REVIEW: When the Rancher Came to Town by Emma Cane

In When the Rancher Came to Town (Valentine Valley #4.5) by Emma Cane, Amanda Cramer loves owning her own bed and breakfast in Valentine Valley, especially the anonymity it allows her. Having her life ruled by chaos and media attention five years ago has done a number on her mind and her emotions. Amanda thought she had moved past the anxiety but when the local “widows” ask her to be part of the town’s celebratory weekend, old worries resurface. That’s when former rodeo star Mason Lopez comes to her rescue. He’s a guest at her B&B but he winds up taking care of her, showing her patience and kindness. It scares Amanda to admit she has strong feelings for the handsome rancher, but once she does, there just may be no turning back.

“We’re getting to know each other; that’s what dating is about. And then if you decide we should only be friends, I’ll accept it.”
“You will?” she whispered, her eyes soft on him.
“I will. But I still think we’re destined for more.”

When Mason Lopez rolled into Valentine Valley for one last turn on the rodeo circuit hoping to save his family ranch, he never thought he’d find the love of his life. But that’s exactly what he did when he met Amanda as he checked in to the local B&B. Mason can sense how much she’s holding back, playing it safe in life, but he can also see how much fire and courage she possesses. So when he can no longer hold his emotions in check, Mason helps Amanda lower the walls she’s built to protect herself, one-by-one. But will it be enough to give them a chance at a lasting relationship?

“I don’t know if you’ll think I’m crazy, but I could fall in love with you. You’ve been so patient, so kind, so encouraging–”
…He kissed the tip of her nose. “I don’t just think I could fall in love with you, Amanda Cramer. I’m mostly already there.”

When the Rancher Came to Town is a sweet novella in the Valentine Valley series that had me sighing happily and believing that true love really does come to those who need it most.

This might be a very quick read, but author Emma Cane gave us strong characters who brought out the best in each other. I do wish their story had been longer so we could see what happened next to our star-crossed lovers, but I didn’t feel like the length of the story really took anything away from their romance. I liked that Amanda and Mason’s connection was instant, although they took their time to fall into each other’s arms. Mason was very patient with Amanda and her struggles which made him a true gentleman in my eyes. Albeit a super sexy gentleman… 😉

I also found myself sympathizing with Amanda in her efforts to regain control of her life and her anxiety. She was a strong character, even if she didn’t think so of herself. But she was very full of life and had such a caring, nurturing personality that I couldn’t help but cheer her on. I liked that Ms. Cane showcased Amanda’s sweet personality as she found natural ways to overcome her issues instead of turning her into a jumpy basket case. The fact that the widows and the other townspeople rallied around her is one of the reasons I love small town stories. That camaraderie always gives me a warm & fuzzy feeling.

If you’re looking for a fast but very enjoyable romance, check out Mason and Amanda’s endearing path to love and happiness.

Book Info:

Published September 23rd 2014 by Avon Impulse

Welcome to Valentine Valley!
The Silver Creek Rodeo is in full swing, and everyone’s talking about the rancher who came to town …

Bed-and-breakfast owner Amanda Cramer wants nothing more than a quiet, private life. Well, she wants guests too, but after suffering her share of unwanted notoriety, she’s gotten comfortable hiding out in her inn … perhaps a little too comfortable. When her newest customer arrives—tall, dark, and breathtaking—Amanda begins to question her self-imposed exile.

Ex-rodeo star Mason Lopez knows all about the limelight. He’d avoid it if he could, but since one last ride could mean saving his family’s ranch, he’ll go all in. When he gets to Valentine Valley for the Silver Creek Rodeo, Mason checks into the Connections B&B and finds himself immediately drawn to the beautiful, reserved woman who owns it.

Mason has only three days in town … can he convince Amanda to open her heart to him and welcome the world back in?