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The Deputy and the Devil
No more lies. No way out.
Cassidy Callaghan is the best bounty hunter in Gallow Gorge—and the worst deputy it’s ever seen. She’s spent months chasing a ghost: the one man she couldn’t bring herself to bury. James Moone was supposed to be dead. Instead, he’s left a trail of secrets in his wake—about her past, her family, and a legacy far darker than either of them realized.
When a U.S. marshal arrives with a warrant for Cassidy’s arrest and an impossible bargain, she’s forced to make a choice: turn in the man she loves…or lose everything.
Moone spent his life outrunning the devil he was raised to become. But Ransom’s empire isn’t done with him yet—and buying his freedom may cost more than blood. It may cost the only woman he’s ever loved.
Thrown together and hunted from every side, Cassidy and Moone are dragged across deserts, cities, and the ghosts of their past, where every truth cuts deeper than the last. Trust is shattered. Loyalties are tested. And love—once their greatest strength—might be the thing that destroys them both. Because this time, survival isn’t enough.
They’ll have to decide if what they have left is worth fighting for…or if some loves are meant to die.
Cassidy Callaghan is the best bounty hunter in Gallow Gorge—and the worst deputy it’s ever seen. She’s spent months chasing a ghost: the one man she couldn’t bring herself to bury. James Moone was supposed to be dead. Instead, he’s left a trail of secrets in his wake—about her past, her family, and a legacy far darker than either of them realized.
When a U.S. marshal arrives with a warrant for Cassidy’s arrest and an impossible bargain, she’s forced to make a choice: turn in the man she loves…or lose everything.
Moone spent his life outrunning the devil he was raised to become. But Ransom’s empire isn’t done with him yet—and buying his freedom may cost more than blood. It may cost the only woman he’s ever loved.
Thrown together and hunted from every side, Cassidy and Moone are dragged across deserts, cities, and the ghosts of their past, where every truth cuts deeper than the last. Trust is shattered. Loyalties are tested. And love—once their greatest strength—might be the thing that destroys them both. Because this time, survival isn’t enough.
They’ll have to decide if what they have left is worth fighting for…or if some loves are meant to die.
620 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2026
About the author
Kirsten Bohling
9 books96 followersHi! I'm Kirsten. I write heartfelt, complicated love stories about heartfelt, complicated people. I'm an avid music listener and shameless geek. Sometimes I make okay-crochet. I have too many plants and a very cute corgi. I love baseball, books, and knocking things over with my lightsaber.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm going to keep this one vague because so much happens and I don't want to spoil anything.
Cassidy and James go on a rollercoaster in this book! The highs are so high, you can almost see their future in the distance. Their lows are just as extreme. I felt absolutely wrecked on a number of occasions. Trying not to lose all hope.
There is hope, but its hard-won. It takes a lot and you can see the other shoe looming in the background ready to drop. How many shoes does this story have? It was raining cowboy boots over here!
I felt everything along with Cassidy. The despair, the grief, the anxiety. But also the love and precious happy moments.
When I started reading this, I took Kirsten Bohling's author note very seriously. Love isn't always easy. Especially for these two precious hard headed babies. What I didn't expect was to experience love in every way. All forms. The bad and the good. The hope. The despair. The awe and the betrayal. The joy and the grief. Bohling ripped my heart out, tore it up, and stomped on it. She didn't really even put it back. Its still kinda hanging out of my chest, vulnerable. I don't know that I've read a story like it. Admittedly I try to avoid being absolutely devastated by books, but Bohling's storytelling is the exception. She's got me sucked in!
This is definitely not for the faint of heart. I love these two stubborn fools so much. They deserve the world and a forever that is peaceful.
*bursts into tears*
I know it'll be a hard battle, but I can't wait for the final installment of their story!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Cassidy and James go on a rollercoaster in this book! The highs are so high, you can almost see their future in the distance. Their lows are just as extreme. I felt absolutely wrecked on a number of occasions. Trying not to lose all hope.
There is hope, but its hard-won. It takes a lot and you can see the other shoe looming in the background ready to drop. How many shoes does this story have? It was raining cowboy boots over here!
I felt everything along with Cassidy. The despair, the grief, the anxiety. But also the love and precious happy moments.
When I started reading this, I took Kirsten Bohling's author note very seriously. Love isn't always easy. Especially for these two precious hard headed babies. What I didn't expect was to experience love in every way. All forms. The bad and the good. The hope. The despair. The awe and the betrayal. The joy and the grief. Bohling ripped my heart out, tore it up, and stomped on it. She didn't really even put it back. Its still kinda hanging out of my chest, vulnerable. I don't know that I've read a story like it. Admittedly I try to avoid being absolutely devastated by books, but Bohling's storytelling is the exception. She's got me sucked in!
This is definitely not for the faint of heart. I love these two stubborn fools so much. They deserve the world and a forever that is peaceful.
*bursts into tears*
I know it'll be a hard battle, but I can't wait for the final installment of their story!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
To readers new to the Bargains & Bounty series, I highly advise starting with The Devil's Backbone, but know you're in for an exciting tale of revenge, passion, and love above all else. For returning readers, you should dive right in and please meet me back here when you're done because you're going to need someone to talk to.
And with that out of the way ...
THE DEPUTY AND THE DEVIL gives no quarter from neither the depth of despair nor the ecstasy of release. It sinks you into Cassidy's nightmares, seizes you in Moone's embrace, and immerses you into their journey to find peace. They battle their personal demons. They push each other's limits of patience. They fight, and fight, and fight to live another day. I'm ruined by them. I'm utterly ruined by the lengths to which they'll go to carry the burden of guilt for the other. To sacrifice and preserve and hope. Yes through the darkness and mortal danger there is hope! They say "I love you." as if every opportunity to do so will be their last. They dream of home and family and quiet and love. They hold onto each other, like calling to like, soul knowing soul, and they run. To a destination. To the unknown. So long as they go together.
I'm overwhelmed with the intensity of emotions elicited by these pages. And I haven't even mentioned the revelations yet! My heart barely survived. I'm not sorry that I'm giving you a vibes only review, but you have to experience it for yourself. It's everything I had hoped for in the romance of Cassidy Callahan and James Moone.
Thank you author, Kirsten Bohling, for the advanced digital copy to read and review.
And with that out of the way ...
THE DEPUTY AND THE DEVIL gives no quarter from neither the depth of despair nor the ecstasy of release. It sinks you into Cassidy's nightmares, seizes you in Moone's embrace, and immerses you into their journey to find peace. They battle their personal demons. They push each other's limits of patience. They fight, and fight, and fight to live another day. I'm ruined by them. I'm utterly ruined by the lengths to which they'll go to carry the burden of guilt for the other. To sacrifice and preserve and hope. Yes through the darkness and mortal danger there is hope! They say "I love you." as if every opportunity to do so will be their last. They dream of home and family and quiet and love. They hold onto each other, like calling to like, soul knowing soul, and they run. To a destination. To the unknown. So long as they go together.
I'm overwhelmed with the intensity of emotions elicited by these pages. And I haven't even mentioned the revelations yet! My heart barely survived. I'm not sorry that I'm giving you a vibes only review, but you have to experience it for yourself. It's everything I had hoped for in the romance of Cassidy Callahan and James Moone.
Thank you author, Kirsten Bohling, for the advanced digital copy to read and review.
October 1, 2026
I was fortunate to receive this as an ARC - thank you so much!
Firstly, I loved book 1 and I am still sad about Solo.
Secondly, Cassidy and Moone need a holiday - they were put through it in this book.
This was a wild ride. There were moments where my stomach was queezy, others where I yelled out in frustration, and others where I was almost sighing and kicking my feet.
I really liked the additional POV that gave us a lot of background information. I also loved how it revealed the relationship between Ransom, Aisling and Ian. Also
This is beautifully written, and it's easy to imagine the places and landscapes that Cassidy and Moone travel through.
Firstly, I loved book 1 and I am still sad about Solo.
Secondly, Cassidy and Moone need a holiday - they were put through it in this book.
This was a wild ride. There were moments where my stomach was queezy, others where I yelled out in frustration, and others where I was almost sighing and kicking my feet.
I really liked the additional POV that gave us a lot of background information. I also loved how it revealed the relationship between Ransom, Aisling and Ian. Also
This is beautifully written, and it's easy to imagine the places and landscapes that Cassidy and Moone travel through.
August 6, 2026
A story of fate, love and perseverance.
If you have not had the pleasure of reading The Devil's Backbone, please do so to really appreciate this beautiful story.
Cassidy is back and she is madder than ever! As the new Deputy in town, she is up to her elbows with capturing the corrupt and cleaning her town. Only one remains elusive and when their paths cross once again, it is explosive! Catapulting her into unknown territory with the man she means to forget.
James Moone is a wanted man. One that ran from his future to face his past, making the ultimate sacrifice for the one that rules his thoughts. When the fiery red head catches up to him, sparks will fly and threatens to ignite the embers within his bruised heart. Hoping to right a wrong and finally move on with his life.
This book left my jaw on the floor several times and kicking my feet in glee. Kristen masterfully pulls you into her world and punches your heart with all the feels. Unafraid to go where its not always sunshine and rainbows but work and sacrifice to reach a happily ever after.
I absolutely enjoyed this amazing adventure! Thank you for the E-ARC!
If you have not had the pleasure of reading The Devil's Backbone, please do so to really appreciate this beautiful story.
Cassidy is back and she is madder than ever! As the new Deputy in town, she is up to her elbows with capturing the corrupt and cleaning her town. Only one remains elusive and when their paths cross once again, it is explosive! Catapulting her into unknown territory with the man she means to forget.
James Moone is a wanted man. One that ran from his future to face his past, making the ultimate sacrifice for the one that rules his thoughts. When the fiery red head catches up to him, sparks will fly and threatens to ignite the embers within his bruised heart. Hoping to right a wrong and finally move on with his life.
This book left my jaw on the floor several times and kicking my feet in glee. Kristen masterfully pulls you into her world and punches your heart with all the feels. Unafraid to go where its not always sunshine and rainbows but work and sacrifice to reach a happily ever after.
I absolutely enjoyed this amazing adventure! Thank you for the E-ARC!
April 11, 2026
ARC Review!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️.5/5
(really it’s 6 stars but for consistency I’m putting 5)
Thank you to Kirsten (the author) for this ARC!
This was a 6 star read for me! SIX. STARS. I’m obsessed! This book was perfect, I love Hames Thaddeus Moone with my whole chest! He’s my top book boyfriend, #1 boi!
I will never shut up about this book, or the first one. Like be prepared to be sick of me because I loved this book so. Freaking. Much!
I went through every emotion! (Kirsten can confirm because I’m messaging her at like 11:30 PM being like “I’m crying because of this and it’s beautiful!)
Cassidy and Moone also go through it. This was such a perfect slow burn, fight for your love book!
And the plot twists!? MAAM! They don’t stop, your jaw will drop quite a few times because mine did. I didn’t see them coming one bit.
I could write an entire novel about this book, because it was so good! I loved it that much! Now I have to wait for book 3 because that ending left me staring at my kindle WAITING for more words in the story to appear.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️.5/5
(really it’s 6 stars but for consistency I’m putting 5)
Thank you to Kirsten (the author) for this ARC!
This was a 6 star read for me! SIX. STARS. I’m obsessed! This book was perfect, I love Hames Thaddeus Moone with my whole chest! He’s my top book boyfriend, #1 boi!
I will never shut up about this book, or the first one. Like be prepared to be sick of me because I loved this book so. Freaking. Much!
I went through every emotion! (Kirsten can confirm because I’m messaging her at like 11:30 PM being like “I’m crying because of this and it’s beautiful!)
Cassidy and Moone also go through it. This was such a perfect slow burn, fight for your love book!
And the plot twists!? MAAM! They don’t stop, your jaw will drop quite a few times because mine did. I didn’t see them coming one bit.
I could write an entire novel about this book, because it was so good! I loved it that much! Now I have to wait for book 3 because that ending left me staring at my kindle WAITING for more words in the story to appear.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an ARC. All opinions are my own.
What an amazing epic historical romance this series is turning out to be—magical and transportive! Be prepared for twists and turns across the American West, on to Omaha and Chicago, and even across the Atlantic. The story is full of drama, betrayal, revenge, passion, redemption, and the hauntings of the past. You will be captivated by Cassidy and James’ absorbing love story.
The author continues to do a great job of showing us Cassidy and James’ characters and their growth both individually and together. I love that we get both of their perspectives.
Please note: There are some very dark moments of violence, though they don’t make up the majority of the story. Please be sure to read the content warnings beforehand.
You must read the first book, The Devil’s Backbone, to understand this one, and be prepared that this one ends on a cliffhanger setting up the final book in the trilogy. The twists and turns particularly in the last quarter of the book are shocking and will leave you desperate for book 3!
What an amazing epic historical romance this series is turning out to be—magical and transportive! Be prepared for twists and turns across the American West, on to Omaha and Chicago, and even across the Atlantic. The story is full of drama, betrayal, revenge, passion, redemption, and the hauntings of the past. You will be captivated by Cassidy and James’ absorbing love story.
The author continues to do a great job of showing us Cassidy and James’ characters and their growth both individually and together. I love that we get both of their perspectives.
Please note: There are some very dark moments of violence, though they don’t make up the majority of the story. Please be sure to read the content warnings beforehand.
You must read the first book, The Devil’s Backbone, to understand this one, and be prepared that this one ends on a cliffhanger setting up the final book in the trilogy. The twists and turns particularly in the last quarter of the book are shocking and will leave you desperate for book 3!
May 25, 2026
This was a masterpiece
I will be back when I have more coherent thoughts to share 😩
I will be back when I have more coherent thoughts to share 😩
Review of advance copy received from Author
Yall the pleasure of beta reading this series has been 🤌🏻🤌🏻
Come scream with me when you finish it.
Imagine almost killing the one you love and them still being obsessed with you. Like. Come on.
Come scream with me when you finish it.
Imagine almost killing the one you love and them still being obsessed with you. Like. Come on.
October 1, 2026
This was such a great follow up to The Devil's Backbone! Action-packed, emotional damage, lots of tension and romance! I loved it!
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews