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The Courageous Brides
Ride into adventures alongside nine determined women of yesteryear whose acts of compassion and bravery attract male attention. Marcy helps displaced Indians. Emmy tends wounds at Fort Snelling. Ronnie stows away on a cattle drive. Daisy disguises herself as a Pony Express rider. Elinor becomes an abolitionist. Mae tames wild horses. Hannah gets help for accident victims. Lucy’s curiosity unnerves criminals. Kate nurses soldiers on the battlefield. Will real dangers douse the sparks of love?
448 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2016
13 people are currently reading
649 people want to read
About the author
Johnnie Alexander
47 books400 followersJohnnie Alexander is a wannabe vagabond with a heart for making memories. As a bestselling, award-winning novelist, she has written more than thirty works of fiction in a variety of genres.
She is a Mosaic Collection author, co-hosts a weekly online show called Writers Chat, serves on the Mid-South Christian Writers Conference Executive Board, and is a regular contributor to the HHHistory.com blog.
A fan of classic movies, stacks of books, and road trips, Johnnie shares a life of quiet adventure with Rugby, her raccoon-treeing papillon. Connect with her at JohnnieAlexander.com.
She is a Mosaic Collection author, co-hosts a weekly online show called Writers Chat, serves on the Mid-South Christian Writers Conference Executive Board, and is a regular contributor to the HHHistory.com blog.
A fan of classic movies, stacks of books, and road trips, Johnnie shares a life of quiet adventure with Rugby, her raccoon-treeing papillon. Connect with her at JohnnieAlexander.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 1, 2017
There were some AWESOME stories in this collection! Well worth the money for the book, even though there were three stories I didn't finish. My two favorites were "The Doctor's Woman" by Michelle Griep and "The Battlefield Bride" by Renee Yancy. These collections are starting to grow on me. I'm not - in general - a fan of short fiction, but when it's done well, it is are a pleasure to read.
May 22, 2016
Barbour Books puts out collections of novellas that are just the ticket to fill a random hour or two when you don't have the time or inclination to take on a whole novel. Every now and again I need to lighten up my reading with a less-than-serious story, and the Courageous Brides Collection fills that bill to a T. There are nine stories by vetted authors that take the readers back in history and enjoy a few moments of light reading.
Most of the stories are great, there was only one that was too silly for me to finish. I really enjoyed the "Encumbered Bride" story, where Mae had the responsibility of her younger siblings and her younger cousins. She felt sure no one would want to take on nine children at various ages and her fight to keep her land from a nefarious thief. When her brothers find a cowboy who had been injured while on his way to their ranch to look at horses, she works with all of the children to bring him back to full health. What she doesn't count on is that he would fall in love with her, and that she would fall in love with him.
This is a solid four star collection.
Barbour Books provided the galley I read in exchange for my honest review. My thanks to them.
Most of the stories are great, there was only one that was too silly for me to finish. I really enjoyed the "Encumbered Bride" story, where Mae had the responsibility of her younger siblings and her younger cousins. She felt sure no one would want to take on nine children at various ages and her fight to keep her land from a nefarious thief. When her brothers find a cowboy who had been injured while on his way to their ranch to look at horses, she works with all of the children to bring him back to full health. What she doesn't count on is that he would fall in love with her, and that she would fall in love with him.
This is a solid four star collection.
Barbour Books provided the galley I read in exchange for my honest review. My thanks to them.
June 13, 2016
Nine historical novellas of women who face life head-on, with faith and courage. I really enjoyed the nine different stories of strong women in situations that test their abilities, their faith and each is different and unique.
They each have a different story to tell about their lives is their beautiful historical settings in the 1800s. Being as they are novellas and not full length, it was nice to be able to read an enjoyable story of a shorter length when time was a bit limited.
Each woman shows strength and dedication as she tries to serve others and help those who need her help. I enjoyed this series and would probably enjoy other books from these authors, many of whom I was unfamiliar with.
They each have a different story to tell about their lives is their beautiful historical settings in the 1800s. Being as they are novellas and not full length, it was nice to be able to read an enjoyable story of a shorter length when time was a bit limited.
Each woman shows strength and dedication as she tries to serve others and help those who need her help. I enjoyed this series and would probably enjoy other books from these authors, many of whom I was unfamiliar with.
July 25, 2016
Novella collections often provide instant gratification for those seeking to read favored authors, but they also pleasantly introduce a plethora of writers who rarely publish full length manuscripts. "The Courageous Brides Collection" is no exception and is a splendid example of why these groupings can work to everyone's advantage.
Having read and appreciated books by Johnnie Alexander and Michelle Griep, their contributions to this volume, "The Healing Promise" and "The Doctor's Woman"proved to be well written and easily enjoyed. (no surprise there) While continuing to read, stories written by (new to me) authors Rose Allen McCauley and Renee Yancey, "Hidden Courage" and "The Battlefield Bride", added characters and story lines to the over all theme that demonstrated skill and creativity, bringing social issues of the late 1800's alive on the page. The same could be said for every one of these novellas.
