Veena’s review of Cowboy Boots for Christmas – Cowboy Not Included (Burnt Boot, Texas, Book 1) by Carolyn Brown
Western Romance published by Sourcebooks Casablanca 07 Oct 14
Western romances are not normally my thing, even with cute, sexy cowboys. There’s just something about the routine of ranching that doesn’t normally appeal, but the O’Donnells in Burnt Boot, Texas could definitely change my mind. Then there’s the cowgirls who go after their men in no uncertain terms and ride roughshod over whoever gets in their way and who make for some fun moments, especially when they don’t get their own way, given that their competition is an ex-army spotter who has more tricks up her sleeve to win the day than the gals have ever imagined. This book seems to have it all with its romance mixed in with fun, frolic, and mayhem. Most importantly, however, it brings alive true Christian spirit as Finn and Callie open their hearts and home to a lonely old lady, a brood of children, and all manner of abandoned puppies and kittens, and even one super-verbose parrot for a Christmas to remember.
Callie requires a safe haven for herself and her nephew Martin and prefers to be with Finn rather than in a witness protection program. For all that she hates ranching, she’s definitely not afraid of hard work as she becomes Finn’s partner in helping him feed the cattle and keeping things going. Martin, of course, is in seventh heaven, having found everything his little heart desires in this little corner of Texas.
The town of Burnt Boot has a feud that’s been ongoing for hundreds of years. The shenanigans between the two families as each tries to outdo the other are funny to the point of stupid. Finn is like a piece of raw meat as he becomes the bone of contention between the two local girls who fight over him and try to edge Callie out of her home-court advantage and whose rebuttals are hilarious as she manages to put the girls in their places. I’m interested to see how things heat up with Finn’s cousin moving into town, especially with Finn taken very firmly by Callie.
Since Callie and Finn have both retired after serving their tours of duty in Afghanistan, the author does a great job of highlighting the plight of our veterans who still suffer from PTSD, even though they are safely home. My heart goes out to people who are alone and hurting this holiday season and makes me glad that Finn and Callie have each other to hold through the worst of the nightmares.
There isn’t much story, but overall this is a feel-good book for the holidays as each family member gets a pair of boots as a sign of family unity and commitment. The story brings home the true joy to be found in the holidays and celebrating with family.
Grade: B
Summary:
‘Tis the season for…
Feasting
Frolicking
And…Feuding?All he wants for Christmas is peace and quiet…
After two tours in Afghanistan, retired Army sniper Finn O’Donnell believes his new ranch outside the sleepy little town of Burnt Boot, Texas, is the perfect place for an undisturbed holiday season. But before he can settle in, an old friend shows up looking for protection and a place where nobody knows her name.
But that’s going to take a miracle…
Callie Brewster must relocate to protect her young nephew, Martin, and the only person she trusts is her old Army friend, Finn. Burnt Boot seems like the perfect place to be anonymous, but it turns out a small town with big drama is no place to hide…
No excerpt available.
Other books in this series:
