Wedded For The Baby

Stand-In Brides #2

by Dorothy Clark

His Family of Convenience

For widower and ex-doctor Trace Warren a fresh start in Whisper Creek comes with a catch: to save his home and apothecary shop, Trace must remarry. While making Katherine Fleming his wife is simple enough, he refuses to fall in love again. But keeping his distance from the kind, beautiful woman and the infant she brings with her is dangerously difficult…

Katherine promised to protect the baby left in her care, and a marriage of convenience to Trace is the only way to do that. But all too soon, Trace possesses Katherine’s heart, even as he still carefully guards his own. With hopes of turning their arrangement into a true love match, can Katherine convince Trace to forgive himself for his past mistakes and embrace his new family?

Stand-In Brides: Mail-order mix-ups turn into happy marriages in a new Wyoming town

Genres: Love Inspired Historical, Love Inspired, Christian Fiction, Romance, Historical Fiction, Christian Romance, Historical

212 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 1, 2017

About the author

Married to her own personal hero for over fifty-eight years, mother of three, grandmother of four, and great-grandmother to a beautiful baby girl, Dorothy calls on her life’s experiences—including designing and helping her husband build their home, complete with beams they hewed by hand and a real, old-fashioned walk-in kitchen fireplace she occasionally cooks in, to add color and depth to her stories. But, while she still knows how to clean used bricks, mix mortar and swing a mean hammer, she now only designs homes for the characters in her books. An antique lover, she fills those homes (and her own) with furnishings appropriate to the time.

When she is not busy writing, Dorothy enjoys visiting with family—who live much too far away—and traveling with her husband throughout the United States doing research for future books. She values her American heritage and believes in God, love, family and happy endings, which explains why she feels so at home writing Christian historical romance.

Reviews

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wedded for the Baby was a book that surprised me -- at first in a bad way, and then in a good way. I'll explain.

After reading the first book in the series and loving it, I thought I would love this book from the beginning on...that wasn't the case. I got frustrated with how loosely marriage was treated. I get that it was a marriage in name only, but to keep mentioning that once he found a solution for the baby and his business, they could get an annulment...I just found that frustrating.

But, as I continued reading I got to really enjoying the story and that surprised me in a good way as I didn't expect to enjoy the book after the beginning frustrations. I liked how the characters from the first book were in this story quite a bit. I didn't really like the ending, as it felt too similar to the first book.

All in all, Wedded for the Baby was a fine read. I didn't love it, but I did end up enjoying the book.

*I received a complimentary eBook copy of this book for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*

[Marilyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

There were hidden secrets, a marriage in name only and unexpected twists and turns for Trace Warren and Katherine Fleming as they adjusted to living in a new Wyoming Territory. Will overcoming the past sorrow bring healing to these two individuals?

I picked up this book at our library used book sale, thus no review was required. I’ve started my own opinion.

[Cassie O'Neal · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a pretty standard sweet, low-spice romance. I enjoyed most of it. I felt a little lost when Trace showed up at the fort though. It seemed like the hours on the train took a few minutes. Also, the injured children felt a little forced and the whole ending seemed slightly rushed. It was good overall, but I wouldn’t call it great.

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cute little romance. It has a rather unbelievable premise, which is true of many romance novels. It also occasionally suffers from strange timing, but on the whole a pleasant, quick read.

[Jennifer Robb · Rating 3 out of 5]

Trace Warren is a widower doctor who was unable to save his wife and unborn child from a viral illness. He's moved to a town in Wyoming where he signed a contract saying he'd live with his family for 5 years and run the town's apothecary (and he's hiding that he's a doctor). He thought his widower status would fulfill the contract provisions, but finds out differently, so he makes a deal with Mrs. Howard to enter into a marriage in name only with her and provide for her and her infant son. Unfortunately, Mrs. Howard is very ill and passes away while on the train on her way to Trace's home. She leaves her son in the care of Katherine Fleming.

