Step into the sun-soaked ranches of New Mexico with Karen Templeton’s Wed In The West series, where heartfelt romance meets the messy, beautiful reality of everyday life! This contemporary romance saga, spanning six captivating books, follows strong heroines and rugged heroes as they navigate love, loss, and second chances against a backdrop of dusty trails and tight-knit communities. With its authentic emotions and relatable characters, Wed In The West has charmed readers and critics alike, earning a prestigious RITA award for its debut novel.
Whether you’re a romance enthusiast or new to the genre, this series offers a warm, witty escape that feels like catching up with old friends. Let’s dive into the heart of Wed In The West and discover why it’s a hidden gem in contemporary romance.
How Wed In The West Began
Karen Templeton, a mother of five and a master of down-to-earth storytelling, launched Wed In The West in 2008 with A Mother’s Wish. Inspired by her love for crafting relatable characters, Templeton set out to create a series that blended the charm of Western settings with the emotional depth of modern relationships. Published by Silhouette Special Edition, the series grew from her passion for stories that resonate with real-life struggles and joys, quickly gaining a loyal following for its authentic voice and vivid New Mexico backdrop.
The Heart of Wed In The West
The series kicks off with A Mother’s Wish (2008), where Winnie Porter, a young woman who gave up her child for adoption, arrives in Tierra Rosa, New Mexico, to check on her son. Her journey intertwines with the adoptive father, sparking a poignant tale of healing and unexpected love. Reining in the Rancher (2008) follows Thea Benedict, a waitress and artist, whose surprise pregnancy with a rancher leads to parallel romances and emotional growth. Welcome Home, Cowboy (2010), a RITA winner, introduces Emma Manning, a pregnant widow, and Cash Cochran, a troubled musician, as they find solace in each other. Finally, Back in the Saddle (2011) delivers a moving story of Zach Talbot, a widowed veterinarian, and Mallory, a heroine in a wheelchair, embracing second chances.
Wed In The West shines through its themes of resilience, family, and redemption. Templeton’s New Mexico setting—think sprawling ranches and vibrant small towns—grounds the stories in a sense of place, while her focus on real-world issues like grief, disability, and single parenthood adds depth. Her witty dialogue and slow-burn romances keep readers hooked, blending humor with heart-tugging moments that make each book feel like a warm hug.
Why Wed In The West Resonates
Wed In The West stands out in contemporary romance for its commitment to authenticity. Fans praise Templeton’s ability to craft characters who feel like neighbors or friends, navigating life’s highs and lows with courage and humor. The series’ RITA awards for A Mother’s Wish and Welcome Home, Cowboy highlight its critical acclaim, while its loyal readership cherishes its emotional honesty. By tackling complex topics like adoption and disability without clichés, Templeton has left a lasting mark on the genre, proving that love stories can be both heartwarming and grounded.
Even years after its conclusion in 2011, Wed In The West remains a beloved escape for readers seeking romance with substance. Its blend of Western charm and universal themes ensures it’s as relevant today as ever.
- Publication Years: 2008–2011
- Number of Books: 6
- Awards: RITA Awards for A Mother’s Wish (2009) and Welcome Home, Cowboy (2011)
- Setting: New Mexico
- Genre: Contemporary Romance
Ready to fall in love under the New Mexico sky? Grab A Mother’s Wish and dive into Wed In The West’s heartwarming world of romance and redemption!