Between The Pages - A Cowboy Worth Waiting For

A Cowboy Worth Waiting For 

Melinda Curtis 

March 2023 

This cowboy’s done with love… Or is he? 

Former rodeo queen Ronnie Pickett has always had a talent for matchmaking—and now she’s going pro. Her first customer? None other than her friend and teen cowboy crush, Wade Keller. Of course, convincing the widowed bronc rider and single dad that it's time to date again is gonna be a challenge. But no one warned Ronnie about the occupational hazard of falling for her very first cowboy client.

Between The Pages 

This is the first book in The Cowboy Academy and what a fun way to start the series. The cast of characters is delightful with Ronnie and Wade leading the way with subtle attraction and witty banter. The author immediately draws you into the story and embraces your attention to the end. This is the perfect book to get comfy in your favorite spot and read the day away. 

Rating

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Cowgirl Never Forgets

A Cowgirl Never Forgets 

Melinda Curtis 

July 2024 

Even the best cowgirl falls… 

When it’s the right cowboy.

Rodeo cowgirl Maggie Blackwell doesn’t need her estranged family. She’s got Clem Coogan—her best friend, rodeo buddy and absolute rock. But when a rodeo accident leaves Clem with a terrible concussion, he’s convinced they’re a romantic item…and proposes to her. Now until his memory comes back, Maggie’s playing along. But can she keep this headache from turning into heartache for both of them? 

Between The Pages 

The first book in the Blackwell Belles series sets a high bar for the rest. This is a sweet and fun story. Maggie and her best friend Clem are adorable together. They know each other so well, except for feelings they’ve kept hidden. Stuck in an RV with Big E, Denny, Maggie’s mother, and an adorable pup, could be a recipe for disaster for Maggie and Clem, but there are many laugh-out-loud moments as well as heartfelt conversations. The addition of Clem’s family (adopted and real) adds to the reading enjoyment. Highly recommended, and looking forward to reading how Big E and Denny bring the Blackwell Belles together. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Cowboy Thanksgiving

A Cowboy Thanksgiving 

Melinda Curtis 

August 2022 

A holiday visit… Or a season for love? 

As an orphan, Maxine Holloway has never known what “family” truly feels like. That is, until Max and her daughter spend Thanksgiving in Second Chance, Idaho, with the boisterous and prominent Monroes—including ridiculously handsome cowboy Bo Monroe. For the first time ever, Max doesn’t feel like an outsider. But can she let down her guard enough to let the Monroes—and especially Bo—be her home beyond the holidays? 

Between The Pages 

Writing this review comes with mixed feelings…thrilled to have read such an enjoyable book and sad it’s the end of a series. This book was such a fun read, riddled with humor, family drama, emotional scenes, and the best family reunion ever. Bo was the final Monroe to find his happy-ever-after, and Maxine and her daughter were the perfect match for the handsome bachelor cowboy. Engaging scenes capture the reader from beginning to end, putting a smile on your face and a tear in your eye. The challenge of games was fun, bringing out the whole family of Monroes. You reminisce with all your friends from past books and make some new ones because the author invites the reader into Second Chance. I highly recommend A Cowboy Thanksgiving as well as the complete Mountain Munroe series. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Healing The Rancher

Healing The Rancher 

Melinda Curtis 

May 2022 

Some scars are skin-deep… 

Others run deeper. 

Widowed rancher and gruff single dad Finn McAfee hides behind his scars. That is, until city gal Kendall Monroe arrives, determined to learn everything about ranching. But while Kendall definitely doesn’t fit in, her infectious energy seems to touch the lives of everyone she meets—including Finn and his little girl. Now everything Finn cherishes could be unraveled by the one thing he thought he’d lost forever: love. 

Between The Pages 

Healing the Rancher is book eleven in the Mountain Monroes series and rises to the top of my favorites. The storyline is captivating, as are the two main characters who have instant sizzle the moment they meet. They couldn’t be more different. Finn has physical scars and Kendall has emotional ones. Together they are the perfect match. The newcomers adding to this series’ cast are Finn’s adorable daughter and a group of endearing misfits. The author is a master storyteller of mixing punches of humor and emotion into her romances. This is a book you'll want to non-stop read...it's that good. Highly recommend. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - The Cowboy Meets His Match

The Cowboy Meets His Match 

Melinda Curtis 

February 2022 

She could never love a cowboy 

Until she does… 

Racing boat captain Olivia Monroe never imagined breaking up with the ocean and starting a fake relationship with too-charming cowboy Rhett Diaz. Now her family's insisting Olivia and Rhett take an adventurous road trip as a “couple.” Only somewhere between zip-lining and rappelling down a waterfall, Olivia's rediscovering her courage—and dangerous new feelings for Rhett. But how can a sailor love a landlocked cowboy…especially one with secrets?

Between The Pages 

It was great to return to Second Chance and the Monroe family, and while this book took place on the road, it was equally enjoyable. Olivia and Rhett were fun and entertaining. They had great chemistry and their interaction and nicknames for each other were highlights in the story. Another highlight was Sonny with his advice and inspirational T-shirts. There was even a mention of a Blackwell. This book was filled with adventures and lots of humor. I highly recommend getting to know the Munroe family. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Lights, Camera, Christmas Town

Lights, Camera, Christmas Town

Anna J. Stewart, Beth Carpenter, Cari Lynn Webb, Cheryl Harper, Leanne Bristow, Liz Flaherty, Melinda Curtis, and Tanya Agler 

October 2023 

What could make the holidays in Christmas Town even more magical? The arrival of a TV movie’s cast and crew to recreate one of their most beloved couple’s happily ever after! 

The snow is falling, the chestnuts are roasting, and Posey’s peppermint pies can’t keep up with demand! But there’s also mischief afoot as filming begins. Someone keeps sneaking Elmer the Elf into scenes, the town is buzzing with romantic gossip, and the Knotty Elves once again turn their creative endeavors from knitting to helping others find true love. 

Between The Pages 

Eight stories by eight different authors, yet the reading is smooth and connected. The plot is surrounded by a movie filmed in Christmas Town. New and old characters are spotlighted, each interesting and well-developed. The Knotty Elves are key to each story. The stories have a mixture of humor, drama, and lots of romance. This collection of stories is perfect to get you into the Christmas spirit. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Wyoming Christmas Reunion

Wyoming Christmas Reunion 

Melinda Curtis 

November 2022 

A love that never died… 

Could be rekindled this Christmas 

Helen Blackwell never stopped loving horse trainer Nash…even when she divorced him. When the stoic cowboy bets the ranch on her winning a cutting horse competition—and she’s terrified to ride—she wonders if there’s any hope for them. Renewing the love between them may take more than a moment under the mistletoe. But working together could heal past hurts and give their five-year-old son his Christmas wish! 

Between The Pages 

The fifth and final book in the Blackwells of Eagle Springs wrapped up the series perfectly with a Christmas bow. While this book is a stand-alone story, I would recommend reading them in order to fully connect with this family. Nash and Helen were destined to be together, and their love shows on every page. The scenes of Nash helping Helen overcome her fear of horse riding were endearing. The whole series is all about family and this book really enhances their bond and they even take in a straggler. One of many highlights in this story was Denny’s voice being more prominent, which allowed the reader to get to know her better. This story flowed seamlessly with the books before it. Each book is independent, but the five authors make it feel like they are one writer. They take readers into their world, introduce them to the characters, and welcome them into the Blackwell family. Well done. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Cowgirl's Secret

A Cowgirl’s Secret 

Melinda Curtis 

September 2021 

Could saving the ranch… 

Mean a future together? 

Cowgirl Cassie Diaz has a secret—a bull riding accident may have stolen her dream of motherhood. She needs to recover, but how can she rest with her family’s ranch in peril? Recent Second Chance, Idaho, arrival Bentley Monroe offers help, and his quiet strength makes her feel safe. Loving him could heal her wounds, but would she have a future with this family man? 

