Quarter Horse breeder Fox Colton is a loner by nature. So when an anonymous infant appears on his doorstep, he reluctantly takes in the baby—and new assistant Kelsey Lauder. As he grows to cherish his unexpected family, Fox works to track down Baby John Doe’s real parents. But when secrets from Fox’s own past are unearthed, he could find himself alone again, just as he’s come to love the new people in his life.
Regan Black, a USA Today bestselling author, writes award-winning, action-packed romantic novels featuring kick-butt heroines and the sexy heroes who fall in love with them. She and her husband currently enjoy the empty-nest life in the South Carolina Lowcountry where the rich blend of legend, romance, and history fuels her imagination.
Fans of Regan Black and the Colton family series will definitely enjoy this read. Though labeled romantic suspense, to me it was heavier on the drama – the domestic aspect and trying to find the identity of the baby’s family - but it did not take away from the story. I enjoyed the characters and the well-written storyline. There were plenty of laughs, family, mystery, drama, and a touch of suspense and then, of course, the romance. Fox and Kelsey made a good team and great couple and I enjoyed seeing the dynamics of their relationship change and grow with each other and in regards to the baby. In this story, the serial killer arc was more in the background while the domestic/family and romance aspects brought to the front. It was also pleasant to see and revisit with some Colton’s from previous books. The story was steady-paced and engaging with twists, turns and surprises to enjoy.
*I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
With the exceptional quality and caption to draw her readers in Regan Black did it without a question to do it. Bringing a baby to a single man's doorstep to be raised was one of what was the most important to this suspense book. There was complete speculation that the little boy was not this cowboy's son and he was bound to prove it. In the hours ahead Fox Colton had come across many new things in his life and on just happened to be the new assistant he was looking to hire. But did he know what she was going to be also in the days he had set the appointment up with her. If you like suspense and romance she had written them all in the same book and it turned out to become one I couldn't put down. It was well written and you wouldn't get lost in the shuffle of the story but fall in love more like I did with the baby. It was very well written and with a show of compassion and love. If you really had a heart for babies and cowboy's you will have to read the book to find out what happens to Fox Colton and Baby John in the interview he has.
Well, I hate the fact that now I need to find the rest in the series as this book is smack dab in the middle of them and I got sucked in. When Regan writes a book, she sucks you in and fast with amazing characters that are well rounded, twists and turns you do not see coming, and added suspense to make you wonder. Add in some humor and family elements and you have a book you all need to read. Highly recommend this book.
I enjoyed reading this story. Fox Colton, Kelsey Lauder, and Baby John Doe are very likeable and belong together. But first the mystery of who Baby John Doe's parents are must be solved? And then, why does Kelsey live her life always looking over her shoulder? Is Fox willing to tear apart his tight relationship with his brothers and their wives to discover Baby John Does parentage? The story moved through its telling very smoothly and is a very nice read.
The story of baby John, Fox and Kelsey is awesome! Kelsey is running for her life and trying to follow her dreams at the same time. Fox is staying busy with his horse breeding business and little baby John drops into the mix. There’s still a killer on the loose and so many surprises! I love how the series goes, so many authors writing about the same people, what a great adventure.
I was given this book for my honest opinion, and honestly I think everyone needs to read it!
Fox Colton was content with his life on the Crooked C ranch. He was getting ready to go to bed when he heard a car, rushed downstairs and found a baby on his doorstep. A baby who is definitely not his. He'll do the best he can until he can find a suitable solution, because foster care is out of the question. To top it all off, the next day he has an appointment with Kelsey Lauder, an equine geneticist to assist him in his horse breeding business. As luck would have it, Kelsey worked as a babysitter and a nanny while in college and she is happy with the arrangement. Fox is determined to find the baby's parents, all the while, the Avalanche Killer is still on the loose, and Kelsey is hiding something...
How comforting to see a character do the logical thing when finding a baby! Fox is a good guy, hardworking, and it was lovely how he opened up to Kelsey about his fears. But I wish he'd talked to her instead of assuming where they stood and delaying the inevitable in the novel. I thought it made the latter part of the book unnecessarily unpleasant. Kelsey reveals very little, and at times, I found her reactions a bit weird but given her upbringing, it's understandable. I found COLTON FAMILY SHOWDOWN more a domestic drama than a romantic suspense, as family issues drive the plot. The serial killer arc was put on the backburner for this book, but it's not over. There are no loose threads but strong hints as to what's to come. Now, this is a matter of personal preference, but I felt there was too much "baby stuff". It's very well done, not cloying or anything; it's actually sweet, Fox and Kelsey bond with little Baby John Doe while they get to know each other, but it's not what I expected. However, readers who love stories with babies will be over the moon.
There was an immediate attraction between Kelsey and Fox; both were reluctant to act on their impulses because of the employee-employer situation. Other Coltons from the previous books are also featured, they're introduced very smoothly, but I was surprised at Fox's approach in looking for Baby John's parents. While the characters don't know this, and technically it made sense, Fox's thinking goes against Romancelandia's implicit "rules for heroes". Obviously, I did not take this into account for my rating; sometimes I think too much! The pace is steady but a tad sluggish as the story revolves mostly around Kelsey and Fox caring for the baby and falling in love. It was very interesting to see the family dynamics' influence on both protagonists' life choices, and in fact, the real drama lies in the very messy family relationships and their consequences. As always, Regan Black's writing flows effortlessly and the dialogues ring true.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
(4.5) I am in awe of Kelsey ! I fell in love with her and that's not the way I roll :) She had humor, integrity, strength just awesome. Tanner was the quiet nerdy counterpart. They made an awesome couple. I enjoyed the mystery as they tracked down the birth father but really enjoyed them getting to know each other. Kelsey is Tanners quiet strength. When interesting information pops up during their search (no spoilers) the anger, confusion is understandable, and her Kelsey knocked it out of the park with her thoughts and feelings. The 4.5 was for two reasons. 1. The Avalanche Killer was barely mentioned as a tie from story to story. I understand that wasn't the premise, but it felt like the author was informed it head to be there. 2. Towards the very very end (yes there is a HEA) when they did the usual "misunderstand" each other. I am glad Tanner grabbed the bull by the horns, albeit when they got home. This was a fast paced, well flowing emotional journey with surprise and mystery. Thank you for the arc! All thoughts and opinions are my own and were unsolicited.
Regan Black writes books that I enjoy reading. I enjoy romantic suspense and in her latest book, Colton Family Showdown a lot is happening to keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. The story begins when bachelor horse breeder Fox Colton, discovers a baby outside his front door. Not wanting the baby to go into Foster care, he decides to take the baby home and try to determine if another Colton is the unsuspecting father. Coming to his rescue the next day is Kelsey Lauder who is interviewing to become Fox's assistant. Knowing that Kelsey has impressive credentials, he hires her primarily for immediate temporary baby duty and also to get acclimated with his ranch routine and business. He includes room and board. As Fox and Kelsey work together to take care of the baby, they get to know and like each other. Unfortunately, secrets from both of their pasts will threaten their futures. This story has a few twists, turns, and surprises that make it an entertaining read. I look forward to reading this authors next book.
Fox Colton is part of the local dynastic family. But after the death of his parents, he and his sister were taken in by his mothers sister and her family. He always felt marginalised, not unwanted but taken in under sufferance.
Kelsey comes from a big family and she is tired of flying under the radar, hiding from her brothers. She thinks working for Fox will allow her to settle down, at least for a short time. She never expected her childcare experience to be of use on a Horse ranch however.is no way he is subjecting the baby to faster care. he'll just find the boy's father himself. He knows it has to be a relative so that at least narrows the pool!
Loved the different layers to the story - romance, family secrets, mystery. My first read in this world - I may have to grow the TBR pile again! settle down, at least for a short time. She never expected her childcare experience to be of use on a Horse ranch however.
Loved the different layers to the story - romance, family secrets, mystery. My first read in this world - I may have to grow the TBR pile again!
Fox Colton has enough to do running his quarter horse ranch. When he finds an infant on his porch, He panics but, refuses to give the baby over to Child Services because, he remembers what his childhood was like in a foster home. Kelsey Lauder is running from her brothers, who have been trying for years to take her back to a home she ran away from when she was 16. She is finally in a place where she feels somewhat safe and, trying to find a job. When she interviews for a job as Fox's assistant, the way she attracts him and, the way she cares for the infant, makes him hire her immediately. Both Fox and Kelsey have secrets but, both grow to like things as they are and, even though they both feel an immediate, intense attraction, they know that this will soon come to a end, given the situation. Or, will it??! Fast paced and, fascinating, this is a book that you will love to read!!! I highly recommend it!!!
I was gifted an advanced readers copy of Colton Family Showdown . I'm volunteering my honest opinion . I really enjoyed this story . It's suspenseful and intriguing very intense . The story is one big rollercoaster ride with many twists and turns you never see coming . This is a story you cannot put down . Fox Colton's family have secrets and one definitely packs a punch , when it comes out in the light . Kelsey has quite a history and secrets also , Kelsey comes to work for Fox never dreaming he would need her nanny skills and her genetic skills . Together they try to locate baby John's real parents . Danger is lurking closer then they all realize . The story is outstanding and the characters are wonderful . I highly recommend taking the time to read and enjoy .
I was hooked on this book right from the start! I liked the concept, but I LOVED the characters. How can you not love Fox? He is a layered hero who finds out some hard truths, and he doesn't back down from a challenge. Kelsey is a perfect match for him, but she is hiding her own secrets. I so enjoyed when they finally got together, and I loved every minute of their romance!
Between family intrigue (on both sides), a serial killer on the loose, and a baby left on the doorstep, there is certainly a lot going on. The plot moves quickly, and I was so interested in the story line.
*I received an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Kelsey Lauder is hoping for her dream job. Fox Colton is just hoping for help after an unexpected surprise is dropped on his doorstep. As they work together to find Baby John Doe’s parents, they don’t realize they are becoming a family unit, until the secrets from both their pasts come forth to act against them.
This is a wonderful tale, filled with a touch of suspense, lots of family drama, a delightful baby boy, and a couple who find completion in each other. The characters are well-drawn, and the storyline is engaging and very appealing from beginning to end. I highly recommend this enjoyable and intriguing love story!
The story of 'Baby John' appearing suddenly rocks Fox's world, he has no clue as to baby care! Kelsey, his new assistant who has some really crazy secrets of her own - jumps in to help - new mysteries unfold and old ones surface. Some of these mysteries that unfold are very unexpected and shocking!! This book is a read-alone or part of the amazing works in a series by different authors - this really works in this series!! Highly recommended!!! I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
Hooked from the beginning when Fox found Baby John on his doorstep. When Kelsey shows up for her job interview, Fox feels as if the universe is righting itself. Regan Black mixes the right amount of intrigue, suspense, twists and turns, and romance that keeps you reading because you have to see how everything falls together. An enjoyable second chance story that won’t disappoint.
Another great Regan black book.. Colton family Showdown Kelsey has a history of secrets, this is a great story a rollercoaster . ride searching for baby John's real parents.. I love Regan black stories I haven't picked up one book of hers that I have not been intrigued by. She brings all of her characters to life it's like you're in the book with the story truly an amazing author.. I received an early Arc for an honest review...thank you Regan for such wonderful stories..
With a killer on the loose in Roaring Springs, tensions are high! But, other threats are lurking on Fox Colton’s ranch. A baby on the doorstep, a new mysterious employee and Colton family secrets are all part of the puzzle. Regan Black does an awesome job weaving all the strings into a suspenseful, romance adventure. Like the Colton’s of Roaring Springs? You’ll love Colton Family Showdown.
Regan can pull you into a book fast. This book starts out with a baby showing up on Fox's doorstep he knows it's not his but has to be someone in the family. This book is full of big family secrets,romance,and suspense.I also like Kelsey with her running from her family and there's still a murderer running around. I received this for an honest review I think you'll enjoy this book.
This is a new author for me. I thoroughly enjoyed the writing, the description of people & places in these books. The family drama, romances are exciting keeps you interested to not want to put the book down. Which I did not, finished in a sitting. Here is where my disappointment comes in: Books are a series which I enjoy. I read 1-5 to jump to #10. I read large print on my Kindle. Books 6-9&11-12 aren’t on Kindle. VERY disappointing to me. If you’re reading the book I recommend buying all at once. You will not want to put these down.
This book had a lot going on . Family traditions that think of women and children as possessions. Abandoned babies. Family;s that hide information that should not be hidden. People who don't want to keep their children .A budding romance . And in the end all these twisted webs meet and still have a happy conclusion. This was a clean read as in anything intimate is behind closed doors. Good book.
Mystery,suspense,thrills and action.This one had me laughing and holding my breath wondering what was going to happen next.What happened next took me completely by surprise.A good read.
First of the Coltons of Roaring Springs series, in which rancher Fox Colton finds a baby on his porch--not his!--and he's not sure he can deal with the responsibility. Fortunately for him, the equine geneticist he's hired, Kelsey Lauder, also shows up and she's an experienced nanny in addition to her academic prowess.
In the course of him trying, and eventually succeeding, in discovering who has fathered the baby, Fox and Kelsey begin acting on their attraction to each other and all is going swimmingly until her brothers--from a separatist group--demand that she come home. She refuses.
Fox, after learning more of her background, concludes that the way to protect Kelsey is to marry her. She is certain he's doing it only for practical, but not romantic reasons, and reluctantly agrees. Then, she discovers he means it for all the right reasons, but the remaining question is who has been killing women in and around Roaring Springs? Given that this is the first in a series, I'm guessing, I'll need to read another installment for the answer to that question.
As the tenth book in The Colton's of Roaring Springs series, Regan Black's COLTON FAMILY SHOWDOWN is quick to delight with a mystery arriving on the scene almost instantly.
Fox is a bit of a loner, feeling on the outside of his family but loyal to a fault to the Crooked C Ranch. When an infant is left on his doorstep, he sets out to find out who the baby belongs to, bringing his new assist and temporary nanny along for the ride.
Kelsey is secretive, and we're a little unsure of whether she's trustworthy or not at first, but once her story comes out, we understand her dilemma.
I recommend this story to anyone enjoying a good mystery involving a baby. The character's attachment to the little guy was heartwarming, and the mystery was powerful enough to hold our attention. There wasn't a lot of movement towards solving the series wide Avalanche Killer mystery, but this individual one was satisfying enough to carry the story.
Kelsey Lauder was hoping to get her dream job working for renown Quarter Horse breeder Fox Colton. When she went for the interview, she was prepared to explain why she was a perfect fit for the job. The last thing she expected to find was a frazzled Fox holding a crying baby! Lucky for all of them, Kelsey had lots of experience with babies and quickly got him calmed down. The baby had been dropped on Fox's doorstep but he had no idea why. Knowing it was not his, he quickly got to work getting a DNA test for all the men in his family.
Even though Kelsey loved the baby and felt sorry for him, being a nanny was not the job she wanted. She had not put herself through college to become an equine geneticist just to be a nanny!
The suspense with a murderer on the loose and Kelsey's brothers trying to take her back home made this an intense read. But there were lots of sweet times with Baby John and the love growing between all three of them.
I love the Colton family series and this one is a fantastic additional, Eric is a quiet and focused man who just wants his Ranch to succeed and horse breeding to continue to expand and make a solid name for himself. Baby John puts a kink in his plans and while he tries to find the farther he also has to finally deal with his own past and upbringing as well as Kelsey who is not only a great addition to his horse breeding program but also a life saving helping with Baby John. If you think all that is enough to juggle think again and get comfy for this read as there is also more suspense, secrets, attraction, action, loss and a chance for a happy ending if both Eric and Kelseys past don't ruin things for them!
I had no trouble getting into this book. Regan Black is a new author for me; and, she definitely knows how to draw you in. A baby in need of a family, a woman in need of rescue, and a man willing to step up to the plate to be the hero.
This book is full of twists and turns while secrets are slowly divulged and mysteries solved. Regan Black definitely knows how to blend suspense, romance, and mystery to keep the reader glued to the book. She’s an excellent author and one I will continue to read. You won’t be disappointed either!
I enjoyed reading this story! Fox was getting ready for bed but hears a crash goes to the door and finds a baby he ends up taking the baby to the Sheriff office but decides instead of putting the baby in foster care that he would try to find the Mother instead. The Next day Kelsey shows up for her appointment for the assistant job and Fox tells her she has the job and asking her to also babysit the baby. Kelsey agrees and the story line drew me in and I could not put it down till I finished it! I recommend this book !!!!!
Another wonderful read from Regan Black. A baby and a new assistant show up within 24 hours at the horse breeders door.. Are they related ? Whose baby is it ? And what does Kelsey know. Throw in his family and Kelsey’s secrets and watch how Fox handles all the changes. I was given this particular book in exchange for a review but will admit I’ve already been buying and reading her books for a few years.