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The Courage of a Cowboy

(Elk Heights Ranch #2)

Kristin Vayden (Goodreads Author)

4.19 · Rating details · 99 ratings · 56 reviews

Nothing like a wedding to get a girl dreaming of happily-ever-after . . .

Kessed Ling’s best friend’s big day is finally here. It’s especially exciting because it’s Kessed’s chance to show her childhood crush she’s not just a young bridesmaid, she’s a full-grown woman—with red hot desires. But when her long-awaited prey barely blinks an eye at her, Kessed retreats righ ...more

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Kindle Edition, 188 pages

Published April 17th 2018 by Lyrical Caress

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Apr 17, 2018 ⊱✿⊰ Alicia ⊱✿⊰ rated it it was amazing

4.5 Tender Cowboy Stars

Back on the Ranch..............

I am loving this series!! I mean not much to dislike, strapping hunky cowboys who love and cherish with everything they have. Throw in a little drama and some LOL moments and we have a winner folks.

Kessed is in love with or at least thinks she's in love with her best friend Laken's brother. Little does she know a green eyed sweet talking cowboy is about to change everything she thought she wanted.

I liked Kessed, she had spunk, sass an ...more

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Apr 17, 2018 1-Click Addict Support Group rated it it was amazing

4.5 Tender Cowboy Stars

Back on the Ranch..............

I am loving this series!! I mean not much to dislike, strapping hunky cowboys who love and cherish with everything they have. Throw in a little drama and some LOL moments and we have a winner folks.

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Apr 20, 2018 Alyssa rated it liked it

Shelves: contemporary, 2-point-5-stars, 2018, cute-quirky, western-ranch, immature-mc, not-for-me

2.5 stars

Hm, I'm not in the mood to be too ranty today, so I'll just say this one wasn't quite for me. At the end of the day, the story redeemed itself, but I didn't find it enjoyable until after the 40% mark. I don't like to DNF things I paid for, so I was determined to stick it out. And I really do love a ranch setting romance.

Kessed was not the heroine for me, in just about every aspect. (She was the reason I was supes close to DNFing.) Jasper was really the saving grace and I wanted to see t ...more

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Nov 07, 2019 Jennifer rated it really liked it

ARC received for review

I haven't read the first book, but you don't need to to enjoy this book.

Kessed has been in love with Sterling forever, but he never looks at her as anything other than another kid sister. Jasper wants her from the moment he first sees her. He is willing and brave enough to let her figure it out which man is the right one for her. Jasper courts her, and in the end, of course wins her heart.

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May 01, 2018 Books and Spoons rated it really liked it

Shelves: contemporary, earc, netgalley

An engaging, humorous, and touching romance story with fantastic hero and heroine who won my heart over.
Kessed Ling and Jasper Matthews have a connection and chemistry that is natural, authentic, realistic, and so adorably romantic and sweet while sizzling hot and passionate at the same time.
I absolutely loved Kessed and Jasper with his obvious attraction to her and her battle to try and fight the feelings. There was some raw honesty between them, it was real, it was relatable, and it was hila An engaging, humorous, and touching romance story with fantastic hero and heroine who won my heart over.
Kessed Ling and Jasper Matthews have a connection and chemistry that is natural, authentic, realistic, and so adorably romantic and sweet while sizzling hot and passionate at the same time.
I absolutely loved Kessed and Jasper with his obvious attraction to her and her battle to try and fight the feelings. There was some raw honesty between them, it was real, it was relatable, and it was hilarious. Because Kristin Vayden writes banter like no one else. Seriously, she takes it two steps further than most, it is deliciously sarcastic, it has some thorns, but it is not purposely mean or hateful. It does not stop with just a line or two but it can go on for whole conversations until you are hauling with laughter and wiping tears of joy. Delightful!
While Jasper has accomplished on his career what he wanted and has started his own practice, he is in a place in his life to 'take the next step', to have a serious relationship, and he is willing and able to fall head over heels for Kessed. He is kind, fun, honest to the bone type of a cowboy, who loves animals, is generous with his affections and time, a family is everything to him, and taking care of his sister is a priority. It was so easy to fall for this guy, with the imperfections he was just perfect for Kessed.
Kessed has been attracted to Sterling most of her adult life. It is the kind of attraction that you want the one you most likely never will get. It is safe that way and does not involve getting vulnerable and building a relationship. And Kessed is not really in a place in her life to settle down yet. She knows what she wants to do with her life, yet the place where she wants to build that life is not compatible with her career goals. She is trying to advance at her job, she is trying to find her place in life while pining after Sterling, who only considers her as a little sister. Until he sees her in a serious relationship with Jasper.
Kessed is feisty, stubborn, food loving coffee addict. She has a kind heart, she loves fiercely, she is a loyal and generous friend.
I loved the story, I was so into it, I loved the connection between Jasper and Kessed, the fire between them just lighting up the pages of the book. And then... Third person drama is one of my biggest turnoffs in romance novels and Sterling, well, he got an 'emotional reaction' out of me with his actions, that I didn't believe were sincere for a minute. Thankfully, the angst was not built upon, and the drama was minimal, and after a temper tantrum I did finish reading the book and was happy that I did because Jasper is just ALL THAT and then some!
In the eARC that I was reading, Kessed keeps saying that her friends are out of the country, while in fact, they were said to be at Hawaii. First I thought it was just a mistake but it keeps repeated several times. Hawaii is still in the country, not just in the continental US. Not a big deal that would affect the rating of the book, but a detail that caught my eye.
A fun while deeply emotional, sweet while ardent and spirited, entertaining yet touching and heartfelt, the story captured my heart, got my attention and my emotions involved. The book is continuing the poignant series, yet is easy to be read as a standalone novel, if you so choose to.
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side ...more

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Oct 14, 2018 Romancing the Book rated it it was amazing

Shelves: romance, western, contemporary

Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by NetGalley
Originally posted at Romancing the Book

It was nice to return to Elk Heights Ranch with book two in the series, The Courage of a Cowboy. This is Jasper and Kessed’s story and what a story it is. The book picks up where the first book in the series, Heart of a Cowboy, left off. Laken and Cyler get their special day and Kessed and Jasper meet at their wedding. There’s an instant attraction but Kessed’s heart belongs to another or does it? Jasper is a gent Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by NetGalley
Originally posted at Romancing the Book

It was nice to return to Elk Heights Ranch with book two in the series, The Courage of a Cowboy. This is Jasper and Kessed’s story and what a story it is. The book picks up where the first book in the series, Heart of a Cowboy, left off. Laken and Cyler get their special day and Kessed and Jasper meet at their wedding. There’s an instant attraction but Kessed’s heart belongs to another or does it? Jasper is a gentleman through and through as we see how he gives Kessed the space she needs and also cares for his sister who had it rough the past year. He’s also a vet and has a way about him with the animals. Kessed is a barista at Starbuck’s but is hoping to advance her career.

I loved the interactions between the characters. There was a realism to it but also many layers to get through to really know them. There was a depth to the characters along with kindness and caring. Kessed and Jasper got each other and seemed to know what the other was thinking before anything was said. Sterling , Laken’s soldier brother, makes a return visit home and suddenly noticed Kessed who has loved him from afar for years. The author does a nice job of showing their feelings for each other and others. Animals also play a part since Jasper is a vet and his sister had been a barrel racer. Laken and Cyler’s ranch is center stage again as well. The author also brought in some of the past that we learned of in the first book which was a nice continuation to the story.

This is a sweet small town romance that had me laughing out loud more than once. Kessed’s appetite was nothing short of impressive! I loved that she could give and take with everyone and that her sarcasm was a part of her. There were family and friends, neighbors, lots of ranching, sadness, heartache, fear, laughter, tears, romance, loving and love. The epilogue tied up loose ends but also set the stage for what’s to come. There is nice closure and a happily ever after in the offing.

Vayden is a new to me author only having read the first two books in this series.. I look forward to reading the third book, The Cowgirl Meets Her Match, along with some of the historical books she’s written. ...more

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Apr 18, 2018 Beth ~ Panda & Boodle rated it it was amazing

“Love like that only comes around once.”
“Once. But once is enough.”

Not gonna lie, my friends. I was a little bummed at first when I saw the blurb for The Courage of a Cowboy. Why? Because after The Heart of a Cowboy (which you don’t have to read to enjoy this one, but left me looking like the heart eyes emoji . . .), I was convinced Kessed was destined for someone else.

Rain

Now? I’m basically convinced that this book couldn’t have been better. Good grief, Jasper—speaking of heart eyes, this guy gi ...more

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Apr 16, 2018 Cathy Geha rated it really liked it

The Courage of a Cowboy by Kristin Vayden
Elk Heights Ranch #2

Crushes can crush your ability to find true love if you are not careful.

Kessed and Jasper meet at the wedding of Cyler and Laken when both are in the wedding party. Jasper, a veterinarian, is rather taken with Kessed but she puts the kibosh on that idea right away as her interest lies elsewhere. Well, the two are put in close proximity working together to get ready for delivery of cattle to their friends’ ranch and as they spend time ...more

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Apr 18, 2018 2OCC Reviews rated it it was amazing

Shelves: marie

Kristin Vayden’s second book in the Elk Heights Ranch series, The Courage of a Cowboy, is a delightful uncomplicated read. It has so many sentiments within the pages that you’re heart will be full.

Kessed has been in love with her BFF brother for most of her life. He, however, does return the feelings. At her BFF’s wedding, he doesn’t even look her way. There was someone that was looking and it surprised her.

Jasper is friends with the groom and knew that Kessed was ready to hand her heart over to ...more

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Mar 20, 2018 Johnaka- Amity Book Blog rated it it was amazing

The Courage of a Cowboy by Kristin Vayden
“Change of heart, 5 stars”

Kessed has been in love with the same man for as long as she can remember. Only problem is he’s as dense as a box of rocks and doesn’t realize she’s in love with him. When Kess meets Jasper, she’s attracted to him but has no plans of making a move. I mean her hearts always pointed to Sterling so what’s the point of even trying with someone else?
Jasper instantly likes Kessed and wants her but knows she’s not available. But when fo ...more

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Mar 25, 2018 Heather andrews rated it it was amazing

Jasper is just so sweet, the man risks his health so he doesn't offend his woman, “I didn’t want to sound ungrateful! You were kind in bringing me anything. It’s not your fault I’m allergic to something so random as caraway seeds!” Jasper loves to rile up his woman, “So, you admit it. I have the killer abs and smile. It’s okay. I saw you looking yesterday.” He winked." Kessed gives her man so much h***, "...she set the phone down, typed quickly into the laptop on the new kitchen table, and then ...more

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Apr 02, 2018 Britt The Red Hatter Book Blog rated it really liked it

A super sweet heartwarming romance, The Courage Of A Cowboy will sweep you off your feet! Between the perfect banter and so many swoon worthy moments this book is the ultimate read to kick back and relax with. As soon as I started reading I was quickly swept up in the sweet, fun, love blooming between Jasper and Kessed. These two were adorable together!

Jasper is hands down one of the sweetest heroes I’ve ever read. Patient, funny, sweet, and kind. The man was nearly flawless. Long before Kessed ...more

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Mar 16, 2018 Natasha rated it it was amazing

Shelves: sexy, series, hea, loving-over-time, second-chances, 2018, western-love, friends-to-lovers, angsty, what-an-ending

Haven't we all had strong feelings for someone that we thought we were distended to be with? What happens when your best friend is getting married and the man you think you are in love with doesn't even see how beautiful you are. Well one person did and Kessed wasn't expecting it. Kessed is very honest in everything she does and now her mind is telling her to change course.

Jasper is the local vet and his best friend is about to get married. He is asked to watch out for his friend’s ranch while ...more

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Apr 02, 2018 K.A. Graham rated it it was amazing

The Courage of a Cowboy
by Kristin Vayden

☆☆☆5 stars☆☆☆

One word...Jasper. Holy hotness in cowboy boots! I beyond love him! After you read thisy story, you won't mind getting caught in a flashflood, as long as he's by your side. Just sayin!

Kessed is a hot mess with a sassy mouth, bringing the fire upon Jasper. Their back and forth banter is pure gold, and they had me laughing and swooning, all at the same time.

Kessed has a hard time letting go of someone she always wanted from her past, but realiz ...more

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Mar 09, 2018 Michele rated it really liked it

Kessed best friend is getting married and she will get to see the man she pines for, her BFF’s brother Sterling. She wants to show him she is all grown up and ready for him, he treats her like a sister and nothing more. At the wedding we also meet Jasper Mathews who notices Kessed right away and tries hard to get her attention.
Jasper and Kessed are thrown into working together to help out the married couple while they are on their honeymoon. Jasper decides to give Kessed time to get use to him a ...more

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Mar 26, 2018 Tracie R rated it really liked it

Shelves: netgally

Book two in the Elk Heights Ranch series, The Courage of a Cowboy is a sweet, cheeky romance. I loved the character interaction and found the storyline inviting. I look forward to reading more by this author.

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Mar 22, 2018 Laura Parker rated it it was amazing

This is the first book I’ve read from Kristen and I have to say I’ll be stocking up on her others, I just loved this story!

The names she’s picked for her characters are so original. I especially loved how it was just a good romance no twists and turns no crazy plot twists just good! I am definitely a fan now!

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Mar 08, 2018 White Hot Reads rated it really liked it

The Courage of a Cowboy is the second book in this series and it’s like coming home to spend time with your BFFs.

I love Jasper and his pure, non-gameplaying nature. He brings a serious amount of comfort to my blackish heart. He makes me want to move to WA in a small ranching town to meet him.

Kessed is strong and determined - in all things. Her sass and sarcasm and love of food keeps her real and the most awesome BFF ever. She pulls herself up my her literal and proverbial bootstraps when she n ...more

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Mar 19, 2018 Michelle N rated it it was amazing

The Courage of a Cowboy is sweet, sassy and a must read! Kessed is such a fun character with so much spunk. Jasper is cool, calm and a man of few words. They are the perfect balance for each other and their story is lovely!

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Feb 24, 2018 Wendy Leonard-Richardson rated it it was amazing

The cover drew my attention and the blurb said that I needed to read this one. I am so glad I did. You never know exactly what you will be getting when reading a new to you author so this was a great surprise. The Courage of a Cowboy is a standalone within a series.

This novel was overall a fun and easy read. The story had a bit of seriousness and just a touch of angst mixed in with a happy theme. And the banter! I knew I was going to love Kessed, the h, right from the start based on her dialogue ...more

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Jul 10, 2018 Donna Repsher rated it it was ok

In keeping with my current trend of starting to read a series anywhere but the first novel, although this appears to be the second novel in the Elk Heights Ranch series, it's the first one I've read and also the first novel I've read by this author, and I was somewhat less than thrilled, which is why I'm giving it a 2-star rating.

From the outset, unless I was reading a science fiction novel set on an alien world, I have seldom encountered main characters with stranger names, i.e., Laken, Kessed, In keeping with my current trend of starting to read a series anywhere but the first novel, although this appears to be the second novel in the Elk Heights Ranch series, it's the first one I've read and also the first novel I've read by this author, and I was somewhat less than thrilled, which is why I'm giving it a 2-star rating.

From the outset, unless I was reading a science fiction novel set on an alien world, I have seldom encountered main characters with stranger names, i.e., Laken, Kessed, and Cyler top the list, and although the origin of Kessed's name is eventually explained, your guess is as good as mine as to why the author appeared to pull letters out of her Scrabble set and turn them into names. There was also Sterling and Jasper, both of which are actual names, although quite outdated.

The novel opens at Laken's wedding to Cyler. Kessed is her maid of honor and she's been in love with Laken's brother, Sterling, a Marine, for years. Sterling, however, seems to show zero interest in Laken outside of her being his little sister's best friend. Add into the mix, Jasper, the town veterinarian, who's more than a little interested in Kessed, though, aside from her apparent attractiveness, was, in my opinion, the most unlikable heroine I've come across in some time, and the reason is that every word out of her mouth is sarcastic. I like sarcasm, I'm originally from Brooklyn, and sarcasm is our specialty, but I know when to use it and when not to, but Kessed doesn't, and her sarcastic comments grew old really fast. She just seemed so incredibly juvenile that I considered not finishing the book, but there was one saving grace, and that was Jasper.

Jasper was charming, sweet, honest, open and kind. He knew what he wanted, Kessed, and he went for it, although I failed to see in Kessed what he saw in her. They are thrown together for the week of Laken and Cyler's honeymoon because Cyler is rehabilitating the family ranch and cattle will be delivered while he's away. It's up to Kessed and Jasper to make sure the fencing for said cattle is secure, that hay and feed are delivered, and so on. It's during that week that these two are thrown together that their relationship develops, but shortly after the cattle are delivered they get word that Sterling, Laken's brother, was injured two weeks earlier, when an IED exploded under his Jeep in Afghanistan, and he's being flown to a Marine base hospital, not too far a drive from the ranch. With Sterling's sister out of the country, Kessed is the one who is tasked with greeting him and seeing how he's doing. What she's not expecting is what happens--suddenly Sterling notices her as more than his sister's best friend, and what is she to do about the two men in her life who now both want her? Why they wanted her is still a puzzle to this reader.

If you're looking for some light romance reading with some not terribly hot sex scenes or much of a plot, or drama, and, if you don't mind endless juvenile sarcastic quips, or often mentioned obsessions with fast food, you might enjoy this novel. For this reader that didn't happen, and I truly only liked one main character (Jasper), and one secondary character, Jasper's little sister, Harper, and I didn't like the heroine at all. If this is an example of this author's work, I'm willing to read one more novel by her to see if this book was an anomaly, but I'm not getting my hopes up.

I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own. ...more

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Apr 19, 2018 Bec rated it it was amazing

Shelves: give-me-books-promotions, netgalley, book-magic-reviews, april-2018-reads, april-2018-recommendations

Kessed Ling has been in love with her best friend's brother for years, but he's never seen her as anything more than an annoying little sister. So, maybe it's time to give up the fantasy that Sterling will ever come around and see her as more. When she's forced to work alongside Jasper Matthews to care for a friend's ranch while they're away, she realizes there's more to him than what she thought when she first met him. Will Jasper and Kessed give each other a chance or will they walk away from
Kessed Ling has been in love with her best friend's brother for years, but he's never seen her as anything more than an annoying little sister. So, maybe it's time to give up the fantasy that Sterling will ever come around and see her as more. When she's forced to work alongside Jasper Matthews to care for a friend's ranch while they're away, she realizes there's more to him than what she thought when she first met him. Will Jasper and Kessed give each other a chance or will they walk away from their chance of happy ever after?

Having absolutely loved the first book of this series, I couldn't wait to read more of Ms. Vayden's books and I've got to say that this story was every bit as enthralling as Heart of a Cowboy. Everything about it -- the sexy hero, the sarcastic heroine, the dialogue that was a wonderful combination of intense moments and playful banter, and the fast-paced plot -- drew me in from the beginning and kept me entertained to the end. Really, I could not put it down, especially with the way this story started. Will the heroine find what she's looking for or will her best friend turn into a bridezilla? However, it was from the moment the hero and heroine come face-to-face for the first time where this story really gets interesting, as Jasper and Kessed have some serious chemistry, and yet, the heroine can't seem to get past her unrequited feelings for her best friend's brother.

With the main characters, I loved their back stories and their journey to happy ever after that included whether the heroine can finally move on with a new guy and whether the hero can trust the heroine when something big happens that could put a bump in their relationship. Moreover, the heroine is sassy, sarcastic at times, fun, resilient, has a great friendship with her best friend and I liked that she gave the hero a chance because she deserves a chance at happiness. However, I couldn't help but sympathize with her when it came to her job because things weren't going the way she hoped. While the hero, he's confident, a good brother and I liked how determined he was to win the heroine over. Certainly, he didn't push her. He just got to know her and be a friend until she was ready to give him a chance. I also liked the tight bond the hero shared with his sister and that he would do anything to help her. She's been through a tough time lately and goes through something in this story that had me ready to cry for the heroine's loss.

Overall, Ms. Vayden has delivered another fantastic read for this series where the romance was delightful and the ending had me loving how determined the heroine was to fight for her future with the hero, especially after what happens that could cause their relationship to go awry. Will the hero be understanding? However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up nicely, as Jasper and Kessed are so good together. I would recommend The Courage of a Cowboy by Kristin Vayden, if you enjoy stories that encompass a sarcastic heroine or enjoy books by authors Rachel Van Dyken, Vicki Tharp, Soraya Lane and Nicole Helm. ...more

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Apr 18, 2018 Megan rated it really liked it

Shelves: sexy, arc, romantic, cowboys

Unrequited love is never easy and when Kessed's hopes are crushed good and proper, she isn't sure what that means for her heart going forward. If it were up to Jasper, he'd show her what it meant, but with him by her side instead of the oblivious Sterling. The timing is off, though, until Cyler's steer delivery comes early and it'll take cooperation between Kessed and Jasper to get the ranch ready for them. Along the way they find something deeper and better than they envisioned before. But when Unrequited love is never easy and when Kessed's hopes are crushed good and proper, she isn't sure what that means for her heart going forward. If it were up to Jasper, he'd show her what it meant, but with him by her side instead of the oblivious Sterling. The timing is off, though, until Cyler's steer delivery comes early and it'll take cooperation between Kessed and Jasper to get the ranch ready for them. Along the way they find something deeper and better than they envisioned before. But when an IED sends Sterling home with open eyes, Kessed will have to decide if it's the past or the unexpected that holds her heart's attention from here on out.

I enjoyed Kessed's feisty attitude. Her loyalty to her friend, her wit, her honesty. She's a fun character to get to know and while her vacillation becomes a bit tedious, it's her honest introspection and careful thought that I respect. By taking the time to truly think about each person and the way each made her feel she could get to the heart of the matter and make the best choice. And aside from the unfortunate moment that was witnessed, the way Kessed handled it was sweet, hot, funny, and extremely appropriate for each person she interacted with. She truly knew each of them and knew what to say and how to get her point across while maintaining the essential parts of their relationships and being true to herself as a person, not just true to her feelings.

Jasper was sweet, patient, and adorably funny. He was a great partner for someone like Kessed and it's his balance for her personality that made me cheer him on the most. The fact that he also had a great relationship with his sister was another point in his favor. Their sibling banter was cute but it also introduced us to a sound voice of wisdom concerning his course forward with Kessed. Harper's brand of honesty and sass was perfect to get Jasper to see that he couldn't assume and make decisions for Kessed without getting her side or allowing her to work through her feelings in her own time. His presence, his goodness and humor, those things were what made Kessed see what she really needed and not just what she'd been hoping for as a doe-eyed adolescent.

With two great MC's and an equally stellar side cast this story was allowed to focus on the relationship and the individuals so we could really get to know them. I was impressed with the outcome of the story despite my reservations about Kessed before I started reading. I'm so very glad to have been put in my place by watching her be awkward, sweet, honest, and unique. With the encouragement, understanding, and passion she got from Jasper she could grow into a confident woman who believed she could gain everything she hoped and more. I'm looking forward to reading Harper's story where Sterling will meet the woman who will put him in his place and bring him out from his wary military shell. His steadiness is sure to provide the ideal environment for Harper's heart as well...so here's to hoping Elk Heights will bring back a solid cast and do them justice. ...more

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Apr 12, 2018 Cheri rated it it was amazing

Shelves: arc, kindle, netgalley

There is often I fear I have when I thoroughly enjoy a book by a new-to-me author that the next book I read by them will disappoint. I loved the first book in this series, Heart of a Cowboy, and it was the first book I had read by this author. Well, she exceeded my expectations with this one. I had no need to worry.

Kessed is such a sassy-pants, but Jasper can give as good as he gets. Their word sparring is fun and seems light, but it really lets us see the true nature of both of their characters There is often I fear I have when I thoroughly enjoy a book by a new-to-me author that the next book I read by them will disappoint. I loved the first book in this series, Heart of a Cowboy, and it was the first book I had read by this author. Well, she exceeded my expectations with this one. I had no need to worry.

Kessed is such a sassy-pants, but Jasper can give as good as he gets. Their word sparring is fun and seems light, but it really lets us see the true nature of both of their characters. They’re both very loyal friends and, although they’ve been handed circumstances that go above and beyond friendship, they don’t complain. They do what needs to be done. Sure, Kessed has some mixed feelings when it comes to Jasper and Sterling. The thing is, she is torn because she’s a good person. From the very beginning she tries to really take a look at herself and make sure she’s doing the right thing and not being reactionary.

I’m sure in the long run I will learn to love Sterling. In this story though, I’m not a fan. I don’t outright hate the guy, but I think he was being selfish there for a while. I guess being a war hero gives him some leeway in that department. Yet I feel he not only put Kessed in a weird position but could have potentially made things awkward for his sister.

I particularly appreciated the author delving a bit into Kessed’s job and why she does what she does. I’m a huge believer in trying to find a job (or career) where you’ll be happy. Be it the location, the work, the coworkers, whatever. That’s not always possible, but while you’re young and single why not stay away from a job or a place that will bring you down instead of lift you up?

There is not a lot of cat and mouse in this story and I like that. Jasper made it known that he wasn’t going to pressure Kessed and the ball was in her court. Instead of playing coy as her thoughts on the matter changed, Kessed took the bull by the horn and did what needed to be done. I loved it!

https://allingoodtimeblog.wordpress.c... ...more

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Jul 19, 2018 Jin rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: 2018, netgalley

Kessed, sarcastic, Starbucks barista was always in love with Laken’s older brother Sterling ever since she was a teenager. And she was determine to impress him during her best friend Laken’s wedding with her gorgeous dress. When she met him before the wedding, he never even looked at her and during the wedding. But someone else was looking at her, Jesper, a friend of Laken’s soon to be husband. But her heart couldn’t take any one.
When she was house sitting Laken’s ranch and her beloved horse, s Kessed, sarcastic, Starbucks barista was always in love with Laken’s older brother Sterling ever since she was a teenager. And she was determine to impress him during her best friend Laken’s wedding with her gorgeous dress. When she met him before the wedding, he never even looked at her and during the wedding. But someone else was looking at her, Jesper, a friend of Laken’s soon to be husband. But her heart couldn’t take any one.
When she was house sitting Laken’s ranch and her beloved horse, she was gotten another task on her hands when her blessedly married friend’s husband mention about cows arriving earlier than what he expected and he mentioned Jasper will be helping out.
Kessed didn’t want to deal with anyone but Jasper was just coming to help so she decided to help out as well. Jasper knew he has to warm up to her knowing her history of crush. He was doing everything right. He never judge her when she asked to go to McDonalds and orders as much food as he does.
Both were so cute to each other. They were working side by side and when he presents her with red cowboy boots she was intrigued.
While working together, they were keeping each other company and they get along well. When they were out fixing some gates, flash rain soaked them and put Kessed in danger while flash flood was coming over. Attraction was clear but Jasper had to second guess if she was really into him or just passing the time until her real crush comes.
Kessed slowly opens up to Jasper and they are enjoying the time together until Kessed gets a call from Laken about her brother. He is injured and he is coming back to the ranch.
Kessed has to decide if she is going to pursue her new love for Jasper or her old crush.

I enjoyed this book more than the first one.. First one was good as this one but this one had more spunk from the characters. Jasper and Kessed are really cute and their conversations are hilarious. I liked how Kessed never backed down from her obsession with food. It was interesting until the end..
I can't wait to read the next one about Jasper's sister and Sterling.

Thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Publishing Lyrical press for my ARC in exchange for honest review. ...more

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Apr 18, 2018 Books Laid Bare rated it really liked it

Feelings abound, this is the story of expectations awakened and getting what or should I say who your heart has always had its sights set on.
Kessed Ling has crushed long and hard for her perfect man, grown up with just one guy in her sights but what happens when the guy you think you want turns out to be hardly worth your time…well what happens is someone better comes along and is willing to show a heart that has built its defences so high that sometimes you just have to take a chance.
There is c ...more

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Jun 22, 2018 Liz ~ Liz's Reading Life rated it it was amazing

Kessed Ling has been love with one person for as long as she can remember, but she's about to meet someone that will change everything.

Jasper Matthews knew the second he laid eyes on her that she was one, but he's got his work cut at for him in his bid to when her heart.

But just they begin, fate throws a bump in the road that could derail their entire relationship.

Has Jasper done enough to win Kessed's heart or will her heart always belong to someone else?

The Courage of a Cowboy is a entertainin ...more

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Sep 24, 2018 Angel Hatfield rated it did not like it

Kessed Ling’s best friend’s big day is finally here. It’s especially exciting because it’s Kessed’s chance to show her childhood crush she’s not just a young bridesmaid, she’s a full-grown woman—with red hot desires. But when her long-awaited prey barely blinks an eye at her, Kessed retreats right back into her deeply guarded heart. Doesn’t matter that chivalrous Jasper Matthews steps in and offers a shoulder to lean on. Kessed is no longer in the market for a man, despite how unsettled the stro ...more

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Apr 15, 2018 Kathy Rouchelle rated it it was amazing

Sometimes you start a series and can't wait for the next book to come out. Well I was giddy with excitement when this book landed on my kindle. I was so looking forward to the wedding of Cyler and Laken, who we met and followed in the first book. We also get another glimpse at Laken's brother Sterling who is in from his tour to give the bride away and we see Kessed, Laken's best friend who has had a thing for Sterling for years, he just doesn't reciprocate the feelings. Serving as best man for C ...more

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Apr 20, 2018 Up All Night With Books rated it really liked it

The Courage of a Cowboy, is the first book I have ever read by Kristin Vayden. I have to say I was hooked on the chemistry Jasper and Kessed share as well as how much they love to aggravate each other. The banter between made me laugh often.

Kessed has been crushing on Sterling, her best friend’s brother, for as long as she can remember. When he fails to see her the way she sees him, she is crushed. When Jasper shows interest in her, she tells him she is not interested.

Jasper is back in town aft ...more

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About Kristin Vayden

Kristin Vayden

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Kristin's inspiration for the romance she writes comes from her tall, dark and handsome husband with killer blue eyes. With five children to chase, she is never at a loss for someone to kiss, something to cook or some mess to clean but she loves every moment of it! She loves to make soap, sauerkraut, sourdough bread and gluten free muffins. Life is full of blessings and she praises God for the ble ...more