Emma Monroe is taking a hiatus from her big city, corporate lifestyle. Things colossally take a wrong turn for her when the man she thought she loved betrayed her. Although the betrayal didn't involve any cheating, the consequences were just as devastating and have left Emma questioning everything, especially her own judgment. While emotionally fragile in some ways, Emma is taking control of her life by taking care of her late grandmother's farm and working in the local bar, Kinky Spurs. The last thing Emma is looking for is a romantic relationship. Shep Blackshaw is a cowboy hottie and force of nature who provides the stability and affection that Emma needs most as she sorts through her recent upheaval. I love both characters, and the chemistry between them is off the charts. Stacey Kennedy is able to convey an emotional resonance along with a deeply erotic connection.

DIRTY-TALKING COWBOY is one of the best contemporary romances I've read this year. Kennedy does a superb writing multifaceted, fully fleshed out characters with plenty of depth. There are no stock characters or predictable reactions in DIRTY-TALKING COWBOY. The side story involving Emma's adopted horse is a nice metaphor for the effort Shep takes to gain Emma's trust. The supporting characters, who include Shep's equally hot brothers and Emma's girlfriends, are interesting and I look forward to reading their stories. I can't wait for the next book in this series!