After a week of dawdling in the sleepy town of Sunnybell, Texas, Madeline Harper needs to do something to entertain herself, even though it's a far cry from what she's used to in New York, but then again she'll be in Texas for only a year. Madeline is living in a dingy motel, until she can move into her new home; spending a year or two in Sunnybell is part of that promotion she has long been awaiting. She settles for the town's honky-tonk bar, where she sees a real honest to goodness cowboy. Former rodeo star Tanner Callen had spotted the lovely Yankee before. When he notices her in the bar he acts upon it, and asks Madeline to dance. She usually doesn't dance, but after two beers, Madeline is more than amenable to the sexy stranger's offer. Sparks fly to a point where Madeline invites Tanner to her hotel room, something she's never done before. They don't know each other's names, and when she wakes up the morning after, Tanner's left, which pleases Madeline. No one will ever know about her little escapade. But she never thought about the gossips, nor did she know that Tanner is the local heartthrob, and her new neighbor!

LEARNING TO RIDE, is part of the newly launched BookShots Flames series and the brainchild of the great James Patterson. Erin Knightley, better known for her lush historical romances, tries her hand at contemporary romance and succeeds admirably. LEARNING TO RIDE is a light, fun romance, and while a short read -- which is the purpose of the exercise -- Ms. Knightley provides a story rich with character development. I could easily picture Madeline and Tanner, I found their flirty banter very enjoyable and genuine. In spite of their initial issues, neither stoops to pettiness, which was quite refreshing. I love how Ms. Knightley brings Texas to life, conveying the sights and sounds with clarity. LEARNING TO RIDE is charming and cute in the best way, with a delightful ending that will have booklovers cheering.

Book Summary

She never wanted to love a cowboy. . . .

Rodeo king Tanner Callen doesn't want to be tied down. When he sees Madeline Harper at a local honky-tonk and everything about her screams New York, he brings out every trick in his playbook to take her home. But soon he learns that he doesn't just want her for a night and, instead, hopes for forever. . . .