A Cowgirl's Secret

The Mountain Monroes #9

by Melinda Curtis

Could saving the ranch…

Mean a future together?

Cowgirl Cassie Diaz has a secret—a bull riding accident may have stolen her dream of motherhood. She needs to recover, but how can she rest with her family’s ranch in peril? Recent Second Chance, Idaho, arrival Bentley Monroe offers help, and his quiet strength makes her feel safe. Loving him could heal her wounds, but would she have a future with this family man?

Genres: Romance, Harlequin Heartwarming, Harlequin

384 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published September 28, 2021

About the author

Prior to writing romance, award-winning, USA Today Bestseller Melinda Curtis was a junior manager for a Fortune 500 company, which meant when she flew on the private jet she was relegated to the jump seat—otherwise known as the potty. After grabbing her pen (and a parachute) she made the jump to full-time writer. Between writing sweet romance and sweet romantic comedy, Melinda finds time to bond with her husband over home remodeling projects. She recently came to grips with the fact that she’s an empty nester and a grandma, concepts easier to grasp than jet-setting on a potty.

Sign up for her newsletter on her website to receive two free reads.

Reviews

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a Cute Clean Cowgirl Romance, and this is the 9th book in the Mountain Monroes series. I really enjoyed most of the characters in this book, and the storyline was really good in this book. I wish the main characters had more chemistry because there was times I did not feel they worked together fully. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Harlequin Heartwarming) or author (Melinda Curtis) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A COWGIRL’S SECRET is a really sweet, clean, cowboy romance! You will have a great time with the cast of characters. I didn’t realize this was book nine in a series until I was well into the book, but that did not ruin my enjoyment of it. Cassie Diaz needs money and she needs it now to save her family’s ranch. Sadly, instead of helping to do that, she is making more of a mess by getting injured in a rodeo contest. Worse, because of the serious injury, she may have lost the chance of becoming a mother in the future if she doesn’t have surgery. She now has medical bills and other issues to deal with on top of everything else. Why the heck did she try and do an 8 second ride on Tornado Tom? What an heart tugging story right?

Melinda Curtis writes about characters that become real right before your eyes and A COWGIRL’S SECRET is no exception. All of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I’ve known them for a long time. A COWGIRL’S SECRET is a heart tugging and wonderful tale and I loved it. I loved how Bentley was very protective of Cassie and the title of this beautiful story is just perfect! Bentley has a gift for fixing machines. Cassie has old carnival rides that need to be fixed so she can make money to save the family ranch. When they get together sparks will fly and maybe just start more than the old rides. Read the story, you will not regret it! I soon found myself cheering for Cassie every time I turned the page.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading A COWGIRL’S SECRET It is funny and heart warming and filled with so many different emotions. There is so much going on in this story, but Melinda Curtis does a wonderful job of weaving all the pieces together. All of the characters will have you feeling sad and then giggling on the same page. More than once I wanted to be on that ranch getting in this family’s business! The ending was perfect and had me laughing out loud! Once you finish devouring this story, you are going to want to tell everyone you know about this awesome book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a sweet and fun tale about two people who seemed like opposites at first glance, but found themselves in love. I liked Bentley and Cassie, and especially enjoyed how Bentley took care of Cassie when she needed to recuperate. It gave them a good chance to get to know each other a bit more and showed that Bentley could be caring and compassionate. It was also hilarious to see how he really did seem to be a pied piper to kids and animals, without even trying!

I felt for Cassie as she seemed to always have things dumped on her around the ranch. Her brother and grandfather loved her, yet seemed to take her for granted. Bentley did a good job of seeing her value and respecting her.

I enjoyed learning more about Olivia Monroe and all that she had gone through. Tanner and his children also had a big part to play in this novel. This book could probably be enjoyed even if you haven’t read the other stories because the author does a good job of explaining how things have come about in the town. However, if you have read the other stories, you will enjoy this one even more.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Paula (on hiatus) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cassie needs money in a hurry to save her family’s ranch and unfortunately instead of helping, she made a more mess by getting injured in a rodeo contest and losing any chance of becoming a mother in the future. So now she has medical bills & other issues to deal on top of everything.

Bentley comes home at a family member’s request to help out and runs into Cassie who he tries to help after seeing how she injured herself. It’s a low angst read and drags a bit but I did like the ending.

Received a free copy from NetGalley for an honest review.

[Valri Western · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's no secret that I love this whole series! It's a great day when each new book comes out! I love the Monroe cousins! I secretly admit that so far, Bentley is my favorite! That's saying a lot because after I read each book, I say THAT cousin is my favorite but looking back on all 9 books so far, I definitely say Bentley is my favorite! I love how he was so quiet and unassuming but he's a deep thinker and his feeling run deep. People think that he doesn't have a lot to say and doesn't really notice things that are going on but they couldn't be further from the truth. Although he's shy and quiet, he's called the "pied piper" of children and animals by Cassie which confuses him! because he doesn't really know a lot about either one of them! However, I think it's because they both know he listens to them and he accepts them for who they are. Cassie is in a whole lotta trouble. Her family's ranch is in financial trouble and she's having a health crisis that she hasn't shared with anyone. Bentley's the one that happens to notice it! The story line was a bit slower than other books but that is because of the characters' natures. I loved the little children involved - so precocious! Check this book out

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassie Diaz lives with her brother Rhett and her grandfather on the Bar D Ranch in Second Chance, Idaho. Times are tough in Second Chance and at the the Bar D. Cassie has grown up around the rodeo and horses, did trick riding in her younger years and now trains horses for entertainment purposes. Why Cassie thought this qualifies herself to win a rodeo purse bull riding is anyone's guess, but the ranch needs the money. The bull Cassie drew was named Torpedo Tom, a nasty, rank bull. She lasted maybe three seconds and Tornado Tom left Cassie quite injured. So no purse and worse yet hefty medical bills. Bentley Monroe suspected that Cassie was in pain when he first met her. Cassie finally listened to Bentley's pleas to let the local doctor check her out. This led to doctor's orders of two days bed rest which wasn't going to work because she was babysitting two little kids over the weekend. Bentley took charge, drove Cassie and the kids home and put Cassie to bed. He could handle the kids on his own. That's how Cassie started falling for Bentley.

Bentley Monroe is the Monroe family genius who also happens to be an engineer. He is only in Second Chance to meet up with his sister Olivia who almost died in a boating accident. Cassie Diaz calls him the Pied Piper of children and animals. They seem to be drawn to him. It seems that Cassie is also drawn to him as he is drawn to her. But his life is back in Philadelphia. Bentley doesn't think a long-distance relationship will work for Cassie and himself. But maybe there's another way.

A Cowgirl's Secret by Melinda Curtis is book #9 in her Mountain Monroes series. The saga of the Harlen Monroe grandchildren has been fascinating. This latest addition was quite entertaining. The overall arc of the grandkids finding their way after inheriting Second Chance continues. I loved both of the main characters in this story. Both Cassie and Bentley are unsure of what they want to do in the future. Meeting each other and falling in love complicates their decision making. True love wins and whatever the future holds they plan to face it together. What a wonderful happy ending.

I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cassie Diaz is struggling to recover from a bull riding accident and it has changed her life. She has desires and goals and now she is worried that she might not meet them. In fact, she has chosen to keep a secret from those dear to her. One of those that has found a way into her heart is Bentley Monroe. He brings her a sense of calm and Cassie finds him difficult to resist.

I have not read the previous eight books in this series, but I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I love clean romances and the opportunity to read this story of a woman with hopes and dreams and the perfect man and also very good friends that brought hope and love to her in order to change her life for the good.

Many thanks to Harlequin Heartwarming and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Shae · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really sweet, clean, cowboy romance! I had a great time with the cast of characters. I didn't realize this was book 9 in a series until I was well into the book, but that did not hinder my enjoyment of it.
I did feel that our couple lacked a bit of chemistry, but that was my biggest complaint. For the most part they were great. There were just a few parts that didn't line up quite right for me, so that made their romance a slightly harder sell.

[Sunnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 9 of 9. I have enjoyed every single one! This book was sweet and clean. Cassie Diaz is the cowgirl and experiences a bad accident at a rodeo as an effort to save the family ranch. Things don't go well for her as a result of the accident and then she meets Bentley Monroe. Cassie is drawn to this man and a relationship begins.
This was definitely one of the best in the series. Loved it. It is simply a delightful read and if you love western romance you will definitely want to read this one. I enjoyed the characters very much! Such a good book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Cowgirl's Secret: A Clean Romance" (The Mountain Monroes Book 9) by Melinda Curtis is a wonderful read. I loved Bentley and Cassie's story. This was another fabulous addition to this series. This story is packed with romance, family, small-town life, humor, entertaining and interesting characters, twists, and more. I can't wait to see what happens next in Second Chance and with the Monroes. Highly recommend to all fans of clean romance, family, and series.

[Momma Says: To Read or Not to Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a sweet cowgirl romance! I loved both of the main characters in this one, and I was all in for their romance right from the start - even before the "romance" actually started. I'll admit that this is my first experience with Melinda Curtis, so obviously, I haven't read the rest of The Mountain Monroes series. Something I intend to change very soon. I will say that if I was missing necessary information, I was enjoying these characters too much to notice. The pacing is fast enough to keep the pages turning but not so much that it would feel rushed. Another thing I enjoyed was the variation in emotion. The story's angst is tempered with lighter moments, so it doesn't get too heavy. Everything in this one just works so well - the town, the characters, the storyline, it's a darling read, and I now have another series to add to my binge-read list.

[Happily Ever After Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance

I have loved The Mountain Monroes series since the prequel, The Secrets to My Success and this large, diverse family has captured my heart along the way as well. We’ve met some pretty amazing people with equally amazing, heartbreaking, and life-changing situations to be faced and dealt with as love grows and the family expands even more. Yet, I think that Bentley and Cassie grabbed my emotions more than the relatives have in the past for surprising reasons.

A Cowgirl’s Secret brings two very unlikely people together first as reluctant friends helping in a unique situation. Then, as time moves on, as a couple who could find their happy ever after ending eventually but first they’ll have to adjust their thinking about themselves. It was that self-evaluation that wrapped Cassie and Bentley firmly in my emotions and never let them go.

Because her family ranch is in trouble, Cassie took a chance… and it ended horrifically which resulted in additional bills and lost time doing what needs to be done around the ranch. She had to try, that she acknowledges, but perhaps her eyes were a bit bigger than the task she gave herself to bring some money into the coffers – like a nasty bull that even established riders hate to draw during rounds. She still needs to find ways to help the financial situation at the ranch but the ones she’s being offered don’t seem to make the least bit of sense.

Bentley is in town, reluctantly as one of “those” Monroes who have inherited Second Chance, Idaho. He is considered the family genius, and his masterpiece is engineering, tinkering, and seeing a project from another viewpoint. Or it was until an accident almost killed his sister, she’s gone into hiding, and Bentley’s brain is in a tailspin of doubts and questions. The chance to help Cassie at the ranch after her own accident may have begun reluctantly as well… but soon Bentley will be enjoying himself, bantering with a lovely lady, tending to animals with attitudes, and figuring out a way to make the ranch profitable from what is already on hand in storage.

Neither expected to fall in love – and neither sees, at first, a way for their romance to possibly work. But never underestimate a Monroe, as we’ve learned along the way.

I adored this couple. They were realistic, stubborn as humanly possible, and vulnerable in so many ways. I didn’t have to stretch my imagination to see them as a couple working out how to make their lives together actually work. There are additional characters introduced, and we’ll have a bit of a mystery in figuring out what’s going on – as well as certain Monroes, well, acting as they always have which I’d hoped some had left behind them when they found the love of their lives. And again, that’s realistic for we don’t always change our spots just because love found us – would be wonderful if we always did, right?

In any event, I had a blast with A Cowgirl’s Secret, loved the characters as they found their happiness, and have a few more questions to be answered along the line as this series continues.

I own a Kindle edition of this title.

[Lghiggins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This heartwarming romance is full of complications—one of the legacies of Harlan Monroe, head of the wealthy Monroe family. Wanting his grandchildren to be independent, Harlan’s stipulations in his will ensured they would have to find their own way in the world, not relying on his money.

In A Cowgirl’s Secret, we meet more of the Monroes as they come to Second Chance at the beckoning of Shane Monroe who wants to influence their vote in a decision about the little town’s future. Bentley Monroe, reticent, but a mechanical genius and racing boat designer, arrives. Everyone is mystified by the magnetic attraction he holds for kids and animals. Cassie Diaz, recovering from being trampled by a rodeo bull, is certainly not immune to his spell as he caringly steps in when her health fails while she is responsible for two precious children whose father, Tanner, is out of town. It seems everyone has money issues, and the mysterious Tanner’s arrival just stirs the pot as he claims to be a Monroe.

Two more Monroes are introduced. One plays an important role and the other a minor one. Their identity should be kept secret until you read the book because therein lies a major plot twist. Meanwhile, if you are following this series, you will be happy to know that a lot of the Monroes who have been featured in previous books have a supporting role in this one.

The Mountain Monroes Series is a fun, clean, and relaxing tale spun out by author Melinda Curtis over a set of books that features each of the twelve cousins. I have looked forward to each one of them; Curtis intends for readers to be able to jump in anywhere and enjoy the story and characters. If you like second chance stories, then you won’t regret a visit to Second Chance, Idaho.

I would like to extend my thanks to Melinda Curtis for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

[RomanceByTheBook · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cassie Diaz loves being a cowgirl and training horses. But Cassie has a secret; a bull-riding accident may have stolen her dream of being a mother. The doctors tell Cassie she needs to rest to recover fully, but there is no way she can do that because her family ranch is in trouble. Bentley Monroe has just arrived at Second Chance and offers to help Cassie while she recovers. Cassie is drawn to his quiet strength, and loving him makes her feel safe and happy. But the two of them are unsure what their futures hold and whether they will be together for it.

There are times when all I need is a sweet country read to soothe my soul, and A Cowgirl’s Secret did just that. This book is the ninth book in The Mountain Monroe series. If you are like me and haven’t read any of the previous books in the series, don’t worry. I was still able to enjoy the story and its characters and understand what was happening in the book. There were times when I felt like I was missing some of the characters’ backstories, but it did not hinder my enjoyment of the book. If anything, I now want to get my hands on the previous eight books because I want to spend more time in the tiny town of Second Chance and get to know the character better.

Click on the link to head on over to our blog to read the full review: https://romancebythebook.com/2021/09/...

[Julie Eichelberger-Ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Cowgirl's Secret is the ninth in The Mountain Monroes series but can also be read as a stand alone. This is Bentley and Cassie's story of family helping family, stepping outside of your comfort zone and realizing that love is not logical but worth the compromise. Bentley is the nerdy, quiet cousin in the Monroe family who loves working on engines and creating new and improved designs to help things run better. Much to his chagrin, he is also like a pied piper to children and animals, they flock around him constantly. Cassie Diaz is a former trick rider and now a horse trainer who is trying to financially save the ranch that she shares with her brother and grandfather. This is difficult because she is hiding the fact that the injuries she sustained while riding a bull are more serious than she lets on. Bentley agrees to fix old carnival rides on Cassie's ranch to help create more revenue but when he spies her limping, he insists that she see the town doctor. The story that follows is filled with precocious children, entertaining animals, a lot of laughs, a few intense encounters and a sweet love story.

I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher but all thoughts and feelings are my own.

[Judy Christiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all the books in this series and enjoyed every one! As soon as I finish one book, I am looking forward to the next one! I think one of the reasons I am enjoying this series so much is that it brings unlikely couples together. Who would think that a cowgirl that has lived on a ranch her entire life, would be the soul mate of a engineering genius that has always lived in a big city? When people get together in situations that are unfamiliar to them, they find out that what is inside is always more important than outward first impressions.

I especially enjoyed reading about Bentley finding his way to accept himself as others see him, not the way he has always seen himself in his mind. He fully grows into the person he should be, with the love of Cassie, and in turn, Cassie blossoms before the reader's eyes as she finds a different way to achieve her goal.

The cast of characters are wonderful as in all the books of this series. There are a few new ones introduced as well as some from previous books that are a large part of the story. They vary in ages from 3 years to "grandpa" age, and that makes a story well rounded to me. I believe a lot of joy comes from the young and wisdom from the older population.

[MK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner from The Mountain Monroe series. This marks book #9. All are standalone, but are connected. This story has heart, soul, redemption, healing for several people in the book.
An injury Cowgirl Cassie Diaz suffers puts her in a predicament which she hides from her grandfather and brother. A new Monroe is in town. He’s in town from a couple of reasons. One to meet with his cousin Shane, and another to get in touch with his sister Olivia. But when he goes to the Bar D ranch and meets the Diaz family more importantly one cowgirl to be exact something happens. He finds himself helping out. Love wasn’t planned, and a whole lot more.

Highly suggest buying this book, and all the books before it. All the Monroe’s are left with decisions about Second Chance. It was left to them by there grandfather Harlan. One by one fall in love with it.
Plus people who live there.

[Julia David · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think that Bentley is my favorite in this series, so far. As with the other cousins, Bentley is in town because he doesn't know what to do with himself. He thought he would always have a job with his family and now that is gone. And so is his sister. Where is she? When he meets Cassie, he really thinks there might be a future with her, but she is at loose ends just like he is. Cassie's family needs money, the ranch may soon be lost, especially if the Monroes sell the town. She is a country girl and can't think about living anywhere else. She was stomped on by a bull and may not be able to have children if she doesn't get an operation. She can't afford that. Can she and Bentley make a life together? A city boy and a country girl, who don't know what they want to do with their lives.

[Kate Vale · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another in the Mountain Monroes series, in which Bentley Monroe is worried about his sister and how she will react when they finally meet. Before that encounter occurs, Bentley finds himself using his mechanical skills to help Cassie Diaz whose truck could really use a major overhaul. But she doesn't have the money and right now, her biggest concern is whether she'll ever recover a short-lived bull riding encounter that has left her in serious pain and the possibility that she'll never be able to have a baby.

Over the summer, it's clear that Bentley and Cassie really like each other, but neither feels a long-distance relationship could work and if that's not in their future, will both end up heartbroken?

Then there's the issue of who Tanner really is. Is he a relative and thus entitled to the legacy provided by Grandpa Monroe? And does it really matter?

[Darlene Fredette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting patiently to return to Second Chance, Idaho, and this book was a warm welcome. I think I have a new favourite Monroe. Bentley is amazing! The pied piper is a perfect nickname because I followed him on every page. Cassie is such a strong heroine, yet so unsure of her future. They are perfect for each other. And with every Monroe book, there’s a good amount of family drama. The mystery of Tanner’s connection to the Monroes peaks, and there is a peek of something going on between Bentley’s sister, Olivia, and Cassie’s brother, Rhett. I can’t wait to read book ten to see what happens between them. I highly recommend A Cowgirl’s Secret (book nine). This contemporary romance will make you smile, laugh, and fall in love with these characters. A must read! Reviewed for Still Moments Magazine.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed reading about the Monroe's and the family craziness, it goes to show just because you have money life is not easy. I liked Cassie, she had a heart of gold and she wants to make sure her family has all they need. Bentley he seems so lost and he just needs to find where he can land and feel needed. I loved all the kids in this book I always feel like with kids in a story it tends to guarantee a laugh for sure. This story seemed a little split between Cassie, Bentley and Rhett and Olivia. I am not sure if the author is going to be telling Olivia's story next but I can not wait to read Olivia's story. This is a clean read and over all this book is worth the read so fun and a quick read.

[Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another romance between a Monroe and a resident of Second Chance. This time boat engineer Bentley falls for cowgirl/horse trainer Cassie. Cassie lives on a failing ranch and is trying (rather unsuccessfully) to recover from a bull riding injury whilst worrying about money. Bentley is called to town by his cousin Shane who wants him to prove that newcomer Tanner is not their relative - rather reluctantly Bentley gets involved.
A clean romance with lots of family interaction. Loved how without trying Bentley was a pied piper with kids and animals.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Donna Griffin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 9 in the Mountain Monroe series. This book deals with the loss of a twin, recovering from a bear fatal accident, and injuries from bull riding. This is Bentley Monroe and Cassie Diaz story. Bentley is the quiet Monroe. The "Pied Piper of animals and children". Cassie is a horse trainer, who previously rode a bull. Thus, her back injury. Bentley has a way with machines and mechanical things. Cassie has old carnival rides that need fixed so she can make money. When these two get together sparks just might start more the the rusty old rides. Awesome story. Highly recommend.

[SARAH TAYLOR · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassie Diaz has a secret after a bull riding accident! The accident may have stolen her dream of motherhood! Cowgirl She needs to recover but her family's ranch is in peril! Bentley Monroe arrives in Second chance Idaho to offer his help and his strength makes her feel safe! Could she have a future with this man and could loving him heal her wounds! This book is another great read and a page turner! If you haven't read you should you won't be disappointed!

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: A Cowgirl's Secret
Author: Melinda Curtis
Genre: Romance
Rating: 4 out of 5

I enjoyed reading Bentley’s point-of-view. I liked Cassie’s, too, but I could totally relate to Bentley. I felt like Cassie’s potential health issue was inflated quite a bit—any confusion could have been cleared up with a simple phone call—but maybe that’s just me. I also had a little trouble with the idea of the Monroe family owning this entire town and its inhabitants, basically, but this was still an entertaining read.

(Galley courtesy of Harlequin in exchange for an honest review.)

[Candy Laine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bentley has been in the shadow of his more popular twin Bryce while growing up. His sister Olivia is also an extrovert with an adventurous nature. No one really understood his sensitive nature which is so clear to animals and children. Then he met Cassie. This has to be one of the sweetest stories in the whole series.

[Marissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kindle Copy for Review

Bull rider is left with injuries that might lose her dream of motherhood as she tries to save her family ranch from going under.

A stranger arrives to town but can she trust him with her ranch and heart? A sweet delightful read.

[Debra Floyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG Melinda has done it again. This Monroe book is even better than the last. This is a must read series. I can’t wait to read the next book.

You never know how the Monroe’s are going to act or react. This book makes you want to keep reading.

[Cathie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book as usual from Melinda. It started a little slow, which is unusual, but it made up for it by the end. :)

[Harlequin Books]

Categories
Western Romance, Small Town & Rural Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
The Mountain Monroes (Book #9)