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Brides of Money Creek
Clara and the Cowboy
She's the rancher's daughter. He's the reformed outlaw who became her father's foreman. Love was never part of the plan.
Clara Bainbridge has loved Alec for years, long before she left for finishing school in Boston. And though she is convinced he loves her too, he seems determined to push her away now that she's back. So when the handsome stranger who protects her during a stagecoach robbery reveals that he is her new neighbor, Clara begins to wonder if accepting his suit might be wiser than waiting for Alec.
Ranch foreman Alec McConnell has worked hard to overcome his criminal past and prove himself worthy of Colonel Bainbridge's trust. When cattle start disappearing from the Cross B Ranch, Alec's checkered past makes him the prime suspect. He must catch the real rustlers to clear his name, but his growing feelings for the Colonel's daughter, Clara, threaten to undo everything he's built. How can he protect her when his very presence in her life could destroy her reputation?
And when Clara's life is threatened by dangerous cattle rustlers, will Alec finally discover the answers he's been seeking? If he lets go of the past, can he trust God for the future?
Originally published as part of the Brides of Money Creek series
Clara Bainbridge has loved Alec for years, long before she left for finishing school in Boston. And though she is convinced he loves her too, he seems determined to push her away now that she's back. So when the handsome stranger who protects her during a stagecoach robbery reveals that he is her new neighbor, Clara begins to wonder if accepting his suit might be wiser than waiting for Alec.
Ranch foreman Alec McConnell has worked hard to overcome his criminal past and prove himself worthy of Colonel Bainbridge's trust. When cattle start disappearing from the Cross B Ranch, Alec's checkered past makes him the prime suspect. He must catch the real rustlers to clear his name, but his growing feelings for the Colonel's daughter, Clara, threaten to undo everything he's built. How can he protect her when his very presence in her life could destroy her reputation?
And when Clara's life is threatened by dangerous cattle rustlers, will Alec finally discover the answers he's been seeking? If he lets go of the past, can he trust God for the future?
Originally published as part of the Brides of Money Creek series
184 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2025
About the author
Erica Vetsch
70 books1,409 followersBest-selling, award-winning author of The Debutante’s Code, first in the Thorndike & Swann Regency Mystery Series, Erica Vetsch loves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum. You can connect with her at her website, www.ericavetsch.com where you can learn about her books and sign up for her newsletter, and you can find her online at https://www.facebook.com/groups/inspi... where she spends way too much time!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
October 18, 2025
Alec McConnell carries the weight of unworthiness through long days and quiet nights, convinced that his father’s failures have marked his life. Erica Vetsch writes his burden with compassion and truth, revealing how the love of God can reach where shame and unforgiveness once ruled and how mercy beautifully transforms a weary heart.
Alec’s days are built on hard work and steady resolve. When Clara Bainbridge returns home, her gentleness and strength stir a hope he never expected to feel again. As danger rises across the open range, he learns that courage begins when the past no longer defines him and grace becomes the ground he stands on.
Every chapter holds the hush of redemption. The wide skies, the rhythm of ranch life, and the quiet prayers beneath them all remind us that faith transforms what fear once held. Vetsch’s storytelling moves with both beauty and conviction, offering a glimpse of God’s tender work in ordinary hearts.
I read with eternity in view, remembering that God alone restores what shame once claimed. True forgiveness isn’t about setting the offender free—it is about freeing the heart that chooses obedience and glorifies the One who has forgiven the unforgivable in us.
For those who treasure Western stories filled with faith, courage, and quiet renewal, Clara and the Cowboy carries the warmth of grace and the peace of a heart finally set free.
I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher and Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
Alec’s days are built on hard work and steady resolve. When Clara Bainbridge returns home, her gentleness and strength stir a hope he never expected to feel again. As danger rises across the open range, he learns that courage begins when the past no longer defines him and grace becomes the ground he stands on.
Every chapter holds the hush of redemption. The wide skies, the rhythm of ranch life, and the quiet prayers beneath them all remind us that faith transforms what fear once held. Vetsch’s storytelling moves with both beauty and conviction, offering a glimpse of God’s tender work in ordinary hearts.
I read with eternity in view, remembering that God alone restores what shame once claimed. True forgiveness isn’t about setting the offender free—it is about freeing the heart that chooses obedience and glorifies the One who has forgiven the unforgivable in us.
For those who treasure Western stories filled with faith, courage, and quiet renewal, Clara and the Cowboy carries the warmth of grace and the peace of a heart finally set free.
I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher and Celebrate Lit Publicity Group. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
October 9, 2025
This was a great story! I loved Clara and Alec. Clara wants to be with Alec but he thinks he can’t be with her based on his family reputation, mostly his father who is drunk and in jail a lot. Alec is such a hard worker though and does everything he can for Clara’s family ranch. I really liked how dedicated he was. He is also a great hero. Clara is a great character she speaks hard truth when she needs to and she is brave and kind. There is a little mystery of who is stealing the missing cattle. The Christian content in this story is really good. It tackles the subject of forgiveness and what not forgiving someone can do to you. Overall, I really enjoyed this story and I definitely recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
January 22, 2024
Wow. It's been YEARS since I read a complete book in one day... that is, until I read Clara and the Cowboy! A real page turner / banger of a book! Now onto book #2 in this series...
January 26, 2026
I am really loving these previously published books that Erica Vetsch is now re-publishing. Her Regency romance and mysteries are incredibly fun but I also really enjoyed the American historicals set in Duluth, Minnesota. Now this series takes us to Money Creek, Idaho where we will follow the McConnell brothers living on a cattle and horse ranch.
The McConnell men have had a hard life, mostly due to their father’s drunken ways. Alec, the oldest, bears the brunt of shame, guilt, anger and bitterness. The small town has a long memory of his past sins and his father’s continued transgressions. He doesn’t even realize how his bitterness and anger have eroded his sense of self and relationships with others until he is faced with losing all that he holds dear. Alec is a strong, stalwart, take action hero who needs God’s grace to lead him to forgiveness and humility. Clara, with her spunk and zeal for life, is the perfect balance for Alec. I loved how they were friends first and really knew each other. I learned quite a bit about cattle ranching and horse breeding through Alec’s work. I am looking forward to getting to know Trace and Cal better in the next books.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of the publisher via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
The McConnell men have had a hard life, mostly due to their father’s drunken ways. Alec, the oldest, bears the brunt of shame, guilt, anger and bitterness. The small town has a long memory of his past sins and his father’s continued transgressions. He doesn’t even realize how his bitterness and anger have eroded his sense of self and relationships with others until he is faced with losing all that he holds dear. Alec is a strong, stalwart, take action hero who needs God’s grace to lead him to forgiveness and humility. Clara, with her spunk and zeal for life, is the perfect balance for Alec. I loved how they were friends first and really knew each other. I learned quite a bit about cattle ranching and horse breeding through Alec’s work. I am looking forward to getting to know Trace and Cal better in the next books.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of the publisher via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
September 6, 2025
Clara and the Cowboy is filled with hardship, danger, and anger. Clara's stage on the way back to Money Creek is robbed. Clara's father, a local ranch owner, is worried about her. It's been a year since he has seen her. The man on the stage with her protects her from the outlaws, but he has a secret past.
The story has a wonderful ranch setting, and the characters are interesting with many layers. The Stovepipe Hills that run between Clara's home and another ranch have secrets of their own. There are lots of surprising twists. Along with kidnapping, cattle rustling, and danger, there is also forgiveness and redemption.
A sweet love story flows through the pages, but not without its many problems. Both people deal with stubborn pride and forgiveness. The ending wrapped up everything nicely. The story had something happening continuously, and I finished it in one sitting. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy from the author via Netgalley; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.
The story has a wonderful ranch setting, and the characters are interesting with many layers. The Stovepipe Hills that run between Clara's home and another ranch have secrets of their own. There are lots of surprising twists. Along with kidnapping, cattle rustling, and danger, there is also forgiveness and redemption.
A sweet love story flows through the pages, but not without its many problems. Both people deal with stubborn pride and forgiveness. The ending wrapped up everything nicely. The story had something happening continuously, and I finished it in one sitting. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy from the author via Netgalley; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.
October 14, 2025
I love a good book that will take me to a place where hard work and faith combine. This story is rich in the rugged country life that illustrates how hard it can be as a rancher. Day after day the cattle need attention, horses need exercise and of course the everyday chores to keep everyone fed. I really liked how the author uses creative words to help readers visualize ranch life.
I love how the story starts with an unexpected situation that finds Clara in grave danger. I can’t imagine being in a stagecoach in the middle of nowhere and suddenly danger surrounds you. The only thought on Clara’s mind was getting home to see her father after a long time away. She is also secretly excited to see a certain man who has had her heart for a very long time.
With a mystery of cattle and horses missing on the ranch the story takes a serious tone as suspicion swirls around. Alec seems to be a little distant with Clara when she first arrives. Maybe he is too focused on the ranch but I think he doesn’t want to show his emotions just yet. I did feel his uneasiness when he goes to town with Clara. His father’s bad reputation is well known and reflects on him and his brothers. Have you ever had a family member who did something wrong and others judge you because of it?
I like the illustration of turmoil Clara and Alec face as they both walk through forgiveness. Alec wants to be able to forgive his father but the pain of rejection runs deep. I’m sure we each have faced a similar situation that only God can heal. With Steadman trying to get Clara’s attention, Alec needs to wake up before he loses the woman he loves. I was suspicious of Steadman and wonder if his kindness to Clara is real or an act.
I appreciate how the author illustrates how bitterness can destroy a person if they don’t ask God for help. Trying to seek revenge when hatred is in your heart can only lead to your downfall. Don’t miss this exciting adventure filled with cattle rustlers, greed and an exceptional lesson in forgiveness.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
I love how the story starts with an unexpected situation that finds Clara in grave danger. I can’t imagine being in a stagecoach in the middle of nowhere and suddenly danger surrounds you. The only thought on Clara’s mind was getting home to see her father after a long time away. She is also secretly excited to see a certain man who has had her heart for a very long time.
With a mystery of cattle and horses missing on the ranch the story takes a serious tone as suspicion swirls around. Alec seems to be a little distant with Clara when she first arrives. Maybe he is too focused on the ranch but I think he doesn’t want to show his emotions just yet. I did feel his uneasiness when he goes to town with Clara. His father’s bad reputation is well known and reflects on him and his brothers. Have you ever had a family member who did something wrong and others judge you because of it?
I like the illustration of turmoil Clara and Alec face as they both walk through forgiveness. Alec wants to be able to forgive his father but the pain of rejection runs deep. I’m sure we each have faced a similar situation that only God can heal. With Steadman trying to get Clara’s attention, Alec needs to wake up before he loses the woman he loves. I was suspicious of Steadman and wonder if his kindness to Clara is real or an act.
I appreciate how the author illustrates how bitterness can destroy a person if they don’t ask God for help. Trying to seek revenge when hatred is in your heart can only lead to your downfall. Don’t miss this exciting adventure filled with cattle rustlers, greed and an exceptional lesson in forgiveness.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
November 5, 2025
Christian Historical Romance is a favorite genre that I enjoy. Clara and The Cowboy by Erica Vetsch is Book 4 in The Brides of the West series. Erica Vetsch is a favorite author for Christian Historical Fiction.
WOW, this storyline is just as interesting as the first book. The setting is Idaho. The 2 main characters are Clara Bainbridge and Alec McConnell. Clara is returning home to the Family Ranch after being away in Boston for School. Clara has had deep feelings for Alec, the Foreman on her Father's Ranch, for many years. She realizes that her feelings are even stronger now that she is back at the Ranch. Alec has had to work hard not only to keep the Ranch in order, but to prove that he has left his Outlaw past behind. His past is coming back to "haunt him' when cattle turn up missing from the Ranch. He needs to set out to prove not only his reputation is not who is now, but that he has to admit he has a love for Clara. I really LOVED this storyline. Past reputations can ruin the "new" person when new situations arise. Alec stood up for himself, but he also protected Clara from the recent happenings on the Ranch. The heartwarming part was when Alec's Father was there for his son and how Clara's Father also saw Alec was a man of Character and he had truly let go of his past. The book is about letting go of the Past, Trust in others and LOVE I would HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance. FANTASTIC BOOK!
WOW, this storyline is just as interesting as the first book. The setting is Idaho. The 2 main characters are Clara Bainbridge and Alec McConnell. Clara is returning home to the Family Ranch after being away in Boston for School. Clara has had deep feelings for Alec, the Foreman on her Father's Ranch, for many years. She realizes that her feelings are even stronger now that she is back at the Ranch. Alec has had to work hard not only to keep the Ranch in order, but to prove that he has left his Outlaw past behind. His past is coming back to "haunt him' when cattle turn up missing from the Ranch. He needs to set out to prove not only his reputation is not who is now, but that he has to admit he has a love for Clara. I really LOVED this storyline. Past reputations can ruin the "new" person when new situations arise. Alec stood up for himself, but he also protected Clara from the recent happenings on the Ranch. The heartwarming part was when Alec's Father was there for his son and how Clara's Father also saw Alec was a man of Character and he had truly let go of his past. The book is about letting go of the Past, Trust in others and LOVE I would HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance. FANTASTIC BOOK!
October 27, 2025
I so enjoy a good western with romance and a bit of danger, and this story, had all of that. Starting right off with a stagecoach robbery, Clara is just trying to get back home to her beloved ranch, her father, and the man she has been in love with most of her life, Alec. Well, Alec is not going to make things easy, even though he is also in love with Clara. He and his two brothers have had a rough go of life with a drunkard father and some of their own criminal behavior. However, Alec has changed for the good, and Clara wants him to see that and that they are perfect for one another.
Their road to true love is not easy. Besides the danger that is arising to the whole ranch, both Clara and Alec have stubborn streaks a mile long. Their story will need some work from both of them and a little bit of pushing from others. This was just a story to escape from life's problems for a while. Danger and romance, along with family and forgiveness. What fun and I am looking for to the other two brothers' stories too.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Their road to true love is not easy. Besides the danger that is arising to the whole ranch, both Clara and Alec have stubborn streaks a mile long. Their story will need some work from both of them and a little bit of pushing from others. This was just a story to escape from life's problems for a while. Danger and romance, along with family and forgiveness. What fun and I am looking for to the other two brothers' stories too.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
November 16, 2025
Clara and the Cowboy is a fun historical fiction novel with suspense and romance, and lots of fun reading to be had. This is book four in a series. You can read it on its own or as part of the series. I always advocate reading the whole series in order. But you do you and read it how you want.
Clara has been in love with Alec for a long time. Since before she left to finish school. But now she’s back and he’s doing everything he can to stay away from her. So she’s not sure if it’s worth waiting around for him to notice her. Their new neighbor wants to court her, and she thinks maybe she should let him.
Who’s really the bad guy here?
Alec overcame a past. A past that involves being a criminal. But he’s overcome that. However, when cattle start being rustled, eyes point to him. Can he figure out who is really doing the rustling? And will he be able to allow himself to love the boss’s daughter?
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Clara has been in love with Alec for a long time. Since before she left to finish school. But now she’s back and he’s doing everything he can to stay away from her. So she’s not sure if it’s worth waiting around for him to notice her. Their new neighbor wants to court her, and she thinks maybe she should let him.
Who’s really the bad guy here?
Alec overcame a past. A past that involves being a criminal. But he’s overcome that. However, when cattle start being rustled, eyes point to him. Can he figure out who is really doing the rustling? And will he be able to allow himself to love the boss’s daughter?
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
October 4, 2025
Living in a small ranching community can have its difficulties. Such was the case for Alec McConnell. He has had a hard time living down his past when he made some mistakes and also trying to distance himself from his father’s behavior.
Clara Bainbridge has returned from Boston and hopes to return to the easy going friendship and growing feelings that she has for Alec. He seems like a different, very distant man than the person she remebers before she left home. How does she get through to him?
With cow rustlers and a man interested in pursuing a relationship with Clara, Alec has his hands full. I was happy to see things get resolved between the two of them, even if it took some intervention of Alec’s brothers. Readers will enjoy this story of romance and forgiveness in Money Creek, Idaho. I am looking forward to seeing what lies ahead for the McConnell family.
Things to enjoy:
western setting
danger
mystery
friends to more
faith thread
I received a gifted copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions in this review are my own; I was not required to write a positive review.
Clara Bainbridge has returned from Boston and hopes to return to the easy going friendship and growing feelings that she has for Alec. He seems like a different, very distant man than the person she remebers before she left home. How does she get through to him?
With cow rustlers and a man interested in pursuing a relationship with Clara, Alec has his hands full. I was happy to see things get resolved between the two of them, even if it took some intervention of Alec’s brothers. Readers will enjoy this story of romance and forgiveness in Money Creek, Idaho. I am looking forward to seeing what lies ahead for the McConnell family.
Things to enjoy:
western setting
danger
mystery
friends to more
faith thread
I received a gifted copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions in this review are my own; I was not required to write a positive review.
October 22, 2025
Clara and the Cowboy is a touching friends-to-more redemption tale. Clara is a brave and kind woman, while Alec is a cowboy struggling with anger and the need to forgive.
Even though the book is short, it starts with exciting action and is full of suspense, romance, danger, and the hardships of life on the frontier. The characters are easy to connect with, especially Alec, whose struggles made me feel invested in his journey.
The book’s messages about faith and forgiveness really shine, showing the importance of letting go and trusting God, and that holding onto anger or not forgiving can make us feel trapped.
First Line: A bullet shattered the window frame beside Clara Bainbridge’s cheek, and in an instant drowsiness fled.
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Author: Erica Vetsch
Page Count: 182
#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. Opinions are 100% my own.
Even though the book is short, it starts with exciting action and is full of suspense, romance, danger, and the hardships of life on the frontier. The characters are easy to connect with, especially Alec, whose struggles made me feel invested in his journey.
The book’s messages about faith and forgiveness really shine, showing the importance of letting go and trusting God, and that holding onto anger or not forgiving can make us feel trapped.
First Line: A bullet shattered the window frame beside Clara Bainbridge’s cheek, and in an instant drowsiness fled.
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Author: Erica Vetsch
Page Count: 182
#CoverLoverBookReview received a review copy of this book. Opinions are 100% my own.
November 5, 2025
Reading this book made me think of the old-time western romance movies and television shows that were filled with action and sweet, clean romance. The book begins with an action-packed scene that sets the direction for the rest of the story. The two main characters, Clara Bainbridge and Alec McConnell, both had issues to deal with: Clara with the tragic death of her mother; Alex with the criminal reputation of his family. Clara and Alec have loved each other for quite some time, but Alex felt that social gulf between them was too wide to bridge. But as in all good westerns, there needs to be a hero and Clara has picked Alec as hers. I loved these two characters and their selfless love for each other. The author did a great job with the storyline, and I enjoyed every page of their story. I would encourage you to read this beautiful story.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
October 25, 2025
Erica Vetsch brings the Wild West to life in Clara and the Cowboy. I thoroughly enjoyed going back in time to 1800’s Idaho where cattle ranching & cattle rustling clashed. Clara’s successful rancher father, Colonel Bainbridge sent her to finishing school in Boston after her mother’s death. Now she’s returned to her beloved home & hoping to further her relationship with Alec McConnell. But, while Alec’s attracted to Clara, his checkered past prevents him from acting on his feelings. When cattle start disappearing from the Colonel’s Cross B Ranch, Alec & his family become the main suspects. Can Alec find the real cattle rustlers in time?
This story kept me eagerly turning the pages! Clara’s strong, beautiful, & kind hearted. She’s long since seen past Alec’s past & recognizes the wonderful man he’s become, if only she can convince him that he’s good enough for her. After Alec’s mother & sister died, his father became an alcoholic & outlaw. Alec & his brothers found themselves on the other side of the law as well, but when Colonel Bainbridge & his wife took them in & Alec became the Colonel’s foreman, his life changed. But, Alec has some competition for Clara’s heart when she’s rescued by a handsome man who’s come to claim the cattle ranch next to theirs.
I loved Clara’s & Alec’s push & pull relationship. Alec definitely longs for Clara, but doesn’t think he’s good enough. I enjoyed seeing his journey towards forgiveness. I also loved seeing Alec’s protective side. Along with the smoldering friends to more romance, I enjoyed the cattle rustling mystery. There’re some vicious outlaws that definitely wreak havoc. The final showdown reminded me of all those classic Westerns I watched growing up.
Highly recommend! Though this is part of the Brides of the West series, it’s easily read as a standalone. I received an advanced copy from the author but also purchased a copy in Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own & provided voluntarily.
This story kept me eagerly turning the pages! Clara’s strong, beautiful, & kind hearted. She’s long since seen past Alec’s past & recognizes the wonderful man he’s become, if only she can convince him that he’s good enough for her. After Alec’s mother & sister died, his father became an alcoholic & outlaw. Alec & his brothers found themselves on the other side of the law as well, but when Colonel Bainbridge & his wife took them in & Alec became the Colonel’s foreman, his life changed. But, Alec has some competition for Clara’s heart when she’s rescued by a handsome man who’s come to claim the cattle ranch next to theirs.
I loved Clara’s & Alec’s push & pull relationship. Alec definitely longs for Clara, but doesn’t think he’s good enough. I enjoyed seeing his journey towards forgiveness. I also loved seeing Alec’s protective side. Along with the smoldering friends to more romance, I enjoyed the cattle rustling mystery. There’re some vicious outlaws that definitely wreak havoc. The final showdown reminded me of all those classic Westerns I watched growing up.
Highly recommend! Though this is part of the Brides of the West series, it’s easily read as a standalone. I received an advanced copy from the author but also purchased a copy in Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own & provided voluntarily.
October 19, 2025
Fast moving western. Clara came home from finishing school hoping to get closer to her friend Alex. He doesn't feel worthy because of his past but had been brought to faith by Clara and her mother. Romantic struggles evolve as a plot is gradually uncovered about the disappearance of cattle and horses from the ranch. Nicely told story that unfolds beautifully. Easy-to-read, romantic, wonderful-characters, original, realistic, page-turner, entertaining.
I received this book free from the authors, publisher and CelebrateLit book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#ClaraAndTheCowboy #EricaVetsch #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #CelebrateLit #ChristianHistorcalRomance #WildHeartBooks
I received this book free from the authors, publisher and CelebrateLit book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
#ClaraAndTheCowboy #EricaVetsch #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #CelebrateLit #ChristianHistorcalRomance #WildHeartBooks
August 18, 2025
This is a reprint of a Heartsong Presents novel from 2010 by the same name, originally in a series called Brides of Money Creek. Now the book is part of Wild Heart Books series Brides of the West.
If you enjoy rugged, stubborn cowboys who think they aren’t good enough for the beautiful boss’s daughter, stagecoach holdups, cattle rustling, and so forth, you’ll enjoy this book. I didn’t really enjoy all the high emotions and frustrations before things got sorted out, but that’s just me.
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
If you enjoy rugged, stubborn cowboys who think they aren’t good enough for the beautiful boss’s daughter, stagecoach holdups, cattle rustling, and so forth, you’ll enjoy this book. I didn’t really enjoy all the high emotions and frustrations before things got sorted out, but that’s just me.
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
September 18, 2025
Finishing school in Boston could not take away Clara’s love for the rugged openness of the west. Her love for one cowboy had not diminished either, but that relationship was not all sunshine and roses. Alec, foreman on her father’s ranch, had to forgive himself, his father and others before he could really love someone.
Some cattle rustling, stealing horses, kidnapping and more will test the resolve of both of these beloved characters. Will they manage to get through it? A copy of the Brides of Money Creek Book One was received through Wild Heart Books and BookFunnel. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
Some cattle rustling, stealing horses, kidnapping and more will test the resolve of both of these beloved characters. Will they manage to get through it? A copy of the Brides of Money Creek Book One was received through Wild Heart Books and BookFunnel. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
April 8, 2022
Can Alec overcome his past and the disgrace of having an alcoholic Father? Or will the townspeople never forgive him? His heart is having trouble when his Boss' daughter returns to the ranch from Boston. Old feelings resurface but what can he do about it with so much against him?
This book had a robbery, missing cattle, handsome cowboys and a young woman happy to be home again. Erica's books are always well-written, clean and a treat to read. This one does not disappoint at all. I'm also excited to discover there's more to the story with 2 more books in the series!
This book had a robbery, missing cattle, handsome cowboys and a young woman happy to be home again. Erica's books are always well-written, clean and a treat to read. This one does not disappoint at all. I'm also excited to discover there's more to the story with 2 more books in the series!
October 13, 2025
Clara and the Cowboy is a re-released that is now part of the Brides of the West Series by Erica Vetsch. It is an exciting story of stagecoach robberies, cattle rustling, a daughter returning home, and proud protective hero. In all, God is at work. Alex McConnell never felt he could measure up to Clara Bainbridge’s family. As she is put in danger the family’s social status means little but protecting her means everything. These characters grow as the plot thickens but often let the important things go unsaid. The way the McConnell brothers handled the coming together of Alex and Clara is perfect. I applaud them both while for each one to find his own HEA in the future.
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October 28, 2025Wow, this story was so good! Clara and Alec were an interesting pair and make an adorable couple. I loved seeing the characters face obstacles and learn along the way. Vetsch does a wonderful job of portraying their struggles and emotions in the story.
Clara and the Cowboy has a lot going on, and ended up being a quick read. In part, because it's such a fun read and so very hard to put down!
*I received an ecopy from the author. This does not affect my review. This review is voluntary.*
Clara and the Cowboy has a lot going on, and ended up being a quick read. In part, because it's such a fun read and so very hard to put down!
*I received an ecopy from the author. This does not affect my review. This review is voluntary.*
December 15, 2025
I totally loved this series about the three McConnell brothers as they live out their Christian faith and try to overcome the prejudice against them because of their past. I especially enjoyed the wonderful banter and friendship between the brothers. It might be a bit unrealistic how quickly the characters fall in love, but still an enjoyable story. This is the first book in the trilogy. Be sure to read "Lily and the Lawman" and "Maggie and the Maverick" next.
January 22, 2026
Brides of the West book 4
Brides of the West are stand alone books but part of a series. Book 5 is Traces story and book 6 is Cal,s. I Love the McConnell brothers. This book is about Alec McConnell and Clara Bainbridge. And it is an exciting western with Cowboys, Rustlers, Bad Guys, and Romance. I read Trace,s story first and went back and read Alec,s and i am so glad i did. Next i will read about Cal book 6. And you will see lots of adventure in them all. Happy Reading.
Brides of the West are stand alone books but part of a series. Book 5 is Traces story and book 6 is Cal,s. I Love the McConnell brothers. This book is about Alec McConnell and Clara Bainbridge. And it is an exciting western with Cowboys, Rustlers, Bad Guys, and Romance. I read Trace,s story first and went back and read Alec,s and i am so glad i did. Next i will read about Cal book 6. And you will see lots of adventure in them all. Happy Reading.
April 12, 2026
As
As wonderful as the final scene reconciling all that had happened was, the conclusion of the story wasn't forceful enough in punishing the long time criminals. And no conclusion about how everyone the father and sons (brothers) progressed. Also the sheriff is implicated as an accomplice, so was he punished or vindicated.
Also several reference were 21st century not 18th/19th century
As wonderful as the final scene reconciling all that had happened was, the conclusion of the story wasn't forceful enough in punishing the long time criminals. And no conclusion about how everyone the father and sons (brothers) progressed. Also the sheriff is implicated as an accomplice, so was he punished or vindicated.
Also several reference were 21st century not 18th/19th century
September 28, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. There is a mystery about outlaws and who they are as well as who is rustling cattle from the ranches.
Clara comes back home from Boston to find Alec is still the man she loves but his stubbornness won’t let him share that love until he is facing losing her to another man.
It’s a well written story with interesting characters and I recommend it.
Clara comes back home from Boston to find Alec is still the man she loves but his stubbornness won’t let him share that love until he is facing losing her to another man.
It’s a well written story with interesting characters and I recommend it.
March 2, 2026
It’s seems like each book in the series gets better and better! Loved Clara and Alec’s story! Coming from
Two different backgrounds ..learning of true forgiveness.
Great characters and storyline, kept me wanting to see what was on the next page..loved the dog too! Can’t wait to start the next story!
Two different backgrounds ..learning of true forgiveness.
Great characters and storyline, kept me wanting to see what was on the next page..loved the dog too! Can’t wait to start the next story!
January 4, 2021
Unrequited love is hard to deal with, but it's even worse when the love is there, but fear holds one back! I loved the mystery that unfolded in the end! And the brothers! That final scene was perfect!
October 28, 2025
I'd never read one of Erica Vetsch's western romances before, but I had gotten hooked on her Serendipity and Secrets series so I was pretty sure I'd like any book she wrote. And I'm happy to say I was correct! Clara and Alec are such a wonderful set of characters, as are Alec's 2 other brothers, who feature in other books in this series. I haven't read the other books as of yet, but I didn't feel like I missed out on anything as this one reads very well as a stand-alone story.
This story had it all, from a touch of mystery to who was rustling the ranches cattle, to a sweet push/pull romance between Alec and Clara. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and I'm excited to read about the stories of Alec's two other brothers. They are both characters I would dearly like to meet again.
If you're looking for a western romance in the same vein as Karen Witemeyer or Mary Conneally, then look no further than this series!
*I read an early ARC copy from the author/publisher. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
This story had it all, from a touch of mystery to who was rustling the ranches cattle, to a sweet push/pull romance between Alec and Clara. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and I'm excited to read about the stories of Alec's two other brothers. They are both characters I would dearly like to meet again.
If you're looking for a western romance in the same vein as Karen Witemeyer or Mary Conneally, then look no further than this series!
*I read an early ARC copy from the author/publisher. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
November 11, 2025
Not as great as Erica’s later books, but a fun quick read.
February 27, 2026
great book
This was a great book and by a great author. I highly recommend this book and author. I can’t wait to read the next book by this wonderful author.
This was a great book and by a great author. I highly recommend this book and author. I can’t wait to read the next book by this wonderful author.
March 26, 2026
No 🙊 or 🔥-simply not my favorite
May 1, 2026
Ended very quickly with some matters not resolved. I know it is first in series, but ending just did not feel right. Story also wasn't as good as her other books.
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