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Blackwater Ranch #3
Mistaking the Cowboy
She kissed the wrong cowboy, but what if he was the right one? Haley Meadows was so excited to meet the man she’d been chatting with online that she greeted him with a kiss only to find out she’d planted a big, messy, passionate wet one on his brother instead! She has to spend the rest of her vacation at Blackwater Ranch pretending that she didn’t kiss the wrong cowboy and like it. Asher Harding is knocked off his feet by an auburn-haired beauty, but his infatuation is quickly squashed when he finds out she mistook him for his brother. She becomes a staple at the ranch during her visit, and getting to know her only deepens his desire for the one woman he can’t have. As Haley gets to know the Hardings, she finds herself torn between protecting her heart and giving it away to the man she’s falling for. In the moment of truth, she’ll run for the one who stole her heart. Mistaking the Cowboy is the third book in the Christian Blackwater Ranch series, but the books can be read in any order.
278 pages, Paperback
Published October 31, 2020
398 people are currently reading
200 people want to read
About the author
Mandi Blake
44 books884 followersMandi Blake was born and raised in Alabama where she lives with her husband and daughter, but her southern heart loves to travel. Reading has been her favorite hobby for as long as she can remember, but writing is her passion. She loves a good happily ever after in her sweet Christian romance books and loves to see her characters' relationships grow closer to God and each other.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
July 1, 2025
The premise of this one had me laughing! It’s almost over the top, but so fitting for Asher & Hailey.
Once again, I’m in awe of how Blake weaves poignant faith themes & encouragement into a delightfully swoony romance.
Also, I appreciated how calmly the brothers worked things out—no insane miscommunication or hostility, haha.
Once again, I’m in awe of how Blake weaves poignant faith themes & encouragement into a delightfully swoony romance.
Also, I appreciated how calmly the brothers worked things out—no insane miscommunication or hostility, haha.
May 7, 2024
Haley & Asher’s story started so funny and turned so sweet.
They were so perfect for each other and I loved their story ♥️
They were so perfect for each other and I loved their story ♥️
November 9, 2020
With how much objectionable content that's starting to show up in contemporary publishing, (even some from Christian publishers), I continue to be extremely grateful for amazing Christian authors like the lovely Mandi Blake who continue to provide us readers with clean, faith based romances that I don't have to feel uncomfortable reading. From the sneak peak we were given at this one in the last Blackwater Ranch title, I had a feeling I was really going to end up enjoying it, and spoiler, I did! I think readers everywhere are going to fall head over feels for Haley and Asher's quirky but heartfelt romance, and this is definitely the perfect holiday romance to get you into the Christmas spirit.
While Haley and Asher's romance might start out pretty non traditional, I really ended up enjoying how much depth that Mandi puts into their relationship. Haley has a crippling fear that's holding her back from truly living her life, and Asher's family bond is so strong that he refuses to act on his feeling's for Haley when he thinks his brother was interested first. Their romance begins as a beautiful friendship, which I always appreciate in romance novels, and the reader gets a first hand view of their feelings starting to develop into something more. I also always love how Mandi includes many appearances from previous main characters in the series, as it always feels like getting to connect with old friends.
I can honestly say that Mandi Blake's writing keeps getting better and better, and that she has definitely been using her God given talents to honor Him. Every time I pick up one of her titles I know first and foremost that faith is going to play a big element in the story, and she has yet to disappoint on this for me.
I can't recommend this one enough, and I already can't wait to read the next title in the series. Definitely go ahead and pick this one! You won't be disappointed.
Final Rating: 5/5.
Thanks so much to Mandi Blake for allowing me to read and review this!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not required to give a positive review.
While Haley and Asher's romance might start out pretty non traditional, I really ended up enjoying how much depth that Mandi puts into their relationship. Haley has a crippling fear that's holding her back from truly living her life, and Asher's family bond is so strong that he refuses to act on his feeling's for Haley when he thinks his brother was interested first. Their romance begins as a beautiful friendship, which I always appreciate in romance novels, and the reader gets a first hand view of their feelings starting to develop into something more. I also always love how Mandi includes many appearances from previous main characters in the series, as it always feels like getting to connect with old friends.
I can honestly say that Mandi Blake's writing keeps getting better and better, and that she has definitely been using her God given talents to honor Him. Every time I pick up one of her titles I know first and foremost that faith is going to play a big element in the story, and she has yet to disappoint on this for me.
I can't recommend this one enough, and I already can't wait to read the next title in the series. Definitely go ahead and pick this one! You won't be disappointed.
Final Rating: 5/5.
Thanks so much to Mandi Blake for allowing me to read and review this!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not required to give a positive review.
November 14, 2020
Haley Meadows was impulsive, driving to meet Micah Harding who she'd met online a month ago without knowing much about him and his family's ranch she was staying and without Micah knowing she was coming. She is lucky that Mama Harding and her family are so welcoming. Micah was a jerk when she showed up and he couldn't wait to leave her there. He shouldn't have led her on. But if he hadn't she wouldn't have met the rest of his family especially his brother Asher, who has so much in common with Haley. I don't know how Haley got to her age with such a crippling fear of the dark. She's lucky she has a web designing business she can work from home to do. Her job does sound interesting, taking pictures and creating attractive highly functional web pages. Asher was so sweet, fighting his attraction because he didn't want to go after his brother's girl. But Haley also could have come clean with the truth and her feelings.
November 9, 2020
OH. MY. GOSH!!! This was SO GOOD!! I love how Haley met the wrong guy. That was awesome!! The reason for her mistaken identity was also priceless. I love how the whole story unfolded and Haley's fear of the dark. Great teaser into the next book too. It was all so good. The family togetherness of both families and Beth coming to see Haley. I love how everyone else could tell what was going on. This is worth the read.
I was given an advance copy of this book for the sole purpose of reading it. I share my honest opinion by my own choice.
I was given an advance copy of this book for the sole purpose of reading it. I share my honest opinion by my own choice.
November 9, 2020
This is a clean romance with whose characters have a strong faith, but the book is not preachy. The Harding family from Blackwater Ranch are back in book #3 and this time it is Lucas’ story. Haley comes to the ranch to meet Micah who she has been corresponding with via a dating website, but she accidentally kisses the wrong brother. Although each of these books stand alone, there are references to prior relationships in the book. I personally like reading a series in order, but you don’t have to.
November 14, 2020
I absolutely loved this book. It was adorable.
I really liked how they started off as friends, mostly out of Asher's respect for his brother, but their relationship and draw toward each other became undeniable. Everyone knew, except it took the main characters forever to finally admit their love. They were just have a fun time together, enjoying someone who finally understood them and their quirky traits. Which was so cute.
They had to work through some things, but they did get their HEA. I can't wait to see these characters make an appearance in one of the later books, I love them so much.
I received an ARC from the author, and voluntarily gave this review. Everything written above is my own opinion and meant wholeheartedly.
I really liked how they started off as friends, mostly out of Asher's respect for his brother, but their relationship and draw toward each other became undeniable. Everyone knew, except it took the main characters forever to finally admit their love. They were just have a fun time together, enjoying someone who finally understood them and their quirky traits. Which was so cute.
They had to work through some things, but they did get their HEA. I can't wait to see these characters make an appearance in one of the later books, I love them so much.
I received an ARC from the author, and voluntarily gave this review. Everything written above is my own opinion and meant wholeheartedly.
November 9, 2020
Another fantastic read from Mandi Blake! Really enjoying the Blackwater Ranch series. Haley has met a man online named Micah. Haley decides to drive hours away from her home and surprise him! Well misunderstandings ensue and things get interesting. Needles to say things do not work out how she planned. But with a bit of patience and support things really do work out how they were intended! Fun, clean Christian read!
November 13, 2020
Oh, wow! I loved Asher and Haley's story!! Haley thinks Asher is Micah as soon as she sees him. When she finds out he's not, she's already started falling for him. As they work through the misunderstanding, and Asher helps Haley overcome a long time fear, everyone but the two of them can tell that they should be together, and that they love each other. As Asher helps Haley rely more on God, Haley comes to the realization that while Micah wasn't for her, Asher sure is!! Love the way everything comes together!!! The books don't have to be read in order, but you'll get a richer view if you do!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
November 8, 2020
Great story that continues at Blackwater Ranch. So good to revisit all the residents of the ranch. Asher and Haley are well written characters. I love how they are so ideal for each other. They both need God’s help to work through their issues.
I received a free copy of this book and this is my voluntary, honest review.
I received a free copy of this book and this is my voluntary, honest review.
November 10, 2020
I loved this installment! So many sweet moments. Wonderful characters and happenings. Ah. I just snuggled up and soaked in this book. Perfect for a frigid rainy day.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 10, 2020
This is a sweet cowboy romance. Asher is sweet, loyal and fun. Haley is impulsive and full of love and life. I loved how the story taught that sometimes our plans are not what is best for us. God has something better in mind.
November 18, 2020
This is another sweet clean romance with Haley who has been on a dating app with Micah but when she goes to the ranch to surprise him she meets his brother Asher instead which turns out to be fate. I loved this story and Haley and Asher were meant to be.
November 9, 2020
I absolutely loved it! This was such a fun story including two great families. I loved the chemistry between Haley and Asher and can't wait for Micah's story. This is a really sweet, clean romance.
November 9, 2020
Another great book by Mandi Blake! I’m never disappointed when I pick up one of her books!
November 17, 2020
Delightful
Loved this. Haley and Asher are just delightful together. I loved Asher's gentle strength in helping Haley overcome her fears.
Loved this. Haley and Asher are just delightful together. I loved Asher's gentle strength in helping Haley overcome her fears.
November 18, 2020
Review of Mistaking the Cowboy
I really enjoyed this book and I will recommend her books to anyone who loves romance novels. This is my first time reading this author.
I really enjoyed this book and I will recommend her books to anyone who loves romance novels. This is my first time reading this author.
November 21, 2020
Awesome!
This is a wonderful book. Mandi Blake’s books have turned me into a book lover! Can’t wait till the last book of this series to be released.
This is a wonderful book. Mandi Blake’s books have turned me into a book lover! Can’t wait till the last book of this series to be released.
May 25, 2024
This great Mandi Blake book touched me deeply. She wove prayer and Scripture into this book about overcoming fear. Reminding the reader Who we should look to and go to when faced with fear.
December 5, 2020
I loved, loved, loved Haley and Asher's story. I loved that Haley was impulsive and wore her heart on her sleeve and still remained open to love even after several disappointments. She had traveled to Blackwater Ranch to meet Micah, who she had met online and when he answered the door, she planted a big kiss on him. Unfortunately, it was Asher and not Micah that received that kiss.
Micah was leaving for a trip so Haley spent a lot of time with Asher and his family. And, the more time she spent with them, the more she wanted to stay. The problem was, she needed to take her time and make sure what she was feeling was good and real.
I really, really loved Asher's tenderness and kindness toward Haley. It was just such a sweet story. I am enjoying the Blackwater Ranch series of stories. This was a wonderful addition. Now, I can't wait to read Micah's story.
Like all in this series, the story was clean and free from foul language and graphic details of a intimate nature. I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
Micah was leaving for a trip so Haley spent a lot of time with Asher and his family. And, the more time she spent with them, the more she wanted to stay. The problem was, she needed to take her time and make sure what she was feeling was good and real.
I really, really loved Asher's tenderness and kindness toward Haley. It was just such a sweet story. I am enjoying the Blackwater Ranch series of stories. This was a wonderful addition. Now, I can't wait to read Micah's story.
Like all in this series, the story was clean and free from foul language and graphic details of a intimate nature. I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
November 20, 2020
Another great story. Mistaking the Cowboy. Impetuous ways can get us into some hot water. Relying on God can show us the way to remedy that in the most endearing ways.
Mary Garbarino
Mary Garbarino
July 25, 2021
Sweet
A sweet easy read. I loved their journey to each other being a bit more complicated than the last book.
A sweet easy read. I loved their journey to each other being a bit more complicated than the last book.
July 12, 2025
I absolutely adore Asher & Haley's embarrassing, caring, funny, loving, hopeful, sweet n swoony happily ever after!!
December 28, 2020
Mistaking the Cowboy is the third book in Mandi Blake’s Blackwater Ranch series. I was a little worried about this book because I felt like it could be awkward, but I ended up enjoying it. Haley Meadows has a bit of trouble trying to rush love. She doesn’t think twice when she decided to visit the man she has been messaging online. She never imagined that she would end up kissing the wrong guy, causing her trip to spiral out of control. Asher Harding is knocked off his feet by the beautiful woman who accidentally kissed him. He finds her intriguing and lovely, however he understands that she is in a relationship with his brother and strives to guard both of their hearts. But when he is chosen to help lead her around the ranch, he finds himself in danger of losing his heart.
Haley was a sweet character, she wore her feelings on her sleeve. She was trying so hard to prove herself lovable. She came to Blackwater ranch to finally meet Micah, the man she had been talking to online. However she never expected to fall for the wrong brother. It was fun to read about Haley come out of her shell as she spent time with Asher. She came to love Asher, but she had also promised herself that she would be patient and wait on God’s timing.
Asher was such a nice guy. I think that he liked Haley from the beginning, but he tried to be respectful of his brother. However the more time he spent with Haley the harder he fell. Asher came to love the sweet and friendly girl who trusted him completely. Asher had to learn to be patient and talk to his brother before he could ever think about a relationship with Haley.
Asher and Haley were walking a fine line between friendship and love. They were falling for each other, but they were both trying to be patient and wait on God. However they had a short time line because Haley wasn’t going to stay at Blackwater ranch forever. Asher and Haley were super cuter together. They were perfect for each other, they both liked music and helped each other grow.
It was super fun to see old characters and read about the family dynamics on Blackwater ranch. I really liked Mistaking the Cowboy and I am really excited for the next book, Protected by the Cowboy. I would totally recommend this book! Mistaking the Cowboy is a clean, Christian romance.
Haley was a sweet character, she wore her feelings on her sleeve. She was trying so hard to prove herself lovable. She came to Blackwater ranch to finally meet Micah, the man she had been talking to online. However she never expected to fall for the wrong brother. It was fun to read about Haley come out of her shell as she spent time with Asher. She came to love Asher, but she had also promised herself that she would be patient and wait on God’s timing.
Asher was such a nice guy. I think that he liked Haley from the beginning, but he tried to be respectful of his brother. However the more time he spent with Haley the harder he fell. Asher came to love the sweet and friendly girl who trusted him completely. Asher had to learn to be patient and talk to his brother before he could ever think about a relationship with Haley.
Asher and Haley were walking a fine line between friendship and love. They were falling for each other, but they were both trying to be patient and wait on God. However they had a short time line because Haley wasn’t going to stay at Blackwater ranch forever. Asher and Haley were super cuter together. They were perfect for each other, they both liked music and helped each other grow.
It was super fun to see old characters and read about the family dynamics on Blackwater ranch. I really liked Mistaking the Cowboy and I am really excited for the next book, Protected by the Cowboy. I would totally recommend this book! Mistaking the Cowboy is a clean, Christian romance.
March 1, 2021
Great story
I believe the theme is that God's timing is best. She wanted a boyfriend & someone to truly love her. She'd pursued some ugly mutts that left her high & dry. She was still lonely. Is Micah a possible? She books a stay @ his ranch to find out.
Great story illustrating patience & faith .
I believe the theme is that God's timing is best. She wanted a boyfriend & someone to truly love her. She'd pursued some ugly mutts that left her high & dry. She was still lonely. Is Micah a possible? She books a stay @ his ranch to find out.
Great story illustrating patience & faith .
July 21, 2021
Great Series Loved It
I'm really enjoying this series and getting to know all the characters. Those Harding Brothers are slowly finding love. I really enjoyed Asher and Haley's story. These two make a great couple. I look forward to more books in the series.
I'm really enjoying this series and getting to know all the characters. Those Harding Brothers are slowly finding love. I really enjoyed Asher and Haley's story. These two make a great couple. I look forward to more books in the series.
October 22, 2021
Ms. Blake has done a great job with this book, every bit as good as the rest in the series! The books are clean sweet romance with a touch of suspense. They also aren't very long so you can finish it in a day and have a nice escape from life for a while.
January 6, 2022
Asher and Haley start off with sparks flying. It was an unusual first meeting. Mistaken identity tropes aren't usually my thing, but the author did such an amazing job with Micah, Asher and Haley's story. Loved how Asher remained a gentleman even though he was falling for who he thought was his brother's girl. My heart hurt for Haley - her fear and her heartbreak. Asher is definitely in my top 5 book boyfriends. The Harding family is one big loving and accepting family. I read this series out of order and this one is my last read and favorite. Sweet ending and lead into the next book.
November 28, 2020
💞 Haley and Asher 💞
I think this one is my new favorite of the series! I loooved the romance and the quirky humor these two shared! They had an instant bond, even though Haley was afraid to let her feelings known. I just loved these two! I loved the care Asher showed her during her times of crippling fear of the dark.
This is one of those books you don't want to end. In fact, it would make an awesome Hallmark movie 💝
I don't think I have the patience to wait for Micah's story!
I think this one is my new favorite of the series! I loooved the romance and the quirky humor these two shared! They had an instant bond, even though Haley was afraid to let her feelings known. I just loved these two! I loved the care Asher showed her during her times of crippling fear of the dark.
This is one of those books you don't want to end. In fact, it would make an awesome Hallmark movie 💝
I don't think I have the patience to wait for Micah's story!
November 22, 2020
I can totally understand the mistake Haley made when she first arrived at Blackwater Ranch. I lived my whole life with a color-blind father. Asher was the perfect match, Micah would have been like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. Mandi Blake has given us a story with a mistaken identity plot, interesting characters, humor, romance and a strange debilitating fear. This was a fun story to read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews