The Cowboy’s Protection by Maggie Carpenter

A tough, protective cowboy is drawn to a conniving, risk-taking cowgirl.
The sparkling attraction is mutual!
But when danger surrounds them can they make it through and find their HEA?

When Doug Anderson was accused of a heinous crime only a handful of people believed in his innocence. Now his good name has finally been cleared.
During the tumultuous time Blake Coleman, the owner of Three Oaks Ranch in Smoky Hill, hired Doug as his full-time ranch hand. Now Blake is on his honeymoon and he left Doug in charge.
Another supporter was Katy Miller, a pretty girl at the Cupcake Heaven Pastry Shop. Attracted to Doug from the moment she laid eyes on him, she is thrilled when she hears the guilty party has been found and immediately calls Doug to congratulate him. She arranges a visit, but purposely arrives at sunset riding her mare, knowing it will be too dangerous to ride back in the dark.
While Doug is delighted to see the sexy young woman, he immediately sees through her conniving plan and makes it clear he won’t tolerate such nonsense. But he cannot deny the crackling chemistry between them. He invites her to stay for dinner and asks if she’d like to join him for a ride up Smoky Hill the following afternoon.
She’s elated.
The dinner becomes her dream date, but during the peaceful trail ride Blake’s black German Shepherd sounds the alarm. Glancing into the woods Katy is terrified when she spies an upright furry creature moving through the trees. Though Doug assures her it was probably a bear she’s not convinced.
More strange happenings begin to occur.
Rumors of a Bigfoot fill the small community.
And out of nowhere, they discover the small town vet has been the victim of an attempted murder.
With danger and mystery around every corner Doug’s protective instincts take over, and Katy’s feelings for him deepen. But she is still an independent spirit and a risk taker.

Can Doug keep her under control and out of harm’s way?
If you enjoy take-charge cowboys, mystery, suspense, and willful young ladies being taken in hand, you’ll love this book.