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Cowboys of Aspen Valley #1
Western Hearts
His brother’s dying wish was that Kip take care of his sons.
Nicole has come to take them away from the only home they’ve known
Nicole has the law on her side in the form of her sister’s will giving their father guardianship of the boys.
Kip isn’t letting the boys go without a fight. But Nicole is proving to be a beautiful distraction that feeds his lonely heart.
While Nicole spends time with her nephews, she comes to know the ruggedly handsome cowboy better. In Kip she sees a man whose love and devotion for his family is what she’s always yearned for from her adoptive father. And Kip’s kisses only confuse her more.
However, when an earth-shattering secret is revealed, it threatens to take down their fragile relationship and change everything they thought was true. Can Kip and Nicole’s relationship stand this test? Or will it pit them against each other in a challenge to their faith, family alliances and love for each other?
Buy Western Hearts today and return to Aspen Valley in this heartwarming romance of the meaning of family, faith and love.
Previously published as Cowboy Daddy
Nicole has come to take them away from the only home they’ve known
Nicole has the law on her side in the form of her sister’s will giving their father guardianship of the boys.
Kip isn’t letting the boys go without a fight. But Nicole is proving to be a beautiful distraction that feeds his lonely heart.
While Nicole spends time with her nephews, she comes to know the ruggedly handsome cowboy better. In Kip she sees a man whose love and devotion for his family is what she’s always yearned for from her adoptive father. And Kip’s kisses only confuse her more.
However, when an earth-shattering secret is revealed, it threatens to take down their fragile relationship and change everything they thought was true. Can Kip and Nicole’s relationship stand this test? Or will it pit them against each other in a challenge to their faith, family alliances and love for each other?
Buy Western Hearts today and return to Aspen Valley in this heartwarming romance of the meaning of family, faith and love.
Previously published as Cowboy Daddy
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2010
513 people are currently reading
276 people want to read
About the author
Carolyne Aarsen
213 books726 followersEven with over 1.5 million copies of my books in print, I still feel like I haven’t written the perfect story. From my office in the woods of Northern Alberta, I’ll keep trying. Inspired by spectacular sunrises, breathtaking Northern Lights and long walks through wooded trails, the stories keep coming. To find out more about my life and my writing, check out my website at www.carolyneaarsen.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
February 13, 2024
A bit predictable, but a very enjoyable read. Loved the characters, especially Tristan and Justin. And Kip was beyond awesome as their uncle.
April 24, 2011
A cheesy romance that was based on a relationship founded in faith. Loved it! While the plot advanced very quickly, I thoroughly enjoyed reading a romance novel that did not focus on the couple getting into bed before actually establishing a relationship. Cowboy Daddy was the first Love Inspired romance I have read, and it has me wanting to try more.
July 7, 2011
I really loved this book. It was engaging right off the bat and the characters are fun. There was one point where the hero was being a bit of a butthead, but he got over that fairly quickly and the rest of the story sped by until I was sad it was the end! I've liked other books by Carolyne Aarsen and this one did not disappoint. Really entertaining read.
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August 2, 2023he was raising his 2 5 yr old nephews on the ranch . his mom is recovering from a operation and his sister is no help
he blames himself for his brother getting killed on the green horse he was training
the mom of the boys disappeared , she had drug addiction
a woman shows up at the ranch , the sister thinks she was answering the ad for housekeeper
turns out, she is the boys aunt, she just found out her sister was killed by a car hitting her when crossing the street 3 years earlier. her adopted dad (her sister was his real daughter) wants his grandsons, they are all he has left of his daughter. his wife died
she found out from her sisters diary that the boys father was not their father. so he really has no claim on them
they are doing a dna test of the grandparents
the lawyers are trying to work out who gets the boys. right now they are staying on the ranch and she is visiting every afternoon
the dna tests showed the grandma was not related but neither was the grandpa, his wife cheated on him so he had no children
his adopted daughter and the newphew fell in love and he asked to marry her. they stayed on the ranch and raised the twins. her adopted dad came around and visited
he blames himself for his brother getting killed on the green horse he was training
the mom of the boys disappeared , she had drug addiction
a woman shows up at the ranch , the sister thinks she was answering the ad for housekeeper
turns out, she is the boys aunt, she just found out her sister was killed by a car hitting her when crossing the street 3 years earlier. her adopted dad (her sister was his real daughter) wants his grandsons, they are all he has left of his daughter. his wife died
she found out from her sisters diary that the boys father was not their father. so he really has no claim on them
they are doing a dna test of the grandparents
the lawyers are trying to work out who gets the boys. right now they are staying on the ranch and she is visiting every afternoon
the dna tests showed the grandma was not related but neither was the grandpa, his wife cheated on him so he had no children
his adopted daughter and the newphew fell in love and he asked to marry her. they stayed on the ranch and raised the twins. her adopted dad came around and visited
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2021
This was such a sweet and touching story which boils down to the parentage of a pair of 5 year old twin boys, Tristan and Justin. They are currently being raised by their Uncle Kip after the sudden death of their father, Scott Cosgrove, Kip's brother. It has been several years since the boys saw their mother as their dad, Scott, packed them up and moved back to his family farm. Suddenly one day their mother's sister, Nicole, comes to the farm to take the boys back to their family home where they will have everything that money can buy. What follows is a very touching and emotional journey as Nicole spends a few hours each day with the boys and the other members of the Cosgrove family. DNA samples are taken of the boys and both living grandparents to determine who should have custody of these adorable twins. An enjoyable, faith filled journey through THE GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE.
VICKI FROM WYOMING
VICKI FROM WYOMING
April 4, 2024
Enjoyed clean romance
I enjoyed the story very much. Other than the author seeming to forget once or twice what Kip had already read on Nicole's business card & something else that was said it read, there weren't any other errors. I enjoyed learning about the chuck wagon races in Alberta. I'm beginning to believe that all of this author's stories take place in Canada. I thought there were too many prayers in the book, but the author didn't go overboard on descriptions of rooms, land, etc. the boys were adorable & the author is so good at pulling emotions from this reader..frustration with Nicole, sympathy for Kip, sorrow for Nicole too, upset with her father, then sympathy for him as well. Few authors can write well enough to make me feel very strongly about the characters. I know anyone who reads this will enjoy it.
I enjoyed the story very much. Other than the author seeming to forget once or twice what Kip had already read on Nicole's business card & something else that was said it read, there weren't any other errors. I enjoyed learning about the chuck wagon races in Alberta. I'm beginning to believe that all of this author's stories take place in Canada. I thought there were too many prayers in the book, but the author didn't go overboard on descriptions of rooms, land, etc. the boys were adorable & the author is so good at pulling emotions from this reader..frustration with Nicole, sympathy for Kip, sorrow for Nicole too, upset with her father, then sympathy for him as well. Few authors can write well enough to make me feel very strongly about the characters. I know anyone who reads this will enjoy it.
September 28, 2022
Kip Cosgrove and Nicole Williams are thrown together in a battle over their nephews. Theirs a lot of deception about the boys and their parentage and this causes Nicole’s efforts to retrieve her nephews to hit the first snag.
Once the first set of DNA results are in Nicole’s adoptive father demands the children be turned over to him and this causes a rift in the growing relationship between Kip and Nicole.
Once Kip and his mother pray for the best thing for the boys, then all things align and Nicole returns to Kip’s ranch and they formalize their relationship.
Hurt feelings are all resolved and Nicole’s dad becomes a part of the new blended family.
I received a free copy of this book I and am voluntarily leaving a review in my own words.
Once the first set of DNA results are in Nicole’s adoptive father demands the children be turned over to him and this causes a rift in the growing relationship between Kip and Nicole.
Once Kip and his mother pray for the best thing for the boys, then all things align and Nicole returns to Kip’s ranch and they formalize their relationship.
Hurt feelings are all resolved and Nicole’s dad becomes a part of the new blended family.
I received a free copy of this book I and am voluntarily leaving a review in my own words.
September 5, 2022
I love that Carolyne Aarsen can write clean, contemporary romance without all the sexually descriptive text. I enjoy her books for this reason and the fact that they have a Christian substance.
