Once Upon a Cowboy Christmas

Our Review

ONCE UPON A COWBOY CHRISTMAS is the third book in the RIVER RANCH series.  Having only read the second book in the series, ALL NIGHT WITH THE COWBOY, I was happy to be reunited with the Ford family and have the connection to them. Oldest brother Cody and Lexi, Cody’s first love from high school many years before, are the main characters in this story.

When Cody reluctantly flies home to spend Christmas with his family, he already has one foot back on the plane. His dad is suffering from cancer and is being kept comfortable in his home on the ranch by his caregiver, Lexi. Imagine Cody’s surprise when their paths cross, especially since no one mentioned Lexi would be there. Their reunion doesn’t go well, and there are other things preventing them from clearing the air and leaving the past behind. Lexi’s son is adorable and I couldn’t help but smile each time he was part of the story.

Cody has a hard time with feelings, but when he opens up, things aren’t always better.  He’s being called on his actions from many years ago and even those in the present by many of his family members as well as Lexi. There are hot and steamy moments as well as tender ones. The author’s vivid storytelling made me feel like I was there. 

There are many plots being played out, and they tie together pretty seamlessly. The epilogue is short and sweet but gives me the happily-ever-after I was hoping for. I look forward to reading the next book in the series, MY ONE TRUE COWBOY, as well as the book that I missed, COWBOY STOLE MY HEART.

Ms. Lane is an author I plan to read more of. I like how she builds strong families and portrays them realistically.