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Lodestar Ranch #4
Call Me Yours
Steven McAllister is a villain. Once a villain, always a villain, right?
There’s no one I hate more in our small town, and now that my dad is his boss, I can’t avoid him. And maybe…maybe I don’t want to. Because the more I get to know him, I realize there’s more to him than I thought. With each intimate conversation and accidental touch, the sizzling tension between us grows. He makes me laugh. We understand each other in a way no one has before.
Then a positive pregnancy test turns my life upside down. The timing couldn’t be worse, but this might be my only chance to be a mom, and I’m taking it.
This baby isn’t Steven’s. My problems aren’t his to solve. My messy life isn’t his to clean up. But he didn’t seem to get the memo, because he keeps showing up.
If Steven is a villain, why does he insist on being my hero?
There’s no one I hate more in our small town, and now that my dad is his boss, I can’t avoid him. And maybe…maybe I don’t want to. Because the more I get to know him, I realize there’s more to him than I thought. With each intimate conversation and accidental touch, the sizzling tension between us grows. He makes me laugh. We understand each other in a way no one has before.
Then a positive pregnancy test turns my life upside down. The timing couldn’t be worse, but this might be my only chance to be a mom, and I’m taking it.
This baby isn’t Steven’s. My problems aren’t his to solve. My messy life isn’t his to clean up. But he didn’t seem to get the memo, because he keeps showing up.
If Steven is a villain, why does he insist on being my hero?
374 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 25, 2025
500 people are currently reading
1804 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Bright
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Elizabeth Bright writes smart, passionate romance with heart, humor, and heat. "Sparkling prose...unrelentingly sharp...unabashedly nerdy." (Bookpage) When she's not writing stubborn heroines and the men who adore them, Elizabeth can be found hiking and rock climbing. She lives in Washington, D.C. with her two daughters, who are every bit as headstrong and wonderful as the characters she writes.
Elizabeth Bright writes smart, passionate romance with heart, humor, and heat. "Sparkling prose...unrelentingly sharp...unabashedly nerdy." (Bookpage) When she's not writing stubborn heroines and the men who adore them, Elizabeth can be found hiking and rock climbing. She lives in Washington, D.C. with her two daughters, who are every bit as headstrong and wonderful as the characters she writes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 330 reviews
December 14, 2025
Have you ever done something you can’t take back, no matter how much you want to? You can’t fix it. You just have to live with it like a bad tattoo.
Despite enjoying the previous three books in this series, I was reluctant to read this one because I’m not a fan of the accidental pregnancy trope. At all. Fortunately, I decided to pick it up anyway–and once I had started reading, I couldn’t put the book down! I was hooked from chapter 1, when the main characters rescue an American Mini Pig in a hilarious scene.
Steven and Chloe are enemies—or rather, she hates him. If you’ve read A Cowboy in the Streets, you know why. If you haven’t (or don’t remember), you get the necessary information right away: Steven is the guy who spooked a horse in book 1 of the series, causing the then-heroine, James, to be bucked off into a fence and bruise her ribs and other body parts. Chloe is James’s best friend, and she despises Steven ever since the accident. It’s an easy formula: “The enemy of my friend [is] my enemy. That was how friendship work[s], right?”
Steven, a former bronc rider, then rodeo horse trainer and now farrier, seems to be a villain and asshole. In truth, he’s not a bad person. He’s a man who cares deeply and can’t bear to see any living creature suffer. He knows he made a terrible mistake, and even though he didn’t intend to seriously hurt James, the outcome of his deed haunts him every night. Before James’s accident, he used to grab his coffee in the coffee shop where Chloe works and always lingered a little bit longer than necessary because he liked her. Those days are over, though, because she kicks him out as soon as he sets foot inside.
Three months after rescuing Stevie Junior, the pet pig, Stephen and Chloe meet again per chance…and then again…and again…and again. Slowly, very slowly, Steven sneaks his way into her life, being there for her and caring for her whenever she needs support. He proves time and again that he’s a good guy, absolutely devoted and “relentless”, just as his younger sister says. It’s wonderful to watch their relationship unfold, while Chloe’s bad image of him becomes more and more blurred–to the point where she asks him to stop being so nice to her. “It confuses my brain. Sometimes I forget I hate you.”
When she loses her rented house and moves to his spare bedroom, all bets are off. Their feelings deepen even more, the sexual tension becomes unbearable. They try, but they fail to keep their hands off each other. The conflict remains, however: Chloe’s friends would never accept him by her side, and they both know it.
Sometimes she looked at me with those green eyes glinting like she saw right into my soul, and I saw the ghost of a future we would never have. A future we maybe should have had, if I hadn’t fucked everything up before we even got a chance to know each other.
They get their future, of course, even without a third-act breakup. It takes everyone to put in the necessary effort to step outside their comfort zone and tread a difficult path, but they do it. I especially loved Chloe’s unwavering determination once she realizes Stephen’s worth. It was a satisfying ending to a wonderful story with two great heroes and just the right amount of humor and banter. (And I’m totally glossing over the horrible epilogue about postnatal sexual issues and breast milk here).
4.5
BTW, I love the opening quote:
For any woman who ever looked at a hot mess of a man and thought, I can totally fix that.
Girl, no.
Leave that to the professionals.
(Read in December 2025)
Despite enjoying the previous three books in this series, I was reluctant to read this one because I’m not a fan of the accidental pregnancy trope. At all. Fortunately, I decided to pick it up anyway–and once I had started reading, I couldn’t put the book down! I was hooked from chapter 1, when the main characters rescue an American Mini Pig in a hilarious scene.
Steven and Chloe are enemies—or rather, she hates him. If you’ve read A Cowboy in the Streets, you know why. If you haven’t (or don’t remember), you get the necessary information right away: Steven is the guy who spooked a horse in book 1 of the series, causing the then-heroine, James, to be bucked off into a fence and bruise her ribs and other body parts. Chloe is James’s best friend, and she despises Steven ever since the accident. It’s an easy formula: “The enemy of my friend [is] my enemy. That was how friendship work[s], right?”
Steven, a former bronc rider, then rodeo horse trainer and now farrier, seems to be a villain and asshole. In truth, he’s not a bad person. He’s a man who cares deeply and can’t bear to see any living creature suffer. He knows he made a terrible mistake, and even though he didn’t intend to seriously hurt James, the outcome of his deed haunts him every night. Before James’s accident, he used to grab his coffee in the coffee shop where Chloe works and always lingered a little bit longer than necessary because he liked her. Those days are over, though, because she kicks him out as soon as he sets foot inside.
Three months after rescuing Stevie Junior, the pet pig, Stephen and Chloe meet again per chance…and then again…and again…and again. Slowly, very slowly, Steven sneaks his way into her life, being there for her and caring for her whenever she needs support. He proves time and again that he’s a good guy, absolutely devoted and “relentless”, just as his younger sister says. It’s wonderful to watch their relationship unfold, while Chloe’s bad image of him becomes more and more blurred–to the point where she asks him to stop being so nice to her. “It confuses my brain. Sometimes I forget I hate you.”
When she loses her rented house and moves to his spare bedroom, all bets are off. Their feelings deepen even more, the sexual tension becomes unbearable. They try, but they fail to keep their hands off each other. The conflict remains, however: Chloe’s friends would never accept him by her side, and they both know it.
Sometimes she looked at me with those green eyes glinting like she saw right into my soul, and I saw the ghost of a future we would never have. A future we maybe should have had, if I hadn’t fucked everything up before we even got a chance to know each other.
They get their future, of course, even without a third-act breakup. It takes everyone to put in the necessary effort to step outside their comfort zone and tread a difficult path, but they do it. I especially loved Chloe’s unwavering determination once she realizes Stephen’s worth. It was a satisfying ending to a wonderful story with two great heroes and just the right amount of humor and banter. (And I’m totally glossing over the horrible epilogue about postnatal sexual issues and breast milk here).
4.5
BTW, I love the opening quote:
For any woman who ever looked at a hot mess of a man and thought, I can totally fix that.
Girl, no.
Leave that to the professionals.
(Read in December 2025)
August 6, 2025
I had a little bit of a hard time with this one BUT overall liked the redemption arc for Steven. There is such a fine line when the MMC *hates* our FMC as to how far that can go before it is too much. Clearly Steven had some serious self loathing going on due to what had happened in previous books, but the way he talked about Chloe at the beginning of the book was a little much. With that being said, I liked watching him realize he actually had feelings for her and that he cared about what she thought. I liked how fast he realized how deep his feelings went and then instead of proclaiming them right away, he did the little things- helped her family, helped her without her knowing. That was very sweet. I liked him and Chloe. I liked the build up- there was chemistry from the jump. Neither of them acted on it though. So watching them live together and try to avoid the inferno was kind of fun. I also liked Steven's line of "I am not willing to be a regret." I liked watching both of their narratives turn around and how they helped each other be brave. Brave enough to apologize and own up to your mistakes. Brave enough to let your friends know how you feel about someone they may not like.
Chloe has legit hated Steven McAllister since everything went down with James a few years ago. He has never apologize and just kind of put his head down and stayed out of the way. But now she is thinking there is more to the story. She is starting to see a different side to him. A side where he saves a pig who he now has as a pet. A side where he has a sister that is living with him so she can save money. A side where she works for her dad and lowkey has been helping her family. And now he is rescuing her. Offering her a place to live while she figures out what to do next you know not that she is pregnant with a man's baby who she doesn't really want to be tied to. All of this is giving her very mixed emotions. Now she is realizing that he is a hottie with a body. And maybe not as terrible as she thought. And the more she lives with him the more she can fight her attraction to him. With how he makes her food at night and seems to be showing her that he likes her. Like he wants something with her. But she can't do that right? I mean he hurt her friend *accidentally.* But then she can't fight it anymore. She LIKES him too. She wants to pursue this. Let the consequences be damned. And she feels a connection with him. He shows her time and time again that he is going to show up for her. So she gets brave and shows up for him. She comes clean with her friends and hopes that they are ok with this situation. Because she has realized this man is her endgame.
Steven lives in shame. Shame of the mistake he made a few years ago and the fallout. Shame for not apologizing when he thought walking away was the best solution. He has done everything he can to make things right behind the scenes. He wants to prove to himself that he is not his dad. Which is why his sister is living with him. He now has a pet pig. He works for Chloe's dad. Why he keeps going to Chloe's shop to talk with her even though he never says the right things. Until he does. Until she needs him. And he offers her a room at his house. He offers her sanctuary for what she is going through. But what he didn't think was how much being close to her would amplify his feelings. He can't stop thinking about her. How to make her laugh. How to take things off of her plate. How to get her to stop hating him. How to get her to want him the way he wants her. And he slowly but surely starts to see the crack where she wants him too. But he doesn't want to be a mistake. He wants her in this. And then she is. They are- and it is blissful. He realizes that all of his sins have gotten him here in the best way. She has given him the courage to be the man she needs. The man he wants to be. Now he has to right his wrongs so they can be long term because he wants to keep her.
This was a very easy read that I overall enjoyed. There were just some aspects I had a harder time with. I have now read books 3 and 4 and do still plan to go back and read books 1 & 2. This was a TRUE character arc from the *bad* guy to the man of someone's dreams. I recommend it if you are looking for that :)
Thank you to Luna Literary and Elizabeth for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Chloe has legit hated Steven McAllister since everything went down with James a few years ago. He has never apologize and just kind of put his head down and stayed out of the way. But now she is thinking there is more to the story. She is starting to see a different side to him. A side where he saves a pig who he now has as a pet. A side where he has a sister that is living with him so she can save money. A side where she works for her dad and lowkey has been helping her family. And now he is rescuing her. Offering her a place to live while she figures out what to do next you know not that she is pregnant with a man's baby who she doesn't really want to be tied to. All of this is giving her very mixed emotions. Now she is realizing that he is a hottie with a body. And maybe not as terrible as she thought. And the more she lives with him the more she can fight her attraction to him. With how he makes her food at night and seems to be showing her that he likes her. Like he wants something with her. But she can't do that right? I mean he hurt her friend *accidentally.* But then she can't fight it anymore. She LIKES him too. She wants to pursue this. Let the consequences be damned. And she feels a connection with him. He shows her time and time again that he is going to show up for her. So she gets brave and shows up for him. She comes clean with her friends and hopes that they are ok with this situation. Because she has realized this man is her endgame.
Steven lives in shame. Shame of the mistake he made a few years ago and the fallout. Shame for not apologizing when he thought walking away was the best solution. He has done everything he can to make things right behind the scenes. He wants to prove to himself that he is not his dad. Which is why his sister is living with him. He now has a pet pig. He works for Chloe's dad. Why he keeps going to Chloe's shop to talk with her even though he never says the right things. Until he does. Until she needs him. And he offers her a room at his house. He offers her sanctuary for what she is going through. But what he didn't think was how much being close to her would amplify his feelings. He can't stop thinking about her. How to make her laugh. How to take things off of her plate. How to get her to stop hating him. How to get her to want him the way he wants her. And he slowly but surely starts to see the crack where she wants him too. But he doesn't want to be a mistake. He wants her in this. And then she is. They are- and it is blissful. He realizes that all of his sins have gotten him here in the best way. She has given him the courage to be the man she needs. The man he wants to be. Now he has to right his wrongs so they can be long term because he wants to keep her.
This was a very easy read that I overall enjoyed. There were just some aspects I had a harder time with. I have now read books 3 and 4 and do still plan to go back and read books 1 & 2. This was a TRUE character arc from the *bad* guy to the man of someone's dreams. I recommend it if you are looking for that :)
Thank you to Luna Literary and Elizabeth for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
July 17, 2025
⚠️ Warning: you will not be able to put this down once you start.
If you didn’t read the other books, book 1 in particular, that’s fine you’ll get context - but essentially Steven is not a good man and has done terrible things.
Surely there’s no way she could make us fall for this guy right? WRONG.
For f**ks sake, Elizabeth.
This is a story of redemption done so well I was feeling bad for HIM because it is also a very slow burn (for good and obvious reasons).
Because these two absolutely despise each other (or so we think) the banter is freaking top tier, and seeing Chloe get the love and prioritization she deserves is everything.
This book has so much heart, and is genuinely such a beautiful story of self reflection, forgiveness, and so much love.
We have an accidental pregnancy where he is not the father but shows up for her in so many ways, acts of service that go so far above and beyond, fantastic banter, and family/found family bonds that will tug at your heartstrings.
10/10. No notes.
Thank you so much to Elizabeth Bright and Luna Literary for the ARC, I absolutely love this book.
If you didn’t read the other books, book 1 in particular, that’s fine you’ll get context - but essentially Steven is not a good man and has done terrible things.
Surely there’s no way she could make us fall for this guy right? WRONG.
For f**ks sake, Elizabeth.
This is a story of redemption done so well I was feeling bad for HIM because it is also a very slow burn (for good and obvious reasons).
Because these two absolutely despise each other (or so we think) the banter is freaking top tier, and seeing Chloe get the love and prioritization she deserves is everything.
This book has so much heart, and is genuinely such a beautiful story of self reflection, forgiveness, and so much love.
We have an accidental pregnancy where he is not the father but shows up for her in so many ways, acts of service that go so far above and beyond, fantastic banter, and family/found family bonds that will tug at your heartstrings.
10/10. No notes.
Thank you so much to Elizabeth Bright and Luna Literary for the ARC, I absolutely love this book.
August 3, 2025
DNF @ 5%
I did read the author's note saying the MMC was an a**hole but then I got into the book and read him calling the FMC a bitch three times in the first 5% and I just couldn't
I did read the author's note saying the MMC was an a**hole but then I got into the book and read him calling the FMC a bitch three times in the first 5% and I just couldn't
July 24, 2025
Book 1: You could never make me like Steven McAllister.
Book 4: I love Steven McAllister ❤️
I love a good villain redemption book.
Because it’s involves hate to lovers and there’s a bunch of groveling and a man proving he is worthy.
And that was exactly what happened here.
One mistake doesn’t make a bad man.
Oh oh and throw in an accidental pregnancy where it’s not his baby. *melts*
Chloe was great. We met her before as a part of the girl gang. And barista working on a bigger career.
Family issues on both sides.
Small town ranch Colorado.
TikTok girls: wait til you find out Steven’s job 🔥
Crawl but she says it
Mini pig
Arc review ✨
Book 4: I love Steven McAllister ❤️
I love a good villain redemption book.
Because it’s involves hate to lovers and there’s a bunch of groveling and a man proving he is worthy.
And that was exactly what happened here.
One mistake doesn’t make a bad man.
Oh oh and throw in an accidental pregnancy where it’s not his baby. *melts*
Chloe was great. We met her before as a part of the girl gang. And barista working on a bigger career.
Family issues on both sides.
Small town ranch Colorado.
TikTok girls: wait til you find out Steven’s job 🔥
Crawl but she says it
Mini pig
Arc review ✨
July 25, 2025
help, i’ve fallen (for steven) and i don’t wanna get up.
AM I SURPRISED IVE FALLEN FOR THE “BAD GUY”?
with the way Elizabeth Bright wrote this story, it was inevitable.
redemption arc? YUP.
yearning? YUP.
Pining? YUP.
whimpering? YUP.
tysm for this arc. always happy to read anything elizabeth writes, especially her cowboys…or farriers. 😉
AM I SURPRISED IVE FALLEN FOR THE “BAD GUY”?
with the way Elizabeth Bright wrote this story, it was inevitable.
redemption arc? YUP.
yearning? YUP.
Pining? YUP.
whimpering? YUP.
tysm for this arc. always happy to read anything elizabeth writes, especially her cowboys…or farriers. 😉
August 1, 2025
Literally disgusted by this book. Spoiler warning for what comes next.
So people fuck up, sometimes it’s a big fuck up. Steven fucked up in a prior book where he intentionally made a horse spook but unintentionally got one of our heroines friends hurt. He was wrong. He got fired, and for 2 years has done everything he can to be able to look himself in the mirror again. Added to this, other than that fuck up, this man is a genuinely good person, down to his soul. Now the heroine, of course she doesn’t like this guy, he hurt her friend, but there’s a connection there she can’t quit fight. So every time this man goes out of his way to help her, she accepts the help but reminds him what a shitty human he is and how unworthy of her time he is. And because this man has deep feelings for our heroine, and because he is a genuinely good person, he comes back and helps more and more. So our heroine decides she might just like this guy, not enough for her to be willing for other people to know they’re friends with each other but enough to keep taking that help he’s offering and even move in rent free.
I’m hanging on by a thread here in the reading process, trying desperately to just get through the book because whether I like this bitch or not, I am invested in the story and maybe she’ll surprise me… the only thing that surprised me is that she could become an even shittier person. This man is begging for her to stay with him, telling her he would crawl through broken glass for her, well of course he wouldn’t, people say that but don’t really mean it. Let me just throw a jar on the ground so it shatters and tell him to crawl to me. That’ll prove what a liar he is, and how unworthy of my forgiveness he is. Nope, he gets down and crawls to her and our heroine is shocked and horrified that he does it.
Fuck her, and honestly fuck people who write this shit. I understand in a book there’s upheaval a couple needs to overcome because we get there happy ending, this wasn’t that. It was a woman tearing down a man 85% of the book and then once she decides he’s finally worthy she pays no penance for her treatment.
Like I said disgusting.
So people fuck up, sometimes it’s a big fuck up. Steven fucked up in a prior book where he intentionally made a horse spook but unintentionally got one of our heroines friends hurt. He was wrong. He got fired, and for 2 years has done everything he can to be able to look himself in the mirror again. Added to this, other than that fuck up, this man is a genuinely good person, down to his soul. Now the heroine, of course she doesn’t like this guy, he hurt her friend, but there’s a connection there she can’t quit fight. So every time this man goes out of his way to help her, she accepts the help but reminds him what a shitty human he is and how unworthy of her time he is. And because this man has deep feelings for our heroine, and because he is a genuinely good person, he comes back and helps more and more. So our heroine decides she might just like this guy, not enough for her to be willing for other people to know they’re friends with each other but enough to keep taking that help he’s offering and even move in rent free.
I’m hanging on by a thread here in the reading process, trying desperately to just get through the book because whether I like this bitch or not, I am invested in the story and maybe she’ll surprise me… the only thing that surprised me is that she could become an even shittier person. This man is begging for her to stay with him, telling her he would crawl through broken glass for her, well of course he wouldn’t, people say that but don’t really mean it. Let me just throw a jar on the ground so it shatters and tell him to crawl to me. That’ll prove what a liar he is, and how unworthy of my forgiveness he is. Nope, he gets down and crawls to her and our heroine is shocked and horrified that he does it.
Fuck her, and honestly fuck people who write this shit. I understand in a book there’s upheaval a couple needs to overcome because we get there happy ending, this wasn’t that. It was a woman tearing down a man 85% of the book and then once she decides he’s finally worthy she pays no penance for her treatment.
Like I said disgusting.
July 24, 2025
Every time Elizabeth comes out with a new book I think it’s the best one yet, and she did top it again. We meet Steven and Chloe in book. 1 of the series but really not in a way anyone would want to. Steven is the villain and slinks off to lick his wounds of being just that. And Chloe is the best gal pal around who has a promise with god that she’ll never entertain the likes of Steven.
I DON’T KNOW HOW SHE DID IT, but Elizabeth made Steven one of the best MMCs I’ve read in a really long time. He owned his sh*t plain and simple. He knew his past mistakes and not only told Chloe he was trying to be better, but showed her. The way I swooned over this man. And yall Chloe. She was an amazing FMC. The push and pull in her heart between being loyal to her friends and her feelings towards Steven. Woooooof.
Much like all of Elizabeth book, I HAD to finish this book in one sitting. There was no way I was going to set the book down without knowing what happened next. This was just simply amazing. I can’t wait to see what else is gonna turn up in Lodestar.
I DON’T KNOW HOW SHE DID IT, but Elizabeth made Steven one of the best MMCs I’ve read in a really long time. He owned his sh*t plain and simple. He knew his past mistakes and not only told Chloe he was trying to be better, but showed her. The way I swooned over this man. And yall Chloe. She was an amazing FMC. The push and pull in her heart between being loyal to her friends and her feelings towards Steven. Woooooof.
Much like all of Elizabeth book, I HAD to finish this book in one sitting. There was no way I was going to set the book down without knowing what happened next. This was just simply amazing. I can’t wait to see what else is gonna turn up in Lodestar.
July 31, 2025
"Call Me Yours" is the first book I've read by Elizabeth Bright but it certainly won't be the last! I am for sure going to go and read the earlier books in this series now! Though I am scared because I adored Steven so much in the book but he is not viewed in a good light (putting it lightly) in the previous books.
This is an “oppsie" pregnancy romance where the mmc is not the dad but definitely wants to be. Also includes tropes like: he falls first, opposites attract, banter, redemption arc, forced proximity, mental health representation, and dislike to love (one-sided).
While this book is a part of an interconnected series, I had no issues following along without having read the previous books. The author did a great job at seamlessly weaving previous events that caused the current animosity and angst. While I knew going into this read that Steven was far from a hero in this series up until now and how this was a "chance at redemption arc" (per author's intro note)--I honestly fell in love with him within chapter 1. I'm sure that will be different for those who have read this series in order (or just read 1 or 2 of the previous books). I could easily tell why Steven was looked down on and hated by others (he did do something wrong previously and it did cause someone to get hurt, you can't just erase that). But at no point did he ever try to excuse it or act like it wasn't a big deal. He clearly has his own issues but he owns the fact that he fucked up and no childhood issues excuse that.
His arc of working at being a better person was done so well in my opinion. He wasn't doing it for penance or anything; he simply recognized he was acting like his shit head of a dad and quickly put a stop to that and worked daily to just be a better man (even if he still was a grumpy asshole on the outside sometimes). The lesson of "sometimes good people do a bad thing, but it doesn't automatically make them a bad person" definitely resonates throughout the whole story.
One of my favorite things about Steven was easily his actions with Chloe. He was so caring and supportive even if he didn't fully see it that way at first. He never second guessed or made a fuss out of helping her with something--just a "goddamnit chloe" and then stepping in and fixing whatever the issue was. Chloe can't sleep at 3am cause baby giving her massive cravings? Ok great he'll cook her a meal every morning at 3am. Chloe so overwhelmed and tired she is about to give up on grocery shopping? No problem, they can share a cart and shop together. It was little things like that he did so effortlessly and with care that made me truly love him. It was also the little things he noticed and remembered--Chloe's favorite shoes, the way she took care of everyone else first, how her family used her unintentionally without gratitude, and more.
As for Chloe, loved loved loved her! She was fun, fiercely loyal, and sweet. She was a bit of a mess personally only because she put all her energy into helping and supporting others. She is truly eldest daughter to her core. I really liked how she worked on putting herself first by the end--standing up to her family and choosing her happiness with love even when scared it could cost her friendships.
A few additional parts that made me love this small town romance--Stevie, the banter, humor Chloe's personality brought, the straight-to-the-point attitude from Steven, found family aspects, loyal friendships, and did I mention Stevie? Only thing I could wish for is a slightly more drawn out ending.
Thank you so much to the author and LunaLiterary for the e-ARC. Review is my honest opinion.
This is an “oppsie" pregnancy romance where the mmc is not the dad but definitely wants to be. Also includes tropes like: he falls first, opposites attract, banter, redemption arc, forced proximity, mental health representation, and dislike to love (one-sided).
While this book is a part of an interconnected series, I had no issues following along without having read the previous books. The author did a great job at seamlessly weaving previous events that caused the current animosity and angst. While I knew going into this read that Steven was far from a hero in this series up until now and how this was a "chance at redemption arc" (per author's intro note)--I honestly fell in love with him within chapter 1. I'm sure that will be different for those who have read this series in order (or just read 1 or 2 of the previous books). I could easily tell why Steven was looked down on and hated by others (he did do something wrong previously and it did cause someone to get hurt, you can't just erase that). But at no point did he ever try to excuse it or act like it wasn't a big deal. He clearly has his own issues but he owns the fact that he fucked up and no childhood issues excuse that.
His arc of working at being a better person was done so well in my opinion. He wasn't doing it for penance or anything; he simply recognized he was acting like his shit head of a dad and quickly put a stop to that and worked daily to just be a better man (even if he still was a grumpy asshole on the outside sometimes). The lesson of "sometimes good people do a bad thing, but it doesn't automatically make them a bad person" definitely resonates throughout the whole story.
One of my favorite things about Steven was easily his actions with Chloe. He was so caring and supportive even if he didn't fully see it that way at first. He never second guessed or made a fuss out of helping her with something--just a "goddamnit chloe" and then stepping in and fixing whatever the issue was. Chloe can't sleep at 3am cause baby giving her massive cravings? Ok great he'll cook her a meal every morning at 3am. Chloe so overwhelmed and tired she is about to give up on grocery shopping? No problem, they can share a cart and shop together. It was little things like that he did so effortlessly and with care that made me truly love him. It was also the little things he noticed and remembered--Chloe's favorite shoes, the way she took care of everyone else first, how her family used her unintentionally without gratitude, and more.
As for Chloe, loved loved loved her! She was fun, fiercely loyal, and sweet. She was a bit of a mess personally only because she put all her energy into helping and supporting others. She is truly eldest daughter to her core. I really liked how she worked on putting herself first by the end--standing up to her family and choosing her happiness with love even when scared it could cost her friendships.
A few additional parts that made me love this small town romance--Stevie, the banter, humor Chloe's personality brought, the straight-to-the-point attitude from Steven, found family aspects, loyal friendships, and did I mention Stevie? Only thing I could wish for is a slightly more drawn out ending.
Thank you so much to the author and LunaLiterary for the e-ARC. Review is my honest opinion.
December 13, 2025
"Si necesitas odiarme un poco, puedo vivir con eso siempre que me llames tuyo. Porque eso es lo que soy, princesa. Soy tuyo"
¡Amo a Steven! Y que bueno que la autora le diera su propio libro para redimirse y demostrar que todos cometemos errores y no merecemos ser juzgados solo por una acción o mala decisión que tomamos en la vida ya que nadie es perfecto y a veces merecemos segundas oportunidades ♥️ (en todo el libro quise encerrarlo en una cajita para que no le hagan daño)
Lo que mas destaco y me gusto de la historia de Steven es que el no quiso cambiar para tener la aceptación de la gente, si no que lo hizo para ser mejor persona el mismo y demostrarse que sin importar la mala crianza con la que fue educado en su casa y lo malo que era su padre como esposo y figura paternal, no significaba que su actuar y personalidad fueran iguales. Nunca lo uso como excusa para justificar sus comportamientos, el sabía que actuó mal y era difícil que la gente vea que realmente cambio porque fue muy juzgado y la verdad es que dolió la manera en la que era constantemente ignorado porque nunca le dieron la oportunidad de demostrar que no era así y lo veían como alguien malo en cada lugar que llegaba y se sintió feo 🥺
Chloe es la mujer que el necesitaba y si bien al principio le tenía recelo por la manera despectiva con la que trataba a Steven la entendía porque se lo que pasó y yo también sentí rechazo hacía el cuando paso todo en el primer libro pero Steven se esforzaba tanto y ella solo estaba allí para recordarle sus malas acciones y no lo ayudaba porque lo hacía sentir muy mal. Lo del embarazo ayudo mucho a su relación porque fue el momento ideal para que ella descubriera que todo lo que el hacía era de corazón y que era un gran hombre y compañero porque estuvo con ella cuando nadie mas lo estaba, amo a su bebé desde el primer momento como si fuera suyo y sobre todo la ayudo a solucionar esos asuntos internos que ella no sano porque el le hizo ver que la manera en la que se hacía cargo de los problemas de su familia no estaba bien porque solo la llamaban cuando la necesitaban y ella siempre estaba sola y no recibía el mismo trato. AMEEE EL LIBRO ♥️🥺
¡Amo a Steven! Y que bueno que la autora le diera su propio libro para redimirse y demostrar que todos cometemos errores y no merecemos ser juzgados solo por una acción o mala decisión que tomamos en la vida ya que nadie es perfecto y a veces merecemos segundas oportunidades ♥️ (en todo el libro quise encerrarlo en una cajita para que no le hagan daño)
Lo que mas destaco y me gusto de la historia de Steven es que el no quiso cambiar para tener la aceptación de la gente, si no que lo hizo para ser mejor persona el mismo y demostrarse que sin importar la mala crianza con la que fue educado en su casa y lo malo que era su padre como esposo y figura paternal, no significaba que su actuar y personalidad fueran iguales. Nunca lo uso como excusa para justificar sus comportamientos, el sabía que actuó mal y era difícil que la gente vea que realmente cambio porque fue muy juzgado y la verdad es que dolió la manera en la que era constantemente ignorado porque nunca le dieron la oportunidad de demostrar que no era así y lo veían como alguien malo en cada lugar que llegaba y se sintió feo 🥺
Chloe es la mujer que el necesitaba y si bien al principio le tenía recelo por la manera despectiva con la que trataba a Steven la entendía porque se lo que pasó y yo también sentí rechazo hacía el cuando paso todo en el primer libro pero Steven se esforzaba tanto y ella solo estaba allí para recordarle sus malas acciones y no lo ayudaba porque lo hacía sentir muy mal. Lo del embarazo ayudo mucho a su relación porque fue el momento ideal para que ella descubriera que todo lo que el hacía era de corazón y que era un gran hombre y compañero porque estuvo con ella cuando nadie mas lo estaba, amo a su bebé desde el primer momento como si fuera suyo y sobre todo la ayudo a solucionar esos asuntos internos que ella no sano porque el le hizo ver que la manera en la que se hacía cargo de los problemas de su familia no estaba bien porque solo la llamaban cuando la necesitaban y ella siempre estaba sola y no recibía el mismo trato. AMEEE EL LIBRO ♥️🥺
July 24, 2025
Tropes-
Hate to love
Pregnancy- not his baby
He Falls first
Slow-burn
Small town
Banter
Crawl
✨️ Thank you to Elizabeth and Luna literary for the arc for my honest review! Listen, I didn't read the other books in the series, so I didn't hate Steven coming into this. I realize that what he did was wrong, but he explained what happened and apologized. So with that being said, I loved him from the very beginning of this book. The banter between him Chloe was hilarious! I loved their relationship growth, and honestly both of their character growths in this book. It was such a feel good time. It was less than 300 pages, so can easily be read in a day. I definitely recommend this book to my friends! I will be going back and reading the other books in the series 🫶
Hate to love
Pregnancy- not his baby
He Falls first
Slow-burn
Small town
Banter
Crawl
✨️ Thank you to Elizabeth and Luna literary for the arc for my honest review! Listen, I didn't read the other books in the series, so I didn't hate Steven coming into this. I realize that what he did was wrong, but he explained what happened and apologized. So with that being said, I loved him from the very beginning of this book. The banter between him Chloe was hilarious! I loved their relationship growth, and honestly both of their character growths in this book. It was such a feel good time. It was less than 300 pages, so can easily be read in a day. I definitely recommend this book to my friends! I will be going back and reading the other books in the series 🫶
July 25, 2025
Okay, I honestly couldn't put this book down once I started, and I finished it in the same day because it was SO good.
Chloe Adams was strong, sassy, and fiercely loyal, but also the sweetest, gentlest soul. She's the kind of friend we all want in our lives who will hold a grudge for her friends and commit to it. Chloe was someone who gave and gave to everyone without ever asking for anything in return, whether it was her family, friends, or work. Her loyalty to James was what left her with conflicting feelings for Steven, and I loved how her feelings slowly shifted despite her best efforts to not let them. I also liked that there was attention brought to therapy with her career as a clinical social work therapist, which also hit harder the more we find out about Chloe's past and her reasons for pursuing it.
Steven's character had me hooked from the very first chapter when he saved Stevie because how could anyone not be? I do love a good redemption arc, which is what had intrigued me about this book. There were so many layers to his character, so many emotions, which we get into the more we know him. I haven't read "A Cowboy in the Streets," so I'm not sure about Steven's entire role in what happened to James, so I can't truly comment on that, but with that being said, I feel like the author has done justice to his character. It took Chloe calling him out on it for him to see just how much he'd turned into the one person he never wanted to be like. There was a lot of self-reflection and growth on his part, and he always owned up to his mistakes even if he was shit at apologizing for it at first. It wasn't an easy journey with him wanting to do better, be better, but not knowing how to go about it or if it's even worth trying after being an asshole for so long. I also adored his relationship with his younger sister, Amy, and that also helped win me over.
There were a lot of bumps (pun intended) on the way to romance between Chloe and Steven, especially with Chloe hating Steven initially and Steven almost always putting his foot in his mouth. Which made their entire relationship feel that much more genuine. The banter between them right from chapter one was top tier. There were so many funny moments between them and also many deep, vulnerable, 3 a.m. moments too. I just loved how their relationship changed over the course of this book. It just felt right. Things didn't shift overnight, and Chloe took her time to let him in. Steven was absolutely gone for Chloe and just wanted the best for her, so he never stopped trying. The way this man took care of Chloe was everything—even when she despised him, when they called a truce, when she found out about her pregnancy, and every step forward after.
Sometimes I don't know how I feel about the pregnancy trope, especially when the MMC isn't the father. However, I didn't feel put off by that in this book, which itself says a lot. It really worked for me, and I truly feel like the baby not being Steven's was also what made him redeemable in many ways. The way he was present for Chloe and "Radish" from day one just melts your heart. I just loved this book so damn much.
The spice hit just right with this one. It was a slow burn and a really good one at that. When they finally got together I went "FUCK YES!!!" The way Steven was so careful, considerate, and constantly making sure Chloe was sure about what she wanted just made it that much hotter.
I love books that have a strong girl gang, and this was one such book. Despite having strong opinions about Steven, the gang always made sure Chloe was okay and was sure about her decisions and supported her throughout.
Also, I have to mention Stevie/Steve Junior, who was just sooo dang adorable. Can I please adopt her already? Steven being a pig dad was hilarious, and his interactions and thoughts on Stevie were just so cute.
Thank you to Elizabeth Bright and Luna Literary for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Chloe Adams was strong, sassy, and fiercely loyal, but also the sweetest, gentlest soul. She's the kind of friend we all want in our lives who will hold a grudge for her friends and commit to it. Chloe was someone who gave and gave to everyone without ever asking for anything in return, whether it was her family, friends, or work. Her loyalty to James was what left her with conflicting feelings for Steven, and I loved how her feelings slowly shifted despite her best efforts to not let them. I also liked that there was attention brought to therapy with her career as a clinical social work therapist, which also hit harder the more we find out about Chloe's past and her reasons for pursuing it.
Steven's character had me hooked from the very first chapter when he saved Stevie because how could anyone not be? I do love a good redemption arc, which is what had intrigued me about this book. There were so many layers to his character, so many emotions, which we get into the more we know him. I haven't read "A Cowboy in the Streets," so I'm not sure about Steven's entire role in what happened to James, so I can't truly comment on that, but with that being said, I feel like the author has done justice to his character. It took Chloe calling him out on it for him to see just how much he'd turned into the one person he never wanted to be like. There was a lot of self-reflection and growth on his part, and he always owned up to his mistakes even if he was shit at apologizing for it at first. It wasn't an easy journey with him wanting to do better, be better, but not knowing how to go about it or if it's even worth trying after being an asshole for so long. I also adored his relationship with his younger sister, Amy, and that also helped win me over.
There were a lot of bumps (pun intended) on the way to romance between Chloe and Steven, especially with Chloe hating Steven initially and Steven almost always putting his foot in his mouth. Which made their entire relationship feel that much more genuine. The banter between them right from chapter one was top tier. There were so many funny moments between them and also many deep, vulnerable, 3 a.m. moments too. I just loved how their relationship changed over the course of this book. It just felt right. Things didn't shift overnight, and Chloe took her time to let him in. Steven was absolutely gone for Chloe and just wanted the best for her, so he never stopped trying. The way this man took care of Chloe was everything—even when she despised him, when they called a truce, when she found out about her pregnancy, and every step forward after.
Sometimes I don't know how I feel about the pregnancy trope, especially when the MMC isn't the father. However, I didn't feel put off by that in this book, which itself says a lot. It really worked for me, and I truly feel like the baby not being Steven's was also what made him redeemable in many ways. The way he was present for Chloe and "Radish" from day one just melts your heart. I just loved this book so damn much.
The spice hit just right with this one. It was a slow burn and a really good one at that. When they finally got together I went "FUCK YES!!!" The way Steven was so careful, considerate, and constantly making sure Chloe was sure about what she wanted just made it that much hotter.
I love books that have a strong girl gang, and this was one such book. Despite having strong opinions about Steven, the gang always made sure Chloe was okay and was sure about her decisions and supported her throughout.
Also, I have to mention Stevie/Steve Junior, who was just sooo dang adorable. Can I please adopt her already? Steven being a pig dad was hilarious, and his interactions and thoughts on Stevie were just so cute.
Thank you to Elizabeth Bright and Luna Literary for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 31, 2025
I am the biggest hater of the pregnancy trope ever but oh my god I think this book was my favourite in this series. Steven went from public enemy #1 in book one to being my favourite MMC in book four. This book was a very slow burn but it really built up Steven and Chloe’s connection well and it was obvious to see why they loved each other in the end. All I’m saying is when a pregnancy trope tops a grumpy single dad…. You know it’s good book. 12/10 would recommend💖💖
September 20, 2025
It kinda healed me in a way, loved the redemption arc for Stevie.
August 4, 2025
Well, I'm in a pickle. I was prepared to dislike this book and more specifically, dislike the MMC in this book. The MMC makes an appearance in the first book of the series where he does something so heinous to the FMC of that book, he is clearly the villain and I'll be honest, I'm not particularly in the mood to read romances redeeming shitty men behaving badly. I'm not in the mood for that in the best of times and we are very definitely not living in the best of times.
And yet, here we are at the fork in the road. When I started this book, I loathed Steven. He was awful for what he'd done to James in the first book, a choice that he himself states, he can't take back and undo, even though he desperately wishes he could. The only way he could be redeemed in my eyes is if he were to crawl over broken glass. And then he does. Literally, he willingly crawls over broken glass. But beyond that, he decides, on his own, that he wants to be a better man. Not to impress anyone or make amends for anything, but because he wants to be a better man for himself, he wants to be the kind of person who is worth the air he breathes, the kind of man who can look himself in the eye and be proud of the man he is. That he finds himself falling for a pregnant woman and doing everything in his power to take care of her and make her life easier is not the reason he becomes better but happens because he has decided to become better.
Anyway, this book was complicated for me - redeeming bad men is an iffy prospect for me and I appreciate that he took responsibility for his behavior. This is also an example of hurt people hurt people and his background and upbringing is obviously terrible but I'm not that keen on using that to excuse his own bad behavior.
BUT, this was engrossing and even though I'm still conflicted on my feelings for the MMC, I liked him inside his own story and how he was with Chloe.
EDITED TO ADD: I should specify exactly what Steven does to James in the first book. They both work at the same ranch as horse trainers, James starts an affair with the ranch owner, but is also a better trainer and gets promoted as head trainer for her ability to train an extremely difficult horse. Steven is pissed and calls her a slut because he thinks she slept her way to the promotion. Additionally, because of his simmering rage, he spooks her horse and causes the horse rear and buck James off, which causes some injury to her, thankfully nothing too severe. But still, it's his actions that cause her to have any injury at all and he ends up getting fired for his actions. The ranch owner (the MMC of book 1) also punches him and Steven threatens to sue him and the ranch but later on drops it.
And yet, here we are at the fork in the road. When I started this book, I loathed Steven. He was awful for what he'd done to James in the first book, a choice that he himself states, he can't take back and undo, even though he desperately wishes he could. The only way he could be redeemed in my eyes is if he were to crawl over broken glass. And then he does. Literally, he willingly crawls over broken glass. But beyond that, he decides, on his own, that he wants to be a better man. Not to impress anyone or make amends for anything, but because he wants to be a better man for himself, he wants to be the kind of person who is worth the air he breathes, the kind of man who can look himself in the eye and be proud of the man he is. That he finds himself falling for a pregnant woman and doing everything in his power to take care of her and make her life easier is not the reason he becomes better but happens because he has decided to become better.
Anyway, this book was complicated for me - redeeming bad men is an iffy prospect for me and I appreciate that he took responsibility for his behavior. This is also an example of hurt people hurt people and his background and upbringing is obviously terrible but I'm not that keen on using that to excuse his own bad behavior.
BUT, this was engrossing and even though I'm still conflicted on my feelings for the MMC, I liked him inside his own story and how he was with Chloe.
EDITED TO ADD: I should specify exactly what Steven does to James in the first book. They both work at the same ranch as horse trainers, James starts an affair with the ranch owner, but is also a better trainer and gets promoted as head trainer for her ability to train an extremely difficult horse. Steven is pissed and calls her a slut because he thinks she slept her way to the promotion. Additionally, because of his simmering rage, he spooks her horse and causes the horse rear and buck James off, which causes some injury to her, thankfully nothing too severe. But still, it's his actions that cause her to have any injury at all and he ends up getting fired for his actions. The ranch owner (the MMC of book 1) also punches him and Steven threatens to sue him and the ranch but later on drops it.
July 25, 2025
✨🐴
I LOVE a not his baby trope, add in villain redemption and I’m a goner. I absolutely devoured this book!
We met Steven in book one, when he was involved in an incident with James. We originally hated him, but boy did he redeem himself in this book! We find out he’s a good man, who made a big mistake. The growth of his character throughout the book was wonderful to see, he really turned things around. He has a soft spot for Chloe, but she despises him because of his past. But when she finds herself needing a pregnancy test, Steven not only comes through, he’s there every step of the way after. The way he took care of Chloe was adorable, it didn’t matter to him that the baby wasn’t his. I love these two, the growth they had as individuals and as a couple.
Thank you Elizabeth Bright and Luna Literary for the ARC!
I LOVE a not his baby trope, add in villain redemption and I’m a goner. I absolutely devoured this book!
We met Steven in book one, when he was involved in an incident with James. We originally hated him, but boy did he redeem himself in this book! We find out he’s a good man, who made a big mistake. The growth of his character throughout the book was wonderful to see, he really turned things around. He has a soft spot for Chloe, but she despises him because of his past. But when she finds herself needing a pregnancy test, Steven not only comes through, he’s there every step of the way after. The way he took care of Chloe was adorable, it didn’t matter to him that the baby wasn’t his. I love these two, the growth they had as individuals and as a couple.
Thank you Elizabeth Bright and Luna Literary for the ARC!
July 16, 2025
Woooooow I thought nothing could trump book 3 for me but here comes Mr. REDEMPTION ARC STEVEN MCALLISTER! I have always been a sucker for “villain” gets the girl and to see it executed perfectly in a contemporary romance is no easy feat. The relationship between Steven and Chloe blossomed so realistically as well and I loved the internal battle Chloe faced. It felt so real and raw and shows that all humans make mistakes and bad decisions but it’s about what we do to rectify them and show the people we love we changed. The banter was also off the charts and the romance was HOT. But my favorite thing about the whole book was seeing Steven’s growth and how he would do ANYTHING for Chloe.
Tropes:
Accidental pregnancy (baby isn’t his)
Forbidden? Romance
Villain gets the girl
Hate to love
Cowboy romance
CRAWLLLLLLLLING DOWN BAD MAN 🚨🚨🚨
Tropes:
Accidental pregnancy (baby isn’t his)
Forbidden? Romance
Villain gets the girl
Hate to love
Cowboy romance
CRAWLLLLLLLLING DOWN BAD MAN 🚨🚨🚨
July 22, 2025
ARC REVIEW
5⭐️
2🌶
THEY CAN NEVER MAKE ME HATE YOU STEVEN 😍
Obsessed. Perfection. Loved every single second.
Talk about a REDEMPTION. 👏 Elizabeth literally had me feeling bad for him, that's how freaking good it was.
The banter in this book had me ROLLING. They were so unapologetically themselves and hilarious together. The way that their love grew organically and slowly was so precious. Steven shows up for Chloe and steps up when she needed someone in her corner.
This story is full of forgiveness, pain and healing, banter, and blooming love.
This series is everything and Elizabeth has now become an auto buy author for me!
Tropes:
✨️ Hate to Love
✨️ Redemption Story
✨️ Pregnancy, not his baby
✨️ He Falls First
✨️ SLOW burn
✨️ Small Town
✨️ *Crawl*
5⭐️
2🌶
THEY CAN NEVER MAKE ME HATE YOU STEVEN 😍
Obsessed. Perfection. Loved every single second.
Talk about a REDEMPTION. 👏 Elizabeth literally had me feeling bad for him, that's how freaking good it was.
The banter in this book had me ROLLING. They were so unapologetically themselves and hilarious together. The way that their love grew organically and slowly was so precious. Steven shows up for Chloe and steps up when she needed someone in her corner.
This story is full of forgiveness, pain and healing, banter, and blooming love.
This series is everything and Elizabeth has now become an auto buy author for me!
Tropes:
✨️ Hate to Love
✨️ Redemption Story
✨️ Pregnancy, not his baby
✨️ He Falls First
✨️ SLOW burn
✨️ Small Town
✨️ *Crawl*
October 9, 2025
Would have been 5 ⭐️ if not for the last 5 pages.
September 8, 2025
A millennial for sure wrote this
August 3, 2025
Nope. Just nope.
I honestly can’t remember ever reading a book where the FMC tears down the MMC as much as Chloe does to Steven in this one. Heads up, you should probably read one of the previous books first because a major event there drives Steven and Chloe’s entire storyline here.
I get Chloe wanting to defend her friend, but did she have to trash talk Steven constantly? She knows he’s struggling and she’s a therapist! I just couldn’t get on board with her behavior. The book leans way more into the “enemies” part of enemies-to-lovers, and by the time they actually became lovers, it felt super rushed.
And the baby daddy? Practically a footnote. The way he was written into the story just didn’t work for me. Overall, this one really missed the mark.
I honestly can’t remember ever reading a book where the FMC tears down the MMC as much as Chloe does to Steven in this one. Heads up, you should probably read one of the previous books first because a major event there drives Steven and Chloe’s entire storyline here.
I get Chloe wanting to defend her friend, but did she have to trash talk Steven constantly? She knows he’s struggling and she’s a therapist! I just couldn’t get on board with her behavior. The book leans way more into the “enemies” part of enemies-to-lovers, and by the time they actually became lovers, it felt super rushed.
And the baby daddy? Practically a footnote. The way he was written into the story just didn’t work for me. Overall, this one really missed the mark.
July 24, 2025
Call Me Yours…don’t mind if I do! Because you are one of the best romances of the year! Wow! You hit every mark! You made every touchdown! You scored every goal! Is that a home run? Yep, it darn sure is! Call Me Yours, you’re mine forever!
One of the big reasons this book works for me is its male lead, Steven. What a jerk he is at the beginning! He’s got bad blood with everyone in town it seems. And yet…oh my gosh the way we come to see what a heart of gold is beneath that seemingly a*hole exterior. He is the loving guardian of his 18 year old sister, ensuring she receives her education and all she needs in life. He cares deeply for the horses he tends, wanting to care for and save all. And he’s far more vulnerable than he pretends to be in his rocky, prickly exterior. Riddled with fears, most of all the fear of ending up too similar to his abusive father. A fear that has led him astray in life at times, causing mistakes that understandably have many shunning him. But through it all, we witness that he is not the sum of his mistakes. He’s a man that learns from them. He rights his wrongs, even if others don’t see at first. He takes accountability and betters himself to be worthy for his sister– and for the woman who has snuck her way inside his heart, Chloe.
Ah, Chloe. Love ya! Love her tenacity and loyalty to friends, deeply loyal that she ensures she too turns her back to Steven in the belief he is not worth a second of her time. But when her back is against the wall and he’s the only one reaching with a helping hand, she takes hold and her entire perspective changes. She sees a man who is changing for the better, who has goodness and kindness and generosity in him. And excellent abs. Her words not mine! Respect turns to admiration turns to pregnancy-induced lust turns to something that feels quite a bit like love, born from deep within the soul. Loyalty doesn’t so much shift but it spreads its wings to include a man that was otherwise outcast.
Then there’s the surprise pregnancy. Nope, not Steven’s baby, but you’d think it was for the way he immediately steps up to the plate to help Chloe navigate through this unexpected change in her life. He’s there for doctor appointments, reading pregnancy books, cooking her meals, and standing up for her against her family (as wonderful as they, they let her down in a big way). He supports her in every way, and it nurtures an impenetrable trust between the two. And suddenly Chloe takes up the task to make Steven believe himself the way she has come to believe in him. She gives him hope and trust. He gives her support and protection. They come together in such a beautifully poignant way.
If I have any regret, it’s not even anything critical, it's me just wishing I had read Elizabeth Bright’s works prior to this! This book stands on its own and lays out the negative history revolving Steven, so we do not need to read the previous books in the series but I want to, just to further elevate this already enriching story. I simply cannot get enough!
OH! I also want another epilogue or bonus chapter! And again, I would not change a thing in this work. It’s a full course meal plus a generous dessert, but I’m a gluttonous lass, my friends, and I need moooore!
I have been off my usual reading pace in the last couple of months, so let me say the fact I read this in under 24 hours gave me that energy boost I have been lacking. Forever loving Call Me Yours for giving me one of the best reading experiences of 2025!
Thank you Luna Literary for this advanced complimentary copy, I leave this honest review voluntarily.
______
immediate post-read thoughts
I'm going to be so honest I had forgotten I requested this arc, then I panicked a bit when I received it as I have a number of arcs I need to go through within the next two weeks, and then I found myself devouring this in under 24 hours. Like WOW. This really came out of nowhere and it instantly hit a home run.
From the very start I knew this was a perfect fit read. Only thing that could have made this even more perfect was an extended epilogue-- I wasn't ready to say goodbye! Baaah! Call Me Yours, you just became a huge favorite romance of mine. Looooved this!
Full review to come soon!
One of the big reasons this book works for me is its male lead, Steven. What a jerk he is at the beginning! He’s got bad blood with everyone in town it seems. And yet…oh my gosh the way we come to see what a heart of gold is beneath that seemingly a*hole exterior. He is the loving guardian of his 18 year old sister, ensuring she receives her education and all she needs in life. He cares deeply for the horses he tends, wanting to care for and save all. And he’s far more vulnerable than he pretends to be in his rocky, prickly exterior. Riddled with fears, most of all the fear of ending up too similar to his abusive father. A fear that has led him astray in life at times, causing mistakes that understandably have many shunning him. But through it all, we witness that he is not the sum of his mistakes. He’s a man that learns from them. He rights his wrongs, even if others don’t see at first. He takes accountability and betters himself to be worthy for his sister– and for the woman who has snuck her way inside his heart, Chloe.
Ah, Chloe. Love ya! Love her tenacity and loyalty to friends, deeply loyal that she ensures she too turns her back to Steven in the belief he is not worth a second of her time. But when her back is against the wall and he’s the only one reaching with a helping hand, she takes hold and her entire perspective changes. She sees a man who is changing for the better, who has goodness and kindness and generosity in him. And excellent abs. Her words not mine! Respect turns to admiration turns to pregnancy-induced lust turns to something that feels quite a bit like love, born from deep within the soul. Loyalty doesn’t so much shift but it spreads its wings to include a man that was otherwise outcast.
Then there’s the surprise pregnancy. Nope, not Steven’s baby, but you’d think it was for the way he immediately steps up to the plate to help Chloe navigate through this unexpected change in her life. He’s there for doctor appointments, reading pregnancy books, cooking her meals, and standing up for her against her family (as wonderful as they, they let her down in a big way). He supports her in every way, and it nurtures an impenetrable trust between the two. And suddenly Chloe takes up the task to make Steven believe himself the way she has come to believe in him. She gives him hope and trust. He gives her support and protection. They come together in such a beautifully poignant way.
If I have any regret, it’s not even anything critical, it's me just wishing I had read Elizabeth Bright’s works prior to this! This book stands on its own and lays out the negative history revolving Steven, so we do not need to read the previous books in the series but I want to, just to further elevate this already enriching story. I simply cannot get enough!
OH! I also want another epilogue or bonus chapter! And again, I would not change a thing in this work. It’s a full course meal plus a generous dessert, but I’m a gluttonous lass, my friends, and I need moooore!
I have been off my usual reading pace in the last couple of months, so let me say the fact I read this in under 24 hours gave me that energy boost I have been lacking. Forever loving Call Me Yours for giving me one of the best reading experiences of 2025!
Thank you Luna Literary for this advanced complimentary copy, I leave this honest review voluntarily.
______
immediate post-read thoughts
I'm going to be so honest I had forgotten I requested this arc, then I panicked a bit when I received it as I have a number of arcs I need to go through within the next two weeks, and then I found myself devouring this in under 24 hours. Like WOW. This really came out of nowhere and it instantly hit a home run.
From the very start I knew this was a perfect fit read. Only thing that could have made this even more perfect was an extended epilogue-- I wasn't ready to say goodbye! Baaah! Call Me Yours, you just became a huge favorite romance of mine. Looooved this!
Full review to come soon!
July 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Luna Literary and Elizabeth Bright for giving me this arc!
Tropes:
● Small Town Cowboy
● Hate to Lovers
● Accidental Pregnancy (but it's not his)
● "Crawl" (but she says it)
● Redemption
● Ride-or-Die Friend Group
🇮🇹
Prima di leggere questo libro, ho deciso di recuperare prima gli altri due (avendo letto già il terzo), anche per capire perché il protagonista di questo libro era così odiato.
è quando una persona tende ad autosabotarsi, la persona più crudele con cui può combattere è se stesso ed ho notato una mancanza di apertura nei suoi confronti, sinceramente mi ero sentita pure male nel leggere di questo personaggio (non fraintendetemi amo Steven) poiché è la precisa dimostrazione che basta un errore, ripeto un errore grave o meno, per segnarti a vita. Non basta chiedere scusa, un gruppo di persone continueranno ad odiarti ma non voglio spoilerare.
Chloe, la protagonista, scopre di aspettare un bambino ma non dal protagonista. Il suo personaggio è altrettanto complicato, infatti secondo me bisogna avere taaaanta empatia per capire entrambi. Lei come Steven tende a colpevolizzarsi per molto, a rimanere indietro nel passato e entrambi impareranno ad amarsi. Questo è l'obiettivo del libro alla fine.
Lo consiglio molto!
🇬🇧
Before reading this book, I decided to retrieve the other two first (having already read the third), also to understand why the protagonist of this book was so hated. I understood the hatred but I explain why: when a person tends to self-sabotage, the cruellest person he can fight with is himself and I noticed a lack of openness towards him, I honestly felt bad reading about this character (don't get me wrong I love Steven) because it is the precise demonstration that a mistake is enough, I repeat a serious mistake or not, to mark you for life. It's not enough to apologize, a group of people will continue to hate you, but I don't want to spoil you.
Chloe, the protagonist, discovers that she is expecting a child but not from the protagonist. His character is just as complicated, in fact I think you have to have a lot of empathy to understand both of them. She, like Steven, tends to blame herself for a long time, to fall behind in the past, and they will both learn to love each other. That's the goal of the book at the end.
I highly recommend it!
Thanks to Luna Literary and Elizabeth Bright for giving me this arc!
Tropes:
● Small Town Cowboy
● Hate to Lovers
● Accidental Pregnancy (but it's not his)
● "Crawl" (but she says it)
● Redemption
● Ride-or-Die Friend Group
🇮🇹
Prima di leggere questo libro, ho deciso di recuperare prima gli altri due (avendo letto già il terzo), anche per capire perché il protagonista di questo libro era così odiato.
è quando una persona tende ad autosabotarsi, la persona più crudele con cui può combattere è se stesso ed ho notato una mancanza di apertura nei suoi confronti, sinceramente mi ero sentita pure male nel leggere di questo personaggio (non fraintendetemi amo Steven) poiché è la precisa dimostrazione che basta un errore, ripeto un errore grave o meno, per segnarti a vita. Non basta chiedere scusa, un gruppo di persone continueranno ad odiarti ma non voglio spoilerare.
Chloe, la protagonista, scopre di aspettare un bambino ma non dal protagonista. Il suo personaggio è altrettanto complicato, infatti secondo me bisogna avere taaaanta empatia per capire entrambi. Lei come Steven tende a colpevolizzarsi per molto, a rimanere indietro nel passato e entrambi impareranno ad amarsi. Questo è l'obiettivo del libro alla fine.
Lo consiglio molto!
🇬🇧
Before reading this book, I decided to retrieve the other two first (having already read the third), also to understand why the protagonist of this book was so hated. I understood the hatred but I explain why: when a person tends to self-sabotage, the cruellest person he can fight with is himself and I noticed a lack of openness towards him, I honestly felt bad reading about this character (don't get me wrong I love Steven) because it is the precise demonstration that a mistake is enough, I repeat a serious mistake or not, to mark you for life. It's not enough to apologize, a group of people will continue to hate you, but I don't want to spoil you.
Chloe, the protagonist, discovers that she is expecting a child but not from the protagonist. His character is just as complicated, in fact I think you have to have a lot of empathy to understand both of them. She, like Steven, tends to blame herself for a long time, to fall behind in the past, and they will both learn to love each other. That's the goal of the book at the end.
I highly recommend it!
July 18, 2025
10/10
I have a few things I need to say before continuing this review, things for those to keep in mind. I have not read books 1 and 2 of the Lodestar Ranch series. This means this book was my first introduction to Steven and he OBVIOUSLY has some history in the previous books. Please keep this in mind.
I was also lucky enough to receive this book as an ARC! My second ARC from Elizabeth Bright and my second five star too!
Now onto my review...
This is a super quick, super compelling cowboy-esque romance with plenty for every romance lover!
You've got mini pigs, you've got enemies ish to lovers, you've got MULTIPLE redemption arcs, you've got a pregnancy trope but with a twist, and you've got an emu (you just have to wait a bit i promise).
Knowing what Steven has done, I think Elizabeth Bright has done a wonderful job with working on a romance with who was the 'villain' of the first book. We get backstory. We get a lapse of time between then and now. We've got mental health awareness and plenty of therapy mentions. She DOES the work and Steven also does a lot of work to be redeemed.
And Chloe... god Chloe is amazing. She has her own set of problems and she's not flawless. She's not put here to be a savior for Steven's character and I love that. I love that forgiveness and moving on are so similar and parallel yet so different at the same time for this book. James. Adam. The entire group of friends. The willingness of falling in love. Everything is just... ugh.
My highlights for this book is just full of amazing reminders for myself, to be better, and to want to be better on certain things. I thought Wild, Wild, Cowboy couldn't be topped, but this is equal in my eyes for sure.
I have a few things I need to say before continuing this review, things for those to keep in mind. I have not read books 1 and 2 of the Lodestar Ranch series. This means this book was my first introduction to Steven and he OBVIOUSLY has some history in the previous books. Please keep this in mind.
I was also lucky enough to receive this book as an ARC! My second ARC from Elizabeth Bright and my second five star too!
Now onto my review...
This is a super quick, super compelling cowboy-esque romance with plenty for every romance lover!
You've got mini pigs, you've got enemies ish to lovers, you've got MULTIPLE redemption arcs, you've got a pregnancy trope but with a twist, and you've got an emu (you just have to wait a bit i promise).
Knowing what Steven has done, I think Elizabeth Bright has done a wonderful job with working on a romance with who was the 'villain' of the first book. We get backstory. We get a lapse of time between then and now. We've got mental health awareness and plenty of therapy mentions. She DOES the work and Steven also does a lot of work to be redeemed.
And Chloe... god Chloe is amazing. She has her own set of problems and she's not flawless. She's not put here to be a savior for Steven's character and I love that. I love that forgiveness and moving on are so similar and parallel yet so different at the same time for this book. James. Adam. The entire group of friends. The willingness of falling in love. Everything is just... ugh.
My highlights for this book is just full of amazing reminders for myself, to be better, and to want to be better on certain things. I thought Wild, Wild, Cowboy couldn't be topped, but this is equal in my eyes for sure.
July 23, 2025
Spice: 3
Tropes:
enemies to lovers
roommates
forced proximity
he falls first
family drama
small town
accidental pregnancy
Dual POV
Do I love the Lodestar Ranch sewing circle women! This time around, we get to know Chloe better. Chloe works at the coffee shop and she's one who is going to have her besties' backs, no matter what. Chloe hates Steven with a firey passion. *If you remember, Steven caused James' accident in book 1. But when she sees him laying on the side of the road, trying to help a small pig, Chloe stops to assist. It's like a domino effect afterwards of Steven being front and present in Chloe's life afterwards. Then when she finds out she's pregnant by another man, Steven's offer to help her really starts to soften her heart towards him.
Steven, Steven, Steven.... I honestly wasn't sure I'd like you. I mean, you hurt our girl James and I've held a grudge since. But you've proven to me that everyone deserves a second chance... that some ill-will acts are accidental and not representative of the person inside. You have a tender heart for animals and then even knowing how much Chloe hates you, you still managed to be polite and nice to her. I approve of you Steven!
I actually really loved this book. I loved watching the dynamic between Chloe and Steven change over time, and how family backgrounds can/do play a role in us unless we break the cycle. Also, I love the message about mental health in the cowboy world. That's something that really does need attention I think. Masculinity pride is definitely a thing. The hero though of this story is Stevie, the pig. Without her, we never would have shipped Chloe and Steven together, so thank you Junior!
Tropes:
enemies to lovers
roommates
forced proximity
he falls first
family drama
small town
accidental pregnancy
Dual POV
Do I love the Lodestar Ranch sewing circle women! This time around, we get to know Chloe better. Chloe works at the coffee shop and she's one who is going to have her besties' backs, no matter what. Chloe hates Steven with a firey passion. *If you remember, Steven caused James' accident in book 1. But when she sees him laying on the side of the road, trying to help a small pig, Chloe stops to assist. It's like a domino effect afterwards of Steven being front and present in Chloe's life afterwards. Then when she finds out she's pregnant by another man, Steven's offer to help her really starts to soften her heart towards him.
Steven, Steven, Steven.... I honestly wasn't sure I'd like you. I mean, you hurt our girl James and I've held a grudge since. But you've proven to me that everyone deserves a second chance... that some ill-will acts are accidental and not representative of the person inside. You have a tender heart for animals and then even knowing how much Chloe hates you, you still managed to be polite and nice to her. I approve of you Steven!
I actually really loved this book. I loved watching the dynamic between Chloe and Steven change over time, and how family backgrounds can/do play a role in us unless we break the cycle. Also, I love the message about mental health in the cowboy world. That's something that really does need attention I think. Masculinity pride is definitely a thing. The hero though of this story is Stevie, the pig. Without her, we never would have shipped Chloe and Steven together, so thank you Junior!
July 25, 2025
I loved this book. I loved how Steven rescued Stevie in the beginning and how Chloe helped him. I loved how he took care of Stevie and even got her some friends so she wouldn't be lonely.
Steven and Chloe started out with her hating him for what happened with James in the past, but Steven kept trying to redeem himself. You have to give him credit for trying, sometimes people aren't what they appear to be and will surprise you. I loved that they kept texting each other when they couldn't sleep at night and that Steven kept sending her funny cat videos.
I loved how he kept trying to help her out with stuff and even offered her his spare bedroom when she needed a place to move to.
I loved that he cooked dinner for her at 3am. I hated that her grandma blamed her for what happened in the past, but I loved that Steven stood up to her family on her behalf.
Steven may have been a villain in the past but I feel like this book redeemed him. He wasn't perfect but he was better. I can't believe he actually did what she told him to do with the glass. (no spoilers)
I loved that he owned up to what he did with James and that he finally apologized to her for it.
My favorite quote from the book:
“𝗜 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗮 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝘄𝗼 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗴𝗼. 𝗜 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻’𝘁 𝗱𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂. 𝗜 𝗱𝗶𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗲, 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗜 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁. 𝗜𝗳 𝗜 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗺𝘆𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳 𝗮𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝗶𝘅𝘁𝘆 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀, 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗜’𝗱 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗳𝘂𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗵𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗺𝘆𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗴𝗼𝗱𝗱𝗮𝗺𝗻 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝘆. 𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂… 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗜 𝗳𝗲𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂. 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝘄𝗼 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀, 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱𝗻’𝘁 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗱𝗮𝘆. 𝗞𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗱 𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗲𝘅𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗿𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗿𝗮𝗳𝗳. 𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝘄𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲. 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗺𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘆. 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗺𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗲. 𝗜 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝘁, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗜 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝘁. 𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗿𝗲 𝗺𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜’𝗹𝗹 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗽 𝘁𝗿𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲.”
Steven and Chloe started out with her hating him for what happened with James in the past, but Steven kept trying to redeem himself. You have to give him credit for trying, sometimes people aren't what they appear to be and will surprise you. I loved that they kept texting each other when they couldn't sleep at night and that Steven kept sending her funny cat videos.
I loved how he kept trying to help her out with stuff and even offered her his spare bedroom when she needed a place to move to.
I loved that he cooked dinner for her at 3am. I hated that her grandma blamed her for what happened in the past, but I loved that Steven stood up to her family on her behalf.
Steven may have been a villain in the past but I feel like this book redeemed him. He wasn't perfect but he was better. I can't believe he actually did what she told him to do with the glass. (no spoilers)
I loved that he owned up to what he did with James and that he finally apologized to her for it.
My favorite quote from the book:
“𝗜 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗮 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝘄𝗼 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗴𝗼. 𝗜 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻’𝘁 𝗱𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂. 𝗜 𝗱𝗶𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗲, 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗜 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁. 𝗜𝗳 𝗜 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗺𝘆𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳 𝗮𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝗶𝘅𝘁𝘆 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀, 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗜’𝗱 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗳𝘂𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗵𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗺𝘆𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗴𝗼𝗱𝗱𝗮𝗺𝗻 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝘆. 𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂… 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗜 𝗳𝗲𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂. 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝘄𝗼 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀, 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱𝗻’𝘁 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗱𝗮𝘆. 𝗞𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗱 𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗲𝘅𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗿𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗿𝗮𝗳𝗳. 𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝘄𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲. 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗺𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘆. 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗺𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗲. 𝗜 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝘁, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗜 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝘁. 𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗿𝗲 𝗺𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜’𝗹𝗹 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗽 𝘁𝗿𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲.”
September 4, 2025
𝑭𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒕 𝒂 𝒉𝒐𝒕 𝒎𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒂 𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕, 𝑰 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒕𝒐𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒇𝒊𝒙 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕. 𝑮𝒊𝒓𝒍, 𝒏𝒐. 𝑳𝒆𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒇𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍𝒔. 👏🏻
I want to preface by saying that I have NOT read the first 3 books in this series. I was sold during a doomscroll on TikTok 😂 and let me tell you… I was PLEASANTLY surprised. 🥰
From the beginning, Steven seems a bit misunderstood, which is understandable as this is his redemption arc. Chloe and Steven go head to head for a good portion of this book, which I feel is deserved as what he did previously warrants the shaming and shit he gets. However, once they form a connection through a pig rescue, 3am texts and Chloe needing a place to stay, I am ALL 👏🏻 IN 👏🏻 for this man.
This🤧👇🏻
𝑰 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒊𝒕. 𝑭𝒐𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒓. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒔𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓. 𝑯𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒕 𝒖𝒑. “𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆!” 𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒍𝒆𝒅 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒆. 𝑴𝒆. 𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒅 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒆. 𝑾𝒂𝒓𝒎𝒕𝒉 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒍𝒐𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒕.
After Chloe finds out she is pregnant by her former situationship, Steven shows her that always putting everyone else before herself is no longer an option. 🥺
Basically I ate this up in one sitting!! I cannot wait to dive in to the rest of this series!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐦𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐦𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞. 𝐈 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐭, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐈 𝐜𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐭. 𝐘𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈’𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐭𝐫𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞.”🥲
𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓭 𝓲𝓯 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮…
🙅🏻♀️enemies to lovers
🤰🏻accidental pregnancy
🏡small town
🧎🏻♂️redemption
👯♀️ride or die besties
👊🏻he stands up for her
🤝🏻healthy co-parenting
😶🌫️slow burn with steam
I want to preface by saying that I have NOT read the first 3 books in this series. I was sold during a doomscroll on TikTok 😂 and let me tell you… I was PLEASANTLY surprised. 🥰
From the beginning, Steven seems a bit misunderstood, which is understandable as this is his redemption arc. Chloe and Steven go head to head for a good portion of this book, which I feel is deserved as what he did previously warrants the shaming and shit he gets. However, once they form a connection through a pig rescue, 3am texts and Chloe needing a place to stay, I am ALL 👏🏻 IN 👏🏻 for this man.
This🤧👇🏻
𝑰 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒊𝒕. 𝑭𝒐𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒓. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒔𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓. 𝑯𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒕 𝒖𝒑. “𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆!” 𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒍𝒆𝒅 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒆. 𝑴𝒆. 𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒅 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒆. 𝑾𝒂𝒓𝒎𝒕𝒉 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒍𝒐𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒕.
After Chloe finds out she is pregnant by her former situationship, Steven shows her that always putting everyone else before herself is no longer an option. 🥺
Basically I ate this up in one sitting!! I cannot wait to dive in to the rest of this series!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐦𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐦𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞. 𝐈 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐭, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐈 𝐜𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐭. 𝐘𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈’𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐭𝐫𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞.”🥲
𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓭 𝓲𝓯 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮…
🙅🏻♀️enemies to lovers
🤰🏻accidental pregnancy
🏡small town
🧎🏻♂️redemption
👯♀️ride or die besties
👊🏻he stands up for her
🤝🏻healthy co-parenting
😶🌫️slow burn with steam
July 21, 2025
ARC Review: Thank you so much to Elizabeth Bright and Luna Literary Management for sending me a copy to read and review.
I loved every minute of reading this book! I think hate to love is working its way to the top of my favorite tropes. You know I’m a sucker for a “not his baby” trope, and this delivered! This is the 4th book in the series. You do not need to read the other books, but you will have more context for certain events. I was fine for not reading the others in the series. Steve Junior, the pig, totally stole the show.
Steven was such a good man; the fact that he saw his future and was determined to break the cycle touched my heart. He stood up for Chloe, he cooked for her, he stood by her side, and he did things for her before she even asked, all while Chloe still “hated” him. Anything Chloe wanted, he gladly gave to her.
I saw so much of myself in Chloe. Making herself uncomfortable to meet the needs of those around her (while they kinda take advantage). She’s the only daughter and oldest child; she took care of others while ignoring herself. I loved how Steven was able to break down her walls. This whole book was so touching. I was laughing, crying, and swooning. The mental health rep in this book was top-tier.
I loved every minute of reading this book! I think hate to love is working its way to the top of my favorite tropes. You know I’m a sucker for a “not his baby” trope, and this delivered! This is the 4th book in the series. You do not need to read the other books, but you will have more context for certain events. I was fine for not reading the others in the series. Steve Junior, the pig, totally stole the show.
Steven was such a good man; the fact that he saw his future and was determined to break the cycle touched my heart. He stood up for Chloe, he cooked for her, he stood by her side, and he did things for her before she even asked, all while Chloe still “hated” him. Anything Chloe wanted, he gladly gave to her.
I saw so much of myself in Chloe. Making herself uncomfortable to meet the needs of those around her (while they kinda take advantage). She’s the only daughter and oldest child; she took care of others while ignoring herself. I loved how Steven was able to break down her walls. This whole book was so touching. I was laughing, crying, and swooning. The mental health rep in this book was top-tier.
July 26, 2025
Steven McAllister is the bad guy from the previous Lodestar Ranch Books. Steven’s changes in this book come naturally and for himself not for anyone else or for any specific reason other than he didn’t like the guy he was.
Chloe is the girl that would do anything for anyone, she is extremely caring. From something simple as to stopping to help someone on the side of the road in the rain or changing her career to something she is extremely passionate about so she can help a family not have to go thought what her family did.
Steven has secretly like Chloe from a far but knows it’ll never happen became Chloe hates him and what he has done. But this doesn’t stop him from being there for Chloe every chance he gets. From something simple and getting her a drink and food at the coffee shop or a little more involved like letting her move in with him and his sister. He continues to show up. After Chloe finds out she is pregnant (not his baby), Steven shows up even more. He knows she needs to be taken care of. And Chloe continues to learn how lean on him, even though it makes her feel guilty. She is used to being the care taker for everyone, not the one being taken care of. Their feels grow slowly. Hate turns to friendship and friendship slowly turns to love. And when they finally give in it’s amazing.
This was a great redemption arc!! I don’t read a lot of those, but I really enjoyed this one!
Shout out to Amy, Steven’s sister and Stevie the pig! Great side characters that made me LOL
Thank you to the author for gifting me this book.
I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Chloe is the girl that would do anything for anyone, she is extremely caring. From something simple as to stopping to help someone on the side of the road in the rain or changing her career to something she is extremely passionate about so she can help a family not have to go thought what her family did.
Steven has secretly like Chloe from a far but knows it’ll never happen became Chloe hates him and what he has done. But this doesn’t stop him from being there for Chloe every chance he gets. From something simple and getting her a drink and food at the coffee shop or a little more involved like letting her move in with him and his sister. He continues to show up. After Chloe finds out she is pregnant (not his baby), Steven shows up even more. He knows she needs to be taken care of. And Chloe continues to learn how lean on him, even though it makes her feel guilty. She is used to being the care taker for everyone, not the one being taken care of. Their feels grow slowly. Hate turns to friendship and friendship slowly turns to love. And when they finally give in it’s amazing.
This was a great redemption arc!! I don’t read a lot of those, but I really enjoyed this one!
Shout out to Amy, Steven’s sister and Stevie the pig! Great side characters that made me LOL
Thank you to the author for gifting me this book.
I am voluntarily leaving a review.
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