The Reluctant Cowboy, Paperback/Laura Elizabeth

Ex-cowboy-turned-stuntman Jake Smith trudges to his hometown where he's left behind a dream he was born into, memories of a hero dad, and his ex-girlfriend who was never supposed to stay in town. Cassie Sullivan, an ex-politician's daughter, escaped to Lovestruck during college and now owns the Smith ranch. She's created a life she's proud of, even though they aren't her dreams she's fulfilled. When Jake returns and lassoes her in, she's prepared for a showdown that's percolated for seven years. That is, if she can stay angry with him for abandoning her. Because she has a secret that would've ended their union long ago.