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Bad Luck Cowboys #1
Reining in Never: A Second-Chance Rodeo Cowboy Romance
They’ve walked away from each other before.
More than once.
And somehow, they always find their way back.
Kinsley knows better than anyone that loving Wyatt comes with a cost. Their relationship has always burned hot and crashed hard—an on-again, off-again cycle fueled by undeniable chemistry and the one thing that never Wyatt’s pride.
As a barrel racer fighting for her place in the rodeo world, Kinsley can’t afford another heartbreak. She’s worked too hard to build a future that’s hers alone. But when bad luck throws her back into Wyatt’s orbit, staying away feels just as impossible as trusting him again.
Wyatt has always done things his way, determined to prove himself on his own terms—even when it means pushing away the woman he loves. He wants Kinsley. He’s always wanted her. But wanting her has never been the same as being ready to fight for her.
Being forced together again means confronting the truth they’ve both love isn’t enough if pride keeps getting in the way.
Is this just another wrong-time reunion—or the moment they finally get it right?
Reining in Never is the first book in the Bad Luck Cowboys series, featuring heartfelt emotion, undeniable chemistry, and a guaranteed happily-ever-after. Perfect for readers who love small-town romance, second-chance love, and flawed cowboys who have to earn it.
**This is an open-door romance with emotional depth and sizzling chemistry.**
More than once.
And somehow, they always find their way back.
Kinsley knows better than anyone that loving Wyatt comes with a cost. Their relationship has always burned hot and crashed hard—an on-again, off-again cycle fueled by undeniable chemistry and the one thing that never Wyatt’s pride.
As a barrel racer fighting for her place in the rodeo world, Kinsley can’t afford another heartbreak. She’s worked too hard to build a future that’s hers alone. But when bad luck throws her back into Wyatt’s orbit, staying away feels just as impossible as trusting him again.
Wyatt has always done things his way, determined to prove himself on his own terms—even when it means pushing away the woman he loves. He wants Kinsley. He’s always wanted her. But wanting her has never been the same as being ready to fight for her.
Being forced together again means confronting the truth they’ve both love isn’t enough if pride keeps getting in the way.
Is this just another wrong-time reunion—or the moment they finally get it right?
Reining in Never is the first book in the Bad Luck Cowboys series, featuring heartfelt emotion, undeniable chemistry, and a guaranteed happily-ever-after. Perfect for readers who love small-town romance, second-chance love, and flawed cowboys who have to earn it.
**This is an open-door romance with emotional depth and sizzling chemistry.**
267 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 4, 2024
12 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 2, 2024
Ok so first off - some disclosure: I very loosely know the author. As in, an amazing friend of an amazing friend. That said, I’m also a very heavy reader and so I have read a variety of books and will try to be as impartial as possible in my review.
This book was great! Not normally a read I would have otherwise read, I plowed through it in a few hours and enjoyed every minute!
Starts off with tension and sucks you in immediately.
Both main characters are super easy to like, relate to and imagine as someone you know. Their friends are also people you’d like to know.
Is there lots of misunderstandings and confusion between them? Of course, yes, you kind of need that to create a story, but it’s done well. Not ridiculously with me wanting to shout at the characters, “why are you so stupid and making such bad choices?!” Ok, there was a bit of that, but in a good way.
This book was almost nostalgic for me; a country kid, being around cowboys and pickup trucks, good country music, dirt roads and those carnal things done down those roads ;) I forgot about that girl, and this book reminded me she existed at one time.
I loved the relationships between the friends, they seemed to be regular, real people.
I enjoyed the ‘realness’ of the interactions with the characters as they acted as you would expect them to act. That is to say, if a character was described as outgoing etc, choices they made, things they said reflected that. If they were quiet, they acted as such. There was never anything random about their characters just for the sake of advancing the story.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was sad when it ended as I want to read more!
Some minor editing issues, but nothing that takes you out of the story.
Try this book, even if it’s not your norm!
Also, each chapter has a country song title at the beginning of chapter that relates a bit to the chapter. If you are able to, I strongly encourage you to have that song playing in the background while reading!
This book was great! Not normally a read I would have otherwise read, I plowed through it in a few hours and enjoyed every minute!
Starts off with tension and sucks you in immediately.
Both main characters are super easy to like, relate to and imagine as someone you know. Their friends are also people you’d like to know.
Is there lots of misunderstandings and confusion between them? Of course, yes, you kind of need that to create a story, but it’s done well. Not ridiculously with me wanting to shout at the characters, “why are you so stupid and making such bad choices?!” Ok, there was a bit of that, but in a good way.
This book was almost nostalgic for me; a country kid, being around cowboys and pickup trucks, good country music, dirt roads and those carnal things done down those roads ;) I forgot about that girl, and this book reminded me she existed at one time.
I loved the relationships between the friends, they seemed to be regular, real people.
I enjoyed the ‘realness’ of the interactions with the characters as they acted as you would expect them to act. That is to say, if a character was described as outgoing etc, choices they made, things they said reflected that. If they were quiet, they acted as such. There was never anything random about their characters just for the sake of advancing the story.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was sad when it ended as I want to read more!
Some minor editing issues, but nothing that takes you out of the story.
Try this book, even if it’s not your norm!
Also, each chapter has a country song title at the beginning of chapter that relates a bit to the chapter. If you are able to, I strongly encourage you to have that song playing in the background while reading!
January 25, 2025
I was drawn in even before the first chapter. Wyatt’s story started off with so much heartbreak that I had to learn what happens to him.
I’m not someone who can figure out the ins and outs of a book to do a proper book review, I deal more in the emotions the book brings out in me. That being said, this book made me happy, the love Kinsley and Wyatt felt for each other jumped out but the love of their friends and Kinsley’s family was also apparent as I read the book. Like a big hug. The anticipation of what was going to happen next was there for me, yes I figured Kinsley and Wyatt would end up together but they felt like real people (rather than just characters) as they worked out their own thoughts and emotions. I took a 4 month break in the middle of reading this book but I’d still been thinking about it so I only had to reread a couple pages before being able to jump back in.
The anticipation of reading the next book in the series is killing me. Who will we learn about next?
I’m not someone who can figure out the ins and outs of a book to do a proper book review, I deal more in the emotions the book brings out in me. That being said, this book made me happy, the love Kinsley and Wyatt felt for each other jumped out but the love of their friends and Kinsley’s family was also apparent as I read the book. Like a big hug. The anticipation of what was going to happen next was there for me, yes I figured Kinsley and Wyatt would end up together but they felt like real people (rather than just characters) as they worked out their own thoughts and emotions. I took a 4 month break in the middle of reading this book but I’d still been thinking about it so I only had to reread a couple pages before being able to jump back in.
The anticipation of reading the next book in the series is killing me. Who will we learn about next?
August 17, 2024
This book is such a sweet, action packed, hooked you in book! I loved kins and Wyatt’s love story and watching it unfold! I highly recommend reading it if you love a sweet, funny, hook you book! I can’t wait for another book in this series!
September 4, 2024
As soon as I started, I knew this was going to be one of those books I couldn't put down. I’m a huge fan of cowboy and cowgirl romances, and this one hit all the right notes for me. Wyatt is everything you'd want in a cowboy—strong, protective, and just the right amount of rugged. But Kinsley? She completely stole the show for me. She’s not just a cowgirl; she’s fierce, independent, and has that strong female lead energy that I can’t get enough of.
The side characters were all spot-on, each adding something meaningful to the story without ever feeling like filler. I’m thrilled that this is the start of a series because I’m already invested and can’t wait to see where the story goes next. Chelsey Fay has written a gem here, and I’m so ready for book two!
The side characters were all spot-on, each adding something meaningful to the story without ever feeling like filler. I’m thrilled that this is the start of a series because I’m already invested and can’t wait to see where the story goes next. Chelsey Fay has written a gem here, and I’m so ready for book two!
September 23, 2024
I am in love with this book! I feel like the characters are friends of mine, and I am following around with them. I want to know more and read every book. Wyatt, coming to his realization is so heartfelt it made me compare to my own life.
Thank you for sharing this book with us Chelsey! Keep them coming.🧡
Thank you for sharing this book with us Chelsey! Keep them coming.🧡
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2024
Reining in Never is the first book of the Bad Luck Cowboys series. Reining in Never is the story of Kinsley and Wyatt. Kinsley is a barrel racer and rodeo royalty, she lives for pushing the boundaries in both the arena and in love. Kinsley was determined to leave her own mark on the cutthroat world of professional rodeo, even if that meant taking risks that left everyone else shaking their heads. Wyatt is a cowboy who played by his own rules and absolutely did not answer to anyone. He was adamant about making it on his own terms, even as bad luck seemed determined to drag him down. And the very last thing he needed was the distraction of a woman who pushed every one of his buttons. What will happen between Kinsley and Wyatt? Will their relationship become forever or will it collapse? The only way to find out the answers to these questions, then you will need to read this amazing book. Kinsley is a strong-willed, a fiery spirit who is independent, and Wyatt is a cowboy who does what he wants and when he wants. Reining in Never is an absolutely an amazing cowboy romance story that is both charming and a definite page-turner. I would most certainly give Reining in Never as a suggestion for anyone to read this amazing book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 7, 2024
ARC Review
3.5/5 Stars
3/5 Peppers
This is the first book in the new Bad Luck Cowboys series. It was my first book by Chelsey Fay & while it was a cute read, it wasn’t one of my favourites.
The book introduces us to Kinsely and Wyatt, who are both on the rodeo circuit. They’ve been on and off for years, and with the circuit starting up again they’re determined to keep things friendly. But nobody believes they’ll be able to stay apart, because when it comes to these two their connection is magnetic.
If you looked up stubborn in the dictionary you’d find a picture of the rugged cowboy, Wyatt. He flat out refuses help from anyone, even if it makes things harder for him. Oddly enough, the same rules don’t apply to the others he so willingly helps.
Then there’s Kinsley. She’s equally as stubborn with a determination to always be the best, even if it means risking her own safety.
I loved the little dance these two had. It wasn’t a matter of would they or wouldn’t they, but a question of when they’ll give in. It was a slow burn, but unfortunately when they finally give in the spice doesn’t quiet match the build up.
I also wasn’t a huge fan of how things wrapped up at the end. I don’t want to give too much away, but Wyatt makes some strides in his personal growth, and it felt rushed. I also felt like he’s the only one who changed. In terms of their relationship Kinsley makes a gesture, but it’s not like she changed to make their relationship work. It seemed more like he was making sacrifices to keep her, instead of them actually working things out.
I think if the book was longer, I would’ve enjoyed it more. The writing itself is great, it just lacked details. Increasing length would’ve allowed for more details and a better HEA. If you’re still on the fence I’d say give it a go, simply because it’s a quick read.
Thanks to Chelsey Fay & her team for the ARC.
3.5/5 Stars
3/5 Peppers
This is the first book in the new Bad Luck Cowboys series. It was my first book by Chelsey Fay & while it was a cute read, it wasn’t one of my favourites.
The book introduces us to Kinsely and Wyatt, who are both on the rodeo circuit. They’ve been on and off for years, and with the circuit starting up again they’re determined to keep things friendly. But nobody believes they’ll be able to stay apart, because when it comes to these two their connection is magnetic.
If you looked up stubborn in the dictionary you’d find a picture of the rugged cowboy, Wyatt. He flat out refuses help from anyone, even if it makes things harder for him. Oddly enough, the same rules don’t apply to the others he so willingly helps.
Then there’s Kinsley. She’s equally as stubborn with a determination to always be the best, even if it means risking her own safety.
I loved the little dance these two had. It wasn’t a matter of would they or wouldn’t they, but a question of when they’ll give in. It was a slow burn, but unfortunately when they finally give in the spice doesn’t quiet match the build up.
I also wasn’t a huge fan of how things wrapped up at the end. I don’t want to give too much away, but Wyatt makes some strides in his personal growth, and it felt rushed. I also felt like he’s the only one who changed. In terms of their relationship Kinsley makes a gesture, but it’s not like she changed to make their relationship work. It seemed more like he was making sacrifices to keep her, instead of them actually working things out.
I think if the book was longer, I would’ve enjoyed it more. The writing itself is great, it just lacked details. Increasing length would’ve allowed for more details and a better HEA. If you’re still on the fence I’d say give it a go, simply because it’s a quick read.
Thanks to Chelsey Fay & her team for the ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2024
I received this book as an ARC.
Let me start off by saying I love me a cowboy romance, but what I love even more is a strong cowgirl character! Chelsey delivered on both of these main characters. Not only did this give me small town romance vibes but the horse aspects were depicted accurately which makes this fellow horse gal so happy.
In this book Wyatt is determined to make a life all on his own in order to feel worthy of Kinsley. Kinsley just wants to help and be there for the man she loves. These two have to go through some growing pains in order to finally come together and meet in the middle.
This book had great flow, was easy to read and sucked me in and had a little spice action. I’m left super invested in the other characters and am hoping we see their stories in the future!
Let me start off by saying I love me a cowboy romance, but what I love even more is a strong cowgirl character! Chelsey delivered on both of these main characters. Not only did this give me small town romance vibes but the horse aspects were depicted accurately which makes this fellow horse gal so happy.
In this book Wyatt is determined to make a life all on his own in order to feel worthy of Kinsley. Kinsley just wants to help and be there for the man she loves. These two have to go through some growing pains in order to finally come together and meet in the middle.
This book had great flow, was easy to read and sucked me in and had a little spice action. I’m left super invested in the other characters and am hoping we see their stories in the future!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2024
Omg 😳 this book was everything.
Please read this book if you love a cute sweet easy cowboy romance. If you love Elsie silver books and small town vibes you will eat this book up. I couldn’t put it down and I now can’t wait for the rest of the series. It’s got a stubborn Mmc and a cute fmc and we get to meet friends from either side which I’m thinking will be in the rest of the series. It’s got the tension that makes you want to not stop reading.
The writing is up there if the best of authors. Chelsey should be a published author for sure.
I received this book as a arc but this is a voluntarily review.
Please read this book if you love a cute sweet easy cowboy romance. If you love Elsie silver books and small town vibes you will eat this book up. I couldn’t put it down and I now can’t wait for the rest of the series. It’s got a stubborn Mmc and a cute fmc and we get to meet friends from either side which I’m thinking will be in the rest of the series. It’s got the tension that makes you want to not stop reading.
The writing is up there if the best of authors. Chelsey should be a published author for sure.
I received this book as a arc but this is a voluntarily review.
September 13, 2024
This was a sweet li' second chance country romance that I really enjoyed! I've read a couple of cowboys now, and while the FMCs are sometimes a little understated, I really enjoyed Kinsley's independence and strength of character.
It wasn't quite the spice level I usually read, but I did really like the inclusion of a song for each chapter (playlists are one thing I absolutely love in books!)
All told this is a great debut and I will be interested to see where the author goes with the series; some of the supporting characters definitely need their own book in the future.
*ARC copy received via Book Sirens*
It wasn't quite the spice level I usually read, but I did really like the inclusion of a song for each chapter (playlists are one thing I absolutely love in books!)
All told this is a great debut and I will be interested to see where the author goes with the series; some of the supporting characters definitely need their own book in the future.
*ARC copy received via Book Sirens*
February 7, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. Reading on about the burning relationship between Kinsley and Wyatt reminded me of my relationship with my fiancé in so many ways. Sometimes it’s like were gasoline and a match but when we’re strong we can get through anything. Kinsley has always wanted the best for Wyatt and to help him so much, but Wyatt is a stubborn cowboy who doesn’t like anyone pitying him or helping him when he didn’t earn his way. Will their relationship explode and fizzle out or will they work through their differences and truly fall in love for the end of time?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 17, 2024
This book was so cute! It was fast-paced, the tension between the main characters was perfect, and there were plenty of times when your emotions were being played with. I loved having a country song at the beginning of each chapter that relates to what was happening and the whole book reminds me of Games by Luke Bryan. It was so fun trying to relate different parts in the book to songs myself. Overall, this book was super fun and cute and I am very excited for the next one! I did receive this book as an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 27, 2024
This Book!!!!!
This was my first ever small town/western/cowboy romance ever and let me say I loved it. There really is just something about the way a cowboy talks, my lord. The character development Wyatt had throughout this book was amazing!!! Kinsley I was skeptical about, but she grew on me and I ended up loving them both so much.
When I say I cannot wait for the next book, I am so excited, I just know it’s going to be amazing. This book definitely has me hooked on cowboy/small town romances now!
P.S Chapter 17 was my favourite!!
Bonus points that it was based in Canada!
This was my first ever small town/western/cowboy romance ever and let me say I loved it. There really is just something about the way a cowboy talks, my lord. The character development Wyatt had throughout this book was amazing!!! Kinsley I was skeptical about, but she grew on me and I ended up loving them both so much.
When I say I cannot wait for the next book, I am so excited, I just know it’s going to be amazing. This book definitely has me hooked on cowboy/small town romances now!
P.S Chapter 17 was my favourite!!
Bonus points that it was based in Canada!
September 5, 2024
"Reining in Never" by Chelsey Fay is a great read. It sucked me in right away, and I couldn't put it down. I loved the cowboy and cowgirl romance. Wyatt is a strong and protective type.. I fell in love with him. Kinsley is also strong, and she knows what she wants and goes after it. I liked her a lot. All she wants to do be there for the man she loves. The characters are well developed. If you're looking for a page-turner you won't want to put down, I definitely recommend this book.
I received this book as a arc but this is a voluntarily review.
I received this book as a arc but this is a voluntarily review.
June 22, 2025
Wyatt is very proud, he won't accept help from anyone, he thinks it's a weakness, his father never really helped him after his mother left. He feels that he won't amount to anything, he's no ranch - his father has sold it.
He and Kinsley have had an on off relationship, her father was a famous rodeo man, who made lots of money. Wyatt needs to make something of himself. She wants to help but isn't sure how. Then she's hurt and Wyatt realises what's important.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
An interesting read from Chelsey.
He and Kinsley have had an on off relationship, her father was a famous rodeo man, who made lots of money. Wyatt needs to make something of himself. She wants to help but isn't sure how. Then she's hurt and Wyatt realises what's important.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
An interesting read from Chelsey.
August 25, 2024
My rating for this book is actually 4.5 stars! Goodreads needs to update their rating scale. This was the first book I read from Chelsey Fay and I must say that I’m definitely a fan. Will be looking into her other books. And I can’t wait to see Grady’s story too. Now Wyatt and Kinsley are the perfect cowboy/cowgirl pair. There’s something about a cowboy with a soft spot that gets me! This is definitely a second chance romance and absolutely worth reading it. Loved it.
September 10, 2024
I was really impressed with this story. A little bit of a tear jerker but got some good chuckles too. At times I wanted to knock Wyatt upside the head for his darn pride! I really loved Kinsley's dad and the words he spoke to Wyatt. Really liked Grace too! She had good insights and was someone I didn't expect to like. Really loved the wisdom offered in helping them in their relationship! Thought this was a very well done book/story!
September 18, 2024
Cowboy/Cowgirl Romance -- now I'm a believer :) This is the first book that I've read that's been been a CB/CG and I enjoyed it; growing up in the country makes me NOT want to read them, but I jumped at this opportunity.
Wyatt and Kinsley are both well developed characters with a great build to their stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wyatt and Kinsley are both well developed characters with a great build to their stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 12, 2025
“Reining in Never” by Chelsey Fay
-A sweet, feel-good read with warmth, action, and a heroine to root for.
I received a free copy of this book and am freely sharing my honest opinion.
Kinsley and Wyatt’s romance is heartfelt, grounded, and full of cowboy charm.
Realistic characters and genuine friendships make every scene feel like home.
Country song chapter titles add a fun, emotional rhythm to the story.
-A sweet, feel-good read with warmth, action, and a heroine to root for.
I received a free copy of this book and am freely sharing my honest opinion.
Kinsley and Wyatt’s romance is heartfelt, grounded, and full of cowboy charm.
Realistic characters and genuine friendships make every scene feel like home.
Country song chapter titles add a fun, emotional rhythm to the story.
April 27, 2025
Oh man… what a crazy book! I loved the storyline—even though the book was way too long; the characters were good… warts and all; the plot was fairly straightforward; and the HEA was ultimately perfect.i just wish there hadn’t been so many chapters as the story sort of lost steam. Having said that… it’s still worth a read. (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and totally enjoyed it.)
August 18, 2024
Wow what a debut novel!! This was my first cowboy romance and I loved it. Chelsey is such a talented writer, I was drawn in from the start. I can't wait to read more of the bad luck cowboys series, and anything else she writes for that matter. I highly recommend it!
September 24, 2024
I always feel bless when I get to review books before they are released. Reining in Never was great. I am a sucker for Cowboys. This book has lessons learned and will take you on a wild emotional rollercoaster ride. Enjoy
August 15, 2024
Fun, quick cowboy romance read! I really enjoyed the characters, and the story line. Quick, easy to read chapters kept it at a nice fast pace. I will for sure read book 2!
August 22, 2024
Such a great read! I highly recommend reading this book. Can't wait for more of Chelsey's books!
August 27, 2024
There is something about a second chance romance that just melts my heart. This story is full of heart.
October 21, 2024
With well-developed characters, a perfect blend of humor and drama, and a fast-paced plot, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good cowboy romance!
February 15, 2025
Kinsley and Wyatt are social opposites. She's rich he's not. Both are stubborn and opinionated. But they belong together. Good story. Steamy. Wonderful characters.
April 14, 2025
This is a continuation of Wyatt and Kinsley’s story. There is so much emotion in their story and I loved watching their love story continue.
I received a copy from Booksirens and leave my review voluntarily.
I received a copy from Booksirens and leave my review voluntarily.
September 14, 2024
3.5☆
Arc read
This was a cute story. At times I just felt it dragged.
Would recommend
Arc read
This was a cute story. At times I just felt it dragged.
Would recommend
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews