The Unexpected Wife

By Mary Burton

The Unexpected Wife by Mary Burton released on May 25, 2004 is available now for purchase.

• Format: Mass Market Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0373293089
• ISBN13: 9780373293087
• Release Date: May 2004
• Publisher: Harlequin Special Releases
• Length: 304 Pages
• Weight: 0.35 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 4.2" x 6.6"

Customer Reviews

The Unexpected Wife is an Unexpected Find!

Absolutely terrific! I found this emotional tale very heartwarming and I couldn't put it down! Don't pass up this five star read!

BETTER THAN A 4 - MORE GENTLE THAN MOST

Matthias Barrington is a strong, hurting man yet we get the impression he can be dangerous if pushed. Abigail Smyth turns out to be just the right woman for this man and his sons. It is not long than she has his little 3 and 4 year old sons laughing again. Abby was expecting a house similar to San Francisco standards and did she get a surprise when she sees Matthias's ranch house. Matt's refusing to marry again battled with his falling in lust with Abby. He has no love left to offer. Holden McGowan, nearing his 35th year, runs a stage line to Crickhollow, Montana and is in cahoots with Hilda Marie Clements to get Matt married. The stories behind these men [what little there is] makes these characters fascinating. Possessiveness, jealosy, lust, great story binders plus that nasty elusive bear. I can't wait for Holdens story -- definitely a wonderful keeper. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - HARD TO PUT DOWN

enjoyable late nineteenth century American romance

In 1879 Crickhollow, Montana, rancher Matthias Barrington buries his wife and unborn child. His father-in-law stays for a while to help the beleaguered Matthias raise his two young sons, but the winter has taken its toll on the older man, who will leave for his warmer home soon.In San Francisco, as her younger cousin gets married, orphan Abigail Smith writes yes to Matthias' mail order proposal. However, her aunt and uncle reject her leaving town. Treated more like a servant, Abigail sneaks out for Montana and her new life.In Montana, Abigail learns that Matthias did not correspond with her as well meaning friends did. Having no other options except crawling, she persuades him to give her the summer working with the boys at the ranch and if at the end of her trial period he still refuses to marry her she will leave. As love begins to flow between the adults and Matthias sees how nurturing Abigail is to his sons, he knows he must ask her to stay as his spouse, but also feels guilty that he is betraying the memory of his beloved first wife.THE UNEXPECTED WIFE is an enjoyable late nineteenth century American romance. Though Abigail's family especially her cousin is unappreciative, the Montana cast is a caring group. Matthias is a fabulous protagonist struggling to raise his two sons and run a ranch. The Montana mob adds understanding of his character as they prove by their actions how much they respect him and worry about his stress. Abigail is a wonderful intrepid soul who readers will cherish as she makes other cast members and readers appreciate life.Harriet Klausner