Charming the Cowboy

Top Dog Dude Ranch #9

by Catherine Mann

She’d given up on happy endings

But that was before she met a certain cowboy…

A Tennessee ranch is worlds away from everything Zelda Dalton knows—and that makes it just what she needs. She’s more than ready to leave her broken heart and abusive ex in the rearview mirror and start over someplace new. And this time, no romance…no matter how good Troy Shaw looks in a Stetson and cowboy boots. The single dad rodeo star is looking for a fresh start of his own, to rebuild his reputation and his bond with his daughter. Love isn’t on his radar, until fate starts pushing Zelda into his arms—and his heart.

Genres: Romance

265 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 1, 2025

About the author

USA Today bestseller Catherine Mann has written women's fiction, romance, and romantic suspense for Lake Union, Harlequin, HQN, Berkley, Tule, and Sourcebooks, with titles released in more than 30 countries. Catherine’s novels have won numerous awards, including a RITA Award, the Romantic Times Magazine Reviewer’s Choice Award, and the Bookseller’s Best Award.

A South Carolinian at heart, after years of moving around the country Catherine has settled back in her home state with her Harley-riding husband. Empty nesters, they have a blended family of nine children, nine grandchildren, two dogs, and three feral cats, who all provide endless inspiration for new novels. For more information, visit: http://catherinemann.com

Reviews

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Catherine Mann takes her readers back to Top Dog Dude Ranch with her latest terrific Western romance, Charming the Cowboy.

A Tennessee ranch is as far removed from Zelda Dalton's life as it is possible to get - and that's just how she likes it! Desperate for a fresh start and keen to move on from her abusive ex, Zelda is determined to make the most of this new beginning. With her tumultuous romantic history, a relationship is out of the question. But Zelda hadn't counted on handsome rodeo star Troy Shaw...

Single dad Troy is also not looking for love. With his daughter to bond with and a reputation to restore, the single dad wants to steer clear of affairs of the heart. But that's before Zelda comes into his orbit and makes him feel things he has no business feeling.

Will this fresh start lead to a love that will last a lifetime for Zelda and Troy? Or are they better off as friends?

Charming the Cowboy is a fun, feel-good and fabulous romantic read from Catherine Mann that will melt every reader's heart. With two delightful characters, humor, warmth and emotion, Charming the Cowboy is another Catherine Mann romance readers will want to read in one sitting!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Julie (Let's Read Good Books) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book nine in The Top Dog Dude Ranch Series and it is Zelda and Troy’s story and it is definitely a must read. Zelda had gone through so much with her abusive ex and decided to move to Tennessee and stay on a ranch with her sisters and their families and so that she could leave her past behind and start to move forward with her life and she was lucky enough to get a job as a groomer on the ranch and men were definitely not in the cards for her or part of her future. Troy was a rodeo star but now a single dad to his daughter he is ready for a new start while giving his daughter the best life possible even though it wasn’t easy at the moment because she seemed to resent him all the time so Troy had no time for anything else in his life but sometimes life throws you a curveball that you didn’t expect. Zelda and Troy have a instant attraction and strong chemistry and even though they didn’t get off on the right foot when they first met they started to get along but nothing can happen because there lives were just too complicated to add anything else into it except the one explosive kiss that they shared but now they keep there distance from each other as much as possible because that was the only way to stop future complications which neither needed in there lives. When Zelda and Troy eventually start to spend time together feelings start to grow but will they be able to make a relationship work when Troy leaves to start his own business and Zelda is staying on the ranch to be near her sisters and their families, only time will tell what the outcome will be for them all in the end. Troy and Zelda were so perfect together and for each other and they have many ups and downs along the way but they still deserve happiness especially after everything that they had both been through. I really loved this book so much and it was so emotional at times that it had me in tears with what was going on in all there lives and yet they still all pulled together to try and get them all through the worst of it and that is definitely what families should do for each other. This story pulled you in and made you feel everything as if you were there living through everything with them and I couldn’t put it down as it kept my attention throughout and I can’t wait to read more books by this author in the future.

[Happily Ever After Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charming the Cowboy is the ninth title in the Top Dog Dude Ranch series, and brings us Zelda’s and Troy’s complicated romance. I have loved this series from the very start, and each book is somewhat of a standalone set in the same world. If this is your first visit to the Top Dog Dude Ranch, then dive right in and enjoy yourself. Anything you’d need to know (like how a secondary character fits in this world) can be found in either the dialogue or the narrative.

Zelda is looking for a fresh start, far away from her abusive ex, and being close to her sisters and her niece is just icing on the cake of a new life. She’s a dog groomer and loves her work. She’s not looking for romance; she’s still recovering from the damage her ex did to her self-esteem. But love doesn’t have a timetable, and Troy will soon be too hard to resist.

Troy is a former rodeo star, saving up for his own business while navigating the very rocky relationship with his teenage daughter. The last thing he wants is romance, but Zelda has grabbed his heart, and as illogical as it is, he’s hoping for something he can’t even name yet.

If you love a well-written, emotional, and intense romance with believable characters, challenges to overcome, and a couple that fit together so well, then Charming the Cowboy by Catherine Mann would be perfect for you. I loved being back in this world, and while Zelda and Troy have some rough patches ahead before that happy ever after can happen, watching their journey unfold was a delight.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author's team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

[Rebmay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Zelda and Troy’s story is heartwarming, sweet and engaging. Both are ready for a new start in life after enduring so much pain, loss and upheaval. After breaking up with an abusive ex, Zelda has moved to a dude ranch in Tennessee for the summer to be closer to family, and has taken a job as a dog groomer. Troy is a single dad just trying to connect with his teenage daughter who has become his sole responsibility after her mother walked away. He hopes working on the ranch for the summer before he opens his own rodeo training centre will give him a chance to do so. Neither Troy nor Zelda has finding love or getting into a relationship on their agenda. The instant attraction between them has them determined to avoid each other, not wanting to add anything else to their already full plates. An unexpected rescue leads to them getting to know each other better, especially when she hires his rebellious daughter to work with her. They become friends, though their feelings go deeper than that. Will they give love a chance or go in full retreat?

These characters are fascinating, relatable and lovable. They made it easy to become invested in their story and a happily ever after for them. I am happy to recommend this heartwarming book.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charming the Cowboy by Catherine Mann is a compelling read from start to finish. This small-town, single-dad, western is a perfect second chance at romance for main characters, Zelda and Troy. Each have had past hurts and experiences that have brought them to where they are today, working for the Top Dog Dude Ranch. Their story is full of heart-felt emotion and backed with good writing, wonderful supporting characters, fantastic world-building, and a captivating plot. I love the family, friendship, and community that this author has surrounding Zelda & Troy. It really adds to the reliability of the story as well as those good feel moments. There are some interesting twists within the story that add even more to this heart-warming story. I loved it and couldn’t put it down. Charming the Cowboy is Book 9 of the Top Dog Dude Ranch series.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Joyce M. H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 9th book in the “Top Dog Dude Ranch Series.” I missed several book in this series and the books that I did have the opportunity to read I enjoyed them. This is entertaining read with great characters and an awesome plot that held me captive. This is the smalltown romantic journey of Troy and Zelda. Troy is a single dad to his rebellious teenage daughter and a rodeo star. Zelda is leaving behind her abusive ex in hopes of starting over at a Dude Ranch in Tennessee and to be closer to her family. Zelda has taken a job as a dog groomer for the summer. Zelda and Troy are both working for the summer at the Dude Ranch and Troy hopes and plans to one day open his own rodeo training center. Troy and Zelda are great together neither were looking for romance and love. These two have an instant attraction to each other thus making for a very interesting chance for a second chance in romance arena.

I received an ARC via Booksprout and I am leaving my review voluntarily.

[Reader_for_LifeTLG · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet romance with family ties - Troy and Zelda were instantly attracted to each other, but they each had priorities that made them think they couldn't be together. When she offered his teen daughter a job to ease his mind and keep Harper out of trouble, their constant engagement gave them the opportunity to grow closer, see the person behind the mask they showed the world. A lovely sweet romance with great characters that incorporates the POVs of the lovers as well as the teens, giving readers a glimpse into the psyche of modern teenagers (in case we forget the angst of that time). An appreciated addition since each of the youngsters was dealing with weighty challenges of their own. Zelda's siblings and little Lottie made a lasting impression as well as the search for a kidney for Lottie is chronicled. A worthwhile read for so many wonderful reasons.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shuvai · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charming the Cowboy by Catherine Mann
Zelda Dalton never imagined that a dusty ranch in Wyoming would become her refuge—but life has a way of surprising you. In this touching Top Dog Dude Ranch romance, Zelda embarks on a mission to reunite with her sisters, protect her niece’s health, and leave behind the scars of an abusive past.

Enter Troy Shaw, a former rodeo star determined to create a stable life for his teenage daughter, whose struggles run deeper than she lets on. Troy and Zelda aren’t looking for love, but fate often works quietly—and tenderly—in the background.

Catherine Mann delivers a sweet, heartfelt story of resilience, second chances, and unexpected connection. Perfect for fans of small-town charm and emotionally driven romance.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Troy and Zelda meet at Top Dog Dude ranch where they are both working temporary jobs. They're very attracted to each other but have commitments, a lot going on for each of them, and so many reservations about getting involved with each other. Will they be able to make it work?

I have read a number of books in this Top Dog Dude Ranch series and have loved the stories revolving around this ranch which seems to be a place of healing for everyone. I loved how the story came together and I also liked the supporting cast who all had stories an issues of their own. Overall not too long a story and well-written. A great read.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kate Vale · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another in the Top Dog Dude Ranch series, in which dog groomer Zelda Dalton is determined to fulfill her late grandmother's wishes by getting close to her sisters again and finding a kidney donor for her niece before it's too late.

At the dude ranch where she's working, she meeting cowboy Troy Shaw who also is seeking a life do-over after assuming full custody of his teen-age daughter and developing a program that will enable him to stop following the rodeos around the country.

Can Zelda help the teenager see that her father doesn't hate her, that it doesn't really matter than her mother has left them and isn't coming back? Can Troy convince Zelda that what they have discovered with each other is for real and worth having for the rest of their days?

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charming the Cowboy: Wholesome Romance on a Tennessee Ranch Where Ihave I been all this time to miss the stories taking place at the Top Dog Dude Ranch? Charming the Cowboy by Catherine Mann is book nine. Starting over in Tennessee is what Zelda needs. Along that same line but for different reason rebuilding is exactly what Troy Shaw is trying to do at the same ranch.

Most of the Catherine Mann stories I have read dealt with people connected to the military. However, I loved this story too. Emotionally rich with common fears, struggles and characters who are relatable and imperfect just like the rest of us. I found myself hoping, wishing and cheering these characters on to work through the problems together, finding the stability and love in life. A heartfelt wonderful story.

[Tami Willard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Due to characters and storylines overlapping throughout the series it's best if read in order but could be read as a standalone.
She's escaped a toxic relationship and is finding her place again with family and on the ranch. He's planning on only working there for the summer to be able to spend more time with his daughter until he can get his dream up and running. A temporary relationship isn't in the plans for either of them. Between his daughter's struggles, her niece's health, and their past should they reconsider their plans?.

I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Monae Doyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sweet romance 🧁. There wasn’t any spice in this story.

This story is about a woman named Zelda Dalton. She leaves her abusive ex and her broken heart in the rearview mirror. She decides to start over someplace else. She moves to Tennessee where she meets Troy Shaw. Troy is a true blue cowboy in a Stetson and cowboy boots .

Troy is a single dad as well as a rodeo star. He is looking for a fresh start of his own. He wants to rebuild his reputation and to bond with his daughter. Love isn’t on the radar until fate starts pushing Zelda into his arms. This was a sweet romance but the romance wasn’t front and center in this story.

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Zelda has left an abusive relation back in Atlanta and joined her sister in Tennessee at a resort where they all work and she just happens to be the dog groomer. She meets ex-rodeo star and single dad Troy and is attracted but he is so involved with his daughter Harper who he is just getting to know since her mother up and left her on his door step. When they are thrown together with Harper coming to work with her and a simmering attraction is born. Lovely story .

