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Hard Spot Saloon #3
Bad Cowboy, Tennessee
He’s not just a cowboy. He’s a monster, with his sights on me.
He’s also my sister's boyfriend.
Until they break up on the first night he’s in town…
…And suddenly I’m the one with a very bad, very wrong cowboy on my hands.
Draven Lyons is the heir to the wealthiest Montana ranch dynasty.
He’s also a walking red flag, carrying a violent past filled with blood.
Letting him touch me was the first mistake.
Enjoying it was even worse.
I’m straight, but now he’s making me want things.
And it ends up with me pinned against a wall. My lips up against his ear. Begging him for more, especially when it hurts.
Telling Draven about my online stalker was the next mistake.
So what if my online videos make men want me? It’s just business.
Now Draven’s following me in the name of protection.
But his own dark secrets torment me. What happened back in Montana? Why is he still here in Tennessee, hiding out in my small town? And why does he want a frat boy bartender like me?
He’s also my sister's boyfriend.
Until they break up on the first night he’s in town…
…And suddenly I’m the one with a very bad, very wrong cowboy on my hands.
Draven Lyons is the heir to the wealthiest Montana ranch dynasty.
He’s also a walking red flag, carrying a violent past filled with blood.
Letting him touch me was the first mistake.
Enjoying it was even worse.
I’m straight, but now he’s making me want things.
And it ends up with me pinned against a wall. My lips up against his ear. Begging him for more, especially when it hurts.
Telling Draven about my online stalker was the next mistake.
So what if my online videos make men want me? It’s just business.
Now Draven’s following me in the name of protection.
But his own dark secrets torment me. What happened back in Montana? Why is he still here in Tennessee, hiding out in my small town? And why does he want a frat boy bartender like me?
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 19, 2025
111 people are currently reading
116 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
June 16, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
RTC 🫶
RTC 🫶
June 16, 2025
Bad Cowboy, Tennessee is an entertaining, angsty romance between bartender Max and cowboy Draven. These two have instant chemistry, which is both shocking and exciting for Max and terrifying for Draven. Max is initially resistant but eventually embraces his feelings for this mysterious loner. Draven, on the other hand, has his own mystery that he is trying to keep hidden from his new community. Together, they face many obstacles, and witnessing their attempts to avoid the inevitable is both entertaining and highly seductive.
Overall, this was a fun story that kept me invested in the characters and eager to see how they would overcome the obstacles thrown their way. I enjoyed watching both Max and Draven grow and learn from each other in the most surprising ways.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Overall, this was a fun story that kept me invested in the characters and eager to see how they would overcome the obstacles thrown their way. I enjoyed watching both Max and Draven grow and learn from each other in the most surprising ways.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
June 24, 2025
I just realised this is Book 3 in a series that i haven’t read 🤦🏻♀️
Max is a bartender and content creator.
Max tussles with a stalker/ home intruder who turns out to be…
“I’m Draven,” he said in a low rumble. “Your sister’s boyfriend. Is this how you welcome houseguests to Tennessee, Max?”
Draven is a total mindfuck to our straight boy max, wrapped in a sinfully sexy bad boy body.
The chemistry between them is explosive, is fire 🥵🔥
Draven is thinking that the worst thing about Tennessee, so far, was the lack of violence. But he’s not a total psychopath. He just wants to feel something.
Max is questioning his sister lily’s sanity now that he’s met her boyfriend. And… bitten her boyfriend….
Max finds out Lily and Draven broke up.
There’s Sexting. Watching each other get off.
‘He was getting off to one of my videos. A flare of pride ripped through me so quickly I didn’t have time to be shocked by it. You’re jerking off to videos of me? Now who’s really the one in control?’
Max apparently wanted one day to own the house that Draven bought.
More hot times.
‘Guess I’m not quite so straight. Certainly not when it comes to Draven.’
Draven weirdly won’t let Max kiss him , cos he doesn’t want Max to fall in love with him
Draven has secrets involving family trauma, friend betrayal,
Max may have a stalker.
‘My dirty little angel, I couldn’t help but think as I saw him walk beneath the low glow of the lights in my yard, coming out toward the blanket I’d tossed on the grass beside the patio. How could this person not realize why I would become obsessed with him? When anyone probably would? ‘
Sexy times and then awkward bed sharing with zero pillow talk , no touching and an invisible boundary line.
Also the no kissing thing is really pissing Max off.
Draven is a Swiftie !!
So not sure what to make of Dravens bestie Dom- kinda judgemental, prick, arrogant etc
Ooh PART TWO
Some stalker guy shoots at Max. Luckily they are blanks but he’s pretty rattled . So is Draven.
Dom isn’t that bad I guess.
The three of them fly back to Montana.
“You can whisk me away, bite me, touch any part of my body you please, but you can’t kiss me, can you?”
76% in and still no kissy!!
Draven is vulnerable and lets Max know all his secrets.
Max finds out lily’s secrets.
Draven and Max finally kiss .
“We are fucked,” Draven said, shaking his head a little. “You’d let me ruin your life.” “I’d let you destroy me,” I told him. “I love you,” he uttered, his voice thick with lust. “I love every fucking thing about you. You’re going to come for me. Harder than you ever have before.” “I know,” I breathed.
“And I’m still here,” Max said. “You think I shouldn’t be. But I am, because I love you. I love you, even if it’s bad. I love you, even if it takes you a million years to believe it.”
Another of Max stalkers shows up and stabs Draven.
“Fuck, I love you,” I whispered. “I’m still so mad at you. How could you do that? How could you let yourself get stabbed for me?”
‘And all of the pain that had led to this moment had made it worth it, for one reason only: he was mine. And I belonged to him.’
The End
Max is a bartender and content creator.
Max tussles with a stalker/ home intruder who turns out to be…
“I’m Draven,” he said in a low rumble. “Your sister’s boyfriend. Is this how you welcome houseguests to Tennessee, Max?”
Draven is a total mindfuck to our straight boy max, wrapped in a sinfully sexy bad boy body.
The chemistry between them is explosive, is fire 🥵🔥
Draven is thinking that the worst thing about Tennessee, so far, was the lack of violence. But he’s not a total psychopath. He just wants to feel something.
Max is questioning his sister lily’s sanity now that he’s met her boyfriend. And… bitten her boyfriend….
Max finds out Lily and Draven broke up.
There’s Sexting. Watching each other get off.
‘He was getting off to one of my videos. A flare of pride ripped through me so quickly I didn’t have time to be shocked by it. You’re jerking off to videos of me? Now who’s really the one in control?’
Max apparently wanted one day to own the house that Draven bought.
More hot times.
‘Guess I’m not quite so straight. Certainly not when it comes to Draven.’
Draven weirdly won’t let Max kiss him , cos he doesn’t want Max to fall in love with him
Draven has secrets involving family trauma, friend betrayal,
Max may have a stalker.
‘My dirty little angel, I couldn’t help but think as I saw him walk beneath the low glow of the lights in my yard, coming out toward the blanket I’d tossed on the grass beside the patio. How could this person not realize why I would become obsessed with him? When anyone probably would? ‘
Sexy times and then awkward bed sharing with zero pillow talk , no touching and an invisible boundary line.
Also the no kissing thing is really pissing Max off.
Draven is a Swiftie !!
So not sure what to make of Dravens bestie Dom- kinda judgemental, prick, arrogant etc
Ooh PART TWO
Some stalker guy shoots at Max. Luckily they are blanks but he’s pretty rattled . So is Draven.
Dom isn’t that bad I guess.
The three of them fly back to Montana.
“You can whisk me away, bite me, touch any part of my body you please, but you can’t kiss me, can you?”
76% in and still no kissy!!
Draven is vulnerable and lets Max know all his secrets.
Max finds out lily’s secrets.
Draven and Max finally kiss .
“We are fucked,” Draven said, shaking his head a little. “You’d let me ruin your life.” “I’d let you destroy me,” I told him. “I love you,” he uttered, his voice thick with lust. “I love every fucking thing about you. You’re going to come for me. Harder than you ever have before.” “I know,” I breathed.
“And I’m still here,” Max said. “You think I shouldn’t be. But I am, because I love you. I love you, even if it’s bad. I love you, even if it takes you a million years to believe it.”
Another of Max stalkers shows up and stabs Draven.
“Fuck, I love you,” I whispered. “I’m still so mad at you. How could you do that? How could you let yourself get stabbed for me?”
‘And all of the pain that had led to this moment had made it worth it, for one reason only: he was mine. And I belonged to him.’
The End
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2025
Bad Cowboy, Tennessee is book three in the Hard Spot Saloon series. This MM romance story is about Max and Draven.
Max is a twenty-two year old frat boy bartender at Hard Spot Saloon. He also has an online channel, The Cocktail Bro, where he films videos making unique cocktail recipes for his followers. Draven is a thirty year old wealthy rancher from Montana. He also just so happens to be Max’s sister’s (ex) boyfriend.
When Draven comes to Tennessee, I did not expect him to first meet Max the way he did. Their instant chemistry was so hot. Max was just so sweet and innocent, and I wanted to protect him at all costs. Draven has a dark past and so many secrets, and I just needed to find out what they were.
Max started getting some creepy comments and inappropriate messages from some of his fans from his online channel, but he thought they were harmless. Draven takes them seriously and wants nothing more than to protect Max.
I loved Draven and Max’s banter. Although Max hasn’t been with a man before, I loved seeing him give in to his attraction and embracing his feelings for Draven. I do have to say I felt bad and got a little frustrated for Max when he wanted more and Draven wouldn’t give in. Eventually we learn and understand why Draven is that way. His father was horrible and I was not a fan of the way his friends treated him either. My heart definitely went out to Draven and everything he had been through.
This story was an interesting one and it kept me invested until the end. I will say I thought Draven had a few too many secrets, and Max had a few too many stalkers. But overall, I was entertained and enjoyed seeing Max and Draven get their HEA.
I received an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
Max is a twenty-two year old frat boy bartender at Hard Spot Saloon. He also has an online channel, The Cocktail Bro, where he films videos making unique cocktail recipes for his followers. Draven is a thirty year old wealthy rancher from Montana. He also just so happens to be Max’s sister’s (ex) boyfriend.
When Draven comes to Tennessee, I did not expect him to first meet Max the way he did. Their instant chemistry was so hot. Max was just so sweet and innocent, and I wanted to protect him at all costs. Draven has a dark past and so many secrets, and I just needed to find out what they were.
Max started getting some creepy comments and inappropriate messages from some of his fans from his online channel, but he thought they were harmless. Draven takes them seriously and wants nothing more than to protect Max.
I loved Draven and Max’s banter. Although Max hasn’t been with a man before, I loved seeing him give in to his attraction and embracing his feelings for Draven. I do have to say I felt bad and got a little frustrated for Max when he wanted more and Draven wouldn’t give in. Eventually we learn and understand why Draven is that way. His father was horrible and I was not a fan of the way his friends treated him either. My heart definitely went out to Draven and everything he had been through.
This story was an interesting one and it kept me invested until the end. I will say I thought Draven had a few too many secrets, and Max had a few too many stalkers. But overall, I was entertained and enjoyed seeing Max and Draven get their HEA.
I received an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
June 29, 2025
I was expecting this book to be a lot darker than I thought. Yes, it's a dark romance and there is violence and some difficult drama, but I was expecting it to be more obscure and ominous.
Draven is a cowboy from Montana that ran away from something shady that happened at his ranch. Max is Draven's girlfriend's boyfriend and he works as a mixologist who has become very popular on the internet. Yep, Draven was going out with Max's sister, but they split up as soon as they arrived at Tennessee and the cowboy set his eyes on his former brother-in-law.
The first encounter between them was explosive and it opened a new world for Max who realised he wasn't as straight as he thought. Also he discovered things that he liked that had never crossed his mind.
Draven was possessive, obsessive and would do anything for Max. At first he tried to keep his distance, but it was obvious he wouldn't. He kept telling himself he just wanted to protect Max, but the attraction between them was unstoppable. Draven thought he wasn't worthy of Max, and the bartender certainly tried to hate him, but in the end what they both felt when being together couldn't be hidden behind excuses.
It was an interesting read, it was a dark romance but also a sweet one. I loved how their relationship developed. Max hated Draven at first but as he found out about the cowboy's past, his true feelings came to the surface. Both men felt they didn't deserve each other, but they fit together perfectly.
I think this is the first book I've read by this author and it won't be the last one. It was a wonderful read.
Draven is a cowboy from Montana that ran away from something shady that happened at his ranch. Max is Draven's girlfriend's boyfriend and he works as a mixologist who has become very popular on the internet. Yep, Draven was going out with Max's sister, but they split up as soon as they arrived at Tennessee and the cowboy set his eyes on his former brother-in-law.
The first encounter between them was explosive and it opened a new world for Max who realised he wasn't as straight as he thought. Also he discovered things that he liked that had never crossed his mind.
Draven was possessive, obsessive and would do anything for Max. At first he tried to keep his distance, but it was obvious he wouldn't. He kept telling himself he just wanted to protect Max, but the attraction between them was unstoppable. Draven thought he wasn't worthy of Max, and the bartender certainly tried to hate him, but in the end what they both felt when being together couldn't be hidden behind excuses.
It was an interesting read, it was a dark romance but also a sweet one. I loved how their relationship developed. Max hated Draven at first but as he found out about the cowboy's past, his true feelings came to the surface. Both men felt they didn't deserve each other, but they fit together perfectly.
I think this is the first book I've read by this author and it won't be the last one. It was a wonderful read.
June 16, 2025
Tropes: small town, sister's ex, possessive/obsessive MC, hurt/comfort, black cat / golden retriever
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 2.25/5
Kinks: phone sex, bondage, marking, hand necklaces, chocking, voyeurism/exhibitionism, praise kink, pain kink
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: checked out mother, physically and emotionally abusive father, past indulgence in excesses, minor character who gets a DUI, minor character who is underage and gets alcohol poisoning / injury, stalker who attacks mmcs, violence, homophobic father
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: Draven's father cheated on his mother prolifically. Draven was kind of cheated on by an ex in the past.
Other person drama: Draven dated Max's older sister for almost a year. That didn't really bother either Draven or Max. They broke up pretty much before Draven met Max. I'm a person that finds dating a sibling's ex icky, but this wasn't horrible - their relationship was brought up a fair bit which was annoying (I would have liked it to be less of a focus), and early on there was the odd moment where I thought that Max was breaking sibling code by fooling around with Draven, but in the end Lily had no feelings for Draven so she wasn't hurt, which is the most important thing. Besides that, there was no one else for either of them once they met.
4 stars
So this is something I've never said before. This is an ARC review. I've never done an ARC, I've never applied to do one, but someone asked and I have enjoyed a lot of books by this author so thought sure, why not. They are usually low angst, loving, and steamy with nice communities of characters. This is my honest review, I am incapable of being otherwise lol!
Max is 22. He's always identified as straight. He graduated college last year and he works as a bartender in a small town bar, recording online videos making fun bar recipes on the side. His sister came home to visit and brought along her boyfriend, and they broke up the moment they hit town. Draven, her ex, is about 30 and bisexual. He comes from a really wealthy family. He has lived an indulgent life, he has partied hard and done too much alcohol/drugs/sex at times, though he has mellowed out in recent years. He's been abused physically and emotionally by his father, who is also homophobic. He has left his state under mysterious rough terms and has had a falling out with his family.
When Draven meets Max, he's instantly turned on by both the fight in him and the sweetness. He hits on Max and Max is surprised that he likes it. Draven has to chase Max a little before he gives in. They start hooking up. Draven is very protective of Max because he has some online stalkers. They are feeling more than just attraction, they both give each other something that the other needed. But is Draven ready to open himself up to Max and share his secrets and trust him?
I liked this book. I know this book is noted as being darker than the author's usual stuff, but while there is violence and Draven has done some dark stuff and endured some dark stuff, there is still a lot of fluffy loving, and Draven is not a true morally gray or morally black character, there's too much goodness in him! So don't be afraid of reading this if dark romance isn't your thing, it's not that dark. I liked how intense Draven was about Max, it was nice to see him hot for him, and I love an obsessive and possessive MMC! But it was even more nice to see him be weak for Max, that he was tender towards Max, compelled to treat him nice and live up to the expectations that Max had for Draven to be a good guy. Draven was surprised by the person that he actually was, the person that people in Tennessee saw him as. There was good banter between them, Max put up a solid fight, he made Draven work for it, and he was snarky.
Some notable moments:
"“What happened to your neck?” A faint blush appeared on Max’s face as he felt the spot where I’d left my mark. “Just a little bruise,” Max said. I clenched my jaw, fire burning inside me. I wanted to suck on his skin there again. I wished the mark was even darker. I liked that he was so clearly mine, and even though he was all bashful and trying to hide it, Dom knew better."
"“It’s going to hurt you, Max.” “It’s already been hurting.” “Loving me,” he roared. “It is going to hurt you.” “Then let it,” I said, my words breaking off into a deep moan as he pushed his cock all the way into me again. “Max.” “I’m not fragile,” I told him. “I don’t break. I can take all of you. And I’m ready for it, Draven.” “I love you,” he finally said, his voice low, like he was hypnotized. “God fucking damn it. I love you. I’m never going to be able to stop.” “Good.” “I’m too much, Max. I’ll need you. I’ll want to claim you and make you mine.” “Like I wasn’t already?” His eyes were like two smoldering fires. “You’re perfect for me.”"
I love Kane. "I turned to see Kane returning from picking up some empty pint glasses on the table. “Going to flip my boyfriend onto the top of this bar, strip him naked, and eat his ass out ‘til he comes all over that nice, shiny bar top, Kane,” I told him, lifting an eyebrow. “Yeah, and I’m going to sock you in the goddamned face if you even try to sit him down on top of this bar.” “Should I fuckin’ try? Max, take your cock out.” Kane stared daggers into my eyes. “Ever had a beer tap shoved so far in your mouth you deep throat it and choke? That’s you if you even try, Lyons.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 2.25/5
Kinks: phone sex, bondage, marking, hand necklaces, chocking, voyeurism/exhibitionism, praise kink, pain kink
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: checked out mother, physically and emotionally abusive father, past indulgence in excesses, minor character who gets a DUI, minor character who is underage and gets alcohol poisoning / injury, stalker who attacks mmcs, violence, homophobic father
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: Draven's father cheated on his mother prolifically. Draven was kind of cheated on by an ex in the past.
Other person drama: Draven dated Max's older sister for almost a year. That didn't really bother either Draven or Max. They broke up pretty much before Draven met Max. I'm a person that finds dating a sibling's ex icky, but this wasn't horrible - their relationship was brought up a fair bit which was annoying (I would have liked it to be less of a focus), and early on there was the odd moment where I thought that Max was breaking sibling code by fooling around with Draven, but in the end Lily had no feelings for Draven so she wasn't hurt, which is the most important thing. Besides that, there was no one else for either of them once they met.
4 stars
So this is something I've never said before. This is an ARC review. I've never done an ARC, I've never applied to do one, but someone asked and I have enjoyed a lot of books by this author so thought sure, why not. They are usually low angst, loving, and steamy with nice communities of characters. This is my honest review, I am incapable of being otherwise lol!
Max is 22. He's always identified as straight. He graduated college last year and he works as a bartender in a small town bar, recording online videos making fun bar recipes on the side. His sister came home to visit and brought along her boyfriend, and they broke up the moment they hit town. Draven, her ex, is about 30 and bisexual. He comes from a really wealthy family. He has lived an indulgent life, he has partied hard and done too much alcohol/drugs/sex at times, though he has mellowed out in recent years. He's been abused physically and emotionally by his father, who is also homophobic. He has left his state under mysterious rough terms and has had a falling out with his family.
When Draven meets Max, he's instantly turned on by both the fight in him and the sweetness. He hits on Max and Max is surprised that he likes it. Draven has to chase Max a little before he gives in. They start hooking up. Draven is very protective of Max because he has some online stalkers. They are feeling more than just attraction, they both give each other something that the other needed. But is Draven ready to open himself up to Max and share his secrets and trust him?
I liked this book. I know this book is noted as being darker than the author's usual stuff, but while there is violence and Draven has done some dark stuff and endured some dark stuff, there is still a lot of fluffy loving, and Draven is not a true morally gray or morally black character, there's too much goodness in him! So don't be afraid of reading this if dark romance isn't your thing, it's not that dark. I liked how intense Draven was about Max, it was nice to see him hot for him, and I love an obsessive and possessive MMC! But it was even more nice to see him be weak for Max, that he was tender towards Max, compelled to treat him nice and live up to the expectations that Max had for Draven to be a good guy. Draven was surprised by the person that he actually was, the person that people in Tennessee saw him as. There was good banter between them, Max put up a solid fight, he made Draven work for it, and he was snarky.
Some notable moments:
"“What happened to your neck?” A faint blush appeared on Max’s face as he felt the spot where I’d left my mark. “Just a little bruise,” Max said. I clenched my jaw, fire burning inside me. I wanted to suck on his skin there again. I wished the mark was even darker. I liked that he was so clearly mine, and even though he was all bashful and trying to hide it, Dom knew better."
"“It’s going to hurt you, Max.” “It’s already been hurting.” “Loving me,” he roared. “It is going to hurt you.” “Then let it,” I said, my words breaking off into a deep moan as he pushed his cock all the way into me again. “Max.” “I’m not fragile,” I told him. “I don’t break. I can take all of you. And I’m ready for it, Draven.” “I love you,” he finally said, his voice low, like he was hypnotized. “God fucking damn it. I love you. I’m never going to be able to stop.” “Good.” “I’m too much, Max. I’ll need you. I’ll want to claim you and make you mine.” “Like I wasn’t already?” His eyes were like two smoldering fires. “You’re perfect for me.”"
I love Kane. "I turned to see Kane returning from picking up some empty pint glasses on the table. “Going to flip my boyfriend onto the top of this bar, strip him naked, and eat his ass out ‘til he comes all over that nice, shiny bar top, Kane,” I told him, lifting an eyebrow. “Yeah, and I’m going to sock you in the goddamned face if you even try to sit him down on top of this bar.” “Should I fuckin’ try? Max, take your cock out.” Kane stared daggers into my eyes. “Ever had a beer tap shoved so far in your mouth you deep throat it and choke? That’s you if you even try, Lyons.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
June 23, 2025
4.25⭐️
From the very start I was INTO whatever was going on between Max and Draven. Their instant chemistry was finger licking goood. Max, rightfully so, didn’t trust Draven after their less than warm meet cute. But Draven’s magnetism could not be denied. I really enjoyed the mystery and intrigue of Draven’s past in Montana. His story really broke my heart tbh - and I’m still not quite over what we find out about Dom or Lily towards the end - he decided to move on from it but I’m not there yet. Just makes me love and appreciate his connection with Max all the more. The Brody stuff kinda confused me tho - I felt like what happened between them should have felt more dramatic to have resulted in what it did. Overall a lovely really hot time, with some danger and intrigue sprinkled throughout set in a what felt like a relatively “normal” southern town. No wacky characters to make Bestens feel like a magical collection of weirdos - just some regular schmegular southern hospitality- and that felt refreshing actually. I read this as a standalone and it totally worked just fine - I honestly didn’t feel like I was missing anything at all. I am interested in Andrew’s story and hope that my spidey senses are correct in that Dom is gonna be his guy…we shall see.
Honorable mention for pet name: lovedddd Baby Blue. I normally can’t stand pet names in books but this just hit different and felt all too cute
From the very start I was INTO whatever was going on between Max and Draven. Their instant chemistry was finger licking goood. Max, rightfully so, didn’t trust Draven after their less than warm meet cute. But Draven’s magnetism could not be denied. I really enjoyed the mystery and intrigue of Draven’s past in Montana. His story really broke my heart tbh - and I’m still not quite over what we find out about Dom or Lily towards the end - he decided to move on from it but I’m not there yet. Just makes me love and appreciate his connection with Max all the more. The Brody stuff kinda confused me tho - I felt like what happened between them should have felt more dramatic to have resulted in what it did. Overall a lovely really hot time, with some danger and intrigue sprinkled throughout set in a what felt like a relatively “normal” southern town. No wacky characters to make Bestens feel like a magical collection of weirdos - just some regular schmegular southern hospitality- and that felt refreshing actually. I read this as a standalone and it totally worked just fine - I honestly didn’t feel like I was missing anything at all. I am interested in Andrew’s story and hope that my spidey senses are correct in that Dom is gonna be his guy…we shall see.
Honorable mention for pet name: lovedddd Baby Blue. I normally can’t stand pet names in books but this just hit different and felt all too cute
June 23, 2025
I absolutely loved this one!
This story kept me intrigued from the first chapter.
The plot twists blew my mind!
Draven and Max's love story is one I'll treasure forever - so beautifully written!
I wanted to hug Draven and protect him from the world🥺❤️
This is Book 3 in the series, but it can be read as a standalone.
°°I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for an honest review°°
This story kept me intrigued from the first chapter.
The plot twists blew my mind!
Draven and Max's love story is one I'll treasure forever - so beautifully written!
I wanted to hug Draven and protect him from the world🥺❤️
This is Book 3 in the series, but it can be read as a standalone.
°°I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for an honest review°°
July 4, 2025
Loved this story with its angst (not my cup of tea but it was OK), steam and bit of darkness. Draven is Max's sister's ex-boyfriend, but when these two get together their chemistry is off limits.
Max never hasn’t been with a man before and Draven doesn't believe he was gonna be loved.
Great book
Max never hasn’t been with a man before and Draven doesn't believe he was gonna be loved.
Great book
June 28, 2025
Nngh. This book was so unbelievably good--and I say that having adored the first two books already. No doubt this one'll be my favorite.
July 8, 2025
4 Stars ⭐️
Loved this story, it's a little bit darker than the usual read by this author, welcome to the dark side!! So good, it was sweet, angsty and very spicy!!
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
Loved this story, it's a little bit darker than the usual read by this author, welcome to the dark side!! So good, it was sweet, angsty and very spicy!!
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
June 19, 2025
I absolutely loved this book, it wasn’t what I was expecting from reading the blurb, it was so much better! It’s top level spice and written brilliantly. The characters are complex and interesting, the story flows really well and I wish Id had more time to read it in one go. I really didn’t want it to end. It’s abit different from the previous stories in the series, it’s got a slightly harder edge to it for awhile but I really liked that element to the story. It wasn’t overdone and Draven really evolves as the story progresses.
It’s a fabulous read and one I’ll definitely go back to for a re read.
It’s a fabulous read and one I’ll definitely go back to for a re read.
June 10, 2025
Bad Cowboy, Tennessee, was the third book in Raleigh Ruebins Hard Spot Saloon series. It was also my first book by her, and I wish I had read the first two in the series first because I kept feeling like I was missing something. That was not on the author because the book was well written.
However, while it was well written, I felt it defintely had that soap opera feeling to it like things kept getting more and more dramatic and there was no way it could be more theatrical than it already was but then it goes there.
And I also felt there were things missing from this book not necessarily the series as a whole. Like Max's parents. He shares property with them, but they never appear? That was just one example. Max just graduated college and is on social media all the time but can't figure out how to turn off his location? The way he went from straight to being in a relationship with millionaire Draven that used to be his sister's boyfriend like it was nothing? It was all just odd.
However, while it was well written, I felt it defintely had that soap opera feeling to it like things kept getting more and more dramatic and there was no way it could be more theatrical than it already was but then it goes there.
And I also felt there were things missing from this book not necessarily the series as a whole. Like Max's parents. He shares property with them, but they never appear? That was just one example. Max just graduated college and is on social media all the time but can't figure out how to turn off his location? The way he went from straight to being in a relationship with millionaire Draven that used to be his sister's boyfriend like it was nothing? It was all just odd.
