The Cowboy's Bride

This is the first book I've read from this author and it certainly won't be my last. Her characters could be my neighbors - real down-to-earth people who care for others as well as the land. People who try to live the life they're dealt while holding onto their dignity and self-respect. People who don't flash their money in your face just because they have it and you don't. She uses Alberta, land of cowboys, mountains and wealth to weave a marriage of convenience story that starts with despair and ends in rapture. Ride along with me while I give the low-down on this poignant story: Alexis Grayson is pregnant and alone. She's strong and penniless. She's a victim of circumstance, yet a survivor. She knows what she wants but isn't sure how to get it... Until Connor Madsen walks into her life and asks her to share his. Connor needs a temporary wife. Alexis needs a temporary home. All they have to do is accept that true happiness comes when you give your heart into someone else's safekeeping. Strong is good. Together is better. But, they'll have to dig deep and find the courage to take the chance. This stand-alone book has characters from the Windover Ranch. Other Donna Alward books with related characters are: - Marriage at Circle M - HR 3978 Sep 07 - Falling For Mr. Dark & Dangerous - HR 4044 Aug 08 Heat level: Romantic

yet another cowboy rancher novel. But, since this is my favorite "genre" I'd say this is a cute read.

Due to the scare of tainted beef, Canadian cattle farmer Conner Madsen is in danger of losing the ranch that has been in his family for over one hundred years. Unable to access his trust fund, Conner has only one option. He must find someone who will marry him on short notice so he will be allowed to draw money from his trust fund. This might be a problem because not only is Conner not dating anyone, he doesn't even know anyone who might be willing to marry him. Salvation comes in the form of independent Alexis Grayson who also just happens to faint at his feet. Conner tries his best to persuade Alexis to marry him. Offering to take care of her and her unborn child, and trying to convince her of his need, Conner prays for Alexis to agree to his plans. Because unless he marries, he will not have the funding needed to keep his ranch afloat. Alexis Grayson gives new meaning to the word stubborn. Used to relying on no one but herself, she has a hard time lowering her defenses enough to let Conner take care of her. I found her capitulation sweet and happily cheered both characters on from the sidelines. For a debut Harlequin release, HIRED BY THE COWBOY by Donna Alward is a good read. The characters are realistic - including the interfering, but well meaning, grandmother. Lovers of Harlequin Romances will really enjoy this book. I know I did.