Racing Christmas: Rodeo Romance Series, book 6

Brylee Barton has only one goal: win the barrel racing world championship, in the hopes that the prize money will help save her family farm. What she doesn’t want is a second chance at romance with the cowboy who broke her heart years ago. When an injury from a riding accident leaves her at his mercy, Brylee has no choice but to swallow her pride, even as she vows to lock her heart away.

Fun-loving, charming cowboy Shaun Price has a great job, a great life, and a string of ex-girlfriends, but only one woman ever claimed his heart. When Brylee literally lands at Shaun’s feet, he’s going to do whatever it takes to get back into her good graces. But is it too late for them to rekindle their romance?

“Racing Christmas” is a story of love, loss, and forgiveness that reads like a country-western song. Set in the vibrant world of professional rodeo performers, it’s a sweet story and the two leads, Brylee and Shaun are well defined. They share more than just attraction: they are two characters who genuinely like each other, despite everything that keeps them apart. Where the novel suffers is in the pacing – it’s written like a romantic comedy, but the subject matter suddenly dives deep into issues of abandonment and loss. Some of the side characters and sub plots could use a little more refinement as well. Despite this, Ms. Hatfield’s happily-ever-after-ending will leave her readers satisfied and looking for more in the series.

Janice Martin