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Sagebrush Knights
Journey along with the four Gerhard sisters as they head to Wyoming Territory in search of husbands and discover that happy endings are not ready-made. Evelyn arrives in Wyoming with a secret and a grudge, only to find her prospective groom holds a secret, too. Jane vies for the attention of her workaholic husband who is bent on saving his ranch even if it means losing love. Gwendolyn€™s would-be husband dies, leaving her to the will of another man. And Emeline€™s knight-in-shining-armor herds sheep instead of cattle. Will love prevail, or will their journeys have not so happy endings?
352 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2012
About the author
Erica Vetsch
53 books1,167 followersBest-selling, award-winning author of The Debutante’s Code, first in the Thorndike & Swann Regency Mystery Series, Erica Vetsch loves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum. You can connect with her at her website, www.ericavetsch.com where you can learn about her books and sign up for her newsletter, and you can find her online at https://www.facebook.com/groups/inspi... where she spends way too much time!
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 13, 2016
Sagebrush Knights is a four in one collection fo mail order bride stories--four sisters off to Wyoming to meet and marry four strangers.
I enjoyed the first three of these stories and the first very much. As with most reading experiences, this one was very personal.
The age-old question--why draws one reader to a book that leaves another cold--is no nearer being answered (Unless you have one?)
Anyway Evelyn, the oldest sister, is the heroine in the first of the four stories. Her first misconception was that her sisters would be near her. As an Eastern girl, Evelyn had no idea how far ranches could be one from another.
And she'd given her intended no idea that she was bringing a young son with her. Which was fine because he hadn't told her he had a tomboy daughter, nicknamed "Mad Dog," but should have been called Madelyn.
That should give you some idea of Erica Vetsch's lively style.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book even if #4 wasn't my favorite ever. I highly recommend Erica's books. (And yes, she gave me this book--but this is an honest review. I don't write any other kind.)
I enjoyed the first three of these stories and the first very much. As with most reading experiences, this one was very personal.
The age-old question--why draws one reader to a book that leaves another cold--is no nearer being answered (Unless you have one?)
Anyway Evelyn, the oldest sister, is the heroine in the first of the four stories. Her first misconception was that her sisters would be near her. As an Eastern girl, Evelyn had no idea how far ranches could be one from another.
And she'd given her intended no idea that she was bringing a young son with her. Which was fine because he hadn't told her he had a tomboy daughter, nicknamed "Mad Dog," but should have been called Madelyn.
That should give you some idea of Erica Vetsch's lively style.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book even if #4 wasn't my favorite ever. I highly recommend Erica's books. (And yes, she gave me this book--but this is an honest review. I don't write any other kind.)
February 15, 2023
2.5⭐️ ok, first I liked the sister idea! And I enjoyed that each story had its own unique plot. The beginning of each novella was fantastic and would pull me in.
However, a couple things docked my rating significantly. It’s all about brides, and though the author was fairly discreet, their were many either reference to intimacy and even one or two fade to black scenes. Also we read a number of silly “noticing” physical things that didn’t add to the story. With those things being SO prevalent, and the faith aspect being so weak, I personally wouldn’t recommend it.
A couple of the stories seemed VERY rushed to me, as well—especially the epilogue.
To add on a positive note, I did like that she included a most adorable handicapped teenager :) she was my favorite character I think!
This was not my favorite by this author, but I did enjoy her full length novel “A Child’s Christmas Wish.” That also is a “marriage of convenience” story, but I found it sweet, clean, and enjoyable.
However, a couple things docked my rating significantly. It’s all about brides, and though the author was fairly discreet, their were many either reference to intimacy and even one or two fade to black scenes. Also we read a number of silly “noticing” physical things that didn’t add to the story. With those things being SO prevalent, and the faith aspect being so weak, I personally wouldn’t recommend it.
A couple of the stories seemed VERY rushed to me, as well—especially the epilogue.
To add on a positive note, I did like that she included a most adorable handicapped teenager :) she was my favorite character I think!
This was not my favorite by this author, but I did enjoy her full length novel “A Child’s Christmas Wish.” That also is a “marriage of convenience” story, but I found it sweet, clean, and enjoyable.
February 20, 2019
3.25 stars - mild pg13 (vague reference to, and odd way of skirting-around the issue of, marital intimacy)
Wyoming, 1874. Four stories of four mail-order-brides who are sisters. It’s funny how these ranchers squeeze their mail-order-weddings in, right between their farm chores (”He guessed he could spare a few minutes to show her around.”). I loved the cranky, but funny Preacher. Some small details of the stories didn’t quite fit, some things seemed silly and unbelievable, and language sometimes seemed modern. There were a few points where I thought about quitting due to the silliness and hokiness. And the poor editing. I usually don’t mind short stories, but in this case, I would have preferred to have more depth of details and characters, and some of the smaller, side plot lines to be better fleshed out. Overall, though, the stories were cute and kind of similar to a Love Inspired historical romance. The faith message was good, but it’s not always a smooth part of the story, sometimes as if author is trying too hard to fit a Sunday School lesson into the story.
1st Story - 2.50 stars - Oh, cheese and crackers! This was just so hokey and unbelievable in places. And bad editing.
2nd Story - 4.25 stars - Much better than the first story. Quite funny and sweet in places. Although, unfortunately, this also had the ridiculous romantic-tingly electric sparks flying up the arms of total strangers at just the slightest touch. (Their arms were tingling and my eyes were rolling!!!!)
3rd Story - 3.00 stars
4th Story - 3.75 stars - Hero is mature and sensible, heroine is immature and silly but grows up a bit as story progresses. (Author tries to impress reader, multiple times, with her “gouts of fire” terminology – eye roll! – once was enough already!) The herding dogs had cute names, one was Robbie (after Robert Burns). I actually gave up on this story after the first chapters and decided to just skip it, but then, after many months, I picked it back up and finished it. The story definitely improved as it went on and I think it ended up being my second favorite of the collection.
So far, I’ve only read short stories by this author. I like her writing voice, but the short versions are sometimes short on believable details. I really need to try one of her full-length novels, since I think that format may suit her better.
Wyoming, 1874. Four stories of four mail-order-brides who are sisters. It’s funny how these ranchers squeeze their mail-order-weddings in, right between their farm chores (”He guessed he could spare a few minutes to show her around.”). I loved the cranky, but funny Preacher. Some small details of the stories didn’t quite fit, some things seemed silly and unbelievable, and language sometimes seemed modern. There were a few points where I thought about quitting due to the silliness and hokiness. And the poor editing. I usually don’t mind short stories, but in this case, I would have preferred to have more depth of details and characters, and some of the smaller, side plot lines to be better fleshed out. Overall, though, the stories were cute and kind of similar to a Love Inspired historical romance. The faith message was good, but it’s not always a smooth part of the story, sometimes as if author is trying too hard to fit a Sunday School lesson into the story.
1st Story - 2.50 stars - Oh, cheese and crackers! This was just so hokey and unbelievable in places. And bad editing.
2nd Story - 4.25 stars - Much better than the first story. Quite funny and sweet in places. Although, unfortunately, this also had the ridiculous romantic-tingly electric sparks flying up the arms of total strangers at just the slightest touch. (Their arms were tingling and my eyes were rolling!!!!)
3rd Story - 3.00 stars
4th Story - 3.75 stars - Hero is mature and sensible, heroine is immature and silly but grows up a bit as story progresses. (Author tries to impress reader, multiple times, with her “gouts of fire” terminology – eye roll! – once was enough already!) The herding dogs had cute names, one was Robbie (after Robert Burns). I actually gave up on this story after the first chapters and decided to just skip it, but then, after many months, I picked it back up and finished it. The story definitely improved as it went on and I think it ended up being my second favorite of the collection.
So far, I’ve only read short stories by this author. I like her writing voice, but the short versions are sometimes short on believable details. I really need to try one of her full-length novels, since I think that format may suit her better.
March 10, 2020
Knight and Day by Erica Vetsch
Mar 21, 2016 5 stars
The heartache these sisters must endure to be provided for after their father passes away is hard to understand in this modern world, but mail order brides were a necessity of the times! Four sisters, Evelyn, Gwendolyn, Emmeline, and Jane and Evelyn’s son Jamie travel from Boston to Wyoming in 1874 to find husbands. Knight and Day begins the tale and follows Evelyn’s union while On a White Charger follows Emmeline. Evelyn is a widow as well as her fiancé. They both hide the fact that they each bring a child to the marriage. Lots of strife happens while Gareth takes on raising Jamie to be a cowboy while Evelyn takes on Mad Dog (Madelyn) to learn more womanly skills. A fun tale of mixed families that most of us can relate to now a days! I was pleasantly surprised to find another book in the series so we could learn more about the other sisters.
Lady-in-Waiting by Erica Vetsch
Mar 1, 2020 5 stars
Such a sweet and touching story of self doubt and the need to be loved just as you are!
Shining Armor by Erica Vetsch
Mar 2, 2020 5 stars
Definitely a slow, rough, painful start to Gwendolyn's Happy Ever After, but put your trust in God, like she finally does, and you will reap the rewards!
On a White Charger by Erica Vetsch
Mar 24, 2016 5 stars
The tale of the four sisters from Boston continues. Emmeline has great dreams of cowboys and cattle ranching but quickly learns her husband is not a cattle man, but a sheep guy! Is he a coward too? He and his two partners are the only ranchers in the area left who raise sheep and many of the cattle ranchers are trying to force them out! Emmeline meets her husband while fighting a fire that destroys his home before she even gets a chance to walk inside. He refuses to fight back and instead leads the sheep out to the open range where he and his new wife live in a caravan of sorts. Homeless and on the range, can she fall for this strange man with the kind heart? Can she give up her cowboy dreams, find love, and experience true joy in being a shepherdess? Another brilliant story by Erica Vetsch! I can’t wait to read more about the other two sisters! Their stories are found in Love Is Patient Romance Collection: True Love Takes Time in Nine Historical Novellas.
Mar 21, 2016 5 stars
The heartache these sisters must endure to be provided for after their father passes away is hard to understand in this modern world, but mail order brides were a necessity of the times! Four sisters, Evelyn, Gwendolyn, Emmeline, and Jane and Evelyn’s son Jamie travel from Boston to Wyoming in 1874 to find husbands. Knight and Day begins the tale and follows Evelyn’s union while On a White Charger follows Emmeline. Evelyn is a widow as well as her fiancé. They both hide the fact that they each bring a child to the marriage. Lots of strife happens while Gareth takes on raising Jamie to be a cowboy while Evelyn takes on Mad Dog (Madelyn) to learn more womanly skills. A fun tale of mixed families that most of us can relate to now a days! I was pleasantly surprised to find another book in the series so we could learn more about the other sisters.
Lady-in-Waiting by Erica Vetsch
Mar 1, 2020 5 stars
Such a sweet and touching story of self doubt and the need to be loved just as you are!
Shining Armor by Erica Vetsch
Mar 2, 2020 5 stars
Definitely a slow, rough, painful start to Gwendolyn's Happy Ever After, but put your trust in God, like she finally does, and you will reap the rewards!
On a White Charger by Erica Vetsch
Mar 24, 2016 5 stars
The tale of the four sisters from Boston continues. Emmeline has great dreams of cowboys and cattle ranching but quickly learns her husband is not a cattle man, but a sheep guy! Is he a coward too? He and his two partners are the only ranchers in the area left who raise sheep and many of the cattle ranchers are trying to force them out! Emmeline meets her husband while fighting a fire that destroys his home before she even gets a chance to walk inside. He refuses to fight back and instead leads the sheep out to the open range where he and his new wife live in a caravan of sorts. Homeless and on the range, can she fall for this strange man with the kind heart? Can she give up her cowboy dreams, find love, and experience true joy in being a shepherdess? Another brilliant story by Erica Vetsch! I can’t wait to read more about the other two sisters! Their stories are found in Love Is Patient Romance Collection: True Love Takes Time in Nine Historical Novellas.
October 28, 2021
Knight and Day (Book 1)
Gareth and Evelyn are wonderful main characters and their romance is sweet but it’s the kids that completely steal the story!! I loved this little novella very much!
Lady In Waiting (Book 2)
Harrison and Jane’s marriage begins with great promise. They are instantly smitten with each other but as secrets come to light, old insecurities also resurface and they find their relationship growing distant. They both nearly work themselves to death trying to solve their problems but they fall in love in the process. I really enjoyed this story!!
Knight In Shining Armor (Book 3)
Matt and Gwendolyn have been bamboozled! Matt’s Grandfather ordered Gwendolyn as a mail-order bride for Matt but then died before he had a chance to tell him. Matt’s been hurt by women before and the last thing he needs is another one he can’t trust. Having been brought here by false pretenses, Gwen’s not too happy about the situation either. The mix up makes for a fun story!
On A White Charger (Book 4)
Joe and Emmeline meet while trying to put out a house fire! Their house fire! By the time they say their vows, the house has burned to the ground and they're basically homeless. Fortunately Joe has a gypsy wagon they can move into which is good since they apparently need to be with the sheep flock at all times to protect them from not so nice neighboring cattle ranchers. This story was good but I was worried about them at first because Emmeline was so disappointed that she had married a sheep herder instead of a cattle rancher and then for awhile she thought she'd also married a coward but things turned out for the better and they got their happily ever after.
Gareth and Evelyn are wonderful main characters and their romance is sweet but it’s the kids that completely steal the story!! I loved this little novella very much!
Lady In Waiting (Book 2)
Harrison and Jane’s marriage begins with great promise. They are instantly smitten with each other but as secrets come to light, old insecurities also resurface and they find their relationship growing distant. They both nearly work themselves to death trying to solve their problems but they fall in love in the process. I really enjoyed this story!!
Knight In Shining Armor (Book 3)
Matt and Gwendolyn have been bamboozled! Matt’s Grandfather ordered Gwendolyn as a mail-order bride for Matt but then died before he had a chance to tell him. Matt’s been hurt by women before and the last thing he needs is another one he can’t trust. Having been brought here by false pretenses, Gwen’s not too happy about the situation either. The mix up makes for a fun story!
On A White Charger (Book 4)
Joe and Emmeline meet while trying to put out a house fire! Their house fire! By the time they say their vows, the house has burned to the ground and they're basically homeless. Fortunately Joe has a gypsy wagon they can move into which is good since they apparently need to be with the sheep flock at all times to protect them from not so nice neighboring cattle ranchers. This story was good but I was worried about them at first because Emmeline was so disappointed that she had married a sheep herder instead of a cattle rancher and then for awhile she thought she'd also married a coward but things turned out for the better and they got their happily ever after.
August 19, 2020
I enjoy Erica Vetsch's books. These four sisters, each with different expectations and personalities, become mail order brides for four different men in four different situations. It's amazing how God put just the right bride with just the right husband, each with unique needs and strengths.
The importance of family is emphasized in the fourth story with a surprise ending, as the close knit sisters are, for the first time, separated for weeks, not realizing the vastness of Wyoming until they arrive.
The importance of family is emphasized in the fourth story with a surprise ending, as the close knit sisters are, for the first time, separated for weeks, not realizing the vastness of Wyoming until they arrive.
May 12, 2017
I really enjoyed this collection of novellas. Each story warmed my heart with its charm and will likely do the same to yours. If you love mail-order bride books as much as I do, that is. Erica Vetsch is a talented author, bringing endearing characters and the rugged west to life. I have yet to read something by her that I do not thoroughly enjoy.
April 23, 2019
Wonderfully written
I would recommend this book to anyone who longs to read good Christian historical romance novels. Excellent choice for someone who belies in both family's and home.
I would recommend this book to anyone who longs to read good Christian historical romance novels. Excellent choice for someone who belies in both family's and home.
Read
May 31, 2018Enjoyed the individuality of each lady character even though they are sisters.
May 8, 2021
4 enjoyable stories. Each one was unique and fun to read. If you love western (cowboy) romance you will love this anthology.
December 18, 2021
Enjoyable
Example that life never turns out to be what you thought but if you let go and trust him he will see you though. Often way better than you dreamed
Example that life never turns out to be what you thought but if you let go and trust him he will see you though. Often way better than you dreamed
October 25, 2023
Four wonderful sisters who became mail order brides. I enjoyed each of these stories.
December 18, 2023
100% paperback
January 16, 2016
Sagebrush Knights by Erica Vetsch
Four-In-One Collection
Four sisters travel from Seabury, Massachusetts to Sagebrush, Wyoming Territory to start new lives. The home they lived in belonged to the school their father taught at, when he passed they lost their home. They put an ad out to be mail-order brides as long as they could stay near to each other. Imagine marrying someone within a half hour of meeting them. Barely knowing more about the person than their age and occupation. And considering these girls have an impatient preacher to deal as he delivers each one to the home of their grooms. Here are their stories.
Knight and Day
Widow Evelyn Gerhard Standford is the oldest of the four. She planned on being near the sisters she had helped raise since she was ten. She didn’t expect that they would go to ranches that weren’t close at all or that she was gaining a wild daughter to tame. Her controlled life was suddenly pulled out from under her.
Gareth Kittrick was more nervous about getting married the second time around. Maybe because it happened so fast, maybe because he didn’t know much about the woman besides that she was a widow. He was pleased to find her pleasant to look at and surprised to find out she had a son, a very citified son. Well that would change soon enough.
This is an enjoyable story as we watch the struggles of Evelyn trying to let go of her son so he can become a young man and her struggles to turn Mad Dog Maddie into a young lady. And all the while holding onto her heart so she wouldn’t love and be hurt again.
Lady-in-Waiting
Jane Gerhard is the second oldest sister and the next one to be dropped off at a ranch in the middle of nowhere with a quick ceremony from the grouchy Reverend Cummings. Then left in tears as she watches her two younger sisters depart to start their own lives, without her or Evelyn. Believing she is just a Plain Jane, she’s not surprised when her husband takes off to who knows where for the rest of the day, their wedding day. Can she trust this marriage is God’s leading?
Harrison Garvey didn’t want to live under his father’s thumb in Ohio. He wanted his own land and loves his life. He needs to prove to his father he can succeed on his own. And now he has a wife as well, not the socialite his father wanted him to choose but a wife all the same. Did he do right by pulling this woman into his battle against his father?
Shining Armor
Gwendolyn Gerhard arrived at her new home. She was pleased to see she had a beautiful two story wood home with a picket fence around it as her new home. She couldn’t be happier until she found out her supposed intended had passed on and she was unwanted here. It was finally agreed that she would stay the six weeks until Reverend Cummings returned this way.
Matthew Parker was holding a grudge against the woman because of his dad’s second wife who was from the east and had been bad to the bone. Even though the beauty was working hard in the home and taking good care of his young disabled sister, Betsy, he still wouldn’t trust her. How could he want her gone so badly and his heart hurt at the thought of her leaving?
On a White Charger
Emmeline Gerhard is the last sister to be dropped off at her new home and with her soon to be new husband. She was ready for her adventure to the West. After reading dime novels she knew all about cowboys and round-ups. She was ready to learn to ride, she wasn’t so ready to find out her dreams had been shattered. She didn’t marry a cattle rancher….he was a sheepherder. The most hated creatures by other ranchers. What would she do now?
Joseph Barrett was suppose to be having the best day of his life when his new bride arrived. Instead everything was going wrong. Especially when his new bride went on and on how she was excited about cowboys and cattle. If she’d let him get a word in edgewise he could tell her what he was, obviously someone she didn’t really want.
Another heartwarming story to add to this collection. Emmeline had to overcome her loss of what she thought she wanted and also facing that her new husband seemed to be a coward. People aren’t always what they seem or there are deeper reasons for the way they react.
Erica pulls the four stories together in the epilogue to give a last minute glimpse at the four sisters and their new happiness. Really enjoyable stories that brought the emotions of the characters to the surface and through the pages.
**Received through NetGalley for review
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Four-In-One Collection
Four sisters travel from Seabury, Massachusetts to Sagebrush, Wyoming Territory to start new lives. The home they lived in belonged to the school their father taught at, when he passed they lost their home. They put an ad out to be mail-order brides as long as they could stay near to each other. Imagine marrying someone within a half hour of meeting them. Barely knowing more about the person than their age and occupation. And considering these girls have an impatient preacher to deal as he delivers each one to the home of their grooms. Here are their stories.
Knight and Day
Widow Evelyn Gerhard Standford is the oldest of the four. She planned on being near the sisters she had helped raise since she was ten. She didn’t expect that they would go to ranches that weren’t close at all or that she was gaining a wild daughter to tame. Her controlled life was suddenly pulled out from under her.
Gareth Kittrick was more nervous about getting married the second time around. Maybe because it happened so fast, maybe because he didn’t know much about the woman besides that she was a widow. He was pleased to find her pleasant to look at and surprised to find out she had a son, a very citified son. Well that would change soon enough.
This is an enjoyable story as we watch the struggles of Evelyn trying to let go of her son so he can become a young man and her struggles to turn Mad Dog Maddie into a young lady. And all the while holding onto her heart so she wouldn’t love and be hurt again.
Lady-in-Waiting
Jane Gerhard is the second oldest sister and the next one to be dropped off at a ranch in the middle of nowhere with a quick ceremony from the grouchy Reverend Cummings. Then left in tears as she watches her two younger sisters depart to start their own lives, without her or Evelyn. Believing she is just a Plain Jane, she’s not surprised when her husband takes off to who knows where for the rest of the day, their wedding day. Can she trust this marriage is God’s leading?
Harrison Garvey didn’t want to live under his father’s thumb in Ohio. He wanted his own land and loves his life. He needs to prove to his father he can succeed on his own. And now he has a wife as well, not the socialite his father wanted him to choose but a wife all the same. Did he do right by pulling this woman into his battle against his father?
Shining Armor
Gwendolyn Gerhard arrived at her new home. She was pleased to see she had a beautiful two story wood home with a picket fence around it as her new home. She couldn’t be happier until she found out her supposed intended had passed on and she was unwanted here. It was finally agreed that she would stay the six weeks until Reverend Cummings returned this way.
Matthew Parker was holding a grudge against the woman because of his dad’s second wife who was from the east and had been bad to the bone. Even though the beauty was working hard in the home and taking good care of his young disabled sister, Betsy, he still wouldn’t trust her. How could he want her gone so badly and his heart hurt at the thought of her leaving?
On a White Charger
Emmeline Gerhard is the last sister to be dropped off at her new home and with her soon to be new husband. She was ready for her adventure to the West. After reading dime novels she knew all about cowboys and round-ups. She was ready to learn to ride, she wasn’t so ready to find out her dreams had been shattered. She didn’t marry a cattle rancher….he was a sheepherder. The most hated creatures by other ranchers. What would she do now?
Joseph Barrett was suppose to be having the best day of his life when his new bride arrived. Instead everything was going wrong. Especially when his new bride went on and on how she was excited about cowboys and cattle. If she’d let him get a word in edgewise he could tell her what he was, obviously someone she didn’t really want.
Another heartwarming story to add to this collection. Emmeline had to overcome her loss of what she thought she wanted and also facing that her new husband seemed to be a coward. People aren’t always what they seem or there are deeper reasons for the way they react.
Erica pulls the four stories together in the epilogue to give a last minute glimpse at the four sisters and their new happiness. Really enjoyable stories that brought the emotions of the characters to the surface and through the pages.
