Saddle up for a wild ride with the Gold Buckle Cowboys series, where rugged cowboys, heartfelt romance, and the thrill of rodeo life collide in a whirlwind of small-town charm! Penned by Christine Wenger, this contemporary Western romance series captures the essence of professional bull riding and rural America, weaving tales of love, family, and redemption that keep readers hooked.
With its vivid characters and authentic settings, Gold Buckle Cowboys invites you to step into a world where dusty arenas and heartfelt connections reign supreme. Whether you’re a romance enthusiast or a rodeo fan, this series promises adventure and heartwarming moments galore.
How Gold Buckle Cowboys Began
Christine Wenger, a Central New York native with a passion for rodeo culture, crafted the Gold Buckle Cowboys series inspired by her love for professional bull riding. Alongside her husband Jim, her favorite cowboy, Wenger traveled to rodeo events across the U.S., soaking in the grit and glory of the sport. Her background in criminal justice and dual master’s degrees from Fordham University didn’t prepare her for writing romance, but her experiences with real cowboys fueled her authentic storytelling. Published by Harlequin Western Romance, the series debuted in 2011, blending Wenger’s research with her knack for heartfelt narratives.
The Heart of Gold Buckle Cowboys
The series kicks off with The Cowboy Code (2011), where actress Maggie McIntyre joins a Wyoming cowboy program to save her troubled nephew, only to fall for rancher Joe Watley. In How to Lasso a Cowboy (2011), a city girl uses a magazine article to woo a cowboy, sparking humor and romance. Lassoed into Marriage (2013) follows pilot Lisa Phillips and rodeo rider Brett Sullivan as they navigate co-guardianship and unexpected love. Reunited with the Bull Rider (2018) delivers a second-chance romance when injured bull rider Reed Beaumont reconnects with his high school sweetheart.
Set against the backdrop of rodeo arenas and rural towns, the series explores themes of love, trust, and personal growth. Wenger’s characters—feisty heroines and rugged cowboys—face parental pressures, past heartbreaks, and life-changing decisions. Her vivid depictions of bull riding and small-town life, paired with snappy dialogue, create an immersive experience. The blend of adventure and emotional depth makes each book a page-turner, celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.
Why Gold Buckle Cowboys Resonates
Gold Buckle Cowboys stands out in Western romance for its authentic portrayal of rodeo culture and relatable characters. Fans praise Wenger’s ability to craft stories that feel real, with reviews highlighting the series’ fresh air and sunshine vibe. Titles like How to Lasso a Cowboy earned accolades, including a Central NY Writers Awards finalist spot in 2011. The series’ focus on family and second chances resonates with readers, cementing its place in the genre.
Despite its niche appeal, Gold Buckle Cowboys has carved a loyal following, appealing to those who crave stories of love and adventure in America’s heartland. Its enduring charm lies in Wenger’s ability to make every cowboy swoon-worthy and every romance unforgettable.
- Publication Years: 2011–2019
- Number of Books: 7
- Publisher: Harlequin Western Romance
- Notable Award: How to Lasso a Cowboy, Central NY Writers Awards Finalist (2011)
Ready to rope your heart into a cowboy romance? Grab The Cowboy Code and dive into the Gold Buckle Cowboys’ world of rodeo thrills and swoon-worthy love stories!