Book Review of 'Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy' by Karen Baney

Happy Thursday Bookworms!

A unique fact about my family is that twins are very prominent so I have a soft spot for stories that involve twins, and the novel I am featuring today has a different spin on it that really made this particular story interesting.

I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this Christian Western Romance and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy by Karen Baney, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy
Series: Love at Vargas Ranch #1
Author: Karen Baney
Publisher: Desert Life Media
Release Date: February 3, 2026
Genre: Christian Western Romance

He’s running from his twin’s crimes. She’s haunted by the man who betrayed her. Can she open her heart to his identical twin?

Shannon thought she’d buried the past—until she arrives at Vargas Ranch and sees the face of the man who shattered her trust. The man she swore she’d never forgive.

Parker has spent his life paying for his brother's sins. False accusations and shattered opportunities follow him everywhere—because no one sees the man behind the face. When Shannon mistakes him for his twin and has him arrested, his fragile fresh start shatters.

Now forced to work together in the ranch’s equine therapy program, Shannon and Parker must navigate a tense enemies-to-friends journey. As they confront the pain of the past and the pull of unexpected attraction, trust becomes the hardest battle of all.

She must learn to trust the man her heart keeps mistaking for the one who broke it. Parker must prove he's not his brother before he loses his second chance at love.

When the past collides with the present, can love build the bridge to healing and forgiveness?

A heartfelt Christian romance about redemption, mistaken identity, and love that dares to heal.

Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy will steal your heart.

My Review

Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy was not what I was expecting, and that was a pleasant surprise. There is a lot more emotion in this story, and for me personally, rage, particularly at what poor Parker has had to endure because of his brother’s immense, deplorable actions.

The initial scene between Parker and Shannon blindsided me, but the more I read, the more I understood why it went from zero to one hundred in mere seconds. I really appreciated the fact that the author didn’t try to sugarcoat the situation. Shannon was clearly hurt deeply and was acting out of protection.

There are scenes that melted my heart and others that had my blood boiling, but the happily ever after made the struggle worth it. I appreciated the faith aspect and the supporting characters at the ranch that help Parker realize what an amazing man he is, and the gala stole my heart.

A great introduction to a new series that already had my mind wondering what the Vargas Ranch will bring us next!

My Rating: ★★★★1/2

Also Available

About the Author

Karen Baney is a member of Faith Hope & Love Christian Writers and the author of over 30 Christian contemporary cowboy romances and historical romances. She writes faith-laced stories where characters feel like lifelong friends—flawed individuals navigating second chances, redemption, and personal trials. As a transplant to Arizona, Karen loves researching the state's rich history and seamlessly weaving real settings and historical details into her novels.

In addition to writing and speaking, Karen works as a Software Development Manager for a Christian ministry. Her faith plays an important role both in her life and in her writing.

Karen and her husband, Jim, make their home in Gilbert, Arizona, with their two dogs, Bella and Daisy. They enjoy exploring Arizona together, discovering new adventures that often influence Karen's stories. Both are active at Rock Point Church in Queen Creek, Arizona.

Connect with Karen by visiting karenbaney.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a "There's no such thing as too many books" tote & makeup bag, plus two slimline inspirational journals, and a signed copy of Her Mistaken Identity Cowboy!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 11, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 18, 2026. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!