All in all, this is a collection that comes highly recommended! I appreciated receiving a complimentary copy from one of the authors in exchange for my honest opinion.
Having read and appreciated books by Johnnie Alexander and Michelle Griep, their contributions to this volume, "The Healing Promise" and "The Doctor's Woman"proved to be well written and easily enjoyed. (no surprise there) While continuing to read, stories written by (new to me) authors Rose Allen McCauley and Renee Yancey, "Hidden Courage" and "The Battlefield Bride", added characters and story lines to the over all theme that demonstrated skill and creativity, bringing social issues of the late 1800's alive on the page. The same could be said for every one of these novellas.
All in all, this is a collection that comes highly recommended! I appreciated receiving a complimentary copy from one of the authors in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 29, 2016
Besides the fact that one of the stories in this collection is mine, there are some AWESOME authors in this collection. Love stories of brave heroines who aren't afraid to do what's necessary? Then this is the book for you!
Read
November 15, 2017The Healing Promise by Johnnie Alexander *** I Liked It
This is light entertainment that can nearly be read in a single sitting. I think there is potential to develop this story into something with more substance.
The Doctor's Woman by Michelle Griep ***** It Was Amazing
This author is a master storyteller; every one of her books that I've read has been great. The heroine of this book's title is delightfully feisty... the hero, naturally, cannot help but fall for her and he has what it takes to win her, as well. Loved their witty dialogues and developing romance.
An Everlasting Promise by Eileen Key *** I Liked It
This is a sweet Historical Western Romance. It almost reads like the script of an old-fashioned black and white movie; at least, that's the way the scenes appeared to me.
Love On The Run by Debby Lee *** I Liked It
There was an interesting bit of suspense in this one but mostly it is another sweet Historical Western Romance.
Hidden Courage by Rose Allen McCauley *** I Liked It
This easy to read story is a bit fairy-tale like and clichéd; but if you want a Historical Romance with a “Happy Ever After” ending this will fit the bill.
The Encumbered Bride by Donita Kathleen Paul *** I Liked It
Another sweet Historical Western Romance complete with a big family peopled with wonderful characters caring for a battered and bruised cowboy.
Mountain Echoes by Jennifer Uhlarik *** I Liked It
The story was quite different from from any other I've read recently and that really held my interest because it wasn't easy for me to predict where it was going most of the time.
Letters From Lucy by Jenness Walker ***** It Was Amazing
Well, the letters alluded to in the title are as delightfully entertaining as this easy to read short story. Lucy is a fun and frankly fascinating character whom I was wholly hooked on from the very first paragraph of this novella.
The Battlefield Bride by Renee Yancy *** I Liked It
With the American Civil War as the backdrop to this story the author was able to use that to showcase the charms/ characters of her heroine and hero rather nicely.
This is light entertainment that can nearly be read in a single sitting. I think there is potential to develop this story into something with more substance.
The Doctor's Woman by Michelle Griep ***** It Was Amazing
This author is a master storyteller; every one of her books that I've read has been great. The heroine of this book's title is delightfully feisty... the hero, naturally, cannot help but fall for her and he has what it takes to win her, as well. Loved their witty dialogues and developing romance.
An Everlasting Promise by Eileen Key *** I Liked It
This is a sweet Historical Western Romance. It almost reads like the script of an old-fashioned black and white movie; at least, that's the way the scenes appeared to me.
Love On The Run by Debby Lee *** I Liked It
There was an interesting bit of suspense in this one but mostly it is another sweet Historical Western Romance.
Hidden Courage by Rose Allen McCauley *** I Liked It
This easy to read story is a bit fairy-tale like and clichéd; but if you want a Historical Romance with a “Happy Ever After” ending this will fit the bill.
The Encumbered Bride by Donita Kathleen Paul *** I Liked It
Another sweet Historical Western Romance complete with a big family peopled with wonderful characters caring for a battered and bruised cowboy.
Mountain Echoes by Jennifer Uhlarik *** I Liked It
The story was quite different from from any other I've read recently and that really held my interest because it wasn't easy for me to predict where it was going most of the time.
Letters From Lucy by Jenness Walker ***** It Was Amazing
Well, the letters alluded to in the title are as delightfully entertaining as this easy to read short story. Lucy is a fun and frankly fascinating character whom I was wholly hooked on from the very first paragraph of this novella.
The Battlefield Bride by Renee Yancy *** I Liked It
With the American Civil War as the backdrop to this story the author was able to use that to showcase the charms/ characters of her heroine and hero rather nicely.
April 18, 2016
The Courageous Brides Collection is collection of nine stories. These stories include:
The Healing Promise by Johnnie Alexander
The Doctor’s Woman by Michelle Griep
An Everlasting Promise by Eileen Key
Love on the Run by Debby Lee
Hidden Courage by Rose Allen McCauley
The Encumbered Bride by Donita Kathleen Paul
Mountain Echoes by Jennifer Uhlarik
Letters from Lucy by Jenness Walker
The Battlefield Bride by Renee Yancy
Almost every one of these authors I hae never read before or even heard of and I am definitely not disappointed. These little stories are great. My favorite is Jennifer Uhlarik's Mountain Echoes. What a fabulous collection!
5 stars.
The Healing Promise by Johnnie Alexander
The Doctor’s Woman by Michelle Griep
An Everlasting Promise by Eileen Key
Love on the Run by Debby Lee
Hidden Courage by Rose Allen McCauley
The Encumbered Bride by Donita Kathleen Paul
Mountain Echoes by Jennifer Uhlarik
Letters from Lucy by Jenness Walker
The Battlefield Bride by Renee Yancy
Almost every one of these authors I hae never read before or even heard of and I am definitely not disappointed. These little stories are great. My favorite is Jennifer Uhlarik's Mountain Echoes. What a fabulous collection!
5 stars.
June 1, 2016
This is a collection of short novellas dedicated to Courageous Brides and their stories. This is the type of book that I like to read while waiting to pick up my son from school or a quick read before bed. They are fun to read and short. Most of the stories I liked like the Doctor's Woman. A couple I had a hard time finishing but everyone has different tastes. They are full of adventure for women in the 1800's. So if you are like me, and sometimes have only time to read a short romantic adventure, then these help fill in that time.
A Copy of this collection was provided to me by Barbour Books for my honest opinion.
A Copy of this collection was provided to me by Barbour Books for my honest opinion.
October 5, 2016
Thanks to Barbour Publishing Via NetGalley I was given a ebook to read and review The Courageous Brides. 9 Historical romances. Okay so here goes! :)
1. The Healing Promise ~~ Johnnie Alexander
Nebraska May 22, 1877 Marcy has a gentle heart. She is new to the frontier life. She hasn't gotten used to it yet and wonders if she ever will. Joel is a farmer who takes care of his little sister. Joel comes for Marcy one day and asked her to help out the Ponca's. He's not sure if she will since her beau doesn't like Indians. Joel has loved Marcy for a while now but he doesn't have nothing to offer her. He is a farmer he can't compare to a banker's son. Can Marcy and Joel realize that love is what's really important?
2. The Doctors Woman~~ Michelle Griep
Minnesota 1862 Emma has just buried her Papa. He was the town doctor. She is suppose to leave and go to Minneapolis. Some soldiers arrive and need help. The new town doctor arrives. James Clark. Can James convince Emma he will love her forever? Will Emma give up dinners, dancers and society to be a doctor's wife?
3. An Everlasting Promise~~ Eileen Key
This is one that I really enjoyed. Veronica (Ronnie) wants to get home. Her Aunt just dies. She want's to get to Forth Worth. A cowboy tells her how to stowaway on a cattle drive. Seth doesn't want a girl on the cattle drive. He doesn't want another person to look after. Seth is getting tired of driving cattle. He is ready to settle down and get a ranch on his own.
4. Love on the Run ~~ Debby Lee
Daisy has been running from Butch he killed her parents. She is tired of running. Billy longs to bring his nephew home. He is in a orphanage. Billy works for the Pony Express. The Pony Express is like the mail carriers. They don't want woman working for them. They are alot of dangers at the Pony Express. Daisy want to be a rider. Billy doesn't want her to because it is a dangerous job. Can Billy see that Daisy is tougher than she looks.
5. Hidden Courage ~~ Rose Allen McCouley
Kentucky 1833. This is the only book so far that I've read about slavery and slaves. Elinor has some in her house. She dislikes slavery. Her best friend is a slave. William is studying to be a doctor. He want's to help save lives. Colored lives as well. He doesn't believe in slaves. He is a northern man. Elinor's family is from the south. When I read the cover and I thought that abolitionist was something o do with trees or flowers. I learned something new by reading this novella. Thanks.
6. The Encumbered Bride ~~ Donita Kathleen Paul
This story out so funny. I enjoyed it. I was laughing and my husband and kids kept looking at me making sure I was ok. Grant gets shot on his way to buy some horses. A bunch of kids try to help him They take good care of him. I like the stuffed grandpa. They have a stuffed grandpa on the porch. Grant wonders where the adults are. Mae and her siblings (cousins) tame wild mustangs. Mae wants someone to help take care of her family. She wants girl stuff. She wants someone to help out on the ranch. Can Grant prove his love to hannah and step up to be a dad/uncle to the kids. Who shot Grant and Why? I loved this novella.
7. Mountain Echoes ~~ Jennifer Uhlarik
Utah October 1862. Hannah is a assistant for a deaf and blind school. She is sent to get Travis who is deaf. Finn is the stage coach driver. He came from a abusive family. He tries to help out Travis and Hannah. They are on the stage coach then there was a accident. A couple of people died. Can Finn come to love Travis and Hannah or always think that he will be like his dad? Who was abusive to him? Can Hannah come to help Travis.He is like a wild child. He is newly deaf and his dad doesn't want him. This was a sweet novella. The strength that Hannah has. It's great to witness on paper.
8. Letters from Lucy ~~ Jenness Walker
Lucy is new to Texas. She thought that it would be like the dime novels you read. She wants to be a journalist like her Pa. Lucy gets under Sam's skin.He is mysterious. He thinks she's nosey. She is just trying to find a story. Sam wants. to clear his name. He thinks Lucy can help him. She is smart and solves people's problems. She watches and takes notes. What did Sam do that he needs help from Lucy.
9. The Battlefield Bride ~~~ Renee Yancy
Kentucky 1862. Katherine tries to help out the wounded soldiers.She is a widower. She keeps imagining what her husband went through. She arrives and everything is in chaos. She helps clean all the soldiers, starts to cook. James is a surgeon. He was injured on the battlefield before. He lost his finance. She couldn't handle him be injured without a leg. James believes that woman can't handle the injured men. He doesn't trust woman because of his past. Can love conquer all? Can love mend two hearts? This was a sweet novella. I know it wasn't real but it made me think about the battles and stuff from way long ago.
I enjoyed all the novellas some I liked better than others. Some made my laugh, some cry. Thanks again, to Barbour Publishing Via Netgalley for letting me read this great collection of Courageous Brides fro free.
1. The Healing Promise ~~ Johnnie Alexander
Nebraska May 22, 1877 Marcy has a gentle heart. She is new to the frontier life. She hasn't gotten used to it yet and wonders if she ever will. Joel is a farmer who takes care of his little sister. Joel comes for Marcy one day and asked her to help out the Ponca's. He's not sure if she will since her beau doesn't like Indians. Joel has loved Marcy for a while now but he doesn't have nothing to offer her. He is a farmer he can't compare to a banker's son. Can Marcy and Joel realize that love is what's really important?
2. The Doctors Woman~~ Michelle Griep
Minnesota 1862 Emma has just buried her Papa. He was the town doctor. She is suppose to leave and go to Minneapolis. Some soldiers arrive and need help. The new town doctor arrives. James Clark. Can James convince Emma he will love her forever? Will Emma give up dinners, dancers and society to be a doctor's wife?
3. An Everlasting Promise~~ Eileen Key
This is one that I really enjoyed. Veronica (Ronnie) wants to get home. Her Aunt just dies. She want's to get to Forth Worth. A cowboy tells her how to stowaway on a cattle drive. Seth doesn't want a girl on the cattle drive. He doesn't want another person to look after. Seth is getting tired of driving cattle. He is ready to settle down and get a ranch on his own.
4. Love on the Run ~~ Debby Lee
Daisy has been running from Butch he killed her parents. She is tired of running. Billy longs to bring his nephew home. He is in a orphanage. Billy works for the Pony Express. The Pony Express is like the mail carriers. They don't want woman working for them. They are alot of dangers at the Pony Express. Daisy want to be a rider. Billy doesn't want her to because it is a dangerous job. Can Billy see that Daisy is tougher than she looks.
5. Hidden Courage ~~ Rose Allen McCouley
Kentucky 1833. This is the only book so far that I've read about slavery and slaves. Elinor has some in her house. She dislikes slavery. Her best friend is a slave. William is studying to be a doctor. He want's to help save lives. Colored lives as well. He doesn't believe in slaves. He is a northern man. Elinor's family is from the south. When I read the cover and I thought that abolitionist was something o do with trees or flowers. I learned something new by reading this novella. Thanks.
6. The Encumbered Bride ~~ Donita Kathleen Paul
This story out so funny. I enjoyed it. I was laughing and my husband and kids kept looking at me making sure I was ok. Grant gets shot on his way to buy some horses. A bunch of kids try to help him They take good care of him. I like the stuffed grandpa. They have a stuffed grandpa on the porch. Grant wonders where the adults are. Mae and her siblings (cousins) tame wild mustangs. Mae wants someone to help take care of her family. She wants girl stuff. She wants someone to help out on the ranch. Can Grant prove his love to hannah and step up to be a dad/uncle to the kids. Who shot Grant and Why? I loved this novella.
7. Mountain Echoes ~~ Jennifer Uhlarik
Utah October 1862. Hannah is a assistant for a deaf and blind school. She is sent to get Travis who is deaf. Finn is the stage coach driver. He came from a abusive family. He tries to help out Travis and Hannah. They are on the stage coach then there was a accident. A couple of people died. Can Finn come to love Travis and Hannah or always think that he will be like his dad? Who was abusive to him? Can Hannah come to help Travis.He is like a wild child. He is newly deaf and his dad doesn't want him. This was a sweet novella. The strength that Hannah has. It's great to witness on paper.
8. Letters from Lucy ~~ Jenness Walker
Lucy is new to Texas. She thought that it would be like the dime novels you read. She wants to be a journalist like her Pa. Lucy gets under Sam's skin.He is mysterious. He thinks she's nosey. She is just trying to find a story. Sam wants. to clear his name. He thinks Lucy can help him. She is smart and solves people's problems. She watches and takes notes. What did Sam do that he needs help from Lucy.
9. The Battlefield Bride ~~~ Renee Yancy
Kentucky 1862. Katherine tries to help out the wounded soldiers.She is a widower. She keeps imagining what her husband went through. She arrives and everything is in chaos. She helps clean all the soldiers, starts to cook. James is a surgeon. He was injured on the battlefield before. He lost his finance. She couldn't handle him be injured without a leg. James believes that woman can't handle the injured men. He doesn't trust woman because of his past. Can love conquer all? Can love mend two hearts? This was a sweet novella. I know it wasn't real but it made me think about the battles and stuff from way long ago.
I enjoyed all the novellas some I liked better than others. Some made my laugh, some cry. Thanks again, to Barbour Publishing Via Netgalley for letting me read this great collection of Courageous Brides fro free.
August 18, 2016
This is a mix of great and mediocre stories. In this collection’s defense I do read a LOT so it takes more than just a run-of-the-mill love story to stick with me after the last page. I would recommend this collection to anyone who enjoys short escapes from reality by way of sweet, clean romance.
The Healing Promise by Johnnie Alexander – 4 stars
Marcy and Joel set out to help a Ponca child who is sick when most of their town is prejudice against the natives. I felt this story is a little too bare-bones. I see the potential for a full length novel here.
The Doctor’s Woman by Michelle Griep – 5 stars
James,modern doctor from the east, and Emmy, someone more familiar with natural healing, clash when they have to tend wounded natives together, but come to an understanding in more ways than one. This story is full of drama and whit, as well as a nice love story.
An Everlasting Promise by Eileen Key – 5 stars
Ronnie ends up stowing away on Seth’s cattle drive then cooking for the crew. I really enjoyed Seth’s humorous journal entries at the beginning of each chapter as well as all the other fun with these two.
Love on the Run by Debby Lee – 3 stars
Daisy and Billy have to work together to stay out of trouble because women aren’t allowed to be Express riders. This one lacks dimension in the story and depth in the characters. I think the plot is a good one, but the love story was rushed and didn’t feel deep to me.
Hidden Courage by Rose Allen McCauley – 3 stars
Elinor and William both enjoy helping people and want to help all slaves be free. I appreciate the abolitionist idea behind this story, but I felt it fell short with regard to the plot and romance. It just didn’t hold my attention.
The Encumbered Bride by Donita Kathleen Paul – 5 stars
I very much enjoyed this story of Grant as he finds himself injured, nearly to the point of death, and taken care of by a strange family headed up by Mae. I laughed so many times during this story! The children are precious and the family tight nit. The love story is sweet and believable.
Mountain Echoes by Jennifer Uhlarik – 5 stars
Hannah accompanies a deaf child by stage to his new home at a special school, but when their stage is in an accident she uses all her courage and strength to help badly-wounded Finn and little Travis back to civilization. This was an interesting and emotional story that I enjoyed very much.
Letters from Lucy by Jenness Walker – 4 stars
Lucy seeks adventures in a small Texas town, but feels disappointed until she meets Sam who is trying to clear his name. Lucy wiles away the hours of boredom by making up stories about Sam being a real western hero and sends them to her friend. This one was well rounded in the love story and plot.
The Battlefield Bride by Renee Yancy – 5 stars
This is the most memorable story in all. It has a most interesting setting for a love story – a Civil War battlefield hospital. Kate, trying to make up for past choices, takes over an army sick ward against the wishes of the doctor in charge – Major Logan. Both characters felt real in their actions and emotions and I enjoyed the story a lot.
I received a copy of The Courageous Brides Collection from Barbour Books to read and give my honest feedback.
The Healing Promise by Johnnie Alexander – 4 stars
Marcy and Joel set out to help a Ponca child who is sick when most of their town is prejudice against the natives. I felt this story is a little too bare-bones. I see the potential for a full length novel here.
The Doctor’s Woman by Michelle Griep – 5 stars
James,modern doctor from the east, and Emmy, someone more familiar with natural healing, clash when they have to tend wounded natives together, but come to an understanding in more ways than one. This story is full of drama and whit, as well as a nice love story.
An Everlasting Promise by Eileen Key – 5 stars
Ronnie ends up stowing away on Seth’s cattle drive then cooking for the crew. I really enjoyed Seth’s humorous journal entries at the beginning of each chapter as well as all the other fun with these two.
Love on the Run by Debby Lee – 3 stars
Daisy and Billy have to work together to stay out of trouble because women aren’t allowed to be Express riders. This one lacks dimension in the story and depth in the characters. I think the plot is a good one, but the love story was rushed and didn’t feel deep to me.
