The Forever Cowboy

Noble Ranch #1

by Jody Hedlund

After running away from her wedding and hiding for months, Violet Berkley is back home in the high country of Colorado. Her father’s gambling debt has caught up to him, and he wants Violet and her sister to help him pay it off by working as dancing girls in a saloon. Rather than face such degradation, Violet seeks out the one man she hopes might be willing to help her.

Sterling Noble doesn’t want anything to do with Violet after being jilted at the altar by her. He doesn’t want to see her, be near her, or even speak to her. But when she shows up on his doorstep in desperate straits, he’s too kind—and maybe still too in love with her—to do anything but protect her.

Violet knows she doesn’t deserve another chance with Sterling, but she wants to prove she’s a new woman. But has she really changed, or are the insecurities still there? Sterling tries hard to resist his old feelings for Violet because his broken heart can’t take another beating. But as the danger closes in, he’s afraid he’ll lose her all over again. Runaway brideJilted groomSecond chancesStuck togetherPretend engagementEnemies to moreCowboy shoot-outThe inspirational themes in this book are light, and the romance is the primary focus. While the romance is sizzling and the kisses swoony, both the language and physical attraction are clean and wholesome.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Historical, Christian Fiction, Westerns, Clean Romance, Christian

234 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2025

About the author

Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over fifty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle. Find out more at jodyhedlund.com.

Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.

Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Sometimes we have to do things we don’t like in order to make ourselves stronger in the process.”

Saddle up, cowboy romance readers! Jody Hedlund has crafted a fantastic new series, Noble Ranch, starting with Forever Cowboy.

If you’ve read Waiting For The Rancher, book 1 of the High Country Ranch series, you’ll want to add this one to your bookshelf because it tells us what happened to Violet Berkley. Headlund gives readers a rich reading experience filled with swoonworthy cowboys, all the emotional baggage we’re expecting, the slow-burn relationship angst, and the small-town drama, and then wraps it up in denim and a Stetson.

Set in Summit County, Colorado, in the Fall of 1879, this book opens with Sterling Noble, who has just defied his father’s wishes to head off to college. He has instead decided to nurse his broken heart and channel his emotional energy into improving the farm. Unfortunately, despite all his hard work, his cows start dying, and the one person Sterling never wanted to see again has returned to town.

Things I am still thinking about:

💜 Hedlund’s focus on the different types of love; especially sacrificial love and unconditional love.
💜 the highlighting of a friendship between two male best friends
💜 how the sense of duty sends ripple effects
💜 how running away from our problems never solves them
💜 the value of second chances
💜 the danger in thinking that there’s still time

Hedlund’s romances are swoon-worthy and the kisses sizzling, but you can be sure that it’s a clean book - both in language and in physical attraction.

I was gifted his copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Audrey Colman · Rating 4 out of 5]

There’s nothing like a second chance romance, especially when he protects her!

Sterling and Violet’s story is full of growth, and the lesson of loving selflessly. Jody threw a nice little twist in the only one cabin trope, and gave Sterling and Violet a chaperone 🤭
I loved Hyacinth’s spirit and the way she stood up for Violet, but also pushed her to be more open towards Sterling and recognize her own shortcomings.

Thank you so much for my ARC copy! I cannot wait to read the rest of the series!

[Bailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was wonderful to see Sterling and Violet again in The Forever Cowboy. To get to see the other side and dive into Violet's story really blew the whole situation wide open. This story is short and sweet, but we still get to see Sterling and Violet grow and change. They both come to a realization early on that their past in more complex than they assumed, and some grace is required. Their romance is electric, and the danger is real and present. This really heightens the story. Violet wanting to be an interior designer threw me out of the story a bit. I appreciate she grew up in the city for some time, but wanting to do that as a full-time profession in this time period in the high mountain country seems highly impractical. If she had a passion for interior design but was also good at cooking or gardening or hunting or horsemanship or something with a more direct application. The unique nature of that interest is a great way to differentiate her from other characters, but because of the setting it did not fully resonate with me. Additionally, I wanted Violet to come up with a solution at the end. I appreciate Sterling showing her his love through his actions, but Violet takes a backseat in a situation where she should be helping to find a solution. A quick and enjoyable read The Forever Cowboy is a great way to return to the high-country ranches and dive into a heartfelt romance. I received an advanced reader copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Naomi Shores · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story. Two sisters, Violet and Hyacinth, go on the run to get away from the saloon owner that their father has agreed to turn them over to to cancel his debts. They go to Sterling Noble, Violet's ex-fiance because they have nowhere else to go. It's a story of second chances, throughout the time they are together they each learn things about themselves and what they could have done differently before Violet ran away from their wedding. The story has lots of chemistry between the two (a great romance) repentance, forgiveness, a faith in God and a great western setting. And I can't wait for Beckett's story, the ranch foreman who is waiting for his mail order bride to show up.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a treat to reconnect with Sterling and Violet, who were introduced in the author's High Country Ranch series! It is now several months after their failed wedding, and Violet and her sister Hyacinth are in dire circumstances. In desperation, Violet reluctantly turns to Sterling for help. The result is a heart-tugging, engaging story! The well-paced plot and richly drawn, memorable characters captured me immediately and kept me utterly absorbed through every twist. Romantic chemistry sizzles beneath the surface, with emotions all over the place, as Sterling struggles to put the hurt of the past behind and Violet acts on her determination to prove she has changed. This touching, entertaining read is a great beginning to the Noble Ranch series. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I read an early of copy of this book from the author/publisher with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

The forever cowboy

A great start to a new series. I am looking forward to reading the next book. Sterling is a great character. Sterling and Violet used to be together before she moved away. Violet and her sister had just moved back when their dad wanted to use them to help him. Will they convince Sterling to help them? I enjoyed the book from beginning to end. Such a great story.

I received an advance copy of the book from the author. This book review is my own opinion.

[Rose | Adventurous Bookworm · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was going to rate this four stars and then the Grand Gesture happened. This is 100% a personal preference, but I strongly dislike when the woman gets on one knee and proposes for the Grand Gesture.

[Alyssa Amey Madjeski · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’ve read Jody Hedlund’s High Country Ranch series, you’ve already met Violet and Sterling. Previously, Violet is certainly a bit of a villain- calling off their wedding day-of… by throwing herself at Sterling’s best friend and disappearing from his life. But now she’s back, and getting to see her side of things put a real twist on everything. I loved how this gave so much room for character growth in both Violet and Sterling, and how they were able to realize things about each other that dramatically changes their perspectives on what happened.

Aside from the character growth that is such a highlight, I loved the chemistry and sizzle that is such a signature of Hedlund’s that always remains clean! I enjoyed the “one cabin” and stranded together trope (with a spunky chaperone!), and the protectiveness of Sterling even while he’s upset with Violet. Just the right amount of danger and intrigue, and all the swoon.

I received a complementary copy of this book from the author. I was not asked to leave a positive review. My opinions are my own.

[Taylor Veruchi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great historical novel from Jody Hedlund! What would you do if your father was going to give you and your sister away to pay off his gambling debt? Would you turn to the man you jilted on your wedding day? And would you be able to put the hurt aside and help the one who jilted you? Violet has nowhere else to turn but to Sterling. This is a great story of working through difficulties to bring good. And that loving people is more important than success! An added bonus is the continuing of the storyline from another Cowboy series of Jody’s! I cannot recommend this book enough!

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s nothing like second chances, Jody style, to warm your heart and put a smile on your face. In The Forever Cowboy, the beginning of Jody Hedlund’s newest series, Noble Ranch, Violet and Sterling finally get their ever after. Yes, this is the beginning of a series, but Sterling will be known if you have read High Country Ranch series. If you haven’t, no worries! You can start here and just a good second chance romance full of cowboys, Colorado High Country, and clean sizzle. Both Violet and Sterling impressed me with their humility and willingness to see where they may have been the issue in their first failed attempt. There are serious hurts and issues to overcome, but they both have such great supportive loved ones to assist, that in the end, their love trumps all. I can’t wait to see what happens for her sister, when it is her turn, as there is a fun story brewing there.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

[Makayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I received this book as an ARC, the review below reflects my own thoughts and opinions.

I absolutely LOVED The Forever Cowboy! Violet and Sterling's love story has been on my mind since I was introduced to them in Waiting for the Rancher. When their wedding fell through in Waiting for the Rancher, I knew that there would be MUCH more to the story that I highly anticipated finding out. I was not disappointed!!

Violet and her sister Hyacinth have been keeping a family secret that has cost them both more than anyone else knows. When that secret leads to a dangerous situation for them both, Violet seeks help from the last person she thought she would ever encounter again, her ex-fiance Sterling. When Violet made a huge mistake that led to the cancellation of the wedding between her and Sterling she never expected that she would see him again. Yet, deep in her heart, she knows that if there is anyone she can turn to that will help keep them safe its Sterling Noble.

Sterling never expected to see Violet again. After having his heart broken by the choices she made on their wedding day, he wanted nothing to do with her again. But when Violet and Hyacinth show up on his doorstep with trouble on their trail, Sterling does what any decent man would do; help them (though reluctantly at first!)

As the situation throws the two former lovers together, sparks begin to fly. Will Sterling and Violet be able to put the past behind them? Will Sterling be able to keep Violet and her sister safe? Find out by reading The Forever Cowboy! It's a story you will not want to miss!!

Also, I absolutely LOVED the character development for both Sterling and Violet throughout this story. Early in the story, we begin to get a glimpse of growth in both characters. By the time the story ends, both Sterling and Violet have grown tremendously. For Violet, a major character growth is learning how to trust someone and overcome her fears in the process. On the other hand, for Sterling, a major character development is learning how to love someone sacrificially and putting the needs of someone else, above his own.

[Angeline · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so excited to see that Sterling was getting his book and it was so interesting to read. The Forever Cowboy is the first book in Jody Hedlund’s Noble Ranch series. It is kind of a spinoff of her High Country Ranch series.
Poor Sterling had been through a lot and he certainly wasn’t expecting Violet to pop back into his life especially after leaving him at the altar. Although he was upset at Violet for times, he still tried to be kind and you could tell that he still cared for her. I liked how he tried to examine his own actions as he interacted with Violet and truly put her first.
Violet was a little more complicated and she had to grow on me. She was dealing with a lot but she had left Sterling. I liked reading about Violet’s growth and seeing her overcome her fears. She had to figure out what was holding her back and how to care for her sister.
Violet’s dad got on my nerves so bad and I was so mad at him throughout the book but he did in a way push Violet and Sterling together. I didn’t know how Sterling was going to protect Violet and I didn’t want to put the book down so I could figure out what was happening.
I really enjoyed this book and I would definitely recommend it! The characters were likable or they grew on me and I am excited to see who’s story will come next. I only wish that we could have seen Maverick and Hazel but otherwise it was a fun book! The Forever Cowboy is a closed door historical romance.

I received a complimentary copy

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for the ARC of The Forever Cowboy by Jody Hedlund. All opinions are my own.

The Forever Cowboy is the first book in a new series called Noble Ranch. This first book features two characters that were previously introduced in Waiting for the Rancher, the first book in the High Country Ranch series. While you don’t have to read these in order, there is some backstory for these characters featured in that book.

I enjoyed seeing these characters get their happily ever after in this book considering the events that led them to this point. I liked that Sterling and Violet had to work through their past issues and that it wasn’t an instant fix. It made their reconciliation more believable seeing that they actually had to work hard to restore trust.

There were also some really cute moments between Sterling and Violet. I liked how Sterling took care of Violet and how they both grew as people.

I am excited to read more books in this series, and I’m curious about Violet’s sister and what will happen eventually with her story.

Overall, I would recommend this book! While you’re waiting for the rest of this series to come out, I would also recommend reading the High Country Ranch series if you haven’t already since it takes place in the same town and has an overlap in characters.

[Edward Arrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

After meeting Sterling Noble in a previous book, I enjoyed learning more about his family and his past. The author filled us in on his background prior to his failed wedding to Violet when she made a hasty getaway and then picked up with the story a year later when she suddenly appears in his life again. He had heard she was back in town but had avoided her until she shows up on his porch late at night. Getting better acquainted with both of them, as well as Violet’s sister Hyacinth, was a pleasure. Both Violet and Sterling were people of honor but they had issues from the past that needed to be resolved before they moved forward with anyone. A part of the story that made me cringe was the way Violet and Hyacinth’s father had ruined his own life, but to try to save his own hide, was willing to use his own daughters. I was unable to find any sympathy for him when he put them at risk. In my book, that takes a special kind of lowdown skunk. I think the person in the story that surprised me most was Hyacinth, the younger daughter. She seemed to have a lot more savvy about relationships than anyone else. The book moved at a good pace, holding my interest all the way. I received an advance copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.

[Life of Literature · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was excited to read this novel since we first met Violet in the first book in the High Country Ranch series and I had suspected there was more to her character. I was right! This book starts with danger in the first chapter and has a few suspenseful twists throughout the novel. I liked how protective Sterling was of Violet and her sister which spoke strongly of his good character. Sterling and Violet have a past, but their relationship grows to new levels in this novel, which was fun to read. There is sizzle to their developing romance, but it all remains closed door and appropriate for Christian fiction. I also really liked the introduction of the tension between Violet’s sister and Beckett and can’t wait to read about his story in book 3. It was great to return to Colorado and read some cameos of past characters from past series, but I think this book stands well on its own. I cannot wait to read more in the series. Recommended for those who love historical fiction!

I received a complementary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review.

[Margaret Nelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in Hedlund’s new Noble Ranch series. If you’ve read Waiting for the Rancher, the first book in Hedlund’s High Country Ranch series, you’ll immediately recognize several of the characters in this book. (And if you have not read Waiting for the Rancher, you may want to read it before this one.)

This is an emotional book, with broken hearts that need to mend, coupled with anger, shame, frustration, attraction, and yet the desire to do what’s right for the other person, and to learn to love sacrificially. There’s also physical pain of various kinds, which keeps characters together when they’d rather be apart. I didn’t *enjoy* reading about all the pain and brokenness, but it’s a good book and worth reading.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. #TheForeverCowboy

[Amy Bapty · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book especially as it revisited Violet and Sterling. We met them originally in Waiting For The Rancher, book 1 of the High Country Ranch series.

In my mind, Violet was firmly in villain territory prior to beginning The Forever Cowboy.

I must admit I found it challenging to The Forever Cowboy get in to at first - because of my own reaction to Violet being referenced in Waiting for the Rancher... then I saw her perspective and ended up rooting for her and Sterling to get past their own experiences and assumptions - and they did!

The fact that Violet and Sterling had a redemption story - that ended together made my heart happy.

The themes of forgiveness, second chances and personal growth resonated strongly within me.

I can't wait for Beckett's story, I really hope his mail order bride arrives soon.

Thank you for the ARC copy, I can't wait for more in this series.

[Leann Arave · Rating 5 out of 5]

Violet had left Sterling high and dry on their wedding day. She ran away with no explanation. He had just started to pick up the pieces of his life when he heard she was back in town, but he vowed he would not think of her again. That is until she and her sister knocked on his door late one night, trying to find shelter and security.
The story has intrigue, redemption, and integrity. Overcoming your fears, learning to trust, and allowing yourself to love was hard for Violet. It was good to watch her grow and believe in herself. This is a charming close door 1879 historical romance. It is the first of this series (Noble Ranch), but there are characters that overlap from the High Country Ranch series by Jody Hedlund. I have read pretty much all of Jody’s books, and love them all. So of course I recommend reading them.!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Forever Cowboy by Jody Hedlund is a sweet read about two people who once thought they were in love but a mountain of a past lies between them. It finally answers the questions of all the Jody Hedlund fans who read "Waiting on the Rancher".

I enjoyed reading this book because the progression of the relationship flowed naturally. It did not feel rushed or love at first sight. The author took time to develop the plot and the characters' personalities. It included just the right amount of angst.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of The Forever Cowboy, which I received from the author.  All views expressed are my honest opinion. 

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book #1 in the Noble Ranch series. Some of the characters where first introduced in Waiting for the Rancher which is part of the High Country series, but you don't need to read that book before reading this one.

This is a second chance story for Sterling and Violet, and you learn more of their backstories.

This book shows you about overcoming your fears, learning to trust and also allowing yourself to love the person God meant for you.

Looking forward to the rest of the series.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. The review here is my honest opinion.

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an exciting start to a new series, Noble Ranch.
Violet and Sterling had a previous relationship, but she ran away from the wedding and went into hiding. Sterling wanted nothing to do with her after that.
When he realizes she's back again will he be able to live up to his resolve to stay away. Really enjoyed seeing the progression of Violet and Sterling's relationship.
I also enjoyed reading about a working ranch and all the entailed and the descriptions of the vast wildness of Colorado sounds marvelous. Another wonderful book by the author that I loved.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 4 out of 5]

We first met Sterling Noble and Violet Berkley in Waiting for the Rancher, and they now have another chance to shine! The Favored Cowboy allows Violet to repair her relationship with Sterling, and they both get a second chance at love. Sizzling chemistry, deep emotional ties, and an exciting plot made this a book that I couldn't put down!

This is classic historical romance from Jody Hedlund, and it's the first book in her new Noble Ranch series. If you enjoy wide-open spaces, loyal cowboys, and strong but vulnerable heroines, you will love The Forever Cowboy!

I received a complimentary ARC from the author. There was no obligation of a positive review.

[Joan Arning · Rating 4 out of 5]

Violet Berkley seems to have a hard time making up her mind about Sterling Noble. She left him at the altar once but he can't stop loving her. When Violet's father makes a deal for Violet and her sister, Hyacinth, to be dance hall girls to pay for his gambling debts, she has no one else to turn to for help. You will wonder if Violet and Sterling will learn to be honest with each other and admit their feelings. I recommend The Forever Cowboy to others. I received an complimentary e-book from the author. This is my honest opinion.

[Jeanette Fallon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cowboys. I can't resist a cowboy. I love men in jeans, boots and cowboy hats. Fortunately, Sterling wore all three. Hard to resist. But he was lacking one thing- a bride.

Violet Berkley was Sterling's bride to be. A few months ago, she jilted him at the altar. And he couldn't find himself able to forgive her.

Now Violet and her sister show up at his cabin looking for help. Could he forgive her enough to help her out of a terrible situation?

I loved the story.

I received this book to review from the author.

[Kathryn Pfeifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I read another Jody Hedlund book, I fall more in love with her storytelling ability. Here, in The Forever Cowboy, we once again meet the Nobles, who were featured in a previous series. As their love story unfolds, Hedlund takes her readers on a journey of self-discovery, desperation, and rekindled romance. This easy-to-read plot moved quickly, full of emotion, tension, and exquisite timing. I could hardly put it down! Truly, Hedlund can do no wrong when it comes to romance!

I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked this second chance at love romance. I liked how Sterling had to learn to listen to Violet and put her needs before his own. I liked seeing the character growth in these characters. I also liked the storyline and how Sterling and Violet were put back into each other’s paths. I liked seeing them reconcile and find a stronger love then what they had before. I would recommend this book.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own

[Megan McDonald · Rating 2 out of 5]

While I thought this one might be close to a three at the start in the end there were a few things that made me not rank it so high. While Violet was likeable enough there were a few points that I felt like either she needed to be more developed or she needed to overcome the hurdle. Sterling was an honourable man and did the best he could. That being said I felt like here did not need to be as much physical noticing/talk. Although non of it was bad I did not like it and thought it actually detracted from the story.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Forever Cowboy is the first book in Jody Hedlund’s new series - Noble Ranch. If you enjoyed her Colorado Cowboys and Colorado Cowgirls series, you’ll love catching up with two memorable characters from the Colorado Cowboy series. I must admit, I didn’t care for Violet right away - I think I was still salty by how she treated him in the last book. But, she and Sterling won me over in the end! I love a good forced proximity book!

[Margarita Rodriguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

The forever cowboy continues the story of the love struck jilted Sterling Noble. In this story the runaway bride runs back! It’s a great story of forgiveness, accountability, sacrificial love. This story has all the heat and sizzle Jody is known for. It’s spicy but clean. I recommend this book with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa.

[Jimnlori · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Forever Cowboy by Jody Hedlund is the first book in the Noble Ranch series and a definite must read if you love western historical romances. It has just enough inspirational themes in it along with plenty of sweet romance. I'm looking forward to reading more book in this series in the future.

I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.