Softly Comes Love — Linda Cushman

Curtis Winford has two dreams in his life: to have his own ranch and marry the woman he loves. He's known Icy was the only one for him since they were school children. When she rejects his repeated attempts for courtship, he moves on and tries to forget her. His trampled heart can't bear to see her with another man, so he vows to leave Cottonwood Falls and never look back. Going against the wishes of his father, Curtis goes to Texas and begins a new venture in ranching, driving steers back to the Flint Hills with a contract with ranchers. His reputation, and financial future, rest on his success with the herd. When he gets back to Kansas, he's met by the sheriff and a posse. They're not looking for outlaws. Icy Liston is missing. He's determined to find her even if he loses the entire Texas herd. His heart will always belong to Icy.

The only romance Iceline Liston ever hoped to find was on the pages of cheap novels she read every spare moment. Not that Cottonwood Falls, Kansas lacked in available bachelors. There were plenty of farmers, but no cowboys or dashing heroes like the ones found in books. With her father and brother working in construction, Icy spends her time caring for the cattle of her family and neighbors. Icy's tendency for having her head in the clouds leads to more adventure and danger than she's read about. Still, she dreams of being carried away by a handsome man on a gallant steed. Will she face reality, and trust God for help? Is it possible for love to come softly instead of rushing in like a Kansas tornado?