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Lone Star Cowboy League: Multiple Blessings #3
The Bride's Matchmaking Triplets
Marriage by Necessity
When mail-order bride Elizabeth Dumont's intended weds another, her only option is to take a job as nanny to abandoned triplet babies. Though she longs to provide a real home for her three precious charges, as a single woman she can't adopt. Until her onetime sweetheart, minister Brandon Stillwater, offers a match of convenience...
It's only for the triplets' sake--that's what Brandon tells himself. Insecurities once drove him and Elizabeth apart, and now small-town rumors have made them man and wife. And though Brandon doesn't want to risk his heart this time, he's not sure he can resist the feelings that are once again starting to bloom for Elizabeth. But can he convince her that this sweet surprise family is more than just convenient?
When mail-order bride Elizabeth Dumont's intended weds another, her only option is to take a job as nanny to abandoned triplet babies. Though she longs to provide a real home for her three precious charges, as a single woman she can't adopt. Until her onetime sweetheart, minister Brandon Stillwater, offers a match of convenience...
It's only for the triplets' sake--that's what Brandon tells himself. Insecurities once drove him and Elizabeth apart, and now small-town rumors have made them man and wife. And though Brandon doesn't want to risk his heart this time, he's not sure he can resist the feelings that are once again starting to bloom for Elizabeth. But can he convince her that this sweet surprise family is more than just convenient?
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published June 6, 2017
About the author
Regina Scott
140 books1,021 followersRegina Scott started writing novels in the third grade. Thankfully for literature as we know it, she didn’t actually sell her first novel until she had learned a bit more about writing. Since her first Regency romance was published in 1998, her stories have traveled the globe, with translations in many languages including Dutch, German, Italian, and Portuguese. She is now the author of more than 50 works of warm, witty historical romance.
She and her husband of 30 years reside in Washington State on the way to Mt. Rainier. Regina Scott has driven four in hand, learned to fence, sailed on a tall ship, and dressed as a Regency dandy, all in the name of research, of course. Sign up for her free alert service to hear when the next book will be out or on sale at https://subscribe.reginascott.com/. You can find her online blogging at www.nineteenteen.com. Learn more about her at www.reginascott.com and connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorreginascott .
She and her husband of 30 years reside in Washington State on the way to Mt. Rainier. Regina Scott has driven four in hand, learned to fence, sailed on a tall ship, and dressed as a Regency dandy, all in the name of research, of course. Sign up for her free alert service to hear when the next book will be out or on sale at https://subscribe.reginascott.com/. You can find her online blogging at www.nineteenteen.com. Learn more about her at www.reginascott.com and connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorreginascott .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
September 24, 2017
"I promise you all my support, all my respect. I hope more will grow with time."
Time. Might as well say chance. He was asking her to risk her future on him. How could she?
Alright. This book is not good. Scott does have a pretty good writing style - she's interesting and detailed - but the plot and actions of the characters in this is ridiculous. Often times I wondered what the heck was going on here.
Elizabeth, if you remember from the last novel The Nanny's Temporary Triplets, is a mail-order bride who arrived in Texas only to find the man who had sent for her was wedding another woman.
Now she's at odds. I mean, really at odds since she doesn't have a man and she doesn't have a job. And guess who is living here in town? Her old flame, Brandon Stillwater. A preacher. UGH. They broke up four years ago, and it quickly becomes clear that - although each thinks the other is at fault - they were broken up by a third party who lied to them.
Luckily for us, this gets cleared up in Chapter Three. Thank goodness, I would go crazy if that 'misunderstanding' hung over the whole book.
Elizabeth is playing temporary mother to the orphaned triplets (introduced in The Rancher's Surprise Triplets) but the town is building an orphanage and is itching to take them away from her.
Rumors are also being spread about her bad character.
Now, let's break this down.
BRANDON STILLWATER
Limp noodle, pompous Christian. He is a good person, I guess. Rather useless.
He meets Elizabeth four years ago, where he shows off his pompous Christianity at a dinner party. For some reason, beyond my understanding, she seems to like this.
As the least most notable CARMEN'S NOTE: LEAST MOST NOTABLE! WTF person in the room, besides her, he would have had every right to sit quietly, speak only when directly addressed. Indeed, he had been quiet the first part of the meal. Then the inventor, a Mr. Lombard, had begun a paean to man's ingenuity.
"Why, even now, in New York, a pneumatic system brings warm air in winter and cool air in summer," he boasted, the sleeve of his black dress coat coming perilously close to dipping into his creamed asparagus as he waved a hand.
"Amazing," the mayor proclaimed. "We may have to rethink our futures, gentleman. Science seems to have the upper hand."
Brandon had merely offered them all a charming smile as he reached for his crystal glass. "I think I'll stick with the Author of invention instead of the implementer." And he'd calmly taken a sip as if giving them all a moment to think about what he'd said.
How could she not be drawn to such a man?
VERY EASILY; he's a pompous ass and he just added NOTHING to the conversation but acted as if he'd dropped a truth-bomb or something. FFS. You can't allow people to rejoice in the advances of science? Why? Does that threaten you? If I was at this dinner table... And then he just pauses smugly to let it sink in, so that all the people can be humbled or whatever. Fuck that shit.
Here's another example.
But he thought Elizabeth's presence might work to the good as much as the presence of the babies. She'd always made people feel welcome, valued.
What could he do to make her see the value in him once more?
He nearly shook his head to clear it. Where were his thoughts this afternoon? It shouldn't matter what Elizabeth thought of him. The only approval he should seek was that of his Lord.
*Carmen stands with her mouth hanging open* These two are going to have an AWFUL marriage, if he thinks the only approval he has to have in life is the approval of his Lord. If he thinks he only needs to please one "person" and that person is someone who is an All-Mighty Creator who doesn't communicate with him directly, I despair of his relationship with his wife. What a sad state of affairs.
Next, we need to address Brandon's complete lack of a sex drive and his inability to do anything sexually exciting.
He's not even repressed, there's nothing to repress.
Careful of Theo in her arms, he bent his head toward hers.
He was going to kiss her. The same excitement she'd felt in Boston bubbled up inside her, and she closed her eyes in expectation. His lips brushed her cheek before retreating, yet she trembled. She opened her eyes to find him regarding her wide-eyed, as if the touch had awoken something inside him as well.
They get engaged and he kisses her on the cheek. Titillating. Cheek-kissing, awaken the beast within. o.O
The way he acts at his wedding reception. OMFGosh. They ask him what music to play and he's like,
Brandon eyed Elizabeth. "Something sweet, for my sweetheart."
Then they dance and he ends the dance like this:
All she could feel was hope.
Laughter woke her from the dream.
"Your timing's off, brother," Bo called. "The music ended four beats ago."
Brandon's cheeks were pinking as he drew her to a halt.
"Sufficient unto the day are the worries thereof," Brandon told their audience. "And so are the joys."
To applause, he took her arm and walked with her away from the dancing area.
The fuck? I would be nuts. This guy would drive me batty in two days. He just gets on every last nerve I have.
Then, since they are married now, he starts showing her around his house. This is when I'm like, "Oh, the subject of sex is going to come up."
NO. It never comes up. We are in the heads of the characters and neither one even THINKS about sex. Isn't that bizarre? I mean, it's really, really bizarre. I know they are Christians, and this book is a Christian romance, but... come on. If you're married - even if you are NOT going to have sex with your spouse for whatever cockamamie reason - the thought of sex is going to cross your mind. Even something like, "Is he going to expect me to share his bed?" or something. SOMETHING. Work with me, people.
But no, these two are both so sexually dead that things like sex or even kissing doesn't even occur to them. Zero sexual chemistry. This transfers over to other parts of their lives, I'm sure they are dead. For instance, the woman who lied to both of them in order to break them up. They never get angry. They never get outraged about it. They never talk about it. They never wish or wonder about if things had been different. They're are just like, "Ho hum, I guess that woman blatantly lied to our faces and manipulated us, but who cares? Even though our lives were ruined in some ways. Ho hum." EVEN if Scott wanted to stress their Christian natures, okay, she could have made them be MERCIFUL and FORGIVING. Instead, it just seems like these two have no pulse.
She came and pressed a kiss to his cheek.
Longing rose up inside him, fierce, strong. She and the babies were his to protect, his to provide for.
His to love?
More cheek kissing. They've been married weeks and they are not even mouth-kissing yet. FFS. Also, note to authors: you can't just TELL ME his longings are fierce and strong when you make absolutely no effort to show that through his actions. I don't fucking believe you, at this point.
Well, maybe he /she is just being respectful of each other's feelings! Maybe they just don't want to pressure their spouse into unwanted sexual acts, Carmen!
IF Scott had presented it this way - as if these two characters had sexual longings, but were just trying to be respectful and kind to each other, I would be much more on board with this. Because then, at least, I would feel like they want to make love on some level. Here, it's like nothing. It's as if they are both asexual. WHICH IS FINE, but not something I want from a book that advertises itself as a heterosexual romance.
Then, when he finally DOES kiss her on the mouth, after weeks of marriage, he APOLOGIZES for it. WHY? WHY?
"Elizabeth, forgive me, I..."
She put her fingers to his lips to seal them, but the touch only reminded her of what they'd just shared. "No. No apologies. No misunderstandings. You kissed me, and I kissed you back. Let's just leave it at that."
Why the fuck is he apologizing? I just don't understand these two at all. It wasn't like she wasn't enjoying the kiss!
Brandon's kiss had likely been meant as no more than a kindness, thanks for what she'd achieved that night with her first dinner party.
...
But that kiss? Oh, my. How would she ever get to sleep thinking of it?
Girrrrrrrrl... I feel really sorry for you. You deserve real kissing. Not whatever pathetic excuse is happening here. Sad. :( Why don't you try seducing him? He's your husband now! But no, she could never be so bold. Not only that, it would never occur to her in a million years. Just sad to me that she's now trapped in this completely sexless marriage. Not even literally sex, but even sexual excitement is denied her. I feel sad inside knowing she is going to die without ever having felt sexual chemistry. :(
Although I guess I shouldn't, because she's almost as bad as her husband on the dead-inside front.
Then, finally, on page 220, Elizabeth starts fantasizing about having Brandon's children.
Elizabeth could see it now. A little girl with Brandon's silky hair. A little boy with his quicksilver eyes. But having more children who looked like Brandon surely meant opening her heart all the way.
Was she ready to give their love another try?
*Carmen groans, presses her fists into her eyes* Okay... does she even know how babies are made? I know that sounds mean, but I'm honestly wondering here, since this woman is completely sexually numb and has had ZERO sexual thoughts about her husband. Like... I know the triplets magically appeared to create you an instant family, but that's not going to happen again.
At times, she thought she saw something in Brandon's eyes that said he cared more for her than their marriage of convenience would imply. That kiss would seem to prove it.
Oh, please. He can't even kiss you properly. FFS. Would one of these people - I would say 'stop tiptoeing around sex,' but the truth is it is more like sex doesn't even exist on their plane - make a move, step up and start seducing the other? I don't care which one. Don't you have any urge to make-out with your spouse? Share a bed? Get close to one another?
Then on page 268, they decide to "consider changing their agreement." I don't know what the fuck that means, they didn't have any agreement, but I'm very hopeful it means starting to have kissing and sexual activities.
"Elizabeth, I love you. I always have. I don't know if you can find it in your heart to consider changing our agreement..."
In answer she felt his lips turn up in a smile a moment before his arms came around her, pressing her close. She reveled in the feel of being loved, protected, and cherished. For so long she'd wondered where she should go, what she should do. Now she knew. All her life had led her to Brandon. And she would never leave.
Then there's a page break, and the next section starts with morning breaking. I can't tell you how excited I was. "They've finally had sex!" I thought. "Finally, after all this time as husband and wife, they are consummating the marriage! Yay!" I wasn't even bothered that it was all covered in darkness and skipped over by Scott. It's Christian romance, I don't really expect details, anyway.
BUT NO. NO. *Carmen wails in despair* THEY STILL DIDN'T DO ANYTHING. FFS. I give up. Scott writes that she spent the whole night in the triplets' room, watching over them. WHY. This would have been the PERFECT time for them to have sex! It was the perfect setup. It is late enough in the book, they've been married for months... I thought this was it. Goshdarnit.
THEN, to end the book, in an extremely bizarre turn of events, Never have I seen such a pair of lifeless, limp noodles.
HOW'S THE SEX, CARMEN?
See review above.
CHRISTIANITY
99 references to prayer/God/Jesus. Ninety-Nine. This is a little high, but he's a preacher, so they do tend to go on and on about it in this book. I've seen worse.
TL;DR: Extremely frustrating. Just because you're a Christian doesn't mean you have no sexual feelings.
She handed him Eli first. The baby settled against his broad chest, then reached up to finger Tug's bearded chin as if fascinated by the hair.
Well, at least SOMEONE is getting to enjoy beard-stroking. *rolls eyes*
ROMANCE CATEGORIES:
Cowboy/Western Romance - Takes place in the Old West
Historical Romance
Inspirational Romance
Virgin Hero
Virgin Heroine
Time. Might as well say chance. He was asking her to risk her future on him. How could she?
Alright. This book is not good. Scott does have a pretty good writing style - she's interesting and detailed - but the plot and actions of the characters in this is ridiculous. Often times I wondered what the heck was going on here.
Elizabeth, if you remember from the last novel The Nanny's Temporary Triplets, is a mail-order bride who arrived in Texas only to find the man who had sent for her was wedding another woman.
Now she's at odds. I mean, really at odds since she doesn't have a man and she doesn't have a job. And guess who is living here in town? Her old flame, Brandon Stillwater. A preacher. UGH. They broke up four years ago, and it quickly becomes clear that - although each thinks the other is at fault - they were broken up by a third party who lied to them.
Luckily for us, this gets cleared up in Chapter Three. Thank goodness, I would go crazy if that 'misunderstanding' hung over the whole book.
Elizabeth is playing temporary mother to the orphaned triplets (introduced in The Rancher's Surprise Triplets) but the town is building an orphanage and is itching to take them away from her.
Rumors are also being spread about her bad character.
Now, let's break this down.
BRANDON STILLWATER
Limp noodle, pompous Christian. He is a good person, I guess. Rather useless.
He meets Elizabeth four years ago, where he shows off his pompous Christianity at a dinner party. For some reason, beyond my understanding, she seems to like this.
As the least most notable CARMEN'S NOTE: LEAST MOST NOTABLE! WTF person in the room, besides her, he would have had every right to sit quietly, speak only when directly addressed. Indeed, he had been quiet the first part of the meal. Then the inventor, a Mr. Lombard, had begun a paean to man's ingenuity.
"Why, even now, in New York, a pneumatic system brings warm air in winter and cool air in summer," he boasted, the sleeve of his black dress coat coming perilously close to dipping into his creamed asparagus as he waved a hand.
"Amazing," the mayor proclaimed. "We may have to rethink our futures, gentleman. Science seems to have the upper hand."
Brandon had merely offered them all a charming smile as he reached for his crystal glass. "I think I'll stick with the Author of invention instead of the implementer." And he'd calmly taken a sip as if giving them all a moment to think about what he'd said.
How could she not be drawn to such a man?
VERY EASILY; he's a pompous ass and he just added NOTHING to the conversation but acted as if he'd dropped a truth-bomb or something. FFS. You can't allow people to rejoice in the advances of science? Why? Does that threaten you? If I was at this dinner table... And then he just pauses smugly to let it sink in, so that all the people can be humbled or whatever. Fuck that shit.
Here's another example.
But he thought Elizabeth's presence might work to the good as much as the presence of the babies. She'd always made people feel welcome, valued.
What could he do to make her see the value in him once more?
He nearly shook his head to clear it. Where were his thoughts this afternoon? It shouldn't matter what Elizabeth thought of him. The only approval he should seek was that of his Lord.
*Carmen stands with her mouth hanging open* These two are going to have an AWFUL marriage, if he thinks the only approval he has to have in life is the approval of his Lord. If he thinks he only needs to please one "person" and that person is someone who is an All-Mighty Creator who doesn't communicate with him directly, I despair of his relationship with his wife. What a sad state of affairs.
Next, we need to address Brandon's complete lack of a sex drive and his inability to do anything sexually exciting.
He's not even repressed, there's nothing to repress.
Careful of Theo in her arms, he bent his head toward hers.
He was going to kiss her. The same excitement she'd felt in Boston bubbled up inside her, and she closed her eyes in expectation. His lips brushed her cheek before retreating, yet she trembled. She opened her eyes to find him regarding her wide-eyed, as if the touch had awoken something inside him as well.
They get engaged and he kisses her on the cheek. Titillating. Cheek-kissing, awaken the beast within. o.O
The way he acts at his wedding reception. OMFGosh. They ask him what music to play and he's like,
Brandon eyed Elizabeth. "Something sweet, for my sweetheart."
Then they dance and he ends the dance like this:
All she could feel was hope.
Laughter woke her from the dream.
"Your timing's off, brother," Bo called. "The music ended four beats ago."
Brandon's cheeks were pinking as he drew her to a halt.
"Sufficient unto the day are the worries thereof," Brandon told their audience. "And so are the joys."
To applause, he took her arm and walked with her away from the dancing area.
The fuck? I would be nuts. This guy would drive me batty in two days. He just gets on every last nerve I have.
Then, since they are married now, he starts showing her around his house. This is when I'm like, "Oh, the subject of sex is going to come up."
NO. It never comes up. We are in the heads of the characters and neither one even THINKS about sex. Isn't that bizarre? I mean, it's really, really bizarre. I know they are Christians, and this book is a Christian romance, but... come on. If you're married - even if you are NOT going to have sex with your spouse for whatever cockamamie reason - the thought of sex is going to cross your mind. Even something like, "Is he going to expect me to share his bed?" or something. SOMETHING. Work with me, people.
But no, these two are both so sexually dead that things like sex or even kissing doesn't even occur to them. Zero sexual chemistry. This transfers over to other parts of their lives, I'm sure they are dead. For instance, the woman who lied to both of them in order to break them up. They never get angry. They never get outraged about it. They never talk about it. They never wish or wonder about if things had been different. They're are just like, "Ho hum, I guess that woman blatantly lied to our faces and manipulated us, but who cares? Even though our lives were ruined in some ways. Ho hum." EVEN if Scott wanted to stress their Christian natures, okay, she could have made them be MERCIFUL and FORGIVING. Instead, it just seems like these two have no pulse.
She came and pressed a kiss to his cheek.
Longing rose up inside him, fierce, strong. She and the babies were his to protect, his to provide for.
His to love?
More cheek kissing. They've been married weeks and they are not even mouth-kissing yet. FFS. Also, note to authors: you can't just TELL ME his longings are fierce and strong when you make absolutely no effort to show that through his actions. I don't fucking believe you, at this point.
Well, maybe he /she is just being respectful of each other's feelings! Maybe they just don't want to pressure their spouse into unwanted sexual acts, Carmen!
IF Scott had presented it this way - as if these two characters had sexual longings, but were just trying to be respectful and kind to each other, I would be much more on board with this. Because then, at least, I would feel like they want to make love on some level. Here, it's like nothing. It's as if they are both asexual. WHICH IS FINE, but not something I want from a book that advertises itself as a heterosexual romance.
Then, when he finally DOES kiss her on the mouth, after weeks of marriage, he APOLOGIZES for it. WHY? WHY?
"Elizabeth, forgive me, I..."
She put her fingers to his lips to seal them, but the touch only reminded her of what they'd just shared. "No. No apologies. No misunderstandings. You kissed me, and I kissed you back. Let's just leave it at that."
Why the fuck is he apologizing? I just don't understand these two at all. It wasn't like she wasn't enjoying the kiss!
Brandon's kiss had likely been meant as no more than a kindness, thanks for what she'd achieved that night with her first dinner party.
...
But that kiss? Oh, my. How would she ever get to sleep thinking of it?
Girrrrrrrrl... I feel really sorry for you. You deserve real kissing. Not whatever pathetic excuse is happening here. Sad. :( Why don't you try seducing him? He's your husband now! But no, she could never be so bold. Not only that, it would never occur to her in a million years. Just sad to me that she's now trapped in this completely sexless marriage. Not even literally sex, but even sexual excitement is denied her. I feel sad inside knowing she is going to die without ever having felt sexual chemistry. :(
Although I guess I shouldn't, because she's almost as bad as her husband on the dead-inside front.
Then, finally, on page 220, Elizabeth starts fantasizing about having Brandon's children.
Elizabeth could see it now. A little girl with Brandon's silky hair. A little boy with his quicksilver eyes. But having more children who looked like Brandon surely meant opening her heart all the way.
Was she ready to give their love another try?
*Carmen groans, presses her fists into her eyes* Okay... does she even know how babies are made? I know that sounds mean, but I'm honestly wondering here, since this woman is completely sexually numb and has had ZERO sexual thoughts about her husband. Like... I know the triplets magically appeared to create you an instant family, but that's not going to happen again.
At times, she thought she saw something in Brandon's eyes that said he cared more for her than their marriage of convenience would imply. That kiss would seem to prove it.
Oh, please. He can't even kiss you properly. FFS. Would one of these people - I would say 'stop tiptoeing around sex,' but the truth is it is more like sex doesn't even exist on their plane - make a move, step up and start seducing the other? I don't care which one. Don't you have any urge to make-out with your spouse? Share a bed? Get close to one another?
Then on page 268, they decide to "consider changing their agreement." I don't know what the fuck that means, they didn't have any agreement, but I'm very hopeful it means starting to have kissing and sexual activities.
"Elizabeth, I love you. I always have. I don't know if you can find it in your heart to consider changing our agreement..."
In answer she felt his lips turn up in a smile a moment before his arms came around her, pressing her close. She reveled in the feel of being loved, protected, and cherished. For so long she'd wondered where she should go, what she should do. Now she knew. All her life had led her to Brandon. And she would never leave.
Then there's a page break, and the next section starts with morning breaking. I can't tell you how excited I was. "They've finally had sex!" I thought. "Finally, after all this time as husband and wife, they are consummating the marriage! Yay!" I wasn't even bothered that it was all covered in darkness and skipped over by Scott. It's Christian romance, I don't really expect details, anyway.
BUT NO. NO. *Carmen wails in despair* THEY STILL DIDN'T DO ANYTHING. FFS. I give up. Scott writes that she spent the whole night in the triplets' room, watching over them. WHY. This would have been the PERFECT time for them to have sex! It was the perfect setup. It is late enough in the book, they've been married for months... I thought this was it. Goshdarnit.
THEN, to end the book, in an extremely bizarre turn of events, Never have I seen such a pair of lifeless, limp noodles.
HOW'S THE SEX, CARMEN?
See review above.
CHRISTIANITY
99 references to prayer/God/Jesus. Ninety-Nine. This is a little high, but he's a preacher, so they do tend to go on and on about it in this book. I've seen worse.
TL;DR: Extremely frustrating. Just because you're a Christian doesn't mean you have no sexual feelings.
She handed him Eli first. The baby settled against his broad chest, then reached up to finger Tug's bearded chin as if fascinated by the hair.
Well, at least SOMEONE is getting to enjoy beard-stroking. *rolls eyes*
ROMANCE CATEGORIES:
Cowboy/Western Romance - Takes place in the Old West
Historical Romance
Inspirational Romance
Virgin Hero
Virgin Heroine
June 29, 2017
Combine the Second Chance at Love and Marriage of Convenience themes and toss in 3 bundles of joy and you get hours of reading pleasure. The babies are adorable and more than a handful and I love how they drew not only Elizabeth and Brandon together but the entire town as well. In fact the town has a character all of it's own and the townsfolk are wonderful busybodies that drove me crazy and left me alternately laughing and fuming. And if they did that to me, you can imagine how Elizabeth and Brandon felt! Sweet, fun and satisfying.
This is the third and final book in the Lone Star Cowboy League - Multiple Blessings series though it can be read as a standalone (I haven't read the first two.) However, there's plenty of 'read time' with the previous heroes and heroines so makes for a satisfactory wrap-up for followers of the series.
This is the third and final book in the Lone Star Cowboy League - Multiple Blessings series though it can be read as a standalone (I haven't read the first two.) However, there's plenty of 'read time' with the previous heroes and heroines so makes for a satisfactory wrap-up for followers of the series.
June 8, 2017
Even though this is the third book in the series, it reads well as a stand alone. The characters from the previous books are present as members of the community and friends of Brandon and Elizabeth. I was surprised to discover that the triplets are the same ones being cared for in all three books! I liked that each one had a distinct personality developing. Elizabeth and Brandon are both from Boston and once enjoyed a wealthy lifestyle. Coincidentally they end up in the same western town, and their common purpose of taking care of the babies brings them together often. A misunderstanding drove them apart back east, and it takes a while for them to reconcile their past. I was frustrated that Elizabeth resented Brandon for much of the book and couldn't wait for her to realize the mistake and forgive him. The busybodies of the town brought much of the conflict as well as the temporary nature of Elizabeth's job as caregiver. Once they decided to wed for the sake of keeping the boys, the pace sped up and so did the romance. The conflict didn't end there though, and the climax brought a great conclusion to the series.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
June 5, 2017
Separated by circumstances and a mutual misunderstanding, Elizabeth and Brandon meet again in Little Horn after four years. She takes charge of abandoned triplets after her would-be groom chooses to marry another. As she and Brandon, who is the town pastor, care for the three boys in various capacities, their relationship becomes a convenient way to keep the boys both have come to love as their own. But can they have a true family, and love each other better than before they were parted years ago?
I love the heroine; she is a strong woman who has many reasons she could use to justify bitterness, but she has allowed them to make her a better woman, more independent and confident in her own abilities. Though not perfect, she is determined to be the best version of herself she can be, regardless of how others may discourage her efforts through careless comments or judgemental attitudes.
This story realistically illustrates forgiveness and what can happen when we choose to live life God's way. Rather than blaming others, both Brandon and Elizabeth choose to accept responsibility for their own actions and move forward, refreshingly without holding grudges or even harboring guilt over mistakes each made. It is a beautiful example of learning from the past without dwelling on it. But as in most of her books, Scott employs humor at various times to keep the story engaging and fun, even within the deeper and more serious themes.
The romance is unique in that the couple has a prior history before meeting again at the beginning of this novel. I liked that they got to know each other again, appreciated each other's gifts, and that they began to feel stirrings of love once more. It almost has a feel of coming home, of perhaps rediscovering who holds the keys to an individual heart. I found it an incredibly romantic and even swoon-worthy romance!
I really enjoyed this sweet, gentle story of a second chance at first love. I highly recommend it for those who enjoy marriage of convenience or second chance novels—it is a unique and well-told combination of both.
I received a free copy of this book from the author but was not required to positively review it. The opinions are both honest and completely my own.
I love the heroine; she is a strong woman who has many reasons she could use to justify bitterness, but she has allowed them to make her a better woman, more independent and confident in her own abilities. Though not perfect, she is determined to be the best version of herself she can be, regardless of how others may discourage her efforts through careless comments or judgemental attitudes.
This story realistically illustrates forgiveness and what can happen when we choose to live life God's way. Rather than blaming others, both Brandon and Elizabeth choose to accept responsibility for their own actions and move forward, refreshingly without holding grudges or even harboring guilt over mistakes each made. It is a beautiful example of learning from the past without dwelling on it. But as in most of her books, Scott employs humor at various times to keep the story engaging and fun, even within the deeper and more serious themes.
The romance is unique in that the couple has a prior history before meeting again at the beginning of this novel. I liked that they got to know each other again, appreciated each other's gifts, and that they began to feel stirrings of love once more. It almost has a feel of coming home, of perhaps rediscovering who holds the keys to an individual heart. I found it an incredibly romantic and even swoon-worthy romance!
I really enjoyed this sweet, gentle story of a second chance at first love. I highly recommend it for those who enjoy marriage of convenience or second chance novels—it is a unique and well-told combination of both.
I received a free copy of this book from the author but was not required to positively review it. The opinions are both honest and completely my own.
May 31, 2017
I simply could not get enough of this sweet and touching story! I enjoyed it so much that it was difficult to set it aside, causing me to finish it much earlier than I anticipated!
This novel is the third book in the latest Lone Star Cowboy League series. I hadn’t read the first two books, yet had no problem at all jumping right in to the characters and community.
Speaking of characters, this community is full of great ones! I loved the two main characters, Elizabeth and Brandon. I was fascinated with their history together and interested to see how things worked out for them. The triplets were absolutely adorable, adding sweetness and cuteness to the story in just the right amounts. There were also characters that made me fume and those that intrigued me. It all came together to make a story that I loved from start to finish!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
This novel is the third book in the latest Lone Star Cowboy League series. I hadn’t read the first two books, yet had no problem at all jumping right in to the characters and community.
Speaking of characters, this community is full of great ones! I loved the two main characters, Elizabeth and Brandon. I was fascinated with their history together and interested to see how things worked out for them. The triplets were absolutely adorable, adding sweetness and cuteness to the story in just the right amounts. There were also characters that made me fume and those that intrigued me. It all came together to make a story that I loved from start to finish!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
April 12, 2017
The Bride's Matchmaking Triplets by Regina Scott
Lone Star Cowboy League: Multiple Blessings Book Three
Pastor Brandon Stillwater had left his heart behind when he moved to Little Horn, Texas with his twin brother Bo four years ago. And then, that very woman came to town as a mail-order bride. Too bad he was marrying her to-be-groom to another woman at the time.
Elizabeth Dumont had lost everything and just wanted to start over. She never expected to see the man who broke her heart. Everyone in this small town thought he was a good man, she knew better. At least she was able to work as a nanny to three adorable triplet boys. If only she could adopt them.
Things aren't always as they seem. Brandon and Elizabeth both misunderstand each other and what had happened before. Their love for the adorable boys brings them together. And as the house for orphans gets closer to opening...Brandon needs to find a way to keep Elizabeth in town if she is no longer needed to care for the triplets.
**Received from author for an honest review
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Lone Star Cowboy League: Multiple Blessings Book Three
Pastor Brandon Stillwater had left his heart behind when he moved to Little Horn, Texas with his twin brother Bo four years ago. And then, that very woman came to town as a mail-order bride. Too bad he was marrying her to-be-groom to another woman at the time.
Elizabeth Dumont had lost everything and just wanted to start over. She never expected to see the man who broke her heart. Everyone in this small town thought he was a good man, she knew better. At least she was able to work as a nanny to three adorable triplet boys. If only she could adopt them.
Things aren't always as they seem. Brandon and Elizabeth both misunderstand each other and what had happened before. Their love for the adorable boys brings them together. And as the house for orphans gets closer to opening...Brandon needs to find a way to keep Elizabeth in town if she is no longer needed to care for the triplets.
**Received from author for an honest review
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
April 26, 2017
I have to say I really enjoyed this book. The little triplets - Theo, Jasper and Eli were the cutest boys. It was so fun to watch their personalities come out as the book went along. Elizabeth was such a great character to get to know. I felt bad for her as her best friend really did her wrong and caused her to lose the love of her life and she does not even realize it. In a way I wish her and Brandon would have actually talked to each other about this to realize what happened. Brandon was such a sweet person. Seeing the boys bring these two together was nice. I was on the edge of my seat when the triplets "relatives" showed up. Oh and I can't forget Gil and Jo they were such a sweet addition to this story and to learn about their love for the triplets was so cute. I am glad I got the chance to read this book.
June 5, 2017
This is the third book in the series, but worked well for me as a stand alone. What an adorable trio of babies that leave you smiling. Elizabeth's is in a precarious situation due to a lie that was told to her and her previous sweetheart. Can they find their way back to each other or will circumstances make them husband and wife in name only? Faith, romance, questionable circumstances surrounding the abandoned triplets, and wonderful secondary characters all contribute to an enjoyable read. Regina Scott never fails or disappoints with her believable characters and stories that pull your heartstrings.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
June 1, 2017
When mail-order bride Elizabeth Dumont's intended weds another, her only option is to take a job as nanny to abandoned triplet babies. She longs to provide a real home for these precious babies, but as a single woman, she can't adopt. Her onetime sweetheart, minister Brandon Stillwater offers a match of convenience....so she accepts to get to raise the babies.
Regina Scott books are a favorite here. I thoroughly enjoy them. She creates characters that are real to the reader, plots that are not forced and keep you reading till the end. I enjoyed this one very much and look forward to the next one.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. My opinions are my own and honest.
Regina Scott books are a favorite here. I thoroughly enjoy them. She creates characters that are real to the reader, plots that are not forced and keep you reading till the end. I enjoyed this one very much and look forward to the next one.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. My opinions are my own and honest.
May 14, 2017
BACK OF THE BOOK BLURB
When mail-order bride Elizabeth Dumont's intended weds another, her only option is to take a job as nanny to abandoned triplet babies. Though she longs to provide a real home for her three precious charges, as a single woman she can't adopt. Until her onetime sweetheart, minister Brandon Stillwater, offers a match of convenience...
It's only for the triplets' sake---that's what Brandon tells himself. Insecurities once drove him and Elizabeth apart, and now small-town rumors have made them man and wife. And though Brandon doesn't want to risk his heart this time, he's not sure he can resist the feelings that are once again starting to bloom for Elizabeth. But can he convince her that this sweet surprise family is more than just convenient?
MY REVIEW
This is almost like two stories in one the story of Elizabeth and Brandon then the story of the triplets. I enjoyed reading this book as Regina always seems to do a great job with her writing skills. How often have you listened to gossip and judged a person by that gossip? Well, this is one thing Elizabeth had to deal with in a small town where the whole town hears, and 'knows', it all. Grab a copy when it comes out in June, you won't be sorry!
I was given a copy of this book in return for my honest opinion/review. These are my true feelings on what I read.
When mail-order bride Elizabeth Dumont's intended weds another, her only option is to take a job as nanny to abandoned triplet babies. Though she longs to provide a real home for her three precious charges, as a single woman she can't adopt. Until her onetime sweetheart, minister Brandon Stillwater, offers a match of convenience...
It's only for the triplets' sake---that's what Brandon tells himself. Insecurities once drove him and Elizabeth apart, and now small-town rumors have made them man and wife. And though Brandon doesn't want to risk his heart this time, he's not sure he can resist the feelings that are once again starting to bloom for Elizabeth. But can he convince her that this sweet surprise family is more than just convenient?
MY REVIEW
This is almost like two stories in one the story of Elizabeth and Brandon then the story of the triplets. I enjoyed reading this book as Regina always seems to do a great job with her writing skills. How often have you listened to gossip and judged a person by that gossip? Well, this is one thing Elizabeth had to deal with in a small town where the whole town hears, and 'knows', it all. Grab a copy when it comes out in June, you won't be sorry!
I was given a copy of this book in return for my honest opinion/review. These are my true feelings on what I read.
October 9, 2019
Good story with interesting characters set in a small town in Texas. After very young triplet boys are left at the fair, several ladies, in succession, take care of them, but it is the fourth one, Elizabeth, who is the heroine in this book.
Once engaged to the town’s pastor, Brandon Stillwater, when they both lived in Boston, Elizabeth, an experienced governess and nanny, came to Texas as a mail-order bride, but arrives to find her prospective groom marrying another woman, whom he loves. Given the job of caring for the triplets, Elizabeth finds herself often in company with the pastor, who checks on the boys daily.
Brandon and Elizabeth are not the same people they were in Boston. Is there still love between them? Will the boys’ parents ever be found?
Once engaged to the town’s pastor, Brandon Stillwater, when they both lived in Boston, Elizabeth, an experienced governess and nanny, came to Texas as a mail-order bride, but arrives to find her prospective groom marrying another woman, whom he loves. Given the job of caring for the triplets, Elizabeth finds herself often in company with the pastor, who checks on the boys daily.
Brandon and Elizabeth are not the same people they were in Boston. Is there still love between them? Will the boys’ parents ever be found?
June 5, 2017
The Bride’s Matchmaking Triplets, by Regina Scott, is a must read book set in a small, Texas town in the late 1800’s. It tells the story of Elizabeth Dumont, a mail-order bride who finds herself not only husbandless, but tasked with being in charge of an adorable set of orphaned triplet boys. Though the town of Little Horn where the story takes place is a large cry from Elizabeth’s eastern roots, she is determined to give the boys the best care possible and in the process loses her heart to them. However, as a single woman with no means to provide for herself or the triplets, she resigns herself to thinking the situation must remain temporary.
Plunged into this new situation, Elizabeth soon finds herself the source of small town gossip, but then the dashing Brandon Stillwater comes to her aid. Stillwater is a man whom Elizabeth was once in love with, but he is also the current minister of Little Horn! Working together to provide the best for the triplets, Elizabeth and Brandon embark on a journey where they must overcome both past misunderstandings and present trials. On the way they find something that they both had given up on with each other: love.
All of this makes The Bride’s Matchmaking Triplets a wonderful book that reflects author Regina Scott’s amazing talents. Scott has the innate skill of not just telling you the story, but putting you in the story, and that- to me- is the mark of a great writer.
*I received a complimentary copy of The Bride’s Matchmaking Triplets in exchange for my honest review.
Plunged into this new situation, Elizabeth soon finds herself the source of small town gossip, but then the dashing Brandon Stillwater comes to her aid. Stillwater is a man whom Elizabeth was once in love with, but he is also the current minister of Little Horn! Working together to provide the best for the triplets, Elizabeth and Brandon embark on a journey where they must overcome both past misunderstandings and present trials. On the way they find something that they both had given up on with each other: love.
All of this makes The Bride’s Matchmaking Triplets a wonderful book that reflects author Regina Scott’s amazing talents. Scott has the innate skill of not just telling you the story, but putting you in the story, and that- to me- is the mark of a great writer.
*I received a complimentary copy of The Bride’s Matchmaking Triplets in exchange for my honest review.
June 4, 2017
This is the last book in this trilogy. I was excited to find out the mystery surrounding the triplets. And I loved the little twists that were attached to finding out about those adorable boys.
And then we can't forget the rest of the story. And that is that old hurts, and lack of communication can be overcome and love does come.
Then there is the back story of what people expect from their preacher and wife. My father was a minister, so I know firsthand that the w I feel is expected to have an immaculate home, even if you have children. You are expected to lead in many things. You are expected to teach Sunday school and have baked goods at all times, for when people just drop in and expect it. My mother did it with five children, Cerebral Palsy( gotten at birth, when tired she limped, and talked different. But I didn't know that until I was an adult. She cooked, sewed, baked, nothing stopped her until she was older and had a stroke. Then her mobility left her, but mind stayed sharp,) she supported her husband in his career.
And then we can't forget the rest of the story. And that is that old hurts, and lack of communication can be overcome and love does come.
Then there is the back story of what people expect from their preacher and wife. My father was a minister, so I know firsthand that the w I feel is expected to have an immaculate home, even if you have children. You are expected to lead in many things. You are expected to teach Sunday school and have baked goods at all times, for when people just drop in and expect it. My mother did it with five children, Cerebral Palsy( gotten at birth, when tired she limped, and talked different. But I didn't know that until I was an adult. She cooked, sewed, baked, nothing stopped her until she was older and had a stroke. Then her mobility left her, but mind stayed sharp,) she supported her husband in his career.
June 7, 2017
I have to say I really enjoyed this book. The little triplets - Theo, Jasper and Eli were the cutest boys. It was so fun to watch their personalities come out as the book went along. Elizabeth was such a great character to get to know. I felt bad for her as her best friend really did her wrong and caused her to lose the love of her life and she does not even realize it. In a way I wish her and Brandon would have actually talked to each other about this to realize what happened. Brandon was such a sweet person. Seeing the boys bring these two together was nice. I was on the edge of my seat when the triplets "relatives" showed up. Oh and I can't forget Gil and Jo they were such a sweet addition to this story and to learn about their love for the triplets was so cute. I am glad I got the chance to read this book.
May 24, 2017
The Bride's Matchmaking Triplets is the third and last book in Lone Star Cowboy League series by Regina Scott. It takes place in 1896 in Little Horn, Texas. This book had a very happy ending. Elizabeth Dumont went to Little Horn, as a mail order bride, expecting to be married. When she got there the man was marring some one else. She is then hired as a nanny to the triplets. Pastor Brandon Stillwater helps Elizabeth with the triplets. Plus Brandon and Elizabeth knew each other from a few years ago and were dating. Do they get the get a house for the orphans of the town. Do Brandon and Elizabeth get back together. A couple come to town saying they are related to the triplets and want them. A very good read. I was happy with the ending.
June 1, 2017
Elizabeth Dumont travels to Little Horn, TX to be a mail-order bride, but when things don’t work out as planned, she takes a job caring for triplet orphan boys. She soon falls in love with the triplets, but is unable to adopt them since she has no means of support. Enter Brandon Stillwater, Little Horn’s minister and the man who broke Elizabeth’s heart years ago. He says he wants to help, but can they work through the past? Will she once again be able to trust him with her heart?
The Bride’s Matchmaking Triplets by Regina Scott is a heartwarming story that will steal your heart. I really enjoyed reading this book and found myself not wanting to put it down so I could find out what happened next.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The Bride’s Matchmaking Triplets by Regina Scott is a heartwarming story that will steal your heart. I really enjoyed reading this book and found myself not wanting to put it down so I could find out what happened next.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 31, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical fiction book! It is well-written with wonderful characters, and sprinkled with humor. This is a great thought-provoking line: “What would you be willing to do to please your God?” And this line made me chuckle: “The Bible says the rocks will cry out to praise our God. I’d think a tree could be a lot more vocal.” I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves to read historical fiction. I received a free copy of this book, and chose to leave my own honest review.
May 27, 2017
This book is the third in a series. I had not read the other two but had no problem following the storyline. The book can be read as a stand alone. This is a story of two people who allowed insecurities to seperate them and then were given a second chances to love. Will they learn to get over those insecurities and let life's lessons make them a better person? The triplets were cute and the town family made it a warm fuzzy read.
June 19, 2017
Wonderful characterization and an engaging plot make The Bride’s Matchmaking Triplets a delight to read! I enjoyed the community of Little Horn, the rekindled relationship between Elizabeth and Brandon, and the adorable triplets in their care. Regina Scott is a wonderful storyteller, and this sweet story is sure to please fans of historical romance!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.
July 4, 2017
Second Chance
Brandon and Elizabeth was in love when they lived in Boston but circumstances of their control pulled them a part. But God has away of bringing people back together. Sometimes he may separate us because we may need to grow more in our faith. But when the time is right if it is meant to be everything will come full circle. If you throw three orphan triplets in the mix it is a done deal. If you like marriage of convenience stories this is one you will love.
Brandon and Elizabeth was in love when they lived in Boston but circumstances of their control pulled them a part. But God has away of bringing people back together. Sometimes he may separate us because we may need to grow more in our faith. But when the time is right if it is meant to be everything will come full circle. If you throw three orphan triplets in the mix it is a done deal. If you like marriage of convenience stories this is one you will love.
May 21, 2017
Another good book by Regina Scott. It was surprising at times. I was happy that the grumpy folks finally got in better moods. Elizabeth and Brandon did well solving people problems. And the triplets said cute things.
September 27, 2017
Sometimes I wish Goodreads would allow 1/2 stars.
This book was 2.5🌟 for me. It is the 3rd book in a series, and I wish I'd realized that fact before I started reading. I have a feeling I would have enjoyed it more if U had read the previous books.
This book was 2.5🌟 for me. It is the 3rd book in a series, and I wish I'd realized that fact before I started reading. I have a feeling I would have enjoyed it more if U had read the previous books.
June 22, 2020
The series couldn't have ended any better! 😊 the whole town finally came together and the mystery surrounding the triplets was finally solved (although it could have been solved sooner if someone would have spoken up). Not a fan of multi-author series BUT this one was GREAT!
August 29, 2023
Mail order bride Elizabeth arrives in Texas and sees former boyfriend, minister Brandon. Elizabeth is given the job of taking care of triplets who the towns people are trying to find their mother. Elizabeth and Brandon fall in love with the boys and each other again.
June 22, 2017
Sweet book! Championed faith, family, love, and community. Bonus- there are triplets!
August 6, 2017
I love the triplets and how they added to this story with their personalities! Fun and entertaining! I recommend this novel and this will be a re-read! Regina Scott is an excellent story teller!
June 25, 2018
This was a great book and I loved how it concluded everything at the end all the mysteryes solved, and questions answered.
November 11, 2019
3.5 stars
July 9, 2022
Great book!
March 26, 2018
This was a sweet book. I really liked the characters and how they developed throughout the book. Elizabeth and Brandon knew each other previously in Boston but had a falling out due to bad information and somehow meet up again in Texas. I enjoyed how they work through their misconceptions from Boston and come together again for the sake of some triplets and then find love. Those triplets were so precious! I enjoyed this whole series! However, you can catch up by just reading this book. It's delightful!
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