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Rowdy Ranch #5

Roping the Cowboy's Heart

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Managing the Fluffy Buffalo is Clint McLintock’s dream job until the owner’s daughter, Tyra Lindquist, comes home to take over. Suddenly he’s working side by side with the woman he always wanted but who never gave him a second look. He still cares, but he’s determined not to let his attraction screw up his life.

Tyra has no idea how to run a bar. Luckily her exceedingly handsome manager is there to show her the ropes. The more she settles into the job, the more she’s attracted to that hot cowboy who’s the heart and soul of the place. But getting romantically involved could blow up the business.

Will Clint and Tyra risk losing everything for love?

215 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 3, 2023

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About the author

Vicki Lewis Thompson

507 books1,537 followers
New York Times and USA Today bestseller Vicki Lewis Thompson believes love makes the world go around and laughter makes the trip worth taking. The recipient of RWA’s Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award and the author of more than ninety books, Vicki pioneered a new kind of romance hero with Nerd in Shining Armor. Following the success of her nerd stories, Vicki launched a boisterous paranormal series featuring a matchmaking witch and wizard, an ADD dragon named George, and a black cat inspired by her own precocious feline, Eve.

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5 stars
286 (67%)
4 stars
92 (21%)
3 stars
34 (8%)
2 stars
11 (2%)
1 star
1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Elaine.
4,619 reviews92 followers
February 10, 2023
Clint McLintock is manager at the Fluffy Buffalo. Tyra Lindquist is also working at the F.B. Clint is working side by side with the woman he always wanted. He still cares, but he’s determined not to let his attraction screw up his life.
Tyra has no idea how to run the bar, but Clint is there to show her the ropes. The more she settles into the job, the more she’s attracted to the hot cowboy, but getting romantically involved could mess up the business. Things get hot!
Super enjoyable read. I always love reading this author! 5☆




Profile Image for Courtney.
44 reviews2 followers
February 3, 2023
Roping the Cowboy’s Heart, Vicki Lewis Thompson’s newest Rowdy Ranch novel, features Clint McLintock and Tyra Lindquist, Clint’s boss at the Fluffy Buffalo. Clint has harbored a secret love for Tyra ever since high school, but he never thought he’d get a chance with her once she left town for law school. Tyra shocked Wagon Train, though, when she left her dream job in Washington, D.C., to come home and take over the Fluffy Buffalo when her dad retired. Now a couple years into their new boss-employee relationship Clint still has strong feelings for Tyra but refuses to act on them for fear of jeopardizing their working relationship and friendship. However, Clint isn’t the only one feeling the pull of attraction. Tyra has developed feelings for Clint as well, but she feels it’s inappropriate to date her employee. When Clint and Tyra finally acknowledge their mutual feelings, they agree they’ll have to find a way to move past their desire. But when they end up sharing a steamy kiss anyway, Tyra realizes that they need a concrete plan to keep their hands (and lips!) off each other. So she asks Clint to find her a lover. He reluctantly agrees and sets her up with someone. However, her dinner date doesn’t end with a love connection, and car trouble on the way home puts her right in Clint’s path. Neither of them can keep fighting their feelings. They fall into bed together and start an intense affair. Of course, they still fear that a failed relationship between them could endanger the Fluffy Buffalo’s success, so they eventually agree to stop seeing each other. But recapturing their prior easy relationship may prove more difficult than they expected. The future of their friendship and working relationship hangs in the balance, but finding the courage to admit that they were having more than a fling could mean that Tyra, Clint, and the Fluffy Buffalo can live happily ever after.

Ms. Thompson regularly amazes me with her ability to find new obstacles to keep her couples apart. In this case, I find that the boss-employee relationship offers a particularly fresh barrier, especially since Tyra is the boss. I appreciate that Ms. Thompson didn’t automatically put the male character in the position of power. And the power imbalance in their professional life serves a realistic obstacle. Tyra and Clint both take a major risk by pursuing this relationship. Tyra could lose the manager that she relies on to keep the bar running smoothly, while Clint could lose the career that he’s been planning since he was a teenager. Ms. Thompson does a great job exploring Tyra and Clint’s feelings about the Fluffy Buffalo. Tyra and Clint both love the Fluffy Buffalo and want to see it succeed. But Tyra never realized just how much Clint loves it; and when she realizes the depth of his feelings, it adds to her hesitation about their relationship. The last thing Tyra wants to do is for Clint to feel that his role at the bar could be threatened if things don’t work out between them. I feel that using Clint’s attachment to the bar as a major obstacle for Tyra really illustrates how much she loves him because she’s willing to give him up to keep him from losing the career he loves. Ms. Thompson uses the Fluffy Buffalo almost as a third person in their romance, and I enjoy that twist on the traditional love triangle.

I also enjoyed that this book introduces Clint and Cheyenne’s dad Nick. I love the unconventional McClintock family and appreciate Desiree’s strength as a single woman raising such a large family, but I also love seeing how the various fathers have played into the family dynamics. In Nick’s case, I feel that Ms. Thompson does a wonderful job depicting a character who isn’t necessarily the most reliable parent but who also isn’t a deadbeat dad. Nick gives his sons love and affection; he just clearly isn’t cut out for traditional family life. But Nick still serves as a major influence in Clint’s life though because his love of the Fluffy Buffalo stems from his father’s love of it and the memories he has shared with his dad there. I also appreciate that Ms. Thompson doesn’t make Nick and Desiree enemies and that they still have a positive relationship. And I really love how she uses that existing relationship to spark some jealousy in another character. I’m looking forward to seeing where she takes that particular storyline.

I highly recommend Roping the Cowboy’s Heart and the whole Rowdy Ranch series as a whole. I received an ARC of this novel from the author, but that did not influence my decision to review this book.
23 reviews
February 4, 2023
If Vicki has written a bad book, I haven’t read it. I very much doubt that such a thing exists.
The worlds she creates in her series, are places you want to live. The people she writes about, are people you want to hang out with.
This Rowdy Ranch series is one of my favorites.
Can’t go wrong with gorgeous cowboys, who are also men of honor, and women who know what (who) they want, and don’t let anything keep them from getting him.
Clint and Tyra love their hometown and The Fluffy Buffalo, the bar that she owns, and where he works. It’s the heart of the town of Wagon Train, and neither of them would do anything to spoil the atmosphere there. So even though they would both like to explore the red hot attraction between them, they don’t want to risk their wonderful working relationship. They’ll soon figure out that some things are worth the risks.
Visit The Fluffy Buffalo. You’ll love it there.
57 reviews
February 3, 2023
This McKlintock family story is full of fun and hotness!
Clint McLintock has a quick wit and very pleasing appearance. Tyra is brilliant and hot. She's also Clint's teenage dream girl. Lots of years later, Tyra says, "let's not", then takes advantage of situations and says, "let's do".
Learning the McKlintock family dynamics is so fun. Hearing about the family’s dance lessons brightens my dancing-feet heart. With so many sons, Mom McKlintock taught her sons the girl's steps, too. Which added a lot of fun to Andy's dance lesson from Clint.
Rance has a wicked sense of humor. His stories had me laughing out loud. (Of course, his sense of humor is only as good as his creator's, Ms.Vicki Lewis Thompson.)
The buildup on the other siblings and family friends keeps me wondering, whose book is next?
2,728 reviews20 followers
February 3, 2023
This was a fun romantic story about Clint McLintock and Tyra, the new owner of the Buffalo, where Clint is the manager. I enjoyed how the other McLintocks were wrapped up in the story along with the Winches Who Read. They were Clint's honorary aunties since his mom was an author and these ladies were her friends. It was also nice to have Clint and Cheyenne's dad, Nick, have a small part in the story. He was quite a character! I enjoyed learning about the secret he had kept for many years. It liked that the secret was kept within the family.

