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The Cowboy Collection
Hired by the Cowboy
Alexis Grayson is good at looking after herself—she's been doing it all her life. So what if she's alone and pregnant? She'll cope! But gorgeous cowboy Connor Madsen seems determined to take care of her. And Alexis can help him—he needs a temporary wife; she needs somewhere to live until the baby's born. A short-term marriage will solve all their difficulties! As Alexis gets to know the courageous, honorable Connor, she realizes that she might have made the biggest mistake of her life. Because all this wife-for-hire wants is a marriage for real!
177 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2006
445 people are currently reading
1875 people want to read
About the author
Donna Alward
287 books695 followersSince 2006, New York Times bestseller Donna Jones Alward has enchanted readers with stories of happy endings and homecomings that have won several awards and been translated into over a dozen languages. She’s worked as an administrative assistant, teaching assistant, in retail and as a stay-at-home-mom, but always knew her degree in English Literature would pay off, as she is now happy to be a full-time writer. Her new historical fiction tales blend her love of history with characters who step beyond their biggest fears to claim the lives they desire.
Donna currently lives in Nova Scotia, Canada, with her husband and cats. You can often find her near the water, either kayaking on the lake or walking the sandy beaches to refill her creative well.
Find out more at www.donnajonesalward.com
Donna currently lives in Nova Scotia, Canada, with her husband and cats. You can often find her near the water, either kayaking on the lake or walking the sandy beaches to refill her creative well.
Find out more at www.donnajonesalward.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 340 reviews
October 15, 2012
DNF
I finally gave up about 16% of the way through. For a contemporary novel, the premise is rather stupid: how will any responsible people who run a ranch, knowing the precarious nature of running one, leave money to their son on the condition that he turns thirty or gets married? What happens when there is a drought when he is 25 and single and needs money to keep the ranch from going under? Stupid premises make stupid stories.
I could not get much of a feel for the hero and didn't care, but the heroine, in the few pages I read, was so unlikeable, ugh!
No thank you.
My first book by this author and possibly my last.
April 4, 2013
Rating: 2.5 stars.
It seems like I’ve been reading a lot of Harlequin romance this year and while some have been amazing, some not so much. And I’m afraid Hired by the Cowboy fits the second category.
Everything started super well with Hired by the Cowboy. Or as well as it could start. Asking a girl you just met to marry you so you can save your ranch is not among the things considered normal, or believable. But Donna Alward did a pretty good job on making it as believable as possible. You wouldn’t believe how many times I read books with this same premise and the guy was like: “Hey! I need you to marry me because [insert random reason], but you won’t be really my wife,” and she is immediately like: “Why, of course I will! It’s not like this is unusual or something, pfft!”
Yup, that is very much true. Mostly…
Anyway. Alex is resistant at first. Sure the guy saved her from eating dirt when she fainted in the middle of the sidewalk, but does that mean she should run to his arms like a crazy woman? No. Sure he is super polite and gah! so swoon worthy, but just because he looks good you should agree to whatever he asks?Maybe. Duh, no!
But…
But he is also trying to save his family’s legacy, he is also offering her the security and stability she needs at the moment, he is also yummy… I mean incredibly sweet.
So Alex eventually agrees to marry Connor. Because she needs that security he is offering for her soon-to-be-born baby, and a little for herself too.
Everything goes great from there. They are attracted to each other but fight it, both too keen on keeping things platonic and on the safe side of friendship. Of course that distance doesn’t last forever and they fall in love.
But.
Yes, another but. And this is where everything went to hell for me. The book was going okay until this point, with some great parts here and there and then…blah.
It was inevitable that the fall out would happen. It was predictable, it always is. I was expecting it, but gee it was disappointing. One second everything was okay and the next Alex was flipping out and threatening to leave and crying and what?! Woman, get a hold of yourself, please! And then it was over. And by over I mean she was like: “Okay. I’m not leaving. We’re doing juuuuuust fine.”
What?
Yeah. It felt just so out of place to me. It felt like the author needed something that would break them apart so they could confess their love for each other but then she decided they should stay just like that, let’s not make too much of a fuss of this. Like it never happened. It’s hard to explain, it just felt off to me.
After that it got back to being good, but just good and sometimes good isn’t enough. I was already disappointed with the book.
Hired by the Cowboy was cute and sweet and okay. It’s an entertaining read to pass some time. It still could have been better…. I wish it had been.
It seems like I’ve been reading a lot of Harlequin romance this year and while some have been amazing, some not so much. And I’m afraid Hired by the Cowboy fits the second category.
Everything started super well with Hired by the Cowboy. Or as well as it could start. Asking a girl you just met to marry you so you can save your ranch is not among the things considered normal, or believable. But Donna Alward did a pretty good job on making it as believable as possible. You wouldn’t believe how many times I read books with this same premise and the guy was like: “Hey! I need you to marry me because [insert random reason], but you won’t be really my wife,” and she is immediately like: “Why, of course I will! It’s not like this is unusual or something, pfft!”
Yup, that is very much true. Mostly…
Anyway. Alex is resistant at first. Sure the guy saved her from eating dirt when she fainted in the middle of the sidewalk, but does that mean she should run to his arms like a crazy woman? No. Sure he is super polite and gah! so swoon worthy, but just because he looks good you should agree to whatever he asks?
But…
But he is also trying to save his family’s legacy, he is also offering her the security and stability she needs at the moment, he is also yummy… I mean incredibly sweet.
So Alex eventually agrees to marry Connor. Because she needs that security he is offering for her soon-to-be-born baby, and a little for herself too.
Everything goes great from there. They are attracted to each other but fight it, both too keen on keeping things platonic and on the safe side of friendship. Of course that distance doesn’t last forever and they fall in love.
But.
Yes, another but. And this is where everything went to hell for me. The book was going okay until this point, with some great parts here and there and then…blah.
It was inevitable that the fall out would happen. It was predictable, it always is. I was expecting it, but gee it was disappointing. One second everything was okay and the next Alex was flipping out and threatening to leave and crying and what?! Woman, get a hold of yourself, please! And then it was over. And by over I mean she was like: “Okay. I’m not leaving. We’re doing juuuuuust fine.”
What?
Yeah. It felt just so out of place to me. It felt like the author needed something that would break them apart so they could confess their love for each other but then she decided they should stay just like that, let’s not make too much of a fuss of this. Like it never happened. It’s hard to explain, it just felt off to me.
After that it got back to being good, but just good and sometimes good isn’t enough. I was already disappointed with the book.
Hired by the Cowboy was cute and sweet and okay. It’s an entertaining read to pass some time. It still could have been better…. I wish it had been.
August 26, 2012
Bu yorumu Kitap Esintisi sayfasında bulabilirsiniz.
Her Hq romanını sevmem hatta nadiren sevdiklerim çıkar. Ama bunun gibi şirin romanlarına bayılırım. Kitap hamile olarak sokakta kalmış kızımız Alex ile ailesinin evinde tek başına yaşayan biftek üreticimiz yani bir nevi kovboyumuz Connor'ın hikayesini anlatıyor. Connor ile Alex'in tanışması kızın bayılması vesilesiyle oluyor ve orada hamile olduğunu öğreniyor. Connor'ın batmamak için paraya ihtiyacı vardır ve de ailesinden kalan parayı alabilmek için de 30 yaşını geçmesi ya da evlenmesi gerekmektedir. Tabi aklına bir fikir geliyor ve Alex'i kendisiyle evlenmesi için ikna ediyor ama tabi karşılıklı çekim felan işler bir hayli karışıyor. Kısacası hoş bir romanstı, okuduğum kitapların çoğunda böyle şirin eyler beklediğimden bunu okumak iyi geldi. Sadece sanki inatlaşma kısmı biraz uzun geldi bana, bir türlü birbirlerine açılamadılar ama onu da bir fırtına sayesinde başardılar. Sevdim ben.
Her Hq romanını sevmem hatta nadiren sevdiklerim çıkar. Ama bunun gibi şirin romanlarına bayılırım. Kitap hamile olarak sokakta kalmış kızımız Alex ile ailesinin evinde tek başına yaşayan biftek üreticimiz yani bir nevi kovboyumuz Connor'ın hikayesini anlatıyor. Connor ile Alex'in tanışması kızın bayılması vesilesiyle oluyor ve orada hamile olduğunu öğreniyor. Connor'ın batmamak için paraya ihtiyacı vardır ve de ailesinden kalan parayı alabilmek için de 30 yaşını geçmesi ya da evlenmesi gerekmektedir. Tabi aklına bir fikir geliyor ve Alex'i kendisiyle evlenmesi için ikna ediyor ama tabi karşılıklı çekim felan işler bir hayli karışıyor. Kısacası hoş bir romanstı, okuduğum kitapların çoğunda böyle şirin eyler beklediğimden bunu okumak iyi geldi. Sadece sanki inatlaşma kısmı biraz uzun geldi bana, bir türlü birbirlerine açılamadılar ama onu da bir fırtına sayesinde başardılar. Sevdim ben.
September 25, 2012
Hired By The Cowboy is a cute, quick read. I started and finished it in a few hours. I really enjoyed the book and fell in love with Alex and Conner. They both had been hurt in the past and swore they would never love again. I enjoyed watching their relationship and feelings for each other grow. But towards the end of the book I started getting annoyed by Alex. She kind of turned into a drama queen and I wanted to slap her. She took her insecurities and turned them into anger towards Conner. The poor guy was baffled and really had no clue what in the world was going on. In the end it all worked out but, in my opinion, if they would have just talked about their feelings and what was going on, all that drama could have been avoided.
February 6, 2013
A freebie category romance published under the Harlequin Romance line. It was okay for me. Nothing really exciting happens. Probably why I haven't read many from this particular category line in a while. Connor Madsen meets Alexis Grayson when she faints. Alex is pregnant and has no family and Connor needs a wife. A little too sweet for my personal taste.
August 4, 2012
I was in the mood for something easy and fast to read so I enjoyed it a lot.I think it was the first Harlequin book I've ever read that didn't make me roll my eyes all the time!!!
June 17, 2013
***Detailed Review***
I was really surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. It definitely didn’t drag out and it keep the pace going.
Connor Madsen need a miracle to save his family ranch. After the loss of his parents and brother in one fell swoop, Windover is all he has left, but with an outbreak of cattle disease, his ranch could be linked and he’ll lose it all. He needs his inheritance money to help keep finances afloat, but with six months left until his 30th birthday and he can claim the money they only way around waiting is to marry.
As crazy as the idea is to Connor, his mind keeps going back to the black haired beauty he helped earlier that day.
Alexis Grayson hasn’t had a home in years. With traveling historian parents, she never got that settled childhood. Since their deaths, life hasn’t gotten any easier. Now, Alexis finds herself pregnant and helped getting back on her feet after fainting by a chivalrous gentleman who makes her want things she’s never had.
Connor’s proposal is unheard of, but with a child to consider, she really could use Connor’s support until she worked something out for herself.
What neither planned on was the instant hot attraction. Suddenly their pact to remain friends only made things more awkward and complicated as neither one was willing to rock the boat and take the leap.
Alexis is quickly taken in by not only Connor but his grandmother. Although she knew about the arrangement, she instantly takes to Alexis as if she her own grand-daughter and guesses about the baby, Alexis lack of love in her life and her longing for a place to call home.
Alexis finds everything she could want with Connor and his grandmother. She embraces the chance to make Connor happy, although there are a few learning curves ahead of her.
The wedding planning is in full swing and with a few heated glances, a few comfort hugs and one pre wedding kiss, the ceremony takes place without a single problem. Now though, things feel even tenser as husband and wife.
With their first outing as husband and wife and Alexis clearly pregnant, all eyes are them and they both face questions. Alexis, emotional, can’t take the decent and judgment. She’s ready to call it all off and move out when Connor pours more heart and soul into getting her to stay.
It’s crazy because they both want the other, yet it takes Connor storming out of the house after getting the bad news about the cow disease and a severe, tornado producing storm to get these two together.
Fearing for the other’s safety, everything comes falling out when they find the other safe. With their love on out in the open, they can face rebuilding the ranch together as a family.
A year later, progress is being made on Windover and baby Maren is officially adopted and getting a baby brother or sister.
My only complaint overall was the avoidance of their feelings. Even being pregnant and young, Alexis went a little overboard with her rants and worthlessness. Connor as well should have stepped up sooner than he did, as well.
I was really surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. It definitely didn’t drag out and it keep the pace going.
Connor Madsen need a miracle to save his family ranch. After the loss of his parents and brother in one fell swoop, Windover is all he has left, but with an outbreak of cattle disease, his ranch could be linked and he’ll lose it all. He needs his inheritance money to help keep finances afloat, but with six months left until his 30th birthday and he can claim the money they only way around waiting is to marry.
As crazy as the idea is to Connor, his mind keeps going back to the black haired beauty he helped earlier that day.
Alexis Grayson hasn’t had a home in years. With traveling historian parents, she never got that settled childhood. Since their deaths, life hasn’t gotten any easier. Now, Alexis finds herself pregnant and helped getting back on her feet after fainting by a chivalrous gentleman who makes her want things she’s never had.
Connor’s proposal is unheard of, but with a child to consider, she really could use Connor’s support until she worked something out for herself.
What neither planned on was the instant hot attraction. Suddenly their pact to remain friends only made things more awkward and complicated as neither one was willing to rock the boat and take the leap.
Alexis is quickly taken in by not only Connor but his grandmother. Although she knew about the arrangement, she instantly takes to Alexis as if she her own grand-daughter and guesses about the baby, Alexis lack of love in her life and her longing for a place to call home.
Alexis finds everything she could want with Connor and his grandmother. She embraces the chance to make Connor happy, although there are a few learning curves ahead of her.
The wedding planning is in full swing and with a few heated glances, a few comfort hugs and one pre wedding kiss, the ceremony takes place without a single problem. Now though, things feel even tenser as husband and wife.
With their first outing as husband and wife and Alexis clearly pregnant, all eyes are them and they both face questions. Alexis, emotional, can’t take the decent and judgment. She’s ready to call it all off and move out when Connor pours more heart and soul into getting her to stay.
It’s crazy because they both want the other, yet it takes Connor storming out of the house after getting the bad news about the cow disease and a severe, tornado producing storm to get these two together.
Fearing for the other’s safety, everything comes falling out when they find the other safe. With their love on out in the open, they can face rebuilding the ranch together as a family.
A year later, progress is being made on Windover and baby Maren is officially adopted and getting a baby brother or sister.
My only complaint overall was the avoidance of their feelings. Even being pregnant and young, Alexis went a little overboard with her rants and worthlessness. Connor as well should have stepped up sooner than he did, as well.
October 14, 2012
This was a freebie on Amazon.
What a sweet romantic story! It has many elements that have been written before, true, but the author wrote a beautiful romance, that developed and grew with the book.
Alex is pregnant and alone; Connor sees her passing out and comes to her aid. He himself is in a quandary, needing trust fund money to help save his ranch from economic collapse due to a cattle disease. In short order, he proposes a "paper marriage", a business arrangement as it were- she marry him, he takes care of her until she is on her feet.
Alex agrees to his offer, in large part because it's the only decent thing available to her that will provide safety and stability for her and her baby. She moves in and starts helping out, and soon, the situation starts feeling right.
As expected, the two develop feelings for each other that aren't "business arrangement" appropriate. The sparks flew when they first met, and now they each fill a void in the others' life. There is a lot of internal conflict, as both struggle with the realization they are falling in love, and each believe the other wants the temporary business arrangement.
This is not an erotic romance. Rather, it is a gentle, watch love grow romance, where you root for both characters.
What a sweet romantic story! It has many elements that have been written before, true, but the author wrote a beautiful romance, that developed and grew with the book.
Alex is pregnant and alone; Connor sees her passing out and comes to her aid. He himself is in a quandary, needing trust fund money to help save his ranch from economic collapse due to a cattle disease. In short order, he proposes a "paper marriage", a business arrangement as it were- she marry him, he takes care of her until she is on her feet.
Alex agrees to his offer, in large part because it's the only decent thing available to her that will provide safety and stability for her and her baby. She moves in and starts helping out, and soon, the situation starts feeling right.
As expected, the two develop feelings for each other that aren't "business arrangement" appropriate. The sparks flew when they first met, and now they each fill a void in the others' life. There is a lot of internal conflict, as both struggle with the realization they are falling in love, and each believe the other wants the temporary business arrangement.
This is not an erotic romance. Rather, it is a gentle, watch love grow romance, where you root for both characters.
September 28, 2013
Hired by the Cowboy is about Alexis Grayson who is alone and pregnant with a barely adequate income and no one to help. She faints and is caught by Connor Madson who is handsome and considerate, staying with Alex until he is sure she is feeling better. Alex thinks Connor is a polished businessman and expects he will forget ever meeting her, never seeing him again. However, Connor is really a cowboy and runs his family's ranch.
Windover Ranch is all he has left after his parents and brother died, but with an outbreak of cattle disease in the area, it's possible his ranch could be linked and then he could lose all of it. Connor needed a miracle to save the ranch. He needs his inheritance money to help keep it going, but he is a year away from his 30th birthday which is when he can claim the money. The only other way for him to get the inheritance is to get married. Since he is not even dating anyone, this is a problem.
Hired by the Cowboy is a well written love story with a good story line. I liked that it was a little different than many of the stories of this type. Alward had good character development so that I felt I really knew Alex and Connor.
This was a nice, easy read and I would definitely recommend it.
Windover Ranch is all he has left after his parents and brother died, but with an outbreak of cattle disease in the area, it's possible his ranch could be linked and then he could lose all of it. Connor needed a miracle to save the ranch. He needs his inheritance money to help keep it going, but he is a year away from his 30th birthday which is when he can claim the money. The only other way for him to get the inheritance is to get married. Since he is not even dating anyone, this is a problem.
Hired by the Cowboy is a well written love story with a good story line. I liked that it was a little different than many of the stories of this type. Alward had good character development so that I felt I really knew Alex and Connor.
This was a nice, easy read and I would definitely recommend it.
