Harts of the Rodeo... BEAU: Cowboy Protector - Marin Thomas + Author Interview and GIVEAWAY!

BEAU: Cowboy Protector - Marin Thomas
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 2012
ISBN: 9780373754298












My rating

From the back cover:

"Beau Adams can't stop thinking about Sierra Byrne. Her feisty spirit and ample curves dominate his thoughts, while he should be focused on getting himself and Midnight, the Harts' prized stallion, to the National Finals Rodeo. When Beau and Sierra's electric connection finally leads to a steamy night together, Beau hopes it's the beginning of something more.
As much as Sierra wants to be with Beau, anything long-term is out of the question. A recently diagnosed eye disease will soon leave her blind, and she can't ask a rising rodeo star like Beau to take on that responsibility. Though she tries to pretend their tryst was just another item on her bucket list, Sierra's true feelings run a lot deeper. Will she let her affliction steal not only her sight, but her dreams of happiness, as well?"

Everything about this book feels real. From the relationship between the hero and heroine, the setting and situation, right down to the issues that the characters face.

I think Marin Thomas handled the heroine's sight problems, and her coming to terms with her eventual loss of sight, well. It is done with honesty and sensitivity, I particularly liked that this wasn't kept as a secret, especially not from the hero, instead it was actually acknowledge and dealt with instead of angst about. To have had it a secret, I feel, would have over dramatised the situation and overloaded with story with more conflict than was necessary.

Beau, as a hero, is pretty darn wonderful. He tries and tries to woo the heroine and that made my heart melt, and I loved that the heroine constantly surprised him.

The actions, and reactions, of the heroine are exactly what should have happened. She doesn't handle it well at times, does some rather silly things as well as having moments of feeling sorry for herself. Very gripping to read.

Overall, I found this a hard hitting read, which has a beautiful relationship blossom from what the characters are going through. The story is well written and full of tenderness, honesty and hope.

Really enjoyable.

*N.B. ARC provided by Harlequin, with thanks, in exchange for review.

Interview with Marin Thomas

About the book... 

Where did you get your inspiration for this book from?

First, let me say how excited I am to be at Everyday Is The Same—thanks for having me today, RLA!

The inspiration was handed to me by the editors. J Beau: Cowboy Protector is book #5 in the Harts of the Rodeo—Born to Ride continuity by various authors. The editors at American Romance created a bible for this series and gave each author a short synopsis of their individual book as well as their hero and heroine. We were given a framework to start with, then it was up to us to take the ball and run with it.

Describe your heroine in 3 words... 

Stubborn. Creative. Prideful.

Describe your hero in 3 words... 

Determined. Searching. Protective.

What do you think comes next for your hero & heroine? 

A baby of course--American Romance is all about family!

What was the biggest challenge writing this book? 

Creating a sympathetic heroine who was facing a life-changing medical diagnosis. Sierra had to be strong yet human and I wanted the reader to see glimpses of her vulnerabilities without having her come off as a martyr.

What was it like being involved in a multi author series? 

Fun! It's a great way to get to know other authors. The brainstorming sessions were amazing and I especially enjoyed that part of the creative process.

What do you think of the whole series? 

Love it! I love the idea of a famous stallion saving the livelihood of a ranching family and I love that there's plenty of "family" squabbles and drama. The Harts became a real family to me and I enjoyed the chance to delve deeply into my hero's relationship with his twin brother. After reading all the stories I was convinced the hero and heroine in each book were perfectly matched and truly belonged together.

About you... 

Being English I am naturally obsessed with all things American, especially cowboy's, that's why I love the American Romance line so much! But I have two questions... Where have all the cowboys gone?! And are they really like the ones in your books?

The traditional cowboy hasn't disappeared, but I think the traditional rodeo cowboy is changing. Nowadays young men and women fly all over the country to attend rodeo schools where they hone their skills with the help of modern technology. Many of today's rodeo cowboys and cowgirls don't work on ranches but hold down professional jobs during the week.

Much has been said on the topic and relevance of romance novels, what do you like most about the genre, and what is your response to the criticism about it? 

I believe romance novels are inspiring and restore our faith in humanity. After reading a romance novel the reader should feel optimistic and believe that everyone, no matter the hand life has dealt them, is entitled to their very own Happy Ever After.

For those who believe they offer nothing of value to a reader I dare them to say that out loud at the annual RWA Readers for Life Literacy Autographing J

Do you believe in the Happily Ever Afters we love to read about in romance novels? 

Yes, but I also believe that everyone must travel their own path to Happy Ever After. Some folks get there on their first try while others are forced to take a detour or two or three until they meet their perfect mate. J

What's next for you? 

After the final book in my Rodeo Rebels series, No Ordinary Cowboy (April 2013) I'm kicking off a new six-book series called The Cash Brothers. Six crazy and wild brothers all named after country western singers by their mother. The first book, The Cowboy Next Door will be out July 2013.

What is your favourite and least favourite part about being a writer? 

My favorite part about being a writer is when readers contact me and tell me that I've touched their heart with one of my books. I write romance because I love the genre, but I also write because it's my way of giving back to others. I'm not a doctor who can cure the sick or a lawyer who fights for the poor. I can't even volunteer at the Humane Society because I'd end up crying all day and bringing every dog and cat home with me. But I can offer my stories and hope that they give readers a few hours of enjoyment or escape from their busy, crazy lives.

My least favorite part about being a writer is sitting at a desk for long periods. I kid you not. The poor toes on my right foot are numb most of the day now because I sit for long periods of time. I need to invest in a work station where I can stand up and type—better yet, walk on a treadmill while I'm writing!

Anything else you would like to say... 

You can find out more about my books at Happy Ever After…The Cowboy Way. I give away free copies of my books every month—to find out where sign up for my Newsletter.

And I love to hear from readers. You'll find me on FB Twitter Pinterest and Goodreads and if you like cowboys as much as I do, drop by my blog All My Heroes are Cowboys where I've always got something to say about the guys who wear wranglers and Stetsons.


***

A huge thank you to Marin, for not only agreeing to appear on my blog but also for allowing me to be a part of the tour for this wonderful mini-series. The interview is great, with some really candid and interesting answers. 

Marin has also, very kindly, agreed to give a copy of this wonderful book away to one very lucky reader (US, Canada & UK only). All you have to do is leave a comment on this post before Saturday 10th November 2012 along with your answer to this question...

“What is your favorite trait in a cowboy hero?”

Tight Jeans... 'nuff said!

The best answer will be chosen by Marin and I will update this post accordingly. Don't forget to check back!   In the meantime, thanks for stopping by my blog and thanks again to Marin and the Harlequin American Romance team.

Xx

Harts of the Rodeo... AUSTIN: Second Chance Cowboy - Shelley Galloway

AUSTIN: Second Chance Cowboy - Shelley Galloway
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 2012
ISBN: 9780373754250












My rating

From the back cover:

"No man should look as good as Austin Wright. Especially when that man is a suspect in a string of burglaries. And, Sheriff Dinah Hart can't afford the distraction. Roundup's thieves are growing bolder and Thunder Ranch's prize stallion, Midnight, is still missing, putting the Harts' entire livelihood at risk. Dinah needs to focus, because she's worked too hard to earn the town's respect just to throw it away on a fling.Austin knows he's got a bad reputation. He's been following his father's self-destructive footsteps for far too long. Now he's finally ready to take the first step toward fixing his life, and convincing people, especially Dinah, that he's changed.
But when Austin discovers an unexpected connection to Midnight's disappearance, will Dinah see him for the man he was, or the one he's trying to become?"
Another great book in this mini-series….

From the start this had me hooked, and surprised at the depth of the subject matter.

This book deals with the difficult subject of alcoholism and I think the author does a good job of not making excuses for her hero’s problems and actually having him face up to them throughout the course of the book. So often, especially in my experience of Category Romance, when a character has/had addiction problems it has always been a past event, but this book actually goes through the sobering up process, the meetings, the withdrawal, etc. A nice change, and quite well done.

The heroine is difficult to like; she’s prickly and a little uptight but it does work with her character. Her past or specifically what triggered her change from teenage wild child to respected small town sheriff felt a bit of a let down when it was finally ‘revealed’. I think more could have been made of it to make it more shocking. My opinion obviously, I read so many Presents I'm used to more drama!

At the heart of this story is two flawed characters finding peace with each other and accepting themselves, and the romance is very satisfying to read.

The ongoing plot of the thefts and missing horse from the previous books in this mini-series is resolved but I feel it was done a little too easily; I had though this plot would have carried on into the coming books. But I am eager to see what comes next for this family.

A very enjoyable read. 

-

This book is available now from all the usual Harlequin Books stockists, as well as direct from Harlequin, for readers in USA and Canada.
UK & International readers can buy the ebook from the Mills & Boon UK website.

-

*N.B. ARC provided by Harlequin, with thanks, in exchange for review.

Xx

Harts of the Rodeo... DUKE: Deputy Cowboy - Roz Denny Fox

DUKE: Deputy Cowboy - Roz Denny Fox
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin UK, 2012
ISBN: 9780373754212












My rating

From the back cover:

"Deputy sheriff and aspiring rodeo star Dylan "Duke" Adams has his hands full with the recent string of burglaries in Roundup, Montana, especially when the thief strikes at his family's ranch. Duke is trying to focus on the case, but he can't stop thinking about a different thief—the petite blonde who just stole his heart.

Angie Barrington can't stand the rodeo. Though she's seen plenty of abused rodeo animals at her rescue ranch, for Angie it runs even deeper. No matter how kind and compassionate Duke is, at the end of the day he's still a cowboy. Right?
When Duke makes it to the national finals, he finally has a chance to bring prestige—and much-needed money—to Thunder Ranch. But if competing means losing the woman of his dreams, how can he ever win?"

The Harts of the Rodeo mini-series has been really enjoyable so far and I was really looking forward to reading this one.

It is a really well crafted story, with plenty of depth. Although I felt the beginning was a little info-dumpy, but it eventually settled down and ended up being really entertaining.  The author tells a nice story with a very natural love-story between the hero and heroine.

For me what makes this book stand out is the heroine. She has morals, and is an animal lover whom questions the ethics of the Rodeos and the treatment of animals. As a long term animal rights advocate this is something I myself have questioned and researched, so I really identified with this. The part of the story when the heroine finally has enough and walks away after seeing something she doesn't agree with made me want to start cheering!

There is something very sweet, almost innocent, about the hero’s wooing of the heroine and it flows really nicely and draws you in totally to the romance.

Overall, this is a nice instalment to the series which leaves us with a bit of a cliffhanger so you will want to read the next one!

An enjoyable read.

This book is available now from all the usual Harlequin Books stockists, as well as direct from Harlequin, for readers in USA and Canada.
UK & International readers can buy the ebook from the Mills & Boon UK website.

*N.B. ARC provided by Harlequin, with thanks, in exchange for review.

Xx

Harts of the Rodeo... COLTON: Rodeo Cowboy - C.J. Carmichael + Author Interview

COLTON: Rodeo Cowboy - C.J. Carmichael 
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 2012
ISBN: 9780373754175











My rating




From the back cover:

"After years of tearing up the rodeo circuit—and shirking his family duties—Colton Hart shouldn't be surprised that his return to Thunder Ranch has been a bit thorny. His plan to put the Harts' prize stallion, Midnight, back into dangerous rodeo competition doesn't help.Colt's stirring up trouble off the ranch as well, especially in Leah Stockton's heart. Recently divorced, Leah is determined to make a new life for her two kids. The last thing she needs is a man who acts like a child himself.
And Leah doesn't even know about the biggest mistake of Colt's life. When his shameful secret is revealed, she'll never look at him the same again. But Colt also realizes it's past time he acts like the man Leah deserves…whether she wants him or not."

The glimpses of Colt given in the first book of this series (AIDAN: Loyal Cowboy-Cathy McDavid) intrigued me as to what might be coming in this book, so I was looking forward to reading it.

I'm really pleased that this lived up to expectation. Colton is exactly the kind of hero I like; full of pain, yet self-assured, and willing to love wholeheartedly. I adored the heroine. She is trying to make a new life for herself and her children after being badly hurt, yet she is constantly coming up against obstacles - an inconvenient attraction to Colt being one of them!

The love-story between Cold and Leah develops beautifully and the pacing of the book is spot-on, it really made me want to keep reading.

Colt's pain is very emotional, and understandable after what he has been dealing with alone for so many years. The author handles this well and doesn't hold anything back, including Leah's shock and disappointment when he confides in her.

This is a beautiful read and a great second-instalment to this series... Next please!

*N.B. ARC provided by Harlequin, with thanks, in exchange for review. 

Interview with C.J. Carmichael

About the book... 

Where did you get your inspiration from?

The story line for the Harts of the Rodeo series was developed by our Harlequin American editors…in particular Kathleen Scheibling. I loved the story Kathleen assigned to me. My hero, Colton, made a mistake in his past. That mistake has haunted him ever since and I loved writing about how he finally comes to terms with what he did and sets himself on the path of redemption.

Describe your heroine in 3 words...

Leah has spunk, humor…and she’s a good mom!

Describe your hero in 3 words...

Reckless, good-hearted…and hot!

What do you think comes next for your hero & heroine?

I see them building a house together on Thunder Ranch. I’m not sure if they’ll have more kids. Between them they already have three. I do think they’re going to add a bunch of pets to the mix, though!

What was the biggest challenge writing this book?

This was my first book set in Montana, my first book set on a ranch and my first hero who was a rodeo cowboy. So the learning curve was big. I spent a lot of time researching!

What was it like being involved in a multi author series?

Collaborating with 5 other authors isn’t easy. We all have our own ideas and developing a story arc that covers 6 books is a challenge. But as is often the case, what is the most challenging is also the most rewarding.
Cathy McDavid, Roz Denny Fox, Shelley Galloway, Marin Thomas and Linda Warren all have the three qualities that I love to see in people I work with: Talent, a good work ethic, and a terrific sense of humor!

What do you think of the whole series?

It’s a satisfying family saga with a bunch of really interesting characters. I love the fact that each hero and heroine is a unique individual. I think readers will really appreciate that. And I also love the story line that centers around the Hart’s prize stallion: Midnight of the Rodeo. Midnight is the real star of this series!

About you...

Being English I am naturally obsessed with all things American, especially cowboy's, that's why I love the American Romance line so much! But I have two questions... Where have all the cowboys gone?! And are they really like the ones in your books?

I live in Calgary where we have the tradition of the Calgary Stampede. This is a 10 year party/rodeo/exhibition/fair that sweeps over our city and fills our streets and bars with real cowboys. Yes, they exist!
But I think what women really hunger for are manly men with a sense of honor and a feeling of connection to the land and their family. And yes, those men do exist, but nowhere are they quite as ideal as in our books!

Much has been said on the topic and relevance of romance novels, what do you like most about the genre, and what is your response to the criticism about it?
I think, like all genre fiction, you find those authors who write what you like and you stick with them. Good romantic fiction delivers a story that sweeps you away. Dynamic characters, an engaging plot, and a warm, satisfying ending that leaves you believing in the good things in life.
I get frustrated with people who say they don’t read romance but enjoy watching films like Crazy, Stupid Love; The Proposal; When Harry Met Sally. Don’t they realize that these are romance stories in another form? Let’s support the books as well as the films!

Do you believe in the Happily Ever Afters we love to read about in romance novels?

I see them every day. And I’m working on my own Second-Chance Happily Ever After.

What's next for you?

My own cowboy series: Coffee Creek Montana! The Lamberts are a powerful ranching family with a controlling mother as the matriarch. Olive Lambert runs the ranch and tries to run her children’s lives as well. Readers will have to judge whether she succeeds…

What is your favourite and least favourite part about being a writer?

I love building new worlds. I’m very visual and like to visit the places I write about. I also collect pictures. I’ve just started using Pinterest to bring all these pictures together. I have a board for every book in my Coffee Creek Montana series. I invite you to take a look: http://pinterest.com/cjcarmichael/

Least favorite thing? When deadlines collide with visits from daughters or fun outings with friends…

Anything else you would like to say...

Readers…I’d love to have you visit my website. I have lots of background on my stories, research and writing process. As well as frequent contests. So come and stay a while! www.cjcarmichael.com.

Thank you Rebecca for inviting me to your blog. I love to hang out with people who love books!

Happy Reading!
CJ

***

Thanks CJ for visiting my blog, and for a great interview.

For a chance to win a copy of COLTON: Rodeo Cowboy, and read another fabulous interview with C.J. hop over to my wonderful friend Sara's (AKA Harlequin Junkie) Harts of the Rodeo site by the end of today - Link

Harts of the Rodeo... AIDAN: Loyal Cowboy - Cathy McDavid

AIDAN: Loyal Cowboy - Cathy McDavid
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 2012
ISBN: 9780373754137











My rating

From the back cover:

"Aidan "Ace" Hart left Flynn McKinley heartbroken when he put family duty above her feelings. Then one night, the old passions were reignited and now Flynn is about to get something she's always wanted—a child to love. 
Ace takes his responsibilities very seriously. Running Thunder Ranch and his busy veterinary practice leaves little time for a personal life. That'll only get worse now that he's spending every spare minute with Midnight, the champion rodeo stallion he hopes will save the ranch from financial disaster. 
Flynn refuses to marry Ace and be yet one more "responsibility" to him. She wants Ace to want to marry her! And until he admits he loves her, she's determined to raise her baby alone…."


This is exactly the kind of American Romance book I like; real, down-to-earth characters with flaws that everyone can relate to all taking place in cowboy-land! A great start to this mini-series.

The author paints a vivid picture of the ranching setting, and the passion the characters feel for their world is wonderfully portrayed. The hero is wonderful, and his love for what he does, is very clear. I really enjoyed reading about all the interactions with the horses, it was very moving - even though I had to look up nearly every term as I know nothing about horses!

The love story between the hero and heroine plays out beautifully, and it is nicely uncomplicated in the sense that there was no other conflict apart from the characters own issues that they worked through as the story progressed.

'Lovely' is the word here, the whole book is very heart warming.

Overall, this is a very satisfying romance and, in my opinion, the very definition of books from this line. Cathy McDavid does a nice job of introducing characters and hinting at issues that we will discover in coming books in this series. Can't wait for the next.


This book is available now from all the usual Harlequin Books stockists, as well as direct from Harlequin, for readers in USA and Canada.
UK & International readers can buy the ebook from the Mills & Boon UK website.


*N.B. ARC provided by Harlequin, with thanks, in exchange for review.

Upcoming Spotlight... Harts of the Rodeo

Starting in July, Harlequin American Romance presents a six book multi-author series...

A new six-book miniseries about a family determined to rebuild their ranch and their lives, with love, hard work, and the help of a legendary stallion...
Featuring six well loved authors from the American Romance line, this series is bound to embody all the elements that makes this line so special.

Start the story with the prequel novella to the series.

WYATT: Return of the Cowboy

by Cathy McDavid

ebook exclusive.

Free for a limited time @ Harlequin

In July

AIDAN: Loyal Cowboy
by Cathy McDavid

Available now at
Harlequin (ebook & paperback - North America)
Mills & Boon (ebook for UK and International)

Author website

In August

COLTON: Rodeo Cowboy

by C.J. Carmichael

Author website

In September

DUKE: Deputy Cowboy

by Roz Denny Fox

In October

AUSTIN: Second Chance Cowboy

by Shelly Galloway

In November

BEAU: Cowboy Protector

by Marin Thomas

Author website

In December

TOMAS: Cowboy Homecoming

by Linda Warren

Author website

I'm thrilled to be invited as part of the the promotional tour of this new mini series, along with some wonderful other bloggers, I can't wait to get stuck in and reading what I know will be a fantastic mini-series.

