When a Cowboy Loves a Woman

Creedence Horse Rescue #2

by Jennie Marts

They both know the pain of loss and how to protect their hearts...but fate has a way of stepping in...

Her perfectly controlled life falls apart when a kitchen fire lands young widow Elle Brooks in the muscled arms of handsome rancher and veterinarian Brody Tate. The fire forces Elle to move in with her friend Bryn and her motley collection of rescue horses and other animals on the Heaven Can Wait Horse Rescue ranch, where she volunteers. Spending time with the hunky cowboy and his spunky 10-year-old daughter, Mandy, as they rehabilitate the beautiful horses, reminds Elle of all she lost in a car crash years ago. She can't deny the feelings that being close to Brody is stirring in her.

As a widower himself, Brody puts all he has into being a good dad for his spirited daughter. He hasn't let women and romance even enter his mind, until he meets Elle. And now, this woman is all he thinks about. Spending time with her is shaking up the calm stasis he had worked so hard to achieve, but he can't seem to stay away.

Brody and Elle both know the pain of losing someone they loved, and neither planned ever to let themselves fall in love again. But fate has a way of stepping in, and what started with a small fire now burns hotter than either one could have imagined. Can these two wounded souls take a chance on each other and risk their hearts again?

Genres: Romance, Westerns, Audiobook, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Adult, Fiction

336 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published March 30, 2021

About the author

Jennie Marts is a USA Today bestselling author of award-winning books filled with love, laughter, and always a happily ever after. She loves genre-mashups, and her books range from western romance to cozy mysteries but all have the charm and appeal of quirky small-town life. Living out her own happily ever after in the mountains of Colorado, she’s addicted to Diet Coke, adores Cheetos, and believes you can’t have too many books, shoes, or friends.

Reviews

[Carol [Goodreads Addict] · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a Cowboy Loves a Woman is book two in the Creedence Horse Rescue Series by Jennie Marts. I fell so in love with the first book, A Cowboy State of Mind, that there wasn’t a second’s hesitation to dive into this one. I think this couple is probably the cutest couple I’ve read this year. These two were so perfect together.



Dr. Brody Tate is the town veterinarian in Creedence, Colorado. He is also a volunteer fireman, a widower of five years, and a single dad to the sweetest, most precious ten year old daughter, Mandy, that you will ever meet. This girl jumped right into my heart, squeezed it tight and never let go. And don’t even get me started on the swoony Brody Tate. This is a cowboy right out of your dreams. Brody has not dated since the death of his wife. All of his focus has been on his daughter, his job, and running his own ranch.



Elle Brooks lost her husband over a year ago in an accident. He was the love of her life and she grieved for him deeply. It wasn’t until she met Bryn that runs the Heaven Can Wait Horse Rescue and started volunteering there, that she finally started coming out of her shell. Then she met Brody and his adorable daughter. When she was around Brody, she felt like she was waking up from a long sleep.

“What aren’t you good at, Dr. Tate?”
“Apparently staying away from you.”

Neither of these two were looking for a relationship. Both were still dealing with their own losses. But the attraction was so strong, too strong to deny. But neither of them are sure they are ready to take a risk and move forward. They have both experienced what it feels like to lose someone. Can they be brave enough to risk that pain again?



This book pretty much blew me away. First, my description might have made it sound angsty when it was anything but. I smiled SO MUCH while reading this. The collection of animals at Heaven Can Wait is hilarious. A pig that thinks he’s a dog, an ornery goat, an escape artist miniature horse, and so many adorable puppies. And it’s the animals that really help to heal Elle. Time and time again she sees these sad, broken animals come to the Rescue and how brave they are to trust again. If they are so brave, can’t she be brave too?



As I said, little Mandy stole the show. This little girl has an old soul. She is so insightful. And her father, Brody, had me melting right into a puddle of goo. The swoon factor is off the charts, here! This book was just wonderful from start to finish and I can’t recommend it enough. I can’t wait for the next book, How to Cowboy, which will be Bryn’s cousin, Cade’s book.

For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Cowboy Romance, and this is the second book in the Creedence Horse Rescue series. I have read the first book in the Creedence Horse Rescue series before picking up this book. I am really loving this series. Both the main characters (Elle and Brody) have lost their first love, and they are trying to learn to live and love again. I really loved this book, and I could not put this book down. I read this book all day today because I could not put it down. I loved the characters, and I loved all the animals in this book (the goat and the pig is just the cuteness and funniness). I cannot wait for the next book in this series to come out. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

Update 11/4/2021: I just picked up the third book in this book series. The goat and the pig that was in this book shows up in the beginning of the third book, and I could never forget those two animals. I am so happy the goat and the pig is still on the farm.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

When a Cowboy Loves a Woman was an amazing read about finding love again.

After the loss of her husband, Elle Brooks meticulously plans every aspect of her life. What she didn't plan on was a kitchen fire driving her into the arms of volunteer firefighter and veterinarian Brody Tate. When the damage forces Elle from her home, she moves into her friend Bryn's house on the Heaven Can Wait Horse Rescue ranch. While volunteering with the horses, Elle spends time with Brody and his firecracker ten-year-old daughter Mandy. But the more time they spend together, the more Elle and Brody can't deny their attraction.

Elle's character intrigued me from the start when she was introduced in A Cowboy State of Mind. Elle lost her husband over a year ago and after his death she retreated from everyone in town. When Bryn starts the rescue ranch, Elle begins volunteering there and it's that and her friendship with Bryn that causes her to open back up. I loved watching Elle find joy in life again and I particularly enjoyed her experiences with the various animals on the ranch. Brody lost his wife five years ago and in the years since has thrown his energy into raising his daughter while running his veterinarian business. Brody has a hard time with change or letting others watch Mandy as he feels everything should be on him. Over the course of the book it was nice to see him relax a bit and realize he can rely on his friends and family for help.

Elle and Brody's romance was going to be a hard one for both of them despite their obvious attraction to one another. They had both already found the love of their life only to lose them which caused both of them to close off to the possibility of love again to avoid experiencing that pain again. It was great watching the pair slowly open up with each other and I enjoyed the friendship they developed along the way. Their chemistry is simply amazing and the build up to steamier aspects of their relationship was very well done. I liked how the pair dealt with the obstacles to their relationship and I was very happy with their romance overall.

When a Cowboy Loves a Woman is a fantastic read about finding love again and I highly recommend it if you're looking for a contemporary romance to pick up. I'm looking forward to reading the third book in the series, How to Cowboy, when it releases later this year.

**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**

[Jen (jenslostinthepages) ♥Star-Crossed Book Blog♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a Cowboy Loves a Woman was an emotional tale of hope, friendship, love and second chances. From that first page, this story started off with a bang and then led us down a heartfelt path. It was beautiful how laughter and tears were mixed together. It was impossible not to fall hard for these two broken souls and their journey to healing and love. If you love adult romance and happily ever afters, then definitely add this one to your list!

The kind of loss they had both experienced couldn’t be repaired or replaced. The ones they lost were gone forever. He swallowed back the sudden ache in his throat.

Elle Brooks kitchen caught fire and thankfully Brody Tate happened to be across the street, visiting a friend, and was able to help rescue her. From their first interaction in this story, you could tell there was something there. It was like fireworks went off when they were near each other. But confession time, I had already fallen for them in A Cowboy State of Mind. While you don't have to read that story to enjoy this one, I l recommend it also! Elle ended up staying with her bestie, Bryn, while her house was undergoing repairs. And everywhere Elle turned, Brody seemed to be there too.

She fit so easily into their lives, like she already belonged.

I loved Elle! She was strong, resilient, yet she was broken from her past. She had suffered so much loss, but had admiringly started to try and live her life again. She became friends with Bryn, volunteered at Bryn's horse rescue and I loved watching her find joy in life again. While Elle didn't think love would appear one more time, she couldn't deny her attraction to Brody. There were sparks between them and they connected so effortlessly.

Mandy threw her arms around Elle and pressed her face into her shoulder. “Why do the people we love have to die? It’s not fair.”
Grief ripped through Elle as she folded the girl into her arms and whispered, “No, it’s not fair, sweet girl. It’s not fair at all.”

Brody was swoon worthy! He was a single dad to Mandy, was a veterinarian and helped with the animals at the horse rescue at times. And while you could tell he definitely felt something towards Elle, and had so much fun with her, he was also cautious. It was not just him he had to think about. He didn't want his daughter to be heartbroken if it didn't work out. Even though he could see how much Elle adored and cared for Mandy, he was still so hesitant.

He leaned toward her until his forehead touched hers. “I can’t seem to breathe when I’m around you.”
She nodded, fighting her own battle to breathe. “I know,” she whispered.

Both Elle and Brody were healing from the grief of losing their spouses in the past. While there were emotional moments, there were so many happy and heartfelt ones too. The banter between them was smile inducing and their steamy moments, oh wow, *fans face*. I also loved how seamless they fit together. And that included Mandy too, whether they were helping out with the animals or anything else, Elle, Brody and Mandy felt like they could become a family so easily. But they didn't have the easiest rode and I had tears quite a few times for the three of them.

Elle lowered her voice and tried not to smile. “Has anyone ever told you that you have a dirty mind?”
Sassy shrugged and waved away her admonishment with an exaggerated wink. “You say dirty, I say flirty.”

There was also a cast of animals and people that I fell for too. Shamus the adorable mini-horse, Otis the trouble making goat, Tiny the pig and quite a few of the dogs! And I have to mention there was an animal part I struggled with BUT have faith. Jenny wouldn't do us wrong like that is all I'm saying. Ohhhhh and we got to see Bryn and her fiancé, Zane. AND Aunt Sassy who I fell in love with in the Cowboy of Creedence Series! Plus I loved, loved, loved Mandee, Body's daughter!

Could she feel how hard his heart was beating? He blew out a sigh. He was trusting her, even though he wasn’t sure he could trust himself. All he wanted to do was give in, to let himself fall.

When a Cowboy Loves a Woman was a beautiful and emotional tale. The love story, the healing and the friendships, awww I loved it all. It also touched on bullying that Mandy went through, and that was so well done. Happy tears, sad tears, broken tears fell from my eyes while reading this story and I can't recommend it enough!

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

For more of my reviews, please visit:

[Janilyn Kocher · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delicious read. I fell over the Brody precipse after reading black Stetson. Unashamedly, I drooled over him the entire book. He and Elle are well matched and once they sorted out their insecurities, they were on their way. The menagerie of mischievous animals stole the book. I loved the scenes with the pig and goat along with all the cute puppies. I think the author nailed the antics and meanness of preteen girls. I spent an entire afternoon happily reading about a hot cowboy. Time well spent. Thanks to Edelweiss and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the advance read.

[Ilaria 🌸 · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really struggled with this one and ended up skimming after 40%.
The romance was stiffly and felt unrealistic to me.
this is super sad on both ends. Brody had lost his wife and Elle had lost her husband and both were just doing their best to survive. I cannot even imagine the pain of losing a spouse and at times it was hard reading and so plain and not real,.
Again all the story is around no communication.
not my cuppa

[Shelley C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second chance at life😍

When a cowboy loves a woman is the second book in the Creedence Horse Rescue series and it’s a wonderful story with great characters and has a little bit of everything in it❣️

Brody is a Veterinarian and along with his daughter Mandy they help out at the Creedence Horse Rescue on occasion. One night there’s a small fire and Brody steps up to help when he realises it’s Elle. As they spend more time together, both Elle and Brody’s pasts seem to make them both more wary and cautious about moving forward....even if it’s with each other😳

As I said before this book has a little bit of everything in it which made it that much more enjoyable❣️ I received an advanced copy via Netgalley and voluntarily leave my honest review❤️

[Aly · Rating 4 out of 5]

After losing her husband in a car accident, a fire in her kitchen is not that big of a deal for Elle Brooks. She still needs a place to stay during the repairs and can count on her good friend, Bryn, who welcome her at the ranch she share with her boyfriend. An advantage for Elle who volunteer at the Horse Rescue they have on the property.

Brody Tate is no stranger to grieving the one you love either. He lost his wife to cancer five years ago but his ten years-old daughter is his reason to get out of bed. And also to take care of animals, since he's a veterinarian and a rancher.

Elle and Brody met briefly a few weeks ago when they rescued with mutual friends an half-starved dog and her puppies. Living at her friend's house mean seeing Brody almost every days, since his daughter, a little bit too wise for her years, likes to visit the animals at Heaven Can Wait Horse Rescue. Because Bryn and her boyfriend have a backyard full of critters.

Elle and Brody both acknowledge the attraction they feel for each other but they're wary about starting a relationship, afraid to be hurt again. That's fine because the menagerie's shenanigans are enough to make us wait before Brody and Elle finally give in to what their hearts really want.

A second book just as fun and sweet as the first one in the Creedence Horse Rescue series😄.

[Toni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marts captures grief and love and moving on perfectly. Add in some pre-teen bullying and there’s a lot going on in this novel, but in the end it is all about heart. A must read.

[Lori R · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful, romantic story filled with humor, love, grief, pain, and hope. The antics of the animals made me laugh and the parallel between Elle and Roxy was very emotional. I really liked all of the characters in this story of second chances. It was interesting that Elle and Brody had both lost their spouses and were not looking for love when love found them.

I also liked that this book was so full of emotional moments, funny moments, moments to learn lessons, and moments of hope for Elle, Brody, and Mandy's future. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Entertaining and very wholesome. It was nice to see Mandy’s conquering of the bullies and Milo is the goat. Very cute as well with the many puppies and the successful rescues. Much less sex than I expected- the kisses seemed more erotic than the climatic sex scene.

[Shari · Rating 5 out of 5]

An awesome read that will delight all readers. Loved the cast of characters including the four legged ones too. Elle and Brody both loss spouses and now have the fear of opening their hearts again for love. Brody has a ten year daughter, Maggie that has many words of wisdom for her young age.

I have read everything by Jennie Marts and this is her best book yet. I did not want to see it end. very likeable characters. Yes. I did shed a few tears but not all sad. Loved the four legged creatures, had me laughing at their antics. This is the second book in the series but can be read as a stand alone.

[Allyson Abu-Hajar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elle Brooks relaxation is about to take a turn for the worst, first she hears sirens then smells the smoke. The smoke is coming from her house, and the sirens are outside her door. She makes a dash to grab a sentimental hand-knit blanket, when Dr. Brody Tate came to see her get out of the house safely.

Elle Brooks has lost her whole world in an accident, where she mostly hid from others in her home. Suddenly, she finds herself staying at her friend's Bryn's house, while she figures out what to do with hers.

Dr. Brody Tate has made his 10 year old daughter his whole world, after his wife passed away. He makes sure that Mandy comes first, and despite others telling him that he should get back out there in the dating scene, he hasn't met anyone that has a spark... until Bryn sends him over to Elle's house to fetch her and bring her to Bryn's.

Elle has spent time with Mandy, when she's gone to Bryn's to help with the farm animals. Mandy is having a tough go with friends, ever since a new girl moved to town. Mandy enjoys hanging out with Bryn and Elle. After Bryn and Zane head to Montana to pick up Bryn's cousin, Elle finds herself hanging around Brody and Mandy. There are sparks between Brody and Elle, but neither are sure about, getting too involved for fear of being hurt.

I found myself rooting for Brody and Elle, each had so many hang-ups about learning to love another person that you just wanted them to see what was in front of them all this time. Just when they turn over a new leaf, something happens that causes Brody to react out of fear and anger and it's Brody's 10 year-old daughter, Mandy, that she's going to fix the problem on her own with YouTube videos, and making Elle dinner, since Mandy recalls Elle saying that anyone who would go to the trouble to make fried chicken, mashed potatoes with gravy and cake had her heart forever. Mandy was determined to win Elle's heart, not realizing that she and her dad already had it!

Aunt Sassy was a hoot! She, also had some very wise advice to share with Elle that took a while to set in. I loved being back at the Heaven Can Wait Horse Rescue and laughing at the antics of Otis, the goat, Tiny the dainty pig, the horses along with some newcomers, Spartacus and puppies. This was a pull on your heartstrings, laugh out loud, feel good read!

I requested and received an ARC from NetGalley via Sourcebooks Casablanca and I have voluntarily read this book.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

Read this as a joke for Lexi this Christmas
Why was it kinda a fun time 👀🫢

[♥Rachel♥]

I really struggled with this one and ended up skimming after 50%. The dialogue and romance was awkward and felt unrealistic to me.

Oh well, can't love them all. Onto the next book.

A copy was kindly provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Joanna Bishop · Rating 1 out of 5]

I feel bad for giving this a one-star review because I'm sure there are many people who will love this story, but I'm not one of them. Books can be a very personal thing, and I can acknowledge that it's a very personal reason why this was a one-star book for me.

Content warning for the book: miscarriage

I was looking forward to a good firefighter/vet/cowboy/single dad romance, but the pacing just felt off to me and it could have been much shorter than it was; I found myself skimming through pages at a time. On an objective level, I think the story could have used some editing and more work as well, including sensitivity readers. But when it comes down to it, my biggest problem with this book is under the spoiler cut.

Elle has suffered not one, but two miscarriages. That is horrible, and every person will experience those emotions and grieve differently, and also react to how it is portrayed in books differently. Personally, for me, I could not stand Elle and her situation and the constant comparison to animals. The storyline involving the mother dog just rubbed me the wrong way. But even more than this was the way her miscarriage was explained away. "It was. I'm broken...I had a lot of problems in my teens with endometriosis and fibroids. And I guess I had an 'incompetent cervix.' Isn't that just the shittiest term?"

If I weren't reading this book to review it I would have stopped reading the moment I hit that scene; I was genuinely concerned that by the end of the book there would be a magic baby making an appearance. It's estimated that around 11% of women suffer from endometriosis, and on average it takes around 10 years to receive a diagnosis. While infertility doesn't affect all women with endo, this comment and the reason behind Elle's miscarriage felt so unthoughtful and disingenuous. This is a disease that affects so many different facets of women's lives and is not something that can be waved off as some "teenage" problem. To put it in as a throwaway comment and not even have Brody argue or defend her and say she's not broken, left such a sour pit in my stomach. It made this author be an instant "never read again" for me.

At the end of the day, some people I'm sure will love this story and the characters, and like I said, this book and author are not for me.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided to me through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to the author and publisher for giving me the opportunity to read this book!

[Vikki Vaught · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks go to the publisher and Net-Galley for the electronic copy of When a Cowboy loves a Woman by Jennie Marts. I voluntarily agreed to read and review this delightful book prior to publication. My opinions are my own, and nothing has influenced my rating.

When a Cowboy loves a Woman is a well written western romance with an adorable heroine. The pacing kept me engaged from the beginning to the end. Ms. Marts gave me just enough description without going too far.

Elle Brooks is the heroine, and she’s such a sweet-natured character who has gone through a great deal of heart ache. She lost her husband and soon after suffered a miscarriage that devastated her. She can’t imagine ever opening her heart to another. While I’ve never been a widow, I could relate to her pain of loss of the only link she had of her late husband. I enjoyed her astonishment when the sexy veterinarian saves her from her house fire.

Brody Tate is the yummy hero. What is most appealing about Brody is his easy-going attitude and his unconditional love for his sweet daughter and his beloved animals. He has all the attributes I most admire in a hero.

The romance between Elle and Brody is sweet and both are hesitant after suffering the loss of their spouses. Elle Loved her late husband and it is difficult for her to move beyond her grief. Brody has also lost his wife, so both move slowly. For me that makes this romance more believable. I enjoyed the slow burn between them and wanted them to find their happy ending.

If you enjoy western romances with endearing characters and an emotionally charged plot, then you will love When a Cowboy loves a Woman as much as I did. I can’t wait to read the next book in this fantastic series. Happy reading!

[Marsha Keeper Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf


*possible trigger: miscarriage*

When A Cowboy Loves A Woman is the second title in the Creedence Horse Rescue series and brings us a romance between two people who have lost so much, aren’t looking for romance, yet when fate and that certain spark hits it’s impossible to deny their attraction.

Most of what you’d really need to know before picking up Elle and Brody’s story can be found in the Cover Description Blurb. But that doesn’t tell you about the emotions flying through this story or the antics of some pretty special, unique animals either.

Both Elle and Brody have experienced the crushing emotions of losing their life partners to death, Elle knows what it’s like to endure the emotional pain of miscarriage as well. Neither ever expected to pick up the emotional reins of a relationship again yet fate often puts the right people in our paths when we need them most.

I enjoyed When A Cowboy Loves A Woman very much. Watching this couple open themselves up to the possibility of finding love again was an emotional journey that was highly seasoned with laughter and snort-giggles at the antics of some of the animals that make their home at the ranch. Add a tween into the mix and you have a story full of emotions, laughter, tears, some angst but always possibilities. I had a delightful time back in the Creedence Horse Rescue world and look forward to the next visit in December 2021.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca 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.*

[Stephanie Panach · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you need a serious dose of sweetness and cute animals - this book is definitely your answer. Elle lost her husband and had a terrible miscarriage all because of the same car accident. In one horrible moment her whole world imploded and she's been struggling ever since. When she started to become friends with Bryn, who is a waitress and runs a horse/animal rescue, she started to find her way back to the land of the living. This includes meeting Brody. Brody lost his wife to cancer five years ago and has been 100% focused on raising his little girl ever since. When a kitchen fire forces Elle out of her house and Brody comes to her rescue during the fire - they start to find a connection (with reluctance on both sides).

Grief is a crazy thing - there is no timeline for it and I can't imagine experiencing it from Brody and Elle's perspective. They both have guilt about moving on and fear of the future. The one thing they both care about unequivocally is Mandy - Brody's daughter. Seeing them all come together as a family and finding each other was sweet and heartwarming.

With the final drama between Brody and Elle - I wish Brody had been more sensible. You could see it coming and it was like a car accident - something you couldn't look away from. But I think his reaction at that point wasn't quite what I wanted it to be. I guess - It wasn't the drama I wanted between them. But otherwise - I truly enjoyed this one and ended it with a romantic sigh. I'm looking forward to more in this series!

I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a powerful, emotive read with humour, too. It is a contemporary romance in which the spouses of both main characters has died, leaving them somewhat bereft but don’t let you image it to be a heartbreaking read, it does pull on your heartstrings but there are plenty of light-hearted moments and times to laugh out loud, too.

A fire in her kitchen brings veterinarian Brody Tate into the life of Elle Brooks, when he lets her know that their mutual friend Bryn insists on Elle moving in with her whilst her home is repaired. You’ve really got to love Bryn – she owns and runs the Heaven Can Wait Horse Rescue ranch, where Elle volunteers, and has such a huge, warm heart! Some of the most amazing characters in this story are actually animals on the Rescue ranch, including a pig who thinks he’s a dog, a tortoise that enjoys red foods, a goat that is an escape artist and leads the other animals into mischief, a horse that loves being sung to and cute puppies, too!

Get ready for two very wounded folk, wary of loving again, fighting their mutual attraction but who fate – and Brody’s ten year old daughter – has plans for. This is such a emotionally moving story, one where grief, guilt and anxieties could put an end to their chance of a HEA together but also where feisty Mandy, some gorgeous rescued animals and lots of love will help save the day. There is plenty of drama, love, laughter and romance in this beautiful story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and can’t recommend it highly enough!

Thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.

[Judy Christiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This new book in the Creedence Horse Rescue series is such a delight! I do not have the words to explain how much I loved this story. The characters definitely touched my heart. This includes the human and the animals in this lovely story. The two main characters have experienced severe lost in their past and that has affected how they have been living. It is wonderful to see them open up to a more fulfilling life in the future. The chemistry between them is strong, but more than that, the attraction is two souls that see a common wound.

I especially loved the characters of an amazing ten year old girl and an elderly, spunky women. Also the various animals, each with a unique personality, give the story warmth and humor, and they stole a piece of my heart.

This book has a theme of courage running throughout it. Whether human characters or animal characters, courage is dominant in the plot, and learning to be brave to continue living a full life after a devastating situation.

I enjoyed this book so much and I hope there will be more books in this series.

I want to thank SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and NetGalley for giving me the pleasure of reading the advance reader copy, with no obligation to write a review. My review is written freely as a hobby, and is totally my own opinion, not influenced by receiving the ARC.

[Becky Burciaga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jennie Marts’ When a Cowboy Loves a Woman is a sweet, uplifting, and heartwarming romance that’ll leave you with a smile and a heart sigh. With characters who carry tremendous depth and believability...and have unique personalities...the story carries itself at a brisk pace, yet smoothly enough to give the ready plenty of time to be immersed in an ambiance of love and recovery.

This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.

[Bette Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVED this book. The characters are so warm, honest, and inspiring and the story just captured my heart. Elle and Brody work wonderfully together as they help each other learn to love again. Throw in an adorable ten year daughter and a bunch of crazy animals and you have one unforgettable story. Put this one high on the must read list. I definitely recommend it.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back in Colorado in this second book in this series, with another touching story.
This time the story belongs to widow Elle Brooks and widower and single dad, Brody.
Elle has been a widow for a few years after losing more than her husband that day. She stays mostly isolated and has just started making friends. One of them is Bryn, owner of a horse rescue ranch where Elle is now volunteering at. There she meets Mandy, a precocious and sweet 10 year old who is Brody’s daughter. This local veterinarian has been a widower for 5 years and his sole purpose in life is to take care of Mandy and keep her happy and safe. His heart is not up for grabs for anyone but his daughter.
When a fire at her house forces Elle to stay with Bryn for an extended period of time, she ends up spending not only more time with Mandy, but also with her reserved , sweet and handsome dad.
Neither expected to have feelings for each other, and neither wanted to love again, since loving and losing that special person broke their hearts . Plus, feelings of betraying that person from their past, keeps them from taking a step forward.
But what happens when fate has it’s own agenda?
The story is at times heartbreaking as well as heartwarming , sweet, funny and touching and well worth your time.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Sourcebooks. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Beth C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful, emotional, sweet one-sitting romance.

Guys, when I say my eyes leaked more than once, I absolutely mean it. I found myself welling up at the shared grief of Brody and Elle, and the relationship that developed between them—and with Brody's precocious 10 year old daughter, Mandy. The thing is, a strong message can always be found at the core of Jennie Marts' books—she is a writer with a talent for making her meaning clear without over-preaching it—and When a Cowboy Loves a Woman is no exception, so I probably should've dived in armed with a couple of tissues. Thankfully, as is usually the case, there were several lighthearted, feel good moments (courtesy of some rather creative animals) to balance out the deeper stuff—see above re: tissues—and I couldn't help but smile a time or two or twenty whenever Aunt Sassy made an appearance.

All in all, this is a book that I can comfortably say I loved reading. There is some back-and-forth (and mixed messages) from our protagonists, but it worked in keeping with the story, so if you can handle that—and some tense moments fraught with danger and regrets—then you're going to love When a Cowboy Loves a Woman, just like me. Enjoy!

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

"So we have to be brave for her until she can find the brave in herself." Mandy, age 10.
I love Ms. Marts' books with all of my heart. She makes me laugh, cry and think in all of her books. I always have at least one line in each book that resonates with me. The above line is just one that hit me in all the feels in this story.
Both Dr. Brody Tate and Elle Brooks have lost their spouses and are still reeling from those losses. Then Brody rescues Elle when her kitchen catches on fire. They then spend quite a long time bouncing around figuring out if they can be just friends, if they can be lovers, or maybe, just maybe, find love again. Complicating things (only in Brody's head, really) is Mandy, his daughter. Elle and Mandy have become fast friends and they help each other figure out life's difficulties, Mandy has bullies and needs a friend just to listen to her. Elle needs someone to help her stop being so safe. Brody needs to learn to stop being so bull headed and Elle needs to learn to stop playing it so safe.
The secondary characters always make a book for me. "When a Cowboy Loves a Woman" is no different. There's Aunt Sassy who lives up to her name (I seriously need her apron!!). Glory, the rescue horse who calms when being sung to. And the menagerie who we met in the first book of the series.....Otis is still my favorite!! The description of the scenery and events make me feel like I am there in Creedence. I could smell the carnival and see Shamus and Mandy in their costumes. It's my favorite fictional town.
I am going to be honest, when Dr. Tate was introduced in the first book I didn't like him one bit!! I learned to love him alongside Elle. Jennie Marts has done it again.!!
While this is part of a series it can be read as a stand alone with no problems.

[Marcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

A second chance romance for a widow and a widower. After the sudden death of her husband and unborn daughter in a auto accident it has taken widow Elle Brooks several years to rejoin the world of the living, but once a thrill seeker, she is now frightened of everything- especially opening up her heart again. But she was befriended by waitress Bryn Callahan in Book 1,and now volunteers at Bryn's Heaven Can Wait Horse Rescue.

The book opens with Elle waking up to the sound of sirens, when due to over tiredness a flame on her stove was accidentally left on. She is rescued by veterinarian and cowboy Doctor Brody Tate, himself a widower and single father to 10 year old Mandy, a delightful little girl who Elle has already become fond of. Since her house will be under repair for at least a month, she stays with Bryn where she and Brody are thrown together and have a hard time resisting the attraction between them. Will they be willing to give love another chance? They will if Mandy can help it. This charming and easy read is packed with delightful people and animals. Can easily be read as a stand alone.

I read an ARC that I received from NetGalley.com. This is my honest and voluntary review.

[Linda Quick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one is a winner! This is an entertaining romance between a widow and widower who both feel guilty for surviving and are afraid to love again. Their story is sweet, but also a bit sad and poignant. I felt for them and felt invested in their story. However, for me, the big winners in this book are the animals. I loved them and how their crazy personalities added humor to the book. While not humorous, my favorite animal character is Glory - the author made me want to reach through the pages to help her as she settled in at the Creedence Horse Rescue.

If you enjoy the genre, you will love this book. The author is on my must read authors' list.

[Desiree Bowser · Rating 5 out of 5]

I seriously adore this author! Her cowboy romances are always my jam! She knows her cowboys & all the feels! I’m so happy I was able to read Brody & Elle’s story! There are no 2 people more worthy of an HEA:)

Elle and Brody have pasts of heartbreak so they are both getting a second chance at love.

Dr.Brody is the town vet, single day to an adorable 10 year old, and firefighter....can we just say swooning over this man going to happen! *fans self*

Elle had lost her husband a year ago and she really loved him. She’s not expecting to fall again. Elle helps out at Bryn’s ranch.

These two come together when Elle’s kitchen catches fire & Brody come to put it out....Brody offers for Elle to stay with him. These two have so much chemistry but so much guilt of trying to move on.

I loved that this was a slow burn bc I don’t think it could’ve been any other way for these two! The story was everything I wanted and more!! Mandy, Brody’s daughter is absolutely adorable! This story was so sweet and heartfelt! I couldn’t get enough! I highly recommend this book! I was given an advanced copy for my review.

[Leslie Ooten · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really good read! I always know if I'm in a book slump to find a new Jennie Marts book! She never lets me down =) The writing flowed well from start to finish, and I loved Elle and Brody together. I felt like they had great chemistry, and I loved that Elle had a relationship with Mandy first. I did feel for both of these characters as they learned that it was okay to move on from the past. It was hard watching them both struggle with the guilt of feeling like they were forgetting about their pasts. I loved Mandy, she was a great secondary character, and she helped Brody see that he really did need Elle in his life. The ending was sweet, and the only thing that would have made it better for me was an epilogue. I really love being able to see where a couple ends up a little further into the future.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.