A friend sent me this in a box of books. I don't recall reading any others in the sub-series.

I was excited at first when I saw Ella is a farrier, but we don't really see her doing that job much nor do we learn much about what a farrier does or how they do it, so that was a bit disappointing to me.

I liked that Ella and Owen had a long-time history together which made it more believable to me that they could fall in love in the time frame covered in this book. Other than that though, the romance plot is a pretty standard one.

The suspense part of the plot didn't really rivet me either. ( )

This was a wonderful suspenseful romance that I did not want to put down. There were many twists and turns throughout this story and I loved them. Ella and Owen defy many odds and become very close. I hope to read many more books by Dana Mentink. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will. ( )

One of the best things about this story is the connection between Owen and Ella. They have known each other since they were kids and their bond has grown over the years. I loved Owen and his strong sense of protection. As a marine he has seen a lot but I'm sure he never expected to have to fight to keep Ella safe once he returned home. I loved how the author goes into detail about the injuries he sustained as a marine and how much he honors his country. I would definitely want him as my bodyguard.

Ella is in a lot of trouble when she is accused of murder. Owen is right there to help her collect evidence to clear her name. There is one small problem though. A certain man wants Ella dead and will stop at nothing to accomplish it. I loved how the author described the different types of horses and what type of job Ella does. Working around horses is hard work but Ella loves it and is quite good at her job. I liked seeing the vulnerable side of Ella. It is hard for her to accept help and her pride gets in the way a bit. I bet we can all relate to that in a way. It's not easy to admit you need help, but the good news is God is always there to lend a hand. The author does an amazing job of keeping the story intense with unsavory characters and close calls that continue to put Ella and Owen in danger. Why does this man want Ella dead? Can Owen keep his promise to keep Ella safe?

The ending is one non stop action packed experience that will have your heart racing. The author delivers a first class story that keeps readers involved with great descriptions of scenes that make you feel like you are right there watching from the sidelines. I am very impressed with how the author delivers a story that reminds us to never give up hope.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion. ( )

I planned on reading a few chapters, and soon I was finishing the book, with non-stop action and your heart in your throat constantly, this is one compelling read.
You feel the injustice going on here, and some do no survive, and all the while you want for Good to overcome Evil, and the costs of what happens here, and you ask why? Well greed, of course, the almighty lure into crime, and the casualties that it leaves in its wake.
There is a slight romance story here, and I found myself wishing for it, but is not the main focus of this story, or is it? We do have “love” here, in several different forms, for mankind, animals, family, friends, but will these be enough?
Once you pick this one up you will be page turning right to the end!

I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review. ( )

Another fantastic, captivating, cowboy novella from the talented hands of the wonderful Dana Mentink. She takes suspense and swoon worthy cowboys, a touch of romance and lots of inspiring messages and wraps them up in an unforgettable plot line.

Ms. Mentink’s Ella and Owen are beautifully chiseled into characters that will steal your heart instantly. I loved their story. Watching Owen and Ella come to terms with not only their feelings for each other, but also with who’s behind framing Ella, was an intense ride! I love when a book will do that to you!

This second installment in the Gold Country Cowboys series is definitely one that I recommend with a high flying 4 star praise. This book will keep you up late, turning page after page, biting nail after nail, as you fly through the book to get to the last page and see how the story ends. You’ll be dying for more from this talented author! I can’t wait for the next one. Well done, Ms. Mentink!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.* ( )