Short Straw Bride by Karen Witemeyer

Title: Short Straw Bride
Author: Karen Witemeyer
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Rating: 5 Stars
Source: Bought

Synopsis:

No 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?

Buy Links

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My Thoughts

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!