Look out for reviews, author interviews, and possible book giveaways.

Many thanks to the editors at Harlequin American Romance, author Marin Thomas, and Sara @ Harlequin Junkie blog for arranging and including me.

For more information visit

Harlequin Junkie's Harts of the Rodeo site

Book Review... Baby's First Homecoming - Cathy McDavid

Baby's First Homecoming - Cathy McDavid
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 2012
ISBN: 9780373754014











My rating

From the back cover:

"Giving away her baby for adoption was the second biggest mistake of Sierra Powell's life. But after a miraculous turn of events, she is reunited with her toddler son and they return to Arizona. Too bad Sierra's first mistake is waiting for her there—Clay Duvall, a much too charming cowboy. And onetime love of her life. 
Clay is not about to let go of the opportunity to raise his flesh and blood. He proposes co-parenting—meaning Sierra and Jamie have to move close to him. Real close, as in onto his property. As far as Sierra's concerned, he has no say in her son's life; Clay was the one who walked out on their relationship. 
Will the sparks between Clay and Sierra set off the formerly feuding Powell and Duvall clans…or will they rekindle an old passion?"


I bought this book a while back with the intention of reading it during my 365books challenge, but never actually got round to it.

This is a nice and sweet romance and exactly what I like, and want, from the American Romance line. But it's not perfect, there are a few elements to this book that just don't work.

I feel that the hero didn't make up for what he had done - sleeping with the heroine then running back to his ex and marrying her, never once thinking about what effect this had on the heroine. It didn't seem like he was actually sorry for the hurt he caused her, nor do I think he was actually 'over' his ex wife. I don't usually mind books where there has been other relationships that intrude on the central one, but there has to be enough reason and, for want of a better phrase, grovelling to make me accept it.

This book explores the difficult subjects of adoption (from the birth parents side), depression, and separation anxiety. I think the author handles them well, I especially liked the inclusion of counselling rather than relying on the whole 'love solves everything' idea.

Overall this is a nice read with an interesting theme.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #350

The Sheriff and the Baby - C.C. Coburn
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 2010
ISBN: 9780373753130












My rating

From the back cover:

"When Sheriff Matt O'Malley rescues a pregnant woman after a car accident and helps deliver her baby, he quickly begins to feel protective of her - of "both" of them. Matt is increasingly drawn to Beth Ford and her daughter, Sarah - although he's noticed that Beth isn't your average new mom. 
For one thing, she's obviously hiding something. Like her real name... 
Beth's falling for Matt, too, and she loves the large, boisterous O'Malley clan. She can't let herself trust him, though. The last time she trusted a cop she almost ended up dead - and now she's on the run. But Spruce Lake, Colorado, is starting to feel like home to Beth...and the O'Malleys are definitely starting to feel like family."


After the last book I read was an all-guns-blazing Presents, I thought I would calm down with a more gentle American Romance one! 15 books to go...

The hero Matt comes to the rescue of the heroine Beth when she crashes her car during heavy snowfall. When he realises she is in labour he quickly gets her to the hospital and ends up supporting her through the birth of her daughter. This is bitter-sweet for Matt as it brings back painful memories of his wife and unborn child's death, but he also feels an almost unbelievable connection to Beth and her little girl. Beth is thankful for Matt's help but wary when she finds out he is the Sheriff of the small town she has been hiding out in. When he starts asking questions she is forced to lie and what is worse is that he knows it. When Beth falls ill and Matt once again comes to her aid they end up spending time together getting to know one another and caring for Beth's baby as though they were a family. When their feelings for one another deepen, Beth knows she will have to come clean about everything, but that still will not take away the threat against her and her baby.

This is a good story, if you look past some of the gaping plot holes, and the actual romance part is very pleasing. The suspense-style part of the story doesn't quite work in my opinion. Up until this point the pace of the book is very gentle and almost soothing, then the 'action' is suddenly thrust upon you - it feels very clunky and out of place. I think there was enough story there without needing the action/suspense scenes.
I did enjoy reading how the hero and heroine slowly grew to love one another, and especially liked how the hero gradually let go of his pain.
I don't like the structure of this book; the POV changes a lot using scene breaks (mid-scene), sometimes it changes after only a few lines, and this made it feel very fractured , difficult to read, and spoilt the flow of the story. Plus the inclusion of POV from a few secondary characters takes focus away from the central relationship and doesn't, in my opinion, add anything to the story.

However, the romance and relationship between the hero and heroine is really lovely.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #345

Cowboy to the Rescue - Trish Milburn
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 2012
ISBN: 9780373754007












My rating

From the back cover:

"Ryan Teague was always a bit of a loner. Before his traumatic tour in Iraq, keeping to himself was a choice; now, well, it's a necessity. Ryan feels he's too damaged, too scarred to be around the people he loves most. And a relationship? Out of the question. What woman wants a broken man? 
All that changes when Ryan meets the new ranch chef. Gorgeous, funny and a helluva cook, Brooke Vincent charms everyone at Vista Hills, especially Ryan. He recognizes something else in Brooke, too—behind that warm, easygoing demeanor, Brooke is hiding some scars of her own. Suddenly, all Ryan can think about is making sure no one hurts her again. 
Brooke and Ryan help each other begin to heal. But just as their trust grows into something more, Brooke's past threatens to ruin it all.…"


It's been a while since I endulged my pnechant for cowboy's! Oh, and only 20 more books to go...

The heroine Brooke gets a job as a cook for a ranch resort in Texas hoping she will finally be ale to make a new life for herself and put her fear behind her. She meets the hero Ryan, the resort owner's son, on her first day and there is an immediate connection between them. Ryan is surprised by his reaction to Brooke, he hasn't felt anything quite so strong since he returned from the military after he was serious injured during a traumatic incident while on duty in Iraq. They both sense the sadness and loneliness in each other and even though they try to avoid eacth other they begin to grow closer and closer. Even though Ryan feels a lot more for Brooke than just desire, he doesn't know if his fragile mental state can cope with opening up to her, as well as his feeling that Brooke is also keeping secrets.

I really enjoyed this book, although I have to be honest and say that the ending with the sort-of suspense storyline kinda spoilt it a bit. I loved the way the author gradually built up the relationship between the hero and heroine - it felt very natural and incredibly romantic. The hero and hero both had issues, and these were handled and dealt with well both as individual characters and together. The surroundings are described beautifully and the whole story has a wonderful flow.

Overall, this is a wonderful real-feel romance... but not a great ending.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #325

Matchmaking Baby - Cathy Gillen Thacker
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 1996
ISBN: 9780373166138
Reissue - Harlequin Treasury, 2011
eISBN: 9781459274723








My rating

From the back cover:

"A Baby On Her Doorstep 
The towheaded toddler in the pretty pink stroller came with a blankie, a teddy and a note. Unfortunately, she didn't come with instructions. Like who she was or who her parents were. 
As concierge of Bride's Bay, Joanie Griffin assumed little Emily was a guest's child who needed baby-sitting. But the baby arrived at the worst time - just when her former flame showed up, two years and three months after their breakup. 
Now she'd never get rid of Steve Lantz. Because when Joanie picked up the blue-eyed baby, she called her "Mommy" - and Steve assumed he was "Daddy""


This is another book that is from the Harlequin Treasury line (I bought a lot of them, yes!), I bought this one as it was recommended by a user on Goodreads.

The hero Steve arrives at the hotel resort where the heroine Joanie works to give a speech as part of a conference, but he is also there to try and win Joanie back. Joanie is not willing to listen to Steve, he broke her heart when she found another woman in his bed, but he is persistent in trying to get her to talk to, and believe, him. When a baby is abandoned outside Joanie's room, Steve jumps to the wrong conclusion believing that the baby is Joanie's and his, despite Joanie's almost constant denials. Joanie has no choice but to care for baby Emily while searching for whoever left her, and with Steve helping with the baby and their proximity, it brings them closer and closer. Steve desperately wants to be with Joanie again and hopes their new found closeness will make her trust, and love, him again.

This is a very sweet and charming story that I really enjoyed reading. I believed in the love between the hero and heroine, and it was so refreshing to have a hero being the one who is so open about his feelings. Their relationship has real growth within the story, and it was really satisfying to read how the two of them slowly worked through their issues.
As for the abandoned baby part of the plot - well, it is a little far-fetched (I mean, surely if a baby was abandoned, Police and Social Services would come storming over!) but, it is a charming little touch and quite enjoyable.

An endearing and very romantic read.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #304

Claimed by a Cowboy - Tanya Michaels
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 2012
ISBN: 9780373753925












My rating

From the back cover:

"Sam Travis doesn't like to be tied down. He's used to picking up work all around the Hill Country, including odd jobs for Wanda Keller, an older woman who treats him as a son. When Wanda suddenly dies, her estranged daughter shows up…and Lorelei Keller turns out to be more than he bargained for. 
Polished—some might say uptight—Lorelei left Fredericksburg in the dust years ago. Coming home for her mom's funeral sends her into a tailspin of regrets. But that's nothing compared to the shock of learning that Sam has inherited her mother's B and B. Did the sexy cowboy manipulate his way into her mother's heart? Lorelei is determined to clean up this mess, and then get the heck out of Texas. For good this time. 
Because there's nothing to keep her there now…except maybe Sam?"


Back to another trusty cowboy story, I am a little obsessed with them at the moment!

The heroine Lorelei is pulled away from her comfortable corporate/city life when she hears that her mother has passed away. She travels back to her small Texas home town rather reluctantly, not wanting to be reminded of her unhappy childhood and her very difficult relationship with her mother. When she gets there she is surprised to find Sam, the hero, at her mother's home. Sam had built a strong friendship with Lorelei's mother and saw her as the mother he never had. But no one is more surprised than he when it turns out Lorelei's mother has left everything, including her inn, to Sam. Lorelei, though, is more than a little annoyed. Sam knows that he doesn't have space in his life for running an inn, but also doesn't want Lorelei to just sell it. He also knows how much her mother adored Lorelei, so he asks her to stay until after the town's annual festival, as a sort-of tribute to her mother, and then he will give her the inn. While Lorelei stays she and Sam spend a lot of time together and become very close, she also begins to realise that her life is not as perfect as she thinks, but neither she or Sam are willing to give up anything to have a future together.

I quite enjoyed this book, there is a nice 'real' feels to the story, and it is written really well. However, that's not to say it didn't get on my nerves a little as it did! I didn't really understand why the heroine has such a problem with her mother, it wasn't really explained enough and the impression I did get seemed a little shallow. The hero makes this book; he is perfect in every way - complex, yet open, and very romantic.
The relationship that develops between them is nicely portrayed, it managed to be both tender and steamy, and makes the eventual HEA worth it.

Enjoyable.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #297

Rancher and Protector - Pamela Britton
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 2011
ISBN: 9780373753772

N.B. This is a North American Release










My rating

From the back cover:

"Amber Brooks took the job at Camp Cowboy to find a way to reach her special-needs nephew—not to go gaga over the best-looking guy she's ever laid eyes on. True, Colt Sheridan can teach her a thing or two about horses, but Amber knows better than to trust anyone with her secret. And yet…just what is it about cowboys?
Going undercover at the camp is Colt's way of finding out where "Aunt Amber" has hidden his buddy's little boy. In exchange, his friend's promised him a prize-winning horse. And what this rodeo rider really wants is a shot at the national championship. Unfortunately, what he's got is a crush on the softhearted equine intern. But if Amber is such a good person, how can she keep a man from his own son?"


I think this has to be one of the best covers I have seen on an American Romance book, it's much less cheesy than others!

The hero Colt arrives at a children's therapeutic ranch to help out with the horses, however he is really there to find out where one of his friend's son is. The heroine Amber is the guardian of the little boy and she is working as a therapist at the ranch, so Colt plans to get to know her then hopefully get her to open up to him. Amber is desperate to try anything to help her severely autistic nephew, both with the therapy through the ranch program as well as keeping him away from his imprisoned father. Colt approaches Amber and helps her learn about horses, pretty soon he begins to realise that his friend's description of Amber as a cruel, heartless woman is wrong. Instead Amber is a warm and caring woman, whom he is undeniably drawn to. Amber is also very attracted to Colt and they grow closer and closer. As much as he hates lying to her, Colt still tries to find out where her nephew is but is only left frustrated when she doesn't give anything away.

This is a really deep and moving story. There is quite a bit of sadness in the book, but it's weaved through the book with some fun moments. The issues raised around children's learning disabilities are handled with honesty and sensitivity. Both the hero and heroine are complex characters and perfectly portrayed, they fit together well and I felt that there is a lot of depth to their relationship. I loved the inclusion of the hero's dog, it added such charm to the story!
The only moan I have is that the little boy's father was made out to be the baddie throughout the whole book yet in the closing pages he had completely reformed and was the nicest man possible - it felt weak and a little shallow.

There is angst, emotion, and passion in this book. I really liked it.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #284

Cowboy with a Secret - Pamela Browning
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 2001
ISBN: 9780373168743
Reissue - Harlequin Special Releases, 2011
eISBN: 9781459282711








My rating

From the back cover:

"Bethany Burke was intrigued by her new ranch hand—a man she'd ordered from a catalog! Strong, quiet Colt McClure had a way with animals and a past he never spoke of. The mystery only deepened when a baby girl arrived on the ranch doorstep—addressed to Colt! 
Colt's lovely boss made him want to reveal his secret past—especially because Bethany thought he was the baby's father! True, the cowboy had a few closely guarded secrets, but being somebody's daddy wasn't one of them. The wrangler was desperate to reveal the truth—but baring his soul could mean losing his heart."


This is an older American Romance book that has recently been reissued as an ebook.

The heroine Bethany has been struggling to keep her ranch afloat, her new ranch hand Colt, the hero, arrives not a moment too soon. Although she recognises that Colt is a hard worker as well as a genuinely nice man, she also realises that he is keeping secrets. Colt begins to treasure the new life he has built for himself at Bethany's ranch, and he also feels an intense attraction towards Bethany. But after spending the last few years in prison, he is reluctant to open his heart or let his past out. However, the peace he has found on the ranch and with Bethany is shattered when an old friend leaves her baby Alyssa on Bethany's doorstep asking Colt to care for her. Bethany thinks Alyssa is Colt's baby and this upsets her as she was beginning to fall for him. But rather than tearing them apart, caring for the baby together brings Colt and Bethany closer and closer. Only Colt's secrets and past stand in the way of their happiness, and he doesn't know what Bethany's reaction will be.

I really enjoyed this book, I couldn't put it down. There is a really nice spirit to this book, a sort of family feel. The secondary characters are great and they help rather than hinder the progression of the story. Both the hero and heroine are well developed, complex, interesting, and flawed characters. They fit together perfectly and are able to grow as the story progresses. The plot itself is very compelling and beautifully written, the pace is flawless.

A great book.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... Book #260

The Christmas Cradle - Linda Warren
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 2004
ISBN: 9780373750467
Reissue - Harlequin Special Releases, 2011
eISBN: 9781459282704










My rating

From the back cover:

"Eight years ago Marisa Preston fell in love, but her plans to marry rodeo star Colter Kincaid were thwarted by her controlling parents. Now, unexpectedly, she's found Colter again—and his adorable seven-year-old daughter, Ellie. More than anything in the world, Ellie wants a mommy.... 
And more than anything, Marisa wants a child. But she's been keeping a secret about the past, a secret she has to tell Colter. She goes to see him at his ranch, and it isn't long before she falls in love all over again. With Ellie... and with Colter"


This is an older American Romance book that has been reissued as an ebook.

The hero Colter is doing his best to raise his beloved daughter Ellie by himself, however she is desperate to have a mother and believes that Santa will bring her one for Christmas. The heroine Marisa has never forgotten the happiness she found in Colter's arms eight years ago, nor has she forgotten her devastation after her controlling mother forced her to leave him, and the later loss of her stillborn baby. Seeing Colter again and his beautiful daughter reminds her of everything she lost. She attempts to talk to him but she doesn't expect his anger. Colter has never forgiven Marisa for the way she left him and warns her to stay away from him. But Marisa can't accept that, as she needs to tell him the real reason she left and the tragic events that happened after. Eventually he listens but this results in some very traumatic secrets being revealed that rocks both Colter and Marisa's lives. And even though they still love one another deeply, the pain of the past will stop them from being together.

I really enjoyed this book, but wow, it is so intense! The plot of this book is so heartbreaking, you'll need tissues, and very poignantly written. I couldn't put it down! The 'big reveal' was shocking and I was completely not expecting it, I think the author did a great job in making this book a little unpredictable. Yes, perhaps the plot is a little contrived and relies on a series of coincidences, but I really liked it. The hero and heroine are both flawed characters but also sympathetic, which makes them three dimensional. I really felt they went on a journey together throughout the book, and that is very satisfying to read.
My only complaint is that I feel that some issues were too easily, and neatly, resolved and it felt too convenient for me.

Nevertheless, this is a deeply emotional and heart-warming story that will keep you guessing.

Xx

365 books in 365 days Challenge ... book #248

Rodeo Daddy _ Marin Thomas
Harlequin American Romance
Harlequin, 2011
ISBN: 9780373753567

N.B. This is a North American release.




My rating




From the back cover:

"The day Hallie Sutton dreaded has finally come. Drew Rawlins has found out the secret she's been keeping—and he's spitting mad! But the rodeo is Drew's whole world and Hallie needs a full-time dad for their boy. Still, how can she deny the injured bronc rider the chance to get to know his son?
All Drew wants is to carve out a place in his son's life. Sorting out his feelings for Hallie isn't as simple. The emotion simmering between them is just as strong—so's the red-hot desire that got them into trouble five years ago. Winning the world championship is still number one on Drew's list. But he figures he can have it all. The title and the chance to prove he's the man Hallie and Nick need."


I actually started reading this book back in the summer, but due to an invasion of bugs into our bedroom (urgh!) my copy of this book was a casualty of war and ended up in the bin! I have finally got round to buying a new copy.

The hero Drew, a pro bronc rider, is injured during a rodeo and taken to hospital where he is reminded of the last time he was in this town and spent one night with Hallie, the heroine. A night he has never forgotten. He manages to track Hallie down and is shocked and angry to discover that she has kept the fact that they made a child that night, a child that is now his four year old son Nick. Hallie has always feared that Drew would find out, and although she knows she was wrong keeping Nick from Drew she can't help but think that Drew will end up hurting Nick. Hallie's bad opinion of cowboys comes from being abandoned by her cowboy father as a child, but Drew tries to show her he is not like her father and is serious about being a father to Nick. However he is not willing to give up his world championship dream and doesn't see how much this hurts Hallie when he keeps leaving and coming back, which also confuses Nick. Despite the animosity between them, whenever Hallie and Drew are alone together they can't ignore the desire they feel for one another. Drew wants a future with Hallie and Nick, but not at the expense of his own dream.

I really enjoyed this book, it is both emotional and upbeat, and beautifully written. The hero and heroine are well developed, and their relationship feels very real, they go on a journey that is a pleasure to read. What I liked most about this book is it's honesty. The author doesn't sugarcoat issues such as the jealousy parents feel when their child sways towards one of them, or the fact that the child actually behaves badly on occasions  (so annoying when books include children that are written as perfectly behaved little angels, let's be realistic!).

This is a very enjoyable book with a nice love-story and is, above all, believable.

Xx