The first contemporary romance in the Meadow Valley Ranch series from Pine (Hard Loving Cowboy) gets off to a slow start but builds into a sweet, if unremarkable, love story. Veterinary technician Delaney Harper's con artist ex-husband left her with practically nothing, but she's determined to take back the California land he illegally sold without her consent. The buyer, cowboy Sam Callahan, just opened a dude ranch on the land, fulfilling a lifelong dream but barely breaking even. When Delaney confronts Sam, an instant attraction sparks between them. Sam offers her free lodging at the ranch while they figure out the legal situation, but Delaney insists on working to earn her keep. The pair bond while taking care of the horses, even though Sam is determined to keep Delaney at arm's length, considering himself a bad bet because he may inherit his father's early-onset dementia. Though the plot is by the numbers, Sam and Delaney have a genuine connection. Pine doesn't offer any surprises in Meadow Valley, but it's a pleasant enough place to visit. This edition includes a novel by Carolyn Brown, not seen by PW. Agent: Emily Kim, Prospect Agency. (Dec.)