What do you think?
Rate this book
Colorado Cowgirls #1
Committing to the Cowgirl
After years away, Astrid Nilsson has returned home to Colorado, hoping to become Fairplay’s second doctor . . . and to find healing for her reoccurring consumption. Spirited and independent, Astrid doesn’t want her illness to be a burden to those she loves, so she has resisted getting serious about any man.
As the current doctor of Fairplay, Logan Steele is seeking to hire a male physician to take over his clinic after he goes back East. When Astrid, his childhood sweetheart, insists that she’s the one for the job, he offers her a bargain she can’t refuse: pretend to court him to appease his mother and he’ll give her the doctor position on a trial basis.
Astrid accepts the arrangement even though she’s reluctant to be in a sham relationship with a man who’d once broken her heart. She tries to keep herself from falling for Logan again but soon finds herself getting much more than she bargained for. With the clock ticking for both of them, can they commit to real love before it’s too late?
As the current doctor of Fairplay, Logan Steele is seeking to hire a male physician to take over his clinic after he goes back East. When Astrid, his childhood sweetheart, insists that she’s the one for the job, he offers her a bargain she can’t refuse: pretend to court him to appease his mother and he’ll give her the doctor position on a trial basis.
Astrid accepts the arrangement even though she’s reluctant to be in a sham relationship with a man who’d once broken her heart. She tries to keep herself from falling for Logan again but soon finds herself getting much more than she bargained for. With the clock ticking for both of them, can they commit to real love before it’s too late?
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 11, 2023
About the author
Jody Hedlund
70 books4,290 followersJody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over fifty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle. Find out more at jodyhedlund.com.
Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.
Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
June 18, 2023
Fairplay, Colorado 1877
Readers of the Colorado Cowboys Series will likely remember character Astrid Nilsson. She was sick with consumption and brought to the west by her sister Greta in hopes of healing her. Years later, Astrid, is a medical doctor. After training in Chicago, she's returned to Fairplay to work with a doctor seeking an assistant.
What she didn't know is that the doctor is Logan Steele, the boy she was drawn to prior to leaving for Chicago.
I love reading stories with female nurses and doctors. Astrid shows she is worthy of the title doctor.
The deception created by Astrid and Logan backfires rather quickly. It was a fun journey. I particularly enjoyed the character of Mrs. Steele, Logan's mother.
This is a great start to the series! I look forward to reading the remainder.
My gratitude to author Jody Hedlund for a complimentary e-copy of the book. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Readers of the Colorado Cowboys Series will likely remember character Astrid Nilsson. She was sick with consumption and brought to the west by her sister Greta in hopes of healing her. Years later, Astrid, is a medical doctor. After training in Chicago, she's returned to Fairplay to work with a doctor seeking an assistant.
What she didn't know is that the doctor is Logan Steele, the boy she was drawn to prior to leaving for Chicago.
I love reading stories with female nurses and doctors. Astrid shows she is worthy of the title doctor.
The deception created by Astrid and Logan backfires rather quickly. It was a fun journey. I particularly enjoyed the character of Mrs. Steele, Logan's mother.
This is a great start to the series! I look forward to reading the remainder.
My gratitude to author Jody Hedlund for a complimentary e-copy of the book. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
October 23, 2023
Since I hated to see Hedlund's Colorado Cowboys series end, I was delighted to learn that she'd created a follow-on series featuring cowgirls. If you wondered what happened to Astrid, the little sister we met in the first of the Cowboys series, this is the book for you. Astrid's an adult now, facing a host of challenges including coming face-to-face with the man she never stopped loving.
July 10, 2023
Oh, this was such a wonderful story! I love that this new Colorado Cowgirls series is built upon the previous Colorado Cowboys series, set in the same town, and with a few familiar faces. However, don’t worry if you haven’t read the Colorado Cowboys series, you can jump in and enjoy these books without having read the others.
Committing to the Cowgirl is Astrid’s story. Astrid was a young girl in book one of the Colorado Cowboys series. Her older sister, Greta, brought her to Colorado to try to find a cure for her consumption and Astrid is a character who appeared off and on in the rest of the novels in the Colorado Cowboys series as she grew into a young woman.
I loved the set up for this novel because I adore both second chance romances as well as the trope where two people pretend to be in love and then actually fall for each other. This story combined both of those ideas into a believable tale that had me hoping that Astrid and Logan could overcome the obstacles which appeared to make a real future together impossible.
I loved the moments in the story when these two, at separate times, came to the realization that they loved each other – and what that meant regarding future plans that had been made. Logan’s realization of his feelings for Astrid was especially endearing and felt so very real to me. I loved this story from start to finish and look forward to reading future books in the series.
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...
Committing to the Cowgirl is Astrid’s story. Astrid was a young girl in book one of the Colorado Cowboys series. Her older sister, Greta, brought her to Colorado to try to find a cure for her consumption and Astrid is a character who appeared off and on in the rest of the novels in the Colorado Cowboys series as she grew into a young woman.
I loved the set up for this novel because I adore both second chance romances as well as the trope where two people pretend to be in love and then actually fall for each other. This story combined both of those ideas into a believable tale that had me hoping that Astrid and Logan could overcome the obstacles which appeared to make a real future together impossible.
I loved the moments in the story when these two, at separate times, came to the realization that they loved each other – and what that meant regarding future plans that had been made. Logan’s realization of his feelings for Astrid was especially endearing and felt so very real to me. I loved this story from start to finish and look forward to reading future books in the series.
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...
July 5, 2023
Welcome back to Fairplay, Colorado and the return of Astrid, little sister to Greta Nilsson from A Cowboy for keeps. Astrid is all grown up now and is an honest to goodness doctor. 8 years after she left, she answers an advertisement for a partnership with Doctor Logan Steele. Astrid wants to be with her family and seeks healing from tuberculosis, a disease that was still a mystery at this time but responds to the climate found in Fairplay.
This was an interesting story of re-found love and the perceptions of the day towards women doctors. After a decidedly tension filled reacquaintance, things settle down and Astrid and Logan make a bargain. Logan is a swoony hero with a lot of patience as he shows confidence in Astrid and her abilities.
The romance does sizzle. I would consider this a clean read with an underlying Christian world view.
I have enjoyed the Cowboy books, so lets see what the Cowgirls can get up to!
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
This was an interesting story of re-found love and the perceptions of the day towards women doctors. After a decidedly tension filled reacquaintance, things settle down and Astrid and Logan make a bargain. Logan is a swoony hero with a lot of patience as he shows confidence in Astrid and her abilities.
The romance does sizzle. I would consider this a clean read with an underlying Christian world view.
I have enjoyed the Cowboy books, so lets see what the Cowgirls can get up to!
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
July 10, 2023
With the Colorado Cowboy series being one of my favorites, I’ve been anxiously waiting for this spinoff series, and Committing To The Cowgirl was a fabulous way to begin things!
Astrid was a secondary character in previous books, and this is her story. I love that she grew up to be beautiful, smart, independent, strong, compassionate, and a gifted doctor. She’s a relatable combination of strength and vulnerability.
Logan is the perfect fit for her and I loved his character. I really liked how they both had their individual fears, but realized “maybe instead of living in fear of the end, the key was in cherishing each day as a gift, and pursuing it to the fullest with those she loved by her side.”
You can expect:
* Pretend courtship
* Fake engagement
* Childhood sweethearts
* Closed door
* Meddling mother
* Co-workers in proximity
* Light faith elements
* Clean but sizzling chemistry
* Dual POV
The story is another example of why I love Jody’s books: It’s engaging, well-written and paced, with characters you really care for, gives you butterflies with the sweet and passionate romance, and storylines that tug at your heart strings. I loved it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Astrid was a secondary character in previous books, and this is her story. I love that she grew up to be beautiful, smart, independent, strong, compassionate, and a gifted doctor. She’s a relatable combination of strength and vulnerability.
Logan is the perfect fit for her and I loved his character. I really liked how they both had their individual fears, but realized “maybe instead of living in fear of the end, the key was in cherishing each day as a gift, and pursuing it to the fullest with those she loved by her side.”
You can expect:
* Pretend courtship
* Fake engagement
* Childhood sweethearts
* Closed door
* Meddling mother
* Co-workers in proximity
* Light faith elements
* Clean but sizzling chemistry
* Dual POV
The story is another example of why I love Jody’s books: It’s engaging, well-written and paced, with characters you really care for, gives you butterflies with the sweet and passionate romance, and storylines that tug at your heart strings. I loved it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 19, 2023
Yet another book from Jody Hedlund that I couldn’t put down! I adored Jody’s Colorado Cowboys series, and this Colorado Cowgirls series is one of my most anticipated of the year. Committing to the Cowgirl is a great start, with lots of familiar characters and introductions to new ones I’m excited to get to know better. Astrid was one of my favorite characters in the Colorado Cowboys series, and it was so fun to see her all grown up. I loved that she and Logan worked together as doctors, and their chemistry was so well written. I can’t wait for more westerns from Jody! 4.5/5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 11, 2023
I am a huge fan of Jody Hedlund’s books and fell in love with her Colorado Cowboy series. I was super excited when I heard a spin off series was coming. Committing to the Cowgirl is the first book in the Colorado Cowgirls series and it did not disappoint! I could not put this one down!
It was so nice to see Astrid from the Colorado Cowboys series back. This time she is all grown up and a female doctor at a time when female doctors weren’t completely accepted by the community. Astrid returns to Fairplay to answer an ad to become a partner to the town doctor and for a place to heal from her consumption disease. She is surprised to find out the town doctor is her former crush Logan Steele who left town years ago without telling Astrid he was going. Logan’s mother is dying and her wish is to see her son happy and on his way to finding a wife so he makes a deal with Astrid. He will take her on as partner and work to get the town to accept her if she allows him to pretend to court her.
I was completely captivated by Logan and Astrid and their story. The book includes some of my favorite tropes with the pretend courtship and coworker proximity as well as being childhood friends and sweethearts. Logan and Astrid’s first meeting starts out quite rocky, but the attraction is there from the start. This causes the two of them to eventually wonder if this relationship is fake afterall. Logan is super swoony and romantic. I love that he believes in Astrid almost immediately and sees her as a capable doctor. Astrid is full of fire and extremely dedicated to her work. The chemistry between these two definitely sizzles while still staying clean. Loved the dual point of view, the romantic scene toward the end of the book when Logan returns the letter and the surprise Astrid left him (no spoilers) as well as the beautiful ending to their story.
Committing to the Cowgirl was such an amazing start to this series and I am already looking forward to book 2!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It was so nice to see Astrid from the Colorado Cowboys series back. This time she is all grown up and a female doctor at a time when female doctors weren’t completely accepted by the community. Astrid returns to Fairplay to answer an ad to become a partner to the town doctor and for a place to heal from her consumption disease. She is surprised to find out the town doctor is her former crush Logan Steele who left town years ago without telling Astrid he was going. Logan’s mother is dying and her wish is to see her son happy and on his way to finding a wife so he makes a deal with Astrid. He will take her on as partner and work to get the town to accept her if she allows him to pretend to court her.
I was completely captivated by Logan and Astrid and their story. The book includes some of my favorite tropes with the pretend courtship and coworker proximity as well as being childhood friends and sweethearts. Logan and Astrid’s first meeting starts out quite rocky, but the attraction is there from the start. This causes the two of them to eventually wonder if this relationship is fake afterall. Logan is super swoony and romantic. I love that he believes in Astrid almost immediately and sees her as a capable doctor. Astrid is full of fire and extremely dedicated to her work. The chemistry between these two definitely sizzles while still staying clean. Loved the dual point of view, the romantic scene toward the end of the book when Logan returns the letter and the surprise Astrid left him (no spoilers) as well as the beautiful ending to their story.
Committing to the Cowgirl was such an amazing start to this series and I am already looking forward to book 2!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 21, 2023
Welcome to a new series from Jody Hedlund!!! It's wonderful so far! I was so excited when she said that she was writing a spinoff series of her Colorado Cowboys (go read that one if you haven't yet and you love cowboy stories)! And I love that the first heroine in the Colorado Cowgirls series (this new one) is Astrid!!! Astrid is the sister of one of the heroines from the Cowboy series, so if you've read that series you know her background! If you haven't read that series then you'll find out that Astrid suffered from consumption but was able to be healed (mostly). But now she's back in Fairplay!!!
Astrid is a great character. I love her strength and her determination to follow her dreams and to live her life. She's a woman at a time when women didn't have many rights and she's also a doctor when women really weren't allowed to be doctors and there are many prejudices against women stepping outside of their "roles." But she does it and she is determined to show people that she is just as capable as male doctors. And she has a champion by her side. Logan Steele, the current doctor of Fairplay! Well, kind of. It might take a little convincing him to let her do more with her profession than he is thinking. And there in lies the problem they find themselves in.
A fake relationship! Haha! I just love this trope so much. I love how it puts the two main characters into some awkward situations sometimes. But it's so fun watching them squirm and try to figure out those relationships. And Logan's mom is the best!!!! Oh my heavens!!! She's great and Logan finds himself heading to the altar quicker than he thought after he thought up this fake relationship with Astrid.
There's so much going on between these two. They have history together and are building more history together as the story goes on. The chemistry and swoonyness is off the charts! All clean of course but very well written!
There are reservations and struggles and healing that needs to happen. And I loved watching it come about for both Astrid and Logan. There's never a dull moment. Watch out for that first kiss. *sigh*
And guess what??? There are more books coming! In fact I've already read the second book and loved it. I couldn't put either one of these down!
Content: Clean. Some mild moments of peril. Some medical moments but nothing graphic. Some kisses but nothing further than kisses.
I received a copy from the author/publisher. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Astrid is a great character. I love her strength and her determination to follow her dreams and to live her life. She's a woman at a time when women didn't have many rights and she's also a doctor when women really weren't allowed to be doctors and there are many prejudices against women stepping outside of their "roles." But she does it and she is determined to show people that she is just as capable as male doctors. And she has a champion by her side. Logan Steele, the current doctor of Fairplay! Well, kind of. It might take a little convincing him to let her do more with her profession than he is thinking. And there in lies the problem they find themselves in.
A fake relationship! Haha! I just love this trope so much. I love how it puts the two main characters into some awkward situations sometimes. But it's so fun watching them squirm and try to figure out those relationships. And Logan's mom is the best!!!! Oh my heavens!!! She's great and Logan finds himself heading to the altar quicker than he thought after he thought up this fake relationship with Astrid.
There's so much going on between these two. They have history together and are building more history together as the story goes on. The chemistry and swoonyness is off the charts! All clean of course but very well written!
There are reservations and struggles and healing that needs to happen. And I loved watching it come about for both Astrid and Logan. There's never a dull moment. Watch out for that first kiss. *sigh*
And guess what??? There are more books coming! In fact I've already read the second book and loved it. I couldn't put either one of these down!
Content: Clean. Some mild moments of peril. Some medical moments but nothing graphic. Some kisses but nothing further than kisses.
I received a copy from the author/publisher. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
June 19, 2023
Read it all in one sitting!
Talk about some great chemistry! It was so fun to “meet” Astrid again from the first of the Colorado Cowboys series. Logan is the son of a character from that story as well. I LOVE story communities.
I love the dual doctor dynamic as well. Fans of Jody will find a great cowgirl story, sweet romance, and a lovely setting.
Two thumbs up!
Talk about some great chemistry! It was so fun to “meet” Astrid again from the first of the Colorado Cowboys series. Logan is the son of a character from that story as well. I LOVE story communities.
I love the dual doctor dynamic as well. Fans of Jody will find a great cowgirl story, sweet romance, and a lovely setting.
Two thumbs up!
June 19, 2023
I love being back in Colorado with the McQuaid and the Steele families. It's awesome that Astrid has pursued a medical career with her history of consumption and how it has made her such a strong woman. Logan is quite dreamy and such a fun character to get to know through this book!
Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own!
Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own!
June 30, 2023
Committing to the Cowgirl
Review by Eileen Byron
Jody Hedlund invites her readers to saddle up and venture back in time to the summer of ’77 (1877, that is) to the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, north of Denver to Fairplay, Colorado. Astrid has returned as a full-fledged doctor. She interviews for an open position as the town doctor. Her interviewer is Dr. Logan Steele, Astrid’s childhood friend, who has been recently caring for his sick mother. His mother’s cancer has returned, and it is now weeks not months she has left to live. Logan plans to return to the East and will need a replacement.
Hedlund weaves a story of faith, family, and love against the beautiful Colorado landscape. Her characters experience growth in their faith journeys. Family is one the main motivations of Astrid and Logan’s actions toward others. Astrid has returned to Fair Play, to live near her sister; Logan returned to be near and care for his sickly mother.
Hedlund has well-developed characters. Her main characters have depth, and her supporting characters are straight forward. What you see is what you get.
