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Short-Straw Bride
Short-Straw Bride
Short-Straw Bride
Audiobook11 hours

Short-Straw Bride

Written by Karen Witemeyer

Narrated by Pilar Witherspoon

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

4.5/5

()

About this audiobook

RITA Award finalist Karen Witemeyer pens heartwarming historical romances that lift the spirit and the soul. Short-Straw Bride finds Meredith Hayes struggling to let go of her childhood crush on Travis Archer - the strapping young lad who saved her as a little girl. With a sensible proposal from the eligible Roy Mitchell on the table, it's time for her to move on. But when Meredith overhears a plot to drive Travis and his brothers off their coveted land, she has no choice but to intervene.
LanguageEnglish
Release dateJul 27, 2012
ISBN9781464048821
Short-Straw Bride
Author

Karen Witemeyer

Voted #1 Reader's Favorite Christian Historical Author of 2023 by Family Fiction magazine, bestselling and Carol and Christy Award-winning author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. She and her husband make their home in Abilene, Texas. Learn more about Karen and her books at KarenWitemeyer.com.

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Reviews for Short-Straw Bride

Rating: 4.724137931034483 out of 5 stars
4.5/5

58 ratings11 reviews

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  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    (4 1/2 stars!)So far, reading Karen Witemeyer has been a pure pleasure. The first time I read Head in the Clouds, I fell completely in love with her writing. The richness of the stories she writes and the depths of the characters is both engrossing and addictive. In Short Straw Bride, she did not disappoint. From the beginning, the first meeting between Travis and Meri, the story took off and pulled me along like a very little girl walking a very big, very excited dog.My favorite character, besides Sadie the dog (because, honestly, who wouldn’t love Sadie?) was actually Myra Jackson. She wasn’t the most prominent of characters. In fact, you only see her in three scenes of the book, but they are meaningful scenes that show what a strong character she has. The first is when we see that she is the teacher of the freedman’s school, and she not only does it with patience and kindness, she also does it with intelligence and compassion. The second time we see her, it is when she is advising Meredith on how to go about convincing Travis to “end his courtship.” She shows her maternal instinct and a gentle, friendly sense of humor in that scene. The final time she appears is as part of the rescue mob coming to give Cassie a wedding “shivaree.” She shows bravery and level-headedness, and a determination to do what she has to do to protect her friends and family. In short, she reminds me of my mom. No wonder I like her the best.Actually, I enjoyed the characters of Travis and Meredith, particularly their interactions in the beginning. Meredith seems fearless and utterly confident; nothing fazes her, including Travis’s ordering her around “for her own good.” And he, poor man, seems to have no idea what to do with the strong-willed woman who has suddenly and irrevocably found her way into his life and his heart. I think it’s incredibly sweet, the way they dance around each other, completely unsure of what the other is thinking or wanting.Throughout the story, however, the underlying current of unease, knowing that disaster could be right around the corner in the form of the unscrupulous Roy Mitchell keeps you hooked when the relationship issues become too sweet and predictable. You’re waiting for the other shoe to drop, and it finally does- in spectacular fashion. I do have to say, though, poor Meredith! She has an incredible penchant for disaster! It’s humorous even while you’re pitying the poor girl and those in charge of keeping her safe.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Everyone knows that those who trespasses on Archer land do so at their own peril. Even so, Meredith Hayes can’t ignore the scheme she overhears. She has to warn the Archer brothers before their ranch is burned down. She’s had a thing she can’t shake for Travis Archer ever since he rescued her when she was caught in one of his traps. But Travis barely remembers her, and she feels like a fool, especially when what she meant as a good deed backfires. At her uncle’s insistence, the Archer men draw straws to figure out who will marry her.Author Karen Witemeyer brings an intriguing love story to life in Short Straw Bride. The characters are flawed enough to be real, their peril gripping, and the unusual love story warms the heart. The plot moves at a fast clip while still managing to give a look into the process of healing from past wounds. Short Straw Bride delivers a delightful mix of love, history, and adventure.I recommend Short Straw Bride for adult readers who enjoy historical romance set in the American West.*My thanks to the publisher for a complimentary review copy of this title.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    This story is very slow but not boring after I listen a second time I think this story is a little far fetched and light on the romance I like the Archer brothers but not Meredith she's a little over the top
