A RANCHER'S HEART is book one in Vivian Arend's Heart Falls contemporary cowboy series. As a Vivian Arend fan, I was super excited about this new series. Although the first book in any series can sometimes be hard to dig into - I love this book. A RANCHER'S HEART is perfect for readers who enjoy the single dad trope, as well as stories about hot cowboys.

As with previous Vivian Arend books, A RANCHER'S HEART is an enjoyable character-driven romance centered around family. Tamara Coleman comes to work for Caleb Stone because she desperately needs a change in scenery and a change in careers. Caleb desperately needs a live-in nanny for his two young daughters.

At first, I thought this would be a story with two people who would be antagonistic toward each other through much of the book. Caleb and Tamara originally meet in ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOME, and their introduction to each other does not go smoothly. At the beginning of A RANCHER'S HEART, when they first lay eyes on each other again, they once again feel a mixture of attraction and annoyance. Thankfully, it's not long before they are able to empathize with each other and have a mutual respect that blossoms into friendship, and then much more. Having this story told from both perspectives gives the reader better insight into the characters, and what holds them back from becoming romantically involved. Both main characters are incredibly sympathetic, and you become invested in their happily ever after. Vivian Arend balances the heartwarming scenes with Caleb's daughters, with the sensual moments between Caleb and Tamara. Part of what makes this such a good story and them a great couple, is the way the plain- speaking hero and the hard-working heroine complement each other.

A RANCHER'S HEART is a thoroughly charming and sexy story about two people who find their perfect match. The Silver Stone ranch in Heart Falls, Alberta makes a cozy and picturesque backdrop for a love story. I look forward to reading about Caleb's brothers in future books -- especially Luke. There was a tantalizing sexual tension between Luke and Stone family friend, Kellie James. I can't wait for the next Heart Falls book!