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Flyboys of Sweet Briar Ranch in North Dakota #9
Just a Cowboy's Fairy Tale
Former firefighter Hines Cannon saved a life. But in the process, he lost his own. Hines Cannon, a recluse haunted by the scars of his heroic sacrifice, never expected to find love in the rural North Dakota town of Sweet Water.
But when a freak accident leaves him helpless, Eliza Walton, the woman he once saved, becomes his lifeline. As they spend time together, secrets unravel and barriers crumble.
Will the scars that bind them ultimately lead to a love that transcends physical appearances and ignites the flame of true belonging?
But when a freak accident leaves him helpless, Eliza Walton, the woman he once saved, becomes his lifeline. As they spend time together, secrets unravel and barriers crumble.
Will the scars that bind them ultimately lead to a love that transcends physical appearances and ignites the flame of true belonging?
215 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2023
528 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
April 29, 2023
I heartily recommend this inspiring book to everyone! Eliza Walton and Hines Cannon have a history. When Eliza was fifteen years old, she was caught under a beam in a burning school building and Hines was the Houston, TX firefighter who had heard her voice, the ONLY one who had heard it, and despite all of the other firefighters telling him he was crazy, and NOT to go back into the fully engulfed building, he couldn’t ignore the sound HE heard! Sure enough, as soon as he went in, he saw her trapped under a burning beam, scared out of her mind, screaming at him for getting her out, while he was certain they were both going to burn alive before he could get them out! From that day forward, Hines’s life changed drastically, from all of the surgeries and the deformities of his face, arms, hands, and chest. His sister was still with him and everywhere they went, people gawked and stared and made crude remarks about that grotesque man. So, he took the settlement money he had received, split it with his sister, and left for Sweet Water, North Dakota, where he could live a life of a recluse and rescue horses. He loved rescuing the horses, and his friend Miller lived there and brought him food from town, so he didn’t have to get out in the public very often. Eliza’s Aunt April lived in Sweet Water, too, and April had been wondering about her rescuer for 10 years! When April decides she’s fed up with her reporting career, chasing celebrities who didn’t want their stories told, after she had chased the ex-Princess who had come back to her hometown of Sweet Water, she hears her Aunt talking about the man who lives the life of a recluse and how they can’t find any person in their sane mind who would be willing to help him. April had already thought this was the firefighter who had rescued her, and she blurts out “I’ll do it!”- She and Hines warily warm up to each other and when she tells him her name, he says “That’s not a real common name” and narrows his eyes at her. Then Eliza says “You saved my life”. From that point on, for weeks, Eliza shows up at his house, because he had gotten a broken leg and arm, while going to see about a horse that needed to be rescued. She got to his house by 6 am every day and stayed until he was ready to go to sleep at night. I loved the way they slowly fell in love with each other and how Eliza opened his eyes to the fact that life is what you make it be. That he was a truly blessed man. Living the life he loved, getting to see the sun rise every morning and set every evening. What were scars? No more than what he let them be! Each day, Hines is more and more thankful to the Lord for bringing Eliza into his life, opening his mind and eyes up, showing him that he DID have a wonderful life. And, I’m not going to tell you every single thing about this awesome book, because you need to read it for yourself! You are not going to believe what Jessie writes in this book!! You’ll never see it coming!! I promise you that! What another great book by Jessie Gussman! 🙏♥️
May 20, 2023
This heartwarming and inspiring book is one not to be missed. Over a decade ago, Hines, a firefighter, rescued a teenage Eliza from a burning building and suffered horrific burns of his own. Though he could hide much of the scarring under his clothing, the scarring on his face and hands made him a target of horrified looks and derision. He left his life in Texas and his sister behind to begin a new life in North Dakota, on a ranch outside of the town of Sweet Water. Hines keeps to himself, runs a horse rescue and loathes being seen in public. He has become a rather bitter and grumpy hermit avoiding most everyone except for his best friend Miller.
For years, Eliza has been looking for her rescuer in order to thank him for saving her life. She knows he is living near her aunt who is a citizen of Sweet Water. When she learns that Hines was hurt on one of his few ventures into town while rescuing a child from being trampled, Eliza volunteers to help him in any way possible. Hines is shocked to see her, not expecting any help to come his way, and is further surprised to learn she was the girl he rescued so long ago. He wants to tell her to leave him alone, but finds he can’t do so. She keeps coming back, and over time he comes to realize that she was indeed heaven sent. She has scars of her own, has experienced the same horror and derision he has (perhaps to a lesser degree), and still has a more positive and optimistic outlook on life. She sees her experience as catalyst to the life blessings she has now and that God had a hand it all. She helps him to see his own blessings even before his life takes another unexpected turn, a turn that will bring more blessings for them both.
The characters, the thoughtful reflections of faith, and wonderful humour make this book a delight read. I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
For years, Eliza has been looking for her rescuer in order to thank him for saving her life. She knows he is living near her aunt who is a citizen of Sweet Water. When she learns that Hines was hurt on one of his few ventures into town while rescuing a child from being trampled, Eliza volunteers to help him in any way possible. Hines is shocked to see her, not expecting any help to come his way, and is further surprised to learn she was the girl he rescued so long ago. He wants to tell her to leave him alone, but finds he can’t do so. She keeps coming back, and over time he comes to realize that she was indeed heaven sent. She has scars of her own, has experienced the same horror and derision he has (perhaps to a lesser degree), and still has a more positive and optimistic outlook on life. She sees her experience as catalyst to the life blessings she has now and that God had a hand it all. She helps him to see his own blessings even before his life takes another unexpected turn, a turn that will bring more blessings for them both.
The characters, the thoughtful reflections of faith, and wonderful humour make this book a delight read. I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
April 26, 2023
Can a nightmare turn into a fairy tale
A story of two people suffering a true nightmare experience. One who works to remain hopeful and grateful for the good in her life. And one who withdraws and becoming bitter and sullen. Five years ago Hines Cannon, a young firefighter, rushed back into a burning school to search for the girl he alone heard calling. He found Eliza pinned by a beam, and was able to free and rescue her. Eliza lived but sustained burns on both of her legs that left severe scaring. Unfortunately, in the rescue Hines also was burned creating severe scars on his face, chest, arms, and hands. Since the fire Eliza has searched for her rescuer wanting to thank him. She finally discovers hints that he may be in the same small town that her aunt lives in and moves in with her aunt to try to find him. Hines has become a recluse living away from town and working with animals, especially horses, that have been rescued or abused. He hides from everyone but a few people, sneaking in and out of town and has developed a bitter, angry attitude designed to keep others away. But when he sees a child in danger he jumps to the rescue, sustaining a broken leg and arm in the effort. Now the recluse needs someone to help him in his daily life and Eliza is quick to step up to fill the need. When Eliza’s cheerful attitude and refusal to be intimidated comes up against his bitter sullenness something will have to give. Mix in a matchmaking steer, an abused horse, and two little orphan girls and you have a fun read where fairy tales you never thought could come true are right in front of you. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
A story of two people suffering a true nightmare experience. One who works to remain hopeful and grateful for the good in her life. And one who withdraws and becoming bitter and sullen. Five years ago Hines Cannon, a young firefighter, rushed back into a burning school to search for the girl he alone heard calling. He found Eliza pinned by a beam, and was able to free and rescue her. Eliza lived but sustained burns on both of her legs that left severe scaring. Unfortunately, in the rescue Hines also was burned creating severe scars on his face, chest, arms, and hands. Since the fire Eliza has searched for her rescuer wanting to thank him. She finally discovers hints that he may be in the same small town that her aunt lives in and moves in with her aunt to try to find him. Hines has become a recluse living away from town and working with animals, especially horses, that have been rescued or abused. He hides from everyone but a few people, sneaking in and out of town and has developed a bitter, angry attitude designed to keep others away. But when he sees a child in danger he jumps to the rescue, sustaining a broken leg and arm in the effort. Now the recluse needs someone to help him in his daily life and Eliza is quick to step up to fill the need. When Eliza’s cheerful attitude and refusal to be intimidated comes up against his bitter sullenness something will have to give. Mix in a matchmaking steer, an abused horse, and two little orphan girls and you have a fun read where fairy tales you never thought could come true are right in front of you. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
May 17, 2023
Years ago, a firefighter saved Elsie's life, though both were left scarred. But she never had a chance to thank him, and recently she's been hunting for him. Hearing a rumour that he lives very privately near Sweet Water, where her aunt lives, she decides to visit. Hines doesn't regret the action that saved Elsie's life, but the resulting scarring made him retreat so far into his shell he's not even sure he'd know how to come out - even if he wanted to. But when he breaks both legs, it's clear he can't manage on his own, and the town comes to the rescue by sending Elsie, all unaware of the connection between them. And the time together gives Elsie a chance to not only thank him, but help him in her turn. But can she overcome the years of hiding and show him all he's missing?
As I've come to expect from this author, a delightful, sweet story with conversations that made me laugh and think by turns. The romance is slightly slower to develop than some earlier books in the series, which I felt worked better (though I've enjoyed them all), and their background necessarily plays a part in the development of their relationship. I loved some of the conversations they had - they were really thought-provoking at times. I also enjoyed watching them gradually win over the rescue horse who was indirectly responsible for it all! As with the rest of the series, the romance is a standalone story but there are various threads carrying through the series that make it probably best read as a series. Recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
As I've come to expect from this author, a delightful, sweet story with conversations that made me laugh and think by turns. The romance is slightly slower to develop than some earlier books in the series, which I felt worked better (though I've enjoyed them all), and their background necessarily plays a part in the development of their relationship. I loved some of the conversations they had - they were really thought-provoking at times. I also enjoyed watching them gradually win over the rescue horse who was indirectly responsible for it all! As with the rest of the series, the romance is a standalone story but there are various threads carrying through the series that make it probably best read as a series. Recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
April 26, 2023
This is a good story of grumpy meets sunshine and two people destined to be together. They are pretty perfect together. Hines is obviously at his best when he is caring for others so being a recluse really wasn't in his best interest. Eliza was so good for him. She was able to teach him what she had already learned in dealing with difficulties. The last part of the book came as a surprise but it showed how much better Hines is when others need him. Sad about his sister though.
This is definitely a Christian romance. Heavy on the Christian themes. So if you aren't big on Christian lit this might not be the best choice in reading. But who doesn't love a matchmaking steer? That little element of this series is awesome.
I've only read books 1 & 9 in this series and while this book mostly holds up on its own, it really should be read in order. There were a couple chapters that were about characters that had been in previous books and not really knowing the background, it felt out of the blue and I couldn't immediately figure out who the characters were. One I eventually recognized from the first book but I couldn't remember who the other one was or what the storyline was. Maybe that was in one of the books I haven't read. So, that is just a warning if you haven't read the earlier books. A couple chapters will feel out of place if you don't know the background.
Christian Themes: YES
Sex: no
Language: no
Violence: no
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
This is definitely a Christian romance. Heavy on the Christian themes. So if you aren't big on Christian lit this might not be the best choice in reading. But who doesn't love a matchmaking steer? That little element of this series is awesome.
I've only read books 1 & 9 in this series and while this book mostly holds up on its own, it really should be read in order. There were a couple chapters that were about characters that had been in previous books and not really knowing the background, it felt out of the blue and I couldn't immediately figure out who the characters were. One I eventually recognized from the first book but I couldn't remember who the other one was or what the storyline was. Maybe that was in one of the books I haven't read. So, that is just a warning if you haven't read the earlier books. A couple chapters will feel out of place if you don't know the background.
Christian Themes: YES
Sex: no
Language: no
Violence: no
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
May 20, 2023
Flyboys of Sweet Briar Ranch is a wonderful series that continues the matchmaking stories in Sweet Water, North Dakota. With some new single men and women moving to the town, as well as some hometown singles from the previous series, there are lots more opportunities for matchmaking. The original matchmakers have retired but there is a steer named Billy, that seems to not have an owner, that has picked up where they left off. Somehow Billy will show up where the singles to be matched happen to be. The stories in this series could be read as a stand alone but there are some characters and situations that continue from story to story and you really need to read them in order. Every story has some wonderful spiritual insights especially concerning marriages.
This story focuses on former firefighter Hines Cannon, who moved to Sweet Water after suffering terrible burns while saving a teenage girl's life. With facial scars as well as scars on his body, he couldn't take the stares and comments. After receiving a substantial settlement, he now takes care of horses that need to be rescued from abuse or neglect. He is basically a recluse rarely leaving his farm.
Eliza Walton was fifteen when she got caught under a beam in a burning kitchen at her school. She was saved by a heroic firefighter who risked his life to rescue her. She never got to say thanks and after becoming a reporter she has been trying to track him down. It's been ten years since the fire and she has heard rumors that he may be living is Sweet Water as a recluse. Since her aunt lives in that town she has decided to settle down with her. She has been trying to find a reason to visit the man that had saved her. When he has an accident saving a child from a runaway cattle, he gets a broken leg and broken arm. Some of ladies in the town feel that he will need some help and they decide that Eliza who is jobless is the perfect candidate. She is more than willing to finally do something to thank the man who rescued her.
Hines is not exactly happy when a strange woman shows up unexpectedly at his farm. When she introduces herself as Eliza, he immediately realizes she might be the girl he had saved. He doesn't want her to stay and help him but he needs the help. With her similar background of having burn scars from the fire, will she be able to break through all of the walls of despair he has put around himself? When Billy shows up at his farm, is it a sign that God has much more in store for Hines and Eliza?
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
This story focuses on former firefighter Hines Cannon, who moved to Sweet Water after suffering terrible burns while saving a teenage girl's life. With facial scars as well as scars on his body, he couldn't take the stares and comments. After receiving a substantial settlement, he now takes care of horses that need to be rescued from abuse or neglect. He is basically a recluse rarely leaving his farm.
Eliza Walton was fifteen when she got caught under a beam in a burning kitchen at her school. She was saved by a heroic firefighter who risked his life to rescue her. She never got to say thanks and after becoming a reporter she has been trying to track him down. It's been ten years since the fire and she has heard rumors that he may be living is Sweet Water as a recluse. Since her aunt lives in that town she has decided to settle down with her. She has been trying to find a reason to visit the man that had saved her. When he has an accident saving a child from a runaway cattle, he gets a broken leg and broken arm. Some of ladies in the town feel that he will need some help and they decide that Eliza who is jobless is the perfect candidate. She is more than willing to finally do something to thank the man who rescued her.
Hines is not exactly happy when a strange woman shows up unexpectedly at his farm. When she introduces herself as Eliza, he immediately realizes she might be the girl he had saved. He doesn't want her to stay and help him but he needs the help. With her similar background of having burn scars from the fire, will she be able to break through all of the walls of despair he has put around himself? When Billy shows up at his farm, is it a sign that God has much more in store for Hines and Eliza?
