To Tame a Cowboy by Jody Hedlund

Storyline 3 stars
Depth 4 stars
Faith 2 stars
Love Story 4 stars
Overall 3 stars

To Tame a Cowboy is the third book in the Colorado Cowboys series. We love Jody Hedlund and her writing, but this one fell a little short in some areas for us. We loved Brody's character and longed to see him find peace after the horrors of war he lived through. Savannah might just be the one to help him, but can she do so without losing her heart to him? Overall we enjoyed the sweet journey these two traveled on throughout this book. However, we felt the story started off quickly and then struggled to keep a pace that held our attention. Brody's character development was strong and steady, but we didn't feel the same about Savannah's character. Despite that, we are eager to read the last book in the series when it comes out and continue to recommend Jody's books to others.

The story of the McQuaid family continues with Brody. Brody had come to live with his brothers and their families, but is having a hard time fitting in. While in town he meets Savannah. She has been trained in vet skills and comes back to the ranch to live with the McQuaid family and use her skills. She too is running from something. Together they work at helping each other work through their problems.

They run into issues as they work to save the mustangs that are running wild near the ranch and the townspeople that Brody has antagonized. Savannah must face her family and speak up for herself. Hopefully together they can work through their problems and grow closer to each other.

This is the third installment in the Colorado Cowboys Series and it’s Brody McQuaid’s -one of the five McQuaid Siblings- chance at his Happily-Ever-After.
This was a touching and heartwarming story that melted my heart, especially because Brody was such a heartbroken character in need of healing, and Savannah was God’s instrument to bring that healing to him.
Brody survived the Civil War, but he returned a shadow of the guy he was. What he did and experienced in war… no one can survive something like that and come out unscathed. What keeps him ticking, is the love of his adorable niece Flora and the work he does at “Healing Springs Ranch”, owned by two of his elder brothers. He breaks and tames wild horses roaming the area, and saves them from being killed by other Ranches who want to stop them from feeding from the open grass that feeds their cattle.
Savannah Marshall’s passion is animals. She has worked as a veterinarian with her mentor for years in her family’s Ranch -the “Double L”- in Colorado. But her parents expect her to marry the Ranch’s manager. Her wedding is nearing and she wants to make her Daddy happy, especially after her brother’s tragic death, but she just can’t go on with a marriage she’s not sure about and with a man she doesn’t have feelings for. So, she decides to run away and get some fresh air to figure things out before it’s too late. And she ends South Park, where she meets Brody, who saves a mustang from being injured further by a cruel man. She tends to the horse, and when Brody discovers she has nowhere to go, and is a veterinarian, he asks his brother Flynn if they can hire her for the Ranch. Flynn knows his brother needs help in getting out of his isolation and thinks Savannah might be good to him, so he hires her and asks Brody to help her and accompany her in her visits to other ranches. As they get to know each other, Brody is besotted with her, and Savannah sees the kindhearted and compassionate man Brody is behind the walls he has erected to hide his pain. She wants to help him and free him from his fears and guilt. Can their newfound love be enough for them to face the obstacles that Savannah’s family and the resented Ranchers of the area will present to them? Can Savannah be strong enough to stand up to her family and can Brody forgive himself and both trust God to help them see what He has in store for them?
This story was so heart-tugging, touching and inspiring! The plot was very engaging from the first page, and it flowed chapter to chapter with great character development, a sense of adventure, danger, and the sweetest and most tender love story! The best thing were the characters! Savannah was so kind, sweet and I loved how she saw into Brody’s heart and grief, saw his amazing talent, and helped him see himself not as the shell of a man he felt he was after the war, but as a man loved unconditionally and redeemed and forgiving by a merciful and loving God. I loved her gentleness with animals, and her courage in trying to discover what God wanted for her and not yield to her family’s pressure, even if she wanted to protect them from more pain after they lost their son. Brody also wrapped around my heart. His love of his niece was so tender and endearing, and the way he tried to mask his pain with apparent roughness -except where Flora and Savannah were involved- tore at my heart too. His protectiveness of Savannah, and the way he also helped her see more clearly what she needed to do, was priceless. And I truly swooned at now he loved and cherished Savannah!
The secondary characters were lovable too! I truly love the McQuaid’s (can’t wait for Ivy’s story) and I especially loved little Flora and her antics! The scene where she tucks Brody to bed is so sweet!
I totally loved this story and definitely recommend it to anyone who loves Inspirational Historical Romances with great relatable characters! Author Jody Hedlund truly delivers a fantastic story once again!
I received a complimentary copy from the Publisher via NetGalley but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion!

