I am REALLY enjoying this series. It's got this found family vibe with cowboys/bull riders and SPICE! I was lucky enough to get an ARC and was beyond I am REALLY enjoying this series. It's got this found family vibe with cowboys/bull riders and SPICE! I was lucky enough to get an ARC and was beyond excited. While I have only read book 1, I felt comfortable reading this one out of order and did not feel like I was missing on any of previous plots. This book was HOT! We have dad's best friend, steamy one night stand, a hot young bull rider, an older put together doctor, the temptress if you will and of course all of the side characters. I LOVED Colt. He had so much swagger. Not an ounce of self doubt. Just confident in his abilities and himself. He has been around. He doesn't think about settling down until he can't stop thinking about it. Then we have William. His exact opposite. The "older" man who has been married and divorced. The new town doctor who has settled with where he is in life. Colt's dad's best friend. GAHHH the tension between these two was palpable. The build up was done WELL Ashley! We kept getting these snippets of William about to give in and then he wouldn't. I think Ashley did a really good job describing the emotions both of these guys were feeling throughout all of this as well. Colt has been injured and is not able to do what he loves most. While William is feeling shameful for his behavior and not sure how to get around that.
Colt is going crazy. He had to have surgery after falling off of a bull and is having a hard time relearning how to do everything with his other hands. He can't drive. He can't get dressed. He feels helpless. All of his buddies are off for the rodeo while he is stuck at his parent's house. The one shiny thing is that William has moved back to town and is his new doctor. The same William who has none literally his whole life. The same William who he had a STEAMY drunken night with two years ago. The same William who he now wants to see unravel again. But William has drawn a line in the sand. He won't go there again with Colt. It was a mistake is what he says, but Colt can read people pretty well. And the way that William's body is responding is saying other things. Which is why Colt makes it his mission to explore more with William. But when William turns him down again the self doubt comes into play. Maybe he cared about him more than William did. Maybe he isn't worth it, but then William surprises him by making an effort. They are going to have a go at this and see what happens. But will that last if Colt's dad finds out before they tell him? Will William stick to his promises given the history between them?
William feels like a terrible person. He had a moment a few years ago with the one person he shouldn't have...his best friend's son. And MAN what a moment it was. And now, two years later, he finds himself back in Colt's orbit. William has moved home to take care of his dad. He absolutely will NOT go down the road that is Colt. Even if his body is telling him something different. He will be strong in this one thing. But Colt is trying REALLY hard to break down his walls. And William is only a man so he decides one night. One night to get this tension out. Then he will be able to move on but he can't...move on that is. He finds himself thinking a lot about Colt and what he feels for him. He wants more but can he get over himself in order to be who Colt deserves? Can he look Colt's dad in the eye and not feel ashamed over his feelings?
I really enjoyed watching both of these characters navigate uncharted territory. Their feelings. The taboo that is their relationship. Their friends. It was all sooo juicy. The spice in this one was off the charts. Just HOT yall. I loved watching William be there for Colt after he had been pushing him away for so long. I loved watching Colt embrace that. They were just so great together! I can't wait to read the other books in this series. But I REALLY can't wait for Whit and Conrad. I just KNOW their book is going to break my heart and then mend it right along with those two.
Thank you to Ashley for the ARC for this one in exchange for an honest review! It was truly a pleasure :)...more
So I just recently read my first Jessica Peterson book (Southern Seducer) and LOVED it. To say I was ecstatic that I then received this ARC would be aSo I just recently read my first Jessica Peterson book (Southern Seducer) and LOVED it. To say I was ecstatic that I then received this ARC would be an understatement. And let me tell you I was NOT disappointed. I absolutely LOVE Jessica's characters. Her world building. The emotions that her characters are experiencing and how she makes them very relatable. The chemistry that is building and building until you feel like you just can't take it anymore. MAN does Jessica make it worth it. She did all of that once again in this book. I LOVED the intro to this series. I loved our MCs. They had a pretty hard enemies to lovers in the beginning but they gave each other a chance. They realized they were both not in an ideal situation and then things started to shift. I liked the way they walked around their feelings for a long time. I didn't like Mollie's decision for a distraction but I loved Cash's response. I also liked that there wasn't a true third act breakup but still some angst on what was going to happen.
Mollie is angry. She had planned to come down to bumble F Texas to get her dad's money so she could invest it in her business and what was she told but she has to LIVE on the ranch for a year to be able to get it. Being a cowboy does not sound appealing. She is a city girl at heart but maybe it won't be as bad as she thinks. But then she remembers she will have to deal with him- Cash Rivers. Her foreman. The man who gave her a straight up scowl and who is so hot it is unfair. Somehow she finds herself agreeing to these terms and makes her way to the ranch. And then Cash tries to scare her off but he has another thing coming if he thinks she is that soft. She was raised on this ranch. She is a business owner. She has grit. So she sets out to prove him wrong and then things start to shift between them. She realizes they are both grieving her father but in different ways. She is bitter that she was never able to right things with him and that Cash had a relationship with him. She realizes that there is more to Cash than meets the eye which explains him coming to the bar the first night she goes out even though he hasn't been out in forever. Or how he starts to do little things for her that make her think what if they could be more. But she can't with him. He is her foreman. Their relationship can't get muddied. So she will just distract herself with someone else. But wow does that backfire in the best possible way. And now her and Cash are going for it. She finds herself wondering if she could work at the ranch. She finds herself not missing being alone. But then her mom calls with some news and Mollie has to decide if she stays or if she goes.
Cash is in shock. His mentor died unexpectedly and though he verbally told him the ranch was his he gave it to his daughter, miss prissy pants herself. Now Cash doesn't know what to do. All of his plans for his family's ranch are out the window. Mollie is most definitely going to sell the ranch immediately. Unless he can scare her away from it. No way does she last out here when she is used to a life of luxury. But then he realizes he went to far. He is not a bad guy. He just is a caretaker. He has a lot on his shoulders. So when he sees that Mollie isn't quite what he expected he starts to wonder. He hasn't been able to do anything for himself in a long time. There's just too many people depending on him. But she helps him see that he deserves things for himself. He questions muddying things between them but can't fight what his heart is telling him. So when she brings some wanna be cowboy in the picture, Cash is done fighting his feelings. He is staking his claim and his claim is on Mollie. He wants to prove to her how amazing she is. He wants to prove to her that he can make her happy and that the ranch can make her happy. He thought he was doing that but then her mom called and told her she can come home. Will he be enough? Will they be able to make what they have work? Because he is a ranch man through and through but he is also a Mollie man.
GAH I just loved this. I can't emphasize it enough!! Just a very easy, enjoyable read. I laughed, I kind cried, I smiled, I got a little irritated- just a range of emotions that ended with a big old smile on my face. This book was great about letting you know that people are not always what meets the eye. And if you take the time, you might just be surprised what you find. There was the small town vibe. Touch her die vibe. Treat her like a queen vibe. So if you like those I would HIGHLY recommend this one. Oh also of course HOT cowboys!! I can't wait to see who all of the guys pair off with. And that ending with Wyatt had me shaking my head with a smile. I am also wondering who Wheeler will end up with anyone?? Oh and Jessica- I saw that secret shoutout to John Beauregard!!
Thank you to Valentine PR and Jessica for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! ...more
For being a short book, I liked the pace of this one. Jason Clarke did fantastic as the narrator. I loved him doing both voices. We did not get dual PFor being a short book, I liked the pace of this one. Jason Clarke did fantastic as the narrator. I loved him doing both voices. We did not get dual POVs in this one. We only got Paul's which I liked because usually when there is only one it is the FMC. I do wish we could have "heard" what Demi Lee was thinking behind the scenes. I would have given this more stars but struggled with the ending a little bit which I will go into later. I liked the pace. I liked the MCs. I liked the setting and world building. I liked the buildup and the angst. I also loved when there was that f*** it moment and things started to shift. I liked Paul's gestures towards Demi Lee when he was ready to tell her how he felt. I found myself invested in these two and wanting things to work our for them.
Paul Bradford is on his way to a real estate conference when his best friend Finn asks him to check on his baby sister. She just got out of a relationship. She is miserable. It is the literal last thing he wants to do but where does he find himself one night after his sessions? At Demi Lee's door. She really does look rough. He had to google how to help in this situation. He is prepared with chocolate, pizza and a movie. What he is not prepared for is for Demi Lee to ask him to be her plus one at a wedding this weekend. What he is not prepared for is him saying yes to a fake dinner with her to get her ex jealous. And he is definitely not prepared for how different she looks and how he wants to nuzzle her neck. He isn't prepared for how much fun they have together at the wedding. And how proud he feels having her on his arm. But at the end of the day, she is Finn's sister. And that is a line he will not cross. So he walks away. He knows Demi Lee is disappointed. Hell he is too but what was he supposed to do.
Fast forward a few days and Paul is back at work. His coworker helps him see the error of his ways and now he is determined to see if things could work between him and Demi Lee. He starts a campaign to get her attention. They start talking every day. They start developing feelings. Lines get crossed but not THE line. And then Finn finds out. Gives them an ultimatum which they have to follow. And while they are doing that they realize how much they care about each other. And how perfect they fit.
I had a hard time with the build up to them being together since this was a SLOW burn. But then we were literally left hanging. Too much build up for a closed-door scene that wasn't referenced again. I felt straight up teased. I don't have a problem with closed door at all but felt the build up could have been less if that makes sense? I would love to read more of this series but honestly am not sure about paying $6 for a book when the rest seem to be under 200 pages. I wish they were on Kindle Unlimited.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. ...more
I really enjoyed this one. I am becoming partial to best friends to lovers! I am enjoying this world and the supporting characters. Has anybody heard I really enjoyed this one. I am becoming partial to best friends to lovers! I am enjoying this world and the supporting characters. Has anybody heard talk of books not just about the Noughton brothers? I would LOVE to read Lottie and Brooks as well as some hints of other cousins pairing off. A girl can dream right? Anyways, I enjoyed how this one made me feel. I felt really connected to Sadie and Jude and what happened to them. I was annoyed that Jude was never going to tell Sadie how he felt. He was kind of "forced" into this situation but gladly at the same time. I loved how Jude was different with Sadie and more of a grump with everyone else. I loved how Jude was her rock and the angst that they both had feelings for each other for a long time but didn't act on it. I was sad for Jude and how he thought he was doing the right thing by Sadie in pushing her away when all she wanted was him to chase after her. She wanted to be put first which he did in the BEST way once he figured that out!
Jude has been in love with his best friend since as far back as he can remember. He would do anything for her. His main goal is to ensure her happiness. He has convinced himself that he will never tell her how he feels because she deserves more than to be a farmer's wife. Things have changed though. Sadie's dad has died unexpectedly. The farm is in jeopardy of being taken away unless Sadie or her mom can get a loan from the bank. The only way they can get a loan is if they are married. And Jude is HAPPY to help. He will just be fake married to the woman he has been in love with for forever. They can do this right? But then Sadie tells him she has feelings for him too. And even though they have already tied the knot, they jump into something real. The challenge with that is that even though they know everything about each other, they have never been on a date. Jude is still uncertain about Sadie wanting him wholeheartedly which ends up biting him in the a**. And now Sadie is acting weird and so he decides to let her go so she can explore the world outside of Plain Daisy. He convinces himself it is for the best but her reaction says otherwise. Is it too late to make things right? He wants her for the rest of his life but maybe he needs to be more clear.
Sadie's life has turned upside down in 24 hours. Her dad has died unexpectedly on the same day she was planning on telling Jude how she has felt for him for years. She know has found out that the bank is going to take back their farm if they can't get a loan. Oh and she can't get a loan unless she has a guarantor or maybe a husband. The teller suggests Jude. But she can't ask that of him. He only sees her as a friend. She doesn't want to tie him down. But shockingly he says of course he will do it. And so now they are planning a wedding in the most unromantic way as possible. Sadie has convinced herself that Jude is regretting this decision but then they kiss each other and it is simply magical. Now they have both admitted they have feelings for each other. And they decide to try this out for real. They have been through so much, they can navigate this new things between them right? But then Sadie finds out she is pregnant, and when she asks Jude about the future he is too vague. He wants her to be happy. But what about him? What does he want? Maybe it isn't her and it definitely might not be a baby. Sadie is unsure of what to do now but then Jude makes a grand gesture that makes his feelings towards her clear!
I am glad that Jude finally figured his stuff out- reading about miscommunication is so frustrating for me. I was cringing at some of Jude's responses BUT then he made it all better. I also loved how Jude's family helped him breakthrough his insecurities. It showed that they knew how to be there for each other when they needed to be. I can't wait to continue this one and see how Briar and Emmett's story unfolds. And like I said I am going to hope that there are more books to come involving the cousins. There were too many breadcrumbs for us to not get more right??
Thank you to ValentinePR and Piper for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!...more
This was my first book by Ashley, and I found myself ordering the rest of the series and pre-ordering the next two. I REALLY liked this as an intro toThis was my first book by Ashley, and I found myself ordering the rest of the series and pre-ordering the next two. I REALLY liked this as an intro to the series. The characters were great. I found myself trying to figure out who everyone would end up with or how their story would go. I of course loved the world. We were in rodeos and traveling with the rodeo folk and horses and mountains and pretty views and sexy AF cowboys. I really thought that Ashley did a great job with the mental health struggles that Shooter has been dealing with and letting us see that what people see on the outside might not always be what is happening underneath. I liked their meet cute and that it wasn't in fact a meet cute. I liked how they circled around each other for a while before things came about. I also enjoyed how much Sterling did not put up with Shooter's sh*t. He wasn't here for games. He wanted things to be genuine. I also loved how much he helped Shooter. It is so amazing when you find that person and things just click where you don't feel alone anymore.
Shooter is the NRA world champ AGAIN. He is on cloud nine and ready to party. He ends up at a bar in Vegas with his friends when someone catches his eye. He finds himself having a time in the bathroom with said stranger. Normally he doesn't think twice about on the road hookups, but for whatever reason he finds himself thinking about this guy long after their one night together. So isn't he shocked when he finds out that the stranger is Sterling Addams. His new competition. The same competition that his dad can't stop talking about and comparing him to. So Shooter does what he always does he trains. He ignores it, but he can't ignore this draw to Sterling. Even though he knows he shouldn't, he makes moves. But then Sterling starts doing the unthinkable- he starts winning. And Shooter finds himself on a downward spiral and the one person he wants to turn to is in fact Sterling. He pushes him away for as long as he can until he almost gets hurt and he realizes he might not want to do this anymore. He is finally honest with Sterling about all he has been struggling with and instead of the judgment he is expecting, he gets nothing but support. So Shooter decides to start making new moves and new plans. Plans that might be different from what he thought his dreams were but as long as Sterling is by his side, he can do anything.
Sterling is questioning a lot of recent decisions he has made most importantly the one night stand with Shooter Graham. THE Shooter Graham. The man he has been idolizing for forever. The man he will be competing against next season. The man he now calls a neighbor in this small town they live in. The man he can't ignore anymore. He tried to. He really does. He puts up walls but they get torn down. There is something about Shooter that makes Sterling want to learn more about. He wants to know what makes him tick. He wants to know how to make him smile. He wants to know if he enjoys what he is doing and why he acts the way he acts. When he finally finds out, he is heartbroken. He wants what is best for Shooter, but does Shooter want what is best for himself? All Sterling can do is be by his side and help him through it, if he will let him.
There were definitely times where I was annoyed by Shooter's behavior and his temper tantrums, but I can also recognize someone when they are deflecting the pain they are feeling. I also listened to half of this book on audio and have to say that the narrators did a FANTASTIC job. The tension and inflection was done perfectly. I can't wait to read more about these cowboys and meet new characters, and I sincerely hope our main men (you know who I mean if you have read this) get the second chance romance they deserve- pretty please Ashley!!!...more
This was a solid 3 stars for me. Easy to read. I liked the characters, but the plot was a little lacking in my opinion. Even though this one said it cThis was a solid 3 stars for me. Easy to read. I liked the characters, but the plot was a little lacking in my opinion. Even though this one said it could be read as a standalone, I felt like I was missing a few things from other books like maybe some development between these two characters. Also, I have only read one or two of the fake dating trope books but the concept in this one seemed a little farfetched. I would recommend checking the trigger warnings for this one. There is reference to physical and emotional abuse off page.
Lyric is happy with her life. She divorced her abusive husband several years ago and has decided that she is good being single. She is going to focus on her yoga students and that is that. But she was so tempted to say yes when Thatch asked her out. And now one of her students is in a suspect relationship so maybe having Thatch as a fake BF to be able to get closer to her student will help. She doesn't want someone else to experience what she did in her relationship. But her and Thatch didn't really think this through. Her friends all now know about them and seem beyond excited and were wondering when this would have happened. Now she realizes that she does like Thatch and she wants to have fun with him while she can. Nothing serious though. The rodeo is in town and her ex is going to be there. Will she be prepared when she runs into him? Will she be able to be the woman Thatch needs her to be? Is she really ready to move on?
Thatch never thought he would settle down some roots. His life has taken a turn from the battlefields with his friends. He is now comfortable in his small town. He has moved on from the scandal that was his ex fiance who is now with his brother. So what if they don't talk anymore? He has his friends and his job. But he wants more. He wants Lyric. She has made it clear she isn't interested, but then she asks to be his fake GF. And the more they are together, the less fake things seem to be. He doesn't want to scare her away, but he wants more from her. He wants forever.
I do like the touch her and die vibes that Thatch was giving off. I liked the mini arc that Lyric experienced with her ex. It takes a lot for someone to confront their demons, and she did it. I appreciated how she helped Thatch come around to moving on from the hurt his brother caused him. Like I said this was an easy story, just nothing wow.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!...more
GAHHHH This book!!! Read this book if you are interested in:
- A brooding hot cowboy/ex marine - Found family that includes 3 other hot cowboys - A wild GAHHHH This book!!! Read this book if you are interested in:
- A brooding hot cowboy/ex marine - Found family that includes 3 other hot cowboys - A wild literal bucking bronco sister who has some CRAZY chemistry with one of said hot cowboys - A reignited flame with the one that got away - Our FMC rising from the ashes to reclaim her life and allll the obstacles being thrown her way - And of course spicy times in the pantry
Davis has been on a mission that is the ranch for the past 6 years since he let her go. HER being Dakota. HIS Dakota. The only woman he will ever be able to see a future with. The woman who he set free so she could be who she wanted to be while sacrificing his heart since it has never been the same. The same Dakota who is now in trouble and needs his help. The same Dakota that he snuck around with that summer and no one can understand what they were to each other. But that was then and this is now. She is back with a twist. She is pregnant with her abusers baby. Does that change how Davis feels about her? Absolutely not. But he has to keep reminding himself that he has a duty to protect her. She doesn't need someone pawing all over her, but then why does she keep teasing him and seem disappointed when he doesn't cave to his feelings? Could she possibly feel for him what he does for her? He realizes he is done hiding what he wants. He is going to put it all on the line for her and hopes that she will end up staying.
Dakota felt like she had it all. She had her bakery. She traveled the world. She had a man who treated her right...until he didn't. Now she is on the run and ends up back in her small town in the arms of the one man she has not been able to stop thinking about for 6 years. The man who let her go and didn't feel for her how she felt about him. The man who is all grown up now and looks better than ever! Of course he is seeing her at her lowest but what does he do? He makes her feel special. He tells her she isn't alone. He makes her hope for something that might not be there between them, but then it happens. The reconnection. The realization that her feelings never went away but have somehow gotten stronger. She is willing to stay and make something of this small town but will he be ok with all that entails now that it's not just her in the picture??
I haven't had the pleasure of reading anything else by Ava yet, but let me tell you that I went and bought Tame the Heart AND borrowed a book from her Nashville series through Kindle Unlimited. I loved everything about this book. The pace was great- there was some angst that didn't last too long. I liked the insecurities that both characters portrayed about themselves, their future, their relationship. It just all felt so realistic given the circumstances. I liked how they each made other better and how much they helped each other with their family struggles they were going through. There was redemption and strength in both of these characters. They were so honest and real with each other which just solidified that they were meant to be.
I also have to say that I LOVED the other characters. I keep going back and forth on which couple I am hoping is next. I think it is going to be Wyatt and Fallon and DAMN I can't wait. The tension between them is palpable. They are air and water with the fine line between love and hate. I would love to see their history and how their relationship has blossomed. And then I am on pins and needles with who will bring Ford to his knees! Will it be the mysterious Savannah? Or someone new? I don't know, but I can't wait!
I want to thank Ava and her team for giving me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review! I hope that you all enjoy this as much as I did :)...more
I felt the pull for a cowboy book and this one delivered! I enjoyed these characters and thought this was a great debut book. I also liked the added sI felt the pull for a cowboy book and this one delivered! I enjoyed these characters and thought this was a great debut book. I also liked the added suspense element in it. This was a true grumpy to sunshine, city girl with a country boy, woman in trouble situation. I liked the dynamics and how much these characters brought the best out of each other. I also secretly love it when these FMCs get tired of the grumpy men not giving in- so what do they do? They go out with said grumpy man's friends in a cute AF outfit and then grumpy man goes caveman. EVERY TIME YALL LOL.
Cecily is at a breaking point. She has lost everything. Her confidence. Her family. Herself. She has finally drawn the line with her husband's abuse. He finally crossed it and with the help of this network she had been in touch with, she has a plan. She is going to be a ranch hand. It doesn't matter that she knows NOTHING about ranches, or cattle, or farming. She wants to start over. She wants to be more than a survivor. She wants to be happy and thrive. She doesn't need a man to help her get there, BUT she can't help notice the cowboy who stops to help her change her tire on the way to said ranch. The same cowboy who happens to be the owner/manager of said ranch. Austin Wells of Wells Ranch. Does he ever smile? Cecily doesn't think so and yet she finds herself going out of her way to try to make him do so. She finds herself wondering what his big hands would feel like on her. She finds herself thinking like a single woman when she isn't even officially separated or divorced yet. And then she feels shame. But her ex has taken up enough of her life. This is her time and she is going to be as alive as she can. She is hoping that Austin will catch up but maybe not.
Austin knows what Cecily represents as soon as he sees her. Someone who could hurt him. Everyone he cares about leaves except for his brother's, but that is only because they HAVE to be here. She is a true city girl. She could get herself hurt. She has no idea how to navigate the treacherous waters of a working ranch OR the workers of said ranch. Austin finds himself wanting to protect her while keeping his distance. He has already gone down the road with a city girl thinking they were on the same page when they weren't. Is Cecily any different? It sure seems like it. She starts hinting at planting some roots. She hints at wanting things with him. She seems to be enjoying herself. But is it all real? Or has he fallen for another person who will leave him? Is he ready to open up and find out?
Cecily came to the ranch broken and within a few days, it was like she shed a skin and became her old self. It was hard reading her justification of her husband's behavior at the time. It gave me more insight into this thought process of what the line is and when to leave. Read the trigger warnings before this one- there is on page domestic abuse. I liked her instant attraction to Austin and then of course how much he fought it and failed in the best way. The spicy scenes were HOT! I also liked the side characters and am looking forward to learning more about them and who they end up with. Once again great debut Bailey!!...more
What a great debut!! This book popped up on my feed, and I was hooked at part time cowboy that is an ex hockey player in a small town OH and brother'sWhat a great debut!! This book popped up on my feed, and I was hooked at part time cowboy that is an ex hockey player in a small town OH and brother's best friend. I think that is my favorite trope (at least that I have read so far). I liked the banter (especially the texts). I liked the family dynamics. I loved the friendships. I liked the aspects of battling grief and the loss of a loved one. I loved how these characters pushed each other to be better. And how they really hadn't thought about each other in a relationship light like ever. It is so fun to read how those dynamic changes ever so slowly. I loved this world and am looking forward to future books with these characters!
Cecilia "Cece" is moving home after a terrible realization that the man she thought she loved is not the man she thought he was at all. What helped her come to that realization was a conversation with her dad right before he died. She decided enough is enough and moved back home to Silver Pines. She needs a job and a plan to keep her going. What she doesn't expect is an immediate interaction with Nash Carter. Her brother's BF and total playboy- at least from what she can remember. She expects him to tease her like he always did but instead he offers her a job at the new and improved hockey rink that he now owns. And teaches kids. And gives back to the community. He doesn't seem to be the same person she knew when she left. Now she can't find herself NOT looking at him at the bar that he owns. Or on the rink that she now works at. She can't help thinking maybe she was wrong. Maybe they should see if this chemistry they are both feeling could go somewhere. But is she ready for a relationship? Who needs a relationship if they can do one night which turns into two and then almost every night. Now she wonders if he is ready for more because she is.
Nash doesn't do relationships. He of all people knows how quickly people can leave your life. He witnessed his parents die in front of him. He has never allowed himself to get that close to a girl to even think about more. But now he can't stop thinking about Cece. How she creates chaos wherever she goes. How she stands up for the people in her life. He can't understand how she would let someone walk all over her life her ex did. He can't understand why he can't stop thinking about her. Or how he wants to kill any man who looks at her. They decide to test out the waters and give each other a night thinking it will quell the hunger between them but of course it only makes it stronger. And now Cece needs him to stand up and show her what she means to him, but is he ready to open up his heart? What if she leaves him too? But what if he never has this connection with another person?
I really liked this slowness of this one. It seemed so real and how they both wondered how other people would help get the thoughts out of their head when it in fact did the opposite. I love the idea of brother's BF- the secrecy. The longing AHH all of it. I liked how they both only started opening up to each other and how they realized they had the real thing but would they fight for it. I also really liked the side characters. Ginger was my fav- her and Cole whenever that happens will be pure fire. I am pumped about Wade and Ivy. Wade seems like he needs a firecracker to help him see the light again. I am also hoping for Olivia and Asher (the fire chief/bartender). I would highly recommend this series if you haven't already read it!! Any recommendations that are similar??...more
I really enjoyed this book and this town! You can read this as a standalone but note that it is book 2 in a series. You now know who ends up with who I really enjoyed this book and this town! You can read this as a standalone but note that it is book 2 in a series. You now know who ends up with who from book 1, but I am intrigued enough to where I may go back and read their story This is a second chance romance with a dash of not good enough vibes.
Delon has been on the rise in the bull riding world until an accident that leaves him unable to ride and unsure about the future. At his first appointment for his knee he runs into Tori, the woman that disappeared without a trace along with his heart seven years ago. The good thing that came out of Tori leaving is his son who he had with his best friend after wallowing about Tori leaving. The bad thing that came out of it are his insecurities about why she left. He knows that he could have handled what they had differently. He was the guy who called when he was back from an event. He never checked in in between with her even though he really wanted to. He never thought to ask for more or to see what she wanted. He didn't fully realize what she meant to him until she was gone. Now she is back and willing to give him another chance, but is she here to lay down roots? Or will she dash away into the night like she did before?
Tori is going through the stages of grief since her husband passed away unexpectedly. Instead of staying and being strong for the family, she runs back "home." Home for her is a little different though since her dad is a senator. Her life has an added element of publicity that she can't stand. A part of her thinks she came back to town for the man she left all those years ago. The man who failed the test she setup for him without even telling him what it was. The man who is now on the broken side too with an unknown future. She is determined to help him get on the other side of this. She is the only one besides his brother who really sees the real man behind the mask. They decide to rekindle their old flame and she is all in making it clear she wants to see where this goes. But Delon has pulled back. He doesn't seem to want to mix her with the other part of his life- his world before she got there. How can she show him that she is where she wants to be?
I really liked the depth of these characters and how they were both broken and found the light together through it. Tori was dealing with the grief of her husband, and Delon is dealing with the grief of his career maybe being over as well as this idea of a perfect family in his head now over since his son's mother is engaged to someone else. This was a little on the slower side which is why it took me a minute to finish, but once I got invested I was in. I am looking forward to reading more about these characters and especially Gil's story!! Of course he is the last one LOL.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! I hope you enjoy this one as much as I did....more
I REALLY REALLY love this series! I like the characters. The buildup. The vulnerability and representation for mental health. The no third act breakupI REALLY REALLY love this series! I like the characters. The buildup. The vulnerability and representation for mental health. The no third act breakup (at least so far). This world and the cowboys aspect. And of course, the connection/chemistry. I can't wait to see how this all pans out on TV- hoping it is as good as the books (fingers crossed).
Wes has had a dream for a minute. He wants to open a hotel on his family's ranch in the old blue house. He has finally gotten approval from his dad and brother and now has an interior designer enroute to see it all through. He goes to the town bar to drop off some ice when he sees her- the girl with the rose sleeve of tattoos in the corner where his dog Waylan is hanging out. The girl who he can't seem to look away from. Especially not when she walks down the hall to the bathroom with invitation in his eyes. He doesn't do things like this but of course he goes and he has the best kiss of his life. Until she freaks and literally runs out of the bar. All he has to know she existed is her bag. He plans to figure out when to give it her when Ada, the ID, walks into his house. And he realizes Ada is the woman from last night. He made out with his ID. And now she has thrown up some massive barriers and made it clear that will not be happening again. But then she moves into the big house down the hall from him. And he catches her lingering gaze on him when he comes back from a run or when they are in the kitchen together. He feels the pull between them and decides to slowly ever so slowly pull the string to see if it unravels.
Ada is so ashamed. She is not the woman who has one night stands like ever. She does not see herself in a good light no thanks to her ex husband who really didn't want anything to do with her in the bedroom. She wants to try things and learn things but is scared. And now she finds out she made out with her new boss. Her new boss who has an 8 pack and a drawl and is 100% a cowboy. Her new boss who admits he has depression to make her feel comfortable about her vulnerabilities. Her new boss who she finds herself wanting to hang out with more and touch more and talk to more. She just wants more. But she has to remind herself there is no future in Rebel Blue. She wants to keep moving onto the next project and do what she loves. There is no way Wes would support her in this effort...would he?
I would highly recommend this series if you haven't already read it. The banter and family interactions are awesome. I loved Brooks and Emmy making appearances and of course Teddy and Gus- can't WAIT for their book at the end of the year. I just know it is going to be everything I want it to be. And how about that drop in this one on book 4- Dusty and Ash- there is some MAD history there. Can't wait for that angst and HEA. Hoping we continue to dig into this world or go into another one. I will be here for it!!...more
OMG Daddy Tripp in all senses of the word. This is a best friend’s brother romance based in a small town with cowboys. What more could you ask for? OhOMG Daddy Tripp in all senses of the word. This is a best friend’s brother romance based in a small town with cowboys. What more could you ask for? Oh and both the FMC and the MMC have been in love with each other for forever but Tripp has been holding back and sending super mixed signals to Magnolia. This was a wonderful read in the Sugarland Creek world.
Magnolia is finally at a point where she is considering moving on from the one man she has always held out hope for. Her best friend’s brother- who she just can’t get a read on. He is hot with her then cold. He teases her endlessly, but she thinks he may have gone home with someone the other night so of course she made the mistake of hooking up with her ex and now she is thinking about moving on all together. But Tripp gets word of this. See Tripp has been punishing himself from a tragedy that he feels responsible for back in high school involving his best friend. He doesn’t think he deserves to be happy. He doesn’t want to bring anything bad into Magnolia’s life but all of that changes when he reads a text from her to his brother Landen. Who is this Thor they are referring to? Does Magnolia really have feelings for him? It’s now or never for Tripp and he decides to FINALLY acknowledge what he has always felt.
And then we have about two weeks of pure bliss. Magnolia feels like she needs to pinch herself by how much Tripp is spoiling her. Their chemistry is off the charts and this feels like more of a forever thing than a just right now fling. She wants to tell him how she really feels but then she takes a pregnancy test and it’s positive. And the worst part is the timeline means it’s not Tripp. So she does what she thinks is best and tries to cut ties with him. She doesn’t want him to bordered with this for the rest of their lives but what she doesn’t realize it that there isn’t anything she can do that will make Tripp walk away from her. He just has to convince her he is in it for the long haul.
Yall these two were the absolute SWEETEST with each other. And how Tripp handled Magnolia’s pregnancy stuff was just absolutely the sweetest. The way he treated her throughout all of this was how any woman would want to be treated- like a true queen of his heart. The spicy scenes were fantastic as well. Like wow Daddy Tripp had me blushing!! I can’t wait for book 3 Landen and his barrel racer who lost her memory :) If you haven’t started this series, I highly recommend it!
Favorites:
The fact that Tripp calls her every flowers but Magnolia except when it’s serious All of their spice scenes especially with the cowboy hat The scrapbook & ending had my heart The movie nights and the way they knew each other so well...more
This book was great yall- this trope was so hot and unexpected. It checked all of the boxes for me - Forbidden Love - Daddy Fisher - Youngest Girl with 4This book was great yall- this trope was so hot and unexpected. It checked all of the boxes for me - Forbidden Love - Daddy Fisher - Youngest Girl with 4 Older Brothers and allll that entails - Cowboys - Hot Spice Scenes - HEA - Glimpse into the next couple
I read the novella for this series which you don't have to do, but it was a nice intro to the world and the characters we are about to be invested in. Noah Hollis is the youngest of the Hollis kids. There are 5 total and she happens to be the only girl. She lives by routine and has no time for dating or one night stands. She is a horse trainer and has proven herself to be one of the better ones out there. Her BF Magnolia, who was just insanely amazing and hilarious, pushes her to be a little more advneturous with her sex life. Which leads to Noah meeting Fisher at the rodeo which leads to them having the best (and only) one night stand she has ever had until she realizes the next morning that he is her ex-boyfriend's dad. Fisher has not time to give her a heads up that he will be working on her family's ranch because Noah straight up ghosts him.
They run into each other on Fisher's first day of work when Noah literally falls into a pile of sh** to avoid talking with him. She eventually tells Fisher why she ghosted him. They agree to just be friends which becomes clear is not possible within the first few hours of working together. They just have too much going on between them that they try to ignore until one night they can't. They decide to try a relationship out that they will keep on the DL until they are ready to tell everyone. At this point Fisher knows he is a goner for Noah. He has never talked about the tragedy of his daughter dying to anyone but her. He has never talked to someone outside of professional help about how he feels he failed his son Jase, her ex. They are laying the foundation for a wonderful long lasting relationship until Jase pulls the rug out from under them by asking Noah to give him and her a second chance. This puts Noah and Fisher in an impossible decision. They make the best decision for them which is also the worst decision. Of course our author ends up throwing some more curveballs their way which make it to where they realize they can't not be together.
I loved the banter between Noah and her siblings. I loved the hotness and chemistry between Noah and Fisher. I loved seeing a broken Fisher come back to life not even realizing that what he needed so badly was someone to give him a second chance. I also LOVED the glimpse we got into book 2- looking at you Tripp and Magnolia. I am PRAYING that I get approved for the ARC!!! If not, I will be reading it on release day in January.
I am in this series for the long haul and looking forward to seeing Noah's brother's come undone by a woman :) If you haven't checked this series out yet, I recommend that you do! Enjoy...more
This was my first MM romance and let me tell you that I cried twice within the first half of the book. This book TUGGED at ALLLL my heart strings. It This was my first MM romance and let me tell you that I cried twice within the first half of the book. This book TUGGED at ALLLL my heart strings. It spans decades in these two's lives and is just soo real- I really enjoyed it.
Wyatt and Easton live in Plum Valley- a town population 560. Wyatt happens to be the only gay guy there (or so he thinks). He realizes he is gay when he is young. He only tells his best friend Easton. Easton is the shy guy who would rather hang out with Wyatt on the ranch looking at the stars then go be social with his classmates. It is Wyatt who pulls him out of his shell. Wyatt who helps him get his first date. Even though it is at this point (age 17) when Wyatt realizes that he is head over heels for his best friend.
Easton meets Becca at a party and after a while decides to give her a chance. She is the only person who has stirred any sort of sexual feelings in him. Him and Becca have been dating for a while with Wyatt in their lives as the third wheel when one night Wyatt is outed at a bar. He runs into someone he hooked up with a few towns over. Wyatt makes the decision to leave. This is when Easton realizes he has feelings for Wyatt but instead of dissecting those feelings and asking him to stay, he understands and respects his friends decision to move on.
They stay in touch. Wyatt flies back for Easton and Becca's wedding but that is really it. Until one day he gets a call from Easton's brother. Becca had their baby but did not survive the birth (cue sobs). Wyatt doesn't even hesitate to come home and be with Easton. He unintentionally moves in and helps Easton raise his son, Will.
It has been 10 years now since they have been roommates. 10 years of Wyatt going out of town for hookups all the while thinking of his BF Easton. He thinks his feelings are not reciprocated until one day Easton walks in on him and another man together (yall this scene was HOT). This is when Easton realizes that he wants Wyatt in a more than friendly way but because he is an idiot (not really) he doesn't think Wyatt wants him back. Wyatt ends up in a relationship and it isn't until Easton finds a letter to Wyatt from his deceased wife claiming Wyatt loved him that Easton begins to hope that there is more to their story. And BOOOYYY is there!
Yall the love these two men have for each other is just WOW. They have such an incredible bond that goes beyond friendship into soulmate territory. They have known each other since they were five but don't end up in a relationship until they are almost 40! The sex scenes were HOT. It was pretty adorable how Easton knew nothing about sex with a guy and how much that turned Wyatt on.
This was a VERY fast read for me. I am looking forward to reading more in the series and hope that you enjoy!!...more
This book was worth all of the hype in my opinion. I am definitely in my small town/cowboy romance era! I really, really enjoyed Luke and Emmy's storyThis book was worth all of the hype in my opinion. I am definitely in my small town/cowboy romance era! I really, really enjoyed Luke and Emmy's story. Sometimes when I am reading romances I enjoy the story and the angst but it seems not as realistic all the time. This story did.
Emmy has broken up with her boyfriend and made the decision to move back home in the past 24 hours. She has told no one except her best friend that she is coming home. Her friend asks no questions and welcomes her home with open arms. Little does anyone know that she has been dusted- she was hurled off of a horse and is now traumatized to get back on. This is soooo challenging for her because she has been riding since she was little.
Enter, Luke Brooks. Emmy's brother Gus's best friend and Emmy's not friend that has been a constant pain in her ass. Emmy runs into Luke on her first night home when she goes out on the town. Her version of Luke from what she can remember is that he is a mess. Hooking up with whoever, making crazy decisions, not settled at all. However, the next morning when she is called home, she realizes that he is now teaching riding lessons at her family's ranch. He owns the best local dive bar in town. He has established roots. Luke immediately picks up on the fact that something is off with Emmy. She seems scared to be around horses- but that can't be right?
Emmy has a panic attack while at work and Luke holds her through it. She breaks down and tells him alll that has happened and what she is working through. This story is about the decision these two make to be just friends- even though they are both realizing that they are seeing each other in a different way now. Their chemistry is through the roof. Luke helps Emmy open back up one horse tack up at a time. At the same time, Luke makes the decision that he wants more but he doesn't want to scare Emmy away. He opens up to her and shows her things and shares things with her he hasn't shown anyone including her brother.
The moment that almost passed by was gut wrenching BUT then they both made the decision to not walk away. Their tension combusted in the best way. Yall the dirty talk in this book was INSANELY amazing. Luke is a naughty, hot cowboy who wears muscle tees and makes Emmy coo like a canary. The spice level was amazing. They both realize they are treading on bigger feelings, but Emmy is hesitant to tell her fam. They don't know how Gus is going to react, but in the meantime they enjoy each other's company.
I liked how there wasn't a break up moment in this book. Their feelings kept growing and growing and everyone around them (except Gus) were waiting for them to come out and admit their feelings for each other. This story shows how someone can have such a huge effect on another person if you let them in.
"I couldn't believe the universe was so big, and I got placed on this random floating rock at the same time as Clementine Ryde." SWOON.
I can't wait to read book 2 and HOPEFULLY, Gus and Tyler's story. There is definitely something there. Happy reading :)...more
I legit keep kicking myself for putting off reading this series for so long. I have convinced myself it's because I have heard they are so good so I aI legit keep kicking myself for putting off reading this series for so long. I have convinced myself it's because I have heard they are so good so I am trying to savor them BUT that philosophy has changed. I am nor diving in head first and plan on reading them ALL ASAP. OMG Cade and Willa. These books straight up get me hot and bothered in the absolute best way. I have Cade's thought of being jealous of a bathing suit in my head on a loop. These two were DYNAMITE! I loved Willa's carefree outlook on everything. She was the legit definition of a wild red head that RADIATES sunshine. She was not intimidated. She stood up for the people she loved. Her and Luke at the pool scene- I want a friend like her in my life. Loyal to a fault. And then we have our grump- Cade. Or as I now know him as Daddy Cade. This man who has bottled up all he is feeling because of how much Talia messed with his head. This man who has put so much on his shoulders and is scared to open up. This man who is such a good dad. Their meet cute was HILARIOUS- and the panty bandit at the end...I just can't. Elsie you are a genius.
Willa is living life. Her brother has closed down her job temporarily while he does renovations. She doesn't know what she is going to be doing for the foreseeable future until her BF Summer calls and asks for a favor. Can she come to Chestnut Springs and babysit? What Summer fails to mention is that she has spun Willa as a kid whisperer when in fact Willa has never in her life babysat children. She has been a bartender for a minute which is nothing to laugh about. Cade doesn't seem to give her the time of day so she pours her focus into Luke and making sure she follows Cade's long list of do's and don'ts....OR NOT haha. The longer that Willa is living under his roof though the more tension keeps building between her and Cade. The more she starts to see underneath his grumpiness. She starts to think she is seeing things that aren't there when things get interesting in a truth or dare game in the hot tub. Now Willa starts thinking about what things could look like if she crossed that line with him? Will he make the move? He seems like too much of a rule follower. And then he does the worst- he follows the freaking rules. Willa finds herself disappointed until things take a turn for the better and she finds herself at the mercy of Daddy Cade. She quickly realizes she may be in over her head with this man who treats her like a queen but she doesn't know what she wants. Then another wrench is thrown their way- the last thing Willa wants is for Cade to not have a say in how they end up together. But what if she wants forever with him? Will he be able to look past what has happened and realize what they have is the real deal?
Cade has had his time. Now his life is about the ranch and Luke. That is all. The time for fun and doing things for himself has flown past him. He doesn't want to take the time to date or put himself out there when things went so wrong with Talia. But he can't seem to look away from Willa, his new nanny who is much younger than him. His new nanny who pushes him in ways he can't remember ever being pushed. Who bucks at his authority. Who makes him laugh and smile. But who most importantly makes Luke laugh and smile. He tries to fight this attraction between them but can't fight it any longer when they play truth or date in the hot tub together. She ends up daring him something he didn't expect- she wants him to do something for him. Go back in the rodeo. He finds himself liking having a supporter around. But he keeps telling himself that he is going to hold her back. So what does he do- he fights it some more. He pushes her away but instantly knows that was wrong. Now he has to make it up to her. Her treats her like the queen she is. He doesn't do casual and he hopes she knows it. Because this heartless man has now become a goner for her. He just hopes that him and Luke will be enough for her wild spirit.
The way that Elsie rights feelings is perfect. She hits things on the head. I could feel the tension between these two and felt like I was in the hot tub with them or in their head when overanalyzing something. It was the little moments in this one that got me- dancing in the kitchen, bedazzling the front porch, climbing a tree, riding a horse to prove a point, pushing Cade to do things for himself, showing up for each other. I just LOVE it when a grump starts to unravel- and Elsie did this one perfectly. I felt a range of emotions in this one- excitement, laughs, hope, joy, a little anger, irritation, angst, contentment, rightness, sadness and then of course overjoyed. If you haven't picked up this series, you need to.
I also want to point out that the audio was EXCELLENT! I can't wait to watch all of the other characters fall as hard as these two with each other. Also the epilogue with Cade's Halloween costume was CHEF'S KISS!!!...more
Instead of diving into Heartless and the rest of Chestnut Springs, I wanted to dive into the Gold Rush series with these BEAUTIFUL new covers! I was nInstead of diving into Heartless and the rest of Chestnut Springs, I wanted to dive into the Gold Rush series with these BEAUTIFUL new covers! I was not disappointed but am 10000% still looking forward to the rest of Chestnut Springs. It was interesting to read how much I think Elsie's writing has developed from her first book. I really enjoyed this one but could see how she had gotten better in reading Flawless. Man does she have the angst down though! I have really enjoyed her characters and her world building in both of these intro books. Here we are introduced to Billie and Vaughn who are both broken and going through it under different circumstances. I loved how Elsie wove this story of misunderstanding which led to enemies to lovers and more. Neither of these characters thought they could be anything other than what they were at the beginning of this book but they both transformed together. It was pretty magical! I felt a lot while reading this- I smiled and smirked. I laughed. I was nervous and anxious and then HOT. I then caught myself smiling a lot before I kind of broke and then full circle to SMILING.
Vaughn is one wrong decision away from losing the ranch. It is covered in scandal after it has come out that his grandfather, the man he looked up to most growing up, was found fixing races. Now he is gone and Vaughn and his brother are left to pick up the pieces. He trusts his number one to find someone who can help him with the vision and getting these horses race ready to put Gold Rush back on the map. He is not expecting Billie Black. He thinks Billie will be a man of great reputation with a world of experience behind him. What he gets is a woman who looks super young and has the sass to match. She is not mature. She is reckless and loud and brash. At the same time, he can't stop looking at her body and is caught off guard by how beautiful. He hires her with ridiculous expectations that NO ONE could meet. Yet somehow he thinks she might. She is stuck with the one horse that no one can touch. And somehow she gets the horse to open up. Vaughn is witnessing a massive change in not just the horse but himself all because of this woman who he decides he wants more with. They tiptoe around each other until things explode in the best way. Now they are on their way to race after race and when Vaughn receives a proposal he can't turn down he loses Billie. When he finally figures out how to fix it, he hopes he isn't too late.
Billie has EVERYTHING to prove. Her family's name is a disgrace in her country but she has been able to sneak around on the sly for a bit. She has been able to make a name for herself in the horsing world. She is excited about this opportunity at Gold Rush. She is used to men like Vaughn who flaunt themselves like they are kings. She is ready to accept the gauntlet he throws her way. What she is not ready for is the man underneath the mask. The man who she now cooks dinner for pretty regularly. The man who has not dealt with the grief of his grandfather. The man who starts to open up to her and who kisses her. The man who she now wants more with. But she knows once this line is crossed it is hard to backtrack. So she fights it for as long as she can. But she is only human. Now they have a future. She can see it in the ranch, in the horse. They will stick together but then Vaughn does what every man has done in her life. He chooses something else over her. He thinks it is for the best but now she doesn't know what to think. Is what they had real? Should she take him back?
I definitely recommend this if you are looking for enemies to lovers with a billionaire daddy and a sassy mama. I loved the breadcrumbs for Violet and Cole. Violet being Violet Eaton! I liked her story and intro in this one and can't wait to see what happens with her. ...more
YALL THIS BOOK!!! I am SOOO glad that a bunch of people have been reading this series because I don't know if it would have popped up on my feed otherYALL THIS BOOK!!! I am SOOO glad that a bunch of people have been reading this series because I don't know if it would have popped up on my feed otherwise. I am in LOVE with these characters and the possibilities of this world that Elsie Silver has created. This is definitely one of the best books I have read this year in the small town romance category.
Meet Rhett Eaton- championship bull rider, hard headed, milk hater who due to a comment made that was caught by the media is in time out per his agent, Kip Harrington.
Meet Summer Harrington- Kip's daughter, out of law school and looking to prove herself at the agency as worthy of being there not just because it is her dads.
Summer is tasked with babysitting Rhett for the last 2 months of the regular season leading up to the championship in Vegas. Needless to say, Rhett is NOT a happy camper about this and is the world' biggest grumbler. I loved when he was trying to be a gentlemen while grumbling.
They don't exactly hit it off right away. Summer is trying though, and they both soon realize that they are doing things outside of their roles in this equation. They are going out of their way to have conversations with each other. Summer is getting all kinds of mixed signals from Rhett until one night everything just COMBUSTS! His mouth during their scene was just WOW. I got a little hot and bothered...not gonna lie.
I love in these series how we get to see both perspectives. It just adds a whole other layer to the book that doesn't keep you wondering what the guy is thinking. We also get the uber dirty mouth that is Rhett (swoon). I love how they both showed up for each other in the end and had their HEA.
I have heard book 2 is even better so got it today! Looking forward to more of Chestnut Springs. ...more
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