The Mail Order Bride's Secret by Linda Broday

While this was a well-written and entertaining story, it was a tough one for me to get hooked into and stay involved in until about half way through. While I liked both main characters, I just never really connected to either of them the way I normally would have expected/hoped. I can't pinpoint exactly what it was because I enjoyed the plot line and there was lots to love about both Tait and Mellie (and the kids), so maybe it was just the timing of reading it. The last half—most especially the last big "event"—is what saved this book for me and made me glad I kept pushing through.

Tait and Mellie both had some pretty horrific pasts and heavy burdens they were carrying, both afraid to fully trust in what they got in each other and grasp hold of something good. I could feel Tait's struggle especially. I appreciated after the big reveal of Mellie's secret that after the dust from the explosion settled, there was a maturity to how they interacted with each other - even though I wished it would have played out a bit differently.

The last part of the book where everything built to it's ultimate climax kept me at the edge of my seat watching how all the threads weaved together. I adored the strength and love shown through actions (in all the relationships, not just between Tait and Mellie), the bonds made, the way everything worked out.

Readers who enjoy some laughter mixed in with drama (almost angsty)-fueled secrets and a good bit of old-fashioned shoot-'em-up action will enjoy this story.

Saving the Mail Order Bride by Linda Broday

From the moment Jack winked at Nora in the stagecoach, I fell in love and never looked back!

I was intrigued by the glimpse of Jack's story that we caught in the previous book, and knew I needed him to find himself attached to his happy ever after soon. And haha, boy did he! Literally.

I simply adored how Jack and Nora met, how their spark lit up their connection, how quickly and naturally they grew to care and depend on the other -- and then ultimately need and fully desire the other. How they communicated, and how they refused to let anything come between them from moment one. And truly, how it was them taking on the world together from the beginning.

Jack claimed my reader's heart with his presence - he was rough, tough, strong, bossy, stubborn - but buried under that was a honor and respect and devotion that perfectly balanced him out. He had such a deep sense of loyalty to his brothers-in-arms and to his family he was building. And then add in the swoony charm he threw in pursuing his Nora? Oh yeah, I was a gonner. Nora, oh my goodness! This woman was perfection for Jack. She had guts, sass, determination, bravery, and such a huge amazing heart of gold. She didn't allow her past to destroy her, she figured out what she wanted and needed and went after it with a passion. And despite the struggles, she remained soft and sweet. I truly adored them separately, and then together as a couple.

The adventure and dangers kept the pages turning - delivering quite a few surprises and heart-pounding moments. And generously balanced in was some moments of peace and beauty. Toss in some beloved secondary characters and main characters from past stories (Hello, Sam Legend - I'm looking at you, sir!) and I couldn't get enough.

Honestly, no joke -- my upmost favorite LB hero, Duel McClain, just had to scoot over to the side to let Jack have room next to him (I think they both kinda grumbled at each other having to share the space). Please, do NOT make me choose between them. They both rule as favorites in the Linda Broday's little corner of Texas. So much of their story felt like it was written for me. Jack and Nora will remain treasured in my heart, and will be revisited often.

The Outlaw's Mail Order Bride by Linda Broday

Clay and Tally's story delivers an emotional, heart-rocking, and hard-won happily-ever-after!

From the first chapters, my heart twisted both good and bad with all their emotions!! So much pain and confusion accompanied by longing and desire from both of them just trying to figure out who they were, what they needed and wanted, how to get it, and how to let go. You experience Tally's intense struggle with figuring out how to trust Clay, a stranger who is now her husband. You can't help but be charmed by Clay's natural instincts to protect and provide for his new wife and daughter. My heart rejoiced with them as they finally were able to find and nurture a fragile trust-filled bond between them. Watching their connection continue to strengthen swept my heart into pitter-patters! Throw in a delightful little girl in Violet (seriously, you gotta love that little girl!), a beautifully loyal fur-baby in Bullet, and some beloved (cross over) characters, and you get some heartwarming smiles!

I loved the lessons taught in digging deeper beyond the surface of what you think you know in a person. Don't be so quick to judge or believe that there isn't some hidden story that can change how you perceive a person. You may be surprised to discover who all that statement applies to (including real life - not just in this book fiction-wise). Clay was one for me, because I think you first see him as a more gentle kinda guy and may wonder about the outlaw rough-and-tumble side of him—but hang on because when the poop hits the fan...... Clay is definitely someone you want at your back!

If you love stories with intense emotional connections, a splash of giggles, a handful of adventures, and a beautifully stirring love story, you need to dive into The Outlaw's Mail Order Bride.