What do you think?
Rate this book
The Cowboy Academy #6
Cowboy Santa
Can they help each other…
Make the season bright?
A small-town Oklahoma Christmas would be charming if single dad Chandler Cochran wasn’t being called into the principal’s office to deal with his son’s antics. The instigator behind young Sam’s misbehavior? Little Della-Mae, Izzy Adams’s daughter. The same Izzy who has just taken a job decorating Chandler’s family ranch for the holidays! And even though she and Chandler are pulled together to deal with their children’s misadventures, the bubbly mom and her sweet daughter are adding light and warmth to the stoic cowboy’s world. Will trouble turn into an unexpected gift this Christmas?
The Cowboy Academy
USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR
From Harlequin Heartwarming: Wholesome stories of love, compassion and belonging.
The Cowboy Academy
Book 1: A Cowboy Worth Waiting For
Book 2: A Cowboy's Fourth of July
Book 3: A Cowboy Christmas Carol
Book 4: A Cowboy for the Twins
Book 5: The Rodeo Star's Reunion
Book 6: Cowboy Santa
Book 7: The Cowboy's Wedding Proposal
Make the season bright?
A small-town Oklahoma Christmas would be charming if single dad Chandler Cochran wasn’t being called into the principal’s office to deal with his son’s antics. The instigator behind young Sam’s misbehavior? Little Della-Mae, Izzy Adams’s daughter. The same Izzy who has just taken a job decorating Chandler’s family ranch for the holidays! And even though she and Chandler are pulled together to deal with their children’s misadventures, the bubbly mom and her sweet daughter are adding light and warmth to the stoic cowboy’s world. Will trouble turn into an unexpected gift this Christmas?
The Cowboy Academy
USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR
From Harlequin Heartwarming: Wholesome stories of love, compassion and belonging.
The Cowboy Academy
Book 1: A Cowboy Worth Waiting For
Book 2: A Cowboy's Fourth of July
Book 3: A Cowboy Christmas Carol
Book 4: A Cowboy for the Twins
Book 5: The Rodeo Star's Reunion
Book 6: Cowboy Santa
Book 7: The Cowboy's Wedding Proposal
- GenresHarlequin
336 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published November 26, 2024
About the author
Melinda Curtis
456 books1,314 followersPrior to writing romance, award-winning, USA Today Bestseller Melinda Curtis was a junior manager for a Fortune 500 company, which meant when she flew on the private jet she was relegated to the jump seat—otherwise known as the potty. After grabbing her pen (and a parachute) she made the jump to full-time writer. Between writing sweet romance and sweet romantic comedy, Melinda finds time to bond with her husband over home remodeling projects. She recently came to grips with the fact that she’s an empty nester and a grandma, concepts easier to grasp than jet-setting on a potty.
Sign up for her newsletter on her website to receive two free reads.
Sign up for her newsletter on her website to receive two free reads.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
November 17, 2024
Christmas decorations, puppies and cowboys abound in this seasonal offering from Ms. Curtis. With childhood trauma followed by failed marriages, neither Izzy nor Chandler is looking for a relationship but the magic of Christmas and two conspiring seven year olds may change their lives for the better. This story has all the feels you could wish for.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 22, 2024
This book is a totally charming story about how opposites can be attracted to each other. Chandler Cochran is a no-nonsense single father who is the manager at the Done Roamin’ Ranch, and his little boy Sam is a precocious and mischievous sprite. When Chandler meets Izzy Adams in the principal’s office at the school, he isn’t surprised that her daughter Mae is in trouble, too, and Chandler blames Mae, because after all, Sam wouldn’t get into trouble without encouragement. Little does he know! The fun starts when Izzy is hired to decorate at the ranch and their differences come to the forefront. Chandler wants everything to stay just as it always has while Izzy wants him to be willing to try new things. The way they get to know each other is a fun romp through a field of humorous and light-hearted romance. I especially enjoyed the interactions between the children as well as the input of strong-hearted and loving Mary, Chandler’s mom, who wants him to decorate for Christmas. The characters are realistic, dynamic and lovable. The teasing banter that happens between the siblings at the ranch and between Izzy and Chandler is heartwarming and authentic. The romance is destined from the beginning, but the way the two get there is delightfully funny. This is a warmhearted romance in a scenic small town setting with appealing characters. I loved everything about this book from page one to the satisfying happy ending.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
February 11, 2025
This is book six of The Cowboy Academy and the main characters, cowboy and ranch foreman Chandler Cochran, and festively dressed Izzy (Isobel) Adams are called into the principal’s office of their children’s school, because of their behaviour. Chandler believes that Della-Mae is responsible for his son Sam’s bad behaviour and wants nothing to do with her, even wanting her to agree to move her daughter into another class. Izzy is busy with an extra job she has been doing for the start of the holiday season, decorating homes in town for Christmas, to earn some extra money to buy her daughter a dream canopy bed for Christmas. She only makes just enough at the feed store to make ends meet but wants to make Mae’s Christmas special this year. Sam and Mae have become best friends since Thanksgiving and are in the same class for second grade but have turned the last week or so into a series of mishaps and disasters in school for the teachers and other staff. Neither of them knew anything about why they had been called in, as the previous week was when both their exe’s picked up their kids. Their kids had gotten all the kids to share their lunches buffet style, only some kids ate things they were allergic to, another day their teacher’s waters broke, and Sam had put some gloves on and told the rest of the kids he knew what to do after their teacher had also fainted, along with something else each day since Thanksgiving! The principal tells them that it has to stop, and it is left to them both to speak to their kids and sort it all out! Their kids actions were well meaning, just caused a lot of trouble.
Chandler was a foster kid and finally got taken in by a couple, Frank and Mary Harrison, who became his foster parents at the Done Roamin’ Ranch, along with a number of other boys, a lot of whom still work there. The Christmas spirit was a bit lacking at the ranch since their foster mum was recovering from chemo and he hadn’t bothered decorating his and Sam’s cabin since his divorce. Izzy catches his eye when he sees her all dressed up in Christmas attire, having never really noticed her in the feed store. She had always been quiet and also determined to never go out with a cowboy, after the owner gave her advice about not dating the customers. Chandler is determined to blame Mae for sending Sam astray, but Izzy is having none of it and blames neither of them. Before she can confront him further, Frank calls and asks if she would help put some Christmas cheer back into the ranch, with Mary’s instructions, since she isn’t well enough to and always did it all each year. Mary wants a women’s touch for the decorating and won’t allow the ranch hands to do it themselves! Chandler’s ex, Stephanie, has a bombshell to drop on him when he arrives to pick up Sam for the weekend, as she has been offered a place on a flight attendant training course and wants to take it, even though she would have to move away. She is choosing her dreams over her son and Chandler makes his opinion plain to her about her decision. Izzy turns up at her exe’s car dealership showroom to pick up Mae, only to find out Mike had sent an employee to pick up Mae, not even finding the time to do it himself. He is the type of parent who thinks buying their child everything is enough!
When Izzy and Mae turn up bright and early that weekend, Frank had just had everyone in for a family meeting and told them about the decorating tasks. Once she starts and the kids are eager to help, changing where things go soon has Chandler disagreeing with her and wating everything to go where it usually does. Thankfully, it is Mary who wants it elsewhere, so she can see it easily whilst she is resting, so Chandler has to go along with it. Being raised as he was, he finds change difficult to deal with and loved the structure and roles the ranch life gave him. Izzy realised a few weeks before the holidays that she had to set a better example to Mae, after Mae turned down a part in the Christmas play as she was afraid to go on the stage, just like her mum. Izzy had withdrawn into a shell when her mother became ill with cancer, then died and her father didn’t know how to cope with it all. Chandler starts to get somewhat jealous, when his brothers talk of dancing with Izzy if she ends up at the local bar and ends up there as well, only to kiss her when she leaves! Neither of them know quite how to react, Chandler thinks that it is done and over, out of his system, but Izzy liked it and wondered if there might be more. But from his reaction, she knows not to wait for any. Their kids are both pestering them for a puppy, saying thy can’t be a proper cowboy without a cowboy hat, a horse and a dog! Not that this is what they sked for in their Santa letters, which didn’t actually get posted to the North Pole since a baby interrupted their teacher doing so. Past hurts have taken a toll on both of their lives and how they react to things in their lives now, so starting a relationship is fraught with dangers and worries. It will take a couple of seven-year-olds and the daughter of a matchmaker at the ranch, to get these two to realise what they have together. Nothing is smooth sailing as accidents happen and words are said without thinking first, hurting both parties. Thankfully the Santa parade is the perfect place to apologise and try to make things right!
A fun cowboy romance, with two absolute star kids who steal the show and often! I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Chandler was a foster kid and finally got taken in by a couple, Frank and Mary Harrison, who became his foster parents at the Done Roamin’ Ranch, along with a number of other boys, a lot of whom still work there. The Christmas spirit was a bit lacking at the ranch since their foster mum was recovering from chemo and he hadn’t bothered decorating his and Sam’s cabin since his divorce. Izzy catches his eye when he sees her all dressed up in Christmas attire, having never really noticed her in the feed store. She had always been quiet and also determined to never go out with a cowboy, after the owner gave her advice about not dating the customers. Chandler is determined to blame Mae for sending Sam astray, but Izzy is having none of it and blames neither of them. Before she can confront him further, Frank calls and asks if she would help put some Christmas cheer back into the ranch, with Mary’s instructions, since she isn’t well enough to and always did it all each year. Mary wants a women’s touch for the decorating and won’t allow the ranch hands to do it themselves! Chandler’s ex, Stephanie, has a bombshell to drop on him when he arrives to pick up Sam for the weekend, as she has been offered a place on a flight attendant training course and wants to take it, even though she would have to move away. She is choosing her dreams over her son and Chandler makes his opinion plain to her about her decision. Izzy turns up at her exe’s car dealership showroom to pick up Mae, only to find out Mike had sent an employee to pick up Mae, not even finding the time to do it himself. He is the type of parent who thinks buying their child everything is enough!
When Izzy and Mae turn up bright and early that weekend, Frank had just had everyone in for a family meeting and told them about the decorating tasks. Once she starts and the kids are eager to help, changing where things go soon has Chandler disagreeing with her and wating everything to go where it usually does. Thankfully, it is Mary who wants it elsewhere, so she can see it easily whilst she is resting, so Chandler has to go along with it. Being raised as he was, he finds change difficult to deal with and loved the structure and roles the ranch life gave him. Izzy realised a few weeks before the holidays that she had to set a better example to Mae, after Mae turned down a part in the Christmas play as she was afraid to go on the stage, just like her mum. Izzy had withdrawn into a shell when her mother became ill with cancer, then died and her father didn’t know how to cope with it all. Chandler starts to get somewhat jealous, when his brothers talk of dancing with Izzy if she ends up at the local bar and ends up there as well, only to kiss her when she leaves! Neither of them know quite how to react, Chandler thinks that it is done and over, out of his system, but Izzy liked it and wondered if there might be more. But from his reaction, she knows not to wait for any. Their kids are both pestering them for a puppy, saying thy can’t be a proper cowboy without a cowboy hat, a horse and a dog! Not that this is what they sked for in their Santa letters, which didn’t actually get posted to the North Pole since a baby interrupted their teacher doing so. Past hurts have taken a toll on both of their lives and how they react to things in their lives now, so starting a relationship is fraught with dangers and worries. It will take a couple of seven-year-olds and the daughter of a matchmaker at the ranch, to get these two to realise what they have together. Nothing is smooth sailing as accidents happen and words are said without thinking first, hurting both parties. Thankfully the Santa parade is the perfect place to apologise and try to make things right!
A fun cowboy romance, with two absolute star kids who steal the show and often! I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
January 19, 2025
Good luck when a six- and a seven-year-old hire a teenage matchmaker to bring their parents together.
Chandler Cochran, the ranch foreman at Done Roamin’ Ranch, has been called to the principal's office. His seven-year-old son, Sam, is a student there. Chandler almost expected the police, social services, or one of his parents to show up as they did when he was the child waiting in the principal's office. No matter who showed up, it meant upheaval and uncertainty for him.
Two children also awaiting their fate try to guess why he's there. He doesn't have a clue as to why he's there. Sam is a good kid and not likely to be in trouble.
Then in walks a reindeer, or at least a woman dressed as one. She was in brown boots, jeans, a sweater with Rudolph on it, a red blinking nose, and a headband of antlers with tiny tinkling bells attached. She has tan gloves and is wearing red Christmas bulb earrings. She's Isobel Adams, better known as Izzy, who works at the Clementine Feed store. She's usually so quiet and efficient that he's never paid much attention to her before.
She has her own side business of doing Christmas decorating for people. She's trying to earn enough money for a special Christmas gift for her six-year-old daughter, Della-Mae. Like Chandler, she has no idea why she's there.
Seeing her Christmas spirit reminds him of his foster mother, who loves Christmas. Unfortunately, this Christmas, she's recovering from two rounds of chemotherapy in her battle with cancer.
The principal tells them "it" has to stop. However, they don't know what "it" is. Izzy has noticed that Mae, who's normally shy like her, is becoming more outgoing. Second graders Sam and Mae have become best friends. Both are smart, creative, and mean well, but their escapades over the last five days have caused problems.
Sam has been staying with his mother this week, and Mae was with her father. Mike has always treated Mae more like a friend than the daughter he needs to discipline at times. Chandler and Izzy didn't receive the emails the school sent them. Neither of them has been able to sign in on the school's new app, and both are now locked out for too many failed attempts.
Izzy is familiar with Sam because he and Mae have been together in the same class for two years. But their personalities are so different that she can't imagine them working together.
The principal insists they speak to their children and praise them for their creativity, understanding of the world, and their leadership abilities. But stress proper behavior at school and think before they act. If necessary, they'll be placed in separate classrooms.
Chandler's father had been a drunk. He worked construction, and while he never drank before or while at work, he was at the bar until whatever game playing on TV was done. He was good at avoiding the furniture when he came home, but as soon as he'd hit the bedroom door, the fight with his wife would begin. His mother began to move the furniture around to slow him down. Finally, when Chandler was twelve, she simply walked away and left. He tried to become invisible to avoid incidents with his father, but that left him sleep deprived. It put him on edge at school, with a hair-trigger temper, resulting in many trips to the principal's office. After his father hit a streak of being unable to stay out of jail, he'd been taken in as one of Frank and Mary's foster sons. Over the years, they'd fostered dozens of boys. Several, like Chandler, still live and work on the ranch. He'd never been able to explain to his ex-wife, Stephanie, about his father or why he placed the couch to slow down entry into the room, but he could and did tell Izzy. His father is the reason he doesn't like change or surprises. And now that Stephanie wants to move to Texas to train to be a flight attendant, that's a huge change for both Sam and him!
After her mother died of cancer, her father wasn’t interested in being a father to Izzy. He was over his grief, while she wasn't. He then ran off with the woman who had been his wife's nurse and married her. His only contact is at Christmas and birthdays.
Earl, at the feed store, has looked out for her since then. He hired her full-time and rented her the apartment above the office. Now, he's like a grandfather to Mae.
Her marriage hadn't been the solution to her struggles, either. Mike has just informed her that he's going to remarry a woman who doesn't want to be a mother or stepmother.
Chandler's ex, Stephanie, wants to quit her job at the post office. She wants to travel and has an offer to move to Texas and train as a flight attendant. She wants Sam to go with her. But he'd have no family there since Chandler isn't moving. Who'd care for Sam when she's flying?
The kids each want a puppy for Christmas. Both parents tell them no, until Izzy learns what they really want...
I received a free copy of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Chandler Cochran, the ranch foreman at Done Roamin’ Ranch, has been called to the principal's office. His seven-year-old son, Sam, is a student there. Chandler almost expected the police, social services, or one of his parents to show up as they did when he was the child waiting in the principal's office. No matter who showed up, it meant upheaval and uncertainty for him.
Two children also awaiting their fate try to guess why he's there. He doesn't have a clue as to why he's there. Sam is a good kid and not likely to be in trouble.
Then in walks a reindeer, or at least a woman dressed as one. She was in brown boots, jeans, a sweater with Rudolph on it, a red blinking nose, and a headband of antlers with tiny tinkling bells attached. She has tan gloves and is wearing red Christmas bulb earrings. She's Isobel Adams, better known as Izzy, who works at the Clementine Feed store. She's usually so quiet and efficient that he's never paid much attention to her before.
She has her own side business of doing Christmas decorating for people. She's trying to earn enough money for a special Christmas gift for her six-year-old daughter, Della-Mae. Like Chandler, she has no idea why she's there.
Seeing her Christmas spirit reminds him of his foster mother, who loves Christmas. Unfortunately, this Christmas, she's recovering from two rounds of chemotherapy in her battle with cancer.
The principal tells them "it" has to stop. However, they don't know what "it" is. Izzy has noticed that Mae, who's normally shy like her, is becoming more outgoing. Second graders Sam and Mae have become best friends. Both are smart, creative, and mean well, but their escapades over the last five days have caused problems.
Sam has been staying with his mother this week, and Mae was with her father. Mike has always treated Mae more like a friend than the daughter he needs to discipline at times. Chandler and Izzy didn't receive the emails the school sent them. Neither of them has been able to sign in on the school's new app, and both are now locked out for too many failed attempts.
Izzy is familiar with Sam because he and Mae have been together in the same class for two years. But their personalities are so different that she can't imagine them working together.
The principal insists they speak to their children and praise them for their creativity, understanding of the world, and their leadership abilities. But stress proper behavior at school and think before they act. If necessary, they'll be placed in separate classrooms.
Chandler's father had been a drunk. He worked construction, and while he never drank before or while at work, he was at the bar until whatever game playing on TV was done. He was good at avoiding the furniture when he came home, but as soon as he'd hit the bedroom door, the fight with his wife would begin. His mother began to move the furniture around to slow him down. Finally, when Chandler was twelve, she simply walked away and left. He tried to become invisible to avoid incidents with his father, but that left him sleep deprived. It put him on edge at school, with a hair-trigger temper, resulting in many trips to the principal's office. After his father hit a streak of being unable to stay out of jail, he'd been taken in as one of Frank and Mary's foster sons. Over the years, they'd fostered dozens of boys. Several, like Chandler, still live and work on the ranch. He'd never been able to explain to his ex-wife, Stephanie, about his father or why he placed the couch to slow down entry into the room, but he could and did tell Izzy. His father is the reason he doesn't like change or surprises. And now that Stephanie wants to move to Texas to train to be a flight attendant, that's a huge change for both Sam and him!
After her mother died of cancer, her father wasn’t interested in being a father to Izzy. He was over his grief, while she wasn't. He then ran off with the woman who had been his wife's nurse and married her. His only contact is at Christmas and birthdays.
Earl, at the feed store, has looked out for her since then. He hired her full-time and rented her the apartment above the office. Now, he's like a grandfather to Mae.
Her marriage hadn't been the solution to her struggles, either. Mike has just informed her that he's going to remarry a woman who doesn't want to be a mother or stepmother.
Chandler's ex, Stephanie, wants to quit her job at the post office. She wants to travel and has an offer to move to Texas and train as a flight attendant. She wants Sam to go with her. But he'd have no family there since Chandler isn't moving. Who'd care for Sam when she's flying?
The kids each want a puppy for Christmas. Both parents tell them no, until Izzy learns what they really want...
I received a free copy of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
November 17, 2024
What can go wrong when two divorced parents are called to the principal’s office. Chandler is a father of a little boy named Sam and Izzy is the mother of a little girl named Mae. Both kids are usually good children. After promising that the kids will not misbehave again, Chandler and Izzy decide it’s best to stay away from each other so the kids won’t misbehave. When Chandler’s father ask Izzy to help decorate the ranch for Chandler’s mother, who is still weak from chemo, she couldn’t say no. As Chandler spends times with Mae, who is sweet and cute and her beautiful mother at the ranch, he sees what is he missing in his life since his divorce. Everything he does is for Sam, his family and the ranch. He just wants to do right with his son, especially now that Sam’s mother has a job offer in Dallas. Will she take the job? Will she take Sam with her? Izzy is in the same boat. Mae’s father will no longer be in the picture because he chose a woman over his daughter. How will Mae handle it? Izzy is so disappointed with her ex because Izzy’s father did the same thing to her. Both Chandler and Izzy are not looking for love but sometimes it just bites you. They both are great parents, love their jobs, work hard. They both have a lot in common, which draws them to each other. The chemistry is off the charts too. Will the Christmas magic give them a miracle? They both deserve a second chance at love. It’s not hard to love the children either. I was rooting for Chandler, Sam, Izzy and Mae. Worth the read. I received this book for my honest review. I give it voluntarily.
November 30, 2024
I really enjoyed how this story started and our meeting Pete while Chandler and Izzy are waiting to see the principal was too cute. He knows what he likes, and he makes no apologies. Chandler and Izzy wouldn’t have normally met but when their kids decided to act out and cause trouble, they’ve been called into the principal’s office for a discussion about their kids needing to tone things down. We all knew that this would lead to these two trying to work together to rein in their kids and their antics, Sam and Della-Mae, most people call her Mae, and a kiss or two later plus a few matchmakers behind the scenes and there is something between these two. However, they both don’t have the best pasts and currently they are both dealing with issues from their exes as well, not a good time to be trying to have a relationship. Unfortunately, things are said and these two decide not to be together and who knew all this would lead back to an unexpected culprit who wanted to be an entrepreneur and emulate someone else at a young age, however her heart was in the right place. I love how Chandler, with Ronnie’s help, pulled off not one but two surprises for Izzy and Mae and the next day, his major surprise for them was exactly what they all needed. I liked the ending however I have a feeling that Sam and Mae will continue their antics and their visits to the principal’s office will continue. Great book!!!
January 20, 2025
Melinda Curtis will steal your heart with her latest charming and adorable small-town Western romance, Cowboy Santa.
Single dad Chandler Cochran has got a lot on - he certainly does not need to be hauled into the principal's office because his son has been misbehaving at school. The reason why his son is getting up to mischief in the classroom? Little Miss Della-Mae, the daughter of Izzy Adams, who is currently decorating the Chandler family ranch for the holidays.
His son playing up at school is the last thing the stoic cowboy needs at the moment. However, when he finds himself needing to speak to Izzy about their children's behavior, the bubbly single mom ignites a spark deep within him that he thought extinguished a long time ago!
As the two of them begin to get closer and closer, will Chandler end up finding the love of a lifetime under the Christmas tree this holiday season? Or will he let the best thing that's ever happened to him slip through his fingers?
I love Melinda Curtis' warm-hearted and witty small-town romances and Cowboy Santa is an excellent example of her storytelling prowess. Funny, feel-good, emotional and wonderfully romantic, Cowboy Santa is an enjoyable sweet tale from Melinda Curtis I couldn't read fast enough!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Single dad Chandler Cochran has got a lot on - he certainly does not need to be hauled into the principal's office because his son has been misbehaving at school. The reason why his son is getting up to mischief in the classroom? Little Miss Della-Mae, the daughter of Izzy Adams, who is currently decorating the Chandler family ranch for the holidays.
His son playing up at school is the last thing the stoic cowboy needs at the moment. However, when he finds himself needing to speak to Izzy about their children's behavior, the bubbly single mom ignites a spark deep within him that he thought extinguished a long time ago!
As the two of them begin to get closer and closer, will Chandler end up finding the love of a lifetime under the Christmas tree this holiday season? Or will he let the best thing that's ever happened to him slip through his fingers?
I love Melinda Curtis' warm-hearted and witty small-town romances and Cowboy Santa is an excellent example of her storytelling prowess. Funny, feel-good, emotional and wonderfully romantic, Cowboy Santa is an enjoyable sweet tale from Melinda Curtis I couldn't read fast enough!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 17, 2024
I love, love, love this book! Parents being called to the principal's office is hilarious! Their reactions are too. They have no clue as to why they are there because their kids are usually such good kids, and they have had no warning! Chandler and Izzy make a great pair. They have had peripheral dealings with each other since it's a small town but there has been zero attraction there until "the principal's office" incident. Then, something just happens with them, and they can't stop thinking about each other! They are in each other's orbit constantly after that. Probably because their kids, Sam and Mae, are best friends and find a way to always be together. I loved those kids. They were a highlight of the book for me. Sam, with his enthusiasm for life, and Mae, with her quiet & sweet way. Unlikely best friends but so cute together! Their desperate desire for a puppy is relentless! Chandler and Izzy have both had childhood traumas that still affect them today, not to mention failed marriages that keep them gun shy to begin a new relationship. With each other, they find a kindred spirit, but will they find the courage to take that step? There is so much Christmas spirit in this book and so much tenderness too. I loved every part of it!
October 7, 2024
Amazing book. Chandler Cochran is a single dad with a sweet kid Sam. He’s called into the principals office. He’s not alone in the office. Izzy Adam’s who also is a single mom works at the feed store, and is in there too. It seems her daughter Della-Mae is in cahoots with his son: It’s one thing after another. They agree to speak with there ex’s to see what if anything they see when Mae is at her dads, and Sam is with his mom.
Izzy also has a decorating job. She’s approached by Chandlers foster dad. He wants to make the Done Roamin’ Ranch special for his wife. Chandler is against change. Mary Harrison does not have the energy to do her thing for Christmas so Izzy along with Mae try to make it special.
A terrible foreseen thing happens, and Chandler puts blame on Izzy. It breaks my heart. I had tears. If you have read Ms. Curtis’s books you know she will make you laugh as well.
Mae and Sam are so sweet. They warmed my heart.
Izzy also has a decorating job. She’s approached by Chandlers foster dad. He wants to make the Done Roamin’ Ranch special for his wife. Chandler is against change. Mary Harrison does not have the energy to do her thing for Christmas so Izzy along with Mae try to make it special.
A terrible foreseen thing happens, and Chandler puts blame on Izzy. It breaks my heart. I had tears. If you have read Ms. Curtis’s books you know she will make you laugh as well.
Mae and Sam are so sweet. They warmed my heart.
December 3, 2024
Rancher Chandler Cochran isn't into Christmas, but his foster mother is, so he reluctantly agrees with his brothers and parents that Izzy Adams should be hired to decorate because his mother can't do it this year as she recovers from cancer surgery.
Izzy's little girl and Chandler's little boy are besties in 2nd grade and are called into the principal's office because of misdeeds they've done at school, which forces the parents to deal with the kids and each other, too. Trouble is, when they do, they find attraction preventing them from NOT getting involved with each other, little knowing that the kids have each asked Santa for a new dad and a new mom (respectively) because both of their current parents are now divorced!
But will Santa bring the kids what they most want, in addition to a puppy?
Izzy's little girl and Chandler's little boy are besties in 2nd grade and are called into the principal's office because of misdeeds they've done at school, which forces the parents to deal with the kids and each other, too. Trouble is, when they do, they find attraction preventing them from NOT getting involved with each other, little knowing that the kids have each asked Santa for a new dad and a new mom (respectively) because both of their current parents are now divorced!
But will Santa bring the kids what they most want, in addition to a puppy?
January 4, 2025
This is a clean romance. It is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
Chandler and Izzy have kids who lately have been in the principles office. What is going on and who is encouraging who? Both Chandler and Izzy are divorced and trying to figure out life as single parents. What is up with their children? Izzy has a side job of decorating houses for Christmas. Chandler's mom and dad hire her as his mom is dealing with cancer and doesn't have the energy.
Can they get along long enough to get the house decorated?
Cute story with opposites attract. We have a fun-loving person and one who hates change. I enjoyed seeing how they would work it out and also find out what the kids are up to.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Chandler and Izzy have kids who lately have been in the principles office. What is going on and who is encouraging who? Both Chandler and Izzy are divorced and trying to figure out life as single parents. What is up with their children? Izzy has a side job of decorating houses for Christmas. Chandler's mom and dad hire her as his mom is dealing with cancer and doesn't have the energy.
Can they get along long enough to get the house decorated?
Cute story with opposites attract. We have a fun-loving person and one who hates change. I enjoyed seeing how they would work it out and also find out what the kids are up to.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 28, 2025
This is a grumpy/sunshine cowboy romance with a big heart. Often when romance involves single parents, the children are lost in the background while the romance remains the focus of the story. My favorite romances are the ones that seamlessly incorporate two people falling in love with two people trying to be the best parents possible and this is true for both Chandler and Izzy. Their children, Sam and Mae, are the heart of this story and their matchmaking and puppy wishes never stopped making me smile.
I love a grumpy cowboy and Chandler doesn't disappoint. He's stuck in his ways while Izzy is determined to find new ways for her and Mae to celebrate the season and their true selves. They challenge Chandler to get outside the box and open up, with the help of a colorful cast of secondary characters at the Done Roamin' Ranch.
I felt there were a few inconsistencies between Chandler's thoughts in his POV scenes and his actions and words in Izzy's. The moment he hurts Izzy's feelings in the third act climax felt a bit forced.
All in all, I loved this latest Heartwarming romance from Melinda Curtis.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love a grumpy cowboy and Chandler doesn't disappoint. He's stuck in his ways while Izzy is determined to find new ways for her and Mae to celebrate the season and their true selves. They challenge Chandler to get outside the box and open up, with the help of a colorful cast of secondary characters at the Done Roamin' Ranch.
I felt there were a few inconsistencies between Chandler's thoughts in his POV scenes and his actions and words in Izzy's. The moment he hurts Izzy's feelings in the third act climax felt a bit forced.
All in all, I loved this latest Heartwarming romance from Melinda Curtis.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2024
This book totally hooked me in from page one! Being called to the principal's office brings back memories as a kid and a parent. The two seven-year-olds definitely have something up their sleeves. Loved it. Chandler and Izzy, both single parents definitely have different opinions as to the decorating job she is doing at his ranch. Their kids have plans and they will do what is needed to make sure things go as they want in their matchmaking agenda! This is a sweet Christmas romance. I really enjoyed it and especially the two kids, Sam and Mae who are so cute. Chandler and Izzy are somewhat reluctant from past relationships. But their kids are determined!
I received an ARC copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received an ARC copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 23, 2024
Such a sweet story with adorable children. Mae and Sam are trying so hard to get their parents to fall in love. They both want a big happy family, and they think their parents would be great together. The problem is, Chandler and Izzy are gun shy. Both of them have been hurt badly all their lives and they are not sure if they can take chance again. They have had people in their lives who have let them down time and again. Now they are waiting for the other shoe to drop. Can they really trust that the other will love them? With the help of friends and family, there is sure to be a happy ever after.
January 19, 2025
Best read in order but can be read as a standalone.
He's the oldest of the foster children raised on the ranch. Trying to keep everything going, being a single father and caring for his parents is a lot. Changes to his world are not welcomed. Unfortunately his son, ex, mom, and fellow town member are about to throw everything for a loop.
She's trying to raise her daughter and work two jobs to be able to afford Christmas gifts. Her daughter, ex, and some of the townspeople are going to throw some surprises at her.
Will they be able to handle all of the changes? What is going on with their kids?.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
He's the oldest of the foster children raised on the ranch. Trying to keep everything going, being a single father and caring for his parents is a lot. Changes to his world are not welcomed. Unfortunately his son, ex, mom, and fellow town member are about to throw everything for a loop.
She's trying to raise her daughter and work two jobs to be able to afford Christmas gifts. Her daughter, ex, and some of the townspeople are going to throw some surprises at her.
Will they be able to handle all of the changes? What is going on with their kids?.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2025
What Matchmakers-troublemakers can do? Loved their team-work and determination. And loved all the characters. Izzy and Chandler are not ready for changes in their lives but they need to find the balance under pressure. But how far they are ready to go under pressure of their kids and from their exes? Loved Sam and Della-Mae, so cute.
It was funny and serious reading at the same time. Loved the writing style and time-line. It was easy to read and very engaged Christmas story. Kind of Christmas magic. Enjoyed it very much!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It was funny and serious reading at the same time. Loved the writing style and time-line. It was easy to read and very engaged Christmas story. Kind of Christmas magic. Enjoyed it very much!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 23, 2025
When 7 year old besties, Della-Mae and Sam, decide they need a new dad and mom respectively, they devise the most creative schemes to bring Mom Izzie and Dad Chandler together.
This feel-good Christmas story alternates from laugh-out-loud incidents to deeply emotional moments, from attitudes of hopelessness and anger to a happy resolution. Foster parents, Frank and Mary, owners of “Done Roamin’ Ranch” and their family of cowboys entertain readers with their integrity, humour and care for one another.
Another successful series from a talented author! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This feel-good Christmas story alternates from laugh-out-loud incidents to deeply emotional moments, from attitudes of hopelessness and anger to a happy resolution. Foster parents, Frank and Mary, owners of “Done Roamin’ Ranch” and their family of cowboys entertain readers with their integrity, humour and care for one another.
Another successful series from a talented author! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 11, 2024
I’m sorry but there’s nothing funnier than adults who are called to the principal’s office! Maybe it’s for their children but I still find it hilarious how quickly adults revert to being a kid. Chandler and Izzy are great characters, and parents. The kids are adorbs, too. My heart went out to both Chandler and Izzy as they are dealing with hurts and slights (in their backgrounds) that are so tough to deal with. And their kids – Sam and Della-Mae. I swear kids know how to deal with life better than their parents. Clean, cute story that is all about family and the holidays. Good read.
November 26, 2024
Another book in the Cowboy Academy series but can be read as a standalone.When Chandler Cochran and Izzy Adam's are called into the principles office to deal with their children's behavior and neither one is interested in a relationship but then Chandlers parents hire Izzy to decorate Done Roaman Ranch and then Izzy decorates Chandler's house
and Chandler is very basic and doesn't get into decorations.In the meantime Izzy and Chandler are trying to hold back their feelings but their children DellaMae and Sam are acting like little matchmakers.This book was fun to read.
and Chandler is very basic and doesn't get into decorations.In the meantime Izzy and Chandler are trying to hold back their feelings but their children DellaMae and Sam are acting like little matchmakers.This book was fun to read.
January 9, 2025
Izzy is a single mom to Della Mae who works at the feed shop and Chandler is a single dad to Sam and lives on ranch with his foster parents. When Izzy and Chandler get called to the principals office for Della Mae and Sam they soon find out that their children are trying to get their parents together by any means possible. I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet funny romance with all kinds of Christmas shenanigans.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 18, 2025
“Cowboy Santa” by Melinda Curtis
The 6th book in the Cowboy Academy series delivers charm, heart, and holiday magic. Chandler, a no-nonsense single father, and Izzy, an independent mom, find themselves connecting after their mischievous kids bring them together. Sweet moments, Christmas cheer, and puppies make this an irresistible tale. A touching story of love, healing, and unexpected connections during the holidays.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The 6th book in the Cowboy Academy series delivers charm, heart, and holiday magic. Chandler, a no-nonsense single father, and Izzy, an independent mom, find themselves connecting after their mischievous kids bring them together. Sweet moments, Christmas cheer, and puppies make this an irresistible tale. A touching story of love, healing, and unexpected connections during the holidays.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 19, 2025
Izzy works at Clementine Feeds. His owner took care of her and her daughter when her parents died.
Chandler is a ranch foreman. He is quiet, reserved and doesn’t like changes. His son Sam is his world.
This story was beautiful. The characters are adorable, especially Mae and Sam. I liked the relationship between Chandler and his parents and brothers. Sometimes family is not blood-related, and this story is a good example of this.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Chandler is a ranch foreman. He is quiet, reserved and doesn’t like changes. His son Sam is his world.
This story was beautiful. The characters are adorable, especially Mae and Sam. I liked the relationship between Chandler and his parents and brothers. Sometimes family is not blood-related, and this story is a good example of this.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 1, 2025
Cowboy Santa is a stand-alone read as well as being the latest book in the ‘Cowboy Academy’ series.
Two single parents are brought together by they cheeky yet charming children. All the characters are great, especially the two delightful kids. They are given a run for their money in the antics stakes by some that are old enough to know Better!
I thoroughly enjoyed this festive, cowboy romance and definitely recommend it. I suggest you get comfortable and enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Two single parents are brought together by they cheeky yet charming children. All the characters are great, especially the two delightful kids. They are given a run for their money in the antics stakes by some that are old enough to know Better!
I thoroughly enjoyed this festive, cowboy romance and definitely recommend it. I suggest you get comfortable and enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2024
This is part of the Cowboy Academy series. But it can definitely be read as a standalone. However, I don’t know why you would want to because it’s an amazing series! But they don’t have to be read in order. So go ahead and grab this one and you can always go back and read the previous ones.
I just love everything that takes place on the Done Roamin’ Ranch! This is a ranch where the owners take in foster children. They are an amazing couple and their foster boys end up having an amazing life.
This is Chandler Cochran’s story. He’s a single dad with an adorable son named Sam. And Izzy Adams is a single mom with an adorable daughter named Della-Mae.
There is some real shenanigans going on in the story. It’s an excellent Christmas read! It’s story of family, traditions, and holiday magic.
I highly recommend this quick Christmas read !
I just love everything that takes place on the Done Roamin’ Ranch! This is a ranch where the owners take in foster children. They are an amazing couple and their foster boys end up having an amazing life.
This is Chandler Cochran’s story. He’s a single dad with an adorable son named Sam. And Izzy Adams is a single mom with an adorable daughter named Della-Mae.
There is some real shenanigans going on in the story. It’s an excellent Christmas read! It’s story of family, traditions, and holiday magic.
I highly recommend this quick Christmas read !
November 21, 2024
This was a super cute book. I had all the emotions, smiles, laughter, gasps, and tears. Melinda writes another fabulous book. Chandler and Izzy have known each other for years! But she's put walls around her heart for cowboys, and chandler doesn't like change.
One day near Christmas, they're called to the school principals' office because their kids are into mischief... can they keep their kids out of trouble, and keep the holiday spirit???
One day near Christmas, they're called to the school principals' office because their kids are into mischief... can they keep their kids out of trouble, and keep the holiday spirit???
November 29, 2024
Everyone can use a Cowboy Santa to brighten the holidays. Single parents who have children who are always up to antics. They end u their parents on their toes as they keep having to deal with their kids antics as they are thrown together, It’s the Christmas season as these two people who are not looking for love find the holiday spirit. It’s a magical season bring people and family together in this sweet romance.
December 23, 2024
Izzy and Chandler are both single parents in a small town in Oklahoma. They've been acquainted for ages, but suddenly they see each other in a new light.
They've many hurdles to overcome, mostly of the emotional variety.
The story is mostly light, though. The kids are wonderfully written, and the adults' issues are realistic and not uncommon.
This is my voluntary review of a copy I received from BookSprout.
They've many hurdles to overcome, mostly of the emotional variety.
The story is mostly light, though. The kids are wonderfully written, and the adults' issues are realistic and not uncommon.
This is my voluntary review of a copy I received from BookSprout.
January 19, 2025
Chandler and Izzy have their hands full with the antics driven by their children. When he is called into the principal's office for his behavior it leads him back to Izzy and her daughter who is the instigator behind his son's performance. Will their antics pull Izzy and Chandler together in ways they hadn't seen coming for a chance at finding happiness.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2025
What starts as two parents called into the principal’s office for their mischievous children, begins to bloom into something more. Can Chandler move past his previous hurt and begin anew? Can Izzy come out of her shell and learn to trust again? Both have major healing to do. Can they find their way? What a delightful holiday read this was. I always enjoy Melinda’s books. This one is one of my favorites.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
January 22, 2025
This is a great heartwarming story for Christmas! I definite must read for those looking for a little romance. This is the sixth book in the Harlequin Cowboy series and a great addition. Chandler's son is constantly now getting in trouble at school and when he goes to the principal's office to find out what is happening he realizes that a certain little girl has caught his son's eye. The little girl in question is none other than Izzy's daughter.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews