• The Cowboy's Tattered Heart ebook cover — Cornerstone Ranch prequel, clean cowboy romance by Hope August
  • A reader holds The Cowboy’s Tattered Heart paperback by Hope August beside a cowboy hat.
  • The Colt Chronicle seven-page newspaper keepsake, featuring town happenings, ranch news, local businesses, county fair events, and friendly gossip. Included exclusively with direct purchases.
1 3

Hope August Inc

The Cowboy's Tattered Heart - Clean Cowboy Romance (Cornerstone Ranch Prequel) (eBook)

The Cowboy's Tattered Heart - Clean Cowboy Romance (Cornerstone Ranch Prequel) (eBook)

$5.99 USD
$5.99 USD
Sale Sold out

Also available in paperback

Listen on ElevenReader

Your ebook is delivered immediately by email via BookFunnel. Bonus content is included automatically.

Why buy direct from Hope?

Easy ebook delivery: Your ebook is delivered immediately after purchase via BookFunnel. Follow the instructions in your delivery email to read on your preferred supported device or app.

Bonus content included: Bonus content is included automatically when you buy directly from Hope’s store.

Support the stories: Shopping here helps me stay independent and keep writing the clean, heartwarming romances you love.

First time buying direct?

1. Buy: Complete your purchase.

2. Check your email: Open your BookFunnel delivery email and follow the download instructions.

3. Choose how to read: Follow BookFunnel’s instructions for your supported device or app. For Kindle, use the Send to Kindle guide.

Need help? Visit your BookFunnel library for your books and delivery help.

The Cowboy’s Tattered Heart is a clean, later-in-life cowboy romance about widowed grandfather Robert Stone and Paige Griffin, the nanny helping him raise five orphaned grandsons. Discover how love and a grieving family’s determination shaped Cornerstone Ranch before the five-book series begins.

For fans of Jessie Gussman.

The Prequel to the Cornerstone Ranch Series

Five orphaned grandchildren. One failing ranch. A love neither of them saw coming.

Robert Stone just buried his son and daughter-in-law. Now this widowed grandfather must raise five boys while trying to save a ranch drowning in debt. Selling would be easier. But those boys deserve their legacy.

Enter Paige Griffin, the nanny who sees past his gruff exterior.

Paige never had children of her own—it's too late for that dream. But caring for families is her calling. The Stone boys need her steady presence. Their grandfather needs something more, though he'd never admit it.

As Paige brings order to chaos and warmth to a grieving household, Robert's walls start crumbling. She makes him remember there's life after loss. He makes her believe in possibilities she'd given up on.

But just as Cornerstone Ranch begins to heal, the past threatens everything they're building together.

Discover how the Stone family legacy began.

📚 BINGE THE COMPLETE SERIES! Get the prequel and Books 1–5 in the six-ebook Cornerstone Ranch bundle.

Perfect for readers who love: ✨ Later-in-life romance ✨ Grandfather raising grandkids ✨ Nanny romance ✨ Second chances at love ✨ Kisses-only clean romance ✨ The story before the story

📱 Your ebook is delivered immediately after purchase via BookFunnel.

Bonus content is included automatically when you buy directly from Hope’s store.

FAQS How will I get my ebook?

Your ebook is delivered immediately after purchase via BookFunnel. Check your email for the delivery link and instructions. If you need help, visit your BookFunnel library.

FAQS How do I read my ebook?

Follow the instructions on your BookFunnel download page to read on your supported ereader, phone, tablet, or computer. You can also read in the free BookFunnel app. Need help? Use the help option on your BookFunnel download page.

Read a Sample

Chapter 1

Rain pounded against the old glass windowpanes. With each gust of wind, another smattering of water droplets dragged downward until they disappeared from sight. Robert glanced up from the latest past due notice in his hand.
Ever since Evelyn passed, he’d found it harder and harder to keep this place afloat. She’d been the one raised here. She’d been the one to make him agree to raise their children in this forsaken place. And he’d done it because he was so deeply in love with her.
But their only child was now grown and starting a family of his own—five boys, grandchildren he rarely saw anymore since Michael and Carol had moved to Austin. The capital of the state was just too far away for frequent visits.
His eyes dragged to the notice once more. Perhaps it was time to sell the ranch and move closer to family. He was still young. He hadn’t quite hit his fifties yet, so maybe he should see the world.
Lightning flashed outside the darkened windows, followed by a deafening boom that rattled the whole farmhouse. Robert tossed the notice aside and stood. The light that flickered outside the windows wasn’t lightning. It was headlights.
Who in their right mind was making a social call this late at night in this kind of weather? He peered out into the darkness but couldn’t decipher anything beyond shadows. The windshield wipers swished back and forth, rain pelting the car and being illuminated by the headlights.
The car just sat there with no movement for a while until he lost his patience. He grabbed his hunting rifle that hung on the wall of his office and strode out the door and down the hall. Whoever was in that car didn’t know who he was, or they wouldn’t be just sitting there like they weren’t supposed to be here.
The heavy wooden door creaked on its hinges as he tore it open. Flicks of raindrops pelted him despite his position under the porch awning. The wind pushed the door open wider, and he held up his rifle to his shoulder.
“Whoever you are, I’ll give you one minute to turn your car around and get off of my property.” His voice was lost on the wind, but he knew the driver saw him. There was no way he hadn’t.
The driver’s-side door opened, and the silhouette of a man stood beside the car with his hands in the air. “Robert Stone?”
“That’s me,” he called back.
“Is your son Michael?”
That was when Robert’s eyes darted to the front window of the car. The interior had been illuminated from the open door. In the front seat was a little boy he hadn’t seen in about a year, though he would have recognized him anywhere. Even from this distance, he could see Luke was distraught.
Robert’s heart jumped in his chest, and he lowered his weapon. “Where’s my son?”
“Sir, we’ve been trying to reach you, but the phone we had listed has been disconnected.”
“Where is my son?” he hollered through the storm.
“Mr. Stone, can we come inside? The boys are tired. It’s been a long drive.”
Something terrible had happened. He felt it in his bones the second he saw Luke’s small face. Before this man even got to his doorstep, Robert knew he no longer had a son.
***
Two weeks later
Empty.
That was the only thing that Robert seemed capable of feeling. Sitting at the kitchen table with four of his grandsons did nothing to ease the ache of his only son being gone. First his wife, then his son.
Luke’s small hand grasped his fork tightly, pushing the peas on his plate from side to side. Out of all of them, Luke remembered his grandfather the most, but the relationship between them was still strained. Robert couldn’t remember the first thing about raising kids. It had been far too long. Even though Luke was nine and could handle a lot of things on his own, he was still too young to help out on the ranch.
Wyatt sat beside his brother, mimicking his every move. The six-year-old clearly idolized his older brother. It was unclear if he realized his parents weren’t coming back.
Robert glanced over at Colt and Wyatt, who gleefully threw peas at one another. The twins were just over three years old. They were more of a handful than Robert was prepared for, which was one of the biggest reasons he’d reached out to an agency and hired a nanny.
Then there was baby Caleb. He wasn’t sleeping through the night, and the lack of sleep wore on Robert more than anything else. Robert should have told the social worker that he couldn’t take on five boys right now. He should have let the man find a home to place them in.
But deep down, he knew he couldn’t do such a thing. These boys were family. His son would never have forgiven him if he’d turned them away. Carol had come from the foster system. Though she’d turned out all right, that didn’t mean these boys would.
Luke glanced up from his plate. “Can I be excused?”
“You barely touched your food.”
Luke pushed the plate away. “I’m not hungry.”
Dalton followed suit. “Me neither.”
The twins stopped their food fight, and their focus shifted to Robert. They didn’t need him. They needed their parents.
Robert wiped at his mouth with his napkin then placed it on the table. “Yeah. Go on and get ready for bed. We’ve got a long day ahead of us tomorrow.”
Luke scrunched up his face. “We do?”
He nodded. “Your nanny comes tomorrow. She’s going to take care of you while I figure out what to do with the ranch.”
“What do you mean? Are we leaving?” Luke’s worried voice caught Robert off guard, but there was no easy way to explain what was happening.
He cleared his throat as he got to his feet and gathered his plate. “It’s complicated, son. You’ll understand when you’re older.” He nodded to the dishes. “Go on, then. Clear your place, and then you can help me with your brothers.”
Luke dropped his gaze. His shoulders slumped so much it almost appeared as though he’d lost a few inches.
A twinge of pain shot through Robert’s heart. If Evelyn were here, she wouldn’t have wanted him to give up so easily. She would have demanded that he do whatever it took to give these boys something stable to hold on to. This ranch was likely the only thing they had left to remember their folks by.
Life just wasn’t that easy. It was time they learned that valuable lesson. Sometimes, things just didn’t work out the way people expected.
Once the boys were all in bed, Robert settled down at his desk with a groan. Before him was a stack of documents from Michael’s lawyer. Various things like custody, beneficiary information, and more stared up at him from his desk. He picked up a letter with his name on it then froze when he heard a small voice from the hallway.
“Grandpa?”
He glanced over to the door, and Luke’s face materialized.
“I don’t want to leave. I want to stay here.”
Robert dragged a hand down his face. This was what he was afraid of. “Sometimes, things happen for a reason.”
“Mom used to say that,” he mumbled.
“She was a smart lady.”
“I know.” Luke moved farther into the office. “What if I promise to help? I can feed the animals and clean the stalls. You can teach me.”
His soft words tugged at Robert’s heart, cracking it wide open. He didn’t know what prompted his response, but he found himself saying, “I suppose we can give it a try.”

Series Order

(Prequel) The Cowboy's Tattered Heart
1. The Cowboy's Second Chance
2. The Cowboy's Forbidden Love
3. The Cowboy's City Girl
4. The Cowboy's Love Bet
5. The Cowboy's Redemption

View the complete reading order and book links.

Looking for Paperbacks?

Prefer a printed book? Browse the available paperbacks in Hope’s store. For other buying options, visit Where to Buy. Format availability varies by title.

View full details

Customer Reviews

Overall rating: 4.9 / 5 from 40 reviews.

Customer photo review of A Sweet Paradise Holiday Reunion (eBook)

I really enjoyed A Sweet Paradise Holiday Reunion. It was fast paced, quirky, and a fun story to read. While we all understand love rarely happens as quickly as it does in stories, I still hoped Kate would resolve her trust issues and give Liam an opening to confide the truth. I was frustrated by his need to take the blame, but appreciated his conviction to keep trying. We all carry a burden we shouldn't. If love is mature and unconditional it doesn't walk away.

Angela O. 4/5 Verified

A Sweet Paradise Holiday Reunion (eBook)

Wonderfully immersive storytelling that as with all Hope August books it’s a mighty compelling read too. Whenever I see that she has a new book out , almost shout with glee. This is what they mean to me. This book was no exception When the last Stone doesn’t roll ,a lady comes to call. She’s all about making wayward types like he ,how to be .He thinks she’s lovely . And to be together maybe? Well look and see . I’ll tell you now ,it’s a wonderful storyline and executed perfectly divine . Bookboyfriend you’ll want to say ,can he be mine .

Jane L. 5/5

The Cowboy's Redemption - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

This is book five of the Cornerstone Ranch series. It’s a sweet cowboy, slow burn, love on a bet, ranch romance. This was a sweet read with all the feels that check all the boxes. Well-developed characters that you will fall in love with and root for their happy ending. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Jennifer M. 5/5

The Cowboy's Redemption - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

A charming, fun cowboy romance. A great story that draws you in immediately and was easy to stay engaged with. I enjoyed watching Caleb and Sarah go from "just for fun" to something so much more. Wonderful writing, realistic and entertaining. Loved it.

J C. 5/5

The Cowboy's Love Bet - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

I loved reading The Cowboy’s Tattered Heart by Hope August so much. It was a fast read that I simply couldn’t put down, the story pulled me in right from the start. Definitely a must read for anyone who loves heartfelt romance.

Gaby D. 5/5

The Cowboy’s Tattered Heart - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

This is book four of the Cornerstone Ranch series. It’s a sweet cowboy, slow burn, love on a bet, ranch romance. This was a sweet read with all the feels that check all the boxes. Well-developed characters that you will fall in love with and root for their happy ending. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Jennifer M. 5/5

The Cowboy's Love Bet - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given. I loved the characters. Each had a reason for their initial reluctance for a relationship and for changing their minds. Fear kept them apart more than anything else did. I also loved seeing the change in the brothers from where they started. They all seem closer and more supportive than they had been when we first met them in the first story. This story was predictable but enjoyable.

Maryellen C. 5/5

The Cowboy's Love Bet - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook) PREORDER *AVAIL. 03/01/2026*

This is book three of the Sweet Paradise Valentine series. It’s a sweet nannay, Valentine’s Day, ranch romance. This was a sweet read with all the feels that check all the boxes. Well-developed characters that you will fall in love with and root for their happy ending. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Jennifer M. 5/5

Falling for His Nanny - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

This is part of an interconnected series with characters that overlap throughout this series and previous books by Hope. It can be read as a standalone but better if read in order. Warning!! Hope threw in a heart wrenching couple of scenes so have some tissues ready. Forbidden romance Opposites attract Matchmaking little girl A major misinterpretation I wish their story continued a little longer but maybe they will reappear in a future book??

Tami W. 5/5

Falling for His Nanny - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook) PREORDER *AVAIL. 02/14/2026*

Best friends to more I do adore and this book in time for Valentine’s is a cute storyline with all the allure that’s synonymous with Hope August’s storytelling and what’s more it’s always a compelling read . This being no exception to the rule . In fact he’s so darn sweet to his bestie Bridget he made me drool… not testy at all . Ms August ,I had a ball reading this it’s absolute bliss.

Jane L. 5/5

Falling for Her Best Friend - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

This sweet, best friends to more romance will warm your heart. Beautifully written with charming and wonderful characters. It was heartwarming and fun to watch their relationship change because neither saw a romance between them coming. An adorable story filled with heart, love and HEA Valentine magic that will leave you smiling.

Jacqueline C. 5/5

Falling for Her Best Friend - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

This is book two of the Sweet Paradise Valentine series. It’s a sweet best friends to more, one bed, Valentine’s Day, ranch romance. This was a sweet read with all the feels that check all the boxes. Well-developed characters that you will fall in love with and root for their happy ending. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Jennifer M. 5/5

Falling for Her Best Friend - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given. While this story had some fun moments, it's not as light and goofy as the previous stories in this series. I really enjoyed it. Each main character was already attracted to the other, but this trip showed them that the feelings were returned. I love that they are each willing to sacrifice something they want for the other.

Maryellen C. 5/5

Falling for His Nanny - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook) PREORDER *AVAIL. 02/14/2026*

This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given. The main characters, Bridget and Foster, were kind and supportive of each other. They obviously loved and valued each other as friends. Romantic feelings between them weren't a thing until this trip. I enjoyed watching them navigate that unsettling state between realizing they have romantic feelings for the other and deciding to risk losing their friendship because of those feelings.

Maryellen C. 5/5

Falling for Her Best Friend - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook) PREORDER *AVAIL. 02/09/2026*

This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given. The main characters, Bridget and Foster, were kind and supportive of each other. They obviously loved and valued each other as friends. Romantic feelings between them weren't a thing until this trip. I enjoyed watching them navigate that unsettling state between realizing they have romantic feelings for the other and deciding to risk losing their friendship because of those feelings.

Maryellen C. 5/5

Falling for Her Best Friend - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook) PREORDER *AVAIL. 02/09/2026*

This is the first book in a new Interconnected series that is a spin off from other books by Hope. Reading in order recommended but can be read as a standalone. Friends to more Secret crush Online relationship Multiple mixed signals

Tami W. 5/5

Falling for Her Secret Admirer - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

This is book one of the Sweet Paradise Valentine series. It’s a sweet cowboy, slow burn, match making app, friends to more, secret identity, ranch romance. This was a sweet read with all the feels that check all the boxes. Well-developed characters that you will fall in love with and root for their happy ending.

Jennifer M. 5/5

Falling for Her Secret Admirer - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

Cute story about best friends in love with each other. Arden has loved Poppy for years. She has him firmly in the friend zone. Until……. I’m not going to spoil things for you. Arden’s plan could backfire spectacularly. Fun story to read.

Lucia 5/5

Falling for Her Secret Admirer - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given. Arden and Poppy work together at the resort. They have been friends forever, but he's feeling more than friendly towards her. As they spend time together preparing for the Valentine's Day event, and Poppy gets to know her online match, she realizes she's already in love... with Arden. This was a really sweet story. I really liked it.

Maryellen C. 5/5

Falling for Her Secret Admirer - Clean Holiday Romance (eBook)

A sweet and adorable cowboy romance. The cute characters really pull you into their story and keep the pages turning. I loved the writing! A great story and wonderful entertainment you don't want to miss!

Jacqueline C. 5/5

The Cowboy's City Girl - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

Could any couple have a more inauspicious start. Wyatt really tells Emma exactly what he thinks about her and the farm she has bought. They really annoy each other. Both have family issues that affect their relationship. Good story with well written characters that will hold your interest. I love that despite everything happening and being told she has made a huge mistake, Emma continues to build her dream. I received this book from the author and this is my voluntary, honest review.

Lucia V. 5/5

The Cowboy's City Girl - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given. What a tough situation for the main characters. They both loved Katelynn and now feel guilty for being attracted to each other. There are other issues between them. Harper's grandma lovingly encourages her to open up to Colt, while his brothers prod him to do the same. This story was emotional and unpredictable.

Maryellen C. 5/5

The Cowboy’s Tattered Heart - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

From loss comes love A very sweet story that sees Robert receiving even more tragic news in his life that seems to overwhelm him. Having to be the guardian of his boys five sons leaves him with more responsibility than he can handle. In comes Paige, the nanny that the agency has sent to help him. They have much in common and the boys seem to love her straight away. Robert starts feeling again which scares him. Can he get past the fear of committing to Paige allowing them to face their problems together? Or will he throw it all away and hurt the children by doing so. A short enjoyable story with wonderful characters.

Lyn B. 4/5

The Cowboy’s Tattered Heart - Clean Cowboy Romance (eBook)

Snowfall Over Sagebrush is a sweet small town, opposites attract, cowboy, Christmas romance with no cliffhanger. Some of the lines I really like are ---- Why was she so gat-dang stubborn ---- "Even if we were in another state that didn’t have mood swing weather⁠—” ---- “Construction puts food on the table. Horses bring me joy.” ---- “Chivalry will never die as long as the woman a man cares for is willing to accept it.” ---- Will the Dude Ranch be completed on time? Will they get snow that will stop everything? These and other questions will all be answered. I loved Laura and Riley's story and I'm sure you will too. This is my first book by this author and I can't wait to read another one of her books.

Terry Y. 5/5

Snowfall Over Sagebrush (eBook)