Set in wintry Montana, the story opens with a rodeo cowboy driving along empty roads in search of the Refuge Ranch. Monty Bannister who made his saddle lives there; Tanner Fortier has had his saddle damaged during a bronc ride and wants it repaired. HER COWBOY HERO is first in the Refuge Ranch series.

Keira Bannister looks anything but glamorous dressed in her winter coat, scarf and hat, but Tanner can't help staring. They went out six years previously but Keira broke up with him - he doesn't know why. Maybe she just got tired of his rodeo circuit lifestyle and mechanic's job. Keira is needed at home, because her mother fell and broke her neck, and has had neck fusion surgery but needs care during recuperation. Tanner can understand that, but he hadn't realised that Keira has taken over the leatherworking, adding purses and wallets to the inventory.

Tanner has qualified for the national rodeo finals, in Vegas. Keira assesses his battered saddle, and tells him she won't have it ready in time. Her father Monty however gives Tanner an affable welcome and assures him the work will get done. Tanner's own father died early and left their ranch to his new wife and her son David, not Tanner.

Poor communication provokes the difficulties in many romance novels. This is ironic considering how many methods of communication we have today. Tanner had no time for proper discussion, and was too proud to explain that he had lost his home. Unexpectedly he gets snowed in at Refuge Ranch with the Bannister women. Will he use that time to good effect, and mend fences with the lovely girl he lost? When your life depends on flashlights, tractors and woodpiles, why hold a grudge?

I thoroughly enjoyed reading the setting details and saddle making which run through HER COWBOY HERO. Along with that we keep learning about all the people involved. The characters are strong people who grow during the story as well as by comparison with the past. This is an inspirational romance and readers may take heart from its message of leaving the past and starting anew. Caroline Aarsen has written a seasonal tale which is fitting for a new year. I liked her work a lot and will be looking out for more.