Her Renegade Rancher

Ryan ignites slow-burning heat between an audacious waitress and a tough, tenderhearted cowboy in the outstanding fifth Montana Men contemporary (after Stone Cold Cowboy), adding another love match to the Kendrick family of Crystal Creek, Mont. Just after Luna Hill ended a long relationship with Colt Kendrick’s best friend, she and Colt shared an unexpected kiss that shocked them both into mutual avoidance. Then Luna’s good friend dies and leaves her an enormous ranch, and Colt offers his assistance—and his protection, since the deceased man’s family is threatening her in pursuit of the property. When they injure Colt, Luna tries to push him away to protect him, but he insists on standing by her to fight for the life they both want. This romantic logic puzzle is more of a whodunwhat than a whodunit, as there are just as many crimes as there are suspects; it will appeal to mystery lovers as well as romance fans. The mention of a lost love for the final Kendrick brother will leave readers anxious for the next in the series. Agent: Suzie Townsend, New Leaf Literary & Media. (Sept.)