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Genesia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A charming, clean, and sweet romance. I enjoyed reading the book. It's entertaining with wonderful characters. I love the plot. The way the author describes what people go through when waiting for a kidney transplant is sensitive, especially because the character is a little girl. The romance, Harper's unhappiness after her parents' divorce, and the whole ranch setup are very good. The book is a page-turner worth the time spent reading it.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Marichus Real · Rating 4 out of 5]

Zelda left her abusive ex and moved to a dude ranch to stay close to her family. She managed to get a job as a dog groomer. There, she met someone who would change her life.
Troy works at a dude ranch for the summer. He wants to gain experience to open his own ranch and train rodeo to young people. He has a teenage daughter who feels rebellious since her mother left them.
This was a sweet and fun read, but also emotional. Several stories are beautifully woven into one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shawn Burt · Rating 4 out of 5]

I revised free copy of this book and this review is my opinion. If you like cowboys and romance then this is the book for you. It is a part of a series but in my opinion is also a standalone. This is the story of Troy and Zelda. Troy is a single dad and Zelda is coming off of a bad breakup.

This is a slow burn, friends to lovers book. Neither one wants a relationship at the moment but they are drawn to each other. I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading her other books.

[Marie Bourgery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dog groomer Zelda feels an attraction for single father and former rodeo star Troy but he's dealing with his troubled teenage daughter that he was recently given sole custody for and starting a new business. He doesn't want to start a new romance but after he rescues her when she's trapped at the dog salon and she helps his daughter with a job they get closer. If only he doesn't push his daughter away in the process.

[Kris · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an epic slow burn with a couple ofstories running simultaneously - both father and daughter have their own romances…

We get flashbacks to him being a douch to our hero, a LOT of push-pull and a teenager who needs to chill the eff out.

Sweet read, but it definitely dragged out - could have been a bit shorter, and still given the same story.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amber Leigh Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sweet, sweet romance but also a story of what family truly means. Very refreshing. I loved the setting and the characters. Not only do the main characters get their HEA but secondary characters do too. I especially enjoyed seeing Lottie's arc in this book come to such a satisfying conclusion.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charming the Cowboy is a good, and enjoyable sweet single dad small town cowboy romance read. The story has a great entertaining world building story line. The characters are great, and they have great chemistry. This story is a very entertaining second chance western romance read.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The nineth story in the Top Dog Dude Ranch, another engaging story in this series. Zelda Dalton and divorced Troy Shaw and his teenage daughter Harper's story. The story is well written with a very good storyline that held my interest. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet and heartwarming single dad romance. It will suck you in from the start as it keeps you glued to the pages. I loved the characters, the connection and the undeniable chemistry. I enjoyed Troy and Zelda’s journey as they overcome obstacles and their happy ending. It’s an emotional and entertaining read not to be missed.

[JoAnna VanDorn · Rating 4 out of 5]

3rd person POV and zero spicy peppers
Cute story. But felt like the ending was rushed. My heart went out to Harper and Troy with how their life took a completely u turn. I like Zelda reclaiming her life after her Ex. Loved how she was there for her sisters and her niece in their time of need of family support.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Troy and Zelda story is very interesting and enjoyable story to read. Heartwarming romance when to people are not looking for love or romance but life brings surprises .
An instant attraction to each other and second chance for both to love and cherish.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[DreadQueen CinnamonRoll · Rating 4 out of 5]

When circumstances dictate some drastic life changes, Troy and Zelda both find family, friends, and unexpected love in the Top Dog Dude Ranch. This is a cute, cozy small town read with a plethora of supporting characters that will leave you wanting to never leave the TDDR.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was okay. There were a LOT of threads going on: Zelda and her past, Troy and his, their burgeoning relationship, Zelda reuniting with her sisters, them all searching for a donor for the niece as well as searching for a long lost relative, Troy and his training facility, Wynn and his insecurities and relationship with Harper, Harper and all her issues.....my God, a lot was happening

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good story with a heart warming storyline. They characters get into your heart. I was engaged from the start. This is the ninth book in the series,.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Paula Sanford · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book, absolutely loved it. Captivating from beginning to end. Definitely going to read more books by this amazing author 💚💚.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.