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Broken Trails
A broken dream. A bruised heart. A second chance under the wide Texas sky.
Lyla James was on the brink of Olympic glory—until a devastating injury and a brutal breakup shattered everything she’d worked for. Returning home to Pleasant Valley, she finds herself recovering on a ranch owned by none other than Christian Matthews—her older brother’s best friend and the man she once asked out in a moment of teenage courage.
Christian’s focused on saving the family ranch, not falling for the woman he’s sworn to protect. But Lyla’s sharp tongue, wounded heart, and undeniable strength start to break through his walls. As she battles physical therapy and the ghosts of her past, a spark ignites between them that neither can deny.
But when old flames refuse to let go and secrets threaten to unravel everything, Lyla and Christian must decide if love is worth the risk—or if they’re better off running from the fire.
A slow-burn romance full of wit, heat, and heart, perfect for fans of small-town drama and second chances.
Lyla James was on the brink of Olympic glory—until a devastating injury and a brutal breakup shattered everything she’d worked for. Returning home to Pleasant Valley, she finds herself recovering on a ranch owned by none other than Christian Matthews—her older brother’s best friend and the man she once asked out in a moment of teenage courage.
Christian’s focused on saving the family ranch, not falling for the woman he’s sworn to protect. But Lyla’s sharp tongue, wounded heart, and undeniable strength start to break through his walls. As she battles physical therapy and the ghosts of her past, a spark ignites between them that neither can deny.
But when old flames refuse to let go and secrets threaten to unravel everything, Lyla and Christian must decide if love is worth the risk—or if they’re better off running from the fire.
A slow-burn romance full of wit, heat, and heart, perfect for fans of small-town drama and second chances.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 27, 2025
1 person is currently reading
8 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
December 13, 2025
Broken Trails🐎
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR and Ruby Acord for trusting me with this beautiful ebook!🧡
Lyla is just one breath away from the Olympics,until an injury shatters her dreams once and for all,leading her to go to her brother's best friend's ranch to recover.
Christian has a lot on his plate:he needs to save the family ranch and NOT fall for the one woman he shouldn't.However, as the time passes he will find himself nothing else than crazy about her.
Will their flame burn the secrets that all of them hid,or they will just disappear into nothingness again?
This story was so,so good a classic cowboy-ish romance,that had me curled in my sofa with a glass of wine yesterday night.(I LITERALLY DEVOURED IT).
It was easy to read,lovely and Christian OMG THE MAN YOU ARE.
Layla on the other side, shined from the start,with me be able to say that I absolutely loved her.I adored the soft vibe she always gave,and her personality was really lovely too.Yet,my girl struggled with some things that made her life harder than it was & the strength she has while dealing with them,was truly admirable.
Their romance was slow & deep,while being the cutest.Those two LOVED each other so,so much!
Personally,my favourite scene was the time the brother learnt about them,you know the classic one,when I say I LAUGHED,I mean it.Even,after that we had such a strong brotherhood scene that had me tearing for good!🥹
Long story short,I would recommend this one 100%🫶🏻
4⭐
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR and Ruby Acord for trusting me with this beautiful ebook!🧡
Lyla is just one breath away from the Olympics,until an injury shatters her dreams once and for all,leading her to go to her brother's best friend's ranch to recover.
Christian has a lot on his plate:he needs to save the family ranch and NOT fall for the one woman he shouldn't.However, as the time passes he will find himself nothing else than crazy about her.
Will their flame burn the secrets that all of them hid,or they will just disappear into nothingness again?
This story was so,so good a classic cowboy-ish romance,that had me curled in my sofa with a glass of wine yesterday night.(I LITERALLY DEVOURED IT).
It was easy to read,lovely and Christian OMG THE MAN YOU ARE.
Layla on the other side, shined from the start,with me be able to say that I absolutely loved her.I adored the soft vibe she always gave,and her personality was really lovely too.Yet,my girl struggled with some things that made her life harder than it was & the strength she has while dealing with them,was truly admirable.
Their romance was slow & deep,while being the cutest.Those two LOVED each other so,so much!
Personally,my favourite scene was the time the brother learnt about them,you know the classic one,when I say I LAUGHED,I mean it.Even,after that we had such a strong brotherhood scene that had me tearing for good!🥹
Long story short,I would recommend this one 100%🫶🏻
4⭐
January 26, 2026
ARC REVIEW
After suffering a devastating injury and a breakup, Lyla returns to her hometown to recover and finds herself living with Christian Mathew’s, he’s brothers best friends brother who she’s had a crush on her whole life. Christian is focused on saving the family ranch and not looking for anything or anyone. As they spend more time together, the connection that has always been strong develops more and they start falling for each other. The character development over time is done well and I was hooked from the start. This is a short and quick read With twists and turns, the banter and the chemistry this slow burn book is one that you should read. I can’t wait to continue the series as it left on a big cliff hanger
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Thankyou love notes PR and ruby for this early arc
After suffering a devastating injury and a breakup, Lyla returns to her hometown to recover and finds herself living with Christian Mathew’s, he’s brothers best friends brother who she’s had a crush on her whole life. Christian is focused on saving the family ranch and not looking for anything or anyone. As they spend more time together, the connection that has always been strong develops more and they start falling for each other. The character development over time is done well and I was hooked from the start. This is a short and quick read With twists and turns, the banter and the chemistry this slow burn book is one that you should read. I can’t wait to continue the series as it left on a big cliff hanger
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Thankyou love notes PR and ruby for this early arc
February 1, 2026
The storyline had potential, but the execution didn’t fully work for me. The timeline felt messy and didn’t flow well, which made parts of the story confusing.
Lyla’s recovery came across as unrealistic, and the way she handled certain threats felt a bit off. That said, I appreciated how Christian and Lyla’s brother responded to the DV aspects of the story.
The family dynamics and friendships were the highlight for me. They’re supportive, warm, and easily the strongest part of the book.
Thank you to Love Notes PR & Ruby Acord for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Lyla’s recovery came across as unrealistic, and the way she handled certain threats felt a bit off. That said, I appreciated how Christian and Lyla’s brother responded to the DV aspects of the story.
The family dynamics and friendships were the highlight for me. They’re supportive, warm, and easily the strongest part of the book.
Thank you to Love Notes PR & Ruby Acord for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 14, 2026
Thank you Love Notes PR and Ruby Acord for allowing me to ARC this book!
The book is such a quick easy read. I finished this book in less than 2 days simply due to work or it would have been sooner. The characters are very easy to relate too and fall in love with!
The touch of DV was hard to read but it isn’t mentioned a lot which is helpful. I love the friendships between the guys and their protective instincts for Lyla. I would recommend this to my friends in the future!
The book is such a quick easy read. I finished this book in less than 2 days simply due to work or it would have been sooner. The characters are very easy to relate too and fall in love with!
The touch of DV was hard to read but it isn’t mentioned a lot which is helpful. I love the friendships between the guys and their protective instincts for Lyla. I would recommend this to my friends in the future!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2026
I love brothers best friend. So I loved Christian and Lyla's story. He fought it but realized he couldn't. I also love the lead into Beau's book. The chemistry was good and it was well written.
January 28, 2026
"That girl is branded into my f'n being."
I love a debut novel. I love them even more when they are brother's best friend and Ruby Acord does a wonderful job in Broken Trails with this trope. Lyla and Christian have always been in each other's lives and it is no surprise Lyla has crushed on him since forever. He is her brother's best friend and after an accident leaves her not able to be a gymnast anymore she finds herself recovering at Christian's ranch.
Christian cannot believe his eyes when they land on Lyla for the first time in years. He is smitten immediately but also values his friendship with Beau too much to make a move on her. Cue the not so innocent flirting that doesn't ever stop. It is so cute and I love how he tries multiple nicknames with her and is constantly shot down by Lyla. She is a spit fire with no filter and speaks her mind. Eventually he finds a term of endearment that she actually does like.
These two dance around each other all day ever single day. Lyla knows what she wants and that is Christian but she will not let him continue to flirt unless he is going to follow through. Christian does not want to betray Beau so they end up at a standstill for much of the book. The anticipation of when he will finally cave is part of what makes these two so great. They really are so cute together.
This one is heavy on found family dynamics. Sure Lyla and Beau are siblings and Christian has his older brother, Chandler but all four of them form this family all of their own. Beau and Chandler add a little extra to this foursome. All of these fellas have Lyla's back and they prove so when the time comes that she needs protecting.
With all that being said Ruby develops Beau and Chandler's characters just enough to have the reader intrigued by them but doesn't take away from Lyla and Christian yet I hope they each have their own books coming and soon!!
I love a debut novel. I love them even more when they are brother's best friend and Ruby Acord does a wonderful job in Broken Trails with this trope. Lyla and Christian have always been in each other's lives and it is no surprise Lyla has crushed on him since forever. He is her brother's best friend and after an accident leaves her not able to be a gymnast anymore she finds herself recovering at Christian's ranch.
Christian cannot believe his eyes when they land on Lyla for the first time in years. He is smitten immediately but also values his friendship with Beau too much to make a move on her. Cue the not so innocent flirting that doesn't ever stop. It is so cute and I love how he tries multiple nicknames with her and is constantly shot down by Lyla. She is a spit fire with no filter and speaks her mind. Eventually he finds a term of endearment that she actually does like.
These two dance around each other all day ever single day. Lyla knows what she wants and that is Christian but she will not let him continue to flirt unless he is going to follow through. Christian does not want to betray Beau so they end up at a standstill for much of the book. The anticipation of when he will finally cave is part of what makes these two so great. They really are so cute together.
This one is heavy on found family dynamics. Sure Lyla and Beau are siblings and Christian has his older brother, Chandler but all four of them form this family all of their own. Beau and Chandler add a little extra to this foursome. All of these fellas have Lyla's back and they prove so when the time comes that she needs protecting.
With all that being said Ruby develops Beau and Chandler's characters just enough to have the reader intrigued by them but doesn't take away from Lyla and Christian yet I hope they each have their own books coming and soon!!
December 8, 2025
Desde la primera página, este libro te atrapa por completo. Tiene todo lo que adoro: un pueblo pequeño, un rancho, la hermana de su mejor amigo y una protagonista con un pasado realmente duro.
La historia está escrita de forma preciosa, en primera persona y con doble POV, lo que hace que conectes profundamente con ambos protagonistas y entiendas cada emoción desde dentro. Vemos a una protagonista que, paso a paso, enfrenta y supera sus traumas, acompañada de un protagonista que sabe estar, apoyar y sostener de la manera más sana y respetuosa.
El romance entre ellos se desarrolla con una naturalidad perfecta: real, lineal y muy saludable.
Y los personajes secundarios… especialmente el hermano… ¡es imposible no encariñarse con él desde el comienzo!
¿Y el final? Te deja con la boca abierta y con muchísima ilusión de que haya un libro dedicado a uno de esos personajes secundarios que tanto brillan.
Importante: la historia incluye temas de relaciones abusivas y violencia de género. Tenlo presente antes de empezar.
Lo he disfrutado de principio a fin. ❤️
————————————————————————————————
From the very first page, this book completely pulls you in. It has everything I love: a small town, a ranch, the best friend’s sister, and a heroine with a truly heartbreaking past.
The story is beautifully written in first person and dual POV, which lets you connect deeply with both characters and feel every single emotion from their perspective. We follow a heroine who slowly faces and heals from her trauma, supported by a hero who stands by her in the healthiest, most respectful way.
The romance develops with perfect natural pacing—real, steady, and wonderfully healthy.
And the secondary characters… especially the brother… you can’t help but love him from the very beginning!
And the ending? It leaves you speechless and absolutely hoping for a book about one of those amazing side characters.
Important: the story includes themes of abusive relationships and domestic violence. Please keep that in mind before starting.
I loved it from beginning to end. ❤️
La historia está escrita de forma preciosa, en primera persona y con doble POV, lo que hace que conectes profundamente con ambos protagonistas y entiendas cada emoción desde dentro. Vemos a una protagonista que, paso a paso, enfrenta y supera sus traumas, acompañada de un protagonista que sabe estar, apoyar y sostener de la manera más sana y respetuosa.
El romance entre ellos se desarrolla con una naturalidad perfecta: real, lineal y muy saludable.
Y los personajes secundarios… especialmente el hermano… ¡es imposible no encariñarse con él desde el comienzo!
¿Y el final? Te deja con la boca abierta y con muchísima ilusión de que haya un libro dedicado a uno de esos personajes secundarios que tanto brillan.
Importante: la historia incluye temas de relaciones abusivas y violencia de género. Tenlo presente antes de empezar.
Lo he disfrutado de principio a fin. ❤️
————————————————————————————————
From the very first page, this book completely pulls you in. It has everything I love: a small town, a ranch, the best friend’s sister, and a heroine with a truly heartbreaking past.
The story is beautifully written in first person and dual POV, which lets you connect deeply with both characters and feel every single emotion from their perspective. We follow a heroine who slowly faces and heals from her trauma, supported by a hero who stands by her in the healthiest, most respectful way.
The romance develops with perfect natural pacing—real, steady, and wonderfully healthy.
And the secondary characters… especially the brother… you can’t help but love him from the very beginning!
And the ending? It leaves you speechless and absolutely hoping for a book about one of those amazing side characters.
Important: the story includes themes of abusive relationships and domestic violence. Please keep that in mind before starting.
I loved it from beginning to end. ❤️
January 31, 2026
Thank you Love Notes PR and the author for providing me with an ARC of Broken Trails, which was my first book by Ruby Accord.
I will rate Broken Trails 2.5 stars (rounded up to 3). I hate being harsh when I've so kindly been given a free book, but honestly, if that hadn't been the case, this book would have been a DNF for me. But I wanted to give it a chance and be able to give an honest and complete review.
Gymnast Lyla James has always had a thing for her older brother's best friend, rancher Christian Matthews. When she returns to her hometown after a breakup and a potentially career ending torn ACL she ends up staying at Christian's ranch, which eventually leads to what you would imagine (which I have absolutely no issue with!)
I thought the storyline and the characters had potential, but unfortunately, it wasn't fulfilled, in my opinion. For me, the timeline didn't flow naturally. Additionally, with the way Lyla's injury was described at the beginning of the book, her rehab seemed very minimal, and her physical abilities (doing other physical tasks) somewhat unrealistic. But most importantly, the way Lyla handled the threats, stalking, and even assault by her ex-boyfriend seemed so strange with all of the people she has in her life willing to support her. I know the reasons given in the book, but it just seemed so unrealistic that she didn't at least go to the police.
I see that Broken Trails has generally received good reviews, so if the blurb entices you, you may still want to give it a go. It just wasn't for me, unfortunately.
I will rate Broken Trails 2.5 stars (rounded up to 3). I hate being harsh when I've so kindly been given a free book, but honestly, if that hadn't been the case, this book would have been a DNF for me. But I wanted to give it a chance and be able to give an honest and complete review.
Gymnast Lyla James has always had a thing for her older brother's best friend, rancher Christian Matthews. When she returns to her hometown after a breakup and a potentially career ending torn ACL she ends up staying at Christian's ranch, which eventually leads to what you would imagine (which I have absolutely no issue with!)
I thought the storyline and the characters had potential, but unfortunately, it wasn't fulfilled, in my opinion. For me, the timeline didn't flow naturally. Additionally, with the way Lyla's injury was described at the beginning of the book, her rehab seemed very minimal, and her physical abilities (doing other physical tasks) somewhat unrealistic. But most importantly, the way Lyla handled the threats, stalking, and even assault by her ex-boyfriend seemed so strange with all of the people she has in her life willing to support her. I know the reasons given in the book, but it just seemed so unrealistic that she didn't at least go to the police.
I see that Broken Trails has generally received good reviews, so if the blurb entices you, you may still want to give it a go. It just wasn't for me, unfortunately.
January 21, 2026
Christian and Lyla
Tropes:
* Small town
* Ranch romance
* Enemies(?) to lovers
* Second chance
* Brother’s best friend
When her boyfriend breaks up with her before a major competition, Olympic hopeful Lily is unfocussed, and sustains a injury that all ends her gymnastics career.
She’s lost, and returns home, recovering on Christian’s rance.
There’s issues - she hit on him 6 years earlier and he shot her down (she was 16, he 22), so there’s a little carry on from that, and Christian’s mixed signals were pissing Lyla off, they were pissing me off. There was so much back-and-forth before they finally got their act together.
Things do turn dark, and Lyla ends up pissing me off… she’s downright TSTL. Her ex is an abusive a-z and she hides it? Nope. GTFOH…
The romance was a bit of a slow-burn, the drama tended to carry all the way through. We even got the classic ‘that’s my sister!’ style scene before they bonded again pretty quickly.
Teasers throughout, with a massive cliffhanger (not these characters!) at the end… Teaser for the next story???
Looks like enemies to something….
Thank you Ruby Acord and Love Notes PR for the copy…
Tropes:
* Small town
* Ranch romance
* Enemies(?) to lovers
* Second chance
* Brother’s best friend
When her boyfriend breaks up with her before a major competition, Olympic hopeful Lily is unfocussed, and sustains a injury that all ends her gymnastics career.
She’s lost, and returns home, recovering on Christian’s rance.
There’s issues - she hit on him 6 years earlier and he shot her down (she was 16, he 22), so there’s a little carry on from that, and Christian’s mixed signals were pissing Lyla off, they were pissing me off. There was so much back-and-forth before they finally got their act together.
Things do turn dark, and Lyla ends up pissing me off… she’s downright TSTL. Her ex is an abusive a-z and she hides it? Nope. GTFOH…
The romance was a bit of a slow-burn, the drama tended to carry all the way through. We even got the classic ‘that’s my sister!’ style scene before they bonded again pretty quickly.
Teasers throughout, with a massive cliffhanger (not these characters!) at the end… Teaser for the next story???
Looks like enemies to something….
Thank you Ruby Acord and Love Notes PR for the copy…
December 8, 2025
ARC review
3.5 ⭐️
Lyla is a gymnast gunning for the olympics, when an injury crushes her dreams. She’s forced to move out of the city and moves in to her brother’s best friend Christian’s ranch. I’m sure you can guess what happens there 😂
This has me gripped right from the start. I enjoyed the setting and the drama - I was not expecting to be literally gasping at times during this book. Christian and Lyla were really sweet and I enjoyed their banter.
This story attempts to explore some quite big themes/plot points which I personally found fell a bit flat.
For example, without giving spoilers, when we find out about Lylas condition I was really interested to see how that would play out but it kind never does other than one throw away line at the end of the book? Similarly with the ex boyfriend, I felt like that got resolved really abruptly for how big of a storyline it was.
I think this book would have benefitted from being longer, having the time to explore these plot lines more - because I did really enjoy it!
Thanks to LoveNotes PR for the ARC. All opinions are my own 💌
3.5 ⭐️
Lyla is a gymnast gunning for the olympics, when an injury crushes her dreams. She’s forced to move out of the city and moves in to her brother’s best friend Christian’s ranch. I’m sure you can guess what happens there 😂
This has me gripped right from the start. I enjoyed the setting and the drama - I was not expecting to be literally gasping at times during this book. Christian and Lyla were really sweet and I enjoyed their banter.
This story attempts to explore some quite big themes/plot points which I personally found fell a bit flat.
For example, without giving spoilers, when we find out about Lylas condition I was really interested to see how that would play out but it kind never does other than one throw away line at the end of the book? Similarly with the ex boyfriend, I felt like that got resolved really abruptly for how big of a storyline it was.
I think this book would have benefitted from being longer, having the time to explore these plot lines more - because I did really enjoy it!
Thanks to LoveNotes PR for the ARC. All opinions are my own 💌
January 7, 2026
Thank you to Love Notes PR & Ruby for an ARC of this novel for an honest review! ⛰️🦮
⭐️⭐️⭐️.✨ (3.5)
This is a quick and easy read which I appreciate! Its less than 300 pages so you can finish this in no time! The writing style is easy but I will say it wasn’t my favorite but i do believe that it just captures the character of Lyla (basically what I am trying to say is that there is a lot of cursing and immature sayings.) so i didn’t really enjoy that but thats fine as long as its easy for me to read!
I did like the DV factor in this book for some reason just seeing how Christian (mmc) and Lylas brother (Beau) respond and i loved the family and friendships in this book as well! Any cowboy romance typically has great family and friends involved so this was no different!
Im looking forward to Beau & Samaras story now 👀👀 i already knew it hahaha!
TW⚠️: Domestic abuse, stalking, death of parent(s) due to cancer and body injury, substance abuse and addiction, cursing, sex scenes, medical condition (vaginismus)
⭐️⭐️⭐️.✨ (3.5)
This is a quick and easy read which I appreciate! Its less than 300 pages so you can finish this in no time! The writing style is easy but I will say it wasn’t my favorite but i do believe that it just captures the character of Lyla (basically what I am trying to say is that there is a lot of cursing and immature sayings.) so i didn’t really enjoy that but thats fine as long as its easy for me to read!
I did like the DV factor in this book for some reason just seeing how Christian (mmc) and Lylas brother (Beau) respond and i loved the family and friendships in this book as well! Any cowboy romance typically has great family and friends involved so this was no different!
Im looking forward to Beau & Samaras story now 👀👀 i already knew it hahaha!
TW⚠️: Domestic abuse, stalking, death of parent(s) due to cancer and body injury, substance abuse and addiction, cursing, sex scenes, medical condition (vaginismus)
January 24, 2026
This story starts on what should’ve been the most important night of Lyla’s life her World Championship competition. Everything she’s worked for is right there until her boyfriend shows up and drops a bomb that completely shatters her focus and her future. One moment changes everything.
Lyla doesn’t make it through the competition tears her ACL and suddenly her entire life plan is gone. Forced to go back home to recover and figure out what’s next, she finds herself face to face with her past and with Christian her brother’s best friend and the boy she’s loved since she was a little girl.
Christian is the protective, small town cowboy you wish would show up when your world falls apart. He’s patient supportive and exactly what Lyla needs while she’s healing both physically and emotionally. Watching their relationship shift from long time friends to something more was one of my favorite parts of the book.
This is a slow burn friends to lovers, brother’s best friend, small town cowboy romance. Without giving anything away, it also has a bit of stalkering.

Lyla doesn’t make it through the competition tears her ACL and suddenly her entire life plan is gone. Forced to go back home to recover and figure out what’s next, she finds herself face to face with her past and with Christian her brother’s best friend and the boy she’s loved since she was a little girl.
Christian is the protective, small town cowboy you wish would show up when your world falls apart. He’s patient supportive and exactly what Lyla needs while she’s healing both physically and emotionally. Watching their relationship shift from long time friends to something more was one of my favorite parts of the book.
This is a slow burn friends to lovers, brother’s best friend, small town cowboy romance. Without giving anything away, it also has a bit of stalkering.

December 9, 2025
This book was quite easily my first five star read in a long time. I loved the cute country vibes, the banter, and how much it made me laugh.
The MMC, Christian Matthews has become one of my favourite book boyfriends and I can't wait to see book two come out in this series, mostly to see Christian again, but also to read more about the characters I have fallen in love with. The FMC, Lyla, knows what she wants and goes for it, I respect that and I love reading it. Acord managed to draw me into this world within the first chapter.
Micro tropes:
💌 He calls her a lot of nicknames until one finally sticks
💌 Praise kink
💌 “who hurt you”
💌 The hat rule
💌 He secretly saves animals when no one’s watching
💌 “we should stop”
💌 Golden retriever × black cat energy that just works
I received this book as an ARC from LoveNotesPR and even though I am overjoyed by the opportunity I have to read these books early, my reviews are in no way influenced by this.
The MMC, Christian Matthews has become one of my favourite book boyfriends and I can't wait to see book two come out in this series, mostly to see Christian again, but also to read more about the characters I have fallen in love with. The FMC, Lyla, knows what she wants and goes for it, I respect that and I love reading it. Acord managed to draw me into this world within the first chapter.
Micro tropes:
💌 He calls her a lot of nicknames until one finally sticks
💌 Praise kink
💌 “who hurt you”
💌 The hat rule
💌 He secretly saves animals when no one’s watching
💌 “we should stop”
💌 Golden retriever × black cat energy that just works
I received this book as an ARC from LoveNotesPR and even though I am overjoyed by the opportunity I have to read these books early, my reviews are in no way influenced by this.
December 31, 2025
This book had a lot of promise, but it ultimately fell flat for me. Lyla is a gymnast who suffers an injury and goes to stay at Christian’s ranch—he’s her brother’s best friend. The story itself was fine, and I appreciated that their relationship didn’t feel forced.
That said, I couldn’t get past how Lyla’s injury was handled. She’s supposedly torn her ACL, yet the next week she’s riding horses, skipping any real physical therapy, and even teaching a gymnastics class. If the author wanted to give Lyla such a significant injury, I wish the story had shown an actual recovery process—it would have made her journey feel more realistic.
I also wasn’t a fan of the ex-boyfriend subplot. Lyla is portrayed as a no-nonsense, tough, tell-it-like-it-is kind of person, but she refuses to press charges and doesn’t confide in anyone. It felt unnecessary, didn’t add to the story, and distracted from the main plot.
Overall, it was an okay read, but probably not a series I’ll continue.
That said, I couldn’t get past how Lyla’s injury was handled. She’s supposedly torn her ACL, yet the next week she’s riding horses, skipping any real physical therapy, and even teaching a gymnastics class. If the author wanted to give Lyla such a significant injury, I wish the story had shown an actual recovery process—it would have made her journey feel more realistic.
I also wasn’t a fan of the ex-boyfriend subplot. Lyla is portrayed as a no-nonsense, tough, tell-it-like-it-is kind of person, but she refuses to press charges and doesn’t confide in anyone. It felt unnecessary, didn’t add to the story, and distracted from the main plot.
Overall, it was an okay read, but probably not a series I’ll continue.
January 6, 2026
thank you love notes pr and ruby acord for the arc!
i enjoyed this book, i thought it was super cute and i'm a sucker for small town cowboys. if i didn't have a job (i know, yuck) then i think i would have demolished this book in one sitting, it was easy to read with fun banter, though some parts did fall flat for me. for example, lyla is a gymnast who has a career ending injury - which wasn't really touched on. she did almost no physical therapy and was running around/riding horses on a farm - is dumped by her abusive ex (trigger warnings for this, read at own risk) who appears in the story a lot more than i would have liked, and needs a place to stay.
her brother beau offers up his best friends farm. in comes christian, and we go from there! i do like how they interacted with the whole "i had a crush on you as a kid and now we're adults" vibe. christian gave me workaholic energy but loves the farm and animals, and lyla needed a new outlet, slowly becoming a gymnastics teacher.
i liked where the two ended up and i enjoyed how the book ended with the lil cliffhanger. i'm also excited to see what happens with beau (her brother)!
i enjoyed this book, i thought it was super cute and i'm a sucker for small town cowboys. if i didn't have a job (i know, yuck) then i think i would have demolished this book in one sitting, it was easy to read with fun banter, though some parts did fall flat for me. for example, lyla is a gymnast who has a career ending injury - which wasn't really touched on. she did almost no physical therapy and was running around/riding horses on a farm - is dumped by her abusive ex (trigger warnings for this, read at own risk) who appears in the story a lot more than i would have liked, and needs a place to stay.
her brother beau offers up his best friends farm. in comes christian, and we go from there! i do like how they interacted with the whole "i had a crush on you as a kid and now we're adults" vibe. christian gave me workaholic energy but loves the farm and animals, and lyla needed a new outlet, slowly becoming a gymnastics teacher.
i liked where the two ended up and i enjoyed how the book ended with the lil cliffhanger. i'm also excited to see what happens with beau (her brother)!
January 16, 2026
First of all, thank you so much to Love Notes PR and Ruby Acord for this opportunity. I loved reading this ARC!
Broken Trails is a book that makes you say, “Just one more chapter”... until suddenly it's hours later and you've finished it. I read this story in one sitting, and that says it all.
The book grabbed me from the start. The setting of Sunset Ridge Ranch feels lively and warm, and the characters are immediately relatable, allowing you to really connect with their struggles. The story combines emotional depth with romance in a way that reads smoothly and keeps you hooked.
What I particularly liked is how the book leaves room for vulnerability and growth. You feel that the characters carry their own baggage, and it was nice to see how they deal with it—together and individually. The chemistry felt natural and sincere, without being forced.
Broken Trails is a perfect start to the series: compelling, emotional, and exactly the kind of story that makes you want more of this world and these characters.
I'm already looking forward to the next books! 🤍
Broken Trails is a book that makes you say, “Just one more chapter”... until suddenly it's hours later and you've finished it. I read this story in one sitting, and that says it all.
The book grabbed me from the start. The setting of Sunset Ridge Ranch feels lively and warm, and the characters are immediately relatable, allowing you to really connect with their struggles. The story combines emotional depth with romance in a way that reads smoothly and keeps you hooked.
What I particularly liked is how the book leaves room for vulnerability and growth. You feel that the characters carry their own baggage, and it was nice to see how they deal with it—together and individually. The chemistry felt natural and sincere, without being forced.
Broken Trails is a perfect start to the series: compelling, emotional, and exactly the kind of story that makes you want more of this world and these characters.
I'm already looking forward to the next books! 🤍
December 8, 2025
So was given this an arc, I’ve read my tropes within books but I loved the simplicity of this book - don’t mean simplicity in a bad way.. The mfc is just fantastic loved that light has been shone on sexual difficulties and how it effects both in their relationship. TRIGGER WARNINGS- They’re there read them as there is many topics that can trigger the read BE AWARE.. I love the dynamic between them all and I love that it was about family not by blood but by love.. it was a great book full of romance, heartache, shattered dreams and awful exes!! Honestly I’m making it sound dismal it’s not you love it .. small town, old feelings, new opportunities and some trouble with her ex .. you’ll love it
December 13, 2025
That saying "When life hands you lemons," couldn't be any more true. When Lyla's dreams of competing in the Olympics come crashing down around her because of her crazy stalker now ex-boyfriend, her brother sends her back home to live on the ranch with their childhood best friends. Christian has noticed her since they were teens but never wanted to cross that line with his best friends sister, but when she comes to live with him he can't keep those feelings hidden any longer. Between Lyla finding herself and her next move she finds herself a hunky cowboy in the process.
I received this book as an ARC
I received this book as an ARC
February 1, 2026
This book was so good—classic cowboy-style romance that had me glued to my couch with a glass of wine. I absolutely flew through it because it was such an easy, cozy, can’t-put-it-down kind of read. And Christian… sir, you have my whole heart.
Layla was a standout from the very beginning—I loved her instantly. She had such a soft, warm presence, and her sweet personality made her impossible not to root for, especially as she faced real struggles with so much strength and grace. Their love story was a beautiful slow burn—tender, meaningful, and incredibly sweet. The way they loved each other? Completely swoon-worthy. 🖤🤠
Layla was a standout from the very beginning—I loved her instantly. She had such a soft, warm presence, and her sweet personality made her impossible not to root for, especially as she faced real struggles with so much strength and grace. Their love story was a beautiful slow burn—tender, meaningful, and incredibly sweet. The way they loved each other? Completely swoon-worthy. 🖤🤠
February 1, 2026
A cute little cowboy romance. Short and easy to read. Definitely some cringe moments and language that I wasn’t a fan of. But the romance was good. Both main characters have brothers they are close to so there was some great family bonds. The ex-boyfriend stalking the MFC was pretty well fleshed out. Set up for book 2 in the epilogue.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
February 3, 2026
Lyla is a breath of fresh air with her strangers straightforward attitude. I loved her for it. And Christian was such an awesome guy. I cozied up and grabbed this gifted ARC, thanks for that. And I spent the afternoon enjoying this story about these two awesome people. I loved the small town and the ranch. Their banter was so much fun. I loved the way these two slowly came together. It was such an enjoyable story.
January 26, 2026
Huge thank you to LoveNotes PR and Ruby Acord for the ARC of this book.
I LOVED this book! It was such a great quick read but had an actual storyline! I do get what some of the other reviews are talking about but I think for such a short book (under 300 pages) that she did a great job with moving it along and hitting on a couple different tropes. I would read the next one!
I LOVED this book! It was such a great quick read but had an actual storyline! I do get what some of the other reviews are talking about but I think for such a short book (under 300 pages) that she did a great job with moving it along and hitting on a couple different tropes. I would read the next one!
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February 11, 2026Broken trails had so much potential but fell short sadly.
The relationship between Lyla and Christian even with them being friends forever just was lacking so much. It seemed too rushed and unbelievable at times.
I am happy they got their happy ever after and can we talk about that cliff hanger of an ending .
The relationship between Lyla and Christian even with them being friends forever just was lacking so much. It seemed too rushed and unbelievable at times.
I am happy they got their happy ever after and can we talk about that cliff hanger of an ending .
December 5, 2025
I didn’t know how much I needed a truly straight talking FMC until I read this. Like no dancing around her feelings, I love it. Also, the representation of a sexual disability is so overdue!
I really enjoyed the characters and the plot. I hope the series continues because I just need more!
I really enjoyed the characters and the plot. I hope the series continues because I just need more!
January 31, 2026
A cozy, small town ranch with healing and second chances. Lyla’s return to Sunset Ridge Ranch is a comforting story, with Christian who is a steady presence as Lyla rebuilds her life. A warm, easy to enjoy read with all the country charm. I’m so excited for Beaus story!
December 29, 2025
I LOVED THIS
Lyla & Christian were adorable and I loved their banter. I really enjoyed the entire plot and loved how it played out with her ex and the ending. Can't wait for book 2!
Lyla & Christian were adorable and I loved their banter. I really enjoyed the entire plot and loved how it played out with her ex and the ending. Can't wait for book 2!
January 15, 2026
ARC review coming soon🤎
January 15, 2026
Loved this.country romance.nothing better.feel good all the way.
January 31, 2026
This book was so good! I love the brother’s best friend to lovers!! Ughh the trope. I do not like Caleb but love Christian. And this ending!!! I cannot wait for the next book!
January 4, 2026
For a debut novel, I ate this up.
It was definitely a good time. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
It was definitely a good time. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
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