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Smokin’ Hot Cowboys #3
A Very Cowboy Christmas
There's nothing like a firefighting cowboy to keep you toasty warm this Christmas...
Christmas is coming up, and single mom Sydney Steele is determined to make this a holiday to remember for Wildcat Bluff County. She still has to get those pesky, reluctant-and deliciously attractive-firefighting cowboys to pose for her charity calendar. They claim they're too busy pursuing an unknown arsonist to take a break.
Dune Barrett has been flirting with Sydney for months, so he jumps at the chance to give her a hand. And when he agrees to pose as Mr. December, she couldn't be happier. But to really win her over, Dune will have to convince eleven other guys from his crew to exploit their good looks for charity...a task much easier said than done.
Christmas is coming up, and single mom Sydney Steele is determined to make this a holiday to remember for Wildcat Bluff County. She still has to get those pesky, reluctant-and deliciously attractive-firefighting cowboys to pose for her charity calendar. They claim they're too busy pursuing an unknown arsonist to take a break.
Dune Barrett has been flirting with Sydney for months, so he jumps at the chance to give her a hand. And when he agrees to pose as Mr. December, she couldn't be happier. But to really win her over, Dune will have to convince eleven other guys from his crew to exploit their good looks for charity...a task much easier said than done.
394 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 3, 2017
28 people are currently reading
730 people want to read
About the author
Kim Redford
10 books147 followersKim Redford is an acclaimed bestselling author of Western romance novels. She grew up in Texas with cowboys, cowgirls, horses, cattle, and rodeos for inspiration. She divides her time between homes in Texas and Oklahoma, where she’s a rescue cat wrangler and horseback rider—when she takes a break from her keyboard. Visit her at http://www.kimredford.com.
“Scorching, and flavored with just a hint of sweet innocence. Add in the distilled essence of a perfect small town, and this tale will melt even the iciest heart.” -Publishers Weekly Starred Review
“Vividly written firefighting scenes, rich cast of characters and folksy charm, A Cowboy Firefighter for Christmas will keep you warm and toasty and entertained in a big—and I mean Texas big—way.” —USA Today Happily Ever After
“Scorching, and flavored with just a hint of sweet innocence. Add in the distilled essence of a perfect small town, and this tale will melt even the iciest heart.” -Publishers Weekly Starred Review
“Vividly written firefighting scenes, rich cast of characters and folksy charm, A Cowboy Firefighter for Christmas will keep you warm and toasty and entertained in a big—and I mean Texas big—way.” —USA Today Happily Ever After
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September 27, 2017
RATING 3.5 STARS
A Very Cowboy Christmas is book three in the Smokin’ Hot Cowboys series by Kim Redford.
Sydney Steele has been a widow for two years now and is a single mother to her eight year old daughter, Storm. She misses her husband every day. He was in the military, deployed and never came home. Her daughter is still having problems from the loss. Sydney loves Christmas and is determined to make this the best Christmas ever. She is a volunteer firefighter and as a way to raise much needed funds, she is trying to put together a calendar featuring the oh so hot cowboy firefighters she works with but they have been pretty hard to pin down with the photo shoot. At the same time, she is planning a huge Christmas festival at the newly renovated Sure-Shot Drive-in. The drive-in has been decorated all in retro fashion so in keeping with the theme, Sydney is going retro, from her clothes to driving around in her hot pink 1959 Cadillac.
But when her caddy stops running on the side of the road, who comes to her rescue but fellow firefighter, Dune Barrett. Dune has been flirting with her for months. She has to admit that he is pretty easy on the eyes but after the loss of her husband, she has never moved forward, just kind of stayed in limbo. When Dune realizes how over loaded Sydney is with her projects, he pledges that he will help her with everything, take some of the burden off her shoulders. The more time they spend together, the harder it is for her to avoid her feelings. Maybe this Christmas it is time for her to finally move forward with her life. Maybe it is finally time to love again.
Dune has been wanting to get closer to Sydney for months now. But Dune has pain in his past as well. He lost someone important to him and he has never been able to let it go. For the first time, though, he feels like he wants to. Sydney and her little girl feel like family. They feel like home.
At the same time, though, an arsonist has been at work in town. Will they be able to catch him before he hurts someone? Before he burns down the brand new drive-in?
This was such a sweet and sexy story. The only reason I didn’t give it four stars is because I struggled a bit with the dialogue. It just seemed a bit formal, somewhat awkward at times. I loved both Dune and Sydney and they were cute together but the awkwardness of the dialogue kind of took some of that connection away for me.
With that being said, this was still a sweet Christmas story. I loved the drive-in and would have loved to go to such a festival. The author made me want to live in a town like this. I haven’t read the first two books in this series and still want to. Perhaps it would have helped my enjoyment of this one if I had read those first.
A Very Cowboy Christmas is book three in the Smokin’ Hot Cowboys series by Kim Redford.
Sydney Steele has been a widow for two years now and is a single mother to her eight year old daughter, Storm. She misses her husband every day. He was in the military, deployed and never came home. Her daughter is still having problems from the loss. Sydney loves Christmas and is determined to make this the best Christmas ever. She is a volunteer firefighter and as a way to raise much needed funds, she is trying to put together a calendar featuring the oh so hot cowboy firefighters she works with but they have been pretty hard to pin down with the photo shoot. At the same time, she is planning a huge Christmas festival at the newly renovated Sure-Shot Drive-in. The drive-in has been decorated all in retro fashion so in keeping with the theme, Sydney is going retro, from her clothes to driving around in her hot pink 1959 Cadillac.
But when her caddy stops running on the side of the road, who comes to her rescue but fellow firefighter, Dune Barrett. Dune has been flirting with her for months. She has to admit that he is pretty easy on the eyes but after the loss of her husband, she has never moved forward, just kind of stayed in limbo. When Dune realizes how over loaded Sydney is with her projects, he pledges that he will help her with everything, take some of the burden off her shoulders. The more time they spend together, the harder it is for her to avoid her feelings. Maybe this Christmas it is time for her to finally move forward with her life. Maybe it is finally time to love again.
Dune has been wanting to get closer to Sydney for months now. But Dune has pain in his past as well. He lost someone important to him and he has never been able to let it go. For the first time, though, he feels like he wants to. Sydney and her little girl feel like family. They feel like home.
At the same time, though, an arsonist has been at work in town. Will they be able to catch him before he hurts someone? Before he burns down the brand new drive-in?
This was such a sweet and sexy story. The only reason I didn’t give it four stars is because I struggled a bit with the dialogue. It just seemed a bit formal, somewhat awkward at times. I loved both Dune and Sydney and they were cute together but the awkwardness of the dialogue kind of took some of that connection away for me.
With that being said, this was still a sweet Christmas story. I loved the drive-in and would have loved to go to such a festival. The author made me want to live in a town like this. I haven’t read the first two books in this series and still want to. Perhaps it would have helped my enjoyment of this one if I had read those first.
July 11, 2017
After having read the second book in the series, and enjoying it, I was disappointed in this one. The writing felt forced with characters not acting naturally. The dialogue was stilted, with some of the scenarios unbelievable and unrealistic.
I not ready to give up on the series just yet and look forward to the next book.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and Netgally, I am voluntary providing my honest review.
I not ready to give up on the series just yet and look forward to the next book.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and Netgally, I am voluntary providing my honest review.
dnf
October 5, 2017Calling it quits at 24%. The writing is overblown, the pace is glacial, and I just don't care if the h and h hook up.
January 26, 2019
WHY RIDE A HORSE OR A COWBOY WHEN YOU CAN DRIVE A FLASHY 1959 PINK CADILLAC CONVERTIBLE NAMED CELESTE!?! lol...
Title: A Very Cowboy Christmas
Series: Smokin' Hot Cowboys
Author: Kim Redford
Designation: Book 3 of Series, Full-Length Novel (Approx 375 pages), Standalone Contemporary Romance, NO Cliffhanger #cowboyfirefighter #cowgirlfirefighter #smallwesterntownsaga #coworkers #grievingwidow #singlemother #brokenlovableroguishhero
My Rating: Five Sexy Stars*****
OH MY! I loved, loved, loved A Very Cowboy Christmas, the third smokin' hot release in the Smokin' Hot Cowboys Series by Kim Redford! lol... Yeah, I realize that statement is a little redundant but I just couldn't resist making a little pun. A few weeks ago, I found Kim Redford through a free promotion for the first book of this series, A Cowboy Firefighter for Christmas, and fell in love with her sultry style, passionate prose, and endearing characters, so much so that I raced back to Amazon and purchased the other two ebooks currently available in the series. Best decision ever! That alone is quite a recommendation because I'm very selective about what I read and review. But I may as well be totally honest, folks, Redford had me at smokin' hot cowboys and firefighter. Just kidding! (Totally not kidding!) lol... I'm so in love with the town/county of Wildcat Bluff and its entire community along with the two protagonists of this story, swoony retired rodeo cowboy and current ranch hand at Cougar Ranch, Dune Barrett, and beautiful, spunky cowgirl Sydney Steele. There was so much I truly enjoyed about this story, especially the real-life history of Wildcat Bluff Texas and its former Comanche residents that Redford skillfully wove into the storyline. In A Very Cowboy Christmas, Redford expands her Wildcat Bluff world and takes readers to Sure-Shot, another small town in Wildcat Bluff County, which was apparently named in honor of Little Miss Sure Shot, Annie Oakley. But my favorite component of this heartwarming love story was the large cast of endearing and completely relatable characters. I was immediately smitten with handsome, roguish, rolling-stone, former rodeo cowboy Dune Barrett, currently working as a ranch hand at Cougar Ranch and volunteer cowboy firefighter. Dune Barrett rolled into Wildcat Bluff 6 months ago, asking his friend Kent Duval for a job and a place to lick his wounds after a life-altering tragedy. Dune was just the cat's meow and made all the ladies swoon, including me! Unfortunately, Dune wasn't interested in ever settling down with one woman again (oops, slight spoiler), but he was very interested in a roll in the hay with one particular Wildcat Bluff cowgirl - beautiful, feisty fellow volunteer firefighter Sydney Steele. But the independent, hardworking, widowed Sydney Steele wasn't interested in a quick fling with the gorgeous, sexy Dune Barrett! Or any other man, for that matter. She lost the love of her life two years ago when he was killed in the Middle East while serving his country. Her 8-year-old daughter, Storm, came first in her life and always would. Nope, she didn't need a man in her life. Sydney, her mother, grandmother, daughter, and brother Slade were doing just fine working their family ranch, Steele Trap, and running their family business, The Chuckwagon Cafe. Dune Barrett may make her heart flutter uncontrollably and she might be slightly attracted to him (okay, a lot attracted), but she would never dishonor her deceased husband's memory by allowing anyone else in her bed or her heart. But you know what they say - never say never. The heart wants what the heart wants, no matter what our head tells us. Sydney was so smart, sassy, spunky, hard-working, selfless, and determined, but my heart broke for her. And Dune...his story just gutted me. Dune's flirty manner was covering a world of hurt.
Dune and Sydney both were still reeling from broken hearts, but when Dune volunteers to help Sydney with the volunteer firefighter calendar fundraiser and the new Sure-Shot Christmas celebration, sparks fly - literally! Dune and Sydney find themselves working long hours together to make Christmas at the Sure-Shot Drive-In a success, and soon discover they have much more in common than they ever dreamed. Their chemistry was off the charts hot and their interaction with each other was sexy, entertaining, and so much fun. I loved the scenes at the newly restored Sure-Shot Drive-In snack shack (aka 'The Passion Pit'-lol) with the jukebox and them dancing to the oldies. Unchained Melody has always been one of my favorite songs! Sigh... I could feel the sparks flying between Dune and Sydney, and it was heartwrenching to witness their inner turmoil and emotional tug of war. And Sydney's daughter, Storm, was just adorable! And the cherry on top of this perfect love story was Celeste, a 1959 pink Cadillac convertible in mint condition with cowboy bullhorn hood ornaments! This story was just so sweet, so sexy, and soooo heartwarming! No spoilers from me but I will say this... Sexy, handsome, charismatic, and very lonely cowboy firefighter reeling from a tragic loss and seemingly content with his rolling stone lifestyle, but suddenly finds himself wanting to put down roots-check! Beautiful, independent, kindhearted, and hardworking widowed cowgirl determined to make a good life for her daughter-check! A super cool 1959 pink Cadillac Convertible named Celeste-check! A wonderful close-knit community of colorful, engaging, and endearing characters-check! Another wonderful Christmas celebration and parade-check! A dangerous, mysterious firebug wreaking havoc throughout the community-check! A little mystery, a dash of suspense, a splash of humor, a generous pinch of angst, and a whole lot of steamy romance- you bet! That and a whole lot more!
Did I like this book? No, I LOVED it! There was so much I adored about this story. The narrative was beautifully written in the third person with clearly defined his and her perspectives. The dialogue was smart, snappy, natural, well executed, and flowed effortlessly. But my absolute favorite component was the large cast of well-developed characters who literally exploded from the pages,, demanded your undivided attention, captured your heart, and held you prisoner from beginning to end. I found them to be realistic, engaging, and endearing, and I'm quite sure we'll be seeing many of them in future books. I loved the fictional world/community of Wildcat Bluff County that Redford created for this series. Although the town and characters of the story may be fictional, I discovered that Wildcat Bluff is a real place and the rich history of the area shared in this book is actually true! And Redford did a fabulous job of weaving it into her story. I particularly enjoyed Redford's writing style. Her vividly detailed descriptions of the town, its residents, and the surrounding countryside were masterfully written. I found myself immediately immersed in the story and compelled to keep turning each page. Although the storyline does include an underlying interconnected plot element (the firebug) that continues throughout the series, each book can easily be read as a standalone with its very own happy-ever-after, but for maximum enjoyment, I highly recommend reading the books sequentially. As I stated earlier, there is a little mystery and suspense, but it's not the main element. The primary focus is the romantic journey of two lonely people finding love and the obstacles they must overcome to secure their happy ending. Will I read this author again? Absolutely! In fact, after finishing the first book, I raced back and purchased the next two of the series. Would I recommend it? You bet, and I am but for adult readers. There's no profanity, but it is steamy and does contain several tastefully written sex scenes. Redford's writing may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it is mine. I prefer a book I can settle in with, sink my teeth into, and really get to know the characters, and that's exactly what this author delivered. Redford's books are not for people who want to devour a book in a couple of hours but rather for those folks who enjoy savoring the words. You don't gulp fine whiskey; you sip it, swirl it, relish it, and appreciate the taste. I'm almost 70 years young and have been an avid reader for 65 of those years. It takes something truly extraordinary to impress me and I'm truly impressed by Redford's work. And finally, was I entertained? Completely! I giggled, snickered, snorted, sniffled, and sighed through the entire story but by the end, I was happy, satisfied, and well entertained. Fabulous entertainment and an awesome read!
**Side note for anyone following this series: We do learn the identity of the mysterious firebug in this book, but more importantly, we discover whether Hedy will finally agree to see Bert's Bluebird of Happiness Collection! Thank you, Kim Redford! lol... No spoilers from me! You'll just have to read the book!
Title: A Very Cowboy Christmas
Series: Smokin' Hot Cowboys
Author: Kim Redford
Designation: Book 3 of Series, Full-Length Novel (Approx 375 pages), Standalone Contemporary Romance, NO Cliffhanger #cowboyfirefighter #cowgirlfirefighter #smallwesterntownsaga #coworkers #grievingwidow #singlemother #brokenlovableroguishhero
My Rating: Five Sexy Stars*****
OH MY! I loved, loved, loved A Very Cowboy Christmas, the third smokin' hot release in the Smokin' Hot Cowboys Series by Kim Redford! lol... Yeah, I realize that statement is a little redundant but I just couldn't resist making a little pun. A few weeks ago, I found Kim Redford through a free promotion for the first book of this series, A Cowboy Firefighter for Christmas, and fell in love with her sultry style, passionate prose, and endearing characters, so much so that I raced back to Amazon and purchased the other two ebooks currently available in the series. Best decision ever! That alone is quite a recommendation because I'm very selective about what I read and review. But I may as well be totally honest, folks, Redford had me at smokin' hot cowboys and firefighter. Just kidding! (Totally not kidding!) lol... I'm so in love with the town/county of Wildcat Bluff and its entire community along with the two protagonists of this story, swoony retired rodeo cowboy and current ranch hand at Cougar Ranch, Dune Barrett, and beautiful, spunky cowgirl Sydney Steele. There was so much I truly enjoyed about this story, especially the real-life history of Wildcat Bluff Texas and its former Comanche residents that Redford skillfully wove into the storyline. In A Very Cowboy Christmas, Redford expands her Wildcat Bluff world and takes readers to Sure-Shot, another small town in Wildcat Bluff County, which was apparently named in honor of Little Miss Sure Shot, Annie Oakley. But my favorite component of this heartwarming love story was the large cast of endearing and completely relatable characters. I was immediately smitten with handsome, roguish, rolling-stone, former rodeo cowboy Dune Barrett, currently working as a ranch hand at Cougar Ranch and volunteer cowboy firefighter. Dune Barrett rolled into Wildcat Bluff 6 months ago, asking his friend Kent Duval for a job and a place to lick his wounds after a life-altering tragedy. Dune was just the cat's meow and made all the ladies swoon, including me! Unfortunately, Dune wasn't interested in ever settling down with one woman again (oops, slight spoiler), but he was very interested in a roll in the hay with one particular Wildcat Bluff cowgirl - beautiful, feisty fellow volunteer firefighter Sydney Steele. But the independent, hardworking, widowed Sydney Steele wasn't interested in a quick fling with the gorgeous, sexy Dune Barrett! Or any other man, for that matter. She lost the love of her life two years ago when he was killed in the Middle East while serving his country. Her 8-year-old daughter, Storm, came first in her life and always would. Nope, she didn't need a man in her life. Sydney, her mother, grandmother, daughter, and brother Slade were doing just fine working their family ranch, Steele Trap, and running their family business, The Chuckwagon Cafe. Dune Barrett may make her heart flutter uncontrollably and she might be slightly attracted to him (okay, a lot attracted), but she would never dishonor her deceased husband's memory by allowing anyone else in her bed or her heart. But you know what they say - never say never. The heart wants what the heart wants, no matter what our head tells us. Sydney was so smart, sassy, spunky, hard-working, selfless, and determined, but my heart broke for her. And Dune...his story just gutted me. Dune's flirty manner was covering a world of hurt.
Dune and Sydney both were still reeling from broken hearts, but when Dune volunteers to help Sydney with the volunteer firefighter calendar fundraiser and the new Sure-Shot Christmas celebration, sparks fly - literally! Dune and Sydney find themselves working long hours together to make Christmas at the Sure-Shot Drive-In a success, and soon discover they have much more in common than they ever dreamed. Their chemistry was off the charts hot and their interaction with each other was sexy, entertaining, and so much fun. I loved the scenes at the newly restored Sure-Shot Drive-In snack shack (aka 'The Passion Pit'-lol) with the jukebox and them dancing to the oldies. Unchained Melody has always been one of my favorite songs! Sigh... I could feel the sparks flying between Dune and Sydney, and it was heartwrenching to witness their inner turmoil and emotional tug of war. And Sydney's daughter, Storm, was just adorable! And the cherry on top of this perfect love story was Celeste, a 1959 pink Cadillac convertible in mint condition with cowboy bullhorn hood ornaments! This story was just so sweet, so sexy, and soooo heartwarming! No spoilers from me but I will say this... Sexy, handsome, charismatic, and very lonely cowboy firefighter reeling from a tragic loss and seemingly content with his rolling stone lifestyle, but suddenly finds himself wanting to put down roots-check! Beautiful, independent, kindhearted, and hardworking widowed cowgirl determined to make a good life for her daughter-check! A super cool 1959 pink Cadillac Convertible named Celeste-check! A wonderful close-knit community of colorful, engaging, and endearing characters-check! Another wonderful Christmas celebration and parade-check! A dangerous, mysterious firebug wreaking havoc throughout the community-check! A little mystery, a dash of suspense, a splash of humor, a generous pinch of angst, and a whole lot of steamy romance- you bet! That and a whole lot more!
Did I like this book? No, I LOVED it! There was so much I adored about this story. The narrative was beautifully written in the third person with clearly defined his and her perspectives. The dialogue was smart, snappy, natural, well executed, and flowed effortlessly. But my absolute favorite component was the large cast of well-developed characters who literally exploded from the pages,, demanded your undivided attention, captured your heart, and held you prisoner from beginning to end. I found them to be realistic, engaging, and endearing, and I'm quite sure we'll be seeing many of them in future books. I loved the fictional world/community of Wildcat Bluff County that Redford created for this series. Although the town and characters of the story may be fictional, I discovered that Wildcat Bluff is a real place and the rich history of the area shared in this book is actually true! And Redford did a fabulous job of weaving it into her story. I particularly enjoyed Redford's writing style. Her vividly detailed descriptions of the town, its residents, and the surrounding countryside were masterfully written. I found myself immediately immersed in the story and compelled to keep turning each page. Although the storyline does include an underlying interconnected plot element (the firebug) that continues throughout the series, each book can easily be read as a standalone with its very own happy-ever-after, but for maximum enjoyment, I highly recommend reading the books sequentially. As I stated earlier, there is a little mystery and suspense, but it's not the main element. The primary focus is the romantic journey of two lonely people finding love and the obstacles they must overcome to secure their happy ending. Will I read this author again? Absolutely! In fact, after finishing the first book, I raced back and purchased the next two of the series. Would I recommend it? You bet, and I am but for adult readers. There's no profanity, but it is steamy and does contain several tastefully written sex scenes. Redford's writing may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it is mine. I prefer a book I can settle in with, sink my teeth into, and really get to know the characters, and that's exactly what this author delivered. Redford's books are not for people who want to devour a book in a couple of hours but rather for those folks who enjoy savoring the words. You don't gulp fine whiskey; you sip it, swirl it, relish it, and appreciate the taste. I'm almost 70 years young and have been an avid reader for 65 of those years. It takes something truly extraordinary to impress me and I'm truly impressed by Redford's work. And finally, was I entertained? Completely! I giggled, snickered, snorted, sniffled, and sighed through the entire story but by the end, I was happy, satisfied, and well entertained. Fabulous entertainment and an awesome read!
**Side note for anyone following this series: We do learn the identity of the mysterious firebug in this book, but more importantly, we discover whether Hedy will finally agree to see Bert's Bluebird of Happiness Collection! Thank you, Kim Redford! lol... No spoilers from me! You'll just have to read the book!
December 25, 2017
MY RATING: 3/5 STARS
I was provided a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
A Very Cowboy Christmas tells the story of how a single man manages to convince a very smokin' hot cowboy to model for a calendar she is making to raise money for a fundraiser she's taken part of. The premise of the book does sound pretty interesting. I mean, Mr. December? A firefighter calendar? What else more can we ask for?
I really liked Sydney as a character because she loved anything retro. She had this certain quirk about her that made you like her. She always dressed really well and just seemed like such a warm person that our main hero, Dune really needed in his life.
Dune was just a typical guy. He wasn't a womanizer but you could tell he had no problem with getting anyone's phone number including yours. I'm just saying. I didn't have much thought about him until we learned more about his tragic backstory involving the death of his fellow colleague and ex-lover.
Overall, the story developed strongly. The only reason why I rated this book a weak 3/5 stars was because there was nothing that really kept my interest. I didn't see much that made me want to stay and enjoy the ride and that's why I ended up skimming majority of this book. I don't regret it but this one wasn't for me simply because it wasn't my style. It might be yours but not mine. I also don't like cowboys so maybe I should have never held my hopes for it.
MY RECOMMENDATION
I recommend this book to anyone who likes cowboys. I'm sure you'll enjoy this one.
I was provided a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
A Very Cowboy Christmas tells the story of how a single man manages to convince a very smokin' hot cowboy to model for a calendar she is making to raise money for a fundraiser she's taken part of. The premise of the book does sound pretty interesting. I mean, Mr. December? A firefighter calendar? What else more can we ask for?
I really liked Sydney as a character because she loved anything retro. She had this certain quirk about her that made you like her. She always dressed really well and just seemed like such a warm person that our main hero, Dune really needed in his life.
Dune was just a typical guy. He wasn't a womanizer but you could tell he had no problem with getting anyone's phone number including yours. I'm just saying. I didn't have much thought about him until we learned more about his tragic backstory involving the death of his fellow colleague and ex-lover.
Overall, the story developed strongly. The only reason why I rated this book a weak 3/5 stars was because there was nothing that really kept my interest. I didn't see much that made me want to stay and enjoy the ride and that's why I ended up skimming majority of this book. I don't regret it but this one wasn't for me simply because it wasn't my style. It might be yours but not mine. I also don't like cowboys so maybe I should have never held my hopes for it.
MY RECOMMENDATION
I recommend this book to anyone who likes cowboys. I'm sure you'll enjoy this one.
October 4, 2017
A Very Cowboy Christmas (Smokin' Hot Cowboys) by Kim Redford
Kim Redford chases the chill away with her cuddle worthy firefighters. A Very Cowboy Christmas is better than any fiery chestnuts, sweeter than a barrel full of cocoa and warmer than the heaviest quilt. Dune and Sydney are a seductive combination of flirty and flashy that quickly morphs into brash and sassy. From the inside out this group of hot men give new meaning to toasty.
Kim Redford chases the chill away with her cuddle worthy firefighters. A Very Cowboy Christmas is better than any fiery chestnuts, sweeter than a barrel full of cocoa and warmer than the heaviest quilt. Dune and Sydney are a seductive combination of flirty and flashy that quickly morphs into brash and sassy. From the inside out this group of hot men give new meaning to toasty.
December 25, 2017
You know wasn’t horrible wasn’t great just a basic book that was easy to read after a horrible semester and finals
August 30, 2017
Kim Redford's Smokin' Hot Cowboys novels started with the Christmas story, A Cowboy Firefighter for Christmas, followed by Blazing Hot Cowboy, another cowboy firefighter story set in North Texas near the Red River. Now she has written A Very Cowboy Christmas, in many ways my favorite so far. The cowboy firefighters of Wildcat Bluff, Texas have two challenges now, fighting fires set by an arsonist and posing for a fire-rescue charity Cowboy Firefighter calendar. A love story that Redford weaves into the plot is at the center of the tale. I found the characters to be well drawn, engaging, and intriguing. All together, a delightful, fun to read story, perfect for Christmas (or anytime) reading, in my opinion. Recommended.
October 21, 2017
Sydney needs serious help planning a holiday fundraiser. Sexy, hot cowboy firefighters in a holiday calendar. A great way to raise much needed funds and providing a little eye candy as a treat. Dune decides to help and feel the level of usefulness he feels is lacking in his life. This is a step towards healing from a tragic incident in his past. Will they heal the other and allow them to move on? I was desperate to find out.
August 27, 2017
I had a really difficult time reading this novel. There were sections I really enjoyed, but they mainly surrounded Sydney's family. There wasn't enough tension for me. It's a cute story about two people falling in love, but i prefer thatt the characters go through a lot more internal (and environmental) issues. In this novel the arson issues just wasn't enough.
December 14, 2017
I absolutely loved the first novel in this series, A Cowboy Firefighter for Christmas, and I gave it a 5-star rating. I was eagerly looking forward to reading this one, but I'm sorry to say that it didn't live up to the standard Ms. Redford established in the first book, and I can only give it a 2-star rating for several reasons.
The first reason is that I found the dialogue rather trite, filled with cliches, and none of it endeared me to either the hero or heroine, Dune (what kind of name is that for a cowboy?) and Sydney. Some of it was so stilted and uncomfortable to get through that I actually found myself cringing while reading it.
Second, I didn't like either of the main characters, and while I generally love second chance at romance novels, and recently gave one a glowing review, this one and Sydney's mental gymnastics about Dune's hotness and her feeling that she was betraying her dead husband left me utterly unmoved.
While I liked the idea of Sydney pitching in to help raise money for the rescue squad, the reluctance and avoidance of the other volunteer firefighters to help her by posing for her hot cowboy firefighter calendar also seemed wrong, since so many actual firefighters have been happy to pose for similar calendars in order to raise money for charity. Their attitude seemed even more unbelievable since Sydney herself was one of the volunteer firefighters.
All in all, I found this a very disappointing read, and if Ms. Redford continues this series, I hope her next novel takes it cue from the excellent of the first book in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
The first reason is that I found the dialogue rather trite, filled with cliches, and none of it endeared me to either the hero or heroine, Dune (what kind of name is that for a cowboy?) and Sydney. Some of it was so stilted and uncomfortable to get through that I actually found myself cringing while reading it.
Second, I didn't like either of the main characters, and while I generally love second chance at romance novels, and recently gave one a glowing review, this one and Sydney's mental gymnastics about Dune's hotness and her feeling that she was betraying her dead husband left me utterly unmoved.
While I liked the idea of Sydney pitching in to help raise money for the rescue squad, the reluctance and avoidance of the other volunteer firefighters to help her by posing for her hot cowboy firefighter calendar also seemed wrong, since so many actual firefighters have been happy to pose for similar calendars in order to raise money for charity. Their attitude seemed even more unbelievable since Sydney herself was one of the volunteer firefighters.
All in all, I found this a very disappointing read, and if Ms. Redford continues this series, I hope her next novel takes it cue from the excellent of the first book in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
November 20, 2019
I had high hopes for this book but I just found it dragged on for me. The characters were fine, but the writing style just wasn’t there for me. It was just too (for lack of a better word) country for me. Maybe it was the dialect used or something but I found the way they talked to one another really corny.
Dune lost his girlfriend in a traumatic way and has been gun shy to get serious with anyone until he meets Sydney. Sydney lost her husband which left her lost and gun shy as well. Dune opened her up and they had a sweet relationship blossom in the book. There was no angst for the characters, no direct drama for their relationship...it was just sickly sweet. There was however drama but is centered around Bert and Bert Two (yes you read that right...that’s their names).
As you can see it took me FOREVER to read this book, I usually read a book this size in 1-3 days...this one took me 12 days...this is NOT normal. I think it took so long because I just couldn’t get into it, at one point I thought about DNFing it but I stuck it out.
This might be good for some to read but just wasn’t for me, and I will not be reading the rest of this series.
Dune lost his girlfriend in a traumatic way and has been gun shy to get serious with anyone until he meets Sydney. Sydney lost her husband which left her lost and gun shy as well. Dune opened her up and they had a sweet relationship blossom in the book. There was no angst for the characters, no direct drama for their relationship...it was just sickly sweet. There was however drama but is centered around Bert and Bert Two (yes you read that right...that’s their names).
As you can see it took me FOREVER to read this book, I usually read a book this size in 1-3 days...this one took me 12 days...this is NOT normal. I think it took so long because I just couldn’t get into it, at one point I thought about DNFing it but I stuck it out.
This might be good for some to read but just wasn’t for me, and I will not be reading the rest of this series.
October 5, 2017
I always enjoy books that have romance along with a bit of mystery. A story about firefighters usually has fires involved but these fires were arson and the mystery was who was setting them and the motive.
It was great that along with those sexy firefighting cowboys that there was a woman at the firehouse helping put out fires! You could feel for both Dune and Sydney as they had lost a loved one, and Sydney's daughter, Storm, was especially hard hit with the loss of her father.
The book begins after Dune has been in the area for a bit but we really don't know much about the interaction between Dune and Sydney except that he is interested in her. At this point, he was only looking for a good time but that quickly changed!
I enjoyed reading the book as you can see Dune and Sydney struggle to move past their prior losses and accept the growing love between them. Along with their romance, you see a back story of Hedy and Bert which was such an "awwhh" moment, then the arsonist was finally caught, but the best was at the end when Dune proposes.
It was great that along with those sexy firefighting cowboys that there was a woman at the firehouse helping put out fires! You could feel for both Dune and Sydney as they had lost a loved one, and Sydney's daughter, Storm, was especially hard hit with the loss of her father.
The book begins after Dune has been in the area for a bit but we really don't know much about the interaction between Dune and Sydney except that he is interested in her. At this point, he was only looking for a good time but that quickly changed!
I enjoyed reading the book as you can see Dune and Sydney struggle to move past their prior losses and accept the growing love between them. Along with their romance, you see a back story of Hedy and Bert which was such an "awwhh" moment, then the arsonist was finally caught, but the best was at the end when Dune proposes.
October 6, 2017
I have found another new author in Kim. She did a good book for us. It is a long story but it didn't read like one. There is nothing like cowboys and firefighters! Sydney broke down with Celeste, her car, and is saved by Dune by fixing a battery cable. Major Spoiler! Dune had mourned his girlfriend who ran back into a fire and never came out Major Spoiler. Dune has been following Sydney who lost her husband over seas. She has a young daughter and a big brother to help. Dune looks at Storm riding an ATV too fast but running energy off and flips to scare her. They go to the clinic and a fire calls out. There is someone arsonist but hits only one. Bert and Bert Jr are being hit Major Spoiler! Now Sydney is making the fire guys to make a Calender. Bert has restored an Outside Movie! I like this story! It is a 35 chapter but it took a while to put Sydney and Dune together.Major Spoiler! Give the book a chance! You won't be able to walk away! I volunteered to read and review this book.
February 4, 2018
I really enjoyed this book, A Very Cowboy Christmas by Kim Redford. I think I have found a new author. Dune Barrett, a cowboy firefighter has been eyeing widowed, Sydney Steele from afar. It was a very interesting story to see how these two people with similar heartbreaking circumstances came to love each other. As this story unfolds Sydney finally decides to let Dune into her & her daughter, Storm's life as it's time to move on. With a arsonist trying to burn down things for revenge for the town of Wildcat makes a fast faced read. Sydney is determined to make this a holiday to remember for Wildcat & getting 12 firefighting cowboys to pose for her charity calendar has her frustrated.
Dune, jumps at the chance to help her & pose as Mr. December. The back & forth banner between these two & others in this book makes it a fun read. Hope, you enjoy it as much as I did. Looking forward to reading Kim's other books.
Dune, jumps at the chance to help her & pose as Mr. December. The back & forth banner between these two & others in this book makes it a fun read. Hope, you enjoy it as much as I did. Looking forward to reading Kim's other books.
April 22, 2023
I love how Kim Redford blended these two characters together and brings a small town to such an inspirational creation. I also like how the series so far is moving nicely along and characters from the other books are mentioned.
September 1, 2017
A Very Cowboy Christmas, was a little too boring in my opinion. I think it's because everything just seemed to come to easily for Dune and Sydney. The relationship was kinda mundane.
November 23, 2017
I found this book to be a fun, easy, sexy read just in time to put you in the Christmas spirit.
abandoned
December 22, 2017The romance started waaaaay too early in this book, before I cared about either of the characters, so it just had a weird vibe. DNF.
March 4, 2018
DNF! hated it. the author attempted to write with a western accent with colloquials and it just made for a bad reading experience.
September 10, 2018
A well written book but to me it was a bit boring.
January 17, 2019
Great read!
I can't get enough of Cowboy Firefighters. Yes please more of them. Thank you so much for the great chemistry between all of the couples.
I can't get enough of Cowboy Firefighters. Yes please more of them. Thank you so much for the great chemistry between all of the couples.
March 17, 2024
A Very Cowboy Christmas: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Y'All by Kim Redford is a good fit for those seeking a lighthearted, romantic, and reflective holiday read that combines the charm of a small-town Christmas with the excitement of a firefighting cowboy adventure.
July 29, 2018
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I had fun with A Very Cowboy Christmas. Dune and Sydney make an entertaining couple, each has issues, each has reason to be a bit hesitant to start something between them… but the attraction is simply too strong to ignore for much longer. As a volunteer firefighter, Sydney knows her way around some very hot men. Now, corralling them into a photo shoot for a calendar that would provide some much needed financial rewards for the town is a far different thing. But she’s not giving up and just maybe Dune can help her convince them. This Christmas is one that Sydney intends to let go of the painful past and focus on her daughter’s enjoyment… and perhaps a romance for Mom as well. Anything is possible at Christmastime.
I did a lot of smiling with this story, sure there are a few sad moments, that will always be a part of life when you’ve lost a loved one to death… yet life moves on eventually. And that is clearly shown here. Dune feels like Sydney and her daughter are home, are the family he wants… now he simply has to convince them that this is the greatest Christmas idea ever. I loved the retro themed Drive-In, that brought some definite chuckles. There’s still an arsonist afoot and keeping him from destroying the newest addition to town will be a challenge. One that everyone is involved in. A touch of danger, A bit of nostalgia, L big heaping of Christmas love all combines into an enjoyable story that I’d recommend for any Romance reader who loves that special magic of the holidays.
*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.*
I had fun with A Very Cowboy Christmas. Dune and Sydney make an entertaining couple, each has issues, each has reason to be a bit hesitant to start something between them… but the attraction is simply too strong to ignore for much longer. As a volunteer firefighter, Sydney knows her way around some very hot men. Now, corralling them into a photo shoot for a calendar that would provide some much needed financial rewards for the town is a far different thing. But she’s not giving up and just maybe Dune can help her convince them. This Christmas is one that Sydney intends to let go of the painful past and focus on her daughter’s enjoyment… and perhaps a romance for Mom as well. Anything is possible at Christmastime.
I did a lot of smiling with this story, sure there are a few sad moments, that will always be a part of life when you’ve lost a loved one to death… yet life moves on eventually. And that is clearly shown here. Dune feels like Sydney and her daughter are home, are the family he wants… now he simply has to convince them that this is the greatest Christmas idea ever. I loved the retro themed Drive-In, that brought some definite chuckles. There’s still an arsonist afoot and keeping him from destroying the newest addition to town will be a challenge. One that everyone is involved in. A touch of danger, A bit of nostalgia, L big heaping of Christmas love all combines into an enjoyable story that I’d recommend for any Romance reader who loves that special magic of the holidays.
*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.*
February 8, 2018
I voluntarily read this advanced readers copy of this book. I just love this book. I wish that I could have gotten and read books one and two of this series too. Strong characters and a great story line. You will love reading about Dune and Sydney's story. He has been flirting for months now. She needs the firefighter cowboys to pose for a charity calendar. Will they come to compromise..
January 3, 2019
Christmas is coming up, and single mom Sydney Steele is determined to make this a holiday to remember for Wildcat Bluff County. She still has to get those pesky, reluctant—and deliciously attractive—firefighting cowboys to pose for her charity calendar. They claim they’re too busy pursuing an unknown arsonist to take a break.
Dune Barrett has been flirting with Sydney for months, so he jumps at the chance to give her a hand. And when he agrees to pose as Mr. December, she couldn’t be happier. But to really win her over, Dune will have to convince eleven other guys from his crew to exploit their good looks for charity…a task much easier said than done.
This was a decent read. It flowed fairly easily. Both main characters are easy enough to follow along with. Some things in the book bothered me a little, but if you like hot cowboys and the Christmas season then you’ll like it too.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
Dune Barrett has been flirting with Sydney for months, so he jumps at the chance to give her a hand. And when he agrees to pose as Mr. December, she couldn’t be happier. But to really win her over, Dune will have to convince eleven other guys from his crew to exploit their good looks for charity…a task much easier said than done.
This was a decent read. It flowed fairly easily. Both main characters are easy enough to follow along with. Some things in the book bothered me a little, but if you like hot cowboys and the Christmas season then you’ll like it too.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
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