A Cowboy for Keeps - (Colorado Cowboys) by Jody Hedlund (Paperback)

Greta would do anything to help her little sister, Astrid, get well, including signing up to be a mail-order bride, and move across the country to marry a stranger. Instead of finding better lives, the two arrive in Fairplay, Colorado, robbed, hungry and exhausted, only to discover her fiancé has died. Now penniless, what will become of them in this small, hopeless place? Wyatt is coerced into marrying Greta in exchange for secretly getting an investment in his cattle. Greta and Wyatt work hard for the ranch to succeed, and try to live like a family for Astrid’s sake. But every time they make progress, they face almost impossible hardships including someone purposely destroying their cattle to cause them to fail. If Greta learns the truth of why their marriage took place, will she ever believe Wyatt could have feelings for her? Will Astrid’s worsening health make it impossible for them all to stay together? Does the surprising truth revealed towards the end of the tale break them up despite how they all feel? Be prepared to be unable to put this book down, every turn of the page will bring more excitement. Exploration of faith in God adds to the reality of the story. This yarn stands alone, however, there is a big cliff hanger leading into the next installment in the series. Those who like tales of the Old West, cowboys and romance will enjoy this 5-star book. Bethany House Publishers has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, A Cowboy for Keeps, for the purpose of review.

A Cowboy for Keeps by Jody Hedlund is the first book in her Colorado Cowboys series. Greta Nilsson is headed west as a mail order bride, hoping that the climate change will help heal her little sister’s health problems. When she arrives in Fairplay, Colorado she learns that her fiancé has died. Wyatt McQuaid is in town to buy more cattle. The mayor approaches him with a business proposition. He’ll invest in Wyatt’s ranch if Wyatt will marry Greta and help make the town more respectable. Can they turn a marriage of convenience into a marriage of love? Greta was a great worker, she just let her little sister get by with too much. I felt like Astrid was just a little brat. The characters were a little too understanding. The story-line had great potential but just never clicked with me. DISCLAIMER: There was a lot of marriage related scenes. The passion never got specific but it was border-line. I received this book from the publisher for my honest review.

I've been a fan of Jody Hedlund's novels for years now and was quite pleased to see her set a historical romance series in the Old West. Because, who can resist a handsome cowboy? Wyatt McQuaid, that handsome cowboy, was plagued with self-doubts, and taking a wife was not in his plans. But when the mayor makes a deal that includes the beautiful Greta Nilsson, he can't resist. Although Greta is smart, competent, and industrious, she always feels burdensome to others. Wyatt and Greta needed to get past their perceived insufficiencies in order to truly commit to the other. Threats of cattle rustlers, bandits, and illness made for a great read, with the action continuing until the very end. Fans of the Old West, historical romance, and Jody Hedlund's books will all want to pick up this first book in the new Colorado Cowboys series. I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House, for review purposes. The thoughts expressed here are my own.

Yay! My first Jody Hedlund read and absolutely LOVED it! Such a good book! The author’s writing style was incredible! I haven’t read anything in a long while that had me actually feeling the mist and the mud, hearing the insects and the hoofbeats and seeing the dust, the dew and the majestic purple mountain sunsets like this book did. It reawakened my love of beautifully descriptive writing and brought me back to my Anne of Green Gables days! I don’t know how she did it, but this story was so ALIVE to me! The characters, too, were great! I loved the very cowboyish way that Wyatt spoke, lol, and Greta’s determination and perseverance in everything that she did. I loved Judd’s quiet yet straightforward and practical presence and Astrid’s non-stop activity and spitfire attitude. The shocks and awkwardness, laughs and hurts, scares and anticipation all came together to create an amazing and beautiful story. Add in a dastardly villain and I just couldn’t put it down! I tip my hat to Ms. Hedlund for this one and declare that I shall read many-a-book of hers to come!

A Cowboy for Keeps, by Jody Hedlund, is the first book in the Colorado Cowboys series. As a western, historical romance, this novel does not disappoint. As a marriage of convenience story, this book is utterly satisfying. As a piece of well-written fiction, this novel is truly entertaining and thoroughly enjoyable. From the first sentence to the final word, Ms. Hedlund successfully demonstrates her talent for crafting books that are rich in descriptive detail, compelling settings, complex characterization, and riveting storylines. From the wide open land of the Colorado Territory, to a cold, clear stream in the woods, to the crowded space in a small cabin, the settings of this novel are thoughtfully described and well-suited to the story. They provide the relevant backdrop for the characters in this book as they strive for their goals, recognize their insecurities, face their fears, and nurture their faith. Page after page, these characters are memorable and authentic. Their hopes, concerns, and motivations are interesting and moving. As a reader, I was quickly and easily drawn into their stories and the plot details that flowed from them. I was captivated by this stunning novel filled with peril, hope, uncertainty, courage, compassion, resiliency, trust, and second chances. A Cowboy for Keeps is a special novel and a pleasure to read. Abounding with history, romance, adventure, and heart, it is truly engaging and endearing. I recommend it wholeheartedly to all readers. I am certainly looking forward to reading the next book in this series. *I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

A marriage of convenience is the only option for Greta Nilsson, but not the one she expected. Heartwarming, engaging, and at times humorous, with a sense of romantic tension throughout, A Cowboy for Keeps is the first in what is sure to be a winning new series. I mean, this book has everything that I could possibly ask for, a beautifully wild landscape, compelling characters, simmering romance, marriage of convenience, an adorably forthright child, faith, and a handsome cowboy, what more could I ask for? I admired Greta for her devotion to her 9 year old sister, Astrid, her strong work ethic, and could relate all too well to her desire to not be a bother to anyone. Astrid is a little firecracker, doesn't let her perceived weakness fool you, she shoots straight with her questions and adds much of the humor to the story, I loved her friendship with Judd. In fact Judd was one of my favorite supporting characters and I hope to see more of him in the upcoming additions to the series, he doesn't say much, but when he does you listen. Wyatt is a hardworking man, he is fair, wants to make his ranch a success. I loved how he welcomes Greta and Astrid to his home, even though it was far from the original plan, and he fights for them as well. He is respectful and has a strong set of values instilled in him. Overall, a terrific start to what is sure to be a fantastic series. I loved how Greta and Wyatt worked together as they got to know each other, and neither of them is afraid of hard work. A well balanced, well paced read, with characters that you can cheer for throughout. Romantic, compelling, with moments of humor, faith, and survival in the mountains of Colorado. Highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Jody Hedlund is one of my favorite authors and I was so intrigued about this new western genre she started with this book. And with a marriage of convenience, my favorite trope! My expectations were high and I was not disappointed! This is a promising series, with a wonderful start in this first book of the “Colorado Cowboys Series”! After Greta Nilsson becomes an orphan, and her stepsisters make her and her little ailing half-sister Astrid feel like a burden, she decides to become a mail order bride and sets out west from Illinois with Astrid to Fairplay, Colorado, to meet her future husband, an older man she knows only by letter but seems kind enough and is willing to take care of her sister too. But everything goes awry from the start: their stagecoach gets robbed and they take all her belongings, and then when she arrives to the mining town, she discovers her husband-to-be has passed away because of an accident. Totally destitute and jobless, she providentially met Mr. Steele, the town’s mayor, on the stagecoach, who kindly determines to help her in his own way. Wyatt McQuaid has a cattle farm and is in dire need of an investor to buy more cattle and make it profitable. Mr. Steele sees the potential in Wyatt not only as a ranch owner but as a good and honorable match for Greta. And since he has interest in making Fairplay a more familiar town so he can get his wife to come, he decides to offer Wyatt to generously invest in his cattle if he marries Greta. Wyatt promises to think on it, and is almost set on not accepting the mayor proposal until he casually meets Greta, and he is totally compelled to aid the helpless beautiful woman and proposes the marriage of convenience. After Greta confirms Wyatt is a good man, she decides to accept, especially for Astrid’s sake, who is battling consumption, and is in need of a stable home and care. After being married, Greta feels the need to prove herself useful to her attractive husband so he won’t regret marrying her. But Wyatt wants her to feel at home, and the more time he spends with her and charming Astrid the more attached he becomes to them. Is it possible for them to pass from total strangers to a couple in love? Greta knows nothing of the mayor’s financial proposal to Wyatt. Will that knowledge break the trust in him? You’ll have to read the story to know! I can only tell you the journey of this conveniently matched couple is beautiful and so heartwarming! It’s full of obstacles and lots of adventure that will keep you engaged until the last page. But the best is the characters: they were complex yet deep, kind yet flawed, very relatable. Greta’s selflessness, hard work and love of others was humbling. Wyatt had a heart of gold and the way he treated “his” women was a sight to behold. Then there were the secondary characters: Astrid, even in her sickness, was a restless, outgoing and charming girl that stole my heart, I loved her! I also loved Judd, Wyatt’s friend and ranch help, an older, quiet yet kindest man! The way he cared for Astrid was so sweet! And the slow -and yet not so slow- progressing romance between Wyatt and Greta was sweet, tender, and made me sigh! So romantic! As always, behind the characters struggles there is an inspirational message of kindness, true love, and trusting God. It flowed natural, not preachy. A beautiful love story in the wild west!! I definitely recommend it! I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

Yippee-ki-yay! Just when I thought I couldn't love author Jody Hedlund any more, she writes A Cowboy for Keeps and I'm torn between not wanting it to end and impatiently waiting for the next book in this new western series. Danger, trials, and the beauty of the Colorado mountains are all important parts of this book that is set the Colorado Territory in 1862, but my favorite parts are the scenes with Wyatt McQuaid, Greta Nilsson, and her little sister Ingrid. Yes, there is definitely a physical attraction between Wyatt and Greta, and their interaction varies between wary and sweet to extremely charged with chemistry. It is, however, the glimpse of them, along with Ingrid, becoming a real family that I especially loved, because they obviously care about each other and they want to make this arrangement work. If...they can overcome all of the obstacles in the way! Can this arranged marriage turn into something more? Will there be a happily-ever-after or two shattered dreams in the Colorado Territory? Great characters, action and adventure, and a faith-filled story make this a book that you won't want to miss. I think it's obvious that I loved A Cowboy for Keeps and I recommend it to all who enjoy historical Christian romance. I look forward to more books in the Colorado Cowboys series. I voluntarily accepted a copy of this book from the publisher. A favorable review wasn't required and no monetary compensation was given. These are my own thoughts.

Jody Hedlund has once again proven that she can tackle different genres. She is a super talented writer and it shows in her new release, A Cowboy for Keeps. This begins the Colorado Cowboys series. I adored Greta right from the start. I admired her determination to do what was right for her sister. I loved how she interacted with Wyatt. Such a beautiful, inspiring, tender and sweet story. A Cowboy for Keeps is getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I am looking forward to the next installment from the Colorado Cowboys series to see what happens next. Meanwhile, this one will be placed on my very limited keeper shelf. I highly recommend for readers who enjoy reading clean historical romance. I received A Cowboy for Keeps from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

Without a doubt the swooniest cowboy story I have ever read! Fair warning: this is a sleep stealer so be prepared if you start it at night! This book is a fast-paced and fantastically fun marriage of convenience story of two good people who help each other discover their true worth. There is action, laughs, intrigue, plot twists, and of course, lots of clean but swoony romance! I have read almost every single one of the author's books but this one is going to be one of my new favorites. I cannot wait to read the rest of the series. Another five star read from Jody Hedlund! I received a complimentary copy from the publisher but a review was not required and my opinion are my own.

A swoon-worthy cowboy hero, a steamy yet clean romance, an exciting plot, and relevant spiritual lessons make A Cowboy for Keeps by Jody Hedlund one of my favorite Christian fiction books of all time. I absolutely love marriage of convenience stories, but when you add mountains and cowboys I am totally hooked! Greta has brought her sickly little sister to Colorado in hopes the mountain air will heal her, and the only way she could so was to serve as a mail order bride. However, when she steps off the stagecoach having been recently robbed of every penny by bandits, she finds that her intended has died. She is homeless, penniless, and needs to find a way to stay in Colorado to help her little sister heal. Wyatt McQuaid is a new rancher who needs an investor to purchase cattle and get his ranch started. The town’s mayor offers a solution to Wyatt which helps Greta too—the mayor will invest in Wyatt’s ranch if Wyatt marries Greta to help the mining community become a respectable place for families. Thus begins a whirlwind love story that is packed full of adventure and will keep you totally riveted until the very last page! I read this book in one sitting because I was so caught up in the wonderful romance and exciting storyline of this book. The chemistry between Greta and Wyatt is steamy, but remains clean and tasteful, which is perfect for a marriage of convenience story. The plot has so many twists and turns and is full of surprises that keep you guessing until the last chapter, which makes this an incredibly thrilling read. Of course, cowboy Wyatt is at the center of the adventure and is one of the most swoon-worthy heroes I have read to date! Best of all, this story touches on dealing with failure and giving God control of the future, which are incredibly important and relevant spiritual lessons. I absolutely adored this book, and I wholeheartedly give it the highest rating possible. Jody Hedlund has delivered yet another wonderful historical romance, and I recommend A Cowboy for Keeps to anyone looking for their next great read. I was given a copy of this book by the author and publisher for review purposes. My thoughts are my own. I really did love it!

3.5stars "You can walk away every time the flies start bitin'. Or you can swat 'em until they're gone." Wyatt McQuaid felt like he'd been swatting flies for years, echoes of past discouragements and reoccurring failures tainting his optimism about the future . . . . including his hasty marriage to a beautiful young woman who was in dire straits, for what prompted him to make that dratted business arrangement with the mayor without thinking it through more carefully? Greta Nilsson is most grateful for her marriage of convenience, Wyatt McQuaid is not only handsome and kind, but he's willing to give her three months time to determine if living on his Colorado ranch will improve her little sister's health. Greta isn't afraid of hard work and sincerely enjoys seeing Wyatt's property begin to thrive, but the clock is ticking and she is beginning to feel more like a burden that Wyatt must bear, rather than a member of his family. This story was a bit hypnotizing at first, somewhat predictable and yet quite enjoyable when all of a sudden . . . . "boom, goes the dynamite", and the story line dove deeper, pulsating with an energy that readers will appreciate and respect, for who can argue the fact that "the more you pile on the manure, the harder it'll be to come clean"; Wyatt and Greta suddenly find themselves knee deep in multiple conundrums and it's going to take more than a few toe tingling kisses to dig themselves out. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I also purchased a copy. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.

"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.

Love love and love this story!! We all face moments in life where we feel like the biggest failure to others, ourselves, and even to God Himself. We feel like such a burden that we have to do everything on our own to prove our worth. But maybe the lesson to be learned is that accepting help from others, especially God, isn't a sign of weakness but a chance to work as a team. With someone else helping us we're stronger together than we ever would be apart. God knows this and is always ready and waiting for us whenever we need Him. We don't have to carry our burdens alone. I received a copy from the publisher, all thoughts are my own.