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Stone Cold Cowboys #2
Big and Bold
She was never supposed to stay.
Confident. Curvy. A city girl who belonged to a world I could never touch.
But I married her anyway thinking I could keep her at arm’s length and still call her mine.
I never let her all the way in. Never let her see how deep she got under my skin.
And now she’s done pretending that’s enough.
When she hands me divorce papers, I expect her to run back to her perfect, polished life.
But she doesn’t.
She gets a job slinging coffee in town like she’s not tearing my whole damn world apart.
So I give her an ultimatum—thirty days in my bed, living like we used to.
After that, I’ll sign.
Only I won’t.
Because the truth is, I never stopped wanting her. I never stopped needing her.
And if I can't tear down these walls I built to keep her out, I’m going to lose the only woman I’ve ever loved.
For good.
Confident. Curvy. A city girl who belonged to a world I could never touch.
But I married her anyway thinking I could keep her at arm’s length and still call her mine.
I never let her all the way in. Never let her see how deep she got under my skin.
And now she’s done pretending that’s enough.
When she hands me divorce papers, I expect her to run back to her perfect, polished life.
But she doesn’t.
She gets a job slinging coffee in town like she’s not tearing my whole damn world apart.
So I give her an ultimatum—thirty days in my bed, living like we used to.
After that, I’ll sign.
Only I won’t.
Because the truth is, I never stopped wanting her. I never stopped needing her.
And if I can't tear down these walls I built to keep her out, I’m going to lose the only woman I’ve ever loved.
For good.
81 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 22, 2025
156 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
Hope Ford
288 books2,232 followersBestselling short romance author Hope Ford writes short, steamy, sweet romances. She loves writing about ALPHA MEN that fall in love with CURVY WOMEN. She has over 70 books and they are all available on Amazon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
September 19, 2025
Big and Bold is the second book in the Stone Cold Cowboys series. It’s a shorter story but it’s oh so good and I want more!
I loved the characters and who wouldn’t want more of a hunky, handsome cowboy? The way the MMC, Dustin, let his sweet, romantic side come through, was everything. I was cheering for him from page one, and I’m pretty sure the MFC, Annie was cheering right along with me. ; )
I felt sorry for both characters but a simple, honest conversation would’ve fixed their issues. Of course, there wouldn’t have been a story if they’d had that talk. LOL! That would’ve been a shame because I really enjoyed it! I devoured it in one evening when I should have already been asleep. The perfect, happy ending was totally worth the missed sleep, and I’ll probably read it again sometime in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the characters and who wouldn’t want more of a hunky, handsome cowboy? The way the MMC, Dustin, let his sweet, romantic side come through, was everything. I was cheering for him from page one, and I’m pretty sure the MFC, Annie was cheering right along with me. ; )
I felt sorry for both characters but a simple, honest conversation would’ve fixed their issues. Of course, there wouldn’t have been a story if they’d had that talk. LOL! That would’ve been a shame because I really enjoyed it! I devoured it in one evening when I should have already been asleep. The perfect, happy ending was totally worth the missed sleep, and I’ll probably read it again sometime in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 26, 2025
My reviews always contain spoilers, I write them so I can remember the story.
Annie and Dustin have been married for a year, they had a whirlwind romance that started when Dustin won a rodeo event and Annie went to talk to him. Their chemistry was instant and she ended up in his bed that 1st night. The actions were out of character for Annie, she was a virgin, no mention of Dustin’s past. But over the year Dustin has become more and more distant the only time they connect is in the bedroom, their chemistry is still scorching hot. Annie needs more, she wants her husband to love her not just need her for sex. She leaves him and their ranch and has him served with divorce papers. Dustin is devastated, he expected that his beautiful Annie would leave him one day. She is from a very wealthy family, but was ignored by her parents, he knew she would one day regret leaving all her wealth to live on his small ranch.
After another rodeo win he’s driving through town when he sees his Annie working at Red’s Diner. He’s shocked, he was sure she would be in New York or Paris by now, not hanging out in Whiskey Run. He goes into the diner to talk, but worried about gossip Annie asks him to leave. He waits till her shift ends to talk to her again but Annie doesn’t have a lot to say to him. She’s struggling just being near him. They agree to talk the next morning, Dustin asks her for 30 days to prove he loves her and wants her and if he can’t convince her he’ll sign the divorce papers. He has no intention of signing the papers, he’s going to win back his wife.
He tells her she has to come back to the ranch and sleep in his bed. She reluctantly agrees. Their chemistry is still there and it doesn’t take long before they both want to have sex but Dustin holds off and only pleasures Annie. He spends the days with her on the ranch, he takes her for long rides and has her accompany him to his daily tasks. Things are going well, he tells her he loves her everyday, he’s no longer afraid to lose her cause he almost did. He lets her see his vulnerable side and Annie loves it, she can see a future for them.