Hedlund’s story follows the plot of friends to lovers, with some twists and turns. Astrid lives with a terminal disease. Logan has yet to know this truth upon their meeting up again for the interview. Also, Logan is determined to return East to practice medicine with his uncle.
So, saddle up and enjoy the ride and discover if Logan commits to Astrid, the doctor cowgirl.
Review by Eileen Byron
Jody Hedlund invites her readers to saddle up and venture back in time to the summer of ’77 (1877, that is) to the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, north of Denver to Fairplay, Colorado. Astrid has returned as a full-fledged doctor. She interviews for an open position as the town doctor. Her interviewer is Dr. Logan Steele, Astrid’s childhood friend, who has been recently caring for his sick mother. His mother’s cancer has returned, and it is now weeks not months she has left to live. Logan plans to return to the East and will need a replacement.
Hedlund weaves a story of faith, family, and love against the beautiful Colorado landscape. Her characters experience growth in their faith journeys. Family is one the main motivations of Astrid and Logan’s actions toward others. Astrid has returned to Fair Play, to live near her sister; Logan returned to be near and care for his sickly mother.
Hedlund has well-developed characters. Her main characters have depth, and her supporting characters are straight forward. What you see is what you get.
Hedlund’s story follows the plot of friends to lovers, with some twists and turns. Astrid lives with a terminal disease. Logan has yet to know this truth upon their meeting up again for the interview. Also, Logan is determined to return East to practice medicine with his uncle.
So, saddle up and enjoy the ride and discover if Logan commits to Astrid, the doctor cowgirl.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2023
I was super excited for this new series and it did not disappoint. Committing to the Cowgirl is the first book in Jody Hedlund’s new series, Colorado Cowgirls. Astrid deserved to have her own book and I couldn’t wait to see what her story would be.
I really liked the progression of this story and getting to read about Logan and Astrid falling in love. They fought each other at times but they really complimented each other.
Astrid was scared of being a burden and she was trying her best to earn her way. Life had not always been kind to her and there were times when she felt like she would never grapes her dreams. I love how she still did her best and tried to face her problem head on. However Astrid had to learn to let others in and see that it was okay to need help.
Logan was a fun character. He was stubborn and confident but he was also scared of making the same mistakes as his father. He didn’t want to let others in and he had great plans for life. However Astrid had a way of upending his plans and soon he found himself wishing for different things. Logan had to figure out what it would be like to love Astrid and how to let go of his past.
The romance was sweet and I read this book so quickly! I was drawn into the story and I wanted to see how Logan and Astrid would end up together. I liked seeing some of the old characters and getting to meet new characters. This definitely did not disappoint. I am also so excited for the next books to come!
Committing to the Cowgirl is a clean historical romance. I would definitely recommend it!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
I really liked the progression of this story and getting to read about Logan and Astrid falling in love. They fought each other at times but they really complimented each other.
Astrid was scared of being a burden and she was trying her best to earn her way. Life had not always been kind to her and there were times when she felt like she would never grapes her dreams. I love how she still did her best and tried to face her problem head on. However Astrid had to learn to let others in and see that it was okay to need help.
Logan was a fun character. He was stubborn and confident but he was also scared of making the same mistakes as his father. He didn’t want to let others in and he had great plans for life. However Astrid had a way of upending his plans and soon he found himself wishing for different things. Logan had to figure out what it would be like to love Astrid and how to let go of his past.
The romance was sweet and I read this book so quickly! I was drawn into the story and I wanted to see how Logan and Astrid would end up together. I liked seeing some of the old characters and getting to meet new characters. This definitely did not disappoint. I am also so excited for the next books to come!
Committing to the Cowgirl is a clean historical romance. I would definitely recommend it!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
July 18, 2023
When I first heard about this series, I was so excited because I adored the Colorado Cowboys series! I was also super excited about book one in particular because it's about Astrid who we kind of get to see grow up through the first series.
However, this just wasn't what I was expecting. I didn't like the premise of her and Logan pretending to be in a courtship/engagement for the sake of deceiving his dying mother. Which is not the worst flaw of the book; I could have gotten over that pretty easily.
What I didn't like the most was the pacing. We spent most of the book inside one or the other character's head while they relayed to us what had happened that day (which was always the same thing) and then an interaction with a family member and the lie escalating. They kept saying how they needed to clear it up, but they also wouldn't ever get around to that.
This had potential to be a really cute swoony romance, but it never felt that way for me because it was more of a tell not show. There weren't a lot of scenes with them, or them having conversations. And when there would be such a scene, we'd see some of the conversation, but then the narrative would just summarize parts.
I ended up finding the audio on Scribd and listened to over half of it to get it finished. It was fine. The third act break up/make up was cliche. Overall, this was an ok book.
However, this just wasn't what I was expecting. I didn't like the premise of her and Logan pretending to be in a courtship/engagement for the sake of deceiving his dying mother. Which is not the worst flaw of the book; I could have gotten over that pretty easily.
What I didn't like the most was the pacing. We spent most of the book inside one or the other character's head while they relayed to us what had happened that day (which was always the same thing) and then an interaction with a family member and the lie escalating. They kept saying how they needed to clear it up, but they also wouldn't ever get around to that.
This had potential to be a really cute swoony romance, but it never felt that way for me because it was more of a tell not show. There weren't a lot of scenes with them, or them having conversations. And when there would be such a scene, we'd see some of the conversation, but then the narrative would just summarize parts.
I ended up finding the audio on Scribd and listened to over half of it to get it finished. It was fine. The third act break up/make up was cliche. Overall, this was an ok book.
May 4, 2024
3.5 stars
"She was finally getting an opportunity to be a real doctor. Someone was giving her a chance, even if that someone happened to be Logan Steele and even if she'd made a terrible deal with him."
Astrid Nilsson has come back home; the cowgirl of the past is now a polished professional in the field of medicine; she only needs an opportunity to prove herself. Was it a curious twist of fate that brought her to the door of a doctor who just happened to be her childhood sweetheart, or was Providence at work in both of their lives to form an entirely different kind of partnership?
Funny, flirty, and featuring a fake relationship that becomes filled with one conundrum after another makes this light, romantic, and substantive read quite an enjoyable adventure in the town of Fairplay, Colorado.
"She was finally getting an opportunity to be a real doctor. Someone was giving her a chance, even if that someone happened to be Logan Steele and even if she'd made a terrible deal with him."
Astrid Nilsson has come back home; the cowgirl of the past is now a polished professional in the field of medicine; she only needs an opportunity to prove herself. Was it a curious twist of fate that brought her to the door of a doctor who just happened to be her childhood sweetheart, or was Providence at work in both of their lives to form an entirely different kind of partnership?
Funny, flirty, and featuring a fake relationship that becomes filled with one conundrum after another makes this light, romantic, and substantive read quite an enjoyable adventure in the town of Fairplay, Colorado.
July 27, 2023
Good book!
I enjoyed reading this historical romance, and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series soon.
I enjoyed reading this historical romance, and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series soon.
July 14, 2023
Beautiful story
I enjoyed the story very much, but I missed the depth of Jody’s Christian fiction. It didn’t resonate as much with me for that reason, but the writing and character development were great.
I enjoyed the story very much, but I missed the depth of Jody’s Christian fiction. It didn’t resonate as much with me for that reason, but the writing and character development were great.
September 9, 2023
This is a sweet western romance. The fake engagement trope didn’t come across as natural. I didn’t care for the deception. The overall story is very well written. I enjoyed revisiting the McQuaid’s. 3 1/2 stars
June 19, 2023
If you enjoyed Jody Hedlund’s Colorado Cowboy series you’ll love her new cowgirl one!
If you remember ten year old Astrid
With consumption in the first one, well… now she’s all grown up and a doctor returning from medical school to the little town she grew up in. Her old friend Logan is the doctor, but he’s skeptical having a woman help, however his dying mother desperately wants to find him a wife, so they strike a bargain.
In typical Hedlund style there’s lots of emotions, lots of feelings, and physical attraction.
Cowboy stories sound so cheesy when talked about, but I always like the adventurous pioneering aspect of them. Even though I’d probably never have survived the wild. Astrid is a little more refined and this is more an influenza romance than anything. Lol. If that makes sense.
It’s a fast fun read that I recommend to all Hedlund fans!
If you remember ten year old Astrid
With consumption in the first one, well… now she’s all grown up and a doctor returning from medical school to the little town she grew up in. Her old friend Logan is the doctor, but he’s skeptical having a woman help, however his dying mother desperately wants to find him a wife, so they strike a bargain.
In typical Hedlund style there’s lots of emotions, lots of feelings, and physical attraction.
Cowboy stories sound so cheesy when talked about, but I always like the adventurous pioneering aspect of them. Even though I’d probably never have survived the wild. Astrid is a little more refined and this is more an influenza romance than anything. Lol. If that makes sense.
It’s a fast fun read that I recommend to all Hedlund fans!
July 10, 2023
The first in the Colorado Cowgirls series and it was just as entertaining as Jody's Cowboy series. This book follows Greta's sister Astrid, who was basically a side character briefly mentioned in all of the Colorado Cowboys, now she has a book all to herself for her own chance at happily ever after. I thought her character growth from the Cowboy series was much needed and made her a charming character to get to know. The medical aspects were interesting and kept the story moving right along.
Too mushy in the romance part but I guess Jody must have a lot of reader fans who love such or she wouldn't put it in there. I removed a star because these are or rather used to be more Christian inspirational but I notice a huge lack thereof in this book. It is a clean read, but no mention of God whatsoever.
I want to thank the author for allowing me to pre-read this book prior to release in exchange for my honest opinion.
Too mushy in the romance part but I guess Jody must have a lot of reader fans who love such or she wouldn't put it in there. I removed a star because these are or rather used to be more Christian inspirational but I notice a huge lack thereof in this book. It is a clean read, but no mention of God whatsoever.
I want to thank the author for allowing me to pre-read this book prior to release in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 11, 2023
I was so happy when I learned that we got to read Astrid's story. She was such a prominent part of the Colorado Cowboys series that it seemed essential that we get to see how her life played out as well. Astrid has grown up so much and a lot of the more persnickety traits from her younger days are gone. What is left is an intelligent, determined, and competent doctor who wants to serve her community and find healing for her returning consumption. When she finds out the doctor who she is going to be working for is Logan Steele, the man who stole her heart and then stomped on it years ago, the sparks immediately begin to fly. The fake relationship is such an entertaining storyline. It always has a way of getting way out of hand quite quickly. This occurrence did not disappoint. The relationship between Logan and Astrid was rapidly thrust out of their control, leading to a myriad of comical, surprising, and heady interactions. Jody writes in such a way that always keeps me enthralled. She has the ability to write romance that is both fiery and realistic along with sweet and restrained. She lets her characters show the depth of their emotions without going overboard. She challenges her characters on multiple facets. Logan and Astrid had preconceived notions that had to be blown up and shifted not only from their past but also relationally and professionally. They learn hard truths about the past that reshape their thinking and allow them to move forward into a new and better life. There were returning faces from the Colorado Cowboys series, and it was great to see where these characters were in their lives as well. The introduction of the boardinghouse sisters was a great way to bridge the previous books to the ones after this one. The ending was sweet and heartfelt. It was sad, but it was also so hopeful that you couldn't help but feel joy for the future of Logan and Astrid. It is a little on the shorter side, but it is still a tale full of love, growth, challenge, joy, and beautiful scenery. I received a complimentary advanced reader copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 12, 2023
Almost as good as I hoped. It was a little too focused on ogling though.
—-
I can't wait to read this series.
—-
I can't wait to read this series.
January 1, 2024
I love Hedlund as an author, however this was not my favorite of her books. It took place in the span of a month after they hadn’t seen each other for years. And it felt like there was only one big plot development.
July 27, 2023
Committing To The Cowgirl is the first book in Jody Hedlund's Colorado Cowgirl series. In it Jodie brings back Astrid Nielson from The Colorado Cowboy series. she is all grown up and coming back to practice medicine. I loved Astrid and her determination to follow her dreams. I also like Logan Steele and his honest explanation of his plans for the future, however when the two of them get together all plans go out the window.
I am really glad that Ms. Hedlund has continued with stories set in Fairplay Colorado. I think the setting is wonderful .
So brew up a pot of coffee and settle in for a sweet Colorado romance with a touch of spice.
I was given a copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
I am really glad that Ms. Hedlund has continued with stories set in Fairplay Colorado. I think the setting is wonderful .
So brew up a pot of coffee and settle in for a sweet Colorado romance with a touch of spice.
I was given a copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.
December 2, 2023
2.5.
Heavy on the lust and burning, light on depth. It was repetitive, predictable and eye-rolling at times. The dying mother was obnoxiously pushy and manipulative. I liked the discussion of female doctors and the trials they faced breaking into the profession.
Heavy on the lust and burning, light on depth. It was repetitive, predictable and eye-rolling at times. The dying mother was obnoxiously pushy and manipulative. I liked the discussion of female doctors and the trials they faced breaking into the profession.
January 16, 2024
Jody Hedlund did it again! Loved it, and went on an emotional roller coaster (mostly squealing heheh)
July 6, 2023
A sizzling, swoon worthy start to a brand new series! As a huge fan of Jody Hedlund’s Colorado Cowboys series, I was eagerly anticipating her new Colorado Cowgirls series. So far, so amazing! It’s every bit as captivating and I was so excited to see familiar characters again and loved the new characters introduced.
I loved Greta’s little sister Astrid Nilsson who’s featured throughout the Colorado Cowboys series. Now she’s all grown up and a well trained doctor to boot. Wanting to return home to be with family and to try to get her consumption back under control, she answers an advertisement for a doctor’s position in Fairplay. But, the person she least expects to be interviewing her is her former childhood sweetheart and the boy who hurt her eight years ago when he left unexpectedly.
Logan Steele has temporarily accepted a position as Fairplay’s town doctor so he can spend time with his dying mother. He’s anxious to interview a new doctor to take his place so he can return to Boston when the time comes. When he sees Astrid, he’s astounded at how his childhood friend has grown even more beautiful and intelligent since he last saw her. He agrees to allow her to work with him on a trial basis if she allows him to pretend to court her for his mother’s sake. Soon though the old sparks fly between them and their courtship seems anything but pretend. Logan’s meddling mother spreads the word and they find themselves in a fake engagement with a quickly anticipated wedding.
Neither Logan nor Astrid are wanting to marry, yet the more time they spend with each other the more they wish things could be real. But, Logan’s determined to leave for Boston and Astrid is not sure it’s fair to marry when her health is so precarious. When illness strikes the town, their strong feelings are put into perspective.
This book kept me quickly turning the pages. The romance between Logan and Astrid was fiery with a passionate undercurrent. While everything is kept clean, there are definitely some kisses that’ll scorch your kindle. Since they grew up together, they have a strong connection that makes the romance even more sweet and enjoyable. I loved the way Logan respected Astrid’s abilities despite the prejudices against women doctors in the late 1870’s.
This is a must read for Western romance fans especially Jody Hedlund Colorado Cowboys series fans. I can’t wait for the next book. Since it’s a brand new series, this book can definitely be read as a standalone. It’s even more enjoyable though if you’re familiar with the Colorado Cowboys series. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
I loved Greta’s little sister Astrid Nilsson who’s featured throughout the Colorado Cowboys series. Now she’s all grown up and a well trained doctor to boot. Wanting to return home to be with family and to try to get her consumption back under control, she answers an advertisement for a doctor’s position in Fairplay. But, the person she least expects to be interviewing her is her former childhood sweetheart and the boy who hurt her eight years ago when he left unexpectedly.
Logan Steele has temporarily accepted a position as Fairplay’s town doctor so he can spend time with his dying mother. He’s anxious to interview a new doctor to take his place so he can return to Boston when the time comes. When he sees Astrid, he’s astounded at how his childhood friend has grown even more beautiful and intelligent since he last saw her. He agrees to allow her to work with him on a trial basis if she allows him to pretend to court her for his mother’s sake. Soon though the old sparks fly between them and their courtship seems anything but pretend. Logan’s meddling mother spreads the word and they find themselves in a fake engagement with a quickly anticipated wedding.
Neither Logan nor Astrid are wanting to marry, yet the more time they spend with each other the more they wish things could be real. But, Logan’s determined to leave for Boston and Astrid is not sure it’s fair to marry when her health is so precarious. When illness strikes the town, their strong feelings are put into perspective.
This book kept me quickly turning the pages. The romance between Logan and Astrid was fiery with a passionate undercurrent. While everything is kept clean, there are definitely some kisses that’ll scorch your kindle. Since they grew up together, they have a strong connection that makes the romance even more sweet and enjoyable. I loved the way Logan respected Astrid’s abilities despite the prejudices against women doctors in the late 1870’s.
This is a must read for Western romance fans especially Jody Hedlund Colorado Cowboys series fans. I can’t wait for the next book. Since it’s a brand new series, this book can definitely be read as a standalone. It’s even more enjoyable though if you’re familiar with the Colorado Cowboys series. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
July 27, 2023
Ok so the Colorado cowboys is one of my favorite series of all time so I was stoked about this spin off series. It had the same swoony clean romance as the previous books. (Jody is definitely the queen at that) I did wish for more time with the McQuaid family since they are the BEST. But they still had some page time. I like that our two MC shared the same occupation bc it gave them lots of common interests. I also liked that they were previously childhood friends and if you have read the cowboy series you would have already known our two MC quite well. We have known Astrid from the very first book so it was fun to have her finally get her book. It was interesting to see the town so much more established than when Astrid first moved there with Greta. Astrid is a strong lady with a lot against her (her chronic illness and her being a woman in a “mans profession”). BUT she has grown up in the Wild West!! So she can handle the hardships that come with all that like a boss. You will love Logan and his character arc. He has grown a lot from the self centered teenager. He figures out better priorities and considers other people’s perspectives. But he definitely has to learn to do so. The fake dating has a lot of ridiculous situations with it but it was still fun to read.
SPOILERS and booknotes:
Colorado 1877 Oo cool! She studied at the women’s hospital medical college of Chicago and got her medical degree! That’s a real college. Heck yes!!! The moment I’ve been waiting for!! The whole McQuaid family and their spouses and children!!! Oh man the almost kisses. They were childhood friends. To childhood crushes. To him pecking her on the lips in goodbye and her thinking it meant more and then him leaving. Now six or 8 years later they are back together! Wow Jody really knows how to swoony moments when both are riding the same horse. It’s cool to read a book where both couples have the same profession so they can work together. Awww the ending! A surprise wedding for THE GUY! Astrid you dawg!!! I love it. This sentence is so true and I love it: “All marriages have challenges that can cause problems and heartache. If not consumption, it could be something else.” Just like his parents’ marriage. “But I promise to commit myself to you no matter how hard it will get and to love you until my dying breath.”
SPOILERS and booknotes:
Colorado 1877 Oo cool! She studied at the women’s hospital medical college of Chicago and got her medical degree! That’s a real college. Heck yes!!! The moment I’ve been waiting for!! The whole McQuaid family and their spouses and children!!! Oh man the almost kisses. They were childhood friends. To childhood crushes. To him pecking her on the lips in goodbye and her thinking it meant more and then him leaving. Now six or 8 years later they are back together! Wow Jody really knows how to swoony moments when both are riding the same horse. It’s cool to read a book where both couples have the same profession so they can work together. Awww the ending! A surprise wedding for THE GUY! Astrid you dawg!!! I love it. This sentence is so true and I love it: “All marriages have challenges that can cause problems and heartache. If not consumption, it could be something else.” Just like his parents’ marriage. “But I promise to commit myself to you no matter how hard it will get and to love you until my dying breath.”
July 11, 2023
Committing to the Cowgirl
Colorado Cowgirls #1
By Jody Hedlund
In the Colorado Cowboys series, we were introduced to Astrid Nilsson, a young girl whose only hope of living was to move to Colorado. Well, Astrid is now all grown up, and she is a doctor. When she hears of an opening for a doctor to join an existing practice in Fairplay, she knows she has to apply. She needs to return to the clean, healing air of Colorado, hoping to fight back against the consumption trying to gain hold of her again.
Years ago, Logan Steele left Fairplay and Astrid Nilsson behind. He never expected to see Astrid again, but his mother's health brought him home. Logan knows he's not going to stay in Fairplay, but he doesn't want to leave the town without a doctor. He never expected a woman, much less Astrid, to apply. Fairplay isn't ready to accept a woman doctor, but Logan is desperate to make his mother's final weeks happy, and until he is married, or at least courting, she won't be.
When Astrid is confronted with the narrow-mindedness of Fairplay's residents, she reluctantly agrees to Logan's offer. Neither Astrid nor Logan expected everything to get out of hand. Soon everyone thinks the two of them are unofficially engaged. Could a fake engagement rekindle their long-ago feelings into something more? Or will the secret Astrid has been keeping prevent them from having a tomorrow?
Committing to the Cowgirl is the first book in Jody Hedlund's newest series, the Colorado Cowgirls. It's interesting to see Astrid all grown up. And even more interesting is comparing her in this book to Falling for the Cowgirl, book 4 in the Colorado Cowboys series. Just saying it is interesting. Astrid is a determined and compassionate young woman with a heart for healing. But the culture of the day looks down on or with suspicion on someone who doesn't fit the expected mold. And Astrid is her own person, the suffering she experienced has given her a unique perspective as a patient.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Colorado Cowgirls #1
By Jody Hedlund
In the Colorado Cowboys series, we were introduced to Astrid Nilsson, a young girl whose only hope of living was to move to Colorado. Well, Astrid is now all grown up, and she is a doctor. When she hears of an opening for a doctor to join an existing practice in Fairplay, she knows she has to apply. She needs to return to the clean, healing air of Colorado, hoping to fight back against the consumption trying to gain hold of her again.
Years ago, Logan Steele left Fairplay and Astrid Nilsson behind. He never expected to see Astrid again, but his mother's health brought him home. Logan knows he's not going to stay in Fairplay, but he doesn't want to leave the town without a doctor. He never expected a woman, much less Astrid, to apply. Fairplay isn't ready to accept a woman doctor, but Logan is desperate to make his mother's final weeks happy, and until he is married, or at least courting, she won't be.
When Astrid is confronted with the narrow-mindedness of Fairplay's residents, she reluctantly agrees to Logan's offer. Neither Astrid nor Logan expected everything to get out of hand. Soon everyone thinks the two of them are unofficially engaged. Could a fake engagement rekindle their long-ago feelings into something more? Or will the secret Astrid has been keeping prevent them from having a tomorrow?
Committing to the Cowgirl is the first book in Jody Hedlund's newest series, the Colorado Cowgirls. It's interesting to see Astrid all grown up. And even more interesting is comparing her in this book to Falling for the Cowgirl, book 4 in the Colorado Cowboys series. Just saying it is interesting. Astrid is a determined and compassionate young woman with a heart for healing. But the culture of the day looks down on or with suspicion on someone who doesn't fit the expected mold. And Astrid is her own person, the suffering she experienced has given her a unique perspective as a patient.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
July 11, 2023
Jody Hedlund kicks off her new sweet romance series with Committing to the Cowgirl. If you’ve read the Colorado Cowboys series about the McQuaid family, you already know Astrid, Greta’s little sister. Now she’s all grown up, and a doctor! I’m a sucker for 1870’s woman doctor stories, with Cheney Duvall and Doctor Quinn being huge parts of my life growing up, so I absolutely loved that Astrid is a doctor in this story. She has to move back to Colorado for her health, and desperately wants to be back in Fairplay near her family.
That means she needs to convince her childhood friend Logan to take her on as a partner. Logan has all the respect for Astrid’s abilities, but he doesn’t want to accept because he’s afraid of how she will be treated… and honestly, his own reaction to working with her. He doesn’t want to get involved- he has an important position waiting for him back in Boston and doesn’t want to put his career before a family, so better not to have one. He’s in Colorado taking care of his dying mother, and she’s been after him to settle down…
Will a crazy proposition of a fake relationship result in chaos… or love?
Lots of tropes in this one- pretend courtship and fake engagement, coworkers, meddling mom, childhood sweethearts… so much to love! I also really liked the storyline of reconciliation between Logan and his father. I enjoyed Astrid and Logan’s banter and chemistry. Jody Hedlund sure knows how to write romance!
This book also introduces us to the Courtney sisters, who will be the heroines of the rest of the series. A series I can’t wait to read more of! Hooray for quick releases!
I received a complementary copy of this book from the author. I was not asked to leave a positive review. My opinions are my own.
That means she needs to convince her childhood friend Logan to take her on as a partner. Logan has all the respect for Astrid’s abilities, but he doesn’t want to accept because he’s afraid of how she will be treated… and honestly, his own reaction to working with her. He doesn’t want to get involved- he has an important position waiting for him back in Boston and doesn’t want to put his career before a family, so better not to have one. He’s in Colorado taking care of his dying mother, and she’s been after him to settle down…
Will a crazy proposition of a fake relationship result in chaos… or love?
Lots of tropes in this one- pretend courtship and fake engagement, coworkers, meddling mom, childhood sweethearts… so much to love! I also really liked the storyline of reconciliation between Logan and his father. I enjoyed Astrid and Logan’s banter and chemistry. Jody Hedlund sure knows how to write romance!
This book also introduces us to the Courtney sisters, who will be the heroines of the rest of the series. A series I can’t wait to read more of! Hooray for quick releases!
I received a complementary copy of this book from the author. I was not asked to leave a positive review. My opinions are my own.
July 12, 2023
Committing to the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund is the first book in her newest series, Colorado Cowgirls. If you are a fan of her Colorado Cowboy series, then you’ll want to continue the adventure into these books as you will find familiar and favorite characters, mainly the McQuaids.
After reading the Colorado Cowboys series, I was definitely interested in Astrid Nilsson’s story. I enjoyed seeing her grow from a timid, prim-and-proper young lady to a confident and skilled physician. I also enjoyed the spark of determination she carried into everything she put her hand to do, which made her interactions (or should I say spars) with Logan Steele that much more entertaining. I loved how they worked together as doctors and how it made them equals (at least to each other) even in a historical setting.
The sparks definitely fly between Astrid and Logan both in their bickering and in their attraction to one another. If you are used to reading Jody’s inspirational fiction, this story might have a little more spice than normal, but it is still a clean romance. And there are no inspirational arcs in the book, which I enjoy in her other novels. But I did enjoy the personal arcs of Astrid and Logan and how they developed through the story.
Overall, even though this story is not an inspirational or Christian fiction book, I still enjoyed Committing to the Cowgirl for its lively characters, touching family dynamics, and second-chance romance. Fans of Jody Hedlund and those who love Western-set romances will enjoy this novel.
I can’t wait to dig into the other cowgirls’ stories!
I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.
After reading the Colorado Cowboys series, I was definitely interested in Astrid Nilsson’s story. I enjoyed seeing her grow from a timid, prim-and-proper young lady to a confident and skilled physician. I also enjoyed the spark of determination she carried into everything she put her hand to do, which made her interactions (or should I say spars) with Logan Steele that much more entertaining. I loved how they worked together as doctors and how it made them equals (at least to each other) even in a historical setting.
The sparks definitely fly between Astrid and Logan both in their bickering and in their attraction to one another. If you are used to reading Jody’s inspirational fiction, this story might have a little more spice than normal, but it is still a clean romance. And there are no inspirational arcs in the book, which I enjoy in her other novels. But I did enjoy the personal arcs of Astrid and Logan and how they developed through the story.
Overall, even though this story is not an inspirational or Christian fiction book, I still enjoyed Committing to the Cowgirl for its lively characters, touching family dynamics, and second-chance romance. Fans of Jody Hedlund and those who love Western-set romances will enjoy this novel.
I can’t wait to dig into the other cowgirls’ stories!
I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews