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Blacktop Cowboys #3

Wrangled and Tangled

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New in the Blacktop Cowboy series. Janie Fitzhugh and Abe Lawson have long been divorced and living apart. Now she's back in town, a changed woman-making cattleman Abe want to wrangle an invitation to her bed... To get his dream ranch, Renner Jackson has partnered with spoiled daddy's girl Tierney Pratt. She thinks she can handle this cowboy, but Renner won't make it easy. Little do they know they will be entangled in ways neither dreamed possible.

322 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2011

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About the author

Lorelei James

113 books8,181 followers
Lorelei James is New York Times & USA Today Bestselling author of contemporary erotic westerns and erotic romances. She lives in western South Dakota.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 293 reviews
Profile Image for Auntee.
1,333 reviews1,442 followers
December 28, 2011
Oh yeah! That about sums it up for me. Wrangled and Tangled is one sexy two-fer for the price of one. Two super hot couples (divorced rancher Abe Lawson and his ex-wife Janie Fitzhugh--older, wiser and reuniting for a possible second chance at love; and Split Rock Ranch and Resort owner Renner Jackson and brainiac financial whiz Tierney Pratt who initially get on each other's nerves) make this book positively sizzle. The story mainly revolves around the two couples and the opening of Muddy Gap, Wyoming's Split Rock Ranch and all the problems involved with making it a success. Smart, inexperienced-at-love rich girl Tierney and sexy, charismatic Renner and their relationship (from initial hostility and battling over every detail about the resort, to all out flaming passion that just leapt from the pages)--this was the best part of the book. Tierney and Renner's scorching hot romance was what kept me turning the pages in this one. I loved them as a couple, and I especially loved Tierney who grew into a confident person able to outwit her controlling, uber-rich father and to rock studly Renner's world. Their scenes together? Wow, just wow. As hot as anything in LJ's Rough Riders series...

The Split Rock Ranch...
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Renner...
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and Abe...
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There really is a Muddy Gap, Wyoming...
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After a sort of rough start with the first book in this series (Corralled), I think LJ has found her groove with this one and the previous book (Saddled and Spurred). Yes, they're not quite the McKays (yet), but the people of Muddy Gap are showing a lot of potential, making this another must-read series for me. Hot cowboys, feisty heroines, eccentric but lovable town folk, steamy lovin', sweet ending--what more could you want in an erotic romance? 4 1/2 stars.

Warning: This book contains explicit sex (including oral and anal) and language, the use of a sex toy, and some light bondage of one of the studly heroes. Not for the faint of heart.
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,047 reviews856 followers
November 11, 2011
Update 11/11/11...WRANGLED and TANGLED hit the NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLERS LIST!!! CONGRATULATIONS LORELEI!!!!

SHE HAS DONE IT AGAIN!!!! I HONESTLY do not know how, NYT Best Seller, Lorelei James keeps doing it, but every new book is a masterpiece, blending an incredible story line, sexy alpha cowboys and strong women, plus luvin' so smokin' hot you'll be stocking up on batteries!!!

GOOD GAWD!!! Lorelei James has been teasing me with Renner and Abe for a while now...and once again she has made me a happy girl =)

For my full review please follow this link:

http://www.guiltypleasuresbookreviews...
Profile Image for Splage.
609 reviews386 followers
November 7, 2011
Loved it and it kept me up late finishing it! This series is getting as good as her Rough Rider series. Loved all the characters especially Renner and Abe. Loved the two love stories for the price of one and I didn't feel cheated because they weaved together so well. The romance and connections between the two sets of lovers was so raw and real, angry at times, as well as, sugar sweet. Lorelei James's cowboys are my ideals!!, gallant and knightly; possessive and alpha; and oh so charming.

I loved that the two stories were opposite, Abe and Janie were exes that broke up for the right reasons 8 years earlier (not that hearts weren't broken at the time). They loved each other, but didn't fit together at that time in their lives- they both needed to grow up and go out on their own. Janie needed to find her professional side and experience the big world. Abe needed to realize the mold of his parent's life was not what would work for him and Janie. She broke his heart and left him and he was too stubborn to follow. And best of all Abe learned to get his freak on by finding out what he liked in the bedroom which were toys, domination, and lots of fun, sexy play. I would have loved to see the old girlfriend from book 2 make an appearance. She was such a bitch, but I learned from this book that she expanded Abe's mind with her kink and would have loved to see Janie's claws come out and fight for Abe. Also what was up with Janie's crazy stalker and accidents, the story line just disappeared. I wish LL would have either expanded it or dropped it entirely.

Renner and Tierney were like oil and water, which so worked for me. They both made the wrong assumptions about each other, especially him of her. He thought she was daddy's little girl that was given everything and he didn't like her watching his every move. Once they got together they were like dynamite, they had such chemistry and just exploded when they finally connected and relieved the tension. I loved how Renner got to give Tierney all her firsts, it meant so much to both of them. Tierney became a different person because of Renner.


I love how Lorelei knows exactly what I want when it comes to sexual tension and hot love scenes. She has the right build up, the right words- not over the top with crudeness, but the perfect mixture of explicitness and tender love words. She gives just enough detail to get you stirred up, but not cringing with overly described body parts. She has the perfect amount of love scenes that it doesn't feel like sex scene after sex scene that are pages long. Sometimes they are short and interrupted and sometimes long with the perfect "happy endings". Also no menage in this one, which doesn't bother me, but I know some people don't like.

There were touching moments between both couples.

I can't wait for the next book, One Night Rodeo. Lorelei gave a sneaky, little glimpse at the end of WaT and left out who got married. Kyle and Celia are my guess and I think their story will be amazing. Celia reminds me a little bit of Keely from LL's Rough Riders series...the wild child!

Profile Image for Preeti ♥︎ Her Bookshelves.
1,374 reviews19 followers
December 29, 2016

4 'Nekkid' and 'Lookit that' stars!

It’s been a while since I’ve been surprised –pleasantly so-by a book.
I’ve read Lorelei James before, so I was expecting mindless smut, cringe-y ménage and icky anal action (like in Long Hard Ride).
But what I (also) got here was well-fleshed characters, interesting situations, character growth, sound back-stories and believable romance. The sex dint happen fall-on-each-other-from-page-one insta fast. We get there slowly. Oh, we still get a plenty of that but there was a whole lot of other stuff too – funny, sweet, endearing and engaging stuff.

I had some initial confusion about happenings that ‘happened’ in the previous books and unlike many series, LJ dint try and expound on them so I had to wade my way through. But it only gave the characters, settings and the story depth and realism.

And two equal romances with none secondary in any way.

But still the ever bickering Renner and Tierney steal the show – especially Tierney the tyrant. She made me believe it’s possible to write a plausible and lovable smut-virgin. Tierney as the brainiac boss lady who is good at numbers and cracking the whip, but her scratch-the-surface vulnerability and lack of confidence was just so endearing and believable that many times I was thinking of her as a real person rather than a character. LJ did it by giving her ‘flesh’ instead of just telling us so. And Renner couldn’t have been hotter, crankier, sweeter and more cowboyliciously perfect than he already was. And their hate to love story was so lovable and endearing.

Abe and Janie are the so-not-over-each-other divorced couple who are thrown together when she comes back to town and had to stay with him. They have grown personally, emotionally and yes, sexually and their go at second chance was interesting. It being a smut, all the (nostalgic) talk about sex with other ppl was inevitable and routine, and so I tried to ignore it and focus on their story.
I liked how she notes that he had made the same changes in his life and home that he had resisted when they were together. Like dumping his mother’s china and furniture, generally cleaning up and revamping the place. Also a change in attitude and becoming more open and receptive. And him realizing that perhaps by forcing her to adjust to his ways and his family, he did her an injustice. So yes, that way it was an honest and tangible second chance. And Janie’s snooty and selfish rants were a good touch too.

The supposed suspense was which was not such a bad thing as already we had a lot of things going on with the two couples, other couples/mcs from the series, local community (gotta love the mud lilies!) and financial hassles.

But a completely engaging and enjoyable ride...err, read.



Profile Image for Kathleen.
691 reviews90 followers
November 6, 2011
Story Rating 5 stars
Character Rating 5 stars
Romance Rating 5 stars
Heat Level 4.5 stars
Overall Rating 5 stars

As with all the LLJ's book's I've read, LLJ's wrote another Amazing HOT read for me. She can take a simple home town story and just weave magic into it. It grabbed me right from the start and never let go.

In this book you get two love stories rolled into one book. Both stories I enjoyed equally the same. Let me tell you there was some SCORCHING love scenes going on with both couples so be prepared when reading. Both couples had their share of problems too and I loved reading how they dealt with them and were able to move along to a happy ending.

All the characters were fantastically written. There were many of LOL moments going on with some of these characters.

I must say that so far this is my favorite book in this series. I have a feeling from the sneak peak into the next book that we have another winner on it's way. The wait is on.



Profile Image for Wminbc.
1,137 reviews82 followers
June 15, 2012
I loved this story...and this image is sooo perfect for this book!

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Mmmmmmm, Renner....even his spit (chew) didn't turn me off!!

This book about Abe and Janie...was soooo not about them at all! While they were in this book, Renner and Tierney STOLE the show! I loved, loved, loved Renner. His grit and "real cowboy" ways were so hawt and his plain talking, straight shooting attitude spoke directly to me.

Recalling some 20 years ago, before I met my true love, I was the disfunctional dater! I did not play games, I did not pretend not to like guys that I liked and worse yet, I told a guy that I liked him when I did! So, with not much game, I used to go for the shy guys...And, as the saying goes, always watch out for the shy ones!

Speaking of shy guys, Abe was all that, but time and maturity have made him a real man. Now, in his thirties and much more experienced in the bedroom, Abe is prepared to give his ex-wife Janie the ride of a lifetime! While these two revert back to their childish behaviors now and then, I was happy when they each spoke up and told the other what they really want out of each other, their relationship and their second marriage.

Celia, oh, girl...you poor broken soul! I just want to take you and Arizon (The Perfect Storm by Lori Foster) out for Chick night! I certainly hope Kyle man's up and starts taking care of what is so obviously a love that both he and Celia want to have! Celia and Tierney were hilarious at the show in Denver. I laughed so hard at the Patron shots! It was no surprise that neither Kyle nor Renner were laughing though! I hope this scene gets picked up in Celia and Kyle's book! I would love to "hear" it from Kyle's POV.

Great series, with real cowboys, sweet romance and some great heat! Enjoy!
Profile Image for Karla.
988 reviews1,105 followers
July 7, 2013

5 Stars!Another winner!

Not one, but two sizzling romances, lucky us. I really enjoyed Abe and Janie's story, but the one that clinched it for me was Renner and Tierney's; fun, sensual, and explosive...KABOOM!!

The story transitions nicely from the two couple's smokin' hot separate relationships, into the main one that centers around the Split Rock Ranch. Some laugh out loud moments with the ladies from Bernice's Beauty Barn, when they educate Tierney on the male anatomy. We are introduced to Tobin Hale, who's future might hold a book of his own?! I'm hoping. We also get to visit with characters from the previous books, and some sweet updates. I only wish LJ had elaborated on Janie's story a little more and wrapped it up better, it felt as if something was missing. Still, this one is my favorite in the series so far, but if the teaser for the next book is any indication of what's to come...that might change.

Profile Image for Jess.
1,051 reviews155 followers
November 11, 2011
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads

It’s kind of rare to find a story when two separate romantic story lines are put together in the same book, and neither one suffered for it. Three of the characters are all brought together at the Split Rock Ranch for a combined storyline surrounding the resort, but we get two very distinct relationship story lines for the four lead characters: Abe and Janie, ex’s who never stopped loving each other, but have both changed over the years and Renner and Tierney, they go from enemies to lovers, fighting at every step initially, trying to deny the attraction between them – one of my favorite set ups! The review is split for each couple, I loved getting to know them all, and as usual with Lorelei’s stories, we get to see the past characters woven into the story, and even had a little shout out to the Rough Riders series with Sky Blue. I love little things added in from the past books and even other series that are very loosely connected, it just adds a little something extra.

Abe and Janie

Abe and Janie were married years ago, but it didn’t end well with both people making mistakes and not really giving their relationship 100% effort. They’ve both changed a lot over the years, Abe probably the most and after Janie has a couple accidents that may not be so accidental after all, she moves in with Abe at his ranch for the added protection. Their divorce didn’t come from them falling out of love with each other, in fact it becomes pretty obvious that they still love each other, possibly even more than ever, but they’ve both changed and it takes time for them to get to know each other again. Janie is constantly blown away by the changes that Abe’s made, not only at the ranch, but for himself. Janie’s in town to help Renner get the Resort up and running, but the question remains, once the Resort gets going, what will Janie decide to do next?

Ever since their divorce, Janie has basically lived out of a bag, ready to move on at a moment’s notice. Abe’s giving her all the reasons in the world for actually settling down with him again, for good. It’s hard not to cheer for Abe. He went back to college and got his degree online, he’s working hard on a ranch that he loves and he’ll do whatever it takes to keep Janie with him. They learn a lot of new things about each other; Janie’s eyes are opened when Abe tells her EXACTLY what he wants to happen in the bedroom, something that they never really talked about when they were married. Abe’s a little bit dominant and likes to push the edge a bit and it doesn’t take long for Janie to get onboard with that!

Abe watched her eyes, those striking purple irises, sparking outrage. He hauled her to the toes of her sexy boots and he couldn’t help but inhale her. Suck down the passion she disguised in a haughty attitude, letting her fire consume him. It was like heaven to kiss her again, whenever he wanted, however he wanted. But kissing wasn’t enough. He needed her squirming against him, her breath panting in his ear as her body clamped around his. He soothed her with sweet kisses, shaken to the very core by the power this woman still wielded over him.

It was nice to see this couple who had a rocky, painful past, be able to reconnect again and fall even deeper in love the second time around.

Renner and Tierney

They ended up being my favorite couple in the book, but just barely. There was just something about Tierney that for me, was so easy to identify with. She’s in finance and is most comfortable with numbers and power point presentations but completely awkward in social settings and anytime she has to deal with people. When you take her aversion to social settings and her professional drive and work ethic, you end up with a woman who’s never had a relationship, never dated much beyond a first date, and pretty much lives and breathes her work. Enter Renner *RAWR*. I love the setup of a couple who, after meeting for the first time, can’t stand each other. Renner, the owner of the resort and Tierney, the daughter of a CEO who's company is backing Renner’s venture, argue from their first word. Over everything. The sparks fly like crazy between these two and I was just counting down to that first kiss, and to Renner’s reaction when he finds out that this woman, who he has a lot of wrong assumptions about, has never been with a man before.

Once Renner and Tierney finally give in to the strong attraction between them, they keep their relationship secret from everyone, and make good use of the lock on their office door ;-) One thing I really loved seeing play out with their relationship is Tierney’s inexperience didn’t just magically disappear after their first night together. They have a few bumps along the way, mainly because Tierney just doesn’t know the right way, the wrong way, or what to do or expect in a serious relationship. But they talk. There’s not a lot of that constant miscommunication within their relationship that causes unnecessary drama that gets old fast. They have an issue, they get mad, fight, but in the end they work it out.

“Didn’t mean to make you feel bad, Tierney.”

“You didn’t. It makes me realize I want more than just sex with you.” When Renner stiffened, she rolled over to face him. “Not a wedding ring. More meaning…I want to be able to touch you, hug you, kiss you when we’re alone. Like this.”

His too-blue eyes were as tender as his smile. “Just when I’m sure I’ve figured you out, you throw me a curveball. I’m tryin’ to say this in the least sexual way possible, but any time, any way you wanna touch me, feel free.” He teased her mouth with his, each gentle smooch becoming longer. “I like bein’ with you, Tierney. You truly are something special.”


It was a fun, sweet relationship to see from the start that ended with Tierney’s father giving them each a pretty low ultimatum that involved their relationship and the Renner’s resort. But the small town pulls together, including the hilarious women who gather at the beauty salon, and find a solution to help Renner.

These two relationships are told so fully, it’s hard to believe that they were both included in a normal sized book. It didn’t feel like either story got short changed and it’s never a bad feeling to finish a book, and just wish you had 100 more pages to read so the story wouldn’t end. The set up for Kyle and Celia’s story was great, getting a little taste of the tension between them only makes me wish I had the book right now!

This is my favorite book in the Black Top Cowboy series and Lorelei James continues to be the best at writing charming characters, who also happen to be naughty cowboys. A great combo!

*******************
Bonus Quote!

(After Tierney’s first trip to the local beauty salon:)

As soon as Bernice swept up the hair, Vivien, Pearl, and Maybelle surrounded her.

“You look fabulous,” Vivien gushed.

“Sophisticated,” Maybelle added. “Perfect for a financial overseer.”

“Girl, you look hot,” Garnet yelled. “You’d better slip on sexy duds to match your smokin’ new look, because when the men in this town get an eyeful of you? You’ll have more penises to choose from than you can shake a stick at.”

Tierney laughed. “And to think I’m finally getting what I always wanted – a plethora of penises.”
Profile Image for Ivana Azap Feješ.
217 reviews44 followers
February 28, 2017
Janie Fitzhugh and Abe Lawson have long been divorced and living apart and now she is back in town and he wants her back in his bed. Janie couldn't handle the demands of being a ranchers wife, the stress of helping with Abe's two younger siblings and the fact that Abe didn't like to change. They both realize they made mistakes in their marriage and want see where a new relationship goes. First we have Abe and Janie, who were divorced, but never really stopped loving each other. Instead they let their pride get in the way. This time around pride was still a sticking point, but they were actually talking and sometimes yelling with each other. Loved the tension between sexy Wyoming cowboy Renner and city girl Tierney. He thought she was some spoiled daddy's girl and she thought he was an jerk (to put it kindly). I had expected this book to be Abe Lawson and his ex-wife Janie Fitzhugh’s story, but we get a bonus with the additional love story of Renner Jackson and Tierney Pratt of the Split Rock Ranch. Janie and Abe fell madly in love when they were both young and not necessarily ready to deal with the responsibilities of life together. Running a ranch, raising Abe’s two younger siblings as well as learning how to live as a married couple strained their relationship until Janie felt that she needed to leave. Abe and Janie got married very young and though they loved each other they had a serious communication problem. On top of that Abe was stuck in his ways and wanted to keep his ranch exactly how it had been when his parents ran it. Janie kind of felt like it wasn’t really her ranch or her house – that she was just a visitor there. Eventually Janie, instead of talking to Abe, left. This book contained two main stories, Janie and Abe along with Tierney and Renner. I would've preferred two shorter books, novellas even, to having them combined. Sometimes I was just getting into one situation and the next chapter was the other couple. That became annoying many times. Janie and Abe had a history, but they had both grown up since then. They still loved each other though and getting back together was not only hot, it showed how much they changed - for the better! Kinda felt let down by Abe &Janies storyline, seemed to focus more on Renner &Tierney, but including two well written and developed love stories in one book is Uberhard so ill forgive it this once. Cant wait for One Night Rodeo to finally learn more about Celia & Kyle.

This was book 3 in the "Blacktop Cowboy series. It’s been a while since I’ve been surprised –pleasantly so-by a book. I’ve read Lorelei James before, so I was expecting mindless smut, cringe-y ménage and icky anal action. But what I (also) got here was well-fleshed characters, interesting situations, character growth, sound back-stories and believable romance. The sex dint happen fall-on-each-other-from-page-one insta fast. I wait for Lorelei James’ books like an addict awaits her connection. I am hooked on James’ simple sexy style which is always a fun, fast read for me. I adore having the sense of place already established so that no matter who the leads are, I am immediately connected to them. This one was super sweet!! The last book and this one are perfect examples of what i love about Lorelei James' books and why i keep coming back for more! They're sweet, romantic, emotional, and super sexy....very much on the smutty side but still good! This book was so much fun to read and I think it was because it was like a too-fer, as in 2 couples end up with their HEA, which lead to all sorts of hot sex! Another great read in this series. I really enjoyed both romances in this book! Tjis book features her own brand of sexy cowboys that fans have come to love and she rewards readers with not one, but two couples which means double the fun! Here is the story of two cowboys and the women they love. Some readers might find this series a bit repetitive--lonely cowboy finds girl, loses girl, wins girl back--but what I enjoy about the books is the milieu of western ranch living and the adjuncts to that, including rodeos, animal husbandry, and small towns that exist to support their outlying citizens. If Lorelei James isn't a rancher, she's certainly spent a lot of time around them and their people. In this novel, as in all of them, the dialect is spot on, the technical aspects are accurate, and she captures what it's like to start work before the sun's up and continue working until after sundown every day without fail, subject to powerful forces of nature outside of one's control. I really enjoyed this book! What a sweet two-fer!

"Any kiss I'd give you would leave no doubt in anyone's mind that we're lovers, Tierney." He spoke by her ear. "What you don't understand? I'd love for every man in this place to know you're mine. That I can kiss you any goddamn time I please. I'd happily rub it in their faces that you're goin' home with me. And that sexy little fucking dress will be on the floor by my bed tonight."
She froze. "The dress did all this?"
"No. You did this."
"How much have you been drinking?" she demanded in a fierce whisper.
He chuckled. "I'm drunk on you. Absolutely intoxicated. Totally wasted on nothin' but you."
Profile Image for Holly.
439 reviews340 followers
November 9, 2011
I have to say nobody writes a hot, sexy, nekkid cowboy like LJ - and I absolutely love her for it!! I loved this story, this is the third installment in the Blacktop Cowboys series and one of my favorite things about it is the fact that it was 2 stories in one book. We got to watch the relationships of Renner & Tierney and Abe & Janie both evolve at the same time. Who wouldn't want twice as much delicious cowboy love!!??? I have to admit that I wasn't sure about Janie & Abe, only because I really wasn't a big fan of Abe's in the previous books, he just seemed like such a stuffed shirt, but HOLY CRAP was I wrong about that!! Abe was full off surprises (one 9 inch surprise that I was particularly fond of, Janie, you lucky girl!) But, in all seriousness, this was a fun, fast, sexy read that I recommend to every LJ fan, and even if you're not a fan yet, let me ask....What's not to love about a smooth talkin', smokin' hot cowboy???
Profile Image for Aղցela W..
4,186 reviews302 followers
August 10, 2016
Spoiler Ahead This was book 3 in the "Blacktop Cowboy series. Janie Fitzhugh and Abe Lawson have long been divorced and living apart and now she is back in town and he wants her back in his bed. Janie couldn't handle the demands of being a ranchers wife, the stress of helping with Abe's two younger siblings and the fact that Abe didn't like to change. They both realize they made mistakes in their marriage and want see where a new relationship goes. This was a good book I also liked Tierney and Renner they have a love hate relationship going on. Renner is the rich, playboy and Tierney is the spoiled little rich girl working for her daddy, Renner's business partner, oh and Tierney hasn't dated much. The sparks fly as these two fight the sexual chemistry between them. When they finally give in it is hot! They agree that because they work in the office together they need to keep their love affair secret. This book also had some suspense and danger along with emotions. This book was well written like the other books in this series with no errors in spelling or grammar. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series. Ms. James writes some really hot books

Profile Image for Searock.
147 reviews1 follower
November 15, 2011
I liked this book, and at times, I really, really liked it, so it gets 3.75 stars from me.

I wait for Lorelei James’ books like an addict awaits her connection. I’ve read every book since pretty early on in the Rough Rider series so I am familiar with the families involved and dive right in. I am hooked on James’ simple sexy style which is always a fun, fast read for me. I adore having the sense of place already established so that no matter who the leads are, I am immediately connected to them. I am not a paranormal reader, but I imagine the world building in those series' has a similar effect on the reader.

The focus of Wrangled and Tangled was split between two different romances that are connected by the setting (a new, ranch-style resort in the area). It was like reading two completely-separate, short stories that switched off in alternating chapters. I never quite got used to the shift, especially when something dramatic was happening and then, bam, different couple. I had a similar feeling reading this book that I had watching a soap opera. It had different story lines going but the characters interact when they run into each other at the local pub or at the hospital where they work (Luke and Laura, anyone? That dates me, I know).

I wanted a fuller experience and I think Ms. James wanted to give me a fuller experience, but was having to make adjustments for the format. She used a few techniques to maintain the brevity of both stories that left me feeling shorted. For example, we are told about several events after they took place (like days or weeks of events summed up in a sentence or two). Also, the characters would often communicate to the reader via self-talk (a lot!) especially in the early chapters. Some of this inner dialogue would be “accidentally” spoken aloud to other characters, e.g. (h)to herself: "I've secretly longed for you for years, but I would never tell you that". (H) "Thanks for telling me, now we can move to the next level”. (h) “Oops, did I say that aloud?" Ugh. This device is my new pet peeve. It served to reveal the character to the reader while advancing the relationships more quickly than seemed normal. It’s a bit like telling rather than showing (or at the least it’s a little cheat). Also, one of the heroes, Renner, left the setting a couple of times to work on his “other business”, but we didn’t get to see much of that. He was gone for a few weeks at one point, but it wasn’t shared with the reader, so I felt I missed out a bit on something Ms. James normally develops. I also love characters like Abe, but I didn't get a chance to know him very well. He was quiet, a bit of a naughty boy and fascinating, but got little page space. So, all told, my only complaint is that I wanted more. I enjoyed both romances like appetizers that I wished had been main courses.

I will continue to be a faithful reader of this series and any others by Ms. James because I always get a solid little storyline, sexy characters, a positive tone and a great setting. How the characters make a living is always elemental to James' stories including land issues, business ventures, etc. That might sound like, "duh", its elemental to every living creature, but in romance, we often don't get that and I love that I get it here. And, uh, and the hot sex is always a bonus. It was all here, but in petite sizes.

There are elements in the Rough Rider series that I loved/adored/broke out in song about and haven’t found some of those in the Blacktop Cowboys yet, but I keep chasing the high” like the addict I am (and enjoying the ride).
Profile Image for  ~V~.
1,021 reviews
November 19, 2014
This one was super sweet!! It just baffles me how the first book in each of her cowboy series could be so awful (that is obviously my own personal opinion because plenty of people loved them, i just wasn't one of them) and the rest of the books can be so good! The last book and this one are perfect examples of what i love about Lorelei James' books and why i keep coming back for more! They're sweet, romantic, emotional, and super sexy....very much on the smutty side but still good! There are even some funny moments thrown into the story...the old ladies at the hair salon, with their fascination with young cowboys, are a hoot and the scene where Celia and Tierney attempt to get the men all hot and bothered was hilarious!

Looking forward to Celia and Kyle's story!
Profile Image for Penny.
502 reviews9 followers
August 12, 2016
A great book. It's a twofer! I've said this before, but I love the growth and depth of the characters. Thiis book has a lot of funny in it too. "premature lubrication" is funnier in context.
Profile Image for Jessica Morales.
713 reviews57 followers
August 29, 2017
Sometimes I found this one lacking. I think it's because we get to see two relationships grow. So, because of that some of the scenes are rushed.
Profile Image for atomickitten.
886 reviews131 followers
December 30, 2021
3.5-4 stars

I loved Renner and Tierny and the 4 stars are for them.




I'll be quick because I have another book to read lol.

This is a dual romance story. A second chance for Abe and Janie and an enemies to lovers for Renner and Tierny.

And frankly, I think it was a bit too heavy on erotica for my liking. Especially for Abe and Janie.
Plus, Janie was such a selfish bitch I honestly think Abe deserves better.
Plus, the stalker motive was kinda swept under a rug so that was disappointing.

And Abe's kink for threesome? Sorry, not my jam.

I didn't like their story.



But Tierny and Renner?
OH MY FUCKING GOD!!!!!




All in all, Abe's and Janie's story - 2 stars
Renner and Tierney? 5+ stars
Hence the 3.5 rounded up to 4.

I'm not sure how I feel about Celia and if I wanna read her book because I honestly wasn't her fan in this one. She sounded too immature and annoying so I'm kinda hesitant about book 4.
But we'll see.
Profile Image for Jo.
81 reviews
February 10, 2017
This book has interesting, well fleshed out characters, a somewhat interesting plot but some troubling aspects for me. Two intertwined sets of couples are working toward romance. Abe and Janie are divorced and we go on their journey to reconnecting with each other. Renner and Tierney hate each other, or do they?
Am I the only reader who finds it hard to believe that every woman in a romance novel wants to have or loves anal sex? This particular scene between Janie and Abe made me angry.
Janie has tried anal sex. This makes Abe happy 'cause he's discovered that he likes it 'a lot.' He prepares her 'til he thinks she's ready, doesn't ask her, then goes for it. During this whole thing she's feeling good until, she isn't.
She says, "Wait."
His reply, "No. You can take more."
Again, she says, "No."
"Yes." he hissed.
Really? It'll all be OK 'cause he wants it. No discussion will be entered into.
Of course, all is well, she gets off, he gets off and everything in the garden is rosy. Not for me. When she said wait, he should have stopped and asked if she was all right. When she said no, he should have stopped to at least ask what was wrong and did she want to continue?
I begin to wonder if rape fantasies have become so acceptable because the hero (?) is good looking and well meaning and ultimately he and the heroine will have their HEA. What's a little dubious consent between lovers? Right?
I'd like to read a female character who says no to the male and actually means it.
Something like, "You know, I've tried anal and didn't like it. I don't like the way it feels, physically, it's painful and it makes me feel dirty. If that's what you need then I'm not the partner for you."
There's nothing wrong with a woman not wanting anal sex just as there's nothing wrong with a woman who enjoys it. Just make sure she's given the choice and her wishes are respected.
When Renner and Tierney go to the stock show we get a scene of male dominance and testosterone overload. His possessiveness and need to humiliate her to show that she belonged to him was male chest beating that was unsavoury. He drags her out of the bar and takes her to a stock containment facility and whoa to the symbolism there. He bullies her into taking off her jeans even though she protests. "It's not up for discussion," he growls or snarls or some other expression to let us know that he's in his dominant space. This is where I wanted to punch him. He insists they're going to do things his way and proceeds to cut her panties off her with a knife. After the sex they're happy and we continue on.
I understand that this is a fictional story and the author is giving her readers the raunch that they want but could we have some women with a bit more backbone when it comes to sex? We teach our daughters that no means no ... unless they're reading a romance novel where no often means maybe or yes. We teach our daughters that they are in control of their body's then, most romance novels, tell them that men are in control.
Perhaps I'm alone in this criticism and that's fine. I just feel that while we women think that this behaviour is 'romantic' we're sending a mixed message to men.
I admire and respect Lorelei James as an author but it doesn't mean I can't see flaws in her work.
Profile Image for Leagh.
131 reviews18 followers
November 1, 2011
Simply amazing! The perfect balance of emotion, passion, and story to make this a story you don't want to miss.

Janie and Abe have been divorced for many years now. They married young and when the going got tough Janie took off and Abe let her go. Abe has always regretted his decision to do that and now that Janie is back in town he is determined to win her back and he isn't going to let his second chance go without a fight.

Renner Jackson has been forced to partner with Tierney Pratt in order to get his dream job. Lets just say things are rough between them in the beginning and they literally need a referee to be in the same room together. When all that emotion turns to passion, things really start to heat up.

This book is amazing and a definite must read. Ms James has managed to bring these two stories together in an action packed adventure filled with passion and heat. The plot lines are fantastic and they are well thought out. I thought this story flowed well and Lorelei did a fantastic job of switching between the couples to keep you up to date on what was going on. She also managed to give us an update on past characters and on future characters as well. Both these cowboys are sexy and sweet but extremely alpha and the ladies were a perfect match for them. I highly recommend this book to all who want to enjoy a story about sexy Wyoming cowboys.

If you have not started this series...get to it...I guarantee you will enjoy it!!!

Thanks Lorelei for another great book!!!
Profile Image for Meredith.
23 reviews
November 10, 2011
I love the way this series is progressing. I found myself empathizing with both Heroines, even though they are very different. I am always amazed at the character development this author dedicates herself to. I find each character unique and compelling. Enough, that I want to continue to know about them as the series progresses. She's masterful at giving you snippets of new leads. I am thinking I want to see Tobin's story in another book! :D

The book itself, seemed the perfect length, I tend to worry about that when you've got two parallel story lines, but it worked very well in this book. The romance IMO has grown and deepened with great anticipation, as it's always with purpose, never becoming to gratuitous, but still perfectly hot.

I really feel this series is leaning more mainstream contemporary romance. I don't mean that as a negative in anyway, I feel more comfortable sharing the Black Top stories with friends and family. This series is wonderful, and now that there are several books out I think she's well on her way to having just as many dedicated readers with a whole new group of wonderful characters in Muddy Gap. Looking forward to One Night Rodeo!
Profile Image for Darcy.
13.4k reviews518 followers
November 12, 2011
This book was so much fun to read and I think it was because it was like a too-fer, as in 2 couples end up with their HEA, which lead to all sorts of hot sex!

First we have Abe and Janie, who were divorced, but never really stopped loving each other. Instead they let their pride get in the way. This time around pride was still a sticking point, but they were actually talking and sometimes yelling with each other. The yelling was a good thing as it let them get some festering issues out of the way allowing them to think about what was brought up.

Our other couple is Renner and Tierney, who have the classic I hate you at first sight relationship that morphs into falling in love. This brought about some fun fights to read about while they were fighting their attraction. Once you throw in Tierney's father things start to get sticky.

Besides these fun couples we have the town of Muddy Gap and all their crazy citizens, especially the "old" ladies who are a hoot.

I look forward to reading more in this series!
Profile Image for Anita.
281 reviews21 followers
November 11, 2011
Another great read in this series. Read most of this today - started it last night. Loved the tension between sexy Wyoming cowboy Renner and city girl Tierney. He thought she was some spoiled daddy's girl and she thought he was an jerk (to put it kindly). The more they fought the more the sparks flew. Finally giving away to many firsts for Tierney. Abe and Janie finally got to settle things between them - nothing like a stalker to stir some things up. Can't wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Cyn Mistress Kitty.
1,581 reviews171 followers
November 9, 2011
I have been looking forward to this book for a long time and I was not disappointed. I loved that there were 2 stories with 2 great couples going on at the same time. It was also great to see past couples. Renner and Tierney in particular made me laugh in their interactions and holy cow, these 2 could be very naughty, very naughty indeed. : o
The teaser for future book of Kyle's looks good. Wish I didn't have to wait until Aug. for it. : (
Profile Image for Teresa.
Author 2 books39 followers
November 22, 2011
Damn, was that wonderful! I felt pretty teary-eyed at the end, I admit...I loved Renner and Tierney (they were the reason I read this book), I had my blond hero, and found Tierney very likeable. Abe's and Janie's story was great, too. The steamy scenes were HOT, the emotional side fulfilling, the HEA ABSOLUTELY satisfying...no menage in here (Abe TALKS about one, but they don't act that out). Great book, absolute recommendation.
19 reviews1 follower
November 1, 2011
The fav of the Blacktop Cowboy series! I loved Renner and Tierney story along with Abe and Janie. Of course this book just left me wanting more of Muddy Gap and I am looking forward to Kyle's story next. Another GREAT book by Lorelei James....they just keep getting better and better!
Profile Image for Angela Carr.
732 reviews81 followers
July 31, 2012

This booked rocked my world. It had me laugh out loud, sigh with appreciation and admiration for the romantic heroes, gave me sad/happy tears and it made me hot as hell!!!
Abe and Renner are just as great as Hank and Bran. *sigh*

Now, I’m ready for some Kyle action!!!
Profile Image for Gennie Gee.
117 reviews31 followers
November 4, 2011
Good lord I love anything Lorelei Janes writes!! And the teaser chapter just has me beggin' for more! And soon!!!!!!
Profile Image for Lori.
73 reviews25 followers
November 2, 2011
DANG IT! I want to read this slow & savor it...but I can't put it down. I'm enjoying the dynamics of Abe/Jeanie & Renner/Tierney. You won't be disappointed with the latest Blacktop Cowboys!
Profile Image for Booklover1335.
211 reviews34 followers
November 3, 2011
Wrangled and Tangled is the third book in Ms. James' Blacktop Cowboys series and features her own brand of sexy cowboys that fans have come to love and she rewards readers with not one, but two couples which means double the fun! I had expected this book to be Abe Lawson and his ex-wife Janie Fitzhugh’s story, but we get a bonus with the additional love story of Renner Jackson and Tierney Pratt of the Split Rock Ranch.

Janie and Abe fell madly in love when they were both young and not necessarily ready to deal with the responsibilities of life together. Running a ranch, raising Abe’s two younger siblings as well as learning how to live as a married couple strained their relationship until Janie felt that she needed to leave. Both Abe and Janie have moved on with their lives, but both have regrets about the failed relationship. But when given the chance to rekindle their love, Abe takes the bull by the horns so to speak and is determined to win Janie’s heart again...which should be easy to do since deep down she still loves him. Through the course of the book Janie and Abe learn to talk to each other, express their needs, remember what drew them together in the first place and learn to love each other as flawed and mature adults to find the perfect love that held so much promise for them all those years ago.

Renner Jackson is the owner of the Split Rock Ranch. He loves his land and has dreams of running a successful guest ranch, but needs money as well as know how to make it a reality. Tierney Pratt is the daughter of the man who loaned money to Renner, and uses the connection as a way to distance herself from her father, his company and the world she despises. She moves to Wyoming to start a new life out from under the shadow of her manipulative, domineering and ruthless father. Renner sees her as a smart, yet spoiled little rich girl with tight purse strings, geeky glasses that are surprisingly sexy, and a sassy mouth which he can’t stop fantasizing about. Sparks fly from the beginning between the two, but not in a good way, because Renner constantly makes assumptions about Tierney based on a past relationship with another woman, assumptions that couldn’t be further from the truth as Renner eventually finds out. Renner learns to see Tierney for the person that she really is, and Tierney learns to trust in herself, in her heart and that some chances are worth taking despite what the balance sheets may say.

Wrangled and Tangled is everything that I’ve come to love about Ms. James’s romances. Abe and Renner are so damn sexy you’ll want to move out West and find a cowboy of your own. And fans of the series will also be happy to know that there are cameo appearances with characters from the two previous books Corralled and Saddled and Spurred, especially the ladies from the salon that Harper used to work at. They are a hoot and a half!

This book is in one word ...fun. I enjoyed every single word and page. The banter between Renner and Tierney is smart, sassy and sexy and is full of snappy one liners. Here is one of my favorite parts of the book that kind of illustrates this point:

Setup: Tierney bought a knock your socks boots off dress to wow Renner at a party They've been secretly seeing each other, and have been considering making their "relationship" public:

"Any kiss I'd give you would leave no doubt in anyone's mind that we're lovers, Tierney." He spoke by her ear. "What you don't understand? I'd love for every man in this place to know you're mine. That I can kiss you any goddamn time I please. I'd happily rub it in their faces that you're goin' home with me. And that sexy little fucking dress will be on the floor by my bed tonight."

She froze. "The dress did all this?"

"No. You did this."

"How much have you been drinking?" she demanded in a fierce whisper.

He chuckled. "I'm drunk on you. Absolutely intoxicated. Totally wasted on nothin' but you."



Yeah, Renner is real good with words...and a whole lot else ;)

This book is not as emotionally deep as some of the author’s other romances (which is ok), and I think that has a lot to do with the focus being on two couples rather than just one in the same book. In fact I really enjoyed the fact that this story was a bit more lighthearted while still dealing with all of their issues. When I first realized that the story would have more than one romantic focus I was a bit worried that both couples wouldn't receive a satisfactory happy ever after in just under 300 pages, but let me reassure you that neither story feels short changed.

Wrangled and Tangled has it all and does not disappoint...hunky cowboy heroes, smokin’ hot lovin’ that has become a trademark for Ms. James’s erotic romances, as well as sassy, sexy dialogue with humor, heart and happy endings. I loved it and can’t wait for the next book One Night Rodeo (Celia and Kyle’s story) which promises to have lots of fireworks but unfortunately it's not scheduled to be released until August 2012 :(

Ratings:

Overall: 4.50 (There's a tiny part of me that wishes Abe and Janie would have had the book to themselves, but watching Renner and Tierney fall in lust then love was way too much fun to lament it too much)

Sensuality level: 4.25 (yeah, Abe and Renner know their way around the bedroom, and the office, and the laundry room...and a few other places that are guaranteed to turn up the heat. Though Abe's not as kinky in this book as I expected him to be based on the hints in Corralled and Saddled and Spurred, the addition of Renner makes up for it...in a big way)

One Night Rodeo
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