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
May 19, 2023
I received a free copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
What a wonderful love story from the get-go. We find Eliza from another story moving in with her aunt in the town where she has heard a recluse lives. She has been searching for a certain person who saved her from a horrific fire when she was younger and when she hears that this recluse is a former firefighter from Texas, she is certain she has found the person who risked it all to save her.
Hines wants nothing to do with people. He is very aware of how the scars across his upper body from that fire look and he has pulled back from society since it happened. Leaving and Texas and buying a ranch in the outback of North Dakota seems to be working. That is until a freak accident in a barn leaves him with a broken leg and broken arm.
Eliza decided to go out to the ranch each day to help Hines with chores inside the house, since he can’t really get up and around yet. After meeting him, she reveals that she is the person he saved all those years ago and tells him she has her won set of scars on her lower body.
The two of them find a way to get along and when Hines gets the word that he is healing very well and will be able to navigate on his own soon, he realizes that he doesn’t want Eliza to leave. Other circumstances happen shortly thereafter, (read the book to find out what) and they decide to get married as quickly as possible, since they each have fallen in love with the other. Such a wonderful story and makes the heart go putter-patter.
What a wonderful love story from the get-go. We find Eliza from another story moving in with her aunt in the town where she has heard a recluse lives. She has been searching for a certain person who saved her from a horrific fire when she was younger and when she hears that this recluse is a former firefighter from Texas, she is certain she has found the person who risked it all to save her.
Hines wants nothing to do with people. He is very aware of how the scars across his upper body from that fire look and he has pulled back from society since it happened. Leaving and Texas and buying a ranch in the outback of North Dakota seems to be working. That is until a freak accident in a barn leaves him with a broken leg and broken arm.
Eliza decided to go out to the ranch each day to help Hines with chores inside the house, since he can’t really get up and around yet. After meeting him, she reveals that she is the person he saved all those years ago and tells him she has her won set of scars on her lower body.
The two of them find a way to get along and when Hines gets the word that he is healing very well and will be able to navigate on his own soon, he realizes that he doesn’t want Eliza to leave. Other circumstances happen shortly thereafter, (read the book to find out what) and they decide to get married as quickly as possible, since they each have fallen in love with the other. Such a wonderful story and makes the heart go putter-patter.
May 30, 2023
Just a Cowboy's Fairy Tale is a story that is like a retelling of Beauty and the Beast. As in the fairy tale the Beast in this story is Hines who was disfigured in the school fire when he went in to save a student trapped under a beam burning. He sustained severe burns including his face that has caused him great embarrassment and caused him to become a recluse thousands of miles from where it all happened. He settled in Sweet Water and just so happened Eliza, the girl he saved had an aunt living in Sweet Water. She has come to stay with her Aunt April to see if she can find Hines to thank him. But, Aunt April tells Eliza she has a job for her helping a man who has recently broken his leg and arm and lives alone. She goes to help Hines out and recognized him when she went in. She told him who she was and thanked him for saving her life. Like Beauty she has a happy attitude that eventually starts to rub off on Hines. She told Hines her parents would not allow her to get depressed or stop going out among people. She started seeing the good in Hines and didn't notice the scars. She actually began to fall for Hines when he started to change his attitude. They started to talk about a future together but a visit from a stranger changes their plans and their entire life.
I received an advanced copy for my review. I give this book 5🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟.
I received an advanced copy for my review. I give this book 5🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟.
May 10, 2023
I loved this story! I'm particularly attracted to heroes with flaws or vulnerabbilities. Hines and Eliza are so different yet so touching in their own ways despite their scars. She has the pretty face and he is the "awful" man children can't watch without screaming but she sees past his scars and so does everyone else when they get to know him. He just nedeed the push! This story comforts me because eve if I'm 38 old and used to it, my skin isn't "normal": I have stains and spots. I have seen a lot of doctors since my teenagehood and they told me there was nothing to do about it. I'm confident now but still... I sometimes wish I had a "normal" skin. Those books with scarred heroes help me forget that "we're more than just the surface"! If you love "Beauty and the Beast" kind of books, you can also read The Beast Gets His Cowgirl In The Show Me State.
The only thing I didn't like, but I'm sure that the author and followers know it by now because I always write it in my reviews (and I read all the books by this author I love so much!): I didn't like that Eliza was divorced. Sometimes, it can be usefull in the story but I didn't understand why in this book...
The only thing I didn't like, but I'm sure that the author and followers know it by now because I always write it in my reviews (and I read all the books by this author I love so much!): I didn't like that Eliza was divorced. Sometimes, it can be usefull in the story but I didn't understand why in this book...
May 19, 2023
Another great story by Jessie. If you love clean western love stories with Christian themes check out this book and series. When we have great trials in our life we can become bitter or better, that’s what this story explores. Hines was a promising young firefighter when he goes back into a burning school to save a 15-year old schoolgirl. He saved them both, but both are severely burned and are horribly scarred. He disappeared and became a recluse working with throwaway horses in North Dakota. She grew up, became a reporter but was always looking for him to say thank you. After a freak accident at the auction barn, an interfering Highland steer and a determination to help they finally meet. His self imposed isolation certainly gets a big shakeup when Eliza walks through his door. There is a tie-in with the retired flyboys next door as Miller is his good childhood friend. There’s also some more glimpses from Good Grief Idaho as we see Miss Agnes is up to something and it might involve an Old Coot. Be ready for some country humor and wisdom in this story.
I received this as an ARC. Clean with Christian themes.
I received this as an ARC. Clean with Christian themes.
May 27, 2023
This is a great continuation of the Flyboys of Sweet Briar Ranch series. I just love Billy the matchmaking steer of Sweetwater. He has a major role in this story as he has in other stories. This time, he's even on the first page. Every town needs a Billy. We have seen Eliza in several other stories by Jessie. Recently she was in another Flyboy book. I had forgotten we saw her in a Good Grief, Idaho book too. Eliza was burned in a fire when she was in high school which has left her legs scarred and she walks with a slight limp. Some people have shunned her because of it. She has been looking for the fire fighter who saved her life. He happens to live near Sweetwater where her aunt lives. Through another unfortunate accident, Hines is injured again and needs assistance. The matchmaking ladies of Sweetwater decide to ask Eliza to do the job. Hines and Eliza are doomed to fall in love. They have the ladies and Billy putting them together. This is such a good story. Both Hines and Eliza were scarred in the same fire. Hines had saved her life. Their scars are not only external but internal too and together they help it each other heal.
April 25, 2023
Our lives can change in an instant. Eliza and Hines had already experienced that. Two more times they dealt with sudden changes in their circumstances. Loved seeing how they worked together, and she helped him with a change in the way he thought about his current circumstances with gentle nudges, and their teasing way with each other. Inspiring story of not giving up no matter what and relying on God’s direction and accepting that since God let it happen, they needed to accept what is and be thankful for it. Uplifting with characters that made me consider if my attitude needed similar adjusting.
Can be read as a standalone, but if you haven’t read previous books in the series, there are a chapter or two that may seem to be not connected to the story, but they are a continuation of the status of unresolved relationships from prior books. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Can be read as a standalone, but if you haven’t read previous books in the series, there are a chapter or two that may seem to be not connected to the story, but they are a continuation of the status of unresolved relationships from prior books. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Received an ARC and this is my honest review.
April 29, 2023
How to say thanks to the one who saved your life?
Hines is a reclusive and scarred hero living on the edge of Sweet Water. He left his previous home and sister because of his scarred face and the attention it brought. Now he needs help with his broken body. Who will help?
Eliza has scars from the fire that Hines saved her from 10 years ago but a sweet and tender heart has her searching for him to say thank you for all he did and lost because of her. She gladly steps in to help him just to get to know the man who saved her. He learns that God sent her just when he will need her the most.
Add in two little orphans who need a home and you have a sweet story waiting for a happy ending. Hines and Eliza come together to give these girls a forever home.
This is a sweet but very sad story in parts. The characters continue to place their faith in God and let Him change their lives for the better. Well worth the time reading it.
I received an ARC for my voluntary opinion.
Hines is a reclusive and scarred hero living on the edge of Sweet Water. He left his previous home and sister because of his scarred face and the attention it brought. Now he needs help with his broken body. Who will help?
Eliza has scars from the fire that Hines saved her from 10 years ago but a sweet and tender heart has her searching for him to say thank you for all he did and lost because of her. She gladly steps in to help him just to get to know the man who saved her. He learns that God sent her just when he will need her the most.
Add in two little orphans who need a home and you have a sweet story waiting for a happy ending. Hines and Eliza come together to give these girls a forever home.
This is a sweet but very sad story in parts. The characters continue to place their faith in God and let Him change their lives for the better. Well worth the time reading it.
I received an ARC for my voluntary opinion.
May 3, 2023
Just a Cowboy’s Fairy Tale finds us in Sweet Water, North Dakota for another installment of the Flyboys of Sweet Briar Ranch series. Reporter Eliza Walton has moved to Sweet Water from Texas to be with her Aunt April. But more importantly, she is trying to find the man who saved her life from a fire when she was fifteen years old. Hines Cannon is the firefighter who saved her and he was badly burned in the process. After that fire, he left Texas and became a horse rescuing recluse. When Hines ends up breaking an arm and a leg while saving a little boy from a cattle stampede, Eliza shows up at his house to help him. Billy the matchmaking steer makes an appearance at Hines’ ranch, but Eliza and Hines don’t think the rumors of his skills hold any truth. Will they change their mind about Billy? Will Eliza help Hines more than just around the ranch and help him open his heart? Or is he destined to always be the recluse who shields himself from everyone and everything?
May 19, 2023
I love this series. This is a stand-alone book. You do not have to read these books in order, but it does help the continuity. This is a fun-filled book with lots of humor, romance, family drama, and Christian principles.
Eliza is ex-paparazzi; Hines is an ex-fire fighter who was badly disfigured ten years earlier while rescuing a teenage girl from a fire in her high school. The girl was Eliza. She has been hoping to meet her rescuer for several years. Hines has become a grumpy, ill-tempered recluse. They finally meet when Eliza volunteers to take care of Hines after he breaks a leg and arm. Will Billy, the matchmaking steer strike again?
Great Quotes:
“And then, it’s my job to do my very best with the life that I have in front of me.”
“The lesson being he could only change today; he couldn’t change the past, so there was no sense in being upset about it.”
I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
Eliza is ex-paparazzi; Hines is an ex-fire fighter who was badly disfigured ten years earlier while rescuing a teenage girl from a fire in her high school. The girl was Eliza. She has been hoping to meet her rescuer for several years. Hines has become a grumpy, ill-tempered recluse. They finally meet when Eliza volunteers to take care of Hines after he breaks a leg and arm. Will Billy, the matchmaking steer strike again?
Great Quotes:
“And then, it’s my job to do my very best with the life that I have in front of me.”
“The lesson being he could only change today; he couldn’t change the past, so there was no sense in being upset about it.”
I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
April 28, 2023
Loved Hines and Eliza's story. Hines had been damaged in a fire while saving a girls life. To save his sister from ridicule of being seen with him he moved and became a recluse. Eliza was a reporter, but quit her job when she moved to be near her Aunt. She had been in a fire when she was a young girl and always dreamed of the day she could thank her hero for rescuing her. When Hines broke his leg and arm there was no way he could take care of his horses, let alone himself. But who would dare come to this grumpy recluses ranch and help out. I loved Eliza's spunk, she let Hines make his objections, but went ahead and did what needed to be done. Her kind spirit tamed the beast of Hines. If you like clean inspiring stories with heart, you have found a great read. I highly recommend "Just a Cowboy's Fairy Tale". I received this book from the publisher. The thoughts and comments are my own.
May 11, 2023
Dealing with a perpetual grump!
Eliza Walton gave up her thriving job in journalism to move in with her aunt in Sweet Water and look for the fireman who saved her life when she was a teenager. An energetic mishap with Billy the steer led her to a job caring for the reclusive Hines Cannon following an accident that left him with a broken arm and leg. Hines stays away from society and the looks and whispers caused by his horrible scars. He just wants to be left alone to stew in his misery. Could this be the man Eliza was looking for and can she survive his attitude long enough to get to know him?
This is a sweet, clean Western romance! The message of faith that Eliza brought to the farm with her when she came to help Hines is words to live by. I received a free book but this review is voluntary and honest.
Eliza Walton gave up her thriving job in journalism to move in with her aunt in Sweet Water and look for the fireman who saved her life when she was a teenager. An energetic mishap with Billy the steer led her to a job caring for the reclusive Hines Cannon following an accident that left him with a broken arm and leg. Hines stays away from society and the looks and whispers caused by his horrible scars. He just wants to be left alone to stew in his misery. Could this be the man Eliza was looking for and can she survive his attitude long enough to get to know him?
This is a sweet, clean Western romance! The message of faith that Eliza brought to the farm with her when she came to help Hines is words to live by. I received a free book but this review is voluntary and honest.
May 14, 2023
I've read all the books in this series and this one is another good story. This is a retelling of Beauty and the Beast, but with a more philosophical storyline and less emphasis on the monster. Hines isn't really a monster, just a man in a lot of pain who has cut himself off from people. I've known firefighters and this book represents very well some of the things they deal with. Even though he doesn't want to be found, Eliza has been searching for the man who saved her life. When Hines is forced by events to accept help, they have time to get to know each other and Hines begins to change his thinking. It's a good thing he does, because of the twist at the end!
Jessie is hoping to write an epilogue and I would certainly love to read one. I received and ARC of this book, and this is my honest opinion.
Jessie is hoping to write an epilogue and I would certainly love to read one. I received and ARC of this book, and this is my honest opinion.
May 19, 2023
The reason being he could only change today, he couldn't change the past, so there was no reason to be upset about it. This stayed in my mind since I read it because it's so true. Hines was badly burned rescuing a girl when he was a firefighter. The scars where so bad he moved to another state and became a recluse. The girl he rescued starting looking for him when she got older to thank him. When finding out he was in Sweetwater, ND she quits her job and moves there to live with her aunt. When her aunt says he needs help after breaking an arm and leg saving another child she agrees to go.
As they get to know each other a unexpected surprise lands on his doorsteps. They come together to deal with things and take a chance on having the happy ever after they never believe they would get.
I received an ARC in return for a honest review.
As they get to know each other a unexpected surprise lands on his doorsteps. They come together to deal with things and take a chance on having the happy ever after they never believe they would get.
I received an ARC in return for a honest review.
May 20, 2023
We All Carry Scars From Our Lives; Some People Overcome Them, Some Hide Them!
Master Storytelller, Jessie Gussman, has written her version of "Beauty & The Beast", in her Western Christian Romance, "Just a Cowboy's Fairy Tale"! This is 📗 9, of the "Flyboys of Sweet Briar Ranch in North Dakota" Series. It'll be best understood, by 📖ing 📗 8 first.
You have a reclusive, retired Fireman, who saved a girl from a Fire. Years later, you've got that now adult Lady, wanting to "Thank" that Man, for saving her life. They've both got burn scars from that fire; hers aren't so obvious, but his are.
God finally brings them together. How do they each help bring healing, to each other? How does God draw their hearts together, into a Lifetime 💞? I Highly Recommend You 📖 this Awesome, Realistic, Poignant, Emotional, Story 💎, to find out! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Master Storytelller, Jessie Gussman, has written her version of "Beauty & The Beast", in her Western Christian Romance, "Just a Cowboy's Fairy Tale"! This is 📗 9, of the "Flyboys of Sweet Briar Ranch in North Dakota" Series. It'll be best understood, by 📖ing 📗 8 first.
You have a reclusive, retired Fireman, who saved a girl from a Fire. Years later, you've got that now adult Lady, wanting to "Thank" that Man, for saving her life. They've both got burn scars from that fire; hers aren't so obvious, but his are.
God finally brings them together. How do they each help bring healing, to each other? How does God draw their hearts together, into a Lifetime 💞? I Highly Recommend You 📖 this Awesome, Realistic, Poignant, Emotional, Story 💎, to find out! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 8, 2023
Eliza and Hines have quite a tale of renewal and regrowth after losing all self worth from the fire they were both involved in. Eliza is determined to find Hines, the firefighter, who saved her life when she was trapped under a beam in a burning building. No one would go in as they didn't believe anyone was still in the building. However, Hines had heard her call and could not ignore her cry for help. Jessie definitely knows how to build a moving story of coming back from being a recluse as many had stared at him, called him a monster and other cruel names. Only Eliza is able to get through as she also carries her memories of the incident as she also has scars. This tale will move you to tears as events begin to be revealed. Find out what the end will bring for this pair.
May 12, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. I knew from the moment we met Eliza and heard about her that I would be anxiously awaiting her book. I’m glad I didn’t have to wait too long! I love beauty and the beast retellings and I love the rescuer/protector hero angle, so, this book checked all the boxes. We got to see the loveable Sweet Water Matchmaking Cow and he was definitely up to some antics. I love getting glimpses of Ellen and Travis and my heart aches a bit following June through her trials. I love looking for those extra bonus chapters. This book definitely had some unexpected items pop up. I’m so looking forward to where this series takes us!
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
May 17, 2023
A modern day beauty and the beast. Hines was a firefighter in Houston, TX. He saved Eliza from a burning building when she was 15. After being badly burned, Hines moves to Sweet Water, ID and becomes a recluse.
Eliza has always wanted to thank the man that saved her life. She moves to Sweet Water to stay with her aunt. She is beautiful, but carries the scars on her legs from the accident.
When Hines is hurt in an accident, Eliza's aunt asks her to help him around the house. Hines is grumpy and not interested in any help. Eliza is a burst of sunshine. She thanks him for saving her life and proceeds to help him out in spite of his attitude.
Such a sweet story! I highly recommend.
Eliza has always wanted to thank the man that saved her life. She moves to Sweet Water to stay with her aunt. She is beautiful, but carries the scars on her legs from the accident.
When Hines is hurt in an accident, Eliza's aunt asks her to help him around the house. Hines is grumpy and not interested in any help. Eliza is a burst of sunshine. She thanks him for saving her life and proceeds to help him out in spite of his attitude.
Such a sweet story! I highly recommend.
May 18, 2023
Eliza is an ex-reporter, she decided that she didn't like interviewing people who didn't want things written about them. She's become a great friend of Kenni (see Just a Cowboy's Princess ). She's moved back to Sweet Water and is staying with her aunt, who is still convinced that Billy, the steer, has something to do with matchmaking, which of course Eliza doesn't believe!
Hines was a firefighter and was burnt rescuing a girl from a fire. He thinks his scars are worse than they are, then he broke his leg and needs help. Eliza's aunt, Miss April, thinks she would be the best person to look after him.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Another great, amusing, read in the series from Jessie.
Hines was a firefighter and was burnt rescuing a girl from a fire. He thinks his scars are worse than they are, then he broke his leg and needs help. Eliza's aunt, Miss April, thinks she would be the best person to look after him.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Another great, amusing, read in the series from Jessie.
May 18, 2023
Clean, sweet romance.
This is another great story by Jessie Gussman. The 9th of the Flyboys of Sweet Briar Ranch series set in a North Dakota small town, this book does not disappoint. A Beauty and the Beast kind of tale that has lovable relatable, characters, a great message of the power of love and kindness, and, of course, an HEA. Jessie excels at creating characters that you’d love to call family and her sense of humor shines through in the dialog of her characters. You can read as a standalone without missing a beat, but I recommend you begin at the beginning of the series with “Just a Cowboy’s Marriage of Convenience.” I received this book as an ARC reader and this is my honest opinion.
May 19, 2023
I loved this romance that delevoped between Eliza and Hines. Eliza volunteered to help Hines who is the town's recluse and had a broken leg and a broken arm. Hines had a scarred face and body after saving Eliza when she was a teenager during a fire at her school. She was trapped under a fallen beam and would have died if Hines who was a firefighter hadn't saved her. Eliza was mainly buned on her legs so she could hide her scars, but with her help she was able to help Hines accept how he looked and was willing to go out in public. The ending was the best part of this book. I highly recommend this heartwarming story to those who enjoy clean Christian romance. I received an ARC from the author, Jessie Gussman, and this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 20, 2023
Yesterday was release day for
A Cowboys fairytale by Jessie Gussman
I loved the book. It hit home and reminded me of my older sister Elizabeth.
The realization the two main characters come too at separate time about self love, love of the lord and others.
This is a grumpy/ Sunshine couple who have a short past but totally leaves an enormous impact on both their lives and how they have survived after a fire that left them with physical and emotional scars. The realization of how important family is to us and the gifts they can still give even after they are gone. Even tho it may not seem like it in the moment.
If you prefer audio it’s on say it w Jay on YouTube. Here is the link. Hope you enjoy.
https://youtu.be/7zZaDf722r0
A Cowboys fairytale by Jessie Gussman
I loved the book. It hit home and reminded me of my older sister Elizabeth.
The realization the two main characters come too at separate time about self love, love of the lord and others.
This is a grumpy/ Sunshine couple who have a short past but totally leaves an enormous impact on both their lives and how they have survived after a fire that left them with physical and emotional scars. The realization of how important family is to us and the gifts they can still give even after they are gone. Even tho it may not seem like it in the moment.
If you prefer audio it’s on say it w Jay on YouTube. Here is the link. Hope you enjoy.
https://youtu.be/7zZaDf722r0
August 2, 2023
Just A Cowboy’s Fairy Tale
This was such a special love story There was a lot more sadness in this story than any of the others, but the way Eliza and Hines loved each other helped to handle the sadness. I felt so sorry that Hines didn’t get to see his sister, just as he was going to try and call her. It was a shock and it made me sad. It was amazing how Hines came out of his shell and took the responsibility of his nieces without any doubt he could do it with Eliza by his side. And I loved how Eliza was so kind and sweet and the way she took care of Hines even when he was grumpy. He wasn’t as easy to love, but she had away to break through the wall he had built up. I loved the whole story! Bravo!
Sincerely ,
Doris Dawson-Smith
This was such a special love story There was a lot more sadness in this story than any of the others, but the way Eliza and Hines loved each other helped to handle the sadness. I felt so sorry that Hines didn’t get to see his sister, just as he was going to try and call her. It was a shock and it made me sad. It was amazing how Hines came out of his shell and took the responsibility of his nieces without any doubt he could do it with Eliza by his side. And I loved how Eliza was so kind and sweet and the way she took care of Hines even when he was grumpy. He wasn’t as easy to love, but she had away to break through the wall he had built up. I loved the whole story! Bravo!
Sincerely ,
Doris Dawson-Smith
August 30, 2023
Love is patient. Love is kind. Love is a decision we have to make. That's what this story reminds me of.
A lot of times, we react to an action directed at us. I can make a decision to be nice even when someone is nasty to me (over and over again), or I can choose to pay back in the same coin. The result will show which reaction yields the best result.
Eliza's reaction to Hines brought about more than she could have imagined when she started out.
It's an awesome book, but then again, that's to be e expected from Ms. Gussman.
I recommend this book to everyone, espwcially lovers pf sweet, clean and christian fiction. I also recommend reading it with an open mind, as it would change the reader's mindsets if approached with an open mind.
I got an ARC, and I'm leaving my honest review.
A lot of times, we react to an action directed at us. I can make a decision to be nice even when someone is nasty to me (over and over again), or I can choose to pay back in the same coin. The result will show which reaction yields the best result.
Eliza's reaction to Hines brought about more than she could have imagined when she started out.
It's an awesome book, but then again, that's to be e expected from Ms. Gussman.
I recommend this book to everyone, espwcially lovers pf sweet, clean and christian fiction. I also recommend reading it with an open mind, as it would change the reader's mindsets if approached with an open mind.
I got an ARC, and I'm leaving my honest review.
October 25, 2023
I can't get over how seamlessly Jessie Gussman wove full circle moments into this book! I am highly impressed! When Eliza was 15, she was pinned by a burning beam in a fire at her school. Hines, the firefighter who pulled her from the flames and saved her life, became badly burned in the process and lived as a recluse from then on to avoid the stares and comments from the scarring on his face and body. Eliza searched for him to thank him for saving her life, but wasn't able to get any concrete location of him until she came to Sweet Water, North Dakota. Follow their story that is filled with amazing inspirational teaching moments in this book! I highly recommend it! I received an advance copy of this book from the author. That in no way influenced my review.
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