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Shepherd's Crossing #3

Healing the Cowboy's Heart

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A perfect match... or sworn enemies?

Horse breeder Isaiah Woods can't believe his only ally in helping a neglected mare is the descendant of his family's bitter enemy – veterinarian Charlotte Fitzgerald. Despite the feud, Charlotte risks everything to save the horse. But as she falls for Isaiah – and the orphaned niece and nephew in his care – the mare isn't the only one who needs saving.

215 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 1, 2019

37 people are currently reading
76 people want to read

About the author

Ruth Logan Herne

132 books506 followers
Multi-published, award-winning, bestselling author Ruth Logan Herne is living her dream of being a published author and having the time of her life doing it. Born to a poor family in Rochester, NY, Ruthy draws on her early years and her many years of dealing with today's young families and businesses to create beautiful, heartfelt small-town stories of faith, hope and love... while adopting her favorite non-Scripture quotes "Plenty of time for rest in the grave" (Ben Franklin) and "No one can make you feel inferior without your permission." (Eleanor Roosevelt) and one can always depend on Yoda "There is no try. There is do or do not." Succinct... and true. :) She loves chatting with readers on facebook at Ruth Logan Herne or follow Ruthy on Twitter, visit her website or stop by Seekerville (www.seekerville.blogspot.com) or pop by the Yankee Belle Cafe where Ruthy and several lovely authors share recipes, facts, photos and just plain old life! (www.yankeebellecafe.blogspot.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
June 5, 2019


Healing the Cowboy’s Heart was a heartfelt story of learning to trust and moving on from the past. It takes a great deal of faith to venture into the unknown and start all over again. Charlotte Fitzgerald did that when she joined her sisters in Shepherd’s Crossing to start her mobile large vet practice. She stepped into a beehive on day 1 when she went up against the established vet in how to handle newly found abandoned and frail horses. Standing up for what is right and not taking the easy path wasn’t the popular road to take, but Charlotte knew what she needed to do for herself and for the horses.

Isaiah Woods, a horse breeder, knew instantly that one of those abandoned horses was someone he knew from decades before. It was his own horse and why she was still alive was quite the surprise. He knew he had to give his old horse Ginger a chance to live with him again and right a wrong. As a young boy he couldn’t go against the adults but now he can do the right thing. It would definitely cause a rift in his family, and he would also need the help of the new vet. That wasn’t going to be easy either because she is the niece of the man who bought his ancestor’s land 30 years before, and there are many who still hold a grudge. Both Isaiah and Charlotte face an uphill battle, and test the waters with one another, to see if they can put aside prejudices and work together.

Both main characters were strong individuals and it took the course of the story to see what they had in common and eventual find their happy ending. Working closely together, Isaiah and Charlotte saw qualities in one another that they liked and slowly their feelings became stronger. It took an outsider to Isaiah the errors of his raising his nephew and niece and that maybe he needed to change himself. Charlotte may have felt overwhelmed within the first few days in Shepherd’s Crossing, but she had a family that loved and supported her and would stand with her. They hit a rough patch when he jumped to the wrong conclusion but it didn’t take long before he saw his mistake. Work brought them back together and with a real understanding of what forgiveness can do if you own your mistake. The children and animals in the story highly contributed to the developing romance and it was very easy to fall in love with them as well.

I have a soft spot for Love Inspired books from Harlequin and I found that Ruth Logan Herne writes realistic, inspirational romances. She brings her message of faith and love across without sounding preachy but rather one that deliver a message of hope and change. The characters are diverse and complex and sometimes have tragic pasts, and shows it isn’t easy living life on the right path all the time. This is the one of four stories in this miniseries and can be read as a stand-alone. I’ve enjoyed all of them and you can feel love of family they’ve created together there in Shepherd’s Crossing.
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
July 3, 2019
Healing the Cowboy’s Heart was a heartfelt story of learning to trust and moving on from the past. It takes a great deal of faith to venture into the unknown and start all over again. Charlotte Fitzgerald did that when she joined her sisters in Shepherd’s Crossing to start her mobile large vet practice. She stepped into a beehive on day 1 when she went up against the established vet in how to handle newly found abandoned and frail horses. Standing up for what is right and not taking the easy path wasn’t the popular road to take, but Charlotte knew what she needed to do for herself and for the horses.

Isaiah Woods, a horse breeder, knew instantly that one of those abandoned horses was someone he knew from decades before. It was his own horse and why she was still alive was quite the surprise. He knew he had to give his old horse Ginger a chance to live with him again and right a wrong. As a young boy he couldn’t go against the adults but now he can do the right thing. It would definitely cause a rift in his family, and he would also need the help of the new vet. That wasn’t going to be easy either because she is the niece of the man who bought his ancestor’s land 30 years before, and there are many who still hold a grudge. Both Isaiah and Charlotte face an uphill battle, and test the waters with one another, to see if they can put aside prejudices and work together.

Both main characters were strong individuals and it took the course of the story to see what they had in common and eventual find their happy ending. Working closely together, Isaiah and Charlotte saw qualities in one another that they liked and slowly their feelings became stronger. It took an outsider to Isaiah the errors of his raising his nephew and niece and that maybe he needed to change himself. Charlotte may have felt overwhelmed within the first few days in Shepherd’s Crossing, but she had a family that loved and supported her and would stand with her. They hit a rough patch when he jumped to the wrong conclusion but it didn’t take long before he saw his mistake. Work brought them back together and with a real understanding of what forgiveness can do if you own your mistake. The children and animals in the story highly contributed to the developing romance and it was very easy to fall in love with them as well.

I have a soft spot for Love Inspired books from Harlequin and I found that Ruth Logan Herne writes realistic, inspirational romances. She brings her message of faith and love across without sounding preachy but rather one that deliver a message of hope and change. The characters are diverse and complex and sometimes have tragic pasts, and shows it isn’t easy living life on the right path all the time. This is the one of four stories in this miniseries and can be read as a stand-alone. I’ve enjoyed all of them and you can feel love of family they’ve created together there in Shepherd’s Crossing.

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Carla.
7,701 reviews177 followers
January 22, 2020
This is the third book in a trilogy, but the first one I read. Even though I know what will happen with the other two sisters, I will go back and read the first two to find out what happened in their lives and how they end up in Shepherd's Crossing. This was such a sweet, romantic story. If you love animals, especially horses, you will love this story.

Charlotte Fitzgerald left everything behind except her veterinarian van and left New York to head to Shepherd's Crossing to be with her sisters. She will inherit 1/3 of her uncle's estate if she spends one year working in Shepherd's Crossing. As the story progresses, the reader will find out about her past, and why she has run west. Shortly after arriving, she is called to a local equestrian school where a pack of abandoned and sick horses have wandered in. Determined to save as many as she can, she pits herself against the local, established vet. She also meets the local hottie, Isaiah Woods, a man raising not only horses, but his niece and nephew. Acceptance does not come easy for Charlotte, but she is determined to do what she believes is best for any animal patient she encounters. I loved her character. She has a past that has scarred her, but she is smart, strong, and willing to butt heads if it means saving an animal. Isaiah is also a wonderful character and the kids sucked me right in. I loved this relatively short story, despite the rather insta-love. A sweet, enjoyable story that I read in a day. I have loved every book I have read by Ruth Logan Herne and this one is no exception. The story of forgiveness and faith are in here, but not in a way that those who do not read a lot of Christian Fiction would not enjoy this story.
Profile Image for Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...).
1,677 reviews583 followers
October 17, 2022
Isaiah and Charlotte have amazing chemistry which bumped my rating to five stars! I felt connected with their emotions, and loved their journey as their relationship progressed in the midst of familial and community strife. The themes of grief, redemption, and forgiveness are strongly portrayed in the lives of the characters. It was interesting to learn about equine care with Charlotte's occupation as a mobile vet, and the horses they rescue. Isaiah's Native American heritage also provided details that brought depth to the story. Great setting, great characters, great plot. Loved it!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
3,978 reviews1,764 followers
July 18, 2019
I have a love/hate relationship with Isiah and Char's story. Love because it's so good and hate because it heralds the end of another amazing series by Ruth Logan Herne. Sob! I so hate having to say goodbye to beloved characters and the Fitzgerald girls are among the best. Along with surrogate mom Corrie whose quiet sass and no-nonsense wisdom bring so much to these Shepherd's Crossing stories!

This time it's baby sis Fitzgerald who gets her chance at a happily-ever-after. It's a rocky road, however, so be prepared for some bumps and detours along the way. Charlotte is a woman with the strength and conviction to overcome and forge ahead and she is ready to make a new life out west alongside her sisters. Love that she's a vet and that this book is very horse-centrc.

Which brings me to a very swoonworthy hero (even though he's a major dolt at one point!) I forgive him because Corrie would want me to and because he's...well...swoony. Hard to stay mad at him for long. A rancher who raises appaloosas and takes in rescue horses. Be still my heart. Plus he's wrangling his orphaned niece and nephew. How can you not love that kind of integrity?!

Ruthy's trademark themes of faith, family and forgiveness continue to stir this reader's heart and leave her longing for more.
582 reviews
June 7, 2019
God had given him a chance to fix an old mistake. One way or another he was going to make up as much of that error as he could.~pg 22

Isaiah is raising his niece and nephew after the tragic death of his brother and his sister-in-law. He's also of native American heritage breeding some of the best Appaloosa horses around. Char moves to town following her two sisters at the bequest of her uncles will and to try to save a business going under due to her late father's foolish decisions. Already positive changes are happening and it seems business on the ranch is beginning to thrive once again. When a group of abandoned and neglected horses are found and Char insists on saving them, it opens old wounds and sheds light on family secrets. Will Isaiah have strength enough to face them head-on in order for healing to come?

Ruth Logan Herne writes some of the best family themed books around! I love the diversity she incorporates with each story. Her spiritual wisdom and practical advice come out in the form of her character Corrie, who raised the sisters after tragedy struck when they were but children. She's the glue that binds this make-shift family together! I think she has to be my favorite character of this series.

Did you ever wonder why when things go well, we call it coincidence, but when things go bad, folks blame God? God brought us here child. All of us. Through the generosity of your uncle, yes, but it wasn't an accident. It was a blessing. ~ pg 97 & 98

Healing the Cowboy's Heart is heartwarming & emotional. Herne fills it with family drama, faith that fuels strength to the soul, a growing love to stir the heart, the binding of people who stand strong in life's storms, and learning to lean on the Lord who holds them up. Hope for a future and beauty from ashes!

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and was under no obligation to leave a positive review. All opinions are mine. *
Profile Image for Susan Snodgrass.
2,002 reviews275 followers
June 1, 2019
'She'd let her foolish head get filled with those silly fairy-tale dreams she never should have let herself entertain because she knew better.'

Ruth Logan Herne takes her readers back to Shepherd's Crossing in Idaho where we have the story of horse breeder Isaiah Woods and veterinarian Charlotte Fitzgerald, two who should have been sworn enemies. Charlotte is determined to be a good vet and take care of the horses around the area, even when the long time veterinarian makes it known she is not welcome.

Herne once again proves she writes straight from the heart. There are good lessons to be learned here from this book and the characters who allow God to guide them. Well done!

*My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. The opinions stated here are entirely my own.
Profile Image for Marilyn.
1,276 reviews
June 30, 2019

"We all make mistakes. We own them, learn from them and go on. A smart guy taught me that."

"Feeling sorry for yourself gets you nowhere."

Another amazing, heartfelt story from Ruth Logan Herne that brought the past to fruition with facing past hurts, thoughts and learning to accept change. Isaiah Woods and Charlotte Fitzgerald was like oil and water at times with their past. Charlotte confronted the current vet about one particular neglected horse with Isaiah and her joining forces to save the horse through their own care and vet knowledge from Charlotte. Isaiah’s family heritage was often brought to his attention by his mother’s own hidden secret of a tragedy but Isaiah wanted peace even where the Fitzgerald’s family was concerned. The beauty of relationships, forgiveness, love and God’s goodness will shine when truth is revealed.

I received a complimentary paperback copy from the author. I was under no obligation to post a review but have expressed my own sincere thoughts.
Profile Image for Cindy.
Author 1 book26 followers
June 10, 2019
This is a fantastic book! Ruth Logan Herne expertly drew me into the story with the plight of Ginger, the neglected horse, then made me fall in love with the characters. All of them, but especially book-boyfriend-worthy Isaiah with his good looks and kind heart.
Char, a woman in a traditional man's job, must earn trust in her chosen reputation, but how to do this when she has been black-balled by the veterinarian who's been around Shepherd's Crossing for years, still fighting a feud that has long since been put to rest? And how can she make room for Isaiah in her heart when she must be tough and show unfailing strength as she attempts to gain the trust of the ranch community.
Isaiah struggles with grief as he takes over raising his orphaned niece and nephew while running the horse breeding ranch established by he and his brother before his untimely death. The same kind heart that attracts Char's attention won't let Isaiah turn his back on the neglected horse that he loved as a child, despite the repercussions within his family and community.
Ruth Logan Herne has never failed to enthrall me with one of her books and Healing the Cowboy's Heart is no exception. I received a copy of this book from the author with no obligation to post a review. This is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Susan Veach.
23 reviews1 follower
June 14, 2019
This is a sweet story, with bits of the writer's expected humor. I am still chuckling over a Veterinarian Barbie vs. Hazmat Hazel comparison.
Profile Image for Mary.
Author 10 books61 followers
January 22, 2023
Truly enjoyed this story. It had so much more than the romance we enjoy. Herne intricately wove in great information about horses and their care so masterfully, I didn't realize until I finished the book how much I'd learned--I was so engaged in the lovely story.

Well done!

Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Nancy Ku.
1,496 reviews17 followers
May 26, 2019
Healing the Cowboy's Heart (Shepherd's Crossing) by Ruth Logan Herne ...This is my first book by Ruth Logan Herne and it will not be the last. Thanks to the publisher and #NetGalley for allowing me to preview this book. This book touched my heart.. I read it in two days and only put it down to eat and sleep when I couldn't keep my eyes open... Isaiah Woods and Charlotte "Char" Fitzgerald are both caring and dealing with their own demons... then add in J.J. and Liam (Isaiah's brother's orphaned children he is raising) and both their families and dogs, horses and sheep, guilt and hurt feelings from the past, laughter, tears, misunderstandings, tragedy, love and forgiveness and you get a heartwarming story of love that leads to a very HEA. I plan to go back and read more of the SHEPHERD'S CROSSING series.

Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Entertaining Witty Realistic Inspirational Happily Ever After Easy-to-read Great world building Tear-jerker Action-packed Page-turner Romantic Informative Wonderful characters

Profile Image for Cindy.
226 reviews10 followers
May 20, 2019
If you love horses, kids and romance you should definitely enjoy Ruth Logan Herne's newest Love Inspired book, Healing the Cowboy's Heart which comes out in July 2019.

The lead character, veterinarian Charlotte Fitzgerald is an extremely strong character honed by her past. The male lead, Isaiah Woods is a rancher, breeder of Appaloosa horses and the guardian for his niece and nephew. Isaiah is also a strong character battling issues of his past. When these two characters meet magic happens. I loved their interactions and I absolutely fell in love with JJ and Liam, Isaiah's niece and nephew.

To be honest, I found myself shedding tears several times. Especially when the love of Rising, a family dog, was conveyed so well through the tears of little Liam. I won't say more because I don't hand out spoilers. However, when you pick up the book please see the top of page 88. You just may shed a few tears too.

Once again, if you love romance, horses, kids, and stories of forgiveness you'll love this book.

On a 5-Star Scale - 5 Stars!!!!!

I would like to thank Ruth Logan Herne for my copy of Healing the Cowboy's Heart. I received my copy for free with no expectation for a positive or negative review. The opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR. Part 255.
Profile Image for Connie.
1,671 reviews7 followers
May 23, 2019
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and I am voluntarily reviewing it.

This was a wonderful book to read. I loved the characters and the many different references that the author provided. Isaiah and Char were two perfect imperfect characters. They blended well together. I adored Isaiah's niece J.J. and nephew Liam a great deal. This book had a great many conflicts and the biblical references were perfect for each conflict.

I loved the dual POV format that the book was written in. Getting inside the characters' thought process was wonderful for me. Getting to see their thoughts allowed me to identify and understand them so much better.

I highly recommend this book to anyone. This is a sweet and clean book.
Profile Image for Faith.
2,226 reviews
June 19, 2019
Veterinarian Charlotte Fitzgerald is fresh out of school and is ready to move to Shepherd's Crossing to live on her uncle's ranch for a year in order to claim her inheritance. She dreams of being a large animal vet and has a mobile unit, the last thing wants to do is get on the wrong side of the old vet, but when a herd of neglected horses shows up she wants to fight for their wellbeing, throwing her head first into controversy.



Isaiah Wood is an Appaloosa horse breeder, he becomes Charlotte's unlikely ally when he recognizes a horse that he had raised and had thought was put down. He has a lot on his plate too, raising his niece and nephew.



Charlotte has a big heart for people and animals. She connects instantly with Isaiah's niece and nephew, helping them feel needed and valued in the wake of their tragedy. She is passionate about what she does, and works hard to care for the neglected horses. She is very clever and knows what she is doing.



Isaiah admires Charlotte's passion and devotion, as well as her care for his niece and nephew. He has big heart and believes in second chances, he has a strong faith that is a part of everything he does. He grows throughout the book bonding with the children and working alongside Charlotte.



It was fun to see multiple returning characters from previous books, I appreciated the complex storyline and relationships that were much more than I normally expect from these shorter length novels. Well developed characters, riveting plot, and a great sense of community and family despite the drama. A heartwarming read, with strong characters that you can cheer for the whole way through. A fantastic conclusion to the series, compelling and satisfying.



I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
938 reviews1 follower
July 4, 2019
Ruth Logan Herne takes us back to Shepherd’s Crossing in Idaho for another charming story with realistic and endearing characters. Main characters, Isaiah and Charlotte, both have past hurts and scars but are trying to move on with their lives. I loved seeing them grow and progress as they interacted and strengthened their relationship. With a stellar cast of secondary characters, some from other Shepherd’s Crossing books, Herne’s book makes for a delightful read. The diversity in her books, the obvious knowledge about her subjects, and the inspirational threads add to the enjoyment. Forgiveness, faith, and hope feature prominently in the pages of this story and bring a deeper dimension to it.

The nuggets of wisdom are ones we all can use. “And that’s the thing about life. . . Dreams don’t always come true on our timeline. But that doesn’t mean they won’t. Sometimes they’re just different dreams. Ones we hadn’t hardly thought of.”
“Maybe normal isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Maybe the normal you’re searching for is an illusion. Which means maybe you’re searching for the wrong things.”

I would recommend Healing the Cowboy’s Heart to those who enjoy heartfelt contemporary stories. 4 1/2 stars rounded to 5

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Sherida Stewart.
Author 2 books40 followers
June 16, 2019
Author Ruth Logan Herne scores another blue ribbon winner with this book set in the charming Idaho town of Shepherd’s Crossing!

Where to start? With the amazing characters, including adorable kiddos? With the charming setting of a hope-infused small town? With the gentle faith-filled messages tucked inside the pages? Or with the heart-thumping romance? I loved it all!

Veterinarian Charlotte (Char) Fitzgerald has arrived in Shepherd’s Crossing to join her older sisters at Pine Ridge Ranch which they inherited from their uncle. With her new circumstances as a horse doctor with a van set up as a mobile veterinary clinic, she hopes to find the normal life she never experienced.

Native American Isaiah Woods is working hard to successfully run the Appaloosa horse breeding ranch he started with his brother. He struggles with doing the best for his recently orphaned niece and nephew and with the effects of old family secrets.

A great romance awaits the couple as they work through old rivalries and issues of trust. As they give in to their mutual attraction, they exchange a heart-racing first kiss. But hold on to your saddle! There are complications on the trail ahead for these two.

Tucked among the pages you’ll find moments of tears and joy, some thoughts on faithful living, a satisfying sweet romance, and many “just right” bits of Ruthy wisdom. I highly recommend any book by Ruth Logan Herne, and Healing the Cowboy’s Heart is another great one. You’ll close the book with a warm heart and a contented smile!

Favorite quotes:

“Because in the end, love conquers all.....We deal with the rough patches in life and we celebrate the good times.”

“Dreams don’t always come true on our timeline. But that doesn’t mean they won’t. Sometimes they’re just different dreams. Ones we hadn’t hardly thought of.”

*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m honored to express my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Marilyn Johnson.
601 reviews1 follower
July 31, 2019
This is book three in the Shepherd's Crossing series, however I believe it is a stand alone book, since I have not read books one or two and I had no problems keeping up with what was going on. That being said I know I missed some history of many of the characters in this book and in Shepherd's Crossing. I feel it would probably be an even better read to have read the series in order, but not necessary.

I loved the personality of, Charlotte Fitzgerald, she has such a love for life and she is not afraid to say exactly what she is feeling. Char is struggling with many things and must learn to trust God.

The handsome cowboy, Isaiah Woods, has such a quiet manner. When he is challenged he must decide to make a stand even if it goes against loved ones.

I enjoyed the connection Char and Isaiah have and the bond she developed with Liam.
18 reviews
Read
January 22, 2022
Awesome story.

Wonderful story about challenging situations. People working together. It teaches how an unforgiving heart can eat the very life out of you. It shows even when someone tries to think that God doesn't exist
Or that he doesn't care. Sooner or later you have to wake up. God was always with us and cares for us and wants the best for us.. Yes bad things happen. We have an advisory,, the devil, seeking whom he can devour. This book show overcome evil with good. God is for us not against us.
409 reviews8 followers
July 2, 2019
I loved this whole story. Any story that contains animals and babies is okay with me. I especially enjoy the writing of this author. When I get books delivered to me, I read my favorite authors first.
418 reviews
August 23, 2019
Isaiah and Char’s story is a testimony of how our past can give us misconceptions of what we can have in our future. This story is about a horse breeder and a new vet in town. Their love and romance is inspirational!
Profile Image for Melmo2610.
3,663 reviews
November 9, 2023
Another stellar read from RLH. Her stories never miss for me. I love the characters, the storyline, the heart and wisdom and the humor. This one was enjoyable and I read it in less than a day. Great read!
Profile Image for Pam Jackson-gorsline.
985 reviews3 followers
May 7, 2019
This is an interesting story with many twists and turns. The characters were well developed and interesting.
Profile Image for Harlequin Books.
18.4k reviews2,805 followers
Read
July 1, 2019
Categories
Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Western Romance, Wholesome Romance

Miniseries
Shepherd’s Crossing
92 reviews3 followers
July 2, 2019
Another Spectacular Story from Ms. Herne!!! Love this Town! Love these Characters! Love this Story! Love this Author! It's a WIN in every way! Can't wait for the sequel to come out!
20 reviews
July 2, 2019
Just so good! I was sucked in by the third page. That's a Wonderful Happy Feeling!!
thanks Ms. Herne, for such a great read!!!
1,006 reviews10 followers
July 1, 2020
Another hit over the park. Loved, Loved, Loved this story. Can't wait to read more from this fantastic author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews

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