Member Reviews

I can always count on Grant to entertain me with a fabulous story: strong women, heroic men and a suspenseful adventure. Dillon works hard on her ranch, it’s her own haven. But some rich guy wants her land and she’s been harassed. Cal just happens to be around and connects with her instantly, becomes a bodyguard of sorts, all around handyman and friend. There really are some nasty things being done to Dillon and her ranch. As readers we eventually learn what’s going on but there are still many surprises. If you enjoy animals this will pull at your heart. There’s a romance buried amongst the mystery and mayhem, and it’s hot. The story moves quickly and flows perfectly. I’ve read an advanced copy and written this review voluntarily.

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Dillon and Cal?

Cal Bennett never thought he would wake with a gun in his face, but Dillon Young wanted him off her ranch after the strange things that have happened after she inherited the Bar 4. The last thing Cal remembered was drinking in a bar, but he needed a job. Dillon needed help especially after her new stallion went missing and she suspected her neighbor Hank Stephens who kept trying to buy her ranch.

Donna Grant has mixed a great cowboy romance with really good romantic suspense in trying to figure out what exactly is happening at the Bar 4 especially between Dillon and Cal. You need to put That Cowboy of Mine on your list of books to read!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Another new-to-me author that is not so new to the world of romance writing. This story moved a bit slower than I would have liked, but overall it was an enjoyable read.

Dillon and Cal are both wonderful characters. They have great rapport from the moment they meet, although it’s under less-than-ideal circumstances. There is someone messing with Dillon, her land, and her livestock and Cal has somehow landed himself right in middle of it all. It would seem nobody should trust Cal, but there’s just something about him that screams “trustworthy”. Not only to Dillon, but also to the reader. I found myself, from almost the very start, really hoping Cal wasn’t hiding anything shady.

There are multiple reasons these two should not give in to any romantic feelings they may have. At least until the mysterious things happing at Dillon’s ranch are figured out. Their wonderful chemistry makes that extremely hard and I found myself rooting for them to give into the pull.

Like I mentioned at the start, this story moved a bit slow. For me, there was something off with the flow. While I was invested in the outcome, I didn’t find myself unable to put the book down. I still really liked the book and will definitely be giving this author another try.

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This is a good mix of romance and suspense. Dillon is trying to run her ranch while suspicious incidents happen all around her. Cal is a movie star handsome rodeo cowboy who turns up drunk on the ranch. The story takes a series of twists and turns while it explores the depths of three mens greed. The characters are interesting as they each have different motives for working towards the same goal. Cal saves Dillon is a movie worthy heroic ending and wins her love and loyalty.

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Are you ready for a meet-cute at gunpoint?

Cal wakes up to Dillon's shotgun pointed at him, moments after her prized stallion was stolen. This terrific romantic suspense tale starts off with a bang - literally! - and just gets better from there. I loved Cal's patient, steadfast manner as he works with Dillon to figure out what's going on and who's behind it all. The development of their romance was all about trust, naturally, though there was plenty of intense attraction to keep things lively.

I really enjoyed how the author gave us so many different perspectives, letting us into the minds of the heroes and the villains, while still keeping more than a couple surprises for the end. In the end, justice is well served and our lovely couple gets a very satisfying HEA.

This was a smart, snappy read that kept me engrossed from start to finish. I love all the Donna Grant books I've read thus far, and this one is right up there with the best of them. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

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Cal Bennett wakes to a shotgun pointed at his face. He’s on the property of Dillon Young and does not know how he got there. Strange things have been happening on Dillon’s ranch, all designed to get her to sell her property. Makes sense that she’s immediately suspicious of Cal. Until someone shoots at Dillion and Cal rescues her. Is he in on it or is he someone she can trust?

Just the right amount of suspenseful, I enjoyed the story. As readers we knew right away who was behind all of Dillon’s troubles, but we didn’t know who was helping them or if Cal was on that list.Dillon was a strong woman who made it easy to cheer her on. I wanted her to overcome all the obstacles thrown her way and come out of it with love, if possible.

This was my first book by Donna Grant and I anticipate I’ll be seeking others out in the future!

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Cal is my kind of cowboy. Loyal, full of integrity, and willing to put his life on the line for a woman, even before she belongs to him.
This novel is action packed. I had to see who was behind all the attempts on Dillion’s life and ranch. The main culprit eluded me until I was halfway through. Grant hid that person very well.
Cowboy code is in full mode for this book.
I can always count on this author for a great story!

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Dillon Young inherits her Aunt's ranch, and is very happy until danger appears around every corner for her. She suspects that her neighbor is trying to run her off so he can take over. She is even more worried when a man wakes up on her land that she doesn't know. That is until he starts protecting her from flying bullets! Now they will team up to stay alive and discover who wants them dead!

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I think the beginning of That Cowboy of Mine is hilarious. Donna Grant sucks you in immediately with a cocking of a gun.

There is humor, heat, and danger all wrapped up in this small-town western romance. Cal Bennett is today’s kind of hero as he doesn’t have anything to his name, but he is all about protecting people and standing up for what is right. He is loyal, hard-working, and can admit when he does stupid things (yup, there is some of that behavior here (chuckle)).

Dillon is strong, hard-working, and could use a hand in the face of being shot at, having a horse stolen, and the other “mishaps” around the ranch that has cost her most of her employees.

There is instant attraction between these two characters, but it is offset by the suspicious circumstances under which they meet and everything else that isn’t going right for Dillon. I love the interactions between these two and how Grant doesn’t allow Dillon to think with her heart instead of her head. This is not to say that suspicions don’t arise, this is a romance after all.

When the heat comes…whew, it got hot in here. It’s good.

There are some harsh betrayals in this story and my heart hurt for Dillon. Grant manages to weave violence, betrayal, horse thieving into this romance and it works smoothly. That Cowboy of Mine has a heroine to root for and a love story you want to read.

I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.

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I enjoyed this book. The whodunit aspect really isn't in question. I enjoyed Dillon and her determination and guts. How Cal.enters the scene was odd but so fitting. The twists keep you guessing but in the end love wins. Always a plus in my book.

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First off thank you to St Martin Press and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this digital ARC

I want to start by saying I told myself to "not judge a book by its cover" because upon first glance I wasn't convinced this book was even something I'd like. But 2022 is a year of yes for trying new books and authors, so I figured why not. The main character is a little superficial. I love a fast paced book and the plot was interesting but not sure it was my cup of tea. It was good but not mind blowing and definitely not a lot of thought provoking moments. Little spicy and a quick read.

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Thank you St. Martin’s Paperbacks and NetGalley for the eARC to read and review!

Donna Grant outdid herself creating such a captivating mystery with a nice spicy layer of romance on top. The suspense was real! Who to trust was the big question that plagued the entire novel in all the right ways.

Dillion never expected to find home on her late aunt’s ranch nor did she expect to inherit the ranch. Ranching may be considered a man’s world but Dillion is determined to not let “accidents” or a greedy neighbor stop her from keeping the ranch afloat forever. Her determination makes you sit up and take notice. Her loyalty to home and family is endearing. I wanted so much for her to succeed (and maybe find love in the arms of a kind-hearted cowboy).

Love at first gunpoint? Odd but it adds to the overall conundrum since even Cal has no clue how he ended up blacked out drunk on the ranch.

Beforehand, Cal was still feeling down about not qualifying at the rodeo. He begins to find a new purpose in protecting Dillion from unknown dangers and possibly exploring the attraction between them. Cal is a sincere and honorable man. His protective instincts kick in after someone tries to kill Dillion. BUT since even he doesn’t know how he ended up on the farm and considering his surprise connection to Dillion’s situation, it’s understandably difficult for Dillion to trust Cal.

I like that we get Dillion’s, Cal’s, and the bad guy(s) pov! I loved the way Grant wove the plot and built up the tension between all of the characters and the romance between Cal and Dillion. The scene at the town dance? So many feelings! And the twists later on? Did not see coming (though I should have)!

I really enjoyed "That Cowboy of Mine" from the start to its thrilling conclusion.

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Is or isn't Cal Bennett an enemy? That is what Dillon Young can't figure out.

Ever since she inherited the ranch from her aunt, strange things have been occurring. It's obvious that someone is trying to chase her from the property. She knows it must trace back to her neighbor, Hank Stephens who keeps making offers to buy it from her. But she can't prove it.

Cal mysteriously shows up when an attempt is made on Dillon's life. Even though he saves her, she can't get over the coincidence. It doesn't help that he's handsome and charming. He'd be the perfect person to distract her with. Yet, he seems sincere and kind. She doesn't want to believe he's a spy.

Cal's character is wonderful. He's had a troubled life of his own. He recently didn't make the cut for the rodeo and it led to a night of binge drinking. Cal needs direction and a plan. Then he meets Dillon and she needs his help. He isn't sure why, but he's instantly drawn to her.

The chemistry between these two was palpable. I enjoyed their interactions, but it was almost painful when Dillon struggled to believe in him. It was even more disappointing to see Cal doubt himself. Overall, this had a good storyline with likable characters.

Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. I voluntarily chose to review it and the opinions contained within are my own.

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An Engaging Suspense.
Very enjoyable read with great characters. Must admit I didn’t see the twist with the final villain coming. Read the entire book in one sitting. Recommended read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Cal and Dillon’s enjoyable and thrilling story in That Cowboy of Mine by Donna Grant takes you on a great ride filled with action, suspense, and a bit of romance. Dillon inherited her aunt’s ranch and is determined to keep it running despite the numerous obstacles she keeps running into. Her biggest obstacle, besides all the monetary offers, is that someone is trying to kill her for her land. Cal, a rodeo bull rider, shows up on her ranch and has no idea how he got there. Dillon does not trust easily, and despite her concerns about trusting Cal, she agrees to accept his help. Pairing up, they become a formidable team, working together to uncover who is out to kill her and determine why they want her land at any cost; before Dillon is murdered.

Ms. Grant wrote a wonderful, passionate, suspenseful and emotional story that is truly not to be missed. She provided a tale rich with sizzling chemistry, scary situations, intense conversations, and strong characters, giving Dillon and Cal a chance to avoid death and enjoy a forever love. I highly recommend That Cowboy of Mine to other readers.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

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That Cowboy of Mine is a stand alone novel by prolific author Donna Grant. Dillon Young inherited the Bar4 Ranch in West Texas from her Aunt Dolly when her aunt unexpectedly passed away the year before. Soon after she took over the ranch, Dillon began getting offers, four in all, from neighboring wealthy rancher Hank Stephens. To each progressively larger offer Dillon’s response was the same, a resounding NO!

Then the offers stopped and the unusual accidents began, along with threats to her crew. On the same morning that her new prized stallion disappears, Dillon discovers a still slightly drunk, very hungover, Cal Bennett sleeping it off in a pasture. Cal has no idea how he got there or where exactly he is. Dillon is very suspicious but loads him up in the ranch truck and continues her search for her stallion. When Dillon stops to investigate something she spots, shots ring out and it is only the quick action of Cal that saves her life. But does this make him trustworthy?

This is a well written tale with many twists and turns leading to some unexpected outcomes. I very much enjoyed this book and I do recommend it!

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Cute story, lots of twists and turns and it kept me on my toes. I really like Dillon and Cal. I thought they both made great characters and had lots of chemistry. Chet was a great addition to the story as well. I adore Donna Grant and I was not disappointed in this adventure, can't wait for more from this author.

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THAT COWBOY OF MINE – Donna Grant

St. Martin’s Paperbacks

ISBN: 978-1250820280

April 26, 2022

Contemporary Romance



Hill Country Texas – Present Day



An unconscious Cal Bennett wakes up with a gun held to his head by the rancher owner, Dillon Young. Cal doesn’t remember how he got there. While he is talking to the pretty ranch owner, shots ring out and they both take cover. Why is someone taking shots at them and is it related to how Cal ended up on Dillon’s ranch? Turns out that her prized stallion was stolen, and she suspects her next-door neighbor, Hank Stephens, who has been badgering her to sell the ranch to him. Hank is like a father to Cal. Should Dillon trust Cal?



Dillon inherited the ranch from her beloved aunt. She works hard with the assistance of two loyal ranch hands, though she could use more help. But losing the horse is big as she invested a lot of money into the stallion that she planned to use for breeding purposes. Cal offers to help her look for the missing stallion. All trails lead to Hank Stephens, but when confronted, he denies it. Dillon offers Cal a job on her ranch, plus being there will allow him to be nearby to help protect her. This comes in handy after she is nearly killed when an unknown shooter targets her in her own kitchen. Cal moves into the house to protect Dillon, and the attraction between them grows.



Who stole the stallion and is it related to the mysterious attempts on Dillon’s life? Readers will quickly become engrossed in THAT COWBOY OF MINE. Of course, one of the questions is how Cal got into Dillon’s pasture—and why. Was he a plant? Readers know that he doesn’t remember and that he thinks he can trust Hank Stephens. But it is clear that someone wants to get rid of Dillon. Why are they desperate to acquire the ranch? Dillon vacillates between trusting Cal and suspecting that he is lying to her. Yet, there is no denying the attraction between them.



THAT COWBOY OF MINE will have readers wondering who is good and who is bad. The story kept me glued to the pages and wondering what would happen next. The romance between Cal and Dillon rises quickly, yet both realize that they need to get to the bottom of the horse theft and the attempts on her life. As Dillon begins to learn a few things, she starts to distrust Cal. How will it affect their relationship? If he leaves, will it just make it easier for whoever is trying to kill her?



An enjoyable read right from the start, you won’t want to miss THAT COWBOY OF MINE.



Patti Fischer

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Donna Grants books consistently fill a need in my reading life for steam, cowboys and suspense. This book is no different. With a thread of insta love, but also a slower burn, this story of Dillon and Cal's search to find out who is after Dillon and her ranch is fast paced, slow to burn and easy to sink into on a rainy afternoon.

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Honestly, took me ages to get into this book. Not sure why as I’ve always enjoyed this author’s works before.

Somebody is sabotaging Dillion’s efforts in her ranch. And then when her prized horse disappeared and a drunk man appeared on her ranch, she’s immediately suspicious. The 2 reluctantly agree to join forces to investigate the ranch “accidents”.

This whole story is a trope that I usually enjoy. But Dillion did not endearing herself to me. Cal was rather typical. Perhaps it was just me.

At any rate, thanks St Martin’s Paperbacks for this arc! And to NetGalley too!

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