Stealing Hearts

Wild at Heart #1

by Lex Martin

A marriage of convenience might save his ranch, but will it break her heart?

I don’t remember a time when I didn’t love Rhett Walker, which is complicated since he’s ten years older and my brother’s best friend. After a falling out, we didn’t speak for years—until today, when he found me sleeping in my car, threw me over his shoulder, and dragged me “to safety.”

He’s grumpy and overprotective and even more handsome than I remembered. I’m shocked to learn he’s in trouble. Someone is sabotaging his ranch, which is thirty days from foreclosure. He needs a loan from a friend who won’t extend the funds unless he’s married. Only Rhett’s now a single dad with no plans to fall in love again.

When his brother suggests I marry Rhett for health insurance so I can rehab an injury, my first reaction is hell no. I can’t afford to catch feelings for someone who won’t see me that way.

But spending time at the ranch reminds me how much is at stake—the family business, the welfare of Rhett’s children, and the happiness of a man I’ve always longed for.

Rhett says we’ll keep things platonic in private, even though I’ll be sleeping in his bed. He refuses to mix business with pleasure.

Except when the lights go out in his bedroom, our chemistry is too explosive to contain.

Would it be so bad to fall for Rhett? Or will he steal my heart all over again?

One thing’s for sure—the clock is ticking on our divorce.

Stealing Hearts is an age gap, marriage of convenience, single dad romance. If you enjoy grumpy cowboys, sweet but sassy heroines, a family of rowdy brothers, and secretive small towns, this book is for you!

Genres: Marriage Of Convenience, Romance, Westerns, Small Town Romance, Forced Proximity, Cowboy Romance, Friends To Lovers

340 pages, Paperback

First published January 24, 2025

About the author

Lex Martin is the USA Today bestselling author of Varsity Dads, Texas Nights, and the Dearest series. She writes contemporary romance novels, the steamy kind she hopes her readers love but her parents avoid. A former high school English teacher and freelance journalist, she resides in Texas with her husband and twin daughters. Drop her a line. She loves hearing from readers.

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Reviews

[Cokiereads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is there anything worse than a crush?

Paige has always loved Rhett Walker. Her older brothers best friend, he's always had a soft spot for her too. But just as a little sister... seeing as there's 10 years between the two of them. Rhett is about to be married, and when Paige finds out his bride to be is a cheater, she gets the courage to tell him. But he doesn't believe her. She doesn't talk to him again.

Years later, Paige is back in their tiny small town. She has nowhere to go, and her dreams of being a cheer coach will go down the drain if she doesn't get her ankle rehabbed. Rhett is now a divorced single dad who's about to lose his ranch. When he runs into Paige, he's surprised to see her. And how she's changed.

Both of them have some big life problems. But Rhetts brothers have an idea that will solve everyone's problems. Paige will get the help she needs, and Rhett will save his home. By getting married.

Y'all, it's got the angst. The steam. The family meddling. Even some crazy (and loser) ex's thrown in. Paige and Rhett have history, yes, but not all of it's been good. They've suffered losses. Annnnd, there's also the fact that Rhett never wanted to get married again. But Paige proves time and time again how awesome she is. How could he not see it, too?

Can NOT wait for book 2!

[Lisa Conant · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5
🌶🌶🌶 out of 5

🏘Small Town
💙Brother's Best Friend
💝Childhood Crush
🫦Age Gap (22, 32)
🫂Forced Proximity
💍Fake Marriage
🐂Rancher Cinnamon Roll MMC

⚡️Review:
Sometimes you need a good swoony cowboy romance with some suspense, laughs and all around endearing characters and this fits that bill!

Rhett and Paige have a bit of a falling out when she's a lovesick teenager over him and he gets married. The cut to 7 years later actually works quite well in explaining the gap of time (sometimes that's tricky for me to commit to with time gaps in books but I believe the reasons in this one).

There's a fake marriage that needs to happen for Rhett to secure a loan and save his ranch, there's his tw@twaffle of an ex-wife, and then there's some mystery drama concerning missing and sick castle. And then there's the awkward tension of Paige's unrequited love for handsome broody, backwards baseball cap wearing Rhett (I LOVE his name)

Rhett truly has a heart of gold! He always wants to do right, protect his ranch, provide for his brothers and his two sons and he doesn't want to hurt Paige with this fake marriage. He has a lot of stress on him and I felt so bad for him but I just melted at how he maintained his good nature through it all. He's kind, loving, funny and adorable!

Paige has such a wit about her and she's immediately easy to love as well! Their chemistry provided both giggles, tension and blessed release because they are so stinking perfect for one another.

I burned through this in one day! Excellent pacing, and a really colorful bunch of side characters (his brothers and their comradery was hilarious and well developed). I loved spunky Baylee, Paige's best friend too and so happy she is in the next book along with Maverick, Rhett's youngest brother! This family of s3xy ranchers has my full attention! Rhett just made me swoon, such a sweetheart!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

To start with, if the rest of the series is as good as this, I'm screwed. Miss Martin is going to have me an emotional wreck by the time I have got through the series. But what a way to start a new one. Small town romance with a grumpy cowboy and a sunshine cheerleader this is one hell of a ride. Add in brothers best friend who our FMC has loved our MMC FOREVER!!! Lines are about to be crossed and I for one are so happy that they do this book had me hooked and read in one sitting i just couldn't put it down.

[Lidia's Romance · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 Stars

Boring. The main characters were a disappointment. Rhett was a wimpy hero. A beta who sometimes pretended to be an alpha. He ran hot and cold with the heroine, Paige. The whole "you deserve better than what I can offer you" act got annoying and repetitive. For most of the book it felt like she was just an afterthought for him. We were constantly reminded that the ranch and his kids were his priority. He was oblivious to the ways he'd hurt her feelings. Not because he was dumb, but because she wasn't his priority, and as he repeatedly said, their marriage was fake.

Then there's Paige, she was immature and pathetic. One of my pet peeves is when the heroine boldly makes the first move, and in this case, it was all the time. How embarrassing. She was so obvious, and desperate. Given her situation in life, I should have felt sorry for her, but she felt that enough for herself. Homeless, no job, the "nobody wants me, nobody loves me, woe is me" mentality, all I can think is, "Get it together, woman." I mean, I love the damsel in distress trope but here, it came off like Loserville for Paige AND Rhett.

The sexy times felt off, like they didn't fit. And the smuttiness only made the heroine look more desperate. It felt demeaning and made their connection more about the physical attraction for him, less about love. Because even when they were sexing it up, he remained staunch about never committing to another woman or having more kids, and more than willing to let Paige go at the end of their agreement. It didn't feel like love, just sex. He also felt responsible for her since he promised her brother he'd look after Paige. He didn't want to hurt her.

The OW drama (his ex wife) wasn't all that angsty. Rhett had married her for love. If she hadn't turned out to be a bitch and a cheater, he'd still be with her. I do believe he didn't love her anymore but did struggle with commitment issues because of her.

One more note:
I've never seen the name Irma in a romance book (or any book). Irma is my first name (Lydia is my middle one) and I was really excited to see my name in this book. Hell, I was determined to love it just for that. It sucks that Irma turned out to be the evil stepmother and a major bitch! Come on! 😂

[Ally Cee · Rating 2 out of 5]

Is this author okay?

For starters, the author is trying to convince us to root for a 33 year old man that can’t fully grasp how fucked up it was that he left his newly wed wife stranded at a cabin while naked in a hot tub what felt like 30 seconds after his 🍆 was in her mouth to run off to deal with his ex wife (he was literally in her mouth when he was grabbing his phone)…fake wife or not nobody on the planet would be like “oh don’t worry about it, it’s fine.” He acted like she should just understand and was all “this is why I don’t have time for a wife.” HUH!? And then not her feeling bad for HIM afterward and trying to justify it. Girl, stand up!! I can’t 🤦🏻‍♀️

On top of that, what woman has a baby and then WANTS to give her husband a blowjob almost immediately afterwards? The husband is all “no it’s okay babe, you just had a baby” and she’s over here like “no but I want to.” Stop it. I swear this book must have been written for men.

[TheSassyNerdBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

⋆˚✿˖°♥ 𝗡 𝗘 𝗪 𝗥 𝗘 𝗟 𝗘 𝗔 𝗦 𝗘 & 𝗥 𝗘 𝗩 𝗜 𝗘 𝗪 ♥˖°✿˚⋆

You’ll enjoy this book if you like these tropes… ♡

✿ Age Gap
♡ Marriage of Convenience
✿ Single Dad
♡ Small Town
✿ Rancher Family
♡ Romantic Suspense
✿ Enemies-to-Lovers
♡ Cowboy MMC
✿ Childhood Crush
♡ Divorced MMC
✿ Close Proximity
♡ Trust Issues

I’ve been a fan of Lex Martin for some time now and I just can’t get enough of her writing. I continue to fall more and more in love with her words, her characters and her worlds with each book of hers I read and after seeing the blurb of Stealing Hearts, I knew I needed to get my hands on it and as always, the author did not disappoint. She delivered an emotionally charged, small town, swoony single dad romance with such beautiful and loveable characters. It was packed with drama and chemistry that I could not get enough of. I was addicted from page one right through til the end.

Rhett is working hard doing everything he can to save his family’s ranch. He’s the single dad of my dreams. *Swoon* he’s protective, his family, especially his son’s always comes first and he will do everything humanly possible for them to make them happy, he’s also got a grumpy side that I couldn’t help but fall in love with too!

Enter Paige… she is Rhett’s best friend’s little sister. She’s a firecracker. She’s full of sass, wit and humour with a heart of gold.


They’ve known each other almost all their lives and Paige ends up agreeing to an arranged marriage to help him save his family's ranch which isn’t a hardship for her because she has been pining after him for several years, even the years they weren’t speaking. It’s also made obvious that Rhett feels the same way… So what starts as a marriage of convenience, turned into something so much more. Sparks fly, intense chemistry, flirty banter. They can’t find the attraction and feelings
for long.

I loved these two so much. They were meant to be. The heat, the passion, the chemistry… It’s intense. If you have read Lex before, you will know that most of her books are pretty relatable and realistic. Which for me has me coming back for more.



I’m not going to dive in much deeper! However, There’s so much drama going on in this book. It will have your head spinning in all the best ways! I’m utterly obsessed with Rhett and Paige. I wish they had more than just one book!

HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOU READ THE BOOK!!




FIVE STARS
✰✰✰✰✰

[Brigid Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, Rhett Walker, you have stolen my heart!!

Paige Lewis grew up around her brother's best friend Rhett. She had a mad crush on him. Life happens, though. He marries his high school sweetheart, and she goes off to college.

She's back now, with no place to live, and he's a single dad struggling to keep his family’s ranch. What starts at a mutually beneficial, platonic deal to get married quickly turns into a budding romance with smoking hot chemistry. But can they build a life together? Can they keep the ranch? Trust me, you want to read Stealing Hearts to find out!!

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️
Oh my god can Lex write small town romances that just hook you. The vibes with the characters and family are so hard not to fall in love with.
Rhett was a grumpy dirty talker you couldn’t help but swoon over his bits of sweetness. And his brothers and their dynamic?! I am SO glad this series is about them cause I have a feeling I am going to love every single one!
Paige was a strong persona with a soft heart and I’m so glad she got her hea, girls like her deserve it more than most. And I’m glad she got her chickens lol
I adored her Texas nights series but this one might just be giving it a run for its money.

[Heather Edwards · Rating 4 out of 5]

So good!

I loved Rhett and Paige! Their chemistry, I could feel off the pages!
The restraint Rhett showed was hard, but he finally gave in and the love he showed Paige..I adored!

I really enjoyed the suspense of what was going on Rhett’s family ranch. I did not expect the person to end up being sabotaging it. Wow!

I can't wait for the next book!!

[Tessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

So I have been in the biggest book slump of all time, and it looks like Lex Martin just broke it... thank god😅

This was such a great read. I loved it. It had the perfect balance of humor, angst, & heartbreak.

I would definitely recommend this book, and I can't wait for Maverick and Bailey's book...also Beau's. I have a feeling his h is gonna be Honey and that's not gonna go over well 😅

I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Maddie (Bookaholic_Dreamer) · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The way Lex Martin always has me in a chokehold with her books makes me wonder what she puts in them? Because the way I always devour them is unreal.
The latest Stealing Hearts was a real page turner in having me falling deep down. The emotions had me choked up, pulling at my heart strings, whilst the chemistry and heat Paige and Rhett gave off made every page flip that much more easier and quicker.
It was a perfect mixture of being heartfelt and sweet whilst still being dirty and sexy.
With a sexy, swoon worthy, broody Cowboy rancher like Rhett and a sweet and loving FMC like Paige, what was there not to love and enjoy? Emotionally charged, angsty driven, with major tension from the combustible chemistry.
Lex Martin delivered, whilst having Paige and Rhett steal my heart in the process with their story Stealing Hearts.”


Being only the first book from Wild at Heart series, and already Lex Martin knocked it out of the park with Stealing Hearts.
This Brother’s Best Friend, Marriage of Convenience, Age Gap, Small Town Romance follows Paige Lewis, who was introduced in Varsity Dads series and Rhett Walker through their dual perspectives.

When it comes to Lex Martin’s writing, she always delivers.
The steady pace of development from the plot allowed us to see the foundation being lain within the prologue that not only established the characters of Paige and Rhett, their relationship and the lives they were living at the time. But also the history between them. Given the time jump that would occur between then and chapter one.

The journey we navigated through in Paige and Rhett’s story was somewhat venture packed. Yet it was to be expected considering the rocky terrain path that Paige and Rhett had to walk, in the uphill mountain they had to conquer to reach their HEA.
It ultimately made for a somewhat adventurous, entertaining at times ride, considering not only all the events and situations Paige and Rhett constantly faced at nearly every turn. Whether it be from their Marriage of Convenience relationship that had them going through ups and downs, and highs and lows. To the drama that not only added to it, coming from past relationships being involved, as well as town gossip floating around from living in a small town.
To the action-packed element in the suspenseful build surrounding the mysteries of the drama around Rhett’s family ranch.

The character development of Paige and Rhett had Lex Martin putting them through their paces, which went in hand with their journey. Seeing as the situations and events they faced allowed us to see how much they could endure and to what extent from all that was put in their path.
All of which I loved that author Lex made sure was known to us through the exploration of their in-depth inner monologue that allowed both Paige and Rhett to be opened up to us on a deeper extent through their thoughts, views, opinions and most of all their emotions that heavily influenced them and their thought process in the actions they took at times.

As for Paige and Rhett’s relationship, that was another ride on its own.
Whilst they most definitely had their moments of sharing witty banter, that was sweet and cute and sometimes hot, especially considering it eventually led to Red-Hot, Fiery steam.
Simultaneously it was angsty driven and emotionally charged given the pushing and pulling, from Paige and Rhett going back and forth. Especially on Rhett’s part in the many times of creating distance and the distractions that he allowed to further grow the distance between them.

Lex Martin, you have truly done it again!
The way you had me devouring Stealing Hearts like no other made this story not only 5 ⭐️, even though I wish I could give it more. But also a TOP FAV 2025 Read of mine!
Chefs kiss to the perfection that was the whirlwind journey of Paige and Rhett.
And with the little tidbit author Lex included about Baylee, safe to say not only am I super excited for hers and Mav’s story Falling Stars next, which could not come fast enough.
But also super excited for the rest of what’s to come from Wild at Heart series.



*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Hanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stealing Hearts is an amazing novel by Lex Martin. I stayed up way too late and devoured it, and that had been way too long since that happened. It’s all Lex’s magic. The characters, the setting, the emotions and the writing; she nails it every single time. Stealing Hearts is steamy, emotional, beautiful and funny.

Rhett is strong, hardworking, good-looking, protective and loyal. He owns a ranch, his family ranch, and he runs it with some of his brothers. The ranch has some problems, but Rhett does everything to make it work and make money with it. He’s a fighter. He works crazy hours and doesn’t do much in his free time. He does make time for his kids. Those kids are so adorable! I adore the band between everyone; Rhett, his kids and his brothers.

You may know Paige from the Varsity Dads series. If not, no problem, this book can perfectly be read as a standalone. Paige is sweet, honest, kind-hearted, hardworking, sporty and courageous. She loves cheerleading. She’s bummed that she’s injured and can’t do her job, so she doesn’t know what to do with her life. She returns home after being away for years, but the welcome there isn’t very heartwarming. She had hoped to avoid Rhett, but she sees him fast and then he has an interesting, weird deal for her that will change her life and Rhett’s.

Rhett and Paige have known each other their entire lives. Rhett was the best friend of Paige’s older brother. The three of them spend a lot of time together, so you could even say that Rhett and Paige were friends. Because of the age gap between Rhett and Paige, there never was anything romantic between the two of them. Paige did have a crush as a teenager, but didn’t do anything about it. When the sparks fly between Paige and Rhett, it’s so hot. They are cute and hot together.

I can’t help but absolutely adore every single character in Stealing Hearts. Well everyone but Amber. Wow, I hated that woman. I made me even more happier that everything worked out between Paige and Rhett, because he deserves that love and happiness. Paige also deserved those things, because she has known too much loss. I’m glad she has good friends and can count on them. The surprise appearance of one couple makes me want to read their book again, which I will soon, while I wait for the next Lex Martin novel.

-- ARC provided in exchange for honest review --

[Crystal LoCicero · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Walker boys...

"Shoulda warned you, I'm a good kisser."

Possible SPOILER ahead:





So, we know cowboys do it better. And I am a sucker for a band of brothers. This book was all that and more.

Rhett is an emotionally tired, divorced dad, with the oldest sibling syndrome and a failing family ranch. Paige is a lonely, fresh outta college, sweetheart,unknowingly looking for a family.

I love how the Walker boys all include Paige in so easily. Well, except for daddy Walker himself, Rhett. He has too many fires burning and doesn't want to burn her. Warning... there is a teeny-tiny 3rd act breakup. It gets resolved quickly, and I love it when Rhett sees the light.

The kids are in it a little. I love how cute they were with the tumbling. I just always want more kid scenes.

The other woman drama was there, but Paige did well. It's not too dramatic.

So, overall, I had a good time reading this book. Lots of emotions. I laugh, I swooned, I had to fan myself, and I had to wipe some tears. I am hoping we get a book for each brother. I see the next book is about Mav and Baylee(yeah), but I'm really curious about Beau and Honey.

[Jac K · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it, but probably because it reminded me of an updated Diane Palmer romance with the grumpy cowboy, MOC, and someone sabotaging his ranch, so I’m biased.

The blurb sets this up, Paige grew up loving up on Rhett, her older bro’s BFF. She told him his fiancée was cheating, and they both thought she was exaggerating what she saw. So, she avoided Rhett until she could leave town for college and hasn’t seen him in like 7-ish years when he finds her in her car.

✅ Grumpy/sunshine
✅ H was totally over OW and never took her side even with the kids.
✅ Paige was confident with her body, her sexuality, and with going after what she wanted.
✅ Likable secondary characters that weren’t plot blockers.
✅Mean step-mom/family drama

❌ At times Paige started feeling like she was a smidge desperate for Rhett’s junk and became a pushover. And at times Rhett could feel a bit beta and dumb, putting up security cameras is relatively easy and cheap.
❌ Rhett is very inconsiderate in the beginning of their marriage that could be off-putting to some readers. If you’re looking for perfect or swoon worthy, this isn’t it.
❌ The ex-wife isn’t around much (2-3 scenes), and the ex-FwB is only around for one, both adding minimal drama. This could be a plus for some, but I like fictional h/OW altercation/smackdowns.

Bottom Line- This worked for me, but I was in the mood for some easy drama. It’s in KU if you have it.

Random- Paige’s college friend is Abby from Blindside Beauty brought up with her NFL hubby. Paige makes clothes similar to Kristin Juszczyk.

[Sabrina Cullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ ARC REVIEW✨

Stealing Hearts - a second chance, cowboy romance by @lexmartin out 01/30!!

Lex 👏🏼 Martin 👏🏼 did 👏🏼 it 👏🏼 freaking 👏🏼 again 👏🏼. If you want a grumpy dirty talking cowboy meet Rhett 😍.

Rating: 12/10
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV: Dual

Tropes:
- Single Dad
- Small Town
- Unrequited Love
- Marriage of Convenience
- Forced Proximity
- Age Gap (10 years)

Paige has always loved Rhett. From the time she was 6 years old. But Rhett has always just seen her as his best friend’s little sister. When Paige was 15 she and Rhett had a falling out and she has avoided him ever since.

Rhett has always loved Paige, but in a little girl following him around way. So when she comes back to town and he finds her sleeping in her car and needing health insurance he immediately steps in to help. Plus he needs a wife so he can get a loan to save his family ranch so he and his boys can continue the legacy.

It’s simple - they get married so Paige has insurance and Rhett gets the loan. Then in 6 months they divorce and go about their lives. Buuutttt of course lines are blurred and soon everything starts to feel real. But can Rhett let down his walls and finally let Paige in?

Lex you are a master of making me feel ALL the heart tugs! Ugh! This book was soo amazing! I have been waiting for Paige and Rhett’s story since I read Blindside Beauty and it was just as incredible as I knew it would be! And I already can’t wait for Baylee and Mavericks story!!

Thank you Lex Martin and @greypromo for the ARC!

[Sharleen ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ Oh how I adore Lex Martin books. This was such a fantastic start to a brand new series and I’m already so in love with the Walker family 🤍

Tropes
• small town
• brother’s best friend
• age gap
• marriage of convenience
• single dad

Review

In the last book of the Varsity Dads series we got a few little hints at 2 potential future couples, one of those being Paige & Rhett. I was so excited for this book and it did not disappoint! Rhett is Paige’s brother Danny’s best friend. He’s ten years older and after an incident they spend years apart with no contact.

The way they reunite is equal parts upsetting and hilarious. Upsetting that Paige is put in that position but the result did make me chuckle. After finally catching up on where they are in life now, they realise they can help each other out and reluctantly enter a marriage of convenience.

The chemistry between these two was palpable. As much as they told themselves they couldn’t cross those lines it was an inevitability. They truly were perfect together and although there was so much going on around them and outside forces were putting a lot of strain on them, there was no way these two wouldn’t end up together!

The stress of the ranch going under was actually anxiety inducing. Lex did an amazing job at making it feel so real! It also made it easy to empathise with Rhett when he’d make mistakes with Paige because we witness how much pressure he’s under and the extent of the issues piling on top of him. It was nice to see that he’d always work to apologise and make things right with her though.

I loved how seamlessly Paige fit into the Walker family and how they all loved and adored her so much. She was the caring mother Rhett’s boys deserved and I HIGHLY recommend grabbing the bonus scene Lex linked at the end of the book. As with all of her bonus scenes it was so heartwarming and perfect 🥹

There are no words for how excited I am for the rest of the series! The next couple is the other one we got a glimpse of in Blindside Beauty and I’m counting down the days until June! I love every single Walker brother so much, I can’t wait to get to know them more!

Thank you so much to Lex for the ARC 🤍

[Flippenpageswithlisa . · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with lex writing, stories, and mmc, since reckless.. Ethan and tori are some of my favorite characters ever, I'll never forget summer nights burn Hotter in Texas.. well, since then, lex writes it, I read it, no brainer.

Well, I have been super excited for this small town, single dad marriage of convenience. Plus, you added cowboys.. um, lex, are you reading my mind here.

Paige has been in love (unrequited)with Rhett, her brothers best friend for ever, he got married, had kids, and she moved away.

On returning to this small town, she runs into the now single dad, they decide to help each other out, stay married for 6 months what can go wrong.

The grumpy cowboy isn't looking for love, but it knocks him on his ass.

Loved the walker brother's they are delicious and a cameo from Brady 😍.

Rhett might mess up, but that cowboy also makes sure to fix things.. him and his wildflower...

Absolutely 💯 loved this

[Court · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, Stealing Hearts will steal your heart by the end of this book. It has your age gap, marriage of convenience, single dad, don’t forget brother’s best friend, and all the cowboys wrapped up in this addicting and heart melting story. Rhett and Paige have grown up around each other since they were young, but when a falling out happens, years have passed before they run into each other again. Now, Rhett is single, a dad, and trying to save his ranch in 30 days by marrying Paige. Paige needs insurance for her rehab and doesn’t know how to let go of her feelings in order to keep this a business deal. As Paige and Rhett try to work together to save his family ranch, you have drama with someone sabotaging their chances, an ex who is out of line, chemistry that is off the charts and harder to ignore, and meddling family and friends who push for them to give it an actual chance. I devoured this story wanting all the answers and to see if Paige and Rhett could give their marriage a real shot and move on from their pasts. I loved the characters, the banter, Rhett’s brothers, and Paige’s best friend and Aunt. Stealing Hearts will hit you with all the feels!

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite things in romance books is when there’s brothers who will clearly always have each others backs, but can also get under each other’s skin like no one else.

And when one of those brothers is a grumpy rancher, who does romantic things for you, while claiming he’s not into you? Sign. Me. Up.

Rhett and Paige are childhood friends, well, really he’s her older brother’s best friend, but she’s a lovesick teenager all the same. They have a falling out, and the book picks up 7 years later.

They both are in need of something the other can provide, so why not get [fake] married to fix it all? Nothing could go wrong...

This book was AMAZING. I am TOTALLY in my romantic suspense era, and Lex Martin has become a new favorite!! Rhett and Paige had sizzling chemistry, the most hilarious banter, and to watch him ardently fight his feelings for Paige makes the moment he realizes he loves her so much sweeter.

And the twist???? Holy moly. It was a good one. I loved this book so much, I cannot WAIT for book 2!!!

[Curtis E Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

When talking about steamy fun stories, Stealing Hearts should definitely be added to your list. Lex Martin brings Rhett and Paige to life with this fun tale. Warmth from the start with some younger stars added in made this a story I could not put down.

Grumpy dad versus the one that really got away. Eye opening insight and revelations can create a force that cannot be broken. Sometimes it is the unknown that guides the heart and the mind to success and safety. Those would be the best ways to describe this one. Put some major challenges into the picture, stir in some toe-curling passion, and yes, you will be up all night long for multiple reasons.

Well done Lex! If this is book one in the Wild at Heart series, I can only imagine what is yet to come. Bring it on!

[Daeja •iwillneversnitch · Rating 5 out of 5]

* marriage of convenience
* age gap (22 & 32)
* it’s always been him
* brother’s best friend
* single dad romance
* small town
* he’s a rancher/ she’s a gymnast
-accidental pregnancy

omfg the way that I was kicking my feet thinking “what a silly goose” every time he did something romantic and then told himself he wasn’t gonna fall for Paige. I loved this book there was cowboys, sabotage, and the Walker brothers were chefs kiss they accepted Paige as one of them instantly I NEED every single one of their books.

The way their relationship blossomed from friends as kids to getting to know each other again as adults was so well done. The time jump was really well executed.

I was teary eyed after Rhett wouldn’t get his head out of his asp but the emotional roller coaster was worth it.

The Texas Nights series (prelude to wild at heart) will be added to my tbr while I wait for Bay and Mavs story.

Thank you to Grey’s promotions and Lex Martin for an arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Resa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love Rhett and Paige!! I struggled to put it down even with a busy weekend. I completely loved their story. between the chemistry and their history it seems it was just perfect!

the tension and angst just kept me on the edge of my seat.
I love how everything came together in the end!!

I loved the closeness of all the ones who matter.

I can't wait for more in this series!

[Shelby Willeford · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC read!

This book was everything I didn't know I needed honestly. I stayed up way too late to read this one y'all!

Rancher Rhett is Paige's brother's best friend. Sigh, how could she not have a crush on him back in the day? I totally get it having an older brother myself. Did I mention they have a ten year age gap? Well now you know. Years later, Paige is all grown up and finds herself back in her hometown of Wild Heart, Texas. Her first act of coming home is to avoid Rhett at all costs as she felt completely humiliated by him at 15. But little does she know, he promised his best friend to always look after her. Will Rhett's little wildflower get over her hardship and truly find happiness back home? Guess you will have to read and find out!

I truly loved this story. the author gives us love, grief, surprises, suspense, drama. The characters were so fun and relatable. You will be able to enjoy this delight via dual POV from first person. The story occurs in a smalltown giving you cowboy romance with some spice. Whew! My true southern accent came through reading some of the lines of this book and it just made me love it even more!

Rhett and Paige go through a rollercoaster of events, so strap in because the ride gets crazy!

This is the first book in the series, and I promise you will be waiting for more. I sure as heck am!

This book includes:
-Small town
-Age gap
-Cowboy romance
-Marriage of convenience
-Brother's Bestie
-Rancher/Cheerleader

[Laurenreadingrecs · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Tropes:
🤎small town
🩷single dad
🤎age gap
🩷forced proximity
🤎marriage of convenience
🩷brothers best friend
🤎dual pov

Stealing Hearts is book 1 in a brand new series from author Lex Martin and it did not disappoint. This gives us the story of Paige and Rhett.

Paige, whom we met in the Varsity Dads series is really down on her luck. With no options left Paige heads back to her small hometown after college, after breaking up with her boyfriend, and losing out on her job she had due to an injury. Paige has always harbored a crush on her brother's best friend, Rhett.

Our MMC, Rhett has a lot on his plate. Rhett is juggling the responsibilities as a single dad to his boys, Austin and Gabriel. Meanwhile also trying to save his family's ranch from foreclosure proceedings. when Rhett is basically told he needs to be married to secure a loan, who steps to the plate… Paige. That’s right… a fake marriage, a marriage of convenience… for Rhett to secure a loan and save his ranch, and for Paige to have insurance so she can rehab her injury.

What starts out as an arrangement blossoms into something much more than any arrangement. The chemistry between these two was pure electric and there’s nothing like a dirty talking cowboy.

The story isn’t without its drama and obstacles though. Rhett has to deal with his ranch, his crazy ex wife and now someone is trying to sabotage his livestock that he planned to sell to save the ranch.

Stealing Hearts was a fantastic start to the Wild at Heart series, I can’t wait to read Baylee and Maverick Walkers book. Also on a side note it was great to see side characters from not only Shameless but Blindside Beauty appear. If you love those series definitely start this one today.

[Sheila Schoenauer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been excitedly waiting for this book since the ending of Blindside Beauty. This book has a few of my favorite tropes: brother's best friend, grumpy/sunshine, and unrequited. The story starts out seven years prior to current time and is so full of emotions my heart was already breaking for Paige. Every page I turned, every heartfelt emotion made me love Paige and all the Walkers even more. This family was put through the ringer!

Rhett is a grumpy down to earth man who is just trying to do what he believes is right by his family, his ranch, his legacy, and Paige. He might not have started out doing it all right but he was trying his best. Paige is his perfect match. She loves the simple life, loves taking care of all the boys and she loves living on the ranch. These two were perfect for each other.. even if Rhett thought differently. I was so happy he was able to see what was in front of him even if it did take a few "oh no" moments.

This story was so action packed that there was never a dull moment. I have to admit I didn't see the who done it coming. I was actually shocked. Can't wait for more and to see this family thrive.

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*

[Charmane Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gone is a little girl who trailed behind me and her brother. In her place is a glamorous, beautiful woman.


I absolutely loved Paige and Rhett!
Older brothers best friend, yes please!
Paige has had it rough for a little while after her dad passed and being left with her evil stepmother. The chemistry between Rhett and Paige when he finally stopped seeing her as a little girl was off the charts. Rhett the not afraid to get dirty cowboy who has a heart of gold. I can't wait for a certain few people's book up next.

[Romance Rocks · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first pages of the prologue, I was hooked! Paige has had a rough life and has very few people she can rely on or give her love to. She reconnects with her crush growing up, her brother’s best friend, Rhett. Life has been tough for grumpy Rhett and he now finds himself needing a loan to keep his ranch. The condition - he should be married.

This marriage of convenience has it all - ranch life, two cute boys, fun brothers and two friends who discover they may feel more than just friendship towards each other. It was so fun to see Paige and Rhett on this journey. Their story was filled with so much emotion and angst, and when you add in some suspense as well, it’s hard to put this story down! I’ve read almost all of Lex Martin’s books and this one may be my new favorite. It was perfectly written, and she connected you to the characters so well that you felt you were right there with them, crying and laughing and cheering for them every step of the way!

[Tammy Cody · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great one by Lex Martin! I have always loved her ranch-based books (Reckless is still an all time fave!) and this one is no different. Couldn't put it down and highly recommend!!

[Kiana · Rating 3 out of 5]

I flew through this book. I feel like I’ve been reading so slow recently and this was such a light, easy read I couldn’t put down. There were some parts of this book that were a bit cringey which is why, although I had fun reading it, it still falls into the 3 star category for me.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Rhett and Paiges story. Typically Im not a huge fan of age gap romances but I do really like Angsty Unrequited Love turned Requited stories and this book did not dissapoint my expectations of feeling heartbreak and swoon love.

Plus the Hero is partially an asshole but he's an asshoke with a big heart that does redeem himself. Plus he's a rancher so small-town rancher / cowboy ..so swoon.

Paige has been in love with her older brothers
Friend since she was a teenager. He's 10 years older and only sees her as his friend's kid sister ( thank goodness actually..she's really too young for him at that time). She tells him his gf is cheating on him..he doesn't believe her and goes on to marry the OW and have 2 kids. He doesn't wake up until he catches her cheating 4 years later.

7 years later,Paige is down on her luck after her bf kicks her out after graduating from college. With nowhere to go she's sleeping in her car when Rhett rescues her and proposes a mutually beneficial relationship. He's about to lose his rancher without a loan and to secure it he needs to appear to be a secure family man. He proposes they get married..she'll have a place to stay and insurance to help her recuperate in physical therapy as she has a ankle injury. She jumps at the chance.

This is a dual pov so it's obvious that from Rhetts perspective this marriage is not real and is just a 6 month contract. He is happy to engage sexually but guards his heart.

Paige in rhe meantime gives her heart and soul to the marriage..hoping he'll develop real feelings for her.

Paiges heart can only maintain hope for so long before she has to decide to move on and leave the man she's loved for so long.

I thought this was really engaging and entertaining.I liked that we got Rhetts perspective so as readers we can aee where hes coming from although I still think he was a complete assshole to Paige at least for the first half of the book. I haven't read the rest of the books in the series yet but now Im intrigued.