The sparks between the two main characters and how they tried to deny their feelings made the story interesting and a lot of fun to read. I enjoyed that the book was centered around Valentine's day and Clint's sister Angie's 25th birthday. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
Profile Image for Shannon  King.
191 reviews3 followers
January 25, 2026
A Heartfelt Cowboy Romance That Charms from Start to Finish

Roping the Cowboy’s Heart by Vicki Lewis Thompson is a sweet, charming romance that delivers all the small-town feels with just the right touch of humor and heart. The characters are easy to love, especially the cowboy hero, whose gruff exterior hides a genuinely tender soul. The chemistry builds naturally, the banter is fun, and the emotional moments feel sincere without ever getting too heavy.
I loved the cozy Western setting and the way the story focused on connection, trust, and second chances. It’s the kind of book that makes you smile while you’re reading and leaves you feeling happy when you’re done. A comforting, swoony romance that’s perfect for when you want something light, heartfelt, and satisfying.
Highly recommend for fans of sweet cowboy romances and small-town love stories 🤍🐎
Profile Image for Nancy Ku.
1,496 reviews17 followers
January 25, 2023
Roping the Cowboy's Heart (Rowdy Ranch #5) by Vicki Lewis Thompson
I love the Rowdy Ranch and all the cowboys and girls. Managing the Fluffy Buffalo is Clint McLintock’s dream job then Tyra Lindquist the owner's daughter, comes home. He has had a crush on her since he was a freshman, and she was a senior. The sparks fly between them, and they don't want to take a chance on their working relationship and the Fluffy Buffalo. There is angst, baggage, wonderful friends and family, secrets, lots of steamy stuff, laughter, tears and a very HEA. I am looking forward to the next book. TEMPTING THE COWBOY'S SISTER.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Romantic Easy-to-read Great world building Wonderful characters Funny Steamy Tear-jerker Happily Ever After Entertaining Page-turner,
Profile Image for Lesley.
2,558 reviews19 followers
January 22, 2023
Clint has had a crush on Tyra since he was fourteen to no avail because of the age difference but after a year of working together some seventeen long years later, Tyra as owner and Clint as manager of the Fluffy Buffalo, things are set to change. Tyra discovers new feelings for Clint but is worried how that will affect their boss/employee relationship. Both believe that the Fluffy Buffalo must be their priority but suddenly they can’t keep their hands off each other. Do they have a future? Clint’s family may have to intervene.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Quinn Fforde.
3,375 reviews15 followers
January 21, 2023
Clint and Tyra's story is an absolute delight! They have a solid base of friendship and fantastic chemistry. We've known that Clint and Tyra had some serious attraction going, but we didn't know that he's had a crush on her since high school. Now she is his boss, and neither one wants to get into the potential problems of a workplace romance. But the temptation has grown too much, and they can't fight it any more. I loved watching while they tried to manage things. They are so funny together, and Clint has a poetic soul. I was rooting for them the whole way.
493 reviews3 followers
January 26, 2023
This is Clint and Tyra's story and what a great story to read and getting to revisit with the other prior characters makes it more fun - this is an employee boss type book and they get along so well how can crossing that line help or hurt?? You need to read it! I love reading Vicki's books, they grab you from the beginning and you don't want to put them down!! I read a book funnel beta version and freely leave my review.
Profile Image for Annette.
3,194 reviews9 followers
February 4, 2023
What a dilemma. Clint and Tyra work very well together, business-wise and pleasure wise. Great couple, I enjoyed reading how the explore their options in a very mature and practical manner. Sweet, emotional, steamy romance and lovely community support, has this couple moving and grooving to their new chance to discover everlasting love. I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to read and leave a review.
Profile Image for C Joy.
1,809 reviews66 followers
April 6, 2026
Fun and fast paced

I've always been a fan of this author's books and this is the first I've read in this setting.

I like the small town thing and how a certain place became a town's pillar.

The characters were amusing and Tyra and Clint really have chemistry.

It started with vegetable soup for Tyra when they're already adults and have a boss-employee relationship; but for Clint, everything started when he was 14 years old.

Read on for more!
Profile Image for Eileen.
2,334 reviews
February 4, 2023
Another one bit the dust

This was Clint and Tara's story and it was a goof one. Working together at the Buffalo made a romance an off limits thing. Somehow they convinced themselves to scratch the itch and then it would be out of their system. Not so fast! Nobody counted on them falling in !ove. Cute little story.
138 reviews
February 16, 2023
Loved this book and read it on VALENTINES DAY!

I am a big fan of this author. I have read many of her books. They are all amazing, including this book. The story starts our before Valentines Day. I won’t give away any of the story, except that it is a beautiful story with a hot cowboy ( youza,!)
115 reviews
February 23, 2023
Love conquers all.

I just read this Author and what a pleasure it was. Her book was simply amazing. The love between Clint and Tara had you feeling that was absolutely an incredible love match. I know I will be reading more from this Author that grabs you from the first page and keeps you interested till the last page. I highly recommend this book.
668 reviews1 follower
December 7, 2023
Love it

What can I say? Great characters, a little bit of angst, but in the end, we have a happily ever after involving many of the characters from the previous books that just brings a great storyline into completion, in my humble opinion. I will enjoy reading this series in the future!
95 reviews
December 29, 2023
Another great book in the series

I don't often read more than one book in a series. But couldn't resist this. I have liked all of the author's books I've read. Now I will probably read more in this series. It hits a lot of boxes. Love this large extended family, the beautiful surroundings it describes and the emotions and love they have for all of it.
Profile Image for Kristy.
1,598 reviews17 followers
January 22, 2023
Clint and Tyra’s story was awesome with fun banter, low drama, and wonderful family and friends! The chemistry was palpable and even their friends could see it. It’s too bad it took their family’s intervention to snap them out of them misery!
Profile Image for Vickie Raynor.
1,201 reviews16 followers
February 6, 2023
Tyra and Clint were perfect. This series is one of my favorite modern day cowboy romance series. Each one can be read alone and is equally enjoyable. The characters had a lot to work out, which made it feel so real. I loved it from the start. Book gifted to me.
331 reviews
February 18, 2023
4 1/2 STARS

Roping the Cowboy's Heart is a fun, flirty, and seriously sexy book. It is the perfect Valentine's read and a great story of how sometimes a school time crush can become grown-up love.
I read an advanced copy of this book
474 reviews
December 14, 2023
Roping the Cowboy’s Heart

Clint works as manager at the Buffalo Saloon. He’s worked there since he was young. The owner just changed to Tara. The daughter of the owner before. But she’s also the woman he has loved for over 15 years. Read to see what happens.
534 reviews1 follower
July 16, 2024
Afraid to change their relationship

Excellent story of two long time friends who are afraid to change their relationship. A loving family provides both with advice, but they see only the potential problems, not the benefits. Great characters.
336 reviews2 followers
March 11, 2026
Comfort and honesty

I like a story with straight ahead, honest with each other characters. That's probably my favorite thing. Then there's that comfort of being with people you know and like.
2 reviews
February 5, 2023
Excellent read!

I love all of Vicki Lewis Thompson’s books and this one did not disappoint. She has a sassy way of writing which is always entertaining.
Profile Image for Toni.
2,176 reviews20 followers
February 11, 2023
The perfect Valentine’s read. Clint and Tyra’s workplace romance will keep you laughing as you turn pages. Another must read.
91 reviews3 followers
February 20, 2023
LOVE IT!

I wish I could give this book rating much more than five stars! It's that Good! I really enjoyed this book and it was hard to put down. Looking forward to Angie's story!
76 reviews
May 12, 2023
The Book

This book keeper my interests all the way through to the end Two people finding love and thinking they can t have what they want. Till some one sets them straight
Profile Image for Sharon.
2,181 reviews
Want to Read
January 3, 2026
Purchased in epub format from Barnes and Noble for my Nook.
Profile Image for Debra McEathron.
1,856 reviews2 followers
March 13, 2026
Lovely story

I love this series and every story is a good read. This is Clint's story about his dreams finally could true with a little help from his family.
Profile Image for Christine.
10.9k reviews34 followers
February 3, 2023
Arc review honest review . at the buffalo in wagon train Clint mclintock finds out that the daughters owner tyra Lindquist is now the owner and oh boy the chemistry these two have .what a awesome read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews