May's Bad Boy - Kody

Bad Boys of Mustang Mountain #5

by Kaci Rose

Kody and Paige's Single Dad, Arranged Marriage Romance
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.

Genres: Romance

81 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 15, 2025

About the author

Join Kaci's VIP mailing list and get 2 FREE Novellas at
http://www.kacirose.com/free-books

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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Reviews

[Mia S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short one! I usually don’t like novellas as it seems like the authors are forcing a story, forcing a relationship and unless fated insta love not my thing. But this one had a good story and all the tropes in it! Not dark, and only one spicy scene that was a bit mild but moved things along. Dad down on his luck trying to gain custody of his daughter from bio mother’s parents- mother died after he went into prison- yes it has that angle! I order to gain custody needs to show stable home environment, so arranges to marry a woman who just lost her job, scorned by lover and needs his health insurance as diabetic! And so many more issues come up and hard to believe all in 80 pages. Loved it!

[kymagirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kody (H) isn’t looking for love. He’s just trying to keep custody of his daughter Sadie and put his life back together after prison. When Sadie’s grandparents challenge his custody, claiming his new life on a Montana ranch is unstable, Kody needs a solution. What he gets is Paige (h). ‍

Paige has her own problems. A chronic illness, no insurance, and nowhere safe to land have pushed her to the edge. When a friend suggests a marriage of convenience, it sounds crazy. But it also sounds like the only real shot either of them has.

What begins as a legal arrangement quickly grows into something neither of them expected. As Paige finds strength in building a new future, Kody discovers he might be more than the man his past tried to define. Together, they fight against powerful enemies who threaten their family and the town they’ve both come to care for. ‍‍

Kody grows from a guarded single father defined by his past into a steady, emotionally present partner who fights for more than just survival. Paige evolves from a woman in crisis into someone who finds purpose, confidence, and belonging through her choices and actions. Their relationship shifts from a practical arrangement to a deeply rooted partnership built on trust, vulnerability, and shared values. What begins as necessity becomes real love, shaped by quiet moments, mutual support, and a growing belief in each other and their family.

Tender moments, courtroom drama, and a fight for family and community add layers that go beyond the usual tropes. A fake marriage turns real in every way that counts, complete with fairy lights, porch swings, and a little girl who knows exactly who her family is.

A small town, single dad, reformed bad boy romance, exploring love through adversity, second chances, found family, healing, growth, trust, resilience, redemption, fighting for custody, small town unity, and standing up to corruption.

[ANA GARCIA · Rating 4 out of 5]

May's Bad Boy Kody by Kaci Rose is another heartwarming, feel-good romance that fits perfectly between heavier reads. Kaci Rose never disappoints, and this book is no exception.

Kody returns to Mustang Mountain with his daughter, hoping for peace and a new beginning. He’s preparing for a custody battle with her maternal grandparents and needs stability. Paige, reeling from betrayal, financial loss, and serious health challenges due to diabetes, is just trying to survive. When their lives intertwine, they discover that together they can find not just healing, but love, family, and a way to thrive.

This is a touching story about resilience, second chances, and the power of love to build something beautiful from broken pieces.

[Nikki_Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG!!! WOW!! Fab*u*lous Absolutely love this one!! I couldn't put this one down. This was a nice quick, short read.

Kody and Paige met when Caitlin January's Bad Boy - Shane suggests that he needs to get married. Kody served time behind bars for a crime he didn't commit shortly after his daughter's mother passed away. Kody's daughter ends up with her grandparents, but when Kody gets out he gets custody of Sadie, his daughter. Paige has had a bad time of things, after her husband left her he took all her money, she lost her job so now she can't afford health insurance. Paige ends up at the women's shelter. Paige is rationing her insulin for her diabetes and ends up in the emergency room, Courtney June Is for Jensen is from the women's shelter and there to help her. When Paige arrives at Shane's ranch she goes to Kody's daughter Sadie and they have an instant bond. Both Kody and Paige know this marriage is only temporary only for the paperwork. Kody needs a stable home while Paige needs health insurance. Soon Kody and Paige are married, and when the judge tells him to kiss the bride they know they have to make it look real. When they arrive back at the cabin, Kody tells Paige to take the bed he'll sleep on the couch. Paige tells Kody no, they should sleep in the same bed. After a few days of settling in, Kody step into the cabin to find Paige and Sadie making dinner, something she insisted she do. Paige loves to read bedtime stories to Sadie. While lying in bed Paige asks Kody why he thinks Sadie's grandparents will take her and he tells her because they have the money to. A few days later, Kody notices Paige keeps mostly to herself, but she's good with Sadie. Kody notices something is off with Paige, and when she barely eats he tells her to go lie down. Paige just tells Kody she's tired and didn't sleep well, but Kody is worried about her. While sleeping Kody hears a noise and thinks it's Sadie but when he rushes into her room she cuddled under her blankets. When Kody reaches the kitchen he finds Paige on the floor, panic sets in then he realizes her diabetes. Kody rushes to get Paige's bag with glucose gel inside and puts some in her mouth. Kody holds onto Paige telling her everything will be alright. Kody carries Paige to bed, where he lets her rest on his chest before she falls asleep. When Paige wakes up she tells Kody she's sorry, but he tells her not to pretend this doesn't matter. Paige tells him she ran out of insulin last week, so Kody calls the doctor to get her set up with refills and an appointment. When Paige feels better she tells Kody she'll pull her weight, he tells her he knows, but he won't let her break while doing it. Paige takes Sadie to town and they walk up and down Main Street, then they notice Miss Ada isn't herself today. When Paige goes to talk to Miss Ada she tells her about a man who came to visit her and the contract he left for her to sign. Paige looks over the contract and tells Miss Ada not to sign, then takes several photos and copies. When Paige gets back to the ranch she tells Kody and Shane about what happened, and she finds out this developer has been trying to buy up houses in town. Paige borrows Kody's laptop and goes to work doing research, she use to manage a spa and got good at spotting hidden lines and fine print. Paige finds out the developer isn't building a resort he's building a town, then she shows Kody all the fine print she found. While sitting on the front porch Paige asks Kody if he's glad he married her, and he tells her yes he is. Then Paige kisses him, and Kody doesn't pull away. Later while going over paper work Kody promises he'll drive Paige into town to the records office in the morning. When Kody wakes up he heads to the mailbox and finds a man in a suit, when he asks him if he can help him he asks if he's Kody Reed. The man hands Kody a thick envelope and tells him he's been served. Kody looks at the paperwork seeing its a motion for a custody hearing. Then Kody sees that Paige's name is mentioned, with every detail they could bring up on her. When Kody gets into the cabin he tells Paige, when she reads over the paperwork she tells Kody they're not wrong about her. Kody tells her if they want a fight he'll fight, and Paige tells him let's fight. Later that afternoon, Ruby has brought in a lawyer for them. They find out the same lawyer representing them is the developer making deals all over town. When they get home Paige tells Kody if he wants out of this marriage she'll understand. Kody looks at Paige and tells her he doesn't want out, and she asks him why. Kody tells her along the way this felt more real and less like a deal. When they get into their bedroom Kody closes the door and kisses Paige, soon they make love. Everyone mets in the library conference room to go over all the paperwork brought by other homeowners. By the afternoon they have enough evidence to make a case. So they head to Orville's office, after looking over the paperwork he tells Paige she just stirred a hornets nest they all need to be ready. Orville takes everything to the town lawyer, and wants to go after the developers. Later that night Paige tells Kody why this matters to her so much. Kody tells her that she was never broken, but if he felt her feel whole again he's doing something right. Kody and Paige head to Whitefish court house, they enter the court room with Sadie's grandparents enter as well. When Kody doesn't think they have a chance, he stands and asks the judge if he can say a few words. Kody tells the judge how much he needed Paige, how much she's giving him hope and a home. Kody tells Paige he loves her, when she breaks down and cries, they hear tiny footsteps. They didn't realize Sadie was in the room, but she walks up to Paige and tells her not to cry. Then Kody walks up to the and wraps them in a hug, the judge waits. The judge tells them this is a real family, messy and imperfect, but real. The judge grants custody to Kody and recognizes the marriage as real. Kody knows the fight isn't over. The next morning there's a knock on the door, Ruby comes into the cabin. Ruby tells Paige she has some news for her. Ruby tells Paige she has in investor who believes in her, they want to build a spa and have her be in charge of it. Kody tells Paige she's spend so long putting herself last it's time she put herself first. The following day Paige mets Levi April's Bad Boy - Levi and Peyton June's Bad Boy - Huck at the future of the spa to go over plans. One week later, Paige stands in the middle of the construction site. Hades shows up, he's become Sadie's best friend and she always has a treat for him. Later that night when Paige gets home, Kody mets her at the door and has dinner ready. Afterwords Kody takes Paige and tells her he married her because he needed to protect his daughter but stayed because he feels in love with her. Kody drops to one knee and pulls out a ring, he tells Paige he doesn't want to present anymore, no papers, no court, just them. Kody tells her he loves her then he asks Paige if she'll marry him and she tells him she already did but yes a million time yes, then she tells him she loves him.

