What do you think?
Rate this book
The Cinderella Bride
Secretary Emma O'Rourke keeps her head down and works hard. Now, summoned to bring back the heir of Kent Hotels, she suddenly has to step out of the shadows....Unshaven and jaded, Gideon Kent has been sailing the world too long. As he docks, he's surprised to find Emma waiting for him.
Until now he's refused to resume the role he was born for...but the oh-so-diligent and pretty Miss O'Rourke might just change his mind....
Gideon Kent will show Emma that Prince Charming certainly does exist!
Until now he's refused to resume the role he was born for...but the oh-so-diligent and pretty Miss O'Rourke might just change his mind....
Gideon Kent will show Emma that Prince Charming certainly does exist!
256 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published December 7, 2010
About the author
Barbara Wallace
197 books175 followersBestselling author Barbara Tanner Wallace makes her living making up stories. When not writing, she's either reading, crocheting or bowing to her cats' whims.
She's a life-long New Englander with two hundred years of Yankee history behind her. She currently lives just outside of Boston with her husband. They have one son who lives in the middle of nowhere and apparently likes it.
She's a life-long New Englander with two hundred years of Yankee history behind her. She currently lives just outside of Boston with her husband. They have one son who lives in the middle of nowhere and apparently likes it.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
October 10, 2018
This was a cute little romance, probably meriting 2 stars, but I am upping it to 3 because it had the most realistic depiction of...love? attraction? family life?
No, this book was one of the few Harlequins I've read that truly reflected the tyranny of the strong-willed cat companion. Seriously. The cat, Hinckley, was deferred to, humored, and indulged. They even referred to .
The cat was the H. THE CAT WAS THE H.
I guess it was inevitable.
No, this book was one of the few Harlequins I've read that truly reflected the tyranny of the strong-willed cat companion. Seriously. The cat, Hinckley, was deferred to, humored, and indulged. They even referred to .
The cat was the H. THE CAT WAS THE H.
I guess it was inevitable.
September 30, 2011
The heroine Emma is sent to deliver a message to the hero Gideon. Emma is the PA to the hero's grandmother and the message is asking him to attend a meeting with her. Gideon has not had much contact with his influential family for some time, after discovering some very hurtful family secrets. His grandmother tells him it's time for him to take his place running the family business. Although he is reluctant to get involved, he is interested in Emma. Emma is both annoyed at Gideon's rather glib attitude and flustered by his obvious attentions. Gideon takes Emma to New York for business where he also shows her luxury and treats her to a magical night, giving her the opportunity to see and experience things she has never been able to. Emma is wary of relationships after growing up watching her mother jump from one relationship to another, and Gideon is equally as reluctant for anything long term. But there is undeniable attraction between them and they eventually give in to the passion. Emma knows it can never be more than a fling and tries to keep herself distanced from Gideon, and Gideon finds this incredibly frustrating.
This is a really nice story, that I enjoyed reading. The book is written with a beautiful blend of emotion and sweetness, that is very appealing. To me, there seemed to be more focus on the hero and his conflict, I found this really interesting and very well written. The heroine is a wonderful character; hard working and loyal yet not at all a martyr, I couldn't help but like her.
The book also has some wonderful little touches that really brightened up the story i.e. the grandmother who MUST NOT be disturbed during her TV soaps!
The book is believable and well crafted, with a truly lovely story. Well worth a read.
Originally posted at http://everyday-is-the-same.blogspot....
December 20, 2010
Barbara Wallace's The Cinderella Bride, a Harlequin Romance.
I haven't read too many Harlies...they conjure up memories of my sister's closet romance reading habit in high school. ☺ I have read a few....Touch Me, a Harlequin Blaze by Jacquie D'Alessandro, was fantastic. Some of the "Tycoon" books were less than stellar and chock full of clichés. The Cinderella Bride really resonated with me for several reasons. One, it rose above the cliché...the practical, nose-to-the-grindstone heroine transformed for one magical night in New York City. Wallace did a great job creating the pragmatic heroine Emma...her committed work ethic and loyalty to her boss, the matriarch of Kent Hotels, were totally sincere. The fantasy night in Manhattan was romantic and wonderful. The hero Gideon is a fabulous mix of charm, rugged good looks, maritime talents, and sophisticated hotelier. A great combination and totally appealing! The hilarious grandmother/temporary CEO who is addicted to soap operas was an excellent addition to the cast of characters. My only beef with the book is that the ending wrapped up just a little too quickly for me. Wallace did a perfect job drawing out their believable attraction and love affair, and I wanted more frosting on the HEA. Don't skimp on the frosting, baby!!!!! That's the best danged part.
Grade: A-
I haven't read too many Harlies...they conjure up memories of my sister's closet romance reading habit in high school. ☺ I have read a few....Touch Me, a Harlequin Blaze by Jacquie D'Alessandro, was fantastic. Some of the "Tycoon" books were less than stellar and chock full of clichés. The Cinderella Bride really resonated with me for several reasons. One, it rose above the cliché...the practical, nose-to-the-grindstone heroine transformed for one magical night in New York City. Wallace did a great job creating the pragmatic heroine Emma...her committed work ethic and loyalty to her boss, the matriarch of Kent Hotels, were totally sincere. The fantasy night in Manhattan was romantic and wonderful. The hero Gideon is a fabulous mix of charm, rugged good looks, maritime talents, and sophisticated hotelier. A great combination and totally appealing! The hilarious grandmother/temporary CEO who is addicted to soap operas was an excellent addition to the cast of characters. My only beef with the book is that the ending wrapped up just a little too quickly for me. Wallace did a perfect job drawing out their believable attraction and love affair, and I wanted more frosting on the HEA. Don't skimp on the frosting, baby!!!!! That's the best danged part.
Grade: A-
October 12, 2013
When Mariah Kent told her effecient secetary, Emma O'Rourke to deliver a package to her grandson Gideon, even she did not think that Emma would take her words literally.
When Emma goes to deliver the pakaage, to the docks, where Gideon was temporarily docked. it was raining and when she saw him working on his boat, in that rain, she knew she had finally met someone with whom she was in danger of losing her heart. She was wary of love since she had seen her mother falling in love with men who ultimately left her. She did not want to end up like her mom and so did her very best not to become a victim in love.
Gideon on the other hand had a past for which he was ashamed. Ashamed enough to stay away from his home and relatives. He had only returned at Mariah's insistence. She was the only one in the family who loved him despite his past.
What he did not like was when the loving shrew of his grandma had send a beautiful girl next door type to pursuade him to return. Against his better judgement, he had to invite her inside his boat. He was amused at the way Emma carried her sense of loyalty too far and Emma on the other hand was shocked that he had the audicity to defy Mariah Kent's wishes.
Their mutual love and respect for Mariah drew them closer. Gideon did not understand why he wanted Emma to see all the things which he felt she deserved. He wanted to show her so many places which she could not imagine also. Whether it was New York or Saint Martin - he wanted to give her the best of everything.
At this point of time Mariah had a mild heart attack. This incidence shook him that only one person could give him comfort. He found comfort in Emma's sweet love making and they soon discovered how well they complimented each other.
All would have been well if Gideon was not afraid to make a commitment. Emma on the other hand was afraid to be made a fool of. She did not want Gideon to feel compelled to marry her. So she does what she thinks would be best for them - she leaves him.
Would Gideon understand her needs and find her?
Barbara Wallace has created two very sensitive characters in which both are hurt by their family's history. They both try to sheild themselves from getting hurt. But love finds a way to reach their heart. Though Emma was projected as a timid girl but she does have her headstrong moments. The contradictions in her character keeps me guessing how Gideon will react to actions.
The full review can be seen @
http://rubinaramesh.blogspot.com/2013...
When Emma goes to deliver the pakaage, to the docks, where Gideon was temporarily docked. it was raining and when she saw him working on his boat, in that rain, she knew she had finally met someone with whom she was in danger of losing her heart. She was wary of love since she had seen her mother falling in love with men who ultimately left her. She did not want to end up like her mom and so did her very best not to become a victim in love.
Gideon on the other hand had a past for which he was ashamed. Ashamed enough to stay away from his home and relatives. He had only returned at Mariah's insistence. She was the only one in the family who loved him despite his past.
What he did not like was when the loving shrew of his grandma had send a beautiful girl next door type to pursuade him to return. Against his better judgement, he had to invite her inside his boat. He was amused at the way Emma carried her sense of loyalty too far and Emma on the other hand was shocked that he had the audicity to defy Mariah Kent's wishes.
Their mutual love and respect for Mariah drew them closer. Gideon did not understand why he wanted Emma to see all the things which he felt she deserved. He wanted to show her so many places which she could not imagine also. Whether it was New York or Saint Martin - he wanted to give her the best of everything.
At this point of time Mariah had a mild heart attack. This incidence shook him that only one person could give him comfort. He found comfort in Emma's sweet love making and they soon discovered how well they complimented each other.
All would have been well if Gideon was not afraid to make a commitment. Emma on the other hand was afraid to be made a fool of. She did not want Gideon to feel compelled to marry her. So she does what she thinks would be best for them - she leaves him.
Would Gideon understand her needs and find her?
Barbara Wallace has created two very sensitive characters in which both are hurt by their family's history. They both try to sheild themselves from getting hurt. But love finds a way to reach their heart. Though Emma was projected as a timid girl but she does have her headstrong moments. The contradictions in her character keeps me guessing how Gideon will react to actions.
The full review can be seen @
http://rubinaramesh.blogspot.com/2013...
March 24, 2013
Emma O’Rourke is the personal assistant to Mariah Kent, the matriarch of Kent Hotels. Emma has always been quietly efficient. She does her job well and never indulges in outrageous fantasies.
Perhaps that’s why the sudden attentions of Gideon Kent, Mariah’s grandson, seem a little too good to be true. Gideon is tall and good looking. He barely has to enter a room and all eyes immediately swing in his direction. For years, he’s been groomed to become Mariah’s heir, but secretly Gideon isn’t so certain that he wants the title.
