Cowboy Up by Stormy Glenn is the fifth book in the Blaecleah Brothers series.

Elijah has loved Ruben for years, but watching his past lover die after they were gay bashed left him scared to commit to another relationship. Ruben's childhood of abuse from his minister father damaged him and his brother Matty, until they were accepted into the Blaecleah family with Matty's marriage to Quaid, one of their sons. They even adopted Ruben giving him the loving parents he always wanted. Three years ago, Ruben left heartbroken when things didn't work out with Elijah and now he is returning home with his family. Elijah is amazed to learn that not only is Ruben married, but he also has a beautiful baby who captivates him from the first time he meets her. Ruben is determined to finally get his man, especially when he learns about Elijah's traumatic past. Things start to spiral out of control when Ruben's birth mother arrives, demanding to see her granddaughter and making them realize what was really important. Will Ruben and Elijah finally get their chance at happiness?

Gay bashing is a terrible thing that hurts not only the victims, but also everyone in the community. Elijah not only lost his lover when he was killed, but also his willingness to trust and love again. It was terrible how Ruben left home when he didn't think Elijah loved him, when in reality that couldn't be farther from the truth. It was wonderful when Elijah finally revealed his past allowing Ruben to see how he really felt. I find it difficult to understand how anyone could be a minister to the public and treat his own family the way Ruben and Matty's father treated them. I was inspired by the Blaecleah's as they stood together as a family against any outside forces that threatened them. Mrs. Blaecleah's ability to control her huge sons with a look was hysterical. Both Mr. and Mrs. Blaecheah's loving natures and strength of character shows through in their sons, both biological and adopted, who are a credit to them.

Reviewed by: Teresa