Christmas with a Cowboy

Brown’s dry fifth Longhorn Canyon series (after Cowboy Rebel) lacks passion. When Irishwoman Bridget O’Malley arrives at her temporary job in Texas two weeks before Christmas, she is baffled to learn that her unforgettable one-night stand, Maverick Callahan, is her new employer’s grandson. When Maverick left Ireland the year before, he thought he’d never see Bridget again. Things have changed since they parted: Bridget has adopted her deceased best friend’s young daughter, Laela, and has had to settle down, while Maverick is still unattached and fond of partying into the night. Their attraction remains strong, and Maverick quickly bonds with Laela, becoming a surrogate father. Their impromptu family develops without much thought in a way that feels natural and believable; however, the romantic relationship between Bridget and Maverick is devoid of chemistry and flirtation. They put more effort into the church’s Christmas pageant than into building their connection. Maverick’s grandmother, Iris, steals the show, and the hint of a romance between side characters is more enticing than the protagonists’ dull union. Only series fans are likely to make it all the way through. Agent: Erin Niumata, Folio Literary. (Oct.)