Western Hearts is the first of Ms. Aarsen's Cowboys of Aspen Valley series. This is a story of two adults, strangers to each other, both getting custody of the children of their siblings. The story does not become combative, but instead, both adults are genuinely concerned for what's best for the young boys. I loved how they came together with the love of the children.
I look forward to this new and latest series by Carolyne Aarsen.
Western Hearts is the first of Ms. Aarsen's Cowboys of Aspen Valley series. This is a story of two adults, strangers to each other, both getting custody of the children of their siblings. The story does not become combative, but instead, both adults are genuinely concerned for what's best for the young boys. I loved how they came together with the love of the children.
I look forward to this new and latest series by Carolyne Aarsen.
September 30, 2022
Blood Does Not A Family Make
I went into this book blind, not knowing about the storyline and enjoyed the premise.
I like how Nicole was trying desperately to keep her promise while adapting to the ongoing custody dilemma.
Kip was a jewel. Family was everything to him and he would do anything to keep his promise to his brother.
The twins were adorable and mischievous, Kip sister and mother were great supporting roles.
I was sure how there could be a happy ending but was a totally surprised with the twist. I did not see that coming.
This was a truly enjoyable read.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
I went into this book blind, not knowing about the storyline and enjoyed the premise.
I like how Nicole was trying desperately to keep her promise while adapting to the ongoing custody dilemma.
Kip was a jewel. Family was everything to him and he would do anything to keep his promise to his brother.
The twins were adorable and mischievous, Kip sister and mother were great supporting roles.
I was sure how there could be a happy ending but was a totally surprised with the twist. I did not see that coming.
This was a truly enjoyable read.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
October 12, 2022
This is a sweet story about a daughter searching for a way to gain her father's love and acceptance and a cowboy who needs to be freed from guilt for his brother's death. Caught in the middle are young, orphan twin boys who are nephews to both Kip and Nicole. The battle for custody brings them all together and ends in some surprising events. I never have a problem recommending this author. Her books are always clean; no inappropriate language or content. Something that is very important to me.
September 18, 2023
Love in its many forms!
Kip Cosgrove loves his family. He dropped out of high school when his father died to take care of the ranch, his mother and his sister. When his brother came back with twin sons he took them in without question. And when his brother was dying and asked him to take care of his boys he promised without a thought of how he would be able to do it.
Now it's been 6 months since his brother Scott died and a woman, Nicole Williams, shows up claiming to be the boys aunt and wanting to take them from the only home they have ever known.
Kip Cosgrove loves his family. He dropped out of high school when his father died to take care of the ranch, his mother and his sister. When his brother came back with twin sons he took them in without question. And when his brother was dying and asked him to take care of his boys he promised without a thought of how he would be able to do it.
Now it's been 6 months since his brother Scott died and a woman, Nicole Williams, shows up claiming to be the boys aunt and wanting to take them from the only home they have ever known.
February 13, 2024
My first time to read Carolyne Aarsen's writing and as Nicole, I'm hooked!
Nicole only wanted her sister's boys not realizing that a cowboy would be part of the deal. Families aren't always blood, they are formed from love. Kip helped her to realize that after a lifetime of trying to fit into the mold of a family. Loved her use of Scripture's sharing how the Father's love and adoption is part of His plan.
Nicole only wanted her sister's boys not realizing that a cowboy would be part of the deal. Families aren't always blood, they are formed from love. Kip helped her to realize that after a lifetime of trying to fit into the mold of a family. Loved her use of Scripture's sharing how the Father's love and adoption is part of His plan.
June 4, 2024
Great story
A great story that includes a great explanation & example of real love. The author uses her skill & talent to use some verses, faith and illustration to explain that love is a gift. Love is not earned, but is given.
Nicole hadn't experienced that love or seen it until she went to Alberta. She was a take-charge city girl but learned to love the mountains and prairies.
This is a very good story of adults who determine the fate of two 5 year olds.
A great story that includes a great explanation & example of real love. The author uses her skill & talent to use some verses, faith and illustration to explain that love is a gift. Love is not earned, but is given.
Nicole hadn't experienced that love or seen it until she went to Alberta. She was a take-charge city girl but learned to love the mountains and prairies.
This is a very good story of adults who determine the fate of two 5 year olds.
July 8, 2023
A great story
This story was different from what I have been reading, but I really enjoy it. The characters and subject were really strong and it could happen in real life. Maybe more then I would like to think of.
This story was different from what I have been reading, but I really enjoy it. The characters and subject were really strong and it could happen in real life. Maybe more then I would like to think of.
March 7, 2024
Good story of family and live.
I liked this book because it tells of how important. The people are loved whether blood family or not. They also make things right by choosing to be together.
I liked this book because it tells of how important. The people are loved whether blood family or not. They also make things right by choosing to be together.
March 29, 2024
Loved it!
Oh what a story! Heartbreaking at times, and heartwarming in all the right places. This author is becoming one of my favorites for her stories with real, flawed and lovable characters. This one will touch your heart and stay with you, for sure.
Oh what a story! Heartbreaking at times, and heartwarming in all the right places. This author is becoming one of my favorites for her stories with real, flawed and lovable characters. This one will touch your heart and stay with you, for sure.
October 24, 2025
Great Story-A Nail Biter!
I read this so quickly, I was into it because of those kids. Were they going to be taken away from the only family they’ve ever know? What would happen. The love came into the mix. Now what? Read it, it’s great!
I read this so quickly, I was into it because of those kids. Were they going to be taken away from the only family they’ve ever know? What would happen. The love came into the mix. Now what? Read it, it’s great!
May 27, 2019
Too many typos. At one time Nicole was called Tricia and the grandfather was called a grandmother. Wtf. I really didn’t like her dad as well.
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February 28, 2020This book was awesome hard to put down once you get started
April 14, 2020
quick easy read sweet story
yes i would read it again and I would recommend it
yes i would read it again and I would recommend it
August 17, 2020
I liked the story in this novel of two people wanting to do what is right for a pair of twins they both want. This is a cute, quick, safe read by a favorite writer in the Love Inspired series.
October 24, 2022
Kip and Monica
Loved the book the characters make you want to get the best for the boys and for each other. The emotions run high with the love of God.
Loved the book the characters make you want to get the best for the boys and for each other. The emotions run high with the love of God.
May 29, 2023
My Musings
This is an entertaining story with engaging characters and a compelling plot. I found this one on Facebook. Happy reading!
This is an entertaining story with engaging characters and a compelling plot. I found this one on Facebook. Happy reading!
March 3, 2024
Great book!
A good, clean western romance.
A good, clean western romance.
April 17, 2024
Happy Story
Lovely story of complex childhood and family ties that work themselves out because love is the tie that binds. Very enjoyable read with likable, believable characters.
Lovely story of complex childhood and family ties that work themselves out because love is the tie that binds. Very enjoyable read with likable, believable characters.
April 17, 2024
This book takes you on an emotional roller coaster ride that will have you laughing, crying and mad as can be. I loved this book. Grabs your attention from the very beginning and never releases you.
May 10, 2024
Hearts
I really enjoyed this book. It was well written. I world recommend it to anyone. Love of God can do a lot of good.
I really enjoyed this book. It was well written. I world recommend it to anyone. Love of God can do a lot of good.
September 1, 2024
The boys
Who was there father? It Is the 50 million dollar question!!!!! Two men claiming they are their sons. But are they? You can’t put the book down.
Who was there father? It Is the 50 million dollar question!!!!! Two men claiming they are their sons. But are they? You can’t put the book down.
May 6, 2025
Excellent heart warming story!
A beautiful well written story. Loved all the characters. A great story of Christian love for two little boys who needed a permanent loving home.
A beautiful well written story. Loved all the characters. A great story of Christian love for two little boys who needed a permanent loving home.
June 25, 2025
Great story
I could relate with Nicole,trying to earn love. It was a pleasure to read of the main male character and to know there are people like him in the world!
I could relate with Nicole,trying to earn love. It was a pleasure to read of the main male character and to know there are people like him in the world!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews