What do you think?
Rate this book
Montana Match
Nanny to six-year-old twin girls isn't exactly the position Brittany Gorman is looking for. But she needs a job. And the twins' struggling single dad, rancher Parker Watson, needs all the help he can get. Soon Brittany is not only assisting with the girls, but also helping Parker make peace with his past. It seems Brittany's finally found a place to belong. And with two little matchmakers on the loose, there's no telling what the future holds. As her time on the ranch runs out, can Brittany and Parker find the strength to face that future--together?
288 pages, Paperback
First published December 20, 2011
7 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
About the author
Merrillee Whren
41 books290 followersMerrillee Whren is an award-winning and USA Today bestselling author who writes Christian romance. She is the winner of the 2003 Golden Heart Award for best inspirational romance manuscript presented by Romance Writers of America. She has also been the recipient of the RT Reviewers’ Choice Award and the Maggie Award. She is married and has two grown daughters. She has lived in Cincinnati, Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Chicago and Florida. She now makes her home in the Arizona desert. When she’s not writing, she spends her free time playing tennis or walking while she plots her novels. Please visit her Web site at http://www.merrilleewhren.com/.
Newsletter signup. http://www.merrilleewhren.com/categor...
Newsletter signup. http://www.merrilleewhren.com/categor...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
January 18, 2012
It wasn’t love at first sight for me when I met Parker Watson, the hero of “Montana Match” by Merrillee Whren (Love Inspired, January 2012.) This cowboy’s heart is colder than a Montana winter. The only thing that can melt this glacier is his young twin daughters.
He has reason to be bitter. Six years ago unfounded accusations and malicious gossip cost Parker his career, his reputation, his friends, and the woman he loved. Taking refuge on his ranch, Parker’s lived the life of a recluse-staunchly avoiding the town of Stockton and the residents that shunned him.
He believes he’s protecting his daughters from Stockton’s scorn by keeping them in the nest. But when the girls’ nanny and teacher moves away, the working dad is desperate to find a replacement.
After an unexpected meeting with recently unemployed Brittany Gorman, Parker makes her a generous offer. But Brittany has reservations, she’s a former financial planner and sometimes substitute teacher, who feels ill-equipped for the challenge of schooling two energetic girls. Despite her misgivings, Brittany feels God is pushing her outside of her comfort zone, so she reluctantly accepts the position.
After a rocky start, Brittany fits in with the family, bringing fun and a fresh perspective to the lives of Parker and his girls. Brittany’s rock-solid faith in the God that Parker hasn’t had any more use for than he does the folks of Stockton has him considering that it might be time to let go of the past. Slowly Parker begins to warm to Brittany’s optimistic spirit and hardworking ways.
But his inability to forgive and forget the past, causes strife between the pair. Brittany’s determination to expose the girls to the simple joys of town life angers Parker. His icy tongue will have you reaching for a parka.
Spring is slow in coming to Parker’s heart. But seeds of hope and change take root in his life. Parker’s journey from silent and sulking to a changed creature in Christ seems as natural as a winter snowfall. By the end, even this Carolina beach girl would be willing to be his Montana Match!
Montana Match is on sale now in paperback and ebook formats. Be sure to stop by Merrillee's website at www.merrilleewhren.com
*I was provided with a free copy of "Montana Match" for review purposes. The opinions of this review are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
He has reason to be bitter. Six years ago unfounded accusations and malicious gossip cost Parker his career, his reputation, his friends, and the woman he loved. Taking refuge on his ranch, Parker’s lived the life of a recluse-staunchly avoiding the town of Stockton and the residents that shunned him.
He believes he’s protecting his daughters from Stockton’s scorn by keeping them in the nest. But when the girls’ nanny and teacher moves away, the working dad is desperate to find a replacement.
After an unexpected meeting with recently unemployed Brittany Gorman, Parker makes her a generous offer. But Brittany has reservations, she’s a former financial planner and sometimes substitute teacher, who feels ill-equipped for the challenge of schooling two energetic girls. Despite her misgivings, Brittany feels God is pushing her outside of her comfort zone, so she reluctantly accepts the position.
After a rocky start, Brittany fits in with the family, bringing fun and a fresh perspective to the lives of Parker and his girls. Brittany’s rock-solid faith in the God that Parker hasn’t had any more use for than he does the folks of Stockton has him considering that it might be time to let go of the past. Slowly Parker begins to warm to Brittany’s optimistic spirit and hardworking ways.
But his inability to forgive and forget the past, causes strife between the pair. Brittany’s determination to expose the girls to the simple joys of town life angers Parker. His icy tongue will have you reaching for a parka.
Spring is slow in coming to Parker’s heart. But seeds of hope and change take root in his life. Parker’s journey from silent and sulking to a changed creature in Christ seems as natural as a winter snowfall. By the end, even this Carolina beach girl would be willing to be his Montana Match!
Montana Match is on sale now in paperback and ebook formats. Be sure to stop by Merrillee's website at www.merrilleewhren.com
*I was provided with a free copy of "Montana Match" for review purposes. The opinions of this review are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
July 25, 2013
This was cute, but not particularly memorable. It took me a while to work through this book just because it didn't really keep my attention and I kept getting distracted by other books. I really liked the interactions with Parker's children--they were super cute--but Parker himself was too aloof for my liking, and Brittany didn't seem to have an awful lot to overcome herself. There was a little bit of conflict regarding whether she should move back to her home state and get a good job like her parents wanted, but this was very minor and disappeared in the middle of the story. Parker did have a lot to work through before his happy ending, but in a way I kind of didn't like this as it didn't seem fair that he had to fix everything all on his own without Brittany's help. Me and my husband started dating--even got engaged--when we still had plenty of issues to work through. We helped each other overcome these issues together, and supported each other, even when we weren't at our best. Life isn't as neat as books! Anyway, a sweet, gentle read for when you just need something easy to curl up with, but the hero and heroine didn't draw me in enough and the story wasn't terribly memorable. 3*
January 22, 2023
Mostly sweet story about...
Hrm. Nope. I sat down to write a review saying how relieved I was to finally pick up a 'Love, Inspired' that didn't make me nuts, but... I'm fairly certain this made me more nuts than I wanted to admit to.
Parker is a medical writer and a 'mad scientist' who mostly doesn't science... mostly he misses being a teacher. But because of false accusations and people believing gossip (even after a paternity test), he was asked to leave his teaching position, all but shown the door of his church, and is carrying a *LOT* of bitterness over everything on his shoulders.
Also Parker mostly spends money without a thought, is absolutely self-centered and aloof, has no sense of humor whatsoever, and 'has a lot to work on', per his own words. He has a housekeeper who's delegated to the sidelines and has no personality or description. He has ranch hands that have no personalities or descriptions and are peripheral at best. Quite honestly, it's like the author couldn't handle writing more than five characters at a time... which took away from the story.
Brittany has just broken up with her boyfriend, lost her business job and is stuck substitute teaching when her roommate announces that she's leaving (and Brittany can't afford the place alone, let alone to fix her chancily-running car). But never fear, there's always a super-rich dude who can finance her getting out of her rent, pay for a ski trip for her, and then MOVE her to his huge ranch on massive acreage... *IF* she's willing to be his twin daughter's nanny.
The girls are brats. The way Brittany handles them rankled me. The lack of chemistry between the stand-offish Parker and Brittany didn't make things much better. And the awkward of the townspeople reacting to Parker whenever he comes around was just cringy.
Worse, when the 'forgiveness' between town and Parker happens, Whren wrote out the original pastor, the people who cost him his job, and never addressed the paternity test, the kindness of him taking the twins in, or anything. It felt like a cheat to me.
I liked the story *MILES* away better than the last six 'Love, Inspired' books I've read, but considering that I tore up/burnt two of them, trashed another, and sent the others to Goodwill without a second glance, that's not saying a whole lot, in hindsight.
I wanted to like this book. I think that's where I am, at this point of sitting down, afterwards. But considering all... I don't think I'm going to keep this one, either. Definitely better than most LI books, so I would recommend it as a read, but not as a keeper. Sorry.
Hrm. Nope. I sat down to write a review saying how relieved I was to finally pick up a 'Love, Inspired' that didn't make me nuts, but... I'm fairly certain this made me more nuts than I wanted to admit to.
Parker is a medical writer and a 'mad scientist' who mostly doesn't science... mostly he misses being a teacher. But because of false accusations and people believing gossip (even after a paternity test), he was asked to leave his teaching position, all but shown the door of his church, and is carrying a *LOT* of bitterness over everything on his shoulders.
Also Parker mostly spends money without a thought, is absolutely self-centered and aloof, has no sense of humor whatsoever, and 'has a lot to work on', per his own words. He has a housekeeper who's delegated to the sidelines and has no personality or description. He has ranch hands that have no personalities or descriptions and are peripheral at best. Quite honestly, it's like the author couldn't handle writing more than five characters at a time... which took away from the story.
Brittany has just broken up with her boyfriend, lost her business job and is stuck substitute teaching when her roommate announces that she's leaving (and Brittany can't afford the place alone, let alone to fix her chancily-running car). But never fear, there's always a super-rich dude who can finance her getting out of her rent, pay for a ski trip for her, and then MOVE her to his huge ranch on massive acreage... *IF* she's willing to be his twin daughter's nanny.
The girls are brats. The way Brittany handles them rankled me. The lack of chemistry between the stand-offish Parker and Brittany didn't make things much better. And the awkward of the townspeople reacting to Parker whenever he comes around was just cringy.
Worse, when the 'forgiveness' between town and Parker happens, Whren wrote out the original pastor, the people who cost him his job, and never addressed the paternity test, the kindness of him taking the twins in, or anything. It felt like a cheat to me.
I liked the story *MILES* away better than the last six 'Love, Inspired' books I've read, but considering that I tore up/burnt two of them, trashed another, and sent the others to Goodwill without a second glance, that's not saying a whole lot, in hindsight.
I wanted to like this book. I think that's where I am, at this point of sitting down, afterwards. But considering all... I don't think I'm going to keep this one, either. Definitely better than most LI books, so I would recommend it as a read, but not as a keeper. Sorry.
January 1, 2019
I very much enjoyed this Christian book, where Brittany agrees to be nanny for 6 year old twins while looking for a job in her field. The twins' father is struggling to parent, do his job and find how to cope with the local townspeople who wrongly judged him. It is evident that the process to finding forgiveness is the key to peace and love, and this process is what is so appealing about this book, in addition to the conspiring twins!
I received this book as a result of a giveaway, and my thoughts are my own.
I received this book as a result of a giveaway, and my thoughts are my own.
December 15, 2022
This is a great inspirational read about the harsh reality of bitterness taking over your life, then how freeing it is to allow forgiveness to take over. There is a sweet romance that is a slow brew throughout the book but it isn't the main focus of the story. Set around Billings Montana, I enjoyed the story.
September 19, 2018
In my opinion, Montana Match is more about forgiveness and the power of prayer than the romance. The romance is there as well and is well written and very sweet. Brittany helps Parker realize different things and helps him become a better man.
I received this as a gift.
I received this as a gift.
September 22, 2018
Britanny takes a job as a nanny for twin girls. Things are hard for their single father as he try's to distance himself from church, because of gossip surrounding his family. Very good and such a true story how people can think and say the wrong thing.
August 2, 2020
This book by Merrillee Whren allows the reader to feel the way of life on a ranch in Montana. The creative characters, Montana setting, and happy ending put a smile on a person. copy right 2012
278 pages
278 pages
June 8, 2016
This is a beautiful story about forgiveness (both giving and receiving) and finding God again after pushing him away. Parker Watson has become a recluse to all but family after being falsely accused of something more than six years before. When the town, including members of the church, didn’t believe Parker’s protestations of innocence, he retreated to his ranch. Now a prisoner of his own bitterness, he also keeps his adoptive twin daughters on the ranch, believing that they cannot be hurt emotionally if they never go to town.
Brittany Gorman has come to Parker’s ranch to be a combination nanny and teacher to the girls. Her loving and friendly nature help to bring Parker out of his shell and want to be a better man. They fall in love, but his refusal to let go of the past and find forgiveness keep Brittany from committing to a future together. When Parker finally finds his way back to town, he is surprised by the reception he receives. It seems that most of the town has realized that they were too quick to judge, but didn’t know how to bridge the gap either.
This is a clean, romantic story that shows how the power of love and prayer can work in our lives.
Brittany Gorman has come to Parker’s ranch to be a combination nanny and teacher to the girls. Her loving and friendly nature help to bring Parker out of his shell and want to be a better man. They fall in love, but his refusal to let go of the past and find forgiveness keep Brittany from committing to a future together. When Parker finally finds his way back to town, he is surprised by the reception he receives. It seems that most of the town has realized that they were too quick to judge, but didn’t know how to bridge the gap either.
This is a clean, romantic story that shows how the power of love and prayer can work in our lives.
March 5, 2016
This is a book about forgiveness, redemption, and second chances. Parker Watson’s mission of service and compassion blows up in his face. After friends and neighbors turn their backs on him, he goes into seclusion. Enter a beautiful, flirty, and faith-filled nanny. Suddenly his safe solitude is invaded and his life of bitterness and resentment interrupted. This story is a great example of how holding onto anger and bitterness and refusing to forgive only hurts ourselves. “He hung onto the bitterness like a life raft in the sea of his own disappointments.” Our enemies move on with their lives while we come to a standstill, held prisoner by our choices. This is a sweet, clean, romantic read. Rose and Jasmine will steal your heart. Complex main characters and wonderful secondary characters came alive for me. I found myself laughing out loud at the funny scenes. I love stories that engage all of my senses. Whren’s writing is witty, romantic, and sometimes heartbreaking.
*I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
*I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
January 1, 2016
I’ve enjoyed Love Inspired romances for several years. This one by Merrillee Whren is a very good and heart-warming story. I love all the characters, who are well-developed and seem real to the reader. As a long-time Christian teacher and leader, I can identify with the plight of Parker Watson. His spiritual battles are a major focus of the story. Brittany Gorman reminds me so much of many young women I’ve known, as they struggle to find their place in the world. She is a kind and caring individual, who is loving and makes a wonderful heroine. The housekeeper, Delia, is a steadfast secondary character, and the two little girls are charming. The winter Montana setting is lovely. This book is a great winter read.
I recommend Montana Match for anyone who enjoys romance with a strong inspirational message.
I recommend Montana Match for anyone who enjoys romance with a strong inspirational message.
February 8, 2017
This book is about forgiveness and it's a love story too. I loved it and it easy to read and once you start you can't stop.
June 15, 2015
Another winner from Ms.Whren. I loved Parker and Brittany. They were perfect for each other. They complimented each other perfectly. Brittany was the perfect person to bring Parker back to life, and get him past his past, and help bring him back to God. She was also great with his girls. The perfect mother figure. I loved Parker even more, that he adopted Rose and Jasmine as babies after their mother, his former student was killed. I liked Heather, can't wait for her story. I also liked Delia and Brittany's parents. I was happy to see Parker and Larry renew their friendship. This was just a super sweet story.
May 1, 2016
Brittany is having a run of bad luck, she lost her job and broke up with her boyfriend. Her room mate Heather invited her to go on a skiing trip with Heather's family. Heather's Uncle Parker usually rents a big house and pays all the expenses for the family to take this trip,
Parker has two little girls who turn out to be little matchmakers and so does Heather. It is a book that once you pick it up you really don't want to put it down. The book has a lot of twists and turns and is a great read.
Ms. Whren always writes great books and this is another one to add to her list. Would recommend them.
Parker has two little girls who turn out to be little matchmakers and so does Heather. It is a book that once you pick it up you really don't want to put it down. The book has a lot of twists and turns and is a great read.
Ms. Whren always writes great books and this is another one to add to her list. Would recommend them.
November 18, 2012
Montana Match provides a great example of a Love Inspired novel. While not perfect it has an appealing romance, interesting if not relatable characters and the religious aspect is present but not so overdone as to make the book unappealing to those who are less religious. I found it to be a quick and enjoyable read and hope that if I come across anything else by this author it will be just as enjoyable.
Read the rest of my review and more at www.vgoodwinsblog.blogspot.ca where The Lit Chick reviews the best and worst that fiction has to offer.
Read the rest of my review and more at www.vgoodwinsblog.blogspot.ca where The Lit Chick reviews the best and worst that fiction has to offer.
January 8, 2016
A story filled with mixed feelings from the past, that can possibly be changed by the love of two little girls and forgiveness from the main characters and the towns people. Merrill Whren allows the reader to see just how forgiveness can improve lives and how holding onto past mistakes and grudges can harm lives. The storyline is easy to follow and the author gives descriptions that allow the reader to connect with the characters. I enjoyed the story.
January 15, 2017
Another great book by Merrillee Whren! What a nice inspirational romance...you never know how God will answer your prayers and it was fun to see how they played out in this story. Forgiveness...what a struggle we have with this sometimes, and we see how Parker tries to deal with his forgiving.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2016
Montana Match is a great read. I thought the main characters, Parker and Brittany, were great. Their issues were real and and those that I could relate with. Another wonderful story with the lesson of the power of forgiveness.
Such a sweet, clean, romantic read.
5 plus stars.
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion, which was given.
Such a sweet, clean, romantic read.
5 plus stars.
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion, which was given.
February 7, 2013
First Inspirational romance I've read. Really enjoyed it. :)
March 16, 2016
Montana March is about forgiveness and second chances.
I loved the romance and those precious twins, Rose and Jasmine.
I received a book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the romance and those precious twins, Rose and Jasmine.
I received a book in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews