Most Eligible Cowboy: A Western Fake Relationship Romance

Terrific friends-to-lovers story! Adeline is back in her hometown just to write a follow-up story on the hot cowboy she'd always crushed on as a young girl. Colter is still reeling from his divorce, has no time for big-city women, and hates that the New York City article naming him "Texas’s sexiest bachelor of the year" has resulted in him being constantly pursued by women from all over. Adeline is a refreshing change, a gal he fondly remembers as his younger brother's babysitter, now all grown up but not at all like the gold diggers haunting his every move. Adeline is determined to get an exclusive interview with Colter, no matter how reclusive he wants to be these days. But still, she's stunned when he agrees to trade that interview for her cooperation as his fake girlfriend to keep the hordes at bay. What does she have to lose? Things quickly escalate in a small town where rumor mongering is a cherished sport, forcing Colter and Adeline to spend far more time together than they'd ever planned. Which works beautifully for their relationship, but not so great for their long term plans. Even so, I loved how the story focused on their friendship first, their attraction second. I adored the pacing of this story, how things smoothly progressed in both heart and heat. I adored the delightfully satisfying encounter with the ex, and loved even more the follow up meeting that set things right. There's a bit of tragedy, though not completely unexpected, and it was perfectly timed to both separate them and eventually bring them back together. This is a well-thought-out story with compelling characters and an intense, realistic storyline. I loved every bit and highly recommend it for anyone who loves contemporary cowboy romances. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.