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Little Falls Legacy #2
Inherited: Unexpected Family
An Unexpected Partnership
After arriving in Minnesota Territory with her sisters to claim their late father's hotel, Elizabeth Bell is shocked to learn her inheritance comes with a handsome co-owner. After too long working for a domineering boss, Elizabeth yearns to be in control--of the hotel and her life. But Jude Allen won't sell his share, and Elizabeth refuses to leave.
Rescuing soiled doves and giving them hotel jobs is Jude's way of redeeming his past. He's counting on rough frontier life driving his new business partner away before she learns the scandalous truth and demands he stop his mission. But he may have underestimated Elizabeth...and the power of love to turn a complication into a bright new beginning.
After arriving in Minnesota Territory with her sisters to claim their late father's hotel, Elizabeth Bell is shocked to learn her inheritance comes with a handsome co-owner. After too long working for a domineering boss, Elizabeth yearns to be in control--of the hotel and her life. But Jude Allen won't sell his share, and Elizabeth refuses to leave.
Rescuing soiled doves and giving them hotel jobs is Jude's way of redeeming his past. He's counting on rough frontier life driving his new business partner away before she learns the scandalous truth and demands he stop his mission. But he may have underestimated Elizabeth...and the power of love to turn a complication into a bright new beginning.
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published August 8, 2017
30 people are currently reading
213 people want to read
About the author
Gabrielle Meyer
80 books2,718 followersGabrielle Meyer grew up above a carriage house on a historic estate near the banks of the Mississippi River, imagining real and make-believe stories about the occupants who had lived there. She went on to work for the Minnesota Historical Society and loves writing fiction inspired by real people, places, and events. She currently resides in central Minnesota on the banks of the Mississippi River, not far from where she grew up, with her husband and four children. By day, she’s a busy homeschool mom, and by night she pens fiction and non-fiction filled with hope. Learn more about Gabrielle and her writing by visiting www.gabriellemeyer.com.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
July 12, 2017
Love love and love!! No matter how horrible or ugly parts of our lives may seem, God never ever makes mistakes. Each and every situation is just a piece of the puzzle of our life's story. We don't see the big picture right now, but there is nothing that is beyond His control or ability to turn into something beautiful!
July 19, 2017
I almost took one star off Elizabeth disappointed me so much with her initial reaction to Jude's "ministry" but she came around fairly quickly. Her sister annoyed me and I wanted to shake her. But besides those minor complaints, I enjoyed this book very much! Jude is one of the better heroes I've ever read in these books! A total dream!
August 9, 2017
I do so love a feisty heroine who is not afraid to make a stand. Love the way Elizabeth storms into Jude's life and turns it upside down. Sparks fly as these two sparring partners warily circle each other. With futures at stake neither are willing to give an inch...until they begin to work together and attraction spikes. Romance is out of the question (of course) but maybe a partnership isn't.
A bevy of captivating secondary characters make this read even more memorable. Pastor Ben is a favourite and I'm praying that Meyer has a special story in mind for him. Little Rose and fractious Grace provided plenty of angst and some sweetly tender moments as well. And hotel cook Martha, who mothers everyone and gently shares the gospel in both word and deed -- well everyone needs a Martha like that in their lives!
A multi-layered tale of faith and grace and happily ever afters.
A bevy of captivating secondary characters make this read even more memorable. Pastor Ben is a favourite and I'm praying that Meyer has a special story in mind for him. Little Rose and fractious Grace provided plenty of angst and some sweetly tender moments as well. And hotel cook Martha, who mothers everyone and gently shares the gospel in both word and deed -- well everyone needs a Martha like that in their lives!
A multi-layered tale of faith and grace and happily ever afters.
July 19, 2017
Absolutely positively loved this book. It is well written and I fell in love with the characters, but the Inspirational aspect of this book is phenomenal. God is ready to forgive and we won't hold those confessed sins against us. We need to have the same forgiving spirit. God is a God of compassion and we need to show that compassion to others. I can't wait to read more books by this author. I love her writing style.
