Darn Good Cowboy Christmas

August 29, 2011
Brown’s enthusiasm for her characters and their romance elevates the carelessly plotted third Spikes & Spurs contemporary Western, set on the Oklahoma–Texas border. Every Christmas for years, Lizelle Hanson has wished for stability and a handsome cowboy. Now the former carnie has a chance for the first on her uncle’s Texas property, and the second in next-door-neighbor and horse rancher Raylen O’Donnell, though family and friends caution the couple that stability and cowboys don’t necessarily mix. Readers of the earlier books will particularly enjoy the continued developments in the lives of the O’Donnell clan.

October 15, 2011

All her life, carny-raised Lizelle Hanson has dreamed of having a home with no wheels. So when her uncle gives her his small ranch, she jumps at the chance to fulfill her dream. The last person she expects to find looking after the house is sexy cowboy Raylen O'Donnell. Despite dire predictions from her family (and doubts from Raylen's), Liz is determined to stay. While her carny talents and free-spirited upbringing make for some interesting moments and the carnival lure still draws her in, Lizelle finds no match for the irresistible passion that sizzles between herself and Raylen. VERDICT Sassy and quirky and peopled with an abundance of engaging characters, this fast-paced holiday romp brims with music, laughter, intriguing carnival detail, and plenty of Texas flavor. A classic battle between "wings and roots" that is sure to please Brown's growing Western fan base. Brown (Red's Hot Cowboy) lives in Oklahoma but has a soft spot for Texas. [Library marketing.]

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