January 24, 2013
I have downloaded this book for free from Ibooks. I really like romance. but for some reason i thought i wouldn't like this one. and i didn't in the beginning to be honest, but as i read through i became more in love with the characters and the story. It is very touching, very sweet, and a really nice love story.
So the story is about Alex and Connor. her alone and pregnant, and him about to lose his ranch. they meet and agree on a paper marriage, but then everything changes and they start having deep feeling for each others, that's when it gets good and it gets bad.
i liked the relationship between the character for some reasons. first of all which was the fact that no matter what they faced and their troubles, they always chose to be honest with each other. second was that they were always caring and trying to help each other anyway they could.
i would recommend to read this book. It's a very nice story and very touching, so you might shed a few tears reading through.
So the story is about Alex and Connor. her alone and pregnant, and him about to lose his ranch. they meet and agree on a paper marriage, but then everything changes and they start having deep feeling for each others, that's when it gets good and it gets bad.
i liked the relationship between the character for some reasons. first of all which was the fact that no matter what they faced and their troubles, they always chose to be honest with each other. second was that they were always caring and trying to help each other anyway they could.
i would recommend to read this book. It's a very nice story and very touching, so you might shed a few tears reading through.
June 19, 2014
:)
this was a so sweet and cute story!
not so credible in ours days, with so much violence and some cases low moral values.
But in any case, we have here a story based on a perfect gentleman and a sweet young lady, that all she wants is a family who loves her.
Alex wants a simple life for her and for her baby.... Connor need a wife in order to save his ranch.
The destiny forged a not so orthodox date.... and the attraction that both feel leads to a compromised love.
I have a great time reading this story.... the characters seemed real, all the scenes envolved real emotions.
this was a so sweet and cute story!
not so credible in ours days, with so much violence and some cases low moral values.
But in any case, we have here a story based on a perfect gentleman and a sweet young lady, that all she wants is a family who loves her.
Alex wants a simple life for her and for her baby.... Connor need a wife in order to save his ranch.
The destiny forged a not so orthodox date.... and the attraction that both feel leads to a compromised love.
I have a great time reading this story.... the characters seemed real, all the scenes envolved real emotions.
March 24, 2011
Hired By The Cowboy by author Donna Alward has a very sensitive, caring hero. He finds the heroine on the verge of passing out and takes her in. The heroine is pregnant and without support. The story has lovable characters. I loved the character of the hero's grandmother, who comes in from time to time. I always looked forward to her visits!
Hired By The Cowboy was Donna Alward's first book, yet it was an emotion packed roller-coaster!
Hired By The Cowboy was Donna Alward's first book, yet it was an emotion packed roller-coaster!
August 1, 2012
Very touching story that engaged my emotions starting with the first chapter. I am a sucker for happily ever after and this book delivered. So many of the characters' needs were met by this relationship. I felt like they really loved and respected each other and weren't lost in lust. I liked the inclusion of family, homemaking, mentoring, and traditional gender roles.
April 17, 2013
3 Stars - I liked it
I think I got this book for free from Amazon. Although the book was based on a rather unlikely and overused storyline, , the fact that Alexis was pregnant added an interesting added dimension.
The story flowed well and was an easy, quite enjoyable read.
I think I got this book for free from Amazon. Although the book was based on a rather unlikely and overused storyline, , the fact that Alexis was pregnant added an interesting added dimension.
The story flowed well and was an easy, quite enjoyable read.
February 18, 2013
This book was pretty good. I liked the characters and the plot. It seemed a little slow in some spots but overall a good book to read for passing time or just to read on a rainy day. I wouldn't consider this a go-to book, but something for just reading. There were plenty of emotions and some were truly felt while others were a little exasperating at times.
March 16, 2013
Cute happy quick read, romantic! well written
February 22, 2014
Sweet Romance
I really enjoyed this story. It was very well written, had a good pace and characters that I enjoyed getting to know, this book is a very nice light romantic read.
I really enjoyed this story. It was very well written, had a good pace and characters that I enjoyed getting to know, this book is a very nice light romantic read.
May 2, 2022
A lovely sweet read with two lonely but extremely likable characters. It was a good break after reading several "heavier" books.
February 21, 2017
Every once in awhile I find myself wanting to change things up a bit so I fall back on an old favorite, a Harlequin Romance. Since I first became interested in romance novels, Harlequins in particular, I've spent many hours curled up in a favorite chair indulging in my favorite pass time. I came across this one by Donna Alward while browsing through books on Harlequin's website. Because it had to do with an arranged marriage, yet another favorite, I chose it, even though I wasn't familiar with this author's work. I'm glad I did as I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Alex is all alone and pregnant, the baby's father having walked out on her when Alex told him she was in the family way. She's working at a pub, the only job she could find at the moment, as she tries to figure out what to do. She meets Connor when she's in town and practically faints at his feet. Although he wants to take her to a doctor, she insists she's fine. As they talk, Alex tells him about her circumstances. Connor gives her his number and tells her to call if she needs anything. Both of them know she won't do it, that pride won't let her, but she thanks him and the two part company.
Connor goes to visit his grandmother, hoping she'll release his trust fund to him even though he's not yet thirty. He desperately needs the money to save his cattle ranch. Because of a disease that's killing off cattle in that area, Connor is forbidden from selling any beef until they determine if his livestock are infected. In the meantime, he still has to feed and care for his herd, which is going to cost a pretty penny - make that several pretty pennies - none of which Connor has. His grandmother tells him that while she'd like to help, legally her hands are tied. Unless . . . Connor gets married before his thirtieth birthday. In that case the money automatically becomes his. However, that seems an impossibility since he isn't even dating at the moment. Then he remembers Alex.
Alex thinks Connor is crazy when he proposes they marry. He saves the ranch and she will have a roof over her head, three meals a day, and time to come up with a plan for her life. Once they divorce Connor will continue to send her a check once a month.
Crazy or not, Alex finally agrees. The problem is, she never thought she'd fall in love. What if Connor failed to love her in return? Then she'd have her heart broken all over again. So what did she do now? How did she get out of the mess she'd made of things? She decides it would be better if she left before that happened.
But what if Connor doesn't want her to go?
A perfectly wonderful love story, well written and the characters are the type of people you fall in love with. Struggling to make their way in the world, they discover it's a lot easier and a whole lot more pleasurable when they're together.
Alex is all alone and pregnant, the baby's father having walked out on her when Alex told him she was in the family way. She's working at a pub, the only job she could find at the moment, as she tries to figure out what to do. She meets Connor when she's in town and practically faints at his feet. Although he wants to take her to a doctor, she insists she's fine. As they talk, Alex tells him about her circumstances. Connor gives her his number and tells her to call if she needs anything. Both of them know she won't do it, that pride won't let her, but she thanks him and the two part company.
Connor goes to visit his grandmother, hoping she'll release his trust fund to him even though he's not yet thirty. He desperately needs the money to save his cattle ranch. Because of a disease that's killing off cattle in that area, Connor is forbidden from selling any beef until they determine if his livestock are infected. In the meantime, he still has to feed and care for his herd, which is going to cost a pretty penny - make that several pretty pennies - none of which Connor has. His grandmother tells him that while she'd like to help, legally her hands are tied. Unless . . . Connor gets married before his thirtieth birthday. In that case the money automatically becomes his. However, that seems an impossibility since he isn't even dating at the moment. Then he remembers Alex.
Alex thinks Connor is crazy when he proposes they marry. He saves the ranch and she will have a roof over her head, three meals a day, and time to come up with a plan for her life. Once they divorce Connor will continue to send her a check once a month.
Crazy or not, Alex finally agrees. The problem is, she never thought she'd fall in love. What if Connor failed to love her in return? Then she'd have her heart broken all over again. So what did she do now? How did she get out of the mess she'd made of things? She decides it would be better if she left before that happened.
But what if Connor doesn't want her to go?
A perfectly wonderful love story, well written and the characters are the type of people you fall in love with. Struggling to make their way in the world, they discover it's a lot easier and a whole lot more pleasurable when they're together.
May 11, 2016
If people could marry phones, I think I would marry my iPhone. Why, you might ask. The answer is simple: iBook. Being my first rodeo with an iPhone, one of the first perks I discovered was iBooks and the plethora of free books available for download. I downloaded some classics, Finding Cinderella, and a dozen romances I would never admit to reading but that made me squeal in delight when I did. Hired by the Cowboy is the latest of my cheesy free romances.
This is not your average marriage of convenience story. Alexis Grayson is alone, pregnant, and homeless, working at a smoky bar to keep food in her mouth. Connor Madsen is desperately trying to save his family's ranch from falling apart, but he needs to access the trust fund his parents set up for him. Problem is that he can't get into it until he's 30 or married. Meeting by chance, sparks fly between Alexis and Connor. Realizing that Alexis could help him and needs some help in return, Connor offers her a proposition: marry him so he can get into the trust fund and stay until her baby's born and she's back on her feet, and he'll make sure her and her baby are taken care of. Though reluctant, Alexis really has no other choice and agrees to the deal. Of course, ignoring the increasing attraction they share will be difficult as they continue to grow closer and closer...
I'll admit I liked this way more than I probably should. Alexis was a good heroine: tough and strong, able to take care of herself, but so vulnerable and unsure of what the future would look like for her and her daughter. It's easy to see how she could fall for a man as honorable and kind as Connor Madsen. I fell for him a bit myself. Connor is so kind-hearted and completely unlike any guy I've ever met. I loved how much he cared for Alexis even when he didn't want to admit to it. Johanna was another bright spot. I've never had a grandmother, but I did I'm pretty sure I'd want her to be like Johanna. I loved how gentle and kind she was with Alexis, a girl who's had little love in her life.
The only thing that continually frustrated was the yes-no tango Alexis and Connor seemed to be doing. As soon as one took a step forward, the other took a step back. It drove me up the wall. I wanted to shout, "Get over yourselves and realize you're in love already!" I didn't because it was like one in the morning, but I would've otherwise. Luckily, everything ended up working out in the end. Doesn't it always? The epilogue had me squealing and jumping in joy, and I am not ashamed to say I want the follow-up because I'm now hooked.
If you have iBook, go download this right now!
This is not your average marriage of convenience story. Alexis Grayson is alone, pregnant, and homeless, working at a smoky bar to keep food in her mouth. Connor Madsen is desperately trying to save his family's ranch from falling apart, but he needs to access the trust fund his parents set up for him. Problem is that he can't get into it until he's 30 or married. Meeting by chance, sparks fly between Alexis and Connor. Realizing that Alexis could help him and needs some help in return, Connor offers her a proposition: marry him so he can get into the trust fund and stay until her baby's born and she's back on her feet, and he'll make sure her and her baby are taken care of. Though reluctant, Alexis really has no other choice and agrees to the deal. Of course, ignoring the increasing attraction they share will be difficult as they continue to grow closer and closer...
I'll admit I liked this way more than I probably should. Alexis was a good heroine: tough and strong, able to take care of herself, but so vulnerable and unsure of what the future would look like for her and her daughter. It's easy to see how she could fall for a man as honorable and kind as Connor Madsen. I fell for him a bit myself. Connor is so kind-hearted and completely unlike any guy I've ever met. I loved how much he cared for Alexis even when he didn't want to admit to it. Johanna was another bright spot. I've never had a grandmother, but I did I'm pretty sure I'd want her to be like Johanna. I loved how gentle and kind she was with Alexis, a girl who's had little love in her life.
The only thing that continually frustrated was the yes-no tango Alexis and Connor seemed to be doing. As soon as one took a step forward, the other took a step back. It drove me up the wall. I wanted to shout, "Get over yourselves and realize you're in love already!" I didn't because it was like one in the morning, but I would've otherwise. Luckily, everything ended up working out in the end. Doesn't it always? The epilogue had me squealing and jumping in joy, and I am not ashamed to say I want the follow-up because I'm now hooked.
If you have iBook, go download this right now!
July 13, 2023
I really love this sweet cowboy romance so much that I've read it like a thousand times!!!
5 STARS
Alexis MacKenzie (Alex) Grayson is alone and pregnant. Connor Madsen is a handsome cowboy that runs a ranch which is threatening to be closed down. In order for the ranch to survive, Connor has to get married or be a certain age which is thirty but he is twenty-nine now, but he can't wait until his thirtieth birthday. He meets Alex after she faints, realizing that she might need help financially and with the baby, he proposes (literally) a plan by telling her what he has to do. They grow closer together in the following weeks. With the help from Connors' grandmother, he helps Alex get maternity clothes, new shoes, some baby stuff and even a wedding dress. The morning of their wedding, they have their very first kiss and they both make "temporary vows" to each other considering it's not a "real" marriage. As the days and weeks go on, he knows that her baby is not his but he wants it to be. They even start to have real feelings toward one another. As Alex gets to know the courageous, honorable Connor, she realizes that maybe she made the biggest mistake of her life: all this wife-for-hire wants is a marriage for real? After a tornado comes in and destroys almost everything scaring them both because of their safety, they finally admit of their feelings for each other. They still want their marriage to go on.
One Year Later: Connor ends up adopting Alex's daughter Maren as his own daughter and she reveals that she's pregnant with Connor's baby, which makes him VERY happy.
Temporary Vows:
Alex: "I promise you, Connor, that for the time we're married I will do all I can to make your life easier, not harder. I'll try my best to look after the beautiful home you've entrusted me with, and I'll try not to poison you with my bad cooking. I'll be a friend to you, and a comfort, if you'll let me. I'll help you in any way I can. You've only to ask. Those are the promises I can make to you."
Connor: "I promise, Alex, to provide for you, and the baby you're carrying, for as long as you need. I promise to share my home with you, so that it's your home too, because you've been without one for so long. I promise that I won't be the one to hurt you, not when you've been hurt you, not when you've been hurt already. I will be your friend and your comfort, if you'll let me. I'll help you in any way I can. You've only to ask. Those are the promises I can make to you."
5 STARS
Alexis MacKenzie (Alex) Grayson is alone and pregnant. Connor Madsen is a handsome cowboy that runs a ranch which is threatening to be closed down. In order for the ranch to survive, Connor has to get married or be a certain age which is thirty but he is twenty-nine now, but he can't wait until his thirtieth birthday. He meets Alex after she faints, realizing that she might need help financially and with the baby, he proposes (literally) a plan by telling her what he has to do. They grow closer together in the following weeks. With the help from Connors' grandmother, he helps Alex get maternity clothes, new shoes, some baby stuff and even a wedding dress. The morning of their wedding, they have their very first kiss and they both make "temporary vows" to each other considering it's not a "real" marriage. As the days and weeks go on, he knows that her baby is not his but he wants it to be. They even start to have real feelings toward one another. As Alex gets to know the courageous, honorable Connor, she realizes that maybe she made the biggest mistake of her life: all this wife-for-hire wants is a marriage for real? After a tornado comes in and destroys almost everything scaring them both because of their safety, they finally admit of their feelings for each other. They still want their marriage to go on.
One Year Later: Connor ends up adopting Alex's daughter Maren as his own daughter and she reveals that she's pregnant with Connor's baby, which makes him VERY happy.
Temporary Vows:
Alex: "I promise you, Connor, that for the time we're married I will do all I can to make your life easier, not harder. I'll try my best to look after the beautiful home you've entrusted me with, and I'll try not to poison you with my bad cooking. I'll be a friend to you, and a comfort, if you'll let me. I'll help you in any way I can. You've only to ask. Those are the promises I can make to you."
Connor: "I promise, Alex, to provide for you, and the baby you're carrying, for as long as you need. I promise to share my home with you, so that it's your home too, because you've been without one for so long. I promise that I won't be the one to hurt you, not when you've been hurt you, not when you've been hurt already. I will be your friend and your comfort, if you'll let me. I'll help you in any way I can. You've only to ask. Those are the promises I can make to you."
January 15, 2018
Resenha do blog Sincerando.com, escrita por Sarah Sindorf
Alexis conhece Connor ao acordar em seus braços. Praticamente desempregada e sem um teto definitivo, ela está grávida. Acaba passando mal no meio da rua e desmaiando, e Connor foi a única pessoa que parou para ajudá-la. Connor por outro lado é um cowboy solitário, que toca a sua fazenda, mas por um imprevisto acaba precisando de uma esposa. Será que essa união dará certo ou um dois sairá perdendo?
Como eu gosto de começar o ano lendo livros leves, encontrei esse ebook gratuito na Amazon e achei perfeito. É um livro pequeno, de 135 páginas, mas é muito tranquilo e não é um romance erótico, com cenas explícitas de sexo.
Alexis é uma mulher solitária e independente que sabe cuidar de si e sobrevive na adversidade há alguns anos, mas que acabou engravidando e está com medo do futuro do bebê. Trabalhando em um ambiente impróprio para grávidas, ela conhece Connor quando passa mal mas tenta se manter distante, pois um homem bonito é o que ela menos precisa agora.
Connor é o típico mocinho de livros românticos, honesto, bonito, trabalhador e cavalheiro. Cuida da fazenda que é da família há gerações, mas um acontecimento fora do seu controle acaba atingindo sua propriedade e suas finanças, o forçando a fazer o impensável para salvar o único lar que conhece.
Cheio de clichês do gênero, gostei que o livro não se estendeu muito e resolveu logo os problemas criados na trama, sem muita enrolação, no tempo certo. Os dois são personagens quase perfeitos, e vão se conhecendo e se completando aos poucos. Recomendo para quem gosta do gênero e quer uma leitura leve para começar 2018.
Confiram (e comentem) essa resenha em: http://www.sincerando.com/2018/01/uni...
Alexis conhece Connor ao acordar em seus braços. Praticamente desempregada e sem um teto definitivo, ela está grávida. Acaba passando mal no meio da rua e desmaiando, e Connor foi a única pessoa que parou para ajudá-la. Connor por outro lado é um cowboy solitário, que toca a sua fazenda, mas por um imprevisto acaba precisando de uma esposa. Será que essa união dará certo ou um dois sairá perdendo?
Como eu gosto de começar o ano lendo livros leves, encontrei esse ebook gratuito na Amazon e achei perfeito. É um livro pequeno, de 135 páginas, mas é muito tranquilo e não é um romance erótico, com cenas explícitas de sexo.
Alexis é uma mulher solitária e independente que sabe cuidar de si e sobrevive na adversidade há alguns anos, mas que acabou engravidando e está com medo do futuro do bebê. Trabalhando em um ambiente impróprio para grávidas, ela conhece Connor quando passa mal mas tenta se manter distante, pois um homem bonito é o que ela menos precisa agora.
Connor é o típico mocinho de livros românticos, honesto, bonito, trabalhador e cavalheiro. Cuida da fazenda que é da família há gerações, mas um acontecimento fora do seu controle acaba atingindo sua propriedade e suas finanças, o forçando a fazer o impensável para salvar o único lar que conhece.
Cheio de clichês do gênero, gostei que o livro não se estendeu muito e resolveu logo os problemas criados na trama, sem muita enrolação, no tempo certo. Os dois são personagens quase perfeitos, e vão se conhecendo e se completando aos poucos. Recomendo para quem gosta do gênero e quer uma leitura leve para começar 2018.
Confiram (e comentem) essa resenha em: http://www.sincerando.com/2018/01/uni...
February 5, 2012
This was another freebie thanks to Harlequin. It's a cute story that has some sad bits to it, especially since it deals with trust issues and learning how to deal with the past. The lack of communication made sense in this one because both characters have been hurt in the past and have led lonely lives. It's not easy to open up to someone especially when you've been deceived by the ones you love.
I could completely relate to Alexis throughout the entire novel. How can you be sure to trust someone? In her case, this is extremely difficult since she was left by the man who promised to be by her side no matter what. Yet the moment she announces that she is pregnant with his child, he goes running in the opposite direction. Despite this horrible ordeal, Alexis remains strong and focused. I thought she was a cutie and she made me laugh many times throughout the story.
Connor was another good character in the story. He is not like the 'typical' (stereotypical jerk that the media puts out there) straight guy who likes to play women like a guitar. He cares for Alexis, but their complicated relationship turns more difficult when things with the ranch don't go according to plan.
Maybe it's because I love non-human animals so much, but I didn't like it when the author poked fun at a cow toward the end, insinuating that Connor's life is worth more than a 'stupid cow'. I think no animal is more important or better than another, but that's my personal belief.
Overall it was a good story with a good ending. It's nice to read some happy endings once in awhile, especially when you read fiction that is more dark and edgy.
I could completely relate to Alexis throughout the entire novel. How can you be sure to trust someone? In her case, this is extremely difficult since she was left by the man who promised to be by her side no matter what. Yet the moment she announces that she is pregnant with his child, he goes running in the opposite direction. Despite this horrible ordeal, Alexis remains strong and focused. I thought she was a cutie and she made me laugh many times throughout the story.
Connor was another good character in the story. He is not like the 'typical' (stereotypical jerk that the media puts out there) straight guy who likes to play women like a guitar. He cares for Alexis, but their complicated relationship turns more difficult when things with the ranch don't go according to plan.
Maybe it's because I love non-human animals so much, but I didn't like it when the author poked fun at a cow toward the end, insinuating that Connor's life is worth more than a 'stupid cow'. I think no animal is more important or better than another, but that's my personal belief.
Overall it was a good story with a good ending. It's nice to read some happy endings once in awhile, especially when you read fiction that is more dark and edgy.
January 25, 2015
When a person is alone for a long time (more then 6 months) we all get used to being independent and unsocial. Living alone will make the un-sociability develop even faster. I believe that people need to live with other people (roommates, lover, family, friends, children, etc...) because it keeps us part of society and public behavior is different then private behavior. It is really dangerous for people's mental stability to leave society and public behavior.
Alexis Grayson is good at looking after herself—she's been doing it all her life. So what if she's alone and pregnant? She'll cope! But gorgeous cowboy Connor Madsen seems determined to take care of her. And Alexis can help him—he needs a temporary wife; she needs somewhere to live until the baby's born. A short-term marriage will solve all their difficulties! But of course the two lonely characters, Conner and Alex, find living together and helping each other as addictive as love (or is it what love is?!). The Grandmother knows what is going to happen like a Scooby-Doo Mystery because the good kind lonely souls will find each other and cement their marriage of convenience with love to make it last. This is not a subtle romance, but in its predictability there is a degree of comfort.
192 pages and kindle freebie August 18, 2012
2 stars
Alexis Grayson is good at looking after herself—she's been doing it all her life. So what if she's alone and pregnant? She'll cope! But gorgeous cowboy Connor Madsen seems determined to take care of her. And Alexis can help him—he needs a temporary wife; she needs somewhere to live until the baby's born. A short-term marriage will solve all their difficulties! But of course the two lonely characters, Conner and Alex, find living together and helping each other as addictive as love (or is it what love is?!). The Grandmother knows what is going to happen like a Scooby-Doo Mystery because the good kind lonely souls will find each other and cement their marriage of convenience with love to make it last. This is not a subtle romance, but in its predictability there is a degree of comfort.
192 pages and kindle freebie August 18, 2012
2 stars
February 17, 2023
Tenacity!
Connor and Alexis (Alex) are the least likely couple to make it but then tenacity plays its part in drawing them closer as they strive to save Windover. Great characters add to enjoyment of this story.
Connor and Alexis (Alex) are the least likely couple to make it but then tenacity plays its part in drawing them closer as they strive to save Windover. Great characters add to enjoyment of this story.
July 31, 2014
I used to read these kinds of books all the time when I was younger (like real young-11-13ish). I found this one on my Nook for free when I was searching for some kind of a cowboy romance. Sure why not. I forgot how much I really enjoy reading these types of books. I know they are usually predictable, but it's the romance. At heart I'm just a hopeless romantic.
It wasn't a bad story, and I really find myself enjoying it. I found it interesting that it was set in Canada though, or it could just be the stereotypical cowboy I had in mind. There were a few phrases that I wasn't familiar with, and I think there were a word or two that was spelled differently than I'm used to.
I couldn't help but fall in love with Connor. The perfect gentleman. *sigh* And Alex! I love love Alex. There were scenes that were cheesy, but that's expected with this kind of book.It wasn't that long of a book, and I kind of wished that it was longer.
Interesting that there wasn't any sex scenes. There's a reason why these kinds of books are often refer to as trashy romance. But this book was all about falling in love.
It wasn't a bad story, and I really find myself enjoying it. I found it interesting that it was set in Canada though, or it could just be the stereotypical cowboy I had in mind. There were a few phrases that I wasn't familiar with, and I think there were a word or two that was spelled differently than I'm used to.
I couldn't help but fall in love with Connor. The perfect gentleman. *sigh* And Alex! I love love Alex. There were scenes that were cheesy, but that's expected with this kind of book.It wasn't that long of a book, and I kind of wished that it was longer.
Interesting that there wasn't any sex scenes. There's a reason why these kinds of books are often refer to as trashy romance. But this book was all about falling in love.
July 23, 2013
Alexis Grayson finds herself in the arms of a gorgeous man, Connor Madsen. She doesn't know what she will do, just having found out that she's pregnant and the father of the baby wants nothing to do with her or the baby anymore. With the family to support her, she has to find a way to leave her crappy job, find a better one and be able to take care of herself and her baby.
Connor Madsen is a true gentleman. He sees Alexis and helps her get off the floor where she had fainted. He is in trouble. His ranch is going under and he needs the money the money that his parents left him. The only was to get the money is wait until he turns a certain amount of age, which by then the farm will probably go under, or get married.
He thinks of Alexis and her unborn baby. He figures that they can help each other out. She can have a place to stay and he can get his inheritance. Little do they know how much the fake marriage means more to them than they ever imagined.
Donna Alward writes a wonderful story, pulling at your heartstrings throughout and making you wish you found yourself in he arms of he gorgeous Connor.
Connor Madsen is a true gentleman. He sees Alexis and helps her get off the floor where she had fainted. He is in trouble. His ranch is going under and he needs the money the money that his parents left him. The only was to get the money is wait until he turns a certain amount of age, which by then the farm will probably go under, or get married.
He thinks of Alexis and her unborn baby. He figures that they can help each other out. She can have a place to stay and he can get his inheritance. Little do they know how much the fake marriage means more to them than they ever imagined.
Donna Alward writes a wonderful story, pulling at your heartstrings throughout and making you wish you found yourself in he arms of he gorgeous Connor.
December 5, 2012
Novels in the romance genre aren't ones that I normally enjoy reading, or should I say my first choice in selecting? However, I first came across Hired by the Cowboy as a freebie in the Nook book store. After reading the overview of the storyline, it sounded like it could be interesting and decided to download it and give it a try.
One of the things that I enjoyed about the story was the plot line. A nice cowboy with a struggling business looking for help while helping a down-on-her-luck young woman who happened to be pregnant by proposing to have a marriage of convenience? Yeah, sounds a little weird though it somewhat reminded me of a few story lines of movies that I've watched and as a result, had me chuckling inwardly more than a few times. And granted, by at least the second or third chapter you'd know that Alex and Connor would be having their happy ending despite having more than a few hiccups along the way.
In all, if you like a lighthearted story,I'd recommend giving this one a try.
One of the things that I enjoyed about the story was the plot line. A nice cowboy with a struggling business looking for help while helping a down-on-her-luck young woman who happened to be pregnant by proposing to have a marriage of convenience? Yeah, sounds a little weird though it somewhat reminded me of a few story lines of movies that I've watched and as a result, had me chuckling inwardly more than a few times. And granted, by at least the second or third chapter you'd know that Alex and Connor would be having their happy ending despite having more than a few hiccups along the way.
In all, if you like a lighthearted story,I'd recommend giving this one a try.
December 4, 2012
Another book that made me cry like a hormonal wreck. God, but it was so good!
Unlike some other recent books read, I liked all the characters here, although admittedly I was also tempted to beat some sense in those heads of theirs for how much their stupidity and blindness were frustrating.
It was a very romantic, a bit sad, very sweet, lovely, touching book. And I couldn't put it down, not even for dinner.
Connor was a real gentleman and very sweet and caring.
Alex was sweet as well and caring and always wanting to be of aid and please either Connor or Johanna. And she very much needed to be loved and to belong. Truly and deeply. Both Alex and Connor were very lonely before they met, and it was sweet to see how they fell for each other in so short a time. And how they get to dream a life and a family together, even if they didn't admit it to each other until the end.
Oh and how sweet and touching was the ending!
I will tell no more. You just have to read this book!
Unlike some other recent books read, I liked all the characters here, although admittedly I was also tempted to beat some sense in those heads of theirs for how much their stupidity and blindness were frustrating.
It was a very romantic, a bit sad, very sweet, lovely, touching book. And I couldn't put it down, not even for dinner.
Connor was a real gentleman and very sweet and caring.
Alex was sweet as well and caring and always wanting to be of aid and please either Connor or Johanna. And she very much needed to be loved and to belong. Truly and deeply. Both Alex and Connor were very lonely before they met, and it was sweet to see how they fell for each other in so short a time. And how they get to dream a life and a family together, even if they didn't admit it to each other until the end.
Oh and how sweet and touching was the ending!
I will tell no more. You just have to read this book!
December 5, 2017
Nice and sweet, the story of Alexis & Connor sort of growns on you. A few times during my read I got a bit inpatient with how naïve and good the characters were, but then I had to stop and force myself to remember that nice people also fall in love and maybe this was the story of two of them. After I put myself in this mind-frame it was all good!
One of the things I believe the writer explored really well is the fear of acting on a feeling and taking the chance of not being reciprocated that keeps most of us not daring to take a chance and maybe ruining a friendship. I am sure everyone has been there and has felt like this once or twice, so when the characters find themselves in love but not sure if they are loved in return, it is not hard to believe - and this is a writer's merit, of course - how long they are able to go without telling each other what they really feel.
It could be sappy but it is actually quite cute.
One of the things I believe the writer explored really well is the fear of acting on a feeling and taking the chance of not being reciprocated that keeps most of us not daring to take a chance and maybe ruining a friendship. I am sure everyone has been there and has felt like this once or twice, so when the characters find themselves in love but not sure if they are loved in return, it is not hard to believe - and this is a writer's merit, of course - how long they are able to go without telling each other what they really feel.
It could be sappy but it is actually quite cute.
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