[Ms. Shawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kody and his four-year-old daughter Sadie just arrived at his friend Shane’s ranch. Shane and Caitlin put them in a cabin of their own on the property. This is the first time that Sadie has her own room. She and her mom shared a room when she was first born. Right after Kody landed in jail, Sadie’s mom passed away. Sadie lived with her maternal grandparents. She shared a room with her cousin, since their other daughter lived there too. Sadie’s grandparents filed for custody claiming that Kody is unstable and dangerous. The wrongful conviction was overturned by a judge but is still on his record. Shane and Aiden tell Kody that they will be there to help him.

Caitlin heard them talking and called her friend Courtney. There is a woman at the shelter named Paige. She is diabetic, needs insurance, is kind, quiet and great with kids. Caitlin suggests that Kody and Paige get married on paper, so the judge sees a stable household.

Paige wakes up in the Mustang Mountain Clinic. She ended up there because she was rationing her insulin. Her ex left her for his co-worker. He just disappeared after cleaning out Paige’s bank account. Then she lost her job that her insurance was attached to and lost her apartment. She came to Courtney because they used to be close. She had nowhere else to go. The next morning Courtney takes Paige back to the clinic and Caitlin is waiting to talk to Paige. She explains the situation with Kody and how Paige and Kody could help each other.

Paige and Kody get married. They get into a nice rhythm and Paige and Sadie get along great. Paige is in town with Sadie and sees Miss Ada who looks upset. Paige talks to her and finds out that someone is pressuring Miss Ada to sell her house. Paige snaps pictures of everything and makes Miss Ada promise not to sign anything. Paige does some research and finds a pattern of someone targeting the older people in town. The next day, they are going to the records office and to talk to Ruby and Orville.

I was hoping that these two would end up a real couple. I wanted Kody to be able to keep custody of Sadie. I also hoped that they could help Miss Ada and the rest of the town keep the developers out of Mustang Mountain. Loved this story.

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

[lf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unicorns, Glitter and Fairy Dust

May's Bad Boy - Kody by Kaci Rose is the fifth book in the multi-author Bad Boys of Mustang Mountain series. I loved this at times emotional story about two people who just need a break and end up finding a lot more when they come together. Kody Reed is having to start over with his four year old daughter Sadie. His life had been good as he was married and then Sadie was born. But he was wrongly accused and then convicted of something his boss had done and framed him for. Right after he went to jail Sadie's mother died and she went to live with her grandparents. Now he is out and is about to have to fight them for Sadie, as they want custody. He and Levi met when they were in jail and so he has come to the ranch to start over and figure out how to keep Sadie, the only good thing still in his life. Paige Landry had everything living in the city. She managed a successful spa, lived with her boyfriend and thought her future was set. That all changed when he left, taking her money with him. Then her job went away when the spa was bought out and to top it all off she lost her health care coverage when has meant her diabetes is not being treated properly. She left the city and came to Mustang Mountain where she showed up at the women's shelter, where she has been living. Caitlin and Courtney come up with a plan which will see both Kody and Paige getting what they need, him the image of stable and loving family and her healthcare. One fake marriage later and sharing one bed will result in a lot more than either thought going into this arrangement. But in the end everything happens for a reason and the three of them make a sweet and loving family.
I loved this deliciously "Maple" syrupy and smexy hot romance. The overarching story-line of the series and previous characters are supporting characters, along with a couple new people being added, but it can be read as a standalone. All of the characters are very people you would want to know, and have in your life. I can't wait to read the next book to see what happens next.

[Michelle Frater · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two broken souls. One unexpected family. And a love born not out of chance—but choice.
Kody arrives at his friend, Shane’s ranch in Mustang Mountain carrying the weight of a past he didn’t deserve and the desperate hope of giving his daughter, Sadie, a better future. Wrongly convicted and now an ex-con fighting to keep custody, he knows the court’s eyes are always watching. What he needs is stability. What he doesn’t expect is Paige. Paige is barely hanging on. Living in a women’s shelter after being abandoned and robbed by her ex, she’s fighting a silent battle against diabetes without the resources to properly care for herself. When her health takes a turn and lands her in Mustang Mountain Clinic, her future looks bleak, until a friend’s bold idea offers her a lifeline and a fresh start. Paige steps into her new role as a woman with resilience, warmth, and grace. Her instant bond with Sadie is tender and touching—a connection that feels as natural as breathing. Kody, though initially cautious and closed-off, slowly begins to thaw under Paige’s steady presence. In her, he finds a peace he never thought possible. And in him, Paige finds not only love, but a pillar of strength and support. What begins as a marriage of convenience quietly becomes so much more for them both. Standing up to protect an elderly friend from a cruel scam to swindle her out of her home, we see her blossom into a fierce advocate - a warrior in every sense of the word. But, when Sadie’s wealthy grandparents attempt to get custody, the stakes become heartbreakingly real. However, with a quiet courage that never wavers, Paige stands by Kody’s side, ready to fight for the family they’ve built together. This story is more than a romance, it’s about healing, redemption, and the beauty of finding love in the most unexpected places. A tender, compelling tale that reminds us sometimes the path we never planned is the one that leads us home.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sweet, heartwarming marriage of convenience romance. Kody is fighting to retain custody of his adorable four year old daughter, Sadie. Having a record certainly doesn’t help, even if he was framed and released early. When his friend Shane offers him a job and a place to stay in his ranch on Mustang Mountain, he believes it will help him give Sadie a more stable life. Marrying Paige is just another step in trying to keep custody of his daughter. Paige will gain the health insurance she needs to have for a steady source of medication and care she needs to keep her diabetes under control. Neither expect to make a real connection or to find love in their marriage instead of it being a way to survive.

I loved the gradual change in Kody and Paige’s relationship from strangers to friends and then to lovers. Kody is the protective, tender and caring man of Paige’s dreams, while she is the gentle, caring and generous mother figure his sweet little Sadie deserves. The instant rapport and connection between Sadie and Paige is something special and goes a long way to opening their hearts to each other. He becomes determined to protect her safe after she has a health setback. Lodi also sees the smart, strong warrior side of her when she steps to help an elderly friend who is in danger of being swindled out of her home. With her help, the townspeople may have found a way to fight the corrupt developers trying to take over the town. Kody, Paige and little Sadie become a forever family with a little help from their found family and community.

I am happy to recommend this sweet, spicy and endearing novella.

[Tima · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kody, the male lead, is an ex-convict who has picked up his daughter to take her to his new job as a ranch hand on a friend’s property in a small town. When his daughter’s grandparents file a custody suit, claiming he’s an unstable parent, he needs help.

Paige, the female lead, had a series of personal issues leave her homeless, jobless, and without the health insurance that makes affording her medication possible. When friends realise her situation, they offer her a marriage of convenience that will provide her with health insurance and her husband with the appearance of a stable home life.

Paige loves Kody’s daughter from the beginning and they’re learning to love each other. But the custody suit is becoming aggressive and there’s still a shady developer trying to finagle their way into the town’s property…

This short romance is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy, small town, marriage of convenience romance. I enjoyed Kody’s love for his daughter and his determination to provide everything she needed. I enjoyed Paige’s love for Kody’s daughter as well as her compassion for those in difficult situations and her determination to ensure that justice prevailed. I enjoyed the relationship development and the physical intimacies. I enjoyed the brightness of Kody’s daughter. I enjoyed the supportive, integrated secondary characters.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shalalah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartfelt blend of second chances, quiet strength, and unexpected love.

May’s Bad Boy Kody tugged at all the right heartstrings and delivered a small-town romance that was both emotional and deeply satisfying. Kaci Rose has created a love story that’s tender without losing its edge—and one that proves sometimes the best relationships start out as survival plans.

Kody is the kind of hero you can’t help but root for—rough around the edges, but fiercely devoted to his daughter. Paige is his perfect opposite: quiet, steady, and stronger than she realizes. Their marriage of convenience isn’t built on passion at first, but the slow burn between them is undeniable and oh-so-worth the wait.

Watching Paige find safety and purpose while Kody rediscovers hope and trust was incredibly moving. And the way little Sadie becomes the glue that gently binds them? Utterly heart-melting.

This story is about more than just love—it’s about fighting for your future, healing old wounds, and realizing that the family you choose can be even more powerful than the one you’re born into.

Fans of found family, protective single dads, and slow-burn marriages of convenience will fall head over heels for Kody and Paige. Another Mustang Mountain winner!.

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

[Lisa H · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back in the amazing world of Mustang Mountain. These men are strong, loyal, not without heartache, strong alpha vibes, and just the story we want.

Kodi has moved to town to give him the fresh start he so desperately needs. He just wants to make a life for his daughter and himself. He's had a bad shake in life, and his friend offers him a safe place, a job, and a future.

I love how his friend's wife jumps in when he hears all he's up against. Kodi is beyond surprised when he hears they want him to marry. It would strength his court case, and help Paige, a woman falling on hard times medically.

These two get married and fall right into married life. Kodi loves how his daughter has taken to Paige,and how Paige just seems to fit. It doesn't take long until he is seeing more than just a contract, and the rules of their relationship.

It's hard to see the reality that Paige is faced with. She has been trying to ration her insulin since she has no health coverage. This arrangement offers her such a lifeline to take care of herself. The depth of the emotion you feel as Kodi sees her go into a diabetic shock, and helplessness feel palpable.

In the end these two fall in love for real. They see more than just a piece of paper, or a quid pro quo. Its a future, a happiness, and a beautiful HEA.

[Nina Diab · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Even though I've never met them, something in that photo catches in my chest like a hook. I've always judged people by their eyes. Kody has kind eyes like Courtney does and like my mom did. My ex had adventurous eyes like my dad did, which should have been a warning.
"You wouldn't just be saving yourself," Caitlin says quietly.
She leans in, voice nearly a whisper.
"You'd be saving each other."'

I loved this book. Good world building and wonderful characters. I've developed a love for ex-con romances and I liked Kody trying to do the very best for his daughter. He was so sweet with little Sadie, and some of their scenes made my heart melt. He needs a stable family and home so the courts won't try and take his daughter away from him as Sadie's deceased mother's parents are fighting him for custody.

Paige has hit rock bottom- losing her cheating ex, him robbing all the money from her bank account, and losing her job, health insurance, and her apartment. Now, having to ration her insulin could kill her. Marrying Kody would get her the insurance for her medicine and get her healthy again.

Both these people have been hurt, but for different reasons. I loved how their relationship develops and the family they form. They both have lots of supportive people around them, too- which I loved. A very sweet romance. 5 stars.

[Mafia Wife · Rating 4 out of 5]

He has made mistakes in his past, but he’s trying to put his life back together for the sake of himself and his daughter. With his exes parents challenging him for custody, he makes an unconventional decision. He marries someone for convenience to bring stability to his life. He expected it would just be a business arrangement he didn’t expect to fall for her. She has had it rough the last few years after breaking up with the lousy ex he blacklisted her and she lost her job and her home worse her insurance and as a diabetic, she needs it for her prescription so she makes an unconventional choice.. she marries him for the stability to start over and to have insurance for her health needs. What she doesn’t expect is to fall in love with him and his little daughter. This is such a sweet story of redemption for both of them. They have some mutual pining before they slowly build their attraction and relationship. This is part of a series although you do not have to read the other stories. This is a complete standalone however, some of the prior characters do pop up in the story for a little life update which is fun. Sweet happily ever after.

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

[Laura Moylan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kody is arriving at Shane’s ranch on Mustang Mountain with his daughter, Sadie, who is absolutely adorable! OMG. Shane lets them have their own space and Kody is relieved since he is finally out of jail and with his daughter, Sadie and her little Teddy bear, Bear. We get to see the other couples from Shane’s ranch too. Sadie’s grandparents are coming for her, they think that since Kody was in jail that he is unstable and dangerous and thus shouldn’t have custody of Sadie. Then we learn that there is a woman at the shelter that is diabetic and in need of insurance and she is in a bad way. So, Caitlyn’s idea is that since Kody needs stability, etc., that he should have an arranged marriage with Paige. Especially, since she is rationing her insulin. I cried a lot during the book because it really hit home, since I’m diabetic too and having insurance problems. Paige is amazing. She is so helpful to a lot of people on the Mountain. She finds out that there is a scheme in the works affecting the elderly like Miss Ada. With the help of the others at Shane’s they work together to get down to the problem and find a solution. Truly, to me all of the Bad Boys on Shane’s ranch are heroes after this. I love them as well as their significant others. The book was an awesome read. It’s fun, funny, romantic, sweet, steamy, and just really caring. I loved it and can’t wait to see what happens next.

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

[Evelyn Dotson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kody is released from prison early for a crime he did not commit; he gets out early for good behavior. He comes back to Mustang Mountain with his four-year-old daughter, Sadie. Her mom had died, and she had lived with the maternal grandparents. Shane hires him for work on the ranch and gives them one of the cabins to live in.

He needs stability to help fight the custody battle coming. Shane’s wife suggests a woman from the shelter, Paige. In return, she will receive medical care and a home. She has diabetes and no insurance to help cover the costs of insulin. What starts out as a contract will soon turn into something real and stable for the little family.

But Ada is the next elderly person attacked for her property and home from the shady group that has been trying to buy up the town. When Paige gets wind of this, a long but short hunt uncovers a devious scheme. Plans are in the making to fight not only the plaintiffs but also Sadie’s grandparents. This book is short but is filled with a load of great world building characters and storyline. These are the stories I truly enjoy! I only wish the book was a lot longer so I could enjoy the story even more. This is a fantastic series!

[Sharon Grow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each book in this series has been my favorite book of the series, and again, this one is my favorite! The heartfelt emotion, struggle and caring between Kody Reed and Paige brought me to tears! Kody is trying to be the father that his daughter, Sadie, needs after he was released from prison. Paige has been struggling with her health after the loss of her job and health insurance. When Kody’s friends at Mustang Mountain realize that he may be facing a custody situation with Sadie’s grandparents, they suggest that marrying Paige would provide her with insurance and a complete family unit for Sadie. As they slowly learn to work together for Sadie’s welfare, an attraction slowly flares between them. When Paige realizes that there are those who are taking advantage of the home owners in Mustang Mountain, she uses her previous computer experience to research and provide much needed information. When a summons is served on Kody, they will fight, together, for the right to save their family. A shorter story, but with absolutely everything you want in a beautiful romance. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

[Paige · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the plot in this one, and I don’t normally get to say that in a short novella/romance book. Kody wasn’t much of a bad boy, but he certainly was an amazing man and father. I always love when my name is in a book as well, but even without that, I thought Paige was just the sweetest. Life had tried to tear her down, and she still put others first. Her character arc and slow growth in strength was surprising for such a short story, but I loved it! These two were a marriage of necessity, and the love wasn’t instant, but the attraction was! The genuine respect between the two of them, and how Paige treated his daughter like her own was perfect. We got to see more of the story about the shady developer, and the twist with the custody case was one I didn’t see coming. The grandparents sound awful! Not a lot of steamy scenes, but it was worth it just for the story. No cheating or OM/OW drama, single father, ex-con that was set up, diabetes representation, dual POV, HEA and an epilogue in the future. Love this series and can’t wait to see what happens next with this town and the developers!

[Heather Dudley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kaci Rose continues to showcase what a talented author she is with each book I’ve read by her. In my opinion, she creates and writes fantastic romances that I absolutely love reading and find to be quite entertaining to me as a reader. I’m looking forward to reading more fantastic stories from Kaci Rose in the future. May’s Bad Boy is amazingly written, well balanced and beautifully executed. The characters are well developed and phenomenally executed throughout the story. The main characters of this story are Kody and Paige. The chemistry between these two characters is breathtakingly beautiful and smoking hot. I adored getting to know Kody and Paige as well as witnessing their story unfolding throughout the book. I love that they have a happily ever after to their story with them being happy together as a couple. I absolutely did NOT want to set this book down until I read the last page. The story is captivating from start to finish, entertaining and an enjoyable read. I would absolutely give this book as a recommendation for anyone to checkout and give it a read.

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

[Barbara Atkinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kody is a single father who served time in prison after being falsely convicted. He has a beautiful four year old daughter who is everything to him. His custody is being challenged by her grandparents and he is afraid of losing her. He needs stability.
Paige is homeless after her ex leaves her and takes her savings leaving her broke. What’s more is she is a diabetic and unable to afford her insulin.
A solution to both of their issues get married. She provides the stability he needs and she gets insurance for her medication.
Seems simple but it never is where Mustang Mountain is concerned.
This short read has all the feels. Kody realizes how special and strong Paige is. He is such a big support for her. Paige realizes she has been silenced for far to long. The love these three share is heartwarming.
Great short read with all the warm cozy feels.

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

[Nancy Koske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kody had released from prison after being wrongly convicted; he had picked up his daughter,Sadie, from her maternal grandparents after their daughter, Sadie mother, had died a month after he went to prison. He and Sadie had gone to a ranch which is owned by his friend,Shane, with a job plus a cabin to live in. He knew that the grandparents wanted custody of Sadie. How to fight them, a friend suggested a mutual benefit for Kody a marriage for Sadie to have a mother and stability environment and for him marriage for a show of a good relationship. Marriage for Paige, a woman at the women's shelter, health insurance and a home at least until a judge decides custody. Follow their path in creating a family with the bonus that Paige shows her work experience to save the town of Mustang Mountain from a shadowy developer. Will they all win?.

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

[Aspen G · Rating 5 out of 5]

May’s Bad Boy - Kody is such a beautiful story of found family, second chances, and opening your heart. I adore sweet Sadie, who brings such light and joy to everyone around her. A precocious little girl with a beautiful soul, Sadie really highlights all of Paige’s best qualities and helps Kody focus forward. Kody is resilient and kind-hearted, despite and because of all that he has experienced, and I love how he steps up for Paige as much as for his daughter. The way the Mustang Mountain community shows up for each other over and over is so amazing, from the small things to the large. While this novella focuses on the relationship that grows between Kody and Paige, it also sheds more light on the overarching series plot. And Huck’s introduction in the latter half is a lovely twist and preview all at once.

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

[Vicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book five in the author’s Bad Boys of Mustang Mountain series and features Kody, a single father with a prison record and a marriage of convenience to Paige, a woman who needed his help as much as he needed hers.

This was a sweet book highlighting how friends and neighbors on Mustang Mountain stood up to help each other, even if they’d somehow made mistakes. It was really low heat however, unlike some of the author’s other books, which was a little disappointing. We DO get an HEA though which is what I really read romance books for.

This book is recommended for readers who love a good reformed bad boy story along with a marriage of convenience that was anything but convenient and a guaranteed HEA! 4 stars!

I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Knight Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kody was wrongfully convicted for a crime he did not commit, but he served his time quickly getting out going to Shane's ranch with his daughter. Only he worried her grandparents were going to file for custody of her, as he was an unfit father. Shane's wife came up with the idea that he should marry Paige a woman at the women's shelter, so she would have health insurance. That would give him stability. The marriage would be in name only. Paige helps the elderly of Mustang Mountain fight the developer that was trying to take over the town. Kody and Paige had more in common than they ever dreamed possible. A fun entertaining story.

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

[Carol Demmon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the story. Kody was wrongly imprisoned and when he gets out he finds himself with a daughter, Sadie, and is fighting for custody to keep her from her grandparents. Paige has been betrayed by her ex and has lost so much that she is staying in a womans shelter. When Kody offers Paige a safe place and protection, they get married in name only. The kiss sealing the deal was a little spark that slowly grows the more time they are together. Paige is amazing with Sadie and is willing to fight for the people who are vulnerable and being taken advantage of. This book is full of hope, strong connections, and a community that comes together for a good cause. I enjoyed reading this book.

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

[Tammie · Rating 4 out of 5]

There’s a LOT packed into this novella!  We have Kody, who is not actually a “bad boy” but took the fall for someone and ended up spending time behind bars.  He desperately wants to retain custody of his sweet little girl and cannot do so without a more stable situation.  Then we have Paige, who has also found herself in dire straits, thanks to an ex and losing her job and a marriage of convenience is born.

I liked how they developed a friendship and partnership before taking things any further.  I love how they both found their strength individually and then as a couple (family).  I enjoyed catching up with some of the previous couples and Ruby is a favorite side character of mine.

I LOVE these Mustang Mountain stories and look forward to the next installments!

[Lisa Bing · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great read and it hit all the feels with a sweet and heartwarming marriage of convenience romance. Kody is fighting for custody of his four yr old daughter, Sadie, and to prove stability, he needs a wife. Paige is in a desperate situation with no home, no job, just dumped by her ex and her diabetes meds are running out. Yikes! This wonderful story takes two people and puts them together for all the reasons but love and friendship, and yet they get exactly that, in the end. I loved watching their relationship develop, and especially loved how well Paige and Sadie bonded. There's a lot going on in this story so definitely don't be fooled by the page count. It really has it all and had me glued to my reader, first page to last. Well done!

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔥 Marriage of convenience meets fierce family devotion.

In May’s Bad Boy – Kody, Kaci Rose delivers a heartfelt and emotionally intense romance featuring a rugged single dad with a past and a soft-spoken heroine with hidden strength. Kody, recently released after a wrongful conviction, is fighting to keep custody of his daughter, Sadie. Paige, needing health insurance and a fresh start, becomes his unexpected solution—and maybe his salvation.

What begins as a practical, no-strings marriage slowly transforms into something real. The bond between Paige and Sadie is tender and natural, while the chemistry between Paige and Kody simmers and builds with every shared moment under one roof.

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

[Jenifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story hit me with an emotional punch that i wasn't expecting. It made me angry when Miss Ada was at risk of her house being taken by the greedy land developers. I was angry that Paige couldn't get the help she needed from the system with her insulin and of how her ex treated her in her past. I got angry about Kody's past and him serving time when it wasn't warranted. I teared up when Kody and Paige married and shared their first kiss in the courthouse. I let loose those tears at the emotional scene at the first custody hearing. Happy tears streamed down my face at the fairy tale ending scene on the front porch. And more happy tears leaked from my eyes while reading the bonus epilogue that put the cherry on top of this already perfect story. Yep - definitely an emotional read.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kody has made mistakes in the past but now that he is no longer in prison he is determined to be there for his daughter Sadie even though he knows her grandparents don’t want that to happen. He has come to Mustang Mountain to build a new life and the best way for that to happen is a mutually beneficial marriage to Paige.

Being betrayed by her ex was difficult enough but now Paige also finds herself unemployed and in a dire situation. A marriage will give them both what they need but as they work together to protect the town and their family they find so much more along the way.

I enjoyed seeing Kody, Paige and Sadie come together and realize what truly matters in life which are friends, family and love.

[Jennie Fortna · Rating 4 out of 5]

May’s Bad Boy - Kody by Kaci Rose is book 5 in the Bad Boys of Mustang Mountain series that also includes Eve London sure do love these alpha bad boys! 4.5 stars

After being released from prison Kody and his daughter head to Mustang Mountain and Shane’s ranch for work but needs more stability to fighter a custody suit. When a friend suggests a marriage of convenience with Paige who needs health insurance, which he can provide, a win win for both. What happens next is a insta love, slow burn, loyalty, fierce protection and more…

I voluntarily read a copy of this book from BookSprout. All thoughts and opinions are my own.