The American Mail-Order Brides Series is an ambitious, sweeping collaboration featuring 50 interconnected novels written by 45 acclaimed Western historical romance authors. Inspired by true events, the series begins with the catastrophic Brown Textile Factory fire in 1890s Massachusetts, which leaves dozens of women jobless and desperate for new opportunities. Each book follows a different heroine as she bravely answers a mail-order bride advertisement and journeys to a new state in search of hope, love, and a fresh start. With every story set in a unique state and penned by a different author, the series offers readers a rich tapestry of American history, regional detail, and heartfelt romance, celebrating the resilience and courage of women forging new lives across the nation.
Caroline’s Contribution
Patience, Bride of Washington

A humorous Victorian romance about second chances, unexpected attraction, and finding love where you least expect it.
After a fire destroys the Massachusetts factory where she worked, Patience Eaton faces a string of job failures and a future filled with uncertainty. Hoping for a fresh start, she travels across the country in 1890 to Washington to marry the man her father selected through a matchmaker. But when Patience arrives, she’s dismayed to find her intended groom is older than her father and not at all what she imagined. Instead, she’s offered a respectable position in his boarding house and a job in the office of his commercial apple orchard—working closely with his handsome, brooding son.
Stone Kincaid has poured himself into the family business after a false accusation destroyed his own chance at happiness. When he meets his prospective stepmother, he’s convinced she’s only interested in his father’s fortune. Determined to protect his family, Stone keeps a watchful eye on Patience, but their constant proximity leads to sparks neither expected.
As misunderstandings and family tensions rise, Patience and Stone must find common ground and learn to trust each other if they hope to turn their reluctant partnership into a lasting love.
Reviews
***** “Just loved this book. The characters are developed and described in detail to give a visual reality.” Amazon review.
*****”Wonderful mail order bride story, so charming and sweet. Cute twist on a universal theme, too, having the bride come out to be married to someone else. “ Amazon review
*****”A well written sweet story! Loved the storyline and the description of the beautiful dresses! I thought it was a very cruel trick that was pulled on them but all turned out well in the end!” Goodreads review.
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About the Author
Caroline Clemmons brings authentic Texas flavor to every story, drawing from her life in North Central Texas cowboy country. Her extensive research into frontier history and deep love for the Lone Star State shine through in every page of this beloved series.
More from Caroline: Browse All Series | Meet Caroline