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Colorado Cowboys #4

Falling for the Cowgirl

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As the only girl in her family, and with four older brothers, Ivy McQuaid can rope and ride with the roughest of ranchers. She's ready to have what she's always longed for--a home of her own. She's set her heart on a parcel of land south of Fairplay and is saving for it with her winnings from the cowhand competitions she sneaks into.

After two years away, Jericho Bliss is back in South Park as an undercover Pinkerton agent searching for a war criminal. He has no intention of involving a woman in the dangerous life he leads, but one look at Ivy is all it takes for him to question the path he's set out for himself.

Even though Jericho tries to resist his longtime attraction to the beautiful and vivacious Ivy, he finds himself falling hard and fast for her. In the process, his worst fear comes true--he puts her smack dab in the middle of danger. With Ivy's life in the balance, will Jericho give her up once again, or will he find a way back to her, this time forever?

352 pages, Paperback

First published October 11, 2022

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About the author

Jody Hedlund

72 books4,330 followers
Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over fifty books and is the winner of numerous awards. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle. Find out more at jodyhedlund.com.

Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.




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Displaying 1 - 30 of 242 reviews
Profile Image for Julie Carpenter.
1,636 reviews201 followers
November 5, 2022
Can I just give this all the hearts?! I loved this book and didn't want to set it down or for it to end. I hadn't read the previous three books but I need to! I love the McQuaid family! Ivy is the only sister surrounded by several brothers who are fiercely protective of her. But Ivy is full of spunk and strength and determination. She's going to make her own way and choose what she wants in life. Which of course leads to her dressing up as a cowhand and competing in the cowhand rodeo type competitions.

I loved the scenes of Ivy competing. She was awesome! She had me cheering for her and smiling at her antics and strength. There's only one thing that can throw her off balance (not really off balance but catch her off guard cause she's not going to let anything get in her way). And that one thing is...Jericho Bliss. Oh my! Y'all, the sparks between these two were flying like crazy. But of course they're too busy trying to pretend like there's nothing there but their old friendship. If only they opened their eyes, they'd see the sparks surrounding them!

I loved the chemistry between these two. And their banter was so much fun to read. They are both very clever and trying to protect themselves that they're missing the best thing ever to happen to them...each other.

Ivy and Jericho are in for some funny situations. I was giggling over many of these scenes with these two. The scrapes they find themselves in were just too good! And not only did I giggle but I was definitely swooning as well. Be still my heart! Just open your eyes already!

There's an element of mystery and suspense as Jericho is working and trying to solve a mystery. I was trying to solve it by process of elimination right alongside Jericho. I jumped around as different clues were left for the reader but I enjoyed the journey of sleuthing.

If you're like me and haven't read the previous books, you'll be able to jump right into this one and enjoy it. The author did a great job of filling in what is relevant for readers to know to enjoy Ivy's story all on its own. But just know, you'll probably also be like me in the fact that you'll want to go back and read them and be patiently waiting for the next brother's book to come out!

Content: Clean. Some mild moments of peril. Some sweet romance with kisses and nothing further. This book is a Christian fiction novel so does talk about God but it was done very well and not feeling preachy. It fit in perfect with the time period and how people would have lived and thought and acted.

I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!
Profile Image for Melissa’s Bookshelf.
2,234 reviews132 followers
October 13, 2022
“Holy Saint Peter!” as Ivy would say, I loved Falling for the Cowgirl, the fourth book in Jody Hedlund’s Colorado Cowboys series! The romance is off the charts with the spunky, impetuous Ivy and the brooding, strong Jericho. I’ve loved Ivy in the previous books and couldn’t wait to read her story. It did not disappoint! She’s all grown up now with dreams of owning her own sheep farm, but when the man who crushed her heart two years ago suddenly returns, Ivy must decide if she’ll risk falling in love again. With inspirational messages of faith, forgiveness, and relying on God, this must read Western romance delivers a powerful, heart pounding, romantic story you won’t want to put down.

Ivy can rope with the best of them. She disguises herself as a man trying to win enough money in riding and roping contests to buy land for her sheep farm. Her plans are successful until Jericho Bliss comes back into town. She’s loved Jericho since she was a young girl and seeing him again brings back all the longing. But, while Jericho seems to be attracted to her, he always pushes her away. Wanting to make him jealous, she entertains other suitors. But what happens when an excursion for treasure ends up risking both her’s and Jericho’s lives?

Jericho has loved Ivy since he met her, but as the younger sister of his best friend, she’s off limits. Even if he allowed himself to love her, his secretive, dangerous work as a bounty hunter and the memory of his mother’s murder prevent him from giving in to temptation. But staying away from Ivy is next to impossible, especially when she always seems to need rescuing, gives the most tantalizing kisses, and doesn’t know how attractive she is especially when he seems to stumble in on her bathing, dressing, or covered in mud. Will he give in to his feelings or will the danger they find themselves in make him leave her alone for good?

Holy cow! The passionate romance in this one is definitely swoonworthy! I loved those innocent scenes where Ivy is caught in the church changing, trying to free a calf, and the cave scene. She often acts before she thinks, but her spontaneity leads to some pretty powerful romantic scenes. I loved the way she and Jericho banter back and forth. They are both so right for each other and I wanted to shake Jericho for the angst he puts Ivy through even though he believes he’s doing the right thing. The roping scene at the end was my favorite!

Highly recommend this clean Western romance to Christian and historical romance fans! It’s a clean read with plenty of sizzle and an inspirational message expertly woven throughout. This book can be read as a standalone, but it’s more enjoyable if you’ve read the previous books in the series. I absolutely can’t wait for Dylan’s story! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
Profile Image for Sylvia.
480 reviews48 followers
July 2, 2022
Jody Hedlund’s Colorado Cowboys series has been utter perfection so far, and Falling For the Cowgirl is a wonderful addition to the McQuaid family’s story. I have been greatly intrigued by Ivy and Jericho since book two (The Heart of a Cowboy), and since reading the last chapter of book three (To Tame a Cowboy) I have been dying to get my hands on their love story. With super swoony romance, fascinating history, and a to-die-for setting, readers are sure to love Falling For the Cowgirl.

Ivy is one of the most unique heroines I have ever read about—I can’t think of another who ropes and rides in cowhand competitions! She is perfectly matched with Jericho, who I would definitely love to know in real life (if we’re being honest, I’d like to know all the McQuaid men in real life 😉). I also loved getting to know some of the minor characters better, whose stories I’m hoping to read one day.

If you enjoy romance with historical intrigue and compelling characters, you NEED to read Hedlund’s books, and this series is the perfect place to start. Although I’m sad this series will end with Dylan’s story (The Last Chance Cowboy, releasing in Feb. 2023), it has become one of my absolute favorites and I highly recommend it to everyone! 4.5/5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Staci.
2,050 reviews601 followers
October 26, 2022
1869 Colorado Territory

This is feisty Ivy's story. Throughout the series Ivy has been spirited and tough which is no surprise with four brothers. She yearns to be seen as an adult and raise sheep on her own land. And how to make money for that? Use her skills as a rancher in competitions. Just one hitch...women aren't allowed to enter.

Jericho returns to Colorado to hunt down a criminal. He is against getting married after seeing how his father's career damaged his family. Will his heart agree?

Love the historical details intertwined in the pages. The ending nicely sets up the last story...rapscallion Dylan. Can't wait!

My gratitude to publisher Bethany House for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Baylie.
77 reviews70 followers
April 19, 2024
Loved reading Ivy’s story and seeing all the other siblings lives continuing on too. This may be my favorite one yet! They keep getting better and better. The faith at the end was so touching.
Profile Image for Paula Shreckhise.
1,327 reviews117 followers
October 19, 2022
More McQuaid adventures as this book focuses on Ivy, the only girl who wants to prove herself to her brothers. So she competes as a man in riding and roping contests hoping to earn money to buy her own ranch. Re-enter Jericho Bliss who once meant so much to Ivey but ran off to Chicago in order to save McQuaid brother Dylan.
Lots of danger and intrigue as Jericho tracks down a mean outlaw. Add in hidden treasure and the stakes rise. Not to mention Ivy and Jericho still have feelings for each other that they try hard to deny.
Ms. Hedlund has crafted a stubborn, hardheaded heroine. Ivy has to be so she can stand up to her four brothers. Jericho is a very capable hero but he has a stubborn streak too! Now if only they can listen to God and channel that stubbornness into determination.
See the sparks fly in the cowboy/cowgirl romance. With a final chapter as a sneak peek into the next book about Dylan, this is just the book for a cozy fall day.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Profile Image for Marilee .
1,181 reviews154 followers
October 2, 2022
How much do I love that we get a western romance where the heroine is a cowgirl? And not only a cowgirl, but one who can out ride and out rope all the cowboys? All I can say is it is about time!

Ivy wants more from life than society thinks she should have as a woman so she sets out to get it, albeit by slightly unconventional means. Just when all seems to be going according to plan, Jericho Bliss walks back into town.

Ivy and Jericho have both spent the last two years trying to forget the other but it only takes minutes back in each other's company for the chemistry to ignite between them again and the story definitely has an enemies-to-lovers vibe.

Lots of romantic tension and so many swoony scenes! I felt for Ivy and her situation and even though she made some not-so-amazing decisions, she did grow and had a great story arc. Jericho was a complicated character and I understood his reasons behind everything, but I do wish that he expressed more about why he loved Ivy instead of always focusing on her physical appearance.

I was also annoyed with the McQuaid brothers. They basically ignore Ivy (and her wishes) but then get mad at her when she gets into trouble. C'mon guys! Luckily they pull it together eventually though it was Judd who ended up being one of the sweetest characters in the book.

Loved the mystery and all the turns and twists. This is just one of those books you don't want to put down! I am a huge fan of the series and am excited to pick up Dylan's book next. 4.5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book but a positive review was not required.
Profile Image for Ella Ferris.
85 reviews
August 30, 2022
This review will be a bit short, since I read this book a while ago, and I do not remember much (that's how much of an impact it had on me I guess...).
I was looking forward to reading Falling for the Cowgirl quite a bit, because Ivy's character was interesting and full of life in the previous book. She definitely had a decent character here, albeit reckless and quick-tempered at times.
Jericho (I love that name so much) as well had a good character. His and Ivy's banter was so fun to read. The dialogue and writing in general was great!
My main issue with this book was the romantic content, and certain plot points that were just way too convenient to be even remotely believable.
The romance was very prominent (of course), but I found the content and heat level to be more than what Hedlund's books normally are, which is the reason why my rating is low-ish.

I did enjoy this book for the most part, but it could have been better as far as the plot and romance content.

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Profile Image for Beauty in the Binding.
583 reviews41 followers
October 2, 2022
Falling for the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund takes the enemies-to-lovers romance trope back to 1869 Colorado Territory. Cowgirl Ivy McQuaid and undercover agent Jericho Bliss have the hots for each other from the start. Their love/hate relationship comes with an overload of physical attraction, and I wished for a more nuanced approach to the sexual tension. Still, Hedlund keeps the narrative in the “closed door” category.

Falling for the Cowgirl reads quick and easy despite its substantial length. It held my attention from start to finish, even in the moments that I sighed and wished Ivy and Jericho would stop repeating the same thoughts and harmful actions. The novel focuses primarily on the romance, but contains a treasure hunt, a murderer-in-hiding, and themes about women’s equality. Quite an entertaining blend of elements.

Falling for the Cowgirl lands as the fourth installment in Jody Hedlund’s Colorado Cowboys series. The story works as a standalone, but the couples from previous novels make frequent appearances. With so many characters and backstories, I think it’s best to read the novels in order. Three stars.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
Profile Image for Lauren (thebookscript).
859 reviews499 followers
November 2, 2022
I used to think I wasn't into romantic westerns. And then I actually READ romantic westerns...so saddle up partner we are going in for a book review. This one here was a fun ride.

This is the second book i've read in the Colorado Cowboys series and i'd like to catch up on the rest. The beginning of this book was super engaging. In order to save money to buy herself a ranch, Ivy dresses up as a man and competes in Cowhand competitions where she comes across the man who left 2 years ago. Jericho has a lifestyle he doesn't want to anyone to involve themself in...but chemistry and attraction have other plans as these two find themselves in one compromising situation after the next.

This book is honestly so fun! Ivy being the youngest of 4 brothers has this fiery personality and takes what she wants. Jericho's job might put her in danger but that's a price she is willing to pay for love...and maybe some kisses. I thought the chemistry was great between Jericho and Ivy and I loved there back and worth will they or wont they plot line.

This is a Christian romance so there is a religious element but its very concentrated towards the end and done very organically and I liked it.

I believe there is one more book which will give me some time to catch up before the final release. Thank you Jody for my copy. My thoughts and review honest and all my own.
Profile Image for Angeline.
609 reviews24 followers
July 29, 2022
This was just as good as the others! I have loved the past books in this series, so I had high hopes for this one and it did not disappoint. Falling for the Cowgirl is the fourth book in Jody Hedlund’s Colorado Cowboys series. We finally get to read about Ivy and see her get her happy ending, and let me just say it was so good!
Ivy was definitely a fun character to read about, and she was so feisty and full of life. However, she was still trying to find herself and figure out what she wanted to do. I loved how independent Ivy was but also how she tried to trust her brothers. Ivy was so sweet and her interactions with her brothers were cute but I also loved how she didn’t let them push her around. Ivy was strong but Jericho had a way of reaching past her walls. Jericho truly saw Ivy and loved her even though she was more “wild” and “adventurous.”
Jericho was complicated but I loved him. He cared for Ivy and her family, but he also tried to stay away because he wanted to protect her. He had a dangerous job and his past kept him wary of letting people in.
Ivy and Jericho were the perfect match and I loved reading about their interactions. They were both so fiery and full of life. Their romance was sweet and it was fun to read about their reconnecting. They had known each other for a long time, but they left on a bad note when Jericho left with Dylan. Ivy and Jericho had to learn how to communicate with each other and how to help each other become better people.
The story line was very interesting and I was so invested in this book. I wanted to know how Ivy and Jericho would end up together. I also love how Hedlund is able to weave in faith so seamlessly into her books. Ahh, this book was just amazing! I loved the characters and I am super excited for Dylan’s book!! Judd was also a wonderful character and I loved his parts in this book.
Falling for the Cowgirl is an amazing book and I would totally recommend it! I have loved all of Hedlund’s books and this one was no different. However I do think that this one is better enjoyed as part of the series. Falling for the Cowgirl is a clean Christian historical romance.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
Profile Image for Suzan.
1,003 reviews
September 21, 2022
When Ivy literally rides into the story on the very first pages in all her bold, fearless, and sassy glory, I knew this book was going to capture my heart. Until I came to the very last page, it did exactly that.

Ivy’s antics as a young girl in previous Colorado Cowboy books, always made me smile, but Ivy as an adult is an absolute treasure! She is my favorite kind of heroine—strong, loyal, funny, spunky, stubborn, passionate, unconcerned about the opinions or expectations of others, and she doesn’t take guff off of anyone—especially her older, overprotective brothers. I adore her!

Years ago, Jericho Bliss came west with the McQuaid’s, and Ivy has had a crush on him ever since. He left Colorado a few years earlier, breaking Ivy’s heart in the process, but he’s back on a secret mission as a Pinkerton officer in pursuit of a dangerous war criminal. He’s completely smitten with Ivy, but for her safety and protection, he keeps pushing her away and fighting his attraction. It’s definitely a losing battle.

Their bantering, flirting, butting heads, and romance were a delight! So was revisiting the McQuaid’s with their strong family bonds, and the beautiful and poignant references to God and our need of Him.

You can always rely on Judy Hedlund to deliver a story that’s well written, engaging, has romantic moments that are clean but sizzling, and great characters that are realistic, relatable, and so likable.

Falling For the Cowgirl is a wonderful and strong addition to this series, and I would recommend it to anyone that enjoys good Christian fiction, western romance, and great storytelling.

Thanks to NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,557 reviews179 followers
October 17, 2022
Falling for the Cowgirl is a spirited and captivating addition to the Colorado Cowboys series. Readers could pick up this title and enjoy it, even if they haven’t read the other books. However, I was thrilled to return to the town of South Park and catch up with the characters from the earlier novels.

Ivy and Jericho’s romantic chemistry was perfect. When those two were together, it was impossible to not take notice of their attention toward each other. And try as he might, Jericho could not resist Ivy forever. Whew! Those kisses! It was clear that he and Ivy cared for each other, but Jericho’s determination to keep her safe by staying away from her ended up causing so much pain between them. The author did an amazing job of making me feel not only their love for each other, but also the pain they both felt at the hopelessness of never being able to have a future together.

I loved this story from start to finish and am so excited to read Dylan’s redemption story in the last book of the series.

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

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Profile Image for Susan Snodgrass.
2,002 reviews250 followers
October 11, 2022
I love this series. Jody Hedlund brings us the McQuaid family and here we are with Ivy's story. Ivy, who is rambunctious and always getting in trouble. And enter Jericho Bliss, back again after a two year absence. Jericho, who has loved Ivy for years. And she loves him. But they've never admitted it to each other. Now Jericho is a Pinkerton agent searching for a desperate criminal and is determined not to letting Ivy close to his heart. Good luck with that.

Hedlund is a dab hand at a cowboy story. She switches genres effortlessly and I love every one she does. This series has been great and there is yet one to come. I can't wait for it! I loved the spiritual thread here. Well done!

My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinion here is entirely my own.
Profile Image for Holly Bleggi.
1,073 reviews34 followers
October 24, 2022
I loved this book by Jody Hedlund! I have loved her Colorado Cowboy series but I think this might be my favorite. I have loved Ivy as a character from the first time we saw her and I am so glad they we get to see her as a strong, grown up woman. I loved the tension between her and Jericho and I am so glad that things worked out. I loved that there was a good amount of adventure and romance. This was a fun book to read and I highly recommend it.

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.
Profile Image for Tamara.
814 reviews12 followers
October 19, 2022
I've been looking forward to Ivy's and Jericho's story and it was exactly what I was hoping for. It was fun, full of their bantering, and flirting, and hopefully, they finally realized that they wanted to be together on their sheep farm!
Profile Image for Dawn.
Author 7 books805 followers
November 7, 2022
I loved this novel, just as I knew I would. I don’t think I’ve EVER been disappointed with Jody Hedlund’s writing… only always delighted. I’ve been looking forward to reading about Ivy and Jericho ever since reading book 3 in the series, and the chemistry was spot on. I read it within 24 hours of starting—stayed up way too late and then took the next afternoon (my husband took the kids) to finish. Now I can’t wait to read Dylan’s story!
Profile Image for Megan  (messybun.bookishfun).
352 reviews39 followers
October 22, 2022
Oh. My. Holy Saint Peter! Jody has done it again, she’s roped me in and hog-(steer)-ties me with another McQuaid book!

I wasn’t so sure about this one. Ivy has been that annoying little sister, with a really big mouth and larger personality since book 2. And I wasn’t sure I was gonna like her. And while it’s not my favorite of the Colorado Cowboys (that’s still a toss up between Flynn and Brody), I really appreciate how Jody grew her up, but also kept the same serially elements that were Ivy. It made her and this story feel more real; sometimes authors grow up the characters too much and they change and it feels less like real humans. This didn’t.

And the slow burn and tension between her and Jericho! Come on! I was just like get on with it… but then when those kisses (yes, plural) came, it was fantastic. But, again, like real life, the tension didn’t stop there.

But among all the kisses, tension, bickering and banter, I deeply appreciate how Jody intertwined scripture and biblical truths into the story. That’s one of the reasons I alway pick up her books. I know I’m gonna get fantastic characters, a marvelous story, and deep spiritual truths as well.
Profile Image for Laura Miller.
Author 3 books47 followers
October 11, 2022
“Her big brown eyes were the kind that could suck a fellow in like quicksand and make him forget his next thought.”

Ohhh this book! Historical Western is a newer genre to me but who best to introduce me to it then Jody Hedlund. If you have read anything by her you know she is a gem and if you haven’t do yourself a favor and pick one of her books up because you are missing out.

I have only read one other book in the Colorado Cowboy series but Jody is such a gifted storyteller. She does an amazing job of filling you in on the parts you need to know and then pulling you right into the story so this book can stand alone, but if you are like me you will want to read them all to learn as much as you can about the McQuaid family.

