Her Winter Cowboy Protector: A Western Historical Romance Book

by Dolly Carter

“If saving those children means pretending I’m yours… then so be it.”

An orphan herself, Minnie only wanted to bring Christmas cheer to the town’s orphanage. Instead, she discovers something sinister behind its doors. The only man who can help her is the one she can’t stand… but can’t seem to ignore.

Deputy Martin Cole knows Minnie sees him as nothing but charm and trouble. But when danger circles the children, he won’t let her face it alone. If posing as her suitor is the only way to uncover the truth, he’ll play the part… no matter how she rattles him.

“Pretend to be your sweetheart? I barely tolerate you, Deputy.”

But when a break-in forces her under his roof, Minnie’s resolve begins to soften—won over by a loyal cat… and its infuriatingly handsome owner. Yet to save the orphans, they must risk everything…even their hearts.

Fake Courtship, Forced Proximity, Christmas Rescue, Small-town, Protective Hero, Found Family

*This is a Western historical romance novel by Dolly Carter, published by Cobalt Fairy.

No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a strong happily ever after.

Pick up "Her Winter Cowboy Protector" today to discover Dolly's wonderful new story!

347 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 27, 2025

Reviews

[Debdutch · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Her Winter Cowboy Protector” by Dolly Carter

-Minnie’s fierce independence crashes into Deputy Martin’s steady protectiveness as they join forces to save mistreated orphans. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.

Their fake courtship sparks irresistible tension, warmed further by holiday charm and a loyal cat that steals scenes. A clean, heartfelt western filled with danger, determination, and a slow-blooming bond that feels wonderfully genuine.

[Jean Merriott · Rating 5 out of 5]

A determined woman

I loved the story! It kept me from doing my jobs around the house when I should have gotten them done. A grown up orphan recognizing neglect of the children in the town’s orphanage & enlisting a handsome Sheriffs deputy to find the answer as to why.
Ms Carter writes a great tale with mystery, & a sweet love story as well! I look forward to reading more of her books 📚!

[Judy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Almost DNF

I honestly almost quit reading about 1/3 of the way in. Minnie is one of the most annoying, mouthy characters I’ve ever read. And if this was a real life story, a man like Martin would not have put up with her mouth. But I plugged on. All in all, the theme of this book is good, and I can only imagine what orphans endured back then. But get ready for most of the story being Minnie’s attitude. Finally at the very end, there’s a very brief touch of romance.

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author keeps getting better and better. She has brought us a story with romance, conflicts, humor, villains, and a few surprise twists. Minnie and Martin’s courtship could definitely come under the heading I think she protests too much. Keeping up that much hostility had to be tiring. I truly enjoyed this book.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

fantastic read

Great story I read and read every chance I got even when trying to text others and cooking and doing my daily things I had thr hardest time putting this story down I was clued to it
I love love to read and if a story catches my attention then u can bet I thoroughly enjoy it and live with it untol the story is over

[Cecelia Gardon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a phenomenal book! I loved the characters. They were very lifelike and easy to feel like you knew them. The plot was great as well, cleanly written, without graphic text. If I had to fuss at something, it would be Minnie should be less judgmental and caustic.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an entertaining and enjoyable book. I love the characters, Minnie being stubborn and Martin being patience and humorous. They had some of the best dialogue. Had me laughing. Of course there’s always more to the story than just those two. I definitely recommend this book.

[Patty McGovern Pugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

wonderful book

I really enjoyed reading this book. I had never read anything by Dolly Carter but her Winter Cowboy Protector in the Brides and Blessings series was such a heartwarming story.

[Debra Reeves · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading Minnie and Martins story

[Sunny Peck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love a good romantic twist book. The characters are great.

[REGINA TRICHEL · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unlikely romance

It made me applaud at the end! I love the characters. They spare back and forth, but car
e for each other so much. Good story.