After her life in LA imploded, Eden Rafferty went back home to Wildcat Bluff County to recoup. She never expected Shane Taggart to be one of the first people she would encounter; he looks even better than he did eleven years ago. They had been childhood friends, but Shane always hoped for more, and now might be the occasion to finally convince Eden that they belong together. Eden is not so sure; there are things that need her attention, and a future to reevaluate. Eden's and Shane's friendship is as strong as ever, their attraction hasn't dimmed in the slightest, but adult preoccupations and unforeseen complications could put a quick end to any sort of relationship.

Kim Redford has the magic touch when it comes to creating heroes after my own heart. Shane is a rancher, a part-time firefighter, a real manly dude who is not afraid to acknowledge his feelings. He is patient, kind, generous, but does not press the object of his affection for more than she is willing to give at any given time. Eden had a real rough time in California, but she is not the "woe is me" type. The spirit of Texas has not deserted her, and she cowgirls up when the chips are down. In her desire to rebuild her life, she gets a little carried away, which threatens her relationship with Shane.

The author's depiction of Wildcat Bluff County feels so authentic, that I thought the small Texas town was real. Firefighters are an integral part of the Smokin' Hot Cowboys series, and the brush fire that has the town on high alert is so accurately described, I think I can still smell the smoke! There are quite a few secondary characters in HOT FOR A COWBOY, all superbly well-rounded; I immediately took to Wildcat Jack, the elderly DJ; I loved the aging hippie Morning Glory, as well as her twelve year- old grand-nephew, Ben, who fit right in.

HOT FOR A COWBOY is tightly plotted, impeccably paced, and rich in detail and Texan history. I particularly enjoyed the parts about ranch radio, about which I knew nothing. It's so nice to see a contemporary romance depend on more than physical attraction and on the couple having sex. Shane and Eden are not ensconced in an erotic bubble separate from the outside world. They lead full lives and still manage a passionate, but realistic relationship.

Book Summary

Two flames burn way hotter than one...

Eden Rafferty has lost it all: big time career, high-profile marriage, and just about everything she owns. Coming back to Wildcat Bluff with her tail between her legs, the only person who can help her heal is cowboy firefighter Shane Taggart. But nothing is simple, and their high-octane past is just the beginning of their current problems...

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