Between The Pages 

I have been waiting patiently to return to Second Chance, Idaho, and this book was a warm welcome. I think I have a new favourite Monroe. Bentley is amazing! The pied piper is a perfect nickname because I followed him on every page. Cassie is such a strong heroine, yet so unsure of her future. They are perfect for each other. And with every Monroe book, there’s a good amount of family drama. The mystery of Tanner’s connection to the Monroes peaks, and there is a peek of something going on between Bentley’s sister, Olivia, and Cassie’s brother, Rhett. I can’t wait to read book ten to see what happens between them. I highly recommend A Cowgirl’s Secret (book nine). This contemporary romance will make you smile, laugh, and fall in love with these characters. A must read! 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Caught By The Cowboy Dad

Caught By The Cowboy Dad 

Melinda Curtis 

June 2021 

This cowboy’s planned his future… 

Then love gets in the way! 

Holden Monroe is focused on sending his son off to college until ex-girlfriend Bernadette Carlisle drops the bomb that she’s expecting their baby. The cowboy’s offer to do the right thing is an empty gesture to Bernadette. The successful doctor doesn’t believe Holden capable of settling down—she just wants a custody agreement. But an eventful road trip might just change everyone’s expectations! 

Between The Pages 

Caught By The Cowboy Dad is a perfect road trip escape. The perfect blend of emotion and humour has me eager to start reading any book from this author. The opening takes you on a scenic road trip in a RV, which has its share of mishaps and fun. There are so many laugh-out-loud scenes, but one that stands out involves Holden’s son, Devin, and a girl who tries to kiss him. His reaction was priceless. The connection between Holden and Bernadette is heartwarming and you’ll root for their happy ending. An additional bonus was the return of Holden’s cousin, Shane, who is one of my favourite characters. A new relative is introduced who will surely stir things up for this family. Book 8 in the Mountain Munroes series is a stand-alone title, but I highly recommend diving into this series from the beginning. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Second Chance For Love

A Second Chance For Love 

Mom Wanted by Anna J. Stewart

Father Wanted by Kayla Perrin

Hero Wanted by Melinda Curtis

Family Wanted by Cari Lynn Webb 

April 2021 

With Mother’s Day approaching, four women living in a picturesque coastal town discover a second chance at love when they finally find their happily-ever-after partners in this anthology of contemporary romance novellas. 

Between The Pages 

One book, four stories, four authors. The stories have a main theme in common, they all take place in a small town on the ocean – Sea Glass Bay. Each story is unique on its own, but flow together seamlessly. Each author has a unique voice, yet they come together to make Mother’s Day the overall theme and finding happy-ever-afters. I enjoyed reading each story and can’t pick a favourite as they were all heartwarming and emotional. A great combination of authors and stories. 

Rating

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Dream A Little Dream

Dream A Little Dream 

Melinda Curtis 

February 2021 

A small-town judge meets her match in a rodeo star troublemaker, but soon they may both end up targets of the town's matchmakers in this delightful and heartwarming tale of romance. 

Darcy Jones Harper is thrilled to have finally shed her reputation as the girl from the wrong side of the tracks. The people of Sunshine Valley have to respect her now that she’s the new town judge. But when the bad boy who broke her heart back in high school shows up in her courtroom, she realizes maybe things haven’t changed so much after all . . . because her pulse still races at the sight of him.

Jason Petrie wants to make amends for the mistakes of his youth—starting with the woman he never stopped loving. Darcy may not believe that he really intends to quit the bull riding circuit and stick around this time but Jason vows—with the help of the matchmaking Widows Club—to pull out all the stops to convince her that they both deserve a second chance. 

Between The Pages 

Another fun trip to Sunshine Valley. The plot is engaging from beginning to end. Darcy and Jason are great together. The author brings a lot of humour to the story with so many scenes that make you smile and laugh. Stogey is a stinky little star in every scene. The widows rule, and one of the ladies has an itch to scratch. But it is the deceased judge’s voice that sends the laughter off the chart. Another great match made in Sunshine Valley. 

Rating 

4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Very Merry Match

A Very Merry Match 

Melinda Curtis 

September 2020 

The holidays are served up with some spice in this small-town romance featuring a woman who must maintain a secret identity and the man who begins falling for her. 

This Christmas, all Mayor Kevin Hadley wants is to give his five-year-old son whatever his heart desires. Only Tad has fallen head over holly for his pretty, sweet-as-sugarplum teacher. When attraction sparks between Kevin and Mary Margaret, the single dad thinks she may be the answer to his and his son's dreams. But after Mary Margaret reluctantly turns him down, Kevin decides it's time to embark on a new campaign -- one for Mary Margaret's heart. 

Mary Margaret Sneed usually spends her holiday baking and caroling with her students. Yet this year, she's swapped shortbread and sleigh bells for a second job to pay off her late husband's debts. Mary Margaret would love to go tree trimming with Kevin and his son, but she won't risk his political future with her controversial side gig. Only the town's meddling matchmakers have determined there's nothing a little mistletoe can't fix . . . and if the Widows Club has their way, Mary Margaret and Kevin may just get the best Christmas gift of all this year. 

Between The Pages 

Once the Widows Club sets their sights on a couple, there is no turning back. Reading this book will make you smile. The author does a great job of mixing witty dialogue with touching moments. Mary Margaret and Kevin are such a cute couple. Their banter is masterfully written, as is the conflict both characters suffer. Kevin’s decision over the type of wife best suited for his political career made me want to slug him, but he won me over with his dancing and declaration to Mary Margaret. Two of the women in the widows club fighting for the attention of a man was an interesting and fun twist, as were the men following Mary Margaret, and her part-time job. The story takes place during Christmas but can be an enjoyable read any time. Looking forward to revisiting Sunshine Valley. 

Rating 

4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - The Littlest Cowgirls

The Littlest Cowgirls

Melinda Curtis 

February 2021 

This soon-to-be dad... 

Is getting a double surprise.

Wyatt Halford's kept his cool as one of Hollywood's hottest action stars. But coming to Second Chance and discovering he's about to be a father to twins? Now he's definitely off-kilter. He certainly can't afford any complications--like falling for spirited, redheaded actress Ashley Monroe. Wyatt's dealing with the biggest plot twist of his life. But can he do the right thing...and still find his happy ending?

Between The Pages 

Book seven in the Mountain Monroes is filled with family drama. The story grows in anticipation with the turn of each page. Ashley is sweet and sensitive, and she’s finally standing on her own, but Wyatt’s charm is getting in her way. Their heartwarming romance travels a rocky road with several bumps of secrets and family meddling. Seeing previous characters was so much fun, but Gabby (Ashley’s soon-to-be niece-in-law) steals the show. When everything unravels and Gabby is standing in the middle…that scene was priceless and brought a tear to my eye. The author pulls you into Second Chance and has you looking for a cabin to rent so you can stay a while longer. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Can't Hurry Love

Can’t Hurry Love 

Melinda Curtis 

March 2020 

Head-over-heels in love, Lola Williams gave up everything to marry Randy, including a promising career in New York City. Now, after one year of marriage and one year of widowhood, Lola finds herself stranded in Sunshine, Colorado, reeling from the revelation that Randy had secrets she never could have imagined. She swears she's done with love forever but the matchmaking ladies of the Sunshine Valley Widows Club have different plans...

Sheriff Drew Taylor also knows what it feels like to be unlucky in love. So when Lola comes to him for help uncovering Randy's hidden life, Drew finds himself saying yes against his better judgment - especially with the Widows Club eyeing them both. Soon enough, Lola is upending Drew's peaceful, predictable world...and he kind of likes it! But will this big-city girl ever give her heart to a small-town guy again?

Between The Pages
If you like a romance with a good sense of humour, then this is the book for you. There are so many laugh-out-loud and adorable moments in this story. Lola with the blow-up dolls, the whip cream beards, and Rosie the pig to highlight just a few. The main characters are delightful and the rest of the cast are entertaining. The story is packed with emotion as Lola uncovers secrets about her deceased husband. There is even a side story about two of the older widows. Lots of drama and fun. I’m anxious to know who the Sunshine Valley Widows Club will pick next on their matchmaking list.

Rating
4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - Montana Welcome

Montana Welcome 

Melinda Curtis 

August 2020 

A bride on the run

And a cowboy to show her the way home… 

Lily Harrison’s wedding day isn’t quite what she imagined. Not only does her fiancé not love her, she’s just discovered she’s a Blackwell—a member of Montana’s well-known ranching family. Now Lily’s ditched her own wedding for a road trip with handsome cowboy Conner Hannah. But will Lily find her answers in Montana…or lose the cowboy she’s already begun falling for?

Between The Pages
What a great returning start to the Blackwell ranch. This is the first book in The Blackwell Sisters and I’m already a fan. In this story, Big E meets the first of five granddaughters he didn’t know existed. I adored Big E in The Blackwell Brothers and in this story he has more of a leading role, which I hope continues throughout the series. Lily and Conner are perfect for each other. Their interaction is quite captivating. Conner is swoon-worthy. This cowboy steals the show. There’s a little bit of everything in this entertaining read. A great cast of old and new favourites. Plenty of emotion and humour, and a good kick of family drama. I am looking forward to the next book.

Rating
5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Daughter For The Mountain Firefighter

A Daughter For The Mountain Firefighter
Melinda Curtis
June 2020

A fearless pilot…

Small plane pilot Rachel Quinlan is fearless fighting forest fires, but on the home front it’s a different story. She’s still not completely over her crush on Cole Hudson, love of her older sister Missy’s life, even though he left town over a decade ago. But who has time for crushes? She’s got Missy’s kids to raise and her family’s failing business to run. 

The past collides with the present… 

An accident brings Hot Shot firefighter Cole back to town where he discovers he’s got responsibilities and enemies he never knew he had. And the one person he thought he could trust – Rachel – is hiding more than one secret about his past. 

Between The Pages 
This story has a wallop of tenderness and emotion. Cole steps out of his Chainsaw role and slips easily into caregiver and father. We don’t get to see much of the fires in this story other than the beginning, but there’s so much more going on within the plot that your attention is held from start to end. You’ll laugh, smile, and maybe even shed a tear. Rachel isn’t the only one with a crush on Cole because every reader will fall for this sensitive, handsome hero. It was fun to see the Hot Shots gather together before they head off in different directions. The Mountain Firefighters is a must read series.

Rating 
5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Baby For The Mountain Firefighter

A Baby For The Mountain Firefighter 
Melinda Curtis
April 2020

What not to expect when you’re expecting… 
Becca Thomas is thrilled to be pregnant, even though it means bringing up her baby alone. At thirty-eight, this may be her last chance to have a child. She doesn’t expect to see her baby daddy again, nor does she believe the free-wheeling younger man wants to be a father. 

Wrong! 
Aiden Rodas may live the life of a devil-may-care wildland firefighter, but he’s not going to walk away from his responsibilities, no matter how unexpected they are. His challenge now is making Becca see that their child needs both of them. 

Between The Pages 
This is the third book in the Mountain Firefighter series, starring Hot Shot – Spider aka Aiden. I liked Spider in the previous books, but he is a star in this story. His character is fun, serious, smart, and emotional. He’s the perfect hero. I enjoyed following his journey from a carefree bachelor to a responsible father and husband. Becca is a good match for Aiden and their chemistry is captivating. The author masterfully drops you into the explosive fire season with a detailed voice of research where you can feel the heat from the flames. A few twists of Aiden’s relationship with his father as well as a small spotlight on the female firefighter add even more enjoyment to the story. Once I started this story, I didn’t want to put it down.

Rating 
5 Stars

Between The Pages - Charmed By The Cook's Kids

Charmed By The Cook’s Kids 
Melinda Curtis
June 2020

A cook rediscovers her passion… 

Thanks to a new chef in town. 

If she’s to keep her diner afloat, single mom Ivy Parker must overhaul her menu. When high-profile chef Cam Monroe comes to Second Chance, she’s wary of asking for help. Would a perfectionist like him approve of the corners she cuts to find time for her children? But as Cam helps her rediscover her love for cooking, Ivy finds they have more in common than she expected.

Between The Pages 
Just when I think I’ve read my favourite book in The Mountain Monroes series, the author throws another hit. I didn’t think Cam Munroe could stand up against Jonah and Shane, but he did, and with ease. Getting to know Ivy, the owner of Second Chance’s Bent Nickel restaurant, and her two boys, was such fun. I smiled each time she labeled Cam with a new ‘chef’ name. Their growing friendship and romance captivates the turn of every page. When Ivy’s ex-husband arrives in town, the action heats up. There are a few twists in the story with Gabby, a secret, and a wedding, leading to the next book, but until then…book six with Ivy and Cam is a romance recipe of success.

Rating 
5 Stars

Between The Pages - Twins For The Mountain Firefighter

Twins For The Mountain Firefighter 
Melinda Curtis
March 2020

A bachelor’s life… 

Because of a not-so-happy childhood, Logan McCall never wanted kids. His sister’s dying wish was that he raise her twin girls. Paralyzed by grief, Logan turns the girls over to their deadbeat dad. He’s regretted that decision ever since, but what can he do? They’re gone. 

A nanny with dreams… 

Nanny Thea Gayle is just trying to make ends meet while she works on her PhD. When her employer goes missing and the only family member she can find is the twins’ Uncle Logan, she takes the girls from Seattle to Silver Bend, Idaho. But once there, she’s not sure Logan is up to caring for the girls or his elderly aunt. What’s a nanny with a school deadline looming to do?

Between The Pages 
The Mountain Firefighter Series is now on my list of favourite series. I enjoyed the first book, but I absolutely loved the second one. I did not want to put this book down…and I didn’t. I read this book in one day…it was that good. The plot is interesting and the pace had me turning the pages with ease. For me, Logan has taken top place in the hero category so far this year. He’s everything a reader looks for in a firefighting hero. Thea is the rock for Logan and his family. She’s quirky and fun. An additional shout-out should also go to Logan’s aunt and his nieces. A great cast of characters, which included the other members of the Hot Shots. When these guys get together, I couldn’t help but smile. The story is packed with emotion and many heart wrenching scenes. One of my favourite scenes is when Logan polishes the floor with Thea and his nieces. But there are several other great scenes because this story has it all even a few tense moments. I just added book three to my library and I can’t wait to read, Hot Shot, Aiden’s story.

Rating 
5 Stars

Between The Pages - Enchanted By The Rodeo Queen

Enchanted By The Rodeo Queen 
Melinda Curtis
April 2020

She’s looking for Mr. Right… 

…but can he fill those boots? 

Former rodeo queen Emily Clark loves her life in Second Chance, Idaho, but she’s through waiting for a cowboy to sweep her off her feet. Just as she’s thinking of leaving town, she’s offered a job by newcomer Jonah Monroe, a city slicker from Hollywood. Career-minded Jonah isn’t looking to commit—to romance or a ranch—but Emily’s determined to show him exactly what he’s missing… 

Between The Pages 
Without sounding like a broken record, I can’t express enough how I enjoy The Mountain Monroes, and book five is another hit. The humour in this story is top-notch. Jonah and Emily are perfect together. Their banter lights up the pages. They make you smile and laugh out loud with delightful one-liner comebacks. Their budding romance is captivating to watch. Equally enjoyable was learning more about the mysterious Merciless Mike. I didn’t want to put this book down and I was sad to reach the end because I will definitely miss Jonah and Emily. This story is a definite must read.

Rating 
5 Stars