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Fool's Gold #2.5
Summer Brides
Three happily-ever-afters from three of your favorite authors
The Borrowed Bride by Susan Wiggs
During her own bridal shower, Isabel Wharton is whisked away by past love Dan Black Horse to his retreat in the Cascade range. But returning to her Native roots, and Dan's loving arms, is harder than she ever imagined.
A Bridge to Dreams by Sherryl Woods
With her vacation plans foiled, Karyn Chambers realizes that her long-awaited escape must give way to staying at home in San Francisco. Little does she know her Prince Charming is right in her own backyard.
Sister of the Bride by Susan Mallery
When Katie McCormick finds out that her sister is marrying her ex, she finally agrees to a setup for the big day. To her surprise, Jackson is a catch . But when wedding catastrophe ensues, will their sparks fizzle or ignite into flames?
The Borrowed Bride by Susan Wiggs
During her own bridal shower, Isabel Wharton is whisked away by past love Dan Black Horse to his retreat in the Cascade range. But returning to her Native roots, and Dan's loving arms, is harder than she ever imagined.
A Bridge to Dreams by Sherryl Woods
With her vacation plans foiled, Karyn Chambers realizes that her long-awaited escape must give way to staying at home in San Francisco. Little does she know her Prince Charming is right in her own backyard.
Sister of the Bride by Susan Mallery
When Katie McCormick finds out that her sister is marrying her ex, she finally agrees to a setup for the big day. To her surprise, Jackson is a catch . But when wedding catastrophe ensues, will their sparks fizzle or ignite into flames?
313 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 27, 2010
77 people are currently reading
2082 people want to read
About the author
Susan Wiggs
169 books7,437 followersSusan Wiggs's life is all about family, friends...and fiction. She lives at the water's edge on an island in Puget Sound, and she commutes to her writers' group in a 17-foot motorboat. She serves as author liaison for Field's End, a literary community on Bainbridge Island, Washington, bringing inspiration and instruction from the world's top authors to her seaside community. (See www.fieldsend.org) She's been featured in the national media, including NPR's "Talk of the Nation," and is a popular speaker locally and nationally.
According to Publishers Weekly, Wiggs writes with "refreshingly honest emotion," and the Salem Statesman Journal adds that she is "one of our best observers of stories of the heart [who] knows how to capture emotion on virtually every page of every book." Booklist characterizes her books as "real and true and unforgettable." She is the recipient of three RITA (sm) awards and four starred reviews from Publishers Weekly for her books. The Winter Lodge and Passing Through Paradise have appeared on PW’s annual "Best Of" lists. Several of her books have been listed as top Booksense picks and optioned as feature films. Her novels have been translated into more than two dozen languages and have made national bestseller lists, including the USA Today, Washington Post and New York Times lists.
The author is a former teacher, a Harvard graduate, an avid hiker, an amateur photographer, a good skier and terrible golfer, yet her favorite form of exercise is curling up with a good book. Readers can learn more on the web at www.susanwiggs.com and on her lively blog at www.susanwiggs.wordpress.com.
According to Publishers Weekly, Wiggs writes with "refreshingly honest emotion," and the Salem Statesman Journal adds that she is "one of our best observers of stories of the heart [who] knows how to capture emotion on virtually every page of every book." Booklist characterizes her books as "real and true and unforgettable." She is the recipient of three RITA (sm) awards and four starred reviews from Publishers Weekly for her books. The Winter Lodge and Passing Through Paradise have appeared on PW’s annual "Best Of" lists. Several of her books have been listed as top Booksense picks and optioned as feature films. Her novels have been translated into more than two dozen languages and have made national bestseller lists, including the USA Today, Washington Post and New York Times lists.
The author is a former teacher, a Harvard graduate, an avid hiker, an amateur photographer, a good skier and terrible golfer, yet her favorite form of exercise is curling up with a good book. Readers can learn more on the web at www.susanwiggs.com and on her lively blog at www.susanwiggs.wordpress.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
September 3, 2017
Demasiado cortito, de ahí el instantlove.
February 15, 2018
I love reading anthologies. The diversity of stories or ideas all the while staying connected to the main theme is always exciting to read. One thing all these stories have in common is family. I've read works of all the three authors before and they write some really cool stuff.
The Borrowed Bride: The story was well paced with right emotions though I felt the ending was a bit abrupt. It is Susan Wiggs after all. She writes emotions so well! I liked how Isabel gradually got to understand that she should be proud of who she is instead of trying to erase her roots.
A Bridge to Dreams: First thing I loved about this story is the name, Karyn. Her character had depth and I totally liked Nick. It's not every day that one finds such a lovable hero. The brothers were the usual protective type (she has 6 of them!) but I liked how her mother took charge in the end.
Sister of the Bride: This was funny and light. The nosy family members were rightly portrayed and Aunt Tilly was undoubtedly the highlight. Ariel did not really have much to say or do. The sister was, of course, a spoilt brat but the groom somehow matched her, like Katie's mother observed.
The name Howie sounded so nerdy, so doubt Katie did not want to ask for his help.
The Borrowed Bride: The story was well paced with right emotions though I felt the ending was a bit abrupt. It is Susan Wiggs after all. She writes emotions so well! I liked how Isabel gradually got to understand that she should be proud of who she is instead of trying to erase her roots.
A Bridge to Dreams: First thing I loved about this story is the name, Karyn. Her character had depth and I totally liked Nick. It's not every day that one finds such a lovable hero. The brothers were the usual protective type (she has 6 of them!) but I liked how her mother took charge in the end.
Sister of the Bride: This was funny and light. The nosy family members were rightly portrayed and Aunt Tilly was undoubtedly the highlight. Ariel did not really have much to say or do. The sister was, of course, a spoilt brat but the groom somehow matched her, like Katie's mother observed.
The name Howie sounded so nerdy, so doubt Katie did not want to ask for his help.
July 2, 2024
Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
This was only the 2nd time I've read a book by all 3 of My Favorite Contemporary Authors so I kind of knew what to expect but I have to say I surprisingly enjoyed this one.
The Characters in all 3 stories were fun and enjoyable to read about. It was hard to pick just one since I seemed to like all of the Characters.
The Settings was beautifully described which made me feel like I was actually in the book while reading especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a Good Contemporary Novel about Summer Weddings. Can't wait to read more by these authors in the future!!
Review:
This was only the 2nd time I've read a book by all 3 of My Favorite Contemporary Authors so I kind of knew what to expect but I have to say I surprisingly enjoyed this one.
The Characters in all 3 stories were fun and enjoyable to read about. It was hard to pick just one since I seemed to like all of the Characters.
The Settings was beautifully described which made me feel like I was actually in the book while reading especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a Good Contemporary Novel about Summer Weddings. Can't wait to read more by these authors in the future!!
July 16, 2018
Three entertaining romantic readings in which the three protagonists find true love when they least expect it.
=========================
Tres entretenidas lecturas románticas en las que las tres protagonistas encuentran el verdadero amor cuando menos se lo esperan.
=========================
Tres entretenidas lecturas románticas en las que las tres protagonistas encuentran el verdadero amor cuando menos se lo esperan.
February 16, 2013
The Borrowed Bride" by Susan Wiggs
DNF. I read 3 pages and got bored silly, flip to the last chapter, didn't even like the ending. Glad I skipped it.
"A Bridge to Dreams" by Sherryl Woods -- 4/5
This is a very cute read. Karyn Chambers is 26 and has been smothered by her loving family for all her life. She's got 5 overprotective older brothers who try to shelter her as much as they can. But all she wants is independence.
After her car bites the bullet and dies, Karyn is forced to give up her vacation to purchase a new car. That's where she meets Brad Willis, a former race car driver and now heir apparent to the car dealership. After finding out she lost out on her dream vacation, Brad sets out to show her a wonderful time while still staying in San Francisco.
I was absolutely charmed by Brad and how he went out of his way to try and give Karyn the vacation she wanted. Even the overprotective brothers were more endearing than domineering. Great short read.
"Sister of the Bride" by Susan Mallery -- 5/5
This story was the reason I wanted to read this book. Any chance to re-visit Fool's Gold, California is good times. Here we have Katie McCormick whose sister, Courtney, is about to get married......to Katie's ex-boyfriend! Katie's mother, in the hopes of saving her daughter some pity looks from the extended family that were descending on the wedding convinces her daughter that she needs to have a date, if for no other reason than to quell sympathy looks and questions.
Katie reluctantly agrees to take Howie, her mother's best friend's son. She's so reluctant because they had met years earlier as teenagers and had not gotten along. Skip ahead to the wedding weekend and nerdy little Howie is now hunky Jackson. The pair find out that despite their previous dislike of each other as kids, they are now very attracted to each other.
And so ensues hilarity as Jackson and Katie wade through the waters of sex-crazed Aunts, drunken parents sharing too much information, drama queen bridezilla's, former flames and falling in love.
Absolutely adored this story and wish it were just a little longer!!
DNF. I read 3 pages and got bored silly, flip to the last chapter, didn't even like the ending. Glad I skipped it.
"A Bridge to Dreams" by Sherryl Woods -- 4/5
This is a very cute read. Karyn Chambers is 26 and has been smothered by her loving family for all her life. She's got 5 overprotective older brothers who try to shelter her as much as they can. But all she wants is independence.
After her car bites the bullet and dies, Karyn is forced to give up her vacation to purchase a new car. That's where she meets Brad Willis, a former race car driver and now heir apparent to the car dealership. After finding out she lost out on her dream vacation, Brad sets out to show her a wonderful time while still staying in San Francisco.
I was absolutely charmed by Brad and how he went out of his way to try and give Karyn the vacation she wanted. Even the overprotective brothers were more endearing than domineering. Great short read.
"Sister of the Bride" by Susan Mallery -- 5/5
This story was the reason I wanted to read this book. Any chance to re-visit Fool's Gold, California is good times. Here we have Katie McCormick whose sister, Courtney, is about to get married......to Katie's ex-boyfriend! Katie's mother, in the hopes of saving her daughter some pity looks from the extended family that were descending on the wedding convinces her daughter that she needs to have a date, if for no other reason than to quell sympathy looks and questions.
Katie reluctantly agrees to take Howie, her mother's best friend's son. She's so reluctant because they had met years earlier as teenagers and had not gotten along. Skip ahead to the wedding weekend and nerdy little Howie is now hunky Jackson. The pair find out that despite their previous dislike of each other as kids, they are now very attracted to each other.
And so ensues hilarity as Jackson and Katie wade through the waters of sex-crazed Aunts, drunken parents sharing too much information, drama queen bridezilla's, former flames and falling in love.
Absolutely adored this story and wish it were just a little longer!!
August 16, 2010
This volume was a wonderful surprise. My experience with multi-author books has been mixed. Usually I enjoy some of the stories and don't like others, but this book contained 3 very enjoyable stories.
The real surprise is that the stories relate to each other in the way these 3 great authors handle their characters. I would like to have met and become friends with each of the heroines and would like to have been friends with each hero. Nice, fast paced read.
I rate it a 4.5.
The real surprise is that the stories relate to each other in the way these 3 great authors handle their characters. I would like to have met and become friends with each of the heroines and would like to have been friends with each hero. Nice, fast paced read.
I rate it a 4.5.
May 23, 2011
This book was fun to read. I have read things by Wiggs and Mallery before, but Woods was a new author. I am a big Wiggs fan, but for me her story was the weakest in the bunch. Woods story had me wishing for a white knight to come and save me like that too. While Mallery's story had me laughing with all the crazy family antics. If I was in that family I think I would move very far away!
June 21, 2020
3 stories... only one was decent! I was very disappointed!
October 2, 2022
Borrowed Bride: Isabel is basically kidnapped by her old boyfriend and brought out to the woods where he shows her the life she’s passed by in leaving her Native American community. I thought Dan was quite caveman-like, and did not care for him.
Bridge to Dreams: Karyn must cancel her vacation due to her car dying, but a guy she meets at the dealership shows her the sights of her own San Francisco. But her overprotective brothers are all in her business. Will they foil the romance that’s blossoming?
Sister of the Bride: Katie’s sister is getting married; however, it’s to Katie’s ex. Her mom sets her up with Mom’s best friend’s son, a guy she remembers as quite dorky in high school. The years have done him well, and now he’s quite the hunk. Yep, they fall for each other.
I enjoyed #3 the best, the silly situations at the wedding weekend were funny.
Bridge to Dreams: Karyn must cancel her vacation due to her car dying, but a guy she meets at the dealership shows her the sights of her own San Francisco. But her overprotective brothers are all in her business. Will they foil the romance that’s blossoming?
Sister of the Bride: Katie’s sister is getting married; however, it’s to Katie’s ex. Her mom sets her up with Mom’s best friend’s son, a guy she remembers as quite dorky in high school. The years have done him well, and now he’s quite the hunk. Yep, they fall for each other.
I enjoyed #3 the best, the silly situations at the wedding weekend were funny.
February 28, 2012
2.5 stars. I got this one because I wanted to read Katie's story from Susan Mallery and this was the best way to do it. I figured I could get a little exposure to a couple other authors at the same time. So, the overall collection gets 2.5 stars. The individual reviews follow.
The Borrowed Bride by Susan Wiggs
I really, really wanted to like this one. I loved the fact that the two main characters are Native American and that made me want to like it more. But alas, I just couldn't get into it. I tried. In the end, I did something I hate to do with fiction, I skimmed. This was one of her first stories, I guess, so I might try another of Wiggs' books if something sounds really compelling. But the author had a note at the beginning about how her style showed through even then, and I'm not sure if I'm excited to read more of her stuff. I like strong characters and strong settings and can live with weaker plots if the setting and characters are there, but the truth was that, here, the plot was probably the best thing about the story. I feel like the only reason I could picture her setting was that I watch Grey's Anatomy and I've read Jill Shalvis' Lucky Harbor series. What about the people who don't have those advantages? As for the characters, my own personal experience being part Native (and having gone to a conference in Portland, Oregon in college where I met many Natives from all over the country, including the Pacific Northwest) helped inform my perspective there. And yet, I still didn't feel compelled to read every word. I understood the motivations and I got the theme, but the characters just could not draw me in so that I cared about them. This one got 2 stars for me.
A Bridge to Dreams by Sheryl Woods
On the opposite side of the spectrum, there was the setting of this story. Oh, how I want to visit San Francisco now, more so than after reading other stories set there! Brad was quite the tour guide and my only major gripe with the setting here is that there was so little explored for the reader! If it had been a full-length novel, I'd have happily devoured the descriptions of San Francisco. For that reason alone, I'll read more of Sheryl Woods to see where else she can make me want to visit (or if she can continue to make me want to visit Northern California). The characters had promise here - they weren't as shallowly developed as Wiggs' leads, but again, I think the real problem was the length of story. I feel like the story really could have been lengthened and I'd have grown to love both Karyn and Brad more and really have rooted for them (and believed they had such a powerful, immediate connection). Probably the biggest issue I had with this one was the length of story didn't 100% convince me of the whole 'love at firs sight' concept, and I wanted to be convinced. 3 stars and a definite future interest in Woods' work, at least enough to merit a full-length novel. If that was the point, then it worked.
Sister of the Bride by Susan Mallery
Mallery has one advantage here, and it's that I've already read the first two stories in the Fool's Gold series and was definitely intrigued by Katie's story, having been introduced to her in Chasing Perfect (at the girls' nigh at Pia's house). I'm also a sucker for a nerd-turned-hottie story because, well, to me, those are some of the best shots for real relationships. Only the hot guys who were closet nerds can truly pull off the hot nerd thing if they were semi-cool or popular in high school. But it's totally believable to me that a guy who just hadn't grown into himself as a teen would be sexy as all hell when he finally grew up and grew into his body. I've seen it happen. Frankly, it's way hotter than all the Taylor Lautner's in the world, who came by the sex appeal when they were too young to appreciate it. No offense to Taylor - he's got his own appeal, but it's not as fantastic as, say, Patrick Dempsey, who it could be argued had his fans in his younger days, but wasn't the hottie he is today. All that said, I could completely buy the character of Jackson and that he would be smitten with someone like Katie (who, after all, is the kind of girl who thinks she's out of his league), a genuine, real woman, who is kind and not shallow or selfish. Leave it to Mallery to give a justifiable reason why Courtney's family allows her to walk all over them. I loved that Jackson found a way to upstage the wedding, that they were believable as a couple because, well, they both admitted what they'd done wrong in the past and that they were stupid to be so judgmental. THIS was the kind of 'instant love' story I can buy because it's about two decent, mature people who have been waiting to find one another. When you're ready to find 'the one', it happens, and why should you waste time tiptoeing around it if you're not that kind of person? This one gets 3.5 stars, which brings our overall total up a little.
Why the 2.5 star rating? It averages out to 3, right? Well, I'm not sure I think these three stories are a good collection. I guess it's not my job to judge that, but seeing as I get to rate things however I choose, there you have it. Overall, I wasn't as impressed as I would have liked to be. But by all means, if you like all three of these authors already, you'll probably love the collection.
The Borrowed Bride by Susan Wiggs
I really, really wanted to like this one. I loved the fact that the two main characters are Native American and that made me want to like it more. But alas, I just couldn't get into it. I tried. In the end, I did something I hate to do with fiction, I skimmed. This was one of her first stories, I guess, so I might try another of Wiggs' books if something sounds really compelling. But the author had a note at the beginning about how her style showed through even then, and I'm not sure if I'm excited to read more of her stuff. I like strong characters and strong settings and can live with weaker plots if the setting and characters are there, but the truth was that, here, the plot was probably the best thing about the story. I feel like the only reason I could picture her setting was that I watch Grey's Anatomy and I've read Jill Shalvis' Lucky Harbor series. What about the people who don't have those advantages? As for the characters, my own personal experience being part Native (and having gone to a conference in Portland, Oregon in college where I met many Natives from all over the country, including the Pacific Northwest) helped inform my perspective there. And yet, I still didn't feel compelled to read every word. I understood the motivations and I got the theme, but the characters just could not draw me in so that I cared about them. This one got 2 stars for me.
A Bridge to Dreams by Sheryl Woods
On the opposite side of the spectrum, there was the setting of this story. Oh, how I want to visit San Francisco now, more so than after reading other stories set there! Brad was quite the tour guide and my only major gripe with the setting here is that there was so little explored for the reader! If it had been a full-length novel, I'd have happily devoured the descriptions of San Francisco. For that reason alone, I'll read more of Sheryl Woods to see where else she can make me want to visit (or if she can continue to make me want to visit Northern California). The characters had promise here - they weren't as shallowly developed as Wiggs' leads, but again, I think the real problem was the length of story. I feel like the story really could have been lengthened and I'd have grown to love both Karyn and Brad more and really have rooted for them (and believed they had such a powerful, immediate connection). Probably the biggest issue I had with this one was the length of story didn't 100% convince me of the whole 'love at firs sight' concept, and I wanted to be convinced. 3 stars and a definite future interest in Woods' work, at least enough to merit a full-length novel. If that was the point, then it worked.
Sister of the Bride by Susan Mallery
Mallery has one advantage here, and it's that I've already read the first two stories in the Fool's Gold series and was definitely intrigued by Katie's story, having been introduced to her in Chasing Perfect (at the girls' nigh at Pia's house). I'm also a sucker for a nerd-turned-hottie story because, well, to me, those are some of the best shots for real relationships. Only the hot guys who were closet nerds can truly pull off the hot nerd thing if they were semi-cool or popular in high school. But it's totally believable to me that a guy who just hadn't grown into himself as a teen would be sexy as all hell when he finally grew up and grew into his body. I've seen it happen. Frankly, it's way hotter than all the Taylor Lautner's in the world, who came by the sex appeal when they were too young to appreciate it. No offense to Taylor - he's got his own appeal, but it's not as fantastic as, say, Patrick Dempsey, who it could be argued had his fans in his younger days, but wasn't the hottie he is today. All that said, I could completely buy the character of Jackson and that he would be smitten with someone like Katie (who, after all, is the kind of girl who thinks she's out of his league), a genuine, real woman, who is kind and not shallow or selfish. Leave it to Mallery to give a justifiable reason why Courtney's family allows her to walk all over them. I loved that Jackson found a way to upstage the wedding, that they were believable as a couple because, well, they both admitted what they'd done wrong in the past and that they were stupid to be so judgmental. THIS was the kind of 'instant love' story I can buy because it's about two decent, mature people who have been waiting to find one another. When you're ready to find 'the one', it happens, and why should you waste time tiptoeing around it if you're not that kind of person? This one gets 3.5 stars, which brings our overall total up a little.
Why the 2.5 star rating? It averages out to 3, right? Well, I'm not sure I think these three stories are a good collection. I guess it's not my job to judge that, but seeing as I get to rate things however I choose, there you have it. Overall, I wasn't as impressed as I would have liked to be. But by all means, if you like all three of these authors already, you'll probably love the collection.
July 10, 2022
Three incredible authors (who are among my favorites) with three lovely stories. Summer is the season of weddings and each story is unique. The Borrowed bride...the bride gets kidnapped. A Bridge to dreams...vacation plans are cancelled due to car emergencies or do they? And finally, Sister of the bride...Does or does not the wedding happen? You will love each one.
September 27, 2025
Susan Mallery’s “Sister of the Bride” was a cute read. The other two stories were both DNF - dated, so obviously written early in their careers, and just bad. I’ve enjoyed all three authors in the past so knew this anthology of older material might be iffy, and it was, but they’re still all go-to choices.
September 23, 2018
Sorry I’m not fluent enough to say what I felt reading these three stories.
My hat off to you three ladies on a wonderful job.
I feel so happy and at peace right now....lol
May y’all write for May more years.
My hat off to you three ladies on a wonderful job.
I feel so happy and at peace right now....lol
May y’all write for May more years.
January 18, 2020
Out of the three stories in this book I liked the first and the third. The second story was a drag and made me consider stopping the book. I'm glad I didn't though because the third story was the best in the book. That's why I gave this book 3 stars.
November 27, 2021
Great romantic stories written elegantly with great emotions and wisdom. Not one single mistake in the book, if only current writers would take the same care. Loved all three stories by Susan Wiggs, Sherryl Woods, and Susan Mallery.
April 7, 2018
not up to her standard of writing. almost didn’t finish.
June 13, 2018
Not really what I was expecting. Susan Mallery's was the best contribution by far. I will definitely search out the Fool's Gold series. For a beach read it was satisfying.
January 26, 2019
The Borrowed Bride 1/5
A Bridge to Dreams 3.5/5
Sister of the Bride 4/5
A Bridge to Dreams 3.5/5
Sister of the Bride 4/5
April 15, 2020
Didn't really care for the first story. Second and third stories were better.
October 17, 2020
Three very good novels of love and romance, although the path to a happy ending may be strewn with obstacles.
July 29, 2022
Maybe 3.5, the last one by Susan Mallery was probably my favorite.
Read
April 13, 2023Three short stories all revolving around weddings. Great for quick reads!
June 13, 2024
Three short stories about love, and of course, at the end they will fall in love
January 11, 2017
Cute little quick read, nice that it's set in the summer when it's so cold outside!!
August 15, 2010
I primarily bought this book for the "Fool's Gold" novella by Susan Mallery since I've really been enjoying the "Fool's Gold" series. I ended up really enjoying all three novellas, though. This is a nice set of contemporary romance stories.
The Borrowed Bride by Susan Wiggs
Series Note:
Unknown...a standalone, I believe.
Note:
This story is a reprint, originally published in 1996. I believe Wiggs did some edits to it before this reprinting.
Summary:
After a bad childhood, Isabel Wharton left behind her Native American roots and tried to live a purely white life. But just as she is about to marry a man who'll give her the family she's always wanted, her former lover Dan Black Horse storms back into her life, kidnaps her, and forces her to face the feelings still between them.
Review:
I liked this story, but it was probably my least favorite of the three novellas. It's a little sweet, a bit angsty. The whole part with Dan kidnapping Isabel was a bit unoriginal, but it's pretty typical of the old school category romance stuff. I did wish the story was more developed. Isabel has a lot of hang-ups and I didn't think they were dealt with as much as they could have been. But overall, was a decent story.
Rating:
3.5 / 5
A Bridge to Dreams by Sherryl Woods
Series Note:
This is a standalone story, I believe, but I could be wrong.
Note:
This novella is also a reprint, originally published in 1990.
Summary:
Karyn Chambers has worked hard the last few years to make herself independent. As the baby in a family of boys, she's always been protected, but she wants to be in charge of her own life. And now she is...mostly. She's finally saved money for her dream vacation to Hawaii when her car dies and she has to buy a new one. Which is when she meets sexy Brad Willis, owner of the car dealership, former race car driver, and tabloid celebrity. Brad sweeps her off her feet, but Karyn doesn't believe there is any future for them.
Review:
This was a very sweet, uncomplicated story. It's reminiscent of a Silhouette SE book (which might be what it was originally published as...don't know). Sometimes sweet, simple stories like this really work for me, and that was the case this time. I loved the romance that developed between Karyn and Brad. It's the kind of fluffy bunny sweet romance that just makes you smile and sigh. Brad was a great guy and how he romances Karyn is wonderful. It's not a meaty story, so it won't appeal to everything, but for those of you who like some plain old romance sometimes, this might work for you.
Rating:
4 / 5
Sister of the Bride by Susan Mallery
Series Note:
A between the numbers novella for Mallery's "Fool's Gold" series. It can be read after book 2 in the series (or even book 1 if you wanted).
Note:
This novella is a new release.
Summary:
Katie McCormick dreads her sisters upcoming wedding, which isn't surprising considering her sister is marrying Katie's ex-boyfriend/almost-fiance. Worse, Katie doesn't have a date. So she lets her mom talk her into taking Howie. The last time she saw Howie they were teenagers and Howie was a total geek. But when she sees him again, he's nothing like she remembers. Howie - now going by his middle name Jackson - is a total hottie. The two are instantly drawn to each other. With crises abounding at the wedding, the two still manage to spent a lot of time together. But by the end of the wedding, they can't possibly be in love, can they?
Review:
The ground work for this novella was initially laid in the first book of the "Fool's Gold" series when Katie talks about the wedding at a girl's night part and mentions being set up with Howie. So I've been waiting to read about it since then. Like the other stories in this book, this one is a simple, romantic story that just gives you a happy feeling. I loved the whole thing about Howie being a genius nerd when Katie first met him but now he's a total stud. It's a classic story option that really never gets old. These two were great together in the story. I kinda wished the story hadn't revolved around the sisters wedding and been more about Jackson/Howie and Katie, but it worked as it was. It's sweet, a little bit hot, with some funny/quirky parts. I really enjoyed it and it was a great addition to the series.
Rating:
4 / 5
Overall Rating:
4 / 5
The Borrowed Bride by Susan Wiggs
Series Note:
Unknown...a standalone, I believe.
Note:
This story is a reprint, originally published in 1996. I believe Wiggs did some edits to it before this reprinting.
Summary:
After a bad childhood, Isabel Wharton left behind her Native American roots and tried to live a purely white life. But just as she is about to marry a man who'll give her the family she's always wanted, her former lover Dan Black Horse storms back into her life, kidnaps her, and forces her to face the feelings still between them.
Review:
I liked this story, but it was probably my least favorite of the three novellas. It's a little sweet, a bit angsty. The whole part with Dan kidnapping Isabel was a bit unoriginal, but it's pretty typical of the old school category romance stuff. I did wish the story was more developed. Isabel has a lot of hang-ups and I didn't think they were dealt with as much as they could have been. But overall, was a decent story.
Rating:
3.5 / 5
A Bridge to Dreams by Sherryl Woods
Series Note:
This is a standalone story, I believe, but I could be wrong.
Note:
This novella is also a reprint, originally published in 1990.
Summary:
Karyn Chambers has worked hard the last few years to make herself independent. As the baby in a family of boys, she's always been protected, but she wants to be in charge of her own life. And now she is...mostly. She's finally saved money for her dream vacation to Hawaii when her car dies and she has to buy a new one. Which is when she meets sexy Brad Willis, owner of the car dealership, former race car driver, and tabloid celebrity. Brad sweeps her off her feet, but Karyn doesn't believe there is any future for them.
Review:
This was a very sweet, uncomplicated story. It's reminiscent of a Silhouette SE book (which might be what it was originally published as...don't know). Sometimes sweet, simple stories like this really work for me, and that was the case this time. I loved the romance that developed between Karyn and Brad. It's the kind of fluffy bunny sweet romance that just makes you smile and sigh. Brad was a great guy and how he romances Karyn is wonderful. It's not a meaty story, so it won't appeal to everything, but for those of you who like some plain old romance sometimes, this might work for you.
Rating:
4 / 5
Sister of the Bride by Susan Mallery
Series Note:
A between the numbers novella for Mallery's "Fool's Gold" series. It can be read after book 2 in the series (or even book 1 if you wanted).
Note:
This novella is a new release.
Summary:
Katie McCormick dreads her sisters upcoming wedding, which isn't surprising considering her sister is marrying Katie's ex-boyfriend/almost-fiance. Worse, Katie doesn't have a date. So she lets her mom talk her into taking Howie. The last time she saw Howie they were teenagers and Howie was a total geek. But when she sees him again, he's nothing like she remembers. Howie - now going by his middle name Jackson - is a total hottie. The two are instantly drawn to each other. With crises abounding at the wedding, the two still manage to spent a lot of time together. But by the end of the wedding, they can't possibly be in love, can they?
Review:
The ground work for this novella was initially laid in the first book of the "Fool's Gold" series when Katie talks about the wedding at a girl's night part and mentions being set up with Howie. So I've been waiting to read about it since then. Like the other stories in this book, this one is a simple, romantic story that just gives you a happy feeling. I loved the whole thing about Howie being a genius nerd when Katie first met him but now he's a total stud. It's a classic story option that really never gets old. These two were great together in the story. I kinda wished the story hadn't revolved around the sisters wedding and been more about Jackson/Howie and Katie, but it worked as it was. It's sweet, a little bit hot, with some funny/quirky parts. I really enjoyed it and it was a great addition to the series.
Rating:
4 / 5
Overall Rating:
4 / 5
February 28, 2017
2.5 stars. I've read Susan Wiggs and Sherryl Woods before so I was let down by their short stories. Susan Mallery's story was passibly entertaining. They were so flat and boring, they left a nasty taste in my mouth. I probably had the biggest issue that each female lead was a doormat, one meekly got onto her ex's motercycle for him to whisk her away (against her will...puh-leez), another let her love interest call the shots just like her brothers did all her life...then there's the woman who resigns herself to being in her sister's wedding while the groom is her ex-boyfriend...seriously. Ugh... I need to reread some Karen Hawkins or Lori Foster to clense my palate and reaffirm that there are fascinating, clever, and highly entertaining romance stories out there.
May 17, 2012
Summer Brides by Susan Wiggs
Love this anthology as it contains 3 of the best romance writers out there. The places they take you to and the things you learn make this a very worthwhile read.
The Borrowed Bride by Susan Wiggs
Isabel Wharton lives on Bainbridge Island in WA and has a nursery business. Anthony is who she is to marry.
At her bridal shower She is whisked away by past love Dan Black Horse to the Cascades Mountains for an overnight stay. At least they will finish the business they never finished.
He tried to explain about the Indian reservation and his family roots and what he wanted to do with his life besides being a #1 singer. He tells her she is making a mistake marrying Anthony and he hopes to show her why.
They both have secrets not many know about and he didn't have to bring them out again, they caused so much pain.
A nature disaster keeps her there another night where she learns more about Dan and his lodge.
A Bridge to Dreams by Sherryl Woods
Karen is planning her first ever in 26 years of life in San Francisco a vacation.
When her car stops working her mechanic talks to her into getting another car and waiting for the vacation til the following year.
Brad Willis came to her rescue with the little amount she wanted to pay for the red hot convertible.
They share the same thing: they talk to their cars like a true trusted friend and have names for them.
He has had to take over for his father due to his medical condition and has found he's got a liking to her and wants her to go on her vacation, but stay in the city.
He will show her the city for a whole week as he needs time off also.
She has many overprotective brothers that watch over her all the itme. Trying to explain to them about her vacation is gonna take some work.
6am on Monday he showed up at her apartment ready to show her the city, before the sun rose.
Reminds me of when we first stopped to take pictures of the bridge at the overview spot. Got all layers of it in one shot.
Trip around town is priceless, wish we had spent more time there. Very detailed descriptions while they get to know one another.
She is being smothered by not only Brad but her brothers and the tabloid photographers and relases it when she talks to her mother.
Sister of the Bride by Susan Mallery
Katie McCormick sister Courtney had taken her boyfriend Alex from her and their wedding was happening.
She was to get set up with Howie, her moms best friend son who Katie didn't get along with him.
It was only a front for the stay at the hotel for the wedding, and she was the oldest of the daughters.
The hotel was in Fool's Gold, at the Gold Rush Lodge and Spa so I am excited that we will run into the residents of the town and catch up with their latest news in this book.
She writes the sports section of the local newspaper, sometimes other stories.
He wrote a computer program for an inventory program that went viral.
A lot has changed in their lives since they first met when they were teens.
Disasters arise and Howie comes to the rescue, not only once, or twice ...
Fun and games for the couples are in order, poodle skirts and the men in white oxford shirts.
August 6, 2014
This is a collection of three stand alone novellas:
I'm a Wiggs fan. Susan gives us a charming second-chance-at-love story, which I'm a sucker for. My only nit in this book was Isabel's fiance, Anthony. Even if he did have a great family that she wanted to be a part of, he was too laid back and unconcerned to be totally believable. Who wouldn't trade him for the uber sexy Dan Black Horse?
Wiggs has a knack for grounding the reader in the scene. I felt like I was right there in the woods with Isabel and Anthony. The romance and feelings between the characters were believable and the problems in their background realistic, making me root for their HEA.
I enjoyed the sibling exchanges in this one between Karyn and her brothers. She's chafing under the protection of many family members while trying to be independent. Brad Willis is a man who sees her as a strong woman.
Susan Wiggs mentioned in her Dear Author letter than she'd updated a few spots in her novella and I wish Woods had done the same. The mention of negatives in a camera and scarcity of cell phones were somewhat of a distraction. Even so, I liked Brad's determination and patience. Even Karyn's growing pains were believable and provided a nice black moment in the relationship prior to the satisfying wrap-up.
What a hoot! I loved the humor and quirky secondary characters in this one as well as the banter between Katie and Jackson. Mallery's authorial voice shines, making me glad I have more of her work in my Kindle for future reading.
All said, an enjoyable collection for fans of contemporary romance and bride stories.
The Borrowed Bride by Susan Wiggs (1996)
During her own bridal shower, Isabel Wharton is whisked away by past love Dan Black Horse to his retreat in the Cascade range. But returning to her Native roots, and Dan's loving arms, is harder than she ever imagined.
I'm a Wiggs fan. Susan gives us a charming second-chance-at-love story, which I'm a sucker for. My only nit in this book was Isabel's fiance, Anthony. Even if he did have a great family that she wanted to be a part of, he was too laid back and unconcerned to be totally believable. Who wouldn't trade him for the uber sexy Dan Black Horse?
Wiggs has a knack for grounding the reader in the scene. I felt like I was right there in the woods with Isabel and Anthony. The romance and feelings between the characters were believable and the problems in their background realistic, making me root for their HEA.
A Bridge to Dreams by Sherryl Woods (1990)
With her vacation plans foiled, Karyn Chambers realizes that her long-awaited escape must give way to staying at home in San Francisco. Little does she know her Prince Charming is right in her own backyard.
I enjoyed the sibling exchanges in this one between Karyn and her brothers. She's chafing under the protection of many family members while trying to be independent. Brad Willis is a man who sees her as a strong woman.
Susan Wiggs mentioned in her Dear Author letter than she'd updated a few spots in her novella and I wish Woods had done the same. The mention of negatives in a camera and scarcity of cell phones were somewhat of a distraction. Even so, I liked Brad's determination and patience. Even Karyn's growing pains were believable and provided a nice black moment in the relationship prior to the satisfying wrap-up.
Sister of the Bride by Susan Mallery (2010)
When Katie McCormick finds out that her sister is marrying her ex, she finally agrees to a setup for the big day. To her surprise, Jackson is a catch. But when wedding catastrophe ensues, will their sparks fizzle or ignite into flames?
What a hoot! I loved the humor and quirky secondary characters in this one as well as the banter between Katie and Jackson. Mallery's authorial voice shines, making me glad I have more of her work in my Kindle for future reading.
All said, an enjoyable collection for fans of contemporary romance and bride stories.
February 23, 2016
The Borrowed Bride by Susan Wiggs
What can I say I love this story! Dan well I fell in love with him about as soon as he showed up.
Isabel was interesting at least that's the first word that comes to mind. I came to love her but she has her faults.
Now Anthony. I did not like him one bit. I mean who could possibly love someone who has no time for them? I don't think I could.
A Bridge to Dreams by Sherryl Woods
Love love love! I want a Brad of my very own.
Karyn Chambers is looking forward to her Hawaii vacation until Ruby her car dies. Suddenly she finds herself car shopping.
This is were she meets very hot *waves face* Brad Willis. Brad spontaneously tells her not to cancel her vacation just yet. He's going to give her a vacation right at home in there lovely city.
Once the vacation week starts its filled with romance, adventure, and of course her five brothers.
Read and fall in love with Brad like I did.
Sister of the Bride by Susan Mallery
Katie McCormick.
Oh man I felt so sorry for her and I could sympathize. Though we're she's already lost weight I'm
Still working on it. Katie is beautiful, talented, and funny.
Howard Jackson Kent.
What can I say? He's HOT, smart, charming, and strong. He had me in love and wanting him for myself.
Then you have the side characters like Aunt Tully who wants to sleep with ANY hot guy and Katie's sister who is pretty much a little girl in an adults body.
Either way I thoroughly enjoyed all the stories in this book and would advise anyone to give it a chance.
What can I say I love this story! Dan well I fell in love with him about as soon as he showed up.
Isabel was interesting at least that's the first word that comes to mind. I came to love her but she has her faults.
Now Anthony. I did not like him one bit. I mean who could possibly love someone who has no time for them? I don't think I could.
A Bridge to Dreams by Sherryl Woods
Love love love! I want a Brad of my very own.
Karyn Chambers is looking forward to her Hawaii vacation until Ruby her car dies. Suddenly she finds herself car shopping.
This is were she meets very hot *waves face* Brad Willis. Brad spontaneously tells her not to cancel her vacation just yet. He's going to give her a vacation right at home in there lovely city.
Once the vacation week starts its filled with romance, adventure, and of course her five brothers.
Read and fall in love with Brad like I did.
Sister of the Bride by Susan Mallery
Katie McCormick.
Oh man I felt so sorry for her and I could sympathize. Though we're she's already lost weight I'm
Still working on it. Katie is beautiful, talented, and funny.
Howard Jackson Kent.
What can I say? He's HOT, smart, charming, and strong. He had me in love and wanting him for myself.
Then you have the side characters like Aunt Tully who wants to sleep with ANY hot guy and Katie's sister who is pretty much a little girl in an adults body.
Either way I thoroughly enjoyed all the stories in this book and would advise anyone to give it a chance.
January 10, 2011
Susan Wiggs, The Borrowed Bride--Isabel Wharton's about to marry businessman Anthony C and his warm loving family when Dan Black Horse rides up on his motorcycle and whisks her away. They come to realize that while she'd walked away from him five years ago, what they felt for each other wasn't finished by a long shot.
Sherryl Woods, A Bridge to Dreams--Karyn Chambers is the youngest of 7 and the only girl; she's been saving for a dream getaway, but is forced to spend it on a new car when her old one kicks the bucket. Brad is a newly retired race-car driver who's stepping in for his dad at the dealerships. He sees past her shields and helps her enjoy a dream vacation right in her hometown.
Susan Mallery, Sister of the Bride (apparently part of the Fool's Gold series? which I haven't read)--very cute story about a set-up. Katie McCormick is pressured to find a date for her sister's wedding (where she's marrying Katie's ex). Her mom's best friend's son is offered up to her; she only remembers him as a horrible geeky 16-year-old when she'd met him 14 years ago as a 13-year-old. Howie (now known by his middle name, Jackson)'s resisting for the same reasons... They're of course delighted to discover that the other is nothing like s/he remembers... He's a delish hero, btw.
Sherryl Woods, A Bridge to Dreams--Karyn Chambers is the youngest of 7 and the only girl; she's been saving for a dream getaway, but is forced to spend it on a new car when her old one kicks the bucket. Brad is a newly retired race-car driver who's stepping in for his dad at the dealerships. He sees past her shields and helps her enjoy a dream vacation right in her hometown.
Susan Mallery, Sister of the Bride (apparently part of the Fool's Gold series? which I haven't read)--very cute story about a set-up. Katie McCormick is pressured to find a date for her sister's wedding (where she's marrying Katie's ex). Her mom's best friend's son is offered up to her; she only remembers him as a horrible geeky 16-year-old when she'd met him 14 years ago as a 13-year-old. Howie (now known by his middle name, Jackson)'s resisting for the same reasons... They're of course delighted to discover that the other is nothing like s/he remembers... He's a delish hero, btw.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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