Title: The Cowboy and His Baby by Jessica Clare
Publisher: Berkley
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Length: 304 pages
Book Rating: C+
Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher Through NetGalley
Summary:
From New York Times bestselling author Jessica Clare comes a contemporary Western romance about a cowboy who is in for the ride of his life….
Dustin is a ranch hand with a reputation around town as a ladies’ man. He loves flirting and the thrill of the chase. When he tilts his cowboy hat just so, no one can resist his charms. It’s all fun and games for Dustin until he meets a woman who sparks real feelings in him, and he’s blindsided by love.
Annie is an animal trainer working on set for a film. Other than her furry, canine coworkers, she hasn’t connected with the rest of the movie’s crew. It’s only when a certain cowboy catches her eye that Wyoming becomes interesting. She intends for their romance to be a fling, but by the time filming wraps up, she’s unexpectedly pregnant.
While Annie is prepared to walk away and raise her baby by herself, Dustin isn’t so ready to say good-bye. He has to prove to Annie that she has a future in Wyoming and capture her heart before it’s too late….
Review:
The Cowboy and His Baby by Jessica Clare is a lovely contemporary Western romance.
Hollywood animal trainer Annie Grissom is not looking for love while on location Wyoming. She is a bit frustrated with her current project so she joins a friend in blowing off a bit of steam in the local bar. Her first impression of cowboy Dustin Worthington is not exactly favorable but another chance meeting changes her mind. Over the next few weeks, Annie grows closer to Dustin but she is quick to jump to conclusions about him and leaves without discussing the issue with him. When unexpected circumstances force her to return to Wyoming, will Annie give Dustin the chance to be part of her and their unborn baby’s life?
Annie’s best trait is her love of animals and she is quite patient with the animals in her care. But when it comes to people, she is not overly trusting. She is quick to make assumptions and her defense mechanism is to run from problems instead of talking them through. Annie’s treatment of Dustin is unfair but can she overcome her fears and open her heart to a future together?
Dustin is charming, laidback and good-natured. He has a bit of reputation as a ladies’ man but he is always honest that he is not looking for a relationship. Dustin is a bit restless and enjoys traveling to new places. Although he usually does not stay too long in one place, he has been content to remain working in Wyoming. He is stunned by his unexpected feelings for Annie and he is heartbroken when she leaves without explanation. When she returns, Dustin is excited about the baby but he has good reason to take a cautious approach to resuming their relationship. With Annie back in his life, Dustin is ready to put down roots, but do they share the same vision for their future?
The Cowboy and His Baby is a pleasant romance that is fast-paced and engaging. The storyline is entertaining but a little predictable. Annie’s lack of communication is extremely irritating. Dustin is an endearing man but Annie certainly tries his patience. This newest release by Jessica Clare is a pleasurable read that fans of Western romances will enjoy.
