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Saltwater Cowboy
When city girl Rose Solace packed her bags to move to Wippowa Island, she thought she had it all figured out. But when one major piece of her fresh start falls apart, she’s left reeling in a place brimming with southern charm, untamed beauty, and a way of life that feels worlds away from her own.
Determined to rebuild from the ground up, Rose is focused on starting fresh—until she meets Wells Calloway, a rugged cowboy with a quiet strength and a past that rivals her own. Between sun-drenched fields and late-night bonfires, Wells becomes both her biggest challenge and her unexpected anchor.
As Wells introduces her to the simple joys of southern living, Rose begins to uncover not just the island's magic, but pieces of herself she thought were lost forever.
As the island’s winds of change sweep through her life, Rose must decide: Will she cling to the plans that didn’t pan out, or take a leap of faith on a love as wild and untamed as Wippowa itself?
Determined to rebuild from the ground up, Rose is focused on starting fresh—until she meets Wells Calloway, a rugged cowboy with a quiet strength and a past that rivals her own. Between sun-drenched fields and late-night bonfires, Wells becomes both her biggest challenge and her unexpected anchor.
As Wells introduces her to the simple joys of southern living, Rose begins to uncover not just the island's magic, but pieces of herself she thought were lost forever.
As the island’s winds of change sweep through her life, Rose must decide: Will she cling to the plans that didn’t pan out, or take a leap of faith on a love as wild and untamed as Wippowa itself?
402 pages, Paperback
Published July 22, 2025
About the author
Ashley McConnell
8 books262 followersMeet Ashley — a coastal Floridian who can’t go for a beach walk without plotting her next story. The ocean? Her muse. Random strangers’ conversations? Probably dialogue in her next book.
By day, she keeps marketing campaigns afloat (and on deadline). By night, she trades spreadsheets for storyboards, typing away like her coffee depends on it.
A proud rescue dog mom, Ashley’s life has taken her from the chaos of New York City to the calm of the South—though “calm” is relative when you’ve got two dogs and a husband who always finds sand in the car.
When she’s not writing, she’s collecting seashells, sipping something iced, and pretending her email inbox doesn’t exist.
By day, she keeps marketing campaigns afloat (and on deadline). By night, she trades spreadsheets for storyboards, typing away like her coffee depends on it.
A proud rescue dog mom, Ashley’s life has taken her from the chaos of New York City to the calm of the South—though “calm” is relative when you’ve got two dogs and a husband who always finds sand in the car.
When she’s not writing, she’s collecting seashells, sipping something iced, and pretending her email inbox doesn’t exist.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
August 22, 2025
Such a fun, beachy read that had me hooked from the start! ☀️🌊
Ashley’s writing just keeps getting better - her growth as an author really shines in this one. Wells is sizzling (seriously, whew), and watching Rose come into her own was such a rewarding journey.
I wasn’t the biggest fan of the miscommunication trope, but the slow burn totally made up for it. Their chemistry? Off the charts. His sweet gestures? Talk about swoony! This one’s a perfect summer escape!
Ashley’s writing just keeps getting better - her growth as an author really shines in this one. Wells is sizzling (seriously, whew), and watching Rose come into her own was such a rewarding journey.
I wasn’t the biggest fan of the miscommunication trope, but the slow burn totally made up for it. Their chemistry? Off the charts. His sweet gestures? Talk about swoony! This one’s a perfect summer escape!
August 22, 2025
Can I just say Wippowa is a place where I'd love to move and get to know everyone. I loved having snippets of what Blythe and Charlie, and we can't forget about Wren, were up to. I absolutely ADORE Wren's relationship with both Rose and Wells in SWCB. She's a real show stealer.
Rose is someone who's very relatable, her issues are very real and you walk along with her as she figures out how to navigate life after such a huge change.
Wells is also dealing with some issues and I love how he is so patient and kind. I truly feel he is exactly what Rose needed to get past her ex and the damage he caused.
"You're gonna be trouble, aren't you?"
"Oh, Wells," I teased, flashing him a grin. "I've always been trouble."
The banter between these two is PERFECT. I loved reading their back and forth teasing and seeing their walls crumble with each one.
"Nothing's wrong with you."
"Then why do I feel like I'm falling apart?"
"Maybe you're not falling apart. Maybe you're just breaking free."
If you're looking for a feel good book that'll also make you laugh and cry, SWCB may be just what you're looking for!
Rose is someone who's very relatable, her issues are very real and you walk along with her as she figures out how to navigate life after such a huge change.
Wells is also dealing with some issues and I love how he is so patient and kind. I truly feel he is exactly what Rose needed to get past her ex and the damage he caused.
"You're gonna be trouble, aren't you?"
"Oh, Wells," I teased, flashing him a grin. "I've always been trouble."
The banter between these two is PERFECT. I loved reading their back and forth teasing and seeing their walls crumble with each one.
"Nothing's wrong with you."
"Then why do I feel like I'm falling apart?"
"Maybe you're not falling apart. Maybe you're just breaking free."
If you're looking for a feel good book that'll also make you laugh and cry, SWCB may be just what you're looking for!
August 25, 2025
💗This book was everything! The slow burn and witty banter between Rose and Wells was fabulous! I laughed so much throughout this book! Saltwater cowboy is the true definition of a city girl and a country boy trope!
💗I loved everything about this book. The writing was great and everything flowed well. Summer may be coming to an end but there’s always time for a cute, romantic beach read!
☀️FAVORITE QUOTES☀️
“The orange Skittles taste like toilet bowl cleaner.”
“I was the calm to his storm and he was the sunshine on my rainy day”
“To Flowers and no goats”
💗I loved everything about this book. The writing was great and everything flowed well. Summer may be coming to an end but there’s always time for a cute, romantic beach read!
☀️FAVORITE QUOTES☀️
“The orange Skittles taste like toilet bowl cleaner.”
“I was the calm to his storm and he was the sunshine on my rainy day”
“To Flowers and no goats”
August 10, 2025
“All I feel is free now”
⋆˙˚ ༘ ೀ⋆｡˚
Moving to a new town, renting a new apartment, living by her best friend, and spending slow cozy days with her boyfriend were the thoughts keeping Rose grounded as she floated through life in a city she didn’t feel connected to. A fresh start in the small coastal town of Wippowa Island was just what she needed and it was all going to plan. Until one shell shocking morning that left rose finding herself on the plane alone sitting by a stranger in the middle seat with an over the top slow southern accent and obnoxious kindness she didn’t want today. If every stranger was going to be like this she was In for a miserable stay until someone helped her feel at home again.
⋆˙˚ ༘ ೀ⋆｡˚
This book was absolutely beautiful. I devoured it in a day because I didn’t want to stop reading and drifting off to Wippowa Island. The characters were so special and I loved how love and friendship and understanding was seen in them in so many different ways. Rose was such a strong lead in this story and I loved how it acts as a reminder that strength can be seen in many different ways and even in the hardest times you can still find it. Wells was another character I’ll forever adore for his ability to be vulnerable and let others in when it seems impossible and out of control. I loved how the unlikely pair of the city girl and small town cowboy seemed so different but they were exactly the same deep down and were there to be on each others team during the hard times. Not only were there so many sweet bring me to tears moments there were so many times I was laughing at all the chaos and funny moments life on a farm provided. This book was so enjoyable and fun to read even through the happy tears and I’m so thankful to be able to share my thoughts with you all early. Saltwater Cowboy officially releases on August 25th and you won’t be disappointed in all the great things it has to offer.
⋆˙˚ ༘ ೀ⋆｡˚
Moving to a new town, renting a new apartment, living by her best friend, and spending slow cozy days with her boyfriend were the thoughts keeping Rose grounded as she floated through life in a city she didn’t feel connected to. A fresh start in the small coastal town of Wippowa Island was just what she needed and it was all going to plan. Until one shell shocking morning that left rose finding herself on the plane alone sitting by a stranger in the middle seat with an over the top slow southern accent and obnoxious kindness she didn’t want today. If every stranger was going to be like this she was In for a miserable stay until someone helped her feel at home again.
⋆˙˚ ༘ ೀ⋆｡˚
This book was absolutely beautiful. I devoured it in a day because I didn’t want to stop reading and drifting off to Wippowa Island. The characters were so special and I loved how love and friendship and understanding was seen in them in so many different ways. Rose was such a strong lead in this story and I loved how it acts as a reminder that strength can be seen in many different ways and even in the hardest times you can still find it. Wells was another character I’ll forever adore for his ability to be vulnerable and let others in when it seems impossible and out of control. I loved how the unlikely pair of the city girl and small town cowboy seemed so different but they were exactly the same deep down and were there to be on each others team during the hard times. Not only were there so many sweet bring me to tears moments there were so many times I was laughing at all the chaos and funny moments life on a farm provided. This book was so enjoyable and fun to read even through the happy tears and I’m so thankful to be able to share my thoughts with you all early. Saltwater Cowboy officially releases on August 25th and you won’t be disappointed in all the great things it has to offer.
September 28, 2025
This book might be my favorite of the 3!!! I love the grumpy/sunshine trope with it being the girl being grumpy and the man being the sunshine. Wells was 1,000% swoon worthy and watching Rose come into who she wanted to be and grow throughout this book was amazing!!
Getting to see the growth of Ashley's writing throughout these 3 books has been a wonderful experience and I can't wait to see what else she's going to write!
There wasn't a whole lot of spice in this book which was actually okay because the slow burn and build up to the spice defiantly made up for it!! Not all romance books need spice in my opinion as long as the story and build up are worth it, which was the case for this book! <3
(Don't take into account the length of time it took me to read this book. It was amazing and well worth the 5 stars I'm just a single mom with a full time job and crazy hours. So life happened and I didn't have much time to read since starting the book. I could have easily sat and ate the entire thing in like 2 days.)
Getting to see the growth of Ashley's writing throughout these 3 books has been a wonderful experience and I can't wait to see what else she's going to write!
There wasn't a whole lot of spice in this book which was actually okay because the slow burn and build up to the spice defiantly made up for it!! Not all romance books need spice in my opinion as long as the story and build up are worth it, which was the case for this book! <3
(Don't take into account the length of time it took me to read this book. It was amazing and well worth the 5 stars I'm just a single mom with a full time job and crazy hours. So life happened and I didn't have much time to read since starting the book. I could have easily sat and ate the entire thing in like 2 days.)
August 5, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ - This was an ARC read and my first read from Ashley McConnell and it didn’t disappoint. I was immediately transported into this book. The characters really held my attention. The emotional turmoil Rose went through and the steady force Wells was through the whole book. Heart eyes for Wells. Agh lovedd it. Just such a sweet beach, summer read. Definitely have to go back and read the other two books now (even though I know I’m technically out of order -doesn’t matter)
April 10, 2025
This book is amazing! If you are looking for a transformative, fun and relaxing read, this book will be the journey for you. Grateful to have read such a thoughtful and enjoyable story written by Ashley and looking forward to her future books!
June 6, 2025
Another amazing read from Ashley McConnell!! I really enjoyed Rose’s character from meeting her in the author’s previous books, but I’m now officially obsessed! Wells Calloway? Cowboy take me awayyy! This slow-burn coastal cowgirl romance was everything I’d hoped for and more!
June 8, 2025
Ashley did it again! This is a great read for anyone who enjoys small town romances or opposites attract. Similar to the When In Rome series by Sarah Adams, but with its own flair, and more spice! 🥵🌶️
It was fun to get to know Rose after meeting her as the smart mouthed best friend in Climb the Ladder.
The angst was angstin’ in this book which I LIVE for. Wells was so golden retriever… which makes him the ideal book boyfriend! 😍
Ashley fills her writing with so many great one-liners and quotable moments. Her characters are relatable and she addresses real life issues— anxiety, stress, heartbreak, anger…
Wippowa is a fictional town that we ALL wish we could visit. I can’t wait to see what else is next for this series!
It was fun to get to know Rose after meeting her as the smart mouthed best friend in Climb the Ladder.
The angst was angstin’ in this book which I LIVE for. Wells was so golden retriever… which makes him the ideal book boyfriend! 😍
Ashley fills her writing with so many great one-liners and quotable moments. Her characters are relatable and she addresses real life issues— anxiety, stress, heartbreak, anger…
Wippowa is a fictional town that we ALL wish we could visit. I can’t wait to see what else is next for this series!
June 26, 2025
This book has my whole heart. Maybe because I’m a sucker for stories of change, in which people rediscover themselves after a very bad period of their life. Rose and Wells have both a place in my heart.
Ashley’s writing is amazing! Go read this book NOW!
Ashley’s writing is amazing! Go read this book NOW!
July 27, 2025
Welcome back to Wippowa!
This was a slow burn, enemies-to-lovers with forced proximity.
You will enjoy reading Rose's journey to finding herself after a horrible break up 🩷
This was a slow burn, enemies-to-lovers with forced proximity.
You will enjoy reading Rose's journey to finding herself after a horrible break up 🩷
July 3, 2025
Loved Rose, really loved Wells. A few times I wanted to shake them both… but overall - obsessed. Their love and banter had me convinced the entire time.
June 18, 2025
Rose is ready to start a new life in Wippowa with her long-time boyfriend. She’ll be so close to her best friend, Blythe, Blythe’s husband (Charlie), and their daughter. What more could a girl ask for?
That plan was ready to go up until they were about to head to the airport. Rose’s boyfriend tells her that she can’t go with her. Rose’s boyfriend never thought she would actually go through with this plan as she apparently flip-flops with ideas. Except this time, Rose’s plan to start a fresh life in Wippowa with her best friend was an actual one that she’s determined to accomplish.
When Rose is on the plane to head to Wippowa, the guy sitting next to her will NOT stop talking. All she wants to do is just cry in peace and not be bothered. This was probably one of the worst plane rides she has ever taken, but when Rose reunites with her bestie, she knows life is good. She is so thankful for Blythe and Charlie as they are letting her stay at their place and she will be working at Charlie’s cafe for a little bit until she’s back on her own two feet.
Will Rose be able to get back on her two feet in a new spot? Will she ever heal from this crazy break up or will she go back to her ex-boyfriend?
I loved reading about Rose and her strength! Kudos to her for starting a new life somewhere totally new and thank goodness she has such great and supportive friends! This is such a great read while lying on the beach or enjoying on a cozy spot! I love how close Rose and Blythe are and even how close Rose and Charlie are…it definitely shows the close-knit family dynamic!