Nevertheless, it is a little amusing to show the very proper Miss O’Rourke how the other half lives. Gideon pours on the charm, purchasing a stunning blue dress for her and taking Emma out on the town. Unfortunately, however, Gideon has met his match. He quickly learns that Emma’s innocence and shy nature are no act. She’s the genuine article, stirring his protective instincts.
To Emma, Gideon Kent is clearly the stuff of dreams. He’s much too rich and powerful for a girl of her status and Emma can’t believe that he’s paying her any attention. It all seems like some incredible dream. All Emma has to do is pinch herself and wake up to reality.
Over the course of days, Emma falls in love with Gideon. If the man can only conquer his own demons, both of their dreams might indeed come true.
Perhaps that’s why the sudden attentions of Gideon Kent, Mariah’s grandson, seem a little too good to be true. Gideon is tall and good looking. He barely has to enter a room and all eyes immediately swing in his direction. For years, he’s been groomed to become Mariah’s heir, but secretly Gideon isn’t so certain that he wants the title.
Nevertheless, it is a little amusing to show the very proper Miss O’Rourke how the other half lives. Gideon pours on the charm, purchasing a stunning blue dress for her and taking Emma out on the town. Unfortunately, however, Gideon has met his match. He quickly learns that Emma’s innocence and shy nature are no act. She’s the genuine article, stirring his protective instincts.
To Emma, Gideon Kent is clearly the stuff of dreams. He’s much too rich and powerful for a girl of her status and Emma can’t believe that he’s paying her any attention. It all seems like some incredible dream. All Emma has to do is pinch herself and wake up to reality.
Over the course of days, Emma falls in love with Gideon. If the man can only conquer his own demons, both of their dreams might indeed come true.
December 17, 2010
A fabulous book with great characterizations where the hero and heroine's inner conflicts are logical, believable and universal, particularly the heroine's, Emma O'Rourke. Setting details were terrific and the character growth wonderful and heartwarming. Well worth the read book from a great-and new to me-Harlequin Romance author.
March 2, 2020
Well written but it failed to engage me. Just not my cup of tea I'm afraid. It was in an anthology that I'd picked for 2 of the other writers. Nice story, easy read!
July 15, 2025
Pretty clean :)
April 18, 2014
3-3.5 stars.
Gotta admit, I liked it more than I was expecting. I have read this plot before, but there was just something extra added to this one that I quite enjoyed. Don't ask me what it was, lol, it's more of a feeling.
Really liked Emma and Gideon. :-)
There was no real big drama here, and no explicit sex scenes (hell, just mentioned), in case that's your thing (it's mine sometimes, lol).
What bothered me a bit was the abrupt change in POV. I don't mind different POVs, but there was no warning, so at times it came out of nowhere. And to be honest, I don't think the title does the story justice. I get the Cinderella bit, but the Bride? Not so much.
Still, an enjoyable read.
Gotta admit, I liked it more than I was expecting. I have read this plot before, but there was just something extra added to this one that I quite enjoyed. Don't ask me what it was, lol, it's more of a feeling.
Really liked Emma and Gideon. :-)
There was no real big drama here, and no explicit sex scenes (hell, just mentioned), in case that's your thing (it's mine sometimes, lol).
What bothered me a bit was the abrupt change in POV. I don't mind different POVs, but there was no warning, so at times it came out of nowhere. And to be honest, I don't think the title does the story justice. I get the Cinderella bit, but the Bride? Not so much.
Still, an enjoyable read.
May 22, 2011
Heroine is sent to personally deliver an invitation to the hero. She's the exec secretary for his grandmother, who runs the family hotel business. He's run off to sail boats in the Caribbean--or at least that's what the family thinks. Grandma has machinations in hand, to bring him back--and the heroine is maybe part of it. The heroine though doesn't believe in love or in lasting relationships, because her mom falls in love at least once a week. This is a really nice romance. I liked it quite a bit.
January 13, 2015
Cinderella Bride
This is a short sweet story.
And like in most short stories...this was drama free.
Which is good.
The characters are sweet and easy to go with. And so is the story.
Even though it is a predictable thing... you enjoy reading it.
Though I felt the ending was a tad bit rushed and could've done with more finesse.
The romance was sweet if not hot. And I don't mind that once in a while.
A good read
This is a short sweet story.
And like in most short stories...this was drama free.
Which is good.
The characters are sweet and easy to go with. And so is the story.
Even though it is a predictable thing... you enjoy reading it.
Though I felt the ending was a tad bit rushed and could've done with more finesse.
The romance was sweet if not hot. And I don't mind that once in a while.
A good read
April 23, 2013
This book made my sick day happy.. Though the title is quiet far from the story. It's one of the best book I've ever read. Relate much.. Less expectations, Less Hurt.. Better Safe than Sorry.. But then sometimes we have to take risk in love.. <3
January 26, 2011
I really enjoyed this one. Very charming and romantic.
August 7, 2012
Nice afternoon read
August 26, 2013
Well written book. Very nice read. The characters are portrayed well.
September 10, 2015
I eat it up could not wait to be for my show to finish so could read love it
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews