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Oakwood Ranch #2
Game Over
Not yet published
Expected 22 Jan 26His football days might be over. But the game is just beginning…
Forced out of the game by a career-ending injury, Dylan Sullivan is busy drowning his sorrows in the local bar. Slumped a few stools down, Izzy Brooks knocks back another bourbon. Her grandpa is selling the horses she loves, meaning she’s out of a job—and a home.
The next morning, Dylan wakes groggily to the sound of horses’ hooves—with zero memory of the night before. Unlucky for him, there’s a tougher-than-nails, sexy-as-hell ranch hand with a scowl the size of Texas to fill him in… Last night, Dylan bought eighteen horses to fill his family’s empty ranch. Izzy’s horses.
Izzy’s future relies on Dylan becoming the rancher he never planned to be. As she puts him through his paces, competitive sparks—and something even more sizzling—fly. And stolen moments amongst the haystacks start to feel like a new beginning for both of them.
But when Dylan gets a chance to rejoin the world of football, the hope in Izzy’s heart flatlines. Will he prove every misgiving she had about him true? Or will he realize the path he never expected to walk is the one leading to the happy ending he was looking for?
Game Over is a steamy but heartfelt enemies-to-lovers cowboy and sports romance, perfect for fans of Elsie Silver, Stephanie Archer and Liz Tomforde. The second in the Oakwood Ranch series, it can also be read as a standalone.
Readers are falling HARD for the Oakwood Ranch
“It’s 1am and I’m here with tears streaming down my face… Completely blown away… I have no idea how any review could do this justice… One of the best of our time… Stolen my heart… Full on made me belly laugh… Biggest book hangover of all time… INCREDIBLE!… I devoured page after page in just one sitting… Zero regrets… Deserving of ALL the praise… My book of the year.” Littlemissbooklover87, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Wow, what a ride!… Had me hooked… The tension? Practically bursting off the page!… AND THE SPICE!… Had me fanning my cheeks and turning my brightness down on my phone to make sure no one could see… Added to my 5-star hall of fame!” Reading_with_nix, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Loved every second… Ridiculously edible… ICONIC… Has my heart. The banter? Sharp. The pining? Gut-wrenching. The trust issues? Delicious… I'm unwell… Fluffy, spicy, and addicting… You won’t be able to put it down… Perfect.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Love love loved!!!!!!… Everything I wanted and more!… So perfect!… I did not want it to end!” Jessica’s Book Biz, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Everything I want in a romance… Blends sports romance with cowboy charm in such a fresh, engaging way… Absolutely nailed it… The banter? Perfect
Forced out of the game by a career-ending injury, Dylan Sullivan is busy drowning his sorrows in the local bar. Slumped a few stools down, Izzy Brooks knocks back another bourbon. Her grandpa is selling the horses she loves, meaning she’s out of a job—and a home.
The next morning, Dylan wakes groggily to the sound of horses’ hooves—with zero memory of the night before. Unlucky for him, there’s a tougher-than-nails, sexy-as-hell ranch hand with a scowl the size of Texas to fill him in… Last night, Dylan bought eighteen horses to fill his family’s empty ranch. Izzy’s horses.
Izzy’s future relies on Dylan becoming the rancher he never planned to be. As she puts him through his paces, competitive sparks—and something even more sizzling—fly. And stolen moments amongst the haystacks start to feel like a new beginning for both of them.
But when Dylan gets a chance to rejoin the world of football, the hope in Izzy’s heart flatlines. Will he prove every misgiving she had about him true? Or will he realize the path he never expected to walk is the one leading to the happy ending he was looking for?
Game Over is a steamy but heartfelt enemies-to-lovers cowboy and sports romance, perfect for fans of Elsie Silver, Stephanie Archer and Liz Tomforde. The second in the Oakwood Ranch series, it can also be read as a standalone.
Readers are falling HARD for the Oakwood Ranch
“It’s 1am and I’m here with tears streaming down my face… Completely blown away… I have no idea how any review could do this justice… One of the best of our time… Stolen my heart… Full on made me belly laugh… Biggest book hangover of all time… INCREDIBLE!… I devoured page after page in just one sitting… Zero regrets… Deserving of ALL the praise… My book of the year.” Littlemissbooklover87, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Wow, what a ride!… Had me hooked… The tension? Practically bursting off the page!… AND THE SPICE!… Had me fanning my cheeks and turning my brightness down on my phone to make sure no one could see… Added to my 5-star hall of fame!” Reading_with_nix, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Loved every second… Ridiculously edible… ICONIC… Has my heart. The banter? Sharp. The pining? Gut-wrenching. The trust issues? Delicious… I'm unwell… Fluffy, spicy, and addicting… You won’t be able to put it down… Perfect.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Love love loved!!!!!!… Everything I wanted and more!… So perfect!… I did not want it to end!” Jessica’s Book Biz, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Everything I want in a romance… Blends sports romance with cowboy charm in such a fresh, engaging way… Absolutely nailed it… The banter? Perfect
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 22, 2026
18 people are currently reading
306 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews
October 17, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC! All thoughts are my own!
🎉 Expected Publication Date: 22nd of January 2026 🎉
🤍 Tropes 🤍
🩷 Romance
💋The Spice
🏈NFL
😜Banter
👥Brotherhood
🤠Cowboys/Cowgirls
🐎Horses
🌱New Directions in Life
😤 Grumpy x Grumpy
🤏Close Proximity
👨👩👧👦 Found Family
👩👧Single Mama
🎀👧🏻Darling Little Girl
⚠️ Warnings ⚠️
╰➤ Sexually Explicit Language/Content
╰➤ Swearing
╰➤ Alcohol Used as a Coping Mechanism
╰➤ Abandonment from Family Members
I am so happy to be reading book two in the Oakwood Ranch series!!
The first book was about one of the Sullivan brothers - Jake - book two is now about the next brother Dylan! The third one I am assuming will be about the third and final brother Chase!
Dylan Sullivan (MMC) and Izzy Brooks (FMC) were an absolute delight. I have underlined so many parts of this book that I found amusing or poignant. I really like the backstory of these two characters. Dylan’s injury and his need to redirect himself in his life were great plot points and I just love Izzy and her daughter Madison. I also liked that Dylan wasn’t as much of a player as Jake haha! Bella North can really tell a great story. The writing and characters are vibrant and fun. The flirting and banter is great between all of the characters. It is really quite witty. I just had such a great time! I love the MMC and FMC. I love the Sullivan brothers! I love Flic and the FMC’s friendship. I also love the MMC with the FMC’s daughter. So many sweet moments to be had!
I feel both of the main characters were in a state of crisis at the beginning of the book. Dylan was struggling post-injury and finding his feet, and Izzy was facing unemployment with a daughter to provide for. It was a great setup to the story! I will say, however, that I liked the initial meeting that they had in the cars. That was quite good, but I did not like the bar scene personally. It was too quick and insta-lusty for me. I wish that scene had played out differently a bit. I will say that there were times when the main characters failed to communicate properly or had emotional outburst that were on the dramatic side. They are explained with backstory but towards the end I was a bit like, just kiss and make up already! I still enjoyed the story though and loved the ending!
I have to say the brother’s banter was on point again in this book!
‘“What the hell?” I (Dylan) growl. The sound of my own voice pounds in my head. “I could’ve been naked. Or had a woman in here.”
Jake snorts. “Please. You’ve spent the last two years celibate and sulking. The only thing in here is you and your pity party.”’ XD
‘Dylan: I’m busy.
Jake: If you’re throwing another pity party, Dyl, maybe invite us next time!
Chase: Before you buy a fleet of antique tractors?”
Jake: Or a herd of llamas. Ranch diversification, right?
Dylan: Dicks!’ XD
‘“The Sullivan charm is in there somewhere, Dyl,” Jake throws out.
“Buried under a mountain of grump,” Chase finishes.’ XD
The brothers were savage to each other at times! It had me belly laughing. I don’t have siblings really but if I did I would want a relationship like the Sullivan’s. Absolutely savage at times!
I loved the secondary characters too. Mama Sullivan is a gem. She is the real MVP I swear! Acts of services without end, taking care of everyone as usual!
‘“You need anything today?” she (Mama) asks like she does every day.’
She is such a babe! She is the mother I aspire to be quite frankly!
Flic is equally awesome in this book!
‘Izzy: Are you sure Dylan’s a nice guy? All I’m seeing is a jerk who buys horse stock and then disappears for a week!
Flic: I didn’t say he wasn’t grumpy, but yeah, he’s one of the good guys. You could do a hell of a lot worse!!
Izzy: I’m working for the guy and that’s it. Grumpy assholes are not my type.
Flic: I didn’t realize dried-up spinsters had a type!
Izzy: I’m not taking dating advice from a woman who knows every word to every Disney song in existence.’
These burns! Had my rolling!
And my favourite little Madison!
‘Dylan rubs at the stumble on his jaw! “I like horses fine. I’m just not sure they like me.”
“Mom says horses don’t like jerks,” Mad says. “Are you a jerk?”
…
“This is Rusty. He’s grumpy, so you’ll get along fine.”’
I mean seriously! Who could not love this girl! She says the truth and doesn’t hold the punches back. She was a darling!
Guys this is such a fun read! The romance is great. The banter is epic. The relationships all feel real and have depth to them. Is it perfect? Maybe not! But I loved it! Easy five stars from me!!! Where is book 3 already!!!!!?
Thanks all for reading!
🤍🤍🤍
🎉 Expected Publication Date: 22nd of January 2026 🎉
🤍 Tropes 🤍
🩷 Romance
💋The Spice
🏈NFL
😜Banter
👥Brotherhood
🤠Cowboys/Cowgirls
🐎Horses
🌱New Directions in Life
😤 Grumpy x Grumpy
🤏Close Proximity
👨👩👧👦 Found Family
👩👧Single Mama
🎀👧🏻Darling Little Girl
⚠️ Warnings ⚠️
╰➤ Sexually Explicit Language/Content
╰➤ Swearing
╰➤ Alcohol Used as a Coping Mechanism
╰➤ Abandonment from Family Members
I am so happy to be reading book two in the Oakwood Ranch series!!
The first book was about one of the Sullivan brothers - Jake - book two is now about the next brother Dylan! The third one I am assuming will be about the third and final brother Chase!
Dylan Sullivan (MMC) and Izzy Brooks (FMC) were an absolute delight. I have underlined so many parts of this book that I found amusing or poignant. I really like the backstory of these two characters. Dylan’s injury and his need to redirect himself in his life were great plot points and I just love Izzy and her daughter Madison. I also liked that Dylan wasn’t as much of a player as Jake haha! Bella North can really tell a great story. The writing and characters are vibrant and fun. The flirting and banter is great between all of the characters. It is really quite witty. I just had such a great time! I love the MMC and FMC. I love the Sullivan brothers! I love Flic and the FMC’s friendship. I also love the MMC with the FMC’s daughter. So many sweet moments to be had!
I feel both of the main characters were in a state of crisis at the beginning of the book. Dylan was struggling post-injury and finding his feet, and Izzy was facing unemployment with a daughter to provide for. It was a great setup to the story! I will say, however, that I liked the initial meeting that they had in the cars. That was quite good, but I did not like the bar scene personally. It was too quick and insta-lusty for me. I wish that scene had played out differently a bit. I will say that there were times when the main characters failed to communicate properly or had emotional outburst that were on the dramatic side. They are explained with backstory but towards the end I was a bit like, just kiss and make up already! I still enjoyed the story though and loved the ending!
I have to say the brother’s banter was on point again in this book!
‘“What the hell?” I (Dylan) growl. The sound of my own voice pounds in my head. “I could’ve been naked. Or had a woman in here.”
Jake snorts. “Please. You’ve spent the last two years celibate and sulking. The only thing in here is you and your pity party.”’ XD
‘Dylan: I’m busy.
Jake: If you’re throwing another pity party, Dyl, maybe invite us next time!
Chase: Before you buy a fleet of antique tractors?”
Jake: Or a herd of llamas. Ranch diversification, right?
Dylan: Dicks!’ XD
‘“The Sullivan charm is in there somewhere, Dyl,” Jake throws out.
“Buried under a mountain of grump,” Chase finishes.’ XD
The brothers were savage to each other at times! It had me belly laughing. I don’t have siblings really but if I did I would want a relationship like the Sullivan’s. Absolutely savage at times!
I loved the secondary characters too. Mama Sullivan is a gem. She is the real MVP I swear! Acts of services without end, taking care of everyone as usual!
‘“You need anything today?” she (Mama) asks like she does every day.’
She is such a babe! She is the mother I aspire to be quite frankly!
Flic is equally awesome in this book!
‘Izzy: Are you sure Dylan’s a nice guy? All I’m seeing is a jerk who buys horse stock and then disappears for a week!
Flic: I didn’t say he wasn’t grumpy, but yeah, he’s one of the good guys. You could do a hell of a lot worse!!
Izzy: I’m working for the guy and that’s it. Grumpy assholes are not my type.
Flic: I didn’t realize dried-up spinsters had a type!
Izzy: I’m not taking dating advice from a woman who knows every word to every Disney song in existence.’
These burns! Had my rolling!
And my favourite little Madison!
‘Dylan rubs at the stumble on his jaw! “I like horses fine. I’m just not sure they like me.”
“Mom says horses don’t like jerks,” Mad says. “Are you a jerk?”
…
“This is Rusty. He’s grumpy, so you’ll get along fine.”’
I mean seriously! Who could not love this girl! She says the truth and doesn’t hold the punches back. She was a darling!
Guys this is such a fun read! The romance is great. The banter is epic. The relationships all feel real and have depth to them. Is it perfect? Maybe not! But I loved it! Easy five stars from me!!! Where is book 3 already!!!!!?
Thanks all for reading!
🤍🤍🤍
September 29, 2025
Game Over
by Bella North
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.75 stars)
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for the ARC!
This was exactly the kind of cowboy-sports romance mashup I didn’t know I needed. Picture it: a washed-up football star drowning his sorrows meets a tough-as-nails ranch hand who is so done with his nonsense. Add in eighteen horses, some hayloft tension, and enough sparks to light up the whole of Texas, and you’ve got a fun, sweet, and spicy ride.
I liked Dylan and Izzy together—the banter, the grudging partnership, the way their competitive streaks kept pushing at each other. The whole “city boy learns the ropes on the ranch” setup gave plenty of opportunity for both laughs and swoony moments. And Izzy? She was a powerhouse. Fierce, stubborn, passionate, and not about to let Dylan coast by on charm alone. Loved her.
That said, the romance didn’t always fully land for me. The chemistry was there, but sometimes it felt like we were skipping steps—going from enemies to heat a little too quickly without enough slow-burn build-up. And while the football subplot added some tension, I wasn’t completely sold on Dylan’s tug-of-war between his old life and this unexpected new one. It worked, but it wasn’t as gut-punch emotional as I’d hoped.
Still, the writing is engaging, the pacing moves fast, and the setting is pitch-perfect for anyone who loves cowboys, small-town vibes, and second chances. It’s sweet, it’s sexy, it’s a little predictable—but in the comforting way that makes you want to curl up with it on a weekend and just enjoy the ride.
So, 3.75 stars from me. A solid, enjoyable read that delivers on the cowboy-sports promise, even if it didn’t completely blow me away. Perfect for fans of Elsie Silver and Stephanie Archer looking for something in that lane.
by Bella North
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.75 stars)
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for the ARC!
This was exactly the kind of cowboy-sports romance mashup I didn’t know I needed. Picture it: a washed-up football star drowning his sorrows meets a tough-as-nails ranch hand who is so done with his nonsense. Add in eighteen horses, some hayloft tension, and enough sparks to light up the whole of Texas, and you’ve got a fun, sweet, and spicy ride.
I liked Dylan and Izzy together—the banter, the grudging partnership, the way their competitive streaks kept pushing at each other. The whole “city boy learns the ropes on the ranch” setup gave plenty of opportunity for both laughs and swoony moments. And Izzy? She was a powerhouse. Fierce, stubborn, passionate, and not about to let Dylan coast by on charm alone. Loved her.
That said, the romance didn’t always fully land for me. The chemistry was there, but sometimes it felt like we were skipping steps—going from enemies to heat a little too quickly without enough slow-burn build-up. And while the football subplot added some tension, I wasn’t completely sold on Dylan’s tug-of-war between his old life and this unexpected new one. It worked, but it wasn’t as gut-punch emotional as I’d hoped.
Still, the writing is engaging, the pacing moves fast, and the setting is pitch-perfect for anyone who loves cowboys, small-town vibes, and second chances. It’s sweet, it’s sexy, it’s a little predictable—but in the comforting way that makes you want to curl up with it on a weekend and just enjoy the ride.
So, 3.75 stars from me. A solid, enjoyable read that delivers on the cowboy-sports promise, even if it didn’t completely blow me away. Perfect for fans of Elsie Silver and Stephanie Archer looking for something in that lane.
November 26, 2025
Game Over starts strong with a premise that immediately hooks you. A fallen football star and a sharp-tongued ranch hand forced to work side by side after one wild, impulsive night changes both of their lives. It’s the kind of setup that promises tension, redemption, and sparks flying in all the right ways 😏😏
Dylan, once living the high life under stadium lights, is now left to face who he is without the game that defined him. Izzy, on the other hand, is fighting tooth and nail to keep her world from falling apart after losing the horses she loves. When their paths collide, the result is an emotional tug-of-war filled with stubborn pride, slow-burn attraction, and plenty of barbed banter.
While I love a good enemies-to-lovers dynamic, Izzy’s attitude sometimes crossed from fiery to frustrating. Her strength and independence were admirable, but she often came off a little too harsh. (especially when Dylan was genuinely trying to find his footing again) There were moments when her words seemed to drag him back down just as he was starting to heal, and that made it harder for me to root for her 😕
Dylan, for his part, had his flaws too—grumpy, lost, and maybe a little too stuck in the past—but I found his journey more sympathetic. Watching him slowly rediscover purpose outside of football was one of the story’s best parts 🩷🩷
The chemistry between them built gradually, and I did appreciate how it captured that stubborn “we should hate each other but can’t stay away” energy. The ending was also satisfying and brought a nice sense of closure once both characters finally let down their walls.
Overall, this one is a mix of sweet and spicy with plenty of grit. The story had promise, and the emotional setup was strong, but honestly Izzy made it hard for me to fully fall in love with the story. Still, if you enjoy enemies-to-lovers stories with a ranch backdrop, stubborn characters, and slow-burn tension that keeps you flipping pages, it’s worth the read.
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
”And when she smiles-not the sarcastic smirk, but the rare, soft smile she tries to hide-I find myself wondering what it would be like to reach for her hand, tug her toward me, and press my lips to hers.”
⸻
"I can take care of myself," she says with her trademark eye roll.
"Didn't say you couldn't. But it doesn't mean I'm not going to be looking out for you, too."
⸻
“Falling for someone means laying myself bare. And yet, this doesn't feel like falling. It feels like being caught. Like maybe I don't have to do this alone anymore.”
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
🏈 enemies→lovers
🐴 grumpy x grumpy
🏈 forced proximity
🐴 slow burn
🏈 dual POV
🐴 workplace romance
A huge thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture, and Bella North for allowing me to read this arc. These are all my honest opinions in this review.
Dylan, once living the high life under stadium lights, is now left to face who he is without the game that defined him. Izzy, on the other hand, is fighting tooth and nail to keep her world from falling apart after losing the horses she loves. When their paths collide, the result is an emotional tug-of-war filled with stubborn pride, slow-burn attraction, and plenty of barbed banter.
While I love a good enemies-to-lovers dynamic, Izzy’s attitude sometimes crossed from fiery to frustrating. Her strength and independence were admirable, but she often came off a little too harsh. (especially when Dylan was genuinely trying to find his footing again) There were moments when her words seemed to drag him back down just as he was starting to heal, and that made it harder for me to root for her 😕
Dylan, for his part, had his flaws too—grumpy, lost, and maybe a little too stuck in the past—but I found his journey more sympathetic. Watching him slowly rediscover purpose outside of football was one of the story’s best parts 🩷🩷
The chemistry between them built gradually, and I did appreciate how it captured that stubborn “we should hate each other but can’t stay away” energy. The ending was also satisfying and brought a nice sense of closure once both characters finally let down their walls.
Overall, this one is a mix of sweet and spicy with plenty of grit. The story had promise, and the emotional setup was strong, but honestly Izzy made it hard for me to fully fall in love with the story. Still, if you enjoy enemies-to-lovers stories with a ranch backdrop, stubborn characters, and slow-burn tension that keeps you flipping pages, it’s worth the read.
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
”And when she smiles-not the sarcastic smirk, but the rare, soft smile she tries to hide-I find myself wondering what it would be like to reach for her hand, tug her toward me, and press my lips to hers.”
⸻
"I can take care of myself," she says with her trademark eye roll.
"Didn't say you couldn't. But it doesn't mean I'm not going to be looking out for you, too."
⸻
“Falling for someone means laying myself bare. And yet, this doesn't feel like falling. It feels like being caught. Like maybe I don't have to do this alone anymore.”
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
🏈 enemies→lovers
🐴 grumpy x grumpy
🏈 forced proximity
🐴 slow burn
🏈 dual POV
🐴 workplace romance
A huge thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture, and Bella North for allowing me to read this arc. These are all my honest opinions in this review.
October 1, 2025
2.5 ˖⁺‧✮
unfortunately i didn’t like this book. it was a plain romance with a “grumpy” male character (who was rather shy than grumpy😭) and an annoying female character who was pissed on the mmc for no reason.
from the beginning there this usual banter between the main characters which publishers classified as “enemies”🥲…. there were no enemies. they weren’t best friends but they also weren’t ENEMIES. i’m tired of publishers adding “enemies to lovers” trope when in reality it’s just an annoying person being mad for no reason. izzie was so annoying with her attitude. i truly understand her position, especially when the first dialogue with her parents happened, but there were no reasons for her to just be so mad with dylan.
their relationship felt very pushed. she felt an attraction but it didn’t feel like there was anything else about dylan that attracted her. i honestly think that him being nice to maddie was reason she “fell for him”.
the story felt too boring and undeveloped. the romance felt very rushed and needs a lot of details and re-editing. characters need more depth and personality because as of now, she’s just a grumpy hard working girl and he’s the most boring guy in that area.
there are better books in this genre and as much as i wanted to like this (the cover is cuuuteeeee) i really don’t think this one is worth the attention:(
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the early copy!
unfortunately i didn’t like this book. it was a plain romance with a “grumpy” male character (who was rather shy than grumpy😭) and an annoying female character who was pissed on the mmc for no reason.
from the beginning there this usual banter between the main characters which publishers classified as “enemies”🥲…. there were no enemies. they weren’t best friends but they also weren’t ENEMIES. i’m tired of publishers adding “enemies to lovers” trope when in reality it’s just an annoying person being mad for no reason. izzie was so annoying with her attitude. i truly understand her position, especially when the first dialogue with her parents happened, but there were no reasons for her to just be so mad with dylan.
their relationship felt very pushed. she felt an attraction but it didn’t feel like there was anything else about dylan that attracted her. i honestly think that him being nice to maddie was reason she “fell for him”.
the story felt too boring and undeveloped. the romance felt very rushed and needs a lot of details and re-editing. characters need more depth and personality because as of now, she’s just a grumpy hard working girl and he’s the most boring guy in that area.
there are better books in this genre and as much as i wanted to like this (the cover is cuuuteeeee) i really don’t think this one is worth the attention:(
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the early copy!
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October 13, 2025
Full ARC RTC!!
4 ⭐️ Dylan and Izzy fighting in a ranch... K.I.S.S.I.N.G
lol, but seriously, this was peak 'you get me hot and bothered, but get the f**k out of my face' energy, and I loveeeed every second.
Also, I forever love single-mom romances, and this has it paired with a rancher-on-the-fence, ex-pro athlete MMC! So good!
4 ⭐️ Dylan and Izzy fighting in a ranch... K.I.S.S.I.N.G
lol, but seriously, this was peak 'you get me hot and bothered, but get the f**k out of my face' energy, and I loveeeed every second.
Also, I forever love single-mom romances, and this has it paired with a rancher-on-the-fence, ex-pro athlete MMC! So good!
September 28, 2025
when I first read ‘score to settle’, I fell in love with Bella Norths writing and I just knew I had to read everything that she wrote. So, when I saw that she announced ‘Game Over’, I knew I had to read it and it definitely didn’t disappoint.
I don’t think I’ve ever cried at the first chapter of a book before so I guess I can now tick that off of my list. I first met Dylan in ‘score to settle’ and I knew from the moment that I first saw him that I would end up falling in love with him. I love a good grumpy mmc and Dylan Sullivan was the perfect fit. ‘Game over’ had me in my feels, the angst, the tension, the romance!!! Wow!!! The growth both Dylan and Izzy had throughout this book was so well written, watching them both gradually let their walls down for each other. The book was so homey, both characters were super likeable and you really got to understand both of them throughout the book.
Special mention to the icon Mad, may she continue to terrorise Dylan and Izzy at family meals. Watching Dylan and Mad together was the cutest thing ever, my heart felt like it was going to explode.
I think Game Over may be one of my favourite reads this year and i really hope it gets the recognition it deserves. Bella North yet again did an incredible job!
arc provided by netgalley
I don’t think I’ve ever cried at the first chapter of a book before so I guess I can now tick that off of my list. I first met Dylan in ‘score to settle’ and I knew from the moment that I first saw him that I would end up falling in love with him. I love a good grumpy mmc and Dylan Sullivan was the perfect fit. ‘Game over’ had me in my feels, the angst, the tension, the romance!!! Wow!!! The growth both Dylan and Izzy had throughout this book was so well written, watching them both gradually let their walls down for each other. The book was so homey, both characters were super likeable and you really got to understand both of them throughout the book.
Special mention to the icon Mad, may she continue to terrorise Dylan and Izzy at family meals. Watching Dylan and Mad together was the cutest thing ever, my heart felt like it was going to explode.
I think Game Over may be one of my favourite reads this year and i really hope it gets the recognition it deserves. Bella North yet again did an incredible job!
arc provided by netgalley
December 4, 2025
Thank you to Bookouture for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
Forced out of the game by a career-ending injury, Dylan Sullivan is busy drowning his sorrows in the local bar. Slumped a few stools down, Izzy Brooks knocks back another bourbon. Her grandpa is selling the horses she loves, meaning she’s out of a job—and a home. The next morning, Dylan wakes groggily to the sound of horses’ hooves—with zero memory of the night before. Unlucky for him, there’s a tougher-than-nails, sexy-as-hell ranch hand with a scowl the size of Texas to fill him in… Last night, Dylan bought eighteen horses to fill his family’s empty ranch. Izzy’s horses. Izzy’s future relies on Dylan becoming the rancher he never planned to be. As she puts him through his paces, competitive sparks—and something even more sizzling—fly. And stolen moments amongst the haystacks start to feel like a new beginning for both of them. But when Dylan gets a chance to rejoin the world of football, the hope in Izzy’s heart flatlines. Will he prove every misgiving she had about him true? Or will he realize the path he never expected to walk is the one leading to the happy ending he was looking for?
Dylan is a grumpy git. There is no doubt about it and I can safely say, I don’t entirely like him. Yes, he has gone through a lot and his dream and livelihood were taken from him. But there are many in far worse positions who have taken the crap thrown at them a million times better than Dylan ever could or has. He is great with kids and clearly cares about animals, but there is so much frostiness to him that I just could not form a connection with him. If anything, I kind of hoped he’d fail…
Izzy is a fireball. She’s sassy and protective and very much a mama bear. I loved her relationship with Mad and could see the pride she has for her job. I will say, she is a little bit emotionally immature. However, because I enjoyed reading her character, I didn’t mind this considerably. I would have loved to know more about her past, about the boundaries she crossed and the blockades she broke through. I think this would have helped endear me further to her as a person.
Going into this, I wasn’t too sure what to expect. I had issues with the pacing of the first book and didn’t like Dylan very much as a character. So, I admit I was a little worried. Once again, the plot itself was pretty good but I just really struggled with the pacing. I felt myself slogging through and I don’t know if that’s perhaps down to the writing. I liked what I was reading but didn’t feel this connection to what was going on and the characters themselves. And it really is such a shame because I adore cowboy romances so this should have hit the spot! Character wise, I had hoped to see more new faces. Considering the job and the need for community, we saw so few new characters and that felt a little like a flaw for me. I did love seeing characters from the previous book popping in and out, giving us glimpses of their future. However, it just didn’t feel like enough. If you know me, you know I love enemies to lovers but this felt a little off. They’re not so much enemies but incredibly bitter to each other which doesn’t sit the same for me. The budding romance mellowed them out a bit but I didn’t get that spark of enjoyment watching in unfold. The ending was rather lovely but focused more on the couple from the previous book! It was a great moment but I was just hoping for a bit more.
Overall, Game Over is a sequel that just didn’t hit right with me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you again to Bookouture for an advanced copy of this book.
Forced out of the game by a career-ending injury, Dylan Sullivan is busy drowning his sorrows in the local bar. Slumped a few stools down, Izzy Brooks knocks back another bourbon. Her grandpa is selling the horses she loves, meaning she’s out of a job—and a home. The next morning, Dylan wakes groggily to the sound of horses’ hooves—with zero memory of the night before. Unlucky for him, there’s a tougher-than-nails, sexy-as-hell ranch hand with a scowl the size of Texas to fill him in… Last night, Dylan bought eighteen horses to fill his family’s empty ranch. Izzy’s horses. Izzy’s future relies on Dylan becoming the rancher he never planned to be. As she puts him through his paces, competitive sparks—and something even more sizzling—fly. And stolen moments amongst the haystacks start to feel like a new beginning for both of them. But when Dylan gets a chance to rejoin the world of football, the hope in Izzy’s heart flatlines. Will he prove every misgiving she had about him true? Or will he realize the path he never expected to walk is the one leading to the happy ending he was looking for?
Dylan is a grumpy git. There is no doubt about it and I can safely say, I don’t entirely like him. Yes, he has gone through a lot and his dream and livelihood were taken from him. But there are many in far worse positions who have taken the crap thrown at them a million times better than Dylan ever could or has. He is great with kids and clearly cares about animals, but there is so much frostiness to him that I just could not form a connection with him. If anything, I kind of hoped he’d fail…
Izzy is a fireball. She’s sassy and protective and very much a mama bear. I loved her relationship with Mad and could see the pride she has for her job. I will say, she is a little bit emotionally immature. However, because I enjoyed reading her character, I didn’t mind this considerably. I would have loved to know more about her past, about the boundaries she crossed and the blockades she broke through. I think this would have helped endear me further to her as a person.
Going into this, I wasn’t too sure what to expect. I had issues with the pacing of the first book and didn’t like Dylan very much as a character. So, I admit I was a little worried. Once again, the plot itself was pretty good but I just really struggled with the pacing. I felt myself slogging through and I don’t know if that’s perhaps down to the writing. I liked what I was reading but didn’t feel this connection to what was going on and the characters themselves. And it really is such a shame because I adore cowboy romances so this should have hit the spot! Character wise, I had hoped to see more new faces. Considering the job and the need for community, we saw so few new characters and that felt a little like a flaw for me. I did love seeing characters from the previous book popping in and out, giving us glimpses of their future. However, it just didn’t feel like enough. If you know me, you know I love enemies to lovers but this felt a little off. They’re not so much enemies but incredibly bitter to each other which doesn’t sit the same for me. The budding romance mellowed them out a bit but I didn’t get that spark of enjoyment watching in unfold. The ending was rather lovely but focused more on the couple from the previous book! It was a great moment but I was just hoping for a bit more.
Overall, Game Over is a sequel that just didn’t hit right with me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you again to Bookouture for an advanced copy of this book.
November 13, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
the premise of this book was really promising! i mean sports x cowboy romance? sign me up
unfortunately this book just didn't click with me. there isn't anything majorly wrong, and perhaps i'm being a bit nitpicky but here are some of my thoughts:
- i did like all the side characters (i think they mentioned the MMC being grumpy a bit too much and that wasn't very realistic though)
- madison and dylan's relationship was cute!
- the main characters felt underdeveloped. i didn't understand why we chose this dynamic tbh or why they were together
- we also had a few too many opening chapters where characters woke up and it got quite repetitive
- the 'epilogue' being two months later ??? i want to see at the very least a year later
i think my main issue is with the relationship itself, i did not think they had anything particularly special which sucks to say because i am always trying to root for the main characters, especially in a romance book like this where you know they're going to end up together.
thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC!
the premise of this book was really promising! i mean sports x cowboy romance? sign me up
unfortunately this book just didn't click with me. there isn't anything majorly wrong, and perhaps i'm being a bit nitpicky but here are some of my thoughts:
- i did like all the side characters (i think they mentioned the MMC being grumpy a bit too much and that wasn't very realistic though)
- madison and dylan's relationship was cute!
- the main characters felt underdeveloped. i didn't understand why we chose this dynamic tbh or why they were together
- we also had a few too many opening chapters where characters woke up and it got quite repetitive
- the 'epilogue' being two months later ??? i want to see at the very least a year later
i think my main issue is with the relationship itself, i did not think they had anything particularly special which sucks to say because i am always trying to root for the main characters, especially in a romance book like this where you know they're going to end up together.
thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC!
October 20, 2025
3.5 Stars
Thank you Bookouture/Netgalley for this ARC!!
I’m an absolute sucker for either a sports romance or a cowboy romance, and now I can have both??
This was a true standalone romance which I really enjoyed, I never felt like I was missing something when old characters were reintroduced. Loved the Grumpy-Lovers romance from both sides. Sometimes a grumpy/sunshine can be so repetitive, but it was nice to hear both Dylan and Izzy just be menaces to each other at times.
Kids in romance books are also hit or miss with me, but Mad was fine! I felt like she really helped me understand Izzy more, and I was actually looking forward to seeing her interactions with Dylan.
A quick, cute, dirty read. I will 100% be going back for Score to Settle, and looking forward to Chase’s story!
Thank you Bookouture/Netgalley for this ARC!!
I’m an absolute sucker for either a sports romance or a cowboy romance, and now I can have both??
This was a true standalone romance which I really enjoyed, I never felt like I was missing something when old characters were reintroduced. Loved the Grumpy-Lovers romance from both sides. Sometimes a grumpy/sunshine can be so repetitive, but it was nice to hear both Dylan and Izzy just be menaces to each other at times.
Kids in romance books are also hit or miss with me, but Mad was fine! I felt like she really helped me understand Izzy more, and I was actually looking forward to seeing her interactions with Dylan.
A quick, cute, dirty read. I will 100% be going back for Score to Settle, and looking forward to Chase’s story!
November 16, 2025
I really enjoyed this!! 3.5 rounded up to a 4! At first, Dylan was a little blah but he really developed as the book went on and become such a better person for Izzy. I’m a sucker for the single mom trope, especially when the MMC is grumpy and the kid turns him into a sunshine. The slow burn in this book was SO good!!the banter? Just as good. Izzy was such a fiercely independent FMC and I loved her. I loved getting her inner thoughts and second guessing herself. It made her character progression in the last quarter of the book so good. I for sure will be picking up the next one when it comes out!
Thank you NetGalley & bookoutre for this ARC!
Thank you NetGalley & bookoutre for this ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2025
Oh. My. Goodness!
Starting with a fender bender and ending with the best love story!
Izzy is not just Dylan’s, but I’m claiming her as mine as well, because who wouldn’t want a bad*ss mom who rocks a pair of cutoffs!!
-Enemies to Lovers
-Grumpy x Grumpy
-Cowboy Romance
HOW CAN YOU NOT LOVE THIS!
I was hooked from the minute he ran into her (and yes I’m Team Iz! He hit her)
I just want more of this story! I want to see what happens with Fury, the houses getting built, and want to see our lovely #dreamteam running the farm/team!
I can’t wait until the book is released, I need the physical book in my hands ASAP!!
Starting with a fender bender and ending with the best love story!
Izzy is not just Dylan’s, but I’m claiming her as mine as well, because who wouldn’t want a bad*ss mom who rocks a pair of cutoffs!!
-Enemies to Lovers
-Grumpy x Grumpy
-Cowboy Romance
HOW CAN YOU NOT LOVE THIS!
I was hooked from the minute he ran into her (and yes I’m Team Iz! He hit her)
I just want more of this story! I want to see what happens with Fury, the houses getting built, and want to see our lovely #dreamteam running the farm/team!
I can’t wait until the book is released, I need the physical book in my hands ASAP!!
December 24, 2025
I loved this book. It’s such a comforting story about starting over later in life, letting go of the life you thought you’d have, and slowly stepping into something new. Izzy and Dylan felt real and easy to connect with, and the whole story just had a warm, hopeful vibe. A really enjoyable, feel-good read.
Thank you NetGalley and Bella North for allowing me to read the ARC!!!!
Thank you NetGalley and Bella North for allowing me to read the ARC!!!!
December 6, 2025
This book has Disney channel original movie energy, and I mean that positively. It's a very fun premise a man getting blind drunk and waking up with eighteen horses on his property. The scene where he wakes up to find all the horses is very fun. Honestly I think the scene before hand where he and Izzy meet for the first time and his meeting with the coach could have been cut and just started straight at the bar and then we meet Izzy later at the ranch. Their kiss in the first chapter felt a bit contrived and came out lf nowhere, and I'm just personally not a fan of when the characters are horny at first sight which is what the literal first page is; Dylan being horny for Izzy. It feels like those scenes exist to both justify marketing it as enemies to lovers and so that the characters would go into it already being sexually attracted to each other rather than letting the tension build up. It just came across like they liked each other for no particular reason other than physical attraction.
I found Dylan kind of a mixed bag as a character. Yes, I liked his angst about no longer doing football. That was an interesting backstory for him. However, that's pretty much where his character ended. All his thoughts were do I keep the horse or not, I miss football, and wanting to have sex with Izzy. I didn't feel like I got to know who he actually is he was just a man who is strong and doesn't know what his career will be. Izzy on the other hand she did have more going on, she's a woman who likes to be as independent as possible because she's been let down before and doesn't want to get caught in the crossfire again. I enjoy her conflict of not fully being able to trust Dylan because he doesn't even know what he wants so how can she know he'll stick around for her. I also liked the inclusion of Madison, and the story took the time for us to see her and Dylan creating a bond with one another.
Now, something this book did have going for it was the horse content. Weirdly enough, a lot of cowboy/ranching books I read can be very light on the horses, which is always annoying, so I was very pleased at how often we were hanging out with horses, I could've even gone for more horse hyjix, but that's personal preference. It did seem like we never really got into the logistics of what it actually takes to have eighteen horses but this did take place over a short time period and also its just a fluffy romance not a hard look at the ranching business so it doesn't really matter. But it was good we actually had Dylan being around the horses and having to learn what they need to properly take care of them.
Now, this next part was something I noticed that I have to be a bit critical of, and I might be reading too much into it. But I don't really like in 2025 reading a book written by a white author where the majority of the characters are white, having a biracial character whose black father walked out on him as a baby. I feel we are beyond having plot lines like that. It probably wasn't intentional however I think it's the responsibility of author and their team to be more mindful about introducing these kind of plot elements when writing about people from a background they don't come from. Considering this is an interconnected series if the author was planning on writing a future book about Chase writing these kind of stereotypes just isn't a great look and honesty I would have felt uncomfortable and disappointed with myself if I didn't mention this in my review.
Despite not absolutely loving this, I do think there is a strong audience for this kind of book, perfect for anyone who likes Elsie Silver or Lyra Sage. Although this is a part of an interconnected series, I think it can be read on its own if you wanted to read it first. I hope that the team behind the book will be more mindful about certain harmful tropes and stereotypes in th future. Overall, writing style itself was easy to follow, since the author is very early in her career I think her voice will get stronger with future books and get less telling us what everyone is feeling and showing us instead.
Arc copy provided by netgalley.
I found Dylan kind of a mixed bag as a character. Yes, I liked his angst about no longer doing football. That was an interesting backstory for him. However, that's pretty much where his character ended. All his thoughts were do I keep the horse or not, I miss football, and wanting to have sex with Izzy. I didn't feel like I got to know who he actually is he was just a man who is strong and doesn't know what his career will be. Izzy on the other hand she did have more going on, she's a woman who likes to be as independent as possible because she's been let down before and doesn't want to get caught in the crossfire again. I enjoy her conflict of not fully being able to trust Dylan because he doesn't even know what he wants so how can she know he'll stick around for her. I also liked the inclusion of Madison, and the story took the time for us to see her and Dylan creating a bond with one another.
Now, something this book did have going for it was the horse content. Weirdly enough, a lot of cowboy/ranching books I read can be very light on the horses, which is always annoying, so I was very pleased at how often we were hanging out with horses, I could've even gone for more horse hyjix, but that's personal preference. It did seem like we never really got into the logistics of what it actually takes to have eighteen horses but this did take place over a short time period and also its just a fluffy romance not a hard look at the ranching business so it doesn't really matter. But it was good we actually had Dylan being around the horses and having to learn what they need to properly take care of them.
Now, this next part was something I noticed that I have to be a bit critical of, and I might be reading too much into it. But I don't really like in 2025 reading a book written by a white author where the majority of the characters are white, having a biracial character whose black father walked out on him as a baby. I feel we are beyond having plot lines like that. It probably wasn't intentional however I think it's the responsibility of author and their team to be more mindful about introducing these kind of plot elements when writing about people from a background they don't come from. Considering this is an interconnected series if the author was planning on writing a future book about Chase writing these kind of stereotypes just isn't a great look and honesty I would have felt uncomfortable and disappointed with myself if I didn't mention this in my review.
Despite not absolutely loving this, I do think there is a strong audience for this kind of book, perfect for anyone who likes Elsie Silver or Lyra Sage. Although this is a part of an interconnected series, I think it can be read on its own if you wanted to read it first. I hope that the team behind the book will be more mindful about certain harmful tropes and stereotypes in th future. Overall, writing style itself was easy to follow, since the author is very early in her career I think her voice will get stronger with future books and get less telling us what everyone is feeling and showing us instead.
Arc copy provided by netgalley.
November 27, 2025
4✨ I really enjoyed this book this is Book 2 in the series. We first meet Dylan in Settle To Score where we see him as a grumpy, angry bitter man who has tour his ACL tear during a game. Being turned down is never easy so when Dylan is turned down for the career he’s worked years as a footballer for Stormhawk because he’s not full fit to join again. He makes a drunken deal with Bill the ranch with a health condition and has to have an early retirement for him to sell him the ranch to him. Also to have Bill ranch help work with him for 6 weeks.
Izzy a down to earth kind of girl while her family are overachievers, married at to young only to divorce a year later. She’s Bill granddaughter and ranch hand now with Bill early retirement she’s the one that has to work with Dylan. Dylan the same guy who crashed into her, Dylan the guy who gave her money then left her on the side of the road!! Yessss that Dylan 🫢
Izzy has a little secret she’s holds back from tell Dylan while she’s works with him at the ranch.
They both have their only insurances when it comes to trust which brings them closer to but also causes a rift between them.
The third act break up was like a child spitting out their dummy 🙈 but other than that I really enjoyed this book!! 🥰
Highly recommend.
Thank you NetGalley & Bookouture for the arc 🤩
Izzy a down to earth kind of girl while her family are overachievers, married at to young only to divorce a year later. She’s Bill granddaughter and ranch hand now with Bill early retirement she’s the one that has to work with Dylan. Dylan the same guy who crashed into her, Dylan the guy who gave her money then left her on the side of the road!! Yessss that Dylan 🫢
Izzy has a little secret she’s holds back from tell Dylan while she’s works with him at the ranch.
They both have their only insurances when it comes to trust which brings them closer to but also causes a rift between them.
The third act break up was like a child spitting out their dummy 🙈 but other than that I really enjoyed this book!! 🥰
Highly recommend.
Thank you NetGalley & Bookouture for the arc 🤩
December 11, 2025
An enemies to lovers between an ex-footballer turned rancher and the sexy ranch hand he can't stand? Hell yeah!
Although it took me a while to get into the story, I soon became invested in the characters and their journey of self-discovery. The story's concept appealed to me - him randomly buying eighteen horses and then having to take care of them - but I mainly kept reading because of Izzy and her bond with her daughter Madison. Watching them build a home at Oakwood Ranch after years of not belonging and never settling, was a joy. Dylan's brothers and mother also sweetened the deal - I love a good found family. Romance-wise, I could see where the author was going with this and I enjoyed many scenes with electrifying tension between Dylan and Izzy. However, their constant back-and-forth started to bug me around the 70% mark. They didn't know what they wanted, they were both as stubborn as mules, and it got annoying real quick.
3 ⭐️ ARC Review
Although it took me a while to get into the story, I soon became invested in the characters and their journey of self-discovery. The story's concept appealed to me - him randomly buying eighteen horses and then having to take care of them - but I mainly kept reading because of Izzy and her bond with her daughter Madison. Watching them build a home at Oakwood Ranch after years of not belonging and never settling, was a joy. Dylan's brothers and mother also sweetened the deal - I love a good found family. Romance-wise, I could see where the author was going with this and I enjoyed many scenes with electrifying tension between Dylan and Izzy. However, their constant back-and-forth started to bug me around the 70% mark. They didn't know what they wanted, they were both as stubborn as mules, and it got annoying real quick.
3 ⭐️ ARC Review
December 19, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book!
I dove straight into this after finishing Score to Settle, the first book in the Oakwood Ranch series. This book follows another Sullivan brother, Dylan, who is reeling from a career-ending injury. While nursing his wounds (and his drink) at a local bar, he crosses paths with Izzy, a headstrong single mom determined to build a stable future for her daughter, Mad.
I really enjoyed the quick spark of attraction that ignites in the bar, especially after their initial, frustration-filled first meeting. I was hooked from the very beginning and can already tell this series is going to be a firm favorite of mine. It delivers on so many beloved tropes:
🏈 NFL romance
🤝🏼 Brotherhood
🤬 Grumpy x grumpy
👩🏼🤝👨🏻 Found family
🤱🏼 Single mom
❤️🔥 Close proximity
I dove straight into this after finishing Score to Settle, the first book in the Oakwood Ranch series. This book follows another Sullivan brother, Dylan, who is reeling from a career-ending injury. While nursing his wounds (and his drink) at a local bar, he crosses paths with Izzy, a headstrong single mom determined to build a stable future for her daughter, Mad.
I really enjoyed the quick spark of attraction that ignites in the bar, especially after their initial, frustration-filled first meeting. I was hooked from the very beginning and can already tell this series is going to be a firm favorite of mine. It delivers on so many beloved tropes:
🏈 NFL romance
🤝🏼 Brotherhood
🤬 Grumpy x grumpy
👩🏼🤝👨🏻 Found family
🤱🏼 Single mom
❤️🔥 Close proximity
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest opinion.
After reading Score to Settle this summer and loving it, I was so excited to jump into this one. I’m officially a fan of Bella North, and she once again delivered a really enjoyable romance.
While Score to Settle was a football romance, Game Over leans more into cowboy/ranch vibes. It can definitely be read as a standalone if you haven’t read book one.
I loved the characters and the slow burn. i felt like their relationship felt believable and earned. They were flawed, made mistakes, and had to work through real obstacles, which made their love story feel genuine and satisfying by the end.
Overall, this was a fun, easy read and a great way to start my 2026 reading year.
Tropes:
Single mom • Slow burn • Coworkers • Enemies to lovers • Ranch setting • Grumpy x grumpy • Ex-NFL player • Found family
After reading Score to Settle this summer and loving it, I was so excited to jump into this one. I’m officially a fan of Bella North, and she once again delivered a really enjoyable romance.
While Score to Settle was a football romance, Game Over leans more into cowboy/ranch vibes. It can definitely be read as a standalone if you haven’t read book one.
I loved the characters and the slow burn. i felt like their relationship felt believable and earned. They were flawed, made mistakes, and had to work through real obstacles, which made their love story feel genuine and satisfying by the end.
Overall, this was a fun, easy read and a great way to start my 2026 reading year.
Tropes:
Single mom • Slow burn • Coworkers • Enemies to lovers • Ranch setting • Grumpy x grumpy • Ex-NFL player • Found family
October 1, 2025
4.5 ⭐️!!!!!
Thank you Bookouture/Netgalley for providing me with this ARC
This is my first book by Bella North and it definitely won’t be my last. I am obsessed with the characters and world that she created within this book
At the time of starting this book, I was in a massive reading slump but this pulled me right out of it. The found family and banter is perfect! The short chapters and dual POV make the book even better as well!
I haven’t read the first in this series but it was so easy to follow along with the story and who was who. It has made me very excited to be able to go back and read the first one!
I loved how wholesome some of the scenes were in this book. I did find Izzy slightly irritating towards the end in some of the scenes but I can’t blame her really considering the circumstances. I think it’s hard for us as readers to not think that since we know what was going on in Dylan’s mind
Sometimes kids in books can be too much but Mad was perfect! She was so cute and her relationship with Dylan was adorable!
I would highly recommend this book! I will be adding “Score to Settle” to my TBR immediately
Thank you Bookouture/Netgalley for providing me with this ARC
This is my first book by Bella North and it definitely won’t be my last. I am obsessed with the characters and world that she created within this book
At the time of starting this book, I was in a massive reading slump but this pulled me right out of it. The found family and banter is perfect! The short chapters and dual POV make the book even better as well!