That plan was ready to go up until they were about to head to the airport. Rose’s boyfriend tells her that she can’t go with her. Rose’s boyfriend never thought she would actually go through with this plan as she apparently flip-flops with ideas. Except this time, Rose’s plan to start a fresh life in Wippowa with her best friend was an actual one that she’s determined to accomplish.
When Rose is on the plane to head to Wippowa, the guy sitting next to her will NOT stop talking. All she wants to do is just cry in peace and not be bothered. This was probably one of the worst plane rides she has ever taken, but when Rose reunites with her bestie, she knows life is good. She is so thankful for Blythe and Charlie as they are letting her stay at their place and she will be working at Charlie’s cafe for a little bit until she’s back on her own two feet.
Will Rose be able to get back on her two feet in a new spot? Will she ever heal from this crazy break up or will she go back to her ex-boyfriend?
I loved reading about Rose and her strength! Kudos to her for starting a new life somewhere totally new and thank goodness she has such great and supportive friends! This is such a great read while lying on the beach or enjoying on a cozy spot! I love how close Rose and Blythe are and even how close Rose and Charlie are…it definitely shows the close-knit family dynamic!
June 25, 2025
5 stars for this sweet, small-town romance about self-acceptance, love, and a some hilarious farm friends. Rose’s journey to a find a new home-and her own sense of worth—is filled with tender moments and laugh-out-loud chaos. Heartwarming and a blast to read, it’s a perfect feel-good summer romance that will have you wishing you were spending the warm days on a flower field and waking up each morning to a sunflower.
Thank you to Ashley for the ARC!
Thank you to Ashley for the ARC!
May 3, 2026
Such a great book! Highly recommend to someone who needs a good beach read
July 22, 2025
I loved being back in Wippowa for this book! This cozy, small beach town has brought me so much joy with each story. This one adding in a coastal cowboy had me swooning so hard!
This story follows along Rose and Wells. Rose is Blythe's best friend, Blythe being from the previous book before this one. Wells is Charlie's, Blythe's husband, best friend. When Rose's crappy ex boyfriend decides not to move to Wippowa with her, she's stuck getting on a plane alone and terrified of flying. Luckily for her, Wells just so happens to be her seat mate. She has no interest in the handsome southerner but Wells can't resist showing off his charm and tries to cheer her up. Little do they both know they will soon meet in this small beach town.
I loved getting bits of Charlie, Blythe, and Wren in this book. They are such a fun and sassy couple and Wren is too adorable. Poor Rose has been through so much and is left feeling unlovable so she's not sure how to process what she's been through, which most of us have probably related to at some point. Wells is the epitome of southern charm and a true gentleman. Their banter was so funny, the teasing and build up of them getting together had me hooked. I really enjoyed how Rose finally came to trust everything around her and believe that it was good for her. The found family aspect of this was so heartwarming and the story overall had me giggling and swooning.
This one releases August 25th and is the perfect summer, beachy read!
Thank you so much Ashley McConnell for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
This story follows along Rose and Wells. Rose is Blythe's best friend, Blythe being from the previous book before this one. Wells is Charlie's, Blythe's husband, best friend. When Rose's crappy ex boyfriend decides not to move to Wippowa with her, she's stuck getting on a plane alone and terrified of flying. Luckily for her, Wells just so happens to be her seat mate. She has no interest in the handsome southerner but Wells can't resist showing off his charm and tries to cheer her up. Little do they both know they will soon meet in this small beach town.
I loved getting bits of Charlie, Blythe, and Wren in this book. They are such a fun and sassy couple and Wren is too adorable. Poor Rose has been through so much and is left feeling unlovable so she's not sure how to process what she's been through, which most of us have probably related to at some point. Wells is the epitome of southern charm and a true gentleman. Their banter was so funny, the teasing and build up of them getting together had me hooked. I really enjoyed how Rose finally came to trust everything around her and believe that it was good for her. The found family aspect of this was so heartwarming and the story overall had me giggling and swooning.
This one releases August 25th and is the perfect summer, beachy read!
Thank you so much Ashley McConnell for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
October 4, 2025
Sweet heaven, this book did a little something to me! When I first found out SWCB was Rose’s story, I nearly screamed!! Blythe and Charlie’s story was already amazing, and now Rose? I’M ON CLOUD NINE!
Ashley did amazing with the book, the story-line, the plot!! The jokes were so funny lol, Wells Calloway has to be in the Top 5 book boyfriends on my list. The concept of enemies-to-lovers in this was amazing, absolutely entertaining because the reason behind it is both ridiculous and justified at the same time!
The slow-burn in this one nearly ended me. Don’t get me wrong, a slow-burn is just fire, but in this, I HAD TO WAIT 50 CHAPTERS FOR THE KISS!!! JUST THE KISS! Though I’m not complaining, it was nice to be all worked up over their building romance and blatant denial of their own feelings until later into the story lmao!
