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Bad Boys of Mustang Mountain #1

January's Bad Boy - Shane

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He’s her brother’s best friend. She’s forbidden and there is only one bed

Shane

Getting this ranch back on its feet is the only thing keeping me grounded… until Caitlin walks back into my life.

She’s my best friend’s sister, and I have no business even looking at her.

But when a freak snowstorm leaves us stranded in a cabin with one bed, all bets are off.

She deserves better than an ex-con like me, but I’d be a fool to let her go.

Now, I have to decide if risking my friendship with her brother is worth the chance at the life I’ve never dared to dream about.

Caitlin

I came back to the small town of Mustang Mountain to escape the stress of my old life and to help my brother with his wedding.

Running into Shane, my brother’s best friend, was unexpected—but the way he looks at me now makes me want to risk everything.

I know his past isn’t simple, but neither is mine.

When we’re stranded together in that tiny cabin, it’s impossible to ignore the sparks.

I have my career in New York waiting, but Shane’s got my heart, and walking away from him is starting to feel like a mistake.

Welcome to Mustang Mountain, where rough roads lead to redemption.

In this rugged mountain town, the Bad Boys of Mustang Mountain live by their own rules. They’re outlaws with code and conviction, protecting their own against anyone who dares to cross them. With troubled pasts and scars that run deep, these men aren't afraid to live life their way. But when fierce, curvy women step into their lives, they find themselves facing a different kind of challenge—one that just might heal the hearts they thought were too far gone.

80 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 29, 2025

67 people are currently reading
64 people want to read

About the author

Kaci Rose

92 books1,383 followers
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Kaci runs on coffee, chocolate, and Oreos. She loves her book boyfriends with tattoos, muscles, beards, and a little dirty.

Kaci loves romance books and has been jotting down ideas since she was in high school and is now putting the ideas down on paper. She believes in satisfying, happily ever afters with a lot of steam on the way.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
Profile Image for Kamila Mykhailiuk.
1,449 reviews12 followers
January 29, 2025
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.

I read this book in one sitting and I loved every second of it. The chemistry and passion between Shane and Caitlin was undeniable and sizzling. They were made for each other.

Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a brother’s best friend, one bed romance then you’re going to love it.
Profile Image for Debi Williams.
2,570 reviews5 followers
September 21, 2025
This was a nice read. Shane is the bad boy in this book but he is actually the star. He is out of prison for something that he didn’t do. Caitlin is his best friend’s sister. A short and sweet story with a HEA
Profile Image for Bexx.
129 reviews6 followers
January 28, 2025
While this story had the potential to be a heartfelt and genuine romance, it unfortunately missed the mark. I've enjoyed the author's previous works, which made it all the more disappointing.

Shane, the main character, returns to his hometown and develops feelings for his best friend's sister, Caitlin. However, the story quickly escalates as Shane starts visiting her at her workplace, and then suddenly professes his love and lifelong commitment to her.

Instead of allowing readers to experience the gradual deepening of their relationship, the story fast-forwards through key events, leaving their engagement feeling abrupt and unearned. There was so much potential for genuine interaction and detailed exploration of Shane and Caitlin’s characters and relationship dynamics, but it just didn’t happen. This resulted in a superficial and unsatisfying love story that just felt rushed, and missed out on the depth and substance it could have had. Overall, the story was a letdown and could have been so much more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Check out more of my reviews at https://bookishwondersreviews.blogspo...
Profile Image for Curvy Girl Book Nerd   (Jen S).
4,522 reviews62 followers
February 7, 2025
January's Bad Boy Shane: Book 1 of the Bad Boys of Mustang Mountain series. It's a short and steamy, instalove, OTT, age-gap, opposites-attract, forced-proximity, one-bed, curvy girl gets her brother's best friend romance. Caitlin is a sweet and curvy interior designer. She came home for her older brother, Atlas's, wedding, and is staying for a bit. Shane is a hunky, ex-military man who was recently released from jail. He plans to get his late parents' ranch back up and running. He is Atlas's best friend and crushing on Caitlin. She ends up helping him with design plans for the ranch, and they end up snowed -in at a cabin on the property. One bed leads to a hot and steamy night. Shane is all in, but will Caitlin stay or go back to New York? And what will Atlas say? This couple had hot chemistry, and the ending was happy after the brother drama. We still have the issue of the land developer trying to take over. I'm curious where that story will go and can't wait for Aiden's story next!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,142 reviews26 followers
January 31, 2025
I loved January's Bad Boy - Shane: Book 1 of Bad Boys of Mustang Mountain. Shane needs to keep his distance from Caitlin but he can’t help himself. He finds little reasons to go see her. One snow storm forces them to stay in his cabin and forces them to give into temptation. She has her old life in New York still waiting but she wants to stay in Mustang Mountain with Shane. Shane knows people look at him because he’s an ex-con but they don’t know the truth. Will Caitlin’s brother have a problem with his sister and his best friend? I loved the story and the characters. I can’t wait to see how the series plays out. I would definitely recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sarah Nielsen.
4,185 reviews20 followers
January 30, 2025
This was a really good brother’s best friend romance. It was a short story with a good flow. I really enjoyed how this story was connected with the rest of the Mustang Mountain books but it is definitely possible to read it on its own. This was Shane and Caitlin’s story and I really enjoyed reading it. The two had good chemistry and I really liked them together.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,377 reviews
January 30, 2025
Friendship and loyalty with the MC, family and new beginnings. In the background there is a hint of the next challenge and of purpose.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,239 reviews10 followers
January 29, 2025
He paid the price demanded; now it's time to move on.

Shane has returned home to the family ranch in Mustang Mountain after the deaths of his parents. He dreamed of this day when he was deployed in the desert. He just never dreamed he'd be in jail when they died and that he'd not be allowed to attend their services. Now that he's home, he hasn't been able to sleep in the house and has moved into the bunkhouse. He needs to hire ranch hands, if he can find any, but first repairs need to be done on the bunkhouse. His buddy, Aiden, will be joining him in a few weeks when he gets out of prison. Another friend, Atlas, will have someone come help after the local Mustang Riders' clubhouse is finished being repaired after an attack by another club.

Even though he grew up on a local ranch, most people in the area now give him a wide berth when they see him. If they knew his true story, they'd know there was nothing to worry about.

His time in prison did give him perspective on what to do with his life. If not for the ranch, he probably wouldn't be able to find a job, and that's among people who knew him and his parents. His family had been accepted and respected; his parents still are; he's not. If the locals won't hire an ex-con they know, there's no way they'd hire one who's a stranger. So he'll hire the ones, like him, who need help getting back on their feet. He's also going to rescue horses. Non-judgmental one-on-one time spent with horses will help both the cowboys and the horses.

Caitlin is the younger sister of Atlas. She had moved to NYC and is an interior designer for a large company. She came home for Atlas and Bex's wedding but seems to be in no hurry to return to her job. Shane knows there's a story behind her reluctance, but it's her story to tell. He'll wait until she's ready to confide in him.

Atlas isn't happy to learn that Caitlin and Shane are becoming involved with each other. When Atlas asks if she's aware that Shane is an ex-con, her response shames him. She's not only aware of his sentence, she even believes that he was guilty. But he served his sentence, paid for his crime, and now gets to restart his life. Hopefully with her.

I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Profile Image for Laura Moylan.
1,495 reviews
February 2, 2025
I was in a mood when I started the book due to RL stuff. But, as I read, that totally cleared up. Shane ended up in jail while he was in military. Learning about why, totally ticked me off. Shane saved Mustang Mountain when there was a bomb and he is besties with Atlas, the Prez of the Mustang Mountain MC. While serving his country, his parents passed and now he wants to renovate his family’s ranch. But, he needs help. Caitlin is Atlas’ lil sister and Shane has had feelings for her for a while. So he keeps showing up at Jensen & Jonas’ store where Caitlin’s covering for them while they go vacay. Knowing that Caitlin is off limits because she is his bestie’s lil sister he tries really hard to ignore his feelings. A new burger is offered at the diner, so he talks Caitlin to go try it after work so they can catch up. They hear a lot of stuff that they didn’t know about. He also admits some of the things that happened to him and asks her about her time in NYC and her job. Shane also asks for her help with decorating the ranch etc. as that is her job. Learning about why she needed to come home, ticked me off. I muttered and cursed a lot over both Shane’s past and what had happened to Caitlin. I love when Caitlin calls her bestie Paisley, because I know she’ll end up coming out there and she’ll find love too lol. I can’t wait. Plus, Bex totally made me laugh when she helps her sis in law out. Atlas totally got verbally beaten. I had so much fun reading the book because it was fun, funny, steamy, romantic, and the build up from the new big bad. You really need to read all of the Mustang Mountain books to know what is going on. Plus, they are all quick reads and awesome ones.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Lisa H.
745 reviews5 followers
January 31, 2025
We are always in for a treat on Mustang Mountain. This is new series that Kaci is bringing to life with a bang.

Shane has finally come back home, and its not all good memories. Where this is a standalone, and a new series...there is always some cross over. We got our first glimpse of Shane when his best friend Atlas brought him to town when there was a bomb scare.

Shane has had it rough. He went to prison for something not really his fault, but took responsibility for his part on things. It hurts to come home to his family being gone, and everyone in town having whispered opinions.

The first message you get from this book is heart. Shane is good at heart, and takes his past seriously. He wants to grow and leave that life behind. He wants nothing more to fix up the family ranch, and open a new chapter in his life. He has his best friend, Mustang MC Atlas, to help.

Shane runs into Atlas's sister, Caitlyn, and can't seem to keep away but trying to keep things friendly. The strong, steady friendship they have really makes this story work. Caitlyn is just back in town after years, but still sees the good hearted Shane.

The attraction between these two feels like it has its own heartbeat. You can't help but swoon as Caitlyn proves she's not into gossip and wants to help Shane make his new vision come true.

These two come together under snowy circumstances but it feels like an energy burst when they both give in. Sometimes its not an instant love, but a love thats lasted for years, and finally gets out in the open.

If this is any indication of the series, ya'll are in for a Treat!!! Kaci always takes us for a ride, and buckle up for the new Bad Boys!!
Profile Image for Korkoi.
7,004 reviews31 followers
January 29, 2025
True Love and Second Chances -
When Shane returned home after spending time in prison, his only priority was to get the family ranch back on track, but not everyone was happy about his return due to his past. Caitlin returned to Mustang Mountain for her brother’s wedding with a heavy burden weighing her down, but spending time with Shane seemed to make her feel better. Even though spending time together heightened the attraction between Shane and Caitlin, they trued everything to maintain a platonic relationship, but fate and Mother Nature conspired to put them in a situation where they had no other choice but to give in.

Unfortunately, not everyone was happy with Shane and Caitlin’s relationship and there was also the fact that she didn’t live in Mustang Mountain. However, Shane did everything possible to make Caitlin aware that he was prepared to do anything to be with her. Luckily, after considering all her options, Caitlin made the decision to stay in Mustang Mountain, so they could get a chance at having the happy future they both deserved.

Wow! This book is a fantastic and heartfelt start to the Mustang Mountain series, and I am happy as I was given the opportunity to read it. The storyline was not only entertaining, but it dealt with a few interesting real life issues that affected the lives of both characters, that ended in a positive outcome. You will absolutely enjoy reading this book and be happy to recommend it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Michelle Frater.
1,680 reviews18 followers
January 30, 2025
From the moment I started reading, I couldn’t help but ask why can’t ex-cons catch a break? Sure, I get being wary of violent offenders, but black-market sales and smuggling? Not exactly the stuff of nightmares. Shane wasn’t some hardened criminal; he was just a guy trying to shake off his past and build a future on his family’s ranch. And thank goodness Caitlin saw that. She didn’t let his prison record or the fact that he was her brother’s best friend stand in her way. She accepted his past and moved on, something the rest of the town should’ve done too. Seriously, the way they treated him had me fuming. Hadn’t he paid his dues? And then there’s Atlas, Caitlin’s overprotective brother warning her to stay away from Shane. I mean, talk about the pot calling the kettle black! That whole dynamic had me rolling my eyes. Meanwhile, Caitlin loved being back in Mustang Mountain, though her baggage from NYC made her hesitant about her future. But when she and Shane get snowed in together? Oh boy, the tension that had been simmering between them finally erupts into something undeniable and suddenly, Caitlin starts to wonder if her future really lies in New York after all. I loved Shane’s vision for the ranch. It felt like the perfect setup for future books in the series. And when fellow inmate Aiden rolled into town? Let’s just say I’m already itching to dive into the next one. A heartfelt, swoon-worthy romance with just the right amount of small-town drama—I’m hooked!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,063 reviews8 followers
January 31, 2025
This was book one of the new series, Bad Boys of Mustang Mountain, all outlaws with troubled pasts, searching for the one woman able to look past their conviction and see the man behind it.

At less than 100 pages, that was about the only thing that was short about this book! The getting-to-know-you-better…the romance…the HEA, those were all right on point with no rushing to get to The End—even with Shane being an ex-convict and Caitlyn not having known, it didn’t feel rushed or as if something was missing. Shane’s best friend was Atlas, the club president from the Mustang Mountain Riders MC series and Caitlyn’s older brother and, even though Shane and Caitlyn had known each other their whole lives, there was no personal relationship between the two so they were essentially starting from scratch and it STILL didn’t feel rushed.

Anyway, I’ve loved all the Mustang Mountain series so far and this interconnected Bad Boys of Mustang Mountain was no different. Ruby, the famous matchmaker of the month was even included and it just gave it more of the extended family vibes which I love and can’t wait to read more of. I’m already excited for next month’s book with Aiden, a friend of Shane’s who he’s helping to start over, and Paisley, Caitlyn’s best friend. From the epilogue, it sounds like sparks might fly between them…at least if Paisley has anything to say about it. 5 stars!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
11.5k reviews48 followers
February 13, 2025
New year...New series....Let the Bad Boys start flowing

January's Bad Boy - Shane by Kaci Rose is part of the multi-author Bad Boys of Mustang Mountain series. This series is a spin-off from the Mountain Men of Mustang Mountain which was a fun series to read. This story sets up the series overarching story and it all begins when Shane comes back home to Mustang Mountain to run the family ranch after being released from prison, a few years after his parents passed. He was not sure if he was going to settle back in the community that he grew up in but he has made a plan....he is going to get the ranch back up by helping other recently released prisoners turn their life around by having them work and live on the ranch. Caitlin is Atlas' younger sister who is an interior designer in NYC. But after an incident with a client she came back home for her brother's wedding and to take some time away. When Shane tells her about what he is planning to do she offers to help him redesign the bunkhouse and give him some ideas on other things on the ranch. These two have major crushes on each other but with Atlas in the middle will they be able to make a future together, especially since Atlas warns each of them off the other.
I loved this first book in the new series. It sets up the basis wonderfully and gives some ties into the previous series and some characters. I think I am really going to enjoy this new series over the coming year.
1,308 reviews6 followers
February 3, 2025
Shane had finally returned home after the military and then 4 years in prison for a crime he didn't commit but covered for a friend. Now to restore the ranch that his dad had wanted him to take over. He couldn't even to make it to his parents' funeral because prisons didn't let you leave. Now he will need help to rebuild the ranch. Shane has had a crush on Caitlin for years, but she is Atlas, his best friend, younger sister so she is off-limits; plus she is taking time away from her job in NYC. Shane keeps showing up where Caitlyn is helping at the sporting goods store while family friends are away on vacation. Shane asked Caitlyn to have a hamburger at the diner with him. She offers to help with design ideas for his bunkhouse updates since that is what she does in NYC. Caitlin hears talk about a Christmas card with no signature or address that Atlas received to 'enjoy their last Christmas in Mustang Mountain'. Just who sent it? As Shane and Caitlin get closer while working on the bunkhouse remodel, will want each other more? Can they possibly have a future together? Will Atlas keep them apart?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,081 reviews5 followers
February 4, 2025
This is the first book in the Mustang Mountains bad boys series. It is adjacent to the Mustang Mountain MC series. Characters from that series do appear in this one however this is a complete stand alone story. He is out of prison and back on his family ranch, attempting to turn it around and make it into something new and profitable. She is his best friend‘s little sister. I’m back in town for a sabbatical from her interior design life in New York. They are both now all grown up and when they see each other again sparks fly. When they get stuck in the snow and have to seek refuge in a backwoods cabin with nothing more to distract them to chemistry takes over and is undeniable. This is the sweet story of redemptive love. We both get a chance to find in each other what they’ve been missing as well as love, and. It is a short story format, so you do not expect to get complicated plot lines or overly detailed characters. You get what you need here to feel invested in their romance, as well as some extra details layered in from the characters in previous stories. They get their happily ever after on the mountain..

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jenifer.
2,745 reviews6 followers
January 27, 2025
A great start for season 3 of the Mustang Mountain men. This time we get bad boys. I love Shane's ideas for how to repurpose his farm and I think that it'll do good for the men he's bringing in and give them a chance to get back on their feet. I adored how Caitlin is able to look past Shane's past and see him for who is really is and not the titles that he wears. Atlas makes an appearance as he's Caitlin's brother and Shane's best friend, but his overprotective brother role is one part of him I don't care for. I get it that the drama is needed for the story, but dude if you trust him to be your friend, then you need to trust him with your sister. Never understood men and their stands on their sisters with their friends. It works out well in the end anyway as he sees that he's preventing two people from loving one another and finally relents. I enjoyed the bonus epilogue too as something that I felt wasn't resolved in the original story is revealed as resolved in the epilogue. Can't wait for the next 11 men (or months) to read all about these bad boys and what they get up to in Mustang Mountain.
Profile Image for Tiffany  Hill.
687 reviews16 followers
January 29, 2025
**Back to Mustang Mountain with Bad Boys**

The new series, *Bad Boys of Mustang Mountain*, certainly did not disappoint with the release of *January’s Bad Boy: Shane #1*. It features a classic trope: best friend's little sister, one bed, an ex-con, a curvy girl, and instalove—this story checks all the boxes.

After a few incidents at work, Caitlin decided to stay a little longer at home after her brother's wedding to figure a few things out before returning to her job. When the opportunity arose to help Shane at the ranch, she jumped at the chance. Shane has just gotten out of jail and returned home to work on his family ranch. His plan to help other ex-cons reintegrate into society is a great idea, as he understands what they go through when trying to adjust.

When Shane and Caitlin find themselves trapped in a snowstorm, he knows she is off-limits because she is his best friend's little sister. However, as they spend more time together, their connection deepens, and the chemistry between them becomes undeniable.

This book is such a fun, fast-paced read—perfect for finishing in one sitting! I absolutely loved it and can't wait to dive into the rest of the series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Evelyn Dotson.
2,066 reviews17 followers
January 29, 2025
Shane has served his time in prison for something he did not do. He is now back in Mustang Mountain to run the ranch he grew up on. Most folks in town judge him for what they believe about him. Atlas’ sister, Caitlin, is back in town taking a hiatus from New York and her job. When they run amok of one another, Shane cannot deny the feelings he has for her.

Caitlin has had a crush on Shane for forever. When they continually run into one another, things are bound to happen. When she gives him so great ideas for the ranch, she will go see how they are coming to fruition. A snowstorm arrives, stranding them in a cabin on the property. When they arrive back at the main house the next day, Atlas is waiting for them.

Many things are transpiring. A new relationship, a mad brother, an offer from the people who bought the hot springs, and two people who are unsure of where things will lead. Shane knows what it is he wants and needs. Caitlin is confused about what it will take to make things work. Atlas has a problem with them being together. Considering how he acquired his wife, he has no room to judge. This is the next story in the men and women of Mustang Mountain!

2,506 reviews42 followers
January 31, 2025
A shorter story, but an excellent introduction to this new series. Shane, former military, was set up to take the fall for an issue that happened overseas. He had spent five years in prison, but has now returned to Mustang Mountain to pick up his life and restore his parents’ ranch to what it once was. He is attracted to his friend’s sister, Caitlin, who was in town for her brother’s wedding. After an incident, Caitlin was glad to get away from her interior design career in New York and has enjoyed spending time with Shane. The Mustang Mountain Riders received an ominous note from developers who are interested in the area and Shane has also received interest in his property, but it is not for sale. As he works to restore the ranch, he would like to offer a chance at redemption to others who have been incarcerated and need a second chance. Will her brother approve of their relationship and what will happen if Caitlin decides to return to New York? I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
3,119 reviews47 followers
January 27, 2025
Shane had been home for a while. He still cannot bring himself to sleep in the main house. He goes takes himself into town and makes sure to see Caitlin. Caitlin is the younger sister of his best friend Atlas. The man who has stood behind him when he was in prison. Shane knows that he must not go near Caitlin. Caitlin looks forward to seeing Shane. When she get the chance to to help Shane improve his range she says yes.
Shane is up front with Caitlin about his past and she is worried. For she sees a good man.
When both get snowed in Caitlin makes it clear that she wants him as much as he wants her. One problem Atlas.
Shane is a man of honour and great heart. Caitlin is strong annd wise. Atlas learns to trust and see how good these two are for each other.
Loved Shanes idea for the ranch and Caitlin’s trust.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for kymagirl.
6,180 reviews90 followers
January 29, 2025
Shane (H) never imagined coming home would feel so empty. With his parents gone, the family ranch in shambles, and townsfolk in Mustang Mountain still judging him for his past, he’s ready to rebuild. But when Caitlin (h), his best friend’s little sister, walks back into his life, she brings more than just memories. She’s everything he can’t have… and everything he can’t resist. Caitlin came back to Mustang Mountain to find herself, not fall for the town’s black sheep. But helping Shane restore the ranch sparks something neither of them saw coming. One kiss is all it takes to unravel their carefully guarded hearts. With a snowstorm, family secrets, and small-town gossip at every turn, Shane and Caitlin have to decide if their love can overcome their complicated pasts to build a future together. Steamy forbidden age gap, mountain man, small town romance, exploring love, connection, second chances, redemption, family, loyalty, societal expectations, finding home, and belonging.
Profile Image for Amber.
743 reviews
February 2, 2025
Shane is an ex-con who has a crush on his best pal Atlas's sister Caitlin. He's back from jail to take over his parent's ranch and wants to do his parents proud, and hire ex-cons to give them a second chance. Atlas is at first very disapproving but he IS with his frenemy's daughter so he really has nothing on them.

We're back to Mustang Mountain for another year of great stories! I have been following the previous 2-3 series/sets and enjoyed them. I like that there is an over-arching story across all the books throughout the year and it's something to look forward to each month. If this is your first book and you can't wait for the next one, do pick up the other series to read!

This was a short but sweet story, the characters had great chemistry and the presence of a brother and sister in law add more depth to the story. I enjoyed it a lot and can't wait to read the following books!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,499 reviews
February 4, 2025
Caitlin is Shane's best friend's younger sister. She has been attracted to him but moved to the city to work and explore. Now she is back working at the store covering for the twins while they are on a family vacation. Anyway, Shane is a military that's and also had to serve time in jail. He considered himself an ex-con which technically is true but he also served in the military. He is now home and he's trying to get his parents ranch up and running. What he did not know was that Caitlin was a good for interior design and optimizing space and organization. So these two are working close together until Atlas her brother is sticking his nose and places where it shouldn't be. Even though he is the prez of the MC is still not his business. But things turn when these two are together all the time. So of course, small town equals rumors and gossip. Good read liked it a lot!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nina Diab.
5,262 reviews51 followers
February 13, 2025
'The last thing I want to do is get hurt or worse yet, end up in jail when I lose it on some perfectly nice guy who tries to make moves on her.
Yeah, put up the walls and drive her away now since I can't seem to leave her alone. That is now my new plan.'

I really enjoyed this book. Best friend's sister, forced proximity, only one bed, ex-con. Yum! I loved both Shane and Caitlin. He tried to resist and put up walls to protect not only himself, but her. He expects her to reject him when he tells her he was in jail. She never reacts how he expects her to, and it only makes him fall harder.

'I just fell even harder for this girl. She sees me, not an ex-con. Silently, I make a vow to protect her from anyone who tries to hurt her, even if that person is myself.'

It was sweet, but also made me sad that people from his own hometown don't want him- even though he'd saved them.

I enjoyed seeing them fall in love. Looking forward to Aiden and Paisley's book. 4 stars.
Profile Image for Rebmay.
2,800 reviews50 followers
January 29, 2025
Shane and Kaitlin’s story is rather sweet with just a touch of angst and spice. Shane is a bit of an outcast on Mustang Mountain due to his ex con status. It doesn’t seem to matter that he grew up in the area on his family’s ranch or that he recently helped saved the town. The fact that there seems to be a new threat facing the town doesn’t sway opinion his way either. That’s why he hesitates to approach Kaitlin, the sister of his best friend, Axle. She is in town temporarily, but Shane can’t seem to stay away from her and makes up excuses to visit the store where she is working. Turns out she likes him too, though her brother warns her away. A sudden storm, stranded in a tiny cabin with one bed and the fire isn’t the only source of heat. With so much seeming to be against them, is a future together in the cards?


This quick romance is a great read. I am happy to recommend it.

Profile Image for Alicia Walton.
347 reviews7 followers
January 30, 2025
What a good little page turner. I really enjoyed this book. This is book one for this series but I feel I would have enjoyed it better if I read the series before it. With that being said, it was still a good stand alone it just open the door to research and read the series with Atlas. That will not be a hardship as I have enjoyed all of Kaci Rose's work. I did enjoy the story line but I felt the characters relationship did not develop as much as I would have liked. I did not feel their connection or how their feelings changed as much in this book as I usually do in previous books. It did have a nice steamy scene and a great ending that made this book a must read. I loved the meet cute at the end of the book and can not wait to read the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
12.2k reviews92 followers
February 5, 2025
Caitlin has come home to attend her brother’s wedding but some difficulties at work has her considering if she wants to stay. While she is home she starts spending time for Shane, her brother’s friend. What begins as her giving him advice on how to upgrade the dwellings for the ranch hands turns into a connection that neither can deny.

Shane has regrets when it comes to his best and he knows that the best way to honor his parents is by protecting the family ranch. He has plans that will not only make it profitable but help others who have experiences similar to his, but he wasn’t prepared for the feeling he developed for Caitlin or that she would see beyond his past to the man he has become.

Caitlin is fierce while Shane is protective, and neither is willing to let anyone come between them including her brother.
Profile Image for Barbara Atkinson.
955 reviews6 followers
January 28, 2025
This is the beginning of a new series. We find ourselves back in Mustang Mountain. Shane is freshly out of jail and taking over his family ranch. The town looks down on him even though he grew up there. The only thing he has there is the ranch and his best friend Atlas.
Caitlin is Atlas’s younger sister. She came home for Atlas’s wedding and plans on staying awhile.
She is off limits, his best friend’s younger sister and he is an ex-con. She deserves better than him. After being trapped together in a snowstorm the passion heats up.
I love how sweet and caring Shane is to Caitlin. He treats her with respect and is interested in learning everything about her.
Great start to the new series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Grinning Cat.
3,623 reviews120 followers
January 29, 2025
I enjoyed this book. Shane and Caitlin had excellent chemistry and I liked the redemption theme. Shane plans to help other ex-cons to become contributing members of society. I would have respected the book more if Shane had actually been guilty of the crime he was accused of; I think it would fit with the redemption theme, be more interesting, and definitely be more realistic.
Here’s the breakdown:
Safety? Y
Triggers- language, discussion of incendiary device. Sex.
Tropes- Redemption, Brother’s Best Friend, Fast-Tracked Love, Cowboy, Only One Bed (snowbound). An MC is name checked but not really involved in the story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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