It's one thing for a tough bull rider to agree to care for a baby temporarily, but what happens when the situation threatens to become permanent and the baby's mother turns out to be an old flame? Author Heidi McCahan shares a touching story of two people who've made many mistakes, have very mixed feelings about each other, but still want the very best for one special little girl. Landon Chambers proves his true worth as he struggles to take care of the very sweet Adeline, and I admired his true dedication, but I must admit that the toddler's mother was a little annoying at times. Yes, Kelsey had issues from the past, and she was honoring a military commitment, but it was still hard to accept her attitude and her treatment of Landon. She couldn't believe that he wasn't still the person who had hurt her so deeply. She couldn't accept that he had changed!

Second chances play a big part in McCahan's plot, and isn't that what we all need sometimes? A second chance to make amends, and perhaps a second chance at romance? The Bull Rider's Fresh Start is an engaging story of hope, redemption and forgiveness, and I recommend it to all who enjoy contemporary romance.

I voluntarily accepted a copy of this book and there was no obligation for a favorable review. These are my own thoughts. ( )

You know you're dealing with a good writer when one of the characters gets so under your skin you audibly growl at every stubborn, prideful, and selfish thing they say and do. That's exactly what happened to me with The Bull Rider's Fresh Start. Kelsey Sinclair is one of those people that refuses to let things go, projecting past hurts on a man that is truly repentant about the sins of his past, and is changing for the better.

Landon Chambers is focused on his future, which is why he is blindsided by the realization that his one night stand that happened months ago ended up with a sweet baby girl as a result. Landon is one of those characters that will make a girl swoon. Attentive, repentant, and a charming flirt, I fell in love with Landon! His wonderful personality shined throughout the story, making Kelsey's selfish pride shine even brighter.

Honestly, I had a hard time with these two characters being together altogether. The contrast between the two was that stark, their relationship volatile and argumentative, with near constant fighting, made me wonder about the health of the relationship. I also struggled with how quickly these feelings came about. They met, had a one night stand, and now they're parents, the baby bringing them together. Where is the time to fall in love? It just felt too rushed, and you cannot base a relationship off just being a parent. Trust me on this one, I know from experience.

In saying that, the realistic feel of the novel was nice, especially the wonderful dialogue, and all the baby talk had me missing those times when my teenage boys were babies. Adeline, the sweet baby girl, was the star of the novel, in my opinion, and I loved every moment with her.

My best takeaway from The Bull Rider's Fresh Start is this: "Don't let your stubborn pride keep you from all that God has for you. His plans are much better than yours."

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher for JustRead Tours. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own. ( )