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Rodeo #3
Learning the Ropes
Rule #1—Don't lose focus...
Barrel racer Alicia Kanani has had a long road to the top – and she's not quite there yet. Finances have always been tight, and in the glitz and glam world of professional rodeo, that means that second best is probably the best she can hope for. With the National Finals coming up, she's certainly not looking for a pair of cowboys to distract her.
Rule #2—Don't gamble what you can't live without…
Playboy Chris Thomas is sure Alicia's the perfect woman for his level-headed team roping partner, David Greenly. It seems like a match, until Chris realizes he wants Alicia for himself. The stakes have been raised; David and Chris are supposed to be a team, and this time, they're on opposite sides.
Can Alicia rope this playboy's heart, or will they find themselves too tangled up to let true love in?
Barrel racer Alicia Kanani has had a long road to the top – and she's not quite there yet. Finances have always been tight, and in the glitz and glam world of professional rodeo, that means that second best is probably the best she can hope for. With the National Finals coming up, she's certainly not looking for a pair of cowboys to distract her.
Rule #2—Don't gamble what you can't live without…
Playboy Chris Thomas is sure Alicia's the perfect woman for his level-headed team roping partner, David Greenly. It seems like a match, until Chris realizes he wants Alicia for himself. The stakes have been raised; David and Chris are supposed to be a team, and this time, they're on opposite sides.
Can Alicia rope this playboy's heart, or will they find themselves too tangled up to let true love in?
448 pages, ebook
First published September 30, 2014
10 people are currently reading
173 people want to read
About the author
T.J. Kline
26 books437 followersT.J. Kline has been making up stories since she was old enough to talk and put her first into book form when she was ten.
Since then, she has always loved a HEA and a good thriller. When life introduced her to horses and rodeos, she knew she'd found her calling writing contemporary small-town romances filled with love, drama and, of course, cowboys.
She currently lives in the foothills outside Yosemite National Park with the love of her life, adoring her three grown children from afar and enjoying her three horses, four dogs, five cats and a noisy bunch of hens.
Since then, she has always loved a HEA and a good thriller. When life introduced her to horses and rodeos, she knew she'd found her calling writing contemporary small-town romances filled with love, drama and, of course, cowboys.
She currently lives in the foothills outside Yosemite National Park with the love of her life, adoring her three grown children from afar and enjoying her three horses, four dogs, five cats and a noisy bunch of hens.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
January 26, 2015
I received this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
How It Made Me Feel:
I don't even know where to begin! I absolutely loved this book from the beginning to the end. It was a book that took me to a place very much like home with characters I knew I would be friends with if given the chance. I loved the fact that the rodeo was the background. Being a horse person myself, having horses as such big parts in books can either crash or succeed. This book succeeded on so many levels. It was obvious that the author has a background in horses herself, and her writing was a positive reflection of that. Plus, who can say no to sexy cowboys? I know I can't! :3
What I Thought Worked:
I loved how dimensional Chris was. He had the one persona that was on fire at each and every rodeo, but there was also that softer side that only a few saw and even then, it was few and far between. I loved that he had humanistic problems that made him think and make mistakes and react passionately. He was a real character to me, as well as Ali and David.
What I Thought Didn't Work:
As cliche as it might be to hear, I wish the book hadn't ended. I could have easily kept on reading about their lives and interactions and riding the horses. I wasn't ready for the ending and I am still wishing for more.
Rating
5/5 Stars
Why It Got That Rating:
It's been a while since I've read an equine related romance novel that I could stand 100% behind. I loved how correct the author was in her equine terminology and rodeo descriptions as well as how perfect her characters were.
Who Would I Recommend To:
I would recommend to anyone looking for a hot cowboy to fall for, contemporary romances, or even chick lit readers who want to read something a little different. I would recommend 18+, as some of the scenes get a bit steamy. But there are only a few. :)
How It Made Me Feel:
I don't even know where to begin! I absolutely loved this book from the beginning to the end. It was a book that took me to a place very much like home with characters I knew I would be friends with if given the chance. I loved the fact that the rodeo was the background. Being a horse person myself, having horses as such big parts in books can either crash or succeed. This book succeeded on so many levels. It was obvious that the author has a background in horses herself, and her writing was a positive reflection of that. Plus, who can say no to sexy cowboys? I know I can't! :3
What I Thought Worked:
I loved how dimensional Chris was. He had the one persona that was on fire at each and every rodeo, but there was also that softer side that only a few saw and even then, it was few and far between. I loved that he had humanistic problems that made him think and make mistakes and react passionately. He was a real character to me, as well as Ali and David.
What I Thought Didn't Work:
As cliche as it might be to hear, I wish the book hadn't ended. I could have easily kept on reading about their lives and interactions and riding the horses. I wasn't ready for the ending and I am still wishing for more.
Rating
5/5 Stars
Why It Got That Rating:
It's been a while since I've read an equine related romance novel that I could stand 100% behind. I loved how correct the author was in her equine terminology and rodeo descriptions as well as how perfect her characters were.
Who Would I Recommend To:
I would recommend to anyone looking for a hot cowboy to fall for, contemporary romances, or even chick lit readers who want to read something a little different. I would recommend 18+, as some of the scenes get a bit steamy. But there are only a few. :)
March 26, 2015
Alyn's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
3.75 Stars
I know everyone has different tastes and I am a self-proclaimed paranormal junky but there is something about a good cowboy read that warms my heart. Learning the Ropes by T.J. Kline, is one such book. The story brings to light, the misconceptions many of us have about our self-worth and reminded me just how important it is to go after what we want to make ourselves happy.
Alicia Kanani’s dream of getting a ranch for her parents and running her own business is just out of reach. She is a well-practiced barrel racer, earns money with her wins, but can’t seem to reach that big win that would give her enough money to finally purchase the property she has had her eye on. It doesn’t help that her rival Delilah is always reminding her of her losses, or her status compared to the wealth Delilah has grown up with. If Alicia could just come out on top for the next few rodeo’s she would be able to put Delilah behind her and live her dream.
Chris Thomas and David Greenly are two of the best roping partners on the circuit. Always on top, the two never miss a beat. Ready for the next competition, the two are focused on the prize until Chris sees his childhood friend Alicia getting ready for her next race. Chris has always been fond of Alicia but he doesn’t do commitment. Even though his reputation speaks volumes about a love em and leave em type of attitude, Chris rarely, if ever, lives up to it. Then again, if that is what people think, why dispute it.
When Chris and Ali reconnect at the rodeo, Chris sets out to pair Ali up with David. When Chris sees his childhood friend and his best friend together, a spark of jealousy erupts and he puts himself in a position to lose his best friend, his roping partner, and the love he denied for far too long.
This really was a sweet story. While it did have some lulls that I had to push through, I found myself rooting for Ali, hoping she would get the future she deserved. What I did have issues with was the fact that Ali clearly lacked feelings for someone but lead him on for quite some time. I do understand that sometimes people are willing to see if feelings develop, but this really wasn’t the case. Without spoiling the story, Ali, David, and Chris each have difficult issues to deal with whether it is growing up poor and being stereotyped, dealing with an abusive, alcoholic father who puts the weight of the world on the shoulders of his children, or trying to overcome a reputation that is standing in the way of reaching a goal. All of these scenarios amidst a love triangle make for an interesting read that will make you laugh, smile, and at times yell at a character to simply punch someone in the face (I was seriously cheering for this). We all deserve love, we just need to remind ourselves of that more often.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
3.75 Stars
I know everyone has different tastes and I am a self-proclaimed paranormal junky but there is something about a good cowboy read that warms my heart. Learning the Ropes by T.J. Kline, is one such book. The story brings to light, the misconceptions many of us have about our self-worth and reminded me just how important it is to go after what we want to make ourselves happy.
Alicia Kanani’s dream of getting a ranch for her parents and running her own business is just out of reach. She is a well-practiced barrel racer, earns money with her wins, but can’t seem to reach that big win that would give her enough money to finally purchase the property she has had her eye on. It doesn’t help that her rival Delilah is always reminding her of her losses, or her status compared to the wealth Delilah has grown up with. If Alicia could just come out on top for the next few rodeo’s she would be able to put Delilah behind her and live her dream.
Chris Thomas and David Greenly are two of the best roping partners on the circuit. Always on top, the two never miss a beat. Ready for the next competition, the two are focused on the prize until Chris sees his childhood friend Alicia getting ready for her next race. Chris has always been fond of Alicia but he doesn’t do commitment. Even though his reputation speaks volumes about a love em and leave em type of attitude, Chris rarely, if ever, lives up to it. Then again, if that is what people think, why dispute it.
When Chris and Ali reconnect at the rodeo, Chris sets out to pair Ali up with David. When Chris sees his childhood friend and his best friend together, a spark of jealousy erupts and he puts himself in a position to lose his best friend, his roping partner, and the love he denied for far too long.
This really was a sweet story. While it did have some lulls that I had to push through, I found myself rooting for Ali, hoping she would get the future she deserved. What I did have issues with was the fact that Ali clearly lacked feelings for someone but lead him on for quite some time. I do understand that sometimes people are willing to see if feelings develop, but this really wasn’t the case. Without spoiling the story, Ali, David, and Chris each have difficult issues to deal with whether it is growing up poor and being stereotyped, dealing with an abusive, alcoholic father who puts the weight of the world on the shoulders of his children, or trying to overcome a reputation that is standing in the way of reaching a goal. All of these scenarios amidst a love triangle make for an interesting read that will make you laugh, smile, and at times yell at a character to simply punch someone in the face (I was seriously cheering for this). We all deserve love, we just need to remind ourselves of that more often.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
September 28, 2014
How many times have you worked so hard for something, wanting it so badly, only to watch it slip out of your grasp by circumstances beyond your control? Barrel racer Alicia Kanani has worked so hard to earn enough money to purchase a house and land, so that her father could quit his job and could train horses, while she taught barrel racing Chris Thomas is a champion team roper who also works hard but plays just as hard. He and his roping partner, David Greenly, dream of opening their own roping school one day. Alicia has had a crush on Chris since high-school, but has never let on about her feelings due to his playboy reputation. Will she be able to see past his reputation to the person he is underneath? And when she sees her dream of buying her dream ranch slipping away, will she be able to trust him enough to go into business with him, as well as with her heart?
I truly enjoyed reading this book. Not only was it well written and the story flowed so easily, and the characters we very well developed. I enjoyed the peek into the world of the rodeo. I loved watching Ali learn how to trust Chris, not only with her heart but with her dreams too. I loved watching Chris grow up, understanding that his feelings for Ali ran deeper than he realized.
I highly recommend Learning the Ropes for anyone who enjoys cowboy romances or coming of age stories. I cannot wait to see what the next book is about. David’s story??
I truly enjoyed reading this book. Not only was it well written and the story flowed so easily, and the characters we very well developed. I enjoyed the peek into the world of the rodeo. I loved watching Ali learn how to trust Chris, not only with her heart but with her dreams too. I loved watching Chris grow up, understanding that his feelings for Ali ran deeper than he realized.
I highly recommend Learning the Ropes for anyone who enjoys cowboy romances or coming of age stories. I cannot wait to see what the next book is about. David’s story??
September 30, 2014
Learning the Ropes is the third book from T.J. Kline and just like the previous two books....this is a must read. This book revolves around Alicia and Chris. If you've read the first book from T.J. Kline (Rodeo Queen), you will recognize the characters quite well. Alicia is Sydney's best friend and Chris is Sydney's brother. I just love romance stories where the character falls for their best friend's sibling.
Alicia has harbored a crush for Chris for a while now, but doesn't think anything will come from it. She believes he sees her as his sister's poor friend. Her words, not Chris's. But even if he did want to start something with her, Alicia isn't the type for a one-night stand, and everyone knows Chris is a major playboy. Things aren't what they seem....that's all I'm going to say about that.
Chris believes Alicia would be perfect for his partner David, so he tries his hand at matchmaking. Of course seeing Alicia with someone else, would unleash his feelings for her......I just love when this happens. Throw in some serious drama from an old washed up cowboy & a jealous buckle bunny, and hold on to your saddles and watch our main characters go on one hell of an emotional ride.
Whenever I read a book from T.J. Kline, it's like a breath of fresh air. She has a lot of knowledge about rodeos and its shows throughout her books. Learning the Ropes was a joy to read and I wish it was longer. Can't wait for the next book.....hopefully it's about David.
Alicia has harbored a crush for Chris for a while now, but doesn't think anything will come from it. She believes he sees her as his sister's poor friend. Her words, not Chris's. But even if he did want to start something with her, Alicia isn't the type for a one-night stand, and everyone knows Chris is a major playboy. Things aren't what they seem....that's all I'm going to say about that.
Chris believes Alicia would be perfect for his partner David, so he tries his hand at matchmaking. Of course seeing Alicia with someone else, would unleash his feelings for her......I just love when this happens. Throw in some serious drama from an old washed up cowboy & a jealous buckle bunny, and hold on to your saddles and watch our main characters go on one hell of an emotional ride.
Whenever I read a book from T.J. Kline, it's like a breath of fresh air. She has a lot of knowledge about rodeos and its shows throughout her books. Learning the Ropes was a joy to read and I wish it was longer. Can't wait for the next book.....hopefully it's about David.
May 30, 2017
To be honest I had read the other books in the rodeo series and the synopsis for this one just didn't grab me so I didn't go right to it to finish the series as I usually do. But after reading another series and looking for something to read I decided to give it a shot. It was a good, not great story which is why I only gave it three stars. The drama between Chris, Alicia, David and David's father was interesting. Although at least IMHO Ms. Kline never gave me a satisfactory understanding of why Chris was convinced he wasn't marriage or long term relationship material? His parents had a long and loving marriage. His sister Sydney was in a happy marriage. So why was Chris so convinced it wasn't for him? I could get on board with the not wanting to date his sister's BFF but not his issues on marriage. Also, I'm not sure why Alicia's parents were so dirt poor if the rich rancher they worked for was the good guy he was portrayed to be? Her lack of self-esteem because of growing up poor was a major relationship issue for her yet Mr. Ludington was portrayed as an all around good guy whom even offered her a good paying job. It was good to see the author bring back the main characters from the earlier books in the series to play roles in helping Chris and Ali find their HEA. Like I said, a good, not great story IMHO.
October 4, 2020
Pessimo romanzo. Io amo i romanzi dove i protagonisti sono i cowboy, non per niente sono una fan di Diana Palmer, ma questa storia era davvero stupida, l'ho dovuta droppare, non ce la facevo più.
La protagonista si lamentava ogni 5 minuti per le umili origini, dignità zero, si è lanciata sul protagonista alla prima opportunità, lui, invece, un emerito cretino!
Il motto dell'hero era "Non mi posso impegnare perché non voglio responsabilità" ... bla bla bla...
Ma fatemi il piacere!
La protagonista si lamentava ogni 5 minuti per le umili origini, dignità zero, si è lanciata sul protagonista alla prima opportunità, lui, invece, un emerito cretino!
Il motto dell'hero era "Non mi posso impegnare perché non voglio responsabilità" ... bla bla bla...
Ma fatemi il piacere!
November 11, 2018
Everyone knows rodeo roper Chris is a player. He has his pick of women, and he seems to pick up all of them. But when he sets her up with his roping partner David, Alicia realizes she has to put her unrequited crush on Chris behind her and give someone else a chance, give herself a chance to find something real and maybe lasting.
Chris hasn't exactly earned the reputation he has, but he hasn't done anything to discourage the talk, either. Truth is he has no intention of settling down, and the last thing he needs is a woman to distract him when national finals are right around the corner. But seeing David with Alicia opens his eyes to more than he wants to admit. Stealing the woman he should have kept for himself from his best friend and partner will wreck everything they've worked so hard for.
The Verdict: I love it stories where romance blooms between two people who've known each other forever, and Learning the Ropes got it exactly right.
Chris and Alicia pretty much grew up together, and while they weren't best friends, there was enough friendship and mutual respect that they didn't want to jeopardize it. In fact, Chris thought so much of Ali that he set her up with his best friend, a good guy he knew would treat her right and had thoughts of eventually getting married and settling down on his mind. And despite the fact that there were no big fireworks between David and Ali, he was an easy guy to like, and it made sense that she would give a possible relationship with him a shot.
Ali's road to happily ever after has quite a few obstacles, but instead of being ridiculous drama thrown in just to advance the plot, it all seemed to fit in perfectly. There is, of course, the love triangle aspect, with David falling for Ali, Ali hung up on Chris, and Chris realizing that he doesn't want to see anyone ride off into the sunset with Ali. And then there's the rodeo and career part of it. Ali's determined to buy a ranch and give her parents their dream, Chris is set on opening a rodeo school with David, and David's desperately trying to save his family's ranch. In a rather sad coincidence, those aspirations seemingly in line with each other are at first in conflict, and that adds a level of drama that doesn't really have a miracle ending — a refreshing change from most stories like this.
The chemistry between Chris and Ali is great, and David's reaction to them was pretty real — a little pissed, a little happy for them, a little disappointed for himself. It actually made me like him even more and showed he was a real friend, not just some character tossed into the mix to liven things up. And happily ever after didn't just fall into their laps, which was nice. So often characters give in at a declaration of love, like that wipes away every bit of past and doubt that's been an obstacle, but that didn't happen here. She made Chris prove himself — a few times, really — and it gave their ending a lot more credibility. The only thing I wasn't fond of was the very ending, not because I didn't want it to happen, but because it seemed rather sudden. Everything had just been cleared up, and it seemed like they could finally really take a step forward together, when suddenly Chris went for a giant leap. It was a sudden acceleration of a plot which had so far been perfectly paced, and I half expected Ali to say no, more in keeping with the characters so far than the tidy wrap up that happened instead.
What makes the story stand out, however, is the incredibly accurate portrayal of rodeo life. Most books with a rodeo setting romanticize it, take unnecessary creative liberties, or simply get it all wrong. It's like the authors want the Stetsons and the Wranglers and the pearl button shirts, but they can't be bothered to research any of it. But I grew up where every little girl in the calf scramble wanted to be a barrel racer, where jeans were tucked into boots for function rather than fashion, and where cowboy cut suits still come out for funerals. It's nice to read a story that not only gets it right but also shows how relevant that way of life still is.
***FicCentral received this book from Tasty Book Tours for free in exchange for an honest review. Even so, we're far too opinionated to let a freebie influence our thoughts or the contents of the reviews we post here.
October 4, 2014
T.J. Kline became a quick favorite of mine in RomanceLand after I read the first two books in her Rodeo series. We are welcomed back to this wonderful world of rodeo with 3 familiar names. You met Alicia in Rodeo Queen (book 1) when she was crowned Princess. You get to see her perform for a brief moment in The Cowboy and the Angel (book 2) When I learned this book was Alicia's - I was over the moon. Alicia is kind, hard working and one of the most deserving people. Her obvious crush on Sydney's playboy brother, Chris is where I was sure we were going. And have no fear, Chris will make your heart go pitter patter in this page turning third installment, but T.J. goes and throws a wrench into the rodeo.
Alicia and Chris haven't seen each other in a couple of years since their last run-in at his sister's wedding. "Her eyes did a quick survey of him, realizing the past couple of years had been very good to him." Chris has other intentions when he sees his old friend, Alicia: Set her up with his stick in the mud roping partner, David. Watching Chris and his jealously as it blossoms while watching his partner and longtime friend date is an eye opening look into the incredibly human side of this cowboy. Now there was nothing he could do but cowboy up and ignore this jealously until it faded again.
Friends to lovers is one of my favorite reads due to the friendly and comfortable banter that comes with knowing someone for a long time. That, and you find yourself looking for glimpses of the early on feelings. It is like a mystery of WHEN did he/she finally know? Alicia's comfort with Chris's ways and her reactions to them are some of my favorite lines in this book.
"Really, Chris? I can buy?" she feigned excitement, rolling her eyes skyward. "Such a gentleman." She covered her heart with both hands before fanning her face. "Be still my heart."
Alicia laughed quietly and shook her head and Chris felt the relief course through him. At least he'd made her laugh. "You never change, do you?"
He shrugged. "Why mess with perfection?"
I felt for Chris because his intentions were placed in the right spot. He loves Alicia, always has, and wants her happiness. He didn't think he could give her everything she deserved. The way Alicia affected him though was something he couldn't control. (Or handle!) "You've got to realize what you to do a guy when you look at him that way, with those big brown eyes, and bite your lip?"
This is an overwhelming wonderfully detailed and full story. You find a love triangle worthy of a punch or two, family shame, friendships that stand even the hardest test - a woman, dreams falling apart, dreams coming true, buckle bunnies and a cocky cowboy or two drinking beers. Oh man, and the grand fixture gesture at the end - HELLO to the ultimate swoon in this book. But, you don't get to that moment without some stubborn moments and a few misunderstandings. That's the fun part of a romance book after all, right?
"Damn, if you aren't the most stubborn woman I've ever met. If I tell you to walk, will you still do the opposite and get in the truck?" She fought the grin she knew he was trying to worm out of her.
When Chris is explaining all of his shortcomings, I laughed out loud when David and Derek felt inspired to join in with their contributions: "Don't forget self-indulgent." ..."And reckless." Even after the grand gesture, Ali lacks the confidence in her ability to keep him from getting bored, and his reply made my heart melt.
He smiled against her lips. "Oh, Ali. It's always been you. Every other woman has been me trying to find my way back to you. I once told you I could only be with a woman who could outride and out rope me. Honey, you're the only woman who's ever done that," he teased.
Before I let you go to give TINA some LOVE, let me remind you that the best way to keep your favorite authors writing is to give reviews! Goodreads, Amazon, B&N and everywhere else!
Alicia and Chris haven't seen each other in a couple of years since their last run-in at his sister's wedding. "Her eyes did a quick survey of him, realizing the past couple of years had been very good to him." Chris has other intentions when he sees his old friend, Alicia: Set her up with his stick in the mud roping partner, David. Watching Chris and his jealously as it blossoms while watching his partner and longtime friend date is an eye opening look into the incredibly human side of this cowboy. Now there was nothing he could do but cowboy up and ignore this jealously until it faded again.
Friends to lovers is one of my favorite reads due to the friendly and comfortable banter that comes with knowing someone for a long time. That, and you find yourself looking for glimpses of the early on feelings. It is like a mystery of WHEN did he/she finally know? Alicia's comfort with Chris's ways and her reactions to them are some of my favorite lines in this book.
"Really, Chris? I can buy?" she feigned excitement, rolling her eyes skyward. "Such a gentleman." She covered her heart with both hands before fanning her face. "Be still my heart."
Alicia laughed quietly and shook her head and Chris felt the relief course through him. At least he'd made her laugh. "You never change, do you?"
He shrugged. "Why mess with perfection?"
I felt for Chris because his intentions were placed in the right spot. He loves Alicia, always has, and wants her happiness. He didn't think he could give her everything she deserved. The way Alicia affected him though was something he couldn't control. (Or handle!) "You've got to realize what you to do a guy when you look at him that way, with those big brown eyes, and bite your lip?"
This is an overwhelming wonderfully detailed and full story. You find a love triangle worthy of a punch or two, family shame, friendships that stand even the hardest test - a woman, dreams falling apart, dreams coming true, buckle bunnies and a cocky cowboy or two drinking beers. Oh man, and the grand fixture gesture at the end - HELLO to the ultimate swoon in this book. But, you don't get to that moment without some stubborn moments and a few misunderstandings. That's the fun part of a romance book after all, right?
"Damn, if you aren't the most stubborn woman I've ever met. If I tell you to walk, will you still do the opposite and get in the truck?" She fought the grin she knew he was trying to worm out of her.
When Chris is explaining all of his shortcomings, I laughed out loud when David and Derek felt inspired to join in with their contributions: "Don't forget self-indulgent." ..."And reckless." Even after the grand gesture, Ali lacks the confidence in her ability to keep him from getting bored, and his reply made my heart melt.
He smiled against her lips. "Oh, Ali. It's always been you. Every other woman has been me trying to find my way back to you. I once told you I could only be with a woman who could outride and out rope me. Honey, you're the only woman who's ever done that," he teased.
Before I let you go to give TINA some LOVE, let me remind you that the best way to keep your favorite authors writing is to give reviews! Goodreads, Amazon, B&N and everywhere else!
October 10, 2014
From the very beginning I wanted Chris and Ali to end up together. As sweet as Alicia's moments were with David, he was often flaky and dismissive when he was in a mood over the pressures of dealing with his domineering, manipulative father. She put up with more than enough from him in my book and they really were best suited as buddies than lovers.
But Chris, ahhhh, he is another story. Though he has always tried to treat Alicia as just a friend, there has been chemistry brewing between these two since high school. Neither one of them could recognize how the other felt, even though everyone else saw it. Chris is Ali's biggest fan, the one who is always there for her, sticking up for her when jealous buckle bunnies start spewing their venom (and he does so hilariously, might I add). But he has spent years burying his desire for Ali under childhood friendship and nameless hook-ups. Whenever his feelings start bubbling to the surface, he frustratingly plays up his lady-killer reputation, steering himself safely back into the friend zone. He knows making a play for Ali would mean playing for keeps and that's not something he realizes he wants until he sees her with David.
Having always been the poor kid growing up, Ali has never really felt like she measured up. On the rodeo circuit, she is tired of coming in second place to entitled bimbos who mistreat their animals. Alicia has big plans for herself and her parents, plans that hinge on earning as much prize money as possible. The last thing she needs is two men distracting her. Ali has always had a crush on Chris but his reputation and her self doubts keep her from mentioning the attraction and risking their friendship and her heart.
Ali is such a fantastic heroine! She has sass for days, some killer comebacks, and she really knows how to put an uppity cowgirl in her place. And Chris is such a charming and supportive hero. To him, Ali isn't just a toy he wants when he sees someone else playing with her. She is the embodiment of everything he has always wanted. A spit-fire who can out-ride and out-rope him any day of the week and the companion who understands and complements him. No one makes him smile or yearn the way she does. And as hard as Ali tries, David just doesn't make her feel the same belly-searing heat that Chris does. Boy, when these two find themselves together in a barn, things sure heat up!
T.J. Kline took one of my very favorite romance tropes, Friends to Lovers, and created a funny, sexy, irresistible read. LEARNING THE ROPES is definitely my favorite book in the series so far! I've never been a big fan of westerns, but Ms. Kline is single-handedly turning me into a cowboy-loving convert. I can't wait to read David's story and see what other romances this rodeo queen has in store for us.
Disclaimer: I received this book free in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions shared are my own.
But Chris, ahhhh, he is another story. Though he has always tried to treat Alicia as just a friend, there has been chemistry brewing between these two since high school. Neither one of them could recognize how the other felt, even though everyone else saw it. Chris is Ali's biggest fan, the one who is always there for her, sticking up for her when jealous buckle bunnies start spewing their venom (and he does so hilariously, might I add). But he has spent years burying his desire for Ali under childhood friendship and nameless hook-ups. Whenever his feelings start bubbling to the surface, he frustratingly plays up his lady-killer reputation, steering himself safely back into the friend zone. He knows making a play for Ali would mean playing for keeps and that's not something he realizes he wants until he sees her with David.
Having always been the poor kid growing up, Ali has never really felt like she measured up. On the rodeo circuit, she is tired of coming in second place to entitled bimbos who mistreat their animals. Alicia has big plans for herself and her parents, plans that hinge on earning as much prize money as possible. The last thing she needs is two men distracting her. Ali has always had a crush on Chris but his reputation and her self doubts keep her from mentioning the attraction and risking their friendship and her heart.
Ali is such a fantastic heroine! She has sass for days, some killer comebacks, and she really knows how to put an uppity cowgirl in her place. And Chris is such a charming and supportive hero. To him, Ali isn't just a toy he wants when he sees someone else playing with her. She is the embodiment of everything he has always wanted. A spit-fire who can out-ride and out-rope him any day of the week and the companion who understands and complements him. No one makes him smile or yearn the way she does. And as hard as Ali tries, David just doesn't make her feel the same belly-searing heat that Chris does. Boy, when these two find themselves together in a barn, things sure heat up!
T.J. Kline took one of my very favorite romance tropes, Friends to Lovers, and created a funny, sexy, irresistible read. LEARNING THE ROPES is definitely my favorite book in the series so far! I've never been a big fan of westerns, but Ms. Kline is single-handedly turning me into a cowboy-loving convert. I can't wait to read David's story and see what other romances this rodeo queen has in store for us.
Disclaimer: I received this book free in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions shared are my own.
October 10, 2014
I’m just starting to pick up on the plethora of Cowboy / Western themed stories out there, I’m a little slow to the party. See, I had horses for many years, and it is, for me, a huge bummer when the ‘horse related’ moments are not well done, or researched poorly. So it has always had me a bit reluctant to delve in. T.J. Kline, however, has the practical experience with horses, and a clever perspective in her stories that managed to allay my fears.
And I am so glad that I took a chance: Learning the Ropes is a wonderful little romance that brings some great horse-related moments in the middle of the budding romance between Alicia and Chris, with a few moments of love triangle and camaraderie that just adds fuel to the romance fire, and provides several moments of giggles.
Not having read the earlier books in the series, I was a bit concerned with feeling like I had missed something: this book stood alone perfectly – characters arrive developed and complete, but Kline adds dimension and quirks that enhance what is there, and gives insight into personalities and the relationship dynamics.
Alicia is wonderful: hard working and solidly crafted and working to make her dream of buying a ranch where she can teach barrel racing and her father can train horses come true. Her best friend Sydney has a brother Chris that she has always crushed on, but Chris is the circuit playboy: never one woman for long. Alicia isn’t a one night stand girl – she wants and deserves a lifetime, so she feels Chris is out of her league.
Chris is a championship team roper with his partner and friend, David. Like Alicia, they want to buy a spread and teach roping to those who want to learn and join the circuit. While Chris can hold onto that dream, he sees Alicia as a great option for his best friend David, and proceeds to push them together. What he didn’t expect was that He wanted Alicia. And the games begin.
There is a ton of heart in this story – the banter, the respect and even the gently developing relationship all show the friendships and concern that all of the characters have about the potential damage, and the real growth when Chris realizes that his playboy lifestyle pales in comparison to time with Alicia. As Alicia starts to see the man underneath the reputation, and understands that her dreams and his dreams can work together, making them all more than imagined, the story takes flight and readers are left with nothing to do but cheer them on.
A fun story with a solidly built and developed romance, this is one that I could see continue without getting bored or tired: it was just the right length to satisfy with just niggles for a bit more.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
And I am so glad that I took a chance: Learning the Ropes is a wonderful little romance that brings some great horse-related moments in the middle of the budding romance between Alicia and Chris, with a few moments of love triangle and camaraderie that just adds fuel to the romance fire, and provides several moments of giggles.
Not having read the earlier books in the series, I was a bit concerned with feeling like I had missed something: this book stood alone perfectly – characters arrive developed and complete, but Kline adds dimension and quirks that enhance what is there, and gives insight into personalities and the relationship dynamics.
Alicia is wonderful: hard working and solidly crafted and working to make her dream of buying a ranch where she can teach barrel racing and her father can train horses come true. Her best friend Sydney has a brother Chris that she has always crushed on, but Chris is the circuit playboy: never one woman for long. Alicia isn’t a one night stand girl – she wants and deserves a lifetime, so she feels Chris is out of her league.
Chris is a championship team roper with his partner and friend, David. Like Alicia, they want to buy a spread and teach roping to those who want to learn and join the circuit. While Chris can hold onto that dream, he sees Alicia as a great option for his best friend David, and proceeds to push them together. What he didn’t expect was that He wanted Alicia. And the games begin.
There is a ton of heart in this story – the banter, the respect and even the gently developing relationship all show the friendships and concern that all of the characters have about the potential damage, and the real growth when Chris realizes that his playboy lifestyle pales in comparison to time with Alicia. As Alicia starts to see the man underneath the reputation, and understands that her dreams and his dreams can work together, making them all more than imagined, the story takes flight and readers are left with nothing to do but cheer them on.
A fun story with a solidly built and developed romance, this is one that I could see continue without getting bored or tired: it was just the right length to satisfy with just niggles for a bit more.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
October 8, 2014
Well! That was totally unexpected... but in a good way, once I'd decided to ignore the love triangle warning signs flashing on my reading device ;-) I absolutely loved this book. What can I say? Cowboys!
Alicia is a barrel racer with a career goal to reach the National Finals Rodeo. Unlike her main rival, Alicia is from a poor but hardworking family. Chris is the brother of Alicia's best friend Sydney. He's from a ranching family with aspirations to reach the National Finals Rodeo too, along with his roping partner and best friend David. They plan to open a rodeo school, but need to win a championship title at the finals to validate their rodeo pedigree. All hell lets loose when Chris decides to matchmake Alicia with David, bringing out unexpected feelings and desires.
When I read a book, I'm absolutely thrilled to learn something new, whether it is a recipe, tradition or facts. This book is packed with everything I need to know about rodeo and all things equine. This adds to the overall enjoyment for me, as the plot became alive as I lived the world of rodeo through words. I love how the author manages to pour so much energy into the characters as the chemistry between Alicia and Chris was off the charts – they were sizzling hot. Plus a full spectrum of emotions from lust, pain, defeat, hope, determination, humour and love.
This is the first book I have read by T. J. Kline, but it most certainly wont be the last. From the moment I started reading, I just wanted to keep going until I was finished. Now I want to read the earlier books in the series and I'd very much like a HEA for the guy who didn't get the girl, please...
Alicia is a barrel racer with a career goal to reach the National Finals Rodeo. Unlike her main rival, Alicia is from a poor but hardworking family. Chris is the brother of Alicia's best friend Sydney. He's from a ranching family with aspirations to reach the National Finals Rodeo too, along with his roping partner and best friend David. They plan to open a rodeo school, but need to win a championship title at the finals to validate their rodeo pedigree. All hell lets loose when Chris decides to matchmake Alicia with David, bringing out unexpected feelings and desires.
When I read a book, I'm absolutely thrilled to learn something new, whether it is a recipe, tradition or facts. This book is packed with everything I need to know about rodeo and all things equine. This adds to the overall enjoyment for me, as the plot became alive as I lived the world of rodeo through words. I love how the author manages to pour so much energy into the characters as the chemistry between Alicia and Chris was off the charts – they were sizzling hot. Plus a full spectrum of emotions from lust, pain, defeat, hope, determination, humour and love.
This is the first book I have read by T. J. Kline, but it most certainly wont be the last. From the moment I started reading, I just wanted to keep going until I was finished. Now I want to read the earlier books in the series and I'd very much like a HEA for the guy who didn't get the girl, please...
April 30, 2015
in the beginning, I really liked Alicia and Chris. Alicia is independent, self-reliant, ambitious, motivated, hardworking, loves her parents, loves her job... Cool main character, you want to see her succeed. Chris is a standard handsome cowboy with a bad reputation, but his thing is that he looks out for ladies and drives them home and sleeps in his truck and lives with whatever people say. But as the book goes along, in order to create drama and tension, everyone becomes really emotional and terrible at communicating. The characterizations become inconsistent, changing to serve the plot, and everyone keeps doing the same things wrong over and over again.
On one evening, David's dad upsets him, so he takes like 30 shots and falls down, so Chris and Ali are left alone. David never does this again, even though his dad is always around doing increasingly offensive and despicable things. Ali is always jealous of Chris because "buckle bunnies" with their ample bosoms can't keep their hands off of him, and he's determined to keep meeting new women because he's afraid of commitment... until quite suddenly he wants nothing else. Also, there's Delilah, Alicia's rival. Delilah makes endless catty remarks, she's always got so much makeup on it looks like she applied it with a trowel, she only wins events because she has expensive, highly-trained horses her parents paid for... There's nothing real about her. She has no history, no background, no motivations, no humanity. She's obviously never a real rival for Alicia, so seeing her cause petty angst again and again is just tiresome.
On one evening, David's dad upsets him, so he takes like 30 shots and falls down, so Chris and Ali are left alone. David never does this again, even though his dad is always around doing increasingly offensive and despicable things. Ali is always jealous of Chris because "buckle bunnies" with their ample bosoms can't keep their hands off of him, and he's determined to keep meeting new women because he's afraid of commitment... until quite suddenly he wants nothing else. Also, there's Delilah, Alicia's rival. Delilah makes endless catty remarks, she's always got so much makeup on it looks like she applied it with a trowel, she only wins events because she has expensive, highly-trained horses her parents paid for... There's nothing real about her. She has no history, no background, no motivations, no humanity. She's obviously never a real rival for Alicia, so seeing her cause petty angst again and again is just tiresome.
October 18, 2014
I must confess that lately I have been a bit of a western country junkee. I am learning about buckle bunnies, rodeos and other country things that I never thought I would ever learn ... and enjoy ... but this new phase of my reading career has definitely taken me on an enjoyable path .... and I definitely enjoyed reading Learning the Ropes by T.J. Kline.
Let me introduce you to Chris Thomas ... Rodeo star, hot cowboy, ladies dream, the guy that everyone women fantasizes over ... but you know it won't lead anywhere but trouble. In walks, beautiful, stunning girl next door ... meet Alicia Kanani best friend of Chris Thomas' little sister ... but then a connection happens and poof .. chemistry ...
However, when everything you worked so hard for can be lost in a minute if you lose focus - is it worth it ... for some it may not be ... so Chris decides to introduce Alicia to his best friend David. The two instantly hit it off and form a friendship that leaves Chris a little green with envy. However, the chemistry and connection bwetween Alicia and Chris cannot be looked over. If you love books with a bit of a love triangle - Learning the Ropes is definitely for you.
It has all the fixings of a good drama/romance novel - romance, hot cowboys, evil vixens, a love triangle and a happy ending ... or does it ...
I definitely recommend Learning the Ropes for anyone who loves country and western, romance and just a plain old good book. You definitely should be adding Learning the Ropes to your To-Be-Read-Shelf.
Let me introduce you to Chris Thomas ... Rodeo star, hot cowboy, ladies dream, the guy that everyone women fantasizes over ... but you know it won't lead anywhere but trouble. In walks, beautiful, stunning girl next door ... meet Alicia Kanani best friend of Chris Thomas' little sister ... but then a connection happens and poof .. chemistry ...
However, when everything you worked so hard for can be lost in a minute if you lose focus - is it worth it ... for some it may not be ... so Chris decides to introduce Alicia to his best friend David. The two instantly hit it off and form a friendship that leaves Chris a little green with envy. However, the chemistry and connection bwetween Alicia and Chris cannot be looked over. If you love books with a bit of a love triangle - Learning the Ropes is definitely for you.
It has all the fixings of a good drama/romance novel - romance, hot cowboys, evil vixens, a love triangle and a happy ending ... or does it ...
I definitely recommend Learning the Ropes for anyone who loves country and western, romance and just a plain old good book. You definitely should be adding Learning the Ropes to your To-Be-Read-Shelf.
November 12, 2014
I always enjoy a good friends to lovers story-line, it's one of my favorites, but this book, I loved it! There was so much depth to this book I wasn't really sure where it would end up.
Chris introducing Alicia to David but, wanting her for himself. David falling for Alicia. The double betrayal of Chris and Alicia to David! The lack of communication between them all! Would there be an HEA? I wasn't so sure.That is what kept me hanging on, I needed to find out how it all ended. It was another one of those long nights of reading because I just couldn't put it down.
Chris introducing Alicia to David but, wanting her for himself. David falling for Alicia. The double betrayal of Chris and Alicia to David! The lack of communication between them all! Would there be an HEA? I wasn't so sure.That is what kept me hanging on, I needed to find out how it all ended. It was another one of those long nights of reading because I just couldn't put it down.
October 8, 2014
~~~RECEIVED FOR HONEST REVIEW~~~
LOVE IT!! LOVE IT!!! LOVE IT!!! Can Alicia put her feeling aside to keep her head in the run? Or will Chris get to her completely? A great read right her, but you will have to get your own copy to get what all those who have read it are saying!
LOVE IT!! LOVE IT!!! LOVE IT!!! Can Alicia put her feeling aside to keep her head in the run? Or will Chris get to her completely? A great read right her, but you will have to get your own copy to get what all those who have read it are saying!
March 6, 2015
Rumors
Poor Chris.Kinda hard to live down rumors that you didn't care about til now.When u decide the one person u want believes them all. And you know they are not true. You some how have to make her see the truth.
Poor Chris.Kinda hard to live down rumors that you didn't care about til now.When u decide the one person u want believes them all. And you know they are not true. You some how have to make her see the truth.
December 18, 2014
Why can't I
Such a great story makes me yearn for the romancing of a cowboy. I want to know what happens with David and summer thought
Such a great story makes me yearn for the romancing of a cowboy. I want to know what happens with David and summer thought
July 27, 2015
picked this up at library. Wasn't familiar with author, but main character was Alicia so I got it
Read
September 10, 2015I gave this book my best shot, but after reading the first 30%, I just couldn't bring myself to care about the characters.
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