Her Covert Cowboy

by Dora Hiers

A disenchanted romance writer…
After a humiliating, very public breakup, best-selling romance author Sapphire “Gem” Benton flees to her childhood home in remote Montana to write her contracted novel. With a deadline looming like an enormous black cloud, she’s got nothing so far. Until daily jogs with long-time neighbor and friend Cash Griffin jumpstart the words and spark the inspiration for her fictional hero.

A spy on medical leave…
Back home for some much-needed down time and a medical procedure, Cash hopes the doctor can pinpoint what’s going on with his gut so that he can get some relief. Being on this side of the globe has its benefits, particularly spending precious time with Gem. But Cash refuses to be the sap who always picks up the pieces of her shattered relationships anymore. Especially when everything in him longs to cross the friend boundary and step into forever love territory. He tried that once, and it didn’t work out so well.

A long-held secret…
An FBI investigation involving Gem’s mother threatens to unravel his secret, that he’s a spy, not the graphic arts designer that she believes.

Will the truth set them free or tear them apart?
Can she forgive him and see him as a man of faith and family, one who would love and cherish her always? Or will she lump him into the same category as all the other men in her life, cheaters and liars…

Her Covert Cowboy, a contemporary Christian romance, is Book 22 in The Potter’s House Books Series Two. Stories of ‘hope, redemption and second chances.’ Read all of The Potter's House Books and be blessed.

The Potter’s House Books Series Two authors:

The Hope We Share by Juliette Duncan
Beyond the Deep by Kristen M. Fraser
Honor’s Reward by Mary Manners
Hands of Grace by Brenda S. Anderson
Always You by Jennifer Rodewald
Her Cowboy Forever by Dora Hiers
Changed Somehow by Chloe Flanagan
Sweet Scent of Forgiveness by Delia Latham

and more!

185 pages, Paperback

First published February 2, 2021

About the author

DORA HIERS believes that a person should love what they do or choose to do something else. She’s doing exactly what makes her heart sing and considers every day a gift. Besides writing, Dora adores long walks, lazy afternoons in her hammock with a great book, and evening binges of Hallmark movies. Life’s too short to be stuck in traffic, to drink bad coffee, or to read books with a sad ending. Dora and her real-life hero, a retired fire chief, call North Carolina home, but with a world full of amazing places to explore, that’s only a landing point.

Join Dora's newsletter family for regular updates of her newest releases, awesome book deals, and happy sigh excerpts of sweet, clean and/or Christian romances. https://BookHip.com/QHDTAV

Connect with Dora on her website at www.dorahiers.com

Reviews

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a handsome hero, who lives a secret life, has harbored feelings for his childhood friend and has watched her go through one failed romance after another, you know things are going to get good. Dora Hiers has once again penned a heartwarming, friends to lovers romance filled with secrets, suspense, intrigue and forgiveness that kept me turning the pages. I loved the playful banter between Cash and Gem along with the twist at the end of the story. If you enjoy clean and inspirational romance, I highly recommend Her Covert Cowboy.

[Harmony · Rating 3 out of 5]

Revised review

After some thought, I've decided to revise my review of this book. I had originally given it a 3.5 star rounded up to 4 but now I've lowered it to 3. There are too many things that bothered me about this book to give it a higher rating. Since my reviews tend to be wordy, I'm also going to start hiding the majority of them under a spoiler tag.

Short version: This is a clean Christian romance with no swearing and no sex. It is also very preachy. So much so that it made it an uncomfortable read for me. The characters are constantly talking to God, praying to God, or reading their Bibles. Normally, this wouldn't be an issue for me but it was in this book because it felt inauthentic. Cash is constantly praying that God makes Gem fall in love with him and that didn't settle right with me. I also thought that Gem needed psychiatric help for her issues with men and relationships.

This is a clean, Christian romance with no swearing and no sex.

Longer version under the spoiler.


Cash is a CIA agent light. Meaning, he doesn't feel like one. The super spy angle of this book was massively lacking. The FBI/CIA code names are their last names? And Cash acts as if revealing this was tantamount to treason. It's their LAST NAMES. SIGH. Cash is probably the least CIA agent I've ever read. The author writes him as weak. He gets a cold, he throws up, he has explosive diarrhea (implied thankfully) due to stomach issues. It's not pretty. In spite of the above, Cash is actually a good character. He easily carries this book. He's kind, loving, loyal, and steadfast. He's also THE CHRISTIAN in this book. All caps because he's the one that is constantly talking to and praying to God. Normally this sort of thing doesn't bother me since I prefer to read Christian romances. However, it's so overdone here that I rolled my eyes a lot and skipped it. I also didn't like how Cash is constantly praying that God makes Gem fall in love with him. Again, Cash is the best character so that should tell you something. He is also the reason I gave this a 3-star review.

Gem is a neurotic mess. She is one of those characters/women who is constantly falling for the loser jerks of the world. She is also a user and a taker. When her romances fall apart, she rushes to Cash for comforting. There is NO WAY she doesn't know he loves her. None. Characters like her are loathsome with the way they use those who care about her. I struggled with her. I wanted her to see somebody for her daddy issues. The daddy issues are at the root of her problems. Instead, Cash prays A LOT and talks to God A LOT. Then WHAM! Gem magically has a change of heart and opens her eyes, rainbows shoot out of unicorn butts, and there is Cash standing in a ray of sunshine and all is right in the world. They skip off into the sunset, holding hands, into their HEA.

Yeah, I didn't buy it.

I would have preferred if Gem had gone to Christian counseling and used the tools that God created (counselors, therapists, etc.) to resolve her issues. Cash could have stood by her side as her supportive best friend while she got the help she needed. Then, after sometime, they could have started a relationship that led to love and marriage. This could have even been included in an epilogue or something. Instead, we get the magic rainbow shooting unicorns at the end of the story.

I should note here that the parents in this story are a great addition. I adored Cash's mom and dad. The way they showed Cash how love should look and feel like was moving. The "silent language of love" that his dad showed his mom was sweet. I also liked the side story of Ramona and Preston (Gem's mother and her beau). I didn't like that she was called Ramona but it's just a quibble and not a major issue.

[Stox4story · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Wedding That Would Never Be …. oh but just you wait!

The truth may set you free but the journey there can be painful. However, it also can lead to a new beginning. That’s exactly what happens to Sapphire Benton, or should we call her Gem?

When a heart is broken, it’s painful but when humiliation compounds the hurt and a best friend betrays you, where does one go? Where does one find strength and healing? For Sapphire, she goes to the comfort of her mother’s arms and the seclusion of her childhood home.

Once again she has come to learn that men are cheaters and liars…. all of them. Her father was no different and neither was her fiancé, errrr, now her ex-fiance.

But Sapphire remembers one exception. Her childhood best friend, Cash. He and his sister Kelli were like family. And just as if the doctor ordered it, Cash was waiting for Gem as she pulled in the drive of the old home place.

Perfect right? Well, it all seems that way…. but wait, is Cash being somewhat elusive? Is he hiding his own secrets? If so, how does Gem fit into it all? After all, Cash always was her hero, always stepped in to save the day. Can he…. will he be her lifesaver once again? Or is his secret about to ruin everything? What is Cash hiding?

Yes, this book is about pain, heartbreak and betrayal. It’s also about love, romance and mystery. Things will come to light and true friends become so much more. Questions will all be answered as you flip the pages.

👁OBSERVATIONS and WISHES👁

🙈 How could Gem be so clueless …. so BLIND?

❓Ian and Kate …. I so wanted to ‘see’ their thoughts? I wanted to feel them realize the cost of betrayal. Yes, Ian makes an appearance …. but arrogance does not reflect remorse.

🖤 And what about Gem’s dad…. does he know who his daughter is now? Does he even care? He sowed a mess, does he ever reap the weeds?

💒 Sapphire is a celebrity in her own right..... how did the paparazzi handle the Epilogue in the book? What was the reaction of those 'so-called' LA friends?

😇 Loved how scripture was inserted into the storyline in a subtle way. Also the silent prayers.

I was provided an advance copy of this book and voluntarily leave my review. Loved the book. Four stars because Sapphire got somewhat annoying and a too much 'self-talk' from characters. Also, I would have loved to seen some reaping what was sowed with Ian, Kate and 'dad'.

[Charlie Sandino · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was happy to read this book, "Her Covert Cowboy", it was the first time I read a book by Dora Hiers. It is a very nice story and I did so love the main characters Cash and Sapphire/"Gem". They have grown up together at Triple G Ranch in the Montana and known each other for ages.
Being best friends they have been there for each other. This story is set in a nice place a bit remote but, familywise beautiful. Gem a known author with success needs a break to disconnect and goes back home to Montana. At the same time Cash also returns to the place he grew up, to deal with a few personal issues and secrets. Cash and Gem meet and start catch up with each other.
I really enjoy the story telling of Dora and it was as if I could follow Cash and Gem's story and the other people as if I were there. The story had a very nice way of unraveling itself and it did take a few twists and turns that I hadn't expected. Reading on just wanting to see what happened, I wasn't disappointed, I would have wanted for the book to have lasted longer.
This very good book had all it takes for a nice romantic read, with a bit of mystery and suspense.
How you discover the way Cash and Gem continue their friendship and how destiny is there to help them along the way. That they took a chance on getting it right.
A truly nice story of friendship, love, family and the importance of faith and being honest with one self. This book was such a breath of fresh air and it was one that I enjoyed reading! I'm grateful to have had the possiblilty ot read this book, I can definitely recommend this read for those of you who love a nice romantic read! I most certainly will read other books by Dora Hiers. Thank you!
Charlotte N

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sapphire returns to visit her mother on the Triple G. Ranch. Her recent breakup with Ian, her fiance, is brutal and her heart needs healing. Sapphire decides on a lengthy stay and plans to work on the novel she is writing. She is behind and the deadline is looming. Sapphire's childhood friend, Cash, also picks that particular time to come home for a visit. Cash is dealing with a secret of his own.

There is playful banter between the two main characters and I liked them both from the start. The sweet love story is handled extremely well and is inspiring and the references to God are encouraging and uplifting.

The story has such warm and layered characters that brought life and substance to the telling of their story. Both characters grew and learned forgiveness, trust, and the true meaning of love.
The ending has a twist that was surprising but wrapped everything up nicely.

I received an ARC from the author and voluntarily choose to review it.

[Shebb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms Hiers has done it again with another story filled with an engaging plot, intricate detail, realistic characters with depth, and a faith journey arc to encourage any of us on our faith walk.

I liked Sapphire for most of the novel (she only upset me in the last third of the book, heh heh), and could understand the struggles she dealt with because of her past. Only good things in the life of an author...! 😉

And Cash. *swoon* Gosh, what a strong character, flaws and all. Not that I'd care about any "flaws" if he were my leading man, bahaha! A perfect gentleman, filled with decades of patience, faithfulness and near-perfection.

Another winner from Dora Hiers!

NB I received an ARC of this novel.

[Lori R · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a great edition to the Potter's House series. I really liked Sapphire and her friend since childhood, Cash. I was immediately drawn into the story of why Sapphire returned to the Triple G Ranch in Meriden, Montana. I also enjoyed the Bible scriptures which were so important to the story and to Cash's character too.

The secrets and the mysteries surrounding Cash and how he made his living greatly added to the intrigue of the story. I especially liked the sparks between Cash and Sapphire and how they seemed to be perfect for each other even though Sapphire thought of him as a really good, old friend. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cash and Gem are great for each other. He has loved her for forever and she is blind to his love and picks the same type of men. I enjoyed their love story. At times I wanted to jump through the book and shake Gem for being so blind but I also wanted Cash to man up. He should’ve been true to her and himself and told her how he felt about her all this time instead of assuming she knew. Also, she reacted wrongly lumping him with all the other men when he finally shared some truths with her. I’m glad she saw the error or her ways and realized he was the same person she fell in love with regardless of the secret. Also it’s great to see faith such a huge part of this story.

I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.

[SJ Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Cash and Gem's story. Cash had loved Gem forever, but to Gem, they were just best friends. Gem was always picking the loser boyfriends and Cash would help pick up the pieces of her heart. Cash was having health issues and came home to get medical help. Gem just caught her fiance Ian with her so-called best friend, so she went home with a wounded heart and needed to work on her book. I so cheered Cash on and fussed at Gem when she tried to lump Cash in with all her past lying loser boyfriends. If you like clean stories with lots of heart, you can't go wrong with 'Her Covert Cowboy'. I highly recommend it. I received this book from the publisher. The thoughts and comments are my own.

[Jan Tomalis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one interesting book! Sapphire is living her life in the spotlight. She is a romance writer and her fiancé is a NBA superstar. When she catches him cheating, their breakup is in the spotlight also. She goes home to Montana to write her next book and immediately sees Cash, her life long best friend. Being mostly inseparable, Cash and “Gem” do a daily jog which helps her creativity. However, Cash is hiding the secret of his real job. I loved that he prayed to find the path he should take but can Gem accept it? A fantastic story!
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.

[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sapphire Benton has had one betrayal after another in her life. Now she's returned home to the comfort of Meriden, her mother's small home and the one guy she's always been able to rely on. Her best friend Cash has always been there for her, has never let her down. But what will happen when secrets come to light that will change everything?

Cash Griffin has had a secret life for almost a decade but keeping it from the one person he loves outside his family is literally making him sick. When Sapphire returns home he believes he might actually have a chance to show her they can be more than just friends.  But it seems secrets have a way of coming out and the results can be devistating.

This sweet heartwarming story really gripped me and kept me up late to finish it.  With a friends to lovers theme we see Gem (Sapphire) realize the one man that has always been there for her is the man God has prepared for her all along. But can she get past the secret he's been keeping from her for nine years?

I received an ARC and voluntarily offer this review.

[Amanda Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, and I enjoyed that this book was real. In the fact that it showed what lying and stress do to people. I feel like a lot of books glorify being dishonest without showing what really happens to people over long term.
I did feel like I missed a part of the book when I was reading. Maybe I just expected the book to be longer and to be a little more fuller towards the end. I felt like the book kept building and building, and then wow- it was over. But, with that said, I would read it again, and I would read more books by Dora Hiers.

[Kris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is yet another awesome book from Dora.
I read through half of the night before forcing myself to sleep and picked up again first thing the next day.
Cash and Sapphire are just so perfect for each other, but having the courage and faith to step across that lounge of friendship and see what more may wait for you is obviously a scary move.
I just loved their interactions and seeing what they couldn't see.
It was also great to hear about Tristyn and Bryce and Ryder she Eden again.

I received an ARC copy of this book in return for my voluntary and honest opinion.

[Karen Brasher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Covert Cowboy

This is an inspirational romance and great addition to the Potter’s House Series Two. Sapphire is a romance writer. She witnessed her ex fiancé and best California friend together in a compromising position, called off the wedding and left California for her childhood home in Meriden. Upon arrival she her childhood friend, Cash, welcomes her home. Will Sapphire ever see Cash as anything other than her childhood friend? What happens when she finds out his secret?

[Debbie Chatley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Childhood friends, Sapphire and Cash, end up back in their hometown at the same time due to life circumstances. Will they pick up their friendship or is there the possibility of more than friendship. Cash longs for more but Sapphire seems to want only friendship. Cash is no longer content to be the friend that picks her up after each failed relationship when she picks the wrong guys. I loved the friendly interaction between them and the fact that they both were growing in their faith.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful story!! I love that Ramona's boyfriend was not guilty and that Cash was able to find that out. I love the long time friend to romantic love relationship. Gem and Cash are so sweet and perfect together. Kelli added a good buffer and great friend relationship. Such a good story, very well written.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author, but I am sharing my honest opinion by choice.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a best friends to lovers book and Her Covert Cowboy does not disappoint! The author did a great job of creating likable, believable characters and moving them from the closeness and camaraderie of friendship to the intimacy of romantic love—all while keeping it clean. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it! I was entrusted with a copy of this book by the author and this is my voluntary and honest opinion.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dora Hiers book Her Covert Cowboy:
This book is filled with faith, hope and love. You will read about special friends who finally get back together. Dora will have you turning the pages waiting to see what happens next. Gem and Cash will have you waiting to see what happens between them. You will feel God working throughout this wonderful story.
I had the honor to review this book for a honest review.

[Sharon Dean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This edition to the Potters House series did not disappoint! I love the cowboy series that the Author writes. Gem and Cash’s story was so genuine and heartwarming. From best friends to getting to know each other more and falling in love, it was filled with God moments that left you turning the pages wanting more. It was hard to put down. And to be able to escape to Montana for a bit was a welcome change. Loved this story!! I received an ARC in advance. This review is my own opinion.

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Covert Cowboy is a wonderful, heartwarming, inspiring, friends to lovers romance. Once again, Ms. Heirs presents fully dimensional characters with secret, secret crushes and imperfections. These are characters the reader can relate to. Cash has a secret life that is about to intrude on his personal life. Gem hates liars and cheaters. I sat down to take a short break and start this mesmerizing book. Several hours later, I was sad to reach the end!

[Elaine Swinney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given a copy of this book through BookFunnel and I voluntarily chose to review it. This is the first Dora Hiers book I have read it was awesome. This is a well written story with great characters. It is worth your time. Please take your time reading it or you will miss some of the details which make the story. I read this in one afternoon. I do encourage you to get this book you will feel good at the end of the story!

[Susan Jalosky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

The characters in this story drag you right in! I love the story about Cash and Gem! Both of them have things they need to work through. Being friends since they were little can sometimes be a hindrance but God has a plan! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait for another one.

[Mary A. Lopp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book. About a handsome cowboy that has a secret life. He has feelings for his childhood friend. He has been there for her through failed romances. But things start to happen between them. His secrets comes out after he tells her. She doesn't like it but in time it works out. I recommend this book.

[Samantha Ball · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful love story

Cash is a man of faith with manners to swoon over. Gem is in need of some tender loving care after a break up. Who better than her best friend Cash? But feelings change and secrets are revealed. I loved this book. The descriptive writing is wonderful and the characters well developed. Beautiful.

[Katherine Browne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Covert Cowboy ( Potter's House Series 2)

I really enjoyed reading this book! It was full of friendship and ❤️ love with a dose of drama and suspense! I was so happy to know that Cash and Gem were both able to realize their true feelings for each other. Although it took a little longer to realize it for Gem!

[Nati · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sapphire and Cash has been best friends all her life. Can Cash make her realise he is the one for her? Can Saphire see the real Cash or is he hiding secrets like all the men in Saphire ‘s life? A love story full of faith, friendship, family and real choices.

[MaryEllen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one has spies and investigations but really it's about a scared girl angry about the men in her life being liars and cheats... All men but her bestie, Cash.

Uh, spoke too soon.

His secret though is to keep her safe. That's different right?

[NanaShauna Joesten · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic read that captured me from the beginning. The world building is fantastic as well as the Character building, this Author knows how to keep the readers attention, it's a real page Turner that I definitely recommend.
Shauna Joesten

[Michaela (Reading in the Heartland) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet and enjoyable CIA and romance writer best friends to more romance. I enjoyed the setting and the different side stories .I devoured it in one sitting.

I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Margaret Lawton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story of Cash and Gem. I really liked how Cash waited patiently on God to lead in their relationship. I received a complimentary copy of this book, but have freely chosen to offer my own thoughts and opinions.