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The Montana Carters #2

A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy

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Rodeo is his past

Is she his future?

After an injury forces rodeo cowboy Cole Carter into early retirement and returning home, he’s drawn to the spunky new animal physical therapist. But as much as he likes easygoing Mel McNeil, the divorcée and her young daughter need stability, not his footloose life. When rodeo calls again, will Cole jump back in the saddle or finally become the man Mel deserves?

From Harlequin Heartwarming: Wholesome stories of love, compassion and belonging.

The Montana Carters

Book 1: Montana Reunion
Book 2: A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy

384 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published April 25, 2023

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About the author

Jen Gilroy

31 books380 followers
I write sweet romance and uplifting historical women’s fiction—warm, feel-good stories to bring readers’ hearts home.

A Romance Writers of America® Golden Heart® finalist and shortlisted for the Romantic Novelists’ Association Joan Hessayon award, I live in small-town Ontario, Canada with my husband, daughter and floppy-eared rescue hound.

I love reading, ice cream, ballet and paddling my purple kayak.

Visit me online at www.jengilroy.com

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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,981 reviews221 followers
April 26, 2023
A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy was such an enjoyable story! It is book two in the Montana Carters series, however, I had not read book one and did not have any trouble jumping in and reading this one.

Cole and Mel were successful in their respective careers until accidents sidelined them both. Whereas Mel had already worked hard to move on from her past, and had a new career and a daughter to love, Cole was still unsure about where he belonged and if it was possible to find something he cared about as much as he did the rodeo. Cole went through a lot of physical and emotional healing within these pages. Mel was a large part of that, however, he still struggled with feeling worthy of her.

I really liked the community and supportive family that the author has created in this small town. And the romantic chemistry between Cole and Mel grew very naturally. It was clear that they were good for each other and that Cole could be a wonderful father figure for Mel’s daughter, Skylar.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

This review will post on my blog on 4/27/23.
Profile Image for Christy.
1,385 reviews77 followers
April 11, 2023
When I started reading A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy, I’d forgotten that I’d read Montana Reunion, the first book in this series. As I kept reading, I was thinking to myself, “This sounds a lot like that one book I read….” I read a lot of books…it’s hard to keep track! So, I searched for Jen Gilroy, the author, on Goodreads and sure enough, it’s the second book of The Montana Carters series! Though you don’t need to read Montana Reunion to enjoy A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy, I adored it, and it’s worth reading!

Montana Reunion’s story centered around Zach Carter. Cole Carter “stars” in A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy. Cole, a former rodeo star, is back on his family’s ranch after a horrible, career ending injury. He’s not quite sure where he fits in back on the ranch. I’m sure most of us would feel the same if we were suddenly facing a life much different from what we imagined. Mel McNeil is also living a life that’s different from what she imagined due to an injury. However, she’s been living this new life for seven years, and she feels blessed in it. After living close to her family, she’s lived in this small town in Montana for six months. She’s making friends and loving her new life.

This book is filled with wonderful, well-written characters. They’ve got hard issues they’ve either dealt with or are dealing with currently. They don’t always say the right things or make the right decisions. In other words, they’re like we are! The characters absolutely make the story. I love the small town feel and the friendships Mel has made. I want to live in a small town where people actually interact and do things together! I guess I need to move to Montana. The author brings the setting to life with her descriptive writing. I especially love imagining those beautiful sunsets.

If you are a fan of clean romance books with great characters, a gorgeous setting, and real life issues, you will enjoy A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy by Jen Gilroy. I highly recommend it!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Heather Pickett.
419 reviews27 followers
April 20, 2023
Author Jen Gilroy brings us back to High Valley, Montana in this second entry to her Montana Carters series, A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy.
Meet Cole Carter, brother of Zach (who you met in book one) and rodeo cowboy extraordinaire. Or should I say EX-rodeo cowboy? After a string of injuries, he’s back home to Tall Grass, the family ranch, feeling lost and without purpose. He’s only able to focus on the end of his career, not what possibilities the future could hold for him.
Divorcee Melissa “Mel” McNeil is new to High Valley. She’s a physical therapist for animals, with a sweet young daughter named Skylar. Having been badly burned by her ex-husband, Mel doesn’t know if she could ever open her heart again, especially when she isn’t looking out just for her own heart, but also for Skylar’s.
This whole town is close-knit, and it’s possible that with the support (and not-so-subtle nudging) of family and friends, Cole and Mel’s hearts might just find their way to one another, their confidence and inner strength growing from a trot to an all out run along the way.
I so enjoyed this story (plus it has an epilogue!), and am looking forward to book 3! I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.
Profile Image for Julie.
2,688 reviews43 followers
May 2, 2023
Jen Gilroy aims for the heart and delights with her latest emotional and uplifting contemporary romance, A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy.

When an injury had cost him his career and forced him into early retirement, Cole Carter had been left with no other option but to return back home. Having gone through so much upheaval in the last couple of months, romance is the last thing on Cole’s mind – so why has he found himself drawn to new animal physical therapist, Mel McNeil? Relationships are strictly off the agenda for Cole and as much as he likes Mel and her adorable little daughter, is he ready to give up the single life and become a family man?

Her daughter is Mel’s number one priority. After her divorce, Mel vowed to give her child the best possible childhood. Stability is the one thing Mel is determined will be a constant for her daughter – so falling for a rodeo cowboy is definitely not something she should even contemplate! But resisting Cole Carter quickly proves easier said than done. The more time the two of them spend together, the more Mel finds herself falling for him. But with the two of them wanting different things, is a future for them possible? Or should Mel just resign herself to the fact that Cole is not the man for her?

Will Mel and Cole find a way to be together? Or is their love simply not meant to be?

Jen Gilroy never disappoints and she has written a tender, touching and enjoyable contemporary romance with A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy. Feel-good, entertaining and wonderfully romantic, this terrific tale of opposites attracting, second chances and falling in love is a joy from beginning to end. I loved Mel and Cole and their love story kept me gripped and eagerly turning the pages way past my bedtime.

Perfect for Western contemporary romance fans everywhere, Jen Gilroy’s A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy is an enchanting read I couldn’t bear to put down!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Randi Sampson.
1,920 reviews106 followers
May 1, 2023
A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy is the second book in the Montana Carters series. I had not personally read the first book in the series and found that it read just fine as a standalone with no problems at all.

The more cowboy romances that I read, the more I find that I enjoy them... and A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy is a good example as to why. When you read a cowboy romance, there tends to be this great feeling of the importance of community and of family. Cole and Mel are both characters who have had their share of struggles and aren't quite sure where they fit. I love how these characters were written, as they feel very genuine with their own strengths and weaknesses, drawing me right in. Their chemistry is so sweet, and I loved the romance between them, but more than that I adore this sweet sense of family that this book gave me. Skylar is such a sweet supporting character and feels like a real kid (which isn't always the case in novels if we're being honest). It felt a little slower-paced than many of the romances I've been reading lately, but it worked for the story.

Overall, I found this to be an enjoyable read and one that fans of sweet, cowboy romances are to enjoy.

**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Patience Neal.
93 reviews2 followers
May 4, 2023
This is the second book in a series. I have not read the first book but I would like to go back and read the first one. This is also the first book I have read by this author and I would definitely read more of her books.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved all the characters. They are all well written and likeable. I think Joy was my favorite character. This was a wonderful story of healing and second chances for Mel and Cole. I liked the fact that they bonded because they both have similar experiences. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes western romance stories.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book and under no obligation to post a positive review.
Profile Image for Kate Vale.
Author 27 books87 followers
April 24, 2023
Second in the Montana Carters series, in which animal physical therapist Melissa McNeil has moved to little High Valley, Montana, for a new start after divorcing the man who has been little more than a sperm donor for her 6-year-old daughter. She meets former rodeo rider, Cole Carter, after he has returned home to heal from a life-threatening injury. He's not sure he wants to be part of his ranching family's business, since all he really knows is rodeo work and horses, but when he encounters Mel and Skylar, he begins to rethink what he wants for his life.

But can she trust another man after her first husband left her and who continues to disappoint her daughter after making promises to her and then backing out on his plans for her? There is no way Mel will allow her daughter to be disappointed by yet another adult.
Profile Image for Janice Sisemore.
1,682 reviews19 followers
April 18, 2023
A family for the Rodeo Cowboy

I loved Mel and Colby story and that also includes Skylar. Mel is a physical therapist to animals and Skylar is her daughter. They are new in town. Cole comes home after a Rodeo accident. I love how his family welcomes everyone. Love Cole’s mother. My favorite character is Skylar, such a special young girl that had been through so much. Enjoyed all the animals in the story.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Just Read Publicity Tours. This book review is my own opinion.
Profile Image for Patty Duplechin.
834 reviews8 followers
April 19, 2023
Cole Carter, who is a rodeo cowboy had an accident and sustained injuries. Now he is forced to retire. He doesn’t know what he’s going to do next. He is working on his family‘a ranch but doesn’t feel like he belongs. What will he do?
Single mother, Mel McNeil and her young daughter, Skylar moved to town for stability and a home of their own. Mel is a physical therapist who is now working with animals. She loves her job, the town and the people. They end up spending time together and Cole can see that she’s a beautiful, kind and a wonderful person. She’s a great mom too. Can Mel help Cole since she was a physical therapist?
Will Cole figure out what he wants to do? Will he go back to the rodeo after his injuries heal? They both have things to deal with. Can they help each other? Cole is enjoying spending time with Mel and Skylar. Could he have a family after the rodeo? She does make him want one. Will his dreams change ? The characters are wonderful. They both need to learn from their past to move forward with their future. If you love sweet, clean romance, this is for you. I loved this story and all the characters. Worth the read. I received this book for my honest review. It is given voluntarily. Jen Gilroy made me feel like I was there with the characters. Get the book.
Profile Image for Glenda Cates .
34 reviews159 followers
April 1, 2023
Most people growing up at one time or another would like to run away and join the Circus. When I was younger I wanted to run away and join the Rodeo. Bulls, Bronk's and Cowboys what more would I need to be happy? Not only that I remember telling my mom when I grew up I was going to marry a real Cowboy not a wannabe Cowboy. Did that happen in a way yes, and in another way no. Which is why I' am 'm always happy to find a clean uplifting heartwarming romance novel that features the Rodeo like A Family for the Cowboy.

A Family for the Cowboy is a Harlequin Heatwarming novel different from anything I read in my younger years when I was always purchasing Harliquinn novels. None of those Author's writings were half as good as Jen Gilroy. I hated finding out Cole Carter was hurt. Learning Cole had to take early retirement was sad. But finding out he would be returning home was nice because he could see old friends and family. I couldn't wait to see where the future took Cole and Mel as well as her daughter. As I was reading the story I found myself praying for a happily ever after.

If you haven't had the opportunity to check out Jen Gilroy: books I hope you do as soon as possible because she knows how to keep us wanting more. Even after reading the last sentence of the book I wasn't ready to be finished and wish there was a second part. Which is why I couldn't wait t check out the other books in the series Book 1: Montana Reunion. A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy is actually Book 2: but it doesn't matter which order you read the books in as they make sense as standalone novels. I liked knowing anyone of any age will be able to read A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy because it's a nice clean novel with nothing a child shouldn't hear. Making this book the perfect gift for every reader on your Gift Giving List for Mother's Day or as a just because I was thinking of you Gift. Look at that Cowboy on the cover what girl wouldn't want him sitting on their desk?

I would like for you to get to know the Author Jen Gilroy whom you can learn more about at the end of this post. I believe this Author and I could be good friends. For several reasons including the Ice Cream she likes to eat. As well as a purple yes, purple Kayak. My favorite color. What about you? She lives in Canada a new State for my family to study in Homeschool. If she has Snow, I wouldn't mind visiting her. What about you?

I received a copy in exchange for this review.
Profile Image for Christi.
1,223 reviews38 followers
April 25, 2023
Life hasn’t turned out the way Cole or Mel had envisioned it. An injury and and accident respectively has sidelined these equestrian lovers, and now they are trying to again find that spark that will bring their passions back alive, and will direct their uncharted paths.

I love when a character in a story falls in love with a ready-made family, taking up a parental roll that is needed in that child’s life. It shows a strong character and always endears me to that person, and this is what I found in Cole. I was struggling to connect with these characters for some unknown reason, especially at the beginning of the narrative, but seeing Cole interact with sweet, precocious Skylar, and fall in love with both her and her mother, really captured my heart.

Friendships are at the heart of this novel, so it’s no surprise that The Sunflower Sisterhood was one of my favorite parts. There is nothing better than seeing women supporting one another, while also supporting their community, and this groups camaraderie was inspiring, and a delight to read. I also loved Joy Carter, Cole’s widowed mother, and getting to hear her heart throughout the story as she navigates widowhood and being a single mom and grandmother.

I also have to add this random little tidbit that I found truly charming. One of the horses on the Cole ranch is named Daisy-May, which so happened to be one of my nicknames in high school! Very cute and further endeared me to this story.

Though it did take me a bit to get into this story, and connect to these characters, once I was in I was hooked. The sweet, small town feel mixed with lovable characters and chill vibes made this a delectable escape.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
Profile Image for Susan.
1,558 reviews205 followers
April 28, 2023
Cole Carter used to be a famous rodeo cowboy, but in A FAMILY FOR THE RODEO COWBOY finds Cole recovering from his career ending injuries. While recovering, he meets Mel who is a single mom and has a young daughter, Skylar. Mel is divorced and her ex is not really involved in either of their lives. While getting to know each other, feelings start to grow. The only problem is Cole isn’t looking for a long term relationship(or so he says) and Mel has a huge wall around her heart because of what happened to her in the past. How do you think this is going to work out?

Cole loves his family and while he is trying to help them out, he doesn’t really feel like he belongs. He is struggling and Mel convinces him to get professional help. A FAMILY FOR THE RODEO COWBOY shows Cole making great progress and he and Mel are really growing closer. Then after a few setbacks and a huge helping of self doubt, Cole goes and does something stupid and leaves it all behind. Mel is furious of course and is determined not to let his actions derail her dreams for the future. Do you think Cole will ever feel worthy of Mel?

I love the Heartwarming line of books from Harlequin because they are clean and very sweet reads. A FAMILY FOR THE RODEO COWBOY falls into this sweet reads category. The characters have so much depth and I’ve enjoyed getting to know them. They are not perfect, experience a range of emotions and make the reader really care about what happens to them. A FAMILY FOR THE RODEO COWBOY is the first time I’ve read Jen Gilroy, but I know it won’t be the last. There are quite a few books on her backlist and I’m excited to get to them!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
Profile Image for Kendra Neal.
1,906 reviews54 followers
May 1, 2023
I really enjoy Harlequin Heartwarming books. They are clean, easy to read, and a fast read. A Family for the Rodeo Cowboy by Jen Gilroy is the latest book that I have read. It is Book 2 Montana Carters series. I have not read the first book in the series yet, but this one flows well as a Standalone book.

I started reading it as soon as I received it and I could not stop until I was done 5hrs later. Cole Carter and Mel McNeil both have had career-ending injuries. I really enjoyed reading how they both handled them differently. Cole was a Star Rodeo Cowboy and really wishes to be a part of the Rodeo life again. Mel suffered her injury a few years ago and has been able to move forward in life with her young daughter. Mel is now a Physical Therapist for animals and enjoys her current job and her new life in High Valley, Montana. Mel and Cole meet in the small town and I LOVE how their friendship grows and flourishes. The bond Cole forms with Mel's daughter is heartwarming. I LOVE stories based in Small Towns as it really is a Community feel for the book. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Heartwarming Small Town storylines! FANTASTIC BOOK!
Profile Image for Tabitha Bouldin.
Author 49 books714 followers
April 19, 2023
A perfect blend of characters and setting, this story reminded me why I love cowboy books. I could not get enough of Cole and Melissa. The writing style is excellent and made me feel like I was right there with the characters as the emotions rolled off the page. I never wanted the story to end, and even as Cole and Mel hit their low point, I felt the happily ever after all the more. I found a sense of wanting to belong as I read through the story and understood Cole's need to find his place now that he'd lost rodeo. Both characters have been hurt in the past and the way they work through that past while growing closer to each other is part of what made this story great. And I can't forget about Skylar. That girl is wonderful. Her attitude and independence made me laugh more than once. I always felt immersed in the writer's world. I received a copy of this book through JustRead Publicity tours. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Melissa.
368 reviews35 followers
May 1, 2023
A family for the Rodeo Cowboy by Jen Gilroy is book #2 in The Montana Carters series. Cole Carter is recovering from an injury that forced him to retire from rodeo. The cowboy has finally come home after years of traveling from state to state. He is trying to find a place for him to belong. He's always felt like the one Carter who doesn't fit in. His brothers ask Cole to manage the cowboy challenge. As someone managing the event, he needs volunteers. His family suggested he ask Mel McNeil. She's new in town and has expressed interest in meeting new people. Mel McNeil says she will do it & her and her little girl Skylar start to spend a lot of days at Tall Grass Ranch. Though she is a divorcée, She can't help but be won by Cole's charms. Cole too, is finding it hard not to fall for Mel either and her little girl. As the summer nears its end, Cole is granted an expected rodeo opportunity that is hard to turn down. He knows this is his last chance & chances like this don't come along every day. He also is struggling to find his place on the ranch despite his growing feelings for Mel & Skylar. Will Cole finally put down roots & settle down with Mel & her daughter? Or will the pull of the world of rodeo be too much for him to turn down?
This is my first book that I've read by Jen Gilroy or the Carters for that matter. I love the idea of a series centering around a ranch family. You will definitely understand the story without reading book 1. Though, I do think one should read book 1 if you are as entranced with the Carters and High Valley as I am. I loved the small town of High Valley. As I usually do, I want to live there. I wonder they if need a bookstore or a librarian. I'd certainly volunteer. LOL. I loved the ending especially the epilogue. So that always makes me happy. I'd certainly hope you take a chance on this sweet romance set in Montana. It's gonna tug your heartstrings and you might want to knock a few heads, but in the end it all works out. I was given a copy of this book, but all opinions are my very own.
Profile Image for Vicky Sluiter.
Author 1 book104 followers
April 28, 2023
I’m told this is book two in author Jen Gilroy’s Montana Carter series. I haven’t read book one, Montana Reunion, but had absolutely no trouble following this book. It reads fine as a stand alone.

My first book by Gilroy, it won’t be my last. Her characters are well written and true to life with all that brings. Strengths, weaknesses, assumptions, and angst. Cole isn’t sure where, or if, he fits on the family ranch. Mel is looking for stability but instead finds Cole. Both are working through, or avoiding, issues from their past. I really enjoyed all of the characters, and Mel’s daughter is icing on the cake!

I enjoy small town stories, so this clean romance fits the bill. I highly recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
2,766 reviews20 followers
April 21, 2023
This was definitely a heartwarming story with sweet, wonderful characters set in High Valley, Montana.  I really liked Cole Carter and how the end of his rodeo career meant he was lost and at a crossroads as to what he wanted to do with the rest of his life.
I also liked Mel McNeil and her sweet daughter, Skylar.  They were new to the area.  I enjoyed watching them meet new friends and participate in the fun activities the town had to offer.  
I enjoyed learning about Cole's past and Mel's past that brought her to Montana. They were both good for each other.  I liked that family, trust, and being there for each other was extremely important to this story.  I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
Profile Image for Holly Bleggi.
1,434 reviews33 followers
May 3, 2023
I enjoyed this book. I thought it was a sweet story. I loved the characters and how Cole and Mel helped each other to heal after going through traumatic events. I liked how as they got to know each other while working on the cowboy competition, they learned more about themselves and were able to find healing. I liked Skylar and her excitement for the horses and how much Cole and Mel loved her. I thought the story was well written and was a good story about healing and finding a new path in life that may be different from the one you expected.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews