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The Midnight Gang #1
Adversity
A gunslinger. A gambler. And the girl they stole.
After the murder of her father, Cora runs away into the unforgiving Old West, determined to hunt down those responsible. But a suspicious small town in the Arizona Territory offers little mercy to a young woman alone.
In a twist of fate, she’s rescued by Aiden and Cypress—two outlaws as enigmatic as they are deadly. Their bond forged by trust, loyalty, and temptation that simmers just beneath the surface. As they help Cora navigate the untamed world they call home, she soon finds they have far more to teach her than just simple survival.
With trouble on their heels and her heart pulled in unexpected directions, Cora must choose between returning to the perceived safety of what she knows or finding an entirely new place in the dangerous life they already share.
Adversity is a fast-paced, frontier romance where justice comes at a cost—and love doesn’t always come in pairs.
After the murder of her father, Cora runs away into the unforgiving Old West, determined to hunt down those responsible. But a suspicious small town in the Arizona Territory offers little mercy to a young woman alone.
In a twist of fate, she’s rescued by Aiden and Cypress—two outlaws as enigmatic as they are deadly. Their bond forged by trust, loyalty, and temptation that simmers just beneath the surface. As they help Cora navigate the untamed world they call home, she soon finds they have far more to teach her than just simple survival.
With trouble on their heels and her heart pulled in unexpected directions, Cora must choose between returning to the perceived safety of what she knows or finding an entirely new place in the dangerous life they already share.
Adversity is a fast-paced, frontier romance where justice comes at a cost—and love doesn’t always come in pairs.
371 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 26, 2025
241 people are currently reading
1336 people want to read
About the author
Ren Browne
3 books105 followersRen Browne is a lifelong romantic, cowboy enthusiast, and rumored woodland spirit. When not reading or writing, she can be found spending time with her husband, who is the living embodiment of Ron Swanson, their two outdoor-loving children, their silly dog, and a growing flock of chickens.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 232 reviews
August 26, 2025
this book was SO fun 😩
as soon as this book started being marketed i knew that i was going to eat it up, wild west, mmf, age gap??? uhhh yeah 🙂↕️
i have yet to read an mmf where all three of them blend and fit together so seamlessly until now. it felt extremely effortless bringing cora into the relationship and the chemistry between all three of them was something else, they had me giggling and twirling my hair 99% of the time 🤭
i loved the amount of depth this book had, the world building was incredible and so well done that you could viscerally picture the settings and characters. cora had INSANE amounts of growth through out the story. while the relationship was fun and spicy there was also a lot of intimacy and vulnerability.
the only issue i really found with this book was how slow it could feel at times, it wasnt often but when it did happen it was extremely noticeable and difficult to to push through.
i have all ten fingers and toes crossed that there will be an audio version of this book available one of these days bc WHEW the things i would do to see these three brought to life 🙂↕️😮💨
as soon as this book started being marketed i knew that i was going to eat it up, wild west, mmf, age gap??? uhhh yeah 🙂↕️
i have yet to read an mmf where all three of them blend and fit together so seamlessly until now. it felt extremely effortless bringing cora into the relationship and the chemistry between all three of them was something else, they had me giggling and twirling my hair 99% of the time 🤭
i loved the amount of depth this book had, the world building was incredible and so well done that you could viscerally picture the settings and characters. cora had INSANE amounts of growth through out the story. while the relationship was fun and spicy there was also a lot of intimacy and vulnerability.
the only issue i really found with this book was how slow it could feel at times, it wasnt often but when it did happen it was extremely noticeable and difficult to to push through.
i have all ten fingers and toes crossed that there will be an audio version of this book available one of these days bc WHEW the things i would do to see these three brought to life 🙂↕️😮💨
August 20, 2025
A gunslinger. A gambler. And the girl they stole.
Why choose & Wild West?? LIKE HELLO?? This was made for me 😂 I NEED MORE!! 😩
“Oh, little bird, I can speak from personal experience that you’re a very effective siren’s call.”
Aiden & Cypress are so hot & they could def swindle me right outta my clothes. And I loved Cora!! She's feisty, resilient, and fits in perfectly with these two.
& did I mention the boyfriends are boyfriends??? 🫠 HOT DIGGITY DOG!! (in my best Negan voice)
What to expect:
💚 MMF poly cowboy romance
🧡 Morally grey MMCs
💚 Chase scene 👀
🧡 Age gap
💚 Set in the old West
Release Date: August 26, 2025
Thank you @lunaliterary.management & @renbrownewrites for the eARC 🫶
Why choose & Wild West?? LIKE HELLO?? This was made for me 😂 I NEED MORE!! 😩
“Oh, little bird, I can speak from personal experience that you’re a very effective siren’s call.”
Aiden & Cypress are so hot & they could def swindle me right outta my clothes. And I loved Cora!! She's feisty, resilient, and fits in perfectly with these two.
& did I mention the boyfriends are boyfriends??? 🫠 HOT DIGGITY DOG!! (in my best Negan voice)
What to expect:
💚 MMF poly cowboy romance
🧡 Morally grey MMCs
💚 Chase scene 👀
🧡 Age gap
💚 Set in the old West
Release Date: August 26, 2025
Thank you @lunaliterary.management & @renbrownewrites for the eARC 🫶
October 1, 2025
This was such a great slow burn polyamorous (MMF) historical western romance. I could read 100 more pages about Aiden, Cypress, and Cora. Their dynamic was sweet, sultry, and overall entertaining.
EDIT: Ren confirmed the trio will return in Providence (April 2026 release). Yay!!!
EDIT: Ren confirmed the trio will return in Providence (April 2026 release). Yay!!!
August 14, 2025
If you’re craving a romance that kicks up the heat and doesn’t let go, Adversity is your next obsession. Ren Browne delivers a scorching MMF cowboy romance that’s equal parts grit, heart, and heat, all set against the raw beauty and brutality of the Wild West.
Cora is everything you want in a frontier heroine: feisty, stubborn, and resilient to the bone. Her quest to find her father’s killer is the driving force, but what she finds along the way, Aiden & Cypress, is what makes this story unforgettable.
Cypress is the wild card, the chaos incarnate with a grin that spells trouble. He’s magnetic, unpredictable, and impossible not to fall for. Aiden is the steady flame, he is loyal, principled, and quietly intense. He’s the grounding force for this trio. Both men have hardened pasts that have led them down this path.
Together with Cora, they form a triad that’s as emotionally rich as it is physically explosive. The chemistry between the three? Off the charts. The tension? Deliciously unbearable. The spice? Let’s just say the prairie isn’t the only thing that’s hot.
What sets Adversity apart is its immersive pacing and vivid setting. You’re not just reading about frontier life, you’re living it. From saloons to standoffs, Browne paints the era with dust and desire. And beneath the romance, there’s a deeper thread of survival, healing, and learning to trust in the most unlikely places.
As they journey deeper into the frontier, danger lurks at every turn. They encounter bandits, betrayals, and secrets that could shatter everything. The suspense builds like a thunderstorm on the horizon, keeping you on edge while the romance burns hotter with every page.
This isn’t just a love story, it’s a reckoning. Cora doesn’t just find love; she finds strength, purpose, and two men who teach her how to fight for more than vengeance.
If you love angsty, character-driven romance with high stakes and higher heat, Adversity will leave you breathless and begging for more. Saddle up because you’re in for a wild ride.
A huge thank you to Ren Browne and Luna Literary for the early copy! I devoured this book in one sitting; it was an unforgettable journey!
Cora is everything you want in a frontier heroine: feisty, stubborn, and resilient to the bone. Her quest to find her father’s killer is the driving force, but what she finds along the way, Aiden & Cypress, is what makes this story unforgettable.
Cypress is the wild card, the chaos incarnate with a grin that spells trouble. He’s magnetic, unpredictable, and impossible not to fall for. Aiden is the steady flame, he is loyal, principled, and quietly intense. He’s the grounding force for this trio. Both men have hardened pasts that have led them down this path.
Together with Cora, they form a triad that’s as emotionally rich as it is physically explosive. The chemistry between the three? Off the charts. The tension? Deliciously unbearable. The spice? Let’s just say the prairie isn’t the only thing that’s hot.
What sets Adversity apart is its immersive pacing and vivid setting. You’re not just reading about frontier life, you’re living it. From saloons to standoffs, Browne paints the era with dust and desire. And beneath the romance, there’s a deeper thread of survival, healing, and learning to trust in the most unlikely places.
As they journey deeper into the frontier, danger lurks at every turn. They encounter bandits, betrayals, and secrets that could shatter everything. The suspense builds like a thunderstorm on the horizon, keeping you on edge while the romance burns hotter with every page.
This isn’t just a love story, it’s a reckoning. Cora doesn’t just find love; she finds strength, purpose, and two men who teach her how to fight for more than vengeance.
If you love angsty, character-driven romance with high stakes and higher heat, Adversity will leave you breathless and begging for more. Saddle up because you’re in for a wild ride.
A huge thank you to Ren Browne and Luna Literary for the early copy! I devoured this book in one sitting; it was an unforgettable journey!
August 27, 2025
Well, we're two for two on Ren Browne because I absolutely loved ADVERSITY! After Cora is abandoned by her remaining family she tries to make a go of it in the harsh Old West and find her father's killer but when she meets gambler Cypress and gunslinger Aiden her whole world changes. I loved the wild west setting for this one, from the dusty plains, to the horses, to the sexy cowboys, to the life as outlaws. I felt like I was right there with our MCs as they traveled around from town to town; Browne has such a rich way of writing her books that feels completely immersive and engaging.
What truly made this book so enjoyable was the characters and their relationship; each character was well developed and a delight to read about. Cora was sheltered and not used to the hard realities of life but she adapted quickly and never backed down from her convictions. She was sweet but not soft and I loved her development from slightly mousy to outlaw. Aiden was definitely the protector of the group and he often carried the weight of the world on his stoic shoulders, but when Cypress would flirt with him you could see how light Aiden would get. And I hate to choose favorites but there was just something about the lovable chaos that was Cypress; he was charming and irreverent and definitely the sunshine of the group. I adored how everyone protected each other, both physically and emotionally and the banter in the group was top notch.
When I say this is how you write an MMF romance, I truly mean it because we got equal weight for all the different combinations and the men's relationship with each other was given just as much attention, affection, and intimacy as their relationship with Cora (something that I often find lacking in other why choose books with MM). Cora, Aiden, and Cypress were plenty spicy together, but their relationship also felt deeply heartfelt and real and I was swept up in every moment. I would read 100 books about these three just so I would stay in their world.
Content Warning: recent death of a parent and neglect by another parent; brief mention of past torture and captivity; attempted assault (not from MMCs)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
“You ask a lot of questions.”
“You answer very few.”
- - - - -
“I’d choose you every time. I’d follow you every time. No matter where the road leads.”
- - - - -
“You fall in love with a sinner and there’s two ways it can go, little bird. You either raise them to salvation or you join them in damnation.”
- - - - -
“What is my name? It’s Cora. Please, tell the devil who sent you.”
What truly made this book so enjoyable was the characters and their relationship; each character was well developed and a delight to read about. Cora was sheltered and not used to the hard realities of life but she adapted quickly and never backed down from her convictions. She was sweet but not soft and I loved her development from slightly mousy to outlaw. Aiden was definitely the protector of the group and he often carried the weight of the world on his stoic shoulders, but when Cypress would flirt with him you could see how light Aiden would get. And I hate to choose favorites but there was just something about the lovable chaos that was Cypress; he was charming and irreverent and definitely the sunshine of the group. I adored how everyone protected each other, both physically and emotionally and the banter in the group was top notch.
When I say this is how you write an MMF romance, I truly mean it because we got equal weight for all the different combinations and the men's relationship with each other was given just as much attention, affection, and intimacy as their relationship with Cora (something that I often find lacking in other why choose books with MM). Cora, Aiden, and Cypress were plenty spicy together, but their relationship also felt deeply heartfelt and real and I was swept up in every moment. I would read 100 books about these three just so I would stay in their world.
Content Warning: recent death of a parent and neglect by another parent; brief mention of past torture and captivity; attempted assault (not from MMCs)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
“You ask a lot of questions.”
“You answer very few.”
- - - - -
“I’d choose you every time. I’d follow you every time. No matter where the road leads.”
- - - - -
“You fall in love with a sinner and there’s two ways it can go, little bird. You either raise them to salvation or you join them in damnation.”
- - - - -
“What is my name? It’s Cora. Please, tell the devil who sent you.”
December 4, 2025
A genuine wild west romance with a gunslinger, a gambler and the sassy girl they stole 🤠🙌🏾
The why choose was absolutely why choosing and these men were possessive morally grey beasts with dark pasts 🤌🏽
This isn’t your normal cowboy romance you see all over socials, this has saloons, stand offs and bounty hunters. I ATE THIS UP!
The why choose was absolutely why choosing and these men were possessive morally grey beasts with dark pasts 🤌🏽
This isn’t your normal cowboy romance you see all over socials, this has saloons, stand offs and bounty hunters. I ATE THIS UP!
September 26, 2025
"i'd choose you every time. i'd follow you every time. no matter where the road leads.” ── .✦
fuuuuuuuck this was so good! i saw a picture of some fanart for it on instagram and it immediately snagged my attention, and given that my last read was a western-adjacent fail, i was hoping this western romance would be a hit.
and god, was it ever! i was hooked from the first chapter, loving cora as our main protagonist and seeing her interact with cypress and aiden. her character development and overall journey throughout this book was phenomenally done, and i really enjoyed every moment of it. cypress and aiden are the men of my Dreams, and i've truthfully never been a fan of poly romances in books (nothing wrong with it, just not my cup of tea!) but damn.
this book makes me want two boyfriends who are also boyfriends. the amount of love!! ugh. their whole relationship was truly just so good. had me blushing and kicking my feet and feeling all types of giddy throughout the book.
sooo happy that i picked this up! i can immediately see it become a yearly reread type of book; it's just too much fun to not experience again and again and again. will be getting a physical copy asap!!
cawpile system┊characters 10/10, atmosphere/setting 8/10, writing 8/10, plot 9/10, intrigue 9/10, logic/relationships 9/10, enjoyment 10/10 ⊹₊⟡⋆
fuuuuuuuck this was so good! i saw a picture of some fanart for it on instagram and it immediately snagged my attention, and given that my last read was a western-adjacent fail, i was hoping this western romance would be a hit.
and god, was it ever! i was hooked from the first chapter, loving cora as our main protagonist and seeing her interact with cypress and aiden. her character development and overall journey throughout this book was phenomenally done, and i really enjoyed every moment of it. cypress and aiden are the men of my Dreams, and i've truthfully never been a fan of poly romances in books (nothing wrong with it, just not my cup of tea!) but damn.
this book makes me want two boyfriends who are also boyfriends. the amount of love!! ugh. their whole relationship was truly just so good. had me blushing and kicking my feet and feeling all types of giddy throughout the book.
sooo happy that i picked this up! i can immediately see it become a yearly reread type of book; it's just too much fun to not experience again and again and again. will be getting a physical copy asap!!
cawpile system┊characters 10/10, atmosphere/setting 8/10, writing 8/10, plot 9/10, intrigue 9/10, logic/relationships 9/10, enjoyment 10/10 ⊹₊⟡⋆
dnf
October 13, 2025DNF @ 21%
this had a lot of potential — wild wild west, down-on-her-luck FMC with a score to settle, and TWO (!! why choose !!) hot MMCs who swoop in to save the day. i unfortunately was not vibing with the FMCs complete lack of a compelling personality besides damsel in distress.
this had a lot of potential — wild wild west, down-on-her-luck FMC with a score to settle, and TWO (!! why choose !!) hot MMCs who swoop in to save the day. i unfortunately was not vibing with the FMCs complete lack of a compelling personality besides damsel in distress.
October 2, 2025
4.25/5⭐️
i love finding hidden ku gems
i love finding hidden ku gems
August 15, 2025
I enjoyed this book a lot! I loved the western theme and the story line. I did get lost for a second in the story in between, but everything came together and wrapped up nicely with a little twist. Recommend!
November 20, 2025
3.5 stars
Saddle up for a wild ride—this MMF western romance is equal parts sass, six-shooters, and sparks!
From the very first page, I was hooked by the promise of a gunslinger, a gambler, and all the wild west drama I could hope for. Honestly, it felt like stepping right into one of those classic western movies—except with a fresh, fun spin thanks to Ren’s creative touch! The banter between the characters is so lively and genuine that I found myself grinning (and sometimes laughing out loud) as I got to know this trio and watched sparks fly between them out on the dusty frontier.
Ren absolutely nails the old west vibe—I swear I could hear saloon doors swinging and cowboy boots stomping as I flipped through the pages. If I’m being picky, I would have loved to learn a bit more about Cy and Adrian’s pasts (I’m nosy, what can I say?), and the romance did move a bit quicker than I expected. But honestly? I was having way too much fun to mind.
So if you’re in the mood for something playful, romantic, and just a little bit wild, this book should definitely be on your list. Grab your hat and get ready for a good time!
Saddle up for a wild ride—this MMF western romance is equal parts sass, six-shooters, and sparks!
From the very first page, I was hooked by the promise of a gunslinger, a gambler, and all the wild west drama I could hope for. Honestly, it felt like stepping right into one of those classic western movies—except with a fresh, fun spin thanks to Ren’s creative touch! The banter between the characters is so lively and genuine that I found myself grinning (and sometimes laughing out loud) as I got to know this trio and watched sparks fly between them out on the dusty frontier.
Ren absolutely nails the old west vibe—I swear I could hear saloon doors swinging and cowboy boots stomping as I flipped through the pages. If I’m being picky, I would have loved to learn a bit more about Cy and Adrian’s pasts (I’m nosy, what can I say?), and the romance did move a bit quicker than I expected. But honestly? I was having way too much fun to mind.
So if you’re in the mood for something playful, romantic, and just a little bit wild, this book should definitely be on your list. Grab your hat and get ready for a good time!
September 9, 2025
“No matter where the road leads.”
A gunslinger & a gambler walk into town where things get interesting...
I really like ADVERSITY. I don't shy away from RH/MMF so I was very excited to head to the wild West where our FMC Cora (23), who's down on her luck just trying to survive & find the man who killed her father meets Aiden our gunslinger and Cypress the gambler. Sparks & bullets go flying while these three try to outwit the bad guys while navigating the heat and chemistry between them. The author did a good job of Cora weaving seamlessly into a relationship with Aiden & Cypress which has been established for many years. There was no awkwardness or jealously. She was the piece that completed their family. The characters were easy to fall for, the writing kept me engaged and I loved the backdrop of the Old West.
Memorable Quotes
Cypress’s job is to win. Aiden’s job is to make sure they don’t lose.
“Are you angry?” I ask him, even though I think I already know the answer. “Wrong emotion,” he confirms, smiling wryly.
More than I could have ever hoped, she has clicked so neatly into our lives, into what Aiden and I have together. Finding her place as if it has always been saved for her.
“You are not wrong to want who you want. You were meant to want us both, just as Aiden and I were both meant to want you in return.”
With her, just as it’s always been with Aiden, it’ll never be enough.
“Because in this lifetime and in any that follow, I would wager everything I own on them, including my last breath.” I smile. “Including yours.”
A gunslinger & a gambler walk into town where things get interesting...
I really like ADVERSITY. I don't shy away from RH/MMF so I was very excited to head to the wild West where our FMC Cora (23), who's down on her luck just trying to survive & find the man who killed her father meets Aiden our gunslinger and Cypress the gambler. Sparks & bullets go flying while these three try to outwit the bad guys while navigating the heat and chemistry between them. The author did a good job of Cora weaving seamlessly into a relationship with Aiden & Cypress which has been established for many years. There was no awkwardness or jealously. She was the piece that completed their family. The characters were easy to fall for, the writing kept me engaged and I loved the backdrop of the Old West.
Memorable Quotes
Cypress’s job is to win. Aiden’s job is to make sure they don’t lose.
“Are you angry?” I ask him, even though I think I already know the answer. “Wrong emotion,” he confirms, smiling wryly.
More than I could have ever hoped, she has clicked so neatly into our lives, into what Aiden and I have together. Finding her place as if it has always been saved for her.
“You are not wrong to want who you want. You were meant to want us both, just as Aiden and I were both meant to want you in return.”
With her, just as it’s always been with Aiden, it’ll never be enough.
“Because in this lifetime and in any that follow, I would wager everything I own on them, including my last breath.” I smile. “Including yours.”
September 11, 2025
“More than I could have ever hoped, she has clicked so neatly into our lives, into what Aiden and I have together. Finding her place as if it has always been saved for her.”
Wild West but make it a why choose, yes please! This book was so fun and different, I really enjoyed it!
After Cora’s father is murdered, the sheriff refuses to help her leaving her to find out who did it. She finds herself with no where to go, sleeping in stables and trying to find work. She meets Aiden and Cypress, when she finds herself in a bit of trouble they rescue her and leave town. Aiden and Cypress have agreed to help Cora find her dad’s killer, they teach her many other things along the way.
This book was a lot of fun, different from my usual reads in the best way. I enjoyed the characters, the high stakes, seeing Cora find herself. This was an enjoyable read, I definitely recommend!
Thank you Ren Browne and Luna Literary for the ARC!
Wild West but make it a why choose, yes please! This book was so fun and different, I really enjoyed it!
After Cora’s father is murdered, the sheriff refuses to help her leaving her to find out who did it. She finds herself with no where to go, sleeping in stables and trying to find work. She meets Aiden and Cypress, when she finds herself in a bit of trouble they rescue her and leave town. Aiden and Cypress have agreed to help Cora find her dad’s killer, they teach her many other things along the way.
This book was a lot of fun, different from my usual reads in the best way. I enjoyed the characters, the high stakes, seeing Cora find herself. This was an enjoyable read, I definitely recommend!
Thank you Ren Browne and Luna Literary for the ARC!
October 26, 2025
Baby’s first MMF!
THE PREMISE: Alone and trying to find her father’s killer, Cora ends up on the run with two outlaws who adore her, and each other.
TROPES & VIBES:
- Historical western MMF where the two (grumpy x sunshine) cowboys are boyfriends
- I love Cypress so much it’s ungodly. He’s so funny and the banter is peak
- Age gap where they *teach* her
- “eyesonme”, “sweetheart” and “baby”
- Reverse “Who did this to you?” where she says it
- Green flag style why-choose with protective, adoring cowboys
IF YOU LIKE: cowboy romance x The Beasts of the Briar / Lily Gold why-choose energy
4.25⭐️ 3🌶️ (I think there’ll be more - ah - “group activities”, in the next book)
For a paid partnership for TikTok. Honest review
THE PREMISE: Alone and trying to find her father’s killer, Cora ends up on the run with two outlaws who adore her, and each other.
TROPES & VIBES:
- Historical western MMF where the two (grumpy x sunshine) cowboys are boyfriends
- I love Cypress so much it’s ungodly. He’s so funny and the banter is peak
- Age gap where they *teach* her
- “eyesonme”, “sweetheart” and “baby”
- Reverse “Who did this to you?” where she says it
- Green flag style why-choose with protective, adoring cowboys
IF YOU LIKE: cowboy romance x The Beasts of the Briar / Lily Gold why-choose energy
4.25⭐️ 3🌶️ (I think there’ll be more - ah - “group activities”, in the next book)
For a paid partnership for TikTok. Honest review
October 21, 2025
This was so much fun! Great characters with interesting backstories and an adorable romance! Can’t wait to see what else this author has in store (if Cypress doesn’t steal it first).
September 13, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
this was a fun read!
the old west setting was really interesting, and i’ve never read a book that was set in the old west before, so it was really cool to see that come to life.
my favourite part of the book was the relationship between the mmcs. they felt very natural and their relationship flowed really well, not to mention their tension and attraction toward each other? swoon.
i do wish the way they came across cora was more smooth and fleshed out, it felt a little plain and random to me, but i really enjoyed them all together nonetheless.
thank you to luna literary management and the author for the e-arc! 🌙
𐚁 age gap
𐚁 touch her and die
𐚁 set in the old west
𐚁 morally grey mmcs
𐚁 “who did this to you?”
this was a fun read!
the old west setting was really interesting, and i’ve never read a book that was set in the old west before, so it was really cool to see that come to life.
my favourite part of the book was the relationship between the mmcs. they felt very natural and their relationship flowed really well, not to mention their tension and attraction toward each other? swoon.
i do wish the way they came across cora was more smooth and fleshed out, it felt a little plain and random to me, but i really enjoyed them all together nonetheless.
thank you to luna literary management and the author for the e-arc! 🌙
𐚁 age gap
𐚁 touch her and die
𐚁 set in the old west
𐚁 morally grey mmcs
𐚁 “who did this to you?”
August 26, 2025
ARC Review
I was super excited when I came across this book and was beyond the moon when I got approved for its ARC. I spent an unhealthy amount of hours playing Red Dead Redemption 2, so my excitement for this story was waaay up there. Plus, it’s a why choose MMF romance? Count me all the way in!
Now, what I like best about this book is Cypress and Aiden’s relationship. It’s built on trust and compromise. I also like the Western aspects mentioned in the book, like the saloon, bounty hunters, and settler towns. I just wanted more. Aside from the mentions of these Western staples, everything else suffers from white wall syndrome. There’s a lack of description of the towns, the terrain, and even their camping grounds.
Plus, I have no idea which horse pulls the wagon! It’s all very vague. At one point, Aiden was cleaning Cora’s father’s gun, and I wished the author had described the smell of the gun oil and mentioned what makes the gun unique. Otherwise, it’s no different than any other gun mentioned in the story.
I also wish the relationship had been developed more. It felt like the two men just saw Cora, and they’re instantly protective of her and in love. I just don’t get why I have an attraction towards Cora.
The end was pretty fun, though. Despite my gripes with the world-building and the characters, the plot was enjoyable to read.
I was super excited when I came across this book and was beyond the moon when I got approved for its ARC. I spent an unhealthy amount of hours playing Red Dead Redemption 2, so my excitement for this story was waaay up there. Plus, it’s a why choose MMF romance? Count me all the way in!
Now, what I like best about this book is Cypress and Aiden’s relationship. It’s built on trust and compromise. I also like the Western aspects mentioned in the book, like the saloon, bounty hunters, and settler towns. I just wanted more. Aside from the mentions of these Western staples, everything else suffers from white wall syndrome. There’s a lack of description of the towns, the terrain, and even their camping grounds.
Plus, I have no idea which horse pulls the wagon! It’s all very vague. At one point, Aiden was cleaning Cora’s father’s gun, and I wished the author had described the smell of the gun oil and mentioned what makes the gun unique. Otherwise, it’s no different than any other gun mentioned in the story.
I also wish the relationship had been developed more. It felt like the two men just saw Cora, and they’re instantly protective of her and in love. I just don’t get why I have an attraction towards Cora.
The end was pretty fun, though. Despite my gripes with the world-building and the characters, the plot was enjoyable to read.
August 21, 2025
“Adversity” by Ren Browne
5⭐️/5⭐️
3🌶/5🌶
“You are not wrong to want who you want. You were meant to want us both, just as Aiden and I were both meant to want you in return.”
Why is it the books you love the most that are the hardest to review? I had the opportunity to read an early draft of “Adversity” back in May, and promptly devoured it. I’m talking, “do-not-interrupt-me-I-NEED-to-know-what-happens-next”, totally spellbound by Cora, Aiden, and Cypress’ story. I knew I wanted to reread it again this year, so when ARCs were sent out, I used that as an excuse to revisit the story. My goodness, this truly is one of my favorite reads of 2025, and honestly, one of my favorite romance books of all time as well.
Cora is a young woman focused entirely on bringing justice to her father’s death. Abandoned by her remaining family, she builds a life for herself in the hopes of raising enough money to hire a bounty hunter. As she’s working towards her goal, she meets two men who will change her life: Cypress and Aiden. Cypress, a smooth-talking enigma dressed in all black, and Aiden, a stoic and gruff man who will protect those he loves until his dying breath. Cora is naïve to so much of what the world has to offer, but she knows one thing for certain, she can’t stay away from these two men, and the men can’t imagine life without her.
I am obsessed with the dynamic between these three characters. You have Cypress, a card shark who enjoys watching bad men throw away their life’s earnings by underestimating him. Then you have Aiden, who has been through so much pain in life, and is constantly thinking less of himself. But the love he has for Cypress keeps him going, it’s the shining beacon in a sea of misery. Finally, Cora, who has some religious trauma to unpack as she figures out not only does she love one of them men, she loves both, and she wants to be with both of them in a relationship.
The way the story unfolds is such a pleasure, learning about the characters, their backstories, their motivations, etc. The western landscape described is so vivid, I could easily picture every scene as it was playing out on page.
But I think what I enjoyed the most in this book was the way everyone complimented each other. When everyone was able to let their guards down and expose their faults and weaknesses to one another, that’s when the relationship really deepened into something permanent. Those are the romances I love to read about the most, when there’s a sense of destiny to the relationship; these people were always meant to find each other and love each other.
It goes without saying, but I’ll say it again: I highly recommend this book! If you love western romances, historical romances, cowboy romances, why choose romances; you will especially enjoy this book. But truly, I think everyone should read it. Ren Browne is so talented, I think whatever she writes is absolute gold.
5⭐️/5⭐️
3🌶/5🌶
“You are not wrong to want who you want. You were meant to want us both, just as Aiden and I were both meant to want you in return.”
Why is it the books you love the most that are the hardest to review? I had the opportunity to read an early draft of “Adversity” back in May, and promptly devoured it. I’m talking, “do-not-interrupt-me-I-NEED-to-know-what-happens-next”, totally spellbound by Cora, Aiden, and Cypress’ story. I knew I wanted to reread it again this year, so when ARCs were sent out, I used that as an excuse to revisit the story. My goodness, this truly is one of my favorite reads of 2025, and honestly, one of my favorite romance books of all time as well.
Cora is a young woman focused entirely on bringing justice to her father’s death. Abandoned by her remaining family, she builds a life for herself in the hopes of raising enough money to hire a bounty hunter. As she’s working towards her goal, she meets two men who will change her life: Cypress and Aiden. Cypress, a smooth-talking enigma dressed in all black, and Aiden, a stoic and gruff man who will protect those he loves until his dying breath. Cora is naïve to so much of what the world has to offer, but she knows one thing for certain, she can’t stay away from these two men, and the men can’t imagine life without her.
I am obsessed with the dynamic between these three characters. You have Cypress, a card shark who enjoys watching bad men throw away their life’s earnings by underestimating him. Then you have Aiden, who has been through so much pain in life, and is constantly thinking less of himself. But the love he has for Cypress keeps him going, it’s the shining beacon in a sea of misery. Finally, Cora, who has some religious trauma to unpack as she figures out not only does she love one of them men, she loves both, and she wants to be with both of them in a relationship.
The way the story unfolds is such a pleasure, learning about the characters, their backstories, their motivations, etc. The western landscape described is so vivid, I could easily picture every scene as it was playing out on page.
But I think what I enjoyed the most in this book was the way everyone complimented each other. When everyone was able to let their guards down and expose their faults and weaknesses to one another, that’s when the relationship really deepened into something permanent. Those are the romances I love to read about the most, when there’s a sense of destiny to the relationship; these people were always meant to find each other and love each other.
It goes without saying, but I’ll say it again: I highly recommend this book! If you love western romances, historical romances, cowboy romances, why choose romances; you will especially enjoy this book. But truly, I think everyone should read it. Ren Browne is so talented, I think whatever she writes is absolute gold.
August 26, 2025
4.5
This book felt like a bit of a gamble for me, not because of its Wild West setting, but because of the relationship dynamics it explored. I’ve never been particularly drawn to MMF dynamics, but something about this story had an irresistible pull. So, I took the plunge. The result? Not only did I get swept up in a beautifully told tale, but I also found myself utterly smitten with its cast of characters; Cypress, in particular, has my heart now and forever.
The story is devoured quickly, thanks to its smooth and concise writing style. But don’t mistake brevity for a lack of substance. This novel delivers everything you’d expect from a Wild West adventure: action-packed moments, nerve-wracking suspense, and intricate intrigue, all intensified by the fiery tension simmering between its three main characters. Let me tell you: it’s a ride worth taking.
At the center of it all is Cora, a protagonist whose journey I genuinely loved. She starts as a young woman adrift, driven by one burning desire: avenging her father. With nothing and no one in her corner, her future feels bleak. But then Cypress and Aiden come crashing into her world, and everything changes. Through them, she not only learns new skills but also evolves into a stronger, more self-assured version of herself. Watching her grow, not just as a survivor but as a person rediscovering her own worth and desires, was deeply satisfying. That said, I did find myself gnashing my teeth during one of her decisions (yes, I’m talking about *that* escape). It was frustrating in the moment, but I can admit it added layers to her character, and yes, I’ve mostly forgiven her.
Now let’s talk cowboys, shall we? These two men are as distinct as they come, yet both are endlessly captivating. Aiden initially caught my eye with his steady and grounded presence, but then there’s Cypress. Oh, Cypress! His humor, charm, and magnetic energy completely swept me off my feet. His role as the glue holding this trio together made him utterly irresistible. Honestly, without him, the dynamic would never have worked nearly as well. To say I loved him is an understatement.
If I had to point out why this wasn’t an automatic five-star read for me, I’d have to mention some narrative hiccups closer to the middle or end. Around this point, the storytelling became a touch scattered, like gazing through a hazy bubble that blurred certain details. It wasn’t bad per se (and some readers might even relish those indulgent moments), but it felt like the plot temporarily lost its edge.
That minor critique aside, this book is absolutely worth reading. Whether it’s for the pulse-pounding action, the unforgettable characters who’ll waltz right into your heart (cowboy boots and all), or the steamy scenes, this story is meant to be devoured—and trust me, you won’t regret it.
Big thanks to Luna Literary Management and Ren Browne for the eARC
This book felt like a bit of a gamble for me, not because of its Wild West setting, but because of the relationship dynamics it explored. I’ve never been particularly drawn to MMF dynamics, but something about this story had an irresistible pull. So, I took the plunge. The result? Not only did I get swept up in a beautifully told tale, but I also found myself utterly smitten with its cast of characters; Cypress, in particular, has my heart now and forever.
The story is devoured quickly, thanks to its smooth and concise writing style. But don’t mistake brevity for a lack of substance. This novel delivers everything you’d expect from a Wild West adventure: action-packed moments, nerve-wracking suspense, and intricate intrigue, all intensified by the fiery tension simmering between its three main characters. Let me tell you: it’s a ride worth taking.
At the center of it all is Cora, a protagonist whose journey I genuinely loved. She starts as a young woman adrift, driven by one burning desire: avenging her father. With nothing and no one in her corner, her future feels bleak. But then Cypress and Aiden come crashing into her world, and everything changes. Through them, she not only learns new skills but also evolves into a stronger, more self-assured version of herself. Watching her grow, not just as a survivor but as a person rediscovering her own worth and desires, was deeply satisfying. That said, I did find myself gnashing my teeth during one of her decisions (yes, I’m talking about *that* escape). It was frustrating in the moment, but I can admit it added layers to her character, and yes, I’ve mostly forgiven her.
Now let’s talk cowboys, shall we? These two men are as distinct as they come, yet both are endlessly captivating. Aiden initially caught my eye with his steady and grounded presence, but then there’s Cypress. Oh, Cypress! His humor, charm, and magnetic energy completely swept me off my feet. His role as the glue holding this trio together made him utterly irresistible. Honestly, without him, the dynamic would never have worked nearly as well. To say I loved him is an understatement.
If I had to point out why this wasn’t an automatic five-star read for me, I’d have to mention some narrative hiccups closer to the middle or end. Around this point, the storytelling became a touch scattered, like gazing through a hazy bubble that blurred certain details. It wasn’t bad per se (and some readers might even relish those indulgent moments), but it felt like the plot temporarily lost its edge.
That minor critique aside, this book is absolutely worth reading. Whether it’s for the pulse-pounding action, the unforgettable characters who’ll waltz right into your heart (cowboy boots and all), or the steamy scenes, this story is meant to be devoured—and trust me, you won’t regret it.
Big thanks to Luna Literary Management and Ren Browne for the eARC
August 27, 2025
Adversity is a wild west, close proximity, MMF romance.
Cora family moved west with her family when her father was promised green, rolling hills and what they found was barren, unforgivable land. Following the murder of her father, Cora has been left to find his killer herself when the Sheriff refused to help her.
Scraping by, sleeping in a stable, Cora meets two strangers. Aiden, the silent protector who tries to keep her safe and Cypress, the charming troublemaker who enjoys Cora's company. When trouble finds Cora, Aiden and Cypress step in, rescue her and she leaves town with them. They agree to help Cora find the man responsible for her father's murder and to protect her along the way. Their bond of forged by trust, loyalty and temptation that simmers just beneath the surface. There is more than just survival that Aiden and Cypress can teach Cora as well as what she makes them both feel.
There was a lot of depth to this book while also not getting too bogged down in the backstory that the current storyline gets lost. Cora is so naive and innocent to the ways of the world and Aiden and Cypress are both respectful of that while also trying to teach her how to defend and take care of herself in such an unforgiving world. I enjoyed the dynamic between each character as well as them as a couple/throuple, their chemistry was palpable. Aiden and Cypress each brought something to the relationship with Cora and her with each of them. There was a lot of emotional depth to the story and how each character dealt with their past and how the other two could help them through moments of doubt. There were a few slow spots but not enough to make me stop reading or the overall satisfaction with the book. This is not your typical MMF romance and the storyline itself was quite unique.
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Cora family moved west with her family when her father was promised green, rolling hills and what they found was barren, unforgivable land. Following the murder of her father, Cora has been left to find his killer herself when the Sheriff refused to help her.
Scraping by, sleeping in a stable, Cora meets two strangers. Aiden, the silent protector who tries to keep her safe and Cypress, the charming troublemaker who enjoys Cora's company. When trouble finds Cora, Aiden and Cypress step in, rescue her and she leaves town with them. They agree to help Cora find the man responsible for her father's murder and to protect her along the way. Their bond of forged by trust, loyalty and temptation that simmers just beneath the surface. There is more than just survival that Aiden and Cypress can teach Cora as well as what she makes them both feel.
There was a lot of depth to this book while also not getting too bogged down in the backstory that the current storyline gets lost. Cora is so naive and innocent to the ways of the world and Aiden and Cypress are both respectful of that while also trying to teach her how to defend and take care of herself in such an unforgiving world. I enjoyed the dynamic between each character as well as them as a couple/throuple, their chemistry was palpable. Aiden and Cypress each brought something to the relationship with Cora and her with each of them. There was a lot of emotional depth to the story and how each character dealt with their past and how the other two could help them through moments of doubt. There were a few slow spots but not enough to make me stop reading or the overall satisfaction with the book. This is not your typical MMF romance and the storyline itself was quite unique.
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 15, 2025
“Adversity” by Ren Browne
Thank you, Ren and Luna Literary Management, for gifting me with this ARC for the purposes of a review!
___________
☀️ This book is the fun you get when you combine a poly MMF romance, a corrupt and barren Western atmosphere, intense steam/ spice and life or death stakes, all with a side of trauma ☀️
💭 MY TAKE:
As soon as I saw this book on my Instagram ads, I knew it would be the best time— and I am happy to say I was right! I devoured this book in only a couple of days. I think a substantial part of its appeal lay in the fact that Adversity has a lot of the things I normally love in romance books, like knights in shining armour vibes and spice lol. But it was also exciting in that it helped me to explore other tropes, dynamics and environments I would like to see more of in the future on my TBR 🤭
✨ THE STANDOUT ASPECTS:
- The highly endearing grumpy/sunshine dynamic between our favourite gunslinger, Aiden, and the suit-laden “funeral undertaker”,Cypress (which you’ll understand once you read the book lol) 😍
- The tension between FMC Cora and the leading men, whenever they teach her things 😉🤭
- I’ve read reverse harem/ why choose books before, but those books never featured romantic MM love like what is showcased in “Adversity”… the adoration Aiden and Cypress have for each other, not just shown through the sexy spice but through the dialogue, was so cute!! And it makes me want to read more MM romance books in the future
- The nicknames: “little bird” and “wolf” (but more importantly, the story behind them 🥹)
📚 WOULD I RECOMMEND?
OMG absolutely, UNDOUBTEDLY, yes. I am going to preorder myself a paperback copy of this book ASAP as I can see myself coming back to it again and again ❤️ I also love it so much that any special edition that emerges is probably going to be an auto-buy 😂🥹🥹
⭐️ 4.5/5
🌶️ 2.5/5
Thank you, Ren and Luna Literary Management, for gifting me with this ARC for the purposes of a review!
___________
☀️ This book is the fun you get when you combine a poly MMF romance, a corrupt and barren Western atmosphere, intense steam/ spice and life or death stakes, all with a side of trauma ☀️
💭 MY TAKE:
As soon as I saw this book on my Instagram ads, I knew it would be the best time— and I am happy to say I was right! I devoured this book in only a couple of days. I think a substantial part of its appeal lay in the fact that Adversity has a lot of the things I normally love in romance books, like knights in shining armour vibes and spice lol. But it was also exciting in that it helped me to explore other tropes, dynamics and environments I would like to see more of in the future on my TBR 🤭
✨ THE STANDOUT ASPECTS:
- The highly endearing grumpy/sunshine dynamic between our favourite gunslinger, Aiden, and the suit-laden “funeral undertaker”,Cypress (which you’ll understand once you read the book lol) 😍
- The tension between FMC Cora and the leading men, whenever they teach her things 😉🤭
- I’ve read reverse harem/ why choose books before, but those books never featured romantic MM love like what is showcased in “Adversity”… the adoration Aiden and Cypress have for each other, not just shown through the sexy spice but through the dialogue, was so cute!! And it makes me want to read more MM romance books in the future
- The nicknames: “little bird” and “wolf” (but more importantly, the story behind them 🥹)
📚 WOULD I RECOMMEND?
OMG absolutely, UNDOUBTEDLY, yes. I am going to preorder myself a paperback copy of this book ASAP as I can see myself coming back to it again and again ❤️ I also love it so much that any special edition that emerges is probably going to be an auto-buy 😂🥹🥹
⭐️ 4.5/5
🌶️ 2.5/5
August 18, 2025
Thank you so much to the author and Luna Literary for the #gifted e-ARC! 🫶🏻
I went into this a little blind really only knowing it was a western and there were cowboys and I have to say, I DEVOURED it!!! This book is everything I didn’t know I needed. Easily a five star read! I really loved the old western time premise and vibe of this book. It really brought the Wild West to life for me with the outlaw mindset and our main characters essentially on the run.
Cora was everything! She was feisty, a bit sheltered, but so resilient given the unfortunate hand she was dealt. Her character growth from beginning to end was my absolute favorite. I loved how she blossomed with the help of Cypress and Aiden.
Cypress and Aiden were so gentle and patient with Cora. They really only wanted what was best for her and did everything in their power to protect her. All three of them are truly the MMF power couple. I loved them all together and how their differing personalities complemented each other.
What’s the best about this book is, it’s not just a love story. The book takes you on an adventure that hooks you from the first page and doesn’t let go until you’ve finished. With amazing twists, incredibly hot spice, lovable characters, all set within a background of out west. This is the perfect read for all my book besties who want to give a western MMF a try, and I highly recommend you do!
I went into this a little blind really only knowing it was a western and there were cowboys and I have to say, I DEVOURED it!!! This book is everything I didn’t know I needed. Easily a five star read! I really loved the old western time premise and vibe of this book. It really brought the Wild West to life for me with the outlaw mindset and our main characters essentially on the run.
Cora was everything! She was feisty, a bit sheltered, but so resilient given the unfortunate hand she was dealt. Her character growth from beginning to end was my absolute favorite. I loved how she blossomed with the help of Cypress and Aiden.
Cypress and Aiden were so gentle and patient with Cora. They really only wanted what was best for her and did everything in their power to protect her. All three of them are truly the MMF power couple. I loved them all together and how their differing personalities complemented each other.
What’s the best about this book is, it’s not just a love story. The book takes you on an adventure that hooks you from the first page and doesn’t let go until you’ve finished. With amazing twists, incredibly hot spice, lovable characters, all set within a background of out west. This is the perfect read for all my book besties who want to give a western MMF a try, and I highly recommend you do!
August 27, 2025
Received as an ARC.
🚨 I’ve just finished Adversity and I am currently vibrating at a frequency only coyotes in the old west can hear 🚨
These characters?? Absolutely feral in the best way. The protagonists’ dynamic had me chewing on my Kindle like a rabid raccoon, every interaction packed with tension, heart, and the kind of depth that makes you want to scream into a pillow.
The plot? A chaotic stampede of twists and turns. One second I was yeehaw-ing in delight, the next I was ugly crying into my coffee, then boom……gunpowder, grit, and pure emotional whiplash. Adventure and gut punching feels blended so perfectly I almost forgot I was a human with responsibilities.
And the writing?? Immersive doesn’t even cover it. I wasn’t just reading, I was living in the dust, the danger, the heartbreak. My soul now permanently smells of campfire smoke, horse crap and adrenaline.
And here’s the kicker: I don’t even like historical romances. Usually they give me “bonnets and boredom.” But Adversity? This book pulled me onto a horse, smacked me on the ass, and made me love every damn second of it.
Verdict: 5 🌟, no question. This book lassoed me, dragged me across the desert, and left me begging for more. If you want a story that’s equal parts thrilling and heartfelt. Adversity is your next obsession 🔥
🚨 I’ve just finished Adversity and I am currently vibrating at a frequency only coyotes in the old west can hear 🚨
These characters?? Absolutely feral in the best way. The protagonists’ dynamic had me chewing on my Kindle like a rabid raccoon, every interaction packed with tension, heart, and the kind of depth that makes you want to scream into a pillow.
The plot? A chaotic stampede of twists and turns. One second I was yeehaw-ing in delight, the next I was ugly crying into my coffee, then boom……gunpowder, grit, and pure emotional whiplash. Adventure and gut punching feels blended so perfectly I almost forgot I was a human with responsibilities.
And the writing?? Immersive doesn’t even cover it. I wasn’t just reading, I was living in the dust, the danger, the heartbreak. My soul now permanently smells of campfire smoke, horse crap and adrenaline.
And here’s the kicker: I don’t even like historical romances. Usually they give me “bonnets and boredom.” But Adversity? This book pulled me onto a horse, smacked me on the ass, and made me love every damn second of it.
Verdict: 5 🌟, no question. This book lassoed me, dragged me across the desert, and left me begging for more. If you want a story that’s equal parts thrilling and heartfelt. Adversity is your next obsession 🔥
October 28, 2025
Adversity captures the true magic of the Wild, Wild West and delivers a romance so raw and rich you don’t want to turn the last page!
How I know you’ll love this book: if you watched tangled and saw Flynn Ryder critique his Wanted poster drawing and thought, “okay yeah he’s a criminal but that’s so endearing”. Trust me, you’ll like this book.
As an avid contemporary cowboy romance reader, this was my first Wild West romance. AND it was poly?? Ren, my angel. My queen. You did the MOST with this story.
The tension, the banter, the suspense, the spice- exceptional across the board. Aiden, Cypress and Cora are fated mates in my mind. Their heavy pasts tie together this knit of understanding for one another. And the way Aiden and Cy take in Cora had me swooning and kicking my lil cowboy booted feet.
And let’s revisit that spice. ROPE PLAY??? I was gagged. And the first time she learns how to *ahem~ give herself a hand ~with help from one of her rugged cowboys had me squealing!!! Aiden & Cy had me fanning myself and I loved watching Cora grow in her confidence in both herself as a woman and in her sexuality.
Altogether I had the best time reading Adversity and cannot wait to see the Midnight Gang in book 2!!
Give Adversity a read if you enjoy:
🤠Wild West Tales
✨MMF Romance
🤠Morally Grey MMC’s
✨Age Gap Romance
🤠”Touch her/him and die”
✨Teacher/Student Dynamic
🤠 “fck it”
How I know you’ll love this book: if you watched tangled and saw Flynn Ryder critique his Wanted poster drawing and thought, “okay yeah he’s a criminal but that’s so endearing”. Trust me, you’ll like this book.
As an avid contemporary cowboy romance reader, this was my first Wild West romance. AND it was poly?? Ren, my angel. My queen. You did the MOST with this story.
The tension, the banter, the suspense, the spice- exceptional across the board. Aiden, Cypress and Cora are fated mates in my mind. Their heavy pasts tie together this knit of understanding for one another. And the way Aiden and Cy take in Cora had me swooning and kicking my lil cowboy booted feet.
And let’s revisit that spice. ROPE PLAY??? I was gagged. And the first time she learns how to *ahem~ give herself a hand ~with help from one of her rugged cowboys had me squealing!!! Aiden & Cy had me fanning myself and I loved watching Cora grow in her confidence in both herself as a woman and in her sexuality.
Altogether I had the best time reading Adversity and cannot wait to see the Midnight Gang in book 2!!
Give Adversity a read if you enjoy:
🤠Wild West Tales
✨MMF Romance
🤠Morally Grey MMC’s
✨Age Gap Romance
🤠”Touch her/him and die”
✨Teacher/Student Dynamic
🤠 “fck it”
August 20, 2025
4.5⭐️
never knew I needed a wild west setting MMF cowboy romance until I seen this book.
I just enjoyed this so much.
Cora, a daughter on a mission to find out who murdered her father. never stopping no matter how many times people insist she did. I loved that about her. Her resilience and never quit attitude.
I felt for her though, her mother was a piece of work. 😒 honestly her mother didn't deserve to call Cora her daughter anyways. so there's that.
Cypress and Aiden, two outlaws living life their way.
Aiden the "wolf", the protector, sticking to the shadows and if you see him it's only because he wanted to you see him.
Cypress, the gambler, who's a bit carefree with how he goes about his next target. knowing Aiden is close by.
The relationship between Aiden and Cypress is intense and sweet at the same time. I loved it.
add in Cora and it intensifies.
it is a slow burn, but it was all worth it.
The truth behind Cora's father's death is revealed and the ending was sweet. loved how things played out for everyone.
I could read more about these characters.
highly recommend.
check tws of course.
thank you so much Ren and @lunaliterary.management for the arc. 🫶🏻
never knew I needed a wild west setting MMF cowboy romance until I seen this book.
I just enjoyed this so much.
Cora, a daughter on a mission to find out who murdered her father. never stopping no matter how many times people insist she did. I loved that about her. Her resilience and never quit attitude.
I felt for her though, her mother was a piece of work. 😒 honestly her mother didn't deserve to call Cora her daughter anyways. so there's that.
Cypress and Aiden, two outlaws living life their way.
Aiden the "wolf", the protector, sticking to the shadows and if you see him it's only because he wanted to you see him.
Cypress, the gambler, who's a bit carefree with how he goes about his next target. knowing Aiden is close by.
The relationship between Aiden and Cypress is intense and sweet at the same time. I loved it.
add in Cora and it intensifies.
it is a slow burn, but it was all worth it.
The truth behind Cora's father's death is revealed and the ending was sweet. loved how things played out for everyone.
I could read more about these characters.
highly recommend.
check tws of course.
thank you so much Ren and @lunaliterary.management for the arc. 🫶🏻
October 8, 2025
"For the wild ones who have always prayed for a cowboy to come take them away...what if I gave you two?"
For those of you who know me, you know i love a cowboy - specifically arthur morgan from rdr2... now gimme two ?? oh brother
i saw a few posts about this, read the description and went "yup that's my perfect book?" I was infact correct, i cannot express how much i adore this story??
The perfect setting, the old west, outlaw country our FMC Cora has lost her father to a bounty hunter and is lost.
Enter our gunman, and our gambler, Aiden and Cypress encapsulate old school cowboy western MMCs.
They then teach her to become an outlaw ...plus a few more things along the way, and so The Midnight Gang is formed.
This is fast paced, high stakes, with secrets and twists and oh so sexy. It's also beautifully written, the chemistry between the three, their growth and relationship is just so beautiful to read.
AH i could yap about how much i adore old school westerns, red dead redemption 2 and cowboys all damn day if you let me
pls pls pls go read this and come squeal with me i just loved this so much and i CANNOT WAIT for book two !!
For those of you who know me, you know i love a cowboy - specifically arthur morgan from rdr2... now gimme two ?? oh brother
i saw a few posts about this, read the description and went "yup that's my perfect book?" I was infact correct, i cannot express how much i adore this story??
The perfect setting, the old west, outlaw country our FMC Cora has lost her father to a bounty hunter and is lost.
Enter our gunman, and our gambler, Aiden and Cypress encapsulate old school cowboy western MMCs.
They then teach her to become an outlaw ...plus a few more things along the way, and so The Midnight Gang is formed.
This is fast paced, high stakes, with secrets and twists and oh so sexy. It's also beautifully written, the chemistry between the three, their growth and relationship is just so beautiful to read.
AH i could yap about how much i adore old school westerns, red dead redemption 2 and cowboys all damn day if you let me
pls pls pls go read this and come squeal with me i just loved this so much and i CANNOT WAIT for book two !!
August 27, 2025
Adversity by Ren Browne Arc Review
4.25⭐️
3.25🌶️
PLOT: The story was fast paced but well distributed. I felt like the insta-love that the boys felt was fleshed out in a way that didn’t feel cheesy or overly gratuitous. Aiden’s resistance made was a perfect foil for Cypress’s free-spirit intuition. I could truly feel the love that they had for each other and for Cora right away.
The plot with her dad’s murder was presented first and steadily progressed in between the love story. The character driven moments were never overshadowed by the adventure and vice versa.
CHARACTERS:
Cora as our leading lady was so delightfully stubborn and strong willed. I felt bad for her situation, but she never stepped back and gave up. Even before she had the skills, she was a spitfire.
Cypress was my MAN! I love Aiden but I’m so much like him in personality that I naturally felt drawn to Cy much like he did. He has this confident take charge energy that's just a little chaotic and that makes him the perfect troublemaker.
Aiden, like I said, shares so many personality traits with me. I am forever overprotective and HATE when things don’t go my way. UGH he is so relatable!! Cora and Cy are obviously the more impulsive ones of the trio and it's his responsibility to make sure they don’t...well die!
MY THOUGHTS: I am thoroughly obsessed with this throuple! I would GLADLY watch a 7 season show with these three characters and their adventures around the west. I think there are still so many things that could be explored but even if their left open ended the story felt so satisfying to me.
4.25⭐️
3.25🌶️
PLOT: The story was fast paced but well distributed. I felt like the insta-love that the boys felt was fleshed out in a way that didn’t feel cheesy or overly gratuitous. Aiden’s resistance made was a perfect foil for Cypress’s free-spirit intuition. I could truly feel the love that they had for each other and for Cora right away.
The plot with her dad’s murder was presented first and steadily progressed in between the love story. The character driven moments were never overshadowed by the adventure and vice versa.
CHARACTERS:
Cora as our leading lady was so delightfully stubborn and strong willed. I felt bad for her situation, but she never stepped back and gave up. Even before she had the skills, she was a spitfire.
Cypress was my MAN! I love Aiden but I’m so much like him in personality that I naturally felt drawn to Cy much like he did. He has this confident take charge energy that's just a little chaotic and that makes him the perfect troublemaker.
Aiden, like I said, shares so many personality traits with me. I am forever overprotective and HATE when things don’t go my way. UGH he is so relatable!! Cora and Cy are obviously the more impulsive ones of the trio and it's his responsibility to make sure they don’t...well die!
MY THOUGHTS: I am thoroughly obsessed with this throuple! I would GLADLY watch a 7 season show with these three characters and their adventures around the west. I think there are still so many things that could be explored but even if their left open ended the story felt so satisfying to me.
August 25, 2025
3.75/4 ⭐️
MMF set in the Wild West, say less! I knew this was going to be a fun time because Ren writes such captivating stories with loveable characters and Aiden, Cypress and Cora didn’t disappoint!!
Cora is after the man who killed her father, but the town she is in isn’t exactly welcoming or helpful towards her. When she’s involved in an altercation, Aiden and Cypress saves her… and end up kidnapping her, which in return saves her life. The three of the then embark on journey together, where sparks fly both together and individually, and it was so good, I loved how it didn’t feel rushed or overdone, you both got to see them as pairs, and then together, all as a three and I really liked how it came together.
I did feel like the story did get a little lost towards the second half, almost like Cora looking for her father’s killer became like an afterthought, and then the reveal following that… made sense, but felt predictable almost. Like had it not been who it was, I think it would have felt disjointed otherwise. Nonetheless, though, I enjoyed it, and I did like how it ended, too.
Thank you kindly to Luna Literary and REN for the e-arc!
Tropes
MMF set in the Wild West
Morally grey MMC’s
Age gap
Touch her and die
MMF set in the Wild West, say less! I knew this was going to be a fun time because Ren writes such captivating stories with loveable characters and Aiden, Cypress and Cora didn’t disappoint!!
Cora is after the man who killed her father, but the town she is in isn’t exactly welcoming or helpful towards her. When she’s involved in an altercation, Aiden and Cypress saves her… and end up kidnapping her, which in return saves her life. The three of the then embark on journey together, where sparks fly both together and individually, and it was so good, I loved how it didn’t feel rushed or overdone, you both got to see them as pairs, and then together, all as a three and I really liked how it came together.
I did feel like the story did get a little lost towards the second half, almost like Cora looking for her father’s killer became like an afterthought, and then the reveal following that… made sense, but felt predictable almost. Like had it not been who it was, I think it would have felt disjointed otherwise. Nonetheless, though, I enjoyed it, and I did like how it ended, too.
Thank you kindly to Luna Literary and REN for the e-arc!
Tropes
MMF set in the Wild West
Morally grey MMC’s
Age gap
Touch her and die
August 15, 2025
This is my very first Ren Browne book and it's safe to say it's not going to be my last.
Completed the book by the next day of getting the ARC, you can say how much addictive this read was.
🤎 Adversity is a fast-paced Old West story set in Arizona, and it’s worth every step of the journey. The story grips you from the very first chapter and only gets better. As an age-gap romance, it’s beautifully written, exactly what I hope for in this trope. The pacing feels right, the characters feel right, and the romance blooms naturally.
Cora is strong and resilient, surviving on her own until Aiden and Cypress enter her life, adoring her, loving her, and making her feel valued, wanted, and important. They’re the missing pieces she never knew she needed… and together, they fit perfectly.
In the end, Adversity isn’t just a why choose western romance, it’s a story about survival, trust, and finding a place where you truly belong. With a perfect balance of grit, tenderness, and passion, it leaves you satisfied yet wishing there were more pages to turn. Cora’s journey, and the love she finds with Aiden and Cypress, is one that lingers long after the last chapter.
Completed the book by the next day of getting the ARC, you can say how much addictive this read was.
🤎 Adversity is a fast-paced Old West story set in Arizona, and it’s worth every step of the journey. The story grips you from the very first chapter and only gets better. As an age-gap romance, it’s beautifully written, exactly what I hope for in this trope. The pacing feels right, the characters feel right, and the romance blooms naturally.
Cora is strong and resilient, surviving on her own until Aiden and Cypress enter her life, adoring her, loving her, and making her feel valued, wanted, and important. They’re the missing pieces she never knew she needed… and together, they fit perfectly.
In the end, Adversity isn’t just a why choose western romance, it’s a story about survival, trust, and finding a place where you truly belong. With a perfect balance of grit, tenderness, and passion, it leaves you satisfied yet wishing there were more pages to turn. Cora’s journey, and the love she finds with Aiden and Cypress, is one that lingers long after the last chapter.
August 17, 2025
This book….oh my goodness…THIS BOOK…I am not sure what I love the most about Adversity, the second book written by author Ren Browne. I love the setting in the old west, it has been a while since I have read a genuine cowboy romance, especially one set back in time. Loved it. I equally absolutely LOVED the 3 main characters. Cora’s innocence and optimism despite some very hurtful and difficult circumstances. Aiden’s devotion, bravery and steadiness. And of course Cypress with his unending charm, charisma, as well as his clear devotion to the ones he loves. Their dynamic was something I have not read about before and I wholeheartedly adored this relationship.
When you get to the relationship aspect. HOT….off the charts hot. There is a perfect blend of romance and spice…and when the spice arrives…IT ARRIVES. 🔥🔥When I say I devoured this book, I mean it. I could NOT put it down and if I did not have to go to work, I think I would have finished it in one sitting!!
When you get to the relationship aspect. HOT….off the charts hot. There is a perfect blend of romance and spice…and when the spice arrives…IT ARRIVES. 🔥🔥When I say I devoured this book, I mean it. I could NOT put it down and if I did not have to go to work, I think I would have finished it in one sitting!!
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