrace love?
Mary never fails to entertain and I was immediately caught up in Rylan and Maisy's story. I do wish these characters and plot could had been developed into a full-length novel, though. A lot happens in a short amount of time, yet this story is still fun and entertaining.
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A Love Letter to the Editor by
Robin Lee Hatcher
Molly Everton writes the most popular features in her town’s newspaper. When newcomer Jack Ludgrove is named the new editor, Molly is flabbergasted. She wants the position for herself and will do what it takes to get it. But Jack is not easily intimidated. He’s determined to change Molly’s mind about him – and win her heart too.
Robin once again proves that she is a master storyteller. This novella had beautiful prose, plot and romance, perfect for this shorter format.
Molly is a strong character, educated and gifted at editorial writing. Jack's kindness and humor won me over from the very first. Both he and Molly grow from pursuing their own plans to realizing that, in Jack's words, "Nothing will ever be as amazing as the life God has in mind for us, if we'll just follow His lead."
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A Cowboy for Katie by
Debra Clopton
Katie Pearl must rebuild her ranch after the tornado, but she can’t do it on her own. Treb Rayburn is a cowboy with a serious case of wanderlust. He signs on to help Katie so he can afford a new horse. But once Treb gets to know Katie, will his desire to stay drown out the call of the open road?
My heart went out to Katie, a seemingly rough but only misunderstood character. Katie's pa and her home had been lost in a tornado, and maybe herself also. Treb is wandering, seeking, looking for fulfillment through seeing the world. A sweet, moving story.
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Courting Trouble by
Margaret Brownley
Grace Davenport is a young widow in a heap of trouble. When her son asks attorney Brock Daniels to take on her case, Brock wants to say no, but then he meets the lovely Grace. As Brock and the boy work to free Grace, Brock discovers that her arrest may be the best thing that’s ever happened to him.
I loved the legal aspect of Margaret's story; it will certainly open your eyes to what the Colorado justice system was like in late 1800s. Great storyline and characterization also.
Grace's son, Jesse, plays an integral part and is absolutely adorable. I couldn't help but be moved by the close relationship between Jesse and Brock that grows throughout the story. Grace and Brock both have past baggage, and I thought these words of Reverend Fields to Brock were most appropriate: "Saving Grace might well be your saving grace."
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Anyone who likes novella collections should enjoy Four Weddings and a Kiss. The endings are quick and neatly wrapped up, but fulfilling. And I congratulate these authors on the unique way of tying their stories together. I had been reading a long and deep World War II drama, and it was so relaxing to take breaks with these novellas. The collection was a light, fun comfort read for me, with good spiritual insights as well.
Four Weddings and a Kiss can be purchased online at CBD, DeeperShopping, BN, and Amazon.
**Margaret Brownley is a NEW YORK TIMES best-selling author and has penned more than thirty novels. Her books have won numerous awards and has written for a TV soap opera. @margaretbrownley
**Robin Lee Hatcher is a Christy and RITA award-winning author. She is the author of over seventy novels and her work often appear on bestseller lists. @robinleehatcher
**Mary Connealy is an award-winning author of romantic comedy with cowboys. Mary and her Nebraska rancher husband have four grown daughters and two spectacular grandchildren. @MaryConnealy
**Debra Clopton is an award winning author of sweet, heartfelt, western romance that face life with a smile. With over 2 million books in print, Debra’s first book-to-movie aired on ABC Family and starred LeAnn Rimes. @debraclopton
Visit the Litfuse Blog Tour page to learn more. And be sure to check out the giveaway below!
Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
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FOUR WEDDINGS AND A KISS – Win an iPad Mini &
rip-roarin’ Facebook Party!
Four best-selling romance novelists bring tales of feisty heroines, stubborn heroes, and unlikely love in the Wild West in Four Weddings and a Kiss. Don't miss the latest from the Western Brides Collection from Margaret Brownley, Robin Lee Hatcher, Mary Connealy, and Debra Clopton.
The authors are celebrating with a "Sweet on Love" iPad Mini Giveaway and rip-roarin' Facebook party.
One winner will receive:
- An iPad Mini
- A Bride for All Seasons and Four Weddings and a Kiss
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on July 8th. Winner will be announced at the Four Weddings and a Kiss Facebook Author Chat Party. Connect with Western Brides Collection authors Margaret Brownley, Robin Lee Hatcher, Mary Connealy, and Debra Clopton for an evening of fun book chat, western-themed trivia, and prizes. The authors will also be answering audience questions and giving an exclusive look at the next book in the collection!
So grab your copy of Four Weddings and a Kiss and join the authors on the evening of July 8th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)
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