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The Fallout Duet #1
When Sparks Fly
Book Overview
Death has a way of bringing family secrets and drama to the surface.
When my grandmother passes unexpectedly, neither are in short supply. That’s why I need to get to Bull Creek for Nana’s funeral and get out. Instead, my mother continues to bring up the past and now she’s sharing secrets I didn’t even know she had.
To make matters worse, a one-night stand to let off steam goes sideways, and a local cattle rancher seems set on wooing me. Every day spent in the small town threatens my resolve. And more. But when things finally seem to be coming to a close, I’m not sure what I even want anymore.
What’s the cost of making it out of town for good?
When Sparks Fly is perfect for lovers of small-town, cowboy romance who enjoy a side of suspense. While it will leave you on the edge of your seat, The Fallout Duet does have a guaranteed happily ever after.
Death has a way of bringing family secrets and drama to the surface.
When my grandmother passes unexpectedly, neither are in short supply. That’s why I need to get to Bull Creek for Nana’s funeral and get out. Instead, my mother continues to bring up the past and now she’s sharing secrets I didn’t even know she had.
To make matters worse, a one-night stand to let off steam goes sideways, and a local cattle rancher seems set on wooing me. Every day spent in the small town threatens my resolve. And more. But when things finally seem to be coming to a close, I’m not sure what I even want anymore.
What’s the cost of making it out of town for good?
When Sparks Fly is perfect for lovers of small-town, cowboy romance who enjoy a side of suspense. While it will leave you on the edge of your seat, The Fallout Duet does have a guaranteed happily ever after.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2024
14 people are currently reading
196 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Marquardt
5 books51 followersAmanda Marquardt was born and raised in Texas, with a nomadic spirit. She currently lives in Florida with her husband and children. She began writing at eight years old, dabbling in romance, suspense, and fantasy along the way.
When she isn’t writing, she enjoys spending time with her husband and children, reading, and visiting the beach.
When she isn’t writing, she enjoys spending time with her husband and children, reading, and visiting the beach.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
November 17, 2024
5 ⭐️
Why you will love this book…
💕Small Town Romance
🔥Cowboy-ish (He’s a rancher)
💕He falls first
🔥Age Gap (6 years)
💕One night stand turns dangerous
🔥Slow Burn
💕Found Family
🔥Family Secrets
💕Throws her own punches
🔥Suspense
💕Cliffhanger
🔥Multiple POV
I loved this book it hooked me in the beginning with the grief of a loss of a grandma and the strong bound she had with Maci .. Maci’s step dad could kick rocks in my option.. I loved how Sutton showed her what a true man could be if she just gave a little trust !!
Sutton is a ranch trying to expand his family farm.. he isn’t looking for love..
I loved both her and his family extra characters!!
The cliff hanger I can’t wait for the next dang book!!!
Why you will love this book…
💕Small Town Romance
🔥Cowboy-ish (He’s a rancher)
💕He falls first
🔥Age Gap (6 years)
💕One night stand turns dangerous
🔥Slow Burn
💕Found Family
🔥Family Secrets
💕Throws her own punches
🔥Suspense
💕Cliffhanger
🔥Multiple POV
I loved this book it hooked me in the beginning with the grief of a loss of a grandma and the strong bound she had with Maci .. Maci’s step dad could kick rocks in my option.. I loved how Sutton showed her what a true man could be if she just gave a little trust !!
Sutton is a ranch trying to expand his family farm.. he isn’t looking for love..
I loved both her and his family extra characters!!
The cliff hanger I can’t wait for the next dang book!!!
November 4, 2024
ARC review: When Sparks Fly by @amanda.marquardt.author (Book 1 of a duet) ✨
Wow, this book ROCKED my freaking world. It had everything I love about a romance book-cowboys, small town, angst, tension, heat, and all the beautiful build up. Like holy hell, she created two of the most perfect characters to grace them pages! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
And I may be a lil biased (with my name being Macie), but HELLO, Maci, our FMC, fucking flawless, damn perfect, and all of the above baby! 😍😍😍
She sure as hell wasn't ready for her cowboy, our MMC, Sutton, to basically ride in and sweep her off her feet in the midst of her grief from losing her grandma, he was ALL cowboy, and this author developed and delivered this cinnamon roll MMC flawlessly!!
And holy shit, THAT CLIFFHANGER--bitch, I GASPED! I knew this was a 2 book plan, but I was floored, gutted, I think I sat and stared at the wall for a solid 5 minutes when I finished this book, after reading that final page, cryinggg, like I am gonna need book 2 ASAP 😅🥲🥺
Thank you to @amanda.marquardt.author for providing me with an ARC copy of her book, When Sparks Fly! ✨
Tropes:
✨Cowboy Romance
✨Suspense
✨He falls first
✨Age gap (6 yrs)
✨Slow Burn
✨Found Family
✨Cliffhanger
Without trying, I knew she's claimed a piece of me. No matter what happened over the next few months, I know I'll never be the same.
Wow, this book ROCKED my freaking world. It had everything I love about a romance book-cowboys, small town, angst, tension, heat, and all the beautiful build up. Like holy hell, she created two of the most perfect characters to grace them pages! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
And I may be a lil biased (with my name being Macie), but HELLO, Maci, our FMC, fucking flawless, damn perfect, and all of the above baby! 😍😍😍
She sure as hell wasn't ready for her cowboy, our MMC, Sutton, to basically ride in and sweep her off her feet in the midst of her grief from losing her grandma, he was ALL cowboy, and this author developed and delivered this cinnamon roll MMC flawlessly!!
And holy shit, THAT CLIFFHANGER--bitch, I GASPED! I knew this was a 2 book plan, but I was floored, gutted, I think I sat and stared at the wall for a solid 5 minutes when I finished this book, after reading that final page, cryinggg, like I am gonna need book 2 ASAP 😅🥲🥺
Thank you to @amanda.marquardt.author for providing me with an ARC copy of her book, When Sparks Fly! ✨
Tropes:
✨Cowboy Romance
✨Suspense
✨He falls first
✨Age gap (6 yrs)
✨Slow Burn
✨Found Family
✨Cliffhanger
December 12, 2024
The cliffhanger has me shook and I cannot wait for the next book!!
This book was incredible!
I thought Maci was a relatable FMC! Learning about her past and home life, she has been through a lot! I am so curious to learn more about her dad.
Sutton is the perfect book boyfriend! I love that as soon as he met Maci he knew she was the one. He was so protective and supportive of Maci and loved how they felt safe with each other. They had the best chemistry and tension!
I really enjoyed the side characters too so I hope we learn more about them in the next book!
🤠 Cowboy romance
📸 Romantic suspense
🤠 Small town
📸 Slow burn
🤠 He falls first
📸 Found family
🤠 Age gap
Rating ⭐️: 5/5
Spice 🌶️: 2.5/5
Multi POV
Thank you to the author and The Author Agency for the arc!
This book was incredible!
I thought Maci was a relatable FMC! Learning about her past and home life, she has been through a lot! I am so curious to learn more about her dad.
Sutton is the perfect book boyfriend! I love that as soon as he met Maci he knew she was the one. He was so protective and supportive of Maci and loved how they felt safe with each other. They had the best chemistry and tension!
I really enjoyed the side characters too so I hope we learn more about them in the next book!
🤠 Cowboy romance
📸 Romantic suspense
🤠 Small town
📸 Slow burn
🤠 He falls first
📸 Found family
🤠 Age gap
Rating ⭐️: 5/5
Spice 🌶️: 2.5/5
Multi POV
Thank you to the author and The Author Agency for the arc!
December 5, 2024
Guys! I have been so busy with work that I am super behind on reviews. I am kicking myself for not sharing this one with you sooner.
5⭐️ plus so many more if I could give them.
Maci and Sutton are EVERYTHING! This book was filled with all the emotions and leaves you on a killer cliffhanger. I LOVE a good cliffhanger. I cannot wait for book 2.
I couldn’t believe how this book sucked me in from the beginning. The shorter chapters made it easy to keep saying, ok just one more…. I stayed up all night reading this because I couldn’t put it down.
Cowboy. One night stand. He falls first. Read this one now! You will thank me.
5⭐️ plus so many more if I could give them.
Maci and Sutton are EVERYTHING! This book was filled with all the emotions and leaves you on a killer cliffhanger. I LOVE a good cliffhanger. I cannot wait for book 2.
I couldn’t believe how this book sucked me in from the beginning. The shorter chapters made it easy to keep saying, ok just one more…. I stayed up all night reading this because I couldn’t put it down.
Cowboy. One night stand. He falls first. Read this one now! You will thank me.
November 1, 2024
The way the very first couple of chapters got me was incredible. 🩷 I felt some sort of connection with the FMC the loss of a grandmother is like no other and I definitely could relay to that a lot.
I loved the “cowboy” love the story and can we talk about that ending?? 👀👀🤯 where is book 2 because I need to know now.
Overall I really enjoyed my time getting to know these characters and I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a good cowboy rancher romance full of emotions.
Thank you to The Author Agency for considering me and allowing me to read this ARC. 🩷
I loved the “cowboy” love the story and can we talk about that ending?? 👀👀🤯 where is book 2 because I need to know now.
Overall I really enjoyed my time getting to know these characters and I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a good cowboy rancher romance full of emotions.
Thank you to The Author Agency for considering me and allowing me to read this ARC. 🩷
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2024
“Grief isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a sign that you loved deeply.”
Where Sparks Fly by Amanda Marquardt is the first book in The Fallout Duet.
What can you expect?
💖 Small-town romance
🤠 Cowboy/rancher
💘 He falls first
🔞 Age-gap (7 years)
🔥 One-night stand turned complicated
⏳ Slow burn
👨👩👧👦 Found family
🕵️♀️ Family secrets
🎢 Suspense
⚠️ Cliffhanger ending
🔄 Multi POV
Rating: 4.25 ⭐️ | 2 🌶️
“Before her, I never felt like anything was missing and yet now I feel whole.”
I really enjoyed reading this book—it had me hooked from the start. Maci’s grandmother passes away, and she returns to Bull Creek for the funeral. Her life is in Austin, so she didn’t plan to stay long. After a night out with her friend, she has a one-night stand with a man from a MC club. Though the night was unsatisfying, she never expected to see him again. But when she goes out again with her friend, she meets Sutton, and the chemistry between them is undeniable. They laugh, dance, and have fun, and despite things getting awkward with her past fling, Maci finds herself staying in Bull Creek longer, spending more time with her friends and Sutton.
Sutton is a cattle rancher working to expand his family’s ranch. I loved how sweet and caring he was, especially with his mom. From the moment he met Maci, he was hooked, and after that night at the bar, he told his mom he was going to marry her. Say what?
The romance is slow-burn and delicious! I loved their connection, especially how they danced every chance they got. Maci, who has trust issues, found herself trusting Sutton, and vice versa. Their communication and connection were amazing. Sutton was there for Maci through her grief, which was so sweet.
Maci’s trust issues stemmed from a traumatic experience with her mother’s husband, which strained their relationship. Her grandmother was her safe place, her person. But with Sutton, she felt safe and protected, able to lean on him.
As for spice—🔥 There’s definitely some, and the chemistry? Chef’s kiss. The tension builds, and the payoff is worth the wait. That scene in the deer blind? Amazing! Sutton’s dirty talk? 🫠 His pet name for her: firecracker.
I also loved the found family aspect. Her friends, her aunt, her cousin, Andi (Sutton’s mom), and other side characters added so much depth to the story. The only thing I felt a little off about was Colt’s POV—it didn’t feel necessary—but that’s a small issue. I also predicted some things in the plot, but overall, it was a fantastic read. That cliffhanger? I can’t wait to see what happens next! Maci is a total badass, and I loved her.
Thank you to The Author Agency and Amanda for the advance copy. If you like these tropes, I hope you add this to your TBR!
Where Sparks Fly by Amanda Marquardt is the first book in The Fallout Duet.
What can you expect?
💖 Small-town romance
🤠 Cowboy/rancher
💘 He falls first
🔞 Age-gap (7 years)
🔥 One-night stand turned complicated
⏳ Slow burn
👨👩👧👦 Found family
🕵️♀️ Family secrets
🎢 Suspense
⚠️ Cliffhanger ending
🔄 Multi POV
Rating: 4.25 ⭐️ | 2 🌶️
“Before her, I never felt like anything was missing and yet now I feel whole.”
I really enjoyed reading this book—it had me hooked from the start. Maci’s grandmother passes away, and she returns to Bull Creek for the funeral. Her life is in Austin, so she didn’t plan to stay long. After a night out with her friend, she has a one-night stand with a man from a MC club. Though the night was unsatisfying, she never expected to see him again. But when she goes out again with her friend, she meets Sutton, and the chemistry between them is undeniable. They laugh, dance, and have fun, and despite things getting awkward with her past fling, Maci finds herself staying in Bull Creek longer, spending more time with her friends and Sutton.
Sutton is a cattle rancher working to expand his family’s ranch. I loved how sweet and caring he was, especially with his mom. From the moment he met Maci, he was hooked, and after that night at the bar, he told his mom he was going to marry her. Say what?
The romance is slow-burn and delicious! I loved their connection, especially how they danced every chance they got. Maci, who has trust issues, found herself trusting Sutton, and vice versa. Their communication and connection were amazing. Sutton was there for Maci through her grief, which was so sweet.
Maci’s trust issues stemmed from a traumatic experience with her mother’s husband, which strained their relationship. Her grandmother was her safe place, her person. But with Sutton, she felt safe and protected, able to lean on him.
As for spice—🔥 There’s definitely some, and the chemistry? Chef’s kiss. The tension builds, and the payoff is worth the wait. That scene in the deer blind? Amazing! Sutton’s dirty talk? 🫠 His pet name for her: firecracker.
I also loved the found family aspect. Her friends, her aunt, her cousin, Andi (Sutton’s mom), and other side characters added so much depth to the story. The only thing I felt a little off about was Colt’s POV—it didn’t feel necessary—but that’s a small issue. I also predicted some things in the plot, but overall, it was a fantastic read. That cliffhanger? I can’t wait to see what happens next! Maci is a total badass, and I loved her.
Thank you to The Author Agency and Amanda for the advance copy. If you like these tropes, I hope you add this to your TBR!
December 19, 2024
Title: When Sparks Fly (The Fallout Duet Book 1)
Author: Amanda Marquardt
Hero/Heroine: Sutton & Maci
What to Expect: Feisty FMC, Rancher MMC, Small Town, He Falls First, Cliffhanger, Slow Burn, Found Family
tw/cw: toxic parental relationship, description of a robbery (off page but described), death of a loved one, mention of gambling, mention of gun ownership,
Me: I really don’t like reading books with a cliffhanger, I’m too impatient
Also me: gets completely sucked into a book that ends with a MASSIVE FRIGGIN CLIFFHANGER
Why I continue to lie to myself, I’ll never know. I’m always a bit wary of books with cliffhangers as I’m too bloody impatient to wait for the next book. Yet the blurb for this one sounded too good to resist.
When a feisty city girl meets an intense rancher, all bets are off. Sutton and Maci had some pretty intense chemistry from the start, and I loved how intense, yet chivalrous, Sutton was. I mean, bringing the woman a cactus on their first date as he knew she hated flowers? Dude clocked some serious swoon points with that move.
There were so many small parts to this story that had me intrigued right from the start; Maci’s relationship with her mother, her grieving, the whole absent father aspect, Colt (ugh) had me completely consumed, and I couldn’t read this fast enough.
Because this ended on such a big cliffhanger, I’m not going to go into too much detail for fear of giving away spoilers. However, I will say, this story had the perfect combination of romance and suspense, cannot wait for the next book.
Thank you to the author and @theauthor.agency for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
✨overall thoughts: THAT CLIFFHANGER THOUGH! Seriously addictive story
✨ 3rd act break up: no
✨ heat level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨ star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Amanda Marquardt
Hero/Heroine: Sutton & Maci
What to Expect: Feisty FMC, Rancher MMC, Small Town, He Falls First, Cliffhanger, Slow Burn, Found Family
tw/cw: toxic parental relationship, description of a robbery (off page but described), death of a loved one, mention of gambling, mention of gun ownership,
Me: I really don’t like reading books with a cliffhanger, I’m too impatient
Also me: gets completely sucked into a book that ends with a MASSIVE FRIGGIN CLIFFHANGER
Why I continue to lie to myself, I’ll never know. I’m always a bit wary of books with cliffhangers as I’m too bloody impatient to wait for the next book. Yet the blurb for this one sounded too good to resist.
When a feisty city girl meets an intense rancher, all bets are off. Sutton and Maci had some pretty intense chemistry from the start, and I loved how intense, yet chivalrous, Sutton was. I mean, bringing the woman a cactus on their first date as he knew she hated flowers? Dude clocked some serious swoon points with that move.
There were so many small parts to this story that had me intrigued right from the start; Maci’s relationship with her mother, her grieving, the whole absent father aspect, Colt (ugh) had me completely consumed, and I couldn’t read this fast enough.
Because this ended on such a big cliffhanger, I’m not going to go into too much detail for fear of giving away spoilers. However, I will say, this story had the perfect combination of romance and suspense, cannot wait for the next book.
Thank you to the author and @theauthor.agency for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
✨overall thoughts: THAT CLIFFHANGER THOUGH! Seriously addictive story
✨ 3rd act break up: no
✨ heat level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨ star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 14, 2024
When Sparks Fly ROCKED my world! If you love small-town romance with a side of suspense, cowboys, and ALL the feels, this book is calling your name. Maci returns to Bull Creek after her grandma’s passing, expecting a quick visit, but her mom’s secrets—and Sutton, the local cowboy—have her rethinking everything.
Maci: Our fierce, independent FMC has trust issues but a heart of gold. Sutton sweeps her off her feet, and oh my gosh, their chemistry? Chef’s kiss! Sutton calls her “firecracker” (how cute is that?), and their slow-burn romance is packed with heart, spice, and swoony moments.
Sutton: Cinnamon-roll cowboy alert! Sweet with his mom, so supportive of Maci, and not afraid to show his emotions. Seriously, a total boyfriend goal. That deer blind scene? WOW. And let’s just say Sutton’s got a way with words.
Found Family Feels: The side characters are just as lovable—Maci’s friends and Sutton’s family add so much depth to the story. Also, shout-out to the mysterious lawyer who I hope makes a comeback in book two!
That Cliffhanger: OMG, I gasped. Just when I thought things were settling, bam, a cliffhanger that left me stunned and needing book two ASAP!
If you’re a fan of slow-burn, angsty romance with a cowboy twist, add When Sparks Fly to your TBR! The perfect blend of tension, family secrets, and heart-melting romance.
Thank you to @amanda.marquardt.author and The Author Agency for the ARC!
Maci: Our fierce, independent FMC has trust issues but a heart of gold. Sutton sweeps her off her feet, and oh my gosh, their chemistry? Chef’s kiss! Sutton calls her “firecracker” (how cute is that?), and their slow-burn romance is packed with heart, spice, and swoony moments.
Sutton: Cinnamon-roll cowboy alert! Sweet with his mom, so supportive of Maci, and not afraid to show his emotions. Seriously, a total boyfriend goal. That deer blind scene? WOW. And let’s just say Sutton’s got a way with words.
Found Family Feels: The side characters are just as lovable—Maci’s friends and Sutton’s family add so much depth to the story. Also, shout-out to the mysterious lawyer who I hope makes a comeback in book two!
That Cliffhanger: OMG, I gasped. Just when I thought things were settling, bam, a cliffhanger that left me stunned and needing book two ASAP!
If you’re a fan of slow-burn, angsty romance with a cowboy twist, add When Sparks Fly to your TBR! The perfect blend of tension, family secrets, and heart-melting romance.
Thank you to @amanda.marquardt.author and The Author Agency for the ARC!
November 19, 2024
I gotta say, this book was so much more than what I was expecting.
The story starts a bit slow, but it quickly picks up pace once Maci starts staying more and more at Bull Creek after her Nana's funeral.
I loved how relatable Maci's story is. Macy is a small town girl whose mom and stepdad decided to move out of town right before she started high school. As an adult, she only goes back to Bull Creek once in a while to visit her Nana, but after her Nana's passing, she finds herself visiting Bull Creek more and more, be it to spend time with her friends or to take care of family affairs. During one of these visits, she runs into Sutton, a rancher she met during her Nana's funeral, and he rescues her from an uncomfortable encounter she had with a MC prospect.
This is definitely a he falls first and harder story because after that encounter, Sutton knows that Maci is the woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with. Not only that, but Sutton is a complete gentleman and absolutely swoonworthy while also being super protective and a tad possessive over Maci.
So much happens in this story, and there are so many secrets. Some of these I was able to decipher, others took me by surprise, and I can't wait to read the second part of this story.
Quote: “As far as cocks go, his is pretty and impressive. I don’t think he wants to hear the first part and I’m not going to stroke his ego by telling him the second.”
The story starts a bit slow, but it quickly picks up pace once Maci starts staying more and more at Bull Creek after her Nana's funeral.
I loved how relatable Maci's story is. Macy is a small town girl whose mom and stepdad decided to move out of town right before she started high school. As an adult, she only goes back to Bull Creek once in a while to visit her Nana, but after her Nana's passing, she finds herself visiting Bull Creek more and more, be it to spend time with her friends or to take care of family affairs. During one of these visits, she runs into Sutton, a rancher she met during her Nana's funeral, and he rescues her from an uncomfortable encounter she had with a MC prospect.
This is definitely a he falls first and harder story because after that encounter, Sutton knows that Maci is the woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with. Not only that, but Sutton is a complete gentleman and absolutely swoonworthy while also being super protective and a tad possessive over Maci.
So much happens in this story, and there are so many secrets. Some of these I was able to decipher, others took me by surprise, and I can't wait to read the second part of this story.
Quote: “As far as cocks go, his is pretty and impressive. I don’t think he wants to hear the first part and I’m not going to stroke his ego by telling him the second.”
November 19, 2024
Why you will love this book…
💕Small Town Romance
🔥Cowboy-ish (He’s a rancher)
💕He falls first
🔥Age Gap (6 years)
💕One night stand turns dangerous
🔥Slow Burn
💕Found Family
🔥Family Secrets
💕Throws her own punches
🔥Suspense
💕Cliffhanger
🔥Multiple POV
It had everything I love about a romance book-cowboys, small town, angst, tension, heat, and all the beautiful build up.
Sutton is a cattle rancher working to expand his family’s ranch. I loved how sweet and caring he was, especially with his mom. From the moment he met Maci, he was hooked.
Maci, who has trust issues, found herself trusting Sutton, and vice versa. Their communication and connection were amazing. Sutton was there for Maci through her grief, which was so sweet.
Her grandmother was her safe place, her person. But with Sutton, she felt safe and protected, able to lean on him.
As for spice—🔥 There’s definitely some, and the chemistry? Chef’s kiss. The tension builds, and the payoff is worth the wait. That scene in the deer blind? Amazing! Sutton’s dirty talk? 🫠 His pet name for her: firecracker.
The romance is slow-burn and delicious! I loved their connection, especially how they danced every chance they got.
That cliffhanger? I can’t wait to see what happens next! Maci is a total badass, and I loved her.
Overall I really enjoyed my time getting to know these characters and I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a good cowboy rancher romance full of emotions.
💕Small Town Romance
🔥Cowboy-ish (He’s a rancher)
💕He falls first
🔥Age Gap (6 years)
💕One night stand turns dangerous
🔥Slow Burn
💕Found Family
🔥Family Secrets
💕Throws her own punches
🔥Suspense
💕Cliffhanger
🔥Multiple POV
It had everything I love about a romance book-cowboys, small town, angst, tension, heat, and all the beautiful build up.
Sutton is a cattle rancher working to expand his family’s ranch. I loved how sweet and caring he was, especially with his mom. From the moment he met Maci, he was hooked.
Maci, who has trust issues, found herself trusting Sutton, and vice versa. Their communication and connection were amazing. Sutton was there for Maci through her grief, which was so sweet.
Her grandmother was her safe place, her person. But with Sutton, she felt safe and protected, able to lean on him.
As for spice—🔥 There’s definitely some, and the chemistry? Chef’s kiss. The tension builds, and the payoff is worth the wait. That scene in the deer blind? Amazing! Sutton’s dirty talk? 🫠 His pet name for her: firecracker.
The romance is slow-burn and delicious! I loved their connection, especially how they danced every chance they got.
That cliffhanger? I can’t wait to see what happens next! Maci is a total badass, and I loved her.
Overall I really enjoyed my time getting to know these characters and I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a good cowboy rancher romance full of emotions.
June 17, 2025
I enjoyed the storyline of this book, and those plot twists had me jumping!
Maci as an FMC is adorable, lovable, and a little tragic. Being pushed aside by her mom, belittled by her step-dad, and then losing her grandma- so sad. I thought we learned a lot about Maci throughout, as the story leaned heavily on her POV. The plot twists involving her step-dad, bio-dad, step-brother all added to her intrigue and the lies that she's unknowingly lived under her whole life.
Where the book fell a little flat for me was Sutton. Now, I love, love, love a cowboy/rancher! And, he is certainly a man of strong character. I just feel like we don't know enough about him to really root for him. Maci's POV outweighs his 3 or 4 to 1, and some of his are really short, and only felt to give us a glimpse of "what is he doing in the interim." I did love his protective side, his willingness to admit his feelings to himself (and his Mama!) so quickly, and the way he treated Maci. I just wish I knew more about his back-story. This is the first in a duet, so maybe his backstory is going to be flushed out a little bit more.
The spicy scenes were fire, and you felt the angst as they took things little by little, and the chemistry between the two of them built as it went.
It was a fun read and the plot twists kept me guessing. It would have been a four star, except for not feeling invested in Sutton enough as a main character.
Maci as an FMC is adorable, lovable, and a little tragic. Being pushed aside by her mom, belittled by her step-dad, and then losing her grandma- so sad. I thought we learned a lot about Maci throughout, as the story leaned heavily on her POV. The plot twists involving her step-dad, bio-dad, step-brother all added to her intrigue and the lies that she's unknowingly lived under her whole life.
Where the book fell a little flat for me was Sutton. Now, I love, love, love a cowboy/rancher! And, he is certainly a man of strong character. I just feel like we don't know enough about him to really root for him. Maci's POV outweighs his 3 or 4 to 1, and some of his are really short, and only felt to give us a glimpse of "what is he doing in the interim." I did love his protective side, his willingness to admit his feelings to himself (and his Mama!) so quickly, and the way he treated Maci. I just wish I knew more about his back-story. This is the first in a duet, so maybe his backstory is going to be flushed out a little bit more.
The spicy scenes were fire, and you felt the angst as they took things little by little, and the chemistry between the two of them built as it went.
It was a fun read and the plot twists kept me guessing. It would have been a four star, except for not feeling invested in Sutton enough as a main character.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2024
When Sparks Fly was my first cowboy romance, and I was not disappointed.
From the start, Sutton won me over with his narrative. I loved the complexity of his character, and especially the way he spoke to what was going on in his heart. I feel like sometimes romance novels can get caught up on the ‘manliness’ of the MMC, so the fact that Sutton’s emotions were also a focus really helped me to connect with him as a character.
Maci was also wonderful. She won me over before I even finished one page of her chapter. She’s sweet, kind, caring, but also knows how to stand up for and defend herself. She exists as her own person, and has an independence that is celebrated vs treated as a point of conflict which I really appreciated.
One of my favorite aspects of the story was seeing how Sutton’s and Maci’s family dynamics were explored. There were some tougher topics that were covered throughout their stories, but everything was approached with such care, and tied back to the character motivations. Everything happened for a reason, and I think that both of the main characters grew by the end of the story in positive ways.
Overall, the love story was so sweet, the characters were wonderful, the setting was cozy and charming, and now I think I have a thing for cowboys.
I need book 2 immediately.
From the start, Sutton won me over with his narrative. I loved the complexity of his character, and especially the way he spoke to what was going on in his heart. I feel like sometimes romance novels can get caught up on the ‘manliness’ of the MMC, so the fact that Sutton’s emotions were also a focus really helped me to connect with him as a character.
Maci was also wonderful. She won me over before I even finished one page of her chapter. She’s sweet, kind, caring, but also knows how to stand up for and defend herself. She exists as her own person, and has an independence that is celebrated vs treated as a point of conflict which I really appreciated.
One of my favorite aspects of the story was seeing how Sutton’s and Maci’s family dynamics were explored. There were some tougher topics that were covered throughout their stories, but everything was approached with such care, and tied back to the character motivations. Everything happened for a reason, and I think that both of the main characters grew by the end of the story in positive ways.
Overall, the love story was so sweet, the characters were wonderful, the setting was cozy and charming, and now I think I have a thing for cowboys.
I need book 2 immediately.
November 15, 2024
✨ᴀʀᴄ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ - ᴡʜᴇɴ sᴘᴀʀᴋs ғʟʏ✨
𝒮𝒽ℯ 𝒹ℴℯ𝓈𝓃’𝓉 𝓀𝓃ℴ𝓌 𝒾𝓉 𝓎ℯ𝓉, 𝒷𝓊𝓉 𝓈𝒽ℯ’𝓈 𝓂𝒾𝓃ℯ. 𝒩ℴ ℴ𝓃ℯ 𝒾𝓈 ℯ𝓋ℯ𝓇 ℊℯ𝓉𝓉𝒾𝓃ℊ 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝒸𝓁ℴ𝓈ℯ 𝓉ℴ 𝒽ℯ𝓇 𝒶ℊ𝒶𝒾𝓃.
After her grandmother unexpectedly passes away, Maci makes a trip back to the small town of Bull Creek with the intentions of only staying for the weekend. As memories of her grandmother start to resurface from the house and spending more time with Sutton, Maci starts to second guess where she belongs.
After a night out leads to a one-night stand gone wrong, the past slowly starts to collide with the future, and Maci learns of family secrets she never knew existed. Will these secrets have Maci running back to the city, or will she find a new place for her heart to call home?
Maci and Sutton’s chemistry is magnetic, and their story is beautiful, raw, and gripping. I at once fell in love with both of them. It starts as a slow burn, but it just fuels their connection (and spice😏) that has you blushing, laughing, and falling for Sutton’s southern charm instantly. Their nicknames were adorable and I love how Maci explains herself with the ice cream comparison!
Ｌｅｔ ｍｅ ｔｅｌｌ ｙｏｕ, this story had twists that I was not expecting. That cliff hanger left my jaw on the floor and now I’m patiently waiting for Book two: When the Smoke Clears!
Love that a playlist was included at the beginning and it fit the book perfectly!
𝒮𝒽ℯ 𝒹ℴℯ𝓈𝓃’𝓉 𝓀𝓃ℴ𝓌 𝒾𝓉 𝓎ℯ𝓉, 𝒷𝓊𝓉 𝓈𝒽ℯ’𝓈 𝓂𝒾𝓃ℯ. 𝒩ℴ ℴ𝓃ℯ 𝒾𝓈 ℯ𝓋ℯ𝓇 ℊℯ𝓉𝓉𝒾𝓃ℊ 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝒸𝓁ℴ𝓈ℯ 𝓉ℴ 𝒽ℯ𝓇 𝒶ℊ𝒶𝒾𝓃.
After her grandmother unexpectedly passes away, Maci makes a trip back to the small town of Bull Creek with the intentions of only staying for the weekend. As memories of her grandmother start to resurface from the house and spending more time with Sutton, Maci starts to second guess where she belongs.
After a night out leads to a one-night stand gone wrong, the past slowly starts to collide with the future, and Maci learns of family secrets she never knew existed. Will these secrets have Maci running back to the city, or will she find a new place for her heart to call home?
Maci and Sutton’s chemistry is magnetic, and their story is beautiful, raw, and gripping. I at once fell in love with both of them. It starts as a slow burn, but it just fuels their connection (and spice😏) that has you blushing, laughing, and falling for Sutton’s southern charm instantly. Their nicknames were adorable and I love how Maci explains herself with the ice cream comparison!
Ｌｅｔ ｍｅ ｔｅｌｌ ｙｏｕ, this story had twists that I was not expecting. That cliff hanger left my jaw on the floor and now I’m patiently waiting for Book two: When the Smoke Clears!
Love that a playlist was included at the beginning and it fit the book perfectly!
January 7, 2026
Small town romance✔️
Age gap✔️
Strong fmc✔️
Sexy Mmc✔️
Drama✔️
Family secrets✔️
He falls first✔️
Mommas boy but the good kind✔️
Rancher/cowboy✔️
Loveable extra characters✔️
Grief✔️
Protective✔️
Sexy scenes - a whole ass spicy chapter✔️
Angst✔️
Maci is a strong willed, independent FMC. She was forced into being such an independent woman due to the issues with her mother & step father’s secrets.
Sutton is a rancher getting ready to take over the head role of his family ranch and make changes to extend it. Sutton is a mommas boy but not the bad kind, the sexy kind!! He’s not looking for love until he sets eyes on a girl at her grandmothers funeral.
Maci comes to bull creek after the sudden passing of her grandmother, it’s at the funeral when she meets Sutton. Sutton only came to drop off food with his mother, when he sees Maci & has sudden attraction. Maci goes with friends & runs into Sutton. He spins her around on the dance floor in all the right ways & makes her feel alive again. She starts to question her future when everything in bull creek starts to feel right but then things take an unexpected turn when she finds out family secrets and her ex one night stand can’t get the picture, things turn backwards.
I loved this book. 5 stars all the way. The way the author made me fall in love with Sutton is unbelievable. Cannot wait to read book two.
Age gap✔️
Strong fmc✔️
Sexy Mmc✔️
Drama✔️
Family secrets✔️
He falls first✔️
Mommas boy but the good kind✔️
Rancher/cowboy✔️
Loveable extra characters✔️
Grief✔️
Protective✔️
Sexy scenes - a whole ass spicy chapter✔️
Angst✔️
Maci is a strong willed, independent FMC. She was forced into being such an independent woman due to the issues with her mother & step father’s secrets.
Sutton is a rancher getting ready to take over the head role of his family ranch and make changes to extend it. Sutton is a mommas boy but not the bad kind, the sexy kind!! He’s not looking for love until he sets eyes on a girl at her grandmothers funeral.
Maci comes to bull creek after the sudden passing of her grandmother, it’s at the funeral when she meets Sutton. Sutton only came to drop off food with his mother, when he sees Maci & has sudden attraction. Maci goes with friends & runs into Sutton. He spins her around on the dance floor in all the right ways & makes her feel alive again. She starts to question her future when everything in bull creek starts to feel right but then things take an unexpected turn when she finds out family secrets and her ex one night stand can’t get the picture, things turn backwards.
I loved this book. 5 stars all the way. The way the author made me fall in love with Sutton is unbelievable. Cannot wait to read book two.
October 31, 2024
A grin tugs at his mouth. “Do you trust me?” I grin back at him. “Yes Sutton, I trust you.”
💭Thoughts💭
I really enjoyed this book! Sutton and Maci are both complex characters and it really adds such positive light to the narrative of the story. Together they make such a power couple!
Sutton is all things man, but he’s also in tune with his emotional side and isn’t afraid to show it. I really admire that about MMC. They don’t always have to be gruff and manly because that’s not realistic. I give total props to the author for making Sutton so relatable to real life!
Maci is such an independent, strong, caring character. She totally won me over from the very first chapter! I loved watching her grow and adapt to her surroundings. Also the way she handles her grief is so touching. We get to see a side of each Maci and Sutton’s family dynamic and it’s beautiful to watch!
All in all I LOVED this story! Tough subjects are touched on, but the romance and love between Maci and Sutton is evident and beautiful! Also THE CLIF HANGER ENDING?!?!?! I need the next book ASAP! 😍 I highly recommend to all my book besties who enjoy a little romantic suspense, cowboys, and strong FMCs!
Thank you to the author and the author agency for the ARC of this book! 🫶🏻
💭Thoughts💭
I really enjoyed this book! Sutton and Maci are both complex characters and it really adds such positive light to the narrative of the story. Together they make such a power couple!
Sutton is all things man, but he’s also in tune with his emotional side and isn’t afraid to show it. I really admire that about MMC. They don’t always have to be gruff and manly because that’s not realistic. I give total props to the author for making Sutton so relatable to real life!
Maci is such an independent, strong, caring character. She totally won me over from the very first chapter! I loved watching her grow and adapt to her surroundings. Also the way she handles her grief is so touching. We get to see a side of each Maci and Sutton’s family dynamic and it’s beautiful to watch!
All in all I LOVED this story! Tough subjects are touched on, but the romance and love between Maci and Sutton is evident and beautiful! Also THE CLIF HANGER ENDING?!?!?! I need the next book ASAP! 😍 I highly recommend to all my book besties who enjoy a little romantic suspense, cowboys, and strong FMCs!
Thank you to the author and the author agency for the ARC of this book! 🫶🏻
November 10, 2024
~ARC REVIEW~
🐴When Sparks Fly🐴
Amanda Marquardt
This is a debut novel and yet you would never know. The first few chapters really drew me in, after losing my grandma a few years ago and losing both my grandpa and aunt this past year, these chapters hit a spot in my heart and just drew me in. The emotion that surround grief is so wonderfully done in this story and the family dynamics that come with the grief are so well captured.
This was my first cowboy romance and boy do I need to read more!
Maci (FMC) is such a fire cracker (you’ll know once you read it) and is a character full of life and emotions. She has great development throughout the story and is someone you can love right off the hop.
Sutton (MMC) is everything a man ought to be. Hes a mommas boy but just the right amount that everyone dreams of their man being. I love that Sutton isn’t your cliche tough, hard shell, grumpy man. It was a refreshing take.
This ends on a cliff hanger and I’m absolutely desperate for book 2 now. I should have known considering it’s called a “duet” but no I was not anticipating such a wild, jaw dropping ending.
Thank you so much Amanda for the pleasure of reading this ARC. I cannot wait for the next book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🐴When Sparks Fly🐴
Amanda Marquardt
This is a debut novel and yet you would never know. The first few chapters really drew me in, after losing my grandma a few years ago and losing both my grandpa and aunt this past year, these chapters hit a spot in my heart and just drew me in. The emotion that surround grief is so wonderfully done in this story and the family dynamics that come with the grief are so well captured.
This was my first cowboy romance and boy do I need to read more!
Maci (FMC) is such a fire cracker (you’ll know once you read it) and is a character full of life and emotions. She has great development throughout the story and is someone you can love right off the hop.
Sutton (MMC) is everything a man ought to be. Hes a mommas boy but just the right amount that everyone dreams of their man being. I love that Sutton isn’t your cliche tough, hard shell, grumpy man. It was a refreshing take.
This ends on a cliff hanger and I’m absolutely desperate for book 2 now. I should have known considering it’s called a “duet” but no I was not anticipating such a wild, jaw dropping ending.
Thank you so much Amanda for the pleasure of reading this ARC. I cannot wait for the next book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
December 5, 2024
Book Review: When Sparks Fly by: Amanda
This book was my first book by Amanda and it was spectacular! It’s the perfect cowboy romance packed full of angst, spice, small town vibes, and suspense.
I loved her characters and they were fully fleshed out! The FMC Maci was the best! I totally had her burrowed into my heart. Loosing your grandma is hard! I definitely had all the feels and memories from my experience creeping up.
And Sutton please excuse me while I pull myself off the floor! Swooned so hard! He was a perfect marshmallow MMC!!! Now this book left me on a huge cliff like dang why do you have to do me dirty like that!
The side characters were wonderful Leah, Izzy, and Liv are just so loving and supportive. I loved their relationship.
I was stunned into silence and had that like blink blink blink moment that people have been doing on IG like gutted, bawling 😭. I really need book two like right now! It’s a need not a want!
Favorite quote:
“Grief isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a sign that you loved deeply.”
💕Small Town Romance
🔥Cowboy-ish (He’s a rancher)
💕He falls first
🔥Age Gap (6 years)
💕One night stand turns dangerous
🔥Slow Burn
💕Found Family
🔥Family Secrets
💕Throws her own punches
🔥Suspense
💕Cliffhanger
🔥Multiple POV
This book was my first book by Amanda and it was spectacular! It’s the perfect cowboy romance packed full of angst, spice, small town vibes, and suspense.
I loved her characters and they were fully fleshed out! The FMC Maci was the best! I totally had her burrowed into my heart. Loosing your grandma is hard! I definitely had all the feels and memories from my experience creeping up.
And Sutton please excuse me while I pull myself off the floor! Swooned so hard! He was a perfect marshmallow MMC!!! Now this book left me on a huge cliff like dang why do you have to do me dirty like that!
The side characters were wonderful Leah, Izzy, and Liv are just so loving and supportive. I loved their relationship.
I was stunned into silence and had that like blink blink blink moment that people have been doing on IG like gutted, bawling 😭. I really need book two like right now! It’s a need not a want!
Favorite quote:
“Grief isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a sign that you loved deeply.”
💕Small Town Romance
🔥Cowboy-ish (He’s a rancher)
💕He falls first
🔥Age Gap (6 years)
💕One night stand turns dangerous
🔥Slow Burn
💕Found Family
🔥Family Secrets
💕Throws her own punches
🔥Suspense
💕Cliffhanger
🔥Multiple POV
November 16, 2024
Well holy fucking shit, fuck me.
5 stars across the board. Anyone who doesn’t like this book.. I’m sorry but you’re simply wrong
I have so much to say about this book. Just wow. I thought I knew a whirlwind of emotions but this book proved me to be very wrong because I am going through the ringer right now
First of all, I love Sutton and Maci.
This is such a feel good story. I love me a rancher. And the added in suspense and cliffhanger will have you begging for more
And I loved everything about this book. The pacing was phenomenal. The depth of emotions between not only Sutton and Maci but also Maci with Sutton’s family and Maci’s friend group is everything.
Also I won’t lie, I felt a little disappointed because I could see the twist with a certain Irishman coming from the first moment we met him, so when I was revealed to be correct, I felt it a little too predictable. Well let me say I was proven wrong because Amanda absolutely obliterated my brain. It was like a fake twist and it was so damn good
I will be going out of my mind waiting for the second half of this duet
Just come along to Strickland ranch y’all, I promise you won’t regret it
5 stars across the board. Anyone who doesn’t like this book.. I’m sorry but you’re simply wrong
I have so much to say about this book. Just wow. I thought I knew a whirlwind of emotions but this book proved me to be very wrong because I am going through the ringer right now
First of all, I love Sutton and Maci.
This is such a feel good story. I love me a rancher. And the added in suspense and cliffhanger will have you begging for more
And I loved everything about this book. The pacing was phenomenal. The depth of emotions between not only Sutton and Maci but also Maci with Sutton’s family and Maci’s friend group is everything.
Also I won’t lie, I felt a little disappointed because I could see the twist with a certain Irishman coming from the first moment we met him, so when I was revealed to be correct, I felt it a little too predictable. Well let me say I was proven wrong because Amanda absolutely obliterated my brain. It was like a fake twist and it was so damn good
I will be going out of my mind waiting for the second half of this duet
Just come along to Strickland ranch y’all, I promise you won’t regret it
March 13, 2025
When Sparks Fly is the first book in the Fallout Duet.
The story starts out as a slow burn and build up following Maci as she goes back home after her grandmother unexpectedly passes away. During this time Maci is trying to navigate grief and family secrets that were revealed. Little did she know that she would have a one night stand that goes sideways and enters in more drama. During all of this Sutton rides in like a knight to help protect her. When he first meet Maci, he swore it was like they were destined to be together. Add in a sweet night at a bar and he goes home and tells his mama that he found the one he is going on marry. The journey of Sutton trying to breakdown Maci’s walls and to gain her trust just shows how sweet and dedicated he is to have Maci in his life and future.
This book does end on a cliffhanger that will leave you shocked and in tears but with the second book released, you can jump right into it.
It is a slow build but the way Amanda Marquardt brings out the characters emotions and how the building of the story continues, you just simply cannot put this book down.
The story starts out as a slow burn and build up following Maci as she goes back home after her grandmother unexpectedly passes away. During this time Maci is trying to navigate grief and family secrets that were revealed. Little did she know that she would have a one night stand that goes sideways and enters in more drama. During all of this Sutton rides in like a knight to help protect her. When he first meet Maci, he swore it was like they were destined to be together. Add in a sweet night at a bar and he goes home and tells his mama that he found the one he is going on marry. The journey of Sutton trying to breakdown Maci’s walls and to gain her trust just shows how sweet and dedicated he is to have Maci in his life and future.
This book does end on a cliffhanger that will leave you shocked and in tears but with the second book released, you can jump right into it.
It is a slow build but the way Amanda Marquardt brings out the characters emotions and how the building of the story continues, you just simply cannot put this book down.
November 4, 2024
4/5 Stars
2.5/5 Spice
I want to thank The Author Agency for allowing me to receive an ARC for this amazing book When Sparks Fly. This book is the first book in The Fallout Duet line by Amanda Marquardt.
I'm in my cowboy/rancher romance era currently. I've simply fallen in love with this wonderful story that Amanda has written.
This is most definitely a slow burn. The actual spice doesn't happen till toward the end but honestly, the spice wasn't needed throughout the book. There was plenty of flirting between Maci and Sutton that had me smiling and giggling like a little schoolgirl throughout the whole story.
It was a delight to read their little love story and honestly can't wait to see how much further it develops in the next book. It's clear that Sutton knows what he wants when he first tells his mother that he plans to marry Maci. I also find it interesting how different their families are. While Sutton is super close to his, Maci isn't close to hers.
There's tons of mystery and discovery going on in this book and I can't wait to see how everything unfolds in the next one. This book does end with a major cliffhanger that I didn't see coming.
Happy reading.
2.5/5 Spice
I want to thank The Author Agency for allowing me to receive an ARC for this amazing book When Sparks Fly. This book is the first book in The Fallout Duet line by Amanda Marquardt.
I'm in my cowboy/rancher romance era currently. I've simply fallen in love with this wonderful story that Amanda has written.
This is most definitely a slow burn. The actual spice doesn't happen till toward the end but honestly, the spice wasn't needed throughout the book. There was plenty of flirting between Maci and Sutton that had me smiling and giggling like a little schoolgirl throughout the whole story.
It was a delight to read their little love story and honestly can't wait to see how much further it develops in the next book. It's clear that Sutton knows what he wants when he first tells his mother that he plans to marry Maci. I also find it interesting how different their families are. While Sutton is super close to his, Maci isn't close to hers.
There's tons of mystery and discovery going on in this book and I can't wait to see how everything unfolds in the next one. This book does end with a major cliffhanger that I didn't see coming.
Happy reading.
November 2, 2024
Release date: November 15
When sparks fly is a breath of fresh air and such an easy read. Sutton is so sure of his feeling for Maci and is such a down to earth guy who shares his feelings openly throughout the book. Maci is an independent, kind and caring person, she was easy to love from the first chapter and you knew you were going to love her throughout the rest of the book. Sutton has a way of knowing how Maci is feeling and making her feel comfortable and safe. He has a way of bringing out her playful side and bringing down her walls. I loved reading their dialogue to each other, it had me smiling and giddy the whole time. Maci has amazing friends and I loved the chapters where they all got together. This was such a cute heart warming book and I need more. Ughh the ending will have you on the edge of your seat and pre-ordering the second book so fast
✨Small Town
✨Motorcycle Club
✨ Cowboy/Rancher
✨ He falls first
✨ Family Secrets
✨ Suspense
Thank you so much Amanda and The Author Agency for allowing me the chance to read When Sparks Fly
Arc read
When sparks fly is a breath of fresh air and such an easy read. Sutton is so sure of his feeling for Maci and is such a down to earth guy who shares his feelings openly throughout the book. Maci is an independent, kind and caring person, she was easy to love from the first chapter and you knew you were going to love her throughout the rest of the book. Sutton has a way of knowing how Maci is feeling and making her feel comfortable and safe. He has a way of bringing out her playful side and bringing down her walls. I loved reading their dialogue to each other, it had me smiling and giddy the whole time. Maci has amazing friends and I loved the chapters where they all got together. This was such a cute heart warming book and I need more. Ughh the ending will have you on the edge of your seat and pre-ordering the second book so fast
✨Small Town
✨Motorcycle Club
✨ Cowboy/Rancher
✨ He falls first
✨ Family Secrets
✨ Suspense
Thank you so much Amanda and The Author Agency for allowing me the chance to read When Sparks Fly
Arc read
November 16, 2024
Quick Look-
Genre: romance
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Recommend: yes
Full review-
This book hooked me from the beginning! I related a lot to the FMC. I was curious about the one night stand turns dangerous, and then I started reading and deduced some of what would happen, but not all of it! The short chapters are amazing, the MCs are both great people who I was rooting for. Sutton is a girls dream book boyfriend!! When he started to get protective over her, I was smitten! He is a gentleman in public, but possessive and in charge in other aspects 🤫😏. The only thing that wasn’t my fav was the third POV; I understand why she did this, but I hated that third character and I just wanted to skip those chapters most of the time 😅. I feel like this story was the perfect combination of hallmark movie, a smut novel, and a hint of danger. The plot was worth reading but so was the other stuff 😝. Definitely would recommend if you enjoy small town, cowboy, or found family tropes!! I can’t wait for the next one!!!
Genre: romance
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Recommend: yes
Full review-
This book hooked me from the beginning! I related a lot to the FMC. I was curious about the one night stand turns dangerous, and then I started reading and deduced some of what would happen, but not all of it! The short chapters are amazing, the MCs are both great people who I was rooting for. Sutton is a girls dream book boyfriend!! When he started to get protective over her, I was smitten! He is a gentleman in public, but possessive and in charge in other aspects 🤫😏. The only thing that wasn’t my fav was the third POV; I understand why she did this, but I hated that third character and I just wanted to skip those chapters most of the time 😅. I feel like this story was the perfect combination of hallmark movie, a smut novel, and a hint of danger. The plot was worth reading but so was the other stuff 😝. Definitely would recommend if you enjoy small town, cowboy, or found family tropes!! I can’t wait for the next one!!!
November 26, 2024
Loved Maci & Sutton! Reading from their very first interaction I knew this was going to be good. It’s an emotional, small town, cowboy romance that packs a bunch.
Although this story is centered around grief - it isn’t something that is dwelled on; more so is used as a stepping stone to center the story around the positives that come out of loss.
The chemistry between Maci and Sutton was incredible. I loved that it slowly built through out the course of the book. Sutton knows Maci is the one and is willing to do anything for her. Maci is trying to start her life for herself and do things to make herself happy, which she is finding with Sutton.
This story is most definitely not what I excited with the multi POV it is told in. This style adds SO much depth to this story. I truly wasn’t expecting as much suspense as romance but it most definitely builds over the course of the book. There is a major cliffhanger at the end, which was so unexpected. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Thank you so much to the Author Agency and the author, Amanda Marquadt for the amazing read!
Although this story is centered around grief - it isn’t something that is dwelled on; more so is used as a stepping stone to center the story around the positives that come out of loss.
The chemistry between Maci and Sutton was incredible. I loved that it slowly built through out the course of the book. Sutton knows Maci is the one and is willing to do anything for her. Maci is trying to start her life for herself and do things to make herself happy, which she is finding with Sutton.
This story is most definitely not what I excited with the multi POV it is told in. This style adds SO much depth to this story. I truly wasn’t expecting as much suspense as romance but it most definitely builds over the course of the book. There is a major cliffhanger at the end, which was so unexpected. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Thank you so much to the Author Agency and the author, Amanda Marquadt for the amazing read!
November 7, 2024
4 ½ Stars ... hold on tight!
The cliffhanger ... I don't know if I can wait till March to find out what happens! Sutton ... SIGH ... who wouldn't love a hunky protective cowboy with a heart of gold ... no, who? And even though Maci made some irresponsible decisions, she just wanted someone to love her. I loved the banter between the characters and it had a great storyline. I could not put this book down ... there are twists and turns that had my jaw dropping. This is the first book that I've read by this author and I loved it!
Maci is closer to her grandmother than her mother and when her grandmother dies she goes back to Bull Creek for the funeral. Even though she had a one night stand with a biker, when he meets Sutton, she's over the moon for him. Actually Sutton is also over the moon for Maci too. But Maci's mother has secrets that will change Maci's life forever.
I received an ARC courtesy of Author Agency.
The cliffhanger ... I don't know if I can wait till March to find out what happens! Sutton ... SIGH ... who wouldn't love a hunky protective cowboy with a heart of gold ... no, who? And even though Maci made some irresponsible decisions, she just wanted someone to love her. I loved the banter between the characters and it had a great storyline. I could not put this book down ... there are twists and turns that had my jaw dropping. This is the first book that I've read by this author and I loved it!
Maci is closer to her grandmother than her mother and when her grandmother dies she goes back to Bull Creek for the funeral. Even though she had a one night stand with a biker, when he meets Sutton, she's over the moon for him. Actually Sutton is also over the moon for Maci too. But Maci's mother has secrets that will change Maci's life forever.
I received an ARC courtesy of Author Agency.
November 17, 2024
Holy Crap, From the beginning I was hooked and intrigued where this was going to go and when that cowboy was gonna himself! I loved how different this take was than any other cowboy romance I’ve ever read! You come for relationship and spitfire of a FMC! You’ll stay for the secrets and the touch her & 💀that is Sutton!
The angst between the two of them and a girl that is just so destructive but a man that is rough around the edges but soft enough to be her safe landing! The character growth in this was amazing especially those family relationships! I was trying to play detective on what the family secret Stephanie was keeping and boyyyy was it but….
THAT CLIFFHANGER‼️‼️‼️
I don’t think she was expecting Sutton…but the twists with the found family! Something about this grey-ish golden retriever is something I cannot wait to read some more of in the next book & wait a minute a MAFIA TROPE coming in….
The angst between the two of them and a girl that is just so destructive but a man that is rough around the edges but soft enough to be her safe landing! The character growth in this was amazing especially those family relationships! I was trying to play detective on what the family secret Stephanie was keeping and boyyyy was it but….
THAT CLIFFHANGER‼️‼️‼️
I don’t think she was expecting Sutton…but the twists with the found family! Something about this grey-ish golden retriever is something I cannot wait to read some more of in the next book & wait a minute a MAFIA TROPE coming in….
November 17, 2024
Coming in strong with an indie, romantic suspense debut with a banger cliffhanger ending…This small town romance has a captivating mix of ranch life, a motorcycle club, some spice, a well written “villain” and a plethora of secrets. I enjoyed the first person, dual PoV from Sutton, a rancher, Maci, a photographer who visits the small town of Bull Creek after the death of her grandmother, along with a few chapters told from Colt’s PoV, a member of the local biker club. The characters are compelling (Maci’s grief…Sutton is such a charmer) and there is intrigue to the plot and the build-up to the cliffhanger ending, oh my! I was completely invested in this book and might have had an implied aura of “Do Not Disturb or Else” until the last page. Thankful that we will be treated to conclusion of the duet soon as the second book is set to release in a few months. I appreciate the opportunity to read early from the author and The Author Agency. 4.25 stars
November 18, 2024
LOVED it!!
Okay - let me start by saying this isn't my typical genre. Having said that, I got hooked from the beginning with this book and finished it in a day.
Things I loved:
✨ The POV writing. I always love reading the inner thoughts of what the characters are feeling in the story.
✨ The friendships. While the story was about one thing, it still touched on other subjects that we experience in life (for example: alcoholism, death of a family member, business success/failures, family dynamics/struggles, etc).
✨ It's a pretty fast read
Things I struggled with:
✨ I forgot this was book one in a series, so I was super disappointed to be left with a cliffhanger. This is also a positive, because now I HAVE to read the next book so I can see what happens.
✨ I'm not really one to believe in love at first sight and struggle with story lines that have characters moving so quickly in a relationship.
Overall, it was an excellent book and I can't wait to see the outcome in book 2!
Okay - let me start by saying this isn't my typical genre. Having said that, I got hooked from the beginning with this book and finished it in a day.
Things I loved:
✨ The POV writing. I always love reading the inner thoughts of what the characters are feeling in the story.
✨ The friendships. While the story was about one thing, it still touched on other subjects that we experience in life (for example: alcoholism, death of a family member, business success/failures, family dynamics/struggles, etc).
✨ It's a pretty fast read
Things I struggled with:
✨ I forgot this was book one in a series, so I was super disappointed to be left with a cliffhanger. This is also a positive, because now I HAVE to read the next book so I can see what happens.
✨ I'm not really one to believe in love at first sight and struggle with story lines that have characters moving so quickly in a relationship.
Overall, it was an excellent book and I can't wait to see the outcome in book 2!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 20, 2024
When Sparks Fly is the first book I have read by Amanda Marquard, and I am here for all of it!!! I really enjoyed tired book it had mystery, suspense, a filthy talking alpha cowboy, an independent heroine, and some amazing hot spice. I loved her writing style, she didn’t hold anything back and she created an original storyline that was page-turning. I really connected with the heartbreak Maci felt in this book. I love how the author brought forth those feelings in me of heartbreak, love and the anticipation of what would happen next. Sutton was intense and so swoony!!! I loved his determination to get what he wants and his loyalty to his family and friends. He was fierce and it was hot!!! Their chemistry was off the charts and their banter had me laughing. This book was amazing and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book to see what happens since it did leave off on a cliffhanger.
November 15, 2024
I am speechless that this is Amanda Marquardt's debut novel. If I didn't know that going in, I never would've guessed it because the writing was absolutely incredible and I need book 2 ASAP.
Small town and found family are my absolute favorite and I fell in love with Bull Creek, Maci & Sutton and their group of friends. The characters are complex but fantastic and the connection Maci and Sutton form let you know there's something special brewing between them.
We love a southern boy that falls first and knows how to treat a woman (both in the streets and under the sheets). The slow burn between these two was perfect and the build up and tension was so worth the wait.
The family drama and secrets will have you on the edge of your seat and the cliffhanger will leave you gasping.
I'm anxiously waiting for book 2!
Small town and found family are my absolute favorite and I fell in love with Bull Creek, Maci & Sutton and their group of friends. The characters are complex but fantastic and the connection Maci and Sutton form let you know there's something special brewing between them.
We love a southern boy that falls first and knows how to treat a woman (both in the streets and under the sheets). The slow burn between these two was perfect and the build up and tension was so worth the wait.
The family drama and secrets will have you on the edge of your seat and the cliffhanger will leave you gasping.
I'm anxiously waiting for book 2!
November 15, 2024
4.5 ⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I liked this nice love story. I really liked the relationship between a rancher and a photographer.
The whole theme of a small town in Texas, where Maci lived for a few years and where her family and friends are.
Maci who has lived through tragic moments and who doesn't have a good relationship with her mother and stepfather; begins to experience her life in a different way, since her grandmother died and returned to the funeral in the town.
My favorite was Sutton!!! 🤎 He's everything a woman wants: a strong, determined, loving, dedicated, protective man. 🤎
I really enjoyed reading about how magical, simple and loving a relationship can develop through Maci and Sutton.
The cliffhanger at the end of the story has me in suspense and waiting for the second part!!
Thank you, Amanda and The Author Agency, for the ARC. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I liked this nice love story. I really liked the relationship between a rancher and a photographer.
The whole theme of a small town in Texas, where Maci lived for a few years and where her family and friends are.
Maci who has lived through tragic moments and who doesn't have a good relationship with her mother and stepfather; begins to experience her life in a different way, since her grandmother died and returned to the funeral in the town.
My favorite was Sutton!!! 🤎 He's everything a woman wants: a strong, determined, loving, dedicated, protective man. 🤎
I really enjoyed reading about how magical, simple and loving a relationship can develop through Maci and Sutton.
The cliffhanger at the end of the story has me in suspense and waiting for the second part!!
Thank you, Amanda and The Author Agency, for the ARC. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
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