First Kiss with a Cowboy

Richardson (A Cowboy for Christmas) introduces readers to bucolic Silverado Lake, Colo., in this splendid, sexy series launch. Cal-Poly adjunct professor Jane Harding’s first romance novel was a bestseller, but writer’s block hampers progress on her second. With a deadline six weeks away, Jane heads home to Silverado Lake—where no one knows she’s a writer—for her best friend’s wedding. She soon runs into rodeo rider Toby Garrett, her teenage crush and the inspiration for the hero of her book, and is happy for the chance to conduct some hands-on research. Reconnecting with Toby frees Jane’s muse, allowing her to make rapid progress on her manuscript. But after being hurt by Toby as a teenager, she’s afraid to get too close and face a second round of heartbreak. In animated prose, Richardson showcases her gift for crafting realistic heroines and complex, swoon-worthy heroes. The pace is fast, the setting’s charming, and the love scenes are delicious. Fans of cowboy romance are sure to be captivated. Agent: Suzie Townsend, New Leaf Literary & Media. (May)