Betting on a Good Luck Cowboy

Richardson shows off her gifts for tight plotting and creating well-rounded characters in this irresistible cowboy tale, the second in her Star Valley series (after Wishing on a Christmas Cowboy). Two years after the death of Tess Valdez’s Navy SEAL husband, Jace, Tess is doing the best she can to raise her young daughters, Morgan and Willow, and keep their family ranch running. She has some help from some of Jace’s former platoon, who recently settled in Star Valley to found Cowboy Construction and are eager to support Tess and her children—Silas Beck most of all. Jace’s best friend, Silas had a rough childhood followed by a rougher deployment to the Middle East, and he blames himself for Jace’s death—which only compounds his guilt over being so attracted to Tess. He believes himself unworthy of joining her family, and it’s up to Tess to prove him wrong. Endlessly loyal Silas will especially appeal to those who like the strong, silent type, while Tess’s emotional journey is sure to resonate with anyone who’s lost a loved one, especially in combat. There are some tears along the way, but the happily ever after will warm readers’ hearts. This is a must-read for cowboy romance fans. Agent: Suzie Townsend, New Leaf Literary. (June)