Janet Spaeth

The Reluctant Brides Collection by Rosey Dow, Cathy Marie Hake, Susannah Hayden, Yvonne Lehman, Colleen L. Reece, Janet Spaeth
Barbour Publishing
Year: 2006
ISBN 1628369108
Pages: 448
Format: Print, Softcover, Gift Quality
Reviewed by: Tina H.
Date: 12/10/2019
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Though short stories aren't my favorite type of book, I like this particular book, the best, over all the short story bride books that I own, (I own dozens).

Each author has her own story in this book. They are all set in the 1800's, each is about an independent lady.

More later… (mere)

Four very good stories that span four generations of romance and love on Mackinac Island. Makes me want to go there and visit. I liked all four and really appreciated how that last story tied in the other three stories in one way or another. Good way to end the Novella collection.

In 'When the Shadow Falls' Ninette will come to the rescue of an injured English soldier from an Indian attack. These two will face many dangerous situations, but in the process their feelings for one another will grow into a tender love, despite the animosity between the French and the English.

In 'The Spinster's Beau' I was very surprised how this story fell into place. I wasn't expecting Jane and "Mad" August Durant to be the two main characters in this story, but loved how the author changed my feelings and my mind about August Durant. Jane is a midwife who was asked to help stitch up a trapper after a knife fight. Jane's care and concern for this rough character will go a long way in changing this man.

In 'Dreamlight" Francine is on Mackinac island to write and draw pictures for stories centered around the gardens and flowers she loves visiting. She will strike up a friendship with Thomas Carlton, a resident of the island which will blossom into a romance. At first I had a hard time liking Thomas, but Francine was able to 'draw' out the fun side of him and by the end I was cheering them both on.

Finally, in 'True Riches' you are introduced to Mackinac Island in the year 2006. You get to explore more of the island in this story, while you watch Alison Kessler and Jacob Randall share a friendship that will lead to romance. And it all started when Alison crashes her bike and Jacob comes along and helps her out. Alison really has a bad self-image of her worth, especially around the wealthier, so Jacob will have his work cut out convincing her that true riches have nothing to do with money.

All four stories were an adventure, with folks solving problems from a Christian perspective in a very enjoyable and entertaining way. Makes me want to pack my bags and explore Mackinac Island myself.… (mere)