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Code of the West #6
The Cowboy Finds a Family
Mr. Stubborn.
Mace Nichols is an ‘I’ll die with my boots on’ cowboy. Old-school. Tough, silent and honorable. Which is why he’s leaving his wife, Jenny. She has helped him build his dream—the Montana ranch they loved. Now he can’t give her the family she’s always dreamed of, so he has no choice: he needs to set her free. It makes perfect sense to him.
It doesn’t make a bit of sense to Jenny! She loves her stubborn, bull-headed husband. She admires his courage, his tenacity and his determination to always Do The Right Thing—even if, in this case, it is the stupidest thing he’s ever done.
Mace is right—Jenny has always wanted a family. But she wants a family with Mace! How can she convince the most honorable, stubborn man in the world what really matters in life?
First published as A Cowboy’s Tears
Mace Nichols is an ‘I’ll die with my boots on’ cowboy. Old-school. Tough, silent and honorable. Which is why he’s leaving his wife, Jenny. She has helped him build his dream—the Montana ranch they loved. Now he can’t give her the family she’s always dreamed of, so he has no choice: he needs to set her free. It makes perfect sense to him.
It doesn’t make a bit of sense to Jenny! She loves her stubborn, bull-headed husband. She admires his courage, his tenacity and his determination to always Do The Right Thing—even if, in this case, it is the stupidest thing he’s ever done.
Mace is right—Jenny has always wanted a family. But she wants a family with Mace! How can she convince the most honorable, stubborn man in the world what really matters in life?
First published as A Cowboy’s Tears
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 1997
404 people are currently reading
248 people want to read
About the author
Anne McAllister
348 books124 followersAnne McAllister has written nearly 70 romance novels for Tule Publishing and Harlequin Books.
She has won two RITA awards from the Romance Writers of America — for COWBOY PRIDE and THE STARDUST COWBOY — and has had nine other books which were RITA finalists.
Her books have also been finalists for the National Readers’ Choice Award. She was named Midwest Fiction Writers “Writer of the Year” and also received Romantic Times’ Career Achievement Award as “Series Author of the Year.”
But while the awards and sales are wonderful, Anne thinks the best part of writing is telling the story. With every new book she writes, she meets new characters – or gets to know old ones even better – and discovers what makes them and their relationships tick.
It’s the relationships that interest her most and the question about “where do you get your ideas?” has always astonished her as she has more ideas than she knows what to do with!
She has won two RITA awards from the Romance Writers of America — for COWBOY PRIDE and THE STARDUST COWBOY — and has had nine other books which were RITA finalists.
Her books have also been finalists for the National Readers’ Choice Award. She was named Midwest Fiction Writers “Writer of the Year” and also received Romantic Times’ Career Achievement Award as “Series Author of the Year.”
But while the awards and sales are wonderful, Anne thinks the best part of writing is telling the story. With every new book she writes, she meets new characters – or gets to know old ones even better – and discovers what makes them and their relationships tick.
It’s the relationships that interest her most and the question about “where do you get your ideas?” has always astonished her as she has more ideas than she knows what to do with!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
December 22, 2020
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review
Well written story featuring a married couple going through a separation process, “The Cowboy Finds a Family”, by Anne McAllister (Tule Publishing), is a quick, enjoyable read, with likeable characters. It addresses a delicate issue but somehow the approach didn’t move me that much.
Although Mace wasn’t my favorite kind of hero, I found the author did a great job conveying the feelings of inadequacy, even shame and inferiority, caused by his condition, however irrational they might be.
I liked the tenderness and complicity between Mace and Jenny; they spend a good part of the story separated, and I’m not sure how I feel about the heroine dating another man, a perfect, considerate specimen and the opposite of the mercurial hero, during that period.
The pain of the self-made man/rancher is close to being poignant at times, but it lacks depth. The solution for the family problem was heartwarming, too easy in a way, but deserved.
The relationship between Mace and Becky, a ten-year old going on 30, seemed sometimes a bit odd.
Again, I felt I would have liked more this theme and the book when I was younger, but now, somehow, it seems Mace acted like a wounded alpha with a tantrum or a martyr with a communication problem and what would have contributed to solve the problem – talking! – happened only at the end of the story.
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Well written story featuring a married couple going through a separation process, “The Cowboy Finds a Family”, by Anne McAllister (Tule Publishing), is a quick, enjoyable read, with likeable characters. It addresses a delicate issue but somehow the approach didn’t move me that much.
Although Mace wasn’t my favorite kind of hero, I found the author did a great job conveying the feelings of inadequacy, even shame and inferiority, caused by his condition, however irrational they might be.
I liked the tenderness and complicity between Mace and Jenny; they spend a good part of the story separated, and I’m not sure how I feel about the heroine dating another man, a perfect, considerate specimen and the opposite of the mercurial hero, during that period.
