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Buttons & Bobbins #4
Snowflake Bride
Grateful when she's hired as the Davises' maid, Ruby Ballard vows to help save her family's farm. There's just one problem: the boss's handsome son, Lorenzo. He makes her forget family duty, forget her lowly place, even forget her friends who are in love with him! But his love is a gift that could never be hers—not even for Christmas.
Lorenzo knows Ruby is the only woman he could marry. Yet the quiet beauty refuses his courtship. As the holidays approach, he will make both their wishes come true, when he claims her at last as his snowflake bride.
Lorenzo knows Ruby is the only woman he could marry. Yet the quiet beauty refuses his courtship. As the holidays approach, he will make both their wishes come true, when he claims her at last as his snowflake bride.
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 1, 2011
22 people are currently reading
283 people want to read
About the author
Jillian Hart
192Ìýbooks596ÌýfollowersJillian Hart grew up on her family's homestead in Washington state, where she raised cattle, rode horses and scribbled stories in her spare time.
After earning her English degree from Whitman College, she worked in travel and advertising before selling her first novel.
When Jillian isn't working on her next story, she can be found puttering around her rose garden, curled up with a good book and spending quiet evenings at home with her family.
After earning her English degree from Whitman College, she worked in travel and advertising before selling her first novel.
When Jillian isn't working on her next story, she can be found puttering around her rose garden, curled up with a good book and spending quiet evenings at home with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
October 26, 2011
Snowflake Bride by Jillian Hart Book 4 in Buttons & Bobbins Series
Ruby Ballard has not had the easiest life. Her mother died giving her life and at five her dad was injured and they lived with relatives. The last nine months of her life have been some of the best, if you don't count Narcissa Bell. Coming to a new school was hard and Narcissa did not help with her taunts on Ruby's second hand clothing but before she knew it she was surrounded by new friends. And a secret admirer that she never noticed in the background. Their farm was her first home since she was five. But life took a turn, her brother Rupert lost his job and her father could not find one. Ruby was blessed to get a job at the Davis household as a kitchen maid. Little did she know that the most drooled over young man in school, Lorenzo Davis, only had eyes for her. Between knowing her friends Kate and Scarlet were in love with Lorenzo and knowing they were about to lose their farm and move on, Ruby did all she could to hold her heart back from Lorenzo. Only her heart was not listening.
Lorenzo had fallen for the platinum haired blue eyed gal the first day she entered the school room. She never gave him notice though. Now that his mother hired her and he could see her each day he planned on seeing if he had a chance for her love. He quickly found out that she put everyone before herself and in this case, she could not bear to leave her father. What good would his family's wealth be if the only gem he wanted left?
Another great book in this series. Jillian has a great way of putting stories together that will pull your heartstrings and a few tears from your eyes as well. We also see a glimpse of Earlee in each book as she writes letters to Finn McKaslin who is in prison, which keeps us on pins and needles for the next book in the series, which will be Scarlet's story and not Earlee's.
Find out more about this series on my blog...
Ruby Ballard has not had the easiest life. Her mother died giving her life and at five her dad was injured and they lived with relatives. The last nine months of her life have been some of the best, if you don't count Narcissa Bell. Coming to a new school was hard and Narcissa did not help with her taunts on Ruby's second hand clothing but before she knew it she was surrounded by new friends. And a secret admirer that she never noticed in the background. Their farm was her first home since she was five. But life took a turn, her brother Rupert lost his job and her father could not find one. Ruby was blessed to get a job at the Davis household as a kitchen maid. Little did she know that the most drooled over young man in school, Lorenzo Davis, only had eyes for her. Between knowing her friends Kate and Scarlet were in love with Lorenzo and knowing they were about to lose their farm and move on, Ruby did all she could to hold her heart back from Lorenzo. Only her heart was not listening.
Lorenzo had fallen for the platinum haired blue eyed gal the first day she entered the school room. She never gave him notice though. Now that his mother hired her and he could see her each day he planned on seeing if he had a chance for her love. He quickly found out that she put everyone before herself and in this case, she could not bear to leave her father. What good would his family's wealth be if the only gem he wanted left?
Another great book in this series. Jillian has a great way of putting stories together that will pull your heartstrings and a few tears from your eyes as well. We also see a glimpse of Earlee in each book as she writes letters to Finn McKaslin who is in prison, which keeps us on pins and needles for the next book in the series, which will be Scarlet's story and not Earlee's.
Find out more about this series on my blog...
January 4, 2016
Have you ever wondered how it would have felt to be poor? Not just poor in that you could not get the gift you were hoping for at Christmas, or that you were unable to travel to your grandparents. So poor that your clothes had patches on patches? Jillian does a fantastic job of bringing the reader into the story. I turned up my thermostat when Ruby’s shoes were so tattered that snow bunched up inside, and turned on the lights in my house when the blizzard was raging (though I am in the Phoenix area) and you could not see in front of you. Pulled the blankets a little tighter when the wind howled, and thought about the story long after I finished reading the book. This is book three in the Buttons and Bobbins Love Inspired Historicals series by Jillian Hart. I have not read the others, but I will be looking for them because I would like to find out Ruby’s friends� stories, as well.
Thank you Jillian for the opportunity to read this book. I was given a free book for the purpose of writing a review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions are my own.
Thank you Jillian for the opportunity to read this book. I was given a free book for the purpose of writing a review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions are my own.
July 5, 2016
This was a sweet and easy to read story that simply left me with a happy feeling at the end of the book. I read this book in the summer, however, it would be a great choice to read during Christmas or the winter months. I liked both main characters and the fact that they were both honorable people. It was an interesting storyline and even though it was part of a series, I had no trouble reading Snowflake Bride as a stand alone novel.
November 25, 2015
Snowflake Bride is the fourth book to Jillian Hart's Buttons and Bobbins series. It was really cute. Almost as soon as I started reading, I sensed that it was going to be a really sweet love story, more the kind that I like. And it was, :)
Ruby Ballard is a young woman determined to get a job at the Davis estate and help provide for her family. Lorenzo is the son on her may-be employers, and has admired Ruby since almost as long as he can remember. He's hoping to court her, but she believes accepting his suit would be betraying her family and friends...
Just a lovely little story. It was sweet and engaging, full of surprises and with an almost Cinderella theme. I really enjoyed it. The only things that got kind of old was Ruby's seemingly misguided sense of duty to her family and friends. Seventeen or eighteen, I don't feel she has an obligation to provide for her father and older brother instead of getting married to the young man she loves. However, she stayed stubborn to this theory until they were cared for. Also, she felt guilty for falling for Lorenzo because two of her friends had a crush on him. Kindness, selflessness, and sensitivity are important, but Ruby seemed to have the weight of the world on her shoulders, and it was never completely resolved.
So yes, that was a little frustrating. But overall, it was quite a darling story, and a lot of fun.
Ruby Ballard is a young woman determined to get a job at the Davis estate and help provide for her family. Lorenzo is the son on her may-be employers, and has admired Ruby since almost as long as he can remember. He's hoping to court her, but she believes accepting his suit would be betraying her family and friends...
Just a lovely little story. It was sweet and engaging, full of surprises and with an almost Cinderella theme. I really enjoyed it. The only things that got kind of old was Ruby's seemingly misguided sense of duty to her family and friends. Seventeen or eighteen, I don't feel she has an obligation to provide for her father and older brother instead of getting married to the young man she loves. However, she stayed stubborn to this theory until they were cared for. Also, she felt guilty for falling for Lorenzo because two of her friends had a crush on him. Kindness, selflessness, and sensitivity are important, but Ruby seemed to have the weight of the world on her shoulders, and it was never completely resolved.
So yes, that was a little frustrating. But overall, it was quite a darling story, and a lot of fun.
November 26, 2011
I've read almost everything by this author and I love her a lot, but I do not recall her 1880s girls ever saying, "Hey, you guys," before. Or "I need to get my stuff." Really, copy editor? Really? The whole book read a little too modern like this, and for being such an awesome guy, why didn't Lorenzo ever call the Mean Girl out for the things she said to Ruby? He heard and ignored it? That's not very hero-like. All of the conflicts set up (class, mother, Mean Girl) ultimately meant nothing and nothing came of them. Bewildering. The snow descriptions were lovely, though.
December 28, 2018
Boring and redundant. How many times will she almost faint from his presence? I liked the Lorenzo character and the bullies and her hard work , but it didn’t come together for me.
December 23, 2024
2.5 stars. This one’s part of a series, you’ll probably get a little more out of the friendship group by reading the previous books but this story reads fine as a standalone.
If you’re reaching for this in the mood for Christmas, look elsewhere, the tagline on the cover may reference happiness waiting under a Christmas tree, however, this story features hardly any holiday content, though there are strong wintery vibes with the always snowy setting.
I thought this did a solid job of illustrating Ruby’s financial hardships, how desperate she is to get a job, the pain she’s willing to endure to keep it and the smaller things like second-hand clothes and buttons popping off her shoes, I certainly felt for her situation.
Ruby’s challenging circumstances drew me in for short bursts, but more often than not the story felt extremely slow-going, maybe because the majority of the romantic conflicts were on the flimsy side, all of them from friends to parents ultimately amounted to nothing, that issue with the friends the weakest of all, bordering on ridiculous. Had this leaned in harder on the potential obstacle Lorenzo’s parents initially presented, maybe that could have made this more of a page-turner, but that fizzled out as did most everything else standing in their way. For me, their relationship hurdles were just too easy to overcome.
If you’re reaching for this in the mood for Christmas, look elsewhere, the tagline on the cover may reference happiness waiting under a Christmas tree, however, this story features hardly any holiday content, though there are strong wintery vibes with the always snowy setting.
I thought this did a solid job of illustrating Ruby’s financial hardships, how desperate she is to get a job, the pain she’s willing to endure to keep it and the smaller things like second-hand clothes and buttons popping off her shoes, I certainly felt for her situation.
Ruby’s challenging circumstances drew me in for short bursts, but more often than not the story felt extremely slow-going, maybe because the majority of the romantic conflicts were on the flimsy side, all of them from friends to parents ultimately amounted to nothing, that issue with the friends the weakest of all, bordering on ridiculous. Had this leaned in harder on the potential obstacle Lorenzo’s parents initially presented, maybe that could have made this more of a page-turner, but that fizzled out as did most everything else standing in their way. For me, their relationship hurdles were just too easy to overcome.
December 16, 2021
I did not realize this was an inspirational historical. I'm not a fan of those kind of books. The story was basically the main characters falling in love but putting roadblocks in their way. Lorenzo was a woman's dream. Ruby was over the top saccharine sweet.
The front cover does not depict either of them accurately. It is a pet peeve of mine when the illustrator doesn't even take the time to read the book and find out the characters' description.
The front cover does not depict either of them accurately. It is a pet peeve of mine when the illustrator doesn't even take the time to read the book and find out the characters' description.
December 8, 2018
I really loved Ruby's story in this novel. The Cinderella Christmas tale was sweet, enjoyable, and very appealing. The characters are believable, and many of the moments touched my heart. A great, sweet, read.
December 10, 2019
Well written chaste western. Not much excitement, but a pleasant read. I found the biggest plot complication resolved a little too easily.
October 28, 2022
Wonderful romance. So sweet and loving.
January 13, 2024
A sweet coming of age novel in olden days.
February 4, 2025
2025 Read from my shelf. It's your typical fluffy romance read that is a pallette cleanser. Just a light hearted story.
December 18, 2011
Snowflake Bride by Jillian Hart
The author, Jillian Hart, graciously sent me a copy of her newest book in the Buttons & Bobbins series. I am under no obligation to write a positive review, just an honest one.
Snowflake Bride is a trip back in time to the late 1800s. We meet Ruby Ann Ballard, a sweet young woman who is suffering from dire circumstances. Ruby comes from a very meager background and must work hard to help support her family. Her father lost his job, sending Ruby on a search for work. But economic times are hard and only through much prayer is Ruby able to land a position working as a maid for the Davis family.
While Ruby's new job is a blessing, her brother, Rupert, loses his job and returns home to be with Ruby and their father. Finances are tight and there is the very real possibility that the Ballard family will be forced to leave their home before Christmas as they most likely won't be able to pay their mortgage.
Ruby is devastated. She has finally found happiness with some amazing friends in Angel Falls, and to have to leave them would be devastating. But she realizes she cannot be selfish and must be there for her father, no matter how difficult it is for her personally.
As Ruby spends her remaining few weeks in Angel Falls before her family loses their house, she continues to work for the Davis family. Mrs. Davis is so kind to Ruby, insisting on paying the doctor's bill when Ruby slips and breaks her wrist, and is just a generous employer in general. But even more captivating is Mrs. Davis' son, Lorenzo. He is quite the handsome man that Ruby used to go to school with, not that he'd ever notice her. Yet, she cannot help but notice him.
But, then again, every woman in the town notices him from her own two best friends who are in love with him, to her arch-nemesis, Narcissa, a rich, and quite pompous and conceited, rich girl who is the most likely match for Lorenzo as they both come from wealthy families.
However, it just might be that in the spirit of the Christmas season Lorenzo doesn't notice Narcissa, instead he notices a much sweeter and more gentle soul . . .
Will Ruby find happiness? Will she ever come to believe she deserves happiness? Is Lorenzo the man for her taking her life from rags to riches? Or is the Lord's plan that she leave with her father to go live with her Uncle? Or, maybe, is it that she and Lorenzo lead lives that are just too different for there to be a union between the two?
Read Snowflake Bride to find out!
Maybe it's just that I wanted to read anything not related to Estate and Git Taxation or Property Transactions, or maybe the book was just that captivating, but I plowed through it in just over 24 hours, really. I think, though, that it's the latter more so than the former.
Ruby is such a sweet and gentle young woman. While men may notice her outer, physical beauty, it is very clear that Ruby's heart is the most beautiful thing about her. She is willing to give up everything for anyone else who has need, and she puts everyone else before herself. She has nothing, but is grateful for everything she does have. And she is not ashamed to use the church's donation bin as a source of clothing for herself.
Then there is Lorenzo, the dashing young man who comes from much wealth. Clearly, he has never wanted for anything in his life. Yet, it is obvious that his parents have raised him well as he has no sense of entitlement or air of conceit about him. Lorenzo, too, has a good heart. And as you read the book it becomes so clear just how generous of a man he is, but I won't give too much away!
And Lorenzo's parents are just as wonderful. While so often in books the rich keep distinctly separate from the poor, believing themselves to be above poverty, this family is most certainly not like that. They are generous and good and willing to help out those in need. And, it is clear that they do not believe that they are better than anyone else, no matter the background that someone comes from.
But, in direct juxtaposition to this you have Narcissa. She is an example of what the worst of money can do to you. She is spoiled, entitled, and treats most others as beneath her. Everything about her from her name, implying self-loving, to her nickname for Ruby, "Rags" demonstrates what a bad heart Narcissa has.
The characters in this book are so believable and compelling. While of course a bit predictable, as romances can often be, there were elements of the story which I did not expect. I don't want to give anything away though!
Overall, this was such a pleasant Christmas read, and I absolutely loved that the true spirit of Christmas existed amongst many of the main characters.
4.5 out of 5 stars! I definitely must read this entire series!
The author, Jillian Hart, graciously sent me a copy of her newest book in the Buttons & Bobbins series. I am under no obligation to write a positive review, just an honest one.
Snowflake Bride is a trip back in time to the late 1800s. We meet Ruby Ann Ballard, a sweet young woman who is suffering from dire circumstances. Ruby comes from a very meager background and must work hard to help support her family. Her father lost his job, sending Ruby on a search for work. But economic times are hard and only through much prayer is Ruby able to land a position working as a maid for the Davis family.
While Ruby's new job is a blessing, her brother, Rupert, loses his job and returns home to be with Ruby and their father. Finances are tight and there is the very real possibility that the Ballard family will be forced to leave their home before Christmas as they most likely won't be able to pay their mortgage.
Ruby is devastated. She has finally found happiness with some amazing friends in Angel Falls, and to have to leave them would be devastating. But she realizes she cannot be selfish and must be there for her father, no matter how difficult it is for her personally.
As Ruby spends her remaining few weeks in Angel Falls before her family loses their house, she continues to work for the Davis family. Mrs. Davis is so kind to Ruby, insisting on paying the doctor's bill when Ruby slips and breaks her wrist, and is just a generous employer in general. But even more captivating is Mrs. Davis' son, Lorenzo. He is quite the handsome man that Ruby used to go to school with, not that he'd ever notice her. Yet, she cannot help but notice him.
But, then again, every woman in the town notices him from her own two best friends who are in love with him, to her arch-nemesis, Narcissa, a rich, and quite pompous and conceited, rich girl who is the most likely match for Lorenzo as they both come from wealthy families.
However, it just might be that in the spirit of the Christmas season Lorenzo doesn't notice Narcissa, instead he notices a much sweeter and more gentle soul . . .
Will Ruby find happiness? Will she ever come to believe she deserves happiness? Is Lorenzo the man for her taking her life from rags to riches? Or is the Lord's plan that she leave with her father to go live with her Uncle? Or, maybe, is it that she and Lorenzo lead lives that are just too different for there to be a union between the two?
Read Snowflake Bride to find out!
Maybe it's just that I wanted to read anything not related to Estate and Git Taxation or Property Transactions, or maybe the book was just that captivating, but I plowed through it in just over 24 hours, really. I think, though, that it's the latter more so than the former.
Ruby is such a sweet and gentle young woman. While men may notice her outer, physical beauty, it is very clear that Ruby's heart is the most beautiful thing about her. She is willing to give up everything for anyone else who has need, and she puts everyone else before herself. She has nothing, but is grateful for everything she does have. And she is not ashamed to use the church's donation bin as a source of clothing for herself.
Then there is Lorenzo, the dashing young man who comes from much wealth. Clearly, he has never wanted for anything in his life. Yet, it is obvious that his parents have raised him well as he has no sense of entitlement or air of conceit about him. Lorenzo, too, has a good heart. And as you read the book it becomes so clear just how generous of a man he is, but I won't give too much away!
And Lorenzo's parents are just as wonderful. While so often in books the rich keep distinctly separate from the poor, believing themselves to be above poverty, this family is most certainly not like that. They are generous and good and willing to help out those in need. And, it is clear that they do not believe that they are better than anyone else, no matter the background that someone comes from.
But, in direct juxtaposition to this you have Narcissa. She is an example of what the worst of money can do to you. She is spoiled, entitled, and treats most others as beneath her. Everything about her from her name, implying self-loving, to her nickname for Ruby, "Rags" demonstrates what a bad heart Narcissa has.
The characters in this book are so believable and compelling. While of course a bit predictable, as romances can often be, there were elements of the story which I did not expect. I don't want to give anything away though!
Overall, this was such a pleasant Christmas read, and I absolutely loved that the true spirit of Christmas existed amongst many of the main characters.
4.5 out of 5 stars! I definitely must read this entire series!
December 19, 2011
Ruby Ballard moved to town during her senior year and has lived a very hard life. Her Mother died when she was young and she wasn't able to attend school regularly because she stayed home a lot to take care of her Father and brother. She did get some home schooling but it wasn't enough for her to graduate with the rest of the class. Angel Falls, Montana was going to be a new start for them as they had fallen on very hard times and had to move in with her uncle for a while. Her Father had managed to save enough money for a down payment on the land and was now living his dream.
Ruby's was nicknamed Rags by Narcissa, a very rich "snob" in Angel Falls, even after Narcissa graduated she continued to make snide remarks and embarrass Ruby whenever possible. Ruby chose to ignore her and keep her feelings to herself, even her feelings about Lorenzo Davis. Lorenzo was the guy all of the girls wanted as their beau and dreamed about marrying, not only was he the handsomest man in town, but one of the richest.
Things have gotten hard for the Ballard family yet again, they are about to lose their land due to a new crop, and Rupert, Ruby's brother, has left home to find work and send money home. When Rupert loses his job, Ruby applies for a job as a maid at the Davis home. Walking to the interview, she loses the buttons on her shoes she'd gotten out of the clothes barrel at Church. As she's looking for her shoe buttons in the snow, Lorenzo, not believing his luck at seeing Ruby, pulls up and asks if she needs help. Ruby is so embarrassed but does eventually accept his offer of a ride so she can sew her buttons back onto her shoe, rather than having to do it when she arrives for the interview. Ruby gets her shoes repaired and is the first person to arrive for an interview, 20 minutes early even, thanks to Lorenzo. Selma, Lorenzo's Mother completes the interviews and sends Lorenzo to let Ruby know that she got the job and to be there Monday morning.
When Lorenzo is seen talking to Ruby, his Father tells him not to talk to her. He obeys his Father, but not completely and finds himself falling in love with Ruby. After slipping on the wet floor, Ruby ends up with a broken wrist but refuses to get it treated, she can't afford the doctor or to lose her job, and continues to work with it. Lucia, the head maid, tells on her for falling and Selma asks to talk to her alone.
Little does Ruby know that Lorenzo really likes her and has since her first day in Angel Falls. It's hard when the two of them seem attracted to each other, but she tries to push her feelings for Lorenzo away. She keeps telling herself that they live in two different worlds and she'd never be accepted into his world.
Life continues to get worse for the Ballard's, the banker comes a few days before Christmas to tell them he has to foreclose on the property but since it'll take a little bit of time they can live in the house until Christmas, now it's definite, they have to go back to her Father's brother's place to live. Ruby has to leave all of her friends, her job, and she will never see Lorenzo again.
This story will have you wanting to tell Narcissa off, pushing Ruby to accept Lorenzo's advances, and praying things change soon. Does Ruby get to keep her job, does Narcissa win Lorenzo over Ruby, and when they move will Lorenzo ever see Ruby again? I would definitely recommend this series to all Inspirational Historical Romance readers.
Ruby's was nicknamed Rags by Narcissa, a very rich "snob" in Angel Falls, even after Narcissa graduated she continued to make snide remarks and embarrass Ruby whenever possible. Ruby chose to ignore her and keep her feelings to herself, even her feelings about Lorenzo Davis. Lorenzo was the guy all of the girls wanted as their beau and dreamed about marrying, not only was he the handsomest man in town, but one of the richest.
Things have gotten hard for the Ballard family yet again, they are about to lose their land due to a new crop, and Rupert, Ruby's brother, has left home to find work and send money home. When Rupert loses his job, Ruby applies for a job as a maid at the Davis home. Walking to the interview, she loses the buttons on her shoes she'd gotten out of the clothes barrel at Church. As she's looking for her shoe buttons in the snow, Lorenzo, not believing his luck at seeing Ruby, pulls up and asks if she needs help. Ruby is so embarrassed but does eventually accept his offer of a ride so she can sew her buttons back onto her shoe, rather than having to do it when she arrives for the interview. Ruby gets her shoes repaired and is the first person to arrive for an interview, 20 minutes early even, thanks to Lorenzo. Selma, Lorenzo's Mother completes the interviews and sends Lorenzo to let Ruby know that she got the job and to be there Monday morning.
When Lorenzo is seen talking to Ruby, his Father tells him not to talk to her. He obeys his Father, but not completely and finds himself falling in love with Ruby. After slipping on the wet floor, Ruby ends up with a broken wrist but refuses to get it treated, she can't afford the doctor or to lose her job, and continues to work with it. Lucia, the head maid, tells on her for falling and Selma asks to talk to her alone.
Little does Ruby know that Lorenzo really likes her and has since her first day in Angel Falls. It's hard when the two of them seem attracted to each other, but she tries to push her feelings for Lorenzo away. She keeps telling herself that they live in two different worlds and she'd never be accepted into his world.
Life continues to get worse for the Ballard's, the banker comes a few days before Christmas to tell them he has to foreclose on the property but since it'll take a little bit of time they can live in the house until Christmas, now it's definite, they have to go back to her Father's brother's place to live. Ruby has to leave all of her friends, her job, and she will never see Lorenzo again.
This story will have you wanting to tell Narcissa off, pushing Ruby to accept Lorenzo's advances, and praying things change soon. Does Ruby get to keep her job, does Narcissa win Lorenzo over Ruby, and when they move will Lorenzo ever see Ruby again? I would definitely recommend this series to all Inspirational Historical Romance readers.
December 23, 2011
I LOVE when I read two AWESOME books in a row! :-) Jillian has outdone herself again! Just when I think, I can't LOVE her new book, as much as her previous one, which was AMAZING!!!! She outdoes herself. Just when I think I CAN'T POSSIBLY LOVE anyone more than Lila and Burke....She gives me Lorenzo Davis ~SIGH!~ and Ruby Ballard. (Nevermind, that I kept thinking of Kenny Roger's old song 'Ruby' EVERYTIME I read her name in the book. LOL!)
'Snowflake Bride' is an old west (1800's) version of a Cinderella story. Minus the wicked StepMother and StepSister's....You do get Narcissa Bell as 'Wicked' frontier version of 'MEAN GIRL.' Who, along with Ruby and Lorenzo has appeared in ALL of Jillian's 'Button's & Bobbins' books....And NO!, Lorenzo is NOT a real Prince. But he may as well be as wealthy, and gallant, and Heroic, and all that other good stuff, one would associate with a Prince. (I just LOVED HIM!) ~Sigh!~ (And did I mention how much I LOVED Lorenzo?!)....Ruby Ballard is hired as Lorenzo's familie's maid during the Holiday's. Already poor, her father & brother are unable to get jobs and are in DANGER of osing their home. Selma Davis (Lorenzo's Mother) instantly takes a liking to the shy, sweet, poor, blonde, and immediately hires her as another MUCH-NEEDED Maid. Meanwhile, Lorenzo, who unbeknownst to Ruby, has loved her from afar for some time tries to Beau her (I love that word. LOL) Meanwhile, as much as she likes the tall, dark-haired, handsome, dashing, sweet, kind, Lorenzo, Ruby does her best to resist his (and his ADORABLE horse, Ponchos charm and advances.) They're from two different worlds. He wealthy (living in a mansion.) Her poor, (living in a shanty, her family is in danger of losing.) Her Pa is not well, and NEEDS her. Her friends Kate & Scarlett BOTH have crushes on Lorenzo, and have for longer than she. And she CANNOT betray her friends....But try as she might, she CAN'T stop herself from FALLING-IN-LOVE with the Frontier Prince.
VERY SWEET, HEARTWARMING, MAKE-YOU-FEEL-GOOD Christmas story! I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED, Mrs. Davis. I LOVED that Jillian didn't portray her as the cliched, stereotypical, conceited, SNOB! Who thinks 'THE POOR' girl isn't GOOD-ENOUGH for 'Her Son.' (Lorenzo's Ftaher too.) Loved how sweet, caring and Motherly she was to Motherless Ruby. I got emotional and teary-eyed a few times in the book. (A couple of them were scenes between Ruby & Mrs. Davis.) (ONLY 3 Authors have been able to do that too me, Kristan Higgins, Renee Ryan, and Jillan Hart.) Which is why they are my TOP 3 Authors!
VERY GOOD!!! And the BEST CHRISTMAS story I've read in a LONG -TIME!!! (A LOT are typical sappy, syrupy, Christmas stories!) This left you feeling good. I didn't want this book to end!
DEFINITELY RECOMMEND!
'Snowflake Bride' is an old west (1800's) version of a Cinderella story. Minus the wicked StepMother and StepSister's....You do get Narcissa Bell as 'Wicked' frontier version of 'MEAN GIRL.' Who, along with Ruby and Lorenzo has appeared in ALL of Jillian's 'Button's & Bobbins' books....And NO!, Lorenzo is NOT a real Prince. But he may as well be as wealthy, and gallant, and Heroic, and all that other good stuff, one would associate with a Prince. (I just LOVED HIM!) ~Sigh!~ (And did I mention how much I LOVED Lorenzo?!)....Ruby Ballard is hired as Lorenzo's familie's maid during the Holiday's. Already poor, her father & brother are unable to get jobs and are in DANGER of osing their home. Selma Davis (Lorenzo's Mother) instantly takes a liking to the shy, sweet, poor, blonde, and immediately hires her as another MUCH-NEEDED Maid. Meanwhile, Lorenzo, who unbeknownst to Ruby, has loved her from afar for some time tries to Beau her (I love that word. LOL) Meanwhile, as much as she likes the tall, dark-haired, handsome, dashing, sweet, kind, Lorenzo, Ruby does her best to resist his (and his ADORABLE horse, Ponchos charm and advances.) They're from two different worlds. He wealthy (living in a mansion.) Her poor, (living in a shanty, her family is in danger of losing.) Her Pa is not well, and NEEDS her. Her friends Kate & Scarlett BOTH have crushes on Lorenzo, and have for longer than she. And she CANNOT betray her friends....But try as she might, she CAN'T stop herself from FALLING-IN-LOVE with the Frontier Prince.
VERY SWEET, HEARTWARMING, MAKE-YOU-FEEL-GOOD Christmas story! I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED, Mrs. Davis. I LOVED that Jillian didn't portray her as the cliched, stereotypical, conceited, SNOB! Who thinks 'THE POOR' girl isn't GOOD-ENOUGH for 'Her Son.' (Lorenzo's Ftaher too.) Loved how sweet, caring and Motherly she was to Motherless Ruby. I got emotional and teary-eyed a few times in the book. (A couple of them were scenes between Ruby & Mrs. Davis.) (ONLY 3 Authors have been able to do that too me, Kristan Higgins, Renee Ryan, and Jillan Hart.) Which is why they are my TOP 3 Authors!
VERY GOOD!!! And the BEST CHRISTMAS story I've read in a LONG -TIME!!! (A LOT are typical sappy, syrupy, Christmas stories!) This left you feeling good. I didn't want this book to end!
DEFINITELY RECOMMEND!
January 16, 2012
I love this series! Every time I read the next one I wish I could know the other's stories and how they finish, but I will have to patiently wait for the others to be written. Jilian Hart sent me a copy of this book, so I would like to thank her for that! I enjoyed Ruby and Lorenzo's story very much. She introduced us to them in her previous books and I was interested to see how it would play out. Yes, it seems like a perfect story, but it really isn't. Look at her situation she is in. She has no mother in life, she is poor and has to count every penny they have and her father and brother can't seem to find work. In a sense, her pride is her main flaw. She is too prideful to take help from people who would love to help and too prideful to accept Lorenzo's love when it's offered. Yes, family is important, but when your family is telling you it's ok to start your own life then listen. Ruby insisted she needed to be there for her Father, which is commendable, but at the same time it became an excuse for her. She used that as way to create problems for her and Lorenzo. How could a poor kitchen maid be a match for a rich farm boy like Lorenzo? Lorenzo sees no difference and loves her compassion and sweetness. I love how the circle of girls rally around Ruby. There are times were I wanted to punch Narcissa and other people in the face and put them in their rightful place. Not a very christian attitude, but sometimes people need to be put in their place. Can't wait for the next story to come out!
December 1, 2011
This is a tender story of love involving two people from different backgrounds. One wealthy, one poor.
Ruby Ballard wants so badly to help save the family farm. Her Father has fallen on hard times. Her brother Rupert lost the job he had and lost his last two pay checks because his employer could not pay him. Ruby is devastated. She lands a job as a house maid with a wealthy family. As much as she doesn't want to be, she is drawn to her employers son Lorenzo.
Lorenzo Davis has been smitten with Ruby since the first time he laid eyes on her. He has hopes of some day making Ruby is wife. He is very pleased that his Mother hired Ruby.
Both Ruby and Lorenzo have strong faiths and only want to do God's will. Is it His will that they should be together?
This story shows how we are all the same in the eyes of God. He doesn't separate us as being rich, or being poor. He doesn't separate the well dressed from the poorly dressed. He loves us all just the same. God judges our inward appearance, not the outward appearance.
Ruby Ballard wants so badly to help save the family farm. Her Father has fallen on hard times. Her brother Rupert lost the job he had and lost his last two pay checks because his employer could not pay him. Ruby is devastated. She lands a job as a house maid with a wealthy family. As much as she doesn't want to be, she is drawn to her employers son Lorenzo.
Lorenzo Davis has been smitten with Ruby since the first time he laid eyes on her. He has hopes of some day making Ruby is wife. He is very pleased that his Mother hired Ruby.
Both Ruby and Lorenzo have strong faiths and only want to do God's will. Is it His will that they should be together?
This story shows how we are all the same in the eyes of God. He doesn't separate us as being rich, or being poor. He doesn't separate the well dressed from the poorly dressed. He loves us all just the same. God judges our inward appearance, not the outward appearance.
November 29, 2011
Ruby and Lorenzo's story grips you and holds you all the way through. It is a book you cannot put down. I can relate to a lot of the things in it.
The rough times Ruby's family faces so many can relate to today. I sure could relate to the wealthy looking down their nose at the poor. But Lorenzo saw the inside of Ruby - status quo meant nothing.
Being raised poor, I could so relate to Ruby. I could also relate to Ruby being made fun of by the wealthy girl. I know what it is to work to help your family out. I started working when I was 16 to help with food, etc. at home.
Ruby's continually telling herself she was beneath Lorenzo sounded like me talking to myself and God when I found my husband. It is what most couples do. Until they come to the point they both are ready to realize they love each other and make the committment to marriage, there is always the wondering.
A cinderella story without the mean step-mom and step-sisters. No fairy God Mother either. Just the kindness of friends.
A story you are not ready to end. I await Scarlet's story.
The rough times Ruby's family faces so many can relate to today. I sure could relate to the wealthy looking down their nose at the poor. But Lorenzo saw the inside of Ruby - status quo meant nothing.
Being raised poor, I could so relate to Ruby. I could also relate to Ruby being made fun of by the wealthy girl. I know what it is to work to help your family out. I started working when I was 16 to help with food, etc. at home.
Ruby's continually telling herself she was beneath Lorenzo sounded like me talking to myself and God when I found my husband. It is what most couples do. Until they come to the point they both are ready to realize they love each other and make the committment to marriage, there is always the wondering.
A cinderella story without the mean step-mom and step-sisters. No fairy God Mother either. Just the kindness of friends.
A story you are not ready to end. I await Scarlet's story.
January 4, 2012
Being a fan of historical fiction the Love Inspired Historical fiction series of books are right up my alley. While these little books are really quick reads there is always a great story with a positive ending, who could ask for more?
The main character in this one is Ruby Ballard. Her family is down on their luck and are about to lose the family farm, and the only thing she can do is try and find a job. When she lands a job working for the Davises' as their maid, she doesn't realize that she has caught the eye of their oldest son Lorenzo.Can Lorenzo convince Ruby that they are meant to be together?
This was such a sweet story. Ruby was a character to be admired. She didn't let her problems get her down, the financial problems her family faced seemed all to real.It was great that Ruby had the support of her good friends. I thought Lorenzo was such an honorable person, and the story between him and Ruby developed at just the right pace. A nice story perfect for Christmas or anytime your looking for a feel good story with a happy ending.
The main character in this one is Ruby Ballard. Her family is down on their luck and are about to lose the family farm, and the only thing she can do is try and find a job. When she lands a job working for the Davises' as their maid, she doesn't realize that she has caught the eye of their oldest son Lorenzo.Can Lorenzo convince Ruby that they are meant to be together?
This was such a sweet story. Ruby was a character to be admired. She didn't let her problems get her down, the financial problems her family faced seemed all to real.It was great that Ruby had the support of her good friends. I thought Lorenzo was such an honorable person, and the story between him and Ruby developed at just the right pace. A nice story perfect for Christmas or anytime your looking for a feel good story with a happy ending.
February 3, 2012
The first book I finished in 2012 was ‘Snowflake Bride� by Jillian Hart, the fourth book in her ‘Buttons and Bobbins� series. The series chronicles the friendships and love stories of 7 girls in 1880s Montana. ‘Snowflake Bride� is Ruby’s story, and it’s my favourite of the series so far. I really related with Ruby, as a shy girl, who often doesn’t feel like she deserves to be loved. Ruby is also a crocheter, like me, and the name of the book refers to the crocheted snowflakes she makes for her friends� Christmas gifts. Because Ruby’s family is poor, and work is hard to find, she seeks employment as a maid with one of the wealthiest families in the area. Lorenzo, the family’s son, knew Ruby from school, and has been drawn to her kindness and compassion. As Lorenzo and Ruby come to know each other better through more constant interaction, they must face difficult choices if they are to find out God’s plan for their lives.
November 8, 2011
This is one of the books by Jillian Hart in Buttons and Bows"Snowflake Bride" The story is mainly about Ruby, when attending school she became friends with several girls who didnt care that she was poor and didnt have the clothes like some did. They looked to her heart and the way Ruby gave to others of herself. Ruby had a brother and father, mother died many years ago and Ruby helped her father in the home.
Lorenzo a well to do young man met Ruby and he too didnt look at the outward person, he saw Ruby heart right away and fell in love quickly but had hard time convincing Ruby as she did not think she was worthy of this young man and his family though she sure would like too. Her friends were always teasingly saying how much they loved the handsome young man and wished that one in their group would catch his eye.
I enjoyed reading this book and cannot wait to read the next story about another of the friends.
Lorenzo a well to do young man met Ruby and he too didnt look at the outward person, he saw Ruby heart right away and fell in love quickly but had hard time convincing Ruby as she did not think she was worthy of this young man and his family though she sure would like too. Her friends were always teasingly saying how much they loved the handsome young man and wished that one in their group would catch his eye.
I enjoyed reading this book and cannot wait to read the next story about another of the friends.
October 13, 2014
I cannot believe I have had this book since 2011,and I just barely got to it. Of course I found it in a bag of mine, not where I have all my other Love Inspired books to be read... That could be how this one slipped through the cracks!
I love this series so very much! I was thrilled when I found my copy. I was sucked in from page one, like always, especially with this group of friends from Angel Falls. I love each and every one of them so very much, they are all so different, but so sweet and relatable.
Something about Ruby and Lorenzo just pulled me in even more than usual. Maybe it's because I can relate to the soul binding type of love. It's the greatest, most wonderful connection. I was so pleased with their story, this is a definite favorite of mine. Happy sigh. I never want this series to end!
I love this series so very much! I was thrilled when I found my copy. I was sucked in from page one, like always, especially with this group of friends from Angel Falls. I love each and every one of them so very much, they are all so different, but so sweet and relatable.
Something about Ruby and Lorenzo just pulled me in even more than usual. Maybe it's because I can relate to the soul binding type of love. It's the greatest, most wonderful connection. I was so pleased with their story, this is a definite favorite of mine. Happy sigh. I never want this series to end!
November 18, 2011
I love Jillian Hart's Buttons and Bobbins series, and each one seems to get even better! Jillian Hart seems to have a real talent for character development; you always feel like you are well acquainted with everyone in the novel. This is Ruby's story, and she is such a wonderful character with great courage and lots of love to give. One of the antagonists in the story, Narcissa Bell, is easy to get angry at; she reminds me a little of Nellie's character in the Little House on the Prairie books. You just want to see her put in her place for once the way she treats others. The romance that develops is so special, and the entire story is so enjoyable, I didn't want to put it down. I can't wait for the next one!
August 13, 2016
I loved this story. Ruby is a strong girl trying to help her family who have fallen on hard times and are struggling to hold on to the farm. Lorenzo is the son of a wealthy farmer who is sweet on Ruby. I love Rubys spirit and the way gets a job with Lorenzos family and works as hard as she can. She may not have much but she does the best she can. I love how she cares for her friends and puts them first over her own feelings. There is a rich girl in the book who has been in the others as well who is nasty. There were times I wanted to hit her cos of her cruel taunts. I hope she will have a change of heart by the end of this series. The story deals with hope, love and family loyalty as well as acceptance. This is one of my top ten reads for the year.
November 18, 2014
#4 Buttons & Bobbins
A sweet Cinderella-like Christmas tale, covered & sparkling with snowflakes!
#1 #2 #3 #4
A sweet Cinderella-like Christmas tale, covered & sparkling with snowflakes!
#1 #2 #3 #4
November 2, 2011
Ruby Ballard is thankful when she gets the job of working as a maid for the Davis household. Money is tight and Ruby's Pa is perilously close to losing his farm. The extra income is welcome. The only problem is: Lorenzo. The boss's handome son -- who has ALWAYS been sweet on her. Lorenzo knows that Ruby is the only girl for him, now it is just a matter of convincing her! With the Christmas season approaching it is a time for romance and Lorenzo hopes to make Ruby his Snowflake Bride! Aaahhh! Love all of the books from this Buttons and Bobbins series by Jillian Hart. You won't be sorry and once you start reading, you won't be able to put it down!
December 5, 2011
I just loved the two main characters. It was a page turner for me. I couldn't wait until they would find time together, and to see what would happen when they did. The whole Buttons and Bobbins series is my absolute favorite of Jillian Hart's books! I hope that she will keep writing about these characters, even when the last girl is written about! I would love it if she wrote about their children too! Each book can stand alone, but if you start with the first book I think it is even better because you know each characters history, and it's as if you are revisiting old friends each time you pick up the next book :)
August 5, 2016
This story is just so freakin'-darn- root-tootin'-darling! I just loved this sweet Christian/Historical/Romance. The hero and heroine were the greatest kids ever and you were cheering them on at every turn. The side characters were wonderful. This is the middle of a series so I am going back to book one and I can't wait to read about all of the other brides HEAs. I closed the last page, waltzed into my daughter's room and put the book directly in her hands... :)
January 8, 2021
Even though this is book 4 of a series I haven't read any of the other books and I still enjoyed this one and wasn't lost within the characters or timeframe etc. The beginning was kind of slow and I wasn't sure about it; but after it starts to pick up you can't help but form a friendship with the characters. And be in the barn, and in the mansion and want to help and do something. Very nice Holiday book, or book for anytime of year.
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