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Colorado Cowboys #1
A Cowboy for Keeps
Greta Nilsson's trip west to save her ailing little sister, Astrid, could not have gone more wrong. First, bandits hold up her stagecoach, stealing all her money. Then, upon arriving in Fairplay, Colorado, she learns the man she was betrothed to as a mail-order bride has died. Homeless, penniless, and jobless, Greta and her sister are worse off than when they started.
Wyatt McQuaid is struggling to get his new ranch up and running and is in town to purchase cattle when the mayor proposes the most unlikely of bargains. He'll invest in a herd of cattle for Wyatt's ranch if Wyatt agrees to help the town become more respectable by marrying and starting a family with Greta. But when old insecurities and surprising revolutions arise, can a union born out of desperation survive?
Wyatt McQuaid is struggling to get his new ranch up and running and is in town to purchase cattle when the mayor proposes the most unlikely of bargains. He'll invest in a herd of cattle for Wyatt's ranch if Wyatt agrees to help the town become more respectable by marrying and starting a family with Greta. But when old insecurities and surprising revolutions arise, can a union born out of desperation survive?
341 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2021
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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 476 reviews
December 9, 2020
I confess that western novels aren't a genre I'm typically drawn to, but this was written by Jody Hedlund and I will happily read anything with this talented author's name on it. This was a heartfelt, sweetly romantic story of new beginnings. Can two people desperate to save their loved ones find the answer in the rugged Colorado wilderness? On top of that, can a marriage of convenience survive the many woes that come with such a life? Greta and Wyatt are two endearing characters that you can't help but be drawn to as you make your way through this charming novel. This is a story less about suspenseful plotlines and more about character development. You truly get to know these characters, really get in their heads, and enjoy a slow burn romance while you're at it.
January 18, 2021
A Cowboy for Keeps is a marriage of convenience story.
If I had lived during this time period could I have done it? Truthfully I'm not sure but probably if I was desperate enough and had a child to support like our main character did. She did it mainly for her half-sister.
All marriages are a chance we take, as much as we think we may know someone we don't know how they will act under all situations and circumstances.
He needed her for the advancement of his ranch as much as she needed him for a home and her sister's health.
Jody Hedlund excels at whatever genre of book she writes including her western series here she has started.
Wyatt and Greta, I really enjoyed reading how their slow burned romance developed but I'll admit now Astrid is the little sweetheart in A Cowboy for Keeps and how she is portrayed as someone needing a little extra care because of her medical condition but she is so strong willed she definitely doesn't let anything hold her back, maybe to the point of being slightly reckless.
I really need to read the next book and look forward to it.
Published January 5th 2021 by Bethany House Publishers
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
If I had lived during this time period could I have done it? Truthfully I'm not sure but probably if I was desperate enough and had a child to support like our main character did. She did it mainly for her half-sister.
All marriages are a chance we take, as much as we think we may know someone we don't know how they will act under all situations and circumstances.
He needed her for the advancement of his ranch as much as she needed him for a home and her sister's health.
Jody Hedlund excels at whatever genre of book she writes including her western series here she has started.
Wyatt and Greta, I really enjoyed reading how their slow burned romance developed but I'll admit now Astrid is the little sweetheart in A Cowboy for Keeps and how she is portrayed as someone needing a little extra care because of her medical condition but she is so strong willed she definitely doesn't let anything hold her back, maybe to the point of being slightly reckless.
I really need to read the next book and look forward to it.
Published January 5th 2021 by Bethany House Publishers
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
April 24, 2022
This was pretty good...personally found it a bit shallow. There wasn't as much...of a western feel as I would like, probably because I was raised on John Wayne movies and other western shows. I didn't find myself connecting with the characters that much...but I liked the idea of the story pretty well.
There were way more mentions of a marriage bed than I would have liked...and I felt like even when other more pressing matters were at hand that Wyatt and Greta only seemed to think about kissing each other...yeah, um how but they focus on the pressing matters such as the missing person.
I also guessed the plot twist in chapter 2 and it didn't take place till almost the end of the book...lol...
But it was pretty good...definitely made me want to write a western..albeit one with less kissing and some actual gun fights.
There were way more mentions of a marriage bed than I would have liked...and I felt like even when other more pressing matters were at hand that Wyatt and Greta only seemed to think about kissing each other...yeah, um how but they focus on the pressing matters such as the missing person.
I also guessed the plot twist in chapter 2 and it didn't take place till almost the end of the book...lol...
But it was pretty good...definitely made me want to write a western..albeit one with less kissing and some actual gun fights.
May 2, 2022
I couldn’t do it😂
It was the writing (broken grammar to be more realistic to cowboy talk) and the characters just felt flat. I don’t know. I tried though!
It was the writing (broken grammar to be more realistic to cowboy talk) and the characters just felt flat. I don’t know. I tried though!
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October 22, 2021I hate to admit it, but y'all. I had the entire plot figured out by Chapter 3. That's how cliche this was. *sighs* Full review to come!
March 20, 2023
Never thought I’d read a western type of romance but I loved this. It got me out of a slump and was very fast paced. I really connected with the FMC and I loved how sweet and respectful the MMC was. I’m really looking forward to the rest of the series!
February 12, 2021
Reading this book was like settling in with an old friend- several of my favorite story elements wrapped up in a new tale. It was just a pleasure to read! Wyatt and Greta both have heavy worries and vulnerabilities, but one of the major themes of the book is how we are stronger together rather than apart. Even though Greta and the precocious Astrid bring light and joy into the lives of Wyatt and Judd, not to mention her hard work and a new income with her pie and jam selling, she still feels they are a burden. Complications with neighbors and townspeople keep their relationship from being simple, and I was anxious as I read for Greta and Wyatt to learn to communicate more effectively with each other and work out their feelings. They have wonderful chemistry and it was fun to see their attraction blossom as they explored their growing feelings with stolen kisses. Some climaxes added tension and a little suspense, making this a well-rounded western with sweet romance! The epilogue gives a lead-in to the next book with Wyatt's family, and I'm looking forward to getting to know more characters in this series!
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
January 1, 2021
This novel set in 1862 Colorado Territory definitely gives readers a sense of what it was like to live in the not fully established west.
Greta Nilsson is desperate to help her younger sister Astrid recover from consumption. Desperate enough to be a mail order bride and travel from her home in Illinois to Colorado Territory. Unfortunately, her groom died.
Young Wyatt McQuaid is trying to get a cattle ranch in operation. He wants to make it financially and be able to send for his brothers and sister that are in Pennsylvania with their less than kind step father.
The trials they go through are realistic and make me thankful for the conveniences we have today. At one low point Wyatt recalls a preacher sharing "God hadn't taken them out of the fiery trial. He'd walked with them through it."
The ending sets readers up nicely for the next in the series. Another well written novel by author Jody Hedlund.
Greta Nilsson is desperate to help her younger sister Astrid recover from consumption. Desperate enough to be a mail order bride and travel from her home in Illinois to Colorado Territory. Unfortunately, her groom died.
Young Wyatt McQuaid is trying to get a cattle ranch in operation. He wants to make it financially and be able to send for his brothers and sister that are in Pennsylvania with their less than kind step father.
The trials they go through are realistic and make me thankful for the conveniences we have today. At one low point Wyatt recalls a preacher sharing "God hadn't taken them out of the fiery trial. He'd walked with them through it."
The ending sets readers up nicely for the next in the series. Another well written novel by author Jody Hedlund.
January 5, 2021
I loved this book and am very excited for this series! Jody Hedlund is great here. When Greta Nilsson's stagecoach is robbed, she and her little sister are totally destitute. But she is on her way to Fairplay, Colorado to marry a man she has agreed to marry. When she arrives and finds out that her husband-to-be is dead, she is left completely bereft. But then a struggling rancher is persuaded by the mayor to marry her for an investment in a herd of cattle. Wyatt McQuaid doesn't want to get married but wants his ranch to succeed. So he proposes. Greta has nothing to lose at this point and agrees to marry him.
What follows is a most delightful and precious story as two people who have not had the best life so far learn to care for each other and depend on God to work out their problems. I am so very excited to read more books in this series! Did I mention that already? That's because I am. I stayed up till nearly 4 am to finish this one. Highly recommended.
My thanks to Bethany House Publishing for a copy of this book via Net Galley. I was not compensated in any way and the opinion in this review is expressly my own.
What follows is a most delightful and precious story as two people who have not had the best life so far learn to care for each other and depend on God to work out their problems. I am so very excited to read more books in this series! Did I mention that already? That's because I am. I stayed up till nearly 4 am to finish this one. Highly recommended.
My thanks to Bethany House Publishing for a copy of this book via Net Galley. I was not compensated in any way and the opinion in this review is expressly my own.
January 20, 2021
"We ain't supposed to be surprised when we come against fiery trials. If the Lord suffered, then we gotta expect the suffering too."
This western historical that takes place in 1862 Colorado Territory is a bit different from Jody Hedlund's usual offerings but nonetheless quite lovely and delightful. With her trademark style and attention to detail, the author brings the mining town of Fairway to life. Greta is a selfless, hard-working young woman who moves west to help rejuvenate her sickly younger sister. Her resourcefulness and tenacity are admirable. Her precocious younger sister Astrid is fun and lively and brings levity to situations when they become too grave. Wyatt is a lovable, honorable, and tender hero who needs Greta's belief in him to spur him toward success at cattle ranching. Their faith that grows through trials in the untamed land is encouraging and edifying. They both have insecurities - Greta of feeling like she's a burden and Wyatt of feeling like a failure - but they finally realize that they can face life together while holding each other up. I can't wait to meet Wyatt's younger siblings in the next book!
I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
This western historical that takes place in 1862 Colorado Territory is a bit different from Jody Hedlund's usual offerings but nonetheless quite lovely and delightful. With her trademark style and attention to detail, the author brings the mining town of Fairway to life. Greta is a selfless, hard-working young woman who moves west to help rejuvenate her sickly younger sister. Her resourcefulness and tenacity are admirable. Her precocious younger sister Astrid is fun and lively and brings levity to situations when they become too grave. Wyatt is a lovable, honorable, and tender hero who needs Greta's belief in him to spur him toward success at cattle ranching. Their faith that grows through trials in the untamed land is encouraging and edifying. They both have insecurities - Greta of feeling like she's a burden and Wyatt of feeling like a failure - but they finally realize that they can face life together while holding each other up. I can't wait to meet Wyatt's younger siblings in the next book!
I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
January 11, 2021
At the end of a mentally trying day, I sat back and opened this book. The first thing I read was the opening scripture in Psalms. In black and white was a direct answer to a prayer I hadn’t found the energy to pray.
As I continued to read “A Cowboy for Keeps”, I found myself getting pulled into the relatively low key, easy going story of Wyatt & Greta. Brought together more by chance than plan - it felt unhurried and almost a sense of calm. Given the concerns about her sisters health, and the typical struggles of carving out life in the West, I felt a sense of peace in the story.
I really enjoyed the subliminal messages, and the goodness of both the main characters, and that they would win the day was rewarding. I actually appreciated the different style of the author. Given the tense climate in the real world right now, the escape to one less so was welcomed.
A wonderful story of love blossoming in a marriage of convenience a tale so often told, and one worthy of your time in reading.
I received a complimentary copy. This is my honest review.
As I continued to read “A Cowboy for Keeps”, I found myself getting pulled into the relatively low key, easy going story of Wyatt & Greta. Brought together more by chance than plan - it felt unhurried and almost a sense of calm. Given the concerns about her sisters health, and the typical struggles of carving out life in the West, I felt a sense of peace in the story.
I really enjoyed the subliminal messages, and the goodness of both the main characters, and that they would win the day was rewarding. I actually appreciated the different style of the author. Given the tense climate in the real world right now, the escape to one less so was welcomed.
A wonderful story of love blossoming in a marriage of convenience a tale so often told, and one worthy of your time in reading.
I received a complimentary copy. This is my honest review.
December 27, 2020
This was exactly the book I needed to start my holidays with. It is extremely romantic, relaxing, exciting and so warming. It was also really easy to read - both a rest for my brain but also something that kept me eager to keep picking it back up. A Cowboy For Keeps is a charming historical romance and another fantastic offering from Jody Hedlund.
Greta and her younger sister have traveled west. As a mail-order bride, Greta hopes to finally be able to provide for herself and hopes the change will be good for her sister’s ailing health. But, when the stage is robbed, her savings stolen and she discovers that her intended is dead, Greta is scared about their prospects. Wyatt is working hard to build up his ranch, but with no funds and a competitor that is buying up many of the available livestock, he fears he will never be able to send for his mother and younger siblings. Then the town mayor proposes a deal - he’ll fund Wyatt’s herd if he marries Greta. What starts as a marriage of convenience has the chance to bloom into something real, if Greta and Wyatt can work past their hurts and fears.
Greta and Wyatt have a wonderful relationship. What starts as a slightly awkward arrangement that benefits them both slowly grows into a strong partnership. Neither of them are very good at communicating their feelings, but the chemistry between them is very sweet.
I particularly loved the family element that Greta’s sister Astrid brings to the story. Her shenanigans and growing friendships with Wyatt and his ranch hand Judd add a lot of fun to the story.
Despite a few incidents with bandits, rustlers, and missing children, this is a relaxing book to read, yet the romance and relationship growth and general charming nature of the story make this a compelling book that was easy to pick up and hard to put down.
The best thing about this book is that it nicely sets things up for a new book that continues the story of Wyatt’s family. I’m really looking forward to coming back to this growing family.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library
Greta and her younger sister have traveled west. As a mail-order bride, Greta hopes to finally be able to provide for herself and hopes the change will be good for her sister’s ailing health. But, when the stage is robbed, her savings stolen and she discovers that her intended is dead, Greta is scared about their prospects. Wyatt is working hard to build up his ranch, but with no funds and a competitor that is buying up many of the available livestock, he fears he will never be able to send for his mother and younger siblings. Then the town mayor proposes a deal - he’ll fund Wyatt’s herd if he marries Greta. What starts as a marriage of convenience has the chance to bloom into something real, if Greta and Wyatt can work past their hurts and fears.
Greta and Wyatt have a wonderful relationship. What starts as a slightly awkward arrangement that benefits them both slowly grows into a strong partnership. Neither of them are very good at communicating their feelings, but the chemistry between them is very sweet.
I particularly loved the family element that Greta’s sister Astrid brings to the story. Her shenanigans and growing friendships with Wyatt and his ranch hand Judd add a lot of fun to the story.
Despite a few incidents with bandits, rustlers, and missing children, this is a relaxing book to read, yet the romance and relationship growth and general charming nature of the story make this a compelling book that was easy to pick up and hard to put down.
The best thing about this book is that it nicely sets things up for a new book that continues the story of Wyatt’s family. I’m really looking forward to coming back to this growing family.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library
January 28, 2021
A new Jody Hedlund series was the perfect way to start a new year! A western isn’t the genre I’ve come to associate with Hedlund, but she’s proven yet again that she can write a stellar book in any genre. I’m looking forward to meeting the rest of the McQuaid family as this new series continues.
Greta and Wyatt’s story combines a marriage of convenience and mail-order bride tale, set against the backdrop of the rugged Colorado wilderness. Greta has always felt like she and her sister Astrid, who is fighting consumption, are a burden wherever they are. Wyatt struggles with feeling like a constant failure. After a stagecoach robbery and missing groom leaves Greta in a bind, she agrees to marry Wyatt, not knowing he’s getting heard of cattle out of the arrangement.
There is sweet romance, challenges aplenty and a few surprises along the way that will keep you glued to the pages, rooting for a happy ending. There’s even a teaser at the very end that has me more than excited to meet Flynn McQuaid!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Greta and Wyatt’s story combines a marriage of convenience and mail-order bride tale, set against the backdrop of the rugged Colorado wilderness. Greta has always felt like she and her sister Astrid, who is fighting consumption, are a burden wherever they are. Wyatt struggles with feeling like a constant failure. After a stagecoach robbery and missing groom leaves Greta in a bind, she agrees to marry Wyatt, not knowing he’s getting heard of cattle out of the arrangement.
There is sweet romance, challenges aplenty and a few surprises along the way that will keep you glued to the pages, rooting for a happy ending. There’s even a teaser at the very end that has me more than excited to meet Flynn McQuaid!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 10, 2022
A marriage of convenience. Y’all you know I had to give this book a try!
Unfortunately, it just didn’t make my heart swoon. The characters never talked to each other, and when they did Greta didn’t listen.
The book could’ve been so much shorter if the characters had just taken a few minutes to actually talk and get to know each other instead of just watching.
The only upside to that is that the relationship was built on more than physical attraction. But it still seemed hard for them to fall in love with each other if when they spoke Greta was putting herself down.
Both characters just seemed very young, and seemed like they had a lot of past trauma that they never healed from. The story felt long, but the ending was wrapped up very fast. I don’t know, it just felt like it was missing something.
I loved Judd’s character! He was a steady father like figure, and I always enjoyed his wisdom when he shared it.
3/5 stars
*I received this book from the publisher**All opinions are my own*
Unfortunately, it just didn’t make my heart swoon. The characters never talked to each other, and when they did Greta didn’t listen.
The book could’ve been so much shorter if the characters had just taken a few minutes to actually talk and get to know each other instead of just watching.
The only upside to that is that the relationship was built on more than physical attraction. But it still seemed hard for them to fall in love with each other if when they spoke Greta was putting herself down.
Both characters just seemed very young, and seemed like they had a lot of past trauma that they never healed from. The story felt long, but the ending was wrapped up very fast. I don’t know, it just felt like it was missing something.
I loved Judd’s character! He was a steady father like figure, and I always enjoyed his wisdom when he shared it.
3/5 stars
*I received this book from the publisher**All opinions are my own*
January 19, 2022
Reread 2022: Reread this one & this time around I realized it’s a miss for me. (I’m a big JH fan & this may be a first😕.) The MCs are likable but somehow their characters fell flat for me. I couldn’t picture them & didn’t connect with them like I wish I could have. I never felt fully immersed in CO either. It just felt like a typical prairie-esque love story. I think I’m the odd one out in that I found Astrid annoying. (Love her name though.)
I reread this by audiobook & the narrator sounded like she was on the verge of tears when delivering almost every line. It got old. I pushed through the book so I can read the next ones. I’m disappointed cause I absolutely love JH & was so excited for her to write a cowboy series. This book will please many others, but it didn’t click with me. I’m hoping to click with some of the other books in the series. I’m a JH fan for life. ❤️
2021: Fluffy romance fun with extra fluff & comfort escapism. 💓 I’m excited for the next books in the series!
I reread this by audiobook & the narrator sounded like she was on the verge of tears when delivering almost every line. It got old. I pushed through the book so I can read the next ones. I’m disappointed cause I absolutely love JH & was so excited for her to write a cowboy series. This book will please many others, but it didn’t click with me. I’m hoping to click with some of the other books in the series. I’m a JH fan for life. ❤️
2021: Fluffy romance fun with extra fluff & comfort escapism. 💓 I’m excited for the next books in the series!
March 2, 2021
This was a good read. I love these kinds of books and ate this one up. A very light romance with some Christian elements. Some fun characters too. The ending was a bit much, it had that feeling that if everyone would just talk to each other things wouldn't be so hard and a mess. The ending threw me a little with all the stuff that happened and how completely unreasonable everyone was. I almost gave it 3 stars but I really enjoyed most of it:}
January 4, 2021
Nice well written nice banter and development
The mail order bride here is well developed without being over predictable
A little angst you and I love it
Astrid is so spontaneous and free and I loved her freshness
Nice read
Very very respectful and clean
A Cowboy for Keeps by Jody Hedlund. #ACowboyforKeeps #NetGalley
[NetGalley URL
The mail order bride here is well developed without being over predictable
A little angst you and I love it
Astrid is so spontaneous and free and I loved her freshness
Nice read
Very very respectful and clean
A Cowboy for Keeps by Jody Hedlund. #ACowboyforKeeps #NetGalley
[NetGalley URL
January 30, 2021
2.5 It-could-have-been-fabulous-Stars
I was so disappointed finishing A Cowboy for Keeps because it started out so strong. Ms. Hedlund has some wonderful writing skills. The big misunderstanding trope was understandable at the beginning when Wyatt and Greta wed as strangers, but then it continued for months of the plot time only because they would not tell one another how they felt. I hate that overused device and how stupid it makes the characters. Then pile on my other most hated trope: I’m not good enough so this cannot end well, and he/she is better off without me (when they are desperately in love with one another)!
Plot events near the end were the final nails in the coffin.
Ms. Hedlund does bring her characters to life, and I most enjoyed Astrid (Greta’s feisty little sister who was frail with consumption [tuberculosis]). I would like to know what happens next with the rest of the family, but I will not continue with the series.
That said, if those tropes are not deal breakers for you, you may enjoy the Colorado Cowboys Series.
I was so disappointed finishing A Cowboy for Keeps because it started out so strong. Ms. Hedlund has some wonderful writing skills. The big misunderstanding trope was understandable at the beginning when Wyatt and Greta wed as strangers, but then it continued for months of the plot time only because they would not tell one another how they felt. I hate that overused device and how stupid it makes the characters. Then pile on my other most hated trope: I’m not good enough so this cannot end well, and he/she is better off without me (when they are desperately in love with one another)!
Plot events near the end were the final nails in the coffin.
Ms. Hedlund does bring her characters to life, and I most enjoyed Astrid (Greta’s feisty little sister who was frail with consumption [tuberculosis]). I would like to know what happens next with the rest of the family, but I will not continue with the series.
That said, if those tropes are not deal breakers for you, you may enjoy the Colorado Cowboys Series.
January 5, 2021
Ooh, I'm so excited about this new series by author Jody Hedlund and after reading this book I'm even more excited!!
I love a good cowboy story and Wyatt is the very vision of all I imagine a strong, rugged cowboy to be. This story has a lot of different dynamics with a mail order bride, a sick little girl, bandits, secrets, and unfortunate events but all throughout is growing friendship and trust, healing and love. It was such a good blend of emotions, engaging me from start to finish.
The epilogue gives a glimpse into Wyatt's family and set things up nicely for the next book.
Content: mild peril, mild violence, kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I love a good cowboy story and Wyatt is the very vision of all I imagine a strong, rugged cowboy to be. This story has a lot of different dynamics with a mail order bride, a sick little girl, bandits, secrets, and unfortunate events but all throughout is growing friendship and trust, healing and love. It was such a good blend of emotions, engaging me from start to finish.
The epilogue gives a glimpse into Wyatt's family and set things up nicely for the next book.
Content: mild peril, mild violence, kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 28, 2021
There are books that resonate with me. A Cowboy for Keeps is one of them.
Greta is a compassionate woman. She is left with the care of her young sister. She doesn't shirk from this responsibility. She embraces it. She will do whatever it takes as she prays for a cure. Her determination took her to Colorado as a Mail-Order Bride.
The opening pages begin with the stagecoach being held up. Her sister, Astrid, provides the humor with her adorable personality. Astrid is a force to be reckoned with, even with consumption. She was probably my favorite character in the book.
It would appear that forces conspired against Greta. After arriving in her new town, the groom is presumed dead, leaving her without funds and no place to live. She is provided an option when Wyatt McQuaid offers to step in as her groom.
The story is inspiring, cute, and entertaining. I found myself rooting for Wyatt and Greta to make their marriage binding instead of one of convenience. There were so many misunderstandings and secrets that it made it tough to navigate.
This book captured my heart and mind. I am very excited to read the next installment in the series.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Greta is a compassionate woman. She is left with the care of her young sister. She doesn't shirk from this responsibility. She embraces it. She will do whatever it takes as she prays for a cure. Her determination took her to Colorado as a Mail-Order Bride.
The opening pages begin with the stagecoach being held up. Her sister, Astrid, provides the humor with her adorable personality. Astrid is a force to be reckoned with, even with consumption. She was probably my favorite character in the book.
It would appear that forces conspired against Greta. After arriving in her new town, the groom is presumed dead, leaving her without funds and no place to live. She is provided an option when Wyatt McQuaid offers to step in as her groom.
The story is inspiring, cute, and entertaining. I found myself rooting for Wyatt and Greta to make their marriage binding instead of one of convenience. There were so many misunderstandings and secrets that it made it tough to navigate.
This book captured my heart and mind. I am very excited to read the next installment in the series.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
March 27, 2023
I knew mostly what was going to happen from the start. I wavered back and forth on how I felt about it and in the end enjoyed it enough that I would like to continue the series. The lack of communication and the abundance of physical attraction was a bit much and made the book seem longer than it needed to be. I didn't think the attraction was a bad thing, but there was just a lot of it.
I liked Greta for the most part. She didn't come across as weak and helpless. When she got into a sticky situation she handled herself well and that made a huge difference. When the truth finally came out - the initial reaction was what I expected but then she redeemed herself not long after. Astrid, the 9 yr old half-sister initially was a little annoying but after getting to know her better she seemed alright.
Wyatt was a strong sort as well, but past situations had him second-guessing his abilities. I liked him though. I think if Judd hadn't been part of his life the book would have gone south quickly. Judd was a small character in the story but had a strong impact on the lives of the other characters.
The setting was lovely. I love Colorado and look forward to visiting it again in the next book. This is a Christian fiction book. I enjoyed the faith aspect of it.
"Things always go wrong. Just the way it is in a broken world." Judd
Rating: PG
Language: clean read
Recommend: yes
I liked Greta for the most part. She didn't come across as weak and helpless. When she got into a sticky situation she handled herself well and that made a huge difference. When the truth finally came out - the initial reaction was what I expected but then she redeemed herself not long after. Astrid, the 9 yr old half-sister initially was a little annoying but after getting to know her better she seemed alright.
Wyatt was a strong sort as well, but past situations had him second-guessing his abilities. I liked him though. I think if Judd hadn't been part of his life the book would have gone south quickly. Judd was a small character in the story but had a strong impact on the lives of the other characters.
The setting was lovely. I love Colorado and look forward to visiting it again in the next book. This is a Christian fiction book. I enjoyed the faith aspect of it.
"Things always go wrong. Just the way it is in a broken world." Judd
Rating: PG
Language: clean read
Recommend: yes
December 28, 2020
I think this is a great start to a new series by Jody Hedlund! I loved all of the characters in this book and look forward to reading what comes next for them! I was able to read this in one day because I enjoyed it that much!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
January 11, 2021
From the gorgeous sunset on the cover to the concluding pages, this was an epic mail-order-bride-gone-wrong story with hope and faith winnings out!
“Ahead, the cabin and barn sat against the backdrop of the mountains with the glow of the setting sun reflected on the golden aspens, dark evergreens, and gray rocky crags.” This beautiful setting is perfect for this layered story of rancher, Wyatt McQuaid and Greta Nilsson and their quest to eke out a living in Colorado in 1862. Greta has her sick sister to care for and arrives to find her husband-to-be has died. Wyatt and Greta accept a marriage of convenience, putting their faith in God to somehow make things right. Both are hardworking and honorable. Ms. Hedlund writes a villain we love to hate and he makes things hard for Wyatt and his friend Judd. Their resolve is challenged but they do not buckle.
Greta tries her best with her nine year old sister, Astrid, who despite her illness, is a bright spot in their lives. “For so long, every time she prayed, she had felt she was disturbing God. Maybe He was waiting-even wanting- her to come to Him and let Him bear the burdens with her.”
Although this story came to an end, the last chapter hints at an equally mesmerizing story to come. The next book is about Wyatt’s family in Pennsylvania and a reunion is in the works.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
“Ahead, the cabin and barn sat against the backdrop of the mountains with the glow of the setting sun reflected on the golden aspens, dark evergreens, and gray rocky crags.” This beautiful setting is perfect for this layered story of rancher, Wyatt McQuaid and Greta Nilsson and their quest to eke out a living in Colorado in 1862. Greta has her sick sister to care for and arrives to find her husband-to-be has died. Wyatt and Greta accept a marriage of convenience, putting their faith in God to somehow make things right. Both are hardworking and honorable. Ms. Hedlund writes a villain we love to hate and he makes things hard for Wyatt and his friend Judd. Their resolve is challenged but they do not buckle.
Greta tries her best with her nine year old sister, Astrid, who despite her illness, is a bright spot in their lives. “For so long, every time she prayed, she had felt she was disturbing God. Maybe He was waiting-even wanting- her to come to Him and let Him bear the burdens with her.”
Although this story came to an end, the last chapter hints at an equally mesmerizing story to come. The next book is about Wyatt’s family in Pennsylvania and a reunion is in the works.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
February 12, 2021
featured on FaithfullyBookish.com
A herd of angry mama cows couldn’t keep me away from a book by one of my favorite authors with a COWBOY on the cover! Not only do I have a soft spot for the rugged heroes, but the moment I discovered the marriage of convenience factor, I was fully engrossed in this story!
Greta was exceedingly relatable. Both her strengths and weaknesses were at times uncomfortably familiar to me. Her mama-love for her sister Astrid and her “get-‘er” done work ethic are my favorite of her qualities. Similarly, Wyatt has a tough, hard-working exterior protecting his vulnerability, modesty, and compassionate heart. His quasi-surrogate-father slash fellow seasoned cowhand Judd completes the cast in a heartwarming Sam Elliott way.
Jody Hedlund has proven time and again that she is a brilliant storyteller by delivering vivid settings and authentic characters from any time and anywhere! I highly recommend A Cowboy for Keeps and eagerly anticipate the remaining installments of the Colorado Cowboys series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
A herd of angry mama cows couldn’t keep me away from a book by one of my favorite authors with a COWBOY on the cover! Not only do I have a soft spot for the rugged heroes, but the moment I discovered the marriage of convenience factor, I was fully engrossed in this story!
Greta was exceedingly relatable. Both her strengths and weaknesses were at times uncomfortably familiar to me. Her mama-love for her sister Astrid and her “get-‘er” done work ethic are my favorite of her qualities. Similarly, Wyatt has a tough, hard-working exterior protecting his vulnerability, modesty, and compassionate heart. His quasi-surrogate-father slash fellow seasoned cowhand Judd completes the cast in a heartwarming Sam Elliott way.
Jody Hedlund has proven time and again that she is a brilliant storyteller by delivering vivid settings and authentic characters from any time and anywhere! I highly recommend A Cowboy for Keeps and eagerly anticipate the remaining installments of the Colorado Cowboys series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
August 12, 2022
This is solely “bookstagram made me do it” and I’m so glad! I basically read this in one day, the previous day when I started it I got about 30 pages in. Today I couldn’t stop. I was into the marriage of convenience plot and loved the characters. How Greta, while desperate wasn’t weak and she brought a lot to the table. Wyatt is such a dreamy cowboy. Judd is so sweet! Astrid wasn’t an annoying little girl. The chemistry 🔥 - this is a clean Christian book but the chemistry was slow burn good.
This book had some twists I wasn’t expecting and I appreciated that, kept me guessing and pulled at my heartstrings not wanting certain things to happen.
I’ll be eager to read the next in the series to see how Wyatt’s family does in the CO territory and also see how the McQuaids are doing.
This book had some twists I wasn’t expecting and I appreciated that, kept me guessing and pulled at my heartstrings not wanting certain things to happen.
I’ll be eager to read the next in the series to see how Wyatt’s family does in the CO territory and also see how the McQuaids are doing.
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December 30, 2020This book in my opinion is a bit different than what Hedlund normally writes but I still loved it just the same. Really, anything she writes is awesome!
These characters will make you fall in love with them from the very beginning especially little Astrid. ( By the way, I love that name! It's definitely different!)
Wyatt and Greta are perfect for each other.
The romance in this story is just right. Not too mushy.
I love that this book kept my attention and I finished it early in the morning. It was awesome!
I enjoyed my visit to Fairplay, Colorado. I didn't want to leave.
Highly recommend.
My thanks for a copy of this book.
All opinions are my own
These characters will make you fall in love with them from the very beginning especially little Astrid. ( By the way, I love that name! It's definitely different!)
Wyatt and Greta are perfect for each other.
The romance in this story is just right. Not too mushy.
I love that this book kept my attention and I finished it early in the morning. It was awesome!
I enjoyed my visit to Fairplay, Colorado. I didn't want to leave.
Highly recommend.
My thanks for a copy of this book.
All opinions are my own
October 13, 2021
Jody Hedlund out does herself yet again with this amazing novel! The strong characters, relatable struggles, and Godly messages are what draws me to her books time and time again, I literally cannot get enough of them. And she didn't let me down with this book.
Greta's strong character is something to admire but even still she has struggles of her own. Of having full faith in God and feeling worthy of someone's affections. This coupled with her devoted love for her little sister was beautiful and I loved every minute of her journey.
And Wyatt. Oh Wyatt. Now he's a charmer and I believe any girl would fall for him. XD But yet even still he too struggles with mistakes from his past and failures. They haunt him daily and because of them he doesn't think he can ever be loved by someone like Greta. His character arc was simply beautiful and just as addictive as Greta's, making it very hard indeed to put this book down.
This is a definite five star book and I can't recommend it enough! Now I desperately need the second one... When can I get a copy of it??
Greta's strong character is something to admire but even still she has struggles of her own. Of having full faith in God and feeling worthy of someone's affections. This coupled with her devoted love for her little sister was beautiful and I loved every minute of her journey.
And Wyatt. Oh Wyatt. Now he's a charmer and I believe any girl would fall for him. XD But yet even still he too struggles with mistakes from his past and failures. They haunt him daily and because of them he doesn't think he can ever be loved by someone like Greta. His character arc was simply beautiful and just as addictive as Greta's, making it very hard indeed to put this book down.
This is a definite five star book and I can't recommend it enough! Now I desperately need the second one... When can I get a copy of it??
January 9, 2021
Jody Hedlund writing a Western? Absolutely! This author has proven herself successfully versatile from young adult medieval fairy tales to historical fiction from Europe, Canada, and America, to contempory romance. I have never been disappointed in her books, as each one seems to get better and better.
A Cowboy for Keeps, the first in her Colorado Cowboys series, features our hero and heroine striving to save not only their ranch, but also their marriage. With deceit, rugged hardships, and attacks of illness, this struggle is all too real. Yet Hedlund pulls her readers along into depths of her plot with characteristic charm, romance, and grit. In all honesty, I could hardly put this book down! A clean romance completely refreshing and spellbinding. Well done.
I received this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
A Cowboy for Keeps, the first in her Colorado Cowboys series, features our hero and heroine striving to save not only their ranch, but also their marriage. With deceit, rugged hardships, and attacks of illness, this struggle is all too real. Yet Hedlund pulls her readers along into depths of her plot with characteristic charm, romance, and grit. In all honesty, I could hardly put this book down! A clean romance completely refreshing and spellbinding. Well done.
I received this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
January 27, 2021
I could not put this book down! This was such a fun read and I look forward to reading the next one!
Greta embarks on a journey to Colorado with her ill sister as a mail order bride. Unfortunately many difficulties come their way.
Wyatt is a rancher in Colorado who is looking to expand his ranch. He marries Greta since her to be husband has been killed.
There are many twists and turns in the story that will leave the reader staying up late at night, like me, to keep turning the pages!
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
Greta embarks on a journey to Colorado with her ill sister as a mail order bride. Unfortunately many difficulties come their way.
Wyatt is a rancher in Colorado who is looking to expand his ranch. He marries Greta since her to be husband has been killed.
There are many twists and turns in the story that will leave the reader staying up late at night, like me, to keep turning the pages!
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
November 30, 2022
This was a sweet marriage of convenient story, one where yes, you can sort of see where it is going, but also can't stop reading to see if it will.
With the added adventures of a child tending to get into trouble, a very well written bad guy you just can't help not to like and a dashing cowboy with a deep and heartbreaking backstory, the author gave readers plenty to enjoy and love about the story.
The epilogue intrigued me a lot to want to continue the series to discover more about Wyatt's siblings.
Judd was a great supporting character, with his wisdom and well-timed comments.
*I listened to the audiobook on Scribd.*
With the added adventures of a child tending to get into trouble, a very well written bad guy you just can't help not to like and a dashing cowboy with a deep and heartbreaking backstory, the author gave readers plenty to enjoy and love about the story.
The epilogue intrigued me a lot to want to continue the series to discover more about Wyatt's siblings.
Judd was a great supporting character, with his wisdom and well-timed comments.
*I listened to the audiobook on Scribd.*
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