June 20, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
This is the third book in the Hard Spot Saloon series, and it’s the one that requires the greatest suspension of disbelief for me. You don’t need to have read the other books in this series to follow along with this story, as the other characters barely make an appearance, and the book is meant to be read as a standalone. It is, however, the cheesiest of the books, and I mean that in a good way.
The writing is good, the pace is a bit fast, but this is a quick, fun book that — if you’re in the mood for it — can be a lot of fun.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
This is the third book in the Hard Spot Saloon series, and it’s the one that requires the greatest suspension of disbelief for me. You don’t need to have read the other books in this series to follow along with this story, as the other characters barely make an appearance, and the book is meant to be read as a standalone. It is, however, the cheesiest of the books, and I mean that in a good way.
The writing is good, the pace is a bit fast, but this is a quick, fun book that — if you’re in the mood for it — can be a lot of fun.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
June 23, 2025
Definitely had a different feel than some of this authors other books. Full RTC
December 28, 2025
ARC review
I liked this book, a lot. Their push and pull, the will or won't we was so hypnotizing.
Draven had been a black sheep in his whole life and when he met Max, he didn't want to drag him to his mess. He tried to resist, he really did but there was no use.
Max seemed innocent and naive, and he was a bit, but my God, that man could get dirty when needed. He didn't let Draven drive him away, he wanted all of him or nothing.
Their combined differences and backgrounds made them the perfect match
I liked this book, a lot. Their push and pull, the will or won't we was so hypnotizing.
Draven had been a black sheep in his whole life and when he met Max, he didn't want to drag him to his mess. He tried to resist, he really did but there was no use.
Max seemed innocent and naive, and he was a bit, but my God, that man could get dirty when needed. He didn't let Draven drive him away, he wanted all of him or nothing.
Their combined differences and backgrounds made them the perfect match
June 24, 2025
Firstly, let me say I got this book from gay romance reviews and this is me leaving my honest review.
Wow I have got to say I thoroughly enjoyed this Read two totally different men. You have got Draven who was born into a family that will rice, corrupt that cheats and he was now not on the run because nobody was after him yet but something happened that made him Leave Montana where he has ranch mansion rescue horses to live in Tennessee. You see something happened that in my eyes changed Draven for the better but he’s a complex man. He doesn’t trust easily and once you start reading this book, you’ll understand why. So he goes with his girlfriend to Tennessee as she’s got a wedding to attend But on that first night everything changes for him you see because that is when he met his now ex girlfriend’s brother Max.
Max lives in Tennessee where he grew up he’s happy. he’s happy being a bartender who loves making new cocktails. He brings together some bizarre mixtures but somehow they nearly always work. He has an online channel where he teaches people new drinks but because Max was so trusting he would talk about the town He lived in, the bar that he worked in and the area where he lived. He was a walking risk for stalkers and yes, he had a few of them. One night after work, he gets home and hears the door rattle somebody is trying to break in and this is where he met Draven and had his first gay reaction. He’s got lots of gay friends and it’s never bothered him. it’s never bothered him that he’s online. Followers are mainly men who openly flirt with him. But this man is dangerous. He feels it from the first moment and he can’t understand his reaction.
And that’s what I’m gonna tell you this because there are so many twists and turns and it just keeps you on the edge of your seat. Once I started this book I just couldn’t put it down. My heart went out for Draven. He had really gone through lots of trauma growing up. his reaction to Max just made my mouth water. And he doesn’t play by the rules but what scares him is how trusting Max is. Wow Max I just found him delicious honestly the banter between them, the sexual tension was just so alive. in some respects. It’s a real slow burn but in others every page is burning up. I’m really glad that both of these men were persistent but in different ways. Oh la la the passionate they share is off the charts, I thoroughly enjoyed this read and could not put it down.
Wow I have got to say I thoroughly enjoyed this Read two totally different men. You have got Draven who was born into a family that will rice, corrupt that cheats and he was now not on the run because nobody was after him yet but something happened that made him Leave Montana where he has ranch mansion rescue horses to live in Tennessee. You see something happened that in my eyes changed Draven for the better but he’s a complex man. He doesn’t trust easily and once you start reading this book, you’ll understand why. So he goes with his girlfriend to Tennessee as she’s got a wedding to attend But on that first night everything changes for him you see because that is when he met his now ex girlfriend’s brother Max.
Max lives in Tennessee where he grew up he’s happy. he’s happy being a bartender who loves making new cocktails. He brings together some bizarre mixtures but somehow they nearly always work. He has an online channel where he teaches people new drinks but because Max was so trusting he would talk about the town He lived in, the bar that he worked in and the area where he lived. He was a walking risk for stalkers and yes, he had a few of them. One night after work, he gets home and hears the door rattle somebody is trying to break in and this is where he met Draven and had his first gay reaction. He’s got lots of gay friends and it’s never bothered him. it’s never bothered him that he’s online. Followers are mainly men who openly flirt with him. But this man is dangerous. He feels it from the first moment and he can’t understand his reaction.
And that’s what I’m gonna tell you this because there are so many twists and turns and it just keeps you on the edge of your seat. Once I started this book I just couldn’t put it down. My heart went out for Draven. He had really gone through lots of trauma growing up. his reaction to Max just made my mouth water. And he doesn’t play by the rules but what scares him is how trusting Max is. Wow Max I just found him delicious honestly the banter between them, the sexual tension was just so alive. in some respects. It’s a real slow burn but in others every page is burning up. I’m really glad that both of these men were persistent but in different ways. Oh la la the passionate they share is off the charts, I thoroughly enjoyed this read and could not put it down.
August 20, 2025
This book was pretty confused about what it wanted to be and ended up underdelivering on quite a few things after it almost made me quit for something that wasn't actually true.
I could probably write too much on what happened while I was reading this but let's just hit the highlights and move on. Minor spoiler ahead.
The romance opens with a weird scene: the MC has come home and finds someone trying to get into his house. He opens the door to confront him. They fight. The intruder is stronger and says things you might hear from a rap**t or at the very least someone very kinky who never learnt proper kink etiquette and boundaries. The scene makes the love interest look like a psycho who will not respect anything he doesn't feel like respecting, including your whole person. I almost quit right there and then. I like some messed up but I am not a fan of weird, arrogant jerks.
That's the initial impression you get from the bad boy. It is super misleading and I say that after finishing the book, knowing all his "secrets". He is a rich boy, so he had his flaws, sure, he is strong and he... anyway, he also was hurt a lot. He's basically the romance bad boy, not what you might find even in a mild mafia/MC romance. He's all tortuted, tamed except for the kink which...
Kink also felt pretty underdelivered and I didn't mind when reading but it matters overall. Max (MC) has some hidden sub tendencies, and he is an exhibitionist. I am not saying nothing happens connected to this but the Bad Boy sniffs them right out of his brain or something, tells him all about it so Max can act all "no, you don"t know me" and when they actually start the touching part, it feels very vanilla. Look, Max bit the jerk. The jerk choked him. The initial scene kinda set the expectation for what would follow and when it didn't, it felt disconnected and like I don't actually know what I am reading and what to expect. It felt like romance-cushion - softening everything to make it look better, love interest especially.
