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Meadow Valley #1
My One and Only Cowboy
Delaney Harper thought she'd seen the last of Meadow Valley two years ago after she divorced her lying, cheating, gambler of a husband who left her broken-hearted and, well, just flat broke. But news that her ex sold their property—without legally removing her from the deed—means heading back to claim her share of the land—and possibly her dream.
Sam Callahan, co-owner of the Meadow Valley guest ranch, is barely keeping his head above water. He bought the land for a steal, but keeping a new business afloat is another story. When a gorgeous blonde barges onto his property on a quiet Friday afternoon insisting he bought the place in a fraudulent sale—and that she's there to prove she still owns half the land—Sam realizes he's got much more to worry about. He could lose everything—including his heart.
Includes the bonus novel, Toughest Cowboy in Texas by Carolyn Brown.
Sam Callahan, co-owner of the Meadow Valley guest ranch, is barely keeping his head above water. He bought the land for a steal, but keeping a new business afloat is another story. When a gorgeous blonde barges onto his property on a quiet Friday afternoon insisting he bought the place in a fraudulent sale—and that she's there to prove she still owns half the land—Sam realizes he's got much more to worry about. He could lose everything—including his heart.
Includes the bonus novel, Toughest Cowboy in Texas by Carolyn Brown.
639 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 17, 2019
109 people are currently reading
296 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Pine
29 books906 followersA teen librarian by day and a romance writer by night, A.J. Pine can’t seem to escape the world of fiction, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. She’s the author of the If Only series (Entangled Embrace), the Only You series (Berkley/Intermix), the Kingston Ale House series (Entangled Select), and the Crossroads Ranch series (Forever Romance). When she finds that 25th hour in the day, she might indulge in a tiny bit of TV where she nourishes her undying love of vampires, superheroes, and a certain high-functioning sociopath detective. She hails from the far off galaxy of the Chicago suburbs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
May 24, 2020
Many thanks to Estelle at Forever for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review
”The heart doesn’t care about logic or what’s best for business.”
I must say that I am disappointed. Not that this was bad or anything. It was just not as romantic or smutty as I had hoped it would be.
So, what’s this book about?
Delaney Harper thought she'd seen the last of Meadow Valley two years ago after she divorced her lying, cheating, gambler of a husband who left her broken-hearted and, well, just flat broke. But news that her ex sold their property---without legally removing her from the deed---means heading back to claim her share of the land---and possibly her dream.
Sam Callahan, co-owner of the Meadow Valley guest ranch, is barely keeping his head above water. He bought the land for a steal, but keeping a new business afloat is another story. When a gorgeous blonde barges onto his property on a quiet Friday afternoon insisting he bought the place in a fraudulent sale---and that she's there to prove she still owns half the land---Sam realizes he's got much more to worry about. He could lose everything---including his heart.
➵ Sam - Finally, a love interest that isn’t an asshole! I feel like with most romances these days, the main character is (or is perceived as) an asshole. I loved that, even though this was technically an enemies-to-lovers, the love interest was kind and sweet!
➵ Delaney - Delaney, on the other hand, was the classic enemy main character. I’ve found that with most ETL stories, I end up hating the main character more than the love interest and this was no exception. Now, Delaney wasn’t as bad as some characters I’ve met before (*cough* Maddie from The Wedding Party*cough*) so that’s good.
So, romance. In my original reaction below, I said that it wasn’t that romantic. I don’t stand by the statement. I said that mostly out of disappointment because this wasn’t one of the most romantic books I’ve ever read but I think I went into this with way too high expectations. The romance was in fact decent. It was not too insta-lovey but not too slow burn either. That said, it was kind of lackluster.
Whereas the romance was a 3.5/5 bordering into 4, the sex scenes were 2 stars. There were a ton of chased kisses but there was only one major sex scene and it was underwhelming and had a very weird and abrupt ending.
Overall, I still enjoyed this. Yes, it fell shorter than my expectations but that’s okay!
Bottom Line:
3.5 Stars
Age Rating: [ R ]
Content Screening (Spoilers) - Educational Value (0/0) ~ Positive Messages (3/5) - [Working with your enemies, perseverance, fearlessness] ~ Violence (3/5) - [Abusive ex] ~ Sex (4/5) - [Semi-explicit, on page, sex scene, brief kisses] ~ Langauge (4/5) - [F**k, sh*t, b*tch, d*ck, d*mn]
Trigger and Content Warnings - Allergic reactions, Abusive exes, loss of a loved one
Reps: [Feminism]
Cover: 2/5 ~ Characters: 4/5 ~ Plot: 4/5
Publication Date: December 17th, 2019
Publisher: Forever Romance
Genre: Romance/Contemporary
Blurb: “Charming and funny. You won’t want to miss My One and Only Cowboy!”
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3.5 stars. sweet but not all that romantic. also, disappointingly tame
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December 17, 2019
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
This was a fun little romance! I have enjoyed what I have read from this author in the past so I was pretty excited to give this book a try. I enjoyed the book from the very start and great time seeing how everything developed. I am so glad that I decided to give this book a try.
Sam and his partners are still getting the ranch they run off the ground. The business is off to a good start but they do hope that things pick up a bit. Sam doesn't need any problems so when Delaney shows up claiming to own half of the land the ranch is built on, he isn't thrilled about it. Delaney isn't looking for anything that isn't rightfully hers. Sam was only able to buy the land because Delaney's ex-husband forged her signature on the deed. Unfortunately, the town is closed for the week and Delaney's car needs some repairs so they will have a week to spend together before anything can be settled.
I liked Delaney and Sam. Both of these characters were really good people and neither wanted to hurt the other. They had fantastic chemistry from the start and I thought that it just got stronger as the book progressed. I really thought that these two fit together perfectly and their relationship just felt right. They were both dealing with some bigger issues that were a bit of an obstacle and I enjoyed watching them work through their issues.
I would recommend this book to others. I thought that this was a really well-done romance filled with wonderful characters and a bit of excitement. I can't wait to read more of this delightful series!
I received a review copy of this book from Forever Yours (Grand Central Publishing).
Initial Thoughts
I liked this one. Sam and Delaney were great characters and I enjoyed watching them get to know each other. I thought that they had wonderful chemistry and their personalities just seemed to fit.
This was a fun little romance! I have enjoyed what I have read from this author in the past so I was pretty excited to give this book a try. I enjoyed the book from the very start and great time seeing how everything developed. I am so glad that I decided to give this book a try.
Sam and his partners are still getting the ranch they run off the ground. The business is off to a good start but they do hope that things pick up a bit. Sam doesn't need any problems so when Delaney shows up claiming to own half of the land the ranch is built on, he isn't thrilled about it. Delaney isn't looking for anything that isn't rightfully hers. Sam was only able to buy the land because Delaney's ex-husband forged her signature on the deed. Unfortunately, the town is closed for the week and Delaney's car needs some repairs so they will have a week to spend together before anything can be settled.
I liked Delaney and Sam. Both of these characters were really good people and neither wanted to hurt the other. They had fantastic chemistry from the start and I thought that it just got stronger as the book progressed. I really thought that these two fit together perfectly and their relationship just felt right. They were both dealing with some bigger issues that were a bit of an obstacle and I enjoyed watching them work through their issues.
I would recommend this book to others. I thought that this was a really well-done romance filled with wonderful characters and a bit of excitement. I can't wait to read more of this delightful series!
I received a review copy of this book from Forever Yours (Grand Central Publishing).
Initial Thoughts
I liked this one. Sam and Delaney were great characters and I enjoyed watching them get to know each other. I thought that they had wonderful chemistry and their personalities just seemed to fit.
Read
April 19, 2019Oh hey look! The first book in my upcoming series is on Goodreads! Perhaps you'd like to add it to your TBR. It's got cowboys and romance and stuff. ;)
December 21, 2019
3.5 Straightening Things Out Stars
* * *1/2 Spoiler Free
I know when I read A.J.Pine I will be thrust into a relationship/push-pull tale. This was a story that had both of the main characters owning the same land.
Our gal had a lousy thieving ex-husband who sold the ranch they both owned to a rancher who was trying to make a go of the land into a guest ranch. The only problem is she needed to have her half of the land for herself and because the ex forged her name, our rancher was in a bind.
We are a fly on the wall as these two run into a wall of a broken car and closed government office. This allows a week to learn about the other and have nature take the course.
This was a sweet story and had the added benefit of the novel Toughest Cowboy in Texas (Happy, Texas #1) by Carolyn Brown.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * *1/2 Spoiler Free
I know when I read A.J.Pine I will be thrust into a relationship/push-pull tale. This was a story that had both of the main characters owning the same land.
Our gal had a lousy thieving ex-husband who sold the ranch they both owned to a rancher who was trying to make a go of the land into a guest ranch. The only problem is she needed to have her half of the land for herself and because the ex forged her name, our rancher was in a bind.
We are a fly on the wall as these two run into a wall of a broken car and closed government office. This allows a week to learn about the other and have nature take the course.
This was a sweet story and had the added benefit of the novel Toughest Cowboy in Texas (Happy, Texas #1) by Carolyn Brown.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
January 13, 2020
I love new beginnings and the Meadow Valley series is off to a great start with My One and Only Cowboy. Sam Callahan has opened up a new guest ranch near Meadow Valley and has sunk his time, money and energy in launching it. What he didn’t see coming is a woman who wants half the ranch and claims she owns it. Unbeknownst to Delaney Harper, her ex-husband sold it without her knowledge and forged her signature on the deed. All she wanted was a place to set up her animal rescue and she’s ready to claim her dream whether Sam likes it or not.
Can you be attracted to the enemy and keep your goal in sight? It was very hard for both Delaney and Sam. Sam was constantly surprised by what Delaney would say or do and that kept him off kilter. He’s never met anyone like her before and that made it a pleasant surprise. Delaney wasn’t a pushover and Sam was gracious and understanding with her situation. When they gave it a week to wait until the courthouse reopened, that gave them time to get to know one another, a side of them they’ve never shown another. Delaney was attracted to his good looks but it was the many layers of Sam that she witnessed and saw a man who put others first before his own needs. Dealing with the ranch, his father’s Alzheimer’s, and now her circumstances, is enough to make a strong man crack but Sam keeps on ticking. She just got him to lighten up about himself and share things with her. It wasn’t easy but Sam just had to realize that companionship, no matter how long, is better than doing things alone. I liked Sam and Delaney because they came across as real people with flaws and all.
My One and Only Cowboy was a pleasant story that had likeable characters dealing with a difficult circumstance. Sam and Delaney connected and the attraction felt genuine to progress to a quick romance. The town of Meadow Valley is small and the townspeople support each other and in everyone’s business. Sam’s family plays a small part in this story and I’m looking forward to brother Ben’s. My One and Only Cowboy was an entertaining romance that was woven with wit and warmth.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Can you be attracted to the enemy and keep your goal in sight? It was very hard for both Delaney and Sam. Sam was constantly surprised by what Delaney would say or do and that kept him off kilter. He’s never met anyone like her before and that made it a pleasant surprise. Delaney wasn’t a pushover and Sam was gracious and understanding with her situation. When they gave it a week to wait until the courthouse reopened, that gave them time to get to know one another, a side of them they’ve never shown another. Delaney was attracted to his good looks but it was the many layers of Sam that she witnessed and saw a man who put others first before his own needs. Dealing with the ranch, his father’s Alzheimer’s, and now her circumstances, is enough to make a strong man crack but Sam keeps on ticking. She just got him to lighten up about himself and share things with her. It wasn’t easy but Sam just had to realize that companionship, no matter how long, is better than doing things alone. I liked Sam and Delaney because they came across as real people with flaws and all.
My One and Only Cowboy was a pleasant story that had likeable characters dealing with a difficult circumstance. Sam and Delaney connected and the attraction felt genuine to progress to a quick romance. The town of Meadow Valley is small and the townspeople support each other and in everyone’s business. Sam’s family plays a small part in this story and I’m looking forward to brother Ben’s. My One and Only Cowboy was an entertaining romance that was woven with wit and warmth.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
January 12, 2020
4 stars
August 23, 2020
Delaney Harper thought she'd seen the last of Meadow Valley two years ago after she divorced her lying, cheating, gambler of a husband who left her broken-hearted and, well, just flat broke. But news that her ex sold their property---without legally removing her from the deed---means heading back to claim her share of the land---and possibly her dream.
Sam Callahan, co-owner of the Meadow Valley guest ranch, is barely keeping his head above water. He bought the land for a steal, but keeping a new business afloat is another story. When a gorgeous blonde barges onto his property on a quiet Friday afternoon insisting he bought the place in a fraudulent sale---and that she's there to prove she still owns half the land---Sam realizes he's got much more to worry about. He could lose everything---including his heart.
Delaney comes into town and goes to the land and tells Sam she is suing for her half and then leaves, Her car breaks down and what do you know but it is a long week festival and everything is closed including the mechanic's shop.
So we get to know Delaney and Sam and watch the attraction grow. She comes to realize she just needs to go after her ex for her half the money. Some people in town hear her name and they think she is trouble like her ex.
Thanks to Forever and NetGalley for the book to review.
Sam Callahan, co-owner of the Meadow Valley guest ranch, is barely keeping his head above water. He bought the land for a steal, but keeping a new business afloat is another story. When a gorgeous blonde barges onto his property on a quiet Friday afternoon insisting he bought the place in a fraudulent sale---and that she's there to prove she still owns half the land---Sam realizes he's got much more to worry about. He could lose everything---including his heart.
Delaney comes into town and goes to the land and tells Sam she is suing for her half and then leaves, Her car breaks down and what do you know but it is a long week festival and everything is closed including the mechanic's shop.
So we get to know Delaney and Sam and watch the attraction grow. She comes to realize she just needs to go after her ex for her half the money. Some people in town hear her name and they think she is trouble like her ex.
Thanks to Forever and NetGalley for the book to review.
December 16, 2019
3.75 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 17, 2019
Delaney Harper thought she'd seen the last of Meadow Valley two years ago after she divorced her lying, cheating, gambler of a husband who left her broken-hearted and, well, just flat broke. But news that her ex sold their property---without legally removing her from the deed---means heading back to claim her share of the land---and possibly her dream.
Sam Callahan, co-owner of the Meadow Valley guest ranch, is barely keeping his head above water. He bought the land for a steal, but keeping a new business afloat is another story. When a gorgeous blonde barges onto his property on a quiet Friday afternoon insisting he bought the place in a fraudulent sale---and that she's there to prove she still owns half the land---Sam realizes he's got much more to worry about. He could lose everything---including his heart.
••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars-MY ONE AND ONLY COWBOY is the first instalment in A.J. Pine’s contemporary, adult MEADOW VALLEY erotic, cowboy romance series. This is rancher Sam Callahan, and veterinary technician, divorcee Delaney Harper’s story line. Sam and his brother Ben were first introduced in the author’s Crossroads Ranch series but you do not have to have read the original series to understand or follow My One and Only Cowboy.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Sam and Delaney) MY ONE AND ONLY COWBOY follows the building but temporary relationship between rancher Sam Callahan, and veterinary technician, divorcee Delaney Harper. Two years earlier Delaney Harper and her husband owned the Meadow Valley Ranch but an ugly divorce sent our couple in opposite directions with Delaney landing in Las Vegas, Nevada. Fast forward to present day wherein Delaney discovers that her ex-husband forged her name, and sold the property to Sam and Ben Callahan, and our heroine is determined to get what is rightfully hers. Enter Sam Callahan, co-owner of the Meadow Valley guest ranch and the man with whom Delaney will fall in love. What ensues is the slow building romance and relationship between Sam and Delaney, and the potential fall-out as Delaney is only in town for as long as it takes to get her share of what proceeds from the sale of her ranch, a town that remembers the number of scams her ex-husband tried but failed.
Sam Callahan and his partners are struggling to make a go of the Meadow Valley guest ranch, and with the approach of the town’s Harvest Festival, they were hoping for some business in the form of clients and guests. The arrival of Delaney Harper, a woman determined to prove their ownership of the ranch was obtained through a forged signature, Sam once again, must battle between head and heart as his feelings for Delaney soon turn into something more. But Sam doesn’t do relationships as he struggles with a secret that could destroy his life, a secret that will be revealed to the woman with whom he will fall in love. Delaney Harper doesn’t want to destroy Sam and Ben’s dreams but our heroine wants what is rightfully hers. With the town shut down for the Harvest Festival, Delaney must bide her time until the city offices open ten days from her arrival, time spent in the company of Sam, working for and with the Meadow Valley ranch.
The relationship between Sam and Delaney is one of mutual attraction; a slow building romance with an expiry date as Delaney doesn’t see herself remaining in the town that judges her by the actions of her ex-husband. Working for her room and board at the Meadow Valley guest ranch Delaney soon finds herself wanting something more with Sam but Sam struggles in the face of an uncertain future. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are introduced to Sam’s brother Ben, and their friend and business partner Colt, as well as Sam and Ben’s parents Nolan and Barbara Ann Callahan, and Delaney’s ex-husband Wade, and her sister Beth.
MY ONE AND ONLY COWBOY is a story of family, friendships, betrayal and love.; a story of what ifs in the face of the unknown. The premise is captivating and emotional; the characters are colorful, energetic and real; the romance is seductive and palpable. My only issue is that some of the story line felt more like filler waiting for the inevitable confrontation and conflict.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 17, 2019
Delaney Harper thought she'd seen the last of Meadow Valley two years ago after she divorced her lying, cheating, gambler of a husband who left her broken-hearted and, well, just flat broke. But news that her ex sold their property---without legally removing her from the deed---means heading back to claim her share of the land---and possibly her dream.
Sam Callahan, co-owner of the Meadow Valley guest ranch, is barely keeping his head above water. He bought the land for a steal, but keeping a new business afloat is another story. When a gorgeous blonde barges onto his property on a quiet Friday afternoon insisting he bought the place in a fraudulent sale---and that she's there to prove she still owns half the land---Sam realizes he's got much more to worry about. He could lose everything---including his heart.
••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars-MY ONE AND ONLY COWBOY is the first instalment in A.J. Pine’s contemporary, adult MEADOW VALLEY erotic, cowboy romance series. This is rancher Sam Callahan, and veterinary technician, divorcee Delaney Harper’s story line. Sam and his brother Ben were first introduced in the author’s Crossroads Ranch series but you do not have to have read the original series to understand or follow My One and Only Cowboy.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Sam and Delaney) MY ONE AND ONLY COWBOY follows the building but temporary relationship between rancher Sam Callahan, and veterinary technician, divorcee Delaney Harper. Two years earlier Delaney Harper and her husband owned the Meadow Valley Ranch but an ugly divorce sent our couple in opposite directions with Delaney landing in Las Vegas, Nevada. Fast forward to present day wherein Delaney discovers that her ex-husband forged her name, and sold the property to Sam and Ben Callahan, and our heroine is determined to get what is rightfully hers. Enter Sam Callahan, co-owner of the Meadow Valley guest ranch and the man with whom Delaney will fall in love. What ensues is the slow building romance and relationship between Sam and Delaney, and the potential fall-out as Delaney is only in town for as long as it takes to get her share of what proceeds from the sale of her ranch, a town that remembers the number of scams her ex-husband tried but failed.
Sam Callahan and his partners are struggling to make a go of the Meadow Valley guest ranch, and with the approach of the town’s Harvest Festival, they were hoping for some business in the form of clients and guests. The arrival of Delaney Harper, a woman determined to prove their ownership of the ranch was obtained through a forged signature, Sam once again, must battle between head and heart as his feelings for Delaney soon turn into something more. But Sam doesn’t do relationships as he struggles with a secret that could destroy his life, a secret that will be revealed to the woman with whom he will fall in love. Delaney Harper doesn’t want to destroy Sam and Ben’s dreams but our heroine wants what is rightfully hers. With the town shut down for the Harvest Festival, Delaney must bide her time until the city offices open ten days from her arrival, time spent in the company of Sam, working for and with the Meadow Valley ranch.
The relationship between Sam and Delaney is one of mutual attraction; a slow building romance with an expiry date as Delaney doesn’t see herself remaining in the town that judges her by the actions of her ex-husband. Working for her room and board at the Meadow Valley guest ranch Delaney soon finds herself wanting something more with Sam but Sam struggles in the face of an uncertain future. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are introduced to Sam’s brother Ben, and their friend and business partner Colt, as well as Sam and Ben’s parents Nolan and Barbara Ann Callahan, and Delaney’s ex-husband Wade, and her sister Beth.
MY ONE AND ONLY COWBOY is a story of family, friendships, betrayal and love.; a story of what ifs in the face of the unknown. The premise is captivating and emotional; the characters are colorful, energetic and real; the romance is seductive and palpable. My only issue is that some of the story line felt more like filler waiting for the inevitable confrontation and conflict.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
August 28, 2020
My One and Only Cowboy
is the first book in the Meadow Valley series, although it was preceded by a novella,
Cowboy to the Rescue.
Delaney Harper is all too glad to be rid of her cheating and lying husband and was glad to have left Meadow Valley for good. However, one of the things her ex did was to sell their property there without finishing the process, thus leaving her no choice but to head back to the small town to reclaim what is hers.
When Sam Callahan discovers that Delaney Harper is in town to claim the land he just purchased, he is in for a rude awakening. Not only is she claiming that it is hers, she has plans to follow her dream. The thing is, Sam's ranch is also a dream, one he shares with his brother Ben and their friend Colt.
Whose dream will win out at the ranch on the property. This made me think of a wishbone where two parties are pulling on a stick, but only one will get the prize. Then, while Sam and Delaney go back and forth between their claims, there is a passion that starts off small, but begins to truly flare between them.
This is a very sweet story. Of course, every romance has a couple, then a conflict, then a resolution before a happily ever after can be had. It is a tried and true formula. What makes this book work is that there is an extra layer when it comes to something that Sam is dealing with, and that actually continues on into the third book of the series, Make Mine a Cowboy. It is this issue that adds a level of seriousness to an already well-written story.
Many thanks to Forever Yours and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
When Sam Callahan discovers that Delaney Harper is in town to claim the land he just purchased, he is in for a rude awakening. Not only is she claiming that it is hers, she has plans to follow her dream. The thing is, Sam's ranch is also a dream, one he shares with his brother Ben and their friend Colt.
Whose dream will win out at the ranch on the property. This made me think of a wishbone where two parties are pulling on a stick, but only one will get the prize. Then, while Sam and Delaney go back and forth between their claims, there is a passion that starts off small, but begins to truly flare between them.
This is a very sweet story. Of course, every romance has a couple, then a conflict, then a resolution before a happily ever after can be had. It is a tried and true formula. What makes this book work is that there is an extra layer when it comes to something that Sam is dealing with, and that actually continues on into the third book of the series, Make Mine a Cowboy. It is this issue that adds a level of seriousness to an already well-written story.
Many thanks to Forever Yours and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
December 16, 2019
3.5/5 stars
My first book by this author and I enjoyed it. It was a little slow at times and a little long for me but it was still a good story. Liked Sam and Delaney. They were a good couple.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
My first book by this author and I enjoyed it. It was a little slow at times and a little long for me but it was still a good story. Liked Sam and Delaney. They were a good couple.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
December 10, 2019
My One and Only Cowboy (Meadow Valley #1) by A.J. Pine
4 stars
M/F Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Delaney knows disappointment. She spent years with someone who showered her with it. But, now that she's free, she wants her dream again. While trying to figure out how she was going to do that, she realizes that her dream can still happen. But, in order to get it, she'll have to go back to a town where she was humiliated and lost it all.
Sam and his brothers are running a ranch that caters to people who want to experience what it is to be a cowboy. But, since they are so new and because they are really cowboys and not necessarily businessmen or marketing experts, Sam and his partners aren't sure how successful they are going to be in their venture.
When Delaney shows up and asks for the deed to the property so that she can have a copy, Sam is reluctant to agree. This is his dream and there isn't anything he wouldn't do for it.
Despite their butting heads when they first meet, Sam is a decent guy and Delaney is a reasonable woman. She is able to help them with their marketing and Sam can see that the situation that they are in isn't her fault and it isn't his fault.
What began as a lust/hate relationship soon develops in to a mutual attraction and common goal. With a pesky ex-husband and land that seems to belong to too many people, Sam and Delaney will have their work cut out.
The characters are relatable and fun. And, while Sam is quite the grump at times, Delaney is able to pull him out of his shell on more than one occasion. I enjoyed watching these two figure out what they could control and allowing what they couldn't control, just kind of exist. It's a sweet story about going after what you want, but making room for the unexpected.
4 stars
M/F Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Delaney knows disappointment. She spent years with someone who showered her with it. But, now that she's free, she wants her dream again. While trying to figure out how she was going to do that, she realizes that her dream can still happen. But, in order to get it, she'll have to go back to a town where she was humiliated and lost it all.
Sam and his brothers are running a ranch that caters to people who want to experience what it is to be a cowboy. But, since they are so new and because they are really cowboys and not necessarily businessmen or marketing experts, Sam and his partners aren't sure how successful they are going to be in their venture.
When Delaney shows up and asks for the deed to the property so that she can have a copy, Sam is reluctant to agree. This is his dream and there isn't anything he wouldn't do for it.
Despite their butting heads when they first meet, Sam is a decent guy and Delaney is a reasonable woman. She is able to help them with their marketing and Sam can see that the situation that they are in isn't her fault and it isn't his fault.
What began as a lust/hate relationship soon develops in to a mutual attraction and common goal. With a pesky ex-husband and land that seems to belong to too many people, Sam and Delaney will have their work cut out.
The characters are relatable and fun. And, while Sam is quite the grump at times, Delaney is able to pull him out of his shell on more than one occasion. I enjoyed watching these two figure out what they could control and allowing what they couldn't control, just kind of exist. It's a sweet story about going after what you want, but making room for the unexpected.
January 1, 2020
This book is a cute small town romance with a huge conflict pretty much from page one. If you are a fan of insta-love, steam, cowboys, and some real life heaviness, then definitely check it My One and Only Cowboy by AJ Pine. Thanks Forever Romance for the copy to review.
March 21, 2025
My One and Only Cowboy
This was such a fun small town, cowboy, country romance. I loved it!
Both of these characters were so charming and humorous but the chemistry between them was also amazing.
I really appreciated the Alzheimers storyline and the discussion in regards to it because that's the reality for many. I also felt that although it's a very serious topic, the way it was handled was done excellently and the novel didn't feel too 'heavy' by its inclusion.
This was such a cute and entertaining read that was easy to race through. I fell in love with the main characters, the side characters, the small town, and the ranch. I definitely would be interested in reading more from this series in the future.
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Toughest Cowboy in Texas
This was such a fun, steamy, warmhearted, second chance romance which I loved!
From the dialogue, to the settings, to the food, it was a story with the ultimate of Southern Charm. I could picture the diner, I could picture the quilt on the hay in the barn, I could taste (and wish for) the comforting southern food.
Everything about this story was warmhearted and I could not get enough!
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Both of these novels were the perfect complement for each other when combined in this one volume. I really enjoyed each of these stories equally in their own way.
***I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***
This was such a fun small town, cowboy, country romance. I loved it!
Both of these characters were so charming and humorous but the chemistry between them was also amazing.
I really appreciated the Alzheimers storyline and the discussion in regards to it because that's the reality for many. I also felt that although it's a very serious topic, the way it was handled was done excellently and the novel didn't feel too 'heavy' by its inclusion.
This was such a cute and entertaining read that was easy to race through. I fell in love with the main characters, the side characters, the small town, and the ranch. I definitely would be interested in reading more from this series in the future.
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Toughest Cowboy in Texas
This was such a fun, steamy, warmhearted, second chance romance which I loved!
From the dialogue, to the settings, to the food, it was a story with the ultimate of Southern Charm. I could picture the diner, I could picture the quilt on the hay in the barn, I could taste (and wish for) the comforting southern food.
Everything about this story was warmhearted and I could not get enough!
-------------
Both of these novels were the perfect complement for each other when combined in this one volume. I really enjoyed each of these stories equally in their own way.
***I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review***
December 18, 2019
My One and Only Cowboy was a sweet, but simple quick read that a majority of romance readers would find enjoyable. It had a meet cute, heartfelt interactions, and some serious family drama that quite a few may find relatable. Sam and Delaney's relationship is one that was a bit insta-love, but the chemistry was evident from the start. Even though they put an expiration date on their time together, they kept falling more and more in love with each other making it hard to leave when their week was up. While I found certain parts of the plot unrealistic, I still enjoyed this one. I can't wait to read the next book in the series and have the lingering questions answered.
My three favorite things about this book:
1. The setting is a small town that sounds like a place anyone would like visit.
2. Both Sam and Delaney are likeable characters that everyone seemed to love.
3. This book tackled a few series issues that were written well and gave depth to the main characters.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐💫
Steam: 🔥☄
My three favorite things about this book:
1. The setting is a small town that sounds like a place anyone would like visit.
2. Both Sam and Delaney are likeable characters that everyone seemed to love.
3. This book tackled a few series issues that were written well and gave depth to the main characters.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐💫
Steam: 🔥☄
December 3, 2019
I loved this story by AJ Pine! Pine is a new-to-me author, and I am very glad to have found this book. The story was well written, solid, and quite unique. I laughed, I got upset, and I anxiously turned the next page. I had to know what happened with Sam and Delaney so much that I read the entire book in one sitting. The world was constructed in a way that introduced multiple characters without being overwhelming, and I am looking forward to the remaining books in this series. (Hopefully Sam's brother's book is next!) If you like an unexpected meet-cute, sweet animals, a kinda clueless but eventually clued in hero, and a determined, independent heroine, this is a must read for you!
December 17, 2019
Ahh… cowboys….
This author knows how to write cowboys and Sam has moved to the top of the list! Delaney bursts into his hard-working life, threatening all that he and his partners have worked for. Delaney’s dream was in direct contrast to Sam’s. The sparks were inevitable.
Oh the sweetness! Sam and Delaney, despite all the reasons they should have been at odds, kept it civil and even quasi-friendly. If they didn’t think about why they were thrown together, they had other things on their mind like the physical sparks between them. Soon, those sparks meant they were working together, On the ranch. On their personal challenges… On a past that was affecting their here and now as well as their future. If secrets brought them together, well, they could also set them free…
I can’t wait to return to Meadow Valley! I should just move there… ~Diane, 4 stars
This author knows how to write cowboys and Sam has moved to the top of the list! Delaney bursts into his hard-working life, threatening all that he and his partners have worked for. Delaney’s dream was in direct contrast to Sam’s. The sparks were inevitable.
Oh the sweetness! Sam and Delaney, despite all the reasons they should have been at odds, kept it civil and even quasi-friendly. If they didn’t think about why they were thrown together, they had other things on their mind like the physical sparks between them. Soon, those sparks meant they were working together, On the ranch. On their personal challenges… On a past that was affecting their here and now as well as their future. If secrets brought them together, well, they could also set them free…
I can’t wait to return to Meadow Valley! I should just move there… ~Diane, 4 stars
December 18, 2019
This title ended up having a great balance of heart, comedy, and steam! There was so much about this story that worked well for me. Then again, I seem to really enjoy small town romances!
Delaney is a character I was able to relate to on more than one level, and I loved experiencing things through her eyes. Sam was also just a good man who was doing what he thought was best for all parties involved, even if it made him miserable in ways.
Highly recommend checking this one out!
Delaney is a character I was able to relate to on more than one level, and I loved experiencing things through her eyes. Sam was also just a good man who was doing what he thought was best for all parties involved, even if it made him miserable in ways.
Highly recommend checking this one out!
May 28, 2020
Very sweet. Sam and Delaney had great chemistry. Certainly deeper waters they were dealing with. But this book was a lot of fun too.
December 18, 2019
ARC for honest review with no compensation received from NetGalley and Forever.
One and Only Cowboy is book 1 in the Meadow Valley series by A.J. Pine a new to me author. This story is about Sam Callahan co owner of the Meadow Valley guest ranch and Delaney Harper who has come back to town to claim what was taken from her by her forging, lying cheating husband...namely the ranch!
Will Sam lose the ranch or can they find a solution and maybe find the HEA they both think isn’t in heir future??
One and Only Cowboy is book 1 in the Meadow Valley series by A.J. Pine a new to me author. This story is about Sam Callahan co owner of the Meadow Valley guest ranch and Delaney Harper who has come back to town to claim what was taken from her by her forging, lying cheating husband...namely the ranch!
Will Sam lose the ranch or can they find a solution and maybe find the HEA they both think isn’t in heir future??
Read
January 25, 2020The A.J. Pine cowboy romances I’ve read have been so much fun, and this one is no different. The reluctance to fall for each other, the sparks that fly, and the back stories really made the journey the lead characters are on so enjoyable to read about. Plus I love how the small town adds to the overall story. Poor Delaney just has the worst luck, or does she? She did meet Sam in the midst of the mess she’s in. It’s definitely worth reading to see. I’m looking forward to seeing where this series goes!
Thank you to Forever Publishing for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you to Forever Publishing for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
February 5, 2020
This was a sweet, endearing, and entertaining read. It was fast-paced and light but touched on a hard subject. I liked the characters and learning about their struggles. This was light and fun mixed with bits of emotion and drama.
Delaney and Sam had a pretty instant relationship. I liked them but since it was so fast, I never fully connected with them. I liked the conflict taking place and their growing feelings. They were going through personal battles and I liked watching them work through them and come together. There were decent details but not overly in depth. I thought the story was good overall and I wanted to know the outcome but sometimes it was just too easy and predictable for me.
So, it was good. There's a little bit of heat, drama, and tension. Overall, this was entertaining and light with likable characters. Enjoyable read!
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
Delaney and Sam had a pretty instant relationship. I liked them but since it was so fast, I never fully connected with them. I liked the conflict taking place and their growing feelings. They were going through personal battles and I liked watching them work through them and come together. There were decent details but not overly in depth. I thought the story was good overall and I wanted to know the outcome but sometimes it was just too easy and predictable for me.
So, it was good. There's a little bit of heat, drama, and tension. Overall, this was entertaining and light with likable characters. Enjoyable read!
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
January 24, 2020
This is the first book I’ve read by author A. J. Pine. The story starts out a bit slow, but near the end, it gathers speed. Unfortunately, the middle is just there. Nothing remarkable.
When Delaney’s car breaks down Sam, one of the owners at the guest ranch she is there to investigate, offers her free lodging. Since she is low on funds, she accepts but insists on helping out around the ranch so that she can earn her keep.
Though Sam and Delaney immediately feel an attraction, Sam feebly attempts to ignore his feelings. Partly, because he’s busy trying to start up a dude ranch, but mostly since his father has early-onset dementia. Sam doesn’t want to burden anyone with the possibility that he might also develop dementia.
The town is celebrating and many of the local businesses are closed for the week, so Delaney will be without her vehicle for several days. Also, there will be no way for her to check on any legal transactions that might have happened regarding the sale of the property Sam now owns. The government offices are closed also.
We now have the setting for Sam and Delaney to get to know each other a little and even for her to get acquainted with Sam’s dad. A man who is in the local care facility.
The western romance is straight forward with no surprises or twists. But Pine does offer a pleasant enough read.
My thanks to #Forever and #NetGalley for an ARC and the ability to freely express my thoughts.
What Concerned Me
Almost immediately I was scratching my head over the fact that Sam and Delaney were trying to figure out land and money concerns. It was premature and needed to be an issue for Delaney’s ex-husband.
Also, call me old fashioned, but both Cole and Delaney were virtual strangers and within hours of meeting both decide they are hot enough to skinny dip. And romance is off to a start, even though they’ve both made it clear that it will be only one week long.
I’ve come to the conclusion that is best to choose the author who writes the type of romances you like to read. It wasn’t the actual sex scenes in this book that bothered me as much as their willingness to hop in the sack throughout the week. I felt the character development and getting to know each other was at a complete minimum.
What I Liked Best
The writing is done well and I’m sure this is a series many romance readers will certainly like.
more reviews at https://pickagoodbook.com
When Delaney’s car breaks down Sam, one of the owners at the guest ranch she is there to investigate, offers her free lodging. Since she is low on funds, she accepts but insists on helping out around the ranch so that she can earn her keep.
Though Sam and Delaney immediately feel an attraction, Sam feebly attempts to ignore his feelings. Partly, because he’s busy trying to start up a dude ranch, but mostly since his father has early-onset dementia. Sam doesn’t want to burden anyone with the possibility that he might also develop dementia.
The town is celebrating and many of the local businesses are closed for the week, so Delaney will be without her vehicle for several days. Also, there will be no way for her to check on any legal transactions that might have happened regarding the sale of the property Sam now owns. The government offices are closed also.
We now have the setting for Sam and Delaney to get to know each other a little and even for her to get acquainted with Sam’s dad. A man who is in the local care facility.
The western romance is straight forward with no surprises or twists. But Pine does offer a pleasant enough read.
My thanks to #Forever and #NetGalley for an ARC and the ability to freely express my thoughts.
What Concerned Me
Almost immediately I was scratching my head over the fact that Sam and Delaney were trying to figure out land and money concerns. It was premature and needed to be an issue for Delaney’s ex-husband.
Also, call me old fashioned, but both Cole and Delaney were virtual strangers and within hours of meeting both decide they are hot enough to skinny dip. And romance is off to a start, even though they’ve both made it clear that it will be only one week long.
I’ve come to the conclusion that is best to choose the author who writes the type of romances you like to read. It wasn’t the actual sex scenes in this book that bothered me as much as their willingness to hop in the sack throughout the week. I felt the character development and getting to know each other was at a complete minimum.
What I Liked Best
The writing is done well and I’m sure this is a series many romance readers will certainly like.
more reviews at https://pickagoodbook.com
December 15, 2019
This was my first A.J. Pine read, although I was familiar with her beforehand. I love a good cowboy romance and although this one was slim on the 'cowboy' details, it was still a good small-town lovable hero romance. My biggest issue is that the middle of the book seemed to drag and it took me days longer than usual to actually finish the book - I wasn't excited to get back to it right away after work. This is more of a summer read or a rainy day at home type of read, in my opinion. And the suspense I was expecting at the end there turned out to be a bit disappointing and tame. But maybe that's just a 'me' thing because this is my first read by the author.
Delaney arrives in Meadow Valley to try and get her half of her land back after her ex husband forged her signature on the deed to sale it to Sam, his brother and their friend Colt. But things aren't as easy as she'd hope. Her car breaks down shortly after arriving, the town is closed for a week due to a big town festival and she finds Sam, the possible enemy, incredibly handsome and charming.
Sam was such a chivalrous and nice guy. He gave Delaney a place to stay and treated her right even though she could maybe take his land from him. It was actually a nice change from the typical broody cowboy. But he had a big hangup and that was that he wasn't willing to get serious with anyone due to the uncertainty of him carrying the gene that may cause him to suffer from Alzheimers later in life. He saw what it did to his parent's marriage, so he wanted to spare that heartache for the woman he loves. That became a bit annoying by the end of the book, but I can't fault the guy too much, I understood his concerns.
In the end, they get their HFN, not really a HEA since there is still more to the story to come with the Alzheimers question looming over their head.
I did like how the book tackled Alzheimers. My grandmother has dementia and we've been dealing with similar behavior for a few years now. I did learn something new though about how it can start as mild confusions decades before it really starts to become obvious.
There's one part of the whole plot that left me confused and maybe it's because I reside in a state where you are pretty much required to have title insurance and that would have made this whole deed plot twist null and void.
Delaney arrives in Meadow Valley to try and get her half of her land back after her ex husband forged her signature on the deed to sale it to Sam, his brother and their friend Colt. But things aren't as easy as she'd hope. Her car breaks down shortly after arriving, the town is closed for a week due to a big town festival and she finds Sam, the possible enemy, incredibly handsome and charming.
Sam was such a chivalrous and nice guy. He gave Delaney a place to stay and treated her right even though she could maybe take his land from him. It was actually a nice change from the typical broody cowboy. But he had a big hangup and that was that he wasn't willing to get serious with anyone due to the uncertainty of him carrying the gene that may cause him to suffer from Alzheimers later in life. He saw what it did to his parent's marriage, so he wanted to spare that heartache for the woman he loves. That became a bit annoying by the end of the book, but I can't fault the guy too much, I understood his concerns.
In the end, they get their HFN, not really a HEA since there is still more to the story to come with the Alzheimers question looming over their head.
I did like how the book tackled Alzheimers. My grandmother has dementia and we've been dealing with similar behavior for a few years now. I did learn something new though about how it can start as mild confusions decades before it really starts to become obvious.
There's one part of the whole plot that left me confused and maybe it's because I reside in a state where you are pretty much required to have title insurance and that would have made this whole deed plot twist null and void.
May 25, 2020
***ARC Provided by the Publisher***
Delaney and Sam should want nothing to do with one another, as her ex-husband forged a deed and Sam (along with his brothers) bought the property...possibly in a sale that will be seen as illegal. Delaney wants her land to start her dream, and Sam and his brothers have already used the land to start theirs....so, they both want what the other possibly had a claim to...maybe not the best foundation for a workable relationship.
But, they also have an amazing chemistry. And, they possibly don't want to ignore it...even though it seems like there is nowhere for them to go to make this work long term.
Add in that Sam has a family secret and a reason that he feels like he is a bad risk for a relationship. and the temporary relationship with Delaney, just until the festival is over and the town opens, feels like about the perfect situation.
It's a romance, so you know they are going to figure it out. But, the fun of this one is how they do it, and the way they figure out a way to make it work.
I enjoyed and recommend this title.
Delaney and Sam should want nothing to do with one another, as her ex-husband forged a deed and Sam (along with his brothers) bought the property...possibly in a sale that will be seen as illegal. Delaney wants her land to start her dream, and Sam and his brothers have already used the land to start theirs....so, they both want what the other possibly had a claim to...maybe not the best foundation for a workable relationship.
But, they also have an amazing chemistry. And, they possibly don't want to ignore it...even though it seems like there is nowhere for them to go to make this work long term.
Add in that Sam has a family secret and a reason that he feels like he is a bad risk for a relationship. and the temporary relationship with Delaney, just until the festival is over and the town opens, feels like about the perfect situation.
It's a romance, so you know they are going to figure it out. But, the fun of this one is how they do it, and the way they figure out a way to make it work.
I enjoyed and recommend this title.
November 22, 2022
This book was interesting and quite intriguing. The book kept me guessing to the end. It was a page turner for sure. I also enjoyed the romance. I thought it was original.
Highly recommend it. and will read again and have.
Highly recommend it. and will read again and have.
December 16, 2019
This is the third novel I've read by A.J. Pine, and since it is the first novel in a new series, I was eager to read it, and from the very beginning I wondered if I'd like it because it opens with a less than original plot device--the heroine's car breaks down in the driveway leading to Meadow Valley Ranch, and she is soon rescued by the hero, Sam, and there have been a spate of similar broken down cars opening quite of few of the novels I've recently read, but, as it turned out, in this novel the opening made sense, and because it hooked me in very soon thereafter and kept me hooked until I finished reading it at 5:00 a.m. this morning, this novel gets 4.5 stars from this reader.
Delaney Harper is on a mission. She's been living in Las Vegas, where her sister and the rest of her family live, and where she went after she divorced her deadbeat, gambling husband, Wade. She's completed her training and education as a veterinary technician, and the property Delaney and her ex-husband, Wade, purchased in Meadow Valley is the place she wants to finally open her animal rescue facility, only to learn that Wade had sold the property out from under her by forging her signature on the deed. She's back in Meadow Valley because she wants to get the deed they registered there to prove that Wade forged her signature, and she's not happy to discover the property now belongs to brothers Sam and Ben, and their close friend Colt, who got rid of the broken down buildings on the property and built their guest ranch there, now in only its second month of operation. She's thwarted in her quest for the deed because the entire town of Meadow Valley closes down for a week for its Fall Festival, she can't get her car fixed, and she can't get into the courthouse to get the forged deed.
Sam Callahan is tall, dark and handsome, doesn't do long term relationships and for good reason, but he's also a gentleman, and offers Delaney (also referred to as Vegas and Callahan by him) free room and board in a vacant guest room until town reopens. Delaney is not your typical damsel in distress, she insists on working for her room and board, and shortly thereafter Sam obliges her and soon has her mucking out stalls in the barn. She's not happy about the situation, but she's a character with grit, insists on pulling her own weight around the ranch, and I liked her immediately. Although wary because she wants her half of the land the ranch occupies, the ranch that Sam and Ben spent their life savings to purchase and rebuild, Sam is also attracted to Delaney, and this is a romance novel after all.
What sets this novel apart from so many similar cowboy romances is Sam, and the secret he's been keeping, which is soon to be unveiled as he receives an emergency phone call from the nursing home, and, with Delaney in tow, he heads there at breakneck pace and the scene that greets Sam and Delaney when they get there is both shocking and tragic. Sam's father, Nolan, has early-onset Alzheimer's dementia, and is having quite an episode in the game room, standing on a table and threatening everyone. Sam manages to calm his dad down, but once he and Delaney leave the facility, Delaney learns that Nolan's dementia, which wasn't diagnosed early on, led to the break-up of his father's marriage, and the dissolution of what had been a loving family relationship. Sadly, it's a story that's become all too common in recent years, but because it has a genetic component, and Sam and his brother, Ben, have a 50/50 chance of inheriting that gene. Sam fears it, having seen what it did to his parents marriage, and while he doesn't know whether or not he shares that gene mutation, it's kept him from ever seeking a long-term relationship with a woman, because he fears putting anyone he loves through what his mother went through before she up and left his father, leaving Sam and his brother to cope with their father alone.
While the backdrop of this novel is a serious one, and while the insta-love between Sam and Delaney usually would put me off this novel entirely, it was also well-written, sweet, charming, funny, sad, heartfelt and heartwarming. It won me over completely, especially since I'm an animal-lover, and the presence of Scout, Sam's dog, and the adoption of a cat with a serious birth-defect quite simply charmed the heck out of me. My only complaint is that the novel's HEA ending is a bit of a cliffhanger, and I so hope that the answer to the question I was hoping would be resolved in this novel is present in the next novel, which I'm guessing will be Ben's story, and personally, I can't wait to read it. Quite simply, this was one emotionally charged and excellent read, and I'm happy to recommend it.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
Delaney Harper is on a mission. She's been living in Las Vegas, where her sister and the rest of her family live, and where she went after she divorced her deadbeat, gambling husband, Wade. She's completed her training and education as a veterinary technician, and the property Delaney and her ex-husband, Wade, purchased in Meadow Valley is the place she wants to finally open her animal rescue facility, only to learn that Wade had sold the property out from under her by forging her signature on the deed. She's back in Meadow Valley because she wants to get the deed they registered there to prove that Wade forged her signature, and she's not happy to discover the property now belongs to brothers Sam and Ben, and their close friend Colt, who got rid of the broken down buildings on the property and built their guest ranch there, now in only its second month of operation. She's thwarted in her quest for the deed because the entire town of Meadow Valley closes down for a week for its Fall Festival, she can't get her car fixed, and she can't get into the courthouse to get the forged deed.
Sam Callahan is tall, dark and handsome, doesn't do long term relationships and for good reason, but he's also a gentleman, and offers Delaney (also referred to as Vegas and Callahan by him) free room and board in a vacant guest room until town reopens. Delaney is not your typical damsel in distress, she insists on working for her room and board, and shortly thereafter Sam obliges her and soon has her mucking out stalls in the barn. She's not happy about the situation, but she's a character with grit, insists on pulling her own weight around the ranch, and I liked her immediately. Although wary because she wants her half of the land the ranch occupies, the ranch that Sam and Ben spent their life savings to purchase and rebuild, Sam is also attracted to Delaney, and this is a romance novel after all.
What sets this novel apart from so many similar cowboy romances is Sam, and the secret he's been keeping, which is soon to be unveiled as he receives an emergency phone call from the nursing home, and, with Delaney in tow, he heads there at breakneck pace and the scene that greets Sam and Delaney when they get there is both shocking and tragic. Sam's father, Nolan, has early-onset Alzheimer's dementia, and is having quite an episode in the game room, standing on a table and threatening everyone. Sam manages to calm his dad down, but once he and Delaney leave the facility, Delaney learns that Nolan's dementia, which wasn't diagnosed early on, led to the break-up of his father's marriage, and the dissolution of what had been a loving family relationship. Sadly, it's a story that's become all too common in recent years, but because it has a genetic component, and Sam and his brother, Ben, have a 50/50 chance of inheriting that gene. Sam fears it, having seen what it did to his parents marriage, and while he doesn't know whether or not he shares that gene mutation, it's kept him from ever seeking a long-term relationship with a woman, because he fears putting anyone he loves through what his mother went through before she up and left his father, leaving Sam and his brother to cope with their father alone.
While the backdrop of this novel is a serious one, and while the insta-love between Sam and Delaney usually would put me off this novel entirely, it was also well-written, sweet, charming, funny, sad, heartfelt and heartwarming. It won me over completely, especially since I'm an animal-lover, and the presence of Scout, Sam's dog, and the adoption of a cat with a serious birth-defect quite simply charmed the heck out of me. My only complaint is that the novel's HEA ending is a bit of a cliffhanger, and I so hope that the answer to the question I was hoping would be resolved in this novel is present in the next novel, which I'm guessing will be Ben's story, and personally, I can't wait to read it. Quite simply, this was one emotionally charged and excellent read, and I'm happy to recommend it.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
December 17, 2019
Early copy provided by ForeverPub in exchange for an honest review
“Today, though, something felt…off. The guests all seemed happy at their breakfast, and everyone headed out to their various activities just fine. But sometimes Sam got an inkling, and for a guy who liked to keep things simple and logical, inklings didn’t sit well.”
The story of this lovely book starts pretty slow I’d say, Delaney Harper has just come back to Meadow Valley to get back the land that her ex-husband stole from her. Unfortunately, that means having to deal with the cowboy that bought that land, Sam Callahan. And to make matters worse, the city shutting down for a week-long festival means that Delaney is stuck there for the foreseeable future which could spell out either love or complete disaster for these two.
I really liked the couple’s initial meeting, but the rest of it felt a bit insta-lovey, I couldn’t really say what made this couple great for together other than they are both good people. It also really tough to call this an enemies-to-lovers romance since they never really fight? or hate each other? They just disagree, but are very amicable about it. They never really expressed sentiments of “I hate you”, it was more “I disagree with you, but wow, you’re attractive”. I was kind of disappointed on this front just because I wanted more clashing and I didn’t really get any.
I did however, love the setting of the novel. Meadow Valley sounds lovely and well worthy of a visit. The characters that make up the town were kind and welcoming. Also, the idea of a town that shuts down just to have a good time sounds really fun.
In terms of the characters individually, both characters could have been developed more. They just seemed to have “upstanding citizens” as their profile and that was that. They could have had more complexity. Delaney was strange in the sense that, I only can really say one detail about her which is, she likes Keanu Reeves. And is somehow very shocked that other people have seen the movie Speed.
Sam’s character was slightly more developed because the book really dealt with some of his fears. Especially concerning his father and even his mother. I won’t say too much because this was probably my favorite aspect of this book and I wouldn’t want to ruin it, but I think this is something that really hits a lot of people and it did the character and the book a lot of good to closely examine all of it.
Finally, my last pet peeve of the novel: the Spanish. Somehow, Non-Latino authors just really believe that any Latino character must LOVE randomly injecting Spanish into conversations at the most random of times, even if people around them don’t speak Spanish. This happens so often and gets on my nerves so much! Like- we speak English! Really well, in fact! This book has Latino one character, who is largely used for comedic purposes, who just speaks Spanish at random times. It’s honestly such a common thing now that it’s just a stereotype at this point. And seriously “chica bella” who says that? The Spanish itself was so darn awkward. Anyways, yeah reading these parts was pretty gross.
TL;DR: If you want a really simple and cute romance to get you through to next year, then enjoy! This book is perfect for a quick read and relax.
“Today, though, something felt…off. The guests all seemed happy at their breakfast, and everyone headed out to their various activities just fine. But sometimes Sam got an inkling, and for a guy who liked to keep things simple and logical, inklings didn’t sit well.”
The story of this lovely book starts pretty slow I’d say, Delaney Harper has just come back to Meadow Valley to get back the land that her ex-husband stole from her. Unfortunately, that means having to deal with the cowboy that bought that land, Sam Callahan. And to make matters worse, the city shutting down for a week-long festival means that Delaney is stuck there for the foreseeable future which could spell out either love or complete disaster for these two.
I really liked the couple’s initial meeting, but the rest of it felt a bit insta-lovey, I couldn’t really say what made this couple great for together other than they are both good people. It also really tough to call this an enemies-to-lovers romance since they never really fight? or hate each other? They just disagree, but are very amicable about it. They never really expressed sentiments of “I hate you”, it was more “I disagree with you, but wow, you’re attractive”. I was kind of disappointed on this front just because I wanted more clashing and I didn’t really get any.
I did however, love the setting of the novel. Meadow Valley sounds lovely and well worthy of a visit. The characters that make up the town were kind and welcoming. Also, the idea of a town that shuts down just to have a good time sounds really fun.
In terms of the characters individually, both characters could have been developed more. They just seemed to have “upstanding citizens” as their profile and that was that. They could have had more complexity. Delaney was strange in the sense that, I only can really say one detail about her which is, she likes Keanu Reeves. And is somehow very shocked that other people have seen the movie Speed.
Sam’s character was slightly more developed because the book really dealt with some of his fears. Especially concerning his father and even his mother. I won’t say too much because this was probably my favorite aspect of this book and I wouldn’t want to ruin it, but I think this is something that really hits a lot of people and it did the character and the book a lot of good to closely examine all of it.
Finally, my last pet peeve of the novel: the Spanish. Somehow, Non-Latino authors just really believe that any Latino character must LOVE randomly injecting Spanish into conversations at the most random of times, even if people around them don’t speak Spanish. This happens so often and gets on my nerves so much! Like- we speak English! Really well, in fact! This book has Latino one character, who is largely used for comedic purposes, who just speaks Spanish at random times. It’s honestly such a common thing now that it’s just a stereotype at this point. And seriously “chica bella” who says that? The Spanish itself was so darn awkward. Anyways, yeah reading these parts was pretty gross.
TL;DR: If you want a really simple and cute romance to get you through to next year, then enjoy! This book is perfect for a quick read and relax.
December 12, 2019
Thank you Forever Romance for generously sending a copy of My One and Only Cowboy!
“Different doesn’t necessarily mean broken. It just means learning to cope”
A.J. Pine wrote the book that convinced me to try cowboy romances a few months ago. As a born and raised Southern California girl, I was very skeptical about adding this genre of romance into my stacks. But her book Second Chance Cowboy helped me realize I might actually love cowboy romances! I’ve read a few other authors in the last few months, but Pine’s romances remain some of my favorites. What can I say? I’m partial to some California cowboys.
My One and Only Cowboy is the first in her new Meadow Valley series and it was such a delightful and heartfelt read. As a content warning, much of the story revolves around Alzheimer’s. Parts of this were very emotional to read, but that aspect of the story was so well written.
Delaney Harper thought she was done with the small town of Meadow Valley and the land she owned with her cheating, gambler ex-husband. Until she learns the land they owned was sold without her permission. Still trying to make a life for herself following her divorce, she immediately drives from Vegas to Meadow Valley to confront the new owners and claim her share of the land. Sam Callahan is proud of the guest ranch he runs with his brother, even if they’re barely staying afloat, and the last thing he needs is feeling attracted to a woman who might own part of his land.
I really enjoyed this one! It does move a bit faster than I usually like in romance, it’s very much an instant attraction between Sam and Delaney. It feels like they only dislike each other for maybe half a day, but I was totally okay with it. Even once they admit their attraction, they try really hard to not hook up. Delaney is still working through her last relationship and Sam doesn’t want to commit and repeat his parents doomed relationship. There’s so much sexual tension between the two! I ended up really liking them as a couple, especially once all the little furry friends were added. I know the cover doesn’t show it, but if you love pets in romance this is a great one.
This is one of those romances that has characters who deal with real heartbreaking issues. Sam’s dad was diagnosed with a particularly aggressive form of Alzheimer’s at a young age, Sam and his brother know they each have a 50 percent chance of also having it. Early on in the book, Sam makes it clear to Delaney that this is why he won’t get into relationships. He refuses to make someone he loves go through what his mother did when his father first started showing symptoms. The struggle that Sam goes through in the short time frame of the book is intense at times, but I really appreciated how Pine had him explore his feelings. The scenes of Delaney and Sam discussing his possible future were some of my favorites.
Based on how this one ended I’m cannot wait to get my hands on the next book (I’m hoping it’s about Sam’s brother, Ben). My One and Only Cowboy was a 4 star read for me! Highly recommend trying this, or any of Pine’s other books, if you’re looking to try a cowboy romance!
“Different doesn’t necessarily mean broken. It just means learning to cope”
A.J. Pine wrote the book that convinced me to try cowboy romances a few months ago. As a born and raised Southern California girl, I was very skeptical about adding this genre of romance into my stacks. But her book Second Chance Cowboy helped me realize I might actually love cowboy romances! I’ve read a few other authors in the last few months, but Pine’s romances remain some of my favorites. What can I say? I’m partial to some California cowboys.
My One and Only Cowboy is the first in her new Meadow Valley series and it was such a delightful and heartfelt read. As a content warning, much of the story revolves around Alzheimer’s. Parts of this were very emotional to read, but that aspect of the story was so well written.
Delaney Harper thought she was done with the small town of Meadow Valley and the land she owned with her cheating, gambler ex-husband. Until she learns the land they owned was sold without her permission. Still trying to make a life for herself following her divorce, she immediately drives from Vegas to Meadow Valley to confront the new owners and claim her share of the land. Sam Callahan is proud of the guest ranch he runs with his brother, even if they’re barely staying afloat, and the last thing he needs is feeling attracted to a woman who might own part of his land.
I really enjoyed this one! It does move a bit faster than I usually like in romance, it’s very much an instant attraction between Sam and Delaney. It feels like they only dislike each other for maybe half a day, but I was totally okay with it. Even once they admit their attraction, they try really hard to not hook up. Delaney is still working through her last relationship and Sam doesn’t want to commit and repeat his parents doomed relationship. There’s so much sexual tension between the two! I ended up really liking them as a couple, especially once all the little furry friends were added. I know the cover doesn’t show it, but if you love pets in romance this is a great one.
This is one of those romances that has characters who deal with real heartbreaking issues. Sam’s dad was diagnosed with a particularly aggressive form of Alzheimer’s at a young age, Sam and his brother know they each have a 50 percent chance of also having it. Early on in the book, Sam makes it clear to Delaney that this is why he won’t get into relationships. He refuses to make someone he loves go through what his mother did when his father first started showing symptoms. The struggle that Sam goes through in the short time frame of the book is intense at times, but I really appreciated how Pine had him explore his feelings. The scenes of Delaney and Sam discussing his possible future were some of my favorites.
Based on how this one ended I’m cannot wait to get my hands on the next book (I’m hoping it’s about Sam’s brother, Ben). My One and Only Cowboy was a 4 star read for me! Highly recommend trying this, or any of Pine’s other books, if you’re looking to try a cowboy romance!
December 21, 2019
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
MY ONE AND ONLY COWBOY is the first title in the Meadow Valley Ranch series which has a connection to the earlier series, Crossroads Ranch. While you don’t have to have read the Crossroads Ranch series to enjoy this one – a quick visit to the author’s website shared that we’ll be seeing someone we definitely know from that series making an appearance at this guest ranch. I have read and loved Crossroads Ranch and would recommend it if you have not yet discovered the Everett family.
Delaney Harper and Sam Callahan each believe they own part of the ranch Sam and his partners/friends recently bought. Delaney’s ex-husband was a lying, thieving, scam artist who not only swindled Delaney but tried his scams on most of the folks in town. To say that Delaney doesn’t want to be back in town would be a huge understatement. But her name was forged in order for that sale to go through and she had plans for that ranch – a ranch that looks nothing at all like it once did. She only wants what is rightfully hers – but a broken down car in need of repairs, a town basically shut down for the Harvest Festival, and one caring, handsome cowboy are definitely throwing wrenches into her plans to take back what she believes is part hers.
On top of everything else that is going wrong in his life, Sam doesn’t need one beautiful spitfire showing up claiming her signature was never on the paperwork that made this ranch a dream come true for Sam and the others. She’s going to have to wait to prove that point and in the meantime, Delaney is staying on the ranch. One desperate call will send Sam hurrying to avert a disaster – and bring his one major secret out into the open. Two people who have a sizzling attraction, one ranch standing between them, and some major issues to be dealt with will make it a very rocky road to their happy ending.
I enjoyed MY ONE AND ONLY COWBOY very much on several levels. Delaney and Sam have a believable relationship full of all the potholes that come with real life. They each have things they need to prove not only to others but to themselves as well. And they each have to decide if falling in love is worth the risk to hearts that have already been through so much. I liked them both individually and as a couple. Add in some interesting secondary characters, a few laugh out loud moments, some misty eyes, and a whole lot of emotions and you discover a story that will draw you in and keep you flipping pages right up to the happy ending. I’d not hesitate to recommend this one and I’m definitely on board for the rest of this series.
*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.*
MY ONE AND ONLY COWBOY is the first title in the Meadow Valley Ranch series which has a connection to the earlier series, Crossroads Ranch. While you don’t have to have read the Crossroads Ranch series to enjoy this one – a quick visit to the author’s website shared that we’ll be seeing someone we definitely know from that series making an appearance at this guest ranch. I have read and loved Crossroads Ranch and would recommend it if you have not yet discovered the Everett family.
Delaney Harper and Sam Callahan each believe they own part of the ranch Sam and his partners/friends recently bought. Delaney’s ex-husband was a lying, thieving, scam artist who not only swindled Delaney but tried his scams on most of the folks in town. To say that Delaney doesn’t want to be back in town would be a huge understatement. But her name was forged in order for that sale to go through and she had plans for that ranch – a ranch that looks nothing at all like it once did. She only wants what is rightfully hers – but a broken down car in need of repairs, a town basically shut down for the Harvest Festival, and one caring, handsome cowboy are definitely throwing wrenches into her plans to take back what she believes is part hers.
On top of everything else that is going wrong in his life, Sam doesn’t need one beautiful spitfire showing up claiming her signature was never on the paperwork that made this ranch a dream come true for Sam and the others. She’s going to have to wait to prove that point and in the meantime, Delaney is staying on the ranch. One desperate call will send Sam hurrying to avert a disaster – and bring his one major secret out into the open. Two people who have a sizzling attraction, one ranch standing between them, and some major issues to be dealt with will make it a very rocky road to their happy ending.
I enjoyed MY ONE AND ONLY COWBOY very much on several levels. Delaney and Sam have a believable relationship full of all the potholes that come with real life. They each have things they need to prove not only to others but to themselves as well. And they each have to decide if falling in love is worth the risk to hearts that have already been through so much. I liked them both individually and as a couple. Add in some interesting secondary characters, a few laugh out loud moments, some misty eyes, and a whole lot of emotions and you discover a story that will draw you in and keep you flipping pages right up to the happy ending. I’d not hesitate to recommend this one and I’m definitely on board for the rest of this series.
*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.*
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