An interesting and controversial topic takes center stage in LOVE OF A COWBOY by Jennifer Ryan. The entire idea of an autonomous community is a relatively uncommon one by today’s standards and yet there are many in existence. The problem isn’t that these communities are autonomous, self-sustaining, and self-governing. Unfortunately, there will always be someone or a group of believers who feel the need for power. And when people in a community depend so entirely on each other it isn’t difficult for someone or some group to rise into a powerful position of authority. It all starts innocently by looking for a simpler life and such.

LOVE OF A COWBOY is about a young woman becoming acutely uncomfortable with what she sees happening in the community she has grown up in. Skye is smart and given opportunities to work within an organization that few have. Skye is connected to those in power in Sunrise Fellowship. In fact, the current leader has great plans for Skye. Unfortunately for him, Skye has other ideas. There is an undercurrent of activity in Sunrise that has Skye scared for herself, her family, and other young women of the community. It is because of that fear that Skye makes a very daring decision. It is that fear that makes Skye run away--broke, with no place to go, and no resources at hand.

Skye winds up at a ranch owned by Declan and his brother. Declan reacts instinctively and extends a helping hand to this bedraggled woman. Skye is incredibly independent but Declan sees beyond this facade and what he sees greatly disturbs him.

Skye isn’t looking for a handout although there is no denying she is in need of help. The problem is no matter what Skye chooses there is a great possibility that she will be putting someone in jeopardy. She is the target, but the person on her tail isn’t above collateral damage.

Neither Skye nor Declan can ignore the danger lurking. Declan wants Skye to trust him and realize that she can rely on him. Skye does trust Declan – that is not the issue. The obstacle to leaning on this strong cowboy is putting him and his family in the same jeopardy as Skye and her family. How do you defend yourself from lies? How do you accept help from people who have become dear to you? So many issues and unfortunately no easy solution.

Perhaps Skye is going to have to listen to and follow her heart, where ever that leads.

Jennifer Ryan really created a situation where peril lays just beyond the door. For most of LOVE OF A COWBOY, you can’t help wonder just how Jennifer Ryan is going to fix this horrible mess. LOVE OF A COWBOY reintroduces some characters from the first book of The McGraths series, which reminds us of the close family ties. There is no denying the brutality of the forces facing the characters in LOVE OF A COWBOY. The scenario is scary but plausible. Jennifer Ryan once again pens a page-turning tale that keeps your attention from start to finish.  

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