To Tame a Cowboy, a historical, western romance is the third book in Jody Hedlund’s Colorado Cowboys series. This book can be read as a stand alone although I personally think it’s better if you read the previous two book, A Cowboy for Keeps and The Heart of Cowboy.

I love reading anything by Jody Hedlund and especially after reading the previous ones I couldn’t wait for this one. It did not disappoint. I loved getting to know Savannah and Brody and I was quickly caught up in their story. I enjoyed the adventure, romance and faith that was interwoven throughout. It was also interesting to read about early veterinarian practices. If you are looking for a 5 star book to read look no further. I highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys reading clean Historical Romantic Fiction. I can not wait for the next book from the Colorado Cowboys series, Falling for the Cowgirl.

My gratitude to the author and publisher for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own.

Having read and loved the first two books in the Colorado Cowboys series, I did not think the series could get any better. Then, along came Brody’s story—WOW! I was totally immersed in this book from first word to last! The narrative runs the gamut of the emotions from outspoken Ivy’s humorous matchmaking to Brody’s angst as he experiences recurrent war-related nightmares. Ms. Hedlund excels in bringing her richly drawn characters to life as they capture your heart and imagination. I love Brody and Savannah individually and as a couple and have added them to my favorite fictional couples list! The story moves quickly and flows smoothly with the author’s signature descriptive language which I enjoy so much. I appreciate the inspiring faith thread that is woven throughout the story.
To Tame a Cowboy is a wonderfully entertaining, deeply absorbing, and intensely satisfying read. I highly recommend it especially for readers who enjoy action and adventure wrapped in sweet romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I love this series, but this book is definitely my favourite so far!
This was such a great and sweet story!
Brody is troubled by his experiences during war.
But he is at heart a sweet and caring soul. He adores his little niece and makes it his mission to save the wild horses that roam the area.

Savannah is a veterinarian from a wealthy southern family. Her family doesn't like that she wants to be a veterinarian and also tries to marry her off to a wealthy young man.
While she really wants to help her family she runs away for a period of time to have some final few weeks as a veterinarian before she has to marry.
She is very caring, for animals and for people.

When she meets Brody she wants to help save the wild horses but she also wants to save him.
Are they partners in crime, are they friends or is they're blossoming something more between them? Is there a future where they can have it all?

I love Jody's writing style, she is a star in portraying the characters personality! I loved the romance an tension in the story. It's lovely how she builds the energy between Brody and Savannah but still keeps it clean and sweet! I would highly recommend this series and this book. While you can read this book as a standalone l, I'd advise to read the rest of the series first.

I could not wait to read this book! To Tame a Cowboy is the third book in the Colorado Cowboys series, and having read the first two, I knew I was going to enjoy this one . After reading it, I have to say I think it’s my favorite in this series! Brody had my heart from the beginning. The war took many things from him and no one blames him for being a little messed up. All that his siblings want is for him to be happy and healthy. His bleeding heart reached out to me, and I loved watching him learn to live again. Savannah would do almost anything for her parents, which includes marrying a man she could never love as a wife should. But when her passion for taking care of animals is threatened, all bets are off. I loved seeing her in action, and Brody could tell she was made to care for animals. Watching them interact was so much fun, and I couldn’t wait to see what happened next. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance. My attention was kept the entire time and I enjoyed watching all of the different family dynamics. Hedlund had me on the edge of my seat a time or two, and I couldn’t get enough. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

