Karen WitemeyerRecensioni

I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher through LibraryThing and NetGalley. The following is my honest review.

4.5 stars

I loved this retelling of Cinderella. The characters are so deep. At first, I really thought that the main character, Samantha, was a little spoiled and pouty. Her father seemed distant and stubborn, but we soon saw why their relationship was rocky. It was lovely to see how much they loved each other. The hero (who is also "Cinderella") is Asher Ellis who is an absolutely wonderful man.

The conversations and dialogue were witty. Also, I appreciated that I didn't guess the ending until far along in the book.

Even if you don't typically go for westerns or fairytales, take a chance on If the Boot Fits, because it was brilliantly done.

Short and sweet

Is it even possible to say that I liked this book even more than the first?
Yet, it's true. This book had me hooked right from the beginning. I had a sneaking suspicion that I would like this because I read the first book in the series last year, but I did not expect to like this one so much.
First off, Abigail was so relatable. She struggled to find her worth in matters other than baking. She worried about how she looked and how she could support herself.
Zach was back! I have to admit that his story was the one I was really looking forward too. He is so different from his siblings and carries a lot of baggage. Yet, through it all, he is able to learn and work through his issues with the help of God.
To sum it all up, I really enjoyed this novel and fans of historical will devour this story with all of its character development.

Rating: 5 Stars
Content: 2 Stars (kissing)

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

I can’t with this narration.

DNF around 30%

I felt that this book was so in-your-face feminist. I understand that things were quite different back then from what they are now, but I did not appreciate how almost every single male except Romantic Hero™ was villainized. I also find it unbelievable that in a town of all women, most of who fled abuse, there were only four guns with only one lady knowing how to shoot. Keep in mind that this is *supposedly* a historical novel.

I hope it changed as the book progressed but I was not interested in reading more.

3/5
I didn't love it, nor did I hate it.
I am glad I read it once although I probably won't reread.

This was adorable and oh-so creative. I was laughing so hard at the first gift.

The first gift:
"Why are you so happy?" her father demanded. "This has to be the least romantic gift of all time. It's a half-dead cactus covered with barbs and a random bullet."
"No, Daddy," she said, her heart awash with love. "It's a cartridge in a prickly pear tree."

The cover is horrible but the book is fantastic. I really enjoy this author’s novellas and this was no different. The humor was spot on and I was crying laughing (my cat looked very concerned). Also, I liked the connection to the Archers.

5 Stars

Content: gunshot wounds & fighting, kissing

If the Boot Fits by Karen Witemeyer is the second book in her Texas Ever After series. This story, as you can probably guess, is a reverse Cinderella story. I thought Karen did a great job of incorporating details from the original fairy tale as well as some of the fun details we all love from the animated movie while still having the Texas charm and romantic adventure we have all come to love from the author.
One thing I really respect about Karen’s books is she does not shy away from the faith elements in the story. Scripture is quoted throughout the book. The characters grow spiritually, and their struggles challenged me to reflect on my own faith journey. To me, this is how Christian fiction should be. Wonderfully entertaining with fantastic characters, a gripping plotline, sweet romance, and the ribbon of faith throughout.
For me, this book was great entertainment. I would highly recommend it to any historical romance fans out there, especially those who prefer Christian fiction. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book in the series!
Be sure to put If the Boot Fits on the TOP of your TBR pile!

Are you ready to step into a historical retelling of Cinderella with several twists and turns to the original story. I love the humorous aspect that this author always adds to her stories that keeps you engrossed with a smile on your face amidst the serious issues. I also loved how she tackled the relationship of a father and daughter and the misunderstandings and misconceptions that hung between them. Samantha is a woman with an independent streak that tends to cause her some problems along the way. I l admired her heart to help those less fortunate and the relationship she developed with Asher and his family. Asher is an amazing hero that loves his family and will do whatever he can to help them. I especially enjoyed how the Bible was read and its truths were taken hold of. Lots of heart touching moments with some mystery and intrigue to keep you turning pages quickly. This story contains all the elements to make it a fascinating read that keeps you engrossed from beginning to end. A charming story that I highly recommend reading ASAP.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

If the Boot Fits by Karen Witemeyer is the second book in her Texas Ever After series. Samantha Dearing is furious with her father for trying to set her up with a wealthy eligible rancher. She wants to find a husband on her own. Asher Ellis thinks Eli Dearing wrongfully evicted his stepmother and plans to prove it. When Samantha and Asher’s paths cross you can imagine the outcome! Ms. Witemeyer does such a great job of weaving a spell-binding tale. The characters mesh so well. Whenever you pick up one of her books you know you are in for treat.

I received this book from Celebrate-Lit for my honest review.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
I usually don’t care for Fairy Tales retellings, but I love Cinderella and I was delightfully surprised with If the Boot Fits by Karen Witemeyer. It is a barrel of fun seeing the differences between the classic fairy tale and the Western twist Witemeyer adds to her story. Sometimes I had to think a bit to figure out the parellels of the story, but that’s OK, it made me love the story even more. The hero and heroine, Asher and Samantha, oh my word! What a perfect couple to play out the scenes in this story. The author does a phenomenal job creating these two characters, as well as all of the supporting characters along the way. The Texas twists and turns against the classic fairytale will have you guessing and wondering where the story is going next. The sweet romance between Asher and Samantha has just the right elements of love. And as always with a Karen Witemeyer story, I love the way she writes faith into the hearts of her characters.

If the Boot Fits is the second book in Witemeyer’s Texas Ever After series, and I can hardly wait to see what this Fabulous author has for her readers in the third book of this series. This book gets Five Stars from me, and oh how I wish I could give it more!

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Are you ready to saddle up for a journey through the Wild West filled with romance, intrigue, and a dash of cowboy justice? Look no further than Karen Witemeyer’s latest historical romance novel, “If the Boot Fits.” Set against the rugged backdrop of the Texas frontier, this novel weaves together the stories of two strong-willed individuals whose lives become intertwined in unexpected ways.

At the heart of the story is Samantha Dearing, a spirited young woman returning home from finishing school in Boston. Eager to embrace her independence and pursue her dreams, Samantha is shocked to discover that her father, Eli Dearing, has other plans for her future – namely, marriage. Determined to chart her course, Samantha finds herself at odds with her father’s intentions, setting the stage for a battle of wills that will shape the course of her destiny.

Enter Asher Ellis, a rugged cowboy with a bone to pick with Eli Dearing. Convinced that the wealthy cattle king wrongfully evicted his stepmother and brothers from their land, Asher is on a mission to seek justice and reclaim what is rightfully theirs. But when his path crosses with Samantha’s, he finds himself drawn to her fiery spirit and unwavering determination, sparking a connection neither of them can deny.

As their lives become increasingly intertwined, Samantha and Asher must navigate a landscape fraught with challenges and obstacles, from family feuds to unexpected betrayals. But amidst the turmoil, they discover a love that transcends boundaries and defies expectations, forging a bond as enduring as the Texas sky.

What sets “If the Boot Fits” apart is Karen Witemeyer’s masterful storytelling, which expertly blends romance, suspense, and adventure into a captivating narrative. With each page, the author deftly unravels the layers of her characters, delving into their pasts and motivations with depth and nuance. From Samantha’s spunky spirit to Asher’s steadfast determination, every character leaps off the page with vividness and authenticity, drawing readers into their world with irresistible charm.

But perhaps the greatest triumph of “If the Boot Fits” lies in its

message of hope, love, and faith. Through Samantha and Asher’s journey, Witemeyer reminds us that love can conquer all, even adversity. With its heartwarming themes and unforgettable characters, this novel is a testament to the enduring power of love and the resilience of the human spirit.

So, if you’re in the mood for a romance that will sweep you off your feet and transport you to the untamed beauty of the Wild West, look no further than “If the Boot Fits” by Karen Witemeyer. With its captivating story and unforgettable characters, this historical romance will surely leave you smiling long after you’ve turned the final page.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

Attention Everyone. I have an announcement to make. This is Samantha Dearing and I need help identifying the man who jumped into the pond on our property and saved my little brother from drowning. I have one clue that could help identify him, but will not divulge that information at this time. A party was going on at the time of the incident so there was a lot of people there. If you have any information please let me know. Well that’s what I imagine Samantha would write in the local newspaper but instead she keeps a secret of how to identify this person. I wonder why she would not tell her father what she knew of the mysterious person?

Asher is a dashing character who tries to help his family out while trying to not be so angry at Samantha’s father. Asher knows his mother was evicted unjustly and will stand up to Mr. Dearing to prove his point. Asher reminds me of a dashing prince. I love how the author does a retelling of a classic fairy tale with a twist of a cowboy theme. Oh the hard working cowboys who ride horses all day while fixing fences and watch over the cattle are to be commended for their dedication.

Asher and Samantha may come from different backgrounds but they sure have an attraction to each other. Now we have Asher teaching Samantha to ride a horse. That is very out of character for her. As they begin to get to know each other better Samantha finds out that her own father was responsible for evicting Asher’s mother from her home. I liked how this was resolved in a Godly way.

Mr Dearing has always been known as a hard person to deal with but he shows compassion for one of Samantha’s friends. It is an excellent illustration of not judging someone and offering help with grace. I really enjoyed this part of the story.

Danger surrounds Samantha after an uncomfortable encounter with someone. Revenge is on this persons mind and he won’t stop till he gets what he wants. The dashing Asher steps in to protect her and shows her how much he cares. There is a definite faith element throughout the story which I loved. I liked how Samantha referred to Asher as her, “Cowboy Prince.”

I loved how the author incorporates a mystery in the story of who is trying to kill Samantha. At first I thought I knew who the guilty party was but now I’m not so sure. With a secret journal found belonging to her mother, Samantha begins to understand the lies her mother had told her father years ago. Now those lies are causing danger to her and her family.

The author creates a great story where trusting in God is the key. As the mystery unravels will Samantha find out who fits the missing boot left behind the night of the party? Is he the one to marry Samantha and be her “Cowboy prince?”

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

A fun book to read. Earnest, good hearted people with danger, mystery, secrets and romance thrown in. Sigh, cry and laugh all the way through. Excellent Christian values and lessons.

I received this book free from the author, publisher and CelebrateLit book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

#IfTheBootFits #KarenWitemeyer #CelebrateLit #NetGalley #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #ChristianHistoricalFiction #FiveStarNovel

What a fun, fresh Cinderella retelling! I loved that the roles were reversed in this novel (hint: it’s the man who loses the shoe!). I really liked the heroine and hero, Samantha and Asher. Samantha is compassionate and has a huge heart for those less fortunate. I loved her growth from an immature girl to a mature young lady who developed a love and respect for her father. I also really liked Asher’s growth as he learns more about the cattle rancher who has driven his family off their land. And the romance between Samantha and Asher is the perfect blend of spark-filled romance and realistic love. In addition to fantastic characters, there are twists and turns that add mystery and danger to the novel. And, of course, the wonderful tidbits of faith are so well woven into the story. I absolutely loved this novel and cannot wait for the next one by this talented author!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

I Loved This Story!

I loved this clever retelling of the fairytale Cinderella and I'm once again amazed at the creativity of author Karen Witemeyer! Who else could place Cinderella, or in this case, a fella named Asher in a Texas setting, allow him to lose his boot while leaping from a window, and then have the daughter of a wealthy Texas cattle king searching to find the owner? I loved that Asher Ellis was determined to provide for his two stepbrothers and a stepmother who was the complete opposite of wicked, and I admired Samantha Dearing's attempts to help those less fortunate than her.

If the Boot Fits combines a beloved fairytale with the Western excitement that I grew up watching on TV. A damsel in distress, a strong, dependable hero, and a villain that caught me by surprise make this a satisfying and page-turning story that I couldn't put down. Throw in some amazing secondary characters, mix in a sweet romance that's filled with swoon-filled longing, and add some inspiring nuggets of wisdom and faith, and the result is a magical reading experience! I can't wait to read the next book in the Texas Ever After series!!

I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review, and I am voluntarily sharing my opinion.

“. . .but memories of Asher’s staunch defense and tender care had her pulse skipping more beats than a one-handed drummer.”

If the Boot Fits is the second in Karen Witemeyer’s Texas Ever After series, and it’s filled with her signature wit, humor, and inspiration. The hero and heroine are delightful and engaging, and the villain is dastardly and despicable. I loved Samantha Dearing and her spunkiness and independence, and Asher’s willingness to fight for right and protect those he loves. I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow and change as they got to know each other. The many twists and turns kept me guessing and turning pages to the end.

This tale is full of action, suspense, inspiration, and wit, with enough romance to satisfy the fussiest of readers. It illustrates perfectly why this talented author is one of my favorites. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own.½

I love Karen Witemeyer’s Western historical fiction novels. If the Boot Fits is quite an interesting retelling of Cinderella. I felt so sorry for Samantha Dearing who has always known that she is not good enough in her Texas rancher father’s eyes. Yet, I loved how Witemeyer slowly peels back layers of Samantha and her father’s relationship until it looks totally different than what Samantha has assumed it to be. Nice twists!

So many times I just had to laugh at expressions that Witemeyer had her characters use, ie, “gallloping geese!”
Plus, just fun and hilarious situations. I esp. loved Asher’s brother, Ferguson, and his great imagination involving the farm animals and his writings about them.

Other than the main characters and their romance, there are so many terrific secondary characters! I went from extreme dislike to extreme admiration for one character. I loved the sage advice that Aunt Regina has to offer Samantha.
“No one enjoys adversity, but nothing can draw a child of God closer to the Father. It is easier to rely on his strength when we’ve been weakened. Easier to trust his guidance when we know we are lost. Easier to seek his presence when pain makes us crave his comfort.”

Ashur’s mother, Bess , is a quiet presence who has a huge influence on the people around her. Her love, her kindness, her forgiveness, pave the way for both Asher and Samantha to follow suit.

So many faith moments to highlight and ponder!! I really love that Witemeyer uses so many situations in the story that can apply to our lives today! This is the number #1 reason I read fiction, for these terrific Biblical truth nuggets! Bravo!!

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. I also bought my own ebook. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

( What I want to emulate.)
“She repeated the verse over and over in her mind until her heart started to believe.”

( What I want to remember.)
…waiting is one of the hardest things the Lord asks us to do. It strains our patience, faith, and self-control. Yet he promises good to those who wait on him.”

(What we all need to remember.)
“God created us with very different personalities and interests, which led to us viewing the world through very different lenses. One wasn’t better or worse than another. Both had value. And both had pitfalls.”

I absolutely loved this amazing fairytale retelling! Karen Witemeyer's If the Boot Fits is a clever, creative, Western twist on Cinderella. From the first, I was completely drawn into this action packed, swoon worthy, faith-filled story. It’s a gender swapped Cinderella with Samantha Dearing as the wealthy cattle princess and Asher Ellis as the poor, noble orphan. I loved the way the author incorporated so many little details from the familiar fairytale yet made it a fresh, completely original story.

Samantha Dearing’s the daughter of a wealthy cattle baron who’s been away at finishing school. She returns home to find her father’s organized a ball for her with several eligible suitors. Samantha’s not interested and resents her father’s interference. Getting some fresh air, she unexpectedly finds a man escaping out of a window. As he’s leaving, he notices her brother struggling in a nearby pond and stops to rescue him, leaving his boot behind. Without a good look at the stranger, Samantha’s determined to find the boot’s attractive owner.

Asher Ellis returns home to visit his stepmother and step-brothers only to find they’ve been evicted by Mr. Dearing. He sneaks into the Dearing home during the ball to find proof of wrongdoing. Though almost caught while leaving, he stops to rescue Clint Dearing from drowning. After seeing Samantha again, he’s determined to avoid her in case she recognizes him. When she volunteers to tutor his younger brother, he finds there’s more to the spoiled young woman than he first thought. As they grow closer, Samantha experiences a series of near fatal accidents, but who’s out to get her and why?

Loved this book so much! Cinderella’s a favorite fairytale and I enjoyed how the author included so many clever nods like Gus Gus, Bruno, and the shoe/boot. I loved the romance between Samantha & Asher and especially how Samantha grew as the story progressed. At first she seemed a little spoiled, but after growing closer to Asher and his family and learning more about her parents and their relationship, she becomes a more compassionate, understanding person.

While Cinderella’s stepmother and stepsisters were awful, Asher’s family is endearing and kind. I loved how they helped Samantha and took her into their home. There are several nail-biting, shocking twists in the story that lead to an exciting conclusion with a villain who’s particularly devious.

Highly recommend this compelling, unputdownable, faith-filled story with a delightful romance and plenty of action. Though part of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.

A cute reverse Cinderella story occurs when Asher Ellis loses a boot on Dearing property.
With plenty of excitement and a hero who has everything going for him except wealth, this story captured my interest.
Samantha Dearing is headstrong, opinionated and jumps to conclusions where her father is concerned. But she is determined and is willing to directly confront him.
When danger strikes, Asher comes to the rescue on more than one occasion. He shows his faith by his caring and compassion, asking for forgiveness and taking responsibility for his actions. It is clear that Samantha is a Christian, using scripture to take comfort, admonish and build herself up. She acts out her faith in her good works that could be seen as meddling. A valuable lesson she learns is that God gives her freedom to make choices as long as they do not violate things clearly defined in scripture, such as where to live, who to marry or a vocation.
The words flow effortlessly and tell a rousing story with much valid spiritual wisdom.
I cannot wait for the next installment of Texas Everafter.
*I received a complimentary book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*

If The Boot Fits, by Karen Witemeyer is book 2 of the Texas Ever After series. This is a series of Christian Western Historical Romance Fairy Tales, this on retells Cinderella's story. This is a cute story with well defined characters. The story is well written, easy to read and imagine. I enjoyed the character of Asher the most. He is so caring and devoted to his step mother and brothers. Yet when he tries to correct a wrong and finds others in trouble, he stops what he is doing and helps them. I found Samantha to be a spunky young lady that is very generous with her time and caring of others.

This is a fun story to read that has elements of mystery and suspense as well as growing friendships and romance. I enjoyed reading of how his step mother takes care of the family, and was able to give from her abundant garden to help others.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

"If the Boot Fits" by Karen Witemeyer is a delightful retelling of the Cinderella story set in the charming backdrop of the Texas frontier. Fans of Christian historical romance will find themselves swept away by the determined heroine, Samantha, and the mysterious Asher, whose paths collide at a grand ball.

Witemeyer's signature blend of humor and faith weaves seamlessly into the narrative, creating a heartwarming and entertaining read. With its classic fairy tale inspiration and unique Western twist, "If the Boot Fits" is a perfect escape for readers seeking a feel-good story.

Her duty was to seek God first and walk in righteousness.

What a fun storyline flipping the fairytale of Cinderella into a wonderful account of a Cinderfella. Asher Ellis has spent much of his life scrimping and making do with what he had available, giving as much as possible to take care of Mama Bess and the boys. With the plan to discover if she had been evicted without grounds he found himself in a compromising situation. Should he step forward and tell the truth?

Samantha Dearing is a gentle soul who wants to do what God has for her, not be auctioned off just because she is a heiress. With plenty of dangerous happenings, it is obvious that someone wants her dead. Will she live long enough to convince her father that she should be able to marry for love?

An ARC was received through Bethany House Publishers, Baker Publishing Group and NetGalley. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.

A sweet romance between Asher and Samantha. Samantha has been away from home for several years and has come home to find that her father is already trying to marry her off. He is having a ball with eligible bachelors, and she is not going to have her father running her life. She doesn't care if a man has lots of property or a big bank account, she wants a man who will love her. Asher has been working in another county to help his family after his father's death. He finds out that his family has been evicted from their home by Samantha's father. Asher is looking for evidence that he evicted them unfairly, but he is almost caught. As he is running away from their house, Samantha's little brother follows him and falls into the pond. He doesn't know how to swim, and Asher can't let him drown. After saving Clint, he runs away and drops a boot. Samantha spends a lot of time looking at men's feet to see if she can find the man who broke into their house. Asher is ashamed, but he has his family to think about. Asher and Samantha seem destined to keep meeting, and they realize that they are destined to be together. Will Asher come clean? Will Samantha's father put him in jail if he does? She comes from a wealthy family and his is very poor. Will she accept him as he is?