A Reader's Opinion: "In Want of a Wife" by Jo Goodman

The Book

"Dazzling" --Publishers Weekly (starred review)   When his mail-order bride arrives from New York, a Wyoming rancher gets more than he bargained for in this first-rate romance from the bestselling Jo Goodman.  For fans of Linda Lael Miller and Catherine Anderson.

SHE HAS NOWHERE LEFT TO TURN
Jane Middlebourne needs a way out. In 1891, life in New York is unforgiving for a young woman with no prospects, especially when her family wants nothing to do with her. So when Jane discovers an ad for a mail-order bride needed in Bitter Springs, Wyoming, she responds with a hopeful heart. 

HE HAS EVERYTHING TO LOSE
Rancher Morgan Longstreet is in want of a wife who will be his partner at Morning Star, someone who will work beside him and stand by him. His first impression of the fair and fragile Jane is that she is not that woman. But when she sets out to prove him wrong, the secrets he cannot share put into jeopardy every happiness they hope to find….

A Reader's Opinion

This is my fourth read by Jo Goodman, and I can't seem to get enough of this author's style or the characters she creates. Although In Want of a Wife isn't my favorite book by Goodman, the story still has so much to offer in terms of entertainment. I enjoyed revisiting characters from the other two books in the Bitter Springs series, and felt they rounded out the story nicely, most especially Finn and Rabbit, both of whom "steal the show" in each book. Like all of Goodman's books, I'm drawn into the lives of her characters and their stories. This one had a few unexpected developments, which I always appreciate in a good story. Morgan and Jane are both likeable characters who spend most of the book getting to know one another. I most especially appreciate their lack of drama. They approach situations with calm and on solid footing. Their romance is like a slow burn until it bursts into flames once they're in eachother's arms. 

Another great read by Jo Goodman. The Bitter Springs books can be read as stand-alone, but to truly appreciate all of the characters, I recommend starting with book one. It was my favorite, and I don't believe you'll be disappointed. 

Content note: Like all of Goodman's books that I've read, there are some steaming hot and graphic scenes. Easy enough to skip over, but they're there.

Edition Read: Mass Market Paperback

Book Source: From the reviewers' private collection

Publisher: Berkley 

Series: Bitter Springs (Book 3)

Print Length: 385 pages

ISBN-13: 978-0425264171

Visit the author at www.jogoodman.com.  

Find the book at Amazon | Kindle | B&N | Books-A-Million | iBooks

 

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