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Cowboys of Decker Ranch #1
How to Handle a Cowboy
Sidelined by a career-ending injury, rodeo cowboy Ridge Cooper is desperate to find an outlet for the energy he devoted to his sport. He decides to teach rodeo skills to the kids at the Phoenix House, a local group home for foster children. Here he falls for a big-city girl who just might make him the perfect wife.
Inner-city social worker Sierra Dunn has been exiled to a last-chance home for foster kids in a remote Wyoming town for blowing the whistle on her boss. Her only goal is to prove herself and move back to the city, but the town's rodeo hero is going after her heart.
Inner-city social worker Sierra Dunn has been exiled to a last-chance home for foster kids in a remote Wyoming town for blowing the whistle on her boss. Her only goal is to prove herself and move back to the city, but the town's rodeo hero is going after her heart.
496 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
66 people are currently reading
470 people want to read
About the author
Joanne Kennedy
27 books220 followersCheyenne, Wyoming 82001
Laramie County
Books (Most Recent Publications First)
Author Website: www.joannekennedybooks.com
Author Email: Joanne@JoanneKennedyBooks.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Joanne-Kennedy-Books/114277591920110
Biographical and Professional Information
Joanne Kennedy's fascination with Wyoming’s unique blend of past and present leads her to write contemporary Western romances with traditional ranch settings. Her books include Cowboy Trouble, Cowboy Fever, and 2011 RITA nominee One Fine Cowboy. Her next book, Tall, Dark & Cowboy, will be released in November 2011. Two more contemporary western romances will be released in 2012.
At various times, Joanne dabbled in horse training, chicken farming, and bridezilla wrangling at a department store wedding registry. Themes that have remained constant throughout her life are Jack Russell terriers, a tendency to confuse fiction with real life, and a fascination with literature that led to careers in bookselling and writing. She lives in Cheyenne, Wyoming with two dogs and a retired fighter pilot. The dogs are relatively well-behaved.
A member of Romance Writers of America and Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers, Joanne loves to hear from readers and can be reached through her website, www.joannekennedybooks.com.
Speaking Engagements
Joanne is available for speaking engagements on writing, romance, and the West. She teaches writing workshops including Finding Resonant Endings, Starting and Structuring Your Novel, The Strategic Synopsis and other topics related to
Laramie County
Books (Most Recent Publications First)
Author Website: www.joannekennedybooks.com
Author Email: Joanne@JoanneKennedyBooks.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Joanne-Kennedy-Books/114277591920110
Biographical and Professional Information
Joanne Kennedy's fascination with Wyoming’s unique blend of past and present leads her to write contemporary Western romances with traditional ranch settings. Her books include Cowboy Trouble, Cowboy Fever, and 2011 RITA nominee One Fine Cowboy. Her next book, Tall, Dark & Cowboy, will be released in November 2011. Two more contemporary western romances will be released in 2012.
At various times, Joanne dabbled in horse training, chicken farming, and bridezilla wrangling at a department store wedding registry. Themes that have remained constant throughout her life are Jack Russell terriers, a tendency to confuse fiction with real life, and a fascination with literature that led to careers in bookselling and writing. She lives in Cheyenne, Wyoming with two dogs and a retired fighter pilot. The dogs are relatively well-behaved.
A member of Romance Writers of America and Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers, Joanne loves to hear from readers and can be reached through her website, www.joannekennedybooks.com.
Speaking Engagements
Joanne is available for speaking engagements on writing, romance, and the West. She teaches writing workshops including Finding Resonant Endings, Starting and Structuring Your Novel, The Strategic Synopsis and other topics related to
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
March 18, 2016
This was rage-inducing. Mainly, Sierra was rage-inducing. She's a terrible social worker. Absolutely terrible. I spent more than half the book reading like "No, don't do it... don't you fucking do it, you moron." And then she wasn't going to do it! I was so happy! Then she decided to do it. Ugh. Idiot.
I'm not sure Joanne Kennedy has ever dealt with foster kids and if she's ever been a foster parent, I pity the children she fostered if she thinks her character's behavior is anything but deplorable.
Riley is a non-event, completely unnecessary, and adds zero to the story. She serves no other purpose than to be a vehicle for the Big Bad Threat to enter the scene and further prove to me that Sierra is a terrible social worker.
Also, the sheriff should be fired and you know... there should be an actual ending. You're left with no indication of what happens to all the foster kids. The bad guy gets a wrap up, but the foster kids we spent the whole book reading about? Literally the most important thing in Sierra's life? Nothing. Apparently they don't matter.
Fuck Sierra, fuck this stupid book, and fuck Joanna Kennedy.
I'm not sure Joanne Kennedy has ever dealt with foster kids and if she's ever been a foster parent, I pity the children she fostered if she thinks her character's behavior is anything but deplorable.
Riley is a non-event, completely unnecessary, and adds zero to the story. She serves no other purpose than to be a vehicle for the Big Bad Threat to enter the scene and further prove to me that Sierra is a terrible social worker.
Also, the sheriff should be fired and you know... there should be an actual ending. You're left with no indication of what happens to all the foster kids. The bad guy gets a wrap up, but the foster kids we spent the whole book reading about? Literally the most important thing in Sierra's life? Nothing. Apparently they don't matter.
Fuck Sierra, fuck this stupid book, and fuck Joanna Kennedy.
June 7, 2023
I really wanted to like this. A cowboy romance sounds like it would be something that I would absolutely love but this just wasn't the right one. I might have been able to overlook the less than stellar writing if it hadn't been for the casual fat phobia and gender essentialism sprinkled throughout the book. To be fair, I think an older romance audience might enjoy this. It did feel like it was geared toward an older audience, perhaps a more conservative and/or middle aged reader. The romance didn't feel earned, the main characters went from strangers to madly in love in a very short period of time. And the characters weren't terribly likable either. It definitely wasn't the worst thing I've ever read though but definitely not for me. With that being said, please let me know your favorite cowboy romances.
May 4, 2024
3 ⭐
This was an okay read though it had a lot of potential. For a book with this many pages, not a lot happens until the last 30 pages which is a little annoying. And while I loved Ridge, Sienna and the kids, the ending felt way too rushed and I would have liked a proper epilogue where we get to see what happens to them all now that they have peace, love, and a ranch.
This was an okay read though it had a lot of potential. For a book with this many pages, not a lot happens until the last 30 pages which is a little annoying. And while I loved Ridge, Sienna and the kids, the ending felt way too rushed and I would have liked a proper epilogue where we get to see what happens to them all now that they have peace, love, and a ranch.
April 4, 2024
It felt rushed and there were definitely more scenes that should’ve been followed through and expanded on.
April 28, 2014
Terrific story with a wonderful, caring heroine, Sierra who goes the extra mile for the five foster boys in her care. The hero was strong enough to match her and I loved his dogs. The author obviously knows ranching, horses, natural horsemanship techniques, border collies and the rural lifestyle which lent an aura of authenticity to the story and kept me awake till 2AM when I finished it. I can't wait to find out what happens to the supporting cast of characters. I want HEAs for all of them - well, except the bad guy of course!
May 14, 2019
Popsugar 2019 Reading Challenge: Your favorite prompt from a past POPSUGAR reading challenge (2016's "A book with a protagonist who has your occupation")
Okay, so...okay.
I read this book largely because the heroine was a social worker, which is a job I think is vastly undertapped in the chick lit/romance World O' Protagonist Careers, and largely in spite of the title. Gosh, I was glad I was reading it on my phone. Yikes. I mean, it's not exactly Love's Sweet Throbbing Gondola, but if you see that title and cover you know exactly what kind of book you're getting.
And I've never read a Western romance before, and on the whole, not too bad! Sometimes I too want to live out in the great back of Wyoming beyond, but then I remember I can order pizza any time I want and come to my senses. The sense of place was really good here, romanticized but not too over-the-top about it. Manly manly cowboy Ridge (come on, his name is "Ridge") attempts to read the western romance his ex-girlfriend left behind, which made me give him a big thumbs-up as a character, and the subplot of the 5 traumatized kids wasn't handled too poorly. Their traumas were background for their behavior but it didn't feel exploitative.
As for Sierra's career - I give it about a B+. She wasn't a great social worker, and most of her thoughts about her career were pretty half-assed. She didn't seem burnt out, which is the big catch phrase/fear in social work land, she seemed more never-lit. Sure, the author tried to make it look like she was actually tempted by the chance of forward momentum in her career, but it was never all that believable.
On the other hand, social workers with terrible boundaries do exist, hence the B+.
One of my main sources of eye rolling, though, wasn't necessarily because of this book itself. It's because of a thing I run into constantly in the world of hetero romance, which is how goshdarned repetitive and unimaginative the sex scenes are. I get that there are plot formulas and expectations, but is there a formula for the sex scene? I mean...
Hero and heroine have reached the point of having sex. There's foreplay, which can include a little bit of variety but must always include: 1) the heroine noticing the hero's erection and being impressed by it, and 2) the hero playing with the heroine's breasts, having previously noticed that her nipples were erect like girl boners because apparently these books are written by women who have never been cold or worn a crappy sports bra. Then the hero goes down on the heroine and she has a mindblowing, earth-shattering orgasm. Then pause for condom (yes! Safe sex!) and then they have penetrative sex, usually in missionary, and the heroine has ANOTHER mindblowing orgasm around the same time the hero "finally gives in" or something. This second orgasm always seems to happen without any sort of additional help except for the thrusting, and frequently the heroine notices that he's hitting "that elusive place inside her" (or similar phrase) that no other lover has previously managed to stimulate, and that orgasm is somehow deeper and more meaningful than the first one. Basically, every romance hero has a magic penis, because, I don't know, the patriarchy.
Running into this scene all the time has me preemptively bored every time a sex scene appears in a hetero romance and that's probably not what the authors are going for.
Anyway, they all live happily ever after on their ranch and overall it was a fun book. I'll probably read more by this author at some point.
Okay, so...okay.
I read this book largely because the heroine was a social worker, which is a job I think is vastly undertapped in the chick lit/romance World O' Protagonist Careers, and largely in spite of the title. Gosh, I was glad I was reading it on my phone. Yikes. I mean, it's not exactly Love's Sweet Throbbing Gondola, but if you see that title and cover you know exactly what kind of book you're getting.
And I've never read a Western romance before, and on the whole, not too bad! Sometimes I too want to live out in the great back of Wyoming beyond, but then I remember I can order pizza any time I want and come to my senses. The sense of place was really good here, romanticized but not too over-the-top about it. Manly manly cowboy Ridge (come on, his name is "Ridge") attempts to read the western romance his ex-girlfriend left behind, which made me give him a big thumbs-up as a character, and the subplot of the 5 traumatized kids wasn't handled too poorly. Their traumas were background for their behavior but it didn't feel exploitative.
As for Sierra's career - I give it about a B+. She wasn't a great social worker, and most of her thoughts about her career were pretty half-assed. She didn't seem burnt out, which is the big catch phrase/fear in social work land, she seemed more never-lit. Sure, the author tried to make it look like she was actually tempted by the chance of forward momentum in her career, but it was never all that believable.
On the other hand, social workers with terrible boundaries do exist, hence the B+.
One of my main sources of eye rolling, though, wasn't necessarily because of this book itself. It's because of a thing I run into constantly in the world of hetero romance, which is how goshdarned repetitive and unimaginative the sex scenes are. I get that there are plot formulas and expectations, but is there a formula for the sex scene? I mean...
Hero and heroine have reached the point of having sex. There's foreplay, which can include a little bit of variety but must always include: 1) the heroine noticing the hero's erection and being impressed by it, and 2) the hero playing with the heroine's breasts, having previously noticed that her nipples were erect like girl boners because apparently these books are written by women who have never been cold or worn a crappy sports bra. Then the hero goes down on the heroine and she has a mindblowing, earth-shattering orgasm. Then pause for condom (yes! Safe sex!) and then they have penetrative sex, usually in missionary, and the heroine has ANOTHER mindblowing orgasm around the same time the hero "finally gives in" or something. This second orgasm always seems to happen without any sort of additional help except for the thrusting, and frequently the heroine notices that he's hitting "that elusive place inside her" (or similar phrase) that no other lover has previously managed to stimulate, and that orgasm is somehow deeper and more meaningful than the first one. Basically, every romance hero has a magic penis, because, I don't know, the patriarchy.
Running into this scene all the time has me preemptively bored every time a sex scene appears in a hetero romance and that's probably not what the authors are going for.
Anyway, they all live happily ever after on their ranch and overall it was a fun book. I'll probably read more by this author at some point.
January 13, 2025
2.5 ⭐ I wish this had focused more on the leads bonding through and with the kids, as without that it felt pretty empty. But I liked some parts of Ridge and his story with Jeff, but there was so little of it that it was disappointing.
Sierra is so irritating at times that it makes it difficult to read, and the more slapstick comedy bits like the office and car scenes were really cringey. And I ultimately don't believe in Sierra's growth at the end, and dont believe the two are going to make it as a couple.
Sierra is so irritating at times that it makes it difficult to read, and the more slapstick comedy bits like the office and car scenes were really cringey. And I ultimately don't believe in Sierra's growth at the end, and dont believe the two are going to make it as a couple.
April 4, 2024
wanted sierra and ridge across the country from each other
Want to read
January 14, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/14/2020)! 🎁
July 31, 2025
fighting for my life to make this a good time but it was pretty boring. finished right before the 3 year mark
April 12, 2023
After losing his rodeo career Ridge Cooper is looking for something to take it's place, something to invest all his pent up energy into, and when he finds out that Phoenix House is looking for someone to teach some kids some new sports he figures why not offer up his services. But the day he shows up to meet the woman in charge he realizes he may just have signed himself up for far more than he ever bargained for... she is nowhere near his usual type, but dang it if he can't keep his eyes off of her. He knows Sierra Dunn is going to be trouble...especially when it comes to his heart!
How to Handle a Cowboy is one of the sweetest and funniest reads that I have read in a long while, this pairing was pure magic on the page. They were like oil and water, didn't really mix, but somehow they made perfect sense. Neither were really looking for love, but it found them the moment they met, and it just continued to grow with each page I turned... their wonderfully penned story warmed my heart right up. I loved watching them embrace this second chance at life they were given, care for the children at the Phoenix House and deal with all of their shenanigans, there was honestly never a dull moment between the pages!
If you like heartwarming western romances with bits of humor and steam than I have no doubt you will love what you find waiting for you between the pages here, How to Handle a Cowboy is one of the best western romances I have ever read!! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
How to Handle a Cowboy is one of the sweetest and funniest reads that I have read in a long while, this pairing was pure magic on the page. They were like oil and water, didn't really mix, but somehow they made perfect sense. Neither were really looking for love, but it found them the moment they met, and it just continued to grow with each page I turned... their wonderfully penned story warmed my heart right up. I loved watching them embrace this second chance at life they were given, care for the children at the Phoenix House and deal with all of their shenanigans, there was honestly never a dull moment between the pages!
If you like heartwarming western romances with bits of humor and steam than I have no doubt you will love what you find waiting for you between the pages here, How to Handle a Cowboy is one of the best western romances I have ever read!! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
March 17, 2020
I like this author so when I saw a bunch of hers at the local used book store I grabbed a bunch! This is the first in this series.
The story follows Ridge Cooper who was sidelined by a career-ending injury. He misses his rodeo days, but he decides to devote his time to teach rodeo skills to the kids at the Phoenix House. Sierra Dunn is from the city, but she is working at the Phoenix House to help the foster kids. Her only goal is to prove herself get back to the city.
For some reason, I just COULD not connect with these two. The story itself was interesting enough, but I didn't give a lick if they ended up together or not. They were not bad people...but I guess I just didn't feel the chemistry and/or not cared about their chemistry. I was more intrigued at what happened to those poor foster kids.
It took me forever to finish this. I wanted to give up and DNF, but I pushed forward. I did a LOT of skimming...I will not lie. However, I pushed through and the ending brought a tear to my eye. Too cute!
I do want to read book 2 even though I had my issues with these guys. I'm hoping our next couple has a more magnetic pull on me. *fingers crossed*
Overall, not for me, but I stuck it out because I cared for those kids. I want them to be happy! I'll give this 2 stars.
The story follows Ridge Cooper who was sidelined by a career-ending injury. He misses his rodeo days, but he decides to devote his time to teach rodeo skills to the kids at the Phoenix House. Sierra Dunn is from the city, but she is working at the Phoenix House to help the foster kids. Her only goal is to prove herself get back to the city.
For some reason, I just COULD not connect with these two. The story itself was interesting enough, but I didn't give a lick if they ended up together or not. They were not bad people...but I guess I just didn't feel the chemistry and/or not cared about their chemistry. I was more intrigued at what happened to those poor foster kids.
It took me forever to finish this. I wanted to give up and DNF, but I pushed forward. I did a LOT of skimming...I will not lie. However, I pushed through and the ending brought a tear to my eye. Too cute!
I do want to read book 2 even though I had my issues with these guys. I'm hoping our next couple has a more magnetic pull on me. *fingers crossed*
Overall, not for me, but I stuck it out because I cared for those kids. I want them to be happy! I'll give this 2 stars.
Read
April 1, 2023How to Handle a Cowboy is a captivating blend of realism and romance. Kennedy's strength lies in her ability to create authentic and heartfelt relationships while also showcasing the vulnerabilities of her characters with tenderness and good humor. In this novel, readers are taken on a journey through the rugged and wild terrain of the American West, where cowboys reign supreme. However, amidst the dust and chaos, Kennedy weaves a tale of love and self-discovery that is both touching and inspiring. Through her vivid descriptions and engaging characters, Kennedy brings the world of cowboys to life, while also exploring the complexities of human relationships. Whether you're a fan of romance novels or simply enjoy a good story, "How to Handle a Cowboy" is a must-read that will leave you feeling both satisfied and uplifted.
May 13, 2023
HOW TO HANDLE A COWBOY by Joanne Kennedy, Cowboys of Decker Ranch, book 1.
Love in Wynott, Wyoming, finds a headstrong cowboy, an independent woman, and the rowdy bunch of foster children they'd do anything to protect.
Re-issued with a new cover, HOW TO HANDLE A COWBOY is a delightful re-read. Kennedy writes heartfelt stories about cowboys and their vulnerabilities with humor. I received this complimentary advanced copy from the author, and this is my honest review.
Love in Wynott, Wyoming, finds a headstrong cowboy, an independent woman, and the rowdy bunch of foster children they'd do anything to protect.
Re-issued with a new cover, HOW TO HANDLE A COWBOY is a delightful re-read. Kennedy writes heartfelt stories about cowboys and their vulnerabilities with humor. I received this complimentary advanced copy from the author, and this is my honest review.
May 25, 2020
All of the characters rang true. The story was filled with personal growth for all, even the sheriff.
Sierra is open hearted enough to let the broken in. In the end love heals old wounds and the future looks bright. You can't get better than that.
An engrossing, fun read.
Sierra is open hearted enough to let the broken in. In the end love heals old wounds and the future looks bright. You can't get better than that.
An engrossing, fun read.
April 13, 2021
At risk kids, especially those in foster care have a very special place in my heart! Mixing those very special kids with a little Wyoming romance made this for a very fun read. I laughed, I was worried, and I enjoyed the story telling.
June 10, 2024
I liked the book but I didn’t love it. I agree with the reviews that said it was rushed. I definitely felt like the ending was rushed. I’m not a social worker but I don’t think the situation portrayed was realistic at all. I liked Sierra and Ridge together though.
February 7, 2020
Love is the greatest gift!
Heart-warming story set in the heart of Wyoming! It will warm your heart! Well-written and well told! I will share it with my family!
Heart-warming story set in the heart of Wyoming! It will warm your heart! Well-written and well told! I will share it with my family!
April 13, 2022
Good enough to read more in the series
January 2, 2023
3.5 Stars
Mainly because Sierra did such ditzy things like let her Jeep roll backward down a hill, but was too proud to ask for a ride in case it ended up in a ditch.
Mainly because Sierra did such ditzy things like let her Jeep roll backward down a hill, but was too proud to ask for a ride in case it ended up in a ditch.
June 11, 2023
Very wholesome, spicy heartwarming book. If you’re into modern day romance books. This is for you.
April 4, 2024
I started this with my friends ironically and ended up wanting to shoot myself in the head.
August 14, 2024
Rushed, unrealistic and touched on really sad heartbreaking topics without giving them their due and instead using the children’s trauma as unfleshed out plot devices.
August 12, 2025
After two, excruciatingly long years, we did it. My roommates and I picked up this book and have been reading it out loud when we have spare time. My god.
This book is so boring. The characters are not interesting, they are stuck in a closest for like 5 full chapters in the beginning, and we spend more time with descriptions of sierra unable to pick up screws than we do developing any of the characters. Both sierra and ridge endanger the children and I hate them both while also knowing nothing about them because of how generic they were. Riley, the blue hair liberal stereotype, is the only normal one by the end. She, at least actually wanted to make a place for herself in the community and was Turing her life around while sierra was doubtful of her.
The 3rd act conflict was such an astonishing reach before a predictable, yet very last minute side plot to use as a resolution to the dumbest conflict of all time.
The book could have at least just been erotic cowboy porn and then it could be judged as such, but instead it was all “plot” with paragraphs on paragraphs making fun of the cowboy’s drapes and sad interior design. The random sexism and description of a woman as a “sleek and feminine sports car” and mentions of Ridge’s ex and her soap. The seemingly important plot lines with weird dudes threatening the safety of the foster kids and then it not being mentioned again until there are like 20 pages left. There were also the random ass side character point of views of unlikable men which added very little, only giving rest-bit from the main characters. And then they have sex in a secret area of the forest that is a representation of his deceased mother’s memory,,,
I have no idea how she was able to write 500 pages of things no one wanted to see inside of a book of nothing. Utterly unremarkable.
The only thing that redeemed it was how much we could not contain our laughter any time “his voice was horse🐴🐴🐴”. Also, any ad libbing jokes we did could never be distinguished from what was actually written.
1 out of 5 horsies
This book is so boring. The characters are not interesting, they are stuck in a closest for like 5 full chapters in the beginning, and we spend more time with descriptions of sierra unable to pick up screws than we do developing any of the characters. Both sierra and ridge endanger the children and I hate them both while also knowing nothing about them because of how generic they were. Riley, the blue hair liberal stereotype, is the only normal one by the end. She, at least actually wanted to make a place for herself in the community and was Turing her life around while sierra was doubtful of her.
The 3rd act conflict was such an astonishing reach before a predictable, yet very last minute side plot to use as a resolution to the dumbest conflict of all time.
The book could have at least just been erotic cowboy porn and then it could be judged as such, but instead it was all “plot” with paragraphs on paragraphs making fun of the cowboy’s drapes and sad interior design. The random sexism and description of a woman as a “sleek and feminine sports car” and mentions of Ridge’s ex and her soap. The seemingly important plot lines with weird dudes threatening the safety of the foster kids and then it not being mentioned again until there are like 20 pages left. There were also the random ass side character point of views of unlikable men which added very little, only giving rest-bit from the main characters. And then they have sex in a secret area of the forest that is a representation of his deceased mother’s memory,,,
I have no idea how she was able to write 500 pages of things no one wanted to see inside of a book of nothing. Utterly unremarkable.
The only thing that redeemed it was how much we could not contain our laughter any time “his voice was horse🐴🐴🐴”. Also, any ad libbing jokes we did could never be distinguished from what was actually written.
1 out of 5 horsies
April 7, 2014
Joanne Kennedy brings readers the first book in her new Cowboys of Decker Ranch series. How to Handle a Cowboy is a heartwarming story about kids and adults who might be considered damaged. Kennedy shows how one person can make a difference in someone's life and readers will find both love and hope in this remarkable story. Readers who love a good cowboy romance will quickly fall for the resilient and protective heroine, Sierra and the big-hearted cowboy, Ridge. Their story is poignant and one readers won't soon forget.
What I liked:
There are so many things about this book that I could write about here. Once in a while a romance will come along that transcends the idea of what romance is all about. How to Handle a Cowboy is one of those few. It has not only the sweet and loving romance between the heroine and the hero, but it is also a story about loving the unloved. The five rowdy little boys that make this story so special and not only great secondary characters, but they show the spirit and resilience of children who have been put through the wringer. Kennedy gives readers two different kinds of love stories in this book and that makes it completely unforgettable.
Sierra, the heroine, is not without her own issues. She did not have the best of childhood experiences, so she has a kind of kinship with these boys that not many could understand. When she becomes their foster mother, she is determined to give them the love they so desperately need. But not only that she wants them to find acceptance and understanding in their community as well. A tall order for kids who come the kind of background these kids do. I loved Sierra's commitment to making the world a better place, to providing a loving home for these boys and her undaunted spirit. Kennedy gives readers a heroine with a true heart for service.
Ridge is the kind of hero that readers will quickly fall for. He had his life all planned out. The rodeo was in his blood and he so passionate about it. Readers could feel his untamed spirit, and need for the rush of the rodeo. When all that is taken away due a serious energy Ridge is more than just at loose ends, he is restless like the stallions he once rode. He is driven, but driven to what, now? He was a man who needed a new purpose and he found it in teaching and mentoring these boys about life and how to live it. What a remarkable character and the relationship that he fosters with these children was a testament to one person's ability to change the world. Especially the world of five troubled little boys.
The romance between these two characters, wasn't all about misunderstanding and break-ups and filled with all the angst of failed attempts to communicate. It was just a sweet and loving romance that builds from a searing attraction. When these two finally connect the situation is combustible. Both are passionate about different things in their lives and from the outside looking in are probably not a good match. But you can't help who you love most of the time and it's a good thing because they were meant for each other. Kennedy really impressed me with her ability to give readers double the love in this one. Can't wait to see how Ridge's other brothers find their own happy ever after's.
What I didn't like:
I thought Kennedy did a great job with this book. She balances the relationship between heroine and hero against their relationships with the boys with a deft hand. Being from Kentucky and being a former horse owner and rider, I thought the way the boys interacted with the animals was probably not as accurate as it could be, but that certainly did not take away from the story. Kennedy should be granted a little lee-way because of the scope of this amazing book. It's all about hope, not about which side of the horse you get up on.
Bottom Line:
If you love a good cowboy romance, this one is a cut above the rest. It gives the reader not only a feel good love story, but also gives them hope, that the world can be a better place, where people do show love and respect and help each other and those who need it. A fantastic book.
What I liked:
There are so many things about this book that I could write about here. Once in a while a romance will come along that transcends the idea of what romance is all about. How to Handle a Cowboy is one of those few. It has not only the sweet and loving romance between the heroine and the hero, but it is also a story about loving the unloved. The five rowdy little boys that make this story so special and not only great secondary characters, but they show the spirit and resilience of children who have been put through the wringer. Kennedy gives readers two different kinds of love stories in this book and that makes it completely unforgettable.
Sierra, the heroine, is not without her own issues. She did not have the best of childhood experiences, so she has a kind of kinship with these boys that not many could understand. When she becomes their foster mother, she is determined to give them the love they so desperately need. But not only that she wants them to find acceptance and understanding in their community as well. A tall order for kids who come the kind of background these kids do. I loved Sierra's commitment to making the world a better place, to providing a loving home for these boys and her undaunted spirit. Kennedy gives readers a heroine with a true heart for service.
Ridge is the kind of hero that readers will quickly fall for. He had his life all planned out. The rodeo was in his blood and he so passionate about it. Readers could feel his untamed spirit, and need for the rush of the rodeo. When all that is taken away due a serious energy Ridge is more than just at loose ends, he is restless like the stallions he once rode. He is driven, but driven to what, now? He was a man who needed a new purpose and he found it in teaching and mentoring these boys about life and how to live it. What a remarkable character and the relationship that he fosters with these children was a testament to one person's ability to change the world. Especially the world of five troubled little boys.
The romance between these two characters, wasn't all about misunderstanding and break-ups and filled with all the angst of failed attempts to communicate. It was just a sweet and loving romance that builds from a searing attraction. When these two finally connect the situation is combustible. Both are passionate about different things in their lives and from the outside looking in are probably not a good match. But you can't help who you love most of the time and it's a good thing because they were meant for each other. Kennedy really impressed me with her ability to give readers double the love in this one. Can't wait to see how Ridge's other brothers find their own happy ever after's.
What I didn't like:
I thought Kennedy did a great job with this book. She balances the relationship between heroine and hero against their relationships with the boys with a deft hand. Being from Kentucky and being a former horse owner and rider, I thought the way the boys interacted with the animals was probably not as accurate as it could be, but that certainly did not take away from the story. Kennedy should be granted a little lee-way because of the scope of this amazing book. It's all about hope, not about which side of the horse you get up on.
Bottom Line:
If you love a good cowboy romance, this one is a cut above the rest. It gives the reader not only a feel good love story, but also gives them hope, that the world can be a better place, where people do show love and respect and help each other and those who need it. A fantastic book.
April 23, 2023
Sierra has moved to a tiny town in Wyoming to serve as the social worker in residence for a foster home. After a rodeo career ending injury, Ridge's brother volunteered him to help out by teaching the boys to ride.
Parts felt a bit out of date, including gender norms about women making the home and vague consent during steamy scenes. In those ways, it reminded me of the romance novels I grew up with more than contemporary romance.
But I really enjoyed the cute animal shenanigans and the mix of intrigue thrown into the romance.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca for this reissue of How to Handle a Cowboy. These opinions are my own.
April 1, 2014
4.5 stars.
How to Handle a Cowboy is a beautiful story about two people who find love despite their troubled pasts and the five rambunctious yet lovable boys who steal their hearts. This first novel in Joanne Kennedy's Cowboys of Decker Ranch series perfectly balances heartache with hope and the resulting story is a little poignant and exceptionally heartwarming.
Sierra Dunn escaped her unhappy childhood through hard work and determination and she pours all her energy into her career as a social worker. Now a foster mom at a group home, she is trying to make a difference in the lives of the five boys in her care and hopefully, the small Wyoming town too. Needing a positive male influence in the boys' lives, Sierra reluctantly teams up with local cowboy Ridge Cooper after he agrees to mentor the kids. Their relationship takes a personal turn when the two give in to their surprising attraction but their future remains uncertain.
Scarred by her own unhappy childhood, Sierra pours her heart and soul into giving her foster sons all the love and care they have been missing in their lives. She is hoping the small town will accept the disreputable boys, but so far, she and the kids continue to be outsiders. Her experience with volunteers has been disappointing so she does not have high hopes that Ridge will prove to be the help the boys need. Their first encounter is absolutely hilarious, but they both agree that Ridge is not the mentor Sierra has been searching for. But a little manipulation from an unexpected source brings Sierra and the boys to the Decker Ranch where Ridge begins to work a little magic on the kids... and Sierra.
Ridge has spent a lot of successful years on the rodeo circuit but after a career ending injury, he returns to the ranch he shares with his brothers Shane and Brady. Without a clear goal of what comes next in his life, he is at loose ends when he meets Sierra and her foster sons. Recognizing kindred spirits in all of the young boys, Ridge enthusiastically introduces them to ranch life and in the process, he heals some of the wounds from his own troubled past.
Sierra and Ridge are reluctantly drawn together and although they do not see the possibility of a future together, they begin a passionate affair. They share an easy camaraderie as they get to know one another and both Sierra and the boys blossom under Ridge's tender care. As Ridge's feelings for Sierra deepen, he comes out his shell and is stunned when he discovers what he wants next in life. Despite her growing attachment to Ridge and her foster kids, Sierra remains focused on her career until an insightful comment from one of her most troubled boys makes her reconsider what is most important in life.
I absolutely adored all of Sierra's foster sons. They are fragile and damaged by the pain inflicted by their parents but they are surprisingly resilient. Each one has a unique personality and Ridge is quick to pick up on their individual strengths. The relationship between Ridge and the kids tugs at the heartstrings and I love how quickly they begin to flourish under his guidance.
Delightfully funny yet full of deep emotions, How to Handle a Cowboy is a riveting novel with charming and appealing characters. The storyline is realistic yet hopeful and the romance is a wonderful blend of sexy and sweet. With intriguing glimpses of brothers Brady and Shane Joanne Kennedy leaves readers eager for the next installments of the Cowboys of Decker Ranch series.
How to Handle a Cowboy is a beautiful story about two people who find love despite their troubled pasts and the five rambunctious yet lovable boys who steal their hearts. This first novel in Joanne Kennedy's Cowboys of Decker Ranch series perfectly balances heartache with hope and the resulting story is a little poignant and exceptionally heartwarming.
Sierra Dunn escaped her unhappy childhood through hard work and determination and she pours all her energy into her career as a social worker. Now a foster mom at a group home, she is trying to make a difference in the lives of the five boys in her care and hopefully, the small Wyoming town too. Needing a positive male influence in the boys' lives, Sierra reluctantly teams up with local cowboy Ridge Cooper after he agrees to mentor the kids. Their relationship takes a personal turn when the two give in to their surprising attraction but their future remains uncertain.
Scarred by her own unhappy childhood, Sierra pours her heart and soul into giving her foster sons all the love and care they have been missing in their lives. She is hoping the small town will accept the disreputable boys, but so far, she and the kids continue to be outsiders. Her experience with volunteers has been disappointing so she does not have high hopes that Ridge will prove to be the help the boys need. Their first encounter is absolutely hilarious, but they both agree that Ridge is not the mentor Sierra has been searching for. But a little manipulation from an unexpected source brings Sierra and the boys to the Decker Ranch where Ridge begins to work a little magic on the kids... and Sierra.
Ridge has spent a lot of successful years on the rodeo circuit but after a career ending injury, he returns to the ranch he shares with his brothers Shane and Brady. Without a clear goal of what comes next in his life, he is at loose ends when he meets Sierra and her foster sons. Recognizing kindred spirits in all of the young boys, Ridge enthusiastically introduces them to ranch life and in the process, he heals some of the wounds from his own troubled past.
Sierra and Ridge are reluctantly drawn together and although they do not see the possibility of a future together, they begin a passionate affair. They share an easy camaraderie as they get to know one another and both Sierra and the boys blossom under Ridge's tender care. As Ridge's feelings for Sierra deepen, he comes out his shell and is stunned when he discovers what he wants next in life. Despite her growing attachment to Ridge and her foster kids, Sierra remains focused on her career until an insightful comment from one of her most troubled boys makes her reconsider what is most important in life.
I absolutely adored all of Sierra's foster sons. They are fragile and damaged by the pain inflicted by their parents but they are surprisingly resilient. Each one has a unique personality and Ridge is quick to pick up on their individual strengths. The relationship between Ridge and the kids tugs at the heartstrings and I love how quickly they begin to flourish under his guidance.
Delightfully funny yet full of deep emotions, How to Handle a Cowboy is a riveting novel with charming and appealing characters. The storyline is realistic yet hopeful and the romance is a wonderful blend of sexy and sweet. With intriguing glimpses of brothers Brady and Shane Joanne Kennedy leaves readers eager for the next installments of the Cowboys of Decker Ranch series.
July 20, 2023
Just brain candy good fun! Nice brain break, and exactly what I needed, though it has a serious side as well, talking about kids in foster care.
April 1, 2014
Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
Sometimes authors really surprise me in their books and Joanne Kennedy has done just that in How to Handle a Cowboy. I’ll admit I was thinking this would be kind of a cheeky, fun story but it turned out to be so much more and I was completely moved by all the elements in this book.
A rodeo cowboy at a crossroads in his life, a social worker trying to make a difference, and a motley crew of five little boys trying their best to find a place in the world. This book will tug at your heart from many different directions, make you thankful for every opportunity you’ve ever been given, and make you realize that sometimes all it takes is one person to make a difference in a life.
When Sierra Dunn takes a position as a group home caregiver in Wynott, Wyoming she knows it will be different from living in Denver. While she’s tried to make nice with the locals and integrate her and the boys under her care into the community she still feels like an outsider. When her boss tells her he’s sending a friend of his to volunteer with the boys she’s glad for the help but what she doesn’t expect is the long, tall, and very good looking cowboy that appears on her doorstep.
The last thing Ridge Cooper wants to do is help out with a bunch of kids but seeing as how his brother volunteered him, the least he can do is check things out. He doesn’t expect the pixie of a woman that answers the door or to find that he can’t help but be attracted. He certainly doesn’t expect Sierra to turn down his offer to help.
Right away the sparks are flying off these two and they don’t get off to the best of starts and then a moment when locked together in a small space leads to a little bit of hilarity, some intimacy, and an interesting rescue. These two circle around one another, neither wanting to admit how attracted they are or the fact that they feel something when together. As Ridge spends more time with the boys especially Jeffery, he begins to see a path for himself he never expected. Sierra is bound and determined to move on to a position that will give her more authority to help more children but she can’t help but think of what she’s leaving behind and she’s not just thinking about the boys.
To say this book is filled with so many enlightening moments is putting it mildly. We begin to clearly see what drives Sierra to do what she does, why helping these boys is so important to Ridge, and why they both have a hard time trusting anyone in their lives. Both Sierra and Ridge have some demons in their background that make them wary and cause them to make the mistakes they do when dealing with one another.
This is such a touching story and it really filled me with such hope. Having worked with many foster children and their foster parents over the years, I can’t think Joanne Kennedy enough for bringing to light the changes that are needed in this system to help these children succeed. How to Handle A Cowboy is a feel good book and it’s one of those books that will stick with me. I really hope we get stories for Ridge’s brothers because I’d like to check back in and see how Ridge and Sierra are doing.
5 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
Sometimes authors really surprise me in their books and Joanne Kennedy has done just that in How to Handle a Cowboy. I’ll admit I was thinking this would be kind of a cheeky, fun story but it turned out to be so much more and I was completely moved by all the elements in this book.
A rodeo cowboy at a crossroads in his life, a social worker trying to make a difference, and a motley crew of five little boys trying their best to find a place in the world. This book will tug at your heart from many different directions, make you thankful for every opportunity you’ve ever been given, and make you realize that sometimes all it takes is one person to make a difference in a life.
When Sierra Dunn takes a position as a group home caregiver in Wynott, Wyoming she knows it will be different from living in Denver. While she’s tried to make nice with the locals and integrate her and the boys under her care into the community she still feels like an outsider. When her boss tells her he’s sending a friend of his to volunteer with the boys she’s glad for the help but what she doesn’t expect is the long, tall, and very good looking cowboy that appears on her doorstep.
The last thing Ridge Cooper wants to do is help out with a bunch of kids but seeing as how his brother volunteered him, the least he can do is check things out. He doesn’t expect the pixie of a woman that answers the door or to find that he can’t help but be attracted. He certainly doesn’t expect Sierra to turn down his offer to help.
Right away the sparks are flying off these two and they don’t get off to the best of starts and then a moment when locked together in a small space leads to a little bit of hilarity, some intimacy, and an interesting rescue. These two circle around one another, neither wanting to admit how attracted they are or the fact that they feel something when together. As Ridge spends more time with the boys especially Jeffery, he begins to see a path for himself he never expected. Sierra is bound and determined to move on to a position that will give her more authority to help more children but she can’t help but think of what she’s leaving behind and she’s not just thinking about the boys.
To say this book is filled with so many enlightening moments is putting it mildly. We begin to clearly see what drives Sierra to do what she does, why helping these boys is so important to Ridge, and why they both have a hard time trusting anyone in their lives. Both Sierra and Ridge have some demons in their background that make them wary and cause them to make the mistakes they do when dealing with one another.
This is such a touching story and it really filled me with such hope. Having worked with many foster children and their foster parents over the years, I can’t think Joanne Kennedy enough for bringing to light the changes that are needed in this system to help these children succeed. How to Handle A Cowboy is a feel good book and it’s one of those books that will stick with me. I really hope we get stories for Ridge’s brothers because I’d like to check back in and see how Ridge and Sierra are doing.
April 7, 2014
A genuine, heartwarming story of finding one’s destiny, surrendering to love, and letting go of the past.
When Sierra Dunn took a job a Phoenix House in the middle of nowhere, not only had she given up on ever finding love, but also on advancing her career and making the type of state wide changes to the foster care systems she so desperately felt needed to be done. Instead of looking for love, she devoted all her time and energy into helping five foster children placed at Phoenix house. Five boys from dangerous backgrounds who needed to feel safe, secure, and loved. Sierra feels she can handle the job but it certainly has its challenges. But little does she know that her boss is working with a local ranch to provide some much needed outdoor recreation, in the form on a rodeo cowboy. Enter a new challenge, Ridge Cooper. Sierra and Ridge are immediately attracted to each other, but neither feels it should go past a professional level. Ridge is recovering from both a broken body and a broken relationship and not entirely ready to get involved again. Neither are willing to risk their hearts, no matter what the ultimate prize might be. But as Sierra spends time at the ranch with the boys, she begins to see a side of Ridge that she can’t resist. Not only is he a sexy rodeo cowboy, but a natural with the boys and with her. He seems to know exactly what they all need, but is it too good to be true? Can she trust her heart with a man like Ridge?
Loved this book!! It is a well-written novel, with great characters, an intriguing plot and rich dialogue; it’s simply an amazing read! I loved all the background information provided for both Sierra and Ridge’s characters, it really helps in understanding the dynamics of their relationship. The boys in the novel, while rebellious, were great supporting characters without taking away from the budding relationship developing between Ridge and Sierra. I loved reading about the connection that Jeffrey was experiencing with the wild, unmanageable Moonpie. It was such a great example of why you should never judge someone/something unless you know all the intricate details of why they act the way they do. There are so many different events occurring in the book, all interwoven with each other, that makes this book so hard to put down. The story flows along so seamlessly that it’s extremely difficult to find a stopping point! Well Done Ms. Kennedy! Can’t wait to read more!
Rating: 4.5
Heat Rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilP
Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
When Sierra Dunn took a job a Phoenix House in the middle of nowhere, not only had she given up on ever finding love, but also on advancing her career and making the type of state wide changes to the foster care systems she so desperately felt needed to be done. Instead of looking for love, she devoted all her time and energy into helping five foster children placed at Phoenix house. Five boys from dangerous backgrounds who needed to feel safe, secure, and loved. Sierra feels she can handle the job but it certainly has its challenges. But little does she know that her boss is working with a local ranch to provide some much needed outdoor recreation, in the form on a rodeo cowboy. Enter a new challenge, Ridge Cooper. Sierra and Ridge are immediately attracted to each other, but neither feels it should go past a professional level. Ridge is recovering from both a broken body and a broken relationship and not entirely ready to get involved again. Neither are willing to risk their hearts, no matter what the ultimate prize might be. But as Sierra spends time at the ranch with the boys, she begins to see a side of Ridge that she can’t resist. Not only is he a sexy rodeo cowboy, but a natural with the boys and with her. He seems to know exactly what they all need, but is it too good to be true? Can she trust her heart with a man like Ridge?
Loved this book!! It is a well-written novel, with great characters, an intriguing plot and rich dialogue; it’s simply an amazing read! I loved all the background information provided for both Sierra and Ridge’s characters, it really helps in understanding the dynamics of their relationship. The boys in the novel, while rebellious, were great supporting characters without taking away from the budding relationship developing between Ridge and Sierra. I loved reading about the connection that Jeffrey was experiencing with the wild, unmanageable Moonpie. It was such a great example of why you should never judge someone/something unless you know all the intricate details of why they act the way they do. There are so many different events occurring in the book, all interwoven with each other, that makes this book so hard to put down. The story flows along so seamlessly that it’s extremely difficult to find a stopping point! Well Done Ms. Kennedy! Can’t wait to read more!
Rating: 4.5
Heat Rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilP
Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
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