Katherine delivers the baby to Trace. Together they decide to name him Howard to honor his mother. Trace gives Katherine enough of an explanation of his circumstances to get her to marry him "in name only".

While I do realize this is set in a historical time when unwed mothers are ostracized (so the idea of a legitimate looking marriage would be desirable), I don't really agree with pretending to be married. I also didn't understand how Trace planned to annul his marriage to Katherine and then marry someone else to fulfill the contract without the townspeople talking. Was he planning to tell them Katherine died? Or that she couldn't handle Western life and went back to New York?

There's little meaningful communication between the two. Trace is trying to steel his heart because he's lost faith in himself and his abilities, he doesn't want a situation he can't control, and he doesn't want his heart broken again if he loses someone he cares about. He's got a million excuses why he can't love Katherine (or Howard). Katherine seems to feel that she's already had her one great love in Richard (who was lost at sea before they were married) and maybe she feels loving someone else would be disloyal to him. Instead of talking to each other and admitting that feelings have changed or that there might be some sort of relationship between them, there are just reasons why they can't love the other person (even when it's totally obvious to all us readers that they're just fooling themselves).

In a twist of irony--Trace reveals he is a doctor to the town and the town's founder (the one who wanted the contracts) is so thrilled that a real doctor is willing to live in the town that he negates the family clause of the contract--at the same time that Trace realizes he wants to make his marriage to Katherine a real one.

Another reviewer pointed out that Trace, as a doctor, should have known how many people die even with the best care during the time this is set. True, but he did have a personal stake with his wife dying and I can see where that might shake his confidence a bit.

[Books and Spoons · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wedded for the Baby is a marriage of convenience story that had some unique twists and choices in the plot that made it enjoyable.
I like the marriage of the convenience stories, where the love grows as the couple gets to know each other. This story had the twist of a baby - a baby that wasn't either of the protagonist's biological child.
Katherine Fleming was a soft-hearted, kind woman who was willing to go to extreme lengths to keep her word and take care of a baby she just met. She had lost the love of her life several years ago and was certain she would be a spinster.
Trace Warren was a wounded man by his past, a bit dramatic, yet kind-hearted and considerate. His self-pity went a little too far for me, as a doctor, he should have known the realities of life as they were at the time. I liked how his character developed, how the new possibilities downed on him, how he slowly but surely opened his heart to Katherine and the baby.
The challenges of the time period, the new frontiers and the demands of the life back then, the culture, the lifestyle, it was told with authority and in a believable matter. The story was enjoyable to read, the characters growth and advancement as people, and as parents were entertaining and appealing.
The Love Inspired stories are Christian novels, and as such, I expect a message of faith and/or faith development, especially if it is pointed out that the main characters have been struggling with their beliefs and convictions. I felt that that part of the story was not carried all the way through. Since the authors have been given this amazing platform, I wish they used it more thoroughly.
Overall an interesting and heartfelt story, where the characters are challenged not only by the environment they live in, but by each other, and the wounds of their past, and the hurt life sometimes bring us.
~ Three Spoons with a teaspoon on the side

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Wedded for the Baby" is a Christian romance set in 1868 in the Wyoming Territory. This is the second book in the series. You don't need to read the first book to understand this one. However, the couple in the first book were also major characters in this one, so you may wish to read the books in order.

Katherine helps a fatality ill woman while on a train trip to visit her sister and ends up responsible for an orphaned, unwanted baby. Trace is named the guardian of the child, but he needs to marry or he'll lose his livelihood--the only way to support the child. Katherine agrees to an "in name only" marriage and to care for the child until Trace can find an alternative. Trace treats her with kindness but tries to minimize his time with her as he still mourns his dead wife and child.

Katherine has no idea how to care for a baby, though, so Trace has to show her. They keep getting thrown together and discover they share interests and admire each other. The main characters were nice people, and I understood the reasons behind their actions. They both heal from past hurts. The historical details about everyday things, what was happening in the territory, and even some of the medical debates of the time were woven into the story. I suspect the author got her hands on a catalog of baby furniture from that time, as Trace ordered a lot for his house.

There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this sweet romance.

I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

[𝕸𝖎𝖈𝖍𝖆𝖊𝖑 𝕮. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. GOSH! What an outstanding book! I WASN’T expecting this story to be this excellent, coming from this “love inspires” series, but it was simply amazing.

The characters were lovely, and It wasn’t repetitive, boring, or shallow!! Trace, Katherine, and Howard were wonderful! I would could try to write down all of my favorite scenes and parts of the book, but I’d end up writing the whole book down! Every single chapter was seriously perfect.

I usually dislike when there’s a child or baby involved in the romance, but OMG, Dorothy Clark writes this baby in PERFECTLY! It’s flawless and so, so enjoyable to read. Not annoying one bit💗

The suspense (waiting for their love to blossom and be reciprocated) was brilliantly written and the ending was absolutely wonderful. Perfect closure to a book. Oh, and it wasn’t too preachy at all!! It was actually perfect!

I loved when Trace on purpose stomped along both sides of the grass path leading up to the church for Katherine ! To make sure it was clear from snakes!!🐍

And when Trace’s heart squeezed with pain from Katherine’s baking a cake for him? (He knew it was hers because his house servant never baked!!) 🥺😩💗

I’m so glad I read this BOOOOOOOK!!!! Historical romance is one of my favorite genres, and BOY did this one DELIVER 💗😩💜🤩
I would 1000% read this again and again, and I recommend it for everyone who loves historical romance 👍🏼
Dorothy Clark is an amazing author❤️📚

[Tima · Rating 3 out of 5]

Katherine is on the way to visit her sister when she helps a sick mother on the train. The mother makes Katherine promise to take care of her son before she passes away. Now Katherine is stuck, on her way to meet the mother's fiance. When Trace, an ex-doctor, asks her to marry him to secure his home and help with the baby, she agrees. But both agree that it's only a marriage of convenience that will only last until Trace can find another wife. Neither of them are willing to share the secrets that are keeping them from their full potential. But maybe the little boy will mend their hearts.

The premise of this book was definitely a twist on the mail-order bride type. I enjoyed the descriptions of the town and the characters. Some of the characters stood out a little more than others for me. While I didn't really connect with either of the two main characters or really feel any of their chemistry, I did enjoy reading the story. The book is listed as Christian fiction, but while there were some references to faith, it wasn't the main focus of the book. The romance of the plot, while not strong, is clean. The book is the second in the series, but can be read as a stand-alone.

I received this book from NetGalley. All thoughts expressed are my own.

[Addie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was at the cabin in the mountains when I read this book, which was perfectly fitting for a book which takes place in the wilderness in the snow...seeing as it also started to snow at the cabin where I was. So everything about this book was truly perfect timing! With that said, the story was cute, but the characters lacked growth. Sometimes the story line was slow, and at other times it leaped ahead. I got tired of how many times I read the pharase "...the whisper of Katherine's skirts along the floor..." because it was repeated so many times it became quickly redundant. And the way Trace refused to speak to Katherine and continued to hide his feelings to the point where he chased his bride off was just sad. While the ending is good, it happens very quickly. I was left with a feeling of wanting more information. Overall, the plot is good. It wasn't bad, it just could have been revised or tweaked to make it a more enjoyable experience.

[Marilyn Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book two in the Stand-In Brides series, however it is a stand alone book. You do reconnect with people from the first book but it is not necessary to read to enjoy this one.

Katherine Fleming is a loving, caring woman who just happens to be in the right spot at the right time to help a dear mother in need. When she makes promises to the dying woman she never dreams where her life will take her.

Trace Warren is a little harder to read, while just trying to keep his business and home he agrees to a in-name only marriage to a woman he has never met. When things go topsy turvy he does the only thing he feels he can to save what he has built. But will this turn of events be to his best interest?

I loved the sparks, communication and sometimes lack thereof between Trace and Katherine. Both have past that they need to overcome to finally find the peace God has in store for them.

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wedded for the Baby is a sweet romantic yet stirring story of a man who needs to marry someone before a certain date and Miss Fleming was in the right place and the right time with something he didn't want or did he? They went through a lot together - there is obstinace and patience but most importantly there is GOD who is being turned to and when HE is involved HE can fix all things . Make all things right. Amen? He is being called on but will they listen? Will things work out for those two or will he drop her like a hot potato like he said he would in the start? I could not believe how that baby grabbed my heart and wouldn't let go - so I had to read and read and find out what happened to him. So will you? I received a copy of this book from the Publisher and Netgalley; all the opinions expressed in this review are all my own.

[Ladymoiraina2021 · Rating 2 out of 5]

Well it’s a harlequin HEA romance so not my usual read ever so keep that in mind. It’s a throwaway romance as I say something to skim through. I think my problem with it was mostly the heavy Christian influences that seemed like the “idealized” version of the good ol’ days when ppl were good Christians and a lot of leaning towards women being natural maternal figures what seemed like some ugly stereotypes. It came across to me as patronizing and unrealistic beyond the historical time period. I can’t imagine any woman traveling by herself agreeing to live with a man alone no matter how good hearted she is or how strange the situation for the kid? It seemed historically accurate in many small details Then again idk the time period well. I think I just had a hard time connecting to the main heroine. She just seemed very passive to me. Even for a throwaway I would not recommend.

[Anna Swedenmom · Rating 4 out of 5]

I should probably give five stars for this , but found a few things that made it a four instead to me!
What that said, It is truly a very enjoyable read. One that was a little more unique in the plot itself. I enjoyed the family setting as well as the elements in the book that made you think and feel. I would of wanted more background and more action to make this a superb read! Even with that , I found it enjoyable to sit and lose myself in the story. I was given this book in return for an honest review. Anna Swedenmom

[Jess O. (From Jess to You) · Rating 3 out of 5]

"3 out of 5 stars!! A man and woman find themselves in a unique situation and get into an in-name-only marriage, all to save a shop and protect a little baby. However, will they find love along the way?

This was a sweet romance that made me put on my "genealogist hat" as I kept thinking about ..."

Read more of this review and TWO TEASERS here: https://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2019/07/made-grade-stand-in-brides-series-book.html

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have often wondered how many children survived back when this country was young. In this story, a young woman heading west to stay with her sister in Wyoming, ends up taking on the care of a baby for an ailing mother, who then dies. Katherine takes the baby to the man who had "ordered" a bride, but he didn't expect a ready made family - or the young woman who actually arrived. An entertaining story, and I look forward to reading more of Dorothy Clark's stories.

[Veronica · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. I generally like the historical books where people marry for reasons other than love and then fall in love and this book didn't disappoint.

[Monique · Rating 3 out of 5]

Unsubstantial fluff. Follows the typical Mills and Boon script. Meet, trials, separation, reconciliation then happy ever after.

[Nancy McPherson · Rating 4 out of 5]

entertaining with the usual happy ending.

[Honeybee · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good fun read!

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wedded For The Baby is a Stand In Brides series by Dorothy Clark. A historical romance during 1868. Widower and ex doctor Trace Warren applied for a mail order bride. He needed a bride to keep his apothecary shop open. Or he would lose the money a big shot gave him to open his shop and stay in the area for five years. A mother and baby answered his ad. On the train the mother died and a woman who helped her took care of her baby. Katherine Fleming agreed to take care of the baby and to marry Trace in name only. Of course romance happens after a lot of misunderstanding. A very good read.

[Harlequin Books]

Miniseries: Stand-In Brides

[Harlequin Historical]

Miniseries: Stand-In Brides