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Elk Heights Ranch #1

Heart of a Cowboy

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A stubborn cowboy has sworn never to forgive or forget—but one special woman may find a way to change his mind . . .

Hospice nurse Laken Garlington helps people face the end with peace and dignity, surrounded by their loved ones. But the son of her new patient didn’t come home to reunite with his dad. So why is Cyler Myer back in horse country? It’s clear the sexy, six-three hunk with the steely eyes has a score to settle, and Laken doesn’t plan on being collateral damage . . . no matter how irresistible she finds the prodigal cowboy.

Dying is too good for the father Cyler will never forgive—not in this lifetime.
Showing up at his family’s Washington State ranch is the first step in his plan. But revenge takes a back seat to desire when Cyler meets a bossy beauty who arouses feelings he isn’t ready to face. As they work together to save an ailing mare, Cyler realizes he must decide where his true destiny lies. With
darkness . . . or with the woman who offers the promise of redemption with every kiss

188 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 19, 2017

19 people are currently reading
604 people want to read

About the author

Kristin Vayden

44 books475 followers
Kristin's inspiration for the romance she writes comes from her tall, dark and handsome husband with killer blue eyes. With five children to chase, she is never at a loss for someone to kiss, something to cook or some mess to clean but she loves every moment of it! She loves to make soap, sauerkraut, sourdough bread and gluten free muffins. Life is full of blessings and she praises God for the blessed and abundant life He's given her.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
Profile Image for ⊱✿⊰ Alicia ⊱✿⊰ .
675 reviews458 followers
December 19, 2017
4.5 "But first, coffee" Stars

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Laken is a palliative care nurse who cares for people in their most darkest times. She goes to a ranch for an interview where she meets Jack a grouchy straight talking Cowboy who I fell for straight away with his sharp wit and sarcasm, it could also be his love for coffee.
"Good. I was worried for a minute. You can't trust a person who doesn't drink coffee. Unnatural."

Jack is in his early 70's and has been given 3 months to live after refusing medical treatment for cancer, which is why he hires Laken to help him in his final months.

Jack has a son Cyler, they have been estranged for some time but Jack makes an effort to reach out to him and to Jack's surprise Cyler comes back to the ranch.

Cyler has every right to hate Jack in my opinion, what he did to his son was just wrong. So at first Cyler's reason for returning were more to see Jack suffer than to make amends. When Cyler meets Lanken there is an instant connection, not insta-love just chemistry. Laken and Cyler start to get to know each other while poor Jack starts to get sicker.

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So we have a lovely love story blooming but on the other hand we have to watch as Jack the strong hard talking Cowboy fades away as his cancer takes over.

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I was taken on an emotional rollercoaster, constantly switching from happy to sad. I found Jacks battle very confrontational and it really got to me, not necessarily in a bad way it just had me thinking about things deeply.

This was a story of forgiveness, acceptance and self acceptance. For me the love story of Lanken and Cyler took a back seat to Jack's story and although this was nothing like I thought it would be I am very glad I read it. It has been a long time since I shed tears while reading a book, I suggest having tissues handy if you are going to start this one.
"Death is the least fair. But I've never seen anything less powerful draw a family together, mend broken fences, and heal wounds that were impossible to repair. The beautiful part about death is that most times, it leaves life in its wake."

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ღ Reviewed on behalf of the 1-Click Addict Support Group
Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews484 followers
December 19, 2017
4.5 "But first, coffee" Stars

 photo coffee_zpsqnszxngb.gif

Laken is a palliative care nurse who cares for people in their most darkest times. She goes to a ranch for an interview where she meets Jack a grouchy straight talking Cowboy who I fell for straight away with his sharp wit and sarcasm, it could also be his love for coffee.
"Good. I was worried for a minute. You can't trust a person who doesn't drink coffee. Unnatural."

Jack is in his early 70's and has been given 3 months to live after refusing medical treatment for cancer, which is why he hires Laken to help him in his final months.

Jack has a son Cyler, they have been estranged for some time but Jack makes an effort to reach out to him and to Jack's surprise Cyler comes back to the ranch.

Cyler has every right to hate Jack in my opinion, what he did to his son was just wrong. So at first Cyler's reason for returning were more to see Jack suffer than to make amends. When Cyler meets Lanken there is an instant connection, not insta-love just chemistry. Laken and Cyler start to get to know each other while poor Jack starts to get sicker.

 photo lakenandCyler_zpsackudxr6.gif

So we have a lovely love story blooming but on the other hand we have to watch as Jack the strong hard talking Cowboy fades away as his cancer takes over.

 photo rollercoaster_zpsevj4uh7i.gif

I was taken on an emotional rollercoaster, constantly switching from happy to sad. I found Jacks battle very confrontational and it really got to me, not necessarily in a bad way it just had me thinking about things deeply.

This was a story of forgiveness, acceptance and self acceptance. For me the love story of Lanken and Cyler took a back seat to Jack's story and although this was nothing like I thought it would be I am very glad I read it. It has been a long time since I shed tears while reading a book, I suggest having tissues handy if you are going to start this one.
"Death is the least fair. But I've never seen anything less powerful draw a family together, mend broken fences, and heal wounds that were impossible to repair. The beautiful part about death is that most times, it leaves life in its wake."

 photo crying_zpsptvjeiah.gif
Profile Image for Kathy Coopmans.
Author 77 books2,698 followers
October 19, 2017
My first Kristin Vayden book and I'm now a big fan.
Heart of a Cowboy is incredible. This lady and her words lit me up and set my heat factor soaring.
She did more than that too.
She made me laugh, cry, and gave me all the feels we love in a book.
I loved this couple and her name, Laken. Perfect.
I've come across a genius with a gift in reading Kristin.
I can't wait to read more of her books!!
Profile Image for Le Ann Foster.
739 reviews5 followers
December 12, 2017
**Reviewed for CherryOBlossoms**

I gave this book 4.5 stars!

From the moment you meet Jack, Laken and Cyler you will be on a emotional roller coaster, so be forewarned. This book will tear you apart, put you back together, give you all the feels of a great book and I'm so glad I had a chance to review this new to me Author. The storyline is not for the weak or faint of heart....no were not talking of murder or anything but does touch on a very sensitive subject of Cancer and death. As a CNA, and have worked in the field I am very moved for people like Laken and the compassion that they show. I have the upmost respect and this book brings that to life.

Jack is Cyler dad and he has stage 4 cancer...he has been given weeks to live and wants to make a mends with his son. Because of their past in might be easier said than done. Laken has been hired to be Jack in home hospice nurse and knows that she needs to stay out of the way of the family drama. But when she meets Cyler for the first time, sparks fly. Can she keep her head and heart on straight or will she will she loose everything she ever worked for? Can Cyler and Jack make a mends before its to late?

I love that I get to find new authors and that I have found another one, I will be checking out Kristin out works and I highly recommend this Amazing story.
Profile Image for Ang -PNR Book Lover Reviews.
1,747 reviews144 followers
October 14, 2017
For a short book, it sure does pack a punch! This was so well written, with beautiful writing, sexy characters. I couldn’t believe I was crying a lot throughout this story. I loved everything about this world, and I look forward to the next book in the series. I’m not going to spoiler it, because wow. It’s quit an emotional story, that everyone should read. If your looking for something that will make you feel, give you joy and laughter whilst bringing you to tears this story is the one for you. I was lucky enough to have received an arc from the publisher.
Profile Image for K.A. Graham.
Author 21 books118 followers
December 13, 2017
Heart of a Cowboy (Elk Heights Ranch)
by Kristin Vayden

☆☆☆5 stars☆☆☆

Amazing and beautiful story of second chance love, overcoming tragedy and facing past mistakes. Jack and his son Cyler have a very complicated past, bringing a head to the present, when they meet again after years apart.

Laken has been brought in to care for a poorly Jack, but what she steps into is so much more than she ever bargained for. She's a beautiful soul, who not only cares deeply for her patient, but brings together a father and son. In the process, learns there's so much more to the troubled and angry Cyler.

Like any great story, there's a villain in the mix, by the name of Breelee. She's a she-devil in heels, bringing trouble to everyone in her wake.

The comical yet angered banter between Jack and Cyler is amusing and heart felt, showing the emotional build up between the two of them.

What begins as a struggle between father and son, turns out to be a chance at love and redemption for not only the men, but Laken and Cyler. They have an attraction that can't be denied, even though they both fight it at first.

Absolutely wonderful story, and I’m excited to see what comes next in this heartwarming series. Bravo Kristin Vayden!
Profile Image for Kathy Rouchelle .
969 reviews14 followers
December 9, 2017
Beautiful story! A different type of second chance at love read (at least that's how I saw this story). This wasn't about a second chance at love between a man and a woman, but a dying father and the son he wronged so terribly. Its a story of letting your guard down and allowing love to enter once again, to learn to trust someone with your heart. So, you could say it was a second chance at love, just not with the same two people. I loved this story. I loved the detail that was given to the hospice nurse's duties and her feelings. I loved how she handled her patient and his son's situation and allowed it to surface when it needed to. I loved these wonderfully written characters who were so very well defined and so enjoyable to read. I loved Jack and Laken's quick witted banter, Jack and Cyler banter and mostly their last words.

What didn't I like, well only one thing..or person. Breelee. She could have just stepped off into the canyon, but since she didn't, I really kept waiting for more trouble from her, something a little more, not to break the couple up, but maybe have Laken just really lay into her. But other than that, there wasn't anything else that I didn't like.

This is a wonderful story, with wonderful characters and some very hot scenes to satisfy those who love some "spice" in their reads. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK.
Profile Image for Wriwra.
174 reviews1 follower
December 22, 2017
3,5 or maybe 4
What I loved most about the book was the dialogue, it was clever and witty, even the story was nice and emotional and the characters lovable but the style was a little outdated.
Profile Image for A.BookNerd.Bookseller&Bibliophile.Blog.
2,785 reviews105 followers
December 19, 2017
This was my first book written by the author. I’m not one for “cowboy” books but this book was so much more than a book about a cowboy and a ranch.

This book was about family, forgiveness, life, death and finding love when you least expect it. Laken and Cyler’s relationship was perfectly developed.

I look forward to reading more from the author.
Profile Image for Britt Chaotic Creatives.
1,414 reviews94 followers
December 9, 2017
Heart of a Cowboy has a beauty about it that knows no bounds. More than just a simple story of two people falling in love, it’s filled with loss, pain, but even more hope, forgiveness and healing. Deeply touching, and truly sweet Heart of a Cowboy is a romance that goes beyond. You’ll definitely need to break out the tissues for some parts with this one, but it’s perfectly balanced with a sweet romance and plenty of humor too.

Laken and Cyler were amazing together, from their hilarious banter to their sweet (and steamy) love they were an absolute joy to read! Exceptionally kind, wise beyond her years, perfectly sassy, and a woman who knows good coffee, Laken was everything I adore in a heroine. One second I’d be cracking up at her great comebacks and the next I’d be admiring what an amazing woman she was. I adored her!

Cyler was just as awesome. He had so much that he had to overcome, but unlike most heroes, he never aimed that bitterness towards Laken. It was pure beauty seeing him not only heal old wounds but fall head over heels in love with her. This one is an absolute must read!
Profile Image for Heather 123.
954 reviews7 followers
December 11, 2017
Cute, predictable love story about two people who meet during one of the darkest times of one person's life.

I wanted Larken to have a little more of a backstory, but it is what it is. The story itself was predictable but I still enjoyed it.
Profile Image for April Symes.
5,013 reviews445 followers
December 19, 2017
Heart of a Cowboy (Elk Heights Ranch) by Kristin Vayden is a short story that is about family, forgiveness and 2nd chances. This isn’t the type of 2nd chance story which is between a man and woman who find love with each other again but this is the 2nd chance at love between a dying man and his son he wronged so bad. Its also about letting love back into your life after you have been hurt before—learning to trust again and to find happiness. This was a beautiful story because the hospice nurse was the woman who was the key for both the dying elderly father and his son. Laken was a great hospice nurse and she had this innate goodness about her. She was passionate and giving. She stood her ground and fought and yet also knew when to back down and fight another day. Cyler the patient’s son was somewhat of a hard case at first yet their love story was sweet and heartwarming. They had a battle on their hands due to his ex. Also I loved Laken and Jack’s relationship. She took good care of him and even though she was his nurse, they had a relationship that seemed to be more family type, that patient /nurse type. There are some heartbreaking moments so keep the tissues handy. I think the only thing that bothered me was what ever happened to the ex Breelee. She caused so much trouble and then BAM, she up and was gone… I was sure she was just going to pop out and do more damage but alas nope. I wish there was more wrap up regarding her but nothing. I kind of wish there had been more clarity about whatever happened with her. Otherwise, this was a beautiful, heartwarming, sweet story that has the FEELS. This is my 2nd book I have read by Ms. Vayden but not my last. She is definitely on my auto list now.


My Rating: 4.5 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
Profile Image for Cathy Geha.
4,160 reviews111 followers
December 15, 2017
Heart of a Cowboy by Kristin Vayden
Elk Heights Ranch #1

This book hit close to home. With two parents having died of cancer and both having home health workers having the heroine such a lovely caring wonderful nurse made me happy to think there such wonderful people who help those moving from life to death do so with grace and dignity.

So, if you had not picked up on this already…this is the story of Jackson Myer “Jake” and his hope to redeem himself with his son, Cyler. Jake was a sh*t to his son over a decade ago but is hopeful the estrangement can be breached and common ground found before he dies. Jake’s nurse is young, attractive and dedicated to the profession she has chosen. Laken Garlington is usually able to keep her thoughts to herself and not be judgmental. She overhears Jake calling Cyler, meets Cyler and there is definitely attraction BUT she must keep things professional, right?

This book is about family. It is about anger, hurt and forgiveness. It is about the impact humans and animals have on our lives. It is also a romance. This is the first book I have read by this author and I enjoyed it. I will look for her work in the future.

Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books-Lyrical Press for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars
Profile Image for Mary Jo.
2,374 reviews59 followers
December 9, 2017
Such a surprise for me. Laken has a true calling to work as a plaintive care nurse, helping patients in their final days. Her next assignment is Jack, an ornery, stubborn rancher, with a heart of gold when you get past all his bluster. As she helps him prepare for the inevitable, Jack reaches out to his estranged son Cyler, never expecting Cyler to visit. Oh Cyler. His father truly decimated their relationship but when he gets the call that Jack is dying, well, and his guilt drives him home. What he doesn’t expect is the sexy nurse, Laken, to be taking care of his dad. This is an emotional roller-coaster as we experience the final stages of Jack’s life, him wanting to atone for his mistakes, while at the same time, Cyler has to find a way to forgive. All the while, Laken is there as a calm and driving force to help both men with this most difficult time. Will love bloom during this family’s heartbreak? A beautiful story of love, forgiveness and compassion. I voluntarily read an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for White Hot Reads.
347 reviews27 followers
November 2, 2017
A poignant book that reminds us even in the hardest times love is what we all need to survive. ~ Heather, White Hot Reads

"Life is full of things that can either give us joy or steal it. But Laken, that's part of its beauty. So enjoy it. "

Meet Laken and Cyler, two people who couldn't be more wrong for each other, except they're not. They're so right! Their banter and quips kept me both on the edge of laughing, crying and wanting to shout throughout this whole book.

I've sat on this review for over a week now, because I just didn't know how to put into words what my heart felt after getting to know these two. They're both mischievous and full of life. They look at the world through their own colored glasses but are willing to accept the colors of the other.

I loved this book from the bottom of my heart.
The feels.
The love.
The lessons.
Yep, I said it --- the lessons.

Vayden may be a romance writer, but in Heart of a Cowboy she's teaching us more about loving life than how to fall in love -- and I felt it to my core!
Profile Image for Books and Spoons.
1,612 reviews32 followers
December 31, 2017
A touching story of forgiveness and love, life at its lowest lows and its highest highs, a heartwarming story about family, redemption, and soul mates finding their way to each other.
The realistic picture of dying and death and the mental work, pain, and sorrow everyone involved has to go through, it not only demonstrates the development of the characters in the story, but it spoke to me personally of the beauty of letting go peacefully, moving on gracefully, and death as a natural part of the circle of life.
The blurb focuses on the romantic relationship developing between Cyler Myer and Laken Garlington yet there is so much more to the story with Cyler's father preparing himself for losing the battle against cancer, and the past mistakes that he wants to correct before it is too late. The relationship that develops between Laken, her patients Jack, and Cyler is beautiful in its raw roughness at the last moments of Jack's life. Everything that happens in the story develops from those poignant last attempts to make things right, giving all the emotions a deeper, profound foundation.
Past sins, misunderstandings, and faults in life had alienated Jack and Cyler long time ago. What seems like unforgivable actions on Jack's part had driven them apart. Now facing each other again Jack and Cyler have to decide how they want to cross that one point in life where there is no return from, with angry revenge in mind, or with forgiveness and fond memories.
Laken is one of those people who can connect with nearly anyone, yet the connection she feels for Cyler is different. The sparks are flying, the passion is tangible, the possibilities reflect in their eyes, but Cyler being Laken's patient's son could cause some problems down the road if they act upon their budding feelings and took the step to a more personal relationship either of them were prepared to take.
The story does have a rather heartrending undertone that is lightened up with a delightful banter and jokes, romantic interludes between Cyler and Laken, and Jack's always ready to argue attitude. And while Laken and Cyler's love story is a beautiful and passion-filled tale of finding your soulmate at an unexpected time in your life, the way Jack prepares himself to leave the life, to die, had something very delegate and graceful in its breathtaking beauty and respect towards life.
This new author to me left me in awe of the depth of the emotions she draws out through the story, going from morose to wonder and delight, with her words, painting the beauty of life at each of its states.
A compassionate and tender story that truly touched my heart with its uplifting message of hope and love
~ Five Spoons
Profile Image for Romancing the Book.
4,420 reviews221 followers
October 14, 2018
Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by NetGalley
Originally posted at Romancing the Book

Heart of a Cowboy definitely has a lot of heart in it. My emotions were engaged from the first page since the premise for the story is about Jack and his cancer, his need for a hospice nurse and Jack being reunited with his estranged son, Cyler. There are many layers to the story with both lightness and darkness and I felt laughter and tears as I read. There is a realism to the story and how it and the characters were portrayed. I liked that so much of the past was brought in so that we could understand the characters. The story takes a few twists and turns but all the story lines are interwoven nicely. Watching Jack and Cyler come to terms with each other was both heartbreaking and heartwarming especially as Cyler lets go of his hate a little at a time.

The book has a nice cover and characters that were well developed with a lot of depth to them. We learned about them a little at a time. Three of the characters had very unique names – the hospice nurse, Laken, Jack’s son, Cyler and Laken’s best friend, Kessed. Laken and Cyler were good for each other but didn’t expect to fall so hard. She brought out the best in him and they were so good together. Their chemistry is off the charts.

There are family and friends, opportunists, Margaret the horse, the ranch and its surroundings, lots of coffee, hate, bitterness, anger, sorrow, sadness, illness, romance, loving and love. The descriptions of the land, the river and the ranch were vivid and made me feel that I was there. There is wonderful closure especially with the epilogue. I loved the passage from Ecclesiastes that was given. As this is the first book in the Elk Heights Ranch series, I can’t wait to return for more!

Vayden is a new to me author and I enjoyed her writing style. I will be adding a few of her other books to my always growing TBR pile.
Profile Image for Liz ~ Liz's Reading Life.
857 reviews31 followers
January 2, 2018
Laken Garlington is a special person inside and out. Her job isn't easy and she always gives one hundred percent to her patients. Her latest patient will prove to be one that gives her just as much as she give him.

Cyler Myer never expected to be back on the ranch after all that happened between him and his father. Coming back was supposed to a quick in and out trip, but all that changes when he see the nurse hired to care for his father.

The attraction between Laken and Cyler is electric and only continues to grow the more time they spend today.

Can Laken and Cyler find a way to make a relationship work with their business schedules? Will Cyler and his father be able to mend fences before it's too late? And how will Cyler handle things when his past comes knocking on his door once again?

Heart of a Cowboy is a stunning read that captives the read from start to finish.

The reader quickly connects with Laken with her wittiness, positive outlook, and heart of gold. The passion she puts into caring for Jack is endearing. I love how she doesn't take his crap and gives just as good as she gets. She truly is brilliant.

Cyler is a rough, tough, hardworking cowboy that doesn't let anything or anyone stand in his way. He's built a company from nothing and he knows what it takes to get a job done. I love that even though he's been hurt in the past, he still takes the risk to win Laken's heart. It's all the little things he does for her that makes a reader swoon over and over again.

I loved the relationship between Jack and everyone. He may not be the nicest person in the world at times, but he has a good heart. I love how he pushed Laken and Cyler together, it's priceless.

I really enjoyed Heart of a Cowboy more than I expected. I was excited to start this book and really sad to see it end. The storyline was compelling, the romance was alluring, and the banter was stunning. I am excited to see what will come next in this series.

If you are looking for a cowboy to come and sweep you off your feet and ride into the sunset with you, then I highly recommend you pick up Heart of a Cowboy today and meet Cyler.
Profile Image for Lisa.
392 reviews6 followers
February 8, 2018
Amazing read but Have your tissues ready.

First of all I have to say I love the heroines name Laken, It’s just so unique. I fell in love with this book and the characters. You have Laken the Loving and kind hospice nurse, Kessed her best friend who adds humor, Jack a feisty old guy who really has a big heart, and of course the handsome cowboy Cyler who is also Jack’s estranged son. This book was very emotional, but Kristen did an amazing job of balancing out a tough situation with love and laughter. It brought me so much joy and sorrow as I was reading it, I just did not want to put it down. I definitely have a book hang over after reading this book. I am very excited to see what comes next in this series!!
Profile Image for Beth C..
640 reviews61 followers
December 21, 2017
Life was slowly sifting away, leaving a chill in its wake. Cyler closed his eyes, breathing deep, waiting.
Because that’s all they had left.


If there’s one thing that nearly guarantees I’ll take a chance on a new-to-me author, it’s the promise of cowboy. Which explains, in part, how I came to read Heart of a Cowboy by Kristin Vayden.

It is a lovely read—heartfelt and feel good; a book to make you smile despite the sometimes-heavy subject matter. Ms. Vayden writes with feeling, and with deep respect for the fragility of life, and the end result was a surprisingly low-angst but wholly enjoyable romance.

I loved both Cyler and Laken. Together, they were sweet and sexy—a winning combination. Despite their differences, despite their circumstances, there was something oh, so charming about their banter and their mutual love of coffee. It was such a normal, simple connection and yet, was woven through this book in a such a way as to make a reader sit up and take notice. I certainly did.

Honestly, I don’t really have too many qualms about this book. The conflict was minimal and wrapped up tighter and faster than I might have otherwise expected, but for someone—like me—that doesn’t need endless drama to enjoy a book, it worked.

And now, I’m eager to read more of Ms. Vayden’s work. In fact, I’m already looking forward to the next in this series—I’m hoping for Kessed and Sterling, but will take pretty much anything—and ready to take another chance on this no-longer-new-to-me author.

We started life at zero, each heartbeat adding to another.
And we ended life with a countdown.


~ 4.5 Pike Place STARS ~
Profile Image for Jen.
528 reviews16 followers
December 19, 2017
This is the first full-length novel of Vayden's that I've gotten a chance to read. I'd read a novella of hers that was in an anthology previously. So I was pretty excited to see what she had to offer. I got even more excited when I dived in and found that it was set in my neck of the woods (well kind of...). I always find it exciting when an author writes about another part of Washington that's not Seattle. I will tell you I had a few starts and stops trying to read this. I think it's because it has a slow start. But once it started flowing, I was completely engaged and pleasantly surprised. There was plenty of humor, heart, and a little bit of angst to make the heart hurt.

Laken is a hospice nurse with a big heart. She knew what she wanted to do and she went for it. Spending your days at the bedside of a terminal patient can't be easy and it takes a special kind of person. Laken does it with a smile, a firm hand, and a beautiful soul. Cyler hasn't been home in a decade, he's cynical and guarded. The last thing he expects when he shows up at his father's beside is Laken. The connection between the two was sweet and tender. The chemistry was more of a slow burn then a forest fire. And I appreciated that considering the plot.

I'm definitely going to be checking out more of Vayden's work in the future. This was the perfect read for a lazy winter day--not to angsty but definitely gives you the warm fuzzies. I definitely recommend it if you're looking for a sweet romance that'll make you feel good.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
For more reviews, visit

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Profile Image for Bobo's Book Bank.
550 reviews14 followers
December 20, 2017
HEART OF A COWBOY is book one in the Elk Heights Ranch series and is my first read from author Kristen Vayden. This is a slow burn, contemporary romance set in a small town with a cowboy (kind of!) that'll make you swoon! Wow, I honestly wasn't expecting all the feels that I got from this book. It's not just another love story, it also deals with issues that we all have to face eventually. Ms. Vayden's writing was beautiful, she created a story that flowed seamlessly between life and death, love and hate, acceptance and denial, forgiveness and condemnation. Yes, this is a sweet romance between Cyler and Laken but at the same time, it's about a father and son trying to come to terms with a painful past. There's a thin line between love and hate and the common denominator between the two plotlines is Laken. I adored her! She was compassionate, understanding, fair and best of all...hopeful. Laken was probably one of the best female characters that I've read in a long time. When I first met Cyler, I wasn't sure I was going to like him, he seemed so indifferent but of course, there's always two sides to every coin and this story is evidence of that. He turned out to be so much more than I expected (in a good way!). Beware...you'll need to have tissue on hand for this one! Told from dual POVs with a bittersweet ending. I received, read and voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Theresa Payne.
272 reviews
December 31, 2017
A very heartwarming book.

Oh Jack..... such a stubborn but funny man. Loved Cyler and Laken. This book reminds us how precious time is and beautiful it can be. A must read
Profile Image for 2OCC Reviews.
3,487 reviews250 followers
December 19, 2017
Heart of a Cowboy is a brilliant story of not only found love, but the importance of forgiveness and healing.

The topic of palliative care is handled with grace and dignity that anyone who has had an occasion to interact with professionals in this field will appreciate for what it is. Not only do they care for the patient, but also those around them. To help them move through a process that no one can be prepared for.

Laken is in this profession and she is brought in to tend to Jack. She helps him reach out to his estranged son, Cyler.

Cyler is angry and getting the call that his Father is dying brings back the old hurts and resentments. There is still some of the old spark in his Father when Cyler first sees him and they begin their conversation. Over time, and with Laken’s help, they come to an understanding about what has happened in their past and what is happening in the future.

Together, Laken and Cyler, were amusing with their banter. As their story progressed, you could feel the gamut of emotions they were going through.

This is the first book from Kristin Vayden that I have had the pleasure of reading. Well written with ideal flow, I highly recommend.

5 Stars

#2OCCMS
Profile Image for Karen.
1,396 reviews14 followers
December 19, 2017
Beautiful story! This story had all of the feels. I cried, laughed, and got angry throughout this story. It was a beautiful story of a family going through a tragedy, but regaining their family in the process.

Jack is a rough rancher who made some bad choices when he was younger and hurt his son and his wife, and lost their love in the process. He is terminally ill and wants to make amends with his son before he dies. Cyler, Jack’s grown son, hates his father with his entire soul. When Cyler gets a phone call from his father telling him that he is terminally ill, he only wants to go home to give him grief and make him suffer before he dies.

Laken is Jack’s palliative care nurse, she is young, but very experienced in palliative care. She is a strong woman who can handle a strong willed and grumpy man. Jack has met his match in Laken.

The story is very well written, the characters are all very strong, loving people, and the plot is not predictable. I loved this story, and give it a 5 star review.

If you enjoy a story with strong heros and heroines, and all the feels, in it, then this is a great story to pick up and read. I hated to put it down, and I didn’t want it to end. The pages turned very easily, and too quickly.
Profile Image for Amy Stephens.
Author 100 books546 followers
December 19, 2017
Heart of a Cowboy is an absolute perfect read. I'm new to Kristin Vayden's work, but man, is she a powerful storyteller. This book has it all--a tender love story, forgiveness, and a little humor.

I really enjoyed Laken. She was a smart woman, happy with her career choice as a hospice nurse, and dedicated to being the best she can be. Cyler was unique too in that he was carrying a grudge for something that happened early on in his life. And Jack, what's not to love about him. Though sick and dying from cancer, he was a real trooper and added so much humor to this story.

I knew early on that this story was going to have some sad moments, and the author handled them all so gracefully. She showed just how important forgiveness is and how it chips away at your soul if you let something eat at you for a period of time. There's a valuable lesson within the story and I promise it'll have you thinking about something that maybe you wanted to get off your chest.

I thoroughly enjoyed this western romance and definitely recommend it!
Profile Image for Lisa.
2,179 reviews13 followers
December 19, 2017
Oh my gosh, this pulled at the heart strings and brought all the feels. Laken's career choice as a palliative care nurse shows an amazing heart, kindness and compassion. When she becomes nurse for Cyler's estranged father, her genuine, kind nature do more than just bring peace to a dying man but help to heal the rift between father and son. Cyler has every reason to hate his father, don't get me wrong. As Laken and Cyler grow closer, the relationship between father and son become closer.

This was at times a difficult read for me, having experienced the devastating impact a terminal cancer diagnosis can have and the knowledge that you are going to lose a parent soon because of it. I am not going to lie, I cried bucket loads reading this but it left me feeling at peace with myself. It is such a sensitive subject matter but was dealt with so respectfully. I left the book feeling calm, at peace and ready to live life its fullest. Superbly done. Thank you Kristin Vayden.

***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews161 followers
October 13, 2017
Cyler was one delicious man, "...he nipped at her lower lip, his body hardening as she traced her tongue along the seam of his lips in return. “Ready for bed? I’m exhausted.” He feigned a yawn then pulled her up so that she straddled his hips as he hooked his hands under her sweet ***." I really liked this book, I fell in love with Cyler and Laken was feisty and spunky.
Profile Image for Barbara.
2,509 reviews54 followers
December 18, 2017
What a wonderful story about love, life and living life to the fullest. The author has written an extremely touching story about the circle of life. The characters she has written are just so perfect for the storyline as well: full of wit, wisdom and charisma.

Jack is dying. He hires a nurse, Laken, to stay with him for his final few months to aid in his care. Jack also has a son that he hasn’t spoken to in years due to wrongs Jack commented years ago. When Cyler, his son, learns Jack is dying he returns in order to gloat and get his long awaited revenge. What he wasn’t expecting to find was a feisty nurse that takes his breath away and has a miraculous outlook on life and death. Can Laken somehow bring a bit of peace to Cyler and Jack?

I can express how heartwarming this story is or how much more it is than just a romance book. It is most definitely worth reading and one-clicking. You won’t be sorry you did. 2 Thumbs Up for a wonderful story and for 2nd chances at making things right!
Profile Image for Julie.
187 reviews12 followers
December 19, 2017
Heart of a Cowboy is one of those books that tears at your heartstrings. You know from the beginning that you're going to cry - it's inevitable. But it also warms your heart, makes you giggle and even laugh out loud. There are times that I got frustrated and angry - yet all worked out as it should in the end.

Laken couldn't be more perfect - truly, I can't think of a flaw except for her lack of cooking skills. Jack certainly is a stubborn old coot, but you can't help but love him. Cyler is just as stubborn as his dad - and the animosity he has towards his dad at the beginning is almost frightening, even if it's justified. I suppose only someone as perfect as Laken could soften two angry, bitter men.

A beautiful story from beginning to end.

honest disclosure ~ I received a review copy
FYI ~ open door intimate scenes, some language
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