Counting on a Cowboy

Four of Hearts Ranch #2

by Debra Clopton

After losing everything she held dear, Abby never wants to love again. But a certain cowboy may just spur her to wonder if love might be worth the risk. Running from a past that haunts her, Abby Knightly is drawn to the cozy town of Wishing Springs, Texas. Maybe this small town could offer hope and healing and a future for Abby . . . if she’s brave enough to reach out and take it by the reins. Bo Monahan isn’t interested in the new romantic destination his little town has become—or the women who might be looking at him like he’s their next Mr. Right. Between taking care of his Pops and his growing stirrup business, he isn’t looking for serious romantic commitments. But when the infant son he never knew about shows up at his doorstep, his world is turned upside down. This confirmed bachelor might not think he needs a wife, but he sure needs help. Even Abby can see that, and despite her best efforts to keep her distance, she can’t help but be drawn to this new father-son duo. As Abby throws herself into helping Bo navigate fatherhood, hope sparks between them, revealing that maybe, just maybe, they can navigate their dark pasts and emerge together into a future as bright as the Texas sun itself.

Genres: Romance, Christian Fiction, Contemporary, Christian Romance, Christian, Western Romance, Westerns

320 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2015

About the author

International Bestselling Author and Kindle All Star who has sold over 3 million books worldwide and been translated into 3 languages.
Debra Clopton writes wholesome contemporary women's fiction, romance, and contemporary western romances set in Texas and on the beaches of Florida. Her awards include: The Book Sellers Best, Romantic Times Magazine's Book of the Year the Readers Choice Award, and many more. She's also a Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Finalist, and a triple finalist in the American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award.

A sixth generation Texan, Debra lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband Chuck. She loves to travel and spend time with her family. She has written for Harlequin and Harper Collins Christian and now with DCP Publishing. She is thrilled to write for DCP Publishing and see her books being sold worldwide. On any day she usually has books on the Top 100 list and ranks on 80 to a 100 retailer Bestseller list in the USA and around the world.
She loves helping people smile with her fun, fast paced stories.

Visit Debra's website at http://www.debraclopton.com
Check out her Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/debra.clopton.5
Follow her on Twitter at https://twitter.com/debraclopton
Contact her at Debraclopton@yamil.com
Sign up for Debra's newsletter and contests at http://debraclopton.com/contest

COMING AUG 27 AND winter 2020 heartwarming women's fiction

1 WHAT DREAMS ARE MADE OF
2 WHAT DREAMS ARE MADE OF
3 WHAT HOPES ARE MADE OF


SUNSET BAY ROMANCE 2019
1 LONGING FOR FOREVER
2 LONGING FOR A HERO
3 LONGING FOR LOVE
4 LONGING FOR EVER AFTER
5 LONGING FOR YOU
6 LONGING FOR US

Ransom Creek 2018
1 HER COWBOY HERO
2 THE COWBOY'S BRIDE FOR HIRE
3 Cooper: CHARMED BY THE COWBOY
4 Shane: THE COWBOY'S JUNK-STORE PRINCES
5 Vance: HER SECOND CHANCE COWBOY
6 Drake: THE COWBOY AND MAISY LOVE
7 Brice: NOT QUITE LOOKING FOR A FAMILY

WINDSWEPT BAY SERIES 2017 & 2018
1 FROM THIS MOMENT ON (FREE)
2 SOMEWHERE WITH YOU
3 WITH THIS KISS short story
4 FOREVER AND FOR ALWAYS
5 HOLDING OUT FOR LOVE
6 WITH THIS RING (FREE)
7 WITH THIS PROMISE
8 WITH THIS PLEDGE
9 WITH THIS WISH
10 WITH THIS FOREVER
11 WITH THIS VOW

2017
She has released 13 books in Enhanced Editions with extra audio clips and photos inside of her Texas Matchmakers series set in her world of Mule Hollow. These Christian Romances will soothe your heart and tickle your soul.
(Previous titles listed)
1 Dream With Me Cowboy (The Trouble with Lacy Brown)
2 Be My Love Cowboy (And Baby Makes Five)
3 This Hearts Yours Cowboy (No Place Like Home)
4 Hold Me Cowboy (Dream a Little Dream)
5 Be Mine Cowboy (Meeting Her Match)
6 Marry Me Cowboy (Operation: Married by Christmas)
7 Cherish Me Cowboy (Next Door Daddy)
8 Surprise Me Cowboy (Her Baby Dreams)
9 Serenade Me Cowboy (The Cowboy Takes a Bride)
10 Return To Me Cowboy (Texas Ranger Dad)
11 Love Me Cowboy (A Mule Hollow Match)
12 Ride With Me Cowboy (His Cowgirl Bride)
13 Dance With Me Cowboy (A Mother for Mule Hollow)
The Turner Creek Ranch (Men of Mule Hollow) 1 1 TREASURE ME COWBOY (Lone Star Cinderella)
2 RESCUE ME COWBOY (Her Forever Cowboy)
3 COMPLETE ME COWBOY (Cowboy For Keeps)
4 SWEET TALK ME (Yultide Cowboy)

What readers are saying:
Debra always delivers...
Couldn't put it down!
Debra gives readers what they want.
I've read every book Debra Clopton has written and as usual I couldn't put this one down!


Follow her on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/#!/debraclopton

Reviews

[Aimee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to get my hands on this book. I read the first book in this series and really enjoyed it. There is just something about cowboys...

This is the second book in this Four of Hearts Ranch series. I don't think this book is dependent on the first book but I think you will enjoy it more if you read
Betting on Hope (A Four of Hearts Ranch Romance Book 1) first.

Bo is a good man. He's made a few mistakes but he is trying to be better, to do better and to be honorable. He works hard and he is loyal to his family. Those are attractive traits in any man. I love when Bo decides he wants Abby and is determined to have her. His all in attitude drives the book.

Abby is broken and trying to find herself. She is forcing herself to be brave and live again. I really enjoyed Abby's determination to take steps forward, even when sometimes she also took steps back. She was a character I was rooting for from the very beginning.

I just loved this book and I love this series! It's one of my favorites. The setting, the characters, the emotion- spot on. Love!

[Kathy * Bookworm Nation · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5

I was excited when I saw that the second book in the Four Hearts Ranch series was available on Netgalley. I really enjoyed the first book and I loved this one as well. A fun read and great series. Full review to come closer to release date.

Content
Romance: Squeaky clean
Language: None
Violence: None
Religious: Mild, non-preachy
Series: Book Two, Four Hearts Ranch. Can stand on its own.

Source: Received review copy from published for honest review.

Looking for something similar? Try this, Heart of Gold

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Abby Knightly moves to the small town of Wishing Springs, Texas to start over. She's lost all that she holds dear and wants a chance to heal. When Abby meets Bo Monahan, she discovers that he could be a great friend. And at this point in her life, that's all she wants. Bo wants to do his part to save the family ranch while caring for his grandfather. He's not interested in seeing his little town become the new romantic destination or the women who flock there trying to catch his attention like he's Mr. Right. He certainly doesn't need the complications that come with a romantic relationship. When he first meets Abby, he's wary that she's like the other women who have flocked to his town. But as he gets to know her, he finds out she's not. Bo's thrown for a loop when the infant son he never knew about shows up on his doorstep. He knows even less about babies than he does about women. This confirmed bachelor needs help. Abby finds herself drawn to the baby and to his handsome daddy. As she helps him navigate being a parent, the two find themselves drawn to each other. Perhaps these two wounded hearts can find hope and love together.

Debra Clopton's books always make me giggle. This one was no exception. While it is book two in the series, it stands alone.

I love the way that Debra can create a town full of interesting characters. She's done that with her Mule Hollow series and she's done that again with this one. Even though the supporting cast may be more minor characters, they are delightful. I especially loved Pearl and Pops.

I really enjoyed getting to know Abby and Bo in this book. Getting a glimpse of Tru & Maggie from the previous book was fun too. I find that it is always fun to catch up with characters. I'm looking forward to the third book about Jarrod. These brothers have been fun to read about.

I received this book for free from BookLook Bloggers for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Janice Thompson, Love Inspired, Debra Clopton, romantic comedy

Rating - 4 stars

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Counting on a Cowboy is the second book in the Four of Hearts Ranch series. It can stand alone if you have not read book one, Betting on Hope, but I would really recommend reading both of these stories because they are just so good!

There are so many “tug at the heartstrings” moments in Bo and Abby’s story. Abby is a woman who has experienced crushing loss. She is doing her best to climb out of it, but is weighted down with guilt. I thought that her reactions were just so realistic. From the way she sees herself to the way she deals with her landlord, Rand, it is clear that Abby is a wounded soul. I loved reading about her and watching her slowly come to life again.

Bo was also a great main character. As a strong male lead, he needed something to knock him to his knees. The author found the perfect thing…a baby that Bo didn’t know existed. I believe that the author handled this aspect very tastefully and I really enjoyed watching the change that occurred in Bo.

All of the characters were so fun to read about in this series of books. Both Betting on Hope and Counting on a Cowboy have great romances that develop despite the seemingly insurmountable odds that the main characters in these stories face. I am really looking forward to reading book three when it is released.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was looking forward to this book since I read the first in the series, Betting on Hope. Unfortunately, COUNTING ON A COWBOY didn't live up to the promises made by the first book in the series. It starts slow - with the heroine falling asleep, but even the immediately following accident involving a steer doesn't jack up the tension. It's just flat. These characters were undeveloped and I couldn't make myself care for them. It also seemed that the author got bored with it herself and decided to throw a baby into the mix. But she also seemed uncertain what age the baby should be. He's standing in a playpen when he's introduced, then he's referred to as a newborn or an infant, then it's a toddler, then they are putting him in a baby swing (which is for up to 3 months of age) then he is about a year old... Really? Maybe a little consistency would be nice. There is also no faith message that I can see. Abby goes to church once. Bo, never.

If you love cowboy romances, southern fiction, or are a fan of Debra Clopton, then you might love COUNTING ON A COWBOY. It is set deep in the heart of Texas, with cowboys, small town appeal, and real quirkiness of some of the secondary characters who were introduced in the first book.

I am looking forward to reading the third book in the series. Ms. Clopton's cowboy romances are usually fun and quirky, books that hold my attention all the way through.

[patrick Lorelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series but you don’t need to read the first one to be caught up. Abby is dealing with her own personal pain and loss and ends up in this town because of the columnist she is reading, but it is more than that she is looking for anything to help her change her life to something positive. Just being in town begins to help her when she meets Bo and at first they begin to have a friendship, and she also starts to help him take care of his grandfather. That is when Bo’s life takes a big turn in a baby being dropped off by the mother. This was when the two of them become more of a team and actually the healing of each other starts to take hold and turns into love. Now will they run from their feelings or fight through them and think they can have some happiness. Read this good book and find out. A book with good characters is always worth the risk. I got this from Netgalley.com I gave it 4 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my second Debra Clopton novel and the second of the Four of Hearts Series. I enjoy her writing style. Counting on a Cowboy is Bo and Abby's story with Rand and Pebbles as a secondary story. The novel deals with guilt, alcoholism and loss of a child among other things. It's a good read and I recommend it for those who enjoy contemporary romance.

[Cara · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really thought I was going to love this one. It it had great bones - lots of potential for a great story. But it fell short for me. Don’t get me wrong - I enjoyed listening to it. Clopton has me drawn to the strong bonds of the Monahan family. Wishing Springs is a great little town full of lovable secondary characters (perfectly voiced in the audio book), and in this book we get a deeper look into the dynamic between Rand and Pebble (very well done IMHO). The book also gets points from me for being low on the preachy meter - I just like a good, clean cowboy romance. Oh, and definitely LOVE POPS! Best character in the whole series.



But overall the story just felt a bit flat for me - it was nice, but I was a little bored at times. Best scene was Bo telling Abby she loved him, Abby vehemently denying it, and then Bo calling her a liar. That was pretty awesome.

But it was the main characters I struggled with most in this one. Bo is supposedly a confirmed bachelor, but beyond wondering about her motives initially, he really doesn’t battle with his own feelings at all. He does wonder if he can do right by her, but he pretty easily accepts that he is in love and the next minute he is thinking wedding bells. Marriage doesn’t even seem to phase him.

Then there is Abby. She struggles (and understandably so) with a lot of difficult emotions and what seems like some serious PTSD. But then one night she has a dream where her dead husband tells her to move on and that does it. Ok - so the baby has an accident and it scares her and that pushes her over the edge - but it’s really the dream that convinces her it is ok. Seriously? I don’t believe in dead people speaking to us in dreams. That was her own subconscious telling her what everyone else already had - it was time. So in the next minute Abby admits she loves Bo, then the baby calls her mama, and that very same day Bo proposes and she accepts.

Really? Come on people. Let’s be at least a tiny bit realistic here. I don’t require 100% realism - but let’s not be ridiculous.



And what happened to that special bond with Pebble? I thought for sure that was a connection that would be developed - the shared experience Pebble and Abby have as widows. Somehow they would help each other. But it was just abandoned early on. Lost opportunity.

And the super cheese at the end had me rolling my eyes. That’s really saying something. My friends know I have a super mooshy heart. I like fluff. I love a good cowboy romance. It takes a lot for me to roll my eyes. But the cliche expressions as the author gushed at the end just killed me.

Biggest sin? NO EPILOGUE.



Despite all this, it was a pleasant listen - just not fantastic. I’m definitely staying on for book 3. I’ve like Jarrod from the beginning. Maybe Clopton will pull a rabbit out of her hat. Yeehaw!

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Counting on a Cowboy, the second installment in Debra Clopton's Four of Heart Ranch series, is a sweet romance but it is also healing story of new beginnings for lead protagonist, Abby Knightley. She hopes moving to Wishing Springs, TX will give her the chance to pick up the pieces of her shattered life and leave her painful past behind.

As soon as Abby arrives in town, she crosses paths with Bo Monahan, a local cowboy who is dealing with a few family problems of his own. Both of their lives take a complicated turn when his not too distant past catches up with him in very surprising way. Although Abby cannot resist helping Bo, his situation is a stark reminder of everything she has lost, so she maintains an emotional distance from him and his adorable baby, Levi, while she tries to resolve her lingering anger and grief over the death of her husband, Landon, two years earlier.

Abby has closed herself off from her family and friends and after receiving helpful advice from Bo's sister-in-law, she hopes moving to a new town will help her reconnect with life. She has been unable to move past the regrets she harbors over her decision to put her career first and delay starting a family. She is also incredibly angry at the circumstances surrounding the car accident that took Landon's life and this unresolved anger spills over into heated confrontations with her new landlord. Abby does begin to confide in her new friends but she remains unwilling to risk her heart when she realizes her feelings for Bo go much deeper than friendship.

Bo is laidback and easygoing but he is very committed to saving the family ranch and he will do anything for his grandfather, Pops. His days of indulging casual flings ended with his last short-lived relationship and he has not dated anyone for nearly two years. He is immediately intrigued by Abby but it does not take long for him to realize she is emotionally fragile and he is incredibly patient with her as she works through her issues. While Bo readily gives her the time and space she needs, he refuses to stay quiet once he realizes she is allowing her fears and anger to stand in the way of a future with him.

Counting on a Cowboy is an emotional novel with appealing characters and an enjoyable storyline. The romance between Abby and Bo is slow growing but it is builds at realistic pace considering Abby's past. The secondary cast of characters is quite colorful and entertaining, but they also play an important role in the developing storyline. This latest addition to Debra Clopton's Four of Heart Ranch series is an absolutely heartfelt romance that fans of contemporary Christian fiction are sure to enjoy.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to say 'Best Romantic Comedy Ever' but as I think back on this story I realize there are a lot of really intensely emotional issues that various characters are struggling to deal with. So there's definitely gritty realism delivered in an honest, and sometimes heart wrenching, way but I still start grinning when I think about Counting on a Cowboy. I guess the humorous bits that shine through the drama really made an impact on me.

Like two cowboy brothers dealing with the day in, day out care of an infant: "Aw, come, Jarrod. Give me a break. I've changed him three times and you should see the stuff coming out of that kid. Maybe we should take him to the doc." (p. 75) Bumbling cowboys out of their element are always a treat to read about.

As is the simmering romance between Bo and Abby. Attraction confirmed, desire to do something about it, not so much. Because it's truly complicated. From a crash bang first meet to Abby's painful past, there just doesn't seem to be a way for them to move forward. Cue the audacious town matchmakers -- Clara Lyn and Reba -- though, honestly, their clumsy attempts do more harm than good a time or two. And that's because they don't have all the facts.

Neither does the reader when it comes to Abby's haunting past. Clopton expertly tantalizes with subtle hints that grow clearer as the story progresses. I was gutted by the time the whole truth was revealed but thrilled when Bo proves to finally be the hope for her future.

Clopton delivers another spellbinding read. Lovin' this series to pieces. Bring on Book 3 of A Four of Hearts Ranch Romance.

My thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group and Thomas Nelson for providing me with a copy of this book.

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fully engaged in the story the entire time I was reading this book. Abby portrays a wide range of emotions as she daily struggles with her feelings of guilt, grief and ultimate desire to feel happy again. She is a perfect example of how our perceptions of self and situation can be distorted while we are weighed down with heavy emotional burdens. Abby experiences unconditional love for Bo's son Levi and that love works to heal her deep hurts. Allowing herself to love the baby opened her heart to be able to allow romantic love then blossom. Bo is adorable in his adoration of Abby which was unexpected since he seemed pretty gruff in the previous book in the series. His devotion to Pops, his grandfather with Alzheimer's, shows how both hope and acceptance of the hand life deals you help to still celebrate the good memories and daily joys however small. I loved the cast of family and community members who emphasize the importance of reaching out, connecting with others, and surrounding yourself with positive friends and people. The message I took from the book is that we can't do it alone- we need each other and we need God. This story is full of heart in an idyllic setting with realistically flawed characters reaching out and supporting and trying their best.

(Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishing and BookLook Bloggers for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

[Hallie (Hallie Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is also posted on Book by Book.

Returning to Wishing Springs and the Four of Hearts Ranch, Debra Clopton gives Bo Monahan, a cowboy with no plans to settle down with a wife or children soon, a chance at romance in Counting on a Cowboy - with a woman who swore never to love again. Abby Knightley, a newcomer to Wishing Springs hoping for a fresh start, alters all Bo’s plans with an undeniable spark of attraction he’s never felt before, especially as she helps him adjust after the unexpected arrival of a baby he never knew he had. With the drama of such circumstances, interspersed with moments of humor, this novel offers a wonderful follow-up romance to Betting on Hope with equally great characters determined to confront their pasts and the heartwarming development of a relationship. Fans of the Four of Hearts Ranch series will not be disappointed with Counting on a Cowboy. I would certainly recommend it.

Thanks to LitFuse Publicity Group, I received a copy of Counting on a Cowboy and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been looking forward to this book for quite a while, and I was not left disappointed. In this second book of the series we get to know Bo a little better, and also get introduced to Abby. Just like his brother, Bo is a kind-hearted, hard-working cowboy. He faces some serious obstacles that make his true personality shine through. Abby has been through more than any person should have to go through, and it completely builds the character that she is in this book. The two of them becoming friends makes for a highly enjoyable book, and a heart-touching story. I can't wait for the next one!

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*

[Shannah Mauney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Unfortunately, this was not one of my favorite books. It felt like it was lacking....something. I can't put my finger on it. The characters and the story line were just ok, to me. While this wasn't one of my favorite books, someone else might enjoy it. It just wasn't for me. Read the rest of my review and enter to win Debra's giveaway! Learn more: http://faithlovebooks.blogspot.com/20...

[Thereadingbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Abby Knightly moves to the small town of Wishing Springs, Texas to start over. She's lost all that she holds dear and wants a chance to heal. When Abby meets Bo Monahan, she discovers that he could be a great friend. And at this point in her life, that's all she wants. Bo wants to do his part to save the family ranch while caring for his grandfather. He's not interested in seeing his little town become the new romantic destination or the women who flock there trying to catch his attention like he's Mr. Right. He certainly doesn't need the complications that come with a romantic relationship. When he first meets Abby, he's wary that she's like the other women who have flocked to his town. But as he gets to know her, he finds out she's not. Bo's thrown for a loop when the infant son he never knew about shows up on his doorstep. He knows even less about babies than he does about women. This confirmed bachelor needs help. Abby finds herself drawn to the baby and to his handsome daddy. As she helps him navigate being a parent, the two find themselves drawn to each other. Perhaps these two wounded hearts can find hope and love together.

What I loved about this story that it made me laugh. I like the way the town is in this story it makes the story very good.

[Megan · Rating 2 out of 5]

I listened to an audio-book version available through Audible. I didn't quite care for the narrator (Rebecca Gibel). Some of the dialog was humorous, and at other times it seemed juvenile or unrealistic. I also did not appreciate how the main male character did not seem to have any weaknesses to work through--the author put more emphasis on the main female character needing to heal. I prefer books where every character has sins they are working to overcome. While the topics of death, guilt, and alcoholism were not superficial, the overall feel of the story seemed to be more surface-level than deep.

[Amy S · Rating 2 out of 5]

About half way in I started skimming. Very repetitive. Deeply troubled woman struggling with PTSD and tragic loss meets a hunky cowboy and his family and finds love.
Apparently, all you need to fix all your problems is a hot guy.
Ugh.
Subtract the baby story (it didn't make sense anyway) and put in at least a few months of a woman pulling herself together because she's strong enough without a man and then start the romance.
Violence, no sex, swearing, themes of violent car wreck/injury, miscarriage, infant abandonment, alcoholism

[Julynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked visiting 4 hearts ranch again and the family I love....this one wasn't quite as fast paced and fun as the first as it had some deep topics in it: addiction, trauma, loss and unforeseen consequences to one time Abby begin to choose to heal, forgive and trust. It was a good story....I was grateful she didn't moralize on addictions and treated the subject with respect. I am looking forward to hearing how Monahan Brother #3: Jared's story is!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abby moves to get away from the loses she has had. She moves to a small town and tries to keep to herself, but along comes Bo. He’s a bachelor that all the girls loves, or so Abby thought. Then what should happen, but a baby ends up on Bos doorstep. What he has a child! He had no clue. He had a very short relationship with her. The story continues....

[Vikki Vaught · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good solid cowboy romance with engaging characters and an emotionally charged plot. It’s a clean romance with Christian references without coming on too strong. Glad I found this one in the Audible Plus program. Happy reading and listening!

[Joanne T S · Rating 5 out of 5]

touching story

A great story that tugs at your heart. A mistake brings love to a family and healing to a broken woman. An enjoyable read. Looking forward to reading the next book in this series.

[Mary Baker · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my least favorite of the books in this series. It took me awhile to get into the story, and then I didn't find it very exciting.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It deals with some difficult situations. Good character development, Clean, enjoyable with complete satisfying ending.

[Debra A Mathews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deborah Clark never disappoints I thoroughly enjoyed this book!

[Amanda Dicicco · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book a little too much. I enjoyed how Abby took care of the baby as if he was her own. She held a lot in like I do. And I felt this to my soul.

[Wanda Markstahler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Counting on a cowboy

Enjoyed the story and liked the people. The characters all seem like a person know, kind, helpful and nosey. Thanks

[Donald And · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book.

This is a great series. I love all Debra ,s books. She is one of my favorite authors. Can't wait to read the next one.

[Dena Lahman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartpounding!

Such a heartfelt story. All the way thru couldn't wait to see if Bo, Abby and Levi became a family.

[Madison · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cowboy set on not settling down, a lady desperate to get some distance from the horrors that have marked her life, a small, country Texas town and, certainly not least, a young infant left on the cowboy's porch. This is a complicated romance, where broken hearts and stubborn wills battle it out.

When Abby sets out for her new life in Wishing Springs, she couldn't have dreamed that her arrival would occur with such a bang. But that's what happens when she is driving into town and crashes her car into a ditch and a fence trying to dodge an escaped bull and the cowboy to which it belongs. Getting wrapped up in the life of a handsome, and single, cowboy wasn't in Abby's plans to start over. But when Bo Monahan gives her a lift while her car is repaired she is present when his life is turned upside down with the arrival of a son he didn't know he had sired. Complicated doesn't begin to describe their relationship, and all that without even uncovering details of her recent heartbreak.

I enjoyed reading the first book in the Four of Hearts Ranch series, so I was eager to start this second book. While the stories do flow and share both a setting and a cast of characters, the books can both be read as standalones. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this book like I did the first. While the premise sounded very promising- I love a bit of heartbreak and hard times with my romance and can't resist a small town or a good-looking cowboy - I found the story to be a little overdramatic and the characters seemed a little two dimensional. I just couldn't connect to the story.

I really felt for Abby. She has a tragic story but is determined to continue with her life as best she can. Meeting Bo and the circumstances that surround their meeting and his son's unexpected arrival are hard on Abby. My problem lay with Bo. He annoyed me for some reason. He was too flippant about things. Or maybe it was his 'I don't want to get married, how dare you bring single girls to the area, but I can't leave Abby alone' attitude that got to me. I felt that Abby deserved better than Bo, and I don't even believe in people being more or less deserving than others!!!! I felt like Bo's issues were brushed over a little too easily. I should point out here that his actions weren't the problem, just his attitude! Bossy and not very good at listening, the very definition of a stubborn cowboy. Unfortunately, he didn't appeal to me at all.

The town setting we first see in book one of the series remains the same. I enjoyed the setting in book one, but felt that this book needed to expand a little, explore more of the town or people, cover different issues rather than the same ones in Betting on Hope. The same grief over Bo's grandfather, the same meddling from Clara Lyn and Reba, and the same almost-relationship between Pebble and Rand were all done before and I was looking for something new to draw me into this book.

But it wasn't all bad. Things infinitely improved in the last quarter, with more action and tension to speed things along. Again, faith is not a huge theme in the book, but there are a few mentions of God, God's hand in things and forgiveness towards the end of the book. It wasn't the right book for me, but those who like simple, clean romances might enjoy the developing romance between Bo and Abby.

The publishers provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Find more reviews on my blog Madison's Library.