Mattie and the Blacksmith (Bogus Brides)

Rating:
Summary: Humorous and delightful -- Highly recommended
Review: Most folks come to the far west and the wild prairie to start over. Single women are not allowed to live in McTavish Plain, according to the town's founder, because they somehow lead to gambling and whiskey, which can lead to loose morals. So that she may live in McTavish Plain, Mattie creates and embellishes a sea captain husband. Her creation also gave her time to find "a sensitive man with a soul and intellect that suited her." When one of her students becomes intent on setting Mattie up with his uncle, however, Mattie comes to realize what she really wants out of life.

Roamer Tresh believes that women are too much trouble to court and keep. Unfortunately, his nephew Scout's escapades at school continually require him to cross paths with the lively teacher. As his well-meaning neighbors insist that Roamer marry to give Scout a mother, Roamer finds his resolve to avoid love and women tested to the fullest extent. Not only must he find a wife or leave town, but the romantic minded schoolmarm is assigned the task of helping Roamer write the letters that will secure his mail-order bride.

The premise of three sisters arriving in McTavish Plain pretending to have husbands, makes this second book of the series, MATTIE AND THE BALCKSMITH, a delight. With humorous pranks bringing Mattie and Roamer together, and an underlying threat of danger to Scout, MATTIE AND THE BALCKSMITH brings great reading pleasure. Highly recommended.