It's interesting to see two characters cross paths, one is temperamental and can't control his anger and the other finds the good in everyone to the point, she doesn't stand up for herself. Brody McQuaid is tormented by memories and wounds from the U. S. Civil War. He is angry at nearly everything. The only thing he feels willing to live for is his tiny niece. Savannah Marshall has trained with a veterinarian on her father's ranch. Her life is planned out for her, she is to marry the man that will help benefit the plans her father has. She won't be allowed to remain caring for animals because that won't be proper for a lady.
Savannah decides to run away so she can think. When she enters Park City, she meets Brody under stressful circumstances and her story, her life, sets on to a different path. At least it will unless her father his intended son-in-law search for, and find, her.
This was an intensely emotional story. Brody's demeanor is highly wound up, and he doesn't seem to be able to control himself. He doesn't even care to try until Savannah comes into his world. The story certainly points out that unleashing anger in a violent way isn't healthy and can lead to terrible repercussions. Savannah's near Pollyanna demeanor leads to problems too. I like that there is progress with both characters. (My one hold back from a 5 rating is it felt like things moved too fast.)
This is a clean romance, but sexual tension is present. I was able to read this as a stand-alone book even though it is part of a series. I received an advanced reader's copy from Bethany House through NetGalley. This is my own personal opinion. It was a good read, and I would enjoy reading the rest of the series, I'm sure.

A hurting veteran and a runaway bride find a change of perspective in the Colorado Mountains.

Brody McQuaid returns from The War Between the States a changed man, haunted by what he had seen he struggles to adjust to civilian life, causing his family to worry. I loved how supportive Brody's family is, especially Flynn. Flora is just the cutest little thing, her relationship with Brody is just so stinking adorable. Brody has a big heart, but he has trouble pushing past the nightmares.

Savannah has a gift for healing and a heart for the hurting. Despite her father's wishes she just cannot resign herself to marrying the man that her father has chosen for her. I loved how she fits right in with the McQuaid clan from the get go, her love for the animals, and her heart for others.

Overall, this was an enjoyable historical romance, set against the beautiful but treacherous Colorado mountains. I appreciated the strong themes of family being there through thick and thin. I liked getting to revisit the McQuaid family, seeing Linea and Flynn happily married, and I am looking forward to what is in store for Ivy and Dylan, especially Ivy as she has always has a way of putting things outright. Great for fans of Western romantic reads and fans of Ms. Hedlund's previous books!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

To Tame a Cowboy
Colorado Cowboys #3
By Jody Hedlund

Savannah Marshall is the daughter of The Ranch King, and she's about to marry Double L's ranch manager. Doing so will help out her parents by allowing them to return to Atlanta. But the thought of giving up everything that she is is a scary thought. And she has only one course of action - run away and gain herself a little time to think and get herself more of a mind to marry Chandler.

Brody McQuaid has troubles stemming from the war and the soul-breaking things he witnessed. Brody hates to see anyone mistreated, and he'll do anything he can to help them. And the Mustangs that roam the land are in particular danger from the ranchers who call the area home. When he steps in to help a Mustang, he leads with his fists and earns the attention of South Park's new lady veterinarian.

Savannah can see the care that Brody has for broken and hurting critters and his gentleness in how he handles the wild horses. But she can see that he is broken too. And when she asks about a job as the ranch veterinarian, she is pleased that she has a home base for however long she calls South Park home.

Savannah soon learns that her hiring has a twofold purpose help Brody and provide vet care. She just needs to be sure to not cause more harm than good, especially when she leaves.

To Tame a Cowboy is the third book in the Colorado Cowboy series, and there is a bit of time that has passed since the series began. Brody and younger brother Dylan are causing trouble for the rest of the McQuaid family with their issues. And we get to enjoy Ivy's less than ladylike antics as she pokes and prods her brothers in her own way of caring. But at almost 17 years old, Ivy is well on her way to adding to Wyatt and Flynn's stress.

This book takes a few twists and turns as it progresses, so you aren't quite sure if the end result will be what you are expecting. And the last few chapters definitely will have you scooting to the edge of your chair. I love how the last chapter is setting us up for the next book. Definitely a recommended read.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

I loved this book by Jody Hedlund. I have loved the other books in her cowboy series but I think this one is my favorite. I loved how Brody had to come to terms with his past in order to move forward and to realize that he is a lot like the wild horse he helps tame. I loved that Savannah helped Brody as he healed and moved forward in life. I liked that they helped each other as they dealt with the different things that they were going through. I’m excited to read the next book in this series and to get to continue to love these characters.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

I swear, the McQuaid boys just keep getting better and better! Jody Hedlund knows how to write the steamiest clean novels and I am here for it! Can I be transported to this Colorado territory and help Dylan in a future book?? JK, my husband wouldn’t appreciate that…

I loved the growth that both characters went through. Bride is the most broken, flawed hero, and I love how Savannah was able to come in and use her gentleness to help him.

The pacing of the book was great! From fights, to kissing, to near death experiences, to foreshadowing the books to come, I could not stop reading this book. I was sad when it ended and I wish the next book was ready for me to read already!

This is a great book for anyone who loves forbidden romance, exquisite manners and self control, phenomenal kissing with all the passion but none of the steam, and the rough and wild life of the old west.

This book deals with post traumatic stress disorder, controlling fiancés, injustice that leads to someone almost getting wrongly accused and killed, and birthing of livestock.

Thank you so much to Netgalley and Bethany House publishers for an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and unbiased.

At the end of book two I was really eager to get my hand on this one!
Hello tragic backstory!
I have been enjoying the first two books as a great escape to the mountains of Colorado and the romance. I'm here for the romance people.
That being said I was a little off put but the heavier"Insta attraction." Could have just been me being in an off mood. But I have noticed how really heavy the pretty-girl-gets-the-hansom-cowboy is in this series. Not that that story can't be enjoyable. I just felt at times I wanted it to be a tad deeper. I almost wanted the main characters to have a fight in the beginning or something. Probably just me.
I did end up getting into it and having all those heartstrings tugged at the key points. I enjoyed it.
If historical romance, with great kisses, forced proximity, Mustangs and cowboys are your jam, this may be a book for you.
I recieved a complementary copy of this book from the publisher through Netgally and all opinions are honest and completely my own.

Wowza, this story is chock full of romance and danger! There are several scenes where I was literally on the edge of my seat because the story is all kinds of exciting. I really felt for Brody, with all the scars of his past. Savannah was a likable character; however, I did struggle with her some due to her waffling on her life choices she was trying to make. She frustrated me a bit but she was still a neat character as you don't see many women veterinarians in historical stories. Good read and now I am looking forward to Ivy's story this fall!

I received this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

Jody Hedlund has written another winner! I've enjoyed getting to know the McQuaid siblings through the Colorado Cowboys series. I admired how Savannah Marshall did not marry a man just because her parents wanted her to even though running away may not have been the best solution. Savannah was determined to be a veterinarian in a time when that was unheard of! Brody McQuaid is a broken man since he returned home from the Civil War but he wants to save the wild horses that roam the countryside. Brody and Savannah work together to come up with a solution. You will wonder what will happen when Savannah's father shows up to collect his daughter! I recommend To Tame a Cowboy to anyone who enjoys American historical fiction. I received an advance copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers. This is my honest opinion.

To Tame a Cowboy is a wonderful story of healing and hope with a good dose of passionate romance and important Christian lessons that warm the heart. Brody McQuaid is a protective, sensitive, and kindhearted hero who is healing from his time serving in the Civil War. When he meets Savannah, the intelligent veterinarian who is running from an arranged marriage, the attraction is instant and the romance that follows could make you swoon. Add in some dangerous elements of the Colorado wilderness and you have a perfect romantic cowboy adventure! I loved the way Jody Hedlund respectfully depicted mental health issues that come from trauma, and how she brought Brody through a time of healing through the grace of God and supportive family. This may be my favorite book in the series so far, and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants a good read with romance, adventure, and a swoon-worthy hero!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher in exchange for an honest review, and my thoughts are my own. I really did love it!

To Tame a Cowboy, by Jody Hedland, tells the tale of the third McQuaid brother!

Savannah Marshall has run away from home hoping to work as a veterinarian. Fortunately, for Brody. McQuaid she ends up landing at the McQuaid ranch!

BookRevew: TO TAME A COWBOY by Jody Hedlund

Happy pub day to this third book in the Colorado Cowboys series which can be read as a standalone. Western is not my go to genre but I have really enjoyed this series. Ms. Hedlund knows how to create complex characters and engaging circumstances. Brody was a broken soldier and cowboy. He had to get his act together. He was quick to anger and fast with his fists. He was not well liked in their area because of that. Savannah had a good heart and loved to help. As a veterinarian, she enjoyed helping animals but she also found joy in helping people as well. Thus the need to help her family and assist Brody to heal. I enjoyed reading how their relationship progressed over time. They had a lot of chemistry too and good conversations which I liked. There were few faith elements thrown in as Brody continued to address his struggles.

The dynamics of the Mcquaid siblings were sweet to read. They were tough men but they cared for each other a lot. Flora was so adorable. That scene where she put Uncle Brody to bed was the cutest thing ever. I have always been interested in Ivy and I am glad she was more involved in her brother’s welfare. I look forward to her own love story.

Rating: 4.5 stars
Series: Colorado Cowboys Book 3
Pub date: 03 May 2022

Thank you Bethany House Publishers and #netgalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

When I pick up a Jody Hedlund book, I know I’m going to be in for a great read. She is a master at creating colorful, multi-layered characters, putting them in interesting situations and settings that shape and mold them, and then bringing them out the other side changed and stronger. To Tame a Cowboy features broken and defeated Brody McQuaid, wounded and imprisoned in the Civil War, and now still suffering mentally and emotionally from his experience. When veterinarian Savannah Marshall decides she can’t marry the man her father has chosen for her, she escapes to the ranch where Brody is staying with his brother’s family.

“Wounds might shape us, but they can’t determine who we are.”

I enjoyed seeing the interaction between Brody and Savannah and the way their relationship changed. Brody’s tenderness with his niece and with horses was heart-warming and showed his inner compassion and kindness.

“. . . sometimes loving people meant letting them go through their difficulties instead of providing a way for them to escape.”

With lots of adventure, action, intrigue, romance, and a sprinkle of inspiration, this book is a fantastic addition to Hedlund’s Colorado Cowboys series and my favorite so far. I love a good redemption and healing story, and this one definitely qualifies. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

What a wonderful addition to the Colorado Cowboys series! If you haven’t read books one and two, this book can easily be enjoyed as a stand alone novel. The brothers and their families from the first two books make appearances in this one, however the story is strong on its own.

The author did a fabulous job in this novel of showing the struggles that Brody and Savannah faced, as well as the amazing chemistry that built between the two. I enjoyed seeing the depth of these characters. Brody was a man who felt deeply and had been very traumatized from his time as a Union soldier during the war. He battled anger issues, depression, terror filled dreams, and feelings of unworthiness. But there was this strength about him and a calm that helped him be an excellent horse trainer.

Savannah was also a character with depth who always looked for the good in people. Her desire to please her family was the reason she was engaged to be married to a man she did not love. Savannah was a smart woman and a talented veterinarian. She was very good with animals but needed to learn to stand up for herself and for the type of life she wanted to live.

The love that grew quickly from friendship between these two was perfect. They were very well suited for each other. The author did a great job of showing that Savannah and Brody both struggled with not allowing their feelings to make them cross the line farther than some stolen kisses, even when tempted to do so. This story had a great blend of romance, danger, and western life.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.