Falling for the Cowgirl is Ivy’s story. What I love best about Ivy is that she is unapologetically her. She knows exactly what she wants and she is not afraid to go after it. She is feisty, smart, and full of life. Ivy is the only girl in the McQuaid family. She is surrounded by protective big brothers who watch out for and want what is best for her, but what they think is best for her is not always what Ivy wants. And she is not afraid to let them know that especially when it comes to Jericho.

Jericho has returned to town after being gone for 2 years and despite up and leaving, Ivy has carried a special place for him in her heart all this time. Jericho has always felt an attraction to Ivy but because of his job he is determined to stay away from her to keep her safe. He gave her up once before and believes he can do it again. He is noble and strong and wants to do what is right by her.

The push and pull between these two is incredible. I loved the banter they had with each other and you can feel the undeniable chemistry through the pages. Jody knows how to deliver the most swoon worthy kisses and the ones between Jericho and Ivy may be some of the best I have ever read. I mean wow, the sparks were flying but the content stays clean as nothing ever goes beyond kissing.

I highly recommend this book. I am already looking forward to reading Dylan's story when his book is released next year. I was so intrigued by his chapter at the end of the book. Until then I will be going back to the first two books to read Flynn and Wyatt’s stories.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Sabrina Trejo.
209 reviews17 followers
October 8, 2022
Ishsbstsikwbstemsjse! Gah! I just can’t even think straight! I’m having a hard time processing anything but, “I LOVED THIS BOOK!” Once again, Jody Hedlund has done a FANTASTIC job of creating a story that you literally cannot help falling in love with.
From the first to last page I was completely hooked and couldn’t wait to figure out what would happen next. This story is filled with action, a bit of mystery, and the absolute BEST kind of heart-melting and swoon-inducing romance. Plus we get to go back to Colorado and catch up with some favorite characters from past books, plus finally get Ivy’s story.
Ivy is everything I hoped she’d be. She’s strong and stubborn but also so fragile in a way that doesn’t take away from her strength. One of my favorite parts about Ivy is her ability to accept and then rise above her insecurities; they don’t define her, they inspire her to be better.
And don’t even get me started on Jericho. A gruff hardworking man that perfectly compliments the woman who’s taken over his thoughts and heart. These Colorado cowboys just keep getting better and better.
Once again, I am so happy with this newest addition by Jody. She is easily one of my favorite historical romance authors of all time and this book just further solidifies that.
Literally my only problem at this point is when are we getting Dylan’s story?!
I cannot recommend this book, and really the whole series, enough. You would be doing yourself a huge favor by reading this series and this book. This is the PERFECT story for anyone looking for a great old western romance.





I received an ARC from the publisher/author, a positive review was not required but was willingly and happily given.
Profile Image for Ayla Will.
232 reviews20 followers
October 17, 2022
I've been waiting for this one! Ivy has been one of my favourite McQuaid family characters since reading The Heart of a Cowboy, and I was so excited to get a chance to read her story before it released. As always, Jody has effortlessly woven together an epic tale that kept me glued to my seat (or my phone). I couldn't set it down once I'd started and finished it in the wee hours of the morning.

As the only girl in the family, Ivy McQuaid is sick and tired of being shielded from life by her protective older brothers. She's decided she's ready to make her own path in life, starting with competing in ranching competitions without her brothers' knowledge in an effort to earn enough to buy her own land. Her grit and determination will take her far...if it doesn't get her killed first.

Jericho Bliss is back after two years and, boy, is he in for a ride! He's been hiding his love for Ivy for years now, but a promise to his best friend, his job as a Pinkerton agent, and the horrific end his mother suffered have kept his feelings locked away. It'll be a whole lot harder to ignore his feelings for her when he isn't a few states away however, despite his determination to avoid her while searching for a dangerous war criminal. But, as always, trouble has a way of finding Ivy, and Jericho is about to get pulled into it alongside her.

I loved Jericho and Ivy together! Their witty banter and the comical situations they found themselves in kept me in stitches throughout the book. I was rooting for Ivy through every competition and later found myself mentally yelling at her when the mystery portion of the book really started to ramp up. There were definitely some steamy, yet clean and sweet, moments as the story went on. Both main characters relied heavily on God and their faith grew as the plot progressed. The plot was easily believable, romance was top-notch, and the suspense was just right. I fully enjoyed every moment of this novel, and cannot wait to see what happens next in the series.

This one gets an easy 5/5 stars from me. If you enjoy historical fiction, you'll want to get your hands on Falling for the Cowgirl (and the previous three books) ASAP!

*As a member of the launch team, I received a complimentary copy of Falling for the Cowgirl through the author and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. My positive review is not required.
377 reviews4 followers
July 11, 2022
I have been loving this series! Ivy McQuaid is the only girl in the McQuaid family. Her older brothers have established a life in Colorado near Fairplay and their spouses are all unique and talented. Ivy is both of those but not really into feminine pursuits. One of her favorite things is steer roping. Jericho Bliss has know Ivy since they were kids playing on the trail to Colorado and he is now a lawman and back in the area. He is not happy with Ivy's escapades but feels like he can't intervene because he has vowed to stay away from women since he doesn't feel he can get married in his current occupation -- too dangerous. Ivy wants Jericho and she also wants her own ranch away from her brothers. This was one of the most fun books of this series -- and they were all fun! Can't wait to see the last brother's story in the next book in the series!

I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my own honest opinion.
Profile Image for Faith.
2,022 reviews
August 24, 2022
Ivy McQuaid can ride and rope with the best of the boys, she has big dreams and no one has been able to stand in her way until Jericho Bliss comes waltzing back into her life and threatening her secrets.

A fast paced western romance with a headstrong heroine, set against the mountains of Colorado. From reading the previous books in the series I knew that this pairing was coming, and it didn't disappoint. Jericho is a principled man on a mission, he has a strong sense of duty and responsibility which I admired. Ivy is more impulsive, though I liked that she was always up for a challenge and never let fear stop her from doing something.

It was fun to revisit to the McQuaid clan, and see how their families had grown, as well as learning more about Jericho's past.

Overall, an action packed read, with sparks flying, and a thrilling ending that only made me want to read the next book even sooner! Perfect for fans of enemies to lovers romance and stubborn heroines!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 31, 2022
Falling for the Cowgirl is another stunning western, historical romance by Jody Hedlund. As the fourth book in the Colorado Cowboys series, this novel does not disappoint! With unforgettable characters, detailed settings, and a compelling plot, it is a remarkably enjoyable and riveting book. With a special blend of history, adventure, and romance this novel offers a story that is truly uplifting and very entertaining.

This well-written story unfolds dramatically within the busy ranches, small towns, and rugged mountains of the Colorado Territory. Disguises, secrets, fears, insecurities, and stubborn hearts tangle together and challenge the characters’ goals. Even as they pursue their dreams, they must wrestle with their choices, their ambitions, and their misconceptions. As they struggle with emotional, physical, and environmental hardships that jeopardize their futures, these characters grow more authentic, vulnerable, and honest with themselves and with each other. The characters are quite moving as they struggle with deep issues of faith, doubt, trust, truth, and forgiveness. Through them, the story becomes thoroughly touching and thought-provoking.

Falling for the Cowgirl is truly a special novel. Enhanced by relevant themes of courage, resiliency, forgiveness, trust, honesty, and second chances, this book is quite meaningful. It is an appealing story that is altogether romantic, adventurous, and emotionally-stirring. I recommend it most sincerely, and I am eager to read the next book in this series!

*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
Profile Image for Leah Grace.
251 reviews
April 4, 2023
3.5/5

Boy do I love some cowboys and this series! Also a treasure hunt? Say less.

Overall a good book, just had a hard time picturing these two actually being emotionally available to be in a relationship with one another.
Profile Image for Ashlee (bookswithnopictures).
1,210 reviews87 followers
November 7, 2022
This is my favorite series by this author and Ivy's story was no exception. I just love how cantankerously charming she comes across on page and I can't help but root for the independent and sassy heroine.
Ivy wants complete independence and Jericho wants to not want her. He has a crime to solve and little-miss-trouble is a distraction he can do without. Their re-meet-cute was so fun. I love when a character can deceive the masses but the love interest sees right through the charade.
I recommend this series to any fan of western or closed door romance. Jody's ability to write a swoony romance within those constraints makes it an easy recommendation for fans of any type of love story. Dylan's book can't get here soon enough.
Thank you to Bethany House and Netgalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
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