Karen Baney’s Falling for a Smart Cowboy invites us to saddle up for a heartwarming journey through love, faith, and a sprinkle of humor. Set against the rugged backdrop of a guest ranch, we meet Devon Vargas, a cowboy with dreams that reach far beyond the rolling hills of his family's land, and Raina Crawford, a spirited woman on a mission to light the way for orphaned children.

Raina’s tenacity and grit shine as she navigates the rocky terrain of her past in the foster system. Baney crafts characters who feel like lifelong friends, making it easy to root for Raina as she pours her heart into her work and fervent prayers. The way faith gallops through the story is beautifully woven, serving as a gentle reminder of the strength found in believing.

Devon brings an extra layer of depth to the tale, caught between his desire to ride off into the sunset and his growing affection for Raina. His internal struggles echo our own battles with trusting God’s plan, and Baney handles this theme with the grace of a seasoned wrangler. Watching Raina guide Devon toward hope and the meaning of family brought a smile to my face, with their playful banter striking just the right chord amid the weight of their challenges.

One of my favorite aspects was how the Vargas family gathers around the table at every meal, reciting, “We do not deviate from the Lord’s plan.” They reinforced their moment-by-moment faith and was reminded at every day that God is in control of their lives. It’s a wonderful takeaway.

This book reminds us that healing comes from faith, forgiveness, and leaning on one another. As Devon and Raina face shocking family secrets and the shadows of their pasts, their journey is filled with both tension and tenderness. In her moments of struggle, Raina reflects on the truth: “She really ought to be grateful for all God has given her instead of wallowing.”

With vivid descriptions of the ranch and its wide-open spaces, I felt like I was right there alongside Devon and Raina, riding the emotional rollercoaster of their lives. Their experiences are both refreshing and real, making me root for their happy ending and the hope they discover together.

So, if you’re looking for a story that beautifully intertwines faith, family, and a dash of cowboy charm, I highly recommend Falling for a Smart Cowboy. Will we, like Devon and Raina, trust God with every aspect of own personal stories?

I received an ebook and audiobook of Falling for a Smart Cowboy via the author and iRead Book Tours. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the story’s content ensuring transparency and reliability.