The golden part was, by 2:00 am, I was giggling and kicking my feet in the air, though as I read further, by 3:30 am, I was in tears. WHAT EVEN WAS THAT ENDING CHAOS?! I’ve never cried so hard sympathising with Rose while also trying to defend Wells—slightly.
It was my first time reading a small-town, cowboy romance and it didn’t disappoint! Definitely recommended it!
PS: Looking forward to the fourth and final book in the “Anchored In Love” series!
Ashley did amazing with the book, the story-line, the plot!! The jokes were so funny lol, Wells Calloway has to be in the Top 5 book boyfriends on my list. The concept of enemies-to-lovers in this was amazing, absolutely entertaining because the reason behind it is both ridiculous and justified at the same time!
The slow-burn in this one nearly ended me. Don’t get me wrong, a slow-burn is just fire, but in this, I HAD TO WAIT 50 CHAPTERS FOR THE KISS!!! JUST THE KISS! Though I’m not complaining, it was nice to be all worked up over their building romance and blatant denial of their own feelings until later into the story lmao!
The golden part was, by 2:00 am, I was giggling and kicking my feet in the air, though as I read further, by 3:30 am, I was in tears. WHAT EVEN WAS THAT ENDING CHAOS?! I’ve never cried so hard sympathising with Rose while also trying to defend Wells—slightly.
It was my first time reading a small-town, cowboy romance and it didn’t disappoint! Definitely recommended it!
PS: Looking forward to the fourth and final book in the “Anchored In Love” series!
June 13, 2026
Rating: 3.5
I really wanted to love this book; but unfortunately this book ended up lacking for me. I picked this book up at a little Indie bookstore in St. Augustine. The cover drew me in instantly, giving the perfect beach/summer romance.
In Saltwater Cowboy we follow Wells and Rose in a dual POV, as they slowly discover a love like any other they have experienced. Rose moved to Wippowa after her long term boyfriend dumped her and Wells has been running the family farm alone after the death of his parents. Now they are living under the same roof with Rose working on the farm, helping Wells. And over time they find a love made for a romance novel.
In theory, I love the storyline. Forced Proximity. Enemies-to-Lovers. A coastal cowboy falling in love with the new city girl that just moved to town. This had Hallmark story vibes from the beginning.
But unfortunately, I felt it dragged for too long and lacked some development. I would have loved to experience more of Wippowa, to really get a feel for the town. I felt it needed more descriptions of the areas and people to really find myself engrossed in the story. To really picture the scene.
And I wish we got more character development. We knew Rose’s past, but never really dove into the pain Wells was feeling from the loss of his parents. We went from Wells seeming happy and carefree for the majority of the book, to a chapter dedicated at the end to an emotional breakdown.
So unfortunately, this book just wasn’t for me. It does make for a great beach/summer read. But I just needed a little more from the characters. It wasn’t a terrible read, it definitely had its moments where is grabbed my attention. It just wasn’t a memorable has I had hoped it would be. 😢
I really wanted to love this book; but unfortunately this book ended up lacking for me. I picked this book up at a little Indie bookstore in St. Augustine. The cover drew me in instantly, giving the perfect beach/summer romance.
In Saltwater Cowboy we follow Wells and Rose in a dual POV, as they slowly discover a love like any other they have experienced. Rose moved to Wippowa after her long term boyfriend dumped her and Wells has been running the family farm alone after the death of his parents. Now they are living under the same roof with Rose working on the farm, helping Wells. And over time they find a love made for a romance novel.
In theory, I love the storyline. Forced Proximity. Enemies-to-Lovers. A coastal cowboy falling in love with the new city girl that just moved to town. This had Hallmark story vibes from the beginning.
But unfortunately, I felt it dragged for too long and lacked some development. I would have loved to experience more of Wippowa, to really get a feel for the town. I felt it needed more descriptions of the areas and people to really find myself engrossed in the story. To really picture the scene.
And I wish we got more character development. We knew Rose’s past, but never really dove into the pain Wells was feeling from the loss of his parents. We went from Wells seeming happy and carefree for the majority of the book, to a chapter dedicated at the end to an emotional breakdown.
So unfortunately, this book just wasn’t for me. It does make for a great beach/summer read. But I just needed a little more from the characters. It wasn’t a terrible read, it definitely had its moments where is grabbed my attention. It just wasn’t a memorable has I had hoped it would be. 😢
August 9, 2025
Saltwater Cowboy is a tender, emotional story that swept me away from the first page. Ashley McConnell writes with such heart—every moment feels textured with longing, grit, and grace. And the ending? Utterly beautiful. Quietly powerful.
To me, Wells was the soul of this story. His patience, his kindness, the way he showed up for Rose without pushing—he’s the kind of character who makes you believe in gentle strength. Rose was harder for me to love at first. She carried so much pain, and she didn’t always treat Wells the way he deserved. But as she began to heal, she truly redeemed herself. Watching her soften, open, and begin to trust again was one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.
And I have to say—I was beyond excited that Blythe and Charlie were in the story. "Seeing" them again felt like a warm hug from a favorite book. And Wren? That little sassy pants stole every scene she was in. I totally adore her.
I don’t usually save quotes, but this book gave me two that I loved!
“Maybe you’re not falling apart,” I murmured. “Maybe you’re just breaking free.” -Wells
"Love is planted with intention. Grown with joy. Always blooming." -Rose
This story is for anyone who’s ever needed time to find their way back to themselves. It’s messy, honest, and full of heart.
August 28, 2025
4.5⭐️’s- I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of this book! Thank you to @authorashleymcconnell for giving me the opportunity to read this amazing book! If you’re wanting coastal, farmer, and crazy good banter, look no further!
Rose is thrown a life changing curve ball that derails all of her plans. When she finds herself traveling to Wippowa she is suck on a plane next to a too chatty man…little does she know, that too chatty man turns out to be Wells, her new nemesis and friend to her best friends husband. While battling this life upheaval, Rose is also battling Wells and his charm. She soon finds herself working and living with this self proclaimed nemesis… and finding that he is not only her biggest challenge, but quickly becomes her strength through it all.
“𝘐 𝘥𝘪𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘵𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘨𝘰𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘥 𝘶𝘱. 𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘐’𝘥 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘴𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘥𝘶𝘭𝘭. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘶𝘣𝘣𝘰𝘳𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘮𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘦 𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘶𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭-𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘳.”
Rose is thrown a life changing curve ball that derails all of her plans. When she finds herself traveling to Wippowa she is suck on a plane next to a too chatty man…little does she know, that too chatty man turns out to be Wells, her new nemesis and friend to her best friends husband. While battling this life upheaval, Rose is also battling Wells and his charm. She soon finds herself working and living with this self proclaimed nemesis… and finding that he is not only her biggest challenge, but quickly becomes her strength through it all.
“𝘐 𝘥𝘪𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘵𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘨𝘰𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘥 𝘶𝘱. 𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘐’𝘥 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘴𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘥𝘶𝘭𝘭. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘶𝘣𝘣𝘰𝘳𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘮𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘦 𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘶𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭-𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘳.”
July 10, 2026
This book is the book to escape into for the summer! Rose is full of sass and sarcasm. She's ready to move to Wippowa with her long term boyfriend except he isn't so she leaves anyways. Heartbroken, she's just trying to move on and when Wells offers her to move in with him and work on his farm she takes a small leap to settling in.
I love that Ashley wrote this as a time to grow and rediscover ones self. Rose is able to find what she truly passionate about again and Wells encourages her the whole way which is something she has never really had before. He brings her a single sunflower every morning because no has ever done that before. She doesn't let her grumpy attitude push him away, but gives her space when she needs it and a shoulder to lean on when she needs a little extra support. The funny moments like animal attacks make the slow burn worth the tension between these two.
If you looking for a summer rec, here's the perfect small town, coastal cowboy romance with all the heartwarming moments that make you smile.
I love that Ashley wrote this as a time to grow and rediscover ones self. Rose is able to find what she truly passionate about again and Wells encourages her the whole way which is something she has never really had before. He brings her a single sunflower every morning because no has ever done that before. She doesn't let her grumpy attitude push him away, but gives her space when she needs it and a shoulder to lean on when she needs a little extra support. The funny moments like animal attacks make the slow burn worth the tension between these two.
If you looking for a summer rec, here's the perfect small town, coastal cowboy romance with all the heartwarming moments that make you smile.
August 17, 2025
I am very appreciative of Ashley McConnell and their team for the opportunity to read an e-ARC of Saltwater Cowboy!
I love cowboy romances, and Saltwater Cowboy was a fun twist to this traditional trope! I love when books have an entertaining first sentence that makes me excited to read the rest of the story.
Rose and Wells have such genuine, meaningful conversations that I enjoyed reading. I love that both characters highlighted the fact that they accepted each other as they were—without any expectations, pretenses, or having to prove themselves as something.
“I think I’m not lookin’ for someone to complete me. I think I just want someone who can be there. Who’s with me, you know?” Wells. This was such an impactful and thoughtful quote that reminds the MCs of how relationships should be.
At times, Rose seemed a bit too immature and rude for my reading preferences, but I liked that Wells provided a safe space for Rose to discover who she is outside of her past relationships.
I love cowboy romances, and Saltwater Cowboy was a fun twist to this traditional trope! I love when books have an entertaining first sentence that makes me excited to read the rest of the story.
Rose and Wells have such genuine, meaningful conversations that I enjoyed reading. I love that both characters highlighted the fact that they accepted each other as they were—without any expectations, pretenses, or having to prove themselves as something.
“I think I’m not lookin’ for someone to complete me. I think I just want someone who can be there. Who’s with me, you know?” Wells. This was such an impactful and thoughtful quote that reminds the MCs of how relationships should be.
At times, Rose seemed a bit too immature and rude for my reading preferences, but I liked that Wells provided a safe space for Rose to discover who she is outside of her past relationships.
August 26, 2025
Saltwater Cowboy by Ashley McConnell is such a charming he falls first romance. The small-town setting in Wippowa, Georgia completely swept me away with the farm, the goats, the flowers. It all made me want to trade city life for a quiet little town.
Rose and Wells are absolutely adorable together. After being burned by her last relationship, Rose is hesitant to open her heart again. But Wells? He’s patient, steady, and more than willing to meet her exactly where she is, just for the chance to be with her.
If you’re in the mood for a tender, feel good love story with cozy small-town charm and coastal cowboy vibes, I highly recommend this one.
Favorite Quote:
That’s the thing about love like this—it isn’t built on grand gestures alone. It’s made in the quiet, in the in-between. In seashells and sunflowers. In salt air and soft promises. It’s the ordinary days that become the ones you remember forever. 💕
Rose and Wells are absolutely adorable together. After being burned by her last relationship, Rose is hesitant to open her heart again. But Wells? He’s patient, steady, and more than willing to meet her exactly where she is, just for the chance to be with her.
If you’re in the mood for a tender, feel good love story with cozy small-town charm and coastal cowboy vibes, I highly recommend this one.
Favorite Quote:
That’s the thing about love like this—it isn’t built on grand gestures alone. It’s made in the quiet, in the in-between. In seashells and sunflowers. In salt air and soft promises. It’s the ordinary days that become the ones you remember forever. 💕
June 23, 2025
As if I couldn't love this series enough, this book brought me right back to the world of Wippowa that is so dear to me! Rose's story is so beautiful; we are able to see her journey from heartbreak and loss to one of confidence and self discovery. And finally being introduced to the infamous, the ever-lovely, golden retriever cowboy...Wells Calloway?! I can officially say, coastal cowboy is where it is AT. But in all seriousness, I loved the tone of this book, feeling like I was there with Rose as she grieved the pain of a broken relationship, not only with a silly boy, but within herself as well. As Rose tries to figure out what life will be from here, we are met with gorgeous backdrops of farmland, coastal small towns, coffeeshops, and the most dreamy homey settings. This little family of characters are always the best to find yourself with and Wippowa, the most healing place to find a little piece of home in.
August 26, 2025
🌊🤠🌻
This was the perfect summer read, plus you know I love a cowboy romance 🤭
Rose was supposed to be moving to Wippowa with her boyfriend, to be closer to her best friend. Unfortunately when it’s time to leave, she finds herself on the airplane alone. A man (Wells) comes to sit in the seat that was supposed to be her boyfriends, he has a southern accent and likes orange skittles. Rose can’t wait to get off the plane and never see him again, unfortunately for her that’s not the case 😉
I absolutely loved this book, this small town and characters stealing my heart. A city girl and a cowboy, two opposites but the chemistry was everything. Rose and Wells were truly meant for each other, I loved their banter. I also loved the side characters, I will definitely be going back to read Climb the Ladder and Tides and Tidings 💖
Thank you Ashley McConnell for the ARC 🫶🏻
This was the perfect summer read, plus you know I love a cowboy romance 🤭
Rose was supposed to be moving to Wippowa with her boyfriend, to be closer to her best friend. Unfortunately when it’s time to leave, she finds herself on the airplane alone. A man (Wells) comes to sit in the seat that was supposed to be her boyfriends, he has a southern accent and likes orange skittles. Rose can’t wait to get off the plane and never see him again, unfortunately for her that’s not the case 😉
I absolutely loved this book, this small town and characters stealing my heart. A city girl and a cowboy, two opposites but the chemistry was everything. Rose and Wells were truly meant for each other, I loved their banter. I also loved the side characters, I will definitely be going back to read Climb the Ladder and Tides and Tidings 💖
Thank you Ashley McConnell for the ARC 🫶🏻
August 25, 2025
I just finished Saltwater Cowboy by Ashley McConnell and wow—what an amazing read! 💙 Wells and Rose’s story has quickly become one of my favorites. Ashley has such a gift for writing love stories that feel both realistic and heartfelt, while still giving you that beautiful escape we all look for in reading.
What I especially love about her writing is how she validates her characters’ emotions without ever making them feel shallow or forced, how naturally she paces the journey from strangers to soulmates, and how she adds just the right amount of obstacles—enough to keep things interesting but never dragging on too long.
And as a bonus, I loved getting to revisit Charlie and Blythe’s story and seeing sassy little Wren growing up!
What I especially love about her writing is how she validates her characters’ emotions without ever making them feel shallow or forced, how naturally she paces the journey from strangers to soulmates, and how she adds just the right amount of obstacles—enough to keep things interesting but never dragging on too long.
And as a bonus, I loved getting to revisit Charlie and Blythe’s story and seeing sassy little Wren growing up!
August 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🤍cowboy romance
🤍forced proximity
🤍slow burn
🤍opposites attract
💋Dramatic Thoughts💋
It was my first Ashley McConnell book and I really enjoyed it!! This was a super cute summer time read!! I loved getting a front row seat to Wells crumbling Rose’s walls down in this sleepy little beach town.
Wrenn was such a fun character + W Squared Day was a hit in my book!! The forced proximity portion of this book was great and I loved seeing Rose spend time out in the country which was a stark contrast to her previous life!
💬Favorite Quotes💬
“Sunflowers are bold, unapologetic. They stand tall and proud.”
“I go to bed at night thinking about what I’m going to say to make you smile the next day.”
“If you’re going to be anyone’s problem, be mine.”
🤍cowboy romance
🤍forced proximity
🤍slow burn
🤍opposites attract
💋Dramatic Thoughts💋
It was my first Ashley McConnell book and I really enjoyed it!! This was a super cute summer time read!! I loved getting a front row seat to Wells crumbling Rose’s walls down in this sleepy little beach town.
Wrenn was such a fun character + W Squared Day was a hit in my book!! The forced proximity portion of this book was great and I loved seeing Rose spend time out in the country which was a stark contrast to her previous life!
💬Favorite Quotes💬
“Sunflowers are bold, unapologetic. They stand tall and proud.”
“I go to bed at night thinking about what I’m going to say to make you smile the next day.”
“If you’re going to be anyone’s problem, be mine.”
November 7, 2025
I just finished Saltwater Cowboy by Ashley McConnell, and it’s an easy 5⭐️ read for me! This book was the perfect slow-burn love story — full of heart, healing, and southern charm. Rose and Wells completely pulled me in from the start. Their chemistry felt so natural, building slowly between the sunsets, bonfires, and quiet moments that said more than words ever could. I loved watching Rose rediscover herself and find peace (and love) on Wippowa Island. Ashley McConnell’s writing makes you feel the salt air and small-town warmth. It’s emotional, beautifully written, and reminds you that sometimes the best things come when you stop planning and start feeling.
If you love heartfelt slow burns, small-town settings, and rugged cowboys with soft hearts — this one’s a must-read. 🤍
If you love heartfelt slow burns, small-town settings, and rugged cowboys with soft hearts — this one’s a must-read. 🤍
January 16, 2026
4.25⭐️ 🌶️
I regret not reading this book sooner. I swear Ashley just loves making me cry with her books through I probably shouldn’t have read this after midnight. Can’t wait to read more of Rose and Wells
What I liked: how we actually see the depth of heart break a very hard depth in my opinion and trying to rebuild yourself when you think you can’t because the one person who thought you could depend on says you can’t. Charlie’s development because when we first met him he was grumpy and kept to himself now he’s showing more emotions as well as showing empathy especially to those who need it like Rose. Rose’s love for everyone. The reverse grumpy x sunshine. The chapter titles. The F**k it moment. This book had me smiling. How they gave each space when needed.
I regret not reading this book sooner. I swear Ashley just loves making me cry with her books through I probably shouldn’t have read this after midnight. Can’t wait to read more of Rose and Wells
What I liked: how we actually see the depth of heart break a very hard depth in my opinion and trying to rebuild yourself when you think you can’t because the one person who thought you could depend on says you can’t. Charlie’s development because when we first met him he was grumpy and kept to himself now he’s showing more emotions as well as showing empathy especially to those who need it like Rose. Rose’s love for everyone. The reverse grumpy x sunshine. The chapter titles. The F**k it moment. This book had me smiling. How they gave each space when needed.
July 11, 2026
3.5⭐️ (rounded up to 4!)
This is a charming coastal romance featuring enemies-to-lovers and a slow-burn romance between Rose Solace and Wells Calloway.
Rose is ready to leave Seattle behind and start a new chapter on the small-town Wippowa Island with her longtime boyfriend. But when her plans fall apart, she’s forced to rediscover herself, her purpose, and what she truly wants. Along the way, she meets Wells Calloway—a country boy who challenges her in all the right ways.
My only criticism is that a few storylines unfolded a bit too abruptly and could have used more buildup or background. That said, I still found this to be an enjoyable, lighthearted beach read that’s perfect for summer. And yes—there’s one 🌶️ scene that romance readers will definitely appreciate!
This is a charming coastal romance featuring enemies-to-lovers and a slow-burn romance between Rose Solace and Wells Calloway.
Rose is ready to leave Seattle behind and start a new chapter on the small-town Wippowa Island with her longtime boyfriend. But when her plans fall apart, she’s forced to rediscover herself, her purpose, and what she truly wants. Along the way, she meets Wells Calloway—a country boy who challenges her in all the right ways.
My only criticism is that a few storylines unfolded a bit too abruptly and could have used more buildup or background. That said, I still found this to be an enjoyable, lighthearted beach read that’s perfect for summer. And yes—there’s one 🌶️ scene that romance readers will definitely appreciate!
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