July 13, 2017
Claiming their late father's hotel in Little Falls, MN would be harder than Elizabeth Bell anticipated! She finds what she believes to be a squatter on the property only to find out that Jude Allen is half-owner. Trying to straighten the mix-up is hard enough without wondering what will become of the Bell sisters. Will they be thrown out or has God given her a second chance at a better life for her sisters and her?
These two clash at the first meet and many sparks fly between them throughout the story! Both Jude & Elizabeth have a lot they feel they need to make up for in the past and accepting the unconditional love of God is hard for them. I loved seeing how their characters changed and grew as they began to accept the idea that no matter their past, God still loves them as they are. Only He can make a better future for them. I especially loved little Rose, she brought her sweet and bubbly personality along. Elizabeth was a caring older sister who only wanted what was best for them all. She finds that making mistakes doesn't separate her from God's love or the love of a good man. I really loved going back to Little Falls and meeting up with Ben, the pastor. His gentle spirit and wisdom was infectious. I can't wait to read his happily-ever-after story! Lots of layers to unravel in this story full of love, second chances at life and letting God forge a future from the ashes of the past! I also loved learning more about the history of Little Falls, MN and can't wait for the next installment.
* I received a complimentary copy from the author. No favorable review was required and all opinions expressed here are strictly my own. *
These two clash at the first meet and many sparks fly between them throughout the story! Both Jude & Elizabeth have a lot they feel they need to make up for in the past and accepting the unconditional love of God is hard for them. I loved seeing how their characters changed and grew as they began to accept the idea that no matter their past, God still loves them as they are. Only He can make a better future for them. I especially loved little Rose, she brought her sweet and bubbly personality along. Elizabeth was a caring older sister who only wanted what was best for them all. She finds that making mistakes doesn't separate her from God's love or the love of a good man. I really loved going back to Little Falls and meeting up with Ben, the pastor. His gentle spirit and wisdom was infectious. I can't wait to read his happily-ever-after story! Lots of layers to unravel in this story full of love, second chances at life and letting God forge a future from the ashes of the past! I also loved learning more about the history of Little Falls, MN and can't wait for the next installment.
* I received a complimentary copy from the author. No favorable review was required and all opinions expressed here are strictly my own. *
August 6, 2017
I was immediately drawn into the story. I enjoyed watching as Elizabeth and Jude grew in their relationship. The twists and turns kept me turning the pages. This is a captivating story of the Lord working through circumstances to bring about His good. I love this story and you will too!
July 13, 2017
Another great one from Gabrielle Meyer! I was super excited to see where the town and people of Little Falls had gone and was not disappointed. I liked how the story was focused on new characters, but tied in old ones. Great story about how Little Falls really used to be a territory and very much like the wild west with a little romance thrown in. Now I cannot wait to see what happens next!!
August 11, 2017
Miss Elizabeth Bell moves her sisters to MN Territory, to claim their inheritance from their estranged father. She is hoping for a better life for all of them. The Bell sisters were in for a huge surprise when they realize that they only inherited their father’s portion. The other portion is owned by Mr. Jude Allen, who has been running the hotel with their father. Jude has a mission of his own, he rescues soiled doves from the bondage of prostitution. Elizabeth is unsure of this mission as it endangers her, her sisters, Jude and the people that they love. Can Elizabeth last long enough to receive her inheritance? Will Jude continue his mission and what will become of Grace, Elizabeth’s 19-year-old wild sister?
In the beginning of the book Jude says to Martha, the cook, “What am I going to do with them?” I love her response, “I don’t imagine there is anything you can do with them.” She proceeds to tell Jude, “God knows what He is doing. He doesn’t make mistakes. Though we don’t understand some of His choices, He’s still sovereign and much smarter than the rest of us.” This is great advice to all of us. This passage touched my heart and my life in such a way, that astounded me. I know this, as does Jude, but sometimes amid the tough times in life, we need someone to remind us that God does not make mistakes. Elizabeth needs this same reminder near the end of the story!!
I am, again, in love with Ben. He is kind, loving, a great friend, trusted among the people of Little Falls and still single. I hope we hear Ben’s story, as he deserves love as much as the rest of us! Pascal has a minor role in this story, but you can tell he respects Jude and what he is doing, he cares for the Bell girls as much as Jude, but shows it different, and he is a good addition to Jude’s staff. Gabrielle’s characters, both major and minor, have been developed well, these characters could be your friends in real life, and her love for Little Falls is obvious.
Inherited: Unexpected Family was a pleasant surprise. I found myself rooting for all the characters at different points in story, falling in love with all of them. I was surprised with the touch of mystery and suspense included, I was expecting a Christian Historical Romance but got more than that. This is the second book in her Little Falls Legacy Book Series. Some characters from “A Family Arrangement” do cross over. Gabrielle writes stories in such a way that you can see Little Falls in your mind. She makes it very easy to fall in love quickly with her characters and to believe you belong in Little Falls, with Jude and Elizabeth.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
In the beginning of the book Jude says to Martha, the cook, “What am I going to do with them?” I love her response, “I don’t imagine there is anything you can do with them.” She proceeds to tell Jude, “God knows what He is doing. He doesn’t make mistakes. Though we don’t understand some of His choices, He’s still sovereign and much smarter than the rest of us.” This is great advice to all of us. This passage touched my heart and my life in such a way, that astounded me. I know this, as does Jude, but sometimes amid the tough times in life, we need someone to remind us that God does not make mistakes. Elizabeth needs this same reminder near the end of the story!!
I am, again, in love with Ben. He is kind, loving, a great friend, trusted among the people of Little Falls and still single. I hope we hear Ben’s story, as he deserves love as much as the rest of us! Pascal has a minor role in this story, but you can tell he respects Jude and what he is doing, he cares for the Bell girls as much as Jude, but shows it different, and he is a good addition to Jude’s staff. Gabrielle’s characters, both major and minor, have been developed well, these characters could be your friends in real life, and her love for Little Falls is obvious.
Inherited: Unexpected Family was a pleasant surprise. I found myself rooting for all the characters at different points in story, falling in love with all of them. I was surprised with the touch of mystery and suspense included, I was expecting a Christian Historical Romance but got more than that. This is the second book in her Little Falls Legacy Book Series. Some characters from “A Family Arrangement” do cross over. Gabrielle writes stories in such a way that you can see Little Falls in your mind. She makes it very easy to fall in love quickly with her characters and to believe you belong in Little Falls, with Jude and Elizabeth.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 6, 2021
My biggest issue with this book is the one I raise with most books in the Love Inspired series. The two main characters don't seem to know each other very long before they end up married. Now, I do realize that this is a historical setting and that things were done differently in the past but still . . .
I also realize that many people vouched for Jude's character to Elizabeth: Martha, Ben (a pastor), and many other upstanding townspeople. But these are people that Elizabeth hasn't known for very long either.
I admire how Jude has grown in his belief system and how he changed his life. I admire that he is trying to help others by teaching them life/work skills and helping them to find jobs.
The title does make sense. Elizabeth and her two sisters unexpectedly inherit the hotel from a father they hadn't seen in a long while. Jude doesn't know about them so their arrival is unexpected. And since Rose is apparently much younger than her sisters, she is almost more like a daughter to Elizabeth than a sister. So when Jude marries Elizabeth, he gets a ready-made family.
I also realize that many people vouched for Jude's character to Elizabeth: Martha, Ben (a pastor), and many other upstanding townspeople. But these are people that Elizabeth hasn't known for very long either.
I admire how Jude has grown in his belief system and how he changed his life. I admire that he is trying to help others by teaching them life/work skills and helping them to find jobs.
The title does make sense. Elizabeth and her two sisters unexpectedly inherit the hotel from a father they hadn't seen in a long while. Jude doesn't know about them so their arrival is unexpected. And since Rose is apparently much younger than her sisters, she is almost more like a daughter to Elizabeth than a sister. So when Jude marries Elizabeth, he gets a ready-made family.
November 12, 2017
I reviewed this for RT Bookreviews Magazine: https://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-re...
Meyer’s latest is a sweet, fun tale containing delightful characters. Elizabeth’s longing for control will likely resonate with many readers. Vivid scenes and historical details add to the enjoyment.
Elizabeth Bell and her two sisters have arrived in the Minnesota Territory to lay claim to the hotel owned by their late father … only to discover the hotel has a co-owner, Jude Allen. He has no intentions of selling his share, especially to a woman. He has a secret purpose behind running the hotel, and he doesn’t think Elizabeth would understand or condone it. Will she prove him correct when she learns the truth, or have they misjudged each other? (HARLEQUIN LOVE INSPIRED HISTORICAL, Aug., 224 pp., $5.99)
Meyer’s latest is a sweet, fun tale containing delightful characters. Elizabeth’s longing for control will likely resonate with many readers. Vivid scenes and historical details add to the enjoyment.
Elizabeth Bell and her two sisters have arrived in the Minnesota Territory to lay claim to the hotel owned by their late father … only to discover the hotel has a co-owner, Jude Allen. He has no intentions of selling his share, especially to a woman. He has a secret purpose behind running the hotel, and he doesn’t think Elizabeth would understand or condone it. Will she prove him correct when she learns the truth, or have they misjudged each other? (HARLEQUIN LOVE INSPIRED HISTORICAL, Aug., 224 pp., $5.99)
December 17, 2025
In search of a new life after the deaths of her parents, Elizabeth Bell heads west with her two younger sisters to claim the hotel their late father left them. Not sure of what she'll find or how to make a go of it, Miss Bell can't contain the surprise at finding out she's not the sole owner of the Northern Hotel.
Jude Allen, son of a prostitute with a mission to save women just like his mother sees Elizabeth as a woman who doesn't belong in the West.
Women are rare in Little Falls, so the suitors are plenty for Elizabeth and Grace Bell. Will any be good enough?
I enjoyed this tale weaved with a fierce love of family, protection of that family, and surrender to a God who has it all in His hands.
4 stars!
Jude Allen, son of a prostitute with a mission to save women just like his mother sees Elizabeth as a woman who doesn't belong in the West.
Women are rare in Little Falls, so the suitors are plenty for Elizabeth and Grace Bell. Will any be good enough?
I enjoyed this tale weaved with a fierce love of family, protection of that family, and surrender to a God who has it all in His hands.
4 stars!
August 9, 2017
It is a such a pleasure to visit the historical community of Little Falls and its residents! Elizabeth Bell and Jude Allen are strong, determined characters, and Meyer brings their story to life with vivid imagery and emotion. Their unexpected partnership causes sparks to fly, and I loved the way their relationship developed amid a myriad of complications. Inherited: Unexpected Family is a tender tale and a wonderful addition to the Little Falls Legacy series. I can’t wait to read more!
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.
October 21, 2017
Inherited: Unexpected Family a Little Falls Legacy series by Gabrielle Meyer. Takes place in 1857. Elizabeth Bell and her two sisters move to Minnesota to run her fathers hotel. When they get there they find out Jude Allen is half owner of the hotel. Which isn't making a lot of money. Elizabeth finds out later that Jude rescues prostitutes. Educates them some so they can get a job. Elizabeth isn't sure she can go along with what he does until Jude ask her one night to help with one of the girl whom he rescued. The gal was beaten and in bad shape. A very good read.
July 23, 2017
Loved it! Bit by bit, the backstory of the main characters is revealed, and bit by bit you grow in your understanding of their reactions to the world around them. Unlike most romance, serious issues behind a light romance story are at play. Not being from the "right" background and creating a better life - touching on the darker side of developing the frontier and the lack of options for women to make their own way in the world. So far my favorite story by Gabrielle!
March 13, 2018
This book felt flat to me, which was really disappointing after A Family Arrangement. None of the characters felt very developed to me, and that included the hero and heroine. And to me, the resolution of one of the subplots near the end of the book made absolutely no sense, again with very little character development. I didn't hate the book, but I have no desire to read it again.
August 16, 2017
This book was so bad it doesn't even deserve 1 star. I love this genre and I thought the book sounded really good but it was so stupid. I semi-liked it until the last 3 chapters. Ugh, unrealistic, irritating, waste of time.
February 5, 2018
Such a wonderful story! Meticulously researched, as always, Gabrielle Meyer handles the difficult topic of human trafficking with sensitivity and historical accuracy, weaving a compelling tale that kept me up half the night reading. The characters are complex and believable, and Ms. Meyer doesn't shy away from showing the ugliness hiding in the human heart, and the grace that can overcome it. Great read!
February 26, 2019
A wonderful read. I met the author at the Little Falls craft show and thoroughly enjoyed reading about history of Little Falls. Loved the storyline. Sometimes life has a way of changing how we perceive our life to be.
January 15, 2022
Cute story. Easy read. Had some places that seemed to drag but overall a good book.
It's a story about not judging, giving second chances, and living the Gospel. Lots of good characters to fall in love with.
It's a story about not judging, giving second chances, and living the Gospel. Lots of good characters to fall in love with.
September 28, 2017
Very sweet book. Gabrielle has a pure and sweet way of writing.
July 13, 2018
I loved this book! So much depth and feeling in it!
August 10, 2019
Story dragged a little, but still a good read. I was a little distracted by my day.
January 4, 2023
Such a fun story of learning to trust again. Strong message of Truth and Love and unconditional forgiveness. Book 2 of the trilogy but definitely a stand alone story.
October 9, 2023
New author. Great story.
October 9, 2023
Sweet story set in 1857 with Minnesota territory growing little town like little Falls. Hotel owner and his dead partner daughter finding love and a way to help less fortunate
November 22, 2021
This is a great story! I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting. I enjoyed the characters and the setting. The small-town, Hallmark feel captured by the author pulled me into the story and I felt like I was there.
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September 15, 2017"Meyer’s latest is a sweet, fun tale containing delightful characters. Elizabeth’s longing for control will likely resonate with many readers. Vivid scenes and historical details add to the enjoyment" (4 stars @ RT Book Reviews).
Miniseries: Little Falls Legacy
Miniseries: Little Falls Legacy
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August 7, 2017Miniseries: Little Falls Legacy
August 17, 2017
This is a very well woven mid-western romance. Filled with strength, forgiveness and compassion the characters build the scenes to life in the mind.
I was drawn to Elizabeth and torn by Grace her sister. Both are looking out for the youngest Rose and are all headed to their hotel in Minnesota. Only, this is not only the place that holds a new venture but also heart opening moments.
Jude is the partner that Elizabeth didn't know existed and can't decide what she thinks. But trust me he is amazing and made my eyes mist.
The aspect of faith in this story is wonderful. The change and growth through faith is apparent with our characters but also that sometimes a person deserves a second chance. God reminds us that we only need to ask for his forgiveness and receive. This book reminded me of that.
I was drawn to Elizabeth and torn by Grace her sister. Both are looking out for the youngest Rose and are all headed to their hotel in Minnesota. Only, this is not only the place that holds a new venture but also heart opening moments.
Jude is the partner that Elizabeth didn't know existed and can't decide what she thinks. But trust me he is amazing and made my eyes mist.
The aspect of faith in this story is wonderful. The change and growth through faith is apparent with our characters but also that sometimes a person deserves a second chance. God reminds us that we only need to ask for his forgiveness and receive. This book reminded me of that.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews