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My Heart Belongs
My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho: Rebecca’s Plight
Is it possible to marry the wrong man? Rebecca Rice was looking forward to a quiet life and a full stomach by becoming mail-order bride to her shopkeeper intended, Mr. Fordham—until the justice of the peace calls him Thaddeus, not Theodore, proceeded by the title Deputy. Rebecca would never marry a lawman like her father, so an annulment seems in order—and fast, since Rebecca’s true intended is impatient to claim her as his own. But when the legalities take longer than expected, Rebecca wonders if Tad Fordham wasn’t the right husband for her all along. . . .
255 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2017
9 people are currently reading
614 people want to read
About the author
Susanne Dietze
65 books653 followersSusanne Dietze began writing love stories in high school, casting her friends in the starring roles. Today, she's an award-winning, RITA®-nominated author who's seen her work on the Publisher's Weekly and ECPA Bestseller Lists for Inspirational Fiction. Married to a pastor and the mom of two, Susanne lives in California and loves fancy-schmancy tea parties, the beach, and curling up on the couch with a costume drama. You can visit her on her website, www.susannedietze.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
January 31, 2024
The premise sounded fun and definitely did not disappoint. I love a mail-order bride marriage of convenience, but accidentally marrying the wrong one who was actually meant for your estranged cousin? Oh, the tangled ropes we weave.
Had never heard of this author, but the KU MOC chasing got me again. Just to manage expectations, the story is not about them living as mistaken husband and wife, they’re just battling through life in the Wild West working around this awkward-for-everyone situation, until they can finally get that pesky annulment. But their insta-connection was so sweet and believable and the progression of their growing feelings and obvious compatibility in the midst of “This is not what I had wanted” and you know, the threat of a gang of robbers and such, was good, good romance. Sure, could use some further proofreading, but the writing was well done in an enjoyable, straight-forward way and very transportingly historical for me. Rebecca Rice is such a fabulous heroine: brave, self-sacrificing, vulnerable, kind, but also fierce and stubborn, no wilting cactus flower (can’t be bothered to check if there was cacti in Wild West Idaho but let’s go with the Western theme). And Tad, just an innately good and capable natural leader, that easily turns grumpy if his protectice side gets poked at. Loved them and the whole cast of characters in Ruby City. This is very much “You get and HEA! And you get an HEA! The whole mining town gets an HEA!”, and I’m so here for it. I don’t mind a twist here and there, but I also don’t read romance for the shocking unpredictable turns. I want everything resolved and tied up happily with a gingham ribbon “As It Should Be” knot, and this gave me all the “Saw It Coming a Mile Away, and I’m so happy it arrived just as I imagined” because few other places we get that certaintity. Speaking of certaintity, though a faith journey is not a huge arc in the story, characters are believers and sending up prayers, themes of forgiveness and relying on the Lord are present and gratifying to see.
I would say add this one for whenever you want to scratch that mail-order bride story itch.
Content notes: Kissing Only. Heroine has some trauma from father’s violent death. On page hijacking, some gang shooting violence and caretaking with mentions of blood.
Had never heard of this author, but the KU MOC chasing got me again. Just to manage expectations, the story is not about them living as mistaken husband and wife, they’re just battling through life in the Wild West working around this awkward-for-everyone situation, until they can finally get that pesky annulment. But their insta-connection was so sweet and believable and the progression of their growing feelings and obvious compatibility in the midst of “This is not what I had wanted” and you know, the threat of a gang of robbers and such, was good, good romance. Sure, could use some further proofreading, but the writing was well done in an enjoyable, straight-forward way and very transportingly historical for me. Rebecca Rice is such a fabulous heroine: brave, self-sacrificing, vulnerable, kind, but also fierce and stubborn, no wilting cactus flower (can’t be bothered to check if there was cacti in Wild West Idaho but let’s go with the Western theme). And Tad, just an innately good and capable natural leader, that easily turns grumpy if his protectice side gets poked at. Loved them and the whole cast of characters in Ruby City. This is very much “You get and HEA! And you get an HEA! The whole mining town gets an HEA!”, and I’m so here for it. I don’t mind a twist here and there, but I also don’t read romance for the shocking unpredictable turns. I want everything resolved and tied up happily with a gingham ribbon “As It Should Be” knot, and this gave me all the “Saw It Coming a Mile Away, and I’m so happy it arrived just as I imagined” because few other places we get that certaintity. Speaking of certaintity, though a faith journey is not a huge arc in the story, characters are believers and sending up prayers, themes of forgiveness and relying on the Lord are present and gratifying to see.
I would say add this one for whenever you want to scratch that mail-order bride story itch.
Content notes: Kissing Only. Heroine has some trauma from father’s violent death. On page hijacking, some gang shooting violence and caretaking with mentions of blood.
May 3, 2017
After corresponding with a man named Theodore, she agrees to be his mail order bride. She is looking for security and not having to worry where her next meal is coming from. On the stagecoach to meet her intended it is robbed and some of her possessions are taken. A Mr. Fordham meets her as she arrives in town and marries her within an hour of her arrival. Only after her marriage does she realize she married the wrong man. She married Thaddeus Fordham,who is the cousin of Mr Theodore Fordham. Both men with very similar names were waiting for mail order brides with very similar names so this is how the mistake was made. After the marriage took place an annulment could not take place because the circuit preacher wouldn't be back in town for some time. Does she stay married to Tad or does the annulment take place and she marries Ted? I suggest you read this gem to find out for yourself.
I have really enjoyed every book in the My Heart Belongs series that I've read and this was no exception. What a humorous writing style Susanne Dietze has, I just love it. I can't wait to read more by her!
Pub Date 01 May 2017
Thank yo to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing, Inc. for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
I have really enjoyed every book in the My Heart Belongs series that I've read and this was no exception. What a humorous writing style Susanne Dietze has, I just love it. I can't wait to read more by her!
Pub Date 01 May 2017
Thank yo to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing, Inc. for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 26, 2017
Y’all, I’m still grinning like a fool and all a’swoon over this latest novel from Susanne Dietze! I adore her humor and the way she crafts characters and romantic tension.
And boy there’s a lot of delicious tension in My Heart Belongs In Ruby City, Idaho: Rebecca’s Plight! For starters, mail-order bride Rebecca Rice just married Thaddeus “Tad” Fordham. The problem? She’s actually supposed to marry Tad’s estranged cousin, Theodore Fordham. And Tad was looking for his intended bride, Rebekah Rhys, when he picked up Rebecca from the stagecoach. Oops!
Delightful humor ensues, as well as some heartfelt moments and stolen glances filled with longing. Because, you see, that “you may now kiss your bride” kiss was a doozy! And Tad and Rebecca aren’t quite recovered from it yet. Between the sparks that kick up in the air whenever those two are together, the way Theodore needs a good purse whomping, and the suspense revolving around the notorious Gang of Four who keep causing trouble …. this is a completely entertaining read on every level.
Bottom Line: Kisses, humor, great characters, a sweet and suspenseful plot (in turn), a hunky deputy, and a strong heroine. My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho has it all – and does it all well. With new novella or novel that I read by Susanne Dietze, she continues to be at the top of my list for historical romance. Read this latest one and you’ll see why!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
see my review at Reading Is My SuperPower
And boy there’s a lot of delicious tension in My Heart Belongs In Ruby City, Idaho: Rebecca’s Plight! For starters, mail-order bride Rebecca Rice just married Thaddeus “Tad” Fordham. The problem? She’s actually supposed to marry Tad’s estranged cousin, Theodore Fordham. And Tad was looking for his intended bride, Rebekah Rhys, when he picked up Rebecca from the stagecoach. Oops!
Delightful humor ensues, as well as some heartfelt moments and stolen glances filled with longing. Because, you see, that “you may now kiss your bride” kiss was a doozy! And Tad and Rebecca aren’t quite recovered from it yet. Between the sparks that kick up in the air whenever those two are together, the way Theodore needs a good purse whomping, and the suspense revolving around the notorious Gang of Four who keep causing trouble …. this is a completely entertaining read on every level.
Bottom Line: Kisses, humor, great characters, a sweet and suspenseful plot (in turn), a hunky deputy, and a strong heroine. My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho has it all – and does it all well. With new novella or novel that I read by Susanne Dietze, she continues to be at the top of my list for historical romance. Read this latest one and you’ll see why!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
see my review at Reading Is My SuperPower
March 31, 2017
I am really enjoying this new "My Heart Belongs" series. This is the third book in the series and so far it looks like there are 6 that will be released this year. One every other month starting back in January. If you enjoy historical fiction and Christian fiction I recommend checking these out. Some have more talk about God than others but out of the three that I have read (all different authors) I thought they were well done.
I will say that this one is my favorite of the first three. I loved Rebecca, I loved Thad, Theodore I grew to love, and I really enjoyed the secondary characters throughout. Rebecca finds herself on the way to Ruby City, Idaho as a mail order bride. Her previous circumstances have left her struggling to survive and she feels that she is being led by God as she has communicated and agreed to marry Theodore Fordham.
Mishap occurs before she arrives and she finds the stagecoach she is riding in being held up by the nefarious Gang of Four. She is robbed of her money and several belongings but arrives with no harm in Ruby City. As she steps off the stagecoach into this mining town Mr. Fordham runs to greet her and assure her he is glad she has come. There is an instant connection between the two and they head in to be married by the Justice of the Peace.
Little side story for you here...My grandfather served in the military during WWII. He and my grandma had been dating for a while and knew they would marry eventually but waited while he was at training camp. He came home on leave planning to go visit a cousin in Reno, NV with my grandma and a couple other cousins. As they were leaving my great grandma called out to them, "Now don't you two go getting yourselves married." As they arrived in Reno, my grandfather's cousins dared them to get married. So they went and woke up the Justice of the Peace, were married and the Justice said, "That'll be $5 please." I've always loved that story(there's a little more to it than that) and had it running through my head while reading most of this novel, probably because the Justice of the Peace kept showing up throughout.
Emotions are running high and in all the rush and excitement to be married, one small detail is overlooked. It's pretty humorous how the author works it into the story so I'll let you read that, but Rebecca finds herself to be Mrs. Thaddeus Fordham and not Mrs. Theodore Fordham. Oh it's all a lovely and silly mixup but can't be changed until the circuit judge comes through....in a month.
What ensues is a lovely, witty, sometimes frustrating story of growth and change in these character's lives. Rebecca wants safety and security, never needing to scrounge for a meal or living concerns again and she knows Theodore, the local mercantile owner, can provide that. Thaddeus, cousin to Theodore, is a deputy and that is big trouble for Rebecca. She lived with a father who was Sheriff and knows all too well the dangers involved. No Thank You!!!! And yet danger abounds in this little mining city and Rebecca finds herself close to the heart of the matter.
Two men, one heart, danger, love, forgiveness, understanding, healing, old flames, hunger, fellow citizens, constant peril, all combine to make quite a fun and intriguing read. I thought I had several aspects figured out only to be wrong about it. Of course I'm sure you will be able to figure out the love story when you start reading it, but I will admit there were a couple times that I wasn't sure who she would choose...Thaddeus, the man she's married to, or Theodore the man she promised her heart and life to.
Content: Clean. It's been a week since I've finished the book and writing this review but from what I remember it was clean. As stated earlier, this is a Christian fiction and the characters reference God throughout as well as praying for guidance.
I received a copy from the Publisher, Barbour Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I will say that this one is my favorite of the first three. I loved Rebecca, I loved Thad, Theodore I grew to love, and I really enjoyed the secondary characters throughout. Rebecca finds herself on the way to Ruby City, Idaho as a mail order bride. Her previous circumstances have left her struggling to survive and she feels that she is being led by God as she has communicated and agreed to marry Theodore Fordham.
Mishap occurs before she arrives and she finds the stagecoach she is riding in being held up by the nefarious Gang of Four. She is robbed of her money and several belongings but arrives with no harm in Ruby City. As she steps off the stagecoach into this mining town Mr. Fordham runs to greet her and assure her he is glad she has come. There is an instant connection between the two and they head in to be married by the Justice of the Peace.
Little side story for you here...My grandfather served in the military during WWII. He and my grandma had been dating for a while and knew they would marry eventually but waited while he was at training camp. He came home on leave planning to go visit a cousin in Reno, NV with my grandma and a couple other cousins. As they were leaving my great grandma called out to them, "Now don't you two go getting yourselves married." As they arrived in Reno, my grandfather's cousins dared them to get married. So they went and woke up the Justice of the Peace, were married and the Justice said, "That'll be $5 please." I've always loved that story(there's a little more to it than that) and had it running through my head while reading most of this novel, probably because the Justice of the Peace kept showing up throughout.
Emotions are running high and in all the rush and excitement to be married, one small detail is overlooked. It's pretty humorous how the author works it into the story so I'll let you read that, but Rebecca finds herself to be Mrs. Thaddeus Fordham and not Mrs. Theodore Fordham. Oh it's all a lovely and silly mixup but can't be changed until the circuit judge comes through....in a month.
What ensues is a lovely, witty, sometimes frustrating story of growth and change in these character's lives. Rebecca wants safety and security, never needing to scrounge for a meal or living concerns again and she knows Theodore, the local mercantile owner, can provide that. Thaddeus, cousin to Theodore, is a deputy and that is big trouble for Rebecca. She lived with a father who was Sheriff and knows all too well the dangers involved. No Thank You!!!! And yet danger abounds in this little mining city and Rebecca finds herself close to the heart of the matter.
Two men, one heart, danger, love, forgiveness, understanding, healing, old flames, hunger, fellow citizens, constant peril, all combine to make quite a fun and intriguing read. I thought I had several aspects figured out only to be wrong about it. Of course I'm sure you will be able to figure out the love story when you start reading it, but I will admit there were a couple times that I wasn't sure who she would choose...Thaddeus, the man she's married to, or Theodore the man she promised her heart and life to.
Content: Clean. It's been a week since I've finished the book and writing this review but from what I remember it was clean. As stated earlier, this is a Christian fiction and the characters reference God throughout as well as praying for guidance.
I received a copy from the Publisher, Barbour Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
July 14, 2023
Updated review: Just wanted to say that I finished reading it for a third time!! It's funny, romantic, and a light western read. I loved it as much as I did the first and second time.
What I Loved: From start to finish this book had captivated me. I ran across Dietze before through some of the novella collections I had read in the past, and her writing stood out to me. Not only was I thrilled to get my hands on her full-length novel, but I found it to be all that I had expected from her. I found characters that I enjoyed spending time with, as well as a charming supporting cast.
I read the entire book in two days and laughed the whole way through. It was the perfect light-hearted read that just hit the spot. I only wish I had the time to start it all back over again.
Rating and Recommendation: I’m giving My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho 5 stars. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Fiction, Christian comedy, or is looking for a delightful summer read.
~I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley. All thoughts are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
What I Loved: From start to finish this book had captivated me. I ran across Dietze before through some of the novella collections I had read in the past, and her writing stood out to me. Not only was I thrilled to get my hands on her full-length novel, but I found it to be all that I had expected from her. I found characters that I enjoyed spending time with, as well as a charming supporting cast.
I read the entire book in two days and laughed the whole way through. It was the perfect light-hearted read that just hit the spot. I only wish I had the time to start it all back over again.
Rating and Recommendation: I’m giving My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho 5 stars. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys Christian Historical Fiction, Christian comedy, or is looking for a delightful summer read.
~I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley. All thoughts are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
March 15, 2017
4.5 stars
Clean, fun Western...full review coming in April.
Clean, fun Western...full review coming in April.
Read
May 12, 2017Make room in your beach bag for Susanne Dietze’s latest release, My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho. Although I usually shy away from love triangles, the accidental nature of Rebecca, Tad, and Theodore’s marriage mix-up combined well with the overall playful and lighthearted tenor of the story. Due to Dietze’s tight plotting and quick pacing, this is a book which can easily be enjoyed in a sitting or two.
Rebecca Rice ventured to the Idaho Territory for Theodore and for herself, “so God could make her whole.” Yet before the sun sets on her first day in Ruby City she had been robbed, wed to the wrong man, and held hostage. Although she didn’t envision her new life like this, she immediately began building relationships with the townsfolk while she awaited her annulment. During this time, readers get a glimpse of a woman who lavishes kindness on everyone regardless of their station. I especially enjoyed her friendships with Cornelia and Ulysses.
Despite her aversion to lawmen, Rebecca and Tad are thrust together via multiple attempts to apprehend the Gang of Four. This is a good thing for readers, because these two have chemistry from the outset! Between the miners, outlaws, and dashing deputy, this story has a vibe that #Hearties (and fans of the Western) will adore!
I received a copy of this book for free, a favorable review was not required of me. All opinions expressed are my own.
Rebecca Rice ventured to the Idaho Territory for Theodore and for herself, “so God could make her whole.” Yet before the sun sets on her first day in Ruby City she had been robbed, wed to the wrong man, and held hostage. Although she didn’t envision her new life like this, she immediately began building relationships with the townsfolk while she awaited her annulment. During this time, readers get a glimpse of a woman who lavishes kindness on everyone regardless of their station. I especially enjoyed her friendships with Cornelia and Ulysses.
Despite her aversion to lawmen, Rebecca and Tad are thrust together via multiple attempts to apprehend the Gang of Four. This is a good thing for readers, because these two have chemistry from the outset! Between the miners, outlaws, and dashing deputy, this story has a vibe that #Hearties (and fans of the Western) will adore!
I received a copy of this book for free, a favorable review was not required of me. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 16, 2017
Susanne Dietze's book My Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho: Rebecca's Plight is a delightful read that will satisfy your reading pleasure! It is like whipped cream on a sunde! Sweet and dreamy!
This book had me chuckling because of the crazy mix-up in names, the action with the Gang, I loved the town of Ruby City and all of the characters, and the ruggedness of Idaho. I loved everything about this book!! My Heart Belongs in Ruby City kept me riveted to the pages. It was a very good story!
Rebecca came to Ruby City as a mail order bride to Theodore Fordham. As she comes in on the stage, it is ambushed. When she finally arrives in town, the action and fun really happens! Rebecca and her 'husband'/'fiance' have a lot to overcome in a month. Who will be her true husband in the end?
Disclosure statement
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.
This book had me chuckling because of the crazy mix-up in names, the action with the Gang, I loved the town of Ruby City and all of the characters, and the ruggedness of Idaho. I loved everything about this book!! My Heart Belongs in Ruby City kept me riveted to the pages. It was a very good story!
Rebecca came to Ruby City as a mail order bride to Theodore Fordham. As she comes in on the stage, it is ambushed. When she finally arrives in town, the action and fun really happens! Rebecca and her 'husband'/'fiance' have a lot to overcome in a month. Who will be her true husband in the end?
Disclosure statement
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.
February 26, 2017
Loved this story, a real western romance, full of colorful characters, action, adventure and tangled relationships! The plot was interesting and moved quickly, with never a dull moment.
Set right after the Civil War, Idaho Territory in 1866 was a rough place to move to, but Rebecca is desperate and thinks she has found a solution to her difficult situation, so risks it all and takes a stagecoach to Ruby City all the way from Missouri. Only things get rough when the stage gets robbed just outside of town. If that wasn't hard enough, she somehow ends up marrying the wrong man once she steps off the stage! Things have a way of working out, as she realizes that God may have another reason for her being there, and that His plan may be a whole lot better than she thinks. "He setteth the solitary in families: he bringeth out those which are bound with chains." Psalm 68:6 KJV
It was inspiring to see Rebecca rise to the need of the people around her, overcoming her fears and insecurities, growing in faith, hope, trust, and eventually love. She has a big heart, showing grace and compassion to the "least of these", though sometimes she seems a bit misguided. The romantic entanglement is a complicated one, but boy does it sizzle finally--totally worth the wait!
Recommend to readers who enjoy historical Christian romances! Fans of Mary Connealy, Margaret Brownley, Karen Witemeyer, and Erica Vetsch will probably love this one. 4.5 stars
(An e-copy was provided by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.)
Set right after the Civil War, Idaho Territory in 1866 was a rough place to move to, but Rebecca is desperate and thinks she has found a solution to her difficult situation, so risks it all and takes a stagecoach to Ruby City all the way from Missouri. Only things get rough when the stage gets robbed just outside of town. If that wasn't hard enough, she somehow ends up marrying the wrong man once she steps off the stage! Things have a way of working out, as she realizes that God may have another reason for her being there, and that His plan may be a whole lot better than she thinks. "He setteth the solitary in families: he bringeth out those which are bound with chains." Psalm 68:6 KJV
It was inspiring to see Rebecca rise to the need of the people around her, overcoming her fears and insecurities, growing in faith, hope, trust, and eventually love. She has a big heart, showing grace and compassion to the "least of these", though sometimes she seems a bit misguided. The romantic entanglement is a complicated one, but boy does it sizzle finally--totally worth the wait!
Recommend to readers who enjoy historical Christian romances! Fans of Mary Connealy, Margaret Brownley, Karen Witemeyer, and Erica Vetsch will probably love this one. 4.5 stars
(An e-copy was provided by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.)
August 11, 2024
I read this book years ago. It is absolutely amazing! I highly recommend!
July 5, 2017
This book had me at the synopsis and it was a really fun read. You had a very testy, if not a bit humorous situation where a mix up of names causes a mail order bride to marry the wrong groom. Not only is that a problem, but her husband-to-be is his cousin. This makes for a difficult time for Rebecca as her now husband is a deputy and this mix up is putting the safe and secure life she has dreamed and hungered for on a very long hold. What’s a girl to do when she actually starts liking her husband more than her fiancé? Do they continue to try a legal way to end the marriage?
Yep, this story was right up my alley and the author filled theirs and the town’s conversations with some fun and witty banter. I could have told Rebecca from the start she got the right guy when it all came down to it, but then there would have been no story. The author really brought this small mining town to life with a whole host of characters and to top it all off she threw in a renegade band of thieves who were progressively getting more dangerous; and drop in the ex-love interest of both cousins and you have the makings of a great story. This was Wild West fun with heart.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. The views and opinions expressed are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Yep, this story was right up my alley and the author filled theirs and the town’s conversations with some fun and witty banter. I could have told Rebecca from the start she got the right guy when it all came down to it, but then there would have been no story. The author really brought this small mining town to life with a whole host of characters and to top it all off she threw in a renegade band of thieves who were progressively getting more dangerous; and drop in the ex-love interest of both cousins and you have the makings of a great story. This was Wild West fun with heart.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. The views and opinions expressed are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
April 17, 2017
Loved the concept of this book right from the beginning, a mix-up of names and a quick mail order bride marriage. Um only to discover the wrong cousin married the wrong Rebecca, to funny, talk about not knowing one another before getting married.
We are in a Ruby City, Idaho, an old West mining town, and I had a feeling by the end of the book it would no longer exist, but have no fear, the next town was only a mile away, although it took hours to get there, at least it seemed to when there was an annulment on the horizon.
We all are quick to judge, and these people are no exception, but underneath are loving hearts, and Rebecca finds some that are about to become life long friends. Who couldn’t blame Corny not liking this pretty woman coming in to marry the man she seems to have her heart set on, so she acted like a scorned woman.
We have quite an assortment of characters in this small town, and your heart will go out to some of them, wish we could continue here, there are a lot more stories.
An enjoyable read from beginning to end and fun read, and one that will fly quickly as you page turn.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Barbour Books, and was not required to give a positive review.
We are in a Ruby City, Idaho, an old West mining town, and I had a feeling by the end of the book it would no longer exist, but have no fear, the next town was only a mile away, although it took hours to get there, at least it seemed to when there was an annulment on the horizon.
We all are quick to judge, and these people are no exception, but underneath are loving hearts, and Rebecca finds some that are about to become life long friends. Who couldn’t blame Corny not liking this pretty woman coming in to marry the man she seems to have her heart set on, so she acted like a scorned woman.
We have quite an assortment of characters in this small town, and your heart will go out to some of them, wish we could continue here, there are a lot more stories.
An enjoyable read from beginning to end and fun read, and one that will fly quickly as you page turn.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Barbour Books, and was not required to give a positive review.
May 6, 2017
"There is no protocol for this . . . . . situation I find myself in."
"This situation" involves marrying the wrong man when she thought she was marrying the right man . . . . or something like that. Rebecca Rice has traveled days to reach the silver mining town of Ruby City, Idaho where her intended is the proprietor of the local mercantile; having corresponded for quite some time with her mail order groom and deciding that Theodore Fordham can provide her with a sensible, predictable future. In a cruel twist of mistaken identities, Rebecca marries Theo's cousin Thaddeus; the town deputy who could never be accused of spending even two ordinary days in a row, especially when the notorious "Gang of Four" has been spotted on the outskirts of town .
Waiting impatiently for an annulment, Thad and Rebecca; the town's most famous "married-but-not-married" couple, do their best to avoid confrontation, leaving room for this predictably unpredictable conundrum to come full circle. Susanne Dietze has added a delightful story to the "My Heart Belongs" series.
The author provided me with an advance copy of this book. The opinions stated are entirely my own.
"This situation" involves marrying the wrong man when she thought she was marrying the right man . . . . or something like that. Rebecca Rice has traveled days to reach the silver mining town of Ruby City, Idaho where her intended is the proprietor of the local mercantile; having corresponded for quite some time with her mail order groom and deciding that Theodore Fordham can provide her with a sensible, predictable future. In a cruel twist of mistaken identities, Rebecca marries Theo's cousin Thaddeus; the town deputy who could never be accused of spending even two ordinary days in a row, especially when the notorious "Gang of Four" has been spotted on the outskirts of town .
Waiting impatiently for an annulment, Thad and Rebecca; the town's most famous "married-but-not-married" couple, do their best to avoid confrontation, leaving room for this predictably unpredictable conundrum to come full circle. Susanne Dietze has added a delightful story to the "My Heart Belongs" series.
The author provided me with an advance copy of this book. The opinions stated are entirely my own.
July 1, 2022
You know those books that suck you right in from the beginning? That’s My Heart Belongs in Ruby, City, Idaho. Susanne Dietze has a way with her characters and dialogue that makes the pages just fly by and leaves you wishing you too could visit Ruby City, Idaho too.
Favorite Lines:
“It’s better to assume people’s antics have nothing to do with you unless you have the facts, or you’ll be shouldering the weight of the world.” (Pg. 91)
“Rebecca couldn’t fix a single one of those hurts, but she could be a friend to the members of her community, remembering that each, like her, held hurts and griefs.” (Pg. 101)
“What had his mother said about her squabbles with Pa? Better to let some steam out of the kettle than to get burned when things boil over.” (Pg. 118)
Thank you Melissa of Christian Books and Coffee for the recommendation.
Favorite Lines:
“It’s better to assume people’s antics have nothing to do with you unless you have the facts, or you’ll be shouldering the weight of the world.” (Pg. 91)
“Rebecca couldn’t fix a single one of those hurts, but she could be a friend to the members of her community, remembering that each, like her, held hurts and griefs.” (Pg. 101)
“What had his mother said about her squabbles with Pa? Better to let some steam out of the kettle than to get burned when things boil over.” (Pg. 118)
Thank you Melissa of Christian Books and Coffee for the recommendation.
June 28, 2017
My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho: Rebecca's Plight, written by Susanne Dietze, is the first full-length novel I've read by this author.
What a delightful read! Dietze took me on the road trip with a Mail Order Bride going to Idaho...the development of the characters, the decriptions of Ruby City, the emotions that ran high...they kept me turning those pages! My favorite characters were Rebecca and Tad. Rebecca was kind, always thinking of others, dependable, trustworthy and sweet. Tad...aw, he was the sweetest deputy you could meet...trustworthy, kind, lives up to his word, and yep...swoonworthy!
If you're into Christian historical romance, mail order brides, and good writing...you'll find this book right up your alley. This book would be suitable for teens on up. Clean, wholesome, with a touch of biblical inspiration but not preachy.
I was given this book by the publishing company. All thoughts and comments are my own.
What a delightful read! Dietze took me on the road trip with a Mail Order Bride going to Idaho...the development of the characters, the decriptions of Ruby City, the emotions that ran high...they kept me turning those pages! My favorite characters were Rebecca and Tad. Rebecca was kind, always thinking of others, dependable, trustworthy and sweet. Tad...aw, he was the sweetest deputy you could meet...trustworthy, kind, lives up to his word, and yep...swoonworthy!
If you're into Christian historical romance, mail order brides, and good writing...you'll find this book right up your alley. This book would be suitable for teens on up. Clean, wholesome, with a touch of biblical inspiration but not preachy.
I was given this book by the publishing company. All thoughts and comments are my own.
June 4, 2021
I’m still amused by the fun loving story Dietze created in My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho. Rebecca’s Plight was not what she anticipated when she arrived in Ruby City after the stage coach was robbed. Marrying quickly upon her arrival only to discover she married her intended groom’s cousin who was a deputy, Thaddeus instead of Theodore Fordham. Tad and Ted were at odds any way and this only complicated the matter. The humor, history, unexpected twists and turns to who the Gang of Four was made this a fun and easy read from the start. Will Ruby find her place in Ruby City with the right groom after all she and rest of the small mining town endured?
April 12, 2017
I discovered Susanne Dietze's writing with her first novel, The Reluctant Guardian, and decided here was an author I wanted to follow. She writes with skill and infuses depth into her characters and their plights. I was pulled in at the beginning of this book. It is a wonderful story and one I'm sure readers will enjoy fully.
*I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher via Net Galley. My opinions are my own.
*I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher via Net Galley. My opinions are my own.
July 4, 2017
Mistaken identity causes all sorts of problems in this novel about a mail-order bride and unforeseen circumstances. Will she find true love? The decisions made by each character are interesting and surprising at times. Very good story. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
October 10, 2020
What a super sweet wonderful western romance!! So enjoyable!
July 5, 2017
What a great read! I really enjoyed this one. It was entertaining and had some good twists! ;) It was a little more drawn out than I would have personally liked it to be, but the both funny and amazing scenes more than made up for it. Rebecca is such a cool character, and I feel she shows true Christian love in her actions. I LOVED Tad! He is so sweet! The whole situation is unique and entertaining as they learn about their mistake and how to deal with it among thieves and a band of hilarious characters! This was the first book I've read from Susanne and I can't wait to read more!!! I recommend this sweet and adventurous read!!!! P.S. It's a GREAT 4th of July read! ;)
Songs: "He Leadeth Me" by the Cluster Pluckers
Songs etc. May be changed and/or added in the future. ~ASC
Jeremiah 29:11
~ASC
*I received this book from Barbour for the purpose of reviewing it. This in no way affected my opinion and the above are my true thoughts and feelings about My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho: Rebecca's Plight. ~ASC
Songs: "He Leadeth Me" by the Cluster Pluckers
Songs etc. May be changed and/or added in the future. ~ASC
Jeremiah 29:11
~ASC
*I received this book from Barbour for the purpose of reviewing it. This in no way affected my opinion and the above are my true thoughts and feelings about My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho: Rebecca's Plight. ~ASC
July 5, 2017
This book was so fun to read! It was very clear to me, even from the beginning, which man should hold Rebecca’s heart. Sometimes it was hard for me to watch Rebecca flounder and allow worry to grab hold of her. She allowed that fear to keep her from seeing and grasping hold what God was giving her. Reading this book over the fourth of July was really nice and ended up tying in with the story covering the same time of year. That was fun! Rebecca’s was a journey from fear to faith, learning where she belonged, and allowing herself to accept God’s abundant blessings. This story was definitely one worth reading!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
July 8, 2017
I'd never read anything by this author before, so I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this book. I have to say the story was a bit unique, and definitely kept me engaged with it, but something felt off with it, to the point where I couldn't justify giving it a 4 star rating.
Rebecca and Tad were both impulsive characters that shouldn't have suited each other, but did in a very roundabout way. Their marriage was definitely one filled with confusion, but I felt that it was all rather manufactured. Rebecca also focused too much on her idea of safety and security, rather than trusting the Lord.
I did like the cast of characters in the story, and the story did move at a good pace throughout it, so I think it was more of this was just not a good fit for me.
Rebecca and Tad were both impulsive characters that shouldn't have suited each other, but did in a very roundabout way. Their marriage was definitely one filled with confusion, but I felt that it was all rather manufactured. Rebecca also focused too much on her idea of safety and security, rather than trusting the Lord.
I did like the cast of characters in the story, and the story did move at a good pace throughout it, so I think it was more of this was just not a good fit for me.
May 29, 2017
A fun, sweet read from a new favorite historical author.
My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho starts out with an accidental marriage and ends with a sigh-filled HEA skillfully written with heart and humor.
Using snappy dialogue, realistic main and (hilarious) secondary characters, and a plot that's tight and action-packed, author Suzanne Dietze sweeps readers up in a romantic romp of a read that will appeal to historical romance fans.
What a great way to kick off my summer reading!
My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho starts out with an accidental marriage and ends with a sigh-filled HEA skillfully written with heart and humor.
Using snappy dialogue, realistic main and (hilarious) secondary characters, and a plot that's tight and action-packed, author Suzanne Dietze sweeps readers up in a romantic romp of a read that will appeal to historical romance fans.
What a great way to kick off my summer reading!
August 26, 2017
The premise for this story is such fun and so creative, as is the setting in Idaho in the old west. The characters are so carefully crafted that I could envision them clearly and felt I knew them. I enjoyed Rebecca’s take-charge attitude and the way she looked at her problems and solved them the best way she knew how. The delightful humor and plot twists and turns added to my enjoyment of the story. I will definitely be looking forward to more stories from Susanne Dietze.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
July 18, 2017
I loved the premise of this book. A mail-order bride marrying the wrong man. At first I was chuckling about their situation, then I started feeling sympathy. This was such a good story. It had a lot in there about overcoming fears and being true to who you are. I loved how everything turned out in the end. I would really recommend this book.
August 10, 2017
Rebecca's Plight has action right from the beginning. From a hair-raising stagecoach hold-up to a case of mistaken identity, you won't be disappointed by this entertaining, light-hearted adventure!
I really enjoyed reading Rebecca's story. This is the second book in the "My Heart Belongs" collection and a delightful addition. Susanne Dietz has taken on the topic of a Mail-order bride, and breathed new life into this story premise. I have read (and enjoyed) several stories of mail-order brides, but Rebecca's Plight stands alone with a unique twist in the story where the bride marries the wrong groom.
This story has a something for anyone. Fans of Western stories will be thrilled by the action, and those looking for a light-hearted, clean christian romance will be equally delighted. I found myself cheering for Rebecca and fully engaged in her story. I’m happy to recommend this engaging, page-turning story.
To read my full review, visit me at: www.joyofreadingweb.wordpress.com
*I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. My opinions I have expressed are my own.
I really enjoyed reading Rebecca's story. This is the second book in the "My Heart Belongs" collection and a delightful addition. Susanne Dietz has taken on the topic of a Mail-order bride, and breathed new life into this story premise. I have read (and enjoyed) several stories of mail-order brides, but Rebecca's Plight stands alone with a unique twist in the story where the bride marries the wrong groom.
This story has a something for anyone. Fans of Western stories will be thrilled by the action, and those looking for a light-hearted, clean christian romance will be equally delighted. I found myself cheering for Rebecca and fully engaged in her story. I’m happy to recommend this engaging, page-turning story.
To read my full review, visit me at: www.joyofreadingweb.wordpress.com
*I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. My opinions I have expressed are my own.
February 16, 2017
My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho: Rebecca's Plight is a great addition to the My Heart Belongs series. I thought it was fun and sweet with some suspense.
Looking forward to more by this author in the figure.
5 stars
Looking forward to more by this author in the figure.
5 stars
May 1, 2017
My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho: Rebecca’s Plight is a novel that at its core is a fun light-headed comedy of sorts. The situation that Rebecca Rice finds herself is at times both amusing and complicated.
Early on in the story, I enjoyed it. I loved the plot of this book. Rebecca steps off the stage coach in Ruby City, and through some misunderstandings, accidently marries the wrong man. The novel is set up for a lot of fun in the pages. However, for me, the book became a bit tedious. There were so many jokes about Rebecca being married to one man while being engaged to the other that, for me, it began to feel repetitious and predictable. And at many points, I started to lose a bit of interest in the story.
Later on in the book, a subplot begins to take a bit more shape and my interest was a bit more piqued again. Then, the characters began to feel less developed and again, I lost a bit of interest.
I was curious enough to keep moving forward in the book, but not nearly as quickly as my normal pace. If you enjoy the style of humor in the book, it may make it a more enjoyable read. But if you don’t, it’s a bit much at times.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.**
Early on in the story, I enjoyed it. I loved the plot of this book. Rebecca steps off the stage coach in Ruby City, and through some misunderstandings, accidently marries the wrong man. The novel is set up for a lot of fun in the pages. However, for me, the book became a bit tedious. There were so many jokes about Rebecca being married to one man while being engaged to the other that, for me, it began to feel repetitious and predictable. And at many points, I started to lose a bit of interest in the story.
Later on in the book, a subplot begins to take a bit more shape and my interest was a bit more piqued again. Then, the characters began to feel less developed and again, I lost a bit of interest.
I was curious enough to keep moving forward in the book, but not nearly as quickly as my normal pace. If you enjoy the style of humor in the book, it may make it a more enjoyable read. But if you don’t, it’s a bit much at times.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.**
January 5, 2020
This book is a sweet and simple romance that made for a nice read. It's a classic marriage mix up situation with a few twists that I found kept it interesting and original. The setting was wonderfully described and I felt that the characters in the town were made memorable, although some seemed a bit underdeveloped and shallow.
I enjoyed that this book had some suspense and adventure in it, it's definitely a page turner! I started reading it and didn't stop until I got to the end. The book had a strong storyline of faith and trust in God that I really enjoyed. There was definitely the Christian element in this Christian fiction, and it tied into the plot beautifully!
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical romance, especially fans of Rachel Fordham as this has a bit of a similar feel.
This was my first work by Susanne Dietze, I will definitely be looking into more of her work!
I enjoyed that this book had some suspense and adventure in it, it's definitely a page turner! I started reading it and didn't stop until I got to the end. The book had a strong storyline of faith and trust in God that I really enjoyed. There was definitely the Christian element in this Christian fiction, and it tied into the plot beautifully!
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical romance, especially fans of Rachel Fordham as this has a bit of a similar feel.
This was my first work by Susanne Dietze, I will definitely be looking into more of her work!
June 29, 2017
Stories about mail-order brides are always enjoyable to me but this book may be the best one yet! Rebecca Rice is determined to never be alone or go hungry ever again and traveling to Ruby City, Idaho to marry a businessman named Theodore Fordham is her way to achieve this goal. She just didn't count on her stagecoach being robbed and she sure didn't dream that she would marry another Mr. Fordham by mistake. And to make matters worse, her new husband Thaddeus "Tad" Fordham is Theodore's cousin and they are bitter rivals because of a previous interest in the same woman. The two newlyweds know that an annulment is the only solution but the judge won't be back for another month, the groom is a deputy who has to find the gang of robbers and there is this matter of their undeniable attraction for each other.
I found this to be a delightful story and author Susanne Dietze has created two very likeable main characters in Rebecca and Tad. They are both people of faith and strong convictions and watching them struggle to do the right thing while denying their instant attraction and growing feelings for each other had me longing for their happy ending. Rebecca shows kindness and compassion for everyone she encounters and Tad wants to mend his relationship with his cousin so you know that they are both trying to live the Christian life that they profess.
"My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho" is filled with humor, excitement, western adventure AND sweet romance. The sexual tension is obvious and just reading some of the author's dialogue made my heart beat faster. While trying to convince Rebecca that she shouldn't choose Theodore just because it is the right thing to do, Tad utters these words. "You can choose to put him first and work for his good, sure, and that's love, but you know what kind of love I mean. That pull like a magnet's inside him and you're drawn to him and you can't think about anything but being with him."
Shewee! Thaddeus Fordham really understands how true, romantic love should make you feel!!!
Susanne Dietze has written a book that is Christian fiction at its finest and I recommend it highly!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
I found this to be a delightful story and author Susanne Dietze has created two very likeable main characters in Rebecca and Tad. They are both people of faith and strong convictions and watching them struggle to do the right thing while denying their instant attraction and growing feelings for each other had me longing for their happy ending. Rebecca shows kindness and compassion for everyone she encounters and Tad wants to mend his relationship with his cousin so you know that they are both trying to live the Christian life that they profess.
"My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho" is filled with humor, excitement, western adventure AND sweet romance. The sexual tension is obvious and just reading some of the author's dialogue made my heart beat faster. While trying to convince Rebecca that she shouldn't choose Theodore just because it is the right thing to do, Tad utters these words. "You can choose to put him first and work for his good, sure, and that's love, but you know what kind of love I mean. That pull like a magnet's inside him and you're drawn to him and you can't think about anything but being with him."
Shewee! Thaddeus Fordham really understands how true, romantic love should make you feel!!!
Susanne Dietze has written a book that is Christian fiction at its finest and I recommend it highly!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
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