The final rodeo event is coming up, if Dustin wins he will win the prize money, a $100,000. That’s what his goal was for the past year, this would enable him to treat Annie. But she never wanted things, she only ever wanted Dustin and some chickens.
He wins the event and he surprises her with her very own chicken coop. Her dad shows up and they tell him to leave because they love each other and Annie will never leave her Dustin. Epilogue three months later with her pregnant.
The book starts after Annie has left Dustin, so your dropped right in. There are only a few flashbacks. But, they are done well so you get the gist of their relationship and are caught up on the current situation quickly. Not a lot of details but enough so you can enjoy the story. I wish we had gotten an epilogue a few years out.
Annie and Dustin have been married for a year, they had a whirlwind romance that started when Dustin won a rodeo event and Annie went to talk to him. Their chemistry was instant and she ended up in his bed that 1st night. The actions were out of character for Annie, she was a virgin, no mention of Dustin’s past. But over the year Dustin has become more and more distant the only time they connect is in the bedroom, their chemistry is still scorching hot. Annie needs more, she wants her husband to love her not just need her for sex. She leaves him and their ranch and has him served with divorce papers. Dustin is devastated, he expected that his beautiful Annie would leave him one day. She is from a very wealthy family, but was ignored by her parents, he knew she would one day regret leaving all her wealth to live on his small ranch.
After another rodeo win he’s driving through town when he sees his Annie working at Red’s Diner. He’s shocked, he was sure she would be in New York or Paris by now, not hanging out in Whiskey Run. He goes into the diner to talk, but worried about gossip Annie asks him to leave. He waits till her shift ends to talk to her again but Annie doesn’t have a lot to say to him. She’s struggling just being near him. They agree to talk the next morning, Dustin asks her for 30 days to prove he loves her and wants her and if he can’t convince her he’ll sign the divorce papers. He has no intention of signing the papers, he’s going to win back his wife.
He tells her she has to come back to the ranch and sleep in his bed. She reluctantly agrees. Their chemistry is still there and it doesn’t take long before they both want to have sex but Dustin holds off and only pleasures Annie. He spends the days with her on the ranch, he takes her for long rides and has her accompany him to his daily tasks. Things are going well, he tells her he loves her everyday, he’s no longer afraid to lose her cause he almost did. He lets her see his vulnerable side and Annie loves it, she can see a future for them.
The final rodeo event is coming up, if Dustin wins he will win the prize money, a $100,000. That’s what his goal was for the past year, this would enable him to treat Annie. But she never wanted things, she only ever wanted Dustin and some chickens.
He wins the event and he surprises her with her very own chicken coop. Her dad shows up and they tell him to leave because they love each other and Annie will never leave her Dustin. Epilogue three months later with her pregnant.
The book starts after Annie has left Dustin, so your dropped right in. There are only a few flashbacks. But, they are done well so you get the gist of their relationship and are caught up on the current situation quickly. Not a lot of details but enough so you can enjoy the story. I wish we had gotten an epilogue a few years out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2025
Dustin may be a winner in the rodeo circuit but after being served with divorce paper, he doesn't feel like it. The only woman he ever has or will love walked out of his life and now, she won't even answer his calls. Then, he sees her . She's still in town and working at the local diner as a waitress. He needs answers and he's not leaving until he gets them.
Annie meant to leave town, she really did. But she ends up working in the restaurant and living in a small apartment. She wants to keep her business to herself and not feed into the small town gossip mill. When her husband walks in the door, she tries to get away but it's no use, he wants to talk. She knew that he wanted her but, it's not enough anymore.
He doesn't know what he did but he'll do whatever it takes to get her back. She owns him and if she'll give him thirty days, he'll show her all his heart.
This is a steamy second chance love story and I was rooting for them both to have their HEA!
This review is my opinion and was not AI generated.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Annie meant to leave town, she really did. But she ends up working in the restaurant and living in a small apartment. She wants to keep her business to herself and not feed into the small town gossip mill. When her husband walks in the door, she tries to get away but it's no use, he wants to talk. She knew that he wanted her but, it's not enough anymore.
He doesn't know what he did but he'll do whatever it takes to get her back. She owns him and if she'll give him thirty days, he'll show her all his heart.
This is a steamy second chance love story and I was rooting for them both to have their HEA!
This review is my opinion and was not AI generated.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 19, 2025
This book is a wonderful story that will definitely have you hooked from the beginning until the end. Its fast read and second chance romance story. Annie and Dustin are married but when Annie files for divorce can Dustin finally change and get a second chance with her or will Annie leave forever? Great story that has you connecting with the characters emotions and heartbreak. I throughly enjoyed this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2025
A tender second chance for Dustin and Annie. Dustin doesn’t want to give up on their marriage and he will do what it takes to win his wife back. It was an emotional journey as they both opened up with their fears, vulnerability and to honest feelings. Sweet HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2025
Get your girl back
A hot, sweet and delicious reminder to not take the people in your life for granted! He was working so hard to maintain a life for her that she didn’t even want. She just wanted him!
A hot, sweet and delicious reminder to not take the people in your life for granted! He was working so hard to maintain a life for her that she didn’t even want. She just wanted him!
August 23, 2025
Great read. Reads fast and easy.
•No cheating
•Married fron the start
•Week separation that happened off page
•No ow/om drama.
•HFN-married and pregnant
•No cheating
•Married fron the start
•Week separation that happened off page
•No ow/om drama.
•HFN-married and pregnant
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2025
He lost her once, but this time he’ll fight to keep her forever
Rodeo cowboy Dustin wins championships but loses what matters most. When Annie, his wife, walks away without warning, the trophies mean nothing. He’s wrecked without her. Annie's independence hides her hurt and doubt, the ache of never feeling enough. Their worlds collide again in a small town diner, where sparks of anger, longing, and unfinished love fly.
Dustin won’t give up on her. Instead of letting go, he asks for one last chance to prove he can be the man Annie deserves. She agrees, cautious but still tied to him in ways she can’t ignore. What follows isn’t a smooth reunion, but a raw and messy journey through late night fights, old wounds, and the kind of passion that can’t stay buried. He wants to protect her, she wants to be seen, and both have to face the fears that nearly tore them apart.
Small moments begin to change everything. Shared chores, quiet talks, and broken silences slowly rebuild trust. Dustin learns that strength isn’t in winning but in honesty, and Annie learns that she’s always been more than enough. Together, they have to decide if they’ll stay fractured or stand united when it matters most.
By the end, their love isn’t just about passion, it’s about building something lasting. Secrets are faced, trust is rebuilt, and hope takes root in a future they’re finally ready to claim together.
Dustin evolves from a guarded man who hides behind rodeo wins into someone open and vulnerable, finally able to say the words Annie has longed to hear. Annie grows from overlooked and uncertain into a woman confident in her worth, unafraid to demand what she needs. Their love transforms from strained and distant into intimate, supportive, and enduring.
A steamy, second chance, cowboy, small town romance, exploring love, fear of abandonment, reconciliation, vulnerability, family conflict, self worth, trust, commitment, and healing.
Rodeo cowboy Dustin wins championships but loses what matters most. When Annie, his wife, walks away without warning, the trophies mean nothing. He’s wrecked without her. Annie's independence hides her hurt and doubt, the ache of never feeling enough. Their worlds collide again in a small town diner, where sparks of anger, longing, and unfinished love fly.
Dustin won’t give up on her. Instead of letting go, he asks for one last chance to prove he can be the man Annie deserves. She agrees, cautious but still tied to him in ways she can’t ignore. What follows isn’t a smooth reunion, but a raw and messy journey through late night fights, old wounds, and the kind of passion that can’t stay buried. He wants to protect her, she wants to be seen, and both have to face the fears that nearly tore them apart.
Small moments begin to change everything. Shared chores, quiet talks, and broken silences slowly rebuild trust. Dustin learns that strength isn’t in winning but in honesty, and Annie learns that she’s always been more than enough. Together, they have to decide if they’ll stay fractured or stand united when it matters most.
By the end, their love isn’t just about passion, it’s about building something lasting. Secrets are faced, trust is rebuilt, and hope takes root in a future they’re finally ready to claim together.
Dustin evolves from a guarded man who hides behind rodeo wins into someone open and vulnerable, finally able to say the words Annie has longed to hear. Annie grows from overlooked and uncertain into a woman confident in her worth, unafraid to demand what she needs. Their love transforms from strained and distant into intimate, supportive, and enduring.
A steamy, second chance, cowboy, small town romance, exploring love, fear of abandonment, reconciliation, vulnerability, family conflict, self worth, trust, commitment, and healing.
August 19, 2025
When Annie and Dustin met, sparks flew instantly. They were head over heels and married within weeks of that fateful encounter. Fast forward a year, and Dustin is blindsided by divorce papers, while Annie has left without a word. Convinced their love was solid, he’s desperate for answers, especially when he discovers she hasn’t run home to her family, but is working at the local diner instead. What on earth happened to their perfect love story? Turns out. Love wasn’t the problem. Communication was. Annie adores her husband, but she’s spent the last year alone on his ranch while he chased rodeo glory. And even when he was home, he kept a distance she couldn’t breach. And then she snapped. Fed up and heartbroken, she finally walked away. Dustin is stunned to realize just how badly he’s messed up, but is determined not to lose her, so he makes Annie a daring proposal: spend thirty days together as if nothing ever went wrong. If, after that, she still wants a divorce, he’ll let her go. What follows is messy, emotional, and oh-so-satisfying. I adored that Dustin didn’t drag his feet and dove right in to prove Annie was his world, even if cracking his heart wide open didn’t come easy (which honestly made it feel all the more real). Yes, it’s frustrating knowing a single honest conversation could’ve saved them months of heartache, but watching them claw their way back to each other was completely worth it. At its heart, this is a tender, feel-good second chance romance sprinkled with just enough steam to keep things interesting, guaranteed to put a smile on your face as Annie and Dustin get the happily-ever-after they deserve.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 23, 2025
So honestly, I love Hope Ford’s books so when I saw a chance to get and read an ARC copy of one of her books I’m not even sure I read what the book was about…if I did I completely forgot by the time I started reading it.
So going into this knowing nothing about what I was going to read…here are my thoughts…
I LOVED IT!!! I especially loved that this is a short romance novel, it’s steamy and sweet like her others, however, it’s about a couple who’s ALREADY married. Unfortunately they don’t communicate well. Sound familiar? Like many people’s really lives? I thought this book was SO realistic it really hit home. Dustin thinks he’s not good enough so he tries really hard to make more money to be worthy of his bride…. But he holds part of himself back for protection as well…. His wife, Annie, never feels like he really loves her or wants her around, he’s always focused on his ranch and rodeo gigs…. She loves him but doesn’t feel seen, or wanted, he’s never said ‘I love you’…so for her own sanity she leaves him…or tries to, she gets as far as town, where someone convinced her to stay local until she figures out her plan, instead of running blind without a plan…after 2 weeks of Dustin feeling like a part of him is missing, he can’t find joy in anything without his Annie, and she’s not returning his calls…But then he sees her, in the diner, waiting tables…he goes in to talk to her and won’t take no for an answer…. This is a beautiful story about two people who finally LISTEN to each other, are truthful with each other (about how they feel, what they want…) and are finally able to fully open up to and trust each other. It’s really sweet and beautiful!!!😍😍😍.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
So going into this knowing nothing about what I was going to read…here are my thoughts…
I LOVED IT!!! I especially loved that this is a short romance novel, it’s steamy and sweet like her others, however, it’s about a couple who’s ALREADY married. Unfortunately they don’t communicate well. Sound familiar? Like many people’s really lives? I thought this book was SO realistic it really hit home. Dustin thinks he’s not good enough so he tries really hard to make more money to be worthy of his bride…. But he holds part of himself back for protection as well…. His wife, Annie, never feels like he really loves her or wants her around, he’s always focused on his ranch and rodeo gigs…. She loves him but doesn’t feel seen, or wanted, he’s never said ‘I love you’…so for her own sanity she leaves him…or tries to, she gets as far as town, where someone convinced her to stay local until she figures out her plan, instead of running blind without a plan…after 2 weeks of Dustin feeling like a part of him is missing, he can’t find joy in anything without his Annie, and she’s not returning his calls…But then he sees her, in the diner, waiting tables…he goes in to talk to her and won’t take no for an answer…. This is a beautiful story about two people who finally LISTEN to each other, are truthful with each other (about how they feel, what they want…) and are finally able to fully open up to and trust each other. It’s really sweet and beautiful!!!😍😍😍.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2025
Hope Ford has done it again. Second Chance romance tropes are one of my least favourite tropes, but Hope Ford does the second chance romance beautifully. Dustin, rodeo royalty, and is completely in love with his wife, but his wife has asked for a divorce. Annie, big city royalty, and is completely in love with her husband, but she has asked for a divorce. I know, you are asking why, well, Annie thinks that Dustin loves the rodeo more than her, especially since their relationship did not start the normal way, meeting, dating, getting to know each other. Nope, one night, one night of passion, and then they were married. Dustin was always away, and although Annie was always at her happiness when she was on his ranch, Annie did not want to stay with a man who did not love her. When Dustin got the divorce papers, he knew, he knew he would stop at nothing to win his wife back. He found her working at the dinner in Whiskey Run, and he asked for a trial period, thirty days. Thirty days to fix their marriage, and if after thirty days the marriage is not fixed, Dustin would sign the divorce papers - at least that is what he told Annie. I loved this book!! I read it in 2 hours!! Fantastic!!
August 20, 2025
When Dustin is close to winning a bulldog tournament and a big money prize, he does not care about it at all, because his wife and love of his life has served him with divorce papers. Annie did not fall out of love with her husband, she had the feeling he does not love her, at least not as much that she matters and she gets behind his walls.
Dustin realizes how empty his life is without Annie and tries to win her back. He agrees to sign the divorce papers, if she spends 30 days with him and gives him a chance. He really listens to her. He always protected his heart, knowing he is not good enough for her and he thinks she will leave him one day. But when she leaves he is shattered and understands, he has to open up. Will they have a second chance, even when her father shows up?
Normally when a story begings with such a heartache, it is hard for me to push through reading it, but here it is really worse it. Like always Hope Ford has the special something, the spark and the characters with the special magic. She makes me feel with them, so many emotions. There is not too much drama in this story, the right amount of everything, steam and drama.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dustin realizes how empty his life is without Annie and tries to win her back. He agrees to sign the divorce papers, if she spends 30 days with him and gives him a chance. He really listens to her. He always protected his heart, knowing he is not good enough for her and he thinks she will leave him one day. But when she leaves he is shattered and understands, he has to open up. Will they have a second chance, even when her father shows up?
Normally when a story begings with such a heartache, it is hard for me to push through reading it, but here it is really worse it. Like always Hope Ford has the special something, the spark and the characters with the special magic. She makes me feel with them, so many emotions. There is not too much drama in this story, the right amount of everything, steam and drama.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 7, 2025
Loved this second chance romance
Big and Bold is the second book in the Stone Cold Cowboys series. This story is all about second chances with the one person you can't let get away. Annie and Dustin have been married a year. But during that time there have been issues with communication between them, at least for Annie. So when she leaves and then serves divorce papers he is not only blind-sided but also cannot understand why. Annie was raised a city girl with parents that have a lot of money but never a lot of time for her. He owns a smaller ranch and also is a bulldoggin' champion on the rodeo circuit. The first night it was a dream for both of them and they were married a week later. During this year Dustin has been shooting for a championship title and the prize money, which he thinks will ease their living a lot. But for Annie she just wanted Dustin, no matter what he had or not. Annie ends up staying in town while she thinks things through and Dustin is determined to make it right, no matter what it takes, including not signing the divorce papers without a deal being made.
I really loved this book. The story is interesting and kept my attention. The characters are likeable and have a good chemistry.
Big and Bold is the second book in the Stone Cold Cowboys series. This story is all about second chances with the one person you can't let get away. Annie and Dustin have been married a year. But during that time there have been issues with communication between them, at least for Annie. So when she leaves and then serves divorce papers he is not only blind-sided but also cannot understand why. Annie was raised a city girl with parents that have a lot of money but never a lot of time for her. He owns a smaller ranch and also is a bulldoggin' champion on the rodeo circuit. The first night it was a dream for both of them and they were married a week later. During this year Dustin has been shooting for a championship title and the prize money, which he thinks will ease their living a lot. But for Annie she just wanted Dustin, no matter what he had or not. Annie ends up staying in town while she thinks things through and Dustin is determined to make it right, no matter what it takes, including not signing the divorce papers without a deal being made.
I really loved this book. The story is interesting and kept my attention. The characters are likeable and have a good chemistry.
August 20, 2025
Communicating for Love and Happiness -
Dustin was really distress about his wife’s intentions to divorce him, as he didn’t know why and couldn’t get in contact with her. Annie had been feeling lonely in her marriage for a while, so she decided to divorce Dustin and start over again, but the last thing she expected was for Dustin to derail her plans. Dustin decided to do everything possible to convince Annie to give them another chance at, but she was initially hesitant to agree.
Luckily, spending time together in close proximity led to them getting to know each other again and rekindling their romance. Unfortunately, not long after Dustin and Annie got back together, her father arrived and tried to break them up, but they stood together and sent him packing, so they could have the life that they had chosen for themselves. The story is well-written and easy to read, and it had brilliant character, a bit of drama and a feel-good storyline. You will definitely enjoy reading this book just as much as I did.
I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dustin was really distress about his wife’s intentions to divorce him, as he didn’t know why and couldn’t get in contact with her. Annie had been feeling lonely in her marriage for a while, so she decided to divorce Dustin and start over again, but the last thing she expected was for Dustin to derail her plans. Dustin decided to do everything possible to convince Annie to give them another chance at, but she was initially hesitant to agree.
Luckily, spending time together in close proximity led to them getting to know each other again and rekindling their romance. Unfortunately, not long after Dustin and Annie got back together, her father arrived and tried to break them up, but they stood together and sent him packing, so they could have the life that they had chosen for themselves. The story is well-written and easy to read, and it had brilliant character, a bit of drama and a feel-good storyline. You will definitely enjoy reading this book just as much as I did.
I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2025
**Second Chance!**
Welcome to “Big and Bold,” the heartwarming second book in The Stone Cold Cowboys series! Annie and Dustin have been married for a year, but lately, Annie feels like she’s always coming in second in Dustin’s life. Frustrated, she decides it’s time to leave him. This shocks Dustin, especially after just winning at the rodeo. The first person he wants to share his victory with is Annie, but instead, he receives divorce papers and finds that she’s not answering his calls.
Fate intervenes when Dustin spots Annie working at the local diner. He decides to stop and talk to her, needing some answers. Annie realizes she owes him an explanation, so she gives him 30 days before she makes her final decision to leave. Will Dustin finally open up and show Annie just how much he loves her, or will he keep her at a distance?
This delightful second-chance love story really lets you connect with the characters and their emotional journey. It’s all about rediscovering love and deepening their bond, making their happily-ever-after truly last!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Welcome to “Big and Bold,” the heartwarming second book in The Stone Cold Cowboys series! Annie and Dustin have been married for a year, but lately, Annie feels like she’s always coming in second in Dustin’s life. Frustrated, she decides it’s time to leave him. This shocks Dustin, especially after just winning at the rodeo. The first person he wants to share his victory with is Annie, but instead, he receives divorce papers and finds that she’s not answering his calls.
Fate intervenes when Dustin spots Annie working at the local diner. He decides to stop and talk to her, needing some answers. Annie realizes she owes him an explanation, so she gives him 30 days before she makes her final decision to leave. Will Dustin finally open up and show Annie just how much he loves her, or will he keep her at a distance?
This delightful second-chance love story really lets you connect with the characters and their emotional journey. It’s all about rediscovering love and deepening their bond, making their happily-ever-after truly last!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 27, 2025
When he gets served with divorce papers he is both completely gutted and it is his biggest fear come true. He has always known that she was better than him, its why he has worked so hard to make a name for himself on the rodeo circuit. He was always enough for her, but he never let their life together be enough, he always held back trying to outdo himself. She never cared about any of it, she just wanted him, and that was the one thing that he could never just give her. She would rather end things than live with just a piece of him. He makes a deal with her, one month back on the ranch and in his bed and he will sign the papers. He doesn't intend for it to get that far, he is going to woo his wife and remind her why she married him. This is a short story format so you don't expect complex plot lines or overly detailed character development. I think that given the fact that they are already married when the story starts, you feel like you get a little more meat to their story than you would in a typical short story format. It is sweet and a little spicy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 18, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. Dustin has been chasing the rodeo circuit, working hard to build a better life for his wife, Annie. Deep down, he feels she’s far too good for him, and he hopes winning a big prize will finally give them the chance to improve their ranch. Annie, who walked away from a life of privilege to marry him, is heartbroken by his distance and finally leaves—handing him divorce papers.
Shocked to realize she’s truly gone, Dustin seeks her out and makes a desperate deal: give him 30 days for a second chance. Annie reluctantly agrees, stunned that he even noticed her absence. Though they love each other deeply, their relationship has always lacked real communication beyond the bedroom. Dustin, convinced she would eventually see herself as “too good” for him, never expected her to walk away after just one year.
This is such a heartfelt, second-chance marriage story—full of raw emotion, stubborn pride, and the hope of rediscovering love.
Shocked to realize she’s truly gone, Dustin seeks her out and makes a desperate deal: give him 30 days for a second chance. Annie reluctantly agrees, stunned that he even noticed her absence. Though they love each other deeply, their relationship has always lacked real communication beyond the bedroom. Dustin, convinced she would eventually see herself as “too good” for him, never expected her to walk away after just one year.
This is such a heartfelt, second-chance marriage story—full of raw emotion, stubborn pride, and the hope of rediscovering love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2025
A second-chance cowboy romance that proves love is worth fighting for!!!
This book pulled me in from the very first page. Dustin and Annie’s story isn’t just about passion—it’s about breaking down walls, facing fears, and realizing that love can only thrive when you let someone all the way in. I loved how Annie wasn’t afraid to stand her ground, and how Dustin had to step up, risk his heart, and fight for the woman who had always been his.
The small-town charm, the sizzling chemistry, and the heartfelt emotion made this a page-turner I didn’t want to put down. Watching a tough cowboy learn how to be vulnerable gave this story real depth, and the “thirty-day ultimatum” added the perfect mix of tension and hope.
If you enjoy steamy, emotional second-chance romances with a cowboy twist, Big and Bold delivers everything its title promises.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book pulled me in from the very first page. Dustin and Annie’s story isn’t just about passion—it’s about breaking down walls, facing fears, and realizing that love can only thrive when you let someone all the way in. I loved how Annie wasn’t afraid to stand her ground, and how Dustin had to step up, risk his heart, and fight for the woman who had always been his.
The small-town charm, the sizzling chemistry, and the heartfelt emotion made this a page-turner I didn’t want to put down. Watching a tough cowboy learn how to be vulnerable gave this story real depth, and the “thirty-day ultimatum” added the perfect mix of tension and hope.
If you enjoy steamy, emotional second-chance romances with a cowboy twist, Big and Bold delivers everything its title promises.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2025
This is book two in the author’s Stone Cold Cowboys series and it. Is PERFECTION!!
I fell in absolute love with Dustin; I swear, that man made my heart melt! He was the sweetest thing; why can’t there be REAL men like him? And Annie—I totally understood where she was coming from and I might’ve done the same thing if I were in her shoes but the whole time I kept wondering, how could she resist that sweet man? He was literally BEGGING her to forgive him and give him another chance!
Like steamy, super short and sweet instalove romances? This is the one you’ve been looking for. The MMC is a cinnamon roll hero, the likes of which romance books are written about and the FMC isn’t afraid to stand up for herself, even to the point of breaking her own heart. Together, they will absolutely break you. Don’t miss it. 5 stars!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I fell in absolute love with Dustin; I swear, that man made my heart melt! He was the sweetest thing; why can’t there be REAL men like him? And Annie—I totally understood where she was coming from and I might’ve done the same thing if I were in her shoes but the whole time I kept wondering, how could she resist that sweet man? He was literally BEGGING her to forgive him and give him another chance!
Like steamy, super short and sweet instalove romances? This is the one you’ve been looking for. The MMC is a cinnamon roll hero, the likes of which romance books are written about and the FMC isn’t afraid to stand up for herself, even to the point of breaking her own heart. Together, they will absolutely break you. Don’t miss it. 5 stars!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 19, 2025
Second chance marriage romance and I absolutely loved it!
Dustin and Annie have been married about a year, and during that time all his focus has been on his bulldogging. Annie has felt more alone then ever, as her husbands focus has been elsewhere so she makes a hard choice of trying to start over. Only Dustin is not happy with her decision so counter offers 30days together if she feels nothing has changed by the end he'll sign the divorce papers.
Can right the wrongs of your relationship in 30days or is it too late to change?
5 star read from Hope, I love when she does second chance romance she just hits the spot right. The characters are written amazingly you can't help but want them to succeed in everything. Nice, shirt, easy read, no cheating, no ow drama, mild angst but ultimately a hea.
Dustin and Annie have been married about a year, and during that time all his focus has been on his bulldogging. Annie has felt more alone then ever, as her husbands focus has been elsewhere so she makes a hard choice of trying to start over. Only Dustin is not happy with her decision so counter offers 30days together if she feels nothing has changed by the end he'll sign the divorce papers.
Can right the wrongs of your relationship in 30days or is it too late to change?
5 star read from Hope, I love when she does second chance romance she just hits the spot right. The characters are written amazingly you can't help but want them to succeed in everything. Nice, shirt, easy read, no cheating, no ow drama, mild angst but ultimately a hea.
August 22, 2025
Bulldogger Dustin Clay was recently handed divorce papers by his wife, Annie. While driving through town, he finds her still in Whiskey River, working at a diner.
Spoilers***
Their whole relationship had miscommunication between the two of them: Dustin wanted more to feel like he was enough for Annie, while Annie just wanted him and for their life together to be enough. We get to see flashbacks of when he and Annie met and it was basically love at first sight. They were married two weeks later. Who can resist a cowboy telling you he’s taking you home with him? *swoon*
Their relationship progresses more and we see them communicate better and rekindle things. This was such a cute short story, highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.i
Spoilers***
Their whole relationship had miscommunication between the two of them: Dustin wanted more to feel like he was enough for Annie, while Annie just wanted him and for their life together to be enough. We get to see flashbacks of when he and Annie met and it was basically love at first sight. They were married two weeks later. Who can resist a cowboy telling you he’s taking you home with him? *swoon*
Their relationship progresses more and we see them communicate better and rekindle things. This was such a cute short story, highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.i
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2025
This one hit close to home.
I love this book so much because I could empathize with Annie on so many levels. The truth is that even if you love someone if you don’t show it, and they don’t feel it, and they don’t know it…then you’re not really loving them. Being in a one-sided relationship can be one of the loneliest places to be.
I think Annie was brave to do what she did. Dustin was so blinded by his insecurities that he almost lost the most important person in his life. But it also sounds like Annie didn’t communicate her needs as well. It takes two people to make a relationship work. I’m glad it worked out in this story and in my own life as well.
🌶️ was 2 out of 5. ❤️ was 3.5 out of 5.
I love this book so much because I could empathize with Annie on so many levels. The truth is that even if you love someone if you don’t show it, and they don’t feel it, and they don’t know it…then you’re not really loving them. Being in a one-sided relationship can be one of the loneliest places to be.
I think Annie was brave to do what she did. Dustin was so blinded by his insecurities that he almost lost the most important person in his life. But it also sounds like Annie didn’t communicate her needs as well. It takes two people to make a relationship work. I’m glad it worked out in this story and in my own life as well.
🌶️ was 2 out of 5. ❤️ was 3.5 out of 5.
August 24, 2025
I love second chance romances because they show that sexual chemistry is not the only glue needed for a relationship. For an 81 page novella, Hope Ford gave it her best effort. However, it is very clearly rushed and I don’t think their relationship improved greatly. It certainly did not make sense for them to have a kid when they just started learning about each other. While they both seem like great characters, he had so much to learn emotionally and she had so much to reckon with. In addition, the sex scene felt unneeded especially when she states multiple times that their sex life was never the problem and worse when it was not hot. There are much better short stories out there, even by Hope Ford themself. This is a def pass.
August 25, 2025
Annie has just walked out on Dustin. Although he always felt she was too good for him and would one day leave, it really hurts and nothing matters to him anymore, not even winning the rodeo and qualifying for the big one coming up. “What did I do?” he wonders.
But hooray for Violet: she kept Annie in town and Dustin tracks her down. He begs good…or maybe he just refuses to give up! And gets her to give him 30 days. They had a quick courtship and she now tells him that he never said I love you and Annie resents being alone. “I was never enough for you.” She thinks but Dustin is determined to prove that she is the woman of his dreams.
The emotions from the two are heartbreaking. I’ve read a couple marriage in crisis stories, and I am finding out that I like the trope!
But hooray for Violet: she kept Annie in town and Dustin tracks her down. He begs good…or maybe he just refuses to give up! And gets her to give him 30 days. They had a quick courtship and she now tells him that he never said I love you and Annie resents being alone. “I was never enough for you.” She thinks but Dustin is determined to prove that she is the woman of his dreams.
The emotions from the two are heartbreaking. I’ve read a couple marriage in crisis stories, and I am finding out that I like the trope!
August 25, 2025
Dustin believed the best way to show his wife he cared was by trying to give her an affluent lifestyle like she was raised in. When he receives divorce papers he realizes that his success on the rodeo circuit means nothing if it means that he loses Annie in the process.
Annie is tired of being alone and Dustin not sharing his feelings with her. She has concluded that he doesn’t care but when she sends him divorce papers she is about to realize what he is willing to do to show her that he has always loved her.
The love and chemistry between them was always there and I enjoyed seeing Dustin make the changes to show Annie that she is the most important thing in his life and everything else comes second.
Annie is tired of being alone and Dustin not sharing his feelings with her. She has concluded that he doesn’t care but when she sends him divorce papers she is about to realize what he is willing to do to show her that he has always loved her.
The love and chemistry between them was always there and I enjoyed seeing Dustin make the changes to show Annie that she is the most important thing in his life and everything else comes second.
August 19, 2025
This second book in the Stone Cold Cowboys series was so good. Dustin and Annie have been married for a year after meeting at the rodeo where Dustin competed in a bulldogging event. The attraction was instant and within two weeks they were married. Annie has been feeling as if Dustin doesn't really love her and has served him with divorce papers. Dustin wil do whatever it takes to prove to Annie that he loves her, including letting down the walls he has kept up and saying the three words she has never heard him say. I love how Dustin goes about winning her over an proving that he loves her and never wants to lose her. Great HEA.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
August 20, 2025
Big and Bold by Hope Ford is “BIG” on heartfelt emotion! I loved this wonderfully written romance. I liked that it was a second chance for Dustin and Annie to show their love for one another and to come out as an even stronger couple. Their well-written journey really goes to the heart of romance and communication within a relationship. Dustin and Annie both showed courage to work on their relationship and move forward to show that love. This story was engaging and charming and is worth the read. “Big and Bold” is Book 2 of the Stone Cold Cowboy series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 22, 2025
This was an emotional reading ride that gives Dustin the second chance he didn't know he was going to need. He's been doing the rodeo circuit to amass more wealth to give Annie more than he can now. Annie, more than tired of being alone, is ready to move on, despite her continued love for Dustin. As you may imagine, her serving him divorce papers shocked him into motion to try and save his marriage. What follows is quite the wild reading ride as he learns how he failed her and how he tries to make up for it. This is a fast paced and steamy read that showcased their heartbreak and angst as they worked their way back to an HEA. Good fun!
August 23, 2025
Cowboy romance.
Annie is a young woman married to a cowboy. While her husband spends his time living for his ranch and competitions, she is unhappy and alone. When she decides to divorce, her husband does everything to keep her.
Dustin is a cowboy living his passion and during a competition he fell for the most beautiful woman and was able to marry her. But now, after a year of marriage, she is asking him for a divorce because he has not been able to show her his love for her. And he is ready to do anything to prove it to her and keep her.
Will Annie and Dustin have a happy ending or will Annie return to her family…
Annie is a young woman married to a cowboy. While her husband spends his time living for his ranch and competitions, she is unhappy and alone. When she decides to divorce, her husband does everything to keep her.
Dustin is a cowboy living his passion and during a competition he fell for the most beautiful woman and was able to marry her. But now, after a year of marriage, she is asking him for a divorce because he has not been able to show her his love for her. And he is ready to do anything to prove it to her and keep her.
Will Annie and Dustin have a happy ending or will Annie return to her family…
August 24, 2025
Whether or not marriage-in-trouble romance is my thing (it isn't), and whether or not I felt literally any personal connection to these characters (I didn't), I really liked this book in a meta way. It definitely has a place in this universe, where half of the characters go through the stages of romance (meet cute, lust, sex, permanent commitment) in a matter of days. This book actually did a very reassuring thing in recognizing that pattern as something bound to result in people who never developed the intra-relationship ability to communicate when their needs are not meant. It felt like seeing behind the curtain, and I'm glad the author went this route.
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