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Morning Song Farm #1
The Grump Whisperer
Keep calm and ride on…
For fans of Elsie Silver and Hannah Grace comes a charmingly engaging story about tumbling down, falling in love and getting back into the saddle when it counts…
Horse barn manager Bronwen Jones is just about at her wit’s end. The barn is under new ownership, and things are going downhill fast. Now the situation is dire: bills are unpaid, they’re low on feed and hay, and the mountain of manure is the stuff of nightmares.
Which is when he arrives. Former show jumper Ian Kingston is an absolutely gorgeous wreck of a man with a deep scowl. He had the career she always dreamed of—until his most recent injury destroyed any hope of professional riding. Ian wants nothing to do with Bronwen, the responsibilities for horses or anything that reminds him of what he’s lost.
Only, Bronwen isn’t about to let their resident Mr. Rochester off easy. Not when there are horses that need tending. And when a glorious but skittish stallion arrives, Bronwen and Ian are forced to work together—even as attraction crackles between them. Both must face the pile of crap that’s keeping them from moving forward…and the outcome may be the greatest ride of their lives.
For fans of Elsie Silver and Hannah Grace comes a charmingly engaging story about tumbling down, falling in love and getting back into the saddle when it counts…
Horse barn manager Bronwen Jones is just about at her wit’s end. The barn is under new ownership, and things are going downhill fast. Now the situation is dire: bills are unpaid, they’re low on feed and hay, and the mountain of manure is the stuff of nightmares.
Which is when he arrives. Former show jumper Ian Kingston is an absolutely gorgeous wreck of a man with a deep scowl. He had the career she always dreamed of—until his most recent injury destroyed any hope of professional riding. Ian wants nothing to do with Bronwen, the responsibilities for horses or anything that reminds him of what he’s lost.
Only, Bronwen isn’t about to let their resident Mr. Rochester off easy. Not when there are horses that need tending. And when a glorious but skittish stallion arrives, Bronwen and Ian are forced to work together—even as attraction crackles between them. Both must face the pile of crap that’s keeping them from moving forward…and the outcome may be the greatest ride of their lives.
288 pages, Paperback
First published November 26, 2024
22 people are currently reading
5575 people want to read
About the author
Katy James
3 books53 followersKaty James writes contemporary romance books that get to the heart of falling in love while finding one’s place in today’s world. When not writing, she works as an archivist and rare book librarian. Her free time is spent being a single mom, wrangling an ever-fluctuating number of pets, fixing up her old house, reading, playing the banjo, knitting, cooking, gardening, and generally making all kinds of stuff.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
September 18, 2024
A former show-jumper who's bad riding accident has left me unable to ride anymore turned recluse is made to help run a horse boarding farm by his sister, putting him into the path of a determined barn manager.
I don't know, this was really readable, I just wanted more grump push and pull, and the third act conflict felt very carefully handled. i love a third act conflict, but i need ~more~ angst.
The horse details were awesome, I loved the cast of barn characters including the horses, the pony who's rider outgrew her, and the spicy scenes.
I don't know, this was really readable, I just wanted more grump push and pull, and the third act conflict felt very carefully handled. i love a third act conflict, but i need ~more~ angst.
The horse details were awesome, I loved the cast of barn characters including the horses, the pony who's rider outgrew her, and the spicy scenes.
February 16, 2025
This is an adorable forced proximity romance. Bronwen and Ian make for a cute couple, both struggling with their own horse related issues and helping each other to heal. I loved the found family vibes coming from their little community at the farm and how willing everyone was to help each other out.
More than anything this book made me want to go on a lovely little trail ride and I haven't been on a horse in literal decades 😂
More than anything this book made me want to go on a lovely little trail ride and I haven't been on a horse in literal decades 😂
December 1, 2024
Bronwen is in a no-win situation: the barn she manages is falling apart and the new owner is nowhere to be found. Without access to funds, there’s no feed for the horses, bills are unpaid, and literal horse sh¡t is piling up. The community of riders who board horses there push Bronwen to approach the man in the house up the hill.
That would be Ian, a scowling guy drinking whiskey in the dark and avoiding everyone. Once a prize winning show jumper, an accident has left him unable to ride and, because of that, bitter.
But slowly, Bronwen lures him out of the house, notices when he fixes fences, pays invoices, and chips in when he thinks no one is looking.
When Ian’s sister send Hades, a gorgeous black stallion with a history of abuse and terrible temper, to the barn, it’s just what Ian and Bronwen need. It draws them together, this need to help an injured animal, and it gives them space to share their own vulnerabilities.
But when Ian doesn’t show up to the competition Bronwen and Hades have entered, she’s left wondering if he was ever worth her trust at all.
This was a sweet, uncomplicated romance between two broken people who aren’t sure it’s in the cards for them.
It’s got dual POV, spicy love, a broody grump, a competent and independent FMC, a supporting cast of characters, and a small town setting. Bonus: no third act breakup!
That would be Ian, a scowling guy drinking whiskey in the dark and avoiding everyone. Once a prize winning show jumper, an accident has left him unable to ride and, because of that, bitter.
But slowly, Bronwen lures him out of the house, notices when he fixes fences, pays invoices, and chips in when he thinks no one is looking.
When Ian’s sister send Hades, a gorgeous black stallion with a history of abuse and terrible temper, to the barn, it’s just what Ian and Bronwen need. It draws them together, this need to help an injured animal, and it gives them space to share their own vulnerabilities.
But when Ian doesn’t show up to the competition Bronwen and Hades have entered, she’s left wondering if he was ever worth her trust at all.
This was a sweet, uncomplicated romance between two broken people who aren’t sure it’s in the cards for them.
