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The Midnight Cactus #1
The Harder They Ride
He turned me into a woman of extremes, living a life of intense passion and fierce emotions in the rugged landscape of West Texas. When I cried, I drowned. When I loved, I burned. Declan Wilder, a man with a deadly past and a killer smile, made me feel alive like never before. Little did I know that he was a key player in the criminal underground rodeo circuit, where danger and desire went hand in hand. Little did I know, he had been hired to kill me. When he aimed, he destroyed. When he obsessed, he consumed. Our love burned hot, an insatiable fire that threatened to ruin us both in a world of reckless outlaws and high-stakes games. Declan was my forbidden flame, a man with a dark past and a possessive streak that threatened to devour me whole. Still, I ached for him, even if it meant facing the deadly consequences of his criminal ties in the gritty and unpredictable wild of the West. When we fell, we crashed. When he claimed, he ruined . I knew that I was destined to ride the thrilling waves of passion and adventure, even if it meant risking it all on a journey where love, danger, and villains collided. "The Harder They Ride" is a standalone novel with a HEA, no cheating, and no cliffhangers. If you love dark romance, get ready for the twisted tales of small-town romance that no one dares to tell.
This book contains very dark themes that might be triggering for some readers. Please proceed with caution.
This book contains very dark themes that might be triggering for some readers. Please proceed with caution.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 11, 2023
167 people are currently reading
1081 people want to read
About the author
Coralee June
77 books2,996 followersAuthor Coralee June has always been passionate about storytelling and impressed by the influence it has on people and the decisions they make in life. She loves engaging with the projects she works on, diving headfirst into developing real, raw, and relatable characters that are equally flawed and beautiful. Coralee lives in Dallas, Tx with her husband and two daughters. She's been known to frequently indulge in boxed red wine and day-old pizza. When she's not writing, June is reading or substitute teaching at the local middle school.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 224 reviews
June 7, 2025
1/5
What the hell did I just read?
I don’t know if it’s me, the book, my weird reading slump because I’ve DNFed too many books recently, or the fact that it’s the end of my dark romances era. The last one seems least likely, because that era has been going strong for at least six years. Final decision? It’s the book. I’ve come to the conclusion that I can only enjoy dark romances where the heroine is strong, likeable, smart, and has at least some self-respect. For example like Lana Myers from the Mindf*ck Series (Mindf*ck, #1-5). Not the one that says one thing, and does another.
Let’s start with the fact that I thought I was going to like this book. Unfortunately, the more I read, the more I couldn’t decide whether to laugh or be horrified. Maybe it was my mistake for thinking a cowboy dark mafia romance would work for me. Spoiler: it didn’t.
At this point, it’s easier to write in points what I didn’t like about this book. Quick note: this is just my opinion. I was fully aware of the trigger warnings, and they weren’t the problem—I’ve read some weird and dark stuff in my life. So moving on.
one I couldn’t take seriously the fact that this was a cowboy dark mafia romance. I really tried to imagine men in a small cowboy town being all mafia, bad, and scary… and I just ended up laughing. What will they do to me? Send some horses after me? Sure, they did some shady stuff in the book, but that was still my main thought.
two The heroine’s behavior made me almost throw my Kindle out the window. Her father was involved with “the mafia” in her small town and died. Then some weird, shady—but obviously hot—guy approached her, who was a walking, talking red flag. And even though she knew she should avoid him, she just… didn’t.
If he at least sounded mysterious, hot, and sexy, maybe I’d be like, “Okay girl, I kinda get you.” But no. He sounded cringey, annoying, and like a frat bro who only wants into your pants. When he approached her for the first time, I was literally like “Please don’t tell me that’s her love interest.”
And the cherry on top? She had a car accident, and he just so happens to appear next to her on his "sexy black bike". She was on her way to visit a friend, and although she’d known this guy for less than an hour and had doubts, she still went back with him. Without even texting her friend. Girl. Be serious. Inform your friend. Or the part where she told her sister one thing… and did the opposite.
I don’t want to talk about her anymore, so moving next.
three If I read a romance book I need to literally salivate about the hero, because real life men suck. Declan, unfortunately sucked too. I kept hoping some better man would show up and steal her away. Seriously. I laughed when he said she belonged to him—after knowing her for four days.
They were literally standing in the middle of nowhere.
Then a second later.
Then a second later.
Damn man.
I found the fact that they didn't even know each other twenty-four hours in total, but he said things like that quite funny.
The next thing—this actually made me angry and furious and angry and furious. She was
r***d (not by hero), and Declan thought that tying her would be a good idea. Indeed a mastermind.
The last thing.
It was girl. It was.
four I couldn’t take the book seriously when it was basically build like that:
A cheesy, cringy conversation.
Then a deep description about how mysterious and sexi he is or how amazing and deep they connectiom is—even though they know each other max an hour.
A cheesy, cringy conversation.
And so on.
In conclusion, my first and last book my this author.
What the hell did I just read?
I don’t know if it’s me, the book, my weird reading slump because I’ve DNFed too many books recently, or the fact that it’s the end of my dark romances era. The last one seems least likely, because that era has been going strong for at least six years. Final decision? It’s the book. I’ve come to the conclusion that I can only enjoy dark romances where the heroine is strong, likeable, smart, and has at least some self-respect. For example like Lana Myers from the Mindf*ck Series (Mindf*ck, #1-5). Not the one that says one thing, and does another.
Let’s start with the fact that I thought I was going to like this book. Unfortunately, the more I read, the more I couldn’t decide whether to laugh or be horrified. Maybe it was my mistake for thinking a cowboy dark mafia romance would work for me. Spoiler: it didn’t.
At this point, it’s easier to write in points what I didn’t like about this book. Quick note: this is just my opinion. I was fully aware of the trigger warnings, and they weren’t the problem—I’ve read some weird and dark stuff in my life. So moving on.
one I couldn’t take seriously the fact that this was a cowboy dark mafia romance. I really tried to imagine men in a small cowboy town being all mafia, bad, and scary… and I just ended up laughing. What will they do to me? Send some horses after me? Sure, they did some shady stuff in the book, but that was still my main thought.
two The heroine’s behavior made me almost throw my Kindle out the window. Her father was involved with “the mafia” in her small town and died. Then some weird, shady—but obviously hot—guy approached her, who was a walking, talking red flag. And even though she knew she should avoid him, she just… didn’t.
If he at least sounded mysterious, hot, and sexy, maybe I’d be like, “Okay girl, I kinda get you.” But no. He sounded cringey, annoying, and like a frat bro who only wants into your pants. When he approached her for the first time, I was literally like “Please don’t tell me that’s her love interest.”
And the cherry on top? She had a car accident, and he just so happens to appear next to her on his "sexy black bike". She was on her way to visit a friend, and although she’d known this guy for less than an hour and had doubts, she still went back with him. Without even texting her friend. Girl. Be serious. Inform your friend. Or the part where she told her sister one thing… and did the opposite.
“Avery, you need to be careful,” I said sternly. “You can’t just go around getting involved with dangerous men and bull riding. You could get seriously hurt.”
I don’t want to talk about her anymore, so moving next.
three If I read a romance book I need to literally salivate about the hero, because real life men suck. Declan, unfortunately sucked too. I kept hoping some better man would show up and steal her away. Seriously. I laughed when he said she belonged to him—after knowing her for four days.
“Out here in the open. You belong to me—and I want the world to know it.”
They were literally standing in the middle of nowhere.
Then a second later.
“You’re not staying.”
“I’m not.” But that didn’t mean she couldn’t come with me."
Then a second later.
“What do you want from me?” she asked, her voice barely a whisper. I smiled.
“I want everything,”
Damn man.
I found the fact that they didn't even know each other twenty-four hours in total, but he said things like that quite funny.
"Today, I’d paint the ground a bloody red for her. I’d tear the world apart for her. I’d serve up vengeance on a silver platter for her."
The next thing—this actually made me angry and furious and angry and furious. She was
r***d (not by hero), and Declan thought that tying her would be a good idea. Indeed a mastermind.
“Safe? You’ve tied me up!” she cried, her voice choked with fear. She was desperate, struggling to make sense of the madness unfolding around her.
“Yes, and I won’t apologize for it,” I replied simply. “You’ll understand someday, Clover. But for now, you need to stay here. For your own safety.”
The last thing.
"But I was r***d. I was fucking r***d, and then right after, Declan did something that felt a whole fucking lot like r**e but maybe wasn’t."
It was girl. It was.
four I couldn’t take the book seriously when it was basically build like that:
A cheesy, cringy conversation.
Then a deep description about how mysterious and sexi he is or how amazing and deep they connectiom is—even though they know each other max an hour.
A cheesy, cringy conversation.
And so on.
In conclusion, my first and last book my this author.
July 13, 2023
3 Sowing Chaos Stars ⭐
This was a twisted read and not in a great way. There's no denying Declan is enamored by Clover. And nothing says love like killing someone in the name of justice and retribution. He just enjoyed it a little too much for it to be sexy.
I would be her guardian, her sentinel, her avenger. I would be the shadow that lurked in the night, the blade that struck down her enemies, the shield that would protect her from all harm.
Clover and Declan meet at an underground rodeo. While Clover is there to rescue a wayward sibling, Declan is there to settle a score. Two people who shouldn't have met. But temptation and lust lures the best of us.
It's the end of a simple life for Clover. She may not realize but Declan is already obsessed and has laid claim. And with one kiss her fate is determined. You initially think this is an anti hero love story, until Clover gets hurt and the switch flips.
It all felt a little too convenient. It provided Declan the perfect opportunity to unleash his craziness and blood lust; and it was creepy. Where usually I'm rooting for the vigilante, I wanted to be medicated. He was downright deranged and it wasn't desirable. Especially the chain of events that follow.
I'm not opposed to dark romances (even if I don't seek them out) but there needs to be the right balance of disturbed and pleasantry. This missed the mark for me. You should note the triggers of rape and one blood thirsty fucker. It's a shame cos I was excited for this one. 🖤
This was a twisted read and not in a great way. There's no denying Declan is enamored by Clover. And nothing says love like killing someone in the name of justice and retribution. He just enjoyed it a little too much for it to be sexy.
I would be her guardian, her sentinel, her avenger. I would be the shadow that lurked in the night, the blade that struck down her enemies, the shield that would protect her from all harm.
Clover and Declan meet at an underground rodeo. While Clover is there to rescue a wayward sibling, Declan is there to settle a score. Two people who shouldn't have met. But temptation and lust lures the best of us.
It's the end of a simple life for Clover. She may not realize but Declan is already obsessed and has laid claim. And with one kiss her fate is determined. You initially think this is an anti hero love story, until Clover gets hurt and the switch flips.
It all felt a little too convenient. It provided Declan the perfect opportunity to unleash his craziness and blood lust; and it was creepy. Where usually I'm rooting for the vigilante, I wanted to be medicated. He was downright deranged and it wasn't desirable. Especially the chain of events that follow.
I'm not opposed to dark romances (even if I don't seek them out) but there needs to be the right balance of disturbed and pleasantry. This missed the mark for me. You should note the triggers of rape and one blood thirsty fucker. It's a shame cos I was excited for this one. 🖤
September 28, 2023
On a journey to find the name of the person who changed the trajectory of his life, contract unaIiver, Declan Wilder, finds himself taking jobs from Hank, the vile leader of the Dust DeviIs. One such job puts Clover Matthews in his path, linking them inextricably.
What follows is a gritty and oft harsh story of survival and triumph. The Harder They Ride was unexpected in the best ways with the tough-as-nails Clover and the all-in Declan. I really hope we see them pop up in Avery’s book!!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤🖤
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😮😬🤬🥹😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Dark Romance
✨ Tropes: Insta-Obsession, Kidnap/Captive, MINE!, Revenge, Small Town, Touch-Her-and-💀, Who Hurt You
💋 Kinks: Bondage/Restraints, Domination
⚠️ Warning: This steamy read will leave your panties wet and reaching for BOB.
🚩 Safety Squad: Branding, Rapę (Not By H), UnaIiving, VioIençe, and other potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: The Harder They Ride is a standalone.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
What follows is a gritty and oft harsh story of survival and triumph. The Harder They Ride was unexpected in the best ways with the tough-as-nails Clover and the all-in Declan. I really hope we see them pop up in Avery’s book!!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤🖤
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😮😬🤬🥹😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Dark Romance
✨ Tropes: Insta-Obsession, Kidnap/Captive, MINE!, Revenge, Small Town, Touch-Her-and-💀, Who Hurt You
💋 Kinks: Bondage/Restraints, Domination
⚠️ Warning: This steamy read will leave your panties wet and reaching for BOB.
🚩 Safety Squad: Branding, Rapę (Not By H), UnaIiving, VioIençe, and other potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: The Harder They Ride is a standalone.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
December 7, 2023
Listen. I had a fun time. The guy is hot and crazy, and the smut is super hot. Idgaf.
The reason for the deduction of a star is, I didn’t like some of the plot reveals at the end, I wanted more backstory/details about Declan’s victims and why he has to eliminate them, they seemed random and I was so into the story I wanted more details. I also would have liked more stalking from Declan, especially in the beginning. Yes I’m crazy, I know.
NOW what did I like?
Despite what some of the reviews are saying, I thought Clover was a strong FMC in her own way. Women are allowed to be strong in different ways, and I liked that Clover’s character is multifaceted and that she recovers from her trauma in a realistic way. I connected with her a lot.
The smut was really well written too, this is a DARK ROMANCE, and the smut reflects that. It’s excellent.
I also saw some reviewers saying the cowboy/mafia thing was cringy to read. I disagree! I thought it was a refreshing addition to the genre. There are a lot of the “polished, suit wearing” mafia guys in the genre, this was a nice change.
Read if you like:
- Cowboy but make it mafia/dark romance
- He falls first and he’s obsessed with her
- Trauma healing
- “Who hurt you?”
- He’s a mafia hitman
- No third act breakups
Also I read this in a day, so it’s clearly a binge worthy, possible reading slump fix, kind of book. Definitely recommend. I can’t wait for Avery’s book!
Spice:
The reason for the deduction of a star is, I didn’t like some of the plot reveals at the end, I wanted more backstory/details about Declan’s victims and why he has to eliminate them, they seemed random and I was so into the story I wanted more details. I also would have liked more stalking from Declan, especially in the beginning. Yes I’m crazy, I know.
NOW what did I like?
Despite what some of the reviews are saying, I thought Clover was a strong FMC in her own way. Women are allowed to be strong in different ways, and I liked that Clover’s character is multifaceted and that she recovers from her trauma in a realistic way. I connected with her a lot.
The smut was really well written too, this is a DARK ROMANCE, and the smut reflects that. It’s excellent.
I also saw some reviewers saying the cowboy/mafia thing was cringy to read. I disagree! I thought it was a refreshing addition to the genre. There are a lot of the “polished, suit wearing” mafia guys in the genre, this was a nice change.
Read if you like:
- Cowboy but make it mafia/dark romance
- He falls first and he’s obsessed with her
- Trauma healing
- “Who hurt you?”
- He’s a mafia hitman
- No third act breakups
Also I read this in a day, so it’s clearly a binge worthy, possible reading slump fix, kind of book. Definitely recommend. I can’t wait for Avery’s book!
Spice:
July 12, 2023
I’m not mad I’m just disappointed.
I really really wanted to like it.
This started out really strong and then just fell apart
My biggest issue with this book aside from the WEAK frankly bad women in this book was the SA that happens only serves to make the MMC kill some dudes. It gets swept under rug and had ZERO bearing to the story or the relationship. The fact that the SA scene was more detail the any of the other spicy scenes just felt… trashy to me.
Also it takes places in like 8 days. It all felt rushed.
Things I loved
- dark cowboys
I really really wanted to like it.
This started out really strong and then just fell apart
My biggest issue with this book aside from the WEAK frankly bad women in this book was the SA that happens only serves to make the MMC kill some dudes. It gets swept under rug and had ZERO bearing to the story or the relationship. The fact that the SA scene was more detail the any of the other spicy scenes just felt… trashy to me.
Also it takes places in like 8 days. It all felt rushed.
Things I loved
- dark cowboys
July 12, 2023
I will be honest with you... I haven't gotten into the cowboy or western reads, so I was hesitant starting this book, but it's CoraLee, so of course I had to dive in.. && OMG.. she OF COURSE did not disappoint. I absolutely loved the characters..like they were great. I felt like I could picture the scenes in my head (like a movie) as I read it. Would definitely recommend.
July 11, 2023
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Trope: captive, cowboy
Angst: 😱😱😱1/2
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Declan Wilder, contract killer, is searching for information about the death of his mother and the leader of the Dust Devil, a mafia like organization in a small western town can give it to him - for a price. The price includes knocking off a judge, but firmly plants Clover Matthews in his path and at risk of being a casualty. But once Declan meets Clover, the objective becomes muddled and he vows to keep her safe at any cost.
The Harder They Ride definitely fell under the "different" category for me. I found it to be kind of a weird juxtaposition of dark romance combined with a flowery and angsty writing style that didn't quite match, but somehow Coralee made it work . The storyline was interesting and it was fast paced with tons of action and suspense. Declan is definitely an OTT ride to crazy town, but you can't help but fall him despite all his questionable decision making skills, lol, especially when it comes to Clover. I love when my antiheroes are unapologetically themselves and NOT going to change and Declan certainly fit that bill. I didn't like Clover as much, I thought she was kind of all over the place emotionally and a bit of a victim, but I think maybe she needed to be in order to need Declan so much? Overall, The Harder They Ride was different, but would definitely recommend to dark romance fans and am looking forward to seeing what's next!
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
Trope: captive, cowboy
Angst: 😱😱😱1/2
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Declan Wilder, contract killer, is searching for information about the death of his mother and the leader of the Dust Devil, a mafia like organization in a small western town can give it to him - for a price. The price includes knocking off a judge, but firmly plants Clover Matthews in his path and at risk of being a casualty. But once Declan meets Clover, the objective becomes muddled and he vows to keep her safe at any cost.
The Harder They Ride definitely fell under the "different" category for me. I found it to be kind of a weird juxtaposition of dark romance combined with a flowery and angsty writing style that didn't quite match, but somehow Coralee made it work . The storyline was interesting and it was fast paced with tons of action and suspense. Declan is definitely an OTT ride to crazy town, but you can't help but fall him despite all his questionable decision making skills, lol, especially when it comes to Clover. I love when my antiheroes are unapologetically themselves and NOT going to change and Declan certainly fit that bill. I didn't like Clover as much, I thought she was kind of all over the place emotionally and a bit of a victim, but I think maybe she needed to be in order to need Declan so much? Overall, The Harder They Ride was different, but would definitely recommend to dark romance fans and am looking forward to seeing what's next!
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
Read
July 14, 2023DNF at 25%
July 11, 2023
This is Declan and Clover's story.. It was a bloody wild ride so saddle up and get ready to ride!
With him giving her the nickname Wildflower, you'd think that he'd be a soft teddy bear. THINK AGAIN! There was nothing soft or half assed with this dude, at all. Coralee mentioned this book was gonna be one of her darkerst.. I'd have to agree. At least with parts. She for sure wrote someone unhinged and beyond possessive.
This story is about 2 broken people finding themselves again. Truly in the most unconventional way. Leading each other back from the brink.. with force, with trust, with heart. Check the triggers because this one won't be for every reader... but if you're looking for an OTT hero this is your dark summer read!!
I don't read westerns or cowboy themed books, but if they are like this one.. sign me up for more!
With him giving her the nickname Wildflower, you'd think that he'd be a soft teddy bear. THINK AGAIN! There was nothing soft or half assed with this dude, at all. Coralee mentioned this book was gonna be one of her darkerst.. I'd have to agree. At least with parts. She for sure wrote someone unhinged and beyond possessive.
This story is about 2 broken people finding themselves again. Truly in the most unconventional way. Leading each other back from the brink.. with force, with trust, with heart. Check the triggers because this one won't be for every reader... but if you're looking for an OTT hero this is your dark summer read!!
I don't read westerns or cowboy themed books, but if they are like this one.. sign me up for more!
June 30, 2023
I am now in my crazy cowboy era! I loved Declan so much he was the perfect mix of psycho and passionate. I was not expecting the twist at the end but I won’t spoil that for anyone you’ll just have to read to figure it out. Clover was an amazing FMC she grew from a worrying sister who wasn’t living for herself to a strong determined woman who survived and triumphed. Coralee has truly outdone herself with this book and I cannot wait for Avery’s book!!
August 20, 2023
Y’all I love Coralee but wtf was this . Check TW/CW and no didn’t mean no idk , it read weird AF to me . 1 star for cover and 1 for the sis staying on that fucking bull . Bravo Avery .
July 15, 2023
3.5 stars. This is a dark cowboy romance. It’s got an underground rodeo, a cowboy mafia called “The Dust Devils,” a cowboy hitman hero, a cactus used as a murder weapon. If this all sounds over the top, yep! I wouldn’t say it’s amazing. But I mostly enjoyed it.
It kind of reminded me of The Devil. The plots aren’t similar, and that story is better than this book. But just in the sense of how The Devil begins by making you think it’s a taboo romance between a girl and her step-dad, then suddenly there’s MM, then murder: it escalates, and keeps shifting your expectations of what kind of story it is. In a similar way, this book begins by making you think it’s one type of story, but then it escalates, and shifts.
Declan is a contract killer passing through this Texas town, doing a job for the head of the local cowboy mafia. (What, like your town doesn't have a cowboy mafia?!). Clover is 24, and has a horse ranch and a trail-guide business. She struggles with bills and is constantly stressed out. She ends up being Declan’s assigned hit. By that point, they’ve already met and flirted.
Their banter and flirting at the beginning is generic. It's not as good as it needs to be. Especially considering where their relationship goes next, I needed their connection at the start to feel stronger. But, still, I was onboard for the angst of this being a story where a hitman falls for his target! But then, this takes a turn, and starts escalating and getting bonkers.
I wasn’t expecting this book to spiral and get this unhinged. But it wasn’t a bad surprise. My issue is that I wish their relationship was more fleshed out before he got obsessed with her. They only had a handful of interactions before that – maybe 3 scenes! I like an obsessive hero. But I need some psychological depth to it. Their relationship wasn’t totally surface-level, I've read books that are worse in that way. But it was missing something.
I also KNOW this author can do better, because she also wrote an obsessive hero in A Lovely Obsession: The Complete Debt of Passion Duet, but there was more depth and background to that hero’s obsession than Declan had in this.
Too many dark romances have heroes who are obsessed with their heroines Just Because, making the relationship feel undercooked at best, and making it feel like insta-love at worst. Now, this book joins their ranks. I don’t need an elaborate reason, but I do need a reason! For example, one of my favorite unhinged obsessive heroes is Nick from Dukes of Ruin. He got obsessed with his heroine when he insulted her and she responded by kicking him in the face. Also, he spent a while in close proximity to her while he was a mobster’s soldier, and he viewed her as his one good thing during that time. That is BACKGROUND for his obsession, and reasons for it! THIS book could have used more of that.
Anyway, if you want a dark cowboy read with an obsessive hero – where the book starts off kind of normal, then escalates into the hero holding bags of 6 severed heads –this book delivers! Even though it could have been better, I'll probably still read Avery's book when it comes out.
It kind of reminded me of The Devil. The plots aren’t similar, and that story is better than this book. But just in the sense of how The Devil begins by making you think it’s a taboo romance between a girl and her step-dad, then suddenly there’s MM, then murder: it escalates, and keeps shifting your expectations of what kind of story it is. In a similar way, this book begins by making you think it’s one type of story, but then it escalates, and shifts.
Declan is a contract killer passing through this Texas town, doing a job for the head of the local cowboy mafia. (What, like your town doesn't have a cowboy mafia?!). Clover is 24, and has a horse ranch and a trail-guide business. She struggles with bills and is constantly stressed out. She ends up being Declan’s assigned hit. By that point, they’ve already met and flirted.
Their banter and flirting at the beginning is generic. It's not as good as it needs to be. Especially considering where their relationship goes next, I needed their connection at the start to feel stronger. But, still, I was onboard for the angst of this being a story where a hitman falls for his target! But then, this takes a turn, and starts escalating and getting bonkers.
I wasn’t expecting this book to spiral and get this unhinged. But it wasn’t a bad surprise. My issue is that I wish their relationship was more fleshed out before he got obsessed with her. They only had a handful of interactions before that – maybe 3 scenes! I like an obsessive hero. But I need some psychological depth to it. Their relationship wasn’t totally surface-level, I've read books that are worse in that way. But it was missing something.
I also KNOW this author can do better, because she also wrote an obsessive hero in A Lovely Obsession: The Complete Debt of Passion Duet, but there was more depth and background to that hero’s obsession than Declan had in this.
Too many dark romances have heroes who are obsessed with their heroines Just Because, making the relationship feel undercooked at best, and making it feel like insta-love at worst. Now, this book joins their ranks. I don’t need an elaborate reason, but I do need a reason! For example, one of my favorite unhinged obsessive heroes is Nick from Dukes of Ruin. He got obsessed with his heroine when he insulted her and she responded by kicking him in the face. Also, he spent a while in close proximity to her while he was a mobster’s soldier, and he viewed her as his one good thing during that time. That is BACKGROUND for his obsession, and reasons for it! THIS book could have used more of that.
Anyway, if you want a dark cowboy read with an obsessive hero – where the book starts off kind of normal, then escalates into the hero holding bags of 6 severed heads –this book delivers! Even though it could have been better, I'll probably still read Avery's book when it comes out.
July 14, 2023
'Finding Peace in the Chaos'
Declan and Clover were everything and more. Brought together by chance, driven together by a magnetic pull and an extreme possessive need to become apart of someone; These two were written in the red-flag stars and I loved it!
In a small Texan town, where the Dust Devils gang basically were law, bull riding was what most people did for fun. When Clover went in search for her free-spirit sister at the bull rides, she literally bumped into Declan and before she knew it, that was it.
Declan, who was just passing through on a job for the Dust Devils, is the guy no mother wants you near. Beautiful. Dark. Dangerous. When Clover's path crosses his, the unmistakable pull is instantaneous.
This book was dark and filled with solemnness and so much turmoil I wasn't sure where it was all going. Their pasts have made them who they are, but can they be more together? When Clover is raped, it sets off everything Declan knows and soon, his act to make the ones responsible suffer, drives him to madness.
Without giving too much away, their push and pull and Declan's special brand of crazy were consuming. I wanted nothing more than to keep reading about these characters and see what was going to happen next.
These "red-flag" boyfriends are my new favorite and I absolutely loved Declan's possessiveness and need to be utterly consumed by Clover. The book ended in the most perfect way and I cant wait to read about Avery!!!
"The truth was ugly. It was a raw, open wound, one that I'd carried around for years..."
"...both of us were lost, adrift in our haunted pasts..."
"Wildflowers were resilient. They grew against all odds. And I'd fucking watch her bloom."
"I had never felt more alive. I had never felt more destroyed. More owned. More devastated. More...more...more..."
*Overall 5/5
*Heat? 4/5
*Med burn
*Dual first person POV
*Dark Romance
*Ends on HEA
Declan and Clover were everything and more. Brought together by chance, driven together by a magnetic pull and an extreme possessive need to become apart of someone; These two were written in the red-flag stars and I loved it!
In a small Texan town, where the Dust Devils gang basically were law, bull riding was what most people did for fun. When Clover went in search for her free-spirit sister at the bull rides, she literally bumped into Declan and before she knew it, that was it.
Declan, who was just passing through on a job for the Dust Devils, is the guy no mother wants you near. Beautiful. Dark. Dangerous. When Clover's path crosses his, the unmistakable pull is instantaneous.
This book was dark and filled with solemnness and so much turmoil I wasn't sure where it was all going. Their pasts have made them who they are, but can they be more together? When Clover is raped, it sets off everything Declan knows and soon, his act to make the ones responsible suffer, drives him to madness.
Without giving too much away, their push and pull and Declan's special brand of crazy were consuming. I wanted nothing more than to keep reading about these characters and see what was going to happen next.
These "red-flag" boyfriends are my new favorite and I absolutely loved Declan's possessiveness and need to be utterly consumed by Clover. The book ended in the most perfect way and I cant wait to read about Avery!!!
"The truth was ugly. It was a raw, open wound, one that I'd carried around for years..."
"...both of us were lost, adrift in our haunted pasts..."
"Wildflowers were resilient. They grew against all odds. And I'd fucking watch her bloom."
"I had never felt more alive. I had never felt more destroyed. More owned. More devastated. More...more...more..."
*Overall 5/5
*Heat? 4/5
*Med burn
*Dual first person POV
*Dark Romance
*Ends on HEA
July 18, 2023
Rating: ☆☆☆☆ Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Angst: 💔💔💔💔
Cliffhanger? ❌️
Do I recommend it? Only if triggers don't stop you.
TW: ☠️☠️☠️
Tropes: dark cowboy romance, Rodeo, enemies-to-lovers, small town, forbidden, opposites attract, boy obsessed, touch her & die, mafia hitman, Instalove, forced engagement, OTT Obsessed
Clover Matthews was a woman of extremes, living a life of intense passion and fierce emotions in the rugged landscape of West Texas. When she cried, she drowned. When she loved, she burned. And when she met Declan Wilder, a man with a dangerous past and a killer smile, she felt alive like never before. Little did she know he was a key player in the criminal underground rodeo circuit, where danger and desire went hand in hand. When he aimed, he destroyed. When he obsessed, he consumed. Their love was an insatiable fire that threatened to destroy them in a world of lawless men and high-stakes games. Declan was her forbidden flame in a world of responsibility. He was utterly obsessed with her, and wanted to possess her in every way. Despite her fear of the deadly consequences, she ached for him. Clover knew she was destined to ride the thrilling waves of passion and adventure, even if it meant risking it all on a journey where love, danger, and villains collide.
First and foremost, please check the trigger warnings before reading this story as it is trigger HEAVY! There were parts that I truly struggled getting through and I don't especially have triggers. It was just about impossible to put down but once I reached the end, I struggled with how to review it. I loved everything about Declan but I didn't know how much I agreed with Clover being the right partner for him. Her words and actions didn't always match. It was impossible to predict what would take place. Declan took obsession to a level I'd never come across before. My emotions were everywhere as I rode this wild as hell ride. I cheered Clover on as she fought to regain her power and as Declan got his shot at redemption. If the triggers don't stop you, I think this is worth a try. This is my honest opinion, freely given.
Angst: 💔💔💔💔
Cliffhanger? ❌️
Do I recommend it? Only if triggers don't stop you.
TW: ☠️☠️☠️
Tropes: dark cowboy romance, Rodeo, enemies-to-lovers, small town, forbidden, opposites attract, boy obsessed, touch her & die, mafia hitman, Instalove, forced engagement, OTT Obsessed
Clover Matthews was a woman of extremes, living a life of intense passion and fierce emotions in the rugged landscape of West Texas. When she cried, she drowned. When she loved, she burned. And when she met Declan Wilder, a man with a dangerous past and a killer smile, she felt alive like never before. Little did she know he was a key player in the criminal underground rodeo circuit, where danger and desire went hand in hand. When he aimed, he destroyed. When he obsessed, he consumed. Their love was an insatiable fire that threatened to destroy them in a world of lawless men and high-stakes games. Declan was her forbidden flame in a world of responsibility. He was utterly obsessed with her, and wanted to possess her in every way. Despite her fear of the deadly consequences, she ached for him. Clover knew she was destined to ride the thrilling waves of passion and adventure, even if it meant risking it all on a journey where love, danger, and villains collide.
First and foremost, please check the trigger warnings before reading this story as it is trigger HEAVY! There were parts that I truly struggled getting through and I don't especially have triggers. It was just about impossible to put down but once I reached the end, I struggled with how to review it. I loved everything about Declan but I didn't know how much I agreed with Clover being the right partner for him. Her words and actions didn't always match. It was impossible to predict what would take place. Declan took obsession to a level I'd never come across before. My emotions were everywhere as I rode this wild as hell ride. I cheered Clover on as she fought to regain her power and as Declan got his shot at redemption. If the triggers don't stop you, I think this is worth a try. This is my honest opinion, freely given.
Want to read
July 14, 2023DNFing this book at 48%.
Good dark romance to me is so much more than this. I am fine with all of the triggers here, and was fully prepared. But there's been very very little character development. And what happens when you miss character development is that you legitimately have a hard time as a reader forgiving the villain for what he does. And a hard time understanding why the FMC allows it. Also, I have literally no idea why they are attracted to each other or "obsessed" with each other.
Also, I would be remiss if I didn't mention that the writing in this book was poor. Doubled up sentences, sentence structure issues, you name it. It needs a solid edit.
Pretty disappointed. I was really into the idea of a dark cowboy romance.
Good dark romance to me is so much more than this. I am fine with all of the triggers here, and was fully prepared. But there's been very very little character development. And what happens when you miss character development is that you legitimately have a hard time as a reader forgiving the villain for what he does. And a hard time understanding why the FMC allows it. Also, I have literally no idea why they are attracted to each other or "obsessed" with each other.
Also, I would be remiss if I didn't mention that the writing in this book was poor. Doubled up sentences, sentence structure issues, you name it. It needs a solid edit.
Pretty disappointed. I was really into the idea of a dark cowboy romance.
August 14, 2023
I’m between 2.75-3⭐️ bc this was TOO insta everything for me!🤨🤔
July 11, 2023
Dark Romance is definitely my addiction and when Coralee June wrote a dark cowboy romance, I knew it will be a must read. Set in a Texas rodeo underworld, The Harder They Ride gives us an unapologetically twisted antohero. Forget morally grey. Declan Wilder is darkest of the dark. Clover with her sweetness and innocence stands in complete contrast to our rugged deviant antihero. But she has a hidden part that thrives on darkness too. Can you fall in love with a killer and a stalker who goes to crazy length to protect you? Let's find out in The Harder They Ride.
Declan Wilder , the notorious killer for hire, needs information about his mother’s murderer and leader of the Dust Devils can give it to him. But he has to do some tasks for the dark corrupt evil rodeo criminal boss. His path crosses with Clover and he is instantly attracted to her light. He will protect her at any cost..Even if it means stalking her and chasing her and taking over her life. Clover never wanted go mix with Dust Devil's business but Declan won't let her go.
If you are trying to find some sense of remorse or guilt in Declan for his questionable methods..don't. You won't find any. And here comes my own twisted heart that just swooned when Declan killed the bad men who hurt Clover. I mean you have to love a man who would kill for you without hesitating for a second. You will love his darkness, his cold arrogance, his edgy sex appeal, his ruthless dominance, his calm calculating plans, his larger than life presence...and you will hate how he pushes and pushes Clover. She has been barely living while taking care of her trail guide business and her reckless sister and everything and she tried to avoid risks as much as possible. Declan took her life like a storm. He basically invaded her life and claimed her and refused to set her free even when she repeatedly tried to escape him. She never wanted to fall for a killer but she couldn't deny that Declan made her feel safe and cherished in a dark way. She has own strength that came out when she was in a grave danger and she ultimately saved her and that situation consolidated that their Souls are more aligned than she wanted to accept. The chemistry was pure chaos. Expect all the filthy dirty over the top scenes and all kinds of debauchery. It was full of action and suspense too. The twists and secrets will keep you on edge. And even at the end..I wondered how I adore Declan so much. May be because he is crazy for his woman in an epic way!
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Declan Wilder , the notorious killer for hire, needs information about his mother’s murderer and leader of the Dust Devils can give it to him. But he has to do some tasks for the dark corrupt evil rodeo criminal boss. His path crosses with Clover and he is instantly attracted to her light. He will protect her at any cost..Even if it means stalking her and chasing her and taking over her life. Clover never wanted go mix with Dust Devil's business but Declan won't let her go.
If you are trying to find some sense of remorse or guilt in Declan for his questionable methods..don't. You won't find any. And here comes my own twisted heart that just swooned when Declan killed the bad men who hurt Clover. I mean you have to love a man who would kill for you without hesitating for a second. You will love his darkness, his cold arrogance, his edgy sex appeal, his ruthless dominance, his calm calculating plans, his larger than life presence...and you will hate how he pushes and pushes Clover. She has been barely living while taking care of her trail guide business and her reckless sister and everything and she tried to avoid risks as much as possible. Declan took her life like a storm. He basically invaded her life and claimed her and refused to set her free even when she repeatedly tried to escape him. She never wanted to fall for a killer but she couldn't deny that Declan made her feel safe and cherished in a dark way. She has own strength that came out when she was in a grave danger and she ultimately saved her and that situation consolidated that their Souls are more aligned than she wanted to accept. The chemistry was pure chaos. Expect all the filthy dirty over the top scenes and all kinds of debauchery. It was full of action and suspense too. The twists and secrets will keep you on edge. And even at the end..I wondered how I adore Declan so much. May be because he is crazy for his woman in an epic way!
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Read
August 3, 2023CoraLee June took one look at the over the top possessive OBSESSED book boyfriends and said “hold my beer….and my horse” cause HOLY moly does she deliver the most deliciously dark, psychotically obsessed bull-riding book husband (cause Declan thinks boyfriend is an insult) in The Harder They Ride. This book is the literary equivalent of a bucking bronco, y’all- squeeze your thighs, hang on to your tits, and prepare for a wild ride!
The tropes here are a dark romance lovers playground. A hero so instantly obsessed with his heroine they he woos her, stalks her, and kidnaps and forces her to be his fiancé all in one breathe. Dude is deliciously toxically in love- and our heroine Clover isn’t quite sure what to make of him. Cora has a blast making this guy over the top- with so much “you’re mine” and “who hurt you?” And “touch her and I’ll put your penis in your mom’s mailbox” intensity that you’ll melt, and then wonder if you need therapy. Especially when he really wants to “mark” her as his….
Crazy aside, as always Cora brings more than one layer. The dark bravado of our hero and the Yellowstone soap operatic plot allures and entertains, but underneath the dark candy is a story about surviving. A story about finding safety and empowerment after trauma and violation. Reclaiming oneself, healing, finding POWER in powerless consent…in the dark. To do this story justice the triggers are heavy (and on page), so use caution.
Cora always delivers the unexpected- this is unlike anything she’s written. Entertaining and subversively complex, it’s a wild ride! So save a horse, and ride this story.
The tropes here are a dark romance lovers playground. A hero so instantly obsessed with his heroine they he woos her, stalks her, and kidnaps and forces her to be his fiancé all in one breathe. Dude is deliciously toxically in love- and our heroine Clover isn’t quite sure what to make of him. Cora has a blast making this guy over the top- with so much “you’re mine” and “who hurt you?” And “touch her and I’ll put your penis in your mom’s mailbox” intensity that you’ll melt, and then wonder if you need therapy. Especially when he really wants to “mark” her as his….
Crazy aside, as always Cora brings more than one layer. The dark bravado of our hero and the Yellowstone soap operatic plot allures and entertains, but underneath the dark candy is a story about surviving. A story about finding safety and empowerment after trauma and violation. Reclaiming oneself, healing, finding POWER in powerless consent…in the dark. To do this story justice the triggers are heavy (and on page), so use caution.
Cora always delivers the unexpected- this is unlike anything she’s written. Entertaining and subversively complex, it’s a wild ride! So save a horse, and ride this story.
July 13, 2023
Feels 3
Storyline 5
Steam 4
Overall Rating 5
Y’all!!! What a wild ride?! June nailed it. First of all I love me some cowboys and bull riders. I mean… wrangler jeans…. Yasssss!! Okay back to what I was saying, sorry! 😂 this book was epic.
Declan is crazy. No other way to say it. No way to sugar coat it. He just is. But he’s the best kinda crazy. The protective, honest to a fault, possessive, and oh so alpha type.
Clover at first I struggled to connect a bit. But after I got to know her it came full circle. Once her layers were peeled back it was awesome. She is so very deserving of a man like Declan. She’s fierce and strong. She’s a survivor.
Now this book is NOT rainbows, butterflies, and sunshine. I don’t have any triggers the darker the book the better but I know a lot of folks so. So heed the warning at the beginning. With that being said…. Hellloooooo dark romance! Love me some Declan. Definitely a must read if you like the morally screwed up heroes and fierce heroines.
Storyline 5
Steam 4
Overall Rating 5
Y’all!!! What a wild ride?! June nailed it. First of all I love me some cowboys and bull riders. I mean… wrangler jeans…. Yasssss!! Okay back to what I was saying, sorry! 😂 this book was epic.
Declan is crazy. No other way to say it. No way to sugar coat it. He just is. But he’s the best kinda crazy. The protective, honest to a fault, possessive, and oh so alpha type.
Clover at first I struggled to connect a bit. But after I got to know her it came full circle. Once her layers were peeled back it was awesome. She is so very deserving of a man like Declan. She’s fierce and strong. She’s a survivor.
Now this book is NOT rainbows, butterflies, and sunshine. I don’t have any triggers the darker the book the better but I know a lot of folks so. So heed the warning at the beginning. With that being said…. Hellloooooo dark romance! Love me some Declan. Definitely a must read if you like the morally screwed up heroes and fierce heroines.
July 30, 2023
Tropes: dark, small town, stalking, hero obsessed, cowboy
No one, and I do mean NO ONE, is more surprised than I am that I didn't like this book. A dark romance with an OBSESSED stalker cowboy??? My literal dream mash up. But unfortunately this book completely missed the mark for me. I absolutely hated the main characters so I could not connect to them or the plot. This sounds weird, but it just felt like there was a dark haze over the whole thing. I don't want to spend too long on this review because this book wasn't for me but two things I must discuss are the two things that were major turn offs for me. Going into the book, I knew there was going to be a rape scene (not between the MCs) so I knew to expect it, but yikes. To me, it very much felt like it was included for shock factor. It seemed like it was included to give the hero an excuse to murder. The other thing I did not like was the branding scene. I'm all about pushing the boundaries and kinky stuff, but the branding scene was a HUGE no for me. No no no.
There was literally no feelings involved with this relationship. Like in other stalker books I've read yeah it's kind of insta-lovey with the stalker's feelings but I could still feel romantic feelings between the characters, but this one really felt like she was an object to him. Really didn't care for this one.
TW: on page rape, dub con, branding, torture, murder, and I'm sure I'm missing a bunch so please look up tw!
No one, and I do mean NO ONE, is more surprised than I am that I didn't like this book. A dark romance with an OBSESSED stalker cowboy??? My literal dream mash up. But unfortunately this book completely missed the mark for me. I absolutely hated the main characters so I could not connect to them or the plot. This sounds weird, but it just felt like there was a dark haze over the whole thing. I don't want to spend too long on this review because this book wasn't for me but two things I must discuss are the two things that were major turn offs for me. Going into the book, I knew there was going to be a rape scene (not between the MCs) so I knew to expect it, but yikes. To me, it very much felt like it was included for shock factor. It seemed like it was included to give the hero an excuse to murder. The other thing I did not like was the branding scene. I'm all about pushing the boundaries and kinky stuff, but the branding scene was a HUGE no for me. No no no.
There was literally no feelings involved with this relationship. Like in other stalker books I've read yeah it's kind of insta-lovey with the stalker's feelings but I could still feel romantic feelings between the characters, but this one really felt like she was an object to him. Really didn't care for this one.
TW: on page rape, dub con, branding, torture, murder, and I'm sure I'm missing a bunch so please look up tw!
July 11, 2023
Original review
This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Coralee June!
The Harder They Ride is a standalone Dark Romance and tells the story of Clover and Declan.
I’m a big fan of Coralee June’s Dark Romance books because she can write twisted stories that make you fall in love with the villain. The Harder They Ride was another amazing Dark Romance by Coralee June. I really liked that this book was something different from other Dark Romance books I’ve read before. The Harder They Ride is a Western/Cowboy Romance, while most Dark Romance books are about Mafia men or other kind of dark/twisted men. I really liked the change, it gave something different and extra to the story.
The Harder They Ride is about Clover and Declan. Clover is a survivor, she’s a strong female character, and I really liked her. Her life isn’t easy but she always takes care of her loved ones and her horses. Declan is totally different, he’s a killer for hire, possessive and a stalker. I immediately liked him, I’m a sucker for a good stalker… I really liked Clover and Declan’s happy ending, although I wished I could read some more happy bits about them.
The Harder They Ride was a crazy read filled with spice, violence, and some more twisted things. I recommend checking out the trigger warnings before reading this book, because it deals with some hard stuff. But if you’re into Dark Romance books and a possessive cowboy is your thing, then I highly suggest picking up The Harder They Ride!
September 3, 2023
“You can run from me all you want,” I murmured, my lips grazing her ear. “But I will just catch you, Wildflower. I love the chase.”
Declan Wilder you can be my cowboy anytime. 🔥
Declan Wilder you can be my cowboy anytime. 🔥
November 11, 2023
This book gave me icks I didn’t even know I had.
July 14, 2023
The Harder They Ride
This book was a bit dark so please check trigger warnings. It was addicting ! I’m so glad I read this book!
This book was a bit dark so please check trigger warnings. It was addicting ! I’m so glad I read this book!
July 5, 2023
"But sometimes you learn more from doing. And the more you're told no, the more enticing it becomes." "The dead don't deal in emotions and the living run from them." "He was beautiful. In a tragic, murderous sort of way." "Fun things are rarely good ideas"
I have quotes for DAYS from this book. I was lucky enough to receive an advanced readers copy of this book and had never been so excited for one before this. Coralee June is always an instant read for me anytime she writes something new. This book somewhat reminds me of her Malice Mafia series. She really has a knack for writing characters with lots of issues and trauma in their pasts, but in a way that you can still fall in love with them. Declan is trying to find revenge on the man that took his mother away from him. On the way he meets Clover, aka his Wildflower, and becomes instantly obsessed. His obsession is crazed in the best way possible. Despite her best efforts, Clover can't help her attraction. Please pick up this book and enjoy the ride. It's worth it, as all of her books are.
I have quotes for DAYS from this book. I was lucky enough to receive an advanced readers copy of this book and had never been so excited for one before this. Coralee June is always an instant read for me anytime she writes something new. This book somewhat reminds me of her Malice Mafia series. She really has a knack for writing characters with lots of issues and trauma in their pasts, but in a way that you can still fall in love with them. Declan is trying to find revenge on the man that took his mother away from him. On the way he meets Clover, aka his Wildflower, and becomes instantly obsessed. His obsession is crazed in the best way possible. Despite her best efforts, Clover can't help her attraction. Please pick up this book and enjoy the ride. It's worth it, as all of her books are.
Read
July 26, 2023DNF ~ about a third in.
A shame as I have absolutely loved Sunshine and the Bullets but the writing style here felt really odd, the whole tone of the book came across soOOoO weird to me.
Maybe it's only me, who knows.. I am definitely in a reading slump.
A shame as I have absolutely loved Sunshine and the Bullets but the writing style here felt really odd, the whole tone of the book came across soOOoO weird to me.
Maybe it's only me, who knows.. I am definitely in a reading slump.
July 11, 2023
Declan is singularly focused: complete a string of hits for the head of the Dust Devils and in exchange, receive the name of the man who brutally murdered his mother. He's waited years for this day and with one last job, vengeance will finally be his to take.
When Clover attends the Dust Devils' underground rodeo to find her younger sister Avery, she expects to fly under the radar. But when a bull escapes and chaos ensues, she and Declan unexpectedly connect. She doesn't know it yet... but his twisted mind has claimed her as his.
Clover quickly finds just how obsessive Declan can be and realises she is now a part of his deadly games; willing or not. Yet someone else has noticed too and works to use her against him. Will Clover make it out unscathed? Or will she became another dead pawn in the game?
Thank you to @authorcoraleejune for providing me with an ARC of this book. Be aware that this is an extremely dark cowboy romance; don't go into this without reading the Author's trigger warnings as they're extensive.
I found Declan and his background intriguing and sadly, fairly understandable. If that was my history, I may well be hell bent on vengeance too. The duality between the extreme care he feels for Clover, mixed with the way he acts on those 'mine' feelings, are largely what made the book so dark.
I think the Author was quite clever in how she wrote Clover; unassuming enough that her responses to Declan's advances aren't quite so unexpected. For all the darkness, I enjoyed the ride and couldn't quite guess where the twists and turns would lead.
When Clover attends the Dust Devils' underground rodeo to find her younger sister Avery, she expects to fly under the radar. But when a bull escapes and chaos ensues, she and Declan unexpectedly connect. She doesn't know it yet... but his twisted mind has claimed her as his.
Clover quickly finds just how obsessive Declan can be and realises she is now a part of his deadly games; willing or not. Yet someone else has noticed too and works to use her against him. Will Clover make it out unscathed? Or will she became another dead pawn in the game?
Thank you to @authorcoraleejune for providing me with an ARC of this book. Be aware that this is an extremely dark cowboy romance; don't go into this without reading the Author's trigger warnings as they're extensive.
I found Declan and his background intriguing and sadly, fairly understandable. If that was my history, I may well be hell bent on vengeance too. The duality between the extreme care he feels for Clover, mixed with the way he acts on those 'mine' feelings, are largely what made the book so dark.
I think the Author was quite clever in how she wrote Clover; unassuming enough that her responses to Declan's advances aren't quite so unexpected. For all the darkness, I enjoyed the ride and couldn't quite guess where the twists and turns would lead.
July 12, 2023
The harder they ride
By Coralee June
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
So this book had the most adorable pink cover but I googled and found the alternative cover and this one is certainly more appropriate lol this is not a cute sweet read. It’s a DARK and twisted, small town western romance.
The MMC is morally grey and possessive and obsessive and frankly slightly nuts!
But as always the crazy ones are the hottest! Be prepared and READ THE TRIGGERS!!
“His striking features were framed by a five o'clock shadow and a thin scar trailing down his right cheek. It was the cherry on top of his bad boy sundae
By Coralee June
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
So this book had the most adorable pink cover but I googled and found the alternative cover and this one is certainly more appropriate lol this is not a cute sweet read. It’s a DARK and twisted, small town western romance.
The MMC is morally grey and possessive and obsessive and frankly slightly nuts!
But as always the crazy ones are the hottest! Be prepared and READ THE TRIGGERS!!
“His striking features were framed by a five o'clock shadow and a thin scar trailing down his right cheek. It was the cherry on top of his bad boy sundae
July 6, 2023
Coralee June does not disappoint with the feels, the steam and of course the chemistry between Declan and Clover. I devoured their wild dark journey in one day. I just could not put it down. Declan is seeking revenge for the murder of his mother and while on that mission he meets Clover at an underground/secret but not so secret night rodeo. Clover is trying to keep things a float at home while taking care of her younger sister, her business and just life after losing her father. Clover experiences a horrible event but Declan is there to support her and help her feel safe after. But he doesn’t just stop there. Declan isn’t just you’re normal cowboy, he’s a kill for hire and he deals with the people that cause Clover pain. If you love obsessive, possessive alpha cowboys and a cowgirl that is a survivor no matter what is thrown her way, this is definitely the book for you. Beyond loved their journey and can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
June 28, 2023
TRIGGER WARNINGS
⚠️ stalker behaviour
⚠️rape
⚠️ dubious consent
⚠️knife play
⚠️primal play
⚠️murder
⚠️violence
⚠️gore
Okay we have, Clover and Declan.
Clover lives with her rebellious sister on a horse ranch making a meagre income leading trail rides, their father died in a rodeo.
Declan is a enforcer for hire? More likely a merc for hire and he’s been hired by the local gangbangers ,The Dust Devils, to end some lives in exchange for information on what happened to his mother. However he seems to be a little sidetracked by Clover.
Wooooooooft! What a wild ride - pun intended!
This story wove through trauma, heartbreak and love like a river cuts through stone!
Declan and Clover whilst not having the most conventional of starts are GOALS!
I am entirely biased as I love CoraLee June’s work but this was a fantastic read! If the triggers don’t affect you then I would wholeheartedly recommend this read!
5⭐️
⚠️ stalker behaviour
⚠️rape
⚠️ dubious consent
⚠️knife play
⚠️primal play
⚠️murder
⚠️violence
⚠️gore
Okay we have, Clover and Declan.
Clover lives with her rebellious sister on a horse ranch making a meagre income leading trail rides, their father died in a rodeo.
Declan is a enforcer for hire? More likely a merc for hire and he’s been hired by the local gangbangers ,The Dust Devils, to end some lives in exchange for information on what happened to his mother. However he seems to be a little sidetracked by Clover.
Wooooooooft! What a wild ride - pun intended!
This story wove through trauma, heartbreak and love like a river cuts through stone!
Declan and Clover whilst not having the most conventional of starts are GOALS!
I am entirely biased as I love CoraLee June’s work but this was a fantastic read! If the triggers don’t affect you then I would wholeheartedly recommend this read!
5⭐️
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