I haven’t read the first in this series but it was so easy to follow along with the story and who was who. It has made me very excited to be able to go back and read the first one!
I loved how wholesome some of the scenes were in this book. I did find Izzy slightly irritating towards the end in some of the scenes but I can’t blame her really considering the circumstances. I think it’s hard for us as readers to not think that since we know what was going on in Dylan’s mind
Sometimes kids in books can be too much but Mad was perfect! She was so cute and her relationship with Dylan was adorable!
I would highly recommend this book! I will be adding “Score to Settle” to my TBR immediately
November 10, 2025
i tried to read this book three times since November 2nd, and unfortunately, I couldn’t make it past the 55% mark. I genuinely appreciate the opportunity to read this ARC, but this story just wasn’t for me. The writing style and the character development didn’t quite match my personal taste, even though I usually enjoy cowboy romances a lot.
This is definitely one of those cases where it simply comes down to reading preferences—there’s nothing “wrong” with the book itself, it just didn’t align with the kind of tone and emotional depth I normally look for. I truly hope that other readers who connect with this style will be able to give it all the love it deserves.
Thank you again for the chance to read the advanced copy.
thank you Netgalley and Bookouture!
This is definitely one of those cases where it simply comes down to reading preferences—there’s nothing “wrong” with the book itself, it just didn’t align with the kind of tone and emotional depth I normally look for. I truly hope that other readers who connect with this style will be able to give it all the love it deserves.
Thank you again for the chance to read the advanced copy.
thank you Netgalley and Bookouture!
October 17, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for sending this my way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Game Over by Bella North is an upcoming romance set for release in January 2026. I loved the ranch aspect of this, and it was very reminiscent of an Elsie Silver or Saddle Club (the Aussie girls will know). This was a cute, quick read but where it lost me was the romance - they were both a bit too grumpy for my taste. Saying this, It was great to read during my slump and I'd consider reading more from this author in future.
Game Over by Bella North is an upcoming romance set for release in January 2026. I loved the ranch aspect of this, and it was very reminiscent of an Elsie Silver or Saddle Club (the Aussie girls will know). This was a cute, quick read but where it lost me was the romance - they were both a bit too grumpy for my taste. Saying this, It was great to read during my slump and I'd consider reading more from this author in future.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
thankyou to netgalley for the ARC
3.5 stars! A former NFL player drunkenly decides to buy 18 horses and becomes a rancher, grumpy cowboys never fail me! I found out this was the second book in the series so I may have to go back to the first one and give it a read. The 2 main characters had good chemistry and the book had found family which I always love. Can't wait to read more from this author
3.5 stars! A former NFL player drunkenly decides to buy 18 horses and becomes a rancher, grumpy cowboys never fail me! I found out this was the second book in the series so I may have to go back to the first one and give it a read. The 2 main characters had good chemistry and the book had found family which I always love. Can't wait to read more from this author
October 28, 2025
I fell in love with Bella North’s writing style, the setting of Oakwood Ranch and the family that lives there when I read A Score to Settle. I am so excited we’re back with a sequel and a focus on one of the other brothers and his love life.
Forced out of the game by a career-ending injury, Dylan Sullivan is busy drowning his sorrows in the local bar. Slumped a few stools down, Izzy Brooks knocks back another bourbon. Her grandpa is selling the horses she loves, meaning she’s out of a job—and a home.
The next morning, Dylan wakes groggily to the sound of horses’ hooves—with zero memory of the night before. Unlucky for him, there’s a tougher-than-nails, sexy-as-hell ranch hand with a scowl the size of Texas to fill him in… Last night, Dylan bought eighteen horses to fill his family’s empty ranch. Izzy’s horses.
Izzy’s future relies on Dylan becoming the rancher he never planned to be. As she puts him through his paces, competitive sparks—and something even more sizzling—fly. And stolen moments amongst the haystacks start to feel like a new beginning for both of them.
I absolutely loved this book. The family, the setting the BANTER! All chefs kiss. It’s such an easy to read story with love, heartbreak and a little bit of spice! My only complaint was the third act breakup was utterly ridiculous and Izzy really ticked me off in that moment.
Overall I highly recommend this series and Game Over is a sequel that actually lived up to expectations.
Forced out of the game by a career-ending injury, Dylan Sullivan is busy drowning his sorrows in the local bar. Slumped a few stools down, Izzy Brooks knocks back another bourbon. Her grandpa is selling the horses she loves, meaning she’s out of a job—and a home.
The next morning, Dylan wakes groggily to the sound of horses’ hooves—with zero memory of the night before. Unlucky for him, there’s a tougher-than-nails, sexy-as-hell ranch hand with a scowl the size of Texas to fill him in… Last night, Dylan bought eighteen horses to fill his family’s empty ranch. Izzy’s horses.
Izzy’s future relies on Dylan becoming the rancher he never planned to be. As she puts him through his paces, competitive sparks—and something even more sizzling—fly. And stolen moments amongst the haystacks start to feel like a new beginning for both of them.
I absolutely loved this book. The family, the setting the BANTER! All chefs kiss. It’s such an easy to read story with love, heartbreak and a little bit of spice! My only complaint was the third act breakup was utterly ridiculous and Izzy really ticked me off in that moment.
Overall I highly recommend this series and Game Over is a sequel that actually lived up to expectations.
September 30, 2025
I want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an opportunity for the ARC of Game Over! This was even better than Score to Settle! I feel like Bella North is really capturing the feelings and depth of these characters and I made me not want to put down this one. I am a sucker for a grumpy, loner who finds his sunshine and this is what Dylan found in Izzy. I think the portrayal of their beginning of their relationship to the end was catching and made me feel everything they were going through. And thank the lord for a tall girly love interest, we are never represented! The spice in here was just right and Bella again did a great job with showing the chemistry between these two. If you liked Icebreaker or Wildfire, this book is right up your alley. I can’t wait to see what book comes next to keep the story going!
October 2, 2025
Grumpy ex footballer and rancher absolutely loved Dylan and Izzy's story!!!! This was a one sitting book!
My favourite in this was the cute relationship between Dylan and mad Izzy's daughter. Even before they got together the stuff he did for her was so sweet. Oh and how the wee dog was always in there somewhere.
Would highly recommend this to everyone. Thanks NetGalley for opportunity in reading this arc.
This is a 4.5stars but doesn't let me half star.
My favourite in this was the cute relationship between Dylan and mad Izzy's daughter. Even before they got together the stuff he did for her was so sweet. Oh and how the wee dog was always in there somewhere.
Would highly recommend this to everyone. Thanks NetGalley for opportunity in reading this arc.
This is a 4.5stars but doesn't let me half star.
September 30, 2025
💭
Quote
💭
“How hard can ranching be anyway?”
📸 Main Characters 📸
🐴Dylan Sullivan
🧑🌾Izzy Brooks
🫶🏻 Tropes 🫶🏻
🌶️Enemies-to-lovers
🤠Cowboy Romance
✨Grumpy x Sunshine
❤️🔥Slow Burn
🗒️Workplace Romance
🏡Found Family
🦋 Blurb 🦋
His football days might be over. But the game is just beginning…
Forced out of the game by a career-ending injury, Dylan Sullivan is busy drowning his sorrows in the local bar. Slumped a few stools down, Izzy Brooks knocks back another bourbon. Her grandpa is selling the horses she loves, meaning she’s out of a job—and a home.
The next morning, Dylan wakes groggily to the sound of horses’ hooves—with zero memory of the night before. Unluckily for him, there’s a tougher-than-nails, sexy-as-hell ranch hand with a scowl the size of Texas to fill him in… Last night, Dylan bought eighteen horses to fill his family’s empty ranch. Izzy’s horses.
Izzy’s future relies on Dylan becoming the rancher he never planned to be. As she puts him through his paces, competitive sparks—and something even more sizzling—fly. And stolen moments amongst the haystacks start to feel like a new beginning for both of them.
But when Dylan gets a chance to rejoin the world of football, the hope in Izzy’s heart flatlines. Will he prove every misgiving she had about him true? Or will he realize the path he never expected to walk is the one leading to the happy ending he was looking for?
🤩 Did I love it? Thoughts? 🤩
Yes! A 1000% loved this book so much. I was so excited to read about Dylan and get to know him better. After meeting him in the first book I wanted so badly to see him get his happily ever after. I was already in tears by the end of the first chapter. I knew I was in for another great read. I loved getting to know him better. Seeing him as he tries to figure out what to do with his life without football. How he is able to find the person he is on the other side of his football career.
Then meeting Izzy Brooks she is a strong woman who knows her way around the ranch life. I loved how she didn’t let his lack of knowledge be an excuse. She loves these horses and wants them taken care of.
I also was so happy to be able to see Jake and Harper and where they were in their relationship. I just really loved all of it.
🩵 Would I recommend this Book? 🩵
Yes! I recommend this book.I loved this book so much. Getting to see Dylan and Izzy’s love story was so wonderful. It felt like coming home to the ranch myself. I can’t wait to continue with the series and get to read more from this world. If you love a cowboy romance, with some football, found family and workplace romance this is the book and series for you. The first book in the Oakwood Ranch series is available now on amazon. This comes out January 2026. So plenty of time to catch up before the release.
Thank you @netgalley, @bookouture and @bellanorthauthor for giving me the ARC
Enjoy reading! 🤩
“How hard can ranching be anyway?”
📸 Main Characters 📸
🐴Dylan Sullivan
🧑🌾Izzy Brooks
🫶🏻 Tropes 🫶🏻
🌶️Enemies-to-lovers
🤠Cowboy Romance
✨Grumpy x Sunshine
❤️🔥Slow Burn
🗒️Workplace Romance
🏡Found Family
🦋 Blurb 🦋
His football days might be over. But the game is just beginning…
Forced out of the game by a career-ending injury, Dylan Sullivan is busy drowning his sorrows in the local bar. Slumped a few stools down, Izzy Brooks knocks back another bourbon. Her grandpa is selling the horses she loves, meaning she’s out of a job—and a home.
The next morning, Dylan wakes groggily to the sound of horses’ hooves—with zero memory of the night before. Unluckily for him, there’s a tougher-than-nails, sexy-as-hell ranch hand with a scowl the size of Texas to fill him in… Last night, Dylan bought eighteen horses to fill his family’s empty ranch. Izzy’s horses.
Izzy’s future relies on Dylan becoming the rancher he never planned to be. As she puts him through his paces, competitive sparks—and something even more sizzling—fly. And stolen moments amongst the haystacks start to feel like a new beginning for both of them.
But when Dylan gets a chance to rejoin the world of football, the hope in Izzy’s heart flatlines. Will he prove every misgiving she had about him true? Or will he realize the path he never expected to walk is the one leading to the happy ending he was looking for?
🤩 Did I love it? Thoughts? 🤩
Yes! A 1000% loved this book so much. I was so excited to read about Dylan and get to know him better. After meeting him in the first book I wanted so badly to see him get his happily ever after. I was already in tears by the end of the first chapter. I knew I was in for another great read. I loved getting to know him better. Seeing him as he tries to figure out what to do with his life without football. How he is able to find the person he is on the other side of his football career.
Then meeting Izzy Brooks she is a strong woman who knows her way around the ranch life. I loved how she didn’t let his lack of knowledge be an excuse. She loves these horses and wants them taken care of.
I also was so happy to be able to see Jake and Harper and where they were in their relationship. I just really loved all of it.
🩵 Would I recommend this Book? 🩵
Yes! I recommend this book.I loved this book so much. Getting to see Dylan and Izzy’s love story was so wonderful. It felt like coming home to the ranch myself. I can’t wait to continue with the series and get to read more from this world. If you love a cowboy romance, with some football, found family and workplace romance this is the book and series for you. The first book in the Oakwood Ranch series is available now on amazon. This comes out January 2026. So plenty of time to catch up before the release.
Thank you @netgalley, @bookouture and @bellanorthauthor for giving me the ARC
Enjoy reading! 🤩
December 31, 2025
5 ⭐️
Tropes: dual POV, cowboy romance, slow burn, forced proximity, workplace romance, found family, enemies to lovers, grumpy sunshine x2, single mom
This is the second book in Bella Norths Oakwood Ranch series. This read great as a standalone BUT I will be backtracking to read the first one soon! I adored Bella’s writing and can’t wait to jump right into the first and looking forward to the third book in the series. I LOVED that both main characters were what you call grumpy sunshine’s because the tension and chemistry was immaculate! 👩🍳💋
Izzy Brooks and Dylan Sullivan had a not so cute, meet cute. They first met when Dylan crashed into her car and was a total d*ck about it. They started on the wrong foot and with Dylan on her shitlist. Izzy would be fine and happy is she never EVER had to see him again except… Dylan was drinking his sorrows away after being told his football career was actually over and his two year recovery journey was useless. One thing led to another and Dylan bought 18 horses from a family friend that was looking to retire and sale his heard. Fast forward to the next morning… Dylan is woken up by his drunken purchase being delivered to his family ranch that’s been out of service since his dad’s death. To his surprise he also agreed to employ his friends ranch hand…little did he know that was Izzy Brooks!!
Izzy is a badass ranch hand that is now forced to work with Dylan in a ranch that is so run down she basically has to work day and night to get up and running. They fight, Dylan isn’t in it and Izzy knows it but she keeps working hard because she loves the horses. Dylans agreement stated he would keep Izzy as the ranch hand for six weeks so she continued to show up but would be gone then whether Dylan was ready or not.
Izzy never felt like she belonged anywhere but as she continued to show up she began to feel like Oakwood ranch was her home. She loved the horses, the work, Dylan’s crazy family and the way her daughter Mad seemed to fit right in; she was even beginning to warm up to Dylan.
I adored all of the supporting characters, the banter, and the way Dylan / Izzy just seemed to click (but not without putting in the hard work). Dylan and Izzy had great character development and growth individually and together which I loved. They overcame internal battles side by side and the outcome was everything.
“Dylan has folded us into his family and this ranch like it’s the most natural thing in the world, like it’s no big deal—when really, it’s everything.”
“with Izzy’s hand in mine, I know this thing between us is real. It’s not just the pull of desire, the want I feel when she’s near. It’s something deeper. A connection I’ve never felt before.”
“I don’t know if I can trust Dylan. But if I don’t try—if I let fear win before I’ve taken a step—then I’ve already failed Madison. And I’ve failed myself.”
You know after overcoming struggles and battles the end result gives you a magical feeling of “I / we did it”? This had me in those feels and I couldn’t get enough. They both had so much at stake but nothing worthwhile ever comes easy.
I cannot recommend this enough! Mark your calendars for January 22, 2026!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes: dual POV, cowboy romance, slow burn, forced proximity, workplace romance, found family, enemies to lovers, grumpy sunshine x2, single mom
This is the second book in Bella Norths Oakwood Ranch series. This read great as a standalone BUT I will be backtracking to read the first one soon! I adored Bella’s writing and can’t wait to jump right into the first and looking forward to the third book in the series. I LOVED that both main characters were what you call grumpy sunshine’s because the tension and chemistry was immaculate! 👩🍳💋
Izzy Brooks and Dylan Sullivan had a not so cute, meet cute. They first met when Dylan crashed into her car and was a total d*ck about it. They started on the wrong foot and with Dylan on her shitlist. Izzy would be fine and happy is she never EVER had to see him again except… Dylan was drinking his sorrows away after being told his football career was actually over and his two year recovery journey was useless. One thing led to another and Dylan bought 18 horses from a family friend that was looking to retire and sale his heard. Fast forward to the next morning… Dylan is woken up by his drunken purchase being delivered to his family ranch that’s been out of service since his dad’s death. To his surprise he also agreed to employ his friends ranch hand…little did he know that was Izzy Brooks!!
Izzy is a badass ranch hand that is now forced to work with Dylan in a ranch that is so run down she basically has to work day and night to get up and running. They fight, Dylan isn’t in it and Izzy knows it but she keeps working hard because she loves the horses. Dylans agreement stated he would keep Izzy as the ranch hand for six weeks so she continued to show up but would be gone then whether Dylan was ready or not.
Izzy never felt like she belonged anywhere but as she continued to show up she began to feel like Oakwood ranch was her home. She loved the horses, the work, Dylan’s crazy family and the way her daughter Mad seemed to fit right in; she was even beginning to warm up to Dylan.
I adored all of the supporting characters, the banter, and the way Dylan / Izzy just seemed to click (but not without putting in the hard work). Dylan and Izzy had great character development and growth individually and together which I loved. They overcame internal battles side by side and the outcome was everything.
“Dylan has folded us into his family and this ranch like it’s the most natural thing in the world, like it’s no big deal—when really, it’s everything.”
“with Izzy’s hand in mine, I know this thing between us is real. It’s not just the pull of desire, the want I feel when she’s near. It’s something deeper. A connection I’ve never felt before.”
“I don’t know if I can trust Dylan. But if I don’t try—if I let fear win before I’ve taken a step—then I’ve already failed Madison. And I’ve failed myself.”
You know after overcoming struggles and battles the end result gives you a magical feeling of “I / we did it”? This had me in those feels and I couldn’t get enough. They both had so much at stake but nothing worthwhile ever comes easy.
I cannot recommend this enough! Mark your calendars for January 22, 2026!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2025
✨ This is an arc review ✨ thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with the arc! I’m rating this book a rounded up 4 star read.
I am new to Bella North as an author so I was not familiar with the previous book in this series but I was able to red Game Over as a standalone and liked it. Izzy and Dylan are two hard-headed individuals who happen to have a less than stellar meet cute that leaves them with a bad taste of each other. Considering how their first meeting goes, it is no surprise that this book has the following tropes
🐎 grumpy hero x prickly heroine
🐎 single mom
🐎 enemies to lovers
🐎 forced proximity
🐎 kind of a slow burn?
i fill blur out some of my review to avoid spoilers si be warned. I enjoyed Dylan and Izzy’s back and forth because the flirting is hidden deep under the comebacks, which I felt gave them a slower building foundation that was actually more solid than if this had been an instaromance. I will admit that both main characters have a lot of baggage and character development is big in this book, so if you’re rather impatient then this isn’t the right fit for you.
Overall, I liked the book and I’m interested in Chase’s book as well as the future of the brothers with their SO’s. I’m glad I was given the opportunity to review this book and discover a new author as well. Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley!
I am new to Bella North as an author so I was not familiar with the previous book in this series but I was able to red Game Over as a standalone and liked it. Izzy and Dylan are two hard-headed individuals who happen to have a less than stellar meet cute that leaves them with a bad taste of each other. Considering how their first meeting goes, it is no surprise that this book has the following tropes
🐎 grumpy hero x prickly heroine
🐎 single mom
🐎 enemies to lovers
🐎 forced proximity
🐎 kind of a slow burn?
i fill blur out some of my review to avoid spoilers si be warned. I enjoyed Dylan and Izzy’s back and forth because the flirting is hidden deep under the comebacks, which I felt gave them a slower building foundation that was actually more solid than if this had been an instaromance. I will admit that both main characters have a lot of baggage and character development is big in this book, so if you’re rather impatient then this isn’t the right fit for you.
Overall, I liked the book and I’m interested in Chase’s book as well as the future of the brothers with their SO’s. I’m glad I was given the opportunity to review this book and discover a new author as well. Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley!
October 5, 2025
Game Over by Bella North
Book two in the Oakwood Ranch Series
In *Game Over*, Bella North weaves a heartfelt tale of redemption and unexpected love. Dylan, a former football player reeling from the end of his career, makes a rash decision to buy a ranch one drunken night. Along with the property (in the form of 18 horses) comes Izzy, a tough ranch hand with a daughter and a hefty chip on her shoulder, who pushes Dylan to reconsider what life can offer beyond the football field.
The characters shine with humor and authenticity. I found myself relating to both of them and their woes. Dylan’s softer side emerges as he bonds with Izzy’s daughter, showcasing a comforting dynamic that adds emotional depth to the narrative. The playful banter among Dylan and his brothers brings a delightful warmth, while Izzy’s fierce independence and reluctance to seek help create a compelling tension that had me smacking my forehead a time or two. Girl, just ask for help it isn’t weak!
With an adorable ranch dog named Buck and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, the story is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. Izzy’s journey of self-discovery and Dylan’s struggle to redefine his priorities make for a captivating read. North's exploration of love, family, and personal growth ensures this book resonates long after the last page is turned. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling.
I admired Izzy’s tough exterior and her no-nonsense approach with Dylan when he first purchased the ranch. She unknowingly pushed him during a time he definitely didn’t need to be coddled.
I appreciated Izzy's friend Flic for her ability to deliver tough love, keeping it real when Izzy found herself in a panic about her feelings.
The storyline was perfectly crafted, showcasing significant growth in the characters and featuring delightful side characters. I could vividly imagine scenes unfolding, creating what felt like the quintessential love story. It had just the right balance of sweetness, and I found myself kicking my little tootsies in excitement when they finally had their moment uninterrupted!
Tough FMC (she don’t need no man 👏🏼)
Single mom - ranch foreman
Ex-football player turned rancher
Found family
Brotherly love and silliness
An adorable dog named Buck
A sweet but tough momma bear (Dylan’s mom)
Book two in the Oakwood Ranch Series
In *Game Over*, Bella North weaves a heartfelt tale of redemption and unexpected love. Dylan, a former football player reeling from the end of his career, makes a rash decision to buy a ranch one drunken night. Along with the property (in the form of 18 horses) comes Izzy, a tough ranch hand with a daughter and a hefty chip on her shoulder, who pushes Dylan to reconsider what life can offer beyond the football field.
The characters shine with humor and authenticity. I found myself relating to both of them and their woes. Dylan’s softer side emerges as he bonds with Izzy’s daughter, showcasing a comforting dynamic that adds emotional depth to the narrative. The playful banter among Dylan and his brothers brings a delightful warmth, while Izzy’s fierce independence and reluctance to seek help create a compelling tension that had me smacking my forehead a time or two. Girl, just ask for help it isn’t weak!
With an adorable ranch dog named Buck and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, the story is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. Izzy’s journey of self-discovery and Dylan’s struggle to redefine his priorities make for a captivating read. North's exploration of love, family, and personal growth ensures this book resonates long after the last page is turned. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling.
I admired Izzy’s tough exterior and her no-nonsense approach with Dylan when he first purchased the ranch. She unknowingly pushed him during a time he definitely didn’t need to be coddled.
I appreciated Izzy's friend Flic for her ability to deliver tough love, keeping it real when Izzy found herself in a panic about her feelings.
The storyline was perfectly crafted, showcasing significant growth in the characters and featuring delightful side characters. I could vividly imagine scenes unfolding, creating what felt like the quintessential love story. It had just the right balance of sweetness, and I found myself kicking my little tootsies in excitement when they finally had their moment uninterrupted!
Tough FMC (she don’t need no man 👏🏼)
Single mom - ranch foreman
Ex-football player turned rancher
Found family
Brotherly love and silliness
An adorable dog named Buck
A sweet but tough momma bear (Dylan’s mom)
October 11, 2025
GAME OVER by BELLA NORTH ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Game Over is the second (#2) book in the OAKWOOD RANCH series
This was the very first book by Bella North I have read and I absolutely loved it! In fact I loved it so much before I got half way through I went ahead and ordered the first book in the series, SCORE TO SETTLE. It doesn’t happen very often but by the end of the first chapter I was hooked, enchanted and fully engaged! Bella North’s writing style is right up my alley, with relatable MC’s, entertaining side characters, a beautiful setting and an engaging storyline that gripped me from the first page and refused to let me go.
Dylan Sullivan is a swoon worthy MMC who has lost his purpose in life. Coming to terms with losing the job he loves and fighting feelings of guilt, he’s grumpy, growly and struggling to decide what to do with his life. Cue Izzy Brooks.
Izzy Brooks is an independent, strong willed, single mum. She hasn’t had an easy life, nothing seems to go her way but she is determined to give her daughter the very best life possible. Let down too many times, Izzy has erected sky high walls around herself, reluctant to trust anyone with her and more importantly, her daughters heart.
When the pair meet sparks fly and the chemistry between these two is undeniable. They circle around each other relentlessly and their love language seems to be arguing and disagreeing about well, everything! Inevitably when they finally come together it is explosive!
Actually, this a love story between three people as Dylan falls as hard for Madison as he does her mum. Dylan’s relationship with Mad is adorable, and I can’t believe anyone will read this book and not swoon over their interactions. You can’t help but cheer this adorable couple on to their HEA.
With an intriguing cover that draws you in this book is a win in every way- I can’t recommend it enough!
With thanks to Bella North, Bookouture and NETGALLEY for an early read of this book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
🐎 Forced Proximity
🐎 Enemies to Lovers
🐎 Grumpy/ Sunshine
🐎 Cowboy Romance
🐎 Slow Burn
🐎 Spicy 🌶️🌶️🌶️
🐎 Single Mum
Game Over is the second (#2) book in the OAKWOOD RANCH series
This was the very first book by Bella North I have read and I absolutely loved it! In fact I loved it so much before I got half way through I went ahead and ordered the first book in the series, SCORE TO SETTLE. It doesn’t happen very often but by the end of the first chapter I was hooked, enchanted and fully engaged! Bella North’s writing style is right up my alley, with relatable MC’s, entertaining side characters, a beautiful setting and an engaging storyline that gripped me from the first page and refused to let me go.
Dylan Sullivan is a swoon worthy MMC who has lost his purpose in life. Coming to terms with losing the job he loves and fighting feelings of guilt, he’s grumpy, growly and struggling to decide what to do with his life. Cue Izzy Brooks.
Izzy Brooks is an independent, strong willed, single mum. She hasn’t had an easy life, nothing seems to go her way but she is determined to give her daughter the very best life possible. Let down too many times, Izzy has erected sky high walls around herself, reluctant to trust anyone with her and more importantly, her daughters heart.
When the pair meet sparks fly and the chemistry between these two is undeniable. They circle around each other relentlessly and their love language seems to be arguing and disagreeing about well, everything! Inevitably when they finally come together it is explosive!
Actually, this a love story between three people as Dylan falls as hard for Madison as he does her mum. Dylan’s relationship with Mad is adorable, and I can’t believe anyone will read this book and not swoon over their interactions. You can’t help but cheer this adorable couple on to their HEA.
With an intriguing cover that draws you in this book is a win in every way- I can’t recommend it enough!
With thanks to Bella North, Bookouture and NETGALLEY for an early read of this book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
🐎 Forced Proximity
🐎 Enemies to Lovers
🐎 Grumpy/ Sunshine
🐎 Cowboy Romance
🐎 Slow Burn
🐎 Spicy 🌶️🌶️🌶️
🐎 Single Mum
October 29, 2025
Game Over by Bella North is the second book in the series, and although I hadn’t read the first one, it was immediately clear that this was a follow-on story. I could tell right away that there was history with other characters, though I wasn’t particularly interested in figuring out who the first book centred around.
This book follows Dylan Sullivan, a retired football player who’s dealing with the aftermath of his career ending. After a drunken night, he somehow ends up purchasing eight horses — and, unintentionally, taking on more responsibility than he expected. That’s where Izzy Brooks comes in: a single mother who knows her way around a ranch and horses like the back of her hand but is struggling to make ends meet. Both characters carry their own kind of grumpiness, so this is very much a grumpy x grumpy romance set against a small-town ranch backdrop — perfect for fans of Elsie Silver and similar authors.
I thought the story flowed really well, and Bella North’s writing style was easy to follow. However, I didn’t feel a strong pull to keep reading, which may have been partly due to a reading slump, but also because the story didn’t fully grab my attention at times. There were a few moments where scenes transitioned a little abruptly, and I found myself missing context about how the characters got from one situation to another.
That said, the found family element was one of my favourite parts of the story — it added so much warmth and depth. I absolutely loved the character of Mama; she was such a strong, inspiring presence throughout. As the story went on, both Dylan and Izzy grew on each other, and in turn, they grew on me too.
Izzy’s daughter was another highlight — she brought so much light and sweetness to the story, and her relationship with Dylan was genuinely heartwarming.
While this wasn’t a standout read for me, I did enjoy the overall tone and flow of the writing. The inclusion of text messages added a nice touch and helped break up the story. I’d definitely consider reading the next book in the series, as I can see Bella North’s world and characters growing stronger with each instalment.
This book follows Dylan Sullivan, a retired football player who’s dealing with the aftermath of his career ending. After a drunken night, he somehow ends up purchasing eight horses — and, unintentionally, taking on more responsibility than he expected. That’s where Izzy Brooks comes in: a single mother who knows her way around a ranch and horses like the back of her hand but is struggling to make ends meet. Both characters carry their own kind of grumpiness, so this is very much a grumpy x grumpy romance set against a small-town ranch backdrop — perfect for fans of Elsie Silver and similar authors.
I thought the story flowed really well, and Bella North’s writing style was easy to follow. However, I didn’t feel a strong pull to keep reading, which may have been partly due to a reading slump, but also because the story didn’t fully grab my attention at times. There were a few moments where scenes transitioned a little abruptly, and I found myself missing context about how the characters got from one situation to another.
That said, the found family element was one of my favourite parts of the story — it added so much warmth and depth. I absolutely loved the character of Mama; she was such a strong, inspiring presence throughout. As the story went on, both Dylan and Izzy grew on each other, and in turn, they grew on me too.
Izzy’s daughter was another highlight — she brought so much light and sweetness to the story, and her relationship with Dylan was genuinely heartwarming.
While this wasn’t a standout read for me, I did enjoy the overall tone and flow of the writing. The inclusion of text messages added a nice touch and helped break up the story. I’d definitely consider reading the next book in the series, as I can see Bella North’s world and characters growing stronger with each instalment.
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