The Pursuit of Miss Parish

 Love’s gentle promise becomes nothing more than a withered dream.

With dreams of love and a hope for belonging, shy Belle Parish leaves her position as a maid in Charleston to travel to New Mexico with her best friend to become mail-order brides. Colt Lawson’s letters hold great promise and while his devilishly handsome face matches his picture, something does not add up. Discovering his lie only moments before they wed, Belle flees the church and straight into the Castañeda Hotel Harvey House. Giving up the prospect on ever marrying, she dons her nun-like uniform and focuses on her role as a Harvey Girl waitress until a strong Texas Ranger rides into her life.

Colt Lawson didn’t want to send that letter to Belle Parish in the first place, but her first response had all but captured his heart. When he is left standing at the altar alone, he is left with two choices—either release his dream of a love marriage, or attempt to win her heart. Wooing her would be a lot easier if that Texas Ranger wasn’t back in town. Who wants a dusty rancher with a past when she could have a shining knight in a Stetson?

My thoughts: I enjoy stories about mail order brides and the Harvey Girls, so I was thrilled to see that this book combines the two! I can only imagine how hard it would be to be in Belle's shoes, to go to a strange place thinking  you will be married, only to have to find work instead. What a blessing to have a job available, back in those days! 
I love how there is a lot going on in this story, with Colt's secrets, Belle's work, and the lawless gang terrorizing the West. This is an enjoyable story to pick up and enjoy!

I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.