The Farmer Takes a Wife: a Modern-Day Marriage of Convenience Tale

South Dakota Brides #1

by Candice Sue Patterson

Librarian Gemma Breckenridge hates the spotlight. She's content in her small town, living alone with books for company and caring for her once famous sister, Cammie, who's now suffering from a degenerative brain disease. But Cammie's care is expensive, and when the grant Gemma was counting on is denied, she's forced to take desperate measures and applies to be a contestant on a reality television show where a wealthy farmer is looking for a love connection. What better place to keep her sister's identity incognito than a thousand-acre farm in the middle of nowhere, South Dakota?

Colby Graham will do anything to save his almost bankrupt farm, even if it means that all of primetime will think he's incapable of finding a wife on his own. The sponsorships alone should carry his business out of the red, and royalties from the producer will help to keep it there. But choosing a bride from among eight gorgeous strangers is tougher than Colby bargained for. Especially when the one woman he wants isn't a contestant.

With a cast of vivid characters, join the crew in this witty romance filled with drama, heartache, elimination challenges, and fancy luggage full of secrets. Amid the beautiful setting of the Midwest, this tale unravels the tightly bound threads of sacrificial love.

Genres: Fiction, Contemporary

334 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2024

About the author

Candice Sue Patterson studied at The Institute of Children's Literature and is an elementary librarian. She lives in Indiana with her husband and three sons in a restored farmhouse overtaken by books. When she's not tending to her chickens, snuggling with her Great Pyrenees, or helping children discover books they love, she's working on a new story. Candice writes Modern Vintage Romance--where the past and present collide with faith. For more on Candice and her books, visit www.candicesuepatterson.com.

Reviews

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun novel!

Gemma is looking for a safe environment for her terminally ill sister. Colby wants to save his South Dakota farm. Participating in a television show meets both their needs. While the contest of who Colby will select as his bride is the backdrop of the story, there are so many more layers to it.

The contest itself was a lot of laughs though with eight city women taking care of various tasks on a farm....hauling hay, milking animals, etc. The women bicker as expected. However, all the main characters have a love for family and support for those in need.

Highly recommend this novel for fans of contemporary romance. I'm so looking forward to book two in the series.

My gratitude to the author for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[DevotedToHope · Rating 4 out of 5]

If The Bachelor gets your heart racin’ or if you’re itchin’ for a sweet romance, this book will lasso you right in! The Farmer Takes a Wife by Candice Sue Patterson is a delightful novel that blends the drama of reality TV with a sweet, clean romance set against the scenic backdrop of a South Dakota farm.

Gemma Breckenridge, a bookish librarian with a heart of gold, finds herself in a situation straight out of The Bachelor. Facing financial strain to care for her ailing sister, Gemma takes a leap of faith (quite literally!) and becomes a contestant on a reality show where a charming farmer named Colby Graham seeks his perfect match.

But unlike The Bachelor, The Farmer Takes a Wife is more than just roses and cocktail dresses. This story explores the importance of family and finding love in unexpected places. We witness the hilarious struggles of city girls tackling farm chores, the heartwarming bond between Gemma and her sister, and the undeniable chemistry between Gemma and Colby, despite the show's manufactured drama.

Candice Sue Patterson's writing is witty and engaging, bringing the characters and their journeys to life. The story is full of laugh-out-loud moments as the city girls grapple with farm life, but it also tugs at your heartstrings as Gemma deals with her sister's illness.

This is a delightful escape for anyone who enjoys a good dose of romance, a touch of faith, and a sprinkle of reality TV drama. So, grab your iced tea, settle into your favorite spot, and get ready to be charmed by The Farmer Takes a Wife.

I read The Farmer Takes a Wife via Celebrate Lit Publicity Group and Kindle Unlimited. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The Farmer Takes a Wife” is a clean story of an interesting and unique marriage of convenience love triangle. The writing is smart, and the characters are well developed.

It’s easy to empathize with Gemma when she takes her chances on a reality show because it gives her an opportunity to help her ill sister. The reality show is about a wealthy farmer (Colby) searching for love.

I thought this story might be cheeky but it’s so cute, offering humor, romance, meaning, and commitment. I love the twists and turns that keeps the story from being predictable. It’s a fun, clean, charming story will lovely elements of faith. I look forward to the next book in this series.

First Line: Gemma Breckenridge never thought she’d agree to marry a man she hadn’t met.
Series: South Dakota Brides, book 1
Genre: Small Town Romance
Author: Candice Sue Patterson
Page Count: 336

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book.
Opinions are 100% mine.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've loved her historical fiction novels, but this book certainly proves that Candice Sue Patterson can write contemporary romance! The Farmer Takes a Wife is a marriage-of-convenience story that features participation in a popular reality television show as part of the plot. As I read Gemma Breckinridge's efforts to provide needed critical medical care for her sister, I found myself wondering how far I would go. Would I be willing to put myself in front of millions of viewers and try to convince a stranger that I would make a great wife? Could I bear the humility of not being the contestant chosen? Worse still, would I be certain that I wanted to be the person chosen?

This is labeled as a romantic comedy and there's a lot of fun as Gemma interacts with the contestant who needs the money as badly as she does. I loved the witty banter but there are also thought-provoking twists and a surprise that I didn't see coming. I was a farm wife for many years, so I understood the joys, the challenges, and the silly misconceptions but I especially loved the relevant message woven into the plot. Money is important but it isn't the key to happiness!

If you're looking for a captivating story with fantastic characters, a romantic triangle that increases the drama, a sweet romance that's laced with amazing chemistry, and many laugh-out-loud moments, grab a copy of The Farmer Takes a Wife. Well done, Candice Sue Patterson! I can't wait to read the next book in the South Dakota Brides series!

I received a complimentary copy from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.

[Linda Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well I knew I liked this author’s writing, but wasn’t sure of the topic of a reality tv show. This was certainly the kind of story that was hard to put down. Loved it and looking forward to the next book coming in the series. I received a copy of this story and all opinions are mine.

[Karen Baney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Candice Sue Patterson writes a perfectly executed love-triangle romance with lots of twists and turns that kept me guessing until the last page.

I loved the premise of the story—basically the TV show The Bachelor, but for farmers—comes to South Dakota, to Colby’s ranch. He’s the bachelor and enlists his best friend Stone’s help to choose from the eight women. Gemma signed up for the show to make her dying sister’s wish to live on a ranch come true. Yes, there is a lot of angst in this story.

At first, I was concerned about how clean a book about this type of TV show could be. I am happy to report that it was squeaky clean. The author did a great job describing some of the more flirtatious and back-biting contestants in a way that fits with a clean romance book.

The sparks fly between Gemma and Stone, yet there are financial stakes that keep them both pushing Gemma to further her position in the competition to win Colby’s heart, or at least his friendship. The points of view are equally balanced between Gemma, Colby, and Stone, so the reader is not going to guess which man wins Gemma in this love triangle, marriage of convenience, dying wish romance.

Fans of clean contemporary romance will enjoy this sweet story. You won’t want to put it down once you start reading it!

Romance: Squeaky clean. Passing mention of kissing.

I received a copy of this book courtesy of the publisher through Celebrate Lit Tours. This review is entirely my own opinion.

[Betsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read and enjoyed a few of Candice Sue Patterson’s historical novels and wanted to check out this new contemporary romance. Wow, am I glad I did! This riveting page-turner drew me in from the start with its intriguing blend of comedy and seriousness. The reality TV competition taking place at Colby Graham’s farm brought together a memorable cast of characters including Gemma Breckenridge and the seven other women vying for the title of farmer’s wife, Colby’s best friend, Stone, and their family members, as well as the producers of the show and some the animals. Gemma and Colby each had monetary reasons for wanting to marry which emphasized the sacrifice they were willing to make for their personal happiness, Gemma caring for her ill sister and Colby trying to save his farm. The several and surprising twists and turns made for a really attention-grabbing story I found difficult to put down. Enjoyed this clean, contemporary romance and am looking forward to the next book in the series!

I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher via Celebrate Lit. A positive review was not required and these are my honest opinions.

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I genuinely LOVE Candice Sue Patterson’s books and after this past year, I also confess that I love the TV show, Farmer Wants a Wife. There is something about that show that is different from all the other whirlwind romance shows (not much difference, but work with me). 😉 The country/farm environment just automatically provides that slow lifestyle, working with your hands, living off the land, and seeing a romance blossom there just oozes sweetness and warm fuzzy feelings.

So, when I heard that Candice would be releasing a book that had almost an identical title as the show, I instantly added it to my wish list! If it was anything like the TV show, I knew I wouldn’t be disappointed!

And you know what? I wasn’t! In fact, I preferred The Farmer Takes a Wife so much more than the TV show because I felt like I got to know her characters beyond what an actual director wants to reveal through a show. In this case, it was a love triangle between Gemma, Stone, and Colby, and there were moments that I truly didn’t know how the right two people would end up together while also satisfying the terms of their TV contract. It was just as gripping as what you’d expect from watching a new episode every week – but better!

There’s only so much I can say without revealing too much of the plot, but I will mention that the cast of 8 women was about as different as you’d expect, but all having the same cloying tendencies that you see on shows like The Bachelor. Each women wants to hang onto the guy every chance they get, batting their eyelashes, and saying, “Can I steal you away for a minute?” Only in this case, Colby was able to see through a lot of those charades and weed out the worst, thankfully ending with what I thought were the best two choices of the lot.

At this point, I’ve now read both historical and contemporary fiction by this mega-talented author, and the fact that this story continues into one more book just makes my bookish heart sing! The Farmer and Adele is sure to be a satisfying conclusion!

[Martic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another glorious tale from this author. I've read nearly everything she's written and like the others, this one didn't disappoint. Yes, it's like the recent TV show, but honestly, it's better than the show. Even though this is classified as rom-com, the female character isn't foolish. She's got a brain in her head and uses it as she meets challenges she'd never faced before. There were so many satisfying personal changes in the cast of characters that made it a good read. I look forward to reading Book #2.

[Deanna Potts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excited for the story to continue in the next book

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! A fun behind the scenes Bachelor-type story. It kept me hooked and was a great read at the beach!

[Kelly Erwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love The Farmer Wants a Wife or The Bachelor then you will love this book. The twist is so romantic.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Farmer Takes a Wife by Candice Sue Patterson is a Contemporary Romance. Librarian Gemma Breckenridge finds herself appearing on a reality television program. She desires only the funds necessary to care for her once-famous sister, Cammie, who now suffers from a degenerative brain disease. All she really wants to do is protect her sister and have the funds to care for her sister.

Colby Graham desires only to save his almost bankrupt farm – even agreeing to star in a reality television program where he sets out to find a wife. Eight gorgeous women compete for the title of wife. From Gemma, the librarian, to a saleswoman to a woman who does not eat meat, he finds himself amidst drama and more. However, the one woman he really wants to marry is not a contestant.

Add in his best friend Sloan, who works to ensure Gemma’s victory, and this book takes the reader on an amazing journey. I couldn’t put it down. I loved getting to know all of the characters and reading about all the challenges they endured. Candice Sue Patterson has woven a storyline and characters that drew me into the story.

The twists and turns the author takes make this book unforgettable. The sweet romance made it a joy to read. So, if you want a contemporary romance, check out The Farmer Takes a Wife by Candice Sue Patterson. I recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

A confession before I begin this review: I watch very little reality television. Through the years, I’ve never watched even one episode of any of the television series in which someone tries to find a bride or groom. So why did I request to read this book? I had read another book by this author and loved it, so I thought I’d take a chance on this one. I’m glad I did because this book not only has several fun twists in the storyline, but I also loved the characters of sisters Gemma and Cammie. Gemma’s love and care for Cammie added some heart-touching moments to the book. It also helped that the “The Farmer Takes a Wife” show was being filmed by a “family” network and that kept the storyline clean with just a touch of faith scattered throughout the story. There’s some romance in this story, but it’s clean and sweet. There’s some fun moments as well, and all of this combined made this an enjoyable book to read. I’m looking forward to reading the sequel to this particular story. I voluntarily received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Deana Dick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can you find love on a reality show? Get ready to find out in this fun, lighthearted romance. The author takes us inside the television drama when women compete with each other to be chosen as the farmer’s bride. Oh how I laughed when the women think that their looks will get them chosen. Little do they know that they will be tested to see if they can live on a farm. The first test is catching chickens. From there the tasks get more difficult. Are they ready for this competition that requires patience, endurance and humility?

The book takes us on a journey as women try to impress the farmer. Each woman was different and many were there for the wrong reasons. Gemma was such a good character. Wait till you find out why she decided to go on the show. The story is full of twists but I will say the ending did not surprise me at all. I enjoyed following along as women competed and in the end, true love wins.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Pamela Kerr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished Candice Brooks Patterson’s newest book “The Farmer Takes A Wife.” This book draws you in very early on. It is a very easy read. She develops the characters so well and makes you fall in love with them. She keeps you guessing on how it’s going to end by throwing curveballs at you until the very end. I have had the privilege to read several of her books prior to them being available to the public and I encourage you to take the time to read not just this one but all of her books. She is a wonderful author of books that you won’t regret taking the time to read. I can’t wait to be able to read the next book in the series. #teamstone

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was so much fun to read. The cover initially grabbed my attention, which got me to preorder the book, then from the very first chapter I was pulled into the story. It’s definitely not all fluff though—there are some serious themes going on here: taking care of family, loyalty, love, sacrifices, making amends. I was a little hesitant about the reality TV deal, since I personally don’t like them, but I had a hard time putting this book down. The characters were well-developed and I enjoyed getting to know them. I’m glad I read this book—I can’t wait for the next one!

[Caryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Patterson has crafted a delightful novel. I so enjoyed this modern view of a marriage of convenience. These characters will longer long with you after turning the final page. I read this novel in one sitting.

Recommend to readers who enjoy marriage of convenience novels.

I borrowed a copy from KU. I have expressed my honest view.

[Karen Swango Sluder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read loved the fun flirty banter.

[Kristy O'Dell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was super cute! I enjoyed it way more than I expected to!

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must read! Any fan of The Bachelor, Farmer Wants a Wife, or any similar reality Tv show will love this book! Get to know each character and decide as you read which girl might win! It’s only until you finish the book that you’ll find out if you’re right! I can’t wait for the next book!

[Mia2Four · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this take on finding a wife via television dating. Several excellent characters, good ones and bad. Sweet, innocent heroine and two hunky heroes. Which one will get the girl?

[Debbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was a fun read. But if it was like this I have never watched a reality TV show but if they had one that was like this book, I think it would be enjoyable, and would probably bring lots of laughter. I really like the ending in this book it was really a surprise. I AM DEFINITELY LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEXT BOOK IN THIS SERIES.this is a clean story, but it does have plenty of kisses.The story deals with forgiveness and a character, finally learning to stand up for himself. If a reader wants a fun book, then I recommend that you pick up this book.

I received a complementary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit, and these opinions are my own.

[Wendy Andrus · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently discovered the "Farmer Wants a Wife" TV show, both US and Australia, and it's become a favorite for me. I was excited for a chance to read The Farmer Takes a Wife!

It's definitely a fun read, with twists, for sure. I certainly enjoyed it. I relate the most with Gemma, because I love reading books to children myself, and helping them learn to read.

If you enjoy a fun rom com, with unexpected twists, be sure to grab your own copy.

[Barbara Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started following a new CF account on Instagram and saw a post about this author. I have never read anything by Candice Sue Patterson, so decided to check her out. So thankful I did! As soon as I saw this was a MOC and a contemporary setting, I knew I had to read it!

So so good! I loved the characters... I loved the storyline (so clever!!!)... I loved the setting... truly I can think of nothing I didn't love about this one! And there is a sequel coming soon! Excited to read it!

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED this book. Added to my 2025 favorite reads. REALLY looking forward to reading what happens next.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun story, and one that actually took me by surprise as well. I will admit that the premise of this story is not one that I actually like in real life. I do not enjoy reality TV shows, and I do not watch them. Just from the commercials or clips that I do see, I find them very fake and ridiculous. Why would a bunch of people compete for a happily ever after with one person? How would this marriage work out and would it be true love? But I will say this was an enjoyable read and made me look at those shows a little bit differently. No, I still won't be watching them but maybe there is a gem or two hiding in them.

Gemma is competing against seven other women to win the farmer's hand in marriage. She has her reasons, and they are more desperate than selfish. Her older sister is suffering from a very rare disease that is fatal. She is just trying to make what little time they have left more bearable.

Colby is trying to save his farm. That is why he is trying to find a wife. He also would like to love again after letting go of the woman of his dreams years ago. Can he find a love like that and more with someone else?

Then there is Stone, Colby's best friend and foreman. He thinks Colby is nuts but will stand by his best friend and support him anyway. But can he keep his heart from getting entangled in it all?

There was a lot of meat to this story. At times it was funny, others serious, and sometimes quite swoony. What people will do for love and family is no laughing matter.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so fun! I really liked the spin on a marriage of convenience story by making it take place on a reality show for a bachelor looking for a wife. I also appreciate how both characters, Gemma and Colby, both had their own motives for needing to marry. The setting of being on a farm provided many hilarious situations for all the women to have to go through as they compete to prove they have what it takes to be a farmers wife.

The love triangle between Gemma, Colby and Stone was very well done. Sometimes love triangles can just get frustrating in books, but the way this one was written I never felt like any of the characters were horrible for what they were doing or how they went about things. The chemistry between Stone and Gemma, and Gemma and Colby, was also well done. I appreciated that the author added some sizzle without being graphic or veering into secular territory in the romance aspect of the book.

This was a fun book that I did not want to put down. I'm so excited for the next one in the series. These are characters I want to just keep visiting, and the setting is also one I'm sad to leave now that I've finished the book. I think fans of Jesse Gussman would love this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. That review did not have to be favorable. All opinions are entirely my own.

[Audrey Colman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I even start!? This book was absolutely adorable! I didn’t want to put it down. If I’d given in and let my children play Nintendo all day I would’ve read the book in one sitting 🤭

Having three POVs threw me at first, but it totally worked, and was necessary for this story. I loooooved Gemma. I loved her kindness, her love for her sister and others, her gumption, her attitude.

I was torn between Colby and Stone for a while because they are both amazing guys. Candice crafted them both with such depth that you couldn’t help but fall for both of them and their genuineness. Their love and dedication to each other made it really hard to choose between the two. But ultimately around 75% I was all in for Stone.

I waffled back and forth on liking the other contestants. Sometimes they were sweet and other times they became cats with claws out 🙈 but I love how Gemma handled all of them, even when Addison really blew things up.

Some of my favorite parts were the Sarah Plain and Tall references, the Star Wars references, the chicken coop, and the truck rides.

I absolutely cannot wait for the next book! If you want a sweet, easy, don’t-want-to-put-this-book-down, with bachelor-but-tamer vibes read then you better go pick up The Farmer Takes a Wife right now!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Colby Graham will do whatever it takes to keep his farm, including being a host/contestant for a show that the prize money will earn enough money to pay off his debts. Gemma Breckenridge becomes a contestant so she can continue to pay for her sister’s expensive long-term care. Welcome to this unique reality TV show where things can get messy and high heels aren’t welcome.

It was fun to see the eight women compete for dates with Colby by having to do farm chores. One of the funniest was the chicken challenge. Gemma showed great determination and dedication as she works and practices to be able to help around the farm but also to beat her teammates. All’s fair in love and farm life.

Things to watch for while reading:
Love triangle
Farm challenges
Bunkhouse
Tutoring in chores
Tractor cab ride
Forbidden love
South Dakota farm
Self sacrifice

I didn’t care for the part of the story where Gemma gets extra help from Foreman Stone. Both Gemma and Colby bent the rules in order for her to have a better chance of winning the challenges. I thought this was unfair to all of the other contestants.

I voluntarily reviewed this complimentary copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. All views are my opinion in which I was not required to write a review.