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Whittaker Ranch #1
Playing With Fire
A duty-bound, grumpy cowboy accidentally subscribes to his little sister’s best friend’s cam show in this spicy small-town, age gap romance.
Maddox Whittaker has stretched himself way too thin. Between running his family’s thousand-head cattle ranch and taking care of younger siblings perfectly capable of fending for themselves, he rarely has time for himself. Usually, it doesn’t bother him—knowing his late father would be proud of the man he’s become is all of the motivation he needs to keep going most of the time. But when loneliness starts to set in, he ends up on a cam girl site, subscribing to a woman that reminds him of someone he hasn’t been able to get off his mind recently—the local bartender ten years younger than him.
Austin Taylor works behind the only bar in Cedar Creek, desperate to scrape together enough money to escape. At night, she becomes RedRanger, a bratty but confident, anonymous cam girl who takes advantage of men the way they’ve always taken advantage of her. When she gets a new subscriber that drops hundreds a night just to chat, she thinks she’s hit the jackpot. She never expects them to be her best friend’s older brother, a man she’s been crushing on for years.
Realizing they’d be a perfect match in the bedroom, Austin suggests they start something casual, a way to bide time until she saves enough money to leave town. But Maddox doesn’t seem to know what casual means and Austin enjoys his company outside of the bedroom a lot more than she thought she would. When the opportunity to leave finally presents itself, Austin is surprised to find herself hesitating.
Leaving Cedar Creek had always been the plan, but she’d never planned for him.
Playing with Fire is perfect for fans
🧡 Grumpy, mustached cowboys
🧡 Bratty cam girls
🧡 Small town cowboy romance
🧡 A dash of secret identity drama
🧡 Spicy dom/sub dynamics
🧡 Yearning, a little bit of angst, and a HEA
🧡 Series of standalones where every sibling has their own book
Maddox Whittaker has stretched himself way too thin. Between running his family’s thousand-head cattle ranch and taking care of younger siblings perfectly capable of fending for themselves, he rarely has time for himself. Usually, it doesn’t bother him—knowing his late father would be proud of the man he’s become is all of the motivation he needs to keep going most of the time. But when loneliness starts to set in, he ends up on a cam girl site, subscribing to a woman that reminds him of someone he hasn’t been able to get off his mind recently—the local bartender ten years younger than him.
Austin Taylor works behind the only bar in Cedar Creek, desperate to scrape together enough money to escape. At night, she becomes RedRanger, a bratty but confident, anonymous cam girl who takes advantage of men the way they’ve always taken advantage of her. When she gets a new subscriber that drops hundreds a night just to chat, she thinks she’s hit the jackpot. She never expects them to be her best friend’s older brother, a man she’s been crushing on for years.
Realizing they’d be a perfect match in the bedroom, Austin suggests they start something casual, a way to bide time until she saves enough money to leave town. But Maddox doesn’t seem to know what casual means and Austin enjoys his company outside of the bedroom a lot more than she thought she would. When the opportunity to leave finally presents itself, Austin is surprised to find herself hesitating.
Leaving Cedar Creek had always been the plan, but she’d never planned for him.
Playing with Fire is perfect for fans
🧡 Grumpy, mustached cowboys
🧡 Bratty cam girls
🧡 Small town cowboy romance
🧡 A dash of secret identity drama
🧡 Spicy dom/sub dynamics
🧡 Yearning, a little bit of angst, and a HEA
🧡 Series of standalones where every sibling has their own book
378 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 5, 2026
342 people want to read
About the author
Cassie Truett
3 books42 followersGrowing up, Cassie Truett had a book with her at all times—sometimes two, usually three. She was constantly getting in trouble for reading instead of finishing chores, paying attention in school, or going to bed on time.
At 13, her love for reading birthed a passion for storytelling—first through fanfiction and now with the debut of Playing with Fire, releasing March 2026.
Outside of writing, Cassie is the proud mom of two cats, enjoys hand-feeding squirrels in the park, and is a chronic book collector. Her favorite tropes include hockey-playing MMCs, age gaps, and (naturally) cowboys.
For updates on the Whittaker Ranch series and beyond, follow Cassie across platforms at @cassietruettwrites
At 13, her love for reading birthed a passion for storytelling—first through fanfiction and now with the debut of Playing with Fire, releasing March 2026.
Outside of writing, Cassie is the proud mom of two cats, enjoys hand-feeding squirrels in the park, and is a chronic book collector. Her favorite tropes include hockey-playing MMCs, age gaps, and (naturally) cowboys.
For updates on the Whittaker Ranch series and beyond, follow Cassie across platforms at @cassietruettwrites
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
February 22, 2026
Beta read/ early arc.
Utterly speechless.
My girl did not come to play….on her DEBUT NOVEL, no less. The way these characters and this story completely wrapped me up and I never wanted to leave. Every cowboy romance enthusiast NEEDS to read this book!!!
Austin Taylor has always been of sound mind and strong wills, except for when it comes to her best friend’s older brother, Maddox. After Maddox finds himself unknowingly viewing Austin’s cam show the connection between the two becomes undeniable to him. While Austin tries to keep Maddox at arms length the more time the two spend together the more she realizes he might become her reason to stay around- which she’s desperately trying to avoid.
These two were such complex and phenomenal characters. I loved Maddox’s caring nature, the way he nurtures everyone he comes into contact with and the reliability he maintains for those he loves. And my spitfire, Austin. This girl kept hitting rock bottom and scratching and clawing her way out. I loved seeing her soften and bend but never break for her man. I loved how she was unapologetically her- no matter the consequences. But when she truly needed him, she called.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutely blown away by this debut by my girl, Cassie. A million congratulations- I am SO SO proud of you!!! I can’t wait to see you continue your journey and tune in for the next Whittaker sibling novel!
Playing with Fire releases 03/05
Utterly speechless.
My girl did not come to play….on her DEBUT NOVEL, no less. The way these characters and this story completely wrapped me up and I never wanted to leave. Every cowboy romance enthusiast NEEDS to read this book!!!
Austin Taylor has always been of sound mind and strong wills, except for when it comes to her best friend’s older brother, Maddox. After Maddox finds himself unknowingly viewing Austin’s cam show the connection between the two becomes undeniable to him. While Austin tries to keep Maddox at arms length the more time the two spend together the more she realizes he might become her reason to stay around- which she’s desperately trying to avoid.
These two were such complex and phenomenal characters. I loved Maddox’s caring nature, the way he nurtures everyone he comes into contact with and the reliability he maintains for those he loves. And my spitfire, Austin. This girl kept hitting rock bottom and scratching and clawing her way out. I loved seeing her soften and bend but never break for her man. I loved how she was unapologetically her- no matter the consequences. But when she truly needed him, she called.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutely blown away by this debut by my girl, Cassie. A million congratulations- I am SO SO proud of you!!! I can’t wait to see you continue your journey and tune in for the next Whittaker sibling novel!
Playing with Fire releases 03/05
February 23, 2026
4.25 Star Review
Playing with Fire by Cassie Truett is such an amazing debut. I absolutely adored both of these characters, and from the very beginning I could tell this story was going to have my whole heart.
Maddox is the grumpiest of grumps, but he loves with his entire chest. Beneath that rough exterior is the softest interior, and watching those layers slowly peel back was everything. He does not want people to see that vulnerable side of him, which just made every tender moment hit even harder.
And Austin, my sweet Austin, is a girl who desperately deserves to be loved fully and fiercely. She has carried so much trauma on her own for years, keeping it bottled up inside. There were so many moments where I just wanted to reach into the pages and hug her. Seeing her slowly begin to open up and trust someone with those pieces of herself was so beautifully done.
The two of them together felt inevitable in the best way. Whether it was Maddox stepping in to protect her, Austin learning to lean on him, or even the perfectly written spice that added depth to their connection, every scene felt intentional and full of emotion. Their chemistry was undeniable, but it was the emotional intimacy that truly made this story shine.
For a debut, this was incredibly strong, and I cannot wait to see what comes next. I will absolutely be seated and ready for book two.
Playing with Fire by Cassie Truett is such an amazing debut. I absolutely adored both of these characters, and from the very beginning I could tell this story was going to have my whole heart.
Maddox is the grumpiest of grumps, but he loves with his entire chest. Beneath that rough exterior is the softest interior, and watching those layers slowly peel back was everything. He does not want people to see that vulnerable side of him, which just made every tender moment hit even harder.
And Austin, my sweet Austin, is a girl who desperately deserves to be loved fully and fiercely. She has carried so much trauma on her own for years, keeping it bottled up inside. There were so many moments where I just wanted to reach into the pages and hug her. Seeing her slowly begin to open up and trust someone with those pieces of herself was so beautifully done.
The two of them together felt inevitable in the best way. Whether it was Maddox stepping in to protect her, Austin learning to lean on him, or even the perfectly written spice that added depth to their connection, every scene felt intentional and full of emotion. Their chemistry was undeniable, but it was the emotional intimacy that truly made this story shine.
For a debut, this was incredibly strong, and I cannot wait to see what comes next. I will absolutely be seated and ready for book two.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Yuuuppp let’s get into it
Great job bestie you did an amazing job getting this finished and put out !!! Love you and so proud!! Great story, great writing :)
Great job bestie you did an amazing job getting this finished and put out !!! Love you and so proud!! Great story, great writing :)
March 2, 2026
Thank you so much to Cassie Truett for this E-ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own! 🥰
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (six stars!!)
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I finished PWF last night and I needed to sleep before I wrote my review.
W O W
Now, Cassie is a good friend of mine and I am so honored to be on her team and a part of the Whittaker Wranglers! So, I already knew going into this book that inwas going to enjoy it. Because hello? Grumpy rancher and bratty camgirl?? Give it to me!!
But this truly blew me out of the water!! I was CRYING and GIGGLING and YELLING AT MY PHONE (and at Cassie over IG messages - I’m still gonna find a way to sue for emotional damage!!)
This book does not feel like a debut. I am so excited to read more from Cassie!!!!
Find more on my IG @kayreads_romance
⚠️ !! Please be sure to check any TWs before diving in !! ⚠️
What to expect:
* Best friends brother
* Age gap
* Bratty camgirl FMC
* Grumpy rancher MMC
* Dom/sub dynamics
* Small town
* Grumpy x grumpier
* Start of an interconnected series following the Whittaker family!
* 💦 in his pants
* Idiots to lovers
Spicy chapters:
4
8
21
22
25
30
31
37
38
Epilogue
My thoughts while reading:
🚨ALERT SPOILERS AHEAD!!! I’m warning you do not read past this if you don’t want spoilers!!!🚨
THAT DEDICATIONNNN!!!
“How that sexy little butterfly charm would bounce with every thrust.” OH OH OH OKAY
“As long as it keeps his ass in Cedar Creek and Mama from crying on the nights he has his eight seconds.” 😭
“I’d rather eat a box of nails than handle one of my sisters crying.” Valid
“Yeah, Maddie. You think you’d remember the name of the gal who asked you for birthday spankings a couple months ago,” AHHHHHH OMG
“Cheating dickhead,” Colt grumbles, still taking his twin’s heartbreak personally even though it’s been five years. Sometimes I wonder if he knows the whole story, but it’s not my place to tell him. I promised Bails I’d take it to the grave.” GIRLLLLLLLLLLL 🤲🏻🤲🏻🤲🏻
“Jameson’s watching over Presley with a set jaw.” OOP 👀
HE WHISTLED AT HER??? Oh absolutely notttttt
“I can’t stand repeating myself, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t sorta terrified of Bailey.” Hahaha good man, everyone should be a little scared of eldest daughters
“You can cuss the whole time.” STICKER QUOTE!!!!!
“Guest_11071993: I wanted to see you fuck yourself with it, but if you don’t quit your lollygagging, it’ll be time for me to go to work before that happens. Get it wet so I can watch how easily it slides into your pussy, baby.” OHHHHH MY GOD
“I should reach out to the site and see if there’s a way to block someone who isn’t a subscriber yet.” Girl omg
“An hour after I dropped a days’ pay on a fucking porn star like some college kid just learning how to use his cock, I’m showered and dressed, making my way to my pickup.” SCREAMING LAUGHING
-
“She’s been my girl since we were kids, Maddie,” 😭😭😭
“She thinks she can get pregnant from a toilet seat?” Now what in the fuck
Okay okay intrusive thoughts okay that’s valid
I’ve never been on a horse before I’m scared
“I wasn’t judging her either way. If people were willing to pay to watch someone fuck themselves with a vibrator, why shouldn’t she take advantage of it?” GOOD MAN
“I excused it by blaming it on Austin.” OH IF ONLY YOU KNEW BUDDY
“When I saw the thumbnail for RedRanger’s show—the softness of her stomach and the bellybutton charm dangling from it—it wasn’t hard to pretend Red was the bratty little bartender I’d been itching to dominate.” OH. MY. GODDDD SCREAM
Omg not getting hard in the chicken coop im laughing
Sheriff the cat ily 😭
Also what is HEET
Baileeeeey ugh love her
“I can pump my own gas, but thank you.” I’ll text Theo later. It’s not that I think she’s incapable of doing it, it’s that she shouldn’t have to. - YES EXACTLY
“It’s because she nagged Dad to fix it for weeks before he passed and he never did.” WHEW 😭😭😭
“Although I did have a really fun one on the show last week.” 😬😬😬
WORMS do it!?
-
“It was a stellar orgasm though, and I’m just a girl.” Ugh retweet, queen
Oh so she’s got a bad dad and he’s got a dead one, great 🙃 (me also have a dead dad. Miss u dad!)
Kenny and Theoooo omg
“Any of your dash lights on, brat?” 😳 hehehehhejdkdkeksndhe
“I bet I fuck your brother before you fuck your boss.” OH MY FUCKING GOD
“Again, I’m blaming it on Austin. Seeing her at the diner today made me wonder if she might be RedRanger, but the odds of that were downright ridiculous. The world wasn’t that small.” Boy omg
“Yes, daddy,” 👀
“Not my thing,” 😬😳
“Unfortunately, I knew it was something my brother was into, so I couldn’t judge, but it wasn’t a name I’d ever answer to. Honestly, I wish I didn’t know Jamie did.” LOL
OH MY GOD NO SHE DID NOT JUST SAY MADDOX OH MY FUCKING GOD OH MY GOD OH MY GOD OH MY GOD
I GASPED OUT LOUD
“Austin?”
“Hi, Maddie” OH MY GOD
Oh so we’re killing her dad right? Right?
“Don’t say I never gave you anything.” Ugh my Naley heart
“Who takes care of you, Maddox?” I ask him quietly. 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
“He’s just out on the road, fucking every man or woman that looks his way” okay bisexual king!!
Hat honey omggggg
“Rest in peace, I broke him. At least he died doing what he loved: listening to his favorite cam girl talk about getting off.” Screeching
“That reminds me, I’ve been meaning to ask you something. What’s it like being bi?” I am screaming laughing because every single gay person in the world has been asked a variation of this question at least once
“I have a complicated relationship with admiring women. I always feel pervy doing so, even though I’m not catcalling or harassing or saying those X-rated things going through my head out loud. I think it’s because a part of me still associates liking women as a ‘man thing’ and the way most men admire women is usually pretty pervy. Whatever the reason, it makes me act much more awkward with women than I do with men.” REAL
FUCK IT MOMENT AHHHHH
“DamnDan”? Like the damn Daniel meme?!?
“Have you ever been diagnosed with anxiety?” It’s a valid question!!!
I can’t get over them putting the condom in the to go container
“I don’t care for Cedar Creek’s church or much of religion in general, if I’m being honest. If I wanted to follow God again, I’d be better off doing it from a field full of cow shit than a pew full of people spewing horse shit.” There ya go!!!
Curvy girls getting loved on and their love interest outwardly and loudly loving their curves will never not make me giddy!!!!
“I didn’t even know they made cards with the numbers on the front still. This man is positively geriatric. Incredible in bed though.” Scream-ming
“Whittaker Ranch has always been the only place I’ve felt safe. Kendall Whittaker has always been my best and only friend.” 😭😭😭
“We’d keep in touch through FaceTime at first, and then, mostly texts that decrease in frequency until they’re coming every few weeks with obligatory excuses for their delay instead of several times a day. She’ll send me pictures of her babies as they’re born and I’ll ooh and ahh like she’d expect me to, but I wouldn’t be a part of the Whittaker tree anymore.” This is making me sadddd
“You can say what you wanted about girls with daddy issues, but sometimes I thought the mommy issues were far worse.” Real
“I’m Sky” SCREAMING!!!!!!!!
“Fix your attitude or I’ll fix it over my lap tonight, Tex. I don’t have an issue with you being into women. I’ve got an issue with anyone putting their hands on you, though.” Ahhhhh 😝
“Bed. I don’t have time to fight with you, Tex. Calves are getting cold and Jamie’s waiting. I’ll have my phone. Be a good girl for me.” GIGGLING AND KICKING MY FEET!!!!
Tyler & Maddox moment 🥺🫶🏻
“God, she’s so fucking pretty. She’s so much more than pretty, but right now, that’s the word that fits best.” 💕😭🥰
CHAPTER 31 OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!!
“I’ve always been curious about it, but I’ve never… I just haven’t had the opportunity to try it,” this means so much to me
“We’re late to the bonfire.” GIGGLING AND KICKING MY FEET AGAIN!!!!
“He knows I’m yours now,” I actually screamed
“My mama just heard you swear like you were scared someone would take the ability from you, Tex. I don’t think you sitting in my lap is gonna be the thing that scandalizes her tonight.”
“I love Austin Taylor so goddamn much. I love her when she’s being a brat and giving me hell and a headache at the same time. I love her when she’s angry with me, tossing verbal grenades and not giving a shit where they land. I wouldn’t say that I love her submissiveness more than her brattiness, but I damn sure love it differently. I earned this sweet, soft voice and those glassy eyes and her little yes sirs. It feels as rewarding as busting my ass on the ranch used to.” 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
“These few minutes in this limbo state are the only minutes I give myself to love him.” UGHHHH 😭😭😭😭
Omg kenny and Austin at the diner noo 🥺😭
“A lot of cowboys had brands from their ranch—“ YUP THEY DO
OKAY MAYBE CHASE CAN START TO EARN HIS REDEMPTION!!!!
Holy shit oh my god is her dad dealing????
“You’re so desperate to leave me, maybe I should get rid of you like I got rid of your cheating mother,” he growls.” OH MY GODDDDD?????!!!!????
Okay so wouldn’t it be so crazy if Maddox did a proxy marriage thing like Logan did in Of Ink and Alchemy in order to get Austin insurance lolllll I know it wouldn’t work like that and the turn around time wouldn’t be quick enough but wouldn’t that be funny
SIGN QUITTERS OVER TO MADDIE???? Omg???
“It’s batshit crazy, but that doesn’t stop me from signing. Just like that, I own a fucking bar. On top of a thousand-head cattle ranch. Fuck.” My heart is racing!!!!
“I appreciate that you’re trying to be compassionate and I know you feel guilty, but it’s misplaced. Acting like you could’ve stopped this from happening to me if you’d only ‘paid closer attention’ infantilizes me and the choices I made, so you need to let that go. If you’d known what was happening to me, you would’ve stepped in and stopped it, but you didn’t know because I didn’t want you to.”
This is actually really important and I’m so glad this is said.
“I love you so goddamn much, Austin Taylor.” My jaw did drop!!!
“I don’t see him again for three and a half months.” IM SORRY WHAT
“Of all the gin joints,” idk what it’s from originally either chase, I just know it from that fall out boy song
“Then fucking Venmo me the rest,” I’m laughing
WHO DO I SEND MY BILL FOR EMOTIONAL DAMAGES TO FOR CHAPTER 51!?!
“If you’re leaving Cedar Creek because you can’t stand it here after everything you’ve gone through, I think that’s fair. I think you deserve that peace. But if you’re leaving because your daddy taught you that men can’t love you without hurting you and you’re just trying to keep yourself safe from accepting Maddox’s love… well, then I just think you’re a coward.” 😭😭😭💕💕💕
“And I think you’re a coward. You might wanna take your own advice and stop taking Kenny for granted before she wises up and decides to stop playing step-mommy for a little girl whose daddy won’t let himself move on from a ghost.” Ooooffff okay that was rough
“When I told Austin I was gonna sleep on the couch, I knew in my bones it would be the last thing I said to her.” Actually not okay rn
“I lowballed her for it. Figured it’d help her get back to you sooner.” Laughing
“MUSTACHEDRANCHER AND THEIR KNOWN IP ADDRESSES HAVE BEEN BANNED” 😲
“I’m gonna be a dad, Maddie.” Biiitchhhhh omfg
“He chuckles and it makes my stomach twist to think this is easy for him. Maybe it’s easy because he doesn’t care? Maybe it doesn’t hurt him to sit like this and remember what we were like before?” OOOFFF THIS PART HIT ME IN THE HEART
“I get it if you don’t want to try again, but I just thought you deserved to be the first to know that I’m done running and that I love you, Maddox.” 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
“I hope you’ll stick around to give Colt & Blair one too.” 👀👀👀
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (six stars!!)
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I finished PWF last night and I needed to sleep before I wrote my review.
W O W
Now, Cassie is a good friend of mine and I am so honored to be on her team and a part of the Whittaker Wranglers! So, I already knew going into this book that inwas going to enjoy it. Because hello? Grumpy rancher and bratty camgirl?? Give it to me!!
But this truly blew me out of the water!! I was CRYING and GIGGLING and YELLING AT MY PHONE (and at Cassie over IG messages - I’m still gonna find a way to sue for emotional damage!!)
This book does not feel like a debut. I am so excited to read more from Cassie!!!!
Find more on my IG @kayreads_romance
⚠️ !! Please be sure to check any TWs before diving in !! ⚠️
What to expect:
* Best friends brother
* Age gap
* Bratty camgirl FMC
* Grumpy rancher MMC
* Dom/sub dynamics
* Small town
* Grumpy x grumpier
* Start of an interconnected series following the Whittaker family!
* 💦 in his pants
* Idiots to lovers
Spicy chapters:
4
8
21
22
25
30
31
37
38
Epilogue
My thoughts while reading:
🚨ALERT SPOILERS AHEAD!!! I’m warning you do not read past this if you don’t want spoilers!!!🚨
THAT DEDICATIONNNN!!!
“How that sexy little butterfly charm would bounce with every thrust.” OH OH OH OKAY
“As long as it keeps his ass in Cedar Creek and Mama from crying on the nights he has his eight seconds.” 😭
“I’d rather eat a box of nails than handle one of my sisters crying.” Valid
“Yeah, Maddie. You think you’d remember the name of the gal who asked you for birthday spankings a couple months ago,” AHHHHHH OMG
“Cheating dickhead,” Colt grumbles, still taking his twin’s heartbreak personally even though it’s been five years. Sometimes I wonder if he knows the whole story, but it’s not my place to tell him. I promised Bails I’d take it to the grave.” GIRLLLLLLLLLLL 🤲🏻🤲🏻🤲🏻
“Jameson’s watching over Presley with a set jaw.” OOP 👀
HE WHISTLED AT HER??? Oh absolutely notttttt
“I can’t stand repeating myself, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t sorta terrified of Bailey.” Hahaha good man, everyone should be a little scared of eldest daughters
“You can cuss the whole time.” STICKER QUOTE!!!!!
“Guest_11071993: I wanted to see you fuck yourself with it, but if you don’t quit your lollygagging, it’ll be time for me to go to work before that happens. Get it wet so I can watch how easily it slides into your pussy, baby.” OHHHHH MY GOD
“I should reach out to the site and see if there’s a way to block someone who isn’t a subscriber yet.” Girl omg
“An hour after I dropped a days’ pay on a fucking porn star like some college kid just learning how to use his cock, I’m showered and dressed, making my way to my pickup.” SCREAMING LAUGHING
-
“She’s been my girl since we were kids, Maddie,” 😭😭😭
“She thinks she can get pregnant from a toilet seat?” Now what in the fuck
Okay okay intrusive thoughts okay that’s valid
I’ve never been on a horse before I’m scared
“I wasn’t judging her either way. If people were willing to pay to watch someone fuck themselves with a vibrator, why shouldn’t she take advantage of it?” GOOD MAN
“I excused it by blaming it on Austin.” OH IF ONLY YOU KNEW BUDDY
“When I saw the thumbnail for RedRanger’s show—the softness of her stomach and the bellybutton charm dangling from it—it wasn’t hard to pretend Red was the bratty little bartender I’d been itching to dominate.” OH. MY. GODDDD SCREAM
Omg not getting hard in the chicken coop im laughing
Sheriff the cat ily 😭
Also what is HEET
Baileeeeey ugh love her
“I can pump my own gas, but thank you.” I’ll text Theo later. It’s not that I think she’s incapable of doing it, it’s that she shouldn’t have to. - YES EXACTLY
“It’s because she nagged Dad to fix it for weeks before he passed and he never did.” WHEW 😭😭😭
“Although I did have a really fun one on the show last week.” 😬😬😬
WORMS do it!?
-
“It was a stellar orgasm though, and I’m just a girl.” Ugh retweet, queen
Oh so she’s got a bad dad and he’s got a dead one, great 🙃 (me also have a dead dad. Miss u dad!)
Kenny and Theoooo omg
“Any of your dash lights on, brat?” 😳 hehehehhejdkdkeksndhe
“I bet I fuck your brother before you fuck your boss.” OH MY FUCKING GOD
“Again, I’m blaming it on Austin. Seeing her at the diner today made me wonder if she might be RedRanger, but the odds of that were downright ridiculous. The world wasn’t that small.” Boy omg
“Yes, daddy,” 👀
“Not my thing,” 😬😳
“Unfortunately, I knew it was something my brother was into, so I couldn’t judge, but it wasn’t a name I’d ever answer to. Honestly, I wish I didn’t know Jamie did.” LOL
OH MY GOD NO SHE DID NOT JUST SAY MADDOX OH MY FUCKING GOD OH MY GOD OH MY GOD OH MY GOD
I GASPED OUT LOUD
“Austin?”
“Hi, Maddie” OH MY GOD
Oh so we’re killing her dad right? Right?
“Don’t say I never gave you anything.” Ugh my Naley heart
“Who takes care of you, Maddox?” I ask him quietly. 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
“He’s just out on the road, fucking every man or woman that looks his way” okay bisexual king!!
Hat honey omggggg
“Rest in peace, I broke him. At least he died doing what he loved: listening to his favorite cam girl talk about getting off.” Screeching
“That reminds me, I’ve been meaning to ask you something. What’s it like being bi?” I am screaming laughing because every single gay person in the world has been asked a variation of this question at least once
“I have a complicated relationship with admiring women. I always feel pervy doing so, even though I’m not catcalling or harassing or saying those X-rated things going through my head out loud. I think it’s because a part of me still associates liking women as a ‘man thing’ and the way most men admire women is usually pretty pervy. Whatever the reason, it makes me act much more awkward with women than I do with men.” REAL
FUCK IT MOMENT AHHHHH
“DamnDan”? Like the damn Daniel meme?!?
“Have you ever been diagnosed with anxiety?” It’s a valid question!!!
I can’t get over them putting the condom in the to go container
“I don’t care for Cedar Creek’s church or much of religion in general, if I’m being honest. If I wanted to follow God again, I’d be better off doing it from a field full of cow shit than a pew full of people spewing horse shit.” There ya go!!!
Curvy girls getting loved on and their love interest outwardly and loudly loving their curves will never not make me giddy!!!!
“I didn’t even know they made cards with the numbers on the front still. This man is positively geriatric. Incredible in bed though.” Scream-ming
“Whittaker Ranch has always been the only place I’ve felt safe. Kendall Whittaker has always been my best and only friend.” 😭😭😭
“We’d keep in touch through FaceTime at first, and then, mostly texts that decrease in frequency until they’re coming every few weeks with obligatory excuses for their delay instead of several times a day. She’ll send me pictures of her babies as they’re born and I’ll ooh and ahh like she’d expect me to, but I wouldn’t be a part of the Whittaker tree anymore.” This is making me sadddd
“You can say what you wanted about girls with daddy issues, but sometimes I thought the mommy issues were far worse.” Real
“I’m Sky” SCREAMING!!!!!!!!
“Fix your attitude or I’ll fix it over my lap tonight, Tex. I don’t have an issue with you being into women. I’ve got an issue with anyone putting their hands on you, though.” Ahhhhh 😝
“Bed. I don’t have time to fight with you, Tex. Calves are getting cold and Jamie’s waiting. I’ll have my phone. Be a good girl for me.” GIGGLING AND KICKING MY FEET!!!!
Tyler & Maddox moment 🥺🫶🏻
“God, she’s so fucking pretty. She’s so much more than pretty, but right now, that’s the word that fits best.” 💕😭🥰
CHAPTER 31 OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!!
“I’ve always been curious about it, but I’ve never… I just haven’t had the opportunity to try it,” this means so much to me
“We’re late to the bonfire.” GIGGLING AND KICKING MY FEET AGAIN!!!!
“He knows I’m yours now,” I actually screamed
“My mama just heard you swear like you were scared someone would take the ability from you, Tex. I don’t think you sitting in my lap is gonna be the thing that scandalizes her tonight.”
“I love Austin Taylor so goddamn much. I love her when she’s being a brat and giving me hell and a headache at the same time. I love her when she’s angry with me, tossing verbal grenades and not giving a shit where they land. I wouldn’t say that I love her submissiveness more than her brattiness, but I damn sure love it differently. I earned this sweet, soft voice and those glassy eyes and her little yes sirs. It feels as rewarding as busting my ass on the ranch used to.” 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
“These few minutes in this limbo state are the only minutes I give myself to love him.” UGHHHH 😭😭😭😭
Omg kenny and Austin at the diner noo 🥺😭
“A lot of cowboys had brands from their ranch—“ YUP THEY DO
OKAY MAYBE CHASE CAN START TO EARN HIS REDEMPTION!!!!
Holy shit oh my god is her dad dealing????
“You’re so desperate to leave me, maybe I should get rid of you like I got rid of your cheating mother,” he growls.” OH MY GODDDDD?????!!!!????
Okay so wouldn’t it be so crazy if Maddox did a proxy marriage thing like Logan did in Of Ink and Alchemy in order to get Austin insurance lolllll I know it wouldn’t work like that and the turn around time wouldn’t be quick enough but wouldn’t that be funny
SIGN QUITTERS OVER TO MADDIE???? Omg???
“It’s batshit crazy, but that doesn’t stop me from signing. Just like that, I own a fucking bar. On top of a thousand-head cattle ranch. Fuck.” My heart is racing!!!!
“I appreciate that you’re trying to be compassionate and I know you feel guilty, but it’s misplaced. Acting like you could’ve stopped this from happening to me if you’d only ‘paid closer attention’ infantilizes me and the choices I made, so you need to let that go. If you’d known what was happening to me, you would’ve stepped in and stopped it, but you didn’t know because I didn’t want you to.”
This is actually really important and I’m so glad this is said.
“I love you so goddamn much, Austin Taylor.” My jaw did drop!!!
“I don’t see him again for three and a half months.” IM SORRY WHAT
“Of all the gin joints,” idk what it’s from originally either chase, I just know it from that fall out boy song
“Then fucking Venmo me the rest,” I’m laughing
WHO DO I SEND MY BILL FOR EMOTIONAL DAMAGES TO FOR CHAPTER 51!?!
“If you’re leaving Cedar Creek because you can’t stand it here after everything you’ve gone through, I think that’s fair. I think you deserve that peace. But if you’re leaving because your daddy taught you that men can’t love you without hurting you and you’re just trying to keep yourself safe from accepting Maddox’s love… well, then I just think you’re a coward.” 😭😭😭💕💕💕
“And I think you’re a coward. You might wanna take your own advice and stop taking Kenny for granted before she wises up and decides to stop playing step-mommy for a little girl whose daddy won’t let himself move on from a ghost.” Ooooffff okay that was rough
“When I told Austin I was gonna sleep on the couch, I knew in my bones it would be the last thing I said to her.” Actually not okay rn
“I lowballed her for it. Figured it’d help her get back to you sooner.” Laughing
“MUSTACHEDRANCHER AND THEIR KNOWN IP ADDRESSES HAVE BEEN BANNED” 😲
“I’m gonna be a dad, Maddie.” Biiitchhhhh omfg
“He chuckles and it makes my stomach twist to think this is easy for him. Maybe it’s easy because he doesn’t care? Maybe it doesn’t hurt him to sit like this and remember what we were like before?” OOOFFF THIS PART HIT ME IN THE HEART
“I get it if you don’t want to try again, but I just thought you deserved to be the first to know that I’m done running and that I love you, Maddox.” 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
“I hope you’ll stick around to give Colt & Blair one too.” 👀👀👀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A grumpy dom cowboy and a bratty cam girl bartender figuring out what they are to each other with toy filled spice & tears from both your eyes and between your legs.
• age gap
• small town
• best friend's brother
• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• age gap
• small town
• best friend's brother
• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am UNWELL after reading Playing with Fire and I need everyone to understand that the Whittakers now live rent free in my head.
Maddox??? Sir??? The grumpy, overworked, responsibility-ridden cowboy who thinks he only exists to hold everyone else together but then proceeds to fall absolutely, pathetically, gloriously in love???? I am on the FLOOR. He acts all stern and controlled but one emotional breeze from Austin and this man is DONE. Wrap him up, he’s hers.
And AUSTIN. My bratty queen. My ambitious, take-no-shit, determined-to-leave-town girl who absolutely did not plan on catching feelings. I loved how feisty and confident she was, but the soft vulnerable parts of her?? The way she wanted independence yet also wanted him?? It hurt so good.
I came for the spice (WHICH, HELLO 🥵) but I stayed for the feelings. Because why did I get so emotional watching them build something real outside the bedroom?? Why was I kicking my feet at the tender moments?? Why did Cedar Creek start to feel like home??
Also the SIBLINGS. EXCUSE ME. The way I am already pre-obsessed with people who barely had page time. Give me the brothers. Give me the sisters. Give me the chaos. I will read every single book.
Tropes & vibes check:
✔️ grumpy cowboy who melts
✔️ feisty FMC who has him wrapped around her finger
✔️ secret identity drama
✔️ yearning
✔️ spice with EMOTIONS
I laughed, I swooned, I stressed, I highlighted like a menace. Had the best time.
Anyway I would like to move to Cedar Creek immediately, thanks.
Maddox??? Sir??? The grumpy, overworked, responsibility-ridden cowboy who thinks he only exists to hold everyone else together but then proceeds to fall absolutely, pathetically, gloriously in love???? I am on the FLOOR. He acts all stern and controlled but one emotional breeze from Austin and this man is DONE. Wrap him up, he’s hers.
And AUSTIN. My bratty queen. My ambitious, take-no-shit, determined-to-leave-town girl who absolutely did not plan on catching feelings. I loved how feisty and confident she was, but the soft vulnerable parts of her?? The way she wanted independence yet also wanted him?? It hurt so good.
I came for the spice (WHICH, HELLO 🥵) but I stayed for the feelings. Because why did I get so emotional watching them build something real outside the bedroom?? Why was I kicking my feet at the tender moments?? Why did Cedar Creek start to feel like home??
Also the SIBLINGS. EXCUSE ME. The way I am already pre-obsessed with people who barely had page time. Give me the brothers. Give me the sisters. Give me the chaos. I will read every single book.
Tropes & vibes check:
✔️ grumpy cowboy who melts
✔️ feisty FMC who has him wrapped around her finger
✔️ secret identity drama
✔️ yearning
✔️ spice with EMOTIONS
I laughed, I swooned, I stressed, I highlighted like a menace. Had the best time.
Anyway I would like to move to Cedar Creek immediately, thanks.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2026
alpha read! Releasing march 5th and if you love cowboy romances with close family dynamics, grumpy eldest child characters, black cat who’s afraid of commitment, age gap, bestie’s older brother, light dom/sub, secret cam girl, and hurt/comfort second half — then add this one to your tbr!!
arc review
Goddamn! There are some books I read and simply cannot believe it’s the author’s debut—this is one of those!!!
“Playing with Fire” is centered around the eldest son of a ranching family (the Whittakers) and his younger sister’s best friend.
Maddox (aka Mr. Broody Sexypants). I adored him!! There are so many little layers that get pealed back as the book continues, some being really obvious and others you’re like “hmmmm sir you might not realize this but I am sensing some ‘tism from you!!” 🧐 I loved how the author isn’t telling us more than what Maddox knows about himself if that makes sense. It just felt more authentic and like actually being in his pov.
Now to our fmc — Austin baby🥹 I simply LOVED her! She’s rough on the edges, 100% a brat, terrified of commitment, and has daddy issues from her pos father. She’s flawed and real and multiple times I was yelling at her to stop thinking she’s not worth the love people have for her😭 She deserves so much and her growth and self reflection journey that came together by the HEA was honestly the most satisfying thing ever!
What I loved the most: the Whittaker family as a whole being so involved in the story, grumpy x grumpier dynamic between Maddox and Austin, their banter (omg they know exactly how to push the other’s buttons!!! lol), camgirl moments and Maddox’s reaction to them, the sex scenes🥵, healthy open conversations about not wanting children, the way Maddox truly only ever protected Austin and put her needs first (even when it hurt him and me😭), and Tyler (he became an instant fav character for me!)
Overall, this was an AMAZING cowboy romance and I cannot wait for the future siblings’ books!!! If the ending bomb that one of the siblings dropped is an indication of who the next book is about then, I’m literally feral for it lol.
Please read TW/CW from author at beginning of the book as there are domestic abuse (not from mmc) on page, medical procedures discussed, alcoholism, drugs mentioned (not by main character), and infidelity discussed (not main characters)
arc review
Goddamn! There are some books I read and simply cannot believe it’s the author’s debut—this is one of those!!!
“Playing with Fire” is centered around the eldest son of a ranching family (the Whittakers) and his younger sister’s best friend.
Maddox (aka Mr. Broody Sexypants). I adored him!! There are so many little layers that get pealed back as the book continues, some being really obvious and others you’re like “hmmmm sir you might not realize this but I am sensing some ‘tism from you!!” 🧐 I loved how the author isn’t telling us more than what Maddox knows about himself if that makes sense. It just felt more authentic and like actually being in his pov.
Now to our fmc — Austin baby🥹 I simply LOVED her! She’s rough on the edges, 100% a brat, terrified of commitment, and has daddy issues from her pos father. She’s flawed and real and multiple times I was yelling at her to stop thinking she’s not worth the love people have for her😭 She deserves so much and her growth and self reflection journey that came together by the HEA was honestly the most satisfying thing ever!
What I loved the most: the Whittaker family as a whole being so involved in the story, grumpy x grumpier dynamic between Maddox and Austin, their banter (omg they know exactly how to push the other’s buttons!!! lol), camgirl moments and Maddox’s reaction to them, the sex scenes🥵, healthy open conversations about not wanting children, the way Maddox truly only ever protected Austin and put her needs first (even when it hurt him and me😭), and Tyler (he became an instant fav character for me!)
Overall, this was an AMAZING cowboy romance and I cannot wait for the future siblings’ books!!! If the ending bomb that one of the siblings dropped is an indication of who the next book is about then, I’m literally feral for it lol.
Please read TW/CW from author at beginning of the book as there are domestic abuse (not from mmc) on page, medical procedures discussed, alcoholism, drugs mentioned (not by main character), and infidelity discussed (not main characters)
February 28, 2026
If you love grumpy x grumpy, bratty cam girls, cowboy romance, and best friend's brother then Playing With Fire is your next read!
Cry Count: 5
🧡 Age Gap (10 yrs)
🧡 Grumpy x Jaded
🧡 Cowboy x Camgirl
🧡 Best Friend's Brother
🧡 Dual POV
🧡 Bisexual FMC
🧡 Found Family
🧡 Top Tier Dom/Brat Dynamics
🧡 Banter and Sass
I can't believe this is a debut. A DEBUT. Cassie knew exactly what we all wanted in a cowboy romance. She gave us the perfect character dynamic, exquisite character development, and spice that will leave a puddle in your pants. I finished this book a week ago and I still think about Maddox and Austin every-single-day. Don't forget...the side characters! I can't wait to see what Cassie does in the rest of the series because I need them to all get their HEA!
Notes for Cassie (no pressure or anything...):
~~~~~Potential Spoilers~~~~~
Trigger Warnings
~~~~~Potential Spoilers~~~~~
Instagram |
StoryGraph |
Linktr.ee
Cry Count: 5
🧡 Age Gap (10 yrs)
🧡 Grumpy x Jaded
🧡 Cowboy x Camgirl
🧡 Best Friend's Brother
🧡 Dual POV
🧡 Bisexual FMC
🧡 Found Family
🧡 Top Tier Dom/Brat Dynamics
🧡 Banter and Sass
I can't believe this is a debut. A DEBUT. Cassie knew exactly what we all wanted in a cowboy romance. She gave us the perfect character dynamic, exquisite character development, and spice that will leave a puddle in your pants. I finished this book a week ago and I still think about Maddox and Austin every-single-day. Don't forget...the side characters! I can't wait to see what Cassie does in the rest of the series because I need them to all get their HEA!
Notes for Cassie (no pressure or anything...):
~~~~~Potential Spoilers~~~~~
Trigger Warnings
~~~~~Potential Spoilers~~~~~
Instagram |
StoryGraph |
Linktr.ee
February 4, 2026
I’m writing this review while I’m still drying my tears OK!!!!!!
At first glance, of course I’m gonna fucking love this book. Cowboy, age gap, D/s dynamic, camgirl, bestie’s brother, like check check check check. I was already insanely excited, reading this book finally though? Completely blew my expectations out of the water. This story is insanely well written. Between the banter and flow of the plot lines, to literal heart-wrenching moments and the trauma Austin survives, this story is everything. Cassie’s author voice is so strong and is blended together so well with each character’s own voice unique to them.
I know an angry FMC gets a lot of haters but I love them because they are so fucking real. Sometimes your pain doesn’t give you the choice of how you get to feel it. Austin’s depiction of anger and fear about her relationships and towards her self were so so well thought out. Austin’s story gets to be one of hope in the end, that you don’t have to run away or settle to be happy and I think that’s incredibly important. Maddox, my acts of service king. Again, so well thought out and he had so many little quirks or pieces of him that stuck out to me to make him so much more than a cowboy or a best friend’s older brother.
I always say this about my favorite books, but I could go on and on about my love for the story, characters, and writing. I also have an infinite amount of highlights because there were some funny ass lines and some ones that hit a lil close to home 🥲 be mindful of triggers and heavier topics as you read. They are handled with extreme care and very well thought out within the story, but still can be hard to read about 🖤
I’m so beyond grateful I got to read this book early and be a part of Cassie’s journey on her street team in even a small way. I’m so ready for more from the Whittaker family and very eager to maybe see a different side to certain characters 😉
Also do I have a spit kink now???
Also also I fully get what Austin means about her man’s natural man smell ok, I smell my husband sometimes and his natural man smell is just comforting to me LMAO I GET IT
At first glance, of course I’m gonna fucking love this book. Cowboy, age gap, D/s dynamic, camgirl, bestie’s brother, like check check check check. I was already insanely excited, reading this book finally though? Completely blew my expectations out of the water. This story is insanely well written. Between the banter and flow of the plot lines, to literal heart-wrenching moments and the trauma Austin survives, this story is everything. Cassie’s author voice is so strong and is blended together so well with each character’s own voice unique to them.
I know an angry FMC gets a lot of haters but I love them because they are so fucking real. Sometimes your pain doesn’t give you the choice of how you get to feel it. Austin’s depiction of anger and fear about her relationships and towards her self were so so well thought out. Austin’s story gets to be one of hope in the end, that you don’t have to run away or settle to be happy and I think that’s incredibly important. Maddox, my acts of service king. Again, so well thought out and he had so many little quirks or pieces of him that stuck out to me to make him so much more than a cowboy or a best friend’s older brother.
I always say this about my favorite books, but I could go on and on about my love for the story, characters, and writing. I also have an infinite amount of highlights because there were some funny ass lines and some ones that hit a lil close to home 🥲 be mindful of triggers and heavier topics as you read. They are handled with extreme care and very well thought out within the story, but still can be hard to read about 🖤
I’m so beyond grateful I got to read this book early and be a part of Cassie’s journey on her street team in even a small way. I’m so ready for more from the Whittaker family and very eager to maybe see a different side to certain characters 😉
Also do I have a spit kink now???
Also also I fully get what Austin means about her man’s natural man smell ok, I smell my husband sometimes and his natural man smell is just comforting to me LMAO I GET IT
February 10, 2026
I loved this book so much! Not only was the spice hot AF but the characters were wonderful too. I loved Austin and Maddox. Their character development throughout the book was very well written. This book was easy to read and easy to get lost in. You know how when you read romance books, you know there’s gonna be a HEA and then when you finish the book you just get on with life? Not this time. The Whittaker’s are not your typical family and their sibling dynamic is definitely going to come into play later on in the series.
I appreciated that the author spoke about some very hard topics but did it in a way that it flowed with the story. She also wrote these characters in a way that readers could identify with them or even just parts of them. I mean, we’re not all cam girls but I’m sure many of us have had crushes on older men. We’ve probably dealt with many of the issues in the book or know someone who has experienced them. This book was spicy and fun but it was also serious. I finished and my heart was happy but also so sad at the same time. I’m so grateful that the author took her time to write a beautiful book and tackle tough topics with such care and respect.
I’m actually devastated that I read this as an ARC and didn’t find it when the series was complete. But now I definitely have something to look forward to and I can’t wait to read about the rest of the Whittaker siblings.
February 5, 2026
5 ✨ Cassie Truett just threw down a debut novel that rivals the big names in Cowboy Romance. This story is incredibly sexy, witty as hell, and shines a meaningful spotlight on heavy themes. The ability to put that all in one book - incredible. Cassie walked the line of light and dark in a way few can, and she did it with the intention of a seasoned author.
The characters in this story were everything. Austin is the spitfire we all want in our corner, but she also has vulnerabilities that made her relatable. Then there is Maddox - the 10 years her senior rancher with a “fix it” complex. I appreciated his depth, he wasn’t a carbon copy of every cowboy MMC I’ve read before and that was so refreshing.
The chemistry here is off the charts, like some of the hottest spice I’ve ever read - and that’s a lot, you can go check my GR history. It felt so organic, and the perfect example of showing not telling. The push and pull here will have you giggling and kicking your feet, then hitting you with the depth that makes
this story stick with you.
I’m still not sure how I got in on the ground floor of this one, but I know Cassie Truett is going to do amazing things. And when I tell you I think she will become a best selling author - I say it with my full chest. Can’t wait to read everything she writes, starting with the rest of Whittaker Ranch series.
✨Thank you endlessly Cassie for allowing me to Beta read Playing With Fire✨
The characters in this story were everything. Austin is the spitfire we all want in our corner, but she also has vulnerabilities that made her relatable. Then there is Maddox - the 10 years her senior rancher with a “fix it” complex. I appreciated his depth, he wasn’t a carbon copy of every cowboy MMC I’ve read before and that was so refreshing.
The chemistry here is off the charts, like some of the hottest spice I’ve ever read - and that’s a lot, you can go check my GR history. It felt so organic, and the perfect example of showing not telling. The push and pull here will have you giggling and kicking your feet, then hitting you with the depth that makes
this story stick with you.
I’m still not sure how I got in on the ground floor of this one, but I know Cassie Truett is going to do amazing things. And when I tell you I think she will become a best selling author - I say it with my full chest. Can’t wait to read everything she writes, starting with the rest of Whittaker Ranch series.
✨Thank you endlessly Cassie for allowing me to Beta read Playing With Fire✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
BETA Read: GAH!!! I can’t wait for yall to meet these two! I love them much! This book made me swoon, laughing, on the edge of seat, crying, hoping, and just about every other emotion. I can’t believe this is a debut novel, it is so freaking good!! Full review to come after I read the final copy!!
Thank you Cassie for letting me beta read! I had so much fun and loved every moment of this book! I cannot wait to read the finally copy!
Thank you Cassie for letting me beta read! I had so much fun and loved every moment of this book! I cannot wait to read the finally copy!
March 1, 2026
ARE. YOU. KIDDING. ME?! Cassie… WHAT. A. FREAKIN’. DEBUT. 🔥🔥🔥
This story completely tugged at my heart. The emotional depth was stunning, layered and beautifully raw. And the spice?? I’m convinced it’s illegal in at least seven countries. I was blushing, swooning, fanning myself, and yes…my lady bits were fully activated 🥵
Let’s start with Austin…our fiery, sharp witted, bratty redhead bartender with zero filter. The very same one who’s wanted to climb her best friend’s maddeningly off limits moustached brother. When she discovers that Maddox has unknowingly been subscribed to her spicy little cam show behind the scenes?? I. LOST. IT. This little spitfire does not hesitate. She goes after what she wants, and the off the charts chemistry that comes after had me gripping my kindle like it owed me money.
Queue Maddox… listen. This man walks around being all soft, dependable, carrying everyone else’s burdens and responsibilities like some kind of golden retriever in work boots. But then we see that Dom side?? Oh. My. Lawd. The switch is sinful. Filthy in the most devastating way. The power simmering under that sweet exterior? Absolutely lethal. This man had me wanting to misbehave just so he’d tie me up, bend me over and give my fat ass a big ol’ smack.
And the plot? I don’t want to give spoilers…but I will say Austin is carrying secrets so heavy they warp the entire foundation of the story. When those truths unravel? Brutal. Heart splitting…. I’m talking 2AM ugly crying. You finally understand why her walls are so high. She doesn’t struggle to trust because she’s difficult, she struggles because she’s been fighting battles no one else can see.
The way Cassie introduces every single character was completely addictive. You don’t just meet them…you get invested. And the fact that they’re getting their own stories? Oh we are being FED!!!
I devoured every second of this book, and cannot wait for what comes next.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you Cassie for the advanced copy to read 🫶
This story completely tugged at my heart. The emotional depth was stunning, layered and beautifully raw. And the spice?? I’m convinced it’s illegal in at least seven countries. I was blushing, swooning, fanning myself, and yes…my lady bits were fully activated 🥵
Let’s start with Austin…our fiery, sharp witted, bratty redhead bartender with zero filter. The very same one who’s wanted to climb her best friend’s maddeningly off limits moustached brother. When she discovers that Maddox has unknowingly been subscribed to her spicy little cam show behind the scenes?? I. LOST. IT. This little spitfire does not hesitate. She goes after what she wants, and the off the charts chemistry that comes after had me gripping my kindle like it owed me money.
Queue Maddox… listen. This man walks around being all soft, dependable, carrying everyone else’s burdens and responsibilities like some kind of golden retriever in work boots. But then we see that Dom side?? Oh. My. Lawd. The switch is sinful. Filthy in the most devastating way. The power simmering under that sweet exterior? Absolutely lethal. This man had me wanting to misbehave just so he’d tie me up, bend me over and give my fat ass a big ol’ smack.
And the plot? I don’t want to give spoilers…but I will say Austin is carrying secrets so heavy they warp the entire foundation of the story. When those truths unravel? Brutal. Heart splitting…. I’m talking 2AM ugly crying. You finally understand why her walls are so high. She doesn’t struggle to trust because she’s difficult, she struggles because she’s been fighting battles no one else can see.
The way Cassie introduces every single character was completely addictive. You don’t just meet them…you get invested. And the fact that they’re getting their own stories? Oh we are being FED!!!
I devoured every second of this book, and cannot wait for what comes next.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you Cassie for the advanced copy to read 🫶
Review of advance copy received from Author
A huge thanks to Cassie Truett, and Luna Literacy for the ARC of Playing with Fire.
I have had the BEST luck with ARCs so far this year. I love a book that is a little more unique than anything I’ve read before. This DEFINITELY falls into that category.
Be sure to check the trigger warnings on this one before reading!
What to Expect
🔥 Mustached Rancher x Bartender/Cam girl
🔥 Small Town Romance
🔥 Banter & Yearning
🔥 Light sub/dom and lots of 🌶🌶
🔥First book in an interconnected series where each sibling gets their own book
Maddox Whittaker, a hardworking rancher, spends all his time and energy managing his family’s massive cattle ranch and protecting his younger siblings. Although he takes pride in honoring his father’s legacy, Maddox has no time for relationships. He decides to try out a cam girl website. There, is where he connects with an anonymous woman who reminds him of Austin Taylor, the local bartender and his best friend’s younger sister. After a private show, Maddox finds out Austin is actually the woman behind the screen, performing as "RedRanger" to save enough money to finally escape their small town and her family trauma. Both looking for a distraction, they agree to a casual relationship, but their arrangement quickly becomes complicated by genuine feelings.
As Austin’s dream of leaving Cedar Creek finally becomes a reality, she is forced to decide if the life she planned is worth more than the man she unexpectedly grew to love.
Austin started out as a fun character to read, but as you learn about her past (and current) situation you can't help but feel for her. Hardened because she has to be, Austin and Maddox's relationship pushes Austin to confront and unpack her trauma.
Maddox is the perfect blend of soft, introspective, caring, and protective, but surprisingly dominant? Like when I tell you I did not NOT expect that side of him. And consequently, I think I have a book bf to add to my hierarchy.
I loved everything about this book. Unique tropes, fast paced, and 🌶🌶. My only complaint is Austin from 85%-end of the book. Girlie needed to figure her shit out.
And here's to hoping book 2 is Colt 🤞
I have had the BEST luck with ARCs so far this year. I love a book that is a little more unique than anything I’ve read before. This DEFINITELY falls into that category.
Be sure to check the trigger warnings on this one before reading!
What to Expect
🔥 Mustached Rancher x Bartender/Cam girl
🔥 Small Town Romance
🔥 Banter & Yearning
🔥 Light sub/dom and lots of 🌶🌶
🔥First book in an interconnected series where each sibling gets their own book
Maddox Whittaker, a hardworking rancher, spends all his time and energy managing his family’s massive cattle ranch and protecting his younger siblings. Although he takes pride in honoring his father’s legacy, Maddox has no time for relationships. He decides to try out a cam girl website. There, is where he connects with an anonymous woman who reminds him of Austin Taylor, the local bartender and his best friend’s younger sister. After a private show, Maddox finds out Austin is actually the woman behind the screen, performing as "RedRanger" to save enough money to finally escape their small town and her family trauma. Both looking for a distraction, they agree to a casual relationship, but their arrangement quickly becomes complicated by genuine feelings.
As Austin’s dream of leaving Cedar Creek finally becomes a reality, she is forced to decide if the life she planned is worth more than the man she unexpectedly grew to love.
Austin started out as a fun character to read, but as you learn about her past (and current) situation you can't help but feel for her. Hardened because she has to be, Austin and Maddox's relationship pushes Austin to confront and unpack her trauma.
Maddox is the perfect blend of soft, introspective, caring, and protective, but surprisingly dominant? Like when I tell you I did not NOT expect that side of him. And consequently, I think I have a book bf to add to my hierarchy.
I loved everything about this book. Unique tropes, fast paced, and 🌶🌶. My only complaint is Austin from 85%-end of the book. Girlie needed to figure her shit out.
And here's to hoping book 2 is Colt 🤞
Review of advance copy received from Author
BUCKLE UP BABES! From the moment I started this book, I was in love.
These characters lived rent free in my head, and I loved the world that Cassie created. Each character has such a unique story, pulling you in even before they have their book. These characters kept me company while reading enveloping me into the comfort of their daily life. What I wouldn’t do to visit Whittaker’s Ranch and be apart of their world.
When it comes to our main characters I absolutely adore them. Austin is the most fun, bad butt FMC, who you would want in your corner. I loved her fire and zest and her ability to rise above. Maddox was the soft and rough, rounding out and seeing Austin for who she is behind her armor. His love for his family was so incredibly sweet. It made me fall more deeply in love with him as a MMC. The way they grew together as characters was everything. I also appreciated how much they grew as characters through the spicy scenes. It made those scenes mean that much more, and added to much to the overall character and plot development. This is something that I have found is very hard to find in romance books, but when I do I know it is gold.
Overall, I am so incredibly impressed with this book. Cassie- you did an amazing job and I can’t wait for the rest in this series!
These characters lived rent free in my head, and I loved the world that Cassie created. Each character has such a unique story, pulling you in even before they have their book. These characters kept me company while reading enveloping me into the comfort of their daily life. What I wouldn’t do to visit Whittaker’s Ranch and be apart of their world.
When it comes to our main characters I absolutely adore them. Austin is the most fun, bad butt FMC, who you would want in your corner. I loved her fire and zest and her ability to rise above. Maddox was the soft and rough, rounding out and seeing Austin for who she is behind her armor. His love for his family was so incredibly sweet. It made me fall more deeply in love with him as a MMC. The way they grew together as characters was everything. I also appreciated how much they grew as characters through the spicy scenes. It made those scenes mean that much more, and added to much to the overall character and plot development. This is something that I have found is very hard to find in romance books, but when I do I know it is gold.
Overall, I am so incredibly impressed with this book. Cassie- you did an amazing job and I can’t wait for the rest in this series!
Review of advance copy
Maddox Whittaker is now on my "book boyfriend" list. He's always there for those he loves- his siblings, his mother and those like family. He is loyal, protective and hardworking. He's also sweet and caring.
Austin Taylor a firecracker. Underneath her hard exterior is a vulnerable girl. One who just wants to be loved and cared for. Who wants to escape this town and her father. I related to her so much.. I wanted to hug her so many times during this book.
This will definitely go into my re-read list!
I loved this book so much.
Austin Taylor a firecracker. Underneath her hard exterior is a vulnerable girl. One who just wants to be loved and cared for. Who wants to escape this town and her father. I related to her so much.. I wanted to hug her so many times during this book.
This will definitely go into my re-read list!
I loved this book so much.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Be the first to
Maddox is the head of his family, takes care of his mother and siblings, and keeps their ranch going. He doesn't have time for relationships or company. He reminds me if the men I grew up around. Always takes care of others before himself, works hard, and enjoys his family.
Austin is a sassy bartender, bestie to Maddox's little sister, and the cam girl he decided to follow on a whim. She doesn't let people close and shows her claws when she feels cornered. She is someone who pushes people away because it's easier than letting them in. She's trying to survive the best way she knows how. I came to understand her and feel for her over the course of the story. I'm hally that she was able to overcome her fears and let Maddox in.
The dynamic between all the characters is easy to enjoy, and you get invested in them quickly. I can't wait to see how everyone's story turns out!
Maddox is the head of his family, takes care of his mother and siblings, and keeps their ranch going. He doesn't have time for relationships or company. He reminds me if the men I grew up around. Always takes care of others before himself, works hard, and enjoys his family.
Austin is a sassy bartender, bestie to Maddox's little sister, and the cam girl he decided to follow on a whim. She doesn't let people close and shows her claws when she feels cornered. She is someone who pushes people away because it's easier than letting them in. She's trying to survive the best way she knows how. I came to understand her and feel for her over the course of the story. I'm hally that she was able to overcome her fears and let Maddox in.
The dynamic between all the characters is easy to enjoy, and you get invested in them quickly. I can't wait to see how everyone's story turns out!
February 27, 2026
4.5 stars for Austin and Maddox
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Playing with Fire was sooooo good! Oh my god, Austin and Maddox were hawt! I loved how spunky Austin was. She gave no f’s and was true to herself which I loved. And Maddox, he was so grumpy, but so loveable. I just adored him. I loved Austin and Maddie’s relationship. He was gentle with her. He cared for her. He communicated with her. I loved seeing them be vulnerable with each other.
The spice in this book was off the charts! I was blushing so many times while reading. This is definitely one of the more spicier books I’ve read and it was really good. I loved every moment of it.
For her debut romance, Cassie Truett has truly blown me away. This book was just incredible and so well written. I am so excited to find out which Whittaker sibling is next!!
If you love spicy cowboy romances I highly recommend checking out Playing with Fire!
Thank you Cassie Truett for the ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Playing with Fire was sooooo good! Oh my god, Austin and Maddox were hawt! I loved how spunky Austin was. She gave no f’s and was true to herself which I loved. And Maddox, he was so grumpy, but so loveable. I just adored him. I loved Austin and Maddie’s relationship. He was gentle with her. He cared for her. He communicated with her. I loved seeing them be vulnerable with each other.
The spice in this book was off the charts! I was blushing so many times while reading. This is definitely one of the more spicier books I’ve read and it was really good. I loved every moment of it.
For her debut romance, Cassie Truett has truly blown me away. This book was just incredible and so well written. I am so excited to find out which Whittaker sibling is next!!
If you love spicy cowboy romances I highly recommend checking out Playing with Fire!
Thank you Cassie Truett for the ARC!
March 1, 2026
For a debut novel, this was soooo good. SO INCREDIBLY SPICY, but sooo good. RTC!!!
Review of advance copy
I absolutely adore this book! I fell in love with Maddie almost immediately. Austin was one of the most accurate portrayal of a DV survivor I've seen. She was so strong but so vulnerable (and doing everything to hide it).
The authors writing style was amazing, I could not put it down
I so look forward to continuing on with the Whittakers!!
The authors writing style was amazing, I could not put it down
I so look forward to continuing on with the Whittakers!!
March 3, 2026
4.5 ⭐
I went into this expecting a fun, sexy cowboy romance - and it absolutely delivered on that - but I wasn’t prepared for how much more the story would offer. The book doesn’t shy away from heavy topics such as drugs, alcohol, domestic abuse, death, and a D/S dynamic and it handles them with depth and care.
Maddox “Maddie” is a grumpy rancher who unknowingly subscribes to his little sister’s best friend’s cam show. Since his father’s death a few years earlier, he’s taken on the role of head of the ranch and carries the weight of caring for everyone around him, sometimes more than they need, but that’s how he shows his love.
Austin “Tex” is the town bartender who has a crush on her best friend’s grumpy older brother. She’s endured a deeply traumatic childhood, including years of physical abuse at the hands of her father. Her mother has passed away and was herself a victim of her husband’s violence. Proud and fiercely private, Austin hides her situation from those closest to her. Her goal is to save enough money to escape Cedar Creek, and her father, which is why she runs her cam show.
Maddox has a lot of siblings, and at times (especially early on) it can be a little difficult to keep track of everyone and their nicknames. Thankfully, there’s a character list at the beginning of the book, which makes it much easier to follow the plot.
The emotional hurt in the final part of the book hit me hard. You know those moments when you’re reading and the emotions tug at your heart - when you want to keep turning the pages, but at the same time, you just want to reach into the story and comfort the characters? Thankfully, it ends with a well-earned HEA.
This is a fantastic debut novel, and I’ll definitely be returning to Whittaker Ranch in the future. This book is perfect for fans of spicy small-town stories, age-gap, and cowboy romance - just be sure to check the content warnings and go in prepared for the heavier themes.
Thank you Cassie and Luna Literary for the ARC! 🧡
I went into this expecting a fun, sexy cowboy romance - and it absolutely delivered on that - but I wasn’t prepared for how much more the story would offer. The book doesn’t shy away from heavy topics such as drugs, alcohol, domestic abuse, death, and a D/S dynamic and it handles them with depth and care.
Maddox “Maddie” is a grumpy rancher who unknowingly subscribes to his little sister’s best friend’s cam show. Since his father’s death a few years earlier, he’s taken on the role of head of the ranch and carries the weight of caring for everyone around him, sometimes more than they need, but that’s how he shows his love.
Austin “Tex” is the town bartender who has a crush on her best friend’s grumpy older brother. She’s endured a deeply traumatic childhood, including years of physical abuse at the hands of her father. Her mother has passed away and was herself a victim of her husband’s violence. Proud and fiercely private, Austin hides her situation from those closest to her. Her goal is to save enough money to escape Cedar Creek, and her father, which is why she runs her cam show.
Maddox has a lot of siblings, and at times (especially early on) it can be a little difficult to keep track of everyone and their nicknames. Thankfully, there’s a character list at the beginning of the book, which makes it much easier to follow the plot.
The emotional hurt in the final part of the book hit me hard. You know those moments when you’re reading and the emotions tug at your heart - when you want to keep turning the pages, but at the same time, you just want to reach into the story and comfort the characters? Thankfully, it ends with a well-earned HEA.
This is a fantastic debut novel, and I’ll definitely be returning to Whittaker Ranch in the future. This book is perfect for fans of spicy small-town stories, age-gap, and cowboy romance - just be sure to check the content warnings and go in prepared for the heavier themes.
Thank you Cassie and Luna Literary for the ARC! 🧡
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
This was one heck of a debut from Cassie! I’ve been excited to read this one for a while and was not disappointed at all. It was so great to meet all of the Whittakers and Austin, too, and to see their dynamics with each other. I will say: there are a lot of side characters, so make sure you pay close attention (or keep the list from the front of the book handy) so you know who’s who. Once you have that down, though, it’s easy to keep up (plus some of the side characters won’t be seen much in this one, but you’ll want to take note of them for future reference 😉). Austin was such a strong woman, even when she didn’t always think so, because she went through a lot in her life. It was hard to see her struggle, but she never stopped fighting through it to have a better life. I loved that she was always ready to give Maddox a hard time, and it only made her more attractive to him! Maddox Whittaker was a caretaker through and through, not just with his family, but with Austin, too. After he realized he wanted more with her, he wanted to do anything to make her happy and help her in any way he could. It was great to see Austin finally have someone who wanted her happiness and wanted to help her because she never had that before. But it was also hard for her to accept because she had been taking care of herself for a while. It was hard to watch her push Maddox away, but I also appreciated that Maddox was willing to let her go because he knew that’s what she needed. He had to let her make her own decision about being with him for real because she had been so adamant about it being casual, so it was great to see Maddox realize that he needed to let Austin find herself so she could hopefully find her way back to him in the end. This was such a great story, an excellent debut from Cassie, and an amazing introduction to the Whittaker family. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Thank you, Cassie, for providing me with an ARC!
This was one heck of a debut from Cassie! I’ve been excited to read this one for a while and was not disappointed at all. It was so great to meet all of the Whittakers and Austin, too, and to see their dynamics with each other. I will say: there are a lot of side characters, so make sure you pay close attention (or keep the list from the front of the book handy) so you know who’s who. Once you have that down, though, it’s easy to keep up (plus some of the side characters won’t be seen much in this one, but you’ll want to take note of them for future reference 😉). Austin was such a strong woman, even when she didn’t always think so, because she went through a lot in her life. It was hard to see her struggle, but she never stopped fighting through it to have a better life. I loved that she was always ready to give Maddox a hard time, and it only made her more attractive to him! Maddox Whittaker was a caretaker through and through, not just with his family, but with Austin, too. After he realized he wanted more with her, he wanted to do anything to make her happy and help her in any way he could. It was great to see Austin finally have someone who wanted her happiness and wanted to help her because she never had that before. But it was also hard for her to accept because she had been taking care of herself for a while. It was hard to watch her push Maddox away, but I also appreciated that Maddox was willing to let her go because he knew that’s what she needed. He had to let her make her own decision about being with him for real because she had been so adamant about it being casual, so it was great to see Maddox realize that he needed to let Austin find herself so she could hopefully find her way back to him in the end. This was such a great story, an excellent debut from Cassie, and an amazing introduction to the Whittaker family. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Thank you, Cassie, for providing me with an ARC!
February 25, 2026
ARC Review
4.5/5 ⭐️
Intensely spicy, equally heartbreaking, Playing with Fire is a debut small town romance between a grumpy mustached cowboy and his little sister’s best friend that starts when he accidentally subscribes to her cam show.
This book was the perfect combination of hurt and comfort, with the most interesting family dynamics (I honestly can’t wait to keep reading more about the rest of the characters in the series). The yearning and chemistry between Maddox and Austin was out of this world, and yes, some of their choices are frustrating, but Cassie has an impeccable way of making you understand the motivations and thought process behind those choices, and everything concludes with two main characters that despite being strong and independent, they also need someone to take care of them, one way or another, making them perfect for each other. I was honestly not expecting all the emotions this story put me through, but that only made my reading experience a thousand times better.
Playing with Fire is the book for you if you enjoy:
🧡 Grumpy, mustached cowboys
🧡 Bratty cam girls
🧡 Small town romance
🧡 Spicy dom/sub dynamics
🧡 Yearning, angst, and a HEA
🧡 A series of standalones where every sibling has their own book
Thank you so much to the author and Luna Literary for the e-arc!
4.5/5 ⭐️
Intensely spicy, equally heartbreaking, Playing with Fire is a debut small town romance between a grumpy mustached cowboy and his little sister’s best friend that starts when he accidentally subscribes to her cam show.
This book was the perfect combination of hurt and comfort, with the most interesting family dynamics (I honestly can’t wait to keep reading more about the rest of the characters in the series). The yearning and chemistry between Maddox and Austin was out of this world, and yes, some of their choices are frustrating, but Cassie has an impeccable way of making you understand the motivations and thought process behind those choices, and everything concludes with two main characters that despite being strong and independent, they also need someone to take care of them, one way or another, making them perfect for each other. I was honestly not expecting all the emotions this story put me through, but that only made my reading experience a thousand times better.
Playing with Fire is the book for you if you enjoy:
🧡 Grumpy, mustached cowboys
🧡 Bratty cam girls
🧡 Small town romance
🧡 Spicy dom/sub dynamics
🧡 Yearning, angst, and a HEA
🧡 A series of standalones where every sibling has their own book
Thank you so much to the author and Luna Literary for the e-arc!
February 23, 2026
6 ⭐️ READ !!!
Y’all this book had me GIGGLING, SCREAMING, KICKING MY FEET!!
Playing with Fire is the first book of the series with highlighting the oldest brother of the Whittaker family, Maddox “Maddie”.
Maddox is a ranch hand and is pretty much the father figure of the family to his younger brothers and sisters. He also loves his mama too and makes sure she’s taken care of. He carries a lot of weight of being an important person in this family.
Austin “Tex” is our FMC who is Maddox’s lil sister’s best friend. She is a bartender by evening and cam girl late at night. She has always found interest in Maddox but with their age gap, she kinda dismisses it.
Austin goes through some trauma and very scar situations during this book, so please READ TRIGGERS WARNING!!!
Things start awkward, but then things turn spicyyyy REAL QUICK! 🔥
I hands down LOVE THIS BOOK and I can’t wait to be along the ride for the next books of this series!
Tropes:
🤠cowboy romance
🤠best friend’s brother
🤠age gap (10 yrs)
🤠dom/sub spice
🤠cam girl/ subscriber
Thank you to Luna literacy management for the Arc
& thank you Cassie Truett for writing this amazing book 🧡
Y’all this book had me GIGGLING, SCREAMING, KICKING MY FEET!!
Playing with Fire is the first book of the series with highlighting the oldest brother of the Whittaker family, Maddox “Maddie”.
Maddox is a ranch hand and is pretty much the father figure of the family to his younger brothers and sisters. He also loves his mama too and makes sure she’s taken care of. He carries a lot of weight of being an important person in this family.
Austin “Tex” is our FMC who is Maddox’s lil sister’s best friend. She is a bartender by evening and cam girl late at night. She has always found interest in Maddox but with their age gap, she kinda dismisses it.
Austin goes through some trauma and very scar situations during this book, so please READ TRIGGERS WARNING!!!
Things start awkward, but then things turn spicyyyy REAL QUICK! 🔥
I hands down LOVE THIS BOOK and I can’t wait to be along the ride for the next books of this series!
Tropes:
🤠cowboy romance
🤠best friend’s brother
🤠age gap (10 yrs)
🤠dom/sub spice
🤠cam girl/ subscriber
Thank you to Luna literacy management for the Arc
& thank you Cassie Truett for writing this amazing book 🧡
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hey loves, I wanted to introduce you to @cassietruett ’s debut novel Playing With Fire! It is the first in a series involving the Whittaker family and let me tell you, after reading it this series is definitely one to look out for!
Maddox and Austin just work together. I don’t even know how to put into words how much they work. Maddox is the eldest of the Whittaker siblings and definitely the caretaker of the family. Austin has always really needed someone to take care of even if she doesn’t think so.
Austin is bartending and working on the side as a cam girl to bring in extra money so she can escape her home life. Maddox is content to just focus on his work and his family.
There has always been a little bit of a spark between them but not anything that was acted on, not for Austins lack of trying.😉However when Maddox stumbles across her cam girl site things take an interesting turn.
Overall I liked this book a lot and there are quite a bit of couples I am looking forward to in the future! Go ahead and mark your calendars for March 5th to get your hands on Playing With Fire!
thank you @ luna and @ cassie for the arc!
Ratings:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes: cowboy romance, 10 year age gap, cam girlXsubscriber, small town, grumpyXgrumpier, little sisters best friend
Maddox and Austin just work together. I don’t even know how to put into words how much they work. Maddox is the eldest of the Whittaker siblings and definitely the caretaker of the family. Austin has always really needed someone to take care of even if she doesn’t think so.
Austin is bartending and working on the side as a cam girl to bring in extra money so she can escape her home life. Maddox is content to just focus on his work and his family.
There has always been a little bit of a spark between them but not anything that was acted on, not for Austins lack of trying.😉However when Maddox stumbles across her cam girl site things take an interesting turn.
Overall I liked this book a lot and there are quite a bit of couples I am looking forward to in the future! Go ahead and mark your calendars for March 5th to get your hands on Playing With Fire!
thank you @ luna and @ cassie for the arc!
Ratings:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes: cowboy romance, 10 year age gap, cam girlXsubscriber, small town, grumpyXgrumpier, little sisters best friend
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is alittle hard to write a review about this amazing book, without me telling you the whole story. But I am going to definitely try to keep it all until you read this book!
I love the dynamic of the Whittaker family. How Maddox takes care of everybody. He is a true gentleman rancher. I also love how bratty Austin is..
Maddox took of the Ranch when his father passed, he also took over more responsibility of taking care of his family. Especially since he is the oldest of 6.
Austin a bratty bartender, who stood her ground no matter what. She wants to leave Cedar Creek so badly. She becomes a cam girl at night to earn more tips to get out town sooner. One Night, she got a new subscriber drops acouple hundreds that night. And she eventually found out it was her bestie's older brother. That she has a crush on especially his mustache.
I love the dynamic of the Whittaker family. How Maddox takes care of everybody. He is a true gentleman rancher. I also love how bratty Austin is..
Maddox took of the Ranch when his father passed, he also took over more responsibility of taking care of his family. Especially since he is the oldest of 6.
Austin a bratty bartender, who stood her ground no matter what. She wants to leave Cedar Creek so badly. She becomes a cam girl at night to earn more tips to get out town sooner. One Night, she got a new subscriber drops acouple hundreds that night. And she eventually found out it was her bestie's older brother. That she has a crush on especially his mustache.
February 20, 2026
This book took me by surprise in the best way. So instead of just focusing on the two Main Characters it involves the whole Whitaker family
Meeting Austin & Maddox has been a fun read.
Austin, a 22 year old girl who has a very low opinion of men and a highly built wall.
Maddox, 32 year old man who loves to protect and look after his siblings, has no interest in finding love or searching for that special someone.
Maddox stumbles upon something he shouldn’t have and returns a while later only to find out that it’s been his little sisters best friend all along.
This book will leave you speechless, gasping and internally screaming.
The way the author has complemented each character was just flawless.
So excited to read more from this author and have added her to my favourites.
Meeting Austin & Maddox has been a fun read.
Austin, a 22 year old girl who has a very low opinion of men and a highly built wall.
Maddox, 32 year old man who loves to protect and look after his siblings, has no interest in finding love or searching for that special someone.
Maddox stumbles upon something he shouldn’t have and returns a while later only to find out that it’s been his little sisters best friend all along.
This book will leave you speechless, gasping and internally screaming.
The way the author has complemented each character was just flawless.
So excited to read more from this author and have added her to my favourites.
February 24, 2026
2.5 ⭐️
Whilst I enjoyed parts of this book, I wasn’t fully hooked on Maddox and Austin’s story. I adored Maddox though, he was so sweet and thoughtful. He just wanted to take care of everybody 🥺
Austin really annoyed me, it’s almost like she was trying too hard and I just didn’t connect with her. I think Maddox deserved a lot better than her. I understand she had an awful life and she was tough for a reason but she wasn’t my cup of tea.
There is a third act breakup and Austin has also slept with Colt (Maddox’s brother) this does cause a slight problem (mainly Colt bringing up how good she is in bed in front of Maddox). She does tell Maddox in the beginning but then she brings it up at weird points like just before having sex.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
Whilst I enjoyed parts of this book, I wasn’t fully hooked on Maddox and Austin’s story. I adored Maddox though, he was so sweet and thoughtful. He just wanted to take care of everybody 🥺
Austin really annoyed me, it’s almost like she was trying too hard and I just didn’t connect with her. I think Maddox deserved a lot better than her. I understand she had an awful life and she was tough for a reason but she wasn’t my cup of tea.
There is a third act breakup and Austin has also slept with Colt (Maddox’s brother) this does cause a slight problem (mainly Colt bringing up how good she is in bed in front of Maddox). She does tell Maddox in the beginning but then she brings it up at weird points like just before having sex.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
March 3, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
3.5 🌶️
What a spicy, emotional debut novel! This book will have you going from blushes, to giggles, to tears in the space of a few pages and I really enjoyed reading it.
Maddox Whittaker is gooey cinnamon roll, caretaker wrapped in a grumpy rancher and Austin Taylor is the sassy, bartender/cam girl who Maddox can't stop thinking about. I loved Maddox and Austin's banter and their chemistry will set your kindle on fire. Like these two are HOT. But these two will also break your heart. Austin has been planning to leave their small town for years and falling in love with her best friend's big brother was definitely not part of her plan. But Maddox is so patient and allows Austin the time and space she needs to figure out what she wanted in her life was so beautiful.
The rest of the Whittaker siblings and friends make for a wild family and their books have been set up so well in this book and I can't wait to read them.
*TW: Please read the trigger warnings before reading. This book contains domestic violence on page (not by the MMC) and is quite graphic.
What to expect:
Best Friend's Brother
Grumpy Cowboy MMC
Grumpy/Sassy Cam Girl
Friends with Benefits
Dom/Sub Dynamics
Thank you to Cassie Truett and Luna Literary Management for the opportunity to read this book early.
3.5 🌶️
What a spicy, emotional debut novel! This book will have you going from blushes, to giggles, to tears in the space of a few pages and I really enjoyed reading it.
Maddox Whittaker is gooey cinnamon roll, caretaker wrapped in a grumpy rancher and Austin Taylor is the sassy, bartender/cam girl who Maddox can't stop thinking about. I loved Maddox and Austin's banter and their chemistry will set your kindle on fire. Like these two are HOT. But these two will also break your heart. Austin has been planning to leave their small town for years and falling in love with her best friend's big brother was definitely not part of her plan. But Maddox is so patient and allows Austin the time and space she needs to figure out what she wanted in her life was so beautiful.
The rest of the Whittaker siblings and friends make for a wild family and their books have been set up so well in this book and I can't wait to read them.
*TW: Please read the trigger warnings before reading. This book contains domestic violence on page (not by the MMC) and is quite graphic.
What to expect:
Best Friend's Brother
Grumpy Cowboy MMC
Grumpy/Sassy Cam Girl
Friends with Benefits
Dom/Sub Dynamics
Thank you to Cassie Truett and Luna Literary Management for the opportunity to read this book early.
February 28, 2026
*ARC REVIEW*
I’m gonna need all the Whitaker siblings’ books STAT cause this was so good!! Maddox (his nickname is MADDIE and I die) is the grumpiest anxious cowboy but it’s also the most down bad for his lady.
🤠Age gap (only 10 years)
🤠Rancher
🤠Brat
🤠Best Friend’s Brother
🤠Dom/Sub
Austin is one of the best FMC’s of a contemporary romance that I’ve read in a long time. Please read the content and trigger warnings before diving into this book.
I’m gonna need all the Whitaker siblings’ books STAT cause this was so good!! Maddox (his nickname is MADDIE and I die) is the grumpiest anxious cowboy but it’s also the most down bad for his lady.
🤠Age gap (only 10 years)
🤠Rancher
🤠Brat
🤠Best Friend’s Brother
🤠Dom/Sub
Austin is one of the best FMC’s of a contemporary romance that I’ve read in a long time. Please read the content and trigger warnings before diving into this book.
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