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Bethany House recently sent me a copy of Short-Straw Bride by Karen Witemeyer to read and review. Short-Straw Bride is a 363 page Christian historical romance novel, which was released in June 2012. The author, Karen Witemeyer has written 3 other books published by Bethany House. A while back I read her novel, A Tailor-Made Bride, and really enjoyed it. So, I jumped at the chance to read Short-Straw Bride. Even just looking at the cute cover made me want to dive in and start reading. I’m really loving the way Christian publishers are doing their romance novel covers. They are such a VAST improvement from the smutty secular romance covers you see staring down from the book store shelves! The sweet cover art on Short-Straw Bride gives a good idea of the sort of romance to expect. So a round of applause to the cover designer.Short-Straw Bride Plot SummaryNo one steps on Archer land. Not if they value their life. But when Meredith Hayes overhears a lethal plot to burn the Archer brothers off their ranch, a twelve-year-old debt compels her to take the risk.Fourteen years of constant vigilance hardens a man. Yet when Travis Archer confronts a female trespasser with the same vivid blue eyes as the courageous young girl he once aided, he can’t bring himself to send her away. And when an act of sacrifice leaves her injured and her reputation in shreds, gratitude and guilt send him riding to her rescue once again.Four brothers. Four straws. One bride. Despite the fact that Travis is no longer the gallant youth Meredith once dreamed about, she determines to stand by his side against the enemy that threatens them both. But will love ever be hers? Or will Travis always see her merely as a short-straw bride?My Thoughts About Short-Straw BrideFrom start to finish, I.LOVED.THIS.BOOK! Short-Straw Bride was a really fun and light-hearted read. I felt the characters were well crafted and true to life. I especially like Meredith and Travis. Their relationship is sweet. I also got a hoot out of the rest of the Archer brothers. I sincerely hope Witemeyer plans on making a series out of them! If she does, I know that I will be first in line to purchase them. I really love light-hearted, sweet romances and Short-Straw Bride certainly fit the bill. Short-Straw Bride is one of those books where when you come to the end, you simply sigh and wish it could go on. Witemeyer has now gone to the top of my favorite authors list. I’m planning on picking up the other 2 novels of hers that I haven’t read: Head in the Clouds and To Win Her Heart. Short-Straw Bride by Karen Witemeyer is such an enjoyable read that I can’t recommend it enough to fans of this genre of book!NOTICE: Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this item free from the creator. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Short Straw Bride is a story of learning, trusting and determination. I love that both Travis and Meridith do what they know is "right" even when it is the more difficult choice. Their determination to help others and do what is right leads them both down paths that are a bit unconventional, but eventually leads to a much better reward.I enjoyed reading this book. It is well-written, and full of adventure, love and trust. A great book for those who love clean fiction. Although it is a Christian Fiction book, I feel that those who like a good adventure with some clean romance will enjoy it as well. There is mention of God and Faith, but not preachy. I love the honest feelings and thoughts, and the realistic relationship issues throughout the story.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Can a short straw bride ever find love?This story had me instantly hooked. It started out with a good deed that set a precedent for the rest of the story. The theme throughout the book was about loving not only your family, but your neighbors as well. A life without friends and loved ones is really no life at all and Travis learns this the hard way. This was a story filled with courage, hope, and most of all love. The writing style was captivating and filled with wisdom that really spoke to me. I was hesitant to read this at first because it isn’t the type of book I normally read, but I was so glad that I gave it a chance. It is simply a beautiful story that I would recommend to everyone even if they don’t care for romances because it is so much more than that.Travis is no storybook hero. He is simply a man that has had to grow up way too fast and does his best to protect those he loves. He is very honorable and though he makes mistakes he does his best to live his life the only way he knows how. He was a memorable character and seeing him grow into an even greater man throughout the book was a really enjoyable experience. Through faith, hardships, and his love for his family and Meredith he learns that opening his heart to others is a blessing not a burden. Meredith was a sweet and strong hearted woman who was no stranger to heartache. She had been bullied from a young age first for her beliefs and then for her unfortunate injury. I admired her greatly for her courage in facing these problems with her chin up and a smile. She did not wallow in despair when tragedy struck instead she fought for what she believed in and stayed strong. She is not perfect however and goes through some moments of weakness, but with help from friends and loves ones she doesn’t stay that way for long. She is a beautiful soul both inside and out. Meredith is a character that will stay in my heart for years to come.A beautiful story that I highly recommend!
