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The Texas Brides Collection
It’s a wild ride through Texas history, but can the lawful, the lawless—and the lonely—find love?
Enjoy the rich history of Texas penned by an exclusive selection of Christian fiction authors—including DiAnn Mills and Kathleen Y’Barbo. This collection of nine romances brings together the lawful, the lawless, and the lonely in the Lone Star State. Watch as three Texas Rangers turn from chasing outlaws to courting women who are determined to remain independent. Experience the trials six outlaws have as they turn into respectable citizens and seek to settle down with a spouse to love.
Includes: Serena’s Strength by DiAnn Mills
Serena Talbot seems small and frail. In fact, for the two years Ranger Chet Wilkinson has known her, he believed her to be a young teenager. Suddenly Serena has proved herself to be a woman of uncommon strength, and Chet has taken notice. But Serena’s very protective father won’t hear of a ranger courting his only child.
The Reluctant Fugitive by Darlene Mindrup
Caught up in a bank robbery, April Hansen finds herself the prisoner of Ranger Yellow Wolf Jackson and under suspicion for aiding a band of gangsters. How then can April feel peace in the midst of stormy weather and pending trial? And what is this undercurrent she experiences every time Wolf looks at her, a plain seamstress?
Saving Grace by Kathleen Y’Barbo
Captain Jedadiah Harte is ready to walk away from his old lifestyle as a Texas Ranger and serve only God. A stray bullet, though, has thwarted his trip to Galveston to start a ministry, and it seems to be the answer to Grace Delaney’s prayers. Jed may be willing to help her keep her river supply landing running for a while, but can he make an even greater commitment when asked?
An Inconvenient Gamble by Michelle Ule
After yellow fever takes her parents and husband, Jenny Duncan is left to manage the family and horse ranch on her own. Civil War veteran Charles Moss has left many regrets behind and become both a surveyor and teacher. His newfound religious convictions falter, however, when he meets the pretty Jenny and is drawn into advising her in business matters.
Angel in Disguise by Darlene Franklin
Owen Cooper investigates a series of bizarre burglaries among San Antonio’s wealthiest citizens. When charming newcomer Rosie Carson crosses his path, will his search end in jail—or love?
Reuben’s Atonement by Lynette Sowell Reuben Wilson returns home with a load of regrets. As a young man, he led his brothers down a path of crime and broke the heart of Charlotte Jeffers. Now with his debt to society paid, he tries to atone for the past and reclaim what he has lost. Charlotte wants to believe Reuben has changed, but an accusation threatens to destroy his plans for their future.
The Peacemaker by DiAnn Mills
The day Huntsville Prison cut loose Colt Wilson he thought the answer to his problems was money—until he met his ex-partner’s widow and her spunky daughters. It doesn’t take long for Colt to see he’s met his match with Anne Langley. But a murderer stalks the Langley ranch, and Colt and Anne fear for her daughters’ safety.
Outlaw Sheriff by Kathleen Y’Barbo
When former outlaw turned law-abiding Christian Caleb Wilson wanders into town, the townsfolk think he’s the new sheriff. Caleb is happy to accept the honor, until Lydia Bertrand arrives with the news that she is the sheriff’s mail-order bride. Will the new sheriff admit his true identity to the citizens and his reluctant bride-to-be, or will he keep the job and gain a wife in the process?
A Gamble on Love by Tamela Hancock Murray
Benjamin Wilson and Pearl Hubert team up to swindle gamblers—until she leaves to tend her dying ma. Moral Mama will have no sinning in her house. Will they hit the road again together, or will they find more reward in love, prayer, and a miracle from God?
Enjoy the rich history of Texas penned by an exclusive selection of Christian fiction authors—including DiAnn Mills and Kathleen Y’Barbo. This collection of nine romances brings together the lawful, the lawless, and the lonely in the Lone Star State. Watch as three Texas Rangers turn from chasing outlaws to courting women who are determined to remain independent. Experience the trials six outlaws have as they turn into respectable citizens and seek to settle down with a spouse to love.
Includes: Serena’s Strength by DiAnn Mills
Serena Talbot seems small and frail. In fact, for the two years Ranger Chet Wilkinson has known her, he believed her to be a young teenager. Suddenly Serena has proved herself to be a woman of uncommon strength, and Chet has taken notice. But Serena’s very protective father won’t hear of a ranger courting his only child.
The Reluctant Fugitive by Darlene Mindrup
Caught up in a bank robbery, April Hansen finds herself the prisoner of Ranger Yellow Wolf Jackson and under suspicion for aiding a band of gangsters. How then can April feel peace in the midst of stormy weather and pending trial? And what is this undercurrent she experiences every time Wolf looks at her, a plain seamstress?
Saving Grace by Kathleen Y’Barbo
Captain Jedadiah Harte is ready to walk away from his old lifestyle as a Texas Ranger and serve only God. A stray bullet, though, has thwarted his trip to Galveston to start a ministry, and it seems to be the answer to Grace Delaney’s prayers. Jed may be willing to help her keep her river supply landing running for a while, but can he make an even greater commitment when asked?
An Inconvenient Gamble by Michelle Ule
After yellow fever takes her parents and husband, Jenny Duncan is left to manage the family and horse ranch on her own. Civil War veteran Charles Moss has left many regrets behind and become both a surveyor and teacher. His newfound religious convictions falter, however, when he meets the pretty Jenny and is drawn into advising her in business matters.
Angel in Disguise by Darlene Franklin
Owen Cooper investigates a series of bizarre burglaries among San Antonio’s wealthiest citizens. When charming newcomer Rosie Carson crosses his path, will his search end in jail—or love?
Reuben’s Atonement by Lynette Sowell Reuben Wilson returns home with a load of regrets. As a young man, he led his brothers down a path of crime and broke the heart of Charlotte Jeffers. Now with his debt to society paid, he tries to atone for the past and reclaim what he has lost. Charlotte wants to believe Reuben has changed, but an accusation threatens to destroy his plans for their future.
The Peacemaker by DiAnn Mills
The day Huntsville Prison cut loose Colt Wilson he thought the answer to his problems was money—until he met his ex-partner’s widow and her spunky daughters. It doesn’t take long for Colt to see he’s met his match with Anne Langley. But a murderer stalks the Langley ranch, and Colt and Anne fear for her daughters’ safety.
Outlaw Sheriff by Kathleen Y’Barbo
When former outlaw turned law-abiding Christian Caleb Wilson wanders into town, the townsfolk think he’s the new sheriff. Caleb is happy to accept the honor, until Lydia Bertrand arrives with the news that she is the sheriff’s mail-order bride. Will the new sheriff admit his true identity to the citizens and his reluctant bride-to-be, or will he keep the job and gain a wife in the process?
A Gamble on Love by Tamela Hancock Murray
Benjamin Wilson and Pearl Hubert team up to swindle gamblers—until she leaves to tend her dying ma. Moral Mama will have no sinning in her house. Will they hit the road again together, or will they find more reward in love, prayer, and a miracle from God?
439 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2013
162 people are currently reading
609 people want to read
About the author
DiAnn Mills
129 books1,975 followersDiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who invites her readers to step into stories where suspense meets adventure and romance warms the heart. Known for crafting unforgettable characters tangled in unpredictable plots, DiAnn believes every breath we take unfolds a story waiting to be told—so why not make it thrilling?
Her novels have consistently landed on bestseller lists including CBA, ECPA, and Publishers Weekly, and have won prestigious awards such as the Christy, Selah, Golden Scroll, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol awards.
DiAnn is a founding board member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Conference Advisor for the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers. She actively participates in Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, the Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild, International Thriller Writers, Outliers Writing University, and The Christian Pen. DiAnn passionately invests in helping fellow authors succeed through mentoring, book coaching, and editing. She travels nationwide speaking and teaching engaging writing workshops.
A proud coffee snob who roasts her own beans, DiAnn also enjoys diving into good books, experimenting in the kitchen, and unabashedly spoiling her grandchildren—whom she insists are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband make their home under the sunny skies of Houston, Texas.
Connect with DiAnn online for behind-the-scenes glimpses, writing tips, and lively discussions on any of the following social media platforms:
Website: https://diannmills.com/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/diann...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diannmills
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diannmillsa...
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannmills/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/diannmills/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/diannmills
X: https://twitter.com/diannmills
Her novels have consistently landed on bestseller lists including CBA, ECPA, and Publishers Weekly, and have won prestigious awards such as the Christy, Selah, Golden Scroll, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol awards.
DiAnn is a founding board member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Conference Advisor for the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers. She actively participates in Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, the Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild, International Thriller Writers, Outliers Writing University, and The Christian Pen. DiAnn passionately invests in helping fellow authors succeed through mentoring, book coaching, and editing. She travels nationwide speaking and teaching engaging writing workshops.
A proud coffee snob who roasts her own beans, DiAnn also enjoys diving into good books, experimenting in the kitchen, and unabashedly spoiling her grandchildren—whom she insists are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband make their home under the sunny skies of Houston, Texas.
Connect with DiAnn online for behind-the-scenes glimpses, writing tips, and lively discussions on any of the following social media platforms:
Website: https://diannmills.com/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/diann...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diannmills
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diannmillsa...
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannmills/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/diannmills/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/diannmills
X: https://twitter.com/diannmills
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
November 6, 2018
We went on a long car trip to Washington D.C. this past weekend and the trip didn't even seem long because I had this along with me to read! I love the Collection books by Barbour Publishing. This is one that is being rereleased original publish date 2013. The first half is about Texas Rangers and the second is about outlaws that come to the right side of the law. It is filled with sweet romances that have the lawless coming around to the right side of the law. I love how faith is intertwined in the stories. The ending was sweet as the book comes together with the much needed family reunion.
It's always a pleasure reading Barbour Collections!
Pub Date 01 Nov 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. Thank you
It's always a pleasure reading Barbour Collections!
Pub Date 01 Nov 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. Thank you
July 23, 2016
This is a very sweet collection of many different types of love stories. My very favorite was Serena's Strength. There were a couple of stories that I just didn't get as connected to the characters as I would have liked. However, overall, I do recommend this book as a good choice for readers who like bride stories (as I do).
The strength that many of these characters in the various stories exhibited and the growth of many of the characters in their walks with God was refreshing. I enjoyed the many different stories set out in the old west of Texas as these men and women found love through their struggles.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
You can view this and other reviews at www.brittreadsfiction.wordpress.com.
The strength that many of these characters in the various stories exhibited and the growth of many of the characters in their walks with God was refreshing. I enjoyed the many different stories set out in the old west of Texas as these men and women found love through their struggles.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
You can view this and other reviews at www.brittreadsfiction.wordpress.com.
July 16, 2019
A Texas Brides Collection has the most WONDERFUL romances — nine in all — from authors new to me, but I loved each one and grant this anthology a hearty 5/5!
Pub Date 01 Nov 2018
Thanks to Barbour Books and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are fully mine.
#TheTexasBridesCollection #NetGalley
August 20, 2018
A Texas Brides Collection is a collection of nine stories. These stories include:
Serena’s Strength by DiAnn Mills
The Reluctant Fugitive by Darlene Mindrup
Saving Grace by Kathleen Y’Barbo
An Inconvenient Gamble by Michelle Ule
Angel in Disguise by Darlene Franklin
Reuben’s Atonement by Lynette Sowell
The Peacemaker by DiAnn Mills
Outlaw Sheriff by Kathleen Y’Barbo
A Gamble on Love by Tamela Hancock Murray
I enjoyed this collection was introduced to a few new authors. My favorite stories would be Kathleen Y'Barbo's Outlaw Sheriff and Saving Grace.
Great collection 4-1/2 stars.
Serena’s Strength by DiAnn Mills
The Reluctant Fugitive by Darlene Mindrup
Saving Grace by Kathleen Y’Barbo
An Inconvenient Gamble by Michelle Ule
Angel in Disguise by Darlene Franklin
Reuben’s Atonement by Lynette Sowell
The Peacemaker by DiAnn Mills
Outlaw Sheriff by Kathleen Y’Barbo
A Gamble on Love by Tamela Hancock Murray
I enjoyed this collection was introduced to a few new authors. My favorite stories would be Kathleen Y'Barbo's Outlaw Sheriff and Saving Grace.
Great collection 4-1/2 stars.
February 4, 2019
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to friends and family.
December 20, 2021
This is part of a large group of books with Christian themes that are very popular. This is a warning: This book was published in 2013 but most of the stories in this book were published prior to that date. I'll list the published date after listing each short story. Only two of these stories are new to this publication.
Generally, I enjoy books with Christian themes but some of these are just too much. For example, there is a religious reference in nearly every paragraph in the first short story by Kathleen Y'Barbo (she has two stories in this volume). To me, that is overkill. After reading this -- one might wonder how the settlers got anything done with the constant asking God for guidance. Another author I gave up on was Kelly Eileen Hake -- for the same reason.
NOTE: The last four stories are related. They are all about the Wilson sons. The first story is about Reuben; the next one is about Colt, then Caleb, and finally, Benjamin, the young child left behind in a bordello, as the older sons went off and began their years of crime and jail time.
SERENA'S STRENGTH (DiAnn Mills) (Publ. 2001) -- 2 stars
Serena looks like a young teen but is actually nearing 18 years. She is attracted to a Texas Ranger named Chet Wilkinson. Her father, also a Ranger and partner to Chet, knows the dangers of a Texas Ranger's life and refuses to allow Serena to be interested in Chet. This story was so bad, I couldn't finish it; I didn't care what happened to either of the main characters.
THE RELUCTANT FUGITIVE (Darlene Mindrup) (Publ. 2001) -- VG+
April Hansen is caught up in a bank robbery with her twin brother. When her brother and the gang leave her behind; April is captured by Ranger Yellow Wolf Jackson. The Ranger returns April to the sheriff in the town (where she lives) for the trial. Things don't look good for the young seamstress.
SAVING GRACE (Kathleen Y’Barbo) (Publ. 2001) -- 2 stars
Texas Ranger Captain Jedadiah Harte (better known as "Heartless Harte") has decided to leave his captain rank in the Rangers and serve God. He is on his way to Galveston and plans to stop off and see his old friend, Ranger Ben Delaney. Instead, he is shot near the Delaney homestead. When he wakes up, he finds that Ben was struck by lightning and his wife is in a bad way; pregnant with a third child. Where does his allegiance lie?
AN INCONVENIENT GAMBLE (Michelle Ule) (Published in 2013 - the same year as this book) -- G+
Jenny Duncan has been decimated by yellow fever; her parents and husband are dead. Civil War veteran Charles Moss used to be a gambler but a bet that turned tragic changed his life. He is one of the neighborhood school teachers and is boarding with Jenny's family. Before long, Charles advises Jenny on business matters.
ANGEL IN DISGUISE (Darlene Franklin) (Published in 2013 - the same year as this book) -- 2 stars
This story is so hokey I won't even recount it for readers. This is the second awful story by this author and I won't be reading anymore. (The last one was in OLD WEST CHRISTMAS BRIDES (2018). It is another book in this series).
REUBEN'S ATONEMENT (Lynette Sowell)(Published in 2006) -- G+
Reuben Wilson led his brothers to crime and spent time in prison. Now, with his debt paid to society, he returns home and tries to make amends. Charlotte Jeffers is a spinster, still living at home. When Reuben is accused of theft in their local community, Charlotte has to think deeply about her future.
THE PEACEMAKER (DiAnn Mills)(Published in 2006) -- VG
This short story is a continuation of the previous one; Colt Wilson (brother to Reuben), has been released from Huntsville State Prison. He heads to the Austin area, to find his old partner. Instead, he finds Anne Langley and her daughters. After the disastrous first story (in this volume by this author), this episode about the second Wilson brother was a delight.
OUTLAW SHERIFF (Kathleen Y’Barbo) (Published in 2006) -- 2 stars
Because I was invested in the story of these four Wilson sons, I read this story. Caleb Wilson wanders into a town and is mistaken for the new sheriff. He also finds that he has a mail-order bride waiting for him. This is so out of the realm of chance that it is laughable.
A GAMBLE ON LOVE (Tamela Hancock Murray) (Published in 2006) -- G
The final story is about Benjamin Wilson, the six-year-old left at a bordello when the other three brothers left. He's turned into a gambler, with a wrinkle. Pearl Hubert is his confidant; she serves drinks and uses code words to tell Benjamin about the other gamblers' cards. When Pearl is called home for her dying mother, Benjamin follows. A man, with no experience as a rancher, and who played cards all of his life suddenly becomes a rancher, if you can believe it.
Perhaps I've just read too many of these in too short a period of time, but I really didn't enjoy this book much.
Generally, I enjoy books with Christian themes but some of these are just too much. For example, there is a religious reference in nearly every paragraph in the first short story by Kathleen Y'Barbo (she has two stories in this volume). To me, that is overkill. After reading this -- one might wonder how the settlers got anything done with the constant asking God for guidance. Another author I gave up on was Kelly Eileen Hake -- for the same reason.
NOTE: The last four stories are related. They are all about the Wilson sons. The first story is about Reuben; the next one is about Colt, then Caleb, and finally, Benjamin, the young child left behind in a bordello, as the older sons went off and began their years of crime and jail time.
SERENA'S STRENGTH (DiAnn Mills) (Publ. 2001) -- 2 stars
Serena looks like a young teen but is actually nearing 18 years. She is attracted to a Texas Ranger named Chet Wilkinson. Her father, also a Ranger and partner to Chet, knows the dangers of a Texas Ranger's life and refuses to allow Serena to be interested in Chet. This story was so bad, I couldn't finish it; I didn't care what happened to either of the main characters.
THE RELUCTANT FUGITIVE (Darlene Mindrup) (Publ. 2001) -- VG+
April Hansen is caught up in a bank robbery with her twin brother. When her brother and the gang leave her behind; April is captured by Ranger Yellow Wolf Jackson. The Ranger returns April to the sheriff in the town (where she lives) for the trial. Things don't look good for the young seamstress.
SAVING GRACE (Kathleen Y’Barbo) (Publ. 2001) -- 2 stars
Texas Ranger Captain Jedadiah Harte (better known as "Heartless Harte") has decided to leave his captain rank in the Rangers and serve God. He is on his way to Galveston and plans to stop off and see his old friend, Ranger Ben Delaney. Instead, he is shot near the Delaney homestead. When he wakes up, he finds that Ben was struck by lightning and his wife is in a bad way; pregnant with a third child. Where does his allegiance lie?
AN INCONVENIENT GAMBLE (Michelle Ule) (Published in 2013 - the same year as this book) -- G+
Jenny Duncan has been decimated by yellow fever; her parents and husband are dead. Civil War veteran Charles Moss used to be a gambler but a bet that turned tragic changed his life. He is one of the neighborhood school teachers and is boarding with Jenny's family. Before long, Charles advises Jenny on business matters.
ANGEL IN DISGUISE (Darlene Franklin) (Published in 2013 - the same year as this book) -- 2 stars
This story is so hokey I won't even recount it for readers. This is the second awful story by this author and I won't be reading anymore. (The last one was in OLD WEST CHRISTMAS BRIDES (2018). It is another book in this series).
REUBEN'S ATONEMENT (Lynette Sowell)(Published in 2006) -- G+
Reuben Wilson led his brothers to crime and spent time in prison. Now, with his debt paid to society, he returns home and tries to make amends. Charlotte Jeffers is a spinster, still living at home. When Reuben is accused of theft in their local community, Charlotte has to think deeply about her future.
THE PEACEMAKER (DiAnn Mills)(Published in 2006) -- VG
This short story is a continuation of the previous one; Colt Wilson (brother to Reuben), has been released from Huntsville State Prison. He heads to the Austin area, to find his old partner. Instead, he finds Anne Langley and her daughters. After the disastrous first story (in this volume by this author), this episode about the second Wilson brother was a delight.
OUTLAW SHERIFF (Kathleen Y’Barbo) (Published in 2006) -- 2 stars
Because I was invested in the story of these four Wilson sons, I read this story. Caleb Wilson wanders into a town and is mistaken for the new sheriff. He also finds that he has a mail-order bride waiting for him. This is so out of the realm of chance that it is laughable.
A GAMBLE ON LOVE (Tamela Hancock Murray) (Published in 2006) -- G
The final story is about Benjamin Wilson, the six-year-old left at a bordello when the other three brothers left. He's turned into a gambler, with a wrinkle. Pearl Hubert is his confidant; she serves drinks and uses code words to tell Benjamin about the other gamblers' cards. When Pearl is called home for her dying mother, Benjamin follows. A man, with no experience as a rancher, and who played cards all of his life suddenly becomes a rancher, if you can believe it.
Perhaps I've just read too many of these in too short a period of time, but I really didn't enjoy this book much.
September 24, 2013
Enjoyed the stories.... was great when the writers wrote about the 4 brothers individually.... not everyone turned out to be about Texas Rangers.. But being outlaws changing their lives by prayerful women asking God to intervene in the men. Also a "ma" who was influencial also.
December 4, 2014
9 stories with multiple authors. Each story was a wonderful reminder that we are saved through grace, it is a gift from God, not anything we can receive through ourselves by redeemption. There is no sin too great for God to cleanse and forgive, if we ask forgiveness.
April 5, 2016
A delightful mix of humor, history, and heartwarming romance!
January 25, 2019
The Texas Brides Collection from the Barbour Brides series features 9 couples in the old wild west with its share of lawfulness, lawlessness while trying their share of loneliness. In this collection three Texas Rangers turn from chasing outlaws to courting women who are determined to remain independent. Six outlaws discover that turning into respectable citizens and seek to settle down with a spouse to love is not a rodeo.
As usual, it is difficult to pick a single favourite story. However, I have to say that my favourite scene was in Tamela Murray's Gamble on Love. I loved the "coffee date" between Benjamin and Pearl. I loved their sweet and honest couple's conversation.
At the heart of these stories is the theme of grace was quite apparent as most of the characters were struggling with a past downfall or dark secret. I was also entertained with the Texan slang and could at times, read the dialogues with the drawl at the back of my mind. The Texas Brides Collection is great as a pick-me-up.
P.S. I received a complimentary ARC from NetGalley
As usual, it is difficult to pick a single favourite story. However, I have to say that my favourite scene was in Tamela Murray's Gamble on Love. I loved the "coffee date" between Benjamin and Pearl. I loved their sweet and honest couple's conversation.
At the heart of these stories is the theme of grace was quite apparent as most of the characters were struggling with a past downfall or dark secret. I was also entertained with the Texan slang and could at times, read the dialogues with the drawl at the back of my mind. The Texas Brides Collection is great as a pick-me-up.
P.S. I received a complimentary ARC from NetGalley
September 13, 2018
If you enjoy romance novels, you'll probably enjoy these short stories. I discovered about 1/2 way through I just don't care for the predictability of these kinds of reads anymore. Although written by several authors, the first five of the nine stories were quite similar . . . too similar for my taste. I found myself a bit bored. The final four did redeem the series for me as they offered a bit more variety even with their predictable romantic slant.
Each story is pretty short. I could read one an evening. So these would make great reads for a plane ride or waiting room. They were well written. Just not really my cup of tea.
Each story is pretty short. I could read one an evening. So these would make great reads for a plane ride or waiting room. They were well written. Just not really my cup of tea.
June 4, 2015
THE TEXAS BRIDES COLLECTION
Serena's Strength – DiAnn Mills
12/16/14 4 stars
Other than being much too short, this was a cute novella.
I enjoyed each of the characters. The romance was cute and the action was exciting. The faith was weak as it usually is in modern Christian fiction.
The only grating problem was the shortness of the story. The whole thing from beginning to end took a matter of days. The characters were tragically deprived of a chance to fully develop. And the romance was cut short too. He fell in love with her in like two days. He liked her before but once he found she was quite a bit older than he'd assumed, he was like “I so love you.” Which seems rather petty and unrealistic to me. You'd think he'd still be trying to get used to seeing her at that new age or something. Two days is nowhere near enough time to fall head-over-heels in love.
Pretty much everything else was good though. This is the second I've read by DiAnn Mills and so far I am really enjoying her stories.
The Reluctant Fugitive – Darlene Mindrup
12/17/14 4 stars
Despite being unrealistic as a side effect of its shortness, this was a pretty good story.
I enjoyed the characters, reading their thoughts and feelings. The action took me by surprise and kept me enthralled. The romance, though sudden, was memorable.
This book surprised me on more than one occasion and I greatly enjoyed that.
There are only two reasons that kept me from giving this novella a higher rating. First of all, as I said either, it was much too short. The whole story took place in the space of eight days. The action, the romance, the drama, everything. As I said before, very unrealistic. And the second thing was the faith. Like many Christian fiction books out there, this gave a “trust in God” message without explaining why. Without giving the precious Gospel to the readers. I hate that.
This is the first I've read by Darlene Mindrup. Maybe the first I've ever even heard of her. But I'll be changing that.
Saving Grace – Kathleen Y'Barbo
12/17/14 – 12/18/14 2.5 stars (overall 2)
I didn't care much for this one. It seemed to lack to me in quite a few ways.
The story didn't seem to flow correctly. The characters were not fully developed – which is absolutely essential. The romance was sudden and incomplete. The action was much too fast and didn't thrill me. All-in-all, this novella seemed amateur.
The plot was cute and I believe I really would have enjoyed this story had it been more complete.
This is the second story I've read by Kathleen Y'Barbo. I've read Golden Twilight, which I liked, though it wasn't my favorite.
An Inconvenient Gamble – Michelle Ule
12/19/14 2.5 stars (overall 2)
This is the first I've read by Michelle Ule, and, sadly enough, I didn't like it.
I didn't feel like I had enough time to know the characters very well – they seemed incomplete and shallow. The romance was terrible in the explanation. The shifting feelings, thoughts of love, and actual show of romance lacked considerably. The action was weak and somewhat petty.
The story would constantly jump forward every few chapters, and that annoyed me. It didn't flow with the story. It seemed choppy and inconsistent.
The overall story seemed amateur to me.
The actual plot was neat and somewhat interesting. I believe I would have enjoyed it were it written differently.
Angel in Disguise – Darlene Franklin
12/19/14 2 stars
I must admit, I didn't actually read this novella. I just flipped through, got the jist of the story and characters. It didn't interest me so I decided against reading it.
Since I didn't really read it, all I'm going to say about it is it didn't appeal to me.
Reuben's Atonement – Lynette Sowell
12/20/14 3 stars
Cute, but predictable.
I enjoyed the premise and story, but the plot was entirely traditional and completely predictable. That really isn't too big a deal to me, as long as it is played out with enough drama.
The characters were nice and normal, though not quite as developed as I'd prefer. The action was all right, no Mary Connealy action though. The romance was sweet and gentle, but I missed the passion. There was no kiss or anything. :(
Other than that, the story was cute with the outlaw-turned-good theme. I just love those roguish cowboys. They make me want to fight the heroine for him. ;)
The Peacemaker – DiAnn Mills
12/20/14 – 12/21/14 3 stars
Once again, this one was pretty cute.
The characters were good enough, the action was pretty good, the romance was sweet, and the faith was, well, regular.
I didn't care much for the romance. It seemed too fast and too slow at the same time. It was much too gentle. They never held hands, or kissed. It was quite boring.
I usually like DiAnn Mills books more than this one.
Outlaw Sheriff – Kathleen Y'Barbo
12/28/14 2 stars
First of all, isn't this title just great? It totally grabbed my interest and put me in anticipation of a romantic adventure. The synopsis further heightened my curiosity.
So I was expecting a wonderful story, and I... didn't... find it. The romance was stilted, the action sudden, and the faith was weak. All-in-all, there really wasn't too much I liked about this one. It seemed amateur and unprofessional to me.
A Gamble on Love – Tamela Hancock Murray
12/28/14 3.5 stars
I enjoyed this one.
The characters were realistic, the romance was cute, the action (what little was there) was pretty good.
I've read a few by Tamela Hancock Murray and I usually like them.
This one was good, but a few aspects were lacking.
Serena's Strength – DiAnn Mills
12/16/14 4 stars
Other than being much too short, this was a cute novella.
I enjoyed each of the characters. The romance was cute and the action was exciting. The faith was weak as it usually is in modern Christian fiction.
The only grating problem was the shortness of the story. The whole thing from beginning to end took a matter of days. The characters were tragically deprived of a chance to fully develop. And the romance was cut short too. He fell in love with her in like two days. He liked her before but once he found she was quite a bit older than he'd assumed, he was like “I so love you.” Which seems rather petty and unrealistic to me. You'd think he'd still be trying to get used to seeing her at that new age or something. Two days is nowhere near enough time to fall head-over-heels in love.
Pretty much everything else was good though. This is the second I've read by DiAnn Mills and so far I am really enjoying her stories.
The Reluctant Fugitive – Darlene Mindrup
12/17/14 4 stars
Despite being unrealistic as a side effect of its shortness, this was a pretty good story.
I enjoyed the characters, reading their thoughts and feelings. The action took me by surprise and kept me enthralled. The romance, though sudden, was memorable.
This book surprised me on more than one occasion and I greatly enjoyed that.
There are only two reasons that kept me from giving this novella a higher rating. First of all, as I said either, it was much too short. The whole story took place in the space of eight days. The action, the romance, the drama, everything. As I said before, very unrealistic. And the second thing was the faith. Like many Christian fiction books out there, this gave a “trust in God” message without explaining why. Without giving the precious Gospel to the readers. I hate that.
This is the first I've read by Darlene Mindrup. Maybe the first I've ever even heard of her. But I'll be changing that.
Saving Grace – Kathleen Y'Barbo
12/17/14 – 12/18/14 2.5 stars (overall 2)
I didn't care much for this one. It seemed to lack to me in quite a few ways.
The story didn't seem to flow correctly. The characters were not fully developed – which is absolutely essential. The romance was sudden and incomplete. The action was much too fast and didn't thrill me. All-in-all, this novella seemed amateur.
The plot was cute and I believe I really would have enjoyed this story had it been more complete.
This is the second story I've read by Kathleen Y'Barbo. I've read Golden Twilight, which I liked, though it wasn't my favorite.
An Inconvenient Gamble – Michelle Ule
12/19/14 2.5 stars (overall 2)
This is the first I've read by Michelle Ule, and, sadly enough, I didn't like it.
I didn't feel like I had enough time to know the characters very well – they seemed incomplete and shallow. The romance was terrible in the explanation. The shifting feelings, thoughts of love, and actual show of romance lacked considerably. The action was weak and somewhat petty.
The story would constantly jump forward every few chapters, and that annoyed me. It didn't flow with the story. It seemed choppy and inconsistent.
The overall story seemed amateur to me.
The actual plot was neat and somewhat interesting. I believe I would have enjoyed it were it written differently.
Angel in Disguise – Darlene Franklin
12/19/14 2 stars
I must admit, I didn't actually read this novella. I just flipped through, got the jist of the story and characters. It didn't interest me so I decided against reading it.
Since I didn't really read it, all I'm going to say about it is it didn't appeal to me.
Reuben's Atonement – Lynette Sowell
12/20/14 3 stars
Cute, but predictable.
I enjoyed the premise and story, but the plot was entirely traditional and completely predictable. That really isn't too big a deal to me, as long as it is played out with enough drama.
The characters were nice and normal, though not quite as developed as I'd prefer. The action was all right, no Mary Connealy action though. The romance was sweet and gentle, but I missed the passion. There was no kiss or anything. :(
Other than that, the story was cute with the outlaw-turned-good theme. I just love those roguish cowboys. They make me want to fight the heroine for him. ;)
The Peacemaker – DiAnn Mills
12/20/14 – 12/21/14 3 stars
Once again, this one was pretty cute.
The characters were good enough, the action was pretty good, the romance was sweet, and the faith was, well, regular.
I didn't care much for the romance. It seemed too fast and too slow at the same time. It was much too gentle. They never held hands, or kissed. It was quite boring.
I usually like DiAnn Mills books more than this one.
Outlaw Sheriff – Kathleen Y'Barbo
12/28/14 2 stars
First of all, isn't this title just great? It totally grabbed my interest and put me in anticipation of a romantic adventure. The synopsis further heightened my curiosity.
So I was expecting a wonderful story, and I... didn't... find it. The romance was stilted, the action sudden, and the faith was weak. All-in-all, there really wasn't too much I liked about this one. It seemed amateur and unprofessional to me.
A Gamble on Love – Tamela Hancock Murray
12/28/14 3.5 stars
I enjoyed this one.
The characters were realistic, the romance was cute, the action (what little was there) was pretty good.
I've read a few by Tamela Hancock Murray and I usually like them.
This one was good, but a few aspects were lacking.
September 16, 2018
A great collection of short stories about early Texas living, loving and Texas Rangers. Nine different stories by seven different authors that are interesting and sweet! I really enjoyed the stories and was very happy to see some of my favorite authors contributing to the book. A great addition to the Christian romance genre.
A Texas Brides Collection by Darlene Franklin will be available November 1, 2018 from Barbour Books, an imprint of Barbour Publishing. An egalley of this book was made available by the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
A Texas Brides Collection by Darlene Franklin will be available November 1, 2018 from Barbour Books, an imprint of Barbour Publishing. An egalley of this book was made available by the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
May 12, 2023
I usually love the Bride and Romance Collection books by Barbour Publishing. But this book was my least favourite of them all, by far. Every story felt extremely preachy and hard to get through. Most of the plots and characters couldn't capture my interest. The last 4 stories are about 4 brothers, each getting their own novella. But I really can't recommend this book at all. Try any of the other Barbour collections!
August 7, 2018
3 1/2 Star Review....
The Texas Brides Collection is not my usual read, as it was a little too sweet and Christian based for my tastes. That said, these stories were packed with strong, determined women who fought adversity and the prejudices of the time, to live their lives to the fullest with the men of their dreams.
The Texas Brides Collection is not my usual read, as it was a little too sweet and Christian based for my tastes. That said, these stories were packed with strong, determined women who fought adversity and the prejudices of the time, to live their lives to the fullest with the men of their dreams.
May 13, 2018
This collection of nine romances brings together the lawful, the lawless, and the lonely in the Lone Star State. Watch as three Texas Rangers turn from chasing outlaws to courting women who are determined to remain independent. Too many stories to keep up with.
July 16, 2018
"Texas" Brides Collection is a tad misleading, as some of the action takes place in Arizona and New Mexico. As with any anthology, some stories are better than others, but I really enjoyed the intertwined stories of the four Wilson brothers.
November 30, 2018
Very good collection of stories.
I enjoyed how this book took each brother and told his story. There were different authors, but the stories ran smoothly one to the other. I liked how God 's love and forgiving is up most in each story.
I enjoyed how this book took each brother and told his story. There were different authors, but the stories ran smoothly one to the other. I liked how God 's love and forgiving is up most in each story.
May 4, 2018
A good book bundle about brothers
Every book in this bundle was a good story. I like that each one was about brothers . I have read these before and still enjoyed them.
Every book in this bundle was a good story. I like that each one was about brothers . I have read these before and still enjoyed them.
May 29, 2018
I enjoyed this collection. I liked how some of the stories tied the characters in follow-up stories.
June 6, 2018
The Texas Brides Collection
I really enjoyed the short stories. The characters were interesting and the story line was good. I couldn’t put this book down until I finished it.
I really enjoyed the short stories. The characters were interesting and the story line was good. I couldn’t put this book down until I finished it.
June 15, 2018
Loved this collection
The stories were easy to read and made you want to know the rest of the family story. Very relaxing!
The stories were easy to read and made you want to know the rest of the family story. Very relaxing!
June 16, 2018
Wonderful
Fantastic stories, I so loved the ones about the brothers finding their way. All wonderful examples of God's mysterious ways.
Fantastic stories, I so loved the ones about the brothers finding their way. All wonderful examples of God's mysterious ways.
June 29, 2018
Wonderful set of clean, Christian romances
This was a wonderful collection of sweet, clean, Christian romances. I especially enjoyed the last 4 which were about 4 brothers.
This was a wonderful collection of sweet, clean, Christian romances. I especially enjoyed the last 4 which were about 4 brothers.
July 9, 2018
Definitely recommend!
All of these stories were so good. They were well-written with realistic characters. I would read more by any of these authors.
All of these stories were so good. They were well-written with realistic characters. I would read more by any of these authors.
October 21, 2018
Short and sweet! Each of the novellas is different, but they all tell stories about Texas Rangers and life in the old West.
April 22, 2019
wishing I had had a God fearing Texas Ranger in my life haha haha
good fun clean reads. I enjoyed the last few stories followed the Wilson brothers.
good fun clean reads. I enjoyed the last few stories followed the Wilson brothers.
April 16, 2020
A pretty good read. 9 short stories in one book. Nine romances are formed between independent Texans. Outlaws are determined to change their ways and their lives and more.
September 24, 2024
The last three books tied it all together
October 9, 2019
Great stories of the brides who made their way to Texas and the men they married. I especially enjoyed the four brothers who were outlaws and became good solid citizens with the women they fell for in their journey from an outlaw to law abiding. I loved that they all were able to come together and meet again as law abiding citizens. The stories were very good and inspired.
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