Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Heart of a Cowboy

Rate this book
Four award-winning authors offer a unique historical romance in this collection.

Hearts in Pursuit
By Susan Page Davis
Can Abby and Sam fight their way through the danger and violence and live long enough to find love?
Texas, 1880. Abby and Sam pursue a band of raiders to rescue their younger siblings. Abby’s father is gravely injured, and she knows she can’t return home without her little sister. Sam’s father wants to thwart his powerful Mexican father-in-law and stop him from taking Pablo to live with him south of the border, but once he has Pablo back, will he continue the search for Abby’s sister? Abby and Sam feel it is up to them to keep the recovery mission on track. Though romance seems to have no place on the trail of danger and violence, can this journey draws them closer?

Hearts Reunited
By Miralee Ferrell
Mercedes Taylor is determined to save her ranch after her father’s death, but she won’t let anyone help—especially not her old friend Jesse Townsend who deserted her so many years ago. The pain his family inflicted on hers goes too deep for her pride to forgive.

After riding the trail for five years, Jesse Townsend returns to his family property to find the girl he’d once loved all grown up—and more prickly than he’s ever seen her. After his mare is seriously injured, he has no choice but to call on Mercedes—the local animal doctor—for help.

Add the attractive banker’s daughter who Jesse seems smitten with, and trouble starts brewing. Can Mercedes and Jesse set aside the old family feud and find their way back to the love that had only started to blossom when Jesse left?

Have Dress, Will Marry
By Yvonne Lehman

Julie Hayes must escape from Wildcat Mountain. Her mother died, leaving her with a step-father she doesn’t trust.
James, who she thought would be her means of escape, is gone. Her only hope is to approach the cowboy, saddleback preacher Timothy Sullivan, when he makes his circuit into Wildcat Mountain. She asks, “Will you marry me?” He says, “Yes, of course,” expecting to perform a ceremony for her and James.
Believing Julie is in danger, Timothy takes her to the Sullivan Ranch. Suspicions abound when she’s accused of stealing a horse and jewels.
While Julie is trying to become the kind of woman a preacher would want to marry, Tim is trying to realize his ranching dreams, which don’t include being a circuit riding preacher.

The Hand-Me-Down Husband
By Vickie McDonough

Ellen Stewart despises Lance Garrett. If not for him dashing into Isabelle’s life and stealing her heart and filling her head with his dreams, her little sister would still be alive and safe at home. When she receives Lance’s letter requesting help, Ellen rushes to Silver Springs, intent on taking charge of her young niece. A rugged ranch is no place for a motherless baby. But when she realizes the depth of Lance’s despair, she can’t leave him alone. Though everything within her wants to flee back to the big city, something makes her stay. Tessa needs her father, for one—and he needs her. Ellen knows what it’s like to lose all she’d dreamed of. When local church members make a stink about Ellen living at Lance’s ranch, they are forced to marry. Ellen didn’t want a hand-me-down husband, but could their marriage be God’s will for them both?

267 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 1, 2016

40 people are currently reading
103 people want to read

About the author

Susan Page Davis

176 books528 followers
FROM AUTHOR'S WEBSITE: I'm a native of central Maine, and grew up on a small farm with a wonderful mom and dad, three sisters and a brother. Most of my books take place in small towns, many of them in Maine.

My husband, Jim, and I moved to his birth state, Oregon, for a while after we were married, but decided to move back to Maine and be near my family. It allowed our six children to grow up feeling close to their cousins and grandparents, and some of Jim's family have even moved to Maine!

Our children are all home-schooled. When Jim retired from his vocation as an editor at a daily newspaper, we moved from Maine to Kentucky.

I've always loved reading, history, and horses. These things come together in several of my historical books.
Another longtime hobby of mine is genealogy, which has led me down many fascinating paths. I'm proud to be a DAR member! Some of Jim's and my quirkier ancestors have inspired fictional characters.

For many years I worked for the Central Maine Morning Sentinel as a freelancer. This experience was a great help in developing fictional characters and writing realistic scenes. I also published nonfiction articles in several magazines and had several short stories appear in Woman's World, Grit, and Alfred Hitchcock's Mystery Magazine.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
55 (50%)
4 stars
29 (26%)
3 stars
17 (15%)
2 stars
5 (4%)
1 star
2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for Lynda.
415 reviews23 followers
July 14, 2016
The Heart of a Cowboy Historical Novella Collection is a set of four novellas that takes me back in time while not requiring a huge commitment to get into each story. Each tale is completely standalone but they are all linked through similar settings and time periods, and by the romance incorporated into each plot.

Despite their similarities, each story is also very different and often has different focuses. One story shows the necessity of forgiveness of past hurts to move forward in life while another explores the idea of embracing God’s calling on each life rather than doing what others assume is appropriate. Several of the novellas are suspenseful, at least in part, but each of them has a unique flavor and voice coming from the various authors who contribute to the collection.

I really enjoy the historical details included; it helps to place me within the story rather than leaving me an outside observer to the events. My favorite tidbit out of the collection is that proper ladies never indicate they have limbs beneath their skirts in mixed company. It makes me chuckle a little—every era in history must have some rules that seem silly to future generations about how women and men should behave with and toward each other.

I recommend this collection to readers who enjoy western stories of just about any kind; the set is so varied that I truly believe that at least one, if not all, of the stories will capture the imagination of readers who like tales set in the untamed lands of the past.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for this honest review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Tina .
781 reviews
February 11, 2016
Heart of a Cowboy*****
by Miralee Ferrell, Yvonne Lehman, Vickie McDonough, & Susan Page Davis

-Hearts in Pursuit by Susan Page Davis
Southern Texas..1880....
Abigail Bunter's father has been shot by kidnapers who took her younger sister, 14 year-old Ellen and a neighbor's young boy, 7 year-old Pablo Hardy—to take him to live with his grandfather in Mexico. Mr. Hardy, his son Sam and three of his men stop by Abby's home to see if she had seen any strangers. Abby informs him they took her sister too and went along to help find and bring the children back. It is not an easy ride and emotions are high, hoping—and lots of prayer—to rescue the children before they cross the border to Mexico. Danger awaits them, shoot-out, daring rescue of Pablo but what of Ellen? Where is she? A huge Jaguar-cat adds more tension to the already frayed nerves. Will Pablo's father continue to search for Ellen once he has his son back? In the midst of the danger and violence, is it possible for love to bloom? This story certainly kept me on the edge of my seat, really enjoyed it.

-Hearts Reunited by Miralee Ferrell
Tucson, Arizona....1880's
After her father's death, Mercedes Taylor learns the ranch is in more debt than she originally thought but is determined to save it....without help from others—especially not her former friend and closest neighbor, Jesse Townsend. Jesse has been away for five years but has returned to take over his family home after his father dies. Asking Mercedes—the local “veterinarian of sorts”—to help his seriously injured, pregnant mare is difficult as their fathers had a falling-out many years ago and was never mended. Will she help Jesse or will her stubborn pride get the best of her? They both learn that everything between their fathers was not as they thought, resulting in misunderstandings that could have been avoided. Can Jesse and Mercedes get past the past and learn to trust again—maybe fall in love...again? This is a cute story, showing how misunderstandings, jumping to conclusions without the facts can bring heartache and loss. Forgiveness and restoration is possible if they let go of their stubborn pride and allow healing to take place. Enjoyed the story very much.

-Have Dress, Will Marry by Yvonne Lehman
Sullivan Ranch near Rolling Hills, Kentucky....
Julie Hayes is desperate, she must get away from Wildcat Mountain and step-father she doesn't trust. But how will she get away and where will she go that is safe? She comes up with a plan—she asks Timothy Sullivan, cowboy, circuit-riding saddleback preacher—to marry her when he comes on his next circuit through. Before he thinks, he says, “yes, of course”. Timothy is taken back at first, then figures she wants him to perform the ceremony for her and James, not marry her himself...or does she? After Julie literally falls in his lap from a tree while running away, he finally believes she is in danger and takes her home to Sullivan Ranch where she will be safe. But what of his heart? Trouble follows when Julie is suspected of stealing jewels and a horse. Timothy's little brother is endearing but likes to eavesdrop and then spreading the story, filling in parts that he concluded from what he heard. Of course, this causes more confusion and misunderstandings between Julie, Timothy and his family. Has Timothy lost his heart to a thief? Will Julie be sent to jail or will the truth come out before it is too late? I loved Timothy's wise, godly grandmother, her faith and trust in God's plans and even in Julie. God has a calling for each of them—and us—and not always what others feel it should be.

-The Hand-Me-Down Husband by Vickie McDonough
Silver Springs, Texas...1885....
Ellen Stewart arrives in Texas planning to take her 1-year-old niece, Tessa back to St. Louis where she will be safer. She believes her deceased sister, Isabelle would still be alive if she had remained there. Will her brother-in-law, Lance Garrett allow her to take Tessa? Lance's letter requesting her help with Tessa fits right in with her plans—or so she hopes. Lance has struggled keeping the ranch going while caring for his baby girl. Taking Tessa on a horse riding the range and working with cattle is rather dangerous, but what choice does Lance have? Weeks after Ellen arrived, her father shows up at the door determined to take her back to St. Louis. Surprisingly Ellen doesn't want to leave. Will her strong-willed father force her to return? What of Tessa, who will care for her if she leaves? Lance doesn't want Ellen to leave either. Ellen's father informs them there is talk in town about the living arrangements with unmarried and unchaperoned Ellen staying in Lance's home (I had a feeling that would happen given it's 1885). His solution is for them to marry. Is that God's plan all along? Will Lance and Ellen find love? This is a cute, heartwarming story with some twists and turns and surprise endings. Little Tessa captured my heart.

~I received a copy of this book for my honest review~
Profile Image for Edward Arrington.
1,179 reviews12 followers
February 4, 2016
I love cowboy stories so I enjoyed this collection of novellas. Although I generally prefer full-length novels, the nice thing about novellas is that you can usually read one straight through in one sitting.

Hearts in Pursuit by Susan Page Davis was a nail-biter because Mexican bandits had kidnapped a young boy from his father to take him to his grandfather in Mexico. They also took a young female teenager who was in the vicinity with her father. The father and brother of the boy, the sister of the girl, and several others who struck out to attempt to bring the children back were in constant danger of being discovered at any moment. The risk to the children grew the closer their captors got to the Mexican border. I could feel the mounting tension. What would they do if the Mexicans made it into Mexico? Would they ever find them there or be able to get them back home if they succeeded in rescuing them? It was a lively, action-packed story that will keep you reading.

Hearts Reunited by Miralee Ferrell was an exciting story because the hero and heroine had once been best friends and lost touch due to an issue that had arisen between their fathers. The young man had only returned home after getting word that his father had died and he was needed to run the ranch. How was he ever going to face the young lady with whom he had been friends most of his earlier life? The falling out between their fathers seemed to have permanently shattered their friendship. What about the banker who shared too much information with his daughter, who in turn didn’t have the good sense to control her tongue? As a retired banker, I was drawn in by that situation, especially since the daughter was beautiful and seemed interested in the cowboy. I kept wondering if she would learn to keep her mouth shut. It captured my interest from beginning to end.

Have Dress Will Marry by Yvonne Lehman kept the blood pumping as the young woman from the mountains tries to escape a step-father who was extremely controlling and lazy. She made a run for it and literally fell into the arms of the cowboy-preacher. This story was serious yet funny as there seemed to be a lot of miscommunication between the woman, the cowboy, and his family. The younger brother of the cowboy seemed to be very good at eavesdropping and then helping to spread information without knowing the full story. He had a good heart but stayed in trouble and continued to cause trouble for the young woman because of his youthful zest to be in the middle of whatever was going on.

The Hand-Me-Down Husband by Vickie McDonough had some interesting twists as the heroine arrives in Texas from St. Louis expecting to convince her brother-in-law to let her take his and her sister’s one-year-old daughter back to St. Louis to raise. He is not about to let someone else take his baby girl to raise. I found it very interesting to read about how he had managed to work on his ranch while taking care of his baby. Can you imagine carrying a one-year-old on horseback while working with cattle and riding the range? Wow! Was he crazy or what? Things really took a turn when his father-in-law shows up determined to take his oldest daughter back to St. Louis. The man did not want his youngest daughter to marry the cowboy and now he wants to take the oldest one back home. You will have to read it to see how that goes.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Bhriv.
604 reviews27 followers
May 8, 2016
Hearts in Pursuit, written by Susan Page Davis, is a delightful read. Davis starts us out in the midst of a kidnapping. Pablo, a young boy, has been kidnapped by his Mexican grandfather and in the midst of the kidnapping they also took Ellen, a neighbor girl. Pablo’s father comes to find out if the neighbors had heard the kidnappers going by on their horses and finds that Ellen’s father has been shot too. Abby, Ellen’s sister, steps up to go find her with Pablo’s father and brother, Sam. Can they find these two young children who have been kidnapped? Will they get to them before they cross over to Mexico and be lost forever? Loved the characters of Abby and Sam. Lovely read!

Hearts Reunited written by Miralee Ferrell, is a sweet story. Jesse is a true cowboy that comes home after his father has passed away to find his neighbor, Mercedes, all grown up from the 16 year old girl that he left five years ago. Unfortunately, their fathers had a long standing argument and it passed on to their childhood friendship, ending it abruptly. Circumstances brought the two together again over their two ranches and I loved the way that Ferrell took the characters to a new level by not allowing them to stay argumentative just because it’s been that way for years. I loved the character Mercedes as she was extremely tender hearted and caring toward the animals of the neighboring ranches and of the people that she came in contact with.

Have Dress, Will Marry, written by Yvonne Lehman, is a fun story! Preacher Timothy is filling in for his grandfather as a circuit preacher because he died suddenly. The first Sunday he noticed Julie, but he thought she had a love interest. Then one day she comes to him with a proposal, for him to marry her. He thought she wanted him to marry her to someone else…but then did she actually mean for HIM to marry her?! Then suddenly she falls into his arms and that is when the fun starts. No, she couldn’t possibly want him to marry her, but rather she needed him as protection for a serious situation in her life…but what was that situation?! It’s a fun read to see the confusion and yet the clarification of the situation resolve.

Hand-Me-Down Husband, written by Vickie McDonough, is a delightful story. Issie, from a well-to-do family inSt. Louis, ran away from her family and married Lance, a rancher in Silver Spring, TX. Unfortunately she was caught in a storm and was killed. While Lance was a great father to their daughter who was just a year old, he was having problems taking care of her and taking care of the ranch. In order to get by, he wrote Issies older sister, Ellen, to see if she would be able to come visit and help with Tessa, his daughter. Ellen grew up in the same wealthy home, but she loved to cook and take care of the home so when she arrived in Silver Springs, she was excited to take care of Tessa and the home. Lance didn’t expect quiet reserved Ellen to get along so well with he and Tessa…he never expected to find her so easy to get along with. I loved that Ellen’s character was so eager to learn the experiences of the ranch! She was the opposite of the vivacious Issie, yet she was constant and dependable. Loved the way McDonough portrayed Ellen!

I was gifted this book in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Betti.
1,381 reviews36 followers
March 10, 2016
Hearts In Pursuit

By Susan Page Davis

Texas in 1880 was a rancher’s heaven, as long as there was no drought. Neighbors were few and far between but visits were welcome whenever they had a chance to get together. The border with Mexico was far enough away that caballeros were not of any real concern for the ranchers, or so they thought. Caring nothing for those caught in the crossfire, Don Hernandez has decided his grandson, Pablo, shall come and live with him. Unfortunately one rancher is shot and his daughter, Ellen, is kidnapped as well. Join the small group of ranchers as they track the ruthless caballeros, hoping to safely rescue the young boy as well as the girl.

Hearts Reunited

By Marilee Ferrell

Arizona, 1880s How many years are lost by people holding grudges? Jesse and Mercedes grew up on neighboring ranches - helping with the breeding and raising of horses. An undetected illness in one horse had resulted in the death of several of the best horses Jesse's father had. But was this really a planned attack by the neighbor or was it an unfortunate situation for both ranchers? Since both fathers had passed on, was it possible that this 'feud' could end and neighbors could once more be friends?

Have Dress, Will Marry

By Yvonne Lehman

Kentucky, 1892

Julie Hayes had always wondered why some questions should only be limited to men. This once, she decided she needed to be bold - but could she and what would the ramifications be if she was? Since her predicament couldn't get any worse, she decided to be brave. Packing up the most important things in her life, she left for church. What would the young circuit-riding cowboy preacher accept her offer?

The Hand-Me-Down Husband

By Vickie McDonough

Texas, 1885 Ellen Stewart has arrived in Silver Springs with the intention of taking her one year old niece back to St. Louis with her. After all, how could a young rancher take care of his young daughter as well as all his other responsibilities since his wife, her sister Issie, had passed away? Join Ellen, a pampered daughter with plenty of servants, as she learns to take care of a house, wash diapers and perfects her cooking skills. Will she become so comfortable in Silver Springs that returning to St. Louis sounds less and less like a good idea?




Profile Image for Loraine.
3,456 reviews
July 5, 2016
This book is a compilation of novellas by four individual authors. The were easy-to-read, sweet, Western romances. As usual, you can't really develop a deep storyline in a novella but each had an enjoyable cowboy and someone with problems (usually a lady). The faith thread tied the four novellas together as characters faced hard choices and waited for God's answers.

Hearts in Pursuit by Susan Page Davis
Southern Texas..1880....
I loved Abby's braveness, gumption, and caring for others. Sam was the perfect white knight jumping in to rescue his brother and her sister.

Hearts Reunited by Miralee Ferrell
Tucson, Arizona....1880's
Mercedes Taylor was not the typical western woman of the 1880's. Running her father's ranch after she died, she was afraid to tackle anything and had a gift for treating wounded animals. She had a hard time forgiving her neighbor, Jesse Townsend, for things he supposedly said in the past. Forgiveness and understand was a great theme in this novella.

Have Dress, Will Marry by Yvonne Lehman
Sullivan Ranch near Rolling Hills, Kentucky...
Julie Hayes set out on her own to get away from her controlling stepfather after her mother's death. She has her mom's wedding dress and all she needs is a husband to keep her safe from her stepfather. The Sullivan Family was so endearing with each of their different personalities. It was interesting to see how Julie adapted to a caring, loving, understanding family so different from what she know. Finding a husband and mending things with her stepfather bring a nice conclusion to this novella.

The Hand-Me-Down Husband by Vickie McDonough
Silver Springs, Texas...1885..
This was probably my favorite as I loved the way Ellen Stewart developed in confidence and caring as she played mom to her dead sister's daughter. Lance Garrett was the perfect gentleman cowboy; hardworking and dedicated to his ranch and his daughter. I particularly liked the surprise ending on this one.

I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

Profile Image for Beverly Cheevers.
12 reviews6 followers
June 13, 2016
My life is so disjointed nowadays that novellas seem to be the way to go for me. As such, this collection is/was fantastically appropriate. So many other reviews have given plot synopsis, so I'll just comment on the reading. Great characters (well developed, likeable, relatable); interesting and varied storylines, each with their own twist; and beautifully detailed but succinct descriptions of the people and settings that made it easy to become immersed in the tales and imagine being there myself.

I began reading this book because I'm a fan of Miralee Ferrell; my youngest daughter and I read A Horse For Kate and loved it, and so I was intrigued to see how she would write an adult romance. I loved it! Her dialogue in Hearts Reunited is so realistic and natural, and I appreciated the way her characters, Jesse and Mercedes, worked through old and new prejudices and misunderstandings to help each other through new problems and to resolve their differences. There was warmth, humor, clean romance, and a few surprises without nasty, mean, manipulative characters being given the spotlight. In fact, that is true of all of these stories. Miralee is very good at moving the story along without timeline gaps/leaps that seem to puncture many romances I've read.

I then read Susan Page Davis's Hearts in Pursuit, and found a suspenseful, well-told tale with more likeable characters. The action seems to drive this story, but I still like the way the relationship between Abby and Sam is fleshed out and how it grows naturally through their hazardous ordeal.

I have yet to read the other two, but I am confident I will enjoy them as well. The two I've completed have been well worth the time, and the reviews I've read tell me the best may be yet to come! I highly recommend this excellent book for anyone who enjoys clean romance, cowboy life and times, and engaging narrative.

I was provided a free copy of the eBook by Miralee Ferrell for my honest review.
Profile Image for Linda.
Author 61 books650 followers
May 23, 2016
Hearts in Pursuit by Susan Page Davis: Set in 1880, Hearts in Pursuit tells the story of Abigail Bunter and Sam Hardy whose siblings are abducted by Sam’s grandfather. It is a race against the clock as the two must catch up with the kidnappers before they cross the Mexican border.

Hearts Reunited by Marilee Ferrell: The last person Mercedes Taylor expects to walk back into her life and save her is Jesse Townsend. Not after he deserted her all those years ago. But the bank has called in her loan, the drought is killing her crops, and no one is buying her horses.

Have Dress, Will Marry by Yvonne Lehman: Julie Hayes flees from her stepfather whose illegal activities threaten Julie’s reputation and inheritance. If she’s married, the man will have no recourse against her. The perfect candidate seems to be the new circuit preacher, Timothy Sullivan.

The Hand-Me-Down Husband by Vickie McDonough: Ellen Stewart is a wealthy socialite in St. Louis, but when her sister dies during a tornado, Ellen heads to Texas to help her brother-in-law with her infant niece. She has her hands full with cooking, cleaning, and caring for Tessa. Then her father arrives demanding that Ellen return home.

I rarely read stories set in the Old West, so my knowledge of the era is limited. Each of these stories used real-life dialogue and vivid description to set the stage and further my understanding of the time period. I was quickly immersed in dusty trails and tumbleweed, as each story started off with a bang. The characters were flawed, yet likeable, and I found myself routing for them as they struggled with decisions and everyday living during a difficult point in history. I enjoyed all the novellas, but my favorites were Hearts in Pursuit and The Hand-Me-Down Husband.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Ausjenny.
397 reviews
March 23, 2016
I was given this book free for an honest review.

This book contains 4 novella's each featuring cowboys.
The first had me from the very beginning. In fact I could see it as a movie, a true western. Abby's younger sister Ellen and Sam's younger brother Pablo are taken by Mexican Raiders planning to take them to Mexico. I could see the story playing out as a movie and loved Abby's strength and courage. This story was a great start to the novella.

The second book features Mercedes and Jesse childhood friends who due to an incident led to the families becoming estranged. We see Jesse return to his ranch needing Mercedes help. We then see the struggle of being former friends with still having feelings for each other and how they deal with it.

Book Three features Julie and Timothy. Julie is stuck on living on a mountain with her step father and asks Brother Timothy to help her in an unconventional way. Timothy is the circuit pastor who wants to be a rancher. Julie learns what a real family is like when she meets Timothy's family but there are issues with trust and accusations by her step father.

Book four features Ellen and Lance. Ellen has gone to help Lance look after her niece after the death of her sister. She goes to help wanting to take her niece back to St. Louis with her but see the love Lance has for Tessa. I love how Ellen and her sister were so different and how she is able to help Lance and in turn learn more about herself and that she does have a purpose.

All in all this is a good collection of novellas which I would highly recommend.
413 reviews1 follower
March 31, 2016
I enjoyed a fast-moving collection of 4 cowboy romances.
Abby and Sam are chasing kidnappers involving a very tense family circle in Hearts in Pursuit. Lots of suspense, adventure and romance found here, which was what interested me in the story.
In Hearts Reunited, Mercedes and Jesse tackle their turbulent family history to save her ranch, but there is tension resulting from their personal romantic history. Lots of strong wills in these characters, which made a great story for me.
Have Dress, Will Marry introduces Timothy and Julie, polar opposites. I liked the strong-minded characters who are each looking for satisfaction in their life and jobs. The general theme running through these novellas is family turmoil and distrust along with unexpected romance.
The last novella, The Hand-Me-Down Husband, was my favorite because I really liked Ellen and Lance. Lance was a very kind, considerate rancher. I think kindness in a person trumps all other qualities. Ellen was a strong lady who stood up to those who tried to control her life and was also open to new adventures in her life.
I thought the general theme running through all these novellas is family turmoil and distrust along with unexpected romance. Who doesn't have some family turmois and wonder how others solve these problems. I highly recommend this collection for the adventure, romance, varied personalities, romance, and I really enjoy cowboy fiction. Enjoy!


Profile Image for Kathy Heare Watts.
6,972 reviews175 followers
March 11, 2016
STRENGTH, FAITH, AND LOVE
Each of these four stories has challenges, faith in God and strong people carving out a future. The plot is each different and keep the pages turning with a great cast of characters, heartwarming stories that offer hope and happiness.

Hearts in Pursuit By Susan Page Davis
How far will you go to rescue someone you love? This sweet story shares that special love of a family, one sister going to rescue her younger sister. Along the adventure, Sam recognizes his feelings for Abby. Will they have a chance for a future?

Hearts Reunited By Miralee Ferrell
Pride, anger, bitter feeling, family feuds, it all can be repaired when giving your cares over to God. From things in childhood to adulthood, years and maturity can make a situation appear different.

Have Dress, Will Marry By Yvonne Lehman
Fear, threats, accusations, lies, running away, being rescued and protected. Sometimes in life, we go through challenging times and unsure why we find ourselves in certain situations but in the end, it was the right way God wanted us to be.

The Hand-Me-Down Husband By Vickie McDonough
Traveling from St. Louis to Texas to care for her late sister’s daughter brings new challenges, fulfillment, and blessings. Learning to take a stand for what you believe in and willing to take a risk can lead to a new future.
2,295 reviews83 followers
April 25, 2019
HEARTS IN PURSUIT by Susan Page Davis
This was such a wonderful story!  I loved the unique tale of them rescuing their younger siblings from the outlaws!  Nothing like trials and terrors to bring a couple together!

HEARTS REUNITED by Miralee Ferrell
A beautiful tale of how regret and unforgiveness can harper a relationship that was meant to be!  Such a wonderful ending!

HAVE DRESS, WILL MARRY by Yvonne Lehman
Another perfect ending!  I think this book was a bit choppier as in the details weren't there as the story progressed, maybe a bit was to be assumed, and I just felt like I missed a paragraph or two along the way.  BUT, I loved this cute story and laughed out loud several times!  The twists of word meanings and misunderstandings were hilarious!!  Especially at the first proposal!!  Yvonne is a new author to me, and I look forward to trying out some of her other books soon!!

THE HAND-ME-DOWN HUSBAND by Vickie McDonough
The perfect way to end this anthology!  I can't say which book was my favorite, because I loved them all!  I'm tickled with this last one though!  I'd hate to say too much, but you don't want to miss this one!  I giggled through the tale, and enjoyed every minute of it!!
Profile Image for Lesley.
2,467 reviews19 followers
February 29, 2016
Heart of a Cowboy - 4 short stories

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.

Hearts in Pursuit by Susan Page Davis
Sweet enjoyable story with a happy ending. Slightly thrown by the way Mr Hardy referred to as Pa about halfway through, when story was told through the eyes of the neighbour's daughter Abby (this was in Ch 5, and in Ch 6 he was sometimes Mr Hardy and sometimes Pa, so you had to keep in mind that this was the same person). Perhaps this will have been edited by the time of publication.

Hearts Reunited by Miralee Ferrell
Sweet story about 2 friends who drifted apart finding their way back to each other and love.

Have Dress, Will Marry by Yvonne Lehman
Liked this story, though it would have been nice to know a little more backstory to the characters, perhaps as a prologue.

The Hand-Me-Down Husband by Vickie McDonough
This was my favourite of the four stories and it was so nice to have an epilogue. Loved the characters and the plot.
Profile Image for Marsha.
544 reviews3 followers
March 1, 2016
I just finished reading The Heart of a Cowboy which is collection of four novelettes. Hearts in Pursuit by Susan Page Davis, Hearts Reunited by Miralee Ferrell, Have Dress Will Marry by Yvonne Lehman and The Hand Me Down Husband by Vickie McDonough. Personally, I liked each one. I could hardly put the book down as I became engrossed in the lives of each of the characters in each of the stories. If I had to pick a favorite story though, it would have to be the one by Vickie McDonough. It was so well written and flowed so smoothly. I can not say enough about these stories but as I do not want to give anything away suffice to say I can not wait for the next books by these wonderful writers. Kudos to Vicki McDonough on the cover art. :D


Profile Image for Jackie McNutt.
25 reviews2 followers
March 21, 2016
The title of this book say's it all, each of these gifted authors have captured the spirit and hearts of what we think about cowboys, and who we want them to be, in each wonderful story.
Their cowboys all embody loyalty, faith, sensitivity , courage and strength, during troubling times, but also in their everyday life, and they all care deeply about the women and children they love.
I loved all the characters in this book, and enjoyed reading how they each worked through doubts and fear, and how they found their places in the world, and with each other.
This is a wonderful story book, and I highly recommend it.
I received an e book from one of the authors Susan Page Davis in exchange for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for April.
1,850 reviews75 followers
May 23, 2016
HEART OF A COWBOY is a heart wrenching collection of Inspirational Western Historical Romances. Each author brings her own uniqueness and storytelling expertise to this intriguing collection.
Clean Romance at its best! While, each title are novellas, these authors bring their story to a satisfying ending. Alot of romance and storytelling packed into each title.
Some of my all-time favorite Inspirational Western Historical Romance authors, all packed into one terrific collection! A definite must read for fans of Historical Romance, Western Romance and clean romances, will adore this intriguing collection. Well done, ladies!
Received for an honest review from the author and/or Net Galley.


Rating: 4
Heat rating: Sweet
Reviewed by: AprilR
Profile Image for Rachel.
229 reviews7 followers
Read
March 15, 2016
Heart In Pursuit: I'll not "retell" the storyline as it has been told enough. I enjoyed this novella. It was an interesting departure from the usual "boy meets girl, fall in love, get married" romance. The romance is there...just not the priority. The main story here is the recovery of a young boy and girl who have been kidnapped. The "romance" is there in the feelings that are developing between the brother and sister of these two children. I liked the entire story, and actually would enjoy knowing more about the characters so I'm hoping to encounter them in another book (hint, hint).
Profile Image for Carol Lee.
690 reviews7 followers
March 24, 2016
A wonderful set of four stories by four great authors. I have read books by each of these authors separately and their compilation flows great. I love books like this as I can complete a story and can take time to read the next one later. They really give you a taste of the old west and make you feel like you were there with the characters living their lives. I love seeing how they lived during that time and love seeing how the characters interact and sometimes learn to heal and live again.
I received a copy from the publisher to review.
1,171 reviews16 followers
March 9, 2016
I really enjoyed this set of stories! Each story was well written and the characters engaging. I do enjoy when the story has action, some faith and not entirely the perfect romance! A little storm before the calm makes for a great story.. I liked each of these stories and would recommend Heart of a Cowboy. I'll be reading more from these authors.. I was gifted a copy to review by one of the authors.
Profile Image for Ginger Solomon.
Author 25 books31 followers
April 21, 2016
Instead of reviewing these individually, I will do them all at once. They all held my attention, and I read them in quick order. They pulled me into the story and kept me interested from word one. I'm a stickler for grammar, but don't recall any glaring mistakes that shook me from the story. And what could be more enticing than four clean romance stories about COWBOYS?

I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Anne Campbell.
Author 27 books48 followers
April 6, 2016
I really loved this collage of four western romance novellas by four wonderful authors. There's Hearts in Pursuit by Susan Page Davis, Hearts Reunited by Miralee Ferrell, Have Dress, Will Marry by Yvonne Lehman, and The Hand-Me-Down Husband by Vickie McDonough. Read them and take your own pick as to which is your favorite--they'll all goo-ood.

Hearts in Pursuit - Two youngsters, Pablo Hardy and Ellen Bunter, have been snatched by Pablo's grandfather from Mexico. Seven-year-old Pablo because the grandfather wants to raise his dead daughter's only child and Ellen because maybe the men the grandfather sent to do the job figured to make a few bucks selling the fourteen-year-old girl to the highest bidder. However, they didn't figure on Pablo's dad and half-brother Sam's determination to get him back--or on Ellen's sister Abby's resolve to bring her sister safely home even if she has to do it by herself. The race after the kidnappers is daunting, needing to get the two youngsters before they crossed the Rio Grande. Weary horses slow the rescuers down, but they have to press on. Sam wants to protect Abby, but he knows Pablo has to be his first concern.

Hearts Reunited - Jesse Townsend left home at sixteen after a squabble with his father, but six years later he has to return and take over the ranch when his father dies. His former girlfriend, hot-headed Mercedes Taylor, is the last person he wants to come take care of his injured and pregnant blooded mare, but she's the only choice he has. She's not too crazy about helping him out either, but she loves animals and can't stand to see one hurting that she could help. Old family feuds resurface when the two are together, but Jesse can't help but notice the skinny teenager he left behind has matured beautifully....

Have Dress, Will Marry - Julie has no other choices left--she has to leave this town and get married. The one man she thought would do has left town, and if he ever gets caught will probably spend lots of time in prison. That leaves only one man: the preacher who comes to their church on his rounds, So she runs up to Brother Timothy after church and blurts, "Will you marry me?" Timothy agrees, thinking the pretty young lady will next tell him who the groom will be, but instead, she changes the subject as her step-father gets close enough to hear them. Imagine his surprise when the girl chases after him as he's on his way home, frightened to death by the horse she's riding and can't control. Timothy takes her to his home, and it becomes clear she hadn't meant would he perform the ceremony to unite her to another man. And she's said not a few times that she has to get married. Now what?

Hand-Me-Down Husband - Ellen Stewart arrives in Texas at her brother-in-law's (Lance Garrett) request to help take care of the baby her sister left behind when she died in a big storm. Ellen fully intends to take the child home with her to Boston, and when Lance finds out, he's afraid to leave the baby alone with her--so he basically still has the same problem: Take the baby with him while he does his ranching. He should send the lady packing, but she surely does make a mean peach pie....

Okay--I'm eager to hear what y'all think of these stories, so get the book and read them, okay? I don't think you'll be sorry!

Available from Amazon and Barnes and Noble, I received a free copy of this book from one of the authors in return for an honest review.
170 reviews3 followers
July 27, 2016
Hearts in Pursuit by Susan Page Davis

It’s August 1880 in Southern Texas. With her father wounded, Abby Bunner goes with Sam Hardy, his father and some of the Hardy ranch hands to follow Mexican raiders who have kidnapped Sam’s little brother Pablo, plus Abby’s 14-year-old sister Ellen and another woman on their way back to Mexico. They get Pablo back, but Sam and Abby are determined to continue on to find Ellen. It’s a grueling trip, but through their journey and confrontation with the raiders, Sam and Abby find what is most important—each other.

Hearts Reunited by Miralee Ferrell

It’s 1880s Tucson, Arizona. Mercedes Taylor is a local animal doctor who helps when the regular vet isn’t available, but she is very independent, not accepting help from anyone. When Jesse Townsend returns to town after being gone five years, she refuses to let him into her life again. The reason: a feud between Jesse’s and Mercedes’s families that started many years ago. A fire started by dry lightning moves toward Mercedes’ ranch so regardless of how she feels about him, Jesse goes to help. An accident helps them realize that love has a place in their lives.

Have Dress Will Marry by Yvonne Lehman

After her mother’s death, Julie Hayes flees from Wildcat Mountain and her stepfather, Russell Cutler, with only a memory quilt (with gems inside the hem of the quilt) and her mother’s wedding dress. However, things go wrong from the start--her horse runs away, leaving her hanging from a tree, where she lands in the lap of Timothy (Tim) Sullivan, a traveling preacher; when she asks Tim to marry her, he thinks he’ll be performing the ceremony, not being part of it; when Tim takes her to his ranch where he lives with his grandmother, sister and two brothers, his brother Ryan misunderstands and thinks Julie is pregnant; she’s accused of stealing a horse and jewels; then her stepfather shows up. You’ll love how everything works out for the best.

The Hand-Me-Down-Husband by Vickie McDonough

Silver Springs, Texas, June 1885. Ellen Stewart arrives, planning on taking her one-year-old niece Tessa back to St. Louis with her. Her sister Isabelle (Issie) is gone and she thinks Tessa would have a better life with her than with her father, Lance Garrett, on his ranch. However, she stays because she discovers Tessa and Lance both need her and she needs them too. When gossip starts about them living in the same house, they get married to save her reputation and so she can stay—now she no longer wants to go back to the city—she enjoys the cooking, cleaning, and taking care of Tessa. Will they be able to find a happily-ever-after ending for themselves and Tessa as a true family?

I think everyone will enjoy these stories as much as I did. I received a free copy of this book to read and give an honest review, which I have done.
Profile Image for June.
1,542 reviews17 followers
March 24, 2016
Hearts in Pursuit: Susan Page Davis

When Pablo's grandfather sends men to kidnap his grandson, Abby's sister Ellen is also taken and her father shot. Abby joins Pablo's father and brother, Sam, in the hunt for them. They have plenty of adventure, shoot-outs, wild cats, tracking, and such.

Great cowboy story.

Hearts Reunited: Marilee Ferrell

Jesse and Mercedes grew up together. At one point everyone expected there would be a wedding in the future. Then bitterness developed between the two families and Jesse went off to be a cowboy elsewhere. Now his father has died and Jesse has returned to run the ranch. When a horse gets injured and Mercedes comes to take care of it, some of the old feelings come up. But Mercedes wants nothing to do with Jesse.

Have Dress Will Marry: Yvonne Lehman:

Tim takes over the circuit preacher job after his grandfather passed away. On one of his visits, he comes face to face with Julie who is looking for a way out of town.

Julie is trying to get away from her step-father who has made it difficult for her to leave town. When she drops into Tim's arms, he decides to protect her. Through misunderstandings and a few humorous moments, secrets unfold and a crime is solved.

Really enjoyed this story.


The Hand-Me-Down Husband: Vickie McDonough

I've always enjoyed Vickie McDonough stories and this one is a great one to add to the collection.

After her sister, Issie dies in a tornado, Ellen comes to help her brother-in-law, Lance, take care of his daughter, Tessa. She plans to take Tessa to St Louis with her but soon finds she likes the ranch lifestyle.

When rumors start up in town about them, Lance decides it's time to do something about it and keep Ellen from returning home at the same time.

All four of these stories were very enjoyable and well written.
Profile Image for Janice Sisemore.
1,650 reviews15 followers
February 14, 2016
Heart of a cowboy box set

Received this book set in exchange for a honest review. This is a very good box set, definitely worth the time to read. Very good authors.

1. Hearts in Pursuit by Susan page Davis

A son and daughter kidnapped, a father shot. Since her father was hurt. Abby joined in with trying to find her sister and Sam brother. They have quite a adventure on the trail trying to find them.

2. Hearts Reunited by Miralee Ferrell

Jesse came back to his childhood home. He finds out Mercedes is still around. They were friends when they were younger. There was a misunderstanding between them, they did not speak until she came to help with his horse. A very good story from Miralee, a lot more to the story. Really enjoyed it.

3. Have dress will marry by Yvonne Lehman

Julie is carrying around her mother's wedding dress in hopes of getting married to get away from her step father. A big misunderstanding of why she wants to get away. Tim finds her in her journey of running away, takes her to stay with his family. Grandmother, sister and brothers. This is another good story in this box set.

4. The Hand-me-down Husband by Vickie McDonough

Really loved this one in the series. Ellen goes to help out her brother n law with his baby after her sister had passed away. Don't want to give away any more of the story, really enjoyed it.


Profile Image for Becky Lewis.
1,061 reviews59 followers
July 9, 2016
A lovely four novella anthology, Heart of a Cowboy brings together the western heroes of Susan Davis, Miralee Ferrell, Yvonne Lehmann and Vickie McDonough.

Hearts in Pursuit by Susan Davis is the tale of kinapped youngsters and their desperate older siblings becoming adults as they take on the chase of Mexican henchmen. It was fun to watch the maturation of the older teens, even beyond the adults sometimes.

Hearts Reunited by Miralee Ferrell tells the sad story of two feuding families whose children continue fueling the poison to their own personal detriment and that of their livelihoods. Miralee always has lessons for today woven into her stories of yesteryear! I loved being with her characters as they decide whether to be loyal to family or truth.

In Have Dress, Will Marry, by Yvonne Lehmann, Julie needs to escape her stepfather. Her solution? Propose to Brother Timothy, a circuit riding preacher she barely knows. Obviously, there are a few issues to be worked out!

The Hand-Me-Down-Husband by Vickie McDonough is the story of Ellen, who goes west to take care of her niece after her sister,Issy, dies. She is the antithesis of her sister, but finds herself falling for her late sister's husband. Reminiscent of a Hallmark movie.

If you enjoy clean love stories set in the old West, I recommend Heart of a Cowboy. I was gifted this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Virginia Winfield.
2,916 reviews14 followers
April 30, 2016
This is a book with 4 novellas. There is Hearts in Pursuit by Susan Page Davis, Hearts Reunited by Marilee Ferrell, Have Dress, Will Marry by YVonne Lehman and The Hand-Me-Down-Husband. Each of these novellas takes place during the 1880's out west. These are all well written and fun books. These are wonderful romances. I received an ebook copy of these from Merrilee Ferrell for a fair and honest opinion.
Profile Image for Britney.
768 reviews12 followers
April 20, 2016
Heart of a Cowboy is a great collection! Each of the four award-winning authors has shared a unique and entertaining historical romance. Boasting well-crafted characters and engaging plots, these novellas are a pleasure to read. I enjoyed these cowboy tales and look forward to reading more from these talented authors!

I received a complimentary copy of this collection in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Susan.
630 reviews31 followers
March 24, 2016
This was a great historical novella collection. Historical novellas about cowboys, what’s not to love. I enjoyed all the stories and the characters. I thought each of these authors told a great story. I would definitely recommend this book.
I received an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Joan Arning.
1,776 reviews28 followers
April 9, 2016
Heart of a Cowboy is a collection of four novellas set in the late 1800s and each written by a different author. All of the books kept my attention and were well-written. I recommend Heart of a Cowboy to anyone who enjoys light historical fiction involving ranchers or cowboys. I received this e-book from author, Vickie McDonough, in exchange for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Tammy Rolle.
360 reviews6 followers
August 15, 2017
Cowboy love

This is a great opportunity to discover four excellent authors of western romance. Although I have enjoyed reading other works by Susan Page Davis, I look forward to exploring works by the other three authors in this collection.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.