Some rivalries spark fire. Some hearts get caught in the blaze.She can’t forgive him. He can’t forget her. After one disastrous date and years of mutual irritation, Cassidy Turner and Gunner Miller have perfected the art of avoidance. But when a troubled student brings Cassidy to the gates of Last Creek Ranch, old sparks reignite and not all of them are angry.
Gunner’s got enough on his plate ranch expansions, land disputes, and a headstrong woman who gets under his skin in more ways than one. Cassidy’s just as infuriating as he remembers… and twice as captivating.
As tension gives way to truth, something unexpected grows between them. But in a town where secrets simmer and loyalty runs deep, love might not be enough to survive the storm of tragedy.
Set against the green hills and rumbling skies of Silver Peaks, The Emerald Waves is a story of stubborn hearts, slow-burning redemption, and a love that refuses to back down.
Some grudges run deep. Some truths can’t be ignored. And some sparks were meant to burn.
I live in Cheshire with my husband, two dogs and mum in law and write romantic humour and contemporary romance. My first two books, Guess Who I Pulled Last Night? and No Bra Required both stayed at number 1 on the Amazon Humour list for 3 & 4 weeks respectively. My ambitions of becoming a writer started at the age of 10 when I started writing poetry at school, and was given the honour of reading one out to the rest of my year group (an horrific experience that I will never forget). Thankfully I have a wide variety of strange and wonderful people in my life, otherwise I'd be stuck on what to write about! I am currently talking to family and friends, finding out their innermost secrets in readiness for my next book.
My books are romances that come with a little more than vanilla sexy times, sometimes a few tears, lots of hot men and feisty women, but ultimately they'll make you smile.
You can follow me on Twitter on @NikkerAsh or on Facebook at Nikki Ashton Books
The miscommunication trope is either a giant misstep in an entire storyline, or it's the base of it. And what Nikki Ashton did three years after Gunner and Cassidy's giant miscommunication mishap (following from book 1) is exactly how it needs to be done!
I loved every second of this story and the passion between the characters. They're stubborn as all hell, but that makes them real, raw, vulnerable, and easily spooked like wild horses. It's beautiful to see characters broken down into moments that actually MATTER to the storyline, like their characters emotions set the tone and wrap around the scenes to pull the reader in deeper to their love story. Every high-charged scene of yearning and spice, to every second he is gentle and dreams of their future, it's tangible and wonderfully raw in its beauty.
This series has really surprised me in so many ways. I laughed at the banter, I cried (looking at you Ariel), and I found so much beauty in the underlying plot line of saving the ranch that I felt just as connected to this cast and stunning mountain backdrop as I was to the series Yellowstone. Also, I adore the breaking of the 4th wall in mentioning Beth and Rip - I about died laughing!
If you're into cowboy romance, definitely give this entire series a shot. It's romance, but it's also family, brotherhood, and the beauty of letting the right people into the small moments, and the big ones.
Thank you to the team at Tales & Teacups for the ARC of this one!
I absolutely devoured this book! Thank you to Tales and Teacups and Nikki Ashton for the chance to read an ARC of The Emerald Waves!
I think this was an excellent story, following 2 very stubborn MCs who totally just melted for each other. It was a really easy read but had depth to it, navigating scars of loss both from childhood and more recently.
I loved the dynamic of the Miller brothers, I haven’t read the first book of the series but this was really easy to pick up and I’m definitely interested in reading it to get the full story.
The spice was very well written and I really enjoyed the back and forth of Cassidy and Gunner - definitely some feet kicking moments!
If I had to be super picky, the main thing I was missing was about the actual descriptions of the characters. We know a lot about Cassidy and Gunner’s bodies and what they wear, but I feel I had to kind of make up what I thought they actually looked like - not sure if I missed something at the start but I do recall feeling shocked at some point later in the book where Cassidy is referred to as a brunette and Lily a blonde. I don’t think I know what Nash or Wilder look like at all, but like I say I may have missed it from the very start?
However, I definitely recommend this to anyone who loves an easy read, small-town, cowboy romance!
Thank you to Tales & Teacups for the ARC copy of The Emerald Waves.
If you can’t read anything with miscommunication I’d recommend skipping this one.
After a disastrous date and years of mutual irritation Gunner and Cassidy have perfected the art of avoidance. But when one of Cassidy’s troubled students brings her back to the gates of The Lost Creek Ranch old sparks reignite and not all of them are angry.
Gunners lack of communication skills made him really hard to like. He was horrible to Charlie and couldn’t control his emotions. He was hopeless at expressing his concerns without snapping at people. He constantly pushed Cassidy away while saying he was falling for her which felt weird and unnecessary.
Once the romance started the book picked up but the romance went from 0-100 real quick. It felt unnatural to go from hating each other to falling for each other in what felt like a matter of weeks.
The relationship between Cassidy and Gunner felt like it was wholly on physical attraction and very surface level.
The character spoke in ways that just didn’t feel right for 20’s something year old cowboys. The way they talk feels like they should be much older.
I liked the book overall and will be reading the third one when it comes out. I just didn’t quite feel connected to these characters like I hoped I would be.
The Emerald Waves by Nikki Ashton is a beautifully written, slow-burn romance that perfectly balances small-town drama, emotional depth, and sizzling chemistry.
Ashton has a knack for creating characters who feel raw and real—Cassidy and Gunner are no exception.
Their history is messy, their banter sharp, and their connection undeniable.
From the very first chapter, the tension between them crackles like a summer storm over Silver Peaks.
What starts as a story of old grudges and unspoken regrets gradually unfolds into something tender and redemptive.
The emotional growth of both characters is satisfying and authentic, and the backdrop of Last Creek Ranch adds richness and atmosphere to every scene.
The author doesn’t shy away from exploring heavier themes—loss, forgiveness, and the weight of the past—but she handles them with care and heart.
The pacing is steady, and while a few moments could’ve been tightened, the payoff is worth it.
If you love second chances, stubborn lovers, and romance that smolders before it catches fire, The Emerald Waves will absolutely pull you in.
Oh this book was the perfect cosy read. The country town. The horses. The people.
It was perfect. Just the read I was looking for. I also read it within 2 days because I couldn't put it down. I needed to know the ending, how the story came about, the romance.
And the cowboys wow. The smut was 🔥🔥🔥
But I really enjoyed the wonderful family dynamics. They had such a strong bond that was perfectly written. I truly enjoyed this read and am so glad I got to be an ARC reader.
Please if you want a nice cosy read with some real smut go and get this book.
Just when I thought there couldn't be a more perfect man than Nash Miller, in walks Gunner.
I absolutely love the chemistry between Gunner and Cassidy even when they pretended to hate each other the sexual tension was off the charts.
This book had me smiling and giddy throughout these Miller men are just so damn swoony and when Gunner let's that dirty mouth of his loose.....well no wonder Cassidy fell head over heels for him.
This series has been amazing so far and zi can't wait for more.
The Emerald Waves is the second book in the Silver peaks series. I loved everything about this book and it made for an amazing read.
This follows the story of the two main characters Gunner and Cassidy from being stubborn to falling in love. The storyline has so much depth from dealing with loss from childhood and having to deal with emotional events into adulthood.
The banter in chemistry between the two main characters was raw and exciting. I loved how their relationship grew from strength to strength as the story developed.
I really liked the little mentions here and there about Seven Brides for seven brothers, with that being my all-time favourite film it added that extra personal touch.
If you enjoy reading small town, cowboy romances then I highly recommend this book.
A heartwarming cowboy romance based around second chances. This is a pretty easy read and the plot twists were overall surprising. If you like a broody MMC and a FMC that won't back down it's worth a read.
I got to ARC read this one and it did not disappoint! When I signed up, I didn't realize it was book 2. However, not reading book 1, did not spoil the experience. It's more interconnected stand alones. I loved Gunner and Cassidy's story. It's real and raw. I love how they communicate and work through their issues. I'll for sure be reading book 1 and look forward to book 3!
I went into this arc book blind as I've never read anything from this author before. I believe this is the second book of the series and although it can be read as a stand alone, I feel that to get the full back story you need to read the first book as there's a lot of references to the MMC's past. It gives major "Yellowstone" vibes with regards to cowboy/ranch life which I love and is almost an enemies to lovers romance also a plus. The relationship between the Miller brothers is brilliant which had me laughing and the spice between the MMC and FMC was well written add in a little bit of heartbreak that had me tearing up and you have yourself a solid 4 🌟 read.
I am loving the Miller family and I couldn’t wait to read all about the charismatic Gunner. Cocky and handsome with a sensitive swoony side that made me melt. I loved how different he was to Nash and Nikki writes their brotherly bond so well. Cassidy was instantly likable and their chemistry leaped off the pages. She is a strong woman living a simple life but then she goes on a date with Gunner and Lily comes back in to her life and it all felt very meant to be. I loved how Nikki wrote the part where Cassidy and Gunner finally turn towards each other. There’s a good amount of drama and surprise in this book. The spice was spicing! I want to be a Miller and live on the ranch. I already can’t wait to read Wilder’s book!
There is nothing I love more than a cowboy! Do they even exist in real life? If yes, please point me in the right direction!
Nikki brings us the second book in this sexy cowboy series, with Gunner, and Cassidy.
Their relationship was built around a love/hate saga which I enjoyed. They most certainly bring out each other's best and worst and naughtiest sides (it gets spicy)
I think the thing i am enjoying most about this series is the family dynamic. The brothers banter has me cackling, especially wilder. Bertie brings another level of humour which frankly was a relief from some of the darker sides to this storyline.
You guessed it, there is a dramatic plot twist! let me tell you, I was not ready for those tears! This is your warning reader, you will cry.
Overall, Nikki has written yet another wonderful book, which stands strong with its pure swoony romance plots, sexy Cowboys and big old belly laughs!
Some rivalries spark fire. Some hearts get caught in the blaze.
“And the land, it’s the deepest green and the way it undulates, it’s just like… like crashing emerald waves, while the lines, so damn tall and grand, stand sentry over it all.”
Welcome back to Silver Peaks! Where the mountains are green, the lavender is blooming, and the cowboys are hot. The second instalment in a stand-alone series about the Miller’s brothers. After how much I loved the first book the second book did not disappoint! A real cosy, feel-good, small town romance. So grateful to have been selected as an ARC Reader again!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
One sour date and three years of burning resentment comes to a halt after a midnight heart-to-heart.
“You’re actually more annoying than I thought.” “Shit, really, that’s great. My work here is done then.”
As travesty begins to hit the small town of silver peaks, the Miller family must come together to fight for their land once again, and this includes Lily’s best friend Cassidy. She and Gunner are forced to put their differences aside and work together. But as they spend more together, underneath their stubbornness and cold exterior are two souls scared of love. Could their interpretations of eachother have been an utter misunderstanding? Their cruel jabs have been misplaced?
“Years of smiling and backbiting with each other had led to kisses on the night.”
Gunner is the quiet and moody brother, the one who doesn’t think before he says and is guarded due to his grief over their mothers passing on top of the recent events with their father in book one. It’s still a sensitive topic around the Miller household and I think he was desperate to be loved and chosen so he could finally talk about his mother to someone; to accept that she is gone, but that that doesn’t mean he is unloveable. His stubbornness and little panicky moments where he needed reassurance resonated with me and was heartbreaking to see from such a strong man who had a way with horses.
“Mom used to say let the bad go, a little bit each day until it’s light enough to throw away.”
I think the best part of this book was his work! I loved hearing about how they worked in rehabilitating and healing traumatised horses. It reminds me of that program ‘Heartland’ which based on a book series about a horse whisperer and I still love it 20 years later. It felt nostalgic and healing. But most of all I love a cowboy romance that actually includes the cowboy aspect of it.
Cassidy was a sweetheart, and I love her friendship with Lily which shone through book one. Her dedication to children was so cutesy and admirable and just love her and her sassiness. Her and Gunner’s angry foreplay - quoted by Wilder himself - was hilarious and it was inevitable that they would crash together and work. I appreciated how she stuck by him when things got tough and cried with Gunner at this part (no spoilers hehe). Their romance was sweet and gentle. Not as emotional and gut wrenching as Lily and Nash, but deserving all on their own. The brothers connection is stronger in this book, and their banter is unmatched with the addition of Nash’s daughter Bertie who’s a character all on her own. Quite frankly I’m excited for Wilder’s story the most so giddy-up let’s get to him next!
“You think maybe Mom found him in a dumpster somewhere.” Nash asked. “Yep, most definitely. Covered in bean juice and used condoms would be my guess.”
What’s included: 🐎 Ranch Romance 🍃 Rivals to Lovers 🐎 Stubborn MMC x Fiery FMC 🍃 Second Chances 🐎 Found Family 🍃 Slow Burn 🐎 Banter and Bickering
What it’s about… Cassidy Turner can hold a grudge but so can Gunner Miller, after a disastrous date three years ago the two are determined to avoid each other. However, after a little meddling from Gunner’s sister in law and Cassidy’s best friend, Cassidy seeks Gunner out to assist with a troubled student and old sparks ignite.
Once they reaslise their dislike for each other all those years ago was from a mutual misunderstanding. Discovering they make a pretty good pair and work together to bring to light the issue which could arise if a new development goes ahead.
The Emerald Wave is a story of stubborn hearts, slow-burning redemption, and a love that refuses to back down.
My thoughts… I love the title Emerald Wave, it makes me think of rolling mountains and being able to look out of the land and all you see is greenery.
This is the second book in the Silver Peaks series and while I haven’t read Lilac River I don’t feel like I’ve missed information as when referencing Nash and Lily getting together there is enough information provided that there are no holes in this story. That said I will be going back and reading their story because I think it will be just as good. And I cannot, cannot wait to read Wilder’s story because I think I will gobble that up.
Nikki did a great job telling the story while interjecting the characters' past, showing their development and that neither had an easy upbringing.
The descriptions of the property chefs kiss really makes you feel like you are there with the characters and get a sense of the land and why they are so protective of it. This is a beautiful story on the connection between ranchers and their land and wanting to protect it against big developers Gunner is completely swoon worthy, there is chemistry between Cassie and Gunner but not overly spicy, focus is more on the story. The friendship between Lily and Cassie and the brothers' relationship is so entertaining. I love reading books that have more than just the interaction between the MCs.
— thank you to Nikki Ashton and Tales and Teacups for the e-arc to review!
So, I hold my hands up....I've never read a Nikki Ashton book before now, but one thing's for sure - it won't be my last. This story swept me up from the very first line with its fast, emotional and full on narrative that gave me delicious tension and that just one more page feeling. The whole rhythm of the book moved with such energy....it was charged, unpredictable and virtually impossible to put down (I mean life can wait right?).
Cassidy Turner and Gunner Miller have history and that brutal kind that still stings years later. One single disastrous date and a whole lot of pride have kept them on opposite sides of their small town, until life (and one troubled student) throws them right back together. What follows is messy, magnetic and completely addictive....with sharp banter, instant chemistry and emotion for days. Ashton has created such an atmosphere to this pair where you can just feel how much they get under each other’s skin...it’s enemies-to-lovers done to perfect precision.
That being said....let me introduce you to Cassidy....our leading lady is fierce and funny, however, you do see the cracks beneath the confidence. Gunner (yes please) has got that quiet, steady energy that hides a lot of guilt and tenderness. Together they’re both flawed in the best way...stubborn, scared, but still fighting to do the right thing. I found myself rooting for them not just to fall for each other, but to heal a little along the way.
Ashton’s writing is simply gorgeous. It’s lyrical without ever sliding into excess. Her descriptions of Silver Peaks don’t just set the scene, they breathe, wrapping the story in texture and mood. The dialogue is also just as strong...sharp and natural to pull you straight into Cassidy and Gunner’s world with an ease that makes every exchange feel real and alive.
The Emerald Waves is a magical blend of passion and heart...a story that burns bright and simmers long after you’ve reached that final page. A definite recommendation from me.
This was the second book I had read from the Silver Peaks series, and I ended up enjoying it so much more than the first book. Gunner and Cassidy’s book was so good that I ended up finishing it in a single day!
It had so much more depth than the first book and actually ended up being quite the emotional rollercoaster. I actually found myself tearing up a few times, which doesn’t seem to happen very often.
A hate-to-love trope is one of my all-time favourites, so this appealed to me right from the start. I loved their back-and-forth banter, and they had such strong chemistry despite their disastrous date three years ago.
It was nice to learn more about Gunner’s personality, and I fell in love with him pretty quickly. Unfortunately, in Nash’s book, we didn’t get to learn that much about him as anything other than Nash’s brother. In the end, despite his shoot-from-the-hip nature, he was such a sweet and caring man.
Cassidy felt like the perfect match for him, and I loved that they were always challenging each other to be their best selves, and that she would not let him get away with treating her like an ass. I especially appreciated that she was able to help him get through his grief and was not willing to let him throw what they had away.
While they did have some pretty severe communication issues in the beginning, I feel it led to a really strong foundation in their relationship after they were able to work through them.
I enjoyed the kids’ camp idea side plot from the story, and found it nice to see that the whole community came together, especially after what had happened in the previous book with their father.
I also liked that we got a bit more of a glimpse at Wilder’s personality in this one, too, and it has left me excited for his book next!
Back in July, I read The Lilac River by this author and this started a brilliant new series.
I was so excited to see this next release already and to be back in the Silver Peaks series with book 2!
As a new author, I was blown away by the first book and I just knew that this was going to be another fantastic read - and I was not disappointed.
For those who haven't read book 1 yet, this book reads perfectly well as a standalone read (as is pretty standard with this genre) - but our setting is back with the Miller family and the Last Creek Ranch and we do see a fair bit of Nash and Lily and how things have progressed since we saw them in The Lilac River.
In light of this, I'd definitely recommend that you read this series in order - to avoid spoilers.
Here our focus is on Nash's brother, Gunner and Lily's best friend Cassidy.
I instantly fell in love with both characters who, in themselves were so caring and worked hard within the community to help others.
However, after a bad date years ago, they soon discovered that they didn't work as a couple and had since avoided each other.
When a situation brings them back into contact, we see that although they each have a lot going on around them and the irritation is still strong - there are undeniable sparks too!
Oh....I just love a good cowboy romance and the tension of an enemies to lovers story never fails to have me hooked from the start.
I love to watch the barriers slowly slip away as they let go of their assumptions and start to see the real person underneath.
It's pretty frustrating for us - but that's what makes the eventual union so much sweeter.
I adore the writing style which sweeps us up and transports us to this beautiful landscape for a while and I loved every minute!
I cannot wait to get hold of book 3 and hear Wilder's story!!
The Emerald Waves is full of charm 🌾, heartwarming family dynamics 👨👩👧👦, and just the right amount of drama 🎭. From the very first page, I was completely hooked 📖 — and the story totally delivered ✅. One of my favorite details was the songs attached to each chapter 🎶 — they added so much mood and emotion. Plus, the short, dual POV chapters made the story so easy to fly through ✨📚.
The characters are so well developed, and the banter between the brothers had me giggling and kicking my feet 😂🦶. The dynamic between Gunner and Cassidy? Everything. Their slow-burn tension 💥, emotional layers 💔❤️, and sizzling banter 💬 had me turning pages late into the night 🌙. And the chemistry? Off. The. Charts. 🔥🔥🔥
Cassidy is fierce 💪🔥 and full of passion — I loved her heart and determination. Gunner, the broody cowboy 🤠 with a soft spot for his ranch and animals 🐴🐶, was absolutely adorable 😍. Watching these two stubborn hearts clash, collide, and finally connect? Chef’s kiss. 👏💘
I haven’t read the first book in the series yet, but I’m definitely going back to experience the full story 🔁📘. Nikki Ashton has written a beautiful, emotional romance set against the stunning backdrop of Silver Peaks 🌄, and I can’t wait to read more from her 💖.
If you love cowboys 🤠, found family ❤️🩹, slow-burn tension 🕯️, and a romance that makes you smile, swoon, and maybe cry a little 😭 — this one’s for you!
Thank you to Nikki Ashton and Tales and Teacups for the eARC! All opinions are my own!
Nikki Ashton has done it again. I fell head over heels for Gunner and Cassidy. I loved being back in Silver Peaks with the characters again. This story was absolutely beautiful.
This is the second book in The Silver Peaks series and it was intense and emotional. There was a lot going on and honestly, I was taken aback with how deep the characters went. I was quite teary at times.
I do love an enemies to lovers trope. I don’t read it often but when I do, I’m like ‘oh yeahhhhh’ 🫠🥰
Cassidy is a school teacher who takes everything on herself to look out for her students, friends and family. She takes the world and tries her best to find solutions to help others. Gunner, a gentle soul with a lot of personality. It was so good getting to know more about Gunner and his views on life.
Cassidy and Gunner challenged each other. They bounced off of each other and at times, kept each other going. Their banter was hilarious but when they admitted their feelings, it was deep and passionate.
I loved the kids camp element of the book. It was very emotional to know why they were doing it and how they fought so hard… and what a difference it made. I
just loved this story. And we can’t have a review with mentioning how freakin’ cute little Bertie is with her sass shining through for her Uncle G. 🤪
Thanks to @lovebookstours for having me on tour again with you and Nikki Ashton.
Nikki, thank you for writing such a wholesome series. I cannot wait to read more from this series and see you in November!! 💚
3.5⭐️ Thank you to Tales & Teacups for the ARC copy. This one just didn’t hit the same way as book 1 for me. If you struggle with miscommunication tropes, I’d probably say skip this one because it plays a pretty big role throughout.
After a disastrous date and years of friction, Gunner and Cassidy have settled into a pattern of avoidance. But when Cassidy’s troubled student leads her back to The Lost Creek Ranch, old sparks resurface—though not all of them are pleasant.
For me, Gunner was a tough character to connect with. His lack of communication skills made him frustrating to read—he snapped easily, pushed Cassidy away while claiming to have feelings for her, and his behavior toward Charlie felt unnecessarily harsh. Once the romance actually got going, the pacing felt rushed, jumping from enemies to lovers almost overnight, which made it hard to believe in the depth of their connection.
The relationship between Cassidy and Gunner came across as mostly physical and surface-level, and I didn’t get the emotional payoff I wanted. On top of that, the way the characters spoke didn’t always fit with being in their twenties—it often felt like they were much older. And the constant use of pet names honestly gave me the ick—they were overdone and pulled me out of the story every time.
That being said, the story did pick up in parts and I enjoyed it overall. I’ll definitely be picking up book 3 when it releases, but I just didn’t feel as invested in these characters as I hoped I would be.
A few months ago I read The Lilac River, book 1 in this series focusing on the lives of the Miller brothers. I had really enjoyed the story and was hoping to see more of the brothers, Bertie and Lily. Luckily, here came Gunner's story. Middle-child he may be, but he's got main man energy and it oozes through everything. Lily's best friend, and fellow teacher, Cassidy is just the woman to tame the cowboy, but along the way there are the usual trials, and some extremely heartbreaking scenes. I do not mind admitting I was sobbing. The scene, and I'm sure those who have read it will know which one I mean, absolutely broke me. Just absolutely devastating. It's not all sadness though, there is much comic relief - usually from Bertie and Wilder, there is plenty of X-rated naughtiness that is on FIRE!! There is also plenty of love and warmth. The family that the Miller's have and continue to make is just so special, so loving, and so beautiful to watch develop. There was a huge teaser left on who will be the one to help Wilder's story along in the third book, and I cannot wait for it. The youngest Miller boy is a real handful, and I cannot wait to see who I think will tame him and join the Miller clan. I also can't wait to see how things progress on the ranch with the planned renovations and further updates on Nash and Lily, and Gunner and Cassidy. I am sure that Bertie will keep us all on our toes too as she enters her tween years - what a force to be reckoned with that will be! I cannot wait to read book 3, this series is truly something special.
Not sure where to start with this review, Nikki Ashton wrote her first cowboy book series many many years ago, and I never thought she would top The Connor Ranch series. But oh boy was I wrong! The first book is this Silver Peaks trilogy blew me away. But this book (the second one) The Emerald Waves tops it! We meet Gunner - what a cowboy he is, loveable, deep and sexy and Cassidy- such a likeable and solid character. Their chemistry is so well written and you really get pulled into their story!
The opening was something very special in this book and it just got better. Visits from much loved characters from other books (hello Mr Connor), the Silver Peaks family get more funnier and loveable, and new characters are introduced. Bertie is the most fantastic character with her love for seven brides for seven brothers (and it just gets better).
But gosh this book did make me cry, in a sad but beautiful way - such a sensitive and heartbreaking time but written in such true style that only Nikki can do. It really did pull me in.
If you want a cowboy story, this is one of the best! Nikki Ashton knows her cowboys and knows how to write them! Enjoy every second but prepare yourself to sit in one sitting and devour it.
I recieved this book as an ARC for my honest review.
I read the first book in the series and loved it, gave it 5 stars. Unfortunately, I really struggled to read this which is a shame as I loved the first book so much.
I couldn't get into it and stopped reading at 57%. Every time I picked it up I didn't find it gripped me that I wanted to keep reading. I'm not sure whether its because I haven't been feeling well and that is why I struggled to get into it. I do plan on coming back to it at a later date and trying it again just to make sure. If my opinion changes I will be sure to update this review.
Maybe it was the enemie to loves part I was struggling to get behind as it isn't one of my favorite tropes but some of my favorite books has had this trope which is why I still requested this book.
I do truly believe there is a lot of people out there who will love this, especially if you are a fan of small town ranchers, enemies to loves and a series that follows a set of brothers.
Thank you so much to Tales and Teacups for the opportunity in receiving this ARC and I truly wish the author all the best. I hate leaving a review that isn't glowing but unfortunately at this time I was unable to get into this.
knew I was going to love this after how obsessed I was with the first book (which I seriously need a physical copy of ASAP it deserves a shelf spot too!). But this one? It ruined me in the best possible way. Nikki Ashton knows exactly how to pull on every emotion I laughed, I cried, I stayed up way too late saying “just one more chapter”… (lies, obviously 😅). Gunner’s story hit deep. He’s layered, emotional, and so real that I found myself feeling everything he did every ounce of pain, guilt, and hope. And as a total horse girl, the way he connects with his horses? 🐴 Ugh, it got me right in the heart. The gentleness, the understanding you can tell how much love and respect he has for them, and it made me love him even more. And don’t even get me started on the found family vibes because this series gives me everything I crave people who’ve been through hell but still choose to show up, love harder, and support one another no matter what. The Miller brothers are impossible not to fall for, and I already know Wilder’s story is going to emotionally wreck me (bring it on 😭💔). If you love small-town romance, strong family bonds, a man who loves his horses, and all the feels Emerald Waves is your next read!
Emerald Waves is the second book in the Silver Peaks series. It focuses on our two main characters Gunnar and Cassidy.
Tropes: 🤠 Cowboy romance 🤠 Grumpy x sunshine 🤠 Foes to lovers 🤠 Second chance 🤠 Suspense 🤠 Found family
Gunnar and Cassidy meet three years prior to the book taking place. Cassidy a new teacher at the local school. Gunnar notices her when he picks his niece up from school day. The two end up going out in a date and it goes horribly. Three years later and the two still don’t really get a long. This creates so much tension, as they say there’s a fine line between love and hate.
Eventually the two put aside their differences to help create a program for the children in the community. This requires the two to put in long hours with each other and they realize that their first impressions of each other weren’t accurate.
Their story is long and it takes time till they get their happy ending but it’s a beautiful journey.
While I enjoyed reading this book, I had a hard time reaching for it. The story was good, I just had a hard time connecting with the characters.
The Emerald Waves is book two in the Silver Peaks series, I loved book one The Lilac River so was really looking forward to this, especially after the little taste of Gunner & Cassidy we got in book one.
This book has everything that a great cowboy romance needs, the broody cowboy in the form of Gunner, the gorgeous teacher who dresses like sunshine in the form of Cassidy, small town charm, family antics & banter, found family and the perfect mix of hilarious & emotional moments. I loved both the main characters, Gunner & Cassidy, they're both stubborn & equally determined to continue avoiding & hating each other but after being thrown together the walls slowly come down, the ice melts & sparks start to fly. I loved that old favourites were back & we got to see Nash & Lily again, I was also very happy to see little Bertie is still obsessed with Seven Brides for Seven Brothers which is possibly one of the funniest things I've come across in a book.
The Emerald Waves is a gorgeous, well written book full of atmosphere, heart, depth & emotion but with the perfect dose of banter & spice thrown in. I already can't wait for book three.
Gunner and Cassidy went on a disastrous date three years prior to this book. He made an incorrect assumption about her "city" ways, and she didn't correct him. They have been somewhat enemies ever since. The attraction was still there, however, so the banter between these two was 🔥. They team up to build a camp for kids on his family ranch and realize that they might have been wrong about each other all of these years.
I usually dislike the miscommunication trope, but this one was done so well. When she tells him the truth of her upbringing 🤯. There are very strong family and found family themes amongst the three Miller brothers and those that they care for. There was also a bit of a suspense element in this one. Although this is book two in the series, it can be read as a standalone. I haven't read book one. I'm sure I would have known more about the family's past, but I don't feel that I was lost in the details at any point.
I received an ARC of this book, but these opinions are my own. I would like to thank the author, Nikki Ashton, and Tales and Teacups PR for allowing me the privilege of reading her work. ❤️