Anyway, there were some emotional scenes, a few things I liked but the love interest (ok, he's 2nd MC since he has POVs) rubbed me the wrong way for no reason, apparently, considering he's a doting, loving boyfriend at the end so I am going to say the story didn't click with me and leave it at that.
I could probably write too much on what happened while I was reading this but let's just hit the highlights and move on. Minor spoiler ahead.
The romance opens with a weird scene: the MC has come home and finds someone trying to get into his house. He opens the door to confront him. They fight. The intruder is stronger and says things you might hear from a rap**t or at the very least someone very kinky who never learnt proper kink etiquette and boundaries. The scene makes the love interest look like a psycho who will not respect anything he doesn't feel like respecting, including your whole person. I almost quit right there and then. I like some messed up but I am not a fan of weird, arrogant jerks.
That's the initial impression you get from the bad boy. It is super misleading and I say that after finishing the book, knowing all his "secrets". He is a rich boy, so he had his flaws, sure, he is strong and he... anyway, he also was hurt a lot. He's basically the romance bad boy, not what you might find even in a mild mafia/MC romance. He's all tortuted, tamed except for the kink which...
Kink also felt pretty underdelivered and I didn't mind when reading but it matters overall. Max (MC) has some hidden sub tendencies, and he is an exhibitionist. I am not saying nothing happens connected to this but the Bad Boy sniffs them right out of his brain or something, tells him all about it so Max can act all "no, you don"t know me" and when they actually start the touching part, it feels very vanilla. Look, Max bit the jerk. The jerk choked him. The initial scene kinda set the expectation for what would follow and when it didn't, it felt disconnected and like I don't actually know what I am reading and what to expect. It felt like romance-cushion - softening everything to make it look better, love interest especially.
Anyway, there were some emotional scenes, a few things I liked but the love interest (ok, he's 2nd MC since he has POVs) rubbed me the wrong way for no reason, apparently, considering he's a doting, loving boyfriend at the end so I am going to say the story didn't click with me and leave it at that.
June 28, 2025
2/2.5 stars
Loved the idea but what a let down. It's a very horny book but it got a little repetitive at times.
What I really didn't care for was the plot. It made very little sense.
Draven's backstory didn't need to be this "dark" if it leads to nothing. There's no resolution, which would have been fine if there was a real attempt for it, but apart from a couple mentions of a characters doing things in the background nothing was really shown. Even Draven's struggle feels a bit forced because they only come up/impact him when an emotional scene is needed to soften Max
Now the whole thing between Draven, Dominic, Brody and Lily was such a trainwreck. I understand when emotions run high we're not always the most logical but I'm very confused here.
Loved the idea but what a let down. It's a very horny book but it got a little repetitive at times.
What I really didn't care for was the plot. It made very little sense.
Draven's backstory didn't need to be this "dark" if it leads to nothing. There's no resolution, which would have been fine if there was a real attempt for it, but apart from a couple mentions of a characters doing things in the background nothing was really shown. Even Draven's struggle feels a bit forced because they only come up/impact him when an emotional scene is needed to soften Max
Now the whole thing between Draven, Dominic, Brody and Lily was such a trainwreck. I understand when emotions run high we're not always the most logical but I'm very confused here.
June 21, 2025
MY OPINION: I like this series. This book was a little darker than the first two, but I did enjoy it.
Starting with the unconventional way they met, there is a pull between these two that can’t be denied.
Max is certainly sunshine and rainbows, bartending, and posting thirst trap mixology content online as he lives his best life in the small town that is home to him in Tennessee.
Draven is running from things. He has secrets, anger, and guilt. So much tangled up in his family and his “legacy’ and it’s a heavy burden. When he ended up in Tennessee, he didn’t expect to like it, but he really didn’t expect to find himself drawn to the bartending frat boy who needed him.
There is heat between him from the get-go. Max, being ‘straight,’ is surprised by the fact that he wants this man, he needs this man. That’s not his only surprise; he wants to be controlled, possessed, but not submit. He likes the fight, he likes the damage, he likes it dirty, and he can’t get enough. It’s a cat and mouse game between them while they get together, then pull apart, the line between love and hate is clear between them.
Neither of them expects the feelings that form, nor the lust between them that needs to be doused. Draven won’t fall for him, but will protect him and will enjoy his body. Until he spills his secrets, and somewhere in there, he gives his heart, too. Maybe love is greater than all those other things.
I enjoyed it. Certainly not as fluffy as the previous two, but the characters are great. If I had to pick a story for Max, this wasn’t it, but I did like to see what the sweet frat boy hid. You don’t need to read the first two; each book stands on its own. I am glad I got the chance to read it, and it’s another great book by Raleigh Reubins, I will pick up the next in the series for sure.
Starting with the unconventional way they met, there is a pull between these two that can’t be denied.
Max is certainly sunshine and rainbows, bartending, and posting thirst trap mixology content online as he lives his best life in the small town that is home to him in Tennessee.
Draven is running from things. He has secrets, anger, and guilt. So much tangled up in his family and his “legacy’ and it’s a heavy burden. When he ended up in Tennessee, he didn’t expect to like it, but he really didn’t expect to find himself drawn to the bartending frat boy who needed him.
There is heat between him from the get-go. Max, being ‘straight,’ is surprised by the fact that he wants this man, he needs this man. That’s not his only surprise; he wants to be controlled, possessed, but not submit. He likes the fight, he likes the damage, he likes it dirty, and he can’t get enough. It’s a cat and mouse game between them while they get together, then pull apart, the line between love and hate is clear between them.
Neither of them expects the feelings that form, nor the lust between them that needs to be doused. Draven won’t fall for him, but will protect him and will enjoy his body. Until he spills his secrets, and somewhere in there, he gives his heart, too. Maybe love is greater than all those other things.
I enjoyed it. Certainly not as fluffy as the previous two, but the characters are great. If I had to pick a story for Max, this wasn’t it, but I did like to see what the sweet frat boy hid. You don’t need to read the first two; each book stands on its own. I am glad I got the chance to read it, and it’s another great book by Raleigh Reubins, I will pick up the next in the series for sure.
June 28, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. Honestly, it blew past all my expectations—whatever I thought I was getting from the blurb, this was so much better.
This is book 3 in the series, but you can totally read it as a standalone (though if you’re like me, you’ll want to go back and binge the rest). Compared to the previous books, this one had a slightly darker edge for a while, and I loved that. It wasn’t overdone—just enough grit to make the story feel even more powerful, especially as we watch Draven evolve.
Speaking of Draven… oh my heart. I wanted to scoop him up and protect him from everything. Watching him open up, grow, and fall for Max was beautifully written. Max was exactly what he needed—steady, patient, loving. Their connection just felt so real, layered with tenderness and sizzling with top-tier spice. And yes, the spice level here? Off the charts, in the absolute best way.
The story flows so well, the plot twists genuinely surprised me (a rare treat!), and the characters were wonderfully complex. I didn’t want it to end—and I already know I’ll be rereading this one whenever I want to get lost in a swoony, slightly edgy cowboy romance.
Final thoughts:
- Seriously top-level spice
- Cowboy romance with some grit and depth
- A protective, evolving MMC you’ll want to hug forever
- Works perfectly as a standalone
- Beautiful, memorable love story that’ll stick with you
A fantastic read that kept me hooked from page one. I can’t wait to dive into more from this world.
This is book 3 in the series, but you can totally read it as a standalone (though if you’re like me, you’ll want to go back and binge the rest). Compared to the previous books, this one had a slightly darker edge for a while, and I loved that. It wasn’t overdone—just enough grit to make the story feel even more powerful, especially as we watch Draven evolve.
Speaking of Draven… oh my heart. I wanted to scoop him up and protect him from everything. Watching him open up, grow, and fall for Max was beautifully written. Max was exactly what he needed—steady, patient, loving. Their connection just felt so real, layered with tenderness and sizzling with top-tier spice. And yes, the spice level here? Off the charts, in the absolute best way.
The story flows so well, the plot twists genuinely surprised me (a rare treat!), and the characters were wonderfully complex. I didn’t want it to end—and I already know I’ll be rereading this one whenever I want to get lost in a swoony, slightly edgy cowboy romance.
Final thoughts:
- Seriously top-level spice
- Cowboy romance with some grit and depth
- A protective, evolving MMC you’ll want to hug forever
- Works perfectly as a standalone
- Beautiful, memorable love story that’ll stick with you
A fantastic read that kept me hooked from page one. I can’t wait to dive into more from this world.
August 7, 2025
Always love a good cowboy story and this one was really good. Draven is running away from his wealthy family and his own Estate in Montana and lands in Besten Tennessee with his ex- girlfriend Lily. Later that night Max the bartender from the Hard Spot bar is just settling in for the night after his shift and ends up tackling a man trying to get into his little barn house. Poor Max was no match from Draven and ends up on his porch way with a hand round his throat. From there on it was quite amusing seeing these two trying to hold their ground against each other every time they meet.
Max js a mixologist and loves creating new recipes for his ‘Cocktail Bro’ app, but he’s too trusting and sweet and soon there are some posts cropping on his app which are scary.
When Draven goes into protective mode after discovering what was happening it was fun to see this so called ‘monster’ change. But that’s not all that is happening with Draven, back home in Montana he may be wanted by the law and just hiding out in Besten, Tennessee.
Both Draven and Max are so opposites but so made for each other. Max the innocent 22 year old living in a sweet town where everyone is so kind and Draven a cold hearted older guy who has never felt loved or wanted in his life. Meeting Max will either make or break him, if he lets his guard down.
Yes so I’m going to read the other stand-alones in this series which I think will feature some of the side characters from the Hard Spot Bar in Besten, Tennessee.
Max js a mixologist and loves creating new recipes for his ‘Cocktail Bro’ app, but he’s too trusting and sweet and soon there are some posts cropping on his app which are scary.
When Draven goes into protective mode after discovering what was happening it was fun to see this so called ‘monster’ change. But that’s not all that is happening with Draven, back home in Montana he may be wanted by the law and just hiding out in Besten, Tennessee.
Both Draven and Max are so opposites but so made for each other. Max the innocent 22 year old living in a sweet town where everyone is so kind and Draven a cold hearted older guy who has never felt loved or wanted in his life. Meeting Max will either make or break him, if he lets his guard down.
Yes so I’m going to read the other stand-alones in this series which I think will feature some of the side characters from the Hard Spot Bar in Besten, Tennessee.
July 8, 2025
*TW after review*
I've loved this series so far and, while it took me a minute to get into this book, I still enjoyed it.
Draven is definitely a bit of a darker character than what we're used to from Raleigh but he's balanced out by Max's light and endearing nature.
The relationship between the two definitely starts with a high amount of tension as Draven 'breaks into' Max's home which leads to a very up close and personal introduction and then Draven is staying in town and makes it his mission to protect Max, after seeing the comments he gets on his Cocktail Bro IG page. It's a battle of wills between the two and a new experience for Max as he's always been into women and liked the quiet life in Beaten, neither of which would describe Draven. He, in turn, misses his ranch in Minnesota and has a darker history that Max would have thought, mostly thanks to dear old dad. They can't help the chemistry they share and, though he tries to deny it, Max is all for sharing more with the secretive man. It leads to some damn hot scenes but having to fight his way behind Draven's walls when all Draven wants to do is protect him from his darker past.
It is a really good story that builds up well and I got invested in their relationship as it went on. I'm happy for the two with the outcome of their story and hope for a much happier future than Draven's past.
*TW - online harassment leads to stalking and violence. Recounting past incident of alcohol poisoning (not MC), fighting*
I've loved this series so far and, while it took me a minute to get into this book, I still enjoyed it.
Draven is definitely a bit of a darker character than what we're used to from Raleigh but he's balanced out by Max's light and endearing nature.
The relationship between the two definitely starts with a high amount of tension as Draven 'breaks into' Max's home which leads to a very up close and personal introduction and then Draven is staying in town and makes it his mission to protect Max, after seeing the comments he gets on his Cocktail Bro IG page. It's a battle of wills between the two and a new experience for Max as he's always been into women and liked the quiet life in Beaten, neither of which would describe Draven. He, in turn, misses his ranch in Minnesota and has a darker history that Max would have thought, mostly thanks to dear old dad. They can't help the chemistry they share and, though he tries to deny it, Max is all for sharing more with the secretive man. It leads to some damn hot scenes but having to fight his way behind Draven's walls when all Draven wants to do is protect him from his darker past.
It is a really good story that builds up well and I got invested in their relationship as it went on. I'm happy for the two with the outcome of their story and hope for a much happier future than Draven's past.
*TW - online harassment leads to stalking and violence. Recounting past incident of alcohol poisoning (not MC), fighting*
June 21, 2025
This was had the tropes of falling off your's sister's ex-boyfriend and a bit of enemies to lovers. Max meets Draven Lyons, his sister's ex-boyfirend, when he mistakes Draven for a thief and the two wrestle and Draven pins Max. Max is surprised to find that he kind of likes being pinned down. Max decides that he doesn't really like Draven. However, Draven is drawn to Max and his laid back and easy going nature. He finds out that Max who is a bartender also makes videos of himself trying out new cocktails and puts them on the internet as the Cocktail Bro. Draven is worried about some of the creepy comments that Max gets and decides to do what he can to protect Max. Max slowly thaws towards Draven and finally admits to himself and Draven that he is attracted to him. Draven lets down his guard and tells Max about how abusive his father's and is and how he doesn't get along with the rest of his family. The two admits how they feel about each other after Draven is nearly killed when confronting Max's stalker. This was such compelling story in which the "bad" cowboy wasn't quite so bad after all.
June 9, 2025
This is the 3rd in the Hard Spot Saloon series, and my favorite so far. The only real connection between the 3 books is the Hard Spot Saloon in Bestens, TN (& its owner). One of the mains, Max, is working as a bartender there.
Bad boy Draven comes to town with Max's sister, and there's an instant attraction between them (even though Max thinks he's straight). There's a lot of action in this one, between family drama on Draven's side and internet stalkers on Max's. There's not a lot of time wasted on side characters - this is pretty much just about Max & Draven, with a few friends thrown in as needed. I had a hard time putting it down (well, actually I didn't put it down -I read it in one sitting). It's medium spice, and not super angsty (although the mains do take some time to figure themselves out, there's not a lot of time spent on holding back, and everyone says what needs to be said in a timely manner).
Bad boy Draven comes to town with Max's sister, and there's an instant attraction between them (even though Max thinks he's straight). There's a lot of action in this one, between family drama on Draven's side and internet stalkers on Max's. There's not a lot of time wasted on side characters - this is pretty much just about Max & Draven, with a few friends thrown in as needed. I had a hard time putting it down (well, actually I didn't put it down -I read it in one sitting). It's medium spice, and not super angsty (although the mains do take some time to figure themselves out, there's not a lot of time spent on holding back, and everyone says what needs to be said in a timely manner).
June 19, 2025
Absolutely loved this book!! I love when my romance is mixed with mystery and some thrills!!!
Naïve But strong Max has never known anything outside of his small town and he likes it that way but here comes Draven to literally throw him around, and flip his world upside down in all the dirtiest ways. Not everything is what it seems with Drav and that has Max not being able to trust but something about Max makes Draven want to spill it all.
All the while Max has himself a stalker that will do anything to have him!
I DEVOURED this book so easy to read and I loved Max and Drav they were too cute together and so HOT as well! There was so much good plot thrown into this which I loved, kept me on my toes waiting to see what happens next!
Can’t wait to continue this series! And get to know some of those great side characters more!!
Naïve But strong Max has never known anything outside of his small town and he likes it that way but here comes Draven to literally throw him around, and flip his world upside down in all the dirtiest ways. Not everything is what it seems with Drav and that has Max not being able to trust but something about Max makes Draven want to spill it all.
All the while Max has himself a stalker that will do anything to have him!
I DEVOURED this book so easy to read and I loved Max and Drav they were too cute together and so HOT as well! There was so much good plot thrown into this which I loved, kept me on my toes waiting to see what happens next!
Can’t wait to continue this series! And get to know some of those great side characters more!!
June 23, 2025
This was truly an opposites attract pairing. Draven and Max both come into this attraction from very different places. Draven is kind of jaded and world weary. He has been through so much that has caused him not to trust or believe in his ability to be worthy of love. Max has only been with women but the attraction he feels for Draven takes him places he has never been before. Max is sweet and a bit naive and he brings love and pushes Draven to believe in it. In return, Draven falls in love and gets really protective. They are really good for one another and their complementary strengths bring to their relationships what they need to settle in and build a life together. This is a bit angsty, edgy and at times dark. But it is also hopeful as love really has a positive impact on both of these men.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2025
Book Three in the Series – A Total Hit!
Prepare to be swept up in the angst and slow burn of a romance that will leave you breathless.
Max was content—his job, his quiet life, his carefully maintained control. But everything shifts when Draven enters the picture. The chemistry between them is undeniable—intense, electric, impossible to ignore.
Max hides more than he lets on, a quiet reserve that masks years of restraint. Draven, meanwhile, is running—from a past and a family he refuses to confront. But hiding can’t last forever.
As they navigate tangled emotions and unexpected dangers, the obstacles that stand between them are as compelling as the fire drawing them together. Watching them resist the inevitable is both tantalizing and heart-wrenching, making this third installment a passionate, unforgettable ride.
Prepare to be swept up in the angst and slow burn of a romance that will leave you breathless.
Max was content—his job, his quiet life, his carefully maintained control. But everything shifts when Draven enters the picture. The chemistry between them is undeniable—intense, electric, impossible to ignore.
Max hides more than he lets on, a quiet reserve that masks years of restraint. Draven, meanwhile, is running—from a past and a family he refuses to confront. But hiding can’t last forever.
As they navigate tangled emotions and unexpected dangers, the obstacles that stand between them are as compelling as the fire drawing them together. Watching them resist the inevitable is both tantalizing and heart-wrenching, making this third installment a passionate, unforgettable ride.
June 13, 2025
I was so excited to see a new book from Raleigh Ruebins, and it totally delivered. I’ve loved her work before—especially the Red’s Tavern series—and even though I haven’t read the first two books in this series, I never felt confused or left out.
Draven’s arrival with Max’s sister sparks instant chemistry between him and Max. The story blends bi-awakening, family drama, online stalker threats, and romance in a way that stays engaging without feeling too heavy. I especially loved how openly Max expresses his feelings for Draven—he’s not afraid to tell him what he thinks, even when it could be used against him.
Thanks, Raleigh—this had just the right mix of drama, tension, heat, and, most importantly for me, a satisfying HEA. A thoroughly enjoyable read!
Draven’s arrival with Max’s sister sparks instant chemistry between him and Max. The story blends bi-awakening, family drama, online stalker threats, and romance in a way that stays engaging without feeling too heavy. I especially loved how openly Max expresses his feelings for Draven—he’s not afraid to tell him what he thinks, even when it could be used against him.
Thanks, Raleigh—this had just the right mix of drama, tension, heat, and, most importantly for me, a satisfying HEA. A thoroughly enjoyable read!
June 23, 2025
Bad Cowboy, Tennessee - Raleigh Ruebins
Draven & Max – 4 stars
This is the 3rd book in Hard Spot Saloon Series, however it is easily read as a standalone as previous characters don’t make much of an appearance.
Max is a small town, straight (so he Thought), Frat boy bartender and Draven is the Protective, Bad boy Heir hiding out in Tennessee with a mountain of secrets. Their Chemistry was off the charts Hot….
I really liked this book and will probably binge this author as I have only read a few books so far.
Tropes: Heir to Ranch Dynasty, Billionaire, Sisters Ex, Bartender, Online Videos, Bi/GFY Awakening, Small Town, Trauma, Online Stalker, Obsessive/ Protective, Bad Boy, Hurt/Comfort, Small Age Gap (22/30)
I received an ARC from GRR, and this is my honest review.
Draven & Max – 4 stars
This is the 3rd book in Hard Spot Saloon Series, however it is easily read as a standalone as previous characters don’t make much of an appearance.
Max is a small town, straight (so he Thought), Frat boy bartender and Draven is the Protective, Bad boy Heir hiding out in Tennessee with a mountain of secrets. Their Chemistry was off the charts Hot….
I really liked this book and will probably binge this author as I have only read a few books so far.
Tropes: Heir to Ranch Dynasty, Billionaire, Sisters Ex, Bartender, Online Videos, Bi/GFY Awakening, Small Town, Trauma, Online Stalker, Obsessive/ Protective, Bad Boy, Hurt/Comfort, Small Age Gap (22/30)
I received an ARC from GRR, and this is my honest review.
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