**Received through NetGalley for review
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
December 18, 2012
Motherless for many years, life for the four Gerhard sisters of Seabury, Massachusetts, changed abruptly when their father died in 1874. He’d been a professor of medieval history with a home provided for his family by his college. With their father gone, the four sisters are homeless and penniless. Together they come up with the idea to advertize themselves as mail-order brides with the stipulation they all marry men from the same western town so they’ll be neighbors and still able to count on each other for support. When the answer comes from Wyoming territory, with fares for each sister, they head west tp seek out the Sagebrush Knights in shining armor that have spoken for their hands, just like the tales of the middle ages their father had regaled them with. Preacher meets the women and says he will deliver them all, marrying each as he gets to her new home. Yes, each man calls Sagebrush home, but the ranches are hours’ rides apart, and Preacher is a busy man with a funeral to perform at the end of the day when the four weddings are done.
“Knight and Day” is the story of the eldest sister, Evelyn, who had told her prospective husband that she was a widow. She sort of forgot to mention she had a son, Jamie, whose father had died in the Civil War. To her shock, she discovers Gareth has a similar secret in a wild prepubescent daughter, Maddy. While Gareth willingly hands control of Maddy to Evelyn, she is very reluctant to entrust Jamie to him. She wants to protect him and continue to raise him a scholar as she’d begun, but Jamie quickly falls for the cowboy life. What will it take for Evelyn to trust Gareth? Or the bigger issue, what will it take for Evelyn to trust that God is in control of all of them?
In “Lady in Waiting,” Jane discovers her new home is in a soddy and her new husband works long hours in his fixation on becoming a successful rancher. When Jane inadvertently discovers challenging letters from Harrison’s father, including photos of a beautiful woman who’d apparently intended to marry her husband, she feels like a pawn in a game. How will this Plain Jane believe her worth?
The third sister’s story is called “Shining Armor.” When Gwendolyn arrives at Zebulon Parker’s house, she discovers he’s been dead for two weeks and–more shocking, if possible–a grandfather. Preacher figures Matthew will marry Gwendolyn instead, even though the young rancher didn’t even know Granddad had ordered a bride and wanted nothing to do with the scheme. Matthew’s sister Bethany rolls onto the verandah in a wheelchair and Gwendolyn immediately goes to the teenager’s side to help her. Finally a deal is struck. Preacher refuses to take Gwendolyn with him today, but she can stay as Bethany’s companion until the circuit preacher’s next visit when Matthew will pay her fare back East. But Gwendolyn has no intention of leaving. How can she convince Matthew to marry her in only six weeks?
“On a White Charger” tells the tale of the most romantically inclined sister, Emeline. She’d dreamt of her cowboy, her knight on a white charger set to protect her on the open range. What she arrives to is a house burning down and a man refusing to go after the men who’d started the fire. Even worse, if possible, is discovering he runs sheep, not cattle. Emeline is having none of this nonsense, but Preacher isn’t taking her along, so she has no choice but to marry the shepherd. With no house to live in, she also has no choice but to join him and his hands as they move across the rangeland in a covered wagon, suffering insults and threats from the cattlemen and trying to find a reason to respect the man she is wedded to.
Each of the four novellas in Sagebrush Knights is a delightful mail-order-bride story with unique twists of its own. If you enjoy this trope–and I do–you’re sure to love this entire collection.
“Knight and Day” is the story of the eldest sister, Evelyn, who had told her prospective husband that she was a widow. She sort of forgot to mention she had a son, Jamie, whose father had died in the Civil War. To her shock, she discovers Gareth has a similar secret in a wild prepubescent daughter, Maddy. While Gareth willingly hands control of Maddy to Evelyn, she is very reluctant to entrust Jamie to him. She wants to protect him and continue to raise him a scholar as she’d begun, but Jamie quickly falls for the cowboy life. What will it take for Evelyn to trust Gareth? Or the bigger issue, what will it take for Evelyn to trust that God is in control of all of them?
In “Lady in Waiting,” Jane discovers her new home is in a soddy and her new husband works long hours in his fixation on becoming a successful rancher. When Jane inadvertently discovers challenging letters from Harrison’s father, including photos of a beautiful woman who’d apparently intended to marry her husband, she feels like a pawn in a game. How will this Plain Jane believe her worth?
The third sister’s story is called “Shining Armor.” When Gwendolyn arrives at Zebulon Parker’s house, she discovers he’s been dead for two weeks and–more shocking, if possible–a grandfather. Preacher figures Matthew will marry Gwendolyn instead, even though the young rancher didn’t even know Granddad had ordered a bride and wanted nothing to do with the scheme. Matthew’s sister Bethany rolls onto the verandah in a wheelchair and Gwendolyn immediately goes to the teenager’s side to help her. Finally a deal is struck. Preacher refuses to take Gwendolyn with him today, but she can stay as Bethany’s companion until the circuit preacher’s next visit when Matthew will pay her fare back East. But Gwendolyn has no intention of leaving. How can she convince Matthew to marry her in only six weeks?
“On a White Charger” tells the tale of the most romantically inclined sister, Emeline. She’d dreamt of her cowboy, her knight on a white charger set to protect her on the open range. What she arrives to is a house burning down and a man refusing to go after the men who’d started the fire. Even worse, if possible, is discovering he runs sheep, not cattle. Emeline is having none of this nonsense, but Preacher isn’t taking her along, so she has no choice but to marry the shepherd. With no house to live in, she also has no choice but to join him and his hands as they move across the rangeland in a covered wagon, suffering insults and threats from the cattlemen and trying to find a reason to respect the man she is wedded to.
Each of the four novellas in Sagebrush Knights is a delightful mail-order-bride story with unique twists of its own. If you enjoy this trope–and I do–you’re sure to love this entire collection.
March 26, 2014
SageBrush Knights by Erica Vetsch
This is a four-in-one collection about sisters
"I loved reading the stories of Evelyn-Jane-Gwendolyn and Emmeline"
after their father died the home they had always known had to be vacated as it was given to him while he worked there. Monies all gone and no where to live made it necessary to make changes they would not have thought of otherwise. Evelyn being the oldest talked with her sisters and decided running an ad to become a mail-order bride in an area where they would be close together and marry honest god fearing men would be their best way to go.
their ad read "Four sisters,Christian, 18-28, seek matrimony with four God-Fearing men as soon as possible. Must live in close proximity. Apply:Matrimonial News #278
All too soon they were on a train headed to Wyoming territory. when they arrived in SageBrush only the preacher-man was there to meet them and carry the four accross many miles to their soon to be husbands. He told them he had to hurry and would marry each one on the spot quickly before he moved to the next.
Evelyn was the first to be dropped off and married Gareth Kittrick, she had not told him she was bringing a son and he had not told her of a daughter that he had so the family had lot of adjusting to do right off the bat...The little girl had been raised by her dad and a bunch of cowboy hands so she was more tomboy then girl and there was a lot of adjusting to do but Evelyn knew she and her son were where they needed to be and you will enjoy reading how this family comes together.
Jane was next to be dropped and married quickly to Harrison Garvey..when they stopped she was appalled to see he lived in a soddy. She had always considered herself as "Plain Jane" so had thoughts that she might not be accepted. Harrison thought she was beautiful from the start and was happy to see how hard she worked helping him on his ranch. Life in the Wyoming territory was so different from what the girls were used to and took some adjusting.
next was Gwendolyn to meet Zebulon Parker and when they arrived she was met by an angry young man, grandson of Zebulon who said he knew nothing of this marriage deal and his grandfather had died. His sister who was in a wheelchair said she knew of it and was thrilled to see another girl coming to their home. there was much confusion but finally he said she could stay for awhile and the preacher-man could stop on his way back and pick her up. Gwendolyn had a few weeks to get Matt to see he just might want to have a wife to help him with his ranch and his sister. What would you have done in a situation like this? no marriage soon for Gwendolyn like her sisters had.
Last but not least Emmeline meets Joseph Barrett. She has always wanted to live on a ranch an learn to ride horses. It seems like a romantic life for her then she finds out Joseph is a sheep rancher...Oh my sheep verses cows. Emmeline goes with the men when they go out to the fields and soon finds sheep are not all that bad and soon she is in awe of her strong and sensitive husband too. I so enjoyed reading the way each of the girls found husbands that treated them well and love would come with mutual respect and hard work.
This is a four-in-one collection about sisters
"I loved reading the stories of Evelyn-Jane-Gwendolyn and Emmeline"
after their father died the home they had always known had to be vacated as it was given to him while he worked there. Monies all gone and no where to live made it necessary to make changes they would not have thought of otherwise. Evelyn being the oldest talked with her sisters and decided running an ad to become a mail-order bride in an area where they would be close together and marry honest god fearing men would be their best way to go.
their ad read "Four sisters,Christian, 18-28, seek matrimony with four God-Fearing men as soon as possible. Must live in close proximity. Apply:Matrimonial News #278
All too soon they were on a train headed to Wyoming territory. when they arrived in SageBrush only the preacher-man was there to meet them and carry the four accross many miles to their soon to be husbands. He told them he had to hurry and would marry each one on the spot quickly before he moved to the next.
Evelyn was the first to be dropped off and married Gareth Kittrick, she had not told him she was bringing a son and he had not told her of a daughter that he had so the family had lot of adjusting to do right off the bat...The little girl had been raised by her dad and a bunch of cowboy hands so she was more tomboy then girl and there was a lot of adjusting to do but Evelyn knew she and her son were where they needed to be and you will enjoy reading how this family comes together.
Jane was next to be dropped and married quickly to Harrison Garvey..when they stopped she was appalled to see he lived in a soddy. She had always considered herself as "Plain Jane" so had thoughts that she might not be accepted. Harrison thought she was beautiful from the start and was happy to see how hard she worked helping him on his ranch. Life in the Wyoming territory was so different from what the girls were used to and took some adjusting.
next was Gwendolyn to meet Zebulon Parker and when they arrived she was met by an angry young man, grandson of Zebulon who said he knew nothing of this marriage deal and his grandfather had died. His sister who was in a wheelchair said she knew of it and was thrilled to see another girl coming to their home. there was much confusion but finally he said she could stay for awhile and the preacher-man could stop on his way back and pick her up. Gwendolyn had a few weeks to get Matt to see he just might want to have a wife to help him with his ranch and his sister. What would you have done in a situation like this? no marriage soon for Gwendolyn like her sisters had.
Last but not least Emmeline meets Joseph Barrett. She has always wanted to live on a ranch an learn to ride horses. It seems like a romantic life for her then she finds out Joseph is a sheep rancher...Oh my sheep verses cows. Emmeline goes with the men when they go out to the fields and soon finds sheep are not all that bad and soon she is in awe of her strong and sensitive husband too. I so enjoyed reading the way each of the girls found husbands that treated them well and love would come with mutual respect and hard work.
December 2, 2012
Knights ranchers, Shepard
4 STARS
Sagebrush Knights is a collection of 4 novels about 4 sisters being mail order brides in Wyoming territory 1874.
They are clean romances and are enjoyable to read.
Knight and Day
Widow Evelyn Gerhard Stanford is the oldest sister.Thier father died and they lost thier home. They decided to advertise to be mail order brides in the same area.
They are surprised that to the ranchers they are close but to the sisters they were thinking close like a city.
A cranky Preacher met the stage and plans to drop off each sister and marry the couple and than to the next. It would take full day to travel to all 4 homes.
Evelyn was the first to be dropped off. She had a ten year old boy she did not tell Gareth about.
Gareth did not tell her that he too was a widower with a 10 year old tom boy.
Challenges to make them a family was a fun story.
Lady-in-Waiting
Jane Gerhard feels like she is invisible but she is a hard worker and makes the best of things.
Harrison Garvey is from back east and he made a contract that he would be able to make the ranch profitable and pay back the loan in 3 years or move back and work in factory. The 3 year is close to being done and he does not know if he will make. Harrison live in a sodie house.
Shining Armor
The person who made the contract Gwendolyn Gerhard died before she got thier and found it was the grandfather.
Matthew Parker did not want to marry anyone. But his sister talked him in letting her stay at least 6 weeks while the preacher goes on his travels.
Gwendolyn was just what 15 Bess needed she just got sick enough that now she was in a wheelchair and could not be left in the house by herself while the men worked.
On a White Charger
Emmeline Gerhard is the youngest sisters and is excited to be able to live on a ranch with a cowboy. When they get close they see a fire. It is her new house that burned. Her husband is not a cowboy but a shepard. He also refuses to defend his stock or home by killing anyone again.
I had a smile the whole time that I was reading this. I will look for more books by Erica Vetsch to read.
I was given this ebook to read in exchange for honest review from Netgalley.
Barbour Publishing, Inc. PUB 12/01/2012 352 pages
4 STARS
Sagebrush Knights is a collection of 4 novels about 4 sisters being mail order brides in Wyoming territory 1874.
They are clean romances and are enjoyable to read.
Knight and Day
Widow Evelyn Gerhard Stanford is the oldest sister.Thier father died and they lost thier home. They decided to advertise to be mail order brides in the same area.
They are surprised that to the ranchers they are close but to the sisters they were thinking close like a city.
A cranky Preacher met the stage and plans to drop off each sister and marry the couple and than to the next. It would take full day to travel to all 4 homes.
Evelyn was the first to be dropped off. She had a ten year old boy she did not tell Gareth about.
Gareth did not tell her that he too was a widower with a 10 year old tom boy.
Challenges to make them a family was a fun story.
Lady-in-Waiting
Jane Gerhard feels like she is invisible but she is a hard worker and makes the best of things.
Harrison Garvey is from back east and he made a contract that he would be able to make the ranch profitable and pay back the loan in 3 years or move back and work in factory. The 3 year is close to being done and he does not know if he will make. Harrison live in a sodie house.
Shining Armor
The person who made the contract Gwendolyn Gerhard died before she got thier and found it was the grandfather.
Matthew Parker did not want to marry anyone. But his sister talked him in letting her stay at least 6 weeks while the preacher goes on his travels.
Gwendolyn was just what 15 Bess needed she just got sick enough that now she was in a wheelchair and could not be left in the house by herself while the men worked.
On a White Charger
Emmeline Gerhard is the youngest sisters and is excited to be able to live on a ranch with a cowboy. When they get close they see a fire. It is her new house that burned. Her husband is not a cowboy but a shepard. He also refuses to defend his stock or home by killing anyone again.
I had a smile the whole time that I was reading this. I will look for more books by Erica Vetsch to read.
I was given this ebook to read in exchange for honest review from Netgalley.
Barbour Publishing, Inc. PUB 12/01/2012 352 pages
January 8, 2013
Another fun Romancing America book. The four stories all written by the same author follow four sisters who where evicted from their home out East after their fathers death. The oldest sister Evelyn helps to arrange marriages for all of them and they head West to meet their grooms and start a new life. Yet things do not go as planned for any of the sisters but God has a plan for all of them.
I very much enjoyed this book. It seems like these books get better and better.
What I liked: I thought the four stories rolled together very well. I liked how the author told each story. Each sister was dropped off at the grooms home a quick wedding was done and the remaining sisters left and we follow that sister. She does this for all four sisters and it worked really well. The final story then wrapped it all together which really made it feel more like a novel then short stories. I also liked all four sisters a lot as well as the husbands just an over all good book.
What I did not like: I have started to rate short story books a little different as I don’t expect the plot to be as well developed as a regular novel due to the short nature of each story. There was a time or two though while I was reading this book I thought maybe the story-line was a little to short but not to bad.
Over all I really liked this book and felt each sister could have had her own novel. I also liked how the author worked the spiritual aspect of the story into each sisters tale. I was a little sad to see this book end but I liked the ending and how the author wrapped it up. This is a very enjoyable historical romance collection and I highly recommend it.
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2013/0...
I very much enjoyed this book. It seems like these books get better and better.
What I liked: I thought the four stories rolled together very well. I liked how the author told each story. Each sister was dropped off at the grooms home a quick wedding was done and the remaining sisters left and we follow that sister. She does this for all four sisters and it worked really well. The final story then wrapped it all together which really made it feel more like a novel then short stories. I also liked all four sisters a lot as well as the husbands just an over all good book.
What I did not like: I have started to rate short story books a little different as I don’t expect the plot to be as well developed as a regular novel due to the short nature of each story. There was a time or two though while I was reading this book I thought maybe the story-line was a little to short but not to bad.
Over all I really liked this book and felt each sister could have had her own novel. I also liked how the author worked the spiritual aspect of the story into each sisters tale. I was a little sad to see this book end but I liked the ending and how the author wrapped it up. This is a very enjoyable historical romance collection and I highly recommend it.
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2013/0...
March 14, 2018
*I felt like re-reading this again and even though this is the third time, I could not put it down!
Sagebrush Knights by Erica Vetsch 5 stars
I was blown away by the depth in these stories, especially the second story Lady-in-Waiting! I couldn't wait to read it when I had to put it down! I got up early the next morning just so I could get back to their story! The first story, Knight and Day, was the oldest sister Evelyn's story, and I thought it was excellent. The second story, Lady-in-Waiting, was the second eldest Jane's story, and it was my favorite out of all of them! I loved Jane so much and the story was stressful, beautiful, detailed, and complex. The third story, Shining Armor, was Gwendolynn's story, the youngest. Very good and very tense, and you kind of hate the hero a couple of times but over all, good. The fourth story, and the one that tied everyone together in the end, was On A White Charger, and it was the final and third sister, Emmeline's story. It was also quite good, stressful but good. :)
I loved how all the stories were immediately connected to eachother and I enjoyed the many differences each hero had from the other; I'm thrilled that I can say that I wouldn't describe any of the couple's relationships as cookie cutter. In summary, I loved this collection of stories and I enjoyed it immensely! Definitely read it!
Sagebrush Knights by Erica Vetsch 5 stars
I was blown away by the depth in these stories, especially the second story Lady-in-Waiting! I couldn't wait to read it when I had to put it down! I got up early the next morning just so I could get back to their story! The first story, Knight and Day, was the oldest sister Evelyn's story, and I thought it was excellent. The second story, Lady-in-Waiting, was the second eldest Jane's story, and it was my favorite out of all of them! I loved Jane so much and the story was stressful, beautiful, detailed, and complex. The third story, Shining Armor, was Gwendolynn's story, the youngest. Very good and very tense, and you kind of hate the hero a couple of times but over all, good. The fourth story, and the one that tied everyone together in the end, was On A White Charger, and it was the final and third sister, Emmeline's story. It was also quite good, stressful but good. :)
I loved how all the stories were immediately connected to eachother and I enjoyed the many differences each hero had from the other; I'm thrilled that I can say that I wouldn't describe any of the couple's relationships as cookie cutter. In summary, I loved this collection of stories and I enjoyed it immensely! Definitely read it!
February 23, 2013
Romancing America are a series of books that are quickly stealing my social life away!
Sagebrush Knights is a set of four amusing, romantic and sweet novellas surrounding four sisters as they travel West to meet their grooms (who have selected the sisters from a matrimony magazine)and begin their new lives. Nothing goes quite as expected, but the sisters ultimately all realise who the Author of their story is and accept His plans for them.
The stories rolled into one rather well, though I found myself a little annoyed that JUST when the stories reached their peak, they were over. Though watching the sisters dwindle down to the very last one and reunite as good families do, made up for the short time spent with each sister. Each sister had her own likeability factors but I found myself wanting to follow more of Gwendolyn, who really had the most romantic courtship of the four sisters.
I do think there was potential to have made each of these novella's into full length novels...secretly hoping for a follow up to these!
I did love how the novel ended though with all four sisters reunited and connecting their husbands to each other too.
Put simply, if you like historical romance, read Sagebrush Knights. You won't be disappointed!
*thank you to NetGalley and Barbour Books for providing me with an eBook version in exchange of an honest review*
Sagebrush Knights is a set of four amusing, romantic and sweet novellas surrounding four sisters as they travel West to meet their grooms (who have selected the sisters from a matrimony magazine)and begin their new lives. Nothing goes quite as expected, but the sisters ultimately all realise who the Author of their story is and accept His plans for them.
The stories rolled into one rather well, though I found myself a little annoyed that JUST when the stories reached their peak, they were over. Though watching the sisters dwindle down to the very last one and reunite as good families do, made up for the short time spent with each sister. Each sister had her own likeability factors but I found myself wanting to follow more of Gwendolyn, who really had the most romantic courtship of the four sisters.
I do think there was potential to have made each of these novella's into full length novels...secretly hoping for a follow up to these!
I did love how the novel ended though with all four sisters reunited and connecting their husbands to each other too.
Put simply, if you like historical romance, read Sagebrush Knights. You won't be disappointed!
*thank you to NetGalley and Barbour Books for providing me with an eBook version in exchange of an honest review*
June 6, 2016
I more then simply enjoyed this book, it gives me a view of not one but many different ways women viewed they're surroundings. And the different circumstances there really were in the ye old days. When you stop to think about it, in terms of people, a soldiers view of the war is going to be miles apart from that of a shopkeeper. The same can be said of this story. One sister ends up in cabin with a daughter ( her new husband with a new son), the next has to deal with not only living in a dirt house but a husband who can honestly be a little selfish and ignorant about his wife's needs, the next sister is too starry eyed she has a lots of preconceived ideas about what her husbands life is like and is surprised and disappointed with what meets her eyes. The experiences are not even similar, just as life truly is. I love how this story makes us face that fact head on. Life, although seemingly alike on the surface, is vastly different underneath.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2013
Here is what I liked and did not like about this book. I liked the setting and the sisters. I thought their personalities were distinct. I liked how each story built on the others yet was about the individual sister. I did not like the storylines. I found them to be boring and not as believable as I thought when I first picked the book. I gave this book 4/5 stars. I have read a lot of this style book with the four stories in one where they all relate to each other. This particular book just was not one of the best. It was still enjoyable and a quick read though. I would recommend these stories for someone looking for a Christian fiction book set in the west in the late 1800’s.
I would like to thank the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
I would like to thank the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
March 8, 2013
Journey across the plains of Wyoming with four trouble-chased maidens as one by one they settle into their new homes. The men these sisters agreed to marry by mail are definitely not what they expected, but will these sagebrush knights prove more of a nuisance than noble?
Delightful. The author's fresh descriptions, tangible characters, and well-crafted plots held me until the last page. Each story is an energetic, new perspective on the mail order bride story. My first read by Ms. Vetch, but certainly not the last.
Delightful. The author's fresh descriptions, tangible characters, and well-crafted plots held me until the last page. Each story is an energetic, new perspective on the mail order bride story. My first read by Ms. Vetch, but certainly not the last.
September 7, 2016
I got this book at the thrift store on "50% off day." It cost me a quarter. So I wasn't expecting a lot. I actually really enjoyed it! 4 sisters are all mail order brides. Each story is a novella in the collection. It was fun to read and the author did a great job on giving each sister a different story. :)
October 16, 2016
A friend loaned me this book to read while I was in the hospital. I have to say that based on the back cover blurb, it didn't sound as interesting as it really was.
This book contains the stories of 4 sisters from Massachusetts who travel to Wyoming Territory to marry 4 men from the same general area.
This book contains the stories of 4 sisters from Massachusetts who travel to Wyoming Territory to marry 4 men from the same general area.
March 22, 2016
Four fun stories about mail order bride sisters. i especially liked the last one, about a young woman who's in love with the idea of cowboys and finds herself married to a sheepherder. Is it the packaging or the person that matters most? It takes her a while to find out. :)
January 28, 2022
Short stories for four sisters from the east who step out in faith from a fathers death to becoming mail order brides to four brothers in Wyoming. The brothers are unexpected blessings once the ladies get past their circumstances.
September 16, 2016
Sweet novellas about 4 sisters who are mail order brides in the Wyoming territory.
January 26, 2013
This was totally awesome!!! and I don't really know why!!!
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