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Cooper Creek #6
The Cowboy's Christmas Courtship
The Christmas Challenge
With her mortgaged farm, rebellious brother and two jobs, Layla Silver is struggling to keep afloat for the holidays. But does she need Gage Cooper riding to her rescue? Back in high school, Gage was nobody's hero. Now he's an injured bull rider home for Christmas to make amends for his checkered past. And something about the stubborn, beautiful Layla has him wanting more than forgiveness. Can a wandering cowboy turn a Christmas courtship into an everlasting love?
Cooper Home is where the heart is for this Oklahoma family
With her mortgaged farm, rebellious brother and two jobs, Layla Silver is struggling to keep afloat for the holidays. But does she need Gage Cooper riding to her rescue? Back in high school, Gage was nobody's hero. Now he's an injured bull rider home for Christmas to make amends for his checkered past. And something about the stubborn, beautiful Layla has him wanting more than forgiveness. Can a wandering cowboy turn a Christmas courtship into an everlasting love?
Cooper Home is where the heart is for this Oklahoma family
224 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 1, 2013
28 people are currently reading
272 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Minton
114 books213 followersBrenda Minton lives, procrastinates, writes, drinks coffee, raises her kids and is wife to her husband, in the Ozarks.
Okay, now to first person because a third person bio sounds like someone else wrote it about me, and is just license to create flowery prose about myself.
I grew up on a farm in the Ozarks. It was long ago and far away, in a land before cable TV, video games and the internet. To pass the time we read books, watched (gasp) network TV that rarely came in clear, and had friends over on weekends to play music on the front porch, or card games in the dining room.
The result of growing up 'country' was an active imagination. For fun I wrote stories to entertain myself and I dreamed of being an author. Oh, but first, before writing, I wanted to be a jockey.
Writing won out over being a jockey. In the spring of 2006 I got the call that made those dreams come true: the call that welcomed me into the Steeple Hill family of authors.
The moral of this story, never stop dreaming.
Okay, now to first person because a third person bio sounds like someone else wrote it about me, and is just license to create flowery prose about myself.
I grew up on a farm in the Ozarks. It was long ago and far away, in a land before cable TV, video games and the internet. To pass the time we read books, watched (gasp) network TV that rarely came in clear, and had friends over on weekends to play music on the front porch, or card games in the dining room.
The result of growing up 'country' was an active imagination. For fun I wrote stories to entertain myself and I dreamed of being an author. Oh, but first, before writing, I wanted to be a jockey.
Writing won out over being a jockey. In the spring of 2006 I got the call that made those dreams come true: the call that welcomed me into the Steeple Hill family of authors.
The moral of this story, never stop dreaming.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
September 30, 2013
I just can't help myself. When I spot a BRENDA MINTON book at the store, I grab it. If I'm in the middle of reading a book, I'm suddenly inspired to complete it so I can get started on MS MINTON'S book. Her books NEVER sit around my house unread for too long.
Life has not been easy for Layla Silver's. After losing her parents, she's forced to grow up, thrust into the responsibility of raising her younger brother. She's always been a strong independent person, but with mounting bills, and her brother going through a rebellious teen stage, she feels herself faltering.
As Gage Cooper heads home for the first time in months, he runs into Layla Silver's. The girl he used all those years ago to get to her friend. He wants to make amends for the things he's done wrong in his life, and Layla is on the list of those he needs to ask for forgiveness. So why once she gives it to him, does he feel he needs to stick around and do all he can to help her?
MS MINTON is at the top of my list of favorite authors. As a storyteller, she never disappoints. As I've stated in many, and I do mean many reviews, she is an amazing writer. Love her plots, writing style, and characters as they come to life through written words. I always connect to her main, as well as secondary characters. She delivers great lines, never leaving the reader disappointed, and with satisfying endings.
Life has not been easy for Layla Silver's. After losing her parents, she's forced to grow up, thrust into the responsibility of raising her younger brother. She's always been a strong independent person, but with mounting bills, and her brother going through a rebellious teen stage, she feels herself faltering.
As Gage Cooper heads home for the first time in months, he runs into Layla Silver's. The girl he used all those years ago to get to her friend. He wants to make amends for the things he's done wrong in his life, and Layla is on the list of those he needs to ask for forgiveness. So why once she gives it to him, does he feel he needs to stick around and do all he can to help her?
MS MINTON is at the top of my list of favorite authors. As a storyteller, she never disappoints. As I've stated in many, and I do mean many reviews, she is an amazing writer. Love her plots, writing style, and characters as they come to life through written words. I always connect to her main, as well as secondary characters. She delivers great lines, never leaving the reader disappointed, and with satisfying endings.
October 4, 2013
I LOVED this book … possibly my favorite in the Cooper Creek series so far. Gage makes for a dashing hero, and I enjoyed watching him have to really work to get a girl's attention. :) Layla is such a sweetheart, and I felt bad for the constant struggles she faced. I have a hard time asking for help, too, so I really identified with that aspect of her personality. Perhaps there's a good lesson for me in her story. Every time I read about the Coopers, I wish I had a gigantic family like that. Don't get me wrong, I love my small family, but there's something so appealing about a family with a dozen siblings and spouses and children all piled in together for the holidays. The power of a good story, I guess!
I received a temporary e-copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my fair and honest review.
[4.5 stars]
My review on i blog 4 books: http://iblog4books.blogspot.com/2013/...
I received a temporary e-copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my fair and honest review.
[4.5 stars]
My review on i blog 4 books: http://iblog4books.blogspot.com/2013/...
November 13, 2019
'Didn't anyone get it? He wasn't good at being there for people. He wasn't the person people confided in or turned to when the chips were down.'
I read my first book by Brenda Minton a few months ago and since then, I have determined to read all her books. That will take a while because she has a lot but I'm totally okay with that. This book is the sixth in her Cooper Creek series, set in Oklahoma and featuring a ranching family. Gage Cooper wounded Layla Silver's heart back in high school and now he's home after surgery to his knee, injured in a bull riding arena. And soon as he's healed, he's heading back to that arena. Layla isn't falling for his charm again because her life is completely full, working two jobs to get the bills paid and raising her teenaged brother, who continues to get into trouble. She is barely making it and doesn't need any distractions.
I love Minton's books because she writes with heart thrown in. Her characters feel real somehow, her plots entirely believable and her wonderful dose of spirituality nourishes your soul. I absolutely adored this one and read it in just a few hours. I am off to read another now. I highly recommend this author.
I read my first book by Brenda Minton a few months ago and since then, I have determined to read all her books. That will take a while because she has a lot but I'm totally okay with that. This book is the sixth in her Cooper Creek series, set in Oklahoma and featuring a ranching family. Gage Cooper wounded Layla Silver's heart back in high school and now he's home after surgery to his knee, injured in a bull riding arena. And soon as he's healed, he's heading back to that arena. Layla isn't falling for his charm again because her life is completely full, working two jobs to get the bills paid and raising her teenaged brother, who continues to get into trouble. She is barely making it and doesn't need any distractions.
I love Minton's books because she writes with heart thrown in. Her characters feel real somehow, her plots entirely believable and her wonderful dose of spirituality nourishes your soul. I absolutely adored this one and read it in just a few hours. I am off to read another now. I highly recommend this author.
May 21, 2018
This is the 9th book I read by Brenda Minton. I'm sorry I stopped reading this story at chapter 3 because it didn't grab my interest.
December 19, 2016
Second read through...
This is a cute Christmas romance. I'm glad I picked it up again and read it.
27 year old Layla Silver lives in Dawson, Oklahoma, with her younger brother. Their parents have died and Layla is in charge of raising her younger brother. Layla has was born and raised in this town. She also grew up with Gage.
Gage Cooper is back in town after a bull riding competition. He had surgery on his knee and is taking a break from the rodeo to visit his family for the Holiday's. On his way back into town, he sees Layla and they spar with each other. Layla holds a grudge against Gage for actions he made during High School. Gage feels bad about his choices then and wants to make amends.
"Another fact about a bull headed straight at a guy, it made him want o fix things. His life had flashed before his eyes."
I felt the book left some loose ends untied. What was Gage gonna do for money? He had some from riding but then what? What of his knee? The details were missing.
Layla is a stubborn one. She struggles to keep her farm and family feed and taken care of. With Gage's help, Layla gets some much needed assistance and faith in those around her. "...you think Layla Silver is a rock unto herself. And when you think that way, then you aren't trusting the solid rock."
Overall, the book series may have an underlining theme of Granny Myrna Cooper playing matchmaker with her grandchildren, but this is just a guess since I haven't read all the books in the series. There are mentions of God in the book, mostly in the context of repentance and the emotions that go along with mistakes. I felt the ending was a big too fast...rushed. Layla was so set against Gage. I wanted more from the characters...wanted to know more about them. I liked how the story concentrated on the leads. I don't care for the cover. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy clean, Christian romances.
Content: Clean
Clean romance in a series. Christian tones. Cute, not overly brilliant.
I received a copy of the book from Netgalley.
This is a cute Christmas romance. I'm glad I picked it up again and read it.
27 year old Layla Silver lives in Dawson, Oklahoma, with her younger brother. Their parents have died and Layla is in charge of raising her younger brother. Layla has was born and raised in this town. She also grew up with Gage.
Gage Cooper is back in town after a bull riding competition. He had surgery on his knee and is taking a break from the rodeo to visit his family for the Holiday's. On his way back into town, he sees Layla and they spar with each other. Layla holds a grudge against Gage for actions he made during High School. Gage feels bad about his choices then and wants to make amends.
"Another fact about a bull headed straight at a guy, it made him want o fix things. His life had flashed before his eyes."
I felt the book left some loose ends untied. What was Gage gonna do for money? He had some from riding but then what? What of his knee? The details were missing.
Layla is a stubborn one. She struggles to keep her farm and family feed and taken care of. With Gage's help, Layla gets some much needed assistance and faith in those around her. "...you think Layla Silver is a rock unto herself. And when you think that way, then you aren't trusting the solid rock."
Overall, the book series may have an underlining theme of Granny Myrna Cooper playing matchmaker with her grandchildren, but this is just a guess since I haven't read all the books in the series. There are mentions of God in the book, mostly in the context of repentance and the emotions that go along with mistakes. I felt the ending was a big too fast...rushed. Layla was so set against Gage. I wanted more from the characters...wanted to know more about them. I liked how the story concentrated on the leads. I don't care for the cover. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy clean, Christian romances.
Content: Clean
Clean romance in a series. Christian tones. Cute, not overly brilliant.
I received a copy of the book from Netgalley.
August 27, 2013
My thoughts:
Layla has been trying to hold her family together and the farm. Her bother is a handful but she won't take any help from anyone. She wants to hold on to her pride. When Gage comes home and they see each other for the first time since school they both feel an electric shock. Gage was seeing her as a great person and Layla just wants to be left alone. To her astonishment Gage can get through to her brother and is making a difference. Can she put her views and thoughts aside and see where things can go?
I enjoyed the story. I wanted to see if Layla and Gage could get their act together and make things better for them both. I would like to read another book by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read this book for an honest review.
Layla has been trying to hold her family together and the farm. Her bother is a handful but she won't take any help from anyone. She wants to hold on to her pride. When Gage comes home and they see each other for the first time since school they both feel an electric shock. Gage was seeing her as a great person and Layla just wants to be left alone. To her astonishment Gage can get through to her brother and is making a difference. Can she put her views and thoughts aside and see where things can go?
I enjoyed the story. I wanted to see if Layla and Gage could get their act together and make things better for them both. I would like to read another book by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read this book for an honest review.
July 20, 2016
I'm like a lot of people. I have favorite authors that I read. Brenda Minton is one of them. I am a bookaholic. This story is such a sweet story. I love a knight in shining armor story and the hero in this book is no exception. Make the hero a cowboy and that's even better. Layla really needs someone looking out for her with her troubled brother and her mortgaged farm. Enter Gage. He really is the atypical hero. There is a scene in the story that I really love but because it would be sharing a secret, I won't. I really wish I had read this story before Christmas but the truth is, love has no season and this is a good book no matter when you read it! Awesome job, Brenda!
July 3, 2014
The cowboy's Christmas courtship
Even though this is a Christmas book I read it in July, you can enjoy a Cooper Creek book any time of the year . Gage comes home after getting hurt during bull riding , when he first gets home he sees Layla the one who he once broke her heart. She is raising her fifteen year old brother, who is going thru a bad stage. Gage tries to help her out but she keeps trying to push him away. I really loved this book and love the Cooper Creek series.
Even though this is a Christmas book I read it in July, you can enjoy a Cooper Creek book any time of the year . Gage comes home after getting hurt during bull riding , when he first gets home he sees Layla the one who he once broke her heart. She is raising her fifteen year old brother, who is going thru a bad stage. Gage tries to help her out but she keeps trying to push him away. I really loved this book and love the Cooper Creek series.
February 21, 2019
This was a lot better than the cover and title suggest. Faith in family, community, and God played a big role in this book. I always hesitate adding a Harlequin book to my goodreads list, but this one was not bad. No sex scenes, no profanity, just a wholesome story that portrays a young woman working two jobs, raising her teen-aged brother, and struggling to care for her small ranch. Sure - it was pretty predictable; boy and girl meet up, a few conflicts, boy and girl end up together. However, it was a nice refreshing read for a rainy night of relaxing.
May 29, 2019
Brenda Minton is another of those writers whose books I usually enjoy. This is another good, quick, safe read with an irresistible hero that provides a few hours of escape from a busy, sometimes stressful world.
March 9, 2020
Sweet story that has some aspects of a second chance type of love story. Although the two main characters were never in a relationship back in high school, there were some hard feelings due to Gage's actions in the past that affected Layla. This was an enjoyable story.
December 13, 2024
amazing
The stories keep getting better. There real to life tell a story of faith,family and friends. Again I need the Kleenex close for this one Enjoy and Thanks for the good work
The stories keep getting better. There real to life tell a story of faith,family and friends. Again I need the Kleenex close for this one Enjoy and Thanks for the good work
November 21, 2017
Great book! The series is an excellent one.
December 11, 2017
Two former schoolmates reunite during the holidays. He's looking to make amends for his past. She's one of the folks he hurt.
A nice holiday romance. Not cheesy or mushy.
A nice holiday romance. Not cheesy or mushy.
April 20, 2020
Another wonderful, heartfelt book!
You can go wrong with this series..each book is worth way more than 5 Gold Stars! Great faith filled stories!
You can go wrong with this series..each book is worth way more than 5 Gold Stars! Great faith filled stories!
May 28, 2023
Cute story where Gage helps Layla and love comes calling
December 17, 2023
Hoopla fun Christmas Romance
September 17, 2013
Meet the Characters~
"When a guy looked death in the face, in the form of a one-ton bull, it made him think about how he'd treated the people in his life."
Injured bullrider Gage Cooper headed back home to Dawson, Oklahoma, to recover. While he was recuperating, he intended to make things right with a few people, starting with Layla Silver. But, with his large family and a granny intent on marrying him off, he didn't plan to stay home long. Besides, he couldn't look at his blind brother without being angry at God.
"She was not a good judge of character. She was the person who kicked the dog out of the house for chewing up the shoes and then let him back in, thinking he wouldn't do it again."
Layla Silver had learned from a young age not to allow people to get too close. Her mother always hid her black eyes, and Layla assumed that's what people did: hid behind closed doors. So when her parents were killed in a car accident, she gave up dreams of college and a family of her own and assumed responsibility for her eight-year-old brother. Now he was a rebellious fifteen-year-old and she was worn out from working two jobs and feeling incredibly alone, but that didn't mean she could allow herself to fall for Gage just because he flashed that dazzling smile at her. She knew he hid a lot of anger behind that cocky grin. And besides, he never stuck around long.
"Layla was the kind of woman a man married. He made a habit of staying away from the marrying kind."
Sharing my thoughts~
What an intense opening scene between Layla and Gage. You know there's a history between them, but the author doesn't offer many details and that's just the way I like opening scenes. Gage stops to help Layla, and sees her like he hadn't before: strong, quiet, and never accepting help. Initially, he wants to help her because he feels he owes her, but somewhere along the way, his motivation changes into something deeper, something longer lasting.
What a love story! I enjoyed the progression, from Layla's high school crush and Gage's feeling that he had to right a wrong into something powerful and beautiful. Gage does such sweet things for Layla, and she can't help but fall in love with the changed man.
"...he wondered why all of a sudden, his life no longer fit. It felt like a favorite pair of boots that were suddenly too small."
I always like it when a romance runs deeper and treads into serious territory, and this one didn't disappoint. Gage found himself asking tough questions, like why his brother was blinded and Layla could never catch a break while he skipped through life with hardly a care.
Although this book has a holiday setting and title, I'd recommend The Cowboy's Christmas Courtship as a great read for anytime of the year!
Disclaimer: Sending a big thank you to Harlequin Love Inspired and NetGalley for providing me with an advance review copy of The Cowboy's Christmas Courtship. The opinions expressed in this review are my own, and I received no monetary compensation.
Have you read The Cowboy's Christmas Courtship? Do you agree with my review? What were your thoughts?
"When a guy looked death in the face, in the form of a one-ton bull, it made him think about how he'd treated the people in his life."
Injured bullrider Gage Cooper headed back home to Dawson, Oklahoma, to recover. While he was recuperating, he intended to make things right with a few people, starting with Layla Silver. But, with his large family and a granny intent on marrying him off, he didn't plan to stay home long. Besides, he couldn't look at his blind brother without being angry at God.
"She was not a good judge of character. She was the person who kicked the dog out of the house for chewing up the shoes and then let him back in, thinking he wouldn't do it again."
Layla Silver had learned from a young age not to allow people to get too close. Her mother always hid her black eyes, and Layla assumed that's what people did: hid behind closed doors. So when her parents were killed in a car accident, she gave up dreams of college and a family of her own and assumed responsibility for her eight-year-old brother. Now he was a rebellious fifteen-year-old and she was worn out from working two jobs and feeling incredibly alone, but that didn't mean she could allow herself to fall for Gage just because he flashed that dazzling smile at her. She knew he hid a lot of anger behind that cocky grin. And besides, he never stuck around long.
"Layla was the kind of woman a man married. He made a habit of staying away from the marrying kind."
Sharing my thoughts~
What an intense opening scene between Layla and Gage. You know there's a history between them, but the author doesn't offer many details and that's just the way I like opening scenes. Gage stops to help Layla, and sees her like he hadn't before: strong, quiet, and never accepting help. Initially, he wants to help her because he feels he owes her, but somewhere along the way, his motivation changes into something deeper, something longer lasting.
What a love story! I enjoyed the progression, from Layla's high school crush and Gage's feeling that he had to right a wrong into something powerful and beautiful. Gage does such sweet things for Layla, and she can't help but fall in love with the changed man.
"...he wondered why all of a sudden, his life no longer fit. It felt like a favorite pair of boots that were suddenly too small."
I always like it when a romance runs deeper and treads into serious territory, and this one didn't disappoint. Gage found himself asking tough questions, like why his brother was blinded and Layla could never catch a break while he skipped through life with hardly a care.
Although this book has a holiday setting and title, I'd recommend The Cowboy's Christmas Courtship as a great read for anytime of the year!
Disclaimer: Sending a big thank you to Harlequin Love Inspired and NetGalley for providing me with an advance review copy of The Cowboy's Christmas Courtship. The opinions expressed in this review are my own, and I received no monetary compensation.
Have you read The Cowboy's Christmas Courtship? Do you agree with my review? What were your thoughts?
December 1, 2016
Three stars: A pleasant holiday tale with a nice romance and plenty of warm holiday feels.
The story centers around a young woman, Layla, who has had a hard life. She lost her parents when she was nineteen so she gave up her dreams and returned home to care for her younger brother. Now days, she is struggling to make ends meet and with her brother who is a teenager. She is desperate since she doesn't know how she will keep a roof over their head, yet hat doesn't stop her from giving to others, especially during the holidays. Things change for Layla, when her old boyfriend from high school, Gage Cooper, returns home from the bull riding circuit for the holidays. Gage hurt her and he intends to make amends for his errant ways. What neither of them expect is for spark to fly.
What I Liked:
*I appreciated that this book had a strong focus on being kind to others, and I loved seeing Gage find ways to help Layla, and how Layla always gave so generously to others despite her circumstances. It is a perfect reminder for the holidays. Holidays should be about giving and goodwill to others and this book brought forth that message perfectly.
*I also loved the strong focus on family. I liked seeing how Layla took care of her brother even when things were tough. I liked the dynamic between Gage and his big, meddling family.
*There is a nice little romance, sweet and subtle and it never overtakes the plot. It takes its time to build and has a strong focus on friendship.
*I didn't realize this was a Christian romance going in, but I found that I actually enjoyed it even though I usually don't read Christian books.
It was a nice, light read for the holidays.
* I liked that this one had a nice little Epilogue that takes place two years down the road. It was nice to see how things settled out for everyone.
And The Not So Much:
*The one drawback I had with this one is that I didn't know that this was a Christian romance. The religious references aren't over the top, but they are there so if you aren't a fan of religion in your reading, this won't be for you.
*I was also not thrilled with the rather abrupt, whirlwind ending as far as the romance went. I wanted more depth and development and I felt the ending was rushed.
The Cowboy's Christmas Courtship is a nice holiday read. It has a strong, positive message that focuses on giving and goodwill toward others. I enjoyed watching these characters help one another and benefit from the kindness given. It has a sweet little romance that takes its time to build. The one niggle for me was that this was a Christian romance, which I didn't know going it. I still enjoyed it but be aware that there are some religious themes. Still if you are looking for something light that highlights the true spirit of the season, this is one to try.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
The story centers around a young woman, Layla, who has had a hard life. She lost her parents when she was nineteen so she gave up her dreams and returned home to care for her younger brother. Now days, she is struggling to make ends meet and with her brother who is a teenager. She is desperate since she doesn't know how she will keep a roof over their head, yet hat doesn't stop her from giving to others, especially during the holidays. Things change for Layla, when her old boyfriend from high school, Gage Cooper, returns home from the bull riding circuit for the holidays. Gage hurt her and he intends to make amends for his errant ways. What neither of them expect is for spark to fly.
What I Liked:
*I appreciated that this book had a strong focus on being kind to others, and I loved seeing Gage find ways to help Layla, and how Layla always gave so generously to others despite her circumstances. It is a perfect reminder for the holidays. Holidays should be about giving and goodwill to others and this book brought forth that message perfectly.
*I also loved the strong focus on family. I liked seeing how Layla took care of her brother even when things were tough. I liked the dynamic between Gage and his big, meddling family.
*There is a nice little romance, sweet and subtle and it never overtakes the plot. It takes its time to build and has a strong focus on friendship.
*I didn't realize this was a Christian romance going in, but I found that I actually enjoyed it even though I usually don't read Christian books.
It was a nice, light read for the holidays.
* I liked that this one had a nice little Epilogue that takes place two years down the road. It was nice to see how things settled out for everyone.
And The Not So Much:
*The one drawback I had with this one is that I didn't know that this was a Christian romance. The religious references aren't over the top, but they are there so if you aren't a fan of religion in your reading, this won't be for you.
*I was also not thrilled with the rather abrupt, whirlwind ending as far as the romance went. I wanted more depth and development and I felt the ending was rushed.
The Cowboy's Christmas Courtship is a nice holiday read. It has a strong, positive message that focuses on giving and goodwill toward others. I enjoyed watching these characters help one another and benefit from the kindness given. It has a sweet little romance that takes its time to build. The one niggle for me was that this was a Christian romance, which I didn't know going it. I still enjoyed it but be aware that there are some religious themes. Still if you are looking for something light that highlights the true spirit of the season, this is one to try.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
July 10, 2013
4 STARS
Gage Copper got injured in world finals bull riding. He decided he needed to come home and make amends for his past actions. Gage is the 11th child of 12 in his family.They are a big family. Rich in money and good health. They care about their neighbors. Gage has been angry for a couple of years since his brother went blind.
On his way home he sees Layla Silver trying to get her cows back into the through the fence and off of the road. Gage stops to help her even though he is in pain and still in leg brace and doctor told him to take it easy.
Gage knows that one of the biggest mistakes he has had in the past is with Layla. He needs to make it up to her. Layla does not want help especially Gages. He hurt her in high school.
Layla went to college for one semester than had to come home after her parents died to raise her younger brother Reese. Now Reese is a teenager and getting drunk, skipping school and not helping her. Layla is working two jobs plus taking care of the small herd of animals. She is still not making ends meet.
Her mother taught her not to share their troubles especially her father's drunken abuse. She was only 19 when she got custody of her brother. She has been praying for help but she does not want Gage's help.
Gage is determined to help Layla especially with her brother Reese when he sees him drunk. He takes Reese to work on his family' ranch and then he started to teach him to ride bulls.
This is a clean read. I liked how Gage ended up helping Layla when things got even worse for her. The characters were good. I could not think how crowded and hard it would be to raise 12 children. It was a good enjoyable story. Plot was believable and easy to follow.
I was given this ebook to read and asked to give honest review of it by Netgalley and Harlequin.
publication: September 17th 2013 by Harlequin Love Inspired 224 pages ISBN: 0373878435
October 24, 2013
My Review
I love this Christmas story!! I haven’t read any of the Cooper Creek series, but this was a great read without the other ones. Gage Cooper is in town for the holidays, and runs into Layla Silver. Layla has been making it just fine without anyone’s help, so when Gage tries to help, she’s not too happy with him. And Gage didn’t have a good background with Layla anyway, because he hurt her too much when they were in high school. That was ok though, because Gage wasn’t planning to stay around town long enough for anything to happen anyway. He was off for the bull rides as soon as his injury healed enough to start riding again.
I really liked Gage and Layla because they were so attracted to each other, and neither wanted to admit it! And I was so glad that Gage started giving Layla’s brother some attention, because it kept him out of trouble. But then that caused Gage and Layla to cross paths too much.
Brenda Minton weaves together a special story that will stick with you for a long time after you finish reading. Gage and Layla wormed their way into my heart, and just wouldn’t leave. I really enjoyed their story, with all of the tensions and problems they faced. But it turns out to be a beautiful story, one I know you will love! Just as much as I did.
I received this book from the publisher and
NetGalley to read and review. I was not
required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR,
Part 55.
I love this Christmas story!! I haven’t read any of the Cooper Creek series, but this was a great read without the other ones. Gage Cooper is in town for the holidays, and runs into Layla Silver. Layla has been making it just fine without anyone’s help, so when Gage tries to help, she’s not too happy with him. And Gage didn’t have a good background with Layla anyway, because he hurt her too much when they were in high school. That was ok though, because Gage wasn’t planning to stay around town long enough for anything to happen anyway. He was off for the bull rides as soon as his injury healed enough to start riding again.
I really liked Gage and Layla because they were so attracted to each other, and neither wanted to admit it! And I was so glad that Gage started giving Layla’s brother some attention, because it kept him out of trouble. But then that caused Gage and Layla to cross paths too much.
Brenda Minton weaves together a special story that will stick with you for a long time after you finish reading. Gage and Layla wormed their way into my heart, and just wouldn’t leave. I really enjoyed their story, with all of the tensions and problems they faced. But it turns out to be a beautiful story, one I know you will love! Just as much as I did.
I received this book from the publisher and
NetGalley to read and review. I was not
required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR,
Part 55.
July 21, 2013
The Cowboy’s Christmas Courtship is a good, clean romance. Gage Cooper returns home after suffering a bad injury while bull riding. The accident made him take a long, hard look at his life, and he realizes he needs to make amends for his past mistakes. The first person he sees when he gets back to town is Layla Silver.
When they were teenagers, Layla had a crush on Gage. Gage appeared to like Layla, but he really wanted to date her friend. Gage went on to become a rodeo star, and Layla had to quit college to raise her brother after their parents died. Now that Gage has returned, he decides that she is going to be the first person he helps. Layla is working hard to take care of her brother, Brandon, but he is always in trouble due to his drinking and refuses to listen to anything she has to say. Gage desperately wants to help, and Layla really needs help, but she is so stubborn and doesn’t want his help or anyone else’s.
This was an enjoyable book. Gage and Layla were both trying their best to deal with the issues they were having. Layla was a stubborn, independent woman; and Gage was a kind, strong, man who was angry with God because of things that had happened. I loved their interactions with one another, as well as the interactions with Gage’s family members.
*I received my copy from Netgalley and Harlequin in exchange for an honest review.
When they were teenagers, Layla had a crush on Gage. Gage appeared to like Layla, but he really wanted to date her friend. Gage went on to become a rodeo star, and Layla had to quit college to raise her brother after their parents died. Now that Gage has returned, he decides that she is going to be the first person he helps. Layla is working hard to take care of her brother, Brandon, but he is always in trouble due to his drinking and refuses to listen to anything she has to say. Gage desperately wants to help, and Layla really needs help, but she is so stubborn and doesn’t want his help or anyone else’s.
This was an enjoyable book. Gage and Layla were both trying their best to deal with the issues they were having. Layla was a stubborn, independent woman; and Gage was a kind, strong, man who was angry with God because of things that had happened. I loved their interactions with one another, as well as the interactions with Gage’s family members.
*I received my copy from Netgalley and Harlequin in exchange for an honest review.
December 5, 2013
Hott Synopsis:
Layla Silver is in way over her head. Has been for years. She’s so afraid of losing everything she has left she can’t see that it’s slipping through her fingers.
It’s been almost eight years since her parents died leaving her to leave college to take care of her brother. Now he’s fifteen and bordering on alcoholism just like their father and she’s drowning in debt trying to keep a roof over their heads.
Then in walks Gage Cooper. The only man to ever break her heart is back and trying to make amends. Layla desperately wants to send him on his way but doesn’t even have the fight left in her to do that… does she have enough to protect her heart?
Hott Review:
What I liked: This is probably my favorite Christmas book so far and definitely my favorite Christmas Christian Fiction. I loved the characters and the plot & writing felt so real I wanted to help! Besides, gotta love those cowboys ;) !
What I didn’t like: Now I have to go buy all of the others in this series!!!
More…
Author: Brenda Minton
Source: Love Inspired via Netgalley
Grade: A+
Ages: 15+
Steam: YA
Series: Cooper Creek #6
Layla Silver is in way over her head. Has been for years. She’s so afraid of losing everything she has left she can’t see that it’s slipping through her fingers.
It’s been almost eight years since her parents died leaving her to leave college to take care of her brother. Now he’s fifteen and bordering on alcoholism just like their father and she’s drowning in debt trying to keep a roof over their heads.
Then in walks Gage Cooper. The only man to ever break her heart is back and trying to make amends. Layla desperately wants to send him on his way but doesn’t even have the fight left in her to do that… does she have enough to protect her heart?
Hott Review:
What I liked: This is probably my favorite Christmas book so far and definitely my favorite Christmas Christian Fiction. I loved the characters and the plot & writing felt so real I wanted to help! Besides, gotta love those cowboys ;) !
What I didn’t like: Now I have to go buy all of the others in this series!!!
More…
Author: Brenda Minton
Source: Love Inspired via Netgalley
Grade: A+
Ages: 15+
Steam: YA
Series: Cooper Creek #6
August 19, 2013
In the middle of a heatwave in August, I was REALLY feeling the need for some Christmas Cheer! (Lucky for me? Netgalley had a TON of it available!) I started with this story, needing something uplifting - which is exactly what the Love Inspired line is for!!
I loved this story, I loved the soft religious hints (which occasionally Love Inspired doesn't take the subtle route!) and even more? I loved Gage and Layla! I loved that it starts as Gage making amends for his actions as a kid, but turned into so much more! I loved how he instantly stepped in to be a male role model for Layla's brother Brandon (which I normally hate insta-anything! But it worked int his one!)
The Cowboy's Christmas Courtship is a super sweet, super quick romance that will have you wishing it was time to throw on a scarf and decorate your Christmas Tree! (And it'll satisfy any need for a Bad-Boy Cowboy that you may have as well!
I loved this story, I loved the soft religious hints (which occasionally Love Inspired doesn't take the subtle route!) and even more? I loved Gage and Layla! I loved that it starts as Gage making amends for his actions as a kid, but turned into so much more! I loved how he instantly stepped in to be a male role model for Layla's brother Brandon (which I normally hate insta-anything! But it worked int his one!)
The Cowboy's Christmas Courtship is a super sweet, super quick romance that will have you wishing it was time to throw on a scarf and decorate your Christmas Tree! (And it'll satisfy any need for a Bad-Boy Cowboy that you may have as well!
July 31, 2013
I was lucky to be able to receive an ARC copy of this wonderful book from Netgally in exchange for an honest review. I am from the south so sometimes when I read books they are a let down to how people truly are in the some parts of the south. In this book you find a bull riding Texas charmer, Gage who has come home to after being hurt. Like most of us coming home sometimes means having to deal with things or people from our past and sometimes like Gage we are forced to find a way to right those we have wronged. Unfortunately this can not always be done with an I'm sorry, especially when you are a charmer by nature. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a clean romance that can still give you butterflies and warm your heart.
December 8, 2013
It's always great to reconnect with old favorites, and the Cooper family is definitely that.
Gage and Layla were both wonderful characters. Brandon is a great character too. Typical teenager. Say the wrong thing to them and they latch on and ride it as long as they can and keep reminding you of your mistake.
Sometimes life throws you a bad deal and then the bad just piles on. And soon you are drowning. Then along comes a cowboy to rescue you, but pride gets in the way and soon he's drowning too. It's a good thing God is in control and can pull us from the depths!
It was fun to watch Gage go from repentant to can't live without you. And Layla finally realizes that she can't do it all on her own. This was a great story. So glad there are a few more Coopers to go!
Gage and Layla were both wonderful characters. Brandon is a great character too. Typical teenager. Say the wrong thing to them and they latch on and ride it as long as they can and keep reminding you of your mistake.
Sometimes life throws you a bad deal and then the bad just piles on. And soon you are drowning. Then along comes a cowboy to rescue you, but pride gets in the way and soon he's drowning too. It's a good thing God is in control and can pull us from the depths!
It was fun to watch Gage go from repentant to can't live without you. And Layla finally realizes that she can't do it all on her own. This was a great story. So glad there are a few more Coopers to go!
September 11, 2013
Layla is working hard to keep her finances inline and her teenage brother out of trouble. Her brother is getting himself caught up in trouble and is hanging with the wrong crowd, she doesn’t ask for help because she of her pride.
Gage returns to his hometown to recover from surgery and spend time with his large family, but when he see Layla again the chemistry is hard to miss. Gage starts to help Layla out but she believes it is only because he feels bad about breaking her heart years ago. Can a person ever forget a broken heart?
This book was absolutely beautiful! It was easy to read, and fall in love with all the characters!
ARC Provided by NetGallery in exchange for a honest review.
Gage returns to his hometown to recover from surgery and spend time with his large family, but when he see Layla again the chemistry is hard to miss. Gage starts to help Layla out but she believes it is only because he feels bad about breaking her heart years ago. Can a person ever forget a broken heart?
This book was absolutely beautiful! It was easy to read, and fall in love with all the characters!
ARC Provided by NetGallery in exchange for a honest review.
September 17, 2013
A wonderfully gentle, heart-warming read, The Cowboy's Christmas Courtship really delivered. Evidently this book is part of a series set in Cooper Creek, which I have not read, but I didn't feel at all lost or confused. The setting and characters were so charming though, I will look for the rest of the series. The theme of bad boy redeemed by love is well crafted. This book is part of The Love Inspired collection, but morals and values are addressed subtly and appropriately. It was a gentle read, but a satisfying one.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
July 23, 2016
A Cowboy’s Christmas Courtship by Brenda Minton is a super sweet novel that all holiday and romance lovers will especially adore. This is probably my favorite Christmas book I’ve read yet, actually!
A Cowboy’s Christmas Courtship begins predictably enough: cowboy Gage Cooper is coming home for Christmas when he runs (nearly literally) across Layla Silver and her cows on his way to his family’s ranch. She doesn’t want his help; he’s insisting he give it anyway, and thus begins a book filled with headbutting and sexual tension.
Please read my full review at The Bawdy Book Blog.
A Cowboy’s Christmas Courtship begins predictably enough: cowboy Gage Cooper is coming home for Christmas when he runs (nearly literally) across Layla Silver and her cows on his way to his family’s ranch. She doesn’t want his help; he’s insisting he give it anyway, and thus begins a book filled with headbutting and sexual tension.
Please read my full review at The Bawdy Book Blog.
April 22, 2014
"The Cowboy's Christmas Courtship" was absolutely fantastic and a wonderful seasonal read! I loved Gage and Layla; they were perfect together, even if they were both a little stubborn about the idea at first. The entire Cooper family is just extroadinary and I absolutely love reading this series. It's exciting to read and learn about each child of the Cooper family, whether they be adopted or biological. I also love how Brenda Minton always manages to please me with her amazing conclusions in her novels, and this one certainly did NOT disappoint. I can't wait to read the next book!
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