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Spikes & Spurs #7
Cowboy Seeks Bride
Rancher Dewar O'Donnell is just an old-fashioned cowboy at heart, and he can't wait to reenact the historic Chisholm Trail ride with his buddies. The trial-run cattle drive for a reality TV show sounds like a great time - until H.B. McKay pulls up in her slick red sports car.
She's way out of her element...
Haley McKay is a feisty, high-powered businesswoman with the power suit and stiletto heels to prove it. She's keen to research her company's hot new idea for a reality TV show - but mount up with a bunch of modern-day cowboys? Are they kidding?
It's too late to back out now, so Haley sets out to prove that it will take more than snakes, storms, and stampedes to make her back down.
Besides, sleeping under the stars with Dewar O'Donnell could prove mighty interesting.
She's way out of her element...
Haley McKay is a feisty, high-powered businesswoman with the power suit and stiletto heels to prove it. She's keen to research her company's hot new idea for a reality TV show - but mount up with a bunch of modern-day cowboys? Are they kidding?
It's too late to back out now, so Haley sets out to prove that it will take more than snakes, storms, and stampedes to make her back down.
Besides, sleeping under the stars with Dewar O'Donnell could prove mighty interesting.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
157 people are currently reading
800 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Brown
181 books4,125 followersHi! I'm twenty five years old and movie star gorgeous. The camera added thirty plus years and a few wrinkles. Can't trust those cameras or mirrors either. Along with bathroom scales they are notorious liars! Honestly, I am the mother of three fantastic grown children who've made me laugh and given me more story ideas than I could ever write. My husband, Charles, is my strongest supporter and my best friend. He's even willing to eat fast food and help with the laundry while I finish one more chapter! Life is good and I am blessed!
Reading has been a passion since I was five years old and figured out those were words on book pages. As soon as my chubby little fingers found they could put words on a Big Chief tablet with a fat pencil, I was on my way. Writing joined reading in my list of passions. I will read anything from the back of the Cheerio's box to Faulkner and love every bit of it. In addition to reading I enjoy cooking, my family and the ocean. I love the Florida beaches. Listening to the ocean waves puts my writing brain into high gear.
I love writing romance because it's about emotions and relationships. Human nature hasn't changed a bit since Eve coveted the fruit in the Garden of Eden. Settings change. Plots change. Names change. Times change. But love is love and men and women have been falling in and out of it forever. Romance is about emotions: love, hate, anger, laughter... all of it. If I can make you laugh until your sides ache or grab a tissue then I've touched your emotions and accomplished what every writer sets out to do.
I got serious about writing when my third child was born and had her days and nights mixed up. I had to stay up all night anyway and it was very quiet so I invested in a spiral back notebook and sharpened a few pencils. The story that emerged has never sold but it's brought in enough rejection slips to put the Redwood Forest on the endangered list. In 1997 Kensington bought two books for their Precious Gems line. Two years and six books later the line died with only four of those books seeing publication. But by then Avalon had bought a book and another, and another. Ten years later the list has grown to thirty nine. Last year Sourcebooks bought the Lucky Series which is in the bookstores now. They've also bought The Honky Tonk Series which will debut with I LOVE THIS BAR in June and will be followed by HELL, YEAH, MY GIVE A DAMN'S BUSTED, and HONKY TONK CHRISTMAS.
Folks ask me where I get my ideas. Three kids, fifteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren. Note: I was a very young grandmother! Life is a zoo around here when they all come home. In one Sunday afternoon there's enough ideas to keep me writing for years and years. Seriously, ideas pop up at the craziest times. When one sinks its roots into my mind, I have no choice but to write the story. And while I'm writing the characters peek over my shoulder and make sure I'm telling it right and not exaggerating too much. Pesky little devils, they are!
I have a wonderful agent, Erin Niumata, who continues to work magic and sell my work. I'm very lucky to have her and my editors who continue to believe in me.
Happy reading!
Reading has been a passion since I was five years old and figured out those were words on book pages. As soon as my chubby little fingers found they could put words on a Big Chief tablet with a fat pencil, I was on my way. Writing joined reading in my list of passions. I will read anything from the back of the Cheerio's box to Faulkner and love every bit of it. In addition to reading I enjoy cooking, my family and the ocean. I love the Florida beaches. Listening to the ocean waves puts my writing brain into high gear.
I love writing romance because it's about emotions and relationships. Human nature hasn't changed a bit since Eve coveted the fruit in the Garden of Eden. Settings change. Plots change. Names change. Times change. But love is love and men and women have been falling in and out of it forever. Romance is about emotions: love, hate, anger, laughter... all of it. If I can make you laugh until your sides ache or grab a tissue then I've touched your emotions and accomplished what every writer sets out to do.
I got serious about writing when my third child was born and had her days and nights mixed up. I had to stay up all night anyway and it was very quiet so I invested in a spiral back notebook and sharpened a few pencils. The story that emerged has never sold but it's brought in enough rejection slips to put the Redwood Forest on the endangered list. In 1997 Kensington bought two books for their Precious Gems line. Two years and six books later the line died with only four of those books seeing publication. But by then Avalon had bought a book and another, and another. Ten years later the list has grown to thirty nine. Last year Sourcebooks bought the Lucky Series which is in the bookstores now. They've also bought The Honky Tonk Series which will debut with I LOVE THIS BAR in June and will be followed by HELL, YEAH, MY GIVE A DAMN'S BUSTED, and HONKY TONK CHRISTMAS.
Folks ask me where I get my ideas. Three kids, fifteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren. Note: I was a very young grandmother! Life is a zoo around here when they all come home. In one Sunday afternoon there's enough ideas to keep me writing for years and years. Seriously, ideas pop up at the craziest times. When one sinks its roots into my mind, I have no choice but to write the story. And while I'm writing the characters peek over my shoulder and make sure I'm telling it right and not exaggerating too much. Pesky little devils, they are!
I have a wonderful agent, Erin Niumata, who continues to work magic and sell my work. I'm very lucky to have her and my editors who continue to believe in me.
Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
May 19, 2013
For some people the big city has everything they want. Cars and flashing lights in the fast lane, every single piece of modern day living to make your life comfortable and just seem like pure bliss.
For others it is the way they feel about the wild, they would rather suffer through hours of riding in the red hot searing heat on the back of a horse then drive around on the highway in a fancy sports car.
Whatever your preference, everyone is entitled to their own choice of bliss. But when taken out of your comfort zone and thrown into the dark side it can mean you will either adapt and get through it or fall and be ready to beg anyone to bring you back to civilization, especially if the dark side is hotter, wetter and more of a snore fest than the worst of reality shows.
In the new Carolyn Brown read she tells the story of Haley, she is sent on a mission to tag along with some mighty fine cowboys as they embark on a re-enactment of the historic Chisholm Trail ride. Of course she has no idea what she is actually in for until she falls fancy suit first into a pile of , well let's just say it ain't mud ladies.
But Haley is not the kind to back down she is there to get the information needed to make the best reality show ever and she intends to do just that. What she does not see coming is the fierce attraction she feels for trail leader I'll-make-you-fell-so-good-you-will-never-want-to-leave Dewar.
Very soon they find themselves knee deep in nights of endless passion, but Haley misses her comfort zone and plans on getting back to the big city as soon as the thirty day trail ride is over, after all she has always wanted a man in a pinstripe suit ready to fight it out with the biggest of corporate companies, not some smoking hot cowboy, just ain't her style.
The character of Haley was so much fun! I laughed so hard at her wit and feisty-ness actual tears were streaming down my face! She gives as good as she gets and does not back down in the face of danger or any knee weakening eye winking cowboy. She falls, she simply gets back up on the horse and tries again. A real fighting spirit. Loved her to bits!
But I will admit the part about her having her heart set on the "perfect pin striped suit wearing man" made me dislike her just a smidgen I kept thinking that this woman has got some truly terrible ideas about the perfect man, for we all know that we cannot control who we fall in love with and making sure you marry the "perfect man " just as you imagined him will never bring you happiness, you might as well then just marry for the money and not the love.
The character of Dewar was a totally awesome one! I loved that the more Haley shows she is ready and more than able to handle anything the cowboy life brings her way the more he likes to get her rattled up. He is like a joker, always out to get her to loose her cool of course this is before she gets him all hot and bothered and he no longer wants anything to do with cool unless it involves cooling his passion for wanting her in his arms all night long.
I like that he is not only a leader but ready to face danger and best of all he does this while still staying as smooth as any charmer you might have met, this man simply just does not loose it, keeps it all together like a neatly wrapped bedroll.
Dewar and Haley were, although miles apart back in the real world the perfect match on so many levels. They are both the kind to stand up and fight for what they want and they both have a passion for life, never letting the elements of the situation get them down.
The backdrop was mostly on the trail but it involved rain and when I say rain I mean the truly horrific pouring kind that feels like it will never end, blazing hot sun, wind and dust. This all blended in with the wildness of the characters, and brought out the sense of reality is just a few more desert elements away, perfectly.
But there was also moon lit nights by the river side and heart stopping dances by the fireside that gave the read the stunning romance is in the air feeling, bringing forth the love of two hearts beating as one when brought together by the land.
The dialogue was all spikes and spurs the author gave moments of conflict, emotional moments of reality setting in and earth shattering moments of danger and despair.
The message I am taking away from this read is that what you dream up in your mind to be the perfect life you always wanted never comes close to the reality of true happiness when you are finally offered up the chance to find who you really are deep inside. Your mind tells you what you want but only when listening to your heart will you find what it is you have really been looking for.
I recommend this read for all fans of Carolyn Brown books, lovers of romances that are much better than the best looking chocolate bar when you have been craving it for days. And for anyone looking to read about to people who are more alike then they think, and when brought together sparks of the truly sky falling kind come crashing down to earth and will leave you never wanting to get back up!
A head butting, heart stopping, mouthwatering, sassy and very sexy romance read!
5 star review
" He romances the city right out of her"
August 26, 2013
If I can help it, I never start reading a Carolyn Brown book after 9 p.m. Because I know if I do, it will be in the wee hours of the morning before I can make myself put the book down.
The author creates such realistic characters, entertaining plots and hilarious moments, it’s hard to find a place to stop reading. The dialogue is conversational pulling the reader into the action and making them feel right at home.
COWBOY SEEKS BRIDE is a fine example of Brown’s work mixing her memorable characters with historical facts for a steamy romance and laugh-out-loud moments. She paints a breath-taking landscape with her vivid descriptions.
In this last installment in the Spikes and Spurs series, rancher Dewar O’Donnell is looking forward to reenacting the historic Chisholm Trail cattle drive with family and friends. This cattle drive is a trail run for a possible reality TV show. What Dewar didn’t count on was the reality show’s field man being a woman.
H.B. ‘Haley’ McKay is determined to make this drive into a reality show. The high-powered businesswoman hadn’t realized her research would have her riding a horse for a month with a bunch of modern-day cowboys.
As the unlikely group heads out on the trail drive, little do they know they’ll be facing more than storms, stampedes, snakes and coyotes.
The characters are spunky and likable. The story moves at a steady pace holding your attention from one encounter to the next tender moment and back to danger. The blend of humor and determination makes for an intriguing read. Brown gives her secondary characters flare and depth adding another layer to the story.
COWBOY SEEKS BRIDE features a feisty heroine and a sexy hero for a rip-roaring good time.
FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
The author creates such realistic characters, entertaining plots and hilarious moments, it’s hard to find a place to stop reading. The dialogue is conversational pulling the reader into the action and making them feel right at home.
COWBOY SEEKS BRIDE is a fine example of Brown’s work mixing her memorable characters with historical facts for a steamy romance and laugh-out-loud moments. She paints a breath-taking landscape with her vivid descriptions.
In this last installment in the Spikes and Spurs series, rancher Dewar O’Donnell is looking forward to reenacting the historic Chisholm Trail cattle drive with family and friends. This cattle drive is a trail run for a possible reality TV show. What Dewar didn’t count on was the reality show’s field man being a woman.
H.B. ‘Haley’ McKay is determined to make this drive into a reality show. The high-powered businesswoman hadn’t realized her research would have her riding a horse for a month with a bunch of modern-day cowboys.
As the unlikely group heads out on the trail drive, little do they know they’ll be facing more than storms, stampedes, snakes and coyotes.
The characters are spunky and likable. The story moves at a steady pace holding your attention from one encounter to the next tender moment and back to danger. The blend of humor and determination makes for an intriguing read. Brown gives her secondary characters flare and depth adding another layer to the story.
COWBOY SEEKS BRIDE features a feisty heroine and a sexy hero for a rip-roaring good time.
FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
June 30, 2024
I adore Carolyn Brown, but I've found a book by her that I just couldn't get into. I typically love all the cowboy drama and sexy romance, but this book... well, it felt dull. I didn't enjoy the trail they went on and it was just far too boring for me. I couldn't connect at all. I forced my way through it, but I didn't like it.
Most books by Carolyn I love, so I'm okay with this one not being on my good list. My love for Carolyn isn't going anywhere and I'll be grabbing more books when I see them. But this one? Not for me.
I feel like it was a mix of the setting, the pacing, and the characters that just didn't grab me. The entire mixture felt different from my regular Carolyn Brown read. I can't put my finger exactly what put me off, but what I've listed has got to be the initial wrong mix for me.
I will say, I did enjoy Haley being a strong female lead though. That made me happy. That's the big positive of this book.
One out of five stars.
Most books by Carolyn I love, so I'm okay with this one not being on my good list. My love for Carolyn isn't going anywhere and I'll be grabbing more books when I see them. But this one? Not for me.
I feel like it was a mix of the setting, the pacing, and the characters that just didn't grab me. The entire mixture felt different from my regular Carolyn Brown read. I can't put my finger exactly what put me off, but what I've listed has got to be the initial wrong mix for me.
I will say, I did enjoy Haley being a strong female lead though. That made me happy. That's the big positive of this book.
One out of five stars.
November 6, 2013
What a way to conclude a series? I wasn't sure how this one was going to go over with me. I love this series, but was a bit disappointed with Gemma's story. (It was a good book, but it fell a ittle flat for me.) I put off reading Dewar's story and am so sorry that I did. To see Dewar & Haley's love grow in the "old cowboy way" was fitting to his character. There were several times where I thought that I could smell what was cooking over the open fire and feel the electricity in the air. The fact that Haley got to know some of his family in their time together was icing on the cake. While there was drama that had to be dealt with, there were plenty of laughs too - from lingere on the animals after the stampede to Eyeore farting in Dewar's face. I was shocked at how many tricks Haley had up her sleeve and at how many times she was able to stun the cowboys. I am now a firm believer that every woman needs a donkey. LOL! There was a bit more that I would have loved to have seen - namely, the party in Louisiana, both of their parents' reactions at the end, and their first dinner at Chicken Fried but the book ended. I really missed the O'Donnell banter on Sundays when everyone is at the table. I have been recommending this series since I read book 1, and will continue to promote Carolyn Brown to all my friends. Thanks for another heartfelt & loving cowboy book!
August 9, 2013
Title: Cowboy Seeks A Bride
Series: Spikes and Spurs Bk 7
Author: Carolyn Brown
Genre: Contemporary Romance
He's tough as nails and ready to ride...
Rancher Dewar O'Donnell is a just an old-fashioned cowboy at heart, and he can't wait to reenact the historic Chisholm Trail ride with his buddies. The trial-run cattle drive for a reality TV show sounds like a great time - until H.B. McKay pulls up in her slick red sports car...
She's way out of her element...
Haley McKay is a feisty, high-powered businesswoman with the power suit and stiletto heels to prove it. She's keen to research her company's hot new idea for a reality TV show - but mount up with a bunch of modern-day cowboys? Are they kidding? It's too late to back out now, so Haley sets out to prove that it will take more than snakes, storms, and stampedes to make her back down.
Besides, sleeping under the stars with Dewar O'Donnell could prove mighty interesting...
For some people the big city has everything they want. Cars and flashing lights in the fast lane, every single piece of modern day living to make your life comfortable and just seem like pure bliss.
For others it is the way they feel about the wild, they would rather suffer through hours of riding in the red hot searing heat on the back of a horse then drive around on the highway in a fancy sports car.
Whatever your preference, everyone is entitled to their own choice of bliss. But when taken out of your comfort zone and thrown into the dark side it can mean you will either adapt and get through it or fall and be ready to beg anyone to bring you back to civilization, especially if the dark side is hotter, wetter and more of a snore fest than the worst of reality shows.
Miz Brown tells the story of Haley, she is sent on a mission to tag along with some mighty fine cowboys as they embark on a re-enactment of the historic Chisholm Trail ride. Of course she has no idea what she is actually in for until she falls Behind first wearing a fancy suit first into a pile of , well let's just say it ain't mud ladies.
But Haley is not the kind to back down she is there to get the information needed to make the best reality show ever and she intends to do just that. What she does not see coming is the fierce attraction she feels for trail leader I'll-make-you-fell-so-good-you-will-never-want-to-leave Dewar.
Very soon they find themselves knee deep in nights of endless passion, but Haley misses her comfort zone and plans on getting back to the big city as soon as the thirty day trail ride is over, after all she has always wanted a man in a pinstripe suit ready to fight it out with the biggest of corporate companies, not some smoking hot cowboy, just ain't her style.
The character of Haley was so much fun! She gives as good as she gets and does not back down in the face of danger or any knee weakening eye winking cowboy. She falls, she simply gets back up on the horse and tries again. A real fighting spirit. Loved her to bits!
But I will admit the part about her having her heart set on the "perfect pin striped suit wearing man" We all know that we cannot control who we fall in love with and making sure you marry the "perfect man " just as you imagined him will never bring you happiness, you might as well then just marry for the money and not the love.
Dewar was a totally awesome! I loved that the more Haley shows she is ready and more than able to handle anything the cowboy life brings her way the more he likes to get her rattled up. He is like a joker, always out to get her to loose her cool of course this is before she gets him all hot and bothered and he no longer wants anything to do with cool unless it involves cooling his passion for wanting her in his arms all night long.
I like that he is not only a leader but ready to face danger and best of all he does this while still staying as smooth as any charmer you might have met, this man simply just does not loose it, keeps it all together like a neatly wrapped bedroll.
Dewar and Haley were, although miles apart back in the real world the perfect match on so many levels. They are both the kind to stand up and fight for what they want and they both have a passion for life, never letting the elements of the situation get them down.
The backdrop was mostly on the trail but it involved rain and when I say rain I mean the truly horrific pouring kind that feels like it will never end, blazing hot sun, wind and dust. This all blended in with the wildness of the characters, and brought out the sense of reality is just a few more desert elements away, perfectly.
But there was also moon lit nights by the river side and heart stopping dances by the fireside that gave the read the stunning romance is in the air feeling, bringing forth the love of two hearts beating as one when brought together by the land.
The dialogue was all spikes and spurs the author gave moments of conflict, emotional moments of reality setting in and earth shattering moments of danger and despair.
The message I am taking away from this read is that what you dream up in your mind to be the perfect life you always wanted never comes close to the reality of true happiness when you are finally offered up the chance to find who you really are deep inside. Your mind tells you what you want but only when listening to your heart will you find what it is you have really been looking for.
I recommend this read for all fans of Carolyn Brown books, lovers of romances that are much better than the best looking chocolate bar when you have been craving it for days. And for anyone looking to read about to people who are more alike then they think, and when brought together sparks of the truly sky falling kind come crashing down to earth and will leave you never wanting to get back up!
A head butting, heart stopping, mouthwatering, sassy and very sexy romance read!
Grade A+
Review by: Helen
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
Series: Spikes and Spurs Bk 7
Author: Carolyn Brown
Genre: Contemporary Romance
He's tough as nails and ready to ride...
Rancher Dewar O'Donnell is a just an old-fashioned cowboy at heart, and he can't wait to reenact the historic Chisholm Trail ride with his buddies. The trial-run cattle drive for a reality TV show sounds like a great time - until H.B. McKay pulls up in her slick red sports car...
She's way out of her element...
Haley McKay is a feisty, high-powered businesswoman with the power suit and stiletto heels to prove it. She's keen to research her company's hot new idea for a reality TV show - but mount up with a bunch of modern-day cowboys? Are they kidding? It's too late to back out now, so Haley sets out to prove that it will take more than snakes, storms, and stampedes to make her back down.
Besides, sleeping under the stars with Dewar O'Donnell could prove mighty interesting...
For some people the big city has everything they want. Cars and flashing lights in the fast lane, every single piece of modern day living to make your life comfortable and just seem like pure bliss.
For others it is the way they feel about the wild, they would rather suffer through hours of riding in the red hot searing heat on the back of a horse then drive around on the highway in a fancy sports car.
Whatever your preference, everyone is entitled to their own choice of bliss. But when taken out of your comfort zone and thrown into the dark side it can mean you will either adapt and get through it or fall and be ready to beg anyone to bring you back to civilization, especially if the dark side is hotter, wetter and more of a snore fest than the worst of reality shows.
Miz Brown tells the story of Haley, she is sent on a mission to tag along with some mighty fine cowboys as they embark on a re-enactment of the historic Chisholm Trail ride. Of course she has no idea what she is actually in for until she falls Behind first wearing a fancy suit first into a pile of , well let's just say it ain't mud ladies.
But Haley is not the kind to back down she is there to get the information needed to make the best reality show ever and she intends to do just that. What she does not see coming is the fierce attraction she feels for trail leader I'll-make-you-fell-so-good-you-will-never-want-to-leave Dewar.
Very soon they find themselves knee deep in nights of endless passion, but Haley misses her comfort zone and plans on getting back to the big city as soon as the thirty day trail ride is over, after all she has always wanted a man in a pinstripe suit ready to fight it out with the biggest of corporate companies, not some smoking hot cowboy, just ain't her style.
The character of Haley was so much fun! She gives as good as she gets and does not back down in the face of danger or any knee weakening eye winking cowboy. She falls, she simply gets back up on the horse and tries again. A real fighting spirit. Loved her to bits!
But I will admit the part about her having her heart set on the "perfect pin striped suit wearing man" We all know that we cannot control who we fall in love with and making sure you marry the "perfect man " just as you imagined him will never bring you happiness, you might as well then just marry for the money and not the love.
Dewar was a totally awesome! I loved that the more Haley shows she is ready and more than able to handle anything the cowboy life brings her way the more he likes to get her rattled up. He is like a joker, always out to get her to loose her cool of course this is before she gets him all hot and bothered and he no longer wants anything to do with cool unless it involves cooling his passion for wanting her in his arms all night long.
I like that he is not only a leader but ready to face danger and best of all he does this while still staying as smooth as any charmer you might have met, this man simply just does not loose it, keeps it all together like a neatly wrapped bedroll.
Dewar and Haley were, although miles apart back in the real world the perfect match on so many levels. They are both the kind to stand up and fight for what they want and they both have a passion for life, never letting the elements of the situation get them down.
The backdrop was mostly on the trail but it involved rain and when I say rain I mean the truly horrific pouring kind that feels like it will never end, blazing hot sun, wind and dust. This all blended in with the wildness of the characters, and brought out the sense of reality is just a few more desert elements away, perfectly.
But there was also moon lit nights by the river side and heart stopping dances by the fireside that gave the read the stunning romance is in the air feeling, bringing forth the love of two hearts beating as one when brought together by the land.
The dialogue was all spikes and spurs the author gave moments of conflict, emotional moments of reality setting in and earth shattering moments of danger and despair.
The message I am taking away from this read is that what you dream up in your mind to be the perfect life you always wanted never comes close to the reality of true happiness when you are finally offered up the chance to find who you really are deep inside. Your mind tells you what you want but only when listening to your heart will you find what it is you have really been looking for.
I recommend this read for all fans of Carolyn Brown books, lovers of romances that are much better than the best looking chocolate bar when you have been craving it for days. And for anyone looking to read about to people who are more alike then they think, and when brought together sparks of the truly sky falling kind come crashing down to earth and will leave you never wanting to get back up!
A head butting, heart stopping, mouthwatering, sassy and very sexy romance read!
Grade A+
Review by: Helen
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
May 18, 2013
Cowboy Seeks bride
By Carolyn Brown
Summary courtesy of goodreads.com
He's tough as nails and ready to ride...
Rancher Dewar O'Donnell is a just an old-fashioned cowboy at heart, and he can't wait to reenact the historic Chisholm Trail ride with his buddies. The trial-run cattle drive for a reality TV show sounds like a great time - until H.B. McKay pulls up in her slick red sports car...
She's way out of her element...
Haley McKay is a feisty, high-powered businesswoman with the power suit and stiletto heels to prove it. She's keen to research her company's hot new idea for a reality TV show - but mount up with a bunch of modern-day cowboys? Are they kidding? It's too late to back out now, so Haley sets out to prove that it will take more than snakes, storms, and stampedes to make her back down.
Besides, sleeping under the stars with Dewar O'Donnell could prove mighty interesting.
Review
I loved Haley, she took no prisoners, and didn't let anyone get in her way, Dewar is an cowboy who thinks hes meeting H.B.McKay a TV executive whose planning a reality show where contestants participate in a cattle drive.
The last thing he expects is a hot red head who has him thinking about a future that includes love and marriage.As a pair the banter between them was both amusing and entertaining.
The story flows nicely in which Haley and Dewar clash a bit and fight their attraction, both claiming that they didn’t want to get involved with one another for various reasons.
I have always been a fan of Carolyn Brown's work. They are light reads that let you take a plunge into a world of hot cowboys and strong women. A good read for those who like cowboy novels.
3 Stars
By Carolyn Brown
Summary courtesy of goodreads.com
He's tough as nails and ready to ride...
Rancher Dewar O'Donnell is a just an old-fashioned cowboy at heart, and he can't wait to reenact the historic Chisholm Trail ride with his buddies. The trial-run cattle drive for a reality TV show sounds like a great time - until H.B. McKay pulls up in her slick red sports car...
She's way out of her element...
Haley McKay is a feisty, high-powered businesswoman with the power suit and stiletto heels to prove it. She's keen to research her company's hot new idea for a reality TV show - but mount up with a bunch of modern-day cowboys? Are they kidding? It's too late to back out now, so Haley sets out to prove that it will take more than snakes, storms, and stampedes to make her back down.
Besides, sleeping under the stars with Dewar O'Donnell could prove mighty interesting.
Review
I loved Haley, she took no prisoners, and didn't let anyone get in her way, Dewar is an cowboy who thinks hes meeting H.B.McKay a TV executive whose planning a reality show where contestants participate in a cattle drive.
The last thing he expects is a hot red head who has him thinking about a future that includes love and marriage.As a pair the banter between them was both amusing and entertaining.
The story flows nicely in which Haley and Dewar clash a bit and fight their attraction, both claiming that they didn’t want to get involved with one another for various reasons.
I have always been a fan of Carolyn Brown's work. They are light reads that let you take a plunge into a world of hot cowboys and strong women. A good read for those who like cowboy novels.
3 Stars
November 29, 2025
What do you get when two worlds collide...a novel that I utterly enjoyed.
The story was refreshing, fun, and when it came to sexual encounters it was down right sigh worthy.
Carolyn Brown's visual writing made you feel like you were along for the ride alongside the cattle and the drive team.
I loved watching the relationship and trust unfold between the city girl, Haley and the cowboys especially Dewar...completely glorious. Laughing at loud and even crying over a donkey, Brown pulled me in and kept me invested till the Happily Ever After.
Don't miss Cowboy Seeks Bride, a book filled with delicious cowboys, a piping hot romance and a wonderful adventure to boot.
This ARC copy of Cowboy Seeks Bride was given to me by Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication August 6,2013.
The story was refreshing, fun, and when it came to sexual encounters it was down right sigh worthy.
Carolyn Brown's visual writing made you feel like you were along for the ride alongside the cattle and the drive team.
I loved watching the relationship and trust unfold between the city girl, Haley and the cowboys especially Dewar...completely glorious. Laughing at loud and even crying over a donkey, Brown pulled me in and kept me invested till the Happily Ever After.
Don't miss Cowboy Seeks Bride, a book filled with delicious cowboys, a piping hot romance and a wonderful adventure to boot.
This ARC copy of Cowboy Seeks Bride was given to me by Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication August 6,2013.
July 2, 2013
Raving review sent in...and of course a shameless plea for a copy of Billion Dollar Cowboy that I got rejected on Net Galley...
Seriously, LOVE this series!
Seriously, LOVE this series!
February 10, 2019
The best part (and the longest part) is the cattle drive down the Old Chisholm Trail. The romance takes second place. However, the cattle drive descriptions really bring to life what it would be like today, at least. It makes you both want and dread to go on one yourself. The book ended too abruptly. I would have liked to see how the reality show panned out and especially if it left Joel's reality show idea in the dust. I love it when someone gets their comeuppance.
July 4, 2015
I loved this book. It was a really fun one to read. The O'Donnells have been asked to run a reenactment of the Chisolm Trail cattle drive. Dewar is in charge, with a couple friends and cousins assisting. They're expecting an executive from the show to ride along, but not a city woman in a suit and high heels. Dewar starts to think he's the victim of a practical joke. Haley is of the same mind. She certainly wasn't expecting to have to saddle up and participate in the cattle drive. She's not too happy about it, but she's not going to give Dewar the satisfaction of seeing her bail out.
The first meeting between Dewar and Hayley was hilarious. Both are thinking someone's playing a joke on them until it's clear that the whole thing is real. Dewar is convinced there's no way a city woman like her will survive thirty days on the trail, and Hayley is equally determined that she will stick it out to the end. A brief pep talk from Liz, Raylen's wife (Darn Good Cowboy Christmas), helps her get over the first hurdle. The sparks are flying between them, and both are determined to win this battle.
I loved Dewar. He's an old fashioned cowboy who loves what he does. Taking care of ranch, horses and cattle is his life. He's reached the point where he's ready to find the right woman and settle down. Someone who likes the same lifestyle he does. He's surprised to find himself so attracted to Hayley, who isn't anything like the woman he had in mind.
Hayley was great. She's been working for her father for awhile, trying to prove herself. She was engaged to her father's right hand man, but broke it off when she realized she didn't really love him. She thinks her dad and Joel set her up on this, expecting her to fail, and she's determined to prove them wrong. She doesn't expect to be so attracted to Dewar, who in spite of his good looks, is nothing like the suit-wearing, sophisticated businessman that is her usual type.
I loved seeing the relationship build between them. It started out with antagonism, but as each day passed it started to change. It was fun to watch Hayley change from the uptight businesswoman to the cowgirl. She met each challenge with humor and determination, and Dewar and the others quickly grew to like and respect her. With each day that they spent together they found more and more in common and their attraction continued to grow. I loved seeing them try to find ways to be together without giving their relationship away to the others. One of the nicest things about this book was that they didn't play games with each other and were honest about how they felt. The biggest obstacle that they had was trying to find a way to be together after the cattle drive was over. Dewar is a rancher and Hayley still wants to continue with her career in television. Things got really interesting when Hayley went back to Dallas to make her report. Her confrontation with her father and her ex-fiance was wild, and I really enjoyed seeing her rip into them. I loved seeing how the changes she went through during the trip affected her reactions to everything she was told. The followup love and support she got from Dewar were great and I loved the solution they came up with for their future.
I loved the entire cattle drive. The descriptions of where they went and what they did were so vivid that I felt as though I was there. There were parts that were so funny I could hardly read I was laughing so hard, such as the stampede with the cattle ending up wearing hats and lingerie, and the scene with Eeyore the donkey coming into the trailer during the storm. There were sweet and romantic parts, like Dewar's comments about Hayley's beauty in the moonlight. I also loved the bits of history about the trail, especially the old "saloon" that Hayley and Dewar visited.
The secondary characters were all wonderful, each with their own personality and stories. I loved Coosie and his non-stories, and how he had a quiet way of encouraging Hayley. Buddy, with his stutter and his way of taking care of Hayley was adorable. Dewar's cousins were fun when they were teasing, though I got a little frustrated with Sawyer when he was telling Hayley that she and Dewar wouldn't suit. Finn's story was heartbreaking, though I know he ends up okay. One of my favorite characters, though she was only there at the end, was Hayley's grandmother. She was a hoot and a half, especially when she was talking to Hayley's mom.
The first meeting between Dewar and Hayley was hilarious. Both are thinking someone's playing a joke on them until it's clear that the whole thing is real. Dewar is convinced there's no way a city woman like her will survive thirty days on the trail, and Hayley is equally determined that she will stick it out to the end. A brief pep talk from Liz, Raylen's wife (Darn Good Cowboy Christmas), helps her get over the first hurdle. The sparks are flying between them, and both are determined to win this battle.
I loved Dewar. He's an old fashioned cowboy who loves what he does. Taking care of ranch, horses and cattle is his life. He's reached the point where he's ready to find the right woman and settle down. Someone who likes the same lifestyle he does. He's surprised to find himself so attracted to Hayley, who isn't anything like the woman he had in mind.
Hayley was great. She's been working for her father for awhile, trying to prove herself. She was engaged to her father's right hand man, but broke it off when she realized she didn't really love him. She thinks her dad and Joel set her up on this, expecting her to fail, and she's determined to prove them wrong. She doesn't expect to be so attracted to Dewar, who in spite of his good looks, is nothing like the suit-wearing, sophisticated businessman that is her usual type.
I loved seeing the relationship build between them. It started out with antagonism, but as each day passed it started to change. It was fun to watch Hayley change from the uptight businesswoman to the cowgirl. She met each challenge with humor and determination, and Dewar and the others quickly grew to like and respect her. With each day that they spent together they found more and more in common and their attraction continued to grow. I loved seeing them try to find ways to be together without giving their relationship away to the others. One of the nicest things about this book was that they didn't play games with each other and were honest about how they felt. The biggest obstacle that they had was trying to find a way to be together after the cattle drive was over. Dewar is a rancher and Hayley still wants to continue with her career in television. Things got really interesting when Hayley went back to Dallas to make her report. Her confrontation with her father and her ex-fiance was wild, and I really enjoyed seeing her rip into them. I loved seeing how the changes she went through during the trip affected her reactions to everything she was told. The followup love and support she got from Dewar were great and I loved the solution they came up with for their future.
I loved the entire cattle drive. The descriptions of where they went and what they did were so vivid that I felt as though I was there. There were parts that were so funny I could hardly read I was laughing so hard, such as the stampede with the cattle ending up wearing hats and lingerie, and the scene with Eeyore the donkey coming into the trailer during the storm. There were sweet and romantic parts, like Dewar's comments about Hayley's beauty in the moonlight. I also loved the bits of history about the trail, especially the old "saloon" that Hayley and Dewar visited.
The secondary characters were all wonderful, each with their own personality and stories. I loved Coosie and his non-stories, and how he had a quiet way of encouraging Hayley. Buddy, with his stutter and his way of taking care of Hayley was adorable. Dewar's cousins were fun when they were teasing, though I got a little frustrated with Sawyer when he was telling Hayley that she and Dewar wouldn't suit. Finn's story was heartbreaking, though I know he ends up okay. One of my favorite characters, though she was only there at the end, was Hayley's grandmother. She was a hoot and a half, especially when she was talking to Hayley's mom.
August 27, 2013
A sassy, sexy contemporary western that will steal your heart! Taken from my review at RomanceJunkies.com:
H. B. ‘Haley’ MacKay has been sent to ride along and take notes on a month long Chisholm Trail cattle run, with the hands from the O’Donnell ranch for a reality show. Haley’s boss, Carl Levy, is also her father. She had hoped to stay in hotels, meeting the hands at certain points, but that was not to be, as she quickly discovers. Arriving on the ranch, she finds the cowboys, led by Dewar O’Donnell, all ready to go, and they have her horse saddled and waiting for her. Haley had been engaged to Joel, her father’s right-hand man, but six months ago she called it off. She knew that this action had aggravated her father, who wanted Joel for a son-in-law, but she never expected him to retaliate by sending her on this cattle drive. She is sure that Joel also had a hand in sending her off into the wilderness and can’t wait to get back and seek her own vengeance.
Dewar O’Donnell has an affinity for redheads, but not the high heel and business suit wearing type like Haley. With his two brothers and two sisters happily married, his family decided to help him share in their good fortune by matchmaking for him in an attempt to get him married. He rebelled at his family’s interference, but when he finally admitted to himself that he wanted a family of his own, he started dating…a lot. But so far he has been unable to find a woman who interests him enough for even a second date.
Dewar had been led to believe that H.B. Haley was a man and cannot believe it when a woman pulls up in a red sports car, announcing she is the person they have been waiting for. Although their first meeting leaves them snarling at each other, their time spent on the cattle drive, facing down obstacles together, soon sets a spark to the attraction between them. But can a city girl and a cowboy find forever happiness together without destroying each other?
A sexy tale, COWBOY SEEKS BRIDE, the seventh book in New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Carolyn Brown’s SPIKES AND SPURS series, is a fun, sensual contemporary romance that will lead readers through a range of emotions as they empathize with the characters. Ms. Brown’s wonderfully descriptive prose allows readers to feel as if they are right in the midst of the story, accompanying the characters on the cross country cattle drive. Feisty, redheaded city girl Haley and hunky cowboy Dewar make a delightful couple and the chemistry between them is explosive.