It’s got dual POV, spicy love, a broody grump, a competent and independent FMC, a supporting cast of characters, and a small town setting. Bonus: no third act breakup!
November 8, 2024
i received an arc of this off of netgalley & it was such a fun & sweet book. i will admit, one of the reasons i requested this book was because grump was in the title & there was a horse on the front as i am a huge grumpy character lover & horse lover.
i liked the two main characters and their development throughout the book. i thought there could’ve definitely been more of a slower burn to their relationship & that the mmc was more grumpy throughout the whole book & didn’t just stop being grumpy.
other than that, i loved the community aspect of the farm & as well as the horses. i’ve always loved horses since i was young, so it was fun to read a book with them in it.
anyways, it was a cute read
i liked the two main characters and their development throughout the book. i thought there could’ve definitely been more of a slower burn to their relationship & that the mmc was more grumpy throughout the whole book & didn’t just stop being grumpy.
other than that, i loved the community aspect of the farm & as well as the horses. i’ve always loved horses since i was young, so it was fun to read a book with them in it.
anyways, it was a cute read
July 28, 2024
Thanks for the ARC to the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Okay so I loved the horse aspect of this book. I did not love the romance. It was grumpy at first and then not grumpy very fast and if grump is going to be in the title, I feel like it should have been more slow burn. The characters got together around 45% and so their relationship didn't really progress or do anything until the end and the third act conflict. That's a big part of the book where if it was more slow burn and more tension, the relationship development could have been more spread out. But yeah, I am a horse girl and loved the horse training, horse community, etc.
November 8, 2024
Ah yes. Girls and their horses. I was one of those horse loving girls as a kid, so I loved that aspect of the story. It’s a quick, well-written book, but I think it played the angst too safe. The stakes just weren’t high enough.
February 1, 2025
A very cute, short, cosy book with loveable characters and an adorable storyline.
May 25, 2025
3.5 - a horse girl romance? say no more
June 21, 2025
Great easy read that my daughter bought me for my birthday.
Reminds me of a grown up "Saddle Club" (those in Australia will understand).
Smashed it out in a day
Reminds me of a grown up "Saddle Club" (those in Australia will understand).
Smashed it out in a day
November 25, 2024
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
Trigger or content warning? Nope.
Past serious injury while riding on a horse, resulted in the loss of career in that field.
FMC was cheated on in the past.
Details?
Bronwen is the FMC and she is 29 years old. Ian is the MMC and he is in his thirties.
Condoms are used. No others after meeting.
Anne is Ian’s younger sister and the owner of Morning Song Farm.
My thoughts?
I love this book. I have been gravitating towards cowboy-romances for the past year and this was exactly what I wanted. I read this twice, once with advanced-reader-copy eyes and then just for enjoyment.
I am a sucker for a grumpy character, and man, does Ian ever have the valid reason. He is trying to get a grip on his new reality, while shaping his future. This includes getting away from the world of horses, somewhere he has spent two decades. He went long with watching over his sister’s new investment, and lands himself exactly where he didn’t want to be.
In comes Bronwen. As the manager of the barn on Morning Song Farm she’s kept busy with the community that has been built around the horses. Fiercely loyal to the people she loves. Which promptly lands her confronting Ian for the help they need to keep Morning Song Farm running. Luckily Ian’s soft spot are the horses, and that starts their relationship.
I really love this book. I enjoyed how easy it was to read and how community was at the heart of keeping Morning Song Farm alive. Ian and Bronwen’s love for the horses was definitely a part of the foundation of their partnership, and from that feelings started to flourish. Granted those feelings were some major lust at first, but it was fertile soil and other feelings begun to grow.
Trigger or content warning? Nope.
Past serious injury while riding on a horse, resulted in the loss of career in that field.
FMC was cheated on in the past.
Details?
Bronwen is the FMC and she is 29 years old. Ian is the MMC and he is in his thirties.
Condoms are used. No others after meeting.
Anne is Ian’s younger sister and the owner of Morning Song Farm.
My thoughts?
I love this book. I have been gravitating towards cowboy-romances for the past year and this was exactly what I wanted. I read this twice, once with advanced-reader-copy eyes and then just for enjoyment.
I am a sucker for a grumpy character, and man, does Ian ever have the valid reason. He is trying to get a grip on his new reality, while shaping his future. This includes getting away from the world of horses, somewhere he has spent two decades. He went long with watching over his sister’s new investment, and lands himself exactly where he didn’t want to be.
In comes Bronwen. As the manager of the barn on Morning Song Farm she’s kept busy with the community that has been built around the horses. Fiercely loyal to the people she loves. Which promptly lands her confronting Ian for the help they need to keep Morning Song Farm running. Luckily Ian’s soft spot are the horses, and that starts their relationship.
I really love this book. I enjoyed how easy it was to read and how community was at the heart of keeping Morning Song Farm alive. Ian and Bronwen’s love for the horses was definitely a part of the foundation of their partnership, and from that feelings started to flourish. Granted those feelings were some major lust at first, but it was fertile soil and other feelings begun to grow.
November 16, 2024
Fun, cute, simple little horse girl romance between a former professional horse jumper who is now afraid of horses, and a boarding barn manager who is also currently afraid of horses.
The romance was okay, I wish the characters popped just a little more. Both of their hang ups were so similar and there wasn’t much else about them besides Horses. As someone who spent a lot of time at a boarding farm though, I loved the highlight of the community of horse people and they were sweet little side characters.
The romance was okay, I wish the characters popped just a little more. Both of their hang ups were so similar and there wasn’t much else about them besides Horses. As someone who spent a lot of time at a boarding farm though, I loved the highlight of the community of horse people and they were sweet little side characters.