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    This was a delightful story from start to finish, that will leave you smiling at the end. It is my first time reading anything by Karen Witemeyer and I am looking forward to reading more of her books. I don't often give out 5 stars, but this story I just found a pleasure to read all the way through. There was, of course, romance, but there was also laughter, danger, sacrifice and gallantry. I also really liked the cover of this book as it went so well with the story.Meredith Hayes has overheard a plot that someone is going to burn down the Archer brothers ranch. The Archer brothers have grown up literally on their land, without venturing off, and someone is out to do them harm. Meredith must become the first female to trespass on to their land and warn them. She is pretty and feisty and not afraid to put herself in danger because she also has a tender heart. When trouble breaks out she finds herself stuck on the ranch with the 4 brothers, who must draw straws and one of them must marry her to keep her reputation from being ruined. Travis, the oldest, draws the short straw and from there it is just a matter of time before they both learn what the other is truly feeling about the marriage. There was alot going on throughout the story and it was fast paced. I liked each of the brothers and the closeness they had with each other and it would make a great series to get to know what happens to each one of them. This story is similar to Mary Connealy writing style, so if you like her books, you are going to love this one. It is a warm-hearted story that will leave you with a smile on your face.I would like to thank Bethany House for sending me a copy of this book for my honest review.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    I actually started this book the day I received it. I got through the first chapter, then life happened. I was so glad to pick it back up. It is one of many I have begun and not had a chance to finish.This is the story of a set of brothers known as the Archer Boys. They are reclusive and are doing everything they can to keep and protect their land. Meredith, at the beginning of the book is a young girl. A bully takes her lunch pail and tosses it away. He didn't mean for it to go onto the Archer property. After all, everyone has hear all of the stories about what happens to people when they go on the Archer land. Meredith has to decide whether to be brave enough to go find her pail, or face her parents and tell them the lunch pail is gone. It is a no-brainer. She enters the woods and finds the pail only to step in one of the traps laid out by the Archers. Travis Archer finds this young girl. Through the entire ordeal she tries to put up a brave front. He can't get that or the look in her eyes out of his head as he takes her home.Several years pass and Meredith has been sent to her uncle's house. It is while she is hear she learns of a plot to take over the Archer land. She has has a crush on Travis since the day he rescued her. She figures the least she can do is warn them. Remember, this is a time when what people perceived or thought could ruin your reputation. Meredith must stay overnight and thus her reputation is ruined. The boys must draw straws to decide who will do the honorable thing and marry Meredith. Truth be known, Travis has never been able to get her out of his mind, so he fixes the straws so that he wins. They are married. Meredith is a lovable character who seems to always bumble things or get hurt while trying to prove herself worthy of Travis' love. Travis comes across as her rescuer, usually rescuing her from herself. This is a wonderful romance. Themes of honor, love and trust in each other and in God abound throughout the book. This is a definite recommendation to all lovers of historical fiction and romance books.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Outstanding story very intense
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    What a cleanly-written, delightful story. There is plenty of drama, humor and action.The story reminds me somewhat of "Seven Brides For Seven Brothers".The story was full of action and humor for the first part but the it died out for awhile and that point of the story was slightly 'driven into the ground'.The ending, however picked up in action though quite predictable.It is a story well-worth reading and sharing.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Excellent book! Lots of story! This book was never boring and moved along at a very nice pace. It was interesting throughout the complete story. Narrator was great, well done with well Defined characters.
    Highly recommend!