HER LONE STAR COWBOY by Debra Clopton

Gabi Newberry returns to Mule Hollow to stay with her grandmother (who happens to be a Mule Hollow matchmaker) and recover from a very difficult time in her life. As a new believer she's anxious to leave her past behind and start fresh, working as a veterinarian's assistant. Fate seems to be working against her when she finds herself caught in a flash flood while hauling a couple of calves. That's when she meets Jess Holden. A very handsome cowboy who rescues her and the calves from the rising water. The attraction between them is strong. Gabi has never met anyone quite like Jess (though he is a little high-handed) and, though Jess is a confirmed bachelor, he finds himself drawn to the sweet and spunky Gabi in a way he's never been drawn to a woman. But when Gabi's past collides with Jess' past, will Jess be able to deal with it or will he turn his back on what just might be the best thing that ever happened to him?

I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to Mule Hollow! This is the first book I've read in that series but I'll tell ya, it makes me want to read all the others. I fell in love with the town and it's people and though this is the latest in the series I didn't feel lost at all. This story really felt like the perfect blend of emotion and humor while tackling difficult subjects like alcoholism, abandonment, abuse and anger. I loved how the author effortlessly weaved the message that 'God is bigger than our problems and works out everything for His glory and purpose'. That's a great reminder when you're traveling a difficult road. The characters were very well drawn and the emotions they faced and how they behaved, in my opinion, were very realistic. I loved all the interaction between Gabi and Jess, and between Jess and his brothers. It just made me want to keep turning pages to see what would happen next. And although you can pretty much guess the ending, it was still more than satisfying. For those who have not yet visited Mule Hollow, I highly recommend you pick-up Her Lone Star Cowboy. For those who have been following the Mule Hollow series, I'm sure, will find this to be a wonderful addition. Great Job, Debra! Can't wait for the next installment!
File Size: 350 KB
Print Length: 220 pages
Publisher: Love Inspired (April 1, 2012)
ASIN: B006YACWV0
ISBN-10: 0373877331
ISBN-13: 978-0373877331
*A thank you goes to Harlequin for this complimentary copy through Netgalley for my review*