The Cowboy Christmas Distraction

Equestrian Dreams #2.5

by Tiffany Noelle Chacon

She's looking for a temporary distraction, but will she accidentally find love?
Monica's holiday plans aren't looking so good. She just got fired from her job at Goldman Sachs in New York City and her office nemesis is blacklisting her from finding another job. Her best friend, Mila, is supposed to come in town for Christmas, but when Mila's flight is canceled, Monica's stuck hosting Mila's cowboy friend instead.

When bull rider Matthew shows up at Monica's door, he looks like the perfect distraction from her woes.

Except Matthew isn't like any guy she's ever met before, and all the things that typically work for Monica are falling short. Could he be the catalyst to help Monica face her demons and finally give her heart to someone?

This sweet Christmas rom-com has all the laughs and chemistry you'd want in a romantic comedy, with none of the smut. And you'll find your favorite characters from the Equestrian Dreams series!

Tropes you'll find (and love) in this novella:
Grumpy/sunshine
Forced proximity
Christmas in the city
Found family

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Christian, Forced Proximity, Contemporary

127 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 24, 2023

About the author

Tiffany was riding horses before she could walk. She's a five-time IAHA national champion and competed regularly at the Winter Equestrian Festival with her gentle giant, Obi-Wan. She received her Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of Tampa. This is her debut novel - an outpouring of her love for horses, and her love for love. She lives in Tampa with her middle-school sweetheart and her two wild and crazy sons.

Reviews

[Maven_Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Cowboy Christmas Distraction by Tiffany Noelle Chacon is a warm contemporary Christmas romance that genuinely charmed me. Monica Garcia Perez’s holiday season begins in turmoil after she is unexpectedly fired from her job as a Wall Street analyst in New York City and then finds herself hosting her best friend’s cowboy friend, Matthew Craig, thanks to a snowstorm and a canceled flight.

Matthew, a professional bull rider with a gentle, grounded presence, quickly becomes more than a temporary distraction from Monica’s spiraling confidence. Set within the Equestrian Dreams series and filled with familiar faces, this story uses holiday magic to explore personal growth, unexpected connection, and the joy of opening your heart to more than you planned. The romance is clean and tender, and the Christmas setting feels cozy and full of good cheer without feeling rushed.

On a personal level, what stayed with me most was Monica’s internal journey, from someone clinging to superficial success to someone willing to examine her faith and sense of self worth; her transformation felt sincere and emotionally grounding. Matthew’s steady support and authentic kindness were refreshing and made their connection feel heartfelt rather than predictable. The pacing was brisk but mostly balanced, allowing for sweet, laugh‑inducing scenes alongside reflective, meaningful moments.

There were times when the dialogue, especially the Gen Z slang, felt slightly jarring to my taste, but overall it added to Monica’s spirited personality rather than detracting from the narrative.

For its heartfelt character arcs, uplifting themes, and genuine warmth, Rating: 4 out of 5. I chose this rating because the emotional resonance and character development carried the story beautifully, even if a few elements felt uneven at times.

[Haley Giovannetti · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was not ready for the emotions this book brought me. It starts out kind of silly (on purpose) but just hang in there. This book is phenomenal. It is a work of heart. This book hit me straight In the feels. If you’re going through a hard time, or struggling to find yourself, if you struggle with abandonment issues or self worth, read this book. I promise it’s worth it. This book is beautiful and sweet and such a great romance. It is a redemption story. It’s absolutely beautiful and I loved it so much!

[STEPHANIE · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm glad I read past the first chapter, cause I almost stopped the book. Using the words lit, on fleek, etc. annoys the heck out of me lol. I promise there's a reason for the it though, so keep reading! I loved the overall storyline. Matthew is a Christian cowboy, and Monica is a city girl. One holiday in NYC changed everything. While they are complete opposites, they quickly fall for each other. It was also nice seeing the guy be the one to hold onto the Christian values, cause it's usually the woman. I'm not going to give any spoilers but seeing how much a person can change by simply meeting someone new was amazing. I loved watching the growth that Monica had. I would really love to see a second book to continue their story.

[Linda Shantz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Sweet NYC Christmas story

This is a perfect little holiday read. A real opposites-attract, cowboy meets city girl, whirlwind romance. Definitely worth checking out.

[Ariana Feldberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun dive into Monica. If you’ve read the jump series, you get a glimpse of her ‘over the top’ personality and this book is devoted to her. It’s a sweet romcom that reminded me of country mouse vs city mouse and the power of finding your true self and never letting that waver. And of course the handsome cowboy with all the southern charm hinting at a happily ever after never hurts. A great sweet clean make you go awwwwww read

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Monica Garcia Perez is fired from her job as an analyst with Goldman Sachs shortly before Christmas, her mentor, Helen, promises to write her a glowing letter of recommendation and help her find another job after the holidays - as long as Monica agrees to make some changes. Even though she's a talented analyst, Helen is concerned that Monica's brash attitude and shallow behavior will give potential employers the wrong impression. Thrown into a tailspin of self-doubt, Monica tries to focus on plans for her best friend Mila's upcoming visit to New York City, but a snowstorm causes Mila and her husband Alex's flight to be canceled. However, their friend Matthew Craig, a professional bull rider, is traveling separately and needs a place to stay. Monica volunteers her couch, hoping that the handsome cowboy will provide a much-needed distraction from everything that's gone wrong in her life. Matthew may not be what Monica expected, but if she'll let him, he could turn out to be exactly what she needs to get her life back on track.

While I wouldn't exactly describe this book as a Christian romance, it did contain some Christian themes, and I was impressed by the author's ability to integrate them without overwhelming the rest of the story. Monica's faith journey was just one piece of a needed re-evaluation of her life and priorities in the wake of getting fired. Her growing relationship with Matthew, and eventually his family, was another piece. He was sweet and they made a cute couple, though I didn't feel as if I got to know him very well since the story was narrated only from Monica's POV. What I did know, I liked, however, and he truly seemed to bring out the best in her.

Overall, I enjoyed this charming story and recommend it for all fans of sweet/closed-door contemporary romance. It was the first book I've read by this author but won't be the last.

*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Mrs Lopez Overbooked · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monica's holiday plans aren't looking so good. She just got fired from her job at Goldman Sachs in New York City and her office nemesis is blacklisting her from finding another job. Her best friend, Mila, is supposed to come in town for Christmas, but when Mila's flight is canceled, Monica's stuck hosting Mila's cowboy friend instead.

When bull rider Matthew shows up at Monica's door, he looks like the perfect distraction from her woes.

Except Matthew isn't like any guy she's ever met before, and all the things that typically work for Monica are falling short. Could he be the catalyst to help Monica face her demons and finally give her heart to someone?


I was asked to read this book and review it. Honestly? It was so cute and I couldn't put it down. opposites-attract, cowboy meets city girl, whirlwind romance. Monica and Matthew stole my heart! It made me smile and laugh! A short novella for the holidays! I loved the aspects of Christianity in it as well! I couldn’t put it down once I started it! If you love cinnamon roll main male leads this is for you! If you love sassy Latinx representation this is for you as well! If you’re looking for spice this book may not be for you! I can’t wait to read more of Tiffany’s books!

[Tiffany W · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just a heads up, this book does have a few Christian elements( church and discussions about God) but it’s not really heavy handed.

I enjoyed this story, which was about the FMC Monica, just got fire from her job and is having a pretty bad day.. after a conversation with her former boss, she realizes she needs to have a really good look inside and figure out if she wants to be the person everybody thinks she is or if she wants to let her walls down and show everyone the real her. Matthew is real life comes into her life, when she all she thought she needed was a simple weekend distraction, but of course he ended it but that and so much more.. which turns her life upside down in the best way!

[Kris · Rating 1 out of 5]

1.5 stars
How does this have 4+ stars on Amazon? I'm so confused. Found this book in the recommended bar which searching for my next read on Amazon. I regret wasting my Amazon digital balance on this. The synopsis drew me in but the actual writing was subpar. The romance and chemistry was very superficial as was the discussion of religion. Pacing was too fast. The entire story felt rushed. Also, way to insult your fellow Christian brothers and sisters! I *really liked* the way the author trash-talked the Mass. Monica's faith journey had the depth of a kiddie pool. That's capital 'M' by the way. Way to trash talk the only Christian religion founded by the only and only Jesus Christ. I'll be praying for the author. God bless.

[Sara Arnaud · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Came out of nowhere! At first I was caught off guard by Monica’s way of thinking but soon realized the author was just really good at putting me inside her (super confused) head.
But then, enter Matthew (swoon)…cowboy hunk and steadfast rock. And she gets all kinds of challenged, in a good way.
But the end result is a beautiful redemption story of absolute healing that I was in no way prepared for! So much deeper than I anticipated in a holiday romcom. How did she do it?
Bravo, Tiffany, for my fav holiday read of the season! Thank you for this beautiful uplifting story. And to anyone out there that loves a wonderful opposites-attract story of love conquering all, don’t miss out on this one! 5 well-earned stars!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I freaking loved this story. I like that Monica slowly saw that she was not the person that she thought she was. She was hiding herself from herself. I like that religion was shown in a light that Monica wanted to discover more about it because she felt something and it was only used as a piece of finding her true self. Matthew is the [perfect cowboy and I want him. He was a perfect gentleman and wanted to do what was best for him, setting boundaries that were necessary. They were two pieces of a puzzle that ended up fitting perfectly with each other. Both being the person they needed and just didn't realize it.

[Dara Sorah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book. The story was sweet and heartfelt. It is my first read from this author and I will be reading more. What I loved about this book was the growth of the FMC. I loved that the FMC new she needed to change and allowed herself to open up to the change. Set around Christmas, I really loved how the author incorporated faith into the story without it overtaking the story line. For me I especially appreciate this in Christmas stories.

I was given an ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Readingintheweehours · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to enjoy Monica’s character at first. I’m so glad I was wrong. What starts as shallow, frivolous, and flighty ends very differently.
Matthew is a strong, steady, and devout Christian MMC. Although there are many opportunities to quickly judge and walk away, he remains patient, honorable, and (best of all) introduces Monica to the greatest Love of all time.
This is a fast-paced, Christmas novella with all of the clean and sweet feels. Two thumbs up!

[Jenna · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received this book in physical form as an ARC last year and did not have a chance to review it in time (my apologies!). I finally got around to reading it this year and it just fell way flat for me. I get that the gen-z lingo was the whole point of the character but it felt super out of place and context most of the time, making parts of the story cringe worthy unfortunately. I didn't feel any christmas magic, just a quick little story about two people falling in love within 2 days LOL. Might be your thing, but was not for me.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book arrived in the mail today and I read it all today (practically in one sitting, but not technically). The Cowboy Christmas Distraction is a sweet & swoony story of romance & redemption, with just a little bit of baby Jesus thrown in for good measure. Loved it!

CW/TW:
FMC with abandonment issues (from childhood & from a past relationship)
Topics of calling others derogatory names (none of which were mentioned) & using intimacy as a
distraction (also no detail given).
Christianity included in the FMC's character redemption arc.

[Nicole Morin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Cowboy Christmas Distraction was an excellent read! If you are looking for a sweet rom-com- look no further! Tiffany did a fantastic job with this charming Christmas romance. As I was reading, I could picture each scene as if I was being transported into the city and was there with the characters. The book does contain written religious components, but it enhances the characters and the plot. If you’re looking for a sweet Christmas rom-com, this one’s for you!

[Elizabeth McKay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best Christmas book I read this season but this is my first Christmasy book this year, but COWBOYS, (yes please) is what sold me to read this. Monica and Matthew are the CUTEST couple and I love the fact that you never see the traditional side of dating and I love that Tiffany did that with this book. Will definitely recommend and continue reading any books that she writes past and future!

[Hanna Perry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was asked to read this book and review it. Honestly? It was so cute and I couldn't put it down. I am a full time student, plus a mom and find that I don't have time for me to read anymore. I was so engrossed with Matthew and his politeness that I could not put this book down. I have honestly read it two more times since it was sent to me! I hope to see more of all of these characters. It's definitely worth the read this holiday season. 💛

[Audrey Colman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monica & Matthew

What a brilliant and beautiful little distraction this book proved to be! I didn’t want to put it down.

The character development, especially in Monica’s case was absolutely phenomenal! I loved the elements of faith and all the work that God, or should I saw, Baby Jesus, worked in Monica.

This book made me smile and giggle, was sweet and wholesome, and pointed the reader to Christ! What more could you ask for in a Christmas rom-com!?

[Meghan Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute, short holiday rom-com that is sure to warm your heart. Follows the FMC, Monica, who is just looking for a weekend distraction, but ended up finding her true self, as well as love and family, along the way ❤️ I did receive an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily 😊

[Terri Paulson-Sasaki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monica is a city girl that appears to have it all - perfect job, perfect apartment, perfect friends and perfect life. Matthew is the cute bull rider with a big family and the simple life who is the one that actually has it all. This is the perfect Christmas romance story with so many sweet moments. A definite must read for Christmas

[Amanda Chacon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this novella because it truly has a little bit of everything; comedy, love, heartache, memorable characters, depth, and all the feels. The main character is so well written, you can hear her personality bouncing off the pages. It’s a super fun, very entertaining, quick read. I finished it in 2 days because I couldn’t put it down.

[Kellie Waldron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monica was a woman who had been broken. She didn’t know it, but she had always harbored resentment against her parents and her ex Eduardo. It also made her present the fake Monica.

Matthew wants to find someone to spend the rest of his life with. He wants an authentic person. When he meets Monica, it wasn’t a great meeting, but it was magical.

It was a great quick read.

[E'Who'Reads'a'Thousand'Mysteries · Rating 5 out of 5]

This pleasant holiday rom-com is a high quality character piece, inspiring self-reflection and finding yourself. The "doing something" of this book is working on herself and it takes a lot of courage to dig deep like that.

[T · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet

I had to agree with Monica’s boss in the beginning. She definitely evolved into a likeable character. My favorite moment was her watching Matthew on the bull. Matthew, oh Matthew, I wish I’d have been able to get to know you more. My imagination will have to do. Sweet read.

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

Super sweet MMC. Good growth for the FMC. It felt a bit rushed though. These characters needed more time to get to know each other and more time to grow individually and together. The bones were good though!

[Karen J Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

The day started out as one of the worst in her life, but before the end it could well be one the start of a great future. Monica's cowboy, Matthew, shows her a new view about Christmas. Sweet, clean read.

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

The cutest read for the holidays! It definitely was pulling on my heartstrings a bit. Highly recommend if you are looking for a cute fluffy read to get out of any sort of reading slump!

[Denice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute story

I enjoyed Matthew and Monica's sweet story, two opposites have an instant attraction. A great sweet and swoony story with some fun banter and a HEA. Great read.

[Sydney Zachary · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love holiday romances and cowboy romances, this is the perfect book for you let’s just say there was a lot of squealing, giggling and kicking my feet. I love Tiffany’s books so much. Her books are some of my favorites that I’ve ever read, they’re so easy to understand and to read as well even if you’re not a horse person. I am in love with this book. I am also very much in love with the Craig family. They are so sweet.