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The Murphys of Meadow Valley #3
The Cowboy of My Dreams
"A fabulous storyteller." —Carolyn Brown, New York Times bestselling author, for Second Chance Cowboy
A washed-up country music cowboy on the run, a songwriter without a song, and a double-booked ranch guesthouse with both their names on it... What could possibly go wrong?
Ash Murphy sneaks home to the family ranch to escape the the scandal that follows his successful country music career everywhere. He plans to rest up, get in his fair share of work on the ranch, connect with the new horses his brothers have taken in, and lay low for as long as it takes for the newest tabloid interest to blow over. Except when he arrives, his brother's guest house isn't empty; it's current occupant is none other than Willow Morgan, country singer on the rise, hoping to finally finish the last song on her sophomore album—the one her label says must be a hit. But her small problem with writers block is nothing compared to her large Ash Murphy broke her heart once before, and if she's not careful, he just might do it again.
Praise for A.J. Pine's steamy cowboy
"Cross my heart, this sexy, sweet romance gives…readers a fantastic ride."—Jennifer Ryan, New York Times bestselling author, for Second Chance Cowboy
"Standout supporting characters ably underpin the cleverly plotted romance." —Publishers Weekly for Holding Out for a Cowboy
A washed-up country music cowboy on the run, a songwriter without a song, and a double-booked ranch guesthouse with both their names on it... What could possibly go wrong?
Ash Murphy sneaks home to the family ranch to escape the the scandal that follows his successful country music career everywhere. He plans to rest up, get in his fair share of work on the ranch, connect with the new horses his brothers have taken in, and lay low for as long as it takes for the newest tabloid interest to blow over. Except when he arrives, his brother's guest house isn't empty; it's current occupant is none other than Willow Morgan, country singer on the rise, hoping to finally finish the last song on her sophomore album—the one her label says must be a hit. But her small problem with writers block is nothing compared to her large Ash Murphy broke her heart once before, and if she's not careful, he just might do it again.
Praise for A.J. Pine's steamy cowboy
"Cross my heart, this sexy, sweet romance gives…readers a fantastic ride."—Jennifer Ryan, New York Times bestselling author, for Second Chance Cowboy
"Standout supporting characters ably underpin the cleverly plotted romance." —Publishers Weekly for Holding Out for a Cowboy
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published February 11, 2025
About the author
A.J. Pine
30 books932 followersA teen librarian by day and a romance writer by night, A.J. Pine can’t seem to escape the world of fiction, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. She’s the author of the If Only series (Entangled Embrace), the Only You series (Berkley/Intermix), the Kingston Ale House series (Entangled Select), and the Crossroads Ranch series (Forever Romance). When she finds that 25th hour in the day, she might indulge in a tiny bit of TV where she nourishes her undying love of vampires, superheroes, and a certain high-functioning sociopath detective. She hails from the far off galaxy of the Chicago suburbs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
February 9, 2025
The Cowboy Of My Dreams is a very good book to read that totally held my interest.
This is the third book in The Murphys of Meadow Valley series, it could ve read as a standalone, and it tells the story of Ashton Murphy, the youngest brother.
Ash is a famous country singer, after a bad night and a new scandal waiting to be uncovered he is ready to go home and face his brothers. When he arrives at his older brother's ranch he is surprised to find an old girlfriend. Willow Morgan decided to hide at the Murphy's guesthouse to write the last song for her next country album, but her alone time is disrupted by the presence of Ash. They had a painful breakup, but now they are forced to share the same house and to write a song together in order to save their careers.
I loved Ash. He knows he has made some mistakes in the past, but now that he has the chance he is determined to win Willow back. I understand why Willow wants to be cautious, she was hurt by this same man, but Ashton is ready to make amends, and to let her see his real self in oreder to be forgiven and to rekindle their relationship.
They are perfect together, and they need one another to heal, letting the past go and start anew.
A.J. Pine nailed it with this heartwarming story, she perfectly described the hardship to be always in the spotlight with the high risk to lose the best and truest thing that could happen to you.
I enjoy too much cowboys' novels, I will never tire of reading them.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for kindly giving me an advanced copy of this book to read.
February 23, 2025
It was cute and Ash was adorable 💜
“Us? It has nothing to do with the business part of our relationship and everything to do with the fact that you Willow Morgan do this thing to my heart thousands of fans singing my own words back to me, could never do.”
“Us? It has nothing to do with the business part of our relationship and everything to do with the fact that you Willow Morgan do this thing to my heart thousands of fans singing my own words back to me, could never do.”
February 9, 2025
Yes, hi, I’m head over heels for Ash Murphy. I love him. Ash & Willow have history, and when they unexpectedly cross paths for the summer, they’re forced to face the hurt between them. Both of them need each other to help their careers for different reasons, and they’re thrown into creating music together. I loved the ways Ash shows up for Willow and his determination to show her she’s it for him. I mean truly, this man has always tried to show up for her. Willow’s more hesitant to explore what could be between them, rightfully so, after getting her heart broken. But oh these two are so meant to be, and neither of them truly got over the other. There’s so much more to Ash than meets the eye, and my heart broke for him and how hard he was on himself. I just adored this one and all the feels and how it’s always been them. And Ash. I’ve loved all the Murphy brothers, but I think Ash might have stolen my heart just a little more.
[ARC from Netgalley//Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for an honest review]
[ARC from Netgalley//Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for an honest review]
January 30, 2025
Ash Murphy has returned to the family home after years away as a country music star. He is getting bad press since his wife has announced her engagement to another man. Willow Morgan is staying at his brother's guest house, and they have a history. She is trying to write songs for her new album and when Ash shows up it's not going to be good. Willow has tried for the past four years to stay out of the press since Ash let her take the fall years ago.
Since they are both stuck at the guesthouse, they decide to lay low and write a new song together.
Ash never told Willow the truth about what happened four years ago, and his manager seems to not be really helping him out.
I loved the story line, but felt the story could have had a better end. It did have HEA but seemed to just stop.
Since they are both stuck at the guesthouse, they decide to lay low and write a new song together.
Ash never told Willow the truth about what happened four years ago, and his manager seems to not be really helping him out.
I loved the story line, but felt the story could have had a better end. It did have HEA but seemed to just stop.
August 17, 2025
This book is part of The Murphy’s of Meadow Valley series. This is a second chance romance.
This story is about a guy named Ash Murphy. He is a successful country music star. Scandal seems to follow him wherever he goes. There’s only one place he can sneak off to where the world can’t follow him : his family’s ranch. Ash plans to rest up and lay low, working with his brothers and their new rescue horses for as long as it takes the latest tabloid interest to blow over. Except when Ash arrives, his brother’s guest house isn’t empty and its current occupant is Willow Morgan.
Willow Morgan is a country singer on the rise, is hoping to finally finish the last song on her sophomore album- the one her label says must be a hit. The only problem is, is that she has writer’s block. It is nothing compared to the suggested solution of writing a duet with none other than Ash Murphy himself. The man who broke her heart once before. And if she’s not careful he might just do it again. This story was a hate to love romance. Willow is angry about Ash having broke her heart once again. This is a forced proximity romance that I enjoyed reading.
This story is about a guy named Ash Murphy. He is a successful country music star. Scandal seems to follow him wherever he goes. There’s only one place he can sneak off to where the world can’t follow him : his family’s ranch. Ash plans to rest up and lay low, working with his brothers and their new rescue horses for as long as it takes the latest tabloid interest to blow over. Except when Ash arrives, his brother’s guest house isn’t empty and its current occupant is Willow Morgan.
Willow Morgan is a country singer on the rise, is hoping to finally finish the last song on her sophomore album- the one her label says must be a hit. The only problem is, is that she has writer’s block. It is nothing compared to the suggested solution of writing a duet with none other than Ash Murphy himself. The man who broke her heart once before. And if she’s not careful he might just do it again. This story was a hate to love romance. Willow is angry about Ash having broke her heart once again. This is a forced proximity romance that I enjoyed reading.
January 25, 2025
To musicians, one cabin, a comeback and some horses.
This story had also lot's of banter and heartfelt moments, and a cozy vibe.
A not so spicy Cowboy romance 😉
Ash, my man! You were great (Willow, not my cup of tea....)
A thanks to Netgalley for the ARC
This story had also lot's of banter and heartfelt moments, and a cozy vibe.
A not so spicy Cowboy romance 😉
Ash, my man! You were great (Willow, not my cup of tea....)
A thanks to Netgalley for the ARC
February 9, 2025
THE COWBOY OF MY DREAMS is the third instalment in AJ Pine’s contemporary, adult THE MURPHYS OF MEADOW VALLEY romance series-a spin off from the author’s Meadow Valley series. This is twenty-nine year old, country singer/song writer Ash Murphy, and rising country star Willow Morgan’s story line. THE COWBOY OF MY DREAMS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Willow is Colt Morgan’s sister (Only A Cowboy Will Do / Meadow Valley 3).
Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Ash and Willow) THE COWBOY OF MY DREAMS follows the frenemies to lovers relationship between Ash and Willow. Willow is on a two month hiatus, struggling to find her writing muse, staying at the Murphy family ranch in an effort to remain behind closed doors but the arrival of Ash Murphy, a man running to escape a scandal finds our couples working together in an effort to fix both of their careers. Ash and Willow are no strangers to one another, a one-night stand while on tour, four years earlier, ended in humiliation and Willow walking away but Ash Murphy never forgot about our story line heroine, a woman who has starred in his dreams and his songs.
The world building focuses on the rekindling relationship between Ash and Willow; the look back at what happened and why; and Ash’s struggle to make everything right. Willow spent the past four years under a dark cloud, a cloud not of her making.
The relationship between Ash and Willow is one of second chances, of a sorts. Four years earlier, a one-night stand ended with Willow on the run, but Ash is determined to make amends for the humiliation and betrayal at Willow’s expense. The $ex scenes are passionate but fade to black.
There is another large ensemble cast of colorfui, familiar and energetic secondary and supporting characters including the previous story lines and series characters.
THE COWBOY OF MY DREAMS is a story of betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, forgiveness and acceptance, family and love. The premise is captivating and emotional; the romance is fated and seductive; the characters are determined and dynamic.
Copy supplied for review
Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Ash and Willow) THE COWBOY OF MY DREAMS follows the frenemies to lovers relationship between Ash and Willow. Willow is on a two month hiatus, struggling to find her writing muse, staying at the Murphy family ranch in an effort to remain behind closed doors but the arrival of Ash Murphy, a man running to escape a scandal finds our couples working together in an effort to fix both of their careers. Ash and Willow are no strangers to one another, a one-night stand while on tour, four years earlier, ended in humiliation and Willow walking away but Ash Murphy never forgot about our story line heroine, a woman who has starred in his dreams and his songs.
The world building focuses on the rekindling relationship between Ash and Willow; the look back at what happened and why; and Ash’s struggle to make everything right. Willow spent the past four years under a dark cloud, a cloud not of her making.
The relationship between Ash and Willow is one of second chances, of a sorts. Four years earlier, a one-night stand ended with Willow on the run, but Ash is determined to make amends for the humiliation and betrayal at Willow’s expense. The $ex scenes are passionate but fade to black.
There is another large ensemble cast of colorfui, familiar and energetic secondary and supporting characters including the previous story lines and series characters.
THE COWBOY OF MY DREAMS is a story of betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, forgiveness and acceptance, family and love. The premise is captivating and emotional; the romance is fated and seductive; the characters are determined and dynamic.
Copy supplied for review
February 15, 2025
The Cowboy of My Dreams by AJ Pine. In fact, he had been in her dreams for four years now, ever since he let her down in the most egregious way. Now she was staying at the guest house at his brother’s ranch, taking two months to rest and write some songs. Her record company was after her and she had to prepare for a festival she would be playing at soon. She was, after all, Willow Morgan, and she had a career. Early in her sojourn, she was awakened by someone in the house. She was no victim so she looked around for a weapon and settled on a heavy vase. As the attacker approached, she hit him in the head. Only when the lights were turned on did she discover that it was her ex-boyfriend, and a brother of the owners of the cabin. He tried to explain. She let him sleep on the couch and went back to bed. The spent the nest few weeks getting to know one another again.
Is this a deep and meaningful novel? It is not, but it is fun as his betrayal came to slight slowly over the next few weeks. Her brother and his wife and baby lived nearby so that was fun. They discovered that, while neither of them could write a song, they could write one together. They were getting along well, despite the rocky beginning. This is not the type of book that delves deeply into character, but they were both likable. And, as both of them discovered, they had been manipulated more than once, their relationship slowly healed so they could move forward, and they did in a spectacular way. Fun, simple romance with a happy ending.
I was invited to read The Cowboy of My Dreams by Sourcebooks Casablanca. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #SourcebooksCasablanca #AJPine #TheCowboyOfMyDreams
Is this a deep and meaningful novel? It is not, but it is fun as his betrayal came to slight slowly over the next few weeks. Her brother and his wife and baby lived nearby so that was fun. They discovered that, while neither of them could write a song, they could write one together. They were getting along well, despite the rocky beginning. This is not the type of book that delves deeply into character, but they were both likable. And, as both of them discovered, they had been manipulated more than once, their relationship slowly healed so they could move forward, and they did in a spectacular way. Fun, simple romance with a happy ending.
I was invited to read The Cowboy of My Dreams by Sourcebooks Casablanca. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #SourcebooksCasablanca #AJPine #TheCowboyOfMyDreams
February 22, 2025
The Cowboy of My Dreams
by A.J. Pine
This book is the third instalment in "The Murphys of Meadow Valley" series and is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a compelling romance novel. Having read the second book previously, I found myself eager to dive into this one, despite missing the very first title in the series. A.J. Pine's writing is not only excellent but also refreshingly engaging, drawing the reader in from the very first page while maintaining a balance that avoids excessive drama.
In this book, we follow Ash Murphy as he sneaks back to his family's expansive ranch in Meadow Valley to escape the media frenzy surrounding his recent marriage breakup and his flourishing country music career. However, when he arrives at his brother's guest house, he finds an unexpected surprise: it is occupied by none other than Willow Morgan, an ambitious and talented rising star in the country music scene. Four years earlier, Ash broke her heart, and in doing so, he fractured his own, leaving both of them with unresolved emotions.
The pain of past heartache, along with the mixed signals they exchanged during their tumultuous relationship, has kept them apart for years. Yet, when Ash’s agent proposes a collaboration on a duet to repair his public image and increase Willow’s visibility in the industry, the two are forced to confront their lingering feelings. Their shared moments in the guest house—late-night songwriting sessions, awkward but heartfelt conversations, and the undeniable chemistry that simmers beneath the surface—prompt them to question whether the spark they once had could be reignited. As they navigate their professional partnership, they begin to discover that their connection may be more profound than they had ever realized.
by A.J. Pine
This book is the third instalment in "The Murphys of Meadow Valley" series and is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a compelling romance novel. Having read the second book previously, I found myself eager to dive into this one, despite missing the very first title in the series. A.J. Pine's writing is not only excellent but also refreshingly engaging, drawing the reader in from the very first page while maintaining a balance that avoids excessive drama.
In this book, we follow Ash Murphy as he sneaks back to his family's expansive ranch in Meadow Valley to escape the media frenzy surrounding his recent marriage breakup and his flourishing country music career. However, when he arrives at his brother's guest house, he finds an unexpected surprise: it is occupied by none other than Willow Morgan, an ambitious and talented rising star in the country music scene. Four years earlier, Ash broke her heart, and in doing so, he fractured his own, leaving both of them with unresolved emotions.
The pain of past heartache, along with the mixed signals they exchanged during their tumultuous relationship, has kept them apart for years. Yet, when Ash’s agent proposes a collaboration on a duet to repair his public image and increase Willow’s visibility in the industry, the two are forced to confront their lingering feelings. Their shared moments in the guest house—late-night songwriting sessions, awkward but heartfelt conversations, and the undeniable chemistry that simmers beneath the surface—prompt them to question whether the spark they once had could be reignited. As they navigate their professional partnership, they begin to discover that their connection may be more profound than they had ever realized.
February 2, 2025
With the media constantly lurking and following his every move Ash Murphy has decided it is time for him to take a break from the stage. He needs a place to hideout for a while, so he can work on getting his life back in order, his career back on track and avoid the media at all costs while doing it. He has the perfect place in mind, his families secluded ranch guest house... but he's not the only one with that thought.
The Cowboy of My Dreams is a perfectly penned second chance romance that is destined to tug on your heartstrings and leave you smiling. These two had potential written all over them, sure they had a hurtful past that Willow was certain would never be mended, but Ash was determined to change her mind. He knew they belonged with one another, but he also knew he had a lot of work to do on himself before he could be worthy of her. He'd messed up bigtime in the past and he knew it was a big ask for her to forgive him, but he also knew it wasn't an impossible feat.
I loved watching these two find their happily ever after, it wasn't an easy fall, but that is what made it so believable to me. Love isn't easy, it takes patience and a lot of work and these two had everything it took to make it happen, they just had to learn to let the hurt go and let their hearts take the lead. Cowboy romances are some of my favorite romances to read and I have to say this one checked all the boxes for me, it was entertaining, heartfelt, sweet, and came with a cowboy that was impossible not to fall for! Highly recommend!!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
The Cowboy of My Dreams is a perfectly penned second chance romance that is destined to tug on your heartstrings and leave you smiling. These two had potential written all over them, sure they had a hurtful past that Willow was certain would never be mended, but Ash was determined to change her mind. He knew they belonged with one another, but he also knew he had a lot of work to do on himself before he could be worthy of her. He'd messed up bigtime in the past and he knew it was a big ask for her to forgive him, but he also knew it wasn't an impossible feat.
I loved watching these two find their happily ever after, it wasn't an easy fall, but that is what made it so believable to me. Love isn't easy, it takes patience and a lot of work and these two had everything it took to make it happen, they just had to learn to let the hurt go and let their hearts take the lead. Cowboy romances are some of my favorite romances to read and I have to say this one checked all the boxes for me, it was entertaining, heartfelt, sweet, and came with a cowboy that was impossible not to fall for! Highly recommend!!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
February 7, 2025
The Cowboy of My Dreams is the third book in the Murphys of Meadow Valley series. I've enjoyed all of the books in this series so far.
Ash Murphy, who is a famous country singer, has returned home for the first time in quite a while. He's all over the press because of his love life. He's come home to hopefully let someone else's life take over the news cycle. He also looks to reconnect with his brothers who he hasn't seen for years.
Willow Morgan, who is also a country artist, is staying in the guest house on the Murphy land. She needs to write songs for her next album, but she's had a terrible case of writer's block. The last person she expects to see is Ash. The two of them were involved four years ago and it did not end well between them.
When both Ash and Willow end up having to stay in the guest house, they have no choice but to try to get along. They agree to try to write a song together to help Ash's press issues and Willow's writer's block. Will they get just a song, or will unresolved feelings between the two fire back up as well?
I enjoyed this story and both Willow and Ash. They had both been through it and the fact that there had never been a conversation between them so Willow could understand what had happened all those years ago made for a compelling story. I always look forward to the books that A.J. Pine pens for us and I'm already looking forward to what she has to offer next!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Ash Murphy, who is a famous country singer, has returned home for the first time in quite a while. He's all over the press because of his love life. He's come home to hopefully let someone else's life take over the news cycle. He also looks to reconnect with his brothers who he hasn't seen for years.
Willow Morgan, who is also a country artist, is staying in the guest house on the Murphy land. She needs to write songs for her next album, but she's had a terrible case of writer's block. The last person she expects to see is Ash. The two of them were involved four years ago and it did not end well between them.
When both Ash and Willow end up having to stay in the guest house, they have no choice but to try to get along. They agree to try to write a song together to help Ash's press issues and Willow's writer's block. Will they get just a song, or will unresolved feelings between the two fire back up as well?
I enjoyed this story and both Willow and Ash. They had both been through it and the fact that there had never been a conversation between them so Willow could understand what had happened all those years ago made for a compelling story. I always look forward to the books that A.J. Pine pens for us and I'm already looking forward to what she has to offer next!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
February 24, 2025
Four years ago up and coming singer/songwriter Willow Morgan made the biggest mistake of her life when she slept with country singer Ash Murphy. Now she's back home in Meadow Valley, looking for a little down and a change of scenery and hoping she can finish the last song for her sophomore album.
Ash feels like the last four years have been one disaster after another. He's come home to Meadow Valley to lie low and put his life back in order. The last thing he expects to find in his brother's guest house is Willow. Despite her reservations, Willow finds herself working with Ash on a project that can benefit both of them. Is she making the same mistakes all over again?
The small town romance works well, because even though the main characters are in the public eye, they still care about their hometown roots. There they are accepted and can be themselves. There they are among family who don't pull punches, play it straight and tell them things they need to hear. It humanizes the characters and makes them more relatable. And that's why I think Willow and Ash work.
Having read other Meadow Valley stories, reading this book was like a visit to a familiar place, a visit with old friends. This sweet, sensitive small town romance provided a wonderful escape.
Thank you to Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for a copy of this book. The thoughts and opinions are my own.
Ash feels like the last four years have been one disaster after another. He's come home to Meadow Valley to lie low and put his life back in order. The last thing he expects to find in his brother's guest house is Willow. Despite her reservations, Willow finds herself working with Ash on a project that can benefit both of them. Is she making the same mistakes all over again?
The small town romance works well, because even though the main characters are in the public eye, they still care about their hometown roots. There they are accepted and can be themselves. There they are among family who don't pull punches, play it straight and tell them things they need to hear. It humanizes the characters and makes them more relatable. And that's why I think Willow and Ash work.
Having read other Meadow Valley stories, reading this book was like a visit to a familiar place, a visit with old friends. This sweet, sensitive small town romance provided a wonderful escape.
Thank you to Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for a copy of this book. The thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 18, 2025
I just love A.J. Pine’s cowboys! It’s always a delightful to be in one of her small-towns—in this case, back in Meadow Valley—and I took the time to savor every page of The Cowboy of My Dreams.
The writing is excellent, the story is enjoyable and engaging without being overly dramatic or angsty, despite the feeling that it might just go in that direction when the past between Ash and Willow is hinted at, and the characters easy to root for. I wanted the best for hero and heroine from the drop—Willow because she’s a smart woman trying to be strong and work through a rough patch in her career, and Ash because he took responsibility for his mistakes, learned from them, and grew as a character.
There are so many swoony moments from the titular cowboy that he for sure could’ve walked right out of my dreams, and I wouldn’t mind at all if he decided to take permanent residence there. A book boyfriend MVP, if you will.
All in all, another spectacular story from this author I count among my favorites, and definitely a rewarding conclusion to the story of the Murphy brothers. Looking forward to whatever comes next for Pine!
The writing is excellent, the story is enjoyable and engaging without being overly dramatic or angsty, despite the feeling that it might just go in that direction when the past between Ash and Willow is hinted at, and the characters easy to root for. I wanted the best for hero and heroine from the drop—Willow because she’s a smart woman trying to be strong and work through a rough patch in her career, and Ash because he took responsibility for his mistakes, learned from them, and grew as a character.
There are so many swoony moments from the titular cowboy that he for sure could’ve walked right out of my dreams, and I wouldn’t mind at all if he decided to take permanent residence there. A book boyfriend MVP, if you will.
All in all, another spectacular story from this author I count among my favorites, and definitely a rewarding conclusion to the story of the Murphy brothers. Looking forward to whatever comes next for Pine!
January 31, 2025
This is the third book of the Murphy’s of Meadow Valley series featuring prodigal brother Ash Murphy. Ash is a famous country music singer who is going through a very public divorce and needs to lay low. He comes home in the middle of the night and decides to stay in his brother’s guest house. There is a small problem, the guest house is already occupied by up and coming country star Willow Morgan, who just happens to be Ash’s ex. Ash’s agent suggests that they collaborate on a duet to rehab his image and increase Willow’s visibility. Staying in the same guesthouse, and working together helps them realize that perhaps there is still that spark there. I enjoyed the first two books in this series, I was just okay with this book. I just didn’t connect with either of the main characters, and I felt that some of the plot points were implausible. This book wasn’t bad, it just didn’t live up to the promise of the first two books. I received an arc of this book from NetGalley for my honest review.
September 12, 2025
Read as stand alone. Second chance romance, my favorite. The cowboy in question has been in western singer, Willow Morgan's dreams for 4 years. She thought she was in love with singer Ashton Murphy and he with her, until she was ambushed by his agent about his "wife". She ran and did not give him a chance to explain. Four years later they are force into sharing a guest house, while working on a new song together. Can she trust him, when she refuses to listen to find out the real story of what happened 4 years ago? They start to rebuild their relationship, but as the formula in romances goes, 3/4 through the book, something happens to blow it up. Willow didn't learn from before and again, doesn't give him a chance to explain, when he is clearly clueless about what happened. He then must make the grand gesture, to win her back, because she is the only gal for him. Engaging story, well developed characters.
I read a gifted advanced reader's copy from the Publisher, via NetGalley.com. This is my honest, unbiased and voluntary review.
I read a gifted advanced reader's copy from the Publisher, via NetGalley.com. This is my honest, unbiased and voluntary review.
January 6, 2025
I REALLY liked this new book by AJ Pine. I always love a series that continues with characters we have seen in previous books and Pine does this so very well. We have spend so much time with the Murphy's that it was comforting to come back to their family. This is a ranch/cowboy/celebrity romance and that combination hit me just where I needed it.
Willow and Ash have a past that is colliding again 4 years later. Hurt and heartache and mixed messages have kept them apart but being put together back home at the Murphy ranch and working on a song collaboration give them the proximity and reason to work things out. In the very best way. I love that it was only her for Ash. I love the family and side characters. I just enjoyed it so much.
Willow and Ash have a past that is colliding again 4 years later. Hurt and heartache and mixed messages have kept them apart but being put together back home at the Murphy ranch and working on a song collaboration give them the proximity and reason to work things out. In the very best way. I love that it was only her for Ash. I love the family and side characters. I just enjoyed it so much.
January 8, 2025
This checked all the boxes of a good cowboy romance. Good story, hot guy, likable lady (THANK YOU!!!) and duh, horses.
I loved that these two had a backstory that wasn't the typical "childhood crush " story.
I also REALLY appreciated that the ex-wife (I won't spoil anything, I promise) wasn't the villain and she was actually extremely likable and there was no cat fight going on or pitting two women against each other.
I ate this up. It was an easy and fun read but also did have some substance beyond the spice, which I also loved.
*Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and candid review*
I loved that these two had a backstory that wasn't the typical "childhood crush " story.
I also REALLY appreciated that the ex-wife (I won't spoil anything, I promise) wasn't the villain and she was actually extremely likable and there was no cat fight going on or pitting two women against each other.
I ate this up. It was an easy and fun read but also did have some substance beyond the spice, which I also loved.
*Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and candid review*
January 25, 2025
I enjoyed reading this third book in the series. I liked the close knit Murphy family and their ranch where they take in horse rescues.
I would say Willow and Ash were a bit like rescues. They broke up four years ago and Willow had not wanted to talk to Ash but fate stepped in and forced them to talk and to try to resolve their issues.
The book was a fun romance with sexy cowboys, and two country music singers trying to come to terms with their past in order to maybe have a future. It was a fun story to read. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
I would say Willow and Ash were a bit like rescues. They broke up four years ago and Willow had not wanted to talk to Ash but fate stepped in and forced them to talk and to try to resolve their issues.
The book was a fun romance with sexy cowboys, and two country music singers trying to come to terms with their past in order to maybe have a future. It was a fun story to read. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
February 17, 2025
This was a great story! Easily read in a weekend. The characters were created with warmth, laughter and sorrow. All I ask is to keep me entertained and this book delivered. The author seemed very knowledgeable about country music (even though in the notes she indicates another genre as her favorite.) The only thing that kept this from a 5 star review was it was just skimmed over about how Ash handled who was the instigator who caused a lot of the issues for Ash and Willow. Great as a stand alone story.
Thank you to A.J. Pine, Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for the ARC. My review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
Thank you to A.J. Pine, Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for the ARC. My review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
September 10, 2025
This is the 3rd book in The Murphys of Meadow Valley series, this book tells the story of the youngest Murphy brother Ashton. I read this as a standalone and altho A.J touched on bits from the other books you really don’t have to read the first 2. (I will be purchasing them as loved this book)
With another scandle Ash heads home to his brothers ranch to stay out the spotlight and face his brothers. Willow Morgan, Ash’s ex girlfriend is hiding out at the ranch to finish her next country album. Coming face to face with each other after a painful breakup can they live together, write a song and save both careers? Will love blossom for them.
With another scandle Ash heads home to his brothers ranch to stay out the spotlight and face his brothers. Willow Morgan, Ash’s ex girlfriend is hiding out at the ranch to finish her next country album. Coming face to face with each other after a painful breakup can they live together, write a song and save both careers? Will love blossom for them.
September 11, 2025
This is a good book. The two main characters are Willow and Ash. Four years ago, they got together and spent every day together for about six months. They broke up because of lies between them. Four years later Willow goes to stay in Ash’s brother guest house. Willow and Ash are both singers. The first night Willow is in the guest house, she awakes to hear someone breaking in. She hits the person with a flower vase, it turns out to be Ash. They start dating. They each have issues but together they work them out and fall in love.
February 7, 2025
2.75⭐
1 🌶️
Tropes/Themes: Singer-songwriter MCs, second chance, frenemies to lovers,
Dual POV 3rd person
So, I had a hard time with this book. It’s partly my fault because it’s the 3rd in a series (which I didn’t realize so I tried to be more judicious in my star rating). Reading the 2nd+ book in a series when I haven’t read the first ones is sort of a crap shoot, sometimes it’s a true standalone and sometimes even when it’s not a cliffhanger there’s way too much backstory you missed that it makes it hard to follow. And this one is the latter.
Even if I wasn’t having a hard time following the beginning, it was difficult for me to connect to the MCs. I didn’t really feel the chemistry between them, especially for a second chance romance. I also found some of the plot points implausible. The banter was good though, and I really liked the song they co-wrote. I definitely don’t recommend this as a “standalone”, but I’m not sure I can recommend the book at all.
1 🌶️
Tropes/Themes: Singer-songwriter MCs, second chance, frenemies to lovers,
Dual POV 3rd person
So, I had a hard time with this book. It’s partly my fault because it’s the 3rd in a series (which I didn’t realize so I tried to be more judicious in my star rating). Reading the 2nd+ book in a series when I haven’t read the first ones is sort of a crap shoot, sometimes it’s a true standalone and sometimes even when it’s not a cliffhanger there’s way too much backstory you missed that it makes it hard to follow. And this one is the latter.
Even if I wasn’t having a hard time following the beginning, it was difficult for me to connect to the MCs. I didn’t really feel the chemistry between them, especially for a second chance romance. I also found some of the plot points implausible. The banter was good though, and I really liked the song they co-wrote. I definitely don’t recommend this as a “standalone”, but I’m not sure I can recommend the book at all.
February 26, 2025
A very good story about two country music artists who have a past, but would like to have a future. Ash Murphy goes back to his hometown and to the family ranch to hide but thinking he is getting away from everything he is struck in the head by his past Willow Morgan. Their past together keeps coming up and until he addresses the issues they or they can never move on. A good story about righting a wrong and forgiveness.
February 12, 2025
This was an Ok read for me. I am not a huge fan of 2nd chance because that means that someone screwed up the first chance. In this case it was the MMC. He was a total douche. Also, the company he keeps is not so great.
I received an eARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I received an eARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
May 19, 2025
Good read from A.J. Pine. I really like her books and usually buy it as soon as it releases, like this one. I liked these characters and the plot of this book. Looking forward to reading more from this talented storyteller.
August 27, 2025
3.5 stars
It's been a while since I read the first two books in the series (and the other trilogy set in this world). I suspect I would have felt more nostalgia and warm fuzzies if they were fresher in my memory.
It's been a while since I read the first two books in the series (and the other trilogy set in this world). I suspect I would have felt more nostalgia and warm fuzzies if they were fresher in my memory.
January 18, 2025
Review to follow
Did Not Finish
January 19, 2025Stopped at 8%.
i don't like second chance romance and have yet to enjoy a cowboy romance
i don't like second chance romance and have yet to enjoy a cowboy romance
February 27, 2025
Great book!
January 12, 2025
Wow! Willow and Ash had major knots to undo. The music was secondary to all the business of family and the ranch and the untying of said knots. The ending was perfect!
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