Cowboy Up

AudioBook Review: Stars: Overall 4 Narration 4 Story 4 I love a good ‘coming home’ story, and Harper Sloan has brought three of them in this series. Cllay has been in the picture for ages – and he’s always trying to do the best thing for everyone, and keep everything running smoothly. He’s the sort of always there brother, often stepping in to sort, solve or just be aware of what’s going on. But when his need to protect those who may be in trouble bring him face to face with Caroline: things truly start to change for Clay. One night, in fact the best night between Clay and Caroline brought passion, heat, a connection and a serious jump out of their ‘comfort zone” when a night of drinking and dancing ended in bed. No strings, just a diversion from her isolation after a horrible relationship left her cautious and closed off. But, now months later and everything gone pear-shaped in her life – her business burned to the ground, homeless and seriously in need of some care – there he is. At the baby shower for earlier characters, there’s Clay – big as life and twice as solid. And he sees Caroline for the first time in ages – her sparkle not quite there. He’d heard of her troubles, and he thinks that perhaps that one night could be something more – if they both will take a chance. And what a ride this becomes: Clay and Caroline both have issues that they would prefer to move on from, but some are lasting and lingering. The one night, the best night of their lives, couldn’t possibly be enough – but it just might be the keys to their letting someone in and starting toward a new future. Clay, surprisingly enough is very considerate and coaxing with Caroline, letting her share her secrets and fears while doing his best to not allow his past bad breakup effect the now. He’s a touch on the pragmatic side, although it’s clear that he’s attracted to and enjoys Caroline as a woman and a person. Surprisingly low angst in terms of their relationship – Clay is the ultimate protector here when Caroline’s ex just won’t let go – and he’s consistent and steady with her – making the story truly about their relationship as it grows and develops into a connection that is clearly headed to happy ever after. Narration for this story is performed by Elizabeth Louise and Jason Carpenter – a pairing that has worked, and does work, so perfectly for this story. Throughout the book, their voices play clearly off one another: becoming the characters complete with small hesitations, emotion and interplay between them that allows each character’s moment to shine and present their perspective. Clear and distinct tones, tempos and delivery for each of the characters, primary and secondary, allow conversations, moments and emotional impact to resonate with listeners, and their determination to make this relationship work out is easy to see and understand. A lovely performance that has me wanting to revisit all of the stories in this series once again. I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Simon and Schuster Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.