June 15, 2025
I think all horse girls are skeptical of equestrian themed books; you can spot an imposter using the theme in a heartbeat and this book was NOT that.
There were a number of things that the author added into the details that not only are correct, but can transport any true horse girl into the moment.
Limited spice, more-so vanilla in the romance department but for what this book was, I loved it!
There were a number of things that the author added into the details that not only are correct, but can transport any true horse girl into the moment.
Limited spice, more-so vanilla in the romance department but for what this book was, I loved it!
Read
November 1, 2024Sports Romance, Animal Fiction, Romantic Comedy
Miniseries
Morningsong Farm (Book #1)
Miniseries
Morningsong Farm (Book #1)
January 6, 2025
Cute fluffy romance with not enough time for a major misunderstanding:)
September 24, 2025
3.75 stars 🌟
This was an easy read that I finished in the same day. It was the first novel I’ve read surrounding horses and it was very easy to follow, and I quite enjoyed it. 😁
This was an easy read that I finished in the same day. It was the first novel I’ve read surrounding horses and it was very easy to follow, and I quite enjoyed it. 😁
January 5, 2025
3.25*
this was a cute, solid read! it honestly reminded me a lot of the show heartland except with smut hahah. i truly didn’t expect much, it did what it needed to do & id recommend for a quick romance!
this was a cute, solid read! it honestly reminded me a lot of the show heartland except with smut hahah. i truly didn’t expect much, it did what it needed to do & id recommend for a quick romance!
January 28, 2025
4-star horse story, 2-star romance. Ian wasn't interesting to me even when his clothes were on, so I absolutely skimmed over the pair of explicit scenes (just enough to confirm ABSOLUTELY NOT; the warnings about this being "for fans of Elsie Silver and Hannah Grace" are real and should be heeded). Even though this was a rare scenario of me being able to understand a woman wanting a short-term, casual fling, I did not need to see it in more detail. And to be honest, I still don't believe this is true love no matter what they're professing, and think they will be divorced or otherwise broken up within the decade.
HOWEVER. This is otherwise one of the better horse-books-for-grownups I've read.
The horses had such personality, and were not merely stage dressing for the romance. I am currently Invested in little pony Applejack, good ol' Not For Beginners Charlie, and of course, the magnificent Hades. Do yourself a favor and look up "Friesian sporthorse." (or Friesian/warmblood cross, which is more specifically what Hades is, but either works) You will be lost in gorgeous horses for daaaaays.
The stable chores and descriptions of training were detailed enough to feel realistic without being overly technical for non-horsey readers (I assume), and all the beauty of a private, casual boarding barn came to life. Private, non-show-focused boarding barns -- the kind I'd venture MOST people who own/lease horses or at least take lessons on them attend -- are actually a vanishingly rare element in fiction, and I'm not gonna lie, that's 90% of why I took a chance on a Harlequin hate-to-love romance I'd normally avoid.
The writing itself is excellent -- I was expecting the kind of flat, merely-serviceable writing one expects from a mass-market Harlequin, but I got fully carried away in the story.
And finally, despite having no use for Ian I ADORED Bronwen (great name!). I also adored her best friend, Olivia, and how close they were. I'm really hoping she gets her own book in the future. I am ALSO hoping Ruth, former farm owner, comes back for a visit someday, because I want to meet her in more than memories and secondhand compliments.
P.S. I also actually really like the design on this cover. I started out disappointed because seriously, you had the opportunity to put a photograph of a horse on a book and decided to draw a slightly cartoony one instead? But the more I looked at it, the more I appreciated the detail in the human figures, and I ended up looking up the illustrator (Débora Islas) to find more of her work.
Bottom line: I can't exceed 3 stars due to the gross scenes but I'm excited to continue this series, which is saying something considering I debated about whether I should even enter the Goodreads Giveaway that alerted me to its existence, and also heavily considered deleting it off my shelves and forgetting about it when I didn't win. The next book isn't coming out for aaaages but I hope my library gets it, and I hope there are more after that.
HOWEVER. This is otherwise one of the better horse-books-for-grownups I've read.
The horses had such personality, and were not merely stage dressing for the romance. I am currently Invested in little pony Applejack, good ol' Not For Beginners Charlie, and of course, the magnificent Hades. Do yourself a favor and look up "Friesian sporthorse." (or Friesian/warmblood cross, which is more specifically what Hades is, but either works) You will be lost in gorgeous horses for daaaaays.
The stable chores and descriptions of training were detailed enough to feel realistic without being overly technical for non-horsey readers (I assume), and all the beauty of a private, casual boarding barn came to life. Private, non-show-focused boarding barns -- the kind I'd venture MOST people who own/lease horses or at least take lessons on them attend -- are actually a vanishingly rare element in fiction, and I'm not gonna lie, that's 90% of why I took a chance on a Harlequin hate-to-love romance I'd normally avoid.
The writing itself is excellent -- I was expecting the kind of flat, merely-serviceable writing one expects from a mass-market Harlequin, but I got fully carried away in the story.
And finally, despite having no use for Ian I ADORED Bronwen (great name!). I also adored her best friend, Olivia, and how close they were. I'm really hoping she gets her own book in the future. I am ALSO hoping Ruth, former farm owner, comes back for a visit someday, because I want to meet her in more than memories and secondhand compliments.
P.S. I also actually really like the design on this cover. I started out disappointed because seriously, you had the opportunity to put a photograph of a horse on a book and decided to draw a slightly cartoony one instead? But the more I looked at it, the more I appreciated the detail in the human figures, and I ended up looking up the illustrator (Débora Islas) to find more of her work.
Bottom line: I can't exceed 3 stars due to the gross scenes but I'm excited to continue this series, which is saying something considering I debated about whether I should even enter the Goodreads Giveaway that alerted me to its existence, and also heavily considered deleting it off my shelves and forgetting about it when I didn't win. The next book isn't coming out for aaaages but I hope my library gets it, and I hope there are more after that.
September 17, 2024
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the digital ARC!
Okay, so I love horses - always have, always will. Therefore, when I saw a horse-themed romance book on here, I had to request it and I'm so glad I got to read it! Bronwen is the barn manager for a small, close-knit barn of boarders, including her own horse, Charlie. She loves horses, but something made her terrified to ride again. Ian is the brother of the woman who has bought the farm/barn and is an ex-showjumper who is grumbly and grizzly with everyone except horses. But he doesn't want to be around the horses anymore, as they remind him of his past that he can't have anymore.
Of course, they meet when Ian's sister sends him to her new home but doesn't tell him anything about the boarders there. And then she one-up's the situation by buying Hades - a well-bred stallion prospect who is unmanageable after being abused. Ian doesn't want anything to do with horses anymore, but he can't stand by and ignore a horse that's been abused, especially when he knows there's no such thing as a bad horse. Bronwen feels the same, and the two begin working together to help rehabilitate Hades and show him that not all humans are bad and mean.
As you might expect, emotions blossom between the two, but it's all physical at first. Ian is leaving after he's got Hades rehabilitated and sold, whereas Bronwen will never leave the farm.
For the most part, Ian and Bronwen communicated well with each other regarding their feelings and were adults about everything. The one thing they did agree on was that the horses come first, which is what you'd expect from two horse-minded like them. The relationship felt natural, though my only issue was that everything seemed to feel a little fast. It kept mentioning that a week had passed, so I had no real idea of how time was progressing, and whilst their relationship didn't feel rushed, I was a little confused about how long they'd known each other.
The horse stuff was all pretty accurate - there were no moments where I was like, 'THAT WOULDN'T HAPPEN LIKE THAT!'. Probably the only thing I side-eyed was how fast Hades was rehabilitated if he was that aggressive upon arrival, but maybe it was because he was young and easy to train. Who knows? Horses are weird like that.
Overall, I enjoyed this and it was a quick read that was fun and filled with horses!
Okay, so I love horses - always have, always will. Therefore, when I saw a horse-themed romance book on here, I had to request it and I'm so glad I got to read it! Bronwen is the barn manager for a small, close-knit barn of boarders, including her own horse, Charlie. She loves horses, but something made her terrified to ride again. Ian is the brother of the woman who has bought the farm/barn and is an ex-showjumper who is grumbly and grizzly with everyone except horses. But he doesn't want to be around the horses anymore, as they remind him of his past that he can't have anymore.
Of course, they meet when Ian's sister sends him to her new home but doesn't tell him anything about the boarders there. And then she one-up's the situation by buying Hades - a well-bred stallion prospect who is unmanageable after being abused. Ian doesn't want anything to do with horses anymore, but he can't stand by and ignore a horse that's been abused, especially when he knows there's no such thing as a bad horse. Bronwen feels the same, and the two begin working together to help rehabilitate Hades and show him that not all humans are bad and mean.
As you might expect, emotions blossom between the two, but it's all physical at first. Ian is leaving after he's got Hades rehabilitated and sold, whereas Bronwen will never leave the farm.
For the most part, Ian and Bronwen communicated well with each other regarding their feelings and were adults about everything. The one thing they did agree on was that the horses come first, which is what you'd expect from two horse-minded like them. The relationship felt natural, though my only issue was that everything seemed to feel a little fast. It kept mentioning that a week had passed, so I had no real idea of how time was progressing, and whilst their relationship didn't feel rushed, I was a little confused about how long they'd known each other.
The horse stuff was all pretty accurate - there were no moments where I was like, 'THAT WOULDN'T HAPPEN LIKE THAT!'. Probably the only thing I side-eyed was how fast Hades was rehabilitated if he was that aggressive upon arrival, but maybe it was because he was young and easy to train. Who knows? Horses are weird like that.
Overall, I enjoyed this and it was a quick read that was fun and filled with horses!
January 19, 2025
Four years ago, Bronwen was looking for a refuge, and she found it at Morning Song Farm. Now, it was Ian looking for a place to regroup after a career ending injury. He wanted nothing to do with horses or riding but finds the pull of Morning Song changing his mind.
This was absolutely a romance, but it was also a story of healing and community. Ian was grumpy for sure, but he had a good reason. No longer able to ride, it seemed the world he worked so hard to be a part of didn't want or need him. But that wasn't the case at Morning Song. Though he initially kept his distance, he turned to Bronwen for help training a new stallion, and eventually, gave into the pull of the wonderful community that was Morning Song. This was one of my favorite aspects of this story. Ian did not have an easy life. He fought and worked for everything he accomplished. It made me happy that he was able to find people to support him during this time of transition, and the farm needed him just as much as he needed them. He was an invaluable resource with a massive knowledge of horses, riding, and training.
Ian had been angry and depressed, but then he met Bronwen - the grump whisperer. She had quite a positive effect on him and he did the same for her. They both pushed and encouraged each other, and together, they were able to find their way back to things they were passionate about.
Though I was never a horsey girl, I throughly enjoyed being in this world. From days on the farm to competitions, I liked learning about the different aspects of it all. I do hope we get a follow up to this book because I am looking forward to seeing Morning Star Farm and the Morning Star family grow.
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This was absolutely a romance, but it was also a story of healing and community. Ian was grumpy for sure, but he had a good reason. No longer able to ride, it seemed the world he worked so hard to be a part of didn't want or need him. But that wasn't the case at Morning Song. Though he initially kept his distance, he turned to Bronwen for help training a new stallion, and eventually, gave into the pull of the wonderful community that was Morning Song. This was one of my favorite aspects of this story. Ian did not have an easy life. He fought and worked for everything he accomplished. It made me happy that he was able to find people to support him during this time of transition, and the farm needed him just as much as he needed them. He was an invaluable resource with a massive knowledge of horses, riding, and training.
Ian had been angry and depressed, but then he met Bronwen - the grump whisperer. She had quite a positive effect on him and he did the same for her. They both pushed and encouraged each other, and together, they were able to find their way back to things they were passionate about.
Though I was never a horsey girl, I throughly enjoyed being in this world. From days on the farm to competitions, I liked learning about the different aspects of it all. I do hope we get a follow up to this book because I am looking forward to seeing Morning Star Farm and the Morning Star family grow.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
May 20, 2025
Bronwen is the barn manager for a horse boarding farm, which comes under new management after the previous owner decided to sell it. Ian Anderson, a grumpy yet attractive man, is the temporary new management and wants nothing to do with horses. His sister is the real owner, and is on a post-divorce vacation and asked him to watch over the farm for her. The farm is in disarray after the transition to new management - The facilities are dated, they are behind on bills, and boarders may soon be forced to leave. Not to mention, Ian’s sister decided to buy an ill-tempered stallion and puts Ian in charge of training it. Ian (reluctantlyH & Bronwen start to work together to repair the barn and train the new stallion, and as they start to spend more time together, sparks fly, but they both have reservations about each other.
I got this as a blind date with a book, which described this as “for lovers of Elsie Silver & Lyla Sage”. I immediately bought this (my first blind date with a book), because I love both of those authors. My issue is this book was very horse & barn life focused, with a side of romance which really didnt vibe with me. It is very insta-love for both of the MCs, and to me there was absolutely no chemistry between them (other than they both thought each other was hot). They were together maybe 3/4 times around the barn before they started making out and what not. It felt very quick and forced. I also hated the ending - Bronwen blew up at Ian over something she thought he had done and started yelling at him without hearing him out. Yet she was the one jumping to conclusions and she left her phone at home. Like GIRLLLL let him talk!!!
Overall this book was okay and just average. I think this book had a good premise but the execution could have used a bit of work. I would’ve read another 50-75 pages if it leant we got to see a bit more development in their relationship.
I got this as a blind date with a book, which described this as “for lovers of Elsie Silver & Lyla Sage”. I immediately bought this (my first blind date with a book), because I love both of those authors. My issue is this book was very horse & barn life focused, with a side of romance which really didnt vibe with me. It is very insta-love for both of the MCs, and to me there was absolutely no chemistry between them (other than they both thought each other was hot). They were together maybe 3/4 times around the barn before they started making out and what not. It felt very quick and forced. I also hated the ending - Bronwen blew up at Ian over something she thought he had done and started yelling at him without hearing him out. Yet she was the one jumping to conclusions and she left her phone at home. Like GIRLLLL let him talk!!!
Overall this book was okay and just average. I think this book had a good premise but the execution could have used a bit of work. I would’ve read another 50-75 pages if it leant we got to see a bit more development in their relationship.
November 26, 2024
I really enjoyed The Grump Whisperer. Katy James has written a grown up romance for horse kids. Bronwen is the grump whisperer, with two grumps who need her help. One is Ian, a show jumper who has suffered a career ending injury. The other is Hades, a horse who has been badly treated in the past.
Listen, I love hurt people finding each other and healing. Bronwen was also a show rider, but a bad fall has made her afraid to get back on a horse. She’s made a safe life for herself as the barn manager at Morning Song Farm. The problem is (and we always start with a problem), that the farm has been sold and the new owner hasn’t shown up. The manure is piling up, the feed is getting low, and other maintenance important to the health and safety of the horses isn’t getting done. Ian Kingston thinks that he has retreated to his sister’s new house where he can wallow in privacy while she’s on a multi week retreat. Too bad for him that the house includes a working horse farm and a barn manager who wants the bills taken care of. Further proof that his sister is manipulating him, she buys a cantankerous horse and has him delivered without notice.
While there is conflict, The Grump Whisperer is in the mostly vibes camp of romance. I like an angsty romance with a third act breakup , but I also like a soft vibes romance where the third act conflict is worked out with communication and mutual understanding. I see myself wanting more soft vibes romances in the coming years. I’m really looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received this as an advance reader copy from Harlequin Books and NetGalley. My opinions are my own, freely and honestly given.
Listen, I love hurt people finding each other and healing. Bronwen was also a show rider, but a bad fall has made her afraid to get back on a horse. She’s made a safe life for herself as the barn manager at Morning Song Farm. The problem is (and we always start with a problem), that the farm has been sold and the new owner hasn’t shown up. The manure is piling up, the feed is getting low, and other maintenance important to the health and safety of the horses isn’t getting done. Ian Kingston thinks that he has retreated to his sister’s new house where he can wallow in privacy while she’s on a multi week retreat. Too bad for him that the house includes a working horse farm and a barn manager who wants the bills taken care of. Further proof that his sister is manipulating him, she buys a cantankerous horse and has him delivered without notice.
While there is conflict, The Grump Whisperer is in the mostly vibes camp of romance. I like an angsty romance with a third act breakup , but I also like a soft vibes romance where the third act conflict is worked out with communication and mutual understanding. I see myself wanting more soft vibes romances in the coming years. I’m really looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received this as an advance reader copy from Harlequin Books and NetGalley. My opinions are my own, freely and honestly given.
January 29, 2025
The Grump Whisperer is the first book in the Morning Song Farm, spicy romance series by Katy James. This is my first book by the author and I’ll definitely be picking up the next in the series.
Bronwen Jones is the Barn Manager for Morning Song Farms, except she doesn’t have a boss, or owner or money to help keep the farm afloat. After the original owner sold and moved, Bronwen was near desperation for supplies for the horses.
Ian Kingston is going to kill his sister, just as soon as she comes back from her lengthy vacation. Ian is a former show jumper that recently had a very bad accident and he’s been told he’ll never ride again.
Ian thought he was headed to a quiet place in the country to heal, only to find out his sister bought a horse farm and he’s the closest thing to the owner around. After Ian promises Bronwen he will take care of the finances in exchange for peace and quiet, he was expecting to be left alone.
A few days later, a young horse is dropped off for Ian to “work with” and he needs Bronwen’s help. As they get to know each other better and even share some of their personal tragedies they can’t deny the chemistry between them.
Bronwen and Ian venture into a no strings attached fling at least for as long as Ian is there. They don’t need feelings in the bedroom do they? As they get closer to Ian’s sister’s return and his inevitable departure, they both have to come to terms with what they really want, from themselves and each other.
This is a 3.5 (rounded to four) star for me. I enjoyed the writing and there was some spice. I love me some grumpy/sunshine and really felt Ian gave up the grumpy too soon. I’ll definitely pick up the next in the series!
Bronwen Jones is the Barn Manager for Morning Song Farms, except she doesn’t have a boss, or owner or money to help keep the farm afloat. After the original owner sold and moved, Bronwen was near desperation for supplies for the horses.
Ian Kingston is going to kill his sister, just as soon as she comes back from her lengthy vacation. Ian is a former show jumper that recently had a very bad accident and he’s been told he’ll never ride again.
Ian thought he was headed to a quiet place in the country to heal, only to find out his sister bought a horse farm and he’s the closest thing to the owner around. After Ian promises Bronwen he will take care of the finances in exchange for peace and quiet, he was expecting to be left alone.
A few days later, a young horse is dropped off for Ian to “work with” and he needs Bronwen’s help. As they get to know each other better and even share some of their personal tragedies they can’t deny the chemistry between them.
Bronwen and Ian venture into a no strings attached fling at least for as long as Ian is there. They don’t need feelings in the bedroom do they? As they get closer to Ian’s sister’s return and his inevitable departure, they both have to come to terms with what they really want, from themselves and each other.
This is a 3.5 (rounded to four) star for me. I enjoyed the writing and there was some spice. I love me some grumpy/sunshine and really felt Ian gave up the grumpy too soon. I’ll definitely pick up the next in the series!
August 16, 2024
4.5 stars!
Listen, I can’t lie, this book totally caught my eye because it mentioned Elsie Silver in the blurb, so I had to read it! This was my first book by this author, and I enjoyed it! Ian is a big grump at the beginning, having recently given up his career as a show jumper because of an injury. It’s safe to say he’s not at all expecting Bronwen, the barn manager, when he shows up at Morning Song Farm, though he’s not exactly what she’s expecting either. It’s clear Bronwen is passionate about her job and isn’t going to let anything, including a grumpy stand-in for her new boss, get in the way of her job. There’s an attraction between the two of them, but Ian’s too set on becoming a recluse to explore anything. Or at least that’s how it is until they start spending time together where Bronwen’s passion for horses starts to help Ian find what he thought he had lost and they can’t avoid the pull between them anymore! I really enjoyed getting to know the whole crew from the barn and seeing how close their friendships are. This one’s got all the feels; it’s sweet, we get to know Ian & Bronwen’s stories and how they ended up at the farm, and it’s got some spice! It was a quick read (I think that’s my only “complaint;” I would have loved more), but was exactly what I was hoping for based off the blurb! I’m excited for more in the series–I want to know more about Anne and Olivia and the rest of the crew!
[ARC fromNetGalley//Harlequin]
Listen, I can’t lie, this book totally caught my eye because it mentioned Elsie Silver in the blurb, so I had to read it! This was my first book by this author, and I enjoyed it! Ian is a big grump at the beginning, having recently given up his career as a show jumper because of an injury. It’s safe to say he’s not at all expecting Bronwen, the barn manager, when he shows up at Morning Song Farm, though he’s not exactly what she’s expecting either. It’s clear Bronwen is passionate about her job and isn’t going to let anything, including a grumpy stand-in for her new boss, get in the way of her job. There’s an attraction between the two of them, but Ian’s too set on becoming a recluse to explore anything. Or at least that’s how it is until they start spending time together where Bronwen’s passion for horses starts to help Ian find what he thought he had lost and they can’t avoid the pull between them anymore! I really enjoyed getting to know the whole crew from the barn and seeing how close their friendships are. This one’s got all the feels; it’s sweet, we get to know Ian & Bronwen’s stories and how they ended up at the farm, and it’s got some spice! It was a quick read (I think that’s my only “complaint;” I would have loved more), but was exactly what I was hoping for based off the blurb! I’m excited for more in the series–I want to know more about Anne and Olivia and the rest of the crew!
[ARC fromNetGalley//Harlequin]
November 8, 2024
The Grump Whisperer by Katy James is the first book in the Morningsong Farm Series. This is Bronwen and Ian’s story.
Bronwen lives and breathes for her job as the manager of the Morningsong Farm, but everything changes when the farm gets sold and the new owners don't seem to care. Bronwen is a confident and hardworking woman and her love for the horses is visible on every page. This book and her reminded me a bit of the horse and pony books I read as a child.
Ian’s sister is the new owner of the Morningsong Farm, and it becomes his hideout, and he needs a break. He was a former show jumper and didn’t expect to get sucked back in with horses. He is the epitome of a grumpy character who is often very rude and unlikeable and therefore I had a hard time connecting to him. It took too long for him to show a good and lovable side of him.
This book is very much a small-town romance that only revolves around the farm. Ian is a hindrance at first and therefore he closes with Bronwen and these two needed way too long to draw near each other. The switch from tolerating each other to loving each other happened basically overnight and there wasn’t really a romantic build-up and it felt very casual. At some points they just were together and it felt like the book skipped important scenes and that was quite sad because it had a promising beginning.
If you’re looking for a very classical small-town romance with a romance that is mainly implied, this might be for you. 3 stars.
(Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an arc.)
Bronwen lives and breathes for her job as the manager of the Morningsong Farm, but everything changes when the farm gets sold and the new owners don't seem to care. Bronwen is a confident and hardworking woman and her love for the horses is visible on every page. This book and her reminded me a bit of the horse and pony books I read as a child.
Ian’s sister is the new owner of the Morningsong Farm, and it becomes his hideout, and he needs a break. He was a former show jumper and didn’t expect to get sucked back in with horses. He is the epitome of a grumpy character who is often very rude and unlikeable and therefore I had a hard time connecting to him. It took too long for him to show a good and lovable side of him.
This book is very much a small-town romance that only revolves around the farm. Ian is a hindrance at first and therefore he closes with Bronwen and these two needed way too long to draw near each other. The switch from tolerating each other to loving each other happened basically overnight and there wasn’t really a romantic build-up and it felt very casual. At some points they just were together and it felt like the book skipped important scenes and that was quite sad because it had a promising beginning.
If you’re looking for a very classical small-town romance with a romance that is mainly implied, this might be for you. 3 stars.
(Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an arc.)
January 7, 2025
The Grump Whisperer is what every horse girl dreamed her life would be like when she grew up. Ian Kingston is a former horse show jumper turned grumpy recluse, who just so happens to land himself smack dab in the middle of a farm in dire need of help. Bronwen is the barn manager for Morning Star Farm... and she's afraid to ride horses. Makes total sense... right? Well it's lust at first sight for these two. But can they put their pasts aside and be what each other needs?
The tension between Ian and Bronwen explodes off the page and in their bedrooms. Each character had their own struggles to go through and through exploring their friendship (with benefits) were able to move past their fears. These struggles were relatable and predictable in the way all romances should be. HEA is a must have for a romance novel, and this one has it. And I think we are getting some more Morning Star Farm books in the near future.
This was my read for book club this month. As a cowboy enthusiast and saver of horses, I ate this up!!! The Grump Whisperer was a great first read for 2025 and is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, hot, and wholesome read.
The tension between Ian and Bronwen explodes off the page and in their bedrooms. Each character had their own struggles to go through and through exploring their friendship (with benefits) were able to move past their fears. These struggles were relatable and predictable in the way all romances should be. HEA is a must have for a romance novel, and this one has it. And I think we are getting some more Morning Star Farm books in the near future.
This was my read for book club this month. As a cowboy enthusiast and saver of horses, I ate this up!!! The Grump Whisperer was a great first read for 2025 and is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, hot, and wholesome read.
February 24, 2025
The Grump Whisperer is super quick romance with a little spice and overall is a very fun read.
Bronwen is the barn manager of a boarding stable. When the old owner sells the stables and the new owner doesn’t show up, Bronwen is at a loss with how to deal with the mounting issues. When a mysterious man finally moves into the homestead, Bronwen assumes he is the new owner and confronts him about the problems. But it turns out, his sister is the new owner and Ian is temporarily staying until she arrives.
I loved the fast attraction between Bronwen and Ian. They both share a passion for horses but have both had a difficult past with them. Through Hades, the newest horse at Morning Song Farm, Bronwen and Ian find a common goal and through their forced proximity their attraction grows.
I loved the horse aspect of this story. It was very integral to the story as well as the personal growth and relationship development for Bronwen and Ian. I was immediately thrown into the atmosphere at Morning Song Farm and loved every moment. The found family aspect of the story really has me excited for exploring future character arcs.
Thank you to Mills and Boon Australia and Romance ANZ for gifting me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Bronwen is the barn manager of a boarding stable. When the old owner sells the stables and the new owner doesn’t show up, Bronwen is at a loss with how to deal with the mounting issues. When a mysterious man finally moves into the homestead, Bronwen assumes he is the new owner and confronts him about the problems. But it turns out, his sister is the new owner and Ian is temporarily staying until she arrives.
I loved the fast attraction between Bronwen and Ian. They both share a passion for horses but have both had a difficult past with them. Through Hades, the newest horse at Morning Song Farm, Bronwen and Ian find a common goal and through their forced proximity their attraction grows.
I loved the horse aspect of this story. It was very integral to the story as well as the personal growth and relationship development for Bronwen and Ian. I was immediately thrown into the atmosphere at Morning Song Farm and loved every moment. The found family aspect of the story really has me excited for exploring future character arcs.
Thank you to Mills and Boon Australia and Romance ANZ for gifting me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 3, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Mills & Boon publisher for sending me a digital ARC in exchange for a review!
3 Stars
This book was a really enjoyable and sweet read! I loved the elements of horses throughout the story, as somebody who grew up loving horses and the countryside, the setting of this book was perfect for me. I also really enjoyed both main characters and how passionate they were for the stables, the horses, their career, and everybody in their lives, always putting other people first. If you were a fan of the saddle club when you were younger like me - you would love this book! It’s basically adult version of the saddle club!
I would have enjoyed a more slow-burn romance within the book, and more of an actual grumpy romance as that did not last very long into the story. I do usually like my romance novels more emotional, insightful and longer with a slow-burn element which is why I’m settling on a 3 stars, but I still had a fun time reading this book! If you are a fan of Elsie Silver and cowboy romances I’d recommend giving this one a go! 🐴
3 Stars
This book was a really enjoyable and sweet read! I loved the elements of horses throughout the story, as somebody who grew up loving horses and the countryside, the setting of this book was perfect for me. I also really enjoyed both main characters and how passionate they were for the stables, the horses, their career, and everybody in their lives, always putting other people first. If you were a fan of the saddle club when you were younger like me - you would love this book! It’s basically adult version of the saddle club!
I would have enjoyed a more slow-burn romance within the book, and more of an actual grumpy romance as that did not last very long into the story. I do usually like my romance novels more emotional, insightful and longer with a slow-burn element which is why I’m settling on a 3 stars, but I still had a fun time reading this book! If you are a fan of Elsie Silver and cowboy romances I’d recommend giving this one a go! 🐴
July 29, 2024
barn manager and a former horse jumper are brought together by their love of horses to make ends meet. He is grumpy and she is full of sunshine so it's a rough start, but the pair bond over trauma. The Grump Whisperer is a romance full of emotions, horses, and obstacles that are meant to be overcome.
Bronwen is a barn manager and loves what she does. Things are getting tense when a new owner that no one has gotten the chance to meet is unable to be contacted, especially when bills and staff are unpaid. That's when she meets Ian. He is the brother of the owner, but isn't the easiest to get along with. He seems standoffish and is unwilling to help. But his love of horses makes him change his attitude and step in for his sister.
This is a cute romance that can easily be read in one sitting. I was a fan of the romance and emotional connection between Bronwen and Ian. The setting was beautiful to read and I could picture every detail.
Bronwen is a barn manager and loves what she does. Things are getting tense when a new owner that no one has gotten the chance to meet is unable to be contacted, especially when bills and staff are unpaid. That's when she meets Ian. He is the brother of the owner, but isn't the easiest to get along with. He seems standoffish and is unwilling to help. But his love of horses makes him change his attitude and step in for his sister.
This is a cute romance that can easily be read in one sitting. I was a fan of the romance and emotional connection between Bronwen and Ian. The setting was beautiful to read and I could picture every detail.
November 3, 2024
Grumpy meets sunshine on a ranch full of charm!
Thank you to @MillsandBoon and | Afterglow Books for my ARC copy of The Grump Whisperer
I have used this book as a New release for the #NetgalleyNovemberKnockDown.
This is an enjoyable and quick read. In this book, we are following Browen, a farm manager, as the old farm owner has left and sold the farm to a new one. We are then introduced to the new farm owner, Brother Ian is really grumpy compared to Brownen, who whom Sunshine so if you love that, trope this book is for you. The sister has sent Ian here even though he does not want anything to do with horses, anyone but her incomes, a poor horses who need help called Hades.
The show's star for me is Hades; the horse has such a personality around the ranch. Thought the cast of characters was really fun to read, and I hope to see more of them
#TheGrumpWhisperer #BookReview #ARC #FarmLife #HorseLovers #FictionFans #ReadingCommunity #BookLovers #Netgalley #NewRelease
Thank you to @MillsandBoon and | Afterglow Books for my ARC copy of The Grump Whisperer
I have used this book as a New release for the #NetgalleyNovemberKnockDown.
This is an enjoyable and quick read. In this book, we are following Browen, a farm manager, as the old farm owner has left and sold the farm to a new one. We are then introduced to the new farm owner, Brother Ian is really grumpy compared to Brownen, who whom Sunshine so if you love that, trope this book is for you. The sister has sent Ian here even though he does not want anything to do with horses, anyone but her incomes, a poor horses who need help called Hades.
The show's star for me is Hades; the horse has such a personality around the ranch. Thought the cast of characters was really fun to read, and I hope to see more of them
#TheGrumpWhisperer #BookReview #ARC #FarmLife #HorseLovers #FictionFans #ReadingCommunity #BookLovers #Netgalley #NewRelease
November 5, 2024
When a sunshine barn manager meets the grumpy former show jumper will love bloom?
Ok I don’t know I really enjoyed the horse aspects of this books. I loved the cast of characters that boarded their horses at the barn. I loved that you could tell how much care was put into writing about the horses and the barn. However, I just don’t think the same care was put into the romance. Ian was clearly supposed to be a grump and he was for like 3 chapters. It felt very insta love to me and Bronwen and Ian were just not well developed. The first kiss came out of nowhere so suddenly the first time that I had to go back and read it because I was so confused?? I think had there been been 50 more pages then the relationship could have developed way more naturally.
I’m in a cowboy romance phase so I still enjoyed this book and it was a fun quick read. However, I think if there were just a few tweaks it would be an excellent book.
Ok I don’t know I really enjoyed the horse aspects of this books. I loved the cast of characters that boarded their horses at the barn. I loved that you could tell how much care was put into writing about the horses and the barn. However, I just don’t think the same care was put into the romance. Ian was clearly supposed to be a grump and he was for like 3 chapters. It felt very insta love to me and Bronwen and Ian were just not well developed. The first kiss came out of nowhere so suddenly the first time that I had to go back and read it because I was so confused?? I think had there been been 50 more pages then the relationship could have developed way more naturally.
I’m in a cowboy romance phase so I still enjoyed this book and it was a fun quick read. However, I think if there were just a few tweaks it would be an excellent book.
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