Always Her Cowboy

Daddy issues hinder the relationship between a Montana rancher and a PR professional in Addison’s satisfying follow-up to Forget Me Not Cowboy. Charlotte Wayne and Chance Beaumont have been mutually crushing on each other since grade school, but their inability to express their infatuation has turned into a sexy love-hate relationship of teasing and sniping at each other. Their exaggerated animosity fools no one, and after a steamy kiss, Charlotte suggests they give a real relationship a go. But Chance, who was raised by an emotionally abusive father who bequeathed him a financially struggling ranch, doesn’t feel he’s worthy of Charlotte, whose family is considered “ranching royalty.” When Chance discovers oil on his property, he struggles to accept his new wealth, making Charlotte realize it’s more than money standing in their way; she fears his childhood trauma will forever cloud his judgment on how great he is. Steamy sex scenes are a welcome reprieve from the couple’s angsty push and pull, which can occasionally feel like Chance making any excuse not to commit. Charlotte’s loyalty, however, is admirable and Chance’s big heart shines through all the drama. It’s a worthy addition to the series. Agent: Holly Root, Root Literary. (May)