A Very Cowboy Christmas: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Y’All

The third in Redford’s Smokin’ Hot Cowboy contemporary series featuring the volunteer firefighters of Wildcat Bluff, Tex. (after Blazing Hot Cowboy), delivers fiery passion with a country-western kick. Widowed cowgirl Sydney Steele has a lot on her plate: she works on her family’s ranch; takes care of her daughter, Storm, who wants to follow in her footsteps; and volunteers as a firefighter. Now she’s in charge of creating a calendar to raise money for Wildcat Bluff’s fire-rescue organization and making sure that Christmas at the Sure-Shot Drive In—the first community event since its renovation—is a rousing success. Unfortunately, her cantankerous 1959 pink Cadillac convertible, Celeste, doesn’t just attract attention: she falters at the most inopportune times. Dune Barrett, a newcomer in town, rides to Sydney’s rescue. He’s able to wrangle both the car and his photo-shy fellow firefighters. The attraction between Dune and Sydney is put on hold when Wildcat Bluff becomes the target of an arsonist, and further falters when both are reminded of deceased past loves. This heartwarming tale perfectly balances sweet and sensual with just a hint of retro chic. Agent: Elaine English, Elaine P. English Literary. (Oct.)