Cover Image: Falling for the Cowgirl

Falling for the Cowgirl

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“Holy Saint Peter!” as Ivy would say, I loved Falling for the Cowgirl, the fourth book in Jody Hedlund’s Colorado Cowboys series! The romance is off the charts with the spunky, impetuous Ivy and the brooding, strong Jericho. I’ve loved Ivy in the previous books and couldn’t wait to read her story. It did not disappoint! She’s all grown up now with dreams of owning her own sheep farm, but when the man who crushed her heart two years ago suddenly returns, Ivy must decide if she’ll risk falling in love again. With inspirational messages of faith, forgiveness, and relying on God, this must read Western romance delivers a powerful, heart pounding, romantic story you won’t want to put down..

Ivy can rope with the best of them. She disguises herself as a man trying to win enough money in riding and roping contests to buy land for her sheep farm. Her plans are successful until Jericho Bliss comes back into town. She’s loved Jericho since she was a young girl and seeing him again brings back all the longing. But, while Jericho seems to be attracted to her, he always pushes her away. Wanting to make him jealous, she entertains other suitors. But what happens when an excursion for treasure ends up risking both her’s and Jericho’s lives?

Jericho has loved Ivy since he met her, but as the younger sister of his best friend, she’s off limits. Even if he allowed himself to love her, his secretive, dangerous work as a bounty hunter and the memory of his mother’s murder prevent him from giving in to temptation. But staying away from Ivy is next to impossible, especially when she always seems to need rescuing, gives the most tantalizing kisses, and doesn’t know how attractive she is especially when he seems to stumble in on her bathing, dressing, or covered in mud. Will he give in to his feelings or will the danger they find themselves in make him leave her alone for good?

Holy cow! The passionate romance in this one is definitely swoonworthy! I loved those innocent scenes where Ivy is caught in the church changing, trying to free a calf, and the cave scene. She often acts before she thinks, but her spontaneity leads to some pretty powerful romantic scenes. I loved the way she and Jericho banter back and forth. They are both so right for each other and I wanted to shake Jericho for the angst he puts Ivy through even though he believes he’s doing the right thing. The roping scene at the end was my favorite!

Highly recommend this clean Western romance to Christian and historical romance fans! It’s a clean read with plenty of sizzle and an inspirational message expertly woven throughout. This book can be read as a standalone, but it’s more enjoyable if you’ve read the previous books in the series. I absolutely can’t wait for Dylan’s story! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.

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Hang onto your hat, 'cause here comes Ivy! The latest book in the series features sister, Ivy McQuaid, and she has her sight set on Jericho Bliss, who has just returned to Fairplay, Colorado with a secret agenda.

Spirited, independent, and feisty, Ivy is one-of-a-kind, and a lot of fun to follow as she springs to adulthood finally. She has a mind of her own, and is determined to rope in Jericho, her long time crush. Those two were like magnets, fighting the attraction the whole way. This is definitely a romance, with some toe curling kisses, and a lot of adventure too. The wisdom of old Judd, the ranch foreman, adds some faith elements; he helps both main characters as they wrestle with their life focus.
"You get on with building your life on the good Lord 'cause He's the only thing that ain't gonna crumble away when the going gets rough..."
A fun read from start to finish! Recommend! 4.5 stars

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Have you missed the McQuaid family? If you have, then you need to read Falling for the Cowgirl, the fourth book in the newest historical fiction series by Jody Hedlund. Find out if Ivy and Jericho are friends or enemies in this action-packed romantic adventure.
Falling for the Cowgirl can be read as a standalone but reading other books in the series enriches the characters and their story. I recommend Falling for the Cowgirl to readers who enjoy strong female characters, a Western setting, and a Christian message. Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.

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I really enjoyed this western historical romance. I love how strong Ivy is and how she stands up for herself. I also really liked Jericho. I love that he treated a woman like she could do more than just run a household. I enjoyed the descriptions of some of the mountains also. I am looking forward to reading Dylan’s story next. I received a copy of this book from the publisher for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

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Talk about some serious character chemistry, Ivy and Jericho had undeniable sparks and I loved it! I have honestly been so impressed by this series and was really excited to read Ivy's book. It did not let me down. The push and pull between Ivy and Jericho had a lot of the vibes I enjoy in an enemies to lovers trope, while not being an enemies to lovers story. Their angsty banter and one on one moments were the definition of swoony. I loved how spunky and stubborn Ivy was. Jericho was such a gentleman and true to his values. I laughed at how Ivy tried so hard to get to him. The two were like magnets and the kissing scenes were top notch.
It was nice to see the McQuaid brothers and their families make an appearance. It made me want to go back and reread their books (I fully recommend them all).
Hedlund has a great voice for westerns, and things felt authentic to the area and the time in this novel. I liked the light Christian themes that felt very natural and realistic for the characters and their identities.
I am counting down now until Dylan's book!
This is a clean Christian western romance. I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 4.5 stars

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“Her big brown eyes were the kind that could suck a fellow in like quicksand and make him forget his next thought.”

Ohhh this book! Historical Western is a newer genre to me but who best to introduce me to it then Jody Hedlund. If you have read anything by her you know she is a gem and if you haven’t do yourself a favor and pick one of her books up because you are missing out.

I have only read one other book in the Colorado Cowboy series but Jody is such a gifted storyteller. She does an amazing job of filling you in on the parts you need to know and then pulling you right into the story so this book can stand alone, but if you are like me you will want to read them all to learn as much as you can about the McQuaid family.

Falling for the Cowgirl is Ivy’s story. What I love best about Ivy is that she is unapologetically her. She knows exactly what she wants and she is not afraid to go after it. She is feisty, smart, and full of life. Ivy is the only girl in the McQuaid family. She is surrounded by protective big brothers who watch out for and want what is best for her, but what they think is best for her is not always what Ivy wants. And she is not afraid to let them know that especially when it comes to Jericho.

Jericho has returned to town after being gone for 2 years and despite up and leaving, Ivy has carried a special place for him in her heart all this time. Jericho has always felt an attraction to Ivy but because of his job he is determined to stay away from her to keep her safe. He gave her up once before and believes he can do it again. He is noble and strong and wants to do what is right by her.

The push and pull between these two is incredible. I loved the banter they had with each other and you can feel the undeniable chemistry through the pages. Jody knows how to deliver the most swoon worthy kisses and the ones between Jericho and Ivy may be some of the best I have ever read. I mean wow, the sparks were flying but the content stays clean as nothing ever goes beyond kissing.

I highly recommend this book. I am already looking forward to reading Dylan's story when his book is released next year. I was so intrigued by his chapter at the end of the book. Until then I will be going back to the first two books to read Flynn and Wyatt’s stories.

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

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I love this series! This book was a great read, it hooks you on the first page and doesn't let go. Ivy and Jericho's story is a sweet romance with just the right amount of drama, mystery and twists and turns to keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. I look forward to the next book in this series. I highly recommend this book and the entire series.
I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House and Jody Hedlund via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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This might be my favorite of the lot! I loved the story from beginning to end and was so excited to see Ivy get her story. Jericho is a perfect match for her feisty manner and I loved their banter together. I lost count of the times he said, “Blast it all, Ivy!” The suspense added to the story was also a nice touch. It flowed well with everything else and gave good depth. The romance was the perfect blend of fiery and swoony and I loved all of it. Such a fun story and one I definitely want to add to my shelves so I can reread it soon. Definitely recommend it!!

I received this temporary complimentary ebook from the publisher and NetGalley. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review but am pleased to do so. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

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In Falling for a Cowboy we finally get Ivy McQuaid's story! This whole series is full of fun and adventure and it's been a real treat to read each book as they've come out!

Head strong Ivy has loved Jericho for so long but he's trying so hard to stay away from her and keep her safe. Not only is he a bounty hunter looking for a war criminal but her older brothers have warned him to stay away from her. Ivy is always getting into mischief in one way or another and this is just plain fun to read.

Jody Hedlund is at the top of my to be read list! No matter what she writes it's always a favorite of mine!

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.

Publishes 11 October 2022.

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When Ivy literally rides into the story on the very first pages in all her bold, fearless, and sassy glory, I knew this book was going to capture my heart. Until I came to the very last page, it did exactly that.

Ivy’s antics as a young girl in previous Colorado Cowboy books, always made me smile, but Ivy as an adult is an absolute treasure! She is my favorite kind of heroine—strong, loyal, funny, spunky, stubborn, passionate, unconcerned about the opinions or expectations of others, and she doesn’t take guff off of anyone—especially her older, overprotective brothers. I adore her!

Years ago, Jericho Bliss came west with the McQuaid’s, and Ivy has had a crush on him ever since. He left Colorado a few years earlier, breaking Ivy’s heart in the process, but he’s back on a secret mission as a Pinkerton officer in pursuit of a dangerous war criminal. He’s completely smitten with Ivy, but for her safety and protection, he keeps pushing her away and fighting his attraction. It’s definitely a losing battle.

Their bantering, flirting, butting heads, and romance were a delight! So was revisiting the McQuaid’s with their strong family bonds, and the beautiful and poignant references to God and our need of Him.

You can always rely on Judy Hedlund to deliver a story that’s well written, engaging, has romantic moments that are clean but sizzling, and great characters that are realistic, relatable, and so likable.

Falling For the Cowgirl is a wonderful and strong addition to this series, and I would recommend it to anyone that enjoys good Christian fiction, western romance, and great storytelling.

Thanks to NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

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Can I just give this all the hearts?! I loved this book and didn't want to set it down or for it to end. I hadn't read the previous three books but I need to! I love the McQuaid family! Ivy is the only sister surrounded by several brothers who are fiercely protective of her. But Ivy is full of spunk and strength and determination. She's going to make her own way and choose what she wants in life. Which of course leads to her dressing up as a cowhand and competing in the cowhand rodeo type competitions.

I loved the scenes of Ivy competing. She was awesome! She had me cheering for her and smiling at her antics and strength. There's only one thing that can throw her off balance (not really off balance but catch her off guard cause she's not going to let anything get in her way). And that one thing is...Jericho Bliss. Oh my! Y'all, the sparks between these two were flying like crazy. But of course they're too busy trying to pretend like there's nothing there but their old friendship. If only they opened their eyes, they'd see the sparks surrounding them!

I loved the chemistry between these two. And their banter was so much fun to read. They are both very clever and trying to protect themselves that they're missing the best thing ever to happen to them...each other.

Ivy and Jericho are in for some funny situations. I was giggling over many of these scenes with these two. The scrapes they find themselves in were just too good! And not only did I giggle but I was definitely swooning as well. Be still my heart! Just open your eyes already!

There's an element of mystery and suspense as Jericho is working and trying to solve a mystery. I was trying to solve it by process of elimination right alongside Jericho. I jumped around as different clues were left for the reader but I enjoyed the journey of sleuthing.

If you're like me and haven't read the previous books, you'll be able to jump right into this one and enjoy it. The author did a great job of filling in what is relevant for readers to know to enjoy Ivy's story all on its own. But just know, you'll probably also be like me in the fact that you'll want to go back and read them and be patiently waiting for the next brother's book to come out!

Content: Clean. Some mild moments of peril. Some sweet romance with kisses and nothing further. This book is a Christian fiction novel so does talk about God but it was done very well and not feeling preachy. It fit in perfect with the time period and how people would have lived and thought and acted.

I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

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Falling for the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund takes the enemies-to-lovers romance trope back to 1869 Colorado Territory. Cowgirl Ivy McQuaid and undercover agent Jericho Bliss have the hots for each other from the start. Their love/hate relationship comes with an overload of physical attraction, and I wished for a more nuanced approach to the sexual tension. Still, Hedlund keeps the narrative in the “closed door” category.

Falling for the Cowgirl reads quick and easy despite its substantial length. It held my attention from start to finish, even in the moments that I sighed and wished Ivy and Jericho would stop repeating the same thoughts and harmful actions. The novel focuses primarily on the romance, but contains a treasure hunt, a murderer-in-hiding, and themes about women’s equality. Quite an entertaining blend of elements.

Falling for the Cowgirl lands as the fourth installment in Jody Hedlund’s Colorado Cowboys series. The story works as a standalone, but the couples from previous novels make frequent appearances. With so many characters and backstories, I think it’s best to read the novels in order. Three stars.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

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Falling For The Cowgirl is book four in the Colorado Cowboys series by best-selling author Jody Hedlund. This is a delightful Christian western historical fiction that is filled with mystery, intrigue, romance, humor, family drama. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It can be read as a stand alone, but I highly recommend the other books in this series, too.

This is the story of McQuaid sister Ivy and Jericho Bliss, an old friend. Ivy is a sassy spitfire that competes with cowboys. Jericho has been her longtime crush, but he has always treated her like a little sister.

Their relationship provides humor, adventure, danger, and life lessons. It grabbed my attention within the first few pages and had me turning page after page. I was captivated and had to know what would happen next.

I highly recommend this rollicking book. It gets a 5 star rating from me. A copy was provided by NetGalley, but these are my honest words.

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Jody Hedlund has brought us a riveting book about Ivy and Jericho, bringing us a truly sweet love story. Their ups and downs lead me on a roller coaster ride of emotions, and had me rooting and cheering them on as I read.
An excellent story about second chances and leaning on God when all else seems to crumble around us.

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This is book 4. Can be read as a stand-alone but better when read in sequence as book 4. An amazing read. I can. It wait for book 5 to come out about Dylan to end the series. Have loved the McQuaids so far.

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Ivy McQuaid, who you meet in The Heart of a Cowboy, is a complex character. Though it’d be easy to judge her as loose and childish, she’s got a lot of buried hurt that she deals with. This hurt makes her a compelling character, and Hedlund explains Ivy’s actions in a way that, while we may not agree with them, we can understand why Ivy does it.

Jericho is just as complex. He’s noble and strong, but Ivy is definitely his weakness. Through their interactions, filled with plenty of sparks and banter, we see a struggle between the spirit and the flesh. Though some readers may be put off by the discussion of passion, attraction, and the compromising positions Ivy’s rash decisions put them in, there’s an important takeaway. Hedlund drives home the difference between lust and love, as well as God’s intention for passion versus what the world pushes. I also liked Jericho’s arc as he searches for purpose and seeks to do the right thing.

I enjoyed getting a glimpse of the couples from the previous books, getting a chance to see where they are now. Though Falling for the Cowgirl could be read as a standalone, I think you’ll enjoy it more if you read the series in order.

Overall, Falling for the Cowgirl is a sweet romance exploring love and family historical romance fans will enjoy.

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Jody Hedlund's Colorado Cowboys have my heart. This fourth installment in the series, Falling for the Cowgirl, shares the story of Ivy McQuaid, the rough-and-tumble tomboy little sister of the family, and the man who captured her heart from the beginning, Jericho Bliss.

While this book is mainly a romance, the depth of the characters and fast-paced storyline made it the best kind of adventure read. Ivy and Jericho have some serious chemistry, and I loved getting to see Ivy's brothers being protective of their sister while also making the transition from taking care of their little sister to respecting her as a grown woman and colleague.

A huge thank you to Jody Hedlund and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and in my opinion, any fan of historical romance should add this to their TBR!

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Falling for the Cowgirl is the fourth book from Jody Hedlund’s Colorado Cowboys series. I have loved this series and was excited to have the opportunity to read this one. What another wonderful story by this author. I adored Jericho and Ivy’s story so much. I enjoyed the vivid details that made me feel as though I was transported back in time. It was a great and entertaining read.

I am giving Falling for the Cowgirl a very well deserved five plus stars. Fans of clean historical romance will most definitely want to read it and not miss it. I am looking forward to the next book from the Colorado Cowboys series, The Last Chance Cowboy, to see what happens next.

I received a copy of Falling for the Cowgirl from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

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Falling for the Cowgirl is the fourth captivating installment in the wonderful Colorado Cowboys series. This series has become a favorite, and I have been looking forward to Ivy’s story. I love the McQuaid family, and Ivy has had a special place in my heart from the beginning of the series. Strong-willed, fiercely independent, and a bit impetuous, Ivy gets herself into all kinds of “messes” much to the chagrin of her brothers Flynn, Wyatt, and Brody and her longtime friend Jericho. As Ivy and Jericho are reunited after a two year absence, sparks fly! They must admit their feelings for each other and overcome obstacles which hinder their future together.

The fast-paced, action-packed plot along with compelling, memorable characters lasso your attention and keep you reading! Sizzling, but clean, romance with lots of tension and awkward moments is delightfully entertaining. I especially appreciate the meaningful spiritual truths infused into the story. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it and the series especially for fans of historical Christian romance. I am waiting anxiously for the concluding book of the series which is the prodigal brother Dylan’s story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Falling for the Cowgirl #4 Colorado Cowboys by Jody Hedlund

Ivy McQuaid is the only girl in the McQuaid family. Ivy can out ride and rope most cowboys/ranchers in the area; possibly even her four brothers. She has a mind of her own, is outspoken and determined to do things her way. But she has a longing for a ranch of her own and love and family. In order to purchase the parcel of land she has her heart sent on she saves the winnings she earns from the cowhand competitions she sneaks into…cowgirls are not allowed to complete.

Childhood friend, Jericho Bliss, returns after being away two years. Jericho is an honorable man of faith and integrity. Even so, he finds himself in a situation that may be his undoing. He is an undercover Pinkerton agent and needs to stay far away from the woman he loves to keep her safe. Things don’t go as he planned when evil men bring danger to Ivy, possibly death, and Jericho will do whatever it takes to save her.

A sweet story full of cowboys and cowgirls, all the dynamics of family conflicts and love, sorrows, heartbreak, danger, surprises, love and faith. I loved the spiritual elements in the story.

~I received an e-book copy from the author/publisher via NetGalley (no monetary gain were exchanged), this is my honest review~

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