The pain of the self-made man/rancher is close to being poignant at times, but it lacks depth. The solution for the family problem was heartwarming, too easy in a way, but deserved.
The relationship between Mace and Becky, a ten-year old going on 30, seemed sometimes a bit odd.
Again, I felt I would have liked more this theme and the book when I was younger, but now, somehow, it seems Mace acted like a wounded alpha with a tantrum or a martyr with a communication problem and what would have contributed to solve the problem – talking! – happened only at the end of the story.
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February 11, 2021
3.5 stars
I struggled with my review for this book. While the writing itself is done well, I didn't like the storyline. After the first several chapters I was ready to call it quits. Because I'm the type of person who hates to leave things unfinished, I continued to read. There is definitely a happy ending to Mace and Jenny's story although predictable. I have read many other books by this author in which I enjoyed. That was partly the reason I didn't hesitate to read this one. The synopsis gives a great indication of the premise so there were no surprises in that aspect. Unfortunately, Mace took being stubborn to a level that really wasn't necessary. He acted selfishly, though he claims his actions are selfless. Mace was immature and I felt even cruel at times. I understand male pride. I truly do. But Mace received no sympathy from me; I was just so frustrated with him.
I truly can't continue this review the way I want to without giving spoilers. There are just several aspects that I didn't enjoy, didn't connect with. I will say however, that I believed Mace and Jenny were meant to be together. Though they spent nearly the entirety of the book separated, the flashbacks helped me understand their relationship. I never enjoy leaving negative reviews, so I want to make sure you understand this. The author's writing was good and the pace of the story moved steadily which is why I didn't rate less. My disappointment is due to a matter of preference. This book was not for me. The separation of the H/h was too long.
This is my honest and unbiased review and I thank you for taking the time to read it. :)
I struggled with my review for this book. While the writing itself is done well, I didn't like the storyline. After the first several chapters I was ready to call it quits. Because I'm the type of person who hates to leave things unfinished, I continued to read. There is definitely a happy ending to Mace and Jenny's story although predictable. I have read many other books by this author in which I enjoyed. That was partly the reason I didn't hesitate to read this one. The synopsis gives a great indication of the premise so there were no surprises in that aspect. Unfortunately, Mace took being stubborn to a level that really wasn't necessary. He acted selfishly, though he claims his actions are selfless. Mace was immature and I felt even cruel at times. I understand male pride. I truly do. But Mace received no sympathy from me; I was just so frustrated with him.
I truly can't continue this review the way I want to without giving spoilers. There are just several aspects that I didn't enjoy, didn't connect with. I will say however, that I believed Mace and Jenny were meant to be together. Though they spent nearly the entirety of the book separated, the flashbacks helped me understand their relationship. I never enjoy leaving negative reviews, so I want to make sure you understand this. The author's writing was good and the pace of the story moved steadily which is why I didn't rate less. My disappointment is due to a matter of preference. This book was not for me. The separation of the H/h was too long.
This is my honest and unbiased review and I thank you for taking the time to read it. :)
December 12, 2019
A beautiful story of a couple struggling with masculine infertility
It is not easy for a man (or a woman) to learn he cannot have kids, but it is especially devastating when having kids is your wife of fourteen years' dearest dream and you are a cowboy that feels less of a man because of that.
The story is very emotional and well written. I've met Macy and Jenny in previous books in this lovely series and they were just great together. For years they had postponed their dreams of a family to focus on building themselves a more comfortable life and when finally the moment comes, they just cannot conceive.
To make matters worse, it turns out Mace's problem is quite severe, so there is no hope in reversing the diagnosis.
Shattered, Mace decides to move out of the house and ask for a divorce, so Jenny could rebuild her life, and hopefully a family, with someone else.
Tons of heartbreak, true friendships and the power of love bring together their HEA.
Great story!
It is not easy for a man (or a woman) to learn he cannot have kids, but it is especially devastating when having kids is your wife of fourteen years' dearest dream and you are a cowboy that feels less of a man because of that.
The story is very emotional and well written. I've met Macy and Jenny in previous books in this lovely series and they were just great together. For years they had postponed their dreams of a family to focus on building themselves a more comfortable life and when finally the moment comes, they just cannot conceive.
To make matters worse, it turns out Mace's problem is quite severe, so there is no hope in reversing the diagnosis.
Shattered, Mace decides to move out of the house and ask for a divorce, so Jenny could rebuild her life, and hopefully a family, with someone else.
Tons of heartbreak, true friendships and the power of love bring together their HEA.
Great story!
February 23, 2021
Mace and Jenny are high school sweethearts, been married for fourteen years. Mace finds out he can not give Jenny the one thing that is most important to her, a family. Mace files for divorce, thinking that is the best thing for them but soon finds out that love wins.
Mace is a stubborn cowboy , who wants to do the right thing but can Jenny get through his thick skull that she wants a family with him.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book full of emotion on how love wins in the end. I highly recommend this book.
Mace is a stubborn cowboy , who wants to do the right thing but can Jenny get through his thick skull that she wants a family with him.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book full of emotion on how love wins in the end. I highly recommend this book.
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February 10, 2021
It’s not everyone’s thing, but I appreciate a love story that’s about a marriage in trouble. Of course, I don’t want to read about cheating and jerky spouses. That’s not the case here. This is the story of a couple that is full, deeply in love that forget that have to talk to each other. Really talk. Share feelings, fears, hope, dreams. Somewhere along the way in their 14-year marriage they forgot, and this is the result.
There were other things going on in this story beside the marriage troubles of Mace and Jenny. There’s also the story of little Becky dealing with her new twin siblings and losing the attention of her dad and step-mom. Honestly, Becky’s storyline is my favorite of this book. It brought up the feelings I had in childhood when my brother was born. Seriously, the author did a beautiful job of conveying the feelings of a lonely and confused 10-year-old girl.
While I appreciated the obvious love between Jenny and Mace and the things they had to work through, there were also things that I did not like about this story. I understood Jenny’s motivations for some of the things she did along the way. Mace was truly being a jerk. I know she was thinking of herself, but maybe too much. Not that Mace didn’t deserve the feelings certain things brought up, but there were more people involved and I felt Jenny let things go too long and didn’t think enough about others her decisions were going to touch.
This story is listed as the first of a series, but it definitely didn’t feel like a first. Looking at it later, I found this book was originally published under the title A Cowboy’s Tears in 1997, and it was the 6th book in its series at that time. The story read okay as a standalone, or first in series, but I can’t help but feel I missed a lot of richer back story on the friends of Mace and Jenny, as well as the couple themselves.
All in all this was an enjoyable enough read. I felt it took a bit too long for Mace to get his head out of his rear. Jenny took things a bit too far in a direction I wasn’t keen on. Yet I did feel this couple had a connection and definitely belong together.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
You can find more of my reviews at All In Good Time.
There were other things going on in this story beside the marriage troubles of Mace and Jenny. There’s also the story of little Becky dealing with her new twin siblings and losing the attention of her dad and step-mom. Honestly, Becky’s storyline is my favorite of this book. It brought up the feelings I had in childhood when my brother was born. Seriously, the author did a beautiful job of conveying the feelings of a lonely and confused 10-year-old girl.
While I appreciated the obvious love between Jenny and Mace and the things they had to work through, there were also things that I did not like about this story. I understood Jenny’s motivations for some of the things she did along the way. Mace was truly being a jerk. I know she was thinking of herself, but maybe too much. Not that Mace didn’t deserve the feelings certain things brought up, but there were more people involved and I felt Jenny let things go too long and didn’t think enough about others her decisions were going to touch.
This story is listed as the first of a series, but it definitely didn’t feel like a first. Looking at it later, I found this book was originally published under the title A Cowboy’s Tears in 1997, and it was the 6th book in its series at that time. The story read okay as a standalone, or first in series, but I can’t help but feel I missed a lot of richer back story on the friends of Mace and Jenny, as well as the couple themselves.
All in all this was an enjoyable enough read. I felt it took a bit too long for Mace to get his head out of his rear. Jenny took things a bit too far in a direction I wasn’t keen on. Yet I did feel this couple had a connection and definitely belong together.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
You can find more of my reviews at All In Good Time.
February 14, 2021
I received this arc from Tule Publishing in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed this book very much. The story plot was well written. However, I had trouble keeping the minor character straight. I felt like I was missing something even though it was the first book in this series. When I looked, I saw that the author had reworked some of her books and the previous books in the original series had been redone a few years ago. Nevertheless the story was very enjoyable.
The book was about a couple that loved each very much and had been married for nearly 15 years. They married out of high school and worked together to save money and prioritize their goals. Jenny and Mace first built their ranch house and did the daily work themselves. Jenny loved children and had wanted to be a teacher but she gave up her dream to be married to Mace. As the story opens, Jenny and Mace are ready finally to start a family. Unfortunately Mace is told he can never father children. They are devastated. Instead of talking about it and coming up with ideas for having children, Mace decides it’s best for him to divorce Jenny. This is so she can find someone else who can give her children. She tries to tell him she wants their family. He moves out without giving her a choice and sees a lawyer to start divorce proceedings.
The friends and neighbors have no idea why he left. So they are angry with him. Jenny is miserable as is he. She finally agrees to go on a date with her friend’s brother Tom once she’s given up hope for reconciliation. This devastates Mace but he is stubborn and set on the course he chose. As Jenny and Tom continue to date, Mace feels it’s hopeless. As the reader, my heart goes out to both Jenny and Mace. There is so much anguish and angst. It is a great story with a surprise ending.
The book was about a couple that loved each very much and had been married for nearly 15 years. They married out of high school and worked together to save money and prioritize their goals. Jenny and Mace first built their ranch house and did the daily work themselves. Jenny loved children and had wanted to be a teacher but she gave up her dream to be married to Mace. As the story opens, Jenny and Mace are ready finally to start a family. Unfortunately Mace is told he can never father children. They are devastated. Instead of talking about it and coming up with ideas for having children, Mace decides it’s best for him to divorce Jenny. This is so she can find someone else who can give her children. She tries to tell him she wants their family. He moves out without giving her a choice and sees a lawyer to start divorce proceedings.
The friends and neighbors have no idea why he left. So they are angry with him. Jenny is miserable as is he. She finally agrees to go on a date with her friend’s brother Tom once she’s given up hope for reconciliation. This devastates Mace but he is stubborn and set on the course he chose. As Jenny and Tom continue to date, Mace feels it’s hopeless. As the reader, my heart goes out to both Jenny and Mace. There is so much anguish and angst. It is a great story with a surprise ending.
February 11, 2021
I would have said that friendship leading to love was my favorite type of story but after reading The Cowboy Finds a Family (Cowboys of Horse Thief Mountain #1) by Anne McAllister I think it is a marriage worth saving story that I love best. Mainly because I loved this story. Jenny is the perfect support and balance for Mace Nichols who is much like the character in the old Clint Eastwood spaghetti westerns that I watched with my dad years and years ago. Strong, silent and do- it-myself-kind-of-guy. Ten-year ago Becky described Mace best, “pigheaded stubborn.” Speaking of Becky, I loved that girl so enjoying the subplot with her.
The story drew me in and had me reading way into the night. It is a good thing it is not an extremely long book because once I started it I couldn’t put it down, no matter what time the clock said. The characters are painfully realistic. At times I wanted to bop Mace upside the head myself for being inflexible and near sighted. However, I found the calm voice of grief was much more effective. Well done with that.
I especially liked the last two scenes at the airport, approving of how each work out for the characters. No doubt about it The Cowboy Finds a Family is my favorite by Anne McAllister. I do sort of hope that om gets his own HEA, since he has seen rejection not once but twice. Then I truly wish that time would go by in the Horse Thief Mountain fictional world so that Becky would receive her all grown up story. Yeah, I love that girl!
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
5 Stars
The story drew me in and had me reading way into the night. It is a good thing it is not an extremely long book because once I started it I couldn’t put it down, no matter what time the clock said. The characters are painfully realistic. At times I wanted to bop Mace upside the head myself for being inflexible and near sighted. However, I found the calm voice of grief was much more effective. Well done with that.
I especially liked the last two scenes at the airport, approving of how each work out for the characters. No doubt about it The Cowboy Finds a Family is my favorite by Anne McAllister. I do sort of hope that om gets his own HEA, since he has seen rejection not once but twice. Then I truly wish that time would go by in the Horse Thief Mountain fictional world so that Becky would receive her all grown up story. Yeah, I love that girl!
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
5 Stars
February 27, 2021
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Mace has determined, all on his own mind you, that since he cannot give his wife, Jenny, the one thing she truly desires that it’s in her best interests if he simply walks away – so he’s filed for a divorce he doesn’t really want but feels compelled by his code of honor to do. The result is a story that has a couple who are deeply in love with each other separated for much of their story as each tries to deal with a life without the one they love. Jenny doesn’t understand her stubborn husband’s decision but if this is what he wants then so be it.
It turns out that Becky, a precocious 10-year-old dealing with life changes herself ended up being my favorite character in The Cowboy Finds a Family. There is a bond between Mace and Becky that is clear to see, and often little Miss Becky is wise beyond her tender years.
I enjoyed returning to Jenny’s and Mace’s story with fresh eyes. It’s emotional and makes the huge point that when no one is talking to their partner, really deep down, heartfelt talking they are going to break hearts, their own included. There is eventually a happy ending for Mace and Jenny, but first, they have to deal with Mace’s decision and the repercussions that brought about.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Tule Publishing. 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.*
Mace has determined, all on his own mind you, that since he cannot give his wife, Jenny, the one thing she truly desires that it’s in her best interests if he simply walks away – so he’s filed for a divorce he doesn’t really want but feels compelled by his code of honor to do. The result is a story that has a couple who are deeply in love with each other separated for much of their story as each tries to deal with a life without the one they love. Jenny doesn’t understand her stubborn husband’s decision but if this is what he wants then so be it.
It turns out that Becky, a precocious 10-year-old dealing with life changes herself ended up being my favorite character in The Cowboy Finds a Family. There is a bond between Mace and Becky that is clear to see, and often little Miss Becky is wise beyond her tender years.
I enjoyed returning to Jenny’s and Mace’s story with fresh eyes. It’s emotional and makes the huge point that when no one is talking to their partner, really deep down, heartfelt talking they are going to break hearts, their own included. There is eventually a happy ending for Mace and Jenny, but first, they have to deal with Mace’s decision and the repercussions that brought about.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Tule Publishing. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
February 6, 2021
The Cowboy Finds a Family by Anne McAllister, book one in her Cowboys of Horse Thief Mountain, was an enjoyable tale of a stubborn, silent, and honorable cowboy who thinks he knows best; even if his decision destroys his marriage and his world. Mace Nichols and his wife Jenny have been in love forever; marrying shortly after Jenny graduated from high school. Jenny gave up her dreams to help Mace build his, a Montana ranch they love. When Mace learns that he unable to give Jenny the family she’s always dreamed of, instead of manning up and figuring out how they can move forward, he decides the best choice if to set her free. Jenny does not want to be set free. She still loves her stubborn, bull-headed husband, with his tendency to always do the right thing; even if she believes this is the stupidest thing he has ever done. Mace is correct in that Jenny has always wanted a family, but she wants that family with Mace. It took the words of a ten-year old, that Mace let in, before he was able to realize that families came in all sizes, shapes, and way; that you could definitely love a child that wasn’t made by you.
Ms. McAllister wrote a sad, emotional tale forcing her characters to look outside of their feelings. She provided a wonderful tale, rich with emotions, and secondary characters giving Jenny and Mace a chance to create the family they want. I highly recommend The Cowboy Finds a Family to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms. McAllister wrote a sad, emotional tale forcing her characters to look outside of their feelings. She provided a wonderful tale, rich with emotions, and secondary characters giving Jenny and Mace a chance to create the family they want. I highly recommend The Cowboy Finds a Family to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
February 9, 2021
What a wonderful romance this is! Iy doesn’t matter whether you love cowboy stories or are lukewarm about them. It doesn’t matter whether or not you love Montana, where this story is set. Read it for the story because this one is so engaging and so emotional I couldn’t put it down and I doubt too many others will be able to either. In a nice twist on the usual romance, The Cowboy finds a Family is about a couple who have been married for fourteen years and who love each other deeply. Hero Mace Nicholls has separated from his wife Jenny out of a misguided sense of honour and spends most of the story living in a small hut up the hill from the ranch house where Jenny is wondering what she can do to make her stubborn, pigheaded husband come to his senses and return to her. Jenny is saint. I admired her on many, many fronts. Mace is not unlikeable himself. He just feels honour-bound to let Jenny go and nothing seems likely to make him change his mind. i loved many of the characters in this story—they were all so well developed—but aside from Mace and Jenny there was one real stand-out character. Becky is ten and has had a crush on Mace for years. She’s his best friend’s daughter and often wise beyond her ears. She came close to stealing the show. There’s a great deal more I could write in praise of this story but suffice to say it is one of the very best romances I have read in years.
February 11, 2021
The Cowboy Finds a Family by Anne McAllister
Mr. Stubborn.
Mace Nichols is an ‘I’ll die with my boots on’ cowboy. Old-school. Tough, silent and honorable. Which is why he’s leaving his wife, Jenny. She has helped him build his dream—the Montana ranch they loved. Now he can’t give her the family she’s always dreamed of, so he has no choice: he needs to set her free. It makes perfect sense to him.
It doesn’t make a bit of sense to Jenny! She loves her stubborn, bull-headed husband. She admires his courage, his tenacity and his determination to always Do The Right Thing—even if, in this case, it is the stupidest thing he’s ever done.
Mace is right Jenny has always wanted a family. But she wants a family with Mace! How can she convince the most honorable, stubborn man in the world what really matters in life?
First published as A Cowboy’s Tears
He stood in the doorway of the tiny two-room log cabin, where he’d just dumped his gear, and stared out across the valley, Horse Thief Mountain at his back.
He was alone.
The cabin echoed with emptiness. No one had lived there since Jed McCall and his nephew had moved out the year before.
“I can work, too,” Jenny said.
“Doing what?” Mace scoffed. “Slinging hash? Waiting tables?”
He knew Jenny was meant for more than that.
she’d wanted to be a schoolteacher all her life.
The Cowboy Finds a Family by Anne McAllister is a 4 star book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Mr. Stubborn.
Mace Nichols is an ‘I’ll die with my boots on’ cowboy. Old-school. Tough, silent and honorable. Which is why he’s leaving his wife, Jenny. She has helped him build his dream—the Montana ranch they loved. Now he can’t give her the family she’s always dreamed of, so he has no choice: he needs to set her free. It makes perfect sense to him.
It doesn’t make a bit of sense to Jenny! She loves her stubborn, bull-headed husband. She admires his courage, his tenacity and his determination to always Do The Right Thing—even if, in this case, it is the stupidest thing he’s ever done.
Mace is right Jenny has always wanted a family. But she wants a family with Mace! How can she convince the most honorable, stubborn man in the world what really matters in life?
First published as A Cowboy’s Tears
He stood in the doorway of the tiny two-room log cabin, where he’d just dumped his gear, and stared out across the valley, Horse Thief Mountain at his back.
He was alone.
The cabin echoed with emptiness. No one had lived there since Jed McCall and his nephew had moved out the year before.
“I can work, too,” Jenny said.
“Doing what?” Mace scoffed. “Slinging hash? Waiting tables?”
He knew Jenny was meant for more than that.
she’d wanted to be a schoolteacher all her life.
The Cowboy Finds a Family by Anne McAllister is a 4 star book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
February 10, 2021
This is an emotive, contemporary romance.
Mace Nichols and his wife Jenny were childhood sweethearts who married soon after finishing school. They've worked hard for everything they've achieved and believe now is the time to start their family. However, fate has other plans as it turns out Mace is infertile. He knows how much having a family means to Jenny and feels he needs to set her free to achieve that dream with someone else. It makes no sense to Jenny but he's stubborn and won't listen . . . He loves her so much that he moves out of the home they've built together, leaving Jenny and their dreams behind for her to achieve with someone else, even if it breaks his heart to do so....
What an emotional roller coaster this proved to be, the feelings are all there, the heartbreak, love, friendships and more. Thank goodness for a ten year old who has her own family problems interfering! I really recommend keeping the tissues handy when you read this, it is a very moving story and I absolutely loved the ending! I can't recommend this one highly enough, a very different read dealing with a difficult subject with empathy and understanding. I look forward to reading more in this series in future!
Thank you to Tule Publishing for my copy of this book which I voluntarily read, thoroughly enjoyed and have honestly reviewed.
Mace Nichols and his wife Jenny were childhood sweethearts who married soon after finishing school. They've worked hard for everything they've achieved and believe now is the time to start their family. However, fate has other plans as it turns out Mace is infertile. He knows how much having a family means to Jenny and feels he needs to set her free to achieve that dream with someone else. It makes no sense to Jenny but he's stubborn and won't listen . . . He loves her so much that he moves out of the home they've built together, leaving Jenny and their dreams behind for her to achieve with someone else, even if it breaks his heart to do so....
What an emotional roller coaster this proved to be, the feelings are all there, the heartbreak, love, friendships and more. Thank goodness for a ten year old who has her own family problems interfering! I really recommend keeping the tissues handy when you read this, it is a very moving story and I absolutely loved the ending! I can't recommend this one highly enough, a very different read dealing with a difficult subject with empathy and understanding. I look forward to reading more in this series in future!
Thank you to Tule Publishing for my copy of this book which I voluntarily read, thoroughly enjoyed and have honestly reviewed.
January 21, 2021
This is the first book in the series and the first I have read by this author .
The story centers around rancher Mace Nichols and his wife of 14 years, Jenny. They fell in love young and have been inseparable since then. When they finally feel financially stable to start a family , they are hit with some devastating news. News that destroys Mace to the point that he leaves Jenny an moves to a tiny cabin, so she can find someone else to help her with her dreams.
Mace is a typical hard headed man that refuses any contact with Jenny but still loves her with all his heart.
As he struggles to live without her, she starts dating a man that could indeed fulfill her dreams.
In this emotionally filled story with a subject matter that is very real, I have to confess I was not crazy about Jenny dating BEFORE the papers were finalized.
Also, not having read the previous series, at times I was lost with the cast of characters that show up and is assumed the reader knows their history.
That said, I am looking forward to the story in the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Tule Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
The story centers around rancher Mace Nichols and his wife of 14 years, Jenny. They fell in love young and have been inseparable since then. When they finally feel financially stable to start a family , they are hit with some devastating news. News that destroys Mace to the point that he leaves Jenny an moves to a tiny cabin, so she can find someone else to help her with her dreams.
Mace is a typical hard headed man that refuses any contact with Jenny but still loves her with all his heart.
As he struggles to live without her, she starts dating a man that could indeed fulfill her dreams.
In this emotionally filled story with a subject matter that is very real, I have to confess I was not crazy about Jenny dating BEFORE the papers were finalized.
Also, not having read the previous series, at times I was lost with the cast of characters that show up and is assumed the reader knows their history.
That said, I am looking forward to the story in the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Tule Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
June 1, 2022
Mace and Jenny have weathered every crisis that life has thrown at them in the fourteen years that they have been married. After all of those years, one unexpected disappointment wrecks their lives and threatens to dissolve their relationship forever. Mace appears to be suspended in a continuous loop of grief and self-imposed punishment which prevents him from thinking clearly and having a meaningful conversation with Jenny. Because Jenny feels rejected and unloved, she finally decides to give up trying to tell Mace just how she feels about his devastating news. Separated this couple begins to forget the wonderful life they shared and begins to lead separate lives. Even though everything looks hopeless, friends and fate conspire to help this beloved family mend their heartache and plan a glorious future together. This is such a wonderful story filled with love and sorrow. It will stir your emotions and frustrate you. Hang in there and see what they have to go through before they finally figure everything out. A Truly Amazing Book!!!!!
February 6, 2021
This was the first book in this new series, and it was such an emotional read. I loved Mace and Jenny. They were high school sweethearts that ended up married. Everything is going so smoothly until Jenny wants children and, in the end, Mace cannot give them to her no matter how much he wants too. Mace leaves because that is what he thinks is best for Jenny. Jenny is so upset, and she tries to reason with him, but Mace will not give in. He thinks that letting Jenny go so she can have the family she wants is what is best for her. Will Jenny be able to change his mind? Will Mace finally figure out that Jenny just wants him most of all? Pick up this book because it is such a great read. I voluntarily reviewed this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2021
WOW this one really tugs at the heartstrings even if I did want to smack mace at the side of the head more than once in fact quite a few times if the truth is told.
Mace Nichols always new that the only woman for him was jenny and they married the moment she finished school and they both worked hard on his dream ranch He also new that the only thing that Jenny wanted was to have a family so when he found out she would never have that with him he set her free The only thing is Jenny doesn't want to be free she wants her husband and he has to learn that a family doesn't necessarily have to be blood and it will take a ten year old to teach him that lesson. Can these two reconnect and start to build their perfect life together You will have to read to see
Mace Nichols always new that the only woman for him was jenny and they married the moment she finished school and they both worked hard on his dream ranch He also new that the only thing that Jenny wanted was to have a family so when he found out she would never have that with him he set her free The only thing is Jenny doesn't want to be free she wants her husband and he has to learn that a family doesn't necessarily have to be blood and it will take a ten year old to teach him that lesson. Can these two reconnect and start to build their perfect life together You will have to read to see
June 11, 2021
Interesting take
Hope I’m not giving anything away but when a couple is childless, it’s usually assumed the woman has a problem. After all there are many things that can go wrong in a woman’s body to prevent pregnancy. A man just needs to provide sperm. It is a horror for a woman to realize she will never bear a child. She questions her worth as a woman.
We rarely see childlessness from a man’s perspective. This book shows how devastating it can be to a man’s self worth; his identity, his pride when he can’t provide the sperm. How Mace handles it is understandable as it is unreasonable. Jenny tries but can’t get through to him and eventually realizes she needs to move on.
It’s a story about disappointment, emotions, friendships, and love that I could not put down.
Hope I’m not giving anything away but when a couple is childless, it’s usually assumed the woman has a problem. After all there are many things that can go wrong in a woman’s body to prevent pregnancy. A man just needs to provide sperm. It is a horror for a woman to realize she will never bear a child. She questions her worth as a woman.
We rarely see childlessness from a man’s perspective. This book shows how devastating it can be to a man’s self worth; his identity, his pride when he can’t provide the sperm. How Mace handles it is understandable as it is unreasonable. Jenny tries but can’t get through to him and eventually realizes she needs to move on.
It’s a story about disappointment, emotions, friendships, and love that I could not put down.
January 22, 2021
An emotional second chance love story.
High school sweethearts, Mace and Jenny, have been together fourteen years, but when Mace finds out he can’t give Jenny the family she wants, he leaves. Maybe Jenny can find another man to father her children. But Jenny isn’t about to throw away their marriage. She will do anything to get her husband back. Jenny just needs to find a way to break down those walls of stubbornness Mace has built around himself.
I had a hard time getting into this book in the beginning. It started out very sad and had a lot of characters to keep up with. But I am glad I stuck with it. It is a wonderful story of how far people will go for those they love.
High school sweethearts, Mace and Jenny, have been together fourteen years, but when Mace finds out he can’t give Jenny the family she wants, he leaves. Maybe Jenny can find another man to father her children. But Jenny isn’t about to throw away their marriage. She will do anything to get her husband back. Jenny just needs to find a way to break down those walls of stubbornness Mace has built around himself.
I had a hard time getting into this book in the beginning. It started out very sad and had a lot of characters to keep up with. But I am glad I stuck with it. It is a wonderful story of how far people will go for those they love.
February 5, 2021
This book was very good and super emotional. I think this is the first time I have read this style of book where the couple is already married and one is fighting to keep it that way. I think for anyone who has ever dealt with infertility this book might his a little close to home, but it was so good and the author truly did not sugar coat anything which was nice. I loved Becky man she is a spit fire and she seems so wise beyond her years. there is a mild sexual content in the book but not graphic. This book was so worth the read. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 14, 2021
Mace and Jenny were high school sweethearts. They have been happily married for more than a decade. The have one of the best marriages in town. They put off having a family until they got their ranch off the ground. Now the ranch is doing well and she is not getting pregnant. When they find out the problem is with him, Mace leaves his wife. He cuts her loose so she can find someone else to have a family with. Mace is all the family he needs but he has already given up. While I enjoy this author and her writing style I just didn't love Mace's character. I found his leaving his wife a bit abrasive and cruel. Overall the book was just ok for me.
June 10, 2021
Wow, what touching, sweet story. Mace Nichols finds out he cannot father children and literally goes off the deep end. He not only moves out of his home but files for separation in order to divorce his wife of 14 years. Weeks go by as Mace stubbornly refuses to reconcile with his wife, Jennie. That things work out and that a family is possible for the couple makes for a difficult for the reader to put the book down. The ending will almost if not bring tears to your eyes as this book will for sure touch your heart.
March 22, 2022
I struggled with this one. Yes, he chose to leave, file for divorce.
She was still married, still his wife while going out on dates with her best friend's brother. Kissing, holding hands, intimate dinners.
For me, this is cheating, mostly at an emotional level, but the physical dates also...
Mace is a jerk for only seeing his side, yet proclaiming he had both their best interests in mind.
The story wraps up too nice and clean...with neither one ever actually having to say I'm sorry I was an ass.
Just kiss & make up.
🙄
She was still married, still his wife while going out on dates with her best friend's brother. Kissing, holding hands, intimate dinners.
For me, this is cheating, mostly at an emotional level, but the physical dates also...
Mace is a jerk for only seeing his side, yet proclaiming he had both their best interests in mind.
The story wraps up too nice and clean...with neither one ever actually having to say I'm sorry I was an ass.
Just kiss & make up.
🙄
March 10, 2025
Sad circumstances in life controlled him for a while, making life miserable for them until they were enlightened. After that, everything went as they wanted and adjusted, because of the supportive people around them! I was depressed and hopeless for the most part of this novel, but the recognition of their unselfish love for one another at the end brought tears to my eyes. However, in order to get there, they needed the help and support of their devoted and supportive friends!
May 18, 2025
The Cowboy Finds a Family
Mace and Jenny have the kind of love that almost everyone dreams of, but Mace gets some devastating news that knocks him for a loop. He comes very close to losing everything that he loves, but you'll have to read the book to find out exactly what happens.
I try not to give spoilers.
I will say this was an interesting story, not the author I normally read, or writing style I'm used to, but I did enjoy this one anyway, I hope you do too.
Mace and Jenny have the kind of love that almost everyone dreams of, but Mace gets some devastating news that knocks him for a loop. He comes very close to losing everything that he loves, but you'll have to read the book to find out exactly what happens.
I try not to give spoilers.
I will say this was an interesting story, not the author I normally read, or writing style I'm used to, but I did enjoy this one anyway, I hope you do too.
December 13, 2020
I voluntarily read a advanced reader's copy of this book for a honest opinion.
The Cowboy Finds a Family by Anne McAllister. Book one in the Cowboys of Horse Thief Mountain. The storyline took me awhile to get into but once I did I couldn't put the book down. It kept me intrigued with wanting to know what happens. I look forward to reading more in this series and more by Anne McAllister.
The Cowboy Finds a Family by Anne McAllister. Book one in the Cowboys of Horse Thief Mountain. The storyline took me awhile to get into but once I did I couldn't put the book down. It kept me intrigued with wanting to know what happens. I look forward to reading more in this series and more by Anne McAllister.
December 17, 2020
My heart was breaking through this story of a married couple falling apart when they get some very hard news. Part of the time I just wanted to cry over the emotional story. It is a remarkable novel of love and of pain that can happen in a marriage. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 27, 2020
This one tore at my heart with such a sensitive subject pulling a happily married couple apart. The characters are so well written, you feel you get to know them deeply.
I really had no clue how this one was going to turn out and waiting for the HEA keep me flipping the pages. I was given an advance reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my review.
I really had no clue how this one was going to turn out and waiting for the HEA keep me flipping the pages. I was given an advance reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my review.
March 1, 2021
The story of Mace and Jenny.
When Mace finds out he can't give Jenny the children she wants, he leaves here, as he wants her to have the family she dreamed of, even if that is with someone else. Problem is that she doesn't want anyone else, so will she give in to what he wants.
An emotional read.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a voluntary and honest review.
When Mace finds out he can't give Jenny the children she wants, he leaves here, as he wants her to have the family she dreamed of, even if that is with someone else. Problem is that she doesn't want anyone else, so will she give in to what he wants.
An emotional read.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a voluntary and honest review.
April 2, 2022
Not My Usual, But So Worth It!
I'm unsure what made me decide to read this book that was not my usual cowboy romance, but I'm so very glad I did. Perhaps it was the believable characters with their believable problems (and solutions). The writing was so good I didn't want to put it down.
I'm unsure what made me decide to read this book that was not my usual cowboy romance, but I'm so very glad I did. Perhaps it was the believable characters with their believable problems (and solutions). The writing was so good I didn't want to put it down.
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