Sweet Home Cowboy

Love at the Chocolate Shop #9

by Marin Thomas

When Marietta newcomer Elena Puente is coerced into attending a speed dating event at the popular Copper Mountain Chocolate Shop, she’s blindsided by a serious attraction to local cowboy, Wesley Banks.

Still recovering from a broken engagement, the first-grade teacher from Las Vegas isn’t looking for romance. She’s in Montana to get to know the great-grandfather she never knew existed until she found some hidden family letters. Judge Kingsley is a grouchy recluse and he’s far from welcoming, but Elena is determined to stay in town long enough to give his neglected estate on Bramble Lane a facelift.

Elena’s resolve to avoid romance is tested when she discovers Wesley is the caretaker of her grandfather’s rural property. Soon, she and the cowboy are attending more speed dating events at the chocolate shop and she’s seeking his advice on how to deal with his ornery boss. Local gossips wager the old Judge will run Elena out of town before anything serious develops between her and Wesley. But Wesley’s a determined man, too, and he’s betting Elena belongs in Marietta forever…with him.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Chick Lit, Westerns, Contemporary Romance, Ebooks, Small Town Romance

252 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 1, 2017

About the author

Welcome to my corner of Goodreads!

I was born in Janesville, Wisconsin. I played D-I Basketball for the University of Arizona in Tucson then married my college sweetheart in a five-minute ceremony in Las Vegas. My husband and I are empty nesters living in Phoenix, Arizona.

I've written two women's fiction novels for Berkley Books and contemporary romances for Harlequin Books and Tule Publishing. To date I've published over 40 books. My women's fiction novel, The Promise of Forgiveness, won First Place in the 2017 Book Buyer's Best contest. My second novel, The Future She Left Behind was featured on Southern Living "Books we can't wait to read this fall" list and "was the Award Winner in the "Fiction: Chick Lit/Women's Lit" category of the 2017 Best Book Awards."

Come hang out with me...
FB https://www.facebook.com/pages/Marin-...
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/marinthomas...

Keep up to date on all my writing news, travels and my obsession with Route 66 sign up for my Newsletter at https://www.marinthomas.com/sign-up-f...

Reviews

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elena Puente is now a teacher in Las Vegas and was raised by her single mother after her father had passed away and had thought the only family she had was the two of them. After finding out that her father's grandfather was still living in Marietta, MT Elena just knows that she has to meet him before it's too late so she hops on a plane during her summer break.

Unfortunately for Elena her trip gets off to a rocky start when her rental car breaks down forcing her to walk into town where she stumbles into the Copper Mountain Chocolate Shop to ask for directions. Instead of getting directions Elena finds herself in the middle of a speed dating session where she meets the handsome cowboy Wesley Banks.

Sweet Home Cowboy is the ninth book in the Love at the Chocolate Shop series in which each romantic read features a different couple that has some ties to the Copper Mountain Chocolate Shop located in the quaint town of Marietta, MT. Each book can be read as a standalone novel but if reading as a series you get glimpses into former couples and characters from each of the previous stories set in this charming town.

I've read this entire series and at this point I think the stories only keep getting better with each installment. I love catching up with all the crew at Copper Mountain Chocolates and hearing of the owner, Sage, and her new chocolate creations. The romances are always sweet and lovely and fun to watch blossom into something more and the town of Marietta never fails to toss in it's own charm with the small town vibe. Definitely recommend reading of Elena and Wesley's story in this latest edition of Love at the Chocolate Shop and look forward to the next story in the series.

I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.

For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....

[Wendy'sThoughts · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Finding Yourself Through Love
* * * * Spoiler Free-It's Free!!!
One of the reasons this particular series has been such a pleasure is due to all of the characters. They are there for the taking... meaning each book entry revolves around the Town of Marietta, Montana, its community, people and establishments. We learn about so many who live there over the series... so when a grouchy Judge is the reason our gal comes to town... we know a bit about the great-grandfather she never knew she had.

Judge Kingsley is the town's grouch. He was the Judge back in the day and made huge differences in many a man's life. He lives in a huge house on one of the most beautiful street but he has purposely let the home go. Officially he is a recluse but privately, he has done many sweet things demanding to keep them private.

Elena Puente is on a mission to meet her great-grandfather. She was shocked he existed and when she approaches the house... she has to steal her nerve to knock on the door. The Judge doesn't want any visitors and slams the door before she can get out the words she practiced. Instead she has to yell through the door who she is... and then it slowly cracks open. The Judge grudgingly lets her barge in...

Elena works her way into the Judge's heart and along with him... she also connects with the one person who also has been looking out for the Judge, Wesley Banks. He is a Cowboy down to his boots and has been taking care of the Judge's rural property for a very long time... He was one of those people the Judge made a difference with... and Wesley has been looking out for him since.

As Elena becomes close with the Judge and Wesley... she realizes how important the Cowboy has become to her. This is a romance of discovery for the both of them.

A very sweet addition.

Melt My Heart, Cowboy (Love at the Chocolate Shop, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Thankful Heart (Love at the Chocolate Shop, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Montana Secret Santa (Love at the Chocolate Shop, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Chocolate Cure (Love at the Chocolate Shop, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Valentine Quest (Love at the Chocolate Shop, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Charmed by Chocolate (Love at the Chocolate Shop #6)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Chocolate Comeback (Love at the Chocolate Shop #7) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Chocolate Touch (Love at the Chocolate Shop #8)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Sweet Home Cowboy (Love at the Chocolate Shop #9)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Sweet Summer's Kiss (Love at the Chocolate Shop #10)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

A gifted copy was provided by Tule Publishing via NetGalley for an honest review.

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

[Linda Langford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet contemporary romance. Great characters. Love and forgiveness.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet Home Cowboy

Marin Thomas

Received from Netgalley


SWEET HOME COWBOY is book #9 in the Love at the Chocolate Shop series. I have loved this series from the very first book and each book just gets better and better. I feel a real connection to the lovely little town of Marietta MT and truly wish it were a real place so I could go and live there with these beautiful people. All the stories center around the delicious chocolate shop and will have you craving chocolates as you read them.


Elena Puente is a first grade school teacher in Las Vegas, NV. When she comes across a pack of letters from her great grandfather she decides to head to Marietta MT to meet him and find out what she can about her father. He died in a tragic accident before she was born and her mother never really says too much about him. She hopes her great grandfather will fill in the gaps and answer her questions about her dad. Her mother tries to convince her to stay away from him but Elena is having none of it. Her mother is afraid that the old man will turn Elena against her. SWEET HOME COWBOY will have you all caught up in the twists and turns that Elena goes through and I was holding my breath at one point. I couldn't wait to finish the story to see what happens.


While Elena is at the chocolate shop she gets roped in to a speed dating event going on and meets Wesley. Elena's life will never be the same after meeting him. They are both attracted to each other but want different things in life and try to fight their feelings. Just when Elena accepts the fact that she is falling in love with Wes, he cuts her loose and breaks her heart. Will Elena go running back to Vegas and her life there? Will she say the hell with Wes and decide to stay and help her great grandfather in his final years? You are going to have to read SWEET HOME COWBOY to find out! No spoilers from me!


I'm so excited to continue this series. I have fallen in love with this small town and especially the chocolate shop. SWEET HOME COWBOY is a fun quick read that I read in a little more than one sitting. If you enjoy small town light romance this book would be perfect for you. I found myself cheering for Elena and hoping she would find her happy ending. I love how all of the townspeople know things about each other that they shouldn't and don't hide it from anyone. Marin Thomas sure knows how to write a beautiful story that hooks the reader from the very first pages. Her writing is easy to read and really entertains the reader.

[Claire - The Coffeeholic Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this sweet story between a woman searching for her long-lost grandfather and the man who had spent half his life caring for a crabby, short-tempered judge in the town of Marietta. A speed-dating event brought them together, a box of chocolates sweetened the connection and a grumpy old man sealed the deal. If this didn't sound romantically exciting, I don't know how I would call it.

Elena Puente is a first grade school teacher and had had lots of experiences with kids. She's the kind of girl who would give it to you straight, no sugar coating, no holds barred. She says what's on her mind, she doesn't show weakness nor fear, even to the cranky old judge. She isn't easily swayed by her grandfather's cantankerous behavior and she makes sure her voice is heard and taken into consideration.

Wesley Banks joins a speed dating event at Copper Mountain Chocolate shop, hoping to find The One. What he gets is a lady who doesn't want kids and isn't set to start a family in Marietta. Talk about love in opposite ends.

I've grown to love Marietta more and more, even though I know this is just a fictional location in the beautiful state of Montana. But every story I read featuring this place makes me want to reside there and be with the town people. Judge Kingsley is such an interesting character, he could be hot one minute and then so cold the next. His elusiveness made him an engrossing personality. Elena was someone you'd love to be bestfriends with, she is so freaking amazing! And Wesley - he's the one for keeps.

Once again, the Love at the Chocolate Shop series delivered a sweet delicious story and I can't wait to get served again.

[ItaPixie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet Home Cowboy was a nice,cute book.
I've had a very good time reading this story,my heart melted and I couldn't stop smiling till the end.

Elena and Wes are some lovely characters,their chemistry is clear since their first encounter at the chocolate shop but their lives are so different that they have more than one reason to slow down their relationship.
Let me sum up by saying that all is well that ends well.

I loved Elena "take no prisoners" personality,she is so adamant to know her great grandfather and to make him finally feel alive after a long time.

This was one of my favorite story in this series,i hope to read more about Marietta's villagers soon.

[Sophia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet Home Cowboy was an impulse snag. Would you believe it was the title of the series that grabbed my attention? Yep! Love at the Chocolate Shop struck a chord and I was immediately interested.

I learned that Sweet Home Cowboy is book nine in a fun series written by multiple authors. The books are loosely connected by a chocolate shop in small town Montana. I would guess that they all work as standalones because this one certainly did.

The story opens when the heroine discovers unopened letters from her deceased dad's grandfather that her mom hid away. Coming off a relationship break-up and being off work for the summer, he takes this as a good time to hunt down the great-grandfather she knew nothing about until now. She ends up in a quaint small town in Montana ranch country and is inadvertently pulled into a Speed Dating event at the local chocolate shop.

The story could have gotten deep and broody, but actually remained on the light and humorous end of the spectrum. Elena is a determined woman on a quest, but gets sidetracked by a kind-hearted sweet cowboy. I enjoyed this story and its perfect when one is in the mood for a lightly engaging sweet diversion without a lot of conflict. Elena could get a tad bossy and opinionated for my tastes as she basically confronted a grieving old man not giving him time to adjust then takes over his life (all for the good of course). She meant well and it probably needed doing the way that lonely, grieving old man was hiding away so I'll give her props for that.

The romance was a fun one since it began at a speed dating event and then progressed from there. It's fast in actual time and especially after she just ditched a cheating ex, but it worked for this story.

All in all, the romance was as sweet and light as the chocolate and the reunion between family was heartwarming so I was glad to have spotted this one. I can recommend it to contemporary romance fans who want a small town easy-going and light romance.

I rec'd this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

[Coco.V]

💝FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (7/20/2018)!💝

Blurb:
When Marietta newcomer Elena Puente is coerced into attending a speed dating event at the popular Copper Mountain Chocolate Shop, she’s blindsided by a serious attraction to local cowboy, Wesley Banks.

Still recovering from a broken engagement, the first-grade teacher from Las Vegas isn’t looking for romance. She’s in Montana to get to know the great-grandfather she never knew existed until she found some hidden family letters. Judge Kingsley is a grouchy recluse and he’s far from welcoming, but Elena is determined to stay in town long enough to give his neglected estate on Bramble Lane a facelift.

Elena’s resolve to avoid romance is tested when she discovers Wesley is the caretaker of her grandfather’s rural property. Soon, she and the cowboy are attending more speed dating events at the chocolate shop and she’s seeking his advice on how to deal with his ornery boss. Local gossips wager the old Judge will run Elena out of town before anything serious develops between her and Wesley. But Wesley’s a determined man, too, and he’s betting Elena belongs in Marietta forever…with him.

[SheLove2Read]

There's nothing wrong with this book other than that it was just a little too bland for what I wanted to dive into. No rating. DNF.

[Rosemary K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elena is visiting Marietta to meet the great-grandfather that she never knew existed. She's not sure if she'll be welcomed or turned away, but she's willing to take the chance. I liked Elena. She's determined to get to know this reclusive man. What she doesn't expect is to find love. I enjoyed this sweet, emotional story. Wesley is a hard worker who wants to make a difference in the lives of young people. He and Elena form an immediate connection, but there are obstacles that they need to overcome. I hoped that they would be successful. I wanted a HEA. I love visiting Marietta and Sage's Chocolate Shop. The town's people add humor, romance and drama to the story. Marin Thomas made me believe in true love. This book is the perfect addition to Love at the Chocolate Shop series.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read. My comments are my honest opinion.

[Leah · Rating 3 out of 5]

The cover is cute, and the romance is quick and sweet.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet small-town story of love, loss, and healing. Elena is a first-grade teacher who grew up in Las Vegas with a single mother, believing that her mother was the only family she had. When she stumbled on some hidden letters, she discovered that she also has a great-grandfather in the small town of Marietta. When she heads to Marietta to get to know him, that's not all she finds. Elena's arrival in town didn't go exactly as planned. Her rental car broke down outside of town, and when she walked into a local shop to ask for assistance she found herself in the middle of a speed-dating event. Still recovering from her broken engagement, after finding her fiancé cheating, she has no interest in romance. She also can't deny her attraction to the sexy cowboy she met that night.

I liked both Wes and Elena. Wes is charming, good-looking, and fun to be around. He was born and raised in Marietta. After his father's death, Wes got into some trouble that landed him in Judge Kingsley's courtroom. Sentenced to community service instead of juvie, Wesley found himself working on the judge's farm and taking care of a couple of old horses. It wasn't long before he asked to stay on after his sentence was up, and as the years went on, he found a purpose in helping other teenage boys. Wes has also reached the point in his life where he's ready to settle down with a wife and kids if only he could find the right woman. Elena is sweet but determined. Accustomed to dealing with stubborn children, one old man is no match for her. She knows what she wants from her life, and right now she wants to get to know the judge and learn more about her father. She isn't interested in a relationship, especially one with a man who lives in a different state and wants different things.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Wes and Elena. The attraction is there from the start; they just have to decide what to do with it. In the meantime, they partner up in doing the repairs to the judge's house. I enjoyed seeing them get to know each other and share parts of their pasts. I liked seeing them enjoy simple activities together and watching Elena begin to enjoy the pleasures of the small town. Their feelings for each other began to deepen, and Elena discovered that some of her views began to change along with it. Just when things were looking promising, Wes is faced with some insecurities that cause him to pull back from Elena. He got some advice from an unexpected source that opened his eyes to what his future would look like without her in it. I loved his big moment at the end, as he stood up to the judge and for his love for Elena.

A big part of the book was the story of Elena's family. I ached for her mother and what she had been put through because of the judge's attitude. I also felt a bit sorry for him, because of the guilt he felt. He had allowed himself to withdraw from life because of it. I liked seeing Elena pull him out of his isolation and get him to start living again. I also hurt for Elena's mother and her fears over the things the judge might say and do that could hurt the relationship between her and Elena. Hearing what she had been through made me admire her strength and love for her daughter. I loved that she had the courage to come back to Marietta and face the judge. I did get mad at him when he started talking about Elena not living up to her potential, seeing him about to make the same mistake he'd made with Elena's father. I hope he has finally learned his lesson.

[Dawnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

*thanks to NetGalley, the Publishers and the author for giving me a free e-copy of this book in exchange for my always honest and free option of this book!*

Fitting perfectly in with the rest of the books in this series, this was chocolate-y sweetness!
It just had the perfect mixture of bitterness and sugar-y sweetness but also lots of rewarding feelings!

I really enjoyed the main characters Elena and Wes in this one, i enjoyed that both of them knew who they where and what they wanted and what they worked for but that both of them also changed a little bit throughout the story and saw a different site of themselves that they weren't really ready to see before they meet each other. It was just nicely done!

The writing was great, easy to read but perfectly entertaining!

It had a nice mixture of old and this far into the series -well known and loved- characters of the other books as well as the new addition. I love that this book didn't only focus on the two main character and their relationship but that we have the family "drama" added into the mix with the discovery of the grandfather and the history between him and Elena's mother but that also got the added addition of the grandfathers relationships with the rest of the town of Marietta as well as a personal relationship... it just really worked very nicely!

If you enjoy this series? This is a wonderful book as well and i know you guys will enjoy it!

And if you haven't read the series yet?
This one is still a wonderful read and i highly recommend it for anyone that enjoys the nicely written, faced paced but still really well told romance stories.

[Bonnie Gonzales · Rating 4 out of 5]

How Elena and Wes met was real cute,after her rental car broke down she walked into town. She spotted Sage's chocolate shop and went in to buy some chocolates and ask directions to her great grandfathers house, who did not know she existed, she got roped into a speed dating event that was just starting and the guy who had opened the door for her was her first speed date, she asked him if he was a real cowboy? So memories of Urban Cowboy with that line, and I am so into this book.
One of my favorite lines and quote "Everyone deserves a second chance,” he said.
It was what one did with that chance that mattered most. It was Wes saying why he so likes to help the in trouble boys he worked with.
The whole story was well wrote and won my heart from the mean mangy cat to Elena's grumpy great grandfather and her trying to win them over and of course her romance with the Cowboy I was enraptured and was sad to see the book end. Awe tack on another half star it deserves it.

[Fleur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Candy for the soul. That's what jumped into my mind finishing this book.

A quick a easy read. While some people might be irked by the very few details we're given, I actually love how the author just allows us to discover the characters little by little, and become friends with them, instead of bombarding us with irrelevant descriptions in the hope of a good match. I am too often annoyed at a character because they're just too much this or not enough that, but it was pretty easy to like Elena from the start and to follow her around on her journey.

And yes, especially at the beginning, it was just too good to be true, and the horror movie fan in me was yelling at her because that's exactly how it starts, save yourself from this too nice town ! And maybe it was a case of fast love, but who cares ? This is Marietta, lovely town, lovely characters, and I'm leaving you now, I'm moving there in the hope of attending the next Speed Dating night. With chocolates.

[Joann Herley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet Home Cowboy is the first book I have read of this series. Even though it is #9, it was easily read as a standalone. Elena lives in Las Vegas and comes to Montana to meet the great-grandfather she never knew existed. Her first day in town, she meets Wes, and the sweet little romantic story begins. These characters have history, and the author takes the time to allow the reader to get close to them. It was a fun read, and I look forward to reading more of the series.

[Donnajo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily read a advanced readers copy of this book

Book 9 of the Love at the Chocolate shop series Sweet Home Cowboy by Marin Thomas. I really enjoyed this book and so far all the books in this series. Each one brings in some of the past characters with maybe a few ones. Small town storylines.
Can't wait to read future books in this series and more books by this author.

[Runner10 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am loving this series. I recommend starting with book one to fully appreciate the storyline and recurring characters. Elena goes to Marietta, Montana with hopes of connecting with her grandfather. She gets a lot more than what she expected when she meets cowboy Wes. Marin Thomas writes a sweet story and captures the wonderful town of Marietta.

[Denise Stout · Rating 5 out of 5]

As Elena finds her grandfather to unearth the truth while discovering her family roots, she finds romance speed dating the same cowboy, Wesley. They each most overcome differences and let go of the past to find a forever love.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an adorable story that is #9 in the Love at the Chocolate Shop series - one of 12 books by 3 or 4 different authors. Elena, a first grade teacher who resides in Las Vegas, learns that she has a great-grandfather in her deceased father's home town of Marietta, Wyoming who did not know she existed. She accidentally discovers letters from her great-grandfather written to her father, which her mother intercepted so there were lots of family secrets keeping the family apart. This is a story of family ties and connections demonstrating that it is never too late to start anew and true love may be where you least expect it. I recommend this e-Book to readers who want a short story. This one was 163 pages so it is more like a novella. The author of this book is Marin Thomas. This satisfies two of my challenges.

[Mary Baker · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was way too shallow for me. I did finish it because I wanted to see if there was a reconciliation among the characters, but the plot line was weak.

[Monique · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review written: May 30, 2017
Star Rating: ★★★½☆
Heat Rating: ☀☼☼☼☼

An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.

Sweet Home Cowboy really hit a sweet spot for me. I really liked Elena and Wes (previously seen as Brant's friend) is an awesome addition to the Marietta family. Judge Kingsley has been an interesting staple of the Love at the Chocolate Shop series and after some interesting tidbits about him in The Chocolate Touch I was sincerely hoping he'd get a book.

And here in Sweet Home Cowboy we do get his story. Elena, his great grandaughter, has just discovered him and she has come to Marietta to meet him. It's not all sweetness and light in this book which really makes me like it. There is a lot of heavy lifting to do, a lot of hurting heads and hearts which need mending.

As people are mended, so goes the house. As it gets transformed from rundown into beautiful, Elena and Wes and the Judge and Sandra find joy and happiness in each other. The power and beauty in this book is the love that flows all around the Judge and how, finally, he can tap into it and love back after being so afraid and angry and hurt. Even Elena's mother transforms and moves to Marietta.

This book just hit all the right notes for me. I'm holding out for Dylan and Angelica to each get stories of their own now. I've rounded up the 3.5 stars to 4 for Goodreads purposes because I just really enjoyed this book.

This review is ©May 2017 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.

[Marsha Keeper Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf

Sometimes searching for the past can bring us to a future we never expected. Unknown to Elena, her past was securely centered around the small town of Marietta, Montana nestled at the bottom of Copper Mountain. It was where her father had lived his life, right up until he left to be with her mother. After his death she’d believed all the family she now had consisted of her mother and herself – a bundle of unread letters at the bottom of a drawer would prove otherwise. Which is how she found herself now on the outskirts of Marietta standing beside a broken down rental car. A few miles down the road lived the great-grandfather she’d never knew existed, and perhaps answers to questions she never expected to ask.

Who knew that stopping to ask for directions at a deliciously smelling chocolate shop could lead to an impromptu speed dating event, and perhaps the attention of a handsome cowboy. Her first impression of Wes was of laughing, sparkling eyes and then a surprisingly comfortable feeling as they settled into the speed dating venue that was the latest event put on at the Copper Mountain Chocolate Shop. Her visit to her great-grandfather just got a bit more interesting.

Sweet Home Cowboy is a charming romance of two unlikely people discovering slowly that they each make the other’s world a bit brighter, a bit more safe and comfortable. I wouldn’t call their romance a grand passion, but a sweet settling in with that person you instinctively know is right for you. We’ve known Judge Kingsley from almost the beginning of the series, even if we didn’t know his name back then. Retired now, sorta since he still goes into court several days each week, the judge has become an old curmudgeon living in a beautiful but rundown home. It’s as though time has stopped for him at some point, then life simply became a besides the point thing. While his home is perfect for Halloween, it’s far from what Elena expected when she knocked on his door. He certainly isn’t what she expected either. As they discover a relationship between great-granddaughter and great-grandfather, Elena and the judge go through some interesting phases while her relationship with Wes is slowly growing into something more than simply a holiday flirtation.

The general thought that if we don’t learn from the past we are doomed to repeat history is very true in Judge Kingsley’s case. He is about to make the same mistake with Elena that he made with his grandson so many years ago. Now would be a good time to change the past impulses into a more current acceptance of the decisions of his family.

I enjoyed Sweet Home Cowboy very much, there is a naturalness to Elena and Wes’ romance that is both comforting and an exciting adventure waiting to unfold. It’s always fun to run into some of the residents of Marietta again, and this story was no exception to that enjoyment. And the introduction or the re-introduction of Sandra into the judge’s life was a well played fun addition to the story proving that romance is indeed ageless.

I would recommend this story and all of the stories in this series to any Romance reader who enjoys a good, solid love story, a believable main couple with interesting secondary characters – as well as a sense of coming home once again, if you’re addicted to these series based in one wonderful small Montana town.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet Home Cowboy by Marin Thomas

When Marietta newcomer Elena Puente is coerced into attending a speed dating event at the popular Copper Mountain Chocolate Shop, she’s blindsided by a serious attraction to local cowboy, Wesley Banks.

Still recovering from a broken engagement, the first-grade teacher from Las Vegas isn’t looking for romance. She’s in Montana to get to know the great-grandfather she never knew existed until she found some hidden family letters. Judge Kingsley is a grouchy recluse and he’s far from welcoming, but Elena is determined to stay in town long enough to give his neglected estate on Bramble Lane a facelift.

Elena’s resolve to avoid romance is tested when she discovers Wesley is the caretaker of her grandfather’s rural property. Soon, she and the cowboy are attending more speed dating events at the chocolate shop and she’s seeking his advice on how to deal with his ornery boss. Local gossips wager the old Judge will run Elena out of town before anything serious develops between her and Wesley. But Wesley’s a determined man, too, and he’s betting Elena belongs in Marietta forever…with him
this is Wesley Banks and Elena Puente's story.
If Elena Kingsley was a first grader instead of a first-grade teacher, being stranded on the side of the road would be the beginning of a grand summer adventure instead of a grand annoyance.

White smoke escaped from beneath the hood of the rental car, but calling for a tow was out of the question. She cursed her stupidity for leaving her phone charger plugged into an outlet at the Denver airport.
“What’s your last name, Wesley?” Elena asked.

“Banks,” he said. ““Born and raised on a ranch north of Livingston. “Do you live on your family’s ranch?”

“No. I’m the caretaker of a rural property outside of Marietta. “Favorite hobby?”

“Skiing.”

A cowboy who skied? Interesting.A moment later, he returned with a glass of water. The man wasn’t only good-looking—he was considerate, too. “Thank you.” She locked gazes with him as she gulped it down.

“Would you like to try a chocolate?” Wes held the plate out and waited for her to select a piece, then helped himself. Before he had a chance to sample Sage’s latest recipe.
I highly recommend reading.
Sweet Home Cowboy by Marin Thomas is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."

Love at the Chocolate Shop
Love blooms in and around the Copper Mountain Chocolate shop of Marietta, Montana in a twelve book series featuring authors C.J. Carmichael, Melissa McClone, Debra Salonen, Roxanne Snopek, Marin Thomas and Steena Holmes.

Book 1
Melt My Heart, Cowboy
by CJ Carmichael


Book 2
A Thankful Heart
by Melissa McClone


Book 3
Montana Secret Santa
by Debra Salonen


Book 4
The Chocolate Cure
by Roxanne Snopek


Book 5
The Valentine Quest
by Melissa McClone


Book 6
Charmed by Chocolate
by Steena Holmes


Book 7
The Chocolate Comeback
by Roxanne Snopek


Book 8
The Chocolate Touch
by Melissa McClone


Book 9
Sweet Home Cowboy
by Marin Thomas

Book 10: Sweet Summer’s Kiss by Debra Salonen Coming Soon
The rest of the Love at the Chocolate Shop is coming soon!

[dp · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first book from the Love at the Chocolate Shop series and I thought it was a cute story. This was a pretty big variation in my reading choice. I normally don’t read romance-y books and definitely not western’s but this was light on the western romance. I thought it was entertaining and quick to read – perfect for summertime sitting poolside or at the beach.

I really liked Elena, the tenacious great-granddaughter of stubborn old Judge. Her persistence in forging a relationship with the man she only recently learned about was admirable. And then there’s Wes, the good looking cowboy who with the help of Judge turned himself around and helps the local kids fly right. Elena and Wes meet at the Copper Mountain Chocolate shop speed dating event. The attraction between them is immediate and fierce but Elena isn’t in town for romance and they both want different things from a relationship. Elena is a Grade 1 teacher and after caring for kids all day long doesn’t believe she would have anything left to give a child of her own. Wes, on the other hand, wants children.

Small town life in Marietta, Montana is quite different from the bustle of Las Vegas and Elena isn’t accustomed to everyone knowing her business. The story is flanked by plenty of local color from Sandra, the boutique owner and neighbour of the Judge’s, who has a crush on him, to Rosie at the chocolate shop and finally the DJ at the local radio station who tells all of Marietta that Elena is in town.

I enjoyed Sweet Home Cowboy. It was a refreshing change of pace and an uplifting story. I was rooting for Elena and Wes to live happily ever after from the start. Did I get my wish? You will have to read the book for yourself! I look forward to reading more from Love at the Chocolate Shop series.

Thank you to Netgalley and Tule Publishing for giving me a free ARC in exchange for my own unbiased review.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Completely sweet, completely wonderful!

Wes was the typical tall, dark, and handsome of a Montana cowboy and Elena was a straight-talking, determined school teacher with a kind soul. I loved them both, but Elena most. Elena didn't play games, she was honest and clear about her wants and needs. I respect and truly enjoy women like that. No subterfuge, no games, no evasion, no guile. Wes was a bit insecure, but he leaned so heavily on the opinion of the judge that he almost let it ruin his chances with Elena. He pulled it out in the end, though, because he was earnest and came to his senses in time to keep her. They were truly good together and I look forward to seeing them around the town as I read more as the series progresses.

The judge was a crotchety old man who tried to disguise his generosity behind surliness because he had years and years of loss weighing on him. With Elena's bright outlook and a desire to connect with him he came out of his shell bit by bit to find peace and his own happiness going forward.

I was very glad for the town's members to only be involved in the periphery this time. In the previous novel, The Chocolate Touch, they were intrusive and judgmental without remorse. Here they were general busybodies with good hearts and better intentions. They interfered just the right amount and brought a sense of belonging to Elena who was needing a good home.

Overall, I loved reading this one and found myself smiling while reading the interactions and confessions. I gladly read and reviewed an ARC of this book from Hidden Gems.

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Sweet Home Cowboy by Marin Thomas, book nine in the Love at the Chocolate Shop series. Las Vegas teacher Elena Puente discovered hidden letters giving away that she had a great-grandfather living in Marietta, Montana. Since her father died before she was born and her mother had no family, she knew she had to meet this one and only relative. As she enters Marietta, she accidently walks in on the start of the Speed Dating event at Sage’s Chocolate Shop and convinced to stay by Wesley Banks. Wesley is a cowboy, ranch manger, oversees delinquent teens, and handyman to Judge Kingsley. The Judge is a curmudgeon, never accepting help and not wanting to be seen. He also happens to be Elena’s long lost great-grandfather. I loved how Wesley and Elena felt an attraction from the start yet accepted each other’s differences. I also admired the way Elena stood up to her great-grandfather and getting him to see the importance of fixing up his run-down house. The fact that both Elena and Wesley told the Judge that love surpassed family expectations. These two were perfect for each other.

This was an enjoyable book with likeable and authentic characters. I really enjoyed reading this book and had trouble putting this book down, reading it in one day. Ms. Thomas drew me in and did not let go until I read the last page. I highly recommend this book to other readers and I for one look forward to the next book in this series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Book Gannet · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was just as the title promised: sweet. Elena is on a mission to get to know her great-grandfather, who she’s recently discovered is alive, while Wesley is living his life, helping out teens and looking after a grumpy old man. Everyone is nice, even if some are a little bad at showing it, the chocolate shop provides a fun meeting place and the whole thing is enjoyable.

Elena is a determined woman. She might not have all the facts about her father and what happened with the judge, but that’s not about to stop her from getting to know him. I liked how she persevered, even against some stubborn, grumpy odds. I’m not entirely sure why she and Wes kept going speed dating, though. I know it kept the connection with the chocolate shop, and provided some amusing moments, but it seemed a bit daft.

I liked Wesley too. He might seem laid back and a bit aimless, but he does have plans. True, I could see from very early on where the plot was heading and I wish both he and Elena had considered certain things from the past, but they make a very cute couple.

The only thing I didn’t like was the issue of children and how that was resolved. It could have been refreshing, instead it was pointless.

Overall, though, this is cute. If you’re looking for something light and easy, give this a go. The characters are nice, the romance is sweet and the whole thing makes for an enjoyable, undemanding read.

(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)

[Janine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another wonderful addition to the "Love at the Chocolate Shop" series.

With vivid descriptions the of the town of Marietta, Montana and the people who live there, you'll feel like your catching up with old friends.

When Elena Puentes discovers letters that her Mother had hidden away, she decides it time for a trip to Marietta, Montana to meet her great grandfather, Judge Alistair Kingsley. Elena’s first stop in town was Copper Mountain Chocolates where she walks in on a speed dating event and meets Wes Banks, a local cowboy, who she later finds out works for Judge Kingsley. When she goes to meet Judge Kingsley, she finds him to be a grumpy old man with an equally grumpy guard cat and a house in disrepair.

Elena decides she wants to help fix up Alistair’s home and Wes is more than happy to help out. They soon find themselves falling in love, but they can’t seem to figure out how it can work as they both live in different states and have different views on family.

The story is about discovering your roots, finding love and place to call home. I enjoyed this book a lot. The characters were detailed very well and the story moved along at a good pace. It's a great series that I would recommend to anyone who loves a good clean romance. I look forward to reading the next book.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elena finds out a family secret and sets off on a journey to find answers. When she stubbles into a speed dating situation she goes with it, I mean whats the worse that can happen right. Wesley is ready to get married have kids and live an amazing life, just one problem he can't find a women that wants the same. When his boss' granddaughter catches his eye it seems that they both are going different ways in life but he wonders if only. Will they both get what they are looking for or will they both find themselves at an impasse?

I love all things Marrietta Montana, and this book did not disappoint at all. I felt like Elena was willing for bring the pass to the for front to find healing no matter what brick walls she was hitting. I loved her and her take no prisoner attitude she was just cocky enough that you find your self saying "wow this girl has no filter and I love it". I loved how Wes did not take much either. He had this loving, kind spirit in the book and you just found yourself truly connecting with them and they feel like they are friends not characters in books. I so loved this sweet story and I wanted so much more because the story was just that amazing. The author did an amazing job at letting the story flow and getting you sucked in. You can not go wrong with this book super fun and super clean read.