When it comes to modern day cowboy stories, author Carolyn Brown is unbeatable. Searing hot passion, delicious cowboys, steamy nights, witty banter, slow country drawl, tender romance and true love all combine to give readers a sassy, sexy story that they will reach for time and again. Anyone who believes there is nothing romantic about a cattle drive needs to check out this book. Although it is not necessary to read the rest of the series to appreciate COWBOY SEEKS BRIDE, I am sure that once you read it, you will be seeking the rest of this wonderful series. I hated to see this story end and can’t wait to see what Ms. Brown comes up with next. Pick up a copy and check it out for yourself!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
H. B. ‘Haley’ MacKay has been sent to ride along and take notes on a month long Chisholm Trail cattle run, with the hands from the O’Donnell ranch for a reality show. Haley’s boss, Carl Levy, is also her father. She had hoped to stay in hotels, meeting the hands at certain points, but that was not to be, as she quickly discovers. Arriving on the ranch, she finds the cowboys, led by Dewar O’Donnell, all ready to go, and they have her horse saddled and waiting for her. Haley had been engaged to Joel, her father’s right-hand man, but six months ago she called it off. She knew that this action had aggravated her father, who wanted Joel for a son-in-law, but she never expected him to retaliate by sending her on this cattle drive. She is sure that Joel also had a hand in sending her off into the wilderness and can’t wait to get back and seek her own vengeance.
Dewar O’Donnell has an affinity for redheads, but not the high heel and business suit wearing type like Haley. With his two brothers and two sisters happily married, his family decided to help him share in their good fortune by matchmaking for him in an attempt to get him married. He rebelled at his family’s interference, but when he finally admitted to himself that he wanted a family of his own, he started dating…a lot. But so far he has been unable to find a woman who interests him enough for even a second date.
Dewar had been led to believe that H.B. Haley was a man and cannot believe it when a woman pulls up in a red sports car, announcing she is the person they have been waiting for. Although their first meeting leaves them snarling at each other, their time spent on the cattle drive, facing down obstacles together, soon sets a spark to the attraction between them. But can a city girl and a cowboy find forever happiness together without destroying each other?
A sexy tale, COWBOY SEEKS BRIDE, the seventh book in New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Carolyn Brown’s SPIKES AND SPURS series, is a fun, sensual contemporary romance that will lead readers through a range of emotions as they empathize with the characters. Ms. Brown’s wonderfully descriptive prose allows readers to feel as if they are right in the midst of the story, accompanying the characters on the cross country cattle drive. Feisty, redheaded city girl Haley and hunky cowboy Dewar make a delightful couple and the chemistry between them is explosive.
When it comes to modern day cowboy stories, author Carolyn Brown is unbeatable. Searing hot passion, delicious cowboys, steamy nights, witty banter, slow country drawl, tender romance and true love all combine to give readers a sassy, sexy story that they will reach for time and again. Anyone who believes there is nothing romantic about a cattle drive needs to check out this book. Although it is not necessary to read the rest of the series to appreciate COWBOY SEEKS BRIDE, I am sure that once you read it, you will be seeking the rest of this wonderful series. I hated to see this story end and can’t wait to see what Ms. Brown comes up with next. Pick up a copy and check it out for yourself!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
August 15, 2013
Dewar has been approached by a reality television series about reenacting the Chishom trail ride. Since it will give him and some fellow cowboys a chance to go back in time and slow down he jumps at the chance to take a producer from the television station on the ride to flush out episode ideas for this new reality show; he and the cowboys are all ready to go all they need is for H.B. McKay to arrive and he should be arriving any time now. Funny thing when H.B. arrives he isn’t a he but a SHE!
Dewar is a great modern cowboy. He is not a love’m and leave’m guy. He wants a woman who can handle ranch life and wants forever. He may be wealthy but running his ranch is what he prefers to do, rather than being out every night in a big city. Hayley is bound and determined to show her father she is capable of doing the field work necessary to make a television show happen. If she falls off the horse (and in the case of the first chapter she really did) she will get back on – no matter the task. During the weeks on the cattle drive she not only plans some great things for the reality show cast, she learns some things about herself too.
This is not my first Carolyn Brown book, but so far it is my favorite. This title is the last book in the series, and I never felt lost; something that can not always be said when you only read the last book in a series. It is a great stand alone book. You expect the hero and heroine to be great characters; however the secondary characters are fantastic too. The plot of a reality show set following this cattle run was fantastic and I really enjoyed the glimpse at history (even if fictional) within a contemporary romance.
Great unique plot, vivid description of scenery, and engaging dialogue; everything I look forward to in a great book. And something I have come to expect from Carolyn Brown – I will continue to find her cowboy inspired books and devour each one!
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.
August 6, 2013
I have put off writing this review because I am afraid my mere words will never do this book justice. This book is charming, sexy, funny, relaxed and honesty filled. All the characters just have an open honesty about them. I was hooked from page one. I read all 370 pages without ever skimming, skipping or yawning. Each page was read with enthusiasm and anticipation, and if there was another 370 pages I’m positive I would feel the same way about each and every word.
The story begins with H.B. McKay arriving at Dewar O’Donnell’s ranch in preparation for a field assignment collecting information for a new reality series for her father’s network. Both she and Dewar thought it was all an April Fool’s Joke until they were actually riding out on horseback for an entire month. During the course of the month H.B. turns into a hard-working simple cowgirl named Haley.
On the dedication page Carolyn Brown writes “the book is pretty close to a historical” and she was so right. It was a funny, yet believable twist where the days of long ago so carefully intertwine with the 21st century. The honesty in the story was so refreshing – never was there a point of secrecy, or running from one’s feelings. With the love story of Dewar and Haley, they were always up front with each other and the differences in their worlds. This story was not only dripping with honesty, but it was also sprinkled with humor. I mean full-out belly laughs at times. I loved the parallels between country songs and the playful yet series tone of most of Dewar’s and Haley’s exchanges. Dewar as a leading character was wholesome, strong, caring, and sexy. Truly this book was one of my all-time favorite romances to date. In true down home Texas style lets just say I have a true hankerin’ for this book!!
RATING: 5
HEAT RATING: Hot
REVIEWED BY: A. Lyn
REVIEW COURTESY OF: My Book Addiction and More
The story begins with H.B. McKay arriving at Dewar O’Donnell’s ranch in preparation for a field assignment collecting information for a new reality series for her father’s network. Both she and Dewar thought it was all an April Fool’s Joke until they were actually riding out on horseback for an entire month. During the course of the month H.B. turns into a hard-working simple cowgirl named Haley.
On the dedication page Carolyn Brown writes “the book is pretty close to a historical” and she was so right. It was a funny, yet believable twist where the days of long ago so carefully intertwine with the 21st century. The honesty in the story was so refreshing – never was there a point of secrecy, or running from one’s feelings. With the love story of Dewar and Haley, they were always up front with each other and the differences in their worlds. This story was not only dripping with honesty, but it was also sprinkled with humor. I mean full-out belly laughs at times. I loved the parallels between country songs and the playful yet series tone of most of Dewar’s and Haley’s exchanges. Dewar as a leading character was wholesome, strong, caring, and sexy. Truly this book was one of my all-time favorite romances to date. In true down home Texas style lets just say I have a true hankerin’ for this book!!
RATING: 5
HEAT RATING: Hot
REVIEWED BY: A. Lyn
REVIEW COURTESY OF: My Book Addiction and More
September 14, 2014
Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Carolyn Brown comes through again with a hot and steamy Spikes and Spurs story that could have set the dry grass along the Chisholm Trail on fire.
From the moment that Dewar and Haley meet just before going out on the trail the sparks surely did fly. The chemistry between them was immediate and they fought it as long as they could while trying to keep their attraction and lust from everyone else on the trail.
There were laugh out loud moments that almost had me rolling on the floor. There were cowboys, horses, cows, Eeyore, family, the great outdoors with meals from the chuck wagon, some sweet talking, romance and lots and lots of loving. There was also discontent, Joel who gave me the creeps and Haley’s parents that didn’t have her best interests at heart at all.
The descriptions of the trail ride made me feel as if I was there. I could taste and smell the food cooking, feel the rain and the baths in the rivers as well as feel the camaraderie of all those taking part on the ride even if things get testy at times since they were away from home for 30 days. The ending provided a happily ever after but there was still so much story to tell. Although there was some closure the book ended just too abruptly for me and I would have liked to see the book continue a few more chapters.
I hope we meet up with the O’Donnell’s again in additional books. Since I have only read part of the series I do have to go back and start at the beginning. I’ve only read books 4, 5 and now 7. If you want to meet up with some hunky cowboys, live life on the ranch and get plenty of loving, pick up one of Brown’s books. You will be glad you did!
Favorite Quote: “You are so pretty in the moonlight. It’s even better than candles. Half your face is in shadow and half lit up. That’s you, Haley. Part open as a book. Part a secret that I want to figure out,” he said.
Book provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Carolyn Brown comes through again with a hot and steamy Spikes and Spurs story that could have set the dry grass along the Chisholm Trail on fire.
From the moment that Dewar and Haley meet just before going out on the trail the sparks surely did fly. The chemistry between them was immediate and they fought it as long as they could while trying to keep their attraction and lust from everyone else on the trail.
There were laugh out loud moments that almost had me rolling on the floor. There were cowboys, horses, cows, Eeyore, family, the great outdoors with meals from the chuck wagon, some sweet talking, romance and lots and lots of loving. There was also discontent, Joel who gave me the creeps and Haley’s parents that didn’t have her best interests at heart at all.
The descriptions of the trail ride made me feel as if I was there. I could taste and smell the food cooking, feel the rain and the baths in the rivers as well as feel the camaraderie of all those taking part on the ride even if things get testy at times since they were away from home for 30 days. The ending provided a happily ever after but there was still so much story to tell. Although there was some closure the book ended just too abruptly for me and I would have liked to see the book continue a few more chapters.
I hope we meet up with the O’Donnell’s again in additional books. Since I have only read part of the series I do have to go back and start at the beginning. I’ve only read books 4, 5 and now 7. If you want to meet up with some hunky cowboys, live life on the ranch and get plenty of loving, pick up one of Brown’s books. You will be glad you did!
Favorite Quote: “You are so pretty in the moonlight. It’s even better than candles. Half your face is in shadow and half lit up. That’s you, Haley. Part open as a book. Part a secret that I want to figure out,” he said.
June 17, 2013
Cowboy Seeks Bride (Spikes & Spurs) by Carolyn Brown
B-, blaze, no kink, contemp
Haley McKay (whose professional name is HB McKay) thinks her dad is playing a practical joke on her when he sends her to meet Dewar O'Donnell and his buddies at the start of a cattle drive. She's supposed to ride with the cowboys on the month-long round up as research for a reality show the family tv company is considering, but Haley is sure that when she gets there it will all be a joke.
Dewar is expecting HB McKay to be a middle-aged business man, not the feisty red-head that shows up. He's been actively looking for a wife, but knows that there's no way Haley's busy life as a career woman would mix with his life on the ranch. But despite the logic, the sparks between Haley and Dewar fly.
Carolyn Brown is one of my favorite authors of the modern day cowboy. In Cowboy Seeks Bride she delivers a solid, low conflict romance. Haley's city-girl ways clash with Dewar's country life, but the attraction is instant. I enjoyed watching Dewar and Haley sneaking around and hiding their relationship from the other cowboys on the drive. The ending seemed a bit too easy, a little too perfect, but still believable. I can forgive the ending since I enjoyed the book as much as I did.
B-, blaze, no kink, contemp
Haley McKay (whose professional name is HB McKay) thinks her dad is playing a practical joke on her when he sends her to meet Dewar O'Donnell and his buddies at the start of a cattle drive. She's supposed to ride with the cowboys on the month-long round up as research for a reality show the family tv company is considering, but Haley is sure that when she gets there it will all be a joke.
Dewar is expecting HB McKay to be a middle-aged business man, not the feisty red-head that shows up. He's been actively looking for a wife, but knows that there's no way Haley's busy life as a career woman would mix with his life on the ranch. But despite the logic, the sparks between Haley and Dewar fly.
Carolyn Brown is one of my favorite authors of the modern day cowboy. In Cowboy Seeks Bride she delivers a solid, low conflict romance. Haley's city-girl ways clash with Dewar's country life, but the attraction is instant. I enjoyed watching Dewar and Haley sneaking around and hiding their relationship from the other cowboys on the drive. The ending seemed a bit too easy, a little too perfect, but still believable. I can forgive the ending since I enjoyed the book as much as I did.
August 15, 2013
I read the first book in the Spikes and Spurs series (called Love Drunk Cowboy) and I loved it. Then life got in the way I haven’t had a chance to catch up with this series. So when I came across the latest book called Cowboy Seeks Bride, well I just snatched it up as fast as I could! I know it is book #7 in the series but I just had to read it!
I am glad I did. It wasn’t as good as that first book but overall it was a nice cowboy meets city girl and get to know each other on a modern day cattle drive. Not the sort of way I would want to get to know anyone but it really worked as a different and enjoyable plot.
Now Haley is billed as ‘feisty’ in the synopsis and while I agree with that I also found her to be a bit annoying. As the story progressed she did grow on me thank goodness. Dewar not only has an interesting name he also makes for a good cowboy. I really liked the chemistry these two had.
I am happy to say I do own the 5 books in this series that I haven’t read yet. I just need to find the time to lose myself in their stories…
I am glad I did. It wasn’t as good as that first book but overall it was a nice cowboy meets city girl and get to know each other on a modern day cattle drive. Not the sort of way I would want to get to know anyone but it really worked as a different and enjoyable plot.
Now Haley is billed as ‘feisty’ in the synopsis and while I agree with that I also found her to be a bit annoying. As the story progressed she did grow on me thank goodness. Dewar not only has an interesting name he also makes for a good cowboy. I really liked the chemistry these two had.
I am happy to say I do own the 5 books in this series that I haven’t read yet. I just need to find the time to lose myself in their stories…
August 6, 2013
I could say it time and time again. Brown writes, cute, sassy and fun cowboy books. The women are sassy and the men are, well cowboys ;)
The book is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone. There is talk of Dewar's family and friends, but hey that's normal. You do not need to have read previous ones to follow along.
Dewar is a cowboy through and through. He loves his ranch, he loves the life. Haley is everything he isn't. She loves her job in Dallas and her power suits. Therein lies the drama. These two meet, become friends and then something more. But there is always that big cloud over them. He wants to live where he lives, she is going back to Dallas and her fancy office.
The atmosphere was also nice in this one as they went on a month long cattle drive, and lots happened. I will just leave it at lots so not to spoil anything.
While reading I heard about Haley's grandma and I am telling ya, I would love that story :D Hint hint to the author.
Drama on the trail, romance, passion and cowboys. What more could a reader ask for.
The book is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone. There is talk of Dewar's family and friends, but hey that's normal. You do not need to have read previous ones to follow along.
Dewar is a cowboy through and through. He loves his ranch, he loves the life. Haley is everything he isn't. She loves her job in Dallas and her power suits. Therein lies the drama. These two meet, become friends and then something more. But there is always that big cloud over them. He wants to live where he lives, she is going back to Dallas and her fancy office.
The atmosphere was also nice in this one as they went on a month long cattle drive, and lots happened. I will just leave it at lots so not to spoil anything.
While reading I heard about Haley's grandma and I am telling ya, I would love that story :D Hint hint to the author.
Drama on the trail, romance, passion and cowboys. What more could a reader ask for.
October 12, 2013
He's Tough as Nails and Ready to Ride...
Rancher Dewar O'Donnell is just an old-fashioned cowboy at heart, and he can't wait to reenact the historic Chisholm Trail ride with his buddies. The trial-run cattle drive for a reality TV show sounds like a great time.
Haley McKay is a feisty, high-powered businesswoman with the power suit and stiletto heels to prove it. She's there to research her company's hot new idea for a reality TV show.
Haley sets out to prove that it will take more than snakes, storms, and stampedes to make her back down. Besides, sleeping under the stars with Dewar O'Donnell could prove mighty interesting...
Full of heart and humor. Love the story, love the characters. My favorite character was Haley's grandmother in Louisiana. 5 star.
Rancher Dewar O'Donnell is just an old-fashioned cowboy at heart, and he can't wait to reenact the historic Chisholm Trail ride with his buddies. The trial-run cattle drive for a reality TV show sounds like a great time.
Haley McKay is a feisty, high-powered businesswoman with the power suit and stiletto heels to prove it. She's there to research her company's hot new idea for a reality TV show.
Haley sets out to prove that it will take more than snakes, storms, and stampedes to make her back down. Besides, sleeping under the stars with Dewar O'Donnell could prove mighty interesting...
Full of heart and humor. Love the story, love the characters. My favorite character was Haley's grandmother in Louisiana. 5 star.
May 14, 2013
Reviewed for RT Mag
August 20, 2013
The best, I ROTFL. Love Eeyore!!! Granny was great too, even though not featured much :-)
November 17, 2013
ZzzzzZZZzzzzzZZZZzzzz...that's about all I can say.
December 28, 2013
Just not my cup of tea . . .
October 8, 2017
Cowboy Seeks Bride is the final book in the Spikes & Spurs series. I really enjoyed meeting the O'Donnells and their friends and families. Dewar O'Donnell is jealous of his brothers. They are married with children. He has lived the single life and now wants to settle down and have what they have.
There is a reenactment of the Chisholm Trail ride he is scheduled to ride with his buddies and the representative from the reality TV show sponsoring this ride. H.B.McKay is the rep from the reality TV show to ride with them. Imagine Dewar's surprise when H.B. turns out to be Haley. He thinks she won't last a day. You can take the girl out of the city but you can't take the city out of the girl. Well, Haley is determined to prove Dewar and his buddies wrong. A headstrong, sassy woman; she will not let a thirty day trail ride bring her down. Of course it doesn't matter that she only has ridden a horse a couple of times back in her college days.
This book is a great ending to the series. Follow Dewar and Haley as they ride the Chisholm Trail and all they encounter. Their attraction is one they cannot fight. But can the city girl and the cowboy really make this work? You will just have to read the book to find out.
There is a reenactment of the Chisholm Trail ride he is scheduled to ride with his buddies and the representative from the reality TV show sponsoring this ride. H.B.McKay is the rep from the reality TV show to ride with them. Imagine Dewar's surprise when H.B. turns out to be Haley. He thinks she won't last a day. You can take the girl out of the city but you can't take the city out of the girl. Well, Haley is determined to prove Dewar and his buddies wrong. A headstrong, sassy woman; she will not let a thirty day trail ride bring her down. Of course it doesn't matter that she only has ridden a horse a couple of times back in her college days.
This book is a great ending to the series. Follow Dewar and Haley as they ride the Chisholm Trail and all they encounter. Their attraction is one they cannot fight. But can the city girl and the cowboy really make this work? You will just have to read the book to find out.
September 17, 2018
Carolyn Brown did it again! I love all her books and this one was so much fun to read! Dewar O'Donnell is hired to reenact the Chisholm Trail cattle drive with some of his relatives and friends. He was hired by a TV station who is researching this as a possible reality TV show. The station's owner sends his high powered businesswoman daughter to do the research for it. But when she arrives, both her and Dewar think that someone is playing an April Fools joke on them! Dewar was expecting a man to ride the trail with, not a woman! Haley can't believe it when she arrives to find out that she is not interviewing, but riding the trail with these cowboy's! Haley is feisty and too proud to let her shock show. She sets out to prove that she can make this month long and show those cowboy's who's tough! The one thing she didn't count on was falling in love with the trail boss, Dewar! This was a fun action packed story with so many laugh out loud moments.
September 9, 2017
I just can't get enough! I love Carolyn Brown's books. But I may have a serious problem, lol. I get so into the plot, the characters and the locations that I feel as sad as I do the day after Christmas when I finish one of her books! (If my count is correct from Goodreads I have read 70 of her books!) I get to wishing that the characters are real and that I can actually go meet them! I can't say it enough how much I enjoy her writing. I wish I had such talent! But since I do not , I am sure thankful that this author has been blessed with her writing ability! And that I receive so much pleasure from it. Love, love, love her books!
July 16, 2021
The Cowboy and The City Girl
Loved Dewar O'Donnell and Haley McKay. He is the perfect, sexy cowboy and she's awesome. The dialog is fun and the action was riveting. Mrs. Brown knows how to write a romantic cowboy story that is always hilarious. I enjoyed the backstop on Rhett, Sawyer, and Finn. Would recommend this book to a friend,
Loved Dewar O'Donnell and Haley McKay. He is the perfect, sexy cowboy and she's awesome. The dialog is fun and the action was riveting. Mrs. Brown knows how to write a romantic cowboy story that is always hilarious. I enjoyed the backstop on Rhett, Sawyer, and Finn. Would recommend this book to a friend,
May 26, 2022
This is another fun and lively cowboy romance by one of my favorite authors, CCarolyn Brown! The hero and heroine are so likeable, and they're in a funny situation working on a cattle drive modeled after the ones of over a 100nyears ago, in order to create a reality show based on history. The creative plot has a few twists and turns and I enjoyed going along for the ride! Well done Ms. Brown!
May 7, 2017
Spikes & Spurs series
Highly enjoyed this series. Would love the series to continue. The feeling of family and love come through over and over. Love stories by Carolyn Brown. Will really miss all my new friends.
Highly enjoyed this series. Would love the series to continue. The feeling of family and love come through over and over. Love stories by Carolyn Brown. Will really miss all my new friends.
November 26, 2017
I almost didn't read this, as I have had similar novels in the past, with varying degrees of satisfaction. However, I can say Brown did the best job by far of putting one on a real cattle drive. Very happy I set this one aside to read.
February 14, 2018
Absolutely wonderful
What a wOnderful book!!! I laughed so much. This ole country girl really enjoyed this story, complete with so many facets of my Life as a child. The horses and donkey were the best!!!
What a wOnderful book!!! I laughed so much. This ole country girl really enjoyed this story, complete with so many facets of my Life as a child. The horses and donkey were the best!!!
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