I liked this one but didn't love it. It has a secret baby trope and the heroine just makes some stupid decisions at times. More full review soon to come ( )

3.5 stars.
The Cowboy and His Baby by Jessica Clare is a lovely contemporary Western romance.

Hollywood animal trainer Annie Grissom is not looking for love while on location Wyoming. She is a bit frustrated with her current project so she joins a friend in blowing off a bit of steam in the local bar. Her first impression of cowboy Dustin Worthington is not exactly favorable but another chance meeting changes her mind. Over the next few weeks, Annie grows closer to Dustin but she is quick to jump to conclusions about him and leaves without discussing the issue with him. When unexpected circumstances force her to return to Wyoming, will Annie give Dustin the chance to be part of her and their unborn baby's life?

Annie's best trait is her love of animals and she is quite patient with the animals in her care. But when it comes to people, she is not overly trusting. She is quick to make assumptions and her defense mechanism is to run from problems instead of talking them through. Annie's treatment of Dustin is unfair but can she overcome her fears and open her heart to a future together?

Dustin is charming, laidback and good-natured. He has a bit of reputation as a ladies' man but he is always honest that he is not looking for a relationship. Dustin is a bit restless and enjoys traveling to new places. Although he usually does not stay too long in one place, he has been content to remain working in Wyoming. He is stunned by his unexpected feelings for Annie and he is heartbroken when she leaves without explanation. When she returns, Dustin is excited about the baby but he has good reason to take a cautious approach to resuming their relationship. With Annie back in his life, Dustin is ready to put down roots, but do they share the same vision for their future?

The Cowboy and His Baby is a pleasant romance that is fast-paced and engaging. The storyline is entertaining but a little predictable. Annie’s lack of communication is extremely irritating. Dustin is an endearing man but Annie certainly tries his patience. This newest release by Jessica Clare is a pleasurable read that fans of Western romances will enjoy. ( )

It was supposed to be a fling as far as Annie was concerned. However, she walked away pregnant. Furthermore, she has no intention of letting Dustin, a ranch hand with an ungainly reputation know. She is determined to get back to work as an animal trainer, including all the traveling to the various movie sets she works on. Yes, life will go on and she will be a good mother.

Dustin let his guard down as far as Annie was concerned. Always a man who loved to flirt, he always held back. But with Annie, things were different. She got under his skin and now has simply disappeared. He has no idea why and definitely was not aware that she is carrying his child.

I have read and enjoyed other cowboy romances with a baby, as it is a repeated trope. This one was no exception. For one thing the dynamics in this book were excellent. For starters, Annie’s relationship with her dog Spidey was absolutely wonderful. I also enjoyed Annie and Dustin together, especially when Dustin goes to whatever lengths necessary to prove how he feels about Annie. While it may have been weird for Annie to just leave Dustin, her reasons were understandable, although I kept saying: Talk to him!

If you love animals, and how they enhanced the lives of our primary characters, then this book might just please you. For a quick and enjoyable read with a warm conclusion, be sure to pick up a copy of this delightful read by Jessica Clare.

Many thanks to Berkley and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion. ( )

It was supposed to be a fling as far as Annie was concerned. However, she walked away pregnant. Furthermore, she has no intention of letting Dustin, a ranch hand with an ungainly reputation know. She is determined to get back to work as an animal trainer, including all the traveling to the various movie sets she works on. Yes, life will go on and she will be a good mother.

Dustin let his guard down as far as Annie was concerned. Always a man who loved to flirt, he always held back. But with Annie, things were different. She got under his skin and now has simply disappeared. He has no idea why and definitely was not aware that she is carrying his child.

I have read and enjoyed other cowboy romances with a baby, as it is a repeated trope. This one was no exception. For one thing the dynamics in this book were excellent. For starters, Annie’s relationship with her dog Spidey was absolutely wonderful. I also enjoyed Annie and Dustin together, especially when Dustin goes to whatever lengths necessary to prove how he feels about Annie. While it may have been weird for Annie to just leave Dustin, her reasons were understandable, although I kept saying: Talk to him!

If you love animals, and how they enhanced the lives of our primary characters, then this book might just please you. For a quick and enjoyable read with a warm conclusion, be sure to pick up a copy of this delightful read by Jessica Clare.

Many thanks to Berkley and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion. ( )