about the book

Abigail Brantley grew up in affluence and knows exactly how to behave in high society. But when she is cast from the social registers due to her father’s illegal dealings, she finds herself forced into a role she never imagined: tutoring rough Kansas ranchers in the subjects of manners and morals so they can “marry up” with their mail-order brides.

Mack Cleveland, whose uncle was swindled by a mail-order bride, wants no part of the scheme to bring Eastern women to Spiveyville, Kansas, and he’s put off by the snooty airs and fastidious behavior of the “little city gal” in their midst. But as time goes by, his heart goes out to the teacher who tries so diligently to smooth the rough edges from the down-to-earth men. How can he teach her that perfection won’t bring happiness?

goodreads | amazon | bookdepository | christianbook

my thoughts

Readers of all ages will enjoy this lovely sweet and often humorous story! Abigail Brantley has lived a comfortable life in elite society and she’s more than a little bit stuck in her prissy city ways. While I immediately sympathized with her plight, it still took me a little while to warm up to her. Helena Bingham, Abigail’s employer and friend, is a refreshing Titus 2 woman and her careful matchmaking warmed my heart.

Mack Cleveland is my kind of guy, a faithful mister steady. He isn’t quite as rough around the edges as other residents of male-dominated Spiveyville and despite the fact that he hasn’t jumped on the mail-order bride bandwagon, the arrival of the fancy Eastern ladies soon improves his manners as well. Mack’s friend and affirmed bachelor, Sherriff Bill Thorn sees past the pretty faces and refined manner of their guests to the trouble their presence could spark.

Fans of Hallmark and simply sweet historical romance will be delighted by this book and I found it was a lovely change of pace!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.

about the author

Award-winning, bestselling author Kim Vogel Sawyer told her kindergarten teacher that someday people would check out her book in the library. The little-girl dream came true in 2006 with the release of Waiting for Summer’s Return. Kim’s titles now exceed 1.5 million copies and are available in six different languages.

A former elementary school teacher, she now enjoys a full-time writing and speaking ministry. Kim’s passion lies in writing stories that point the reader to a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. When Kim isn’t writing, you’ll find her traveling with her retired military hubby, spoiling her granddarlings, petting the cats, quilting, or–as time allows–participating in community theater.

You can learn more about Kim’s writing and speaking ministries at her website.