Hidden Courage by Rose Allen McCauley – 3 stars
Elinor and William both enjoy helping people and want to help all slaves be free. I appreciate the abolitionist idea behind this story, but I felt it fell short with regard to the plot and romance. It just didn’t hold my attention.
The Encumbered Bride by Donita Kathleen Paul – 5 stars
I very much enjoyed this story of Grant as he finds himself injured, nearly to the point of death, and taken care of by a strange family headed up by Mae. I laughed so many times during this story! The children are precious and the family tight nit. The love story is sweet and believable.
Mountain Echoes by Jennifer Uhlarik – 5 stars
Hannah accompanies a deaf child by stage to his new home at a special school, but when their stage is in an accident she uses all her courage and strength to help badly-wounded Finn and little Travis back to civilization. This was an interesting and emotional story that I enjoyed very much.
Letters from Lucy by Jenness Walker – 4 stars
Lucy seeks adventures in a small Texas town, but feels disappointed until she meets Sam who is trying to clear his name. Lucy wiles away the hours of boredom by making up stories about Sam being a real western hero and sends them to her friend. This one was well rounded in the love story and plot.
The Battlefield Bride by Renee Yancy – 5 stars
This is the most memorable story in all. It has a most interesting setting for a love story – a Civil War battlefield hospital. Kate, trying to make up for past choices, takes over an army sick ward against the wishes of the doctor in charge – Major Logan. Both characters felt real in their actions and emotions and I enjoyed the story a lot.
I received a copy of The Courageous Brides Collection from Barbour Books to read and give my honest feedback.
July 18, 2016
Nine women in historical America find courage during dangerous or uncertain times. Their courage helps others and shows God's compassionate love. It also brings them to the attention of men who will see their hearts and love them for their spirit and adventure. Each story is connected by the theme and is written by separate authors. They are all set in historical settings and showcase woman who are willing to step out of social norms or go against the trend to show compassion and love to others.
These stories were sweet, romantic, and heartwarming. Each one brought faith filled love to light in a clean, inspirational setting. While I enjoyed some stories more than others, all of them fit well with the book's setting and focused on the importance of courage, compassion, and Christ-like love. This book was great when I only had a short time to read, because each story is novella length and is a stand-alone. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romance, faith-filled stories, and courageous women.
I received this book free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
These stories were sweet, romantic, and heartwarming. Each one brought faith filled love to light in a clean, inspirational setting. While I enjoyed some stories more than others, all of them fit well with the book's setting and focused on the importance of courage, compassion, and Christ-like love. This book was great when I only had a short time to read, because each story is novella length and is a stand-alone. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romance, faith-filled stories, and courageous women.
I received this book free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
July 20, 2016
This book, ya'll. Its gorgeous! I have the paperback and I was blown away by the pages and the cover. The publisher did a great job of packaging it. But, let me get to the stories. I have read just the first two and I had to go ahead and leave a review. There are 9 historical short stories in all in this collection. So, it is a really good deal. I loved the first two stories by Johnnie Alexander and Michelle Griep. These stories left me saying "awe" they were sweet and precious and got me in the feels. The women are compassionate and courageous. I love historical fiction anyway because I often wonder what it was like to live "back in the day". These stories did just that. I felt I was living back in the mid 1800's. I really have enjoyed reading these stories and will read the others too. I highly recommend this collection.
*I was given this book by one the authors and I have given my honest review.
*I was given this book by one the authors and I have given my honest review.
December 15, 2016
This is another fantastic historical fiction novella collection from Barbour with nine stories of grief, courage, and (gasp) riding astride. Stories of farmers, Indians, cattle drives, rustlers, frontier doctors, Pony Express riders, Pinkerton agents, criminals, and greedy land-grabbers, a romance between former slaves, a cute kid here and there, and some dime store novels to boot!
If you enjoy historical fiction set in the American West, this is a great collection. If you enjoy stories that include characters' spiritual journeys, you will enjoy this even more. Highly recommended.
This review refers to a review e-book copy read, courtesy of the publisher, through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
If you enjoy historical fiction set in the American West, this is a great collection. If you enjoy stories that include characters' spiritual journeys, you will enjoy this even more. Highly recommended.
This review refers to a review e-book copy read, courtesy of the publisher, through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 14, 2016
I won this in a giveaway and one of the authors (Rose Allen McCauley) sent it to me. This is the first of this type of collection I have read. There are a bunch of them published by Barbour Publishing. I've got a lot of them lined up to read in the near future.
These stories grab your interest and hold it throughout. The characters, story line and settings are nicely developed for short stories. I loved each story enough that I kept wishing each one could be expanded to a full length novel. These are all new authors to me, but I will be following them with their own individual work.
Can't wait to get into another collection like this. WONDERFUL! Recommend to any and all.
August 1, 2016
I won this book on Petticoats & Pistols from one of the authors, Jennifer Uhlarik. I really enjoyed all the 9 stories about these brides, they showed strength, courage, wit & the hardships that they encountered to find the men that they were to marry during the civil war & the west as our country was growing. I really liked Mountain Echoes by Jennifer Uhlarik, as she wrote about helping a deaf boy & her injured cowboy in the mountains after a accident on the stagecoach. This book it's self is a beautiful keepsake with it's ragged edges.
August 14, 2016
Saddle up!
A book filled with adventure after adventure. I admit, I wanted this book because Michelle Griep had a story in it....but I found that it's filled with other great stories by talented authors. I love reading stories that focus on strong women, especially from times past. Strength, courage, faith, love....you will find them all and much more. I highly recommend that you saddle up and read it for yourself!
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley in return for my honest review.
A book filled with adventure after adventure. I admit, I wanted this book because Michelle Griep had a story in it....but I found that it's filled with other great stories by talented authors. I love reading stories that focus on strong women, especially from times past. Strength, courage, faith, love....you will find them all and much more. I highly recommend that you saddle up and read it for yourself!
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley in return for my honest review.
August 12, 2016
This collection of novellas show skill and immense creativity throughout. Each novella gives you instant satisfaction before moving onto the next story line which is as good as the last one or even better. The stories are well crafted and they each stand alone and pull you in instantly, which is a delightful surprise, that it would happen not once, not twice, but nine times. As Oliver Twist would say, "Please sir, may I have another?"
November 26, 2016
The Courageous Brides Collection is a wonderful collection of stories of women and the men that love them. All were hopeful and inspiring. They are all written by talented authors so they are well written. They also featured different subjects. I would read one and say that is my favorite only to read the next one and claim that as my new favorite. A great book to read and keeps you engaged.
July 20, 2016
First of all, the book itself is quite lovely. I have never seen a paperback like this one. It’s more like a hardcover. This book has nine stories. Nine! Okay, to the writing. 5 stars
I have listed the stories according to how well I liked them—not how they are listed in the book.
The best of books will have me laughing out loud as well as tearing up. If an author can do that with a novella, that is really something. That was the case of The Battlefield Bride by Renee Yancy. This seriously could have been a book by itself. 5 stars
I knew I would love The Doctors Woman by Michelle Griep because I love the author’s work. I was hooked from the first paragraph all the way to the end! I might would have used less similes but everything else was perfect. 5 stars
I loved An Everlasting Love by Eileen Key. I have never read anything of hers before. I would like to see more. The only thing I would have changed was I would like to have had a few less tears from the heroine, but I do love a strong female lead and not everyone is. 5 stars
The Encumbered Bride was written by Donita Kathleen Paul—another new-to-me author. At first I was busy trying to figure out who Grant’s love interest was going to be, but then I got so caught up in the different characters, I didn’t care. Another good one. 5 stars
Letters From Lucy by Jenness Walker was an intriguing tale. There were a few places where the characters felt a certain way but the feelings were lost in translation. For instance, there was a line where Sam says, “I asked you to pass the biscuits.” And she walks away mad. Why was she mad? I don’t know. Still, I liked the story and would read another by the same author. 4 stars
I felt that there was not enough of an attraction to warrant the relationship that developed between the main characters in Mountain Echoes by Jennifer Uhlarik, otherwise it was an exciting story. 4 stars
The Healing Promise by Johnnie Alexander started out sad with a sick child, but excitement came later in the form of a knife/gun fight. I think this one could have used a little more character development. There were parts that were a little unrealistic but not to the point that I would quit reading. 4 stars
Love on the Run by Debby Lee and Hidden Courage by Rose Allen McCauley were just meh for me. It may have been a case of reader’s preference, but I couldn’t get into either of them. 3 stars each
I have listed the stories according to how well I liked them—not how they are listed in the book.
The best of books will have me laughing out loud as well as tearing up. If an author can do that with a novella, that is really something. That was the case of The Battlefield Bride by Renee Yancy. This seriously could have been a book by itself. 5 stars
I knew I would love The Doctors Woman by Michelle Griep because I love the author’s work. I was hooked from the first paragraph all the way to the end! I might would have used less similes but everything else was perfect. 5 stars
I loved An Everlasting Love by Eileen Key. I have never read anything of hers before. I would like to see more. The only thing I would have changed was I would like to have had a few less tears from the heroine, but I do love a strong female lead and not everyone is. 5 stars
The Encumbered Bride was written by Donita Kathleen Paul—another new-to-me author. At first I was busy trying to figure out who Grant’s love interest was going to be, but then I got so caught up in the different characters, I didn’t care. Another good one. 5 stars
Letters From Lucy by Jenness Walker was an intriguing tale. There were a few places where the characters felt a certain way but the feelings were lost in translation. For instance, there was a line where Sam says, “I asked you to pass the biscuits.” And she walks away mad. Why was she mad? I don’t know. Still, I liked the story and would read another by the same author. 4 stars
I felt that there was not enough of an attraction to warrant the relationship that developed between the main characters in Mountain Echoes by Jennifer Uhlarik, otherwise it was an exciting story. 4 stars
The Healing Promise by Johnnie Alexander started out sad with a sick child, but excitement came later in the form of a knife/gun fight. I think this one could have used a little more character development. There were parts that were a little unrealistic but not to the point that I would quit reading. 4 stars
Love on the Run by Debby Lee and Hidden Courage by Rose Allen McCauley were just meh for me. It may have been a case of reader’s preference, but I couldn’t get into either of them. 3 stars each
July 12, 2017
The following are the titles and authors in The Courageous Brides Collection: Compassionate Heroism Attracts Male Suitors to Nine Spirited Women:
The Healing Promise by Johnnie Alexander, The Doctor’s Woman by Michelle Griep, An Everlasting Promise by Eileen Key, Love on the Run by Debby Lee, Hidden Courage by Rose Allen McCauley, The Encumbered Bride by Donita Kathleen Paul, Mountain Echoes by Jennifer Uhlarik, Letters from Lucy by Jenness Walker and The Battlefield Bride by Renee Yancy.
I enjoy novella collections for a variety of reasons, and this one did not disappoint. One reason I enjoy novellas is because I can read them quickly and finish them easily. Once I start reading, I hate to stop until I have finished the book! This collection was especially enjoyable because I found several new authors as well as authors well-known to me.
Each of the stories is set in the mid to late 1800’s and gives a fascinating view of life during that era. They also deal with social and societal issues facing powerless groups.
Historical fiction is one of my favorites, and when combined with messages of faith, they become even more pleasurable to me.
******************Forewarning******************
The last story, The Battlefield Bride, very realistically portrays gruesome wounds of warfare and the resulting primitive surgeries during the Civil War.
I received this book from NetGalley. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.
The Healing Promise by Johnnie Alexander, The Doctor’s Woman by Michelle Griep, An Everlasting Promise by Eileen Key, Love on the Run by Debby Lee, Hidden Courage by Rose Allen McCauley, The Encumbered Bride by Donita Kathleen Paul, Mountain Echoes by Jennifer Uhlarik, Letters from Lucy by Jenness Walker and The Battlefield Bride by Renee Yancy.
I enjoy novella collections for a variety of reasons, and this one did not disappoint. One reason I enjoy novellas is because I can read them quickly and finish them easily. Once I start reading, I hate to stop until I have finished the book! This collection was especially enjoyable because I found several new authors as well as authors well-known to me.
Each of the stories is set in the mid to late 1800’s and gives a fascinating view of life during that era. They also deal with social and societal issues facing powerless groups.
Historical fiction is one of my favorites, and when combined with messages of faith, they become even more pleasurable to me.
******************Forewarning******************
The last story, The Battlefield Bride, very realistically portrays gruesome wounds of warfare and the resulting primitive surgeries during the Civil War.
I received this book from NetGalley. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.
January 11, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this compilation of novellas! I found some new authors whose books I want read.
July 15, 2016
I read Michelle Griep's story The Doctor's Woman and loved it. Emmy is spirited and strong and she tried to do the right thing, sometimes putting herself in peril. James, well James was a great leading man and I'm glad he learned what was really more important in the end.
Although it's a novella, the characters are well developed and the story is satisfying. As usual, the imagery is fantastic.
Although it's a novella, the characters are well developed and the story is satisfying. As usual, the imagery is fantastic.
December 8, 2016
I loved this collection of stories. I bought it because I know Johnnie Alexander, and then I discovered other great authors. I didn't want there to be only nine stories! The characters were likeable, and the stories were touching. Definitely a great read.
February 11, 2018
This was a very enjoyable collection of stories that inspired, entertained and delighted my heart. One of the 9 was not my favorite but all the rest were top notch. Loved the journeys of adventure, overcoming hardship, faith, and love. Well done ladies!
March 12, 2019
Enjoyed
I enjoyed this collection of novellas because I was able to find new authors too follow. I chose this collection because I want to read all of Michelle Griep's books and not only did I get to read hers but found several other authors to check out their other books as well.
I enjoyed this collection of novellas because I was able to find new authors too follow. I chose this collection because I want to read all of Michelle Griep's books and not only did I get to read hers but found several other authors to check out their other books as well.
November 28, 2020
These collections books may be short stories but they are well-written and I love them as there are a variety of places, times and events. This is a great way to find new authors you may want to follow too.
May 8, 2018
LOVE The Courageous Brides Collection, especially author Renee Yancy contribution!
December 14, 2016
A solid collection.
Lots of stories centered around wartime.
My favorite out of the collections was The Encumbered Bride by Donita Kathleen Paul.
Lots of stories centered around wartime.
My favorite out of the collections was The Encumbered Bride by Donita Kathleen Paul.
January 4, 2020
Finally, nicely written clean romantic stories of women who are competent and not needy in any way.
February 3, 2021
This was a great collection. Each story was unique, and just when I thought I found a favorite, I moved on to the next story and it became my favorite. I would recommend this book.
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