Quinn Compton has one goal: make it to the National Finals Rodeo. After an injury that nearly ended her career, she’s more determined than ever, and Hartwell Hills Ranch is her solution. The perfect place to keep her head down and train. If only a certain Hartwell wasn't so distracting.
Wyatt Hartwell has two goals: rebuild his tarnished reputation and win over Quinn Compton. She’s shot down every flirty line he’s tossed her way, but that only makes him want to know the woman behind the steely focus even more. And when one bad decision leaves him jobless and back at his family's ranch, she’s suddenly everywhere he turns.
When Quinn’s rodeo season gets more chaotic than she bargained for, Wyatt steps in, determined to prove he’s not the careless playboy everyone thinks. From dusty arenas to neon-lit dance floors, their new friendship starts to blur into something Quinn didn’t see coming, and a whole lot more dangerous to her heart. Quinn came to Hartwell Hills for herself, not a rodeo announcer with a cocky attitude. But love can make you a fool, and falling for Wyatt might be a ride worth taking.
Stefanie K. Steck is a self-published author of swoony contemporary romance novels. In her books, you can find all the emotions you need always with a happily ever after.
Stefanie lives in Salt Lake City, Utah with her husband Spencer, three kids, two dogs (whom she loves almost more than writing), and a newly adopted cat. She works as a full-time dental assistant, which she rather enjoys. When she’s not assisting with a root canal or cleaning her house; you can find her writing her new novels or cuddling with her dogs and kids. She enjoys reading, is an avid Pokémon GO player, and loves all the Marvel movies (Iron Man and Spiderman are her favorites, and she will never leave out Loki).
Book three in the Hartwell Hills series. Age gap, low spice romance. Loved being back on the ranch and revisiting these characters.
Was happy to see Wyatt’s character development after how he acted in the prologue. Being friends first was a necessary step for him to show his growth, but also for Quinn to see that the stories she heard may have skewed her thoughts about him.
Thanks to Stefanie K. Steck for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for Fool for You to come out on October 27, 2025.
Oh, Wyatt and Quinn... where do we even begin with these two!? If you've read the previous books in the series, we've gotten to see a bit of Wyatt-- the cocky rodeo announcer playboy-- in the background. I'll admit, I'm not usually one for the whole reformed playboy trope... but oh my goodness, Wyatt may have just changed my mind! Yeah, he might have a past... but when he falls, he falls HARD and has eyes only for one woman... and I was absolutely here for it! Quinn didn't let him in without a fight though. I loved the back and forth between them... him unapologetically gone for her and her pushing back and making him work for it. Theirs was definitely the perfect slow burn... giving all that amazing tension and letting us truly see how far Wyatt has come from his playboy ways until we finally get that first kiss... making it oh so worth the wait! Truly, I just couldn't get enough of these two together! Stefanie K. Steck absolutely knows how to write cowboys that will having you falling head over heels for their tender love stories, and this one was certainly no exception! I loved it and couldn't put it down!
Now, let's talk about the spice, because while the other books in the series were fade to black, Fool For You is more cracked door/mild spice... not something I tend to read or share. So... what does that actually mean? Personally, I found that it really wasn't TOO far from the heat level of the previous books. Yes, they were fade to black, but they were steamier with clothes coming off, mentions of arousal, non-detailed talk of previous experiences, etc... and you'll get all that here too. Beyond that though, there are just a few brief lines that, while still not overly explicit, do push that line a bit more... Cracked door, vague open door... whatever you want to call it... you definitely know what it is happening off the pages, but we're not given ALL the specific details. Like I said, I personally found it wasn't too far a jump from the previous book, so if you were okay with that heat level, you might be okay with this one too... BUT, if the last book was a bit too steamy, this might be one to skip. There is also a good deal of strong language, to include multiple uses of the f-word. It is the third book in the Hartwell Hills series, and while I think it could be enjoyed as a standalone, I do think that those who have read the previous books will appreciate Wyatt's growth all that much more.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Another delightful addition to the Hartwell Hills series!
I'll be honest, Wyatt's was the story I was least interested in of the Hartwells. A playboy just isn't my favorite. But this book changed my mind abouthim and I just love him now!
Wyatt and Quinn were adorable together! She was the sassy, strong-willed woman that Wyatt needed. And he was the perfect boyfriend- supportive and sweet.
I loved watching their friendship grow and then blossom into something more. And all of the Once Upon a Time references just made me giddy - it's one of my favorite shows!
Of course, I loved seeing all the rest of the Hartwells and catching up with them. This series is just so good, and I love them so much!
Thank you so much to Stefanie for an early copy of the ebook to review!
oh gosh, now this story....this story simply hooked me in from the very beginning and didn't let go. I just love when we get to tag along with the characters on their rodeo journey. not just snippets or mentions...no, this one we get behind the scenes with Quinn. and I couldn't get enough. Quinn is a barrel racer and she's determined to make it to the nfr. (which I actually love watching each year😁) we get to see what it takes for her to get there...and along for the ride is Wyatt...not that she planned for that to happen. and yall, it's just so fun with these two. but also tense at first.. but honestly that was fun as well. 🤭 I really never thought of the announcers at rodeos...you know the guys who introduce each competitor and what not. but that's what Wyatt does. or well did....until a little altercation occurred that put him on the bottom of the list...
but yall Wyatt and Quinn, I just loved them. the nightly routines were simply cute. ☺️ I didn't even notice the lack of spice if I'm being honest. I knew before hand though that the spice was more fade to black in a way...but truthfully...I didn't care. I still adored these characters. the ending was PERFECTION!!!! I had the biggest smile on my face with that epilogue. ☺️☺️☺️
the character growth for both of them...made me happy.
thank you Stefanie for allowing me to arc read your book. not sure if you noticed, but I loved this book. ☺️🫶🏻
This is my favorite western romance series that I’ve read. I absolutely adored Wyatt and Quinn’s love story. I loved the reformed playboy and how hard he falls for Quinn. I loved how ride or die he was for her and his loved ones. I also loved the moments he had with the children from the previous books’ couples. I loved Quinn’s character, I definitely related to her in a few different ways and I appreciated the journey she went on. Their romance was so cute and sweet, I loved the slow burn. Their chemistry was so well written. I just love the Hartwell Hills world that Stefanie K. Steck has written and I can’t wait for more from her and from this series!
I LOVED Wyatt and Quinn so much!!! I love a groveling MMC who only grovels for the FMC🤭 a reformed playboy if you will. Anywayssssss I fricken LOVED this story and can’t wait to read the previous books!
The banter and connection between Wyatt and Quinn was there from page one. I soaked up every page and wanted to reach into the pages and give Wyatt the biggest hug so many times.
As usual the other characters are there in all their fabulous glory too, helping to make a rich and well rounded romance with characters you can't not adore.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
I had the privilege of Beta reading Fool For You for Stefanie, and I'm so happy it's out in the world now. Because I was a Beta reader and I am Stefanie's PA, I am not giving this book a star rating. But that's not going to stop me from telling you how good this book is and how much you need to read it.
Wyatt and Quinn stole my heart. I love every Hartwell, but I didn't expect to love Wyatt THIS MUCH! When we meet him in Somebody Like Me he is the playboy brother who doesn't care about anything. Well it turns out, he cares deeply and one look at Quinn reforms his playboy ways. He falls first and HARD. He is the embodiment of "if he wanted to he would". If you're not a fan of the Reformed Rake trope, Wyatt may just change your mind. He changed Quinn's. 😏
Quinn knows his reputation and she is not giving him the time of day. She has a dream to go to the NFR and she doesn't have time for his shenanigans. But it turns out Wyatt is extremely patient. And his love language is quality time. With snacks. He slowly but surely shows Quinn that she can trust him, which is not something she's been able to do with many people before.
The friendship that forms between them is so sweet and their relationship feels so realistic. I love all the small moments we see that stack up to be an amazing relationship foundation. This is a SLOoOOoW burn. But when Wyatt and Quinn finally give in, it's nothing less than fireworks (IYKYK 😉).
I love every trip back to Hartwell Hills. If you haven't read these books yet, please do. I'm literally begging you.
My first ARC and what a great one to start with! Thank you @authorstefanieksteck and your team for sending me your newest book!
Barrel Racing’s princess Quinn Compton falls for Rodeo announcer Wyatt Hartwell in this friend’s to lovers romance! This book is a part of a series, but can absolutely be read as a standalone!
“As soon as I was mounted in the saddle, he kicked my boot from the stirrup and used it to lift himself into the air, kissing me deeply before he fell back to the ground. “See you on the other side.”
Fool for You swept me off my feet in the best way possible. Stefanie K. Steck crafts a story that’s not just about falling in love, it’s about rebuilding, trusting again, and chasing dreams even when the odds are stacked against you.
Quinn Compton is an incredibly talented barrel racer with fire in her soul and a chip on her shoulder. After a devastating injury and with a disapproving mother, she’s determined to prove she still belongs in the rodeo arena. She doesn’t need any distractions, and then Wyatt Hartwell enters the picture. Wyatt’s is your typical ladies man: he’s a smooth talker, easy on the eyes, and has charm for days. But under the surface he’s also carrying the weight of past mistakes and a reputation he’s desperate to shake.
The sharp comebacks and friction between Wyatt and Quinn is something you can deeply feel. When Quinn’s guarded strength meets Wyatt’s quiet persistence the tension between them simmers beautifully. What I loved most was how their relationship unfolded, not rushed, not forced, but earned through vulnerability, banter, and shared moments that felt real.
What truly melted my heart was how Wyatt showed up for Quinn on the rodeo circuit. He wasn’t just cheering from the sidelines, he was hauling horses, calming nerves, and being her steady presence through the chaos. Their bond deepened in quiet moments, like late nights spent watching Once Upon a Time.
Steck’s writing is heartfelt and vivid, making every scene feel like you’re right there in the dust and sunshine. If you’re into cowboy romances with strong heroines, emotionally complex heroes, and a love story that makes you root for both characters to heal and grow, Fool for You is a must-read.
A huge thank you for the early copy! Now I need to go back and read the other two books in the Hartwell Hills series.
If you haven't read the Hartwell Hills series yet this is your sign to pick it up! From the beginning Wyatt is the typical playboy. He would rather have fun than commit. Even within the ranch he isn't much for that life. His life revolves around announcing at rodeos. That is until Quinn Compton walks into his life and he is forever changed.
I loved seeing Wyatt from a different perspective. Seeing who he really is and not the persona most people think of him. We get to see what his twin sees. He is caring and would do whatever he could to make the people he loves happy. I love how he takes care of Quinn in any way that he can. Seeing his heart in this book made me fall in love with Wyatt and I didn't know if that was possible.
Quinn was the perfect addition to the Hartwell family. She can keep up with them and is folded into the group seamlessly. I really felt for her and her relationship with her mom. She couldn't do anything right by her mom but she still wanted to make her proud. She also was showing the world she could get through life on her own. However, Wyatt reminded her she didn't have to.
This was another great book into this wonderful series. I love this family and I wish they were real and I could be friends with them all! I can't wait for Lachlan's story.
Ok I absolutely ADORED this book!! I LOVE a good “reformed playboy” book and Wyatt certainly delivered! Wyatt fell first for Quinn and he fell hard! He stopped at nothing until she was his. Then once he had her, all he wanted was to prove to her that he wasn’t who his reputation made him seem to be. Ugh I just love him! And the Wyatt is with little Poppy, his niece 😍 and his nephew Stetson, ugh so freaking sweet!
Quinn was such a bada$$ FMC, and she took no crap! The definitely took some time to warm up to Wyatt but when she did she fell hard also! I loved how determined she was to make it to the NFR and to come back after her injury. She fit in so well with the Hartwell’s, and absolutely belonged with them!
I have loved every book in this series! Stefanie’s writing is so good and will suck you right in from the beginning
To start off with I didn’t read the first 2 books, but it didn’t feel like I was missing any part of the story and I still enjoyed all the characters. I enjoyed this slow burn rodeo romance! I love a good a reformed playboy story, and this one didn’t disappoint. Wyatt our reformed playboy fell first and fell hard for Quinn. Wyatt is blacklisted as a rodeo announcer due to an event that involves fighting for a reason that will melt your heart. Quinn is a fierce woman who will take no crap from anyone which I loved. I do think I’d like to eventually go back and read books 1&2 to learn more about the other characters. Stacey did a great job writing this romance novel, and I look forward to reading more of their work. Thank you netgalley for the e-arc.
Wyatt and Quinn had me falling for them straight out of the gate. Stephanie does such an amazing job of writing flawed/broken characters who grow so much, and I absolutely loved being able to peek back in on the Hartwell family. The way Wyatt "chased" Quinn just by being there for her as a best friend until she was ready for more was so perfect. The romance was so good and I appreciated the cracked door/fade-to-black. Stephanie again writes romance and buildup in such a way that it doesn't feel like anything is missing without a ton of spice. There's tension, banter, and sweet little moments that make you fall in love with them over and over again.
*Barrel racer x rodeo announcer *Reformed bad boy *age gap (she's 23 and he's 30) *Road trips *bonding over takeout and tv shows *slow burn/mild spice
Thank you so much to Stefanie K. Steck for the advanced copy. I absolutely loved getting to come back to Hartwell Hills Ranch again! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
There are no words for how great it felt to be back in Hartwell Hills! Like….so good!!!
You know that guy…the one that is an obnoxious flirt with everyone who you can help buy smile and roll your eyes at because he’s charming in his own way even if he annoys the crap out of you as he does it…..HELLO WYATT!!!
Did I mention he’s apparently deliciously handsome (as all these ruggedly dashing cowboys seem to be) and more interestingly has a voice that is MADE for narrating books. I don’t know about you but there’s a few book narrator voices that make me go 😍.
Then there’s Quinn. Young. Fiery. I’ve got places to go and things to do and more importantly….i have things to PROVE! DETERMINED! She knows what she wants and there is no way she is going to let ANYTHING or ANYONE (much less an annoying full of himself playboy flirt cowboy **see above**) get in her way of achieving her goals!
I mean…we all know that oil and water in no way shape or form go together…right?
This book is a wonderfully slow sloooow burn enemies to lovers small town country rodeo romance novel. It will make you laugh. If you are like me…you will definitely roll your eyes. (At the people and their behaviors…not the book/writing) it will tug on your heartstrings. It will WIN you over!!!
It was seriously so good! I recommend it and hope you give it a try.
(While it is book3 in the Hartwell Hills Series…please note they are stand alone stories. The characters from the previous two books are mentioned so technically there would be some minor spoilers from reading this one first but….i technically read #2 Never Left You first as an ARC before going back to ready #1 and now this one. I’m hooked on Stefanie Steck and can’t wait to dive into more of her books!!!)
Thank you so much Stefanie for giving the chance to read and enjoy this story before release day!
Guys you should already know what I'm going to say. RUN when this book is released on the 27th to read it. It is available on KU and you will NOT regret it. I love this small town and the found family that is established throughout this series. It is an interconnected standalone series, so you do not have to read the books in order! This is the third book in the Hartwell Hills series and I ate up every second of it. Wyatt Hartwell is most definitely my favorite MMC so far. Talk about a man who chases and YEARNS!
Wyatt being a reformed playboy all because of Quinn Compton, the barrel racing princess who he can't get out his head? YES YES YES YES! The banter between these two was chef's kiss, and watching Wyatt grow and change into the person he's always been, but also the man that is deserving of Quinn was amazing. Quinn let Wyatt in after literally wanting nothing to do with him, and slowly began to fall in love with the man she thought she knew, but really didn't know at all. This is a story of both characters working to accomplish their dreams while falling in love.
Stefanie did an amazing job with this story and the ending almost made me tear up not gonna lie. Were there moments where Quinn made me mad and literally annoyed tf out of me? Yes. Was it completely acceptable because of the way the story and her character were set up? Also yes. I wouldn't change a thing about these two characters.
This has to be, by far, my favorite of the Hartwell Hills series. I love a good reformed bad boy story, and this one was done so well.
I love Quinn’s character, she’s smart and resilient. She stands her ground with Wyatt and his flirtatious ways, believing him to be a playboy of the worst kind. But over time, Wyatt slowly grows on her, always cheering her on and encouraging her every step of the way. Even though Quinn struggles with self-doubt from her mother’s lack of support, she never gives up on her goals. I also loved the glimpse into barrel racing training and rodeo life, it made the story feel so real and immersive
Wyatt, as a reformed playboy, struggled to earn Quinn’s trust at first, but he was so far gone for this girl. The way he supported Quinn, showing up for all her rides and cheering her on, was just perfect. He was intentional with his words and actions, consistently encouraging her before each race. I loved seeing Wyatt go from an immature playboy to a kind and caring man.
One thing that did disappoint me was the third-act breakup. After all the time Quinn spent with Wyatt and getting to know him. I didn’t understand why she was so quick to lose trust in him. Even though their reunion was sweet, their time apart meant we got less of Wyatt and Quinn together, and I just wanted so much more of them.
Regardless, I loved Wyatt and Quinn. They were so cute, and their budding friendship was my favorite part. They had so much chemistry and banter, Wyatt had me both laughing and swooning. I just want more of their story!
🔥 Heat level: Steamy fade-to-black (cracked-door) with innuendos throughout 🫢 Language: Strong, frequent language
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This book is the absolute definition of a SLOW BURN. He’s the chaos to her structure; she’s the calm to his storm.
Fool For You is a mild-spice, cracked-door cowboy romance that delivers all the swoony moments while making you fall hard for Wyatt and Quinn. It’s got all the best tropes: frenemies to lovers, a touch of an age gap (he’s 30, she’s 23), and a rodeo romance where she is the star.
And let me tell you, it’s one of the most rewarding slow burns I’ve read in a while.
I absolutely cannot and will not ever get enough of cowboy romance, and this book is no exception. Wyatt! What a man—the wrangler-wearing, t-shirt-clinging, absolute joy of a man. The growth! I adored his character arc, there were so many moments I found myself hoping he’d finally win the woman he’d been chasing. And Quinn made him work for it, which made every small win that much sweeter.
The author knew exactly what she was doing with this story, perfect pacing, heart, and that tension-filled chemistry that keeps you reading “just one more chapter.”
If you love cowboy charm, a determined heroine, and a romance that simmers until it finally sparks—pack your bags for Hartwell Hills. 🤠💫
I read this one as a standalone and it works perfectly that way, but it’s also part of a series if you’re craving even more cowboy action.
Thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing and the Author for sharing with me an advanced copy.
I absolutely devoured *Fool For You*. I honestly could not put this book down! Stefanie K. Steck has written a beautiful, well-paced romance that completely captured my heart.
From the moment I started reading, I was invested in both Quinn and Wyatt. Quinn Compton is the focused and determined rodeo star you instantly root for. She’s fighting to reclaim her career, and her dedication is truly inspiring. But it's Wyatt Hartwell's ability to break through her steely resolve that makes this story pure magic. Wyatt begins with a tarnished reputation and a cocky attitude, but he proves time and again that he’s anything but a careless playboy. Their journey, which evolves from reluctant forced proximity to a sizzling, undeniable romance, is spectacular.
The chemistry between them is off the charts, and I loved watching their friendship blur into something deeper across the dusty arenas and neon-lit dance floors of the rodeo circuit. The author skillfully balances the high-stakes world of professional rodeo with the vulnerability that comes with falling in love.
This book was so good that even though I picked it up as a standalone and haven't read the previous books in the Hartwell Hills series, I am now officially hooked and plan to read the rest immediately! If you love a determined heroine and a charming hero eager to prove himself, this is the book for you.
I received an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.
Exactly what you expect from a cowboy romance, with mild spice. It’s book 3 of the series but totally works as a standalone! Easy and entertaining read. Cowboy romance - ranch setting, she’s barrel racer and they travel to many rodeos. Horses as strong secondary characters ;)
I flew through this book, the writing style just made me read it so fast. It’s a goooood cowboy romance. The spice is very mild (but it IS there, it’s not closed door!) and more of an addition to the story. Nice plot execution and character development. Wyatt is a reformed playboy and was very set on chasing Quinn but I loved how he eased on his attempt and listened to her, instead of forcing himself on her. The burn is slow as they go from frenemies to friends to lovers. I love when the connection is opposite from insta-love/lust! Although you can say Quinn caught Wyatt’s eye kind of from the first sight, they develop friendship first before becoming a couple.
Tropes: -reformed playboy -age gap (23 & 30) -frenemies to lovers -she’s the barrel racer -he’s announcer on (forced) ‘sabbatical’ -slow burn -flirty banter -some family drama in the background (on her part)
I loved this story! At first, I was a bit skeptical, since the reformed playboy trope isn’t usually one of my go-tos, but I’m so glad I gave it a chance. The author made this story so heartwarming that I just binged it and loved every single moment! Both the story and the characters were compelling, and we even got glimpses of previous characters we already loved.
Damn, Quinn sure was mean to Wyatt! He might have been a reformed playboy, but she definitely made him chase and grovel, and he did! From the very beginning, he saw her through heart-shaped lenses and was completely smitten. Quinn took her sweet time to change her mind and give him a chance, but when she finally did... it was so worth it.
Wyatt is such a sweetheart. He has a reputation, but it doesn’t really reflect who he truly is. Throughout his time with Quinn, he grows and finds himself. Even though they’re opposites, they complement each other beautifully and bring out the best in one another.
While reading, I almost wished I were at the ranch, helping with the animals, going to rodeos, and experiencing that world firsthand. The author’s writing makes you feel like you belong there. I honestly can’t wait for Lachlan’s story next!
Oh my heart—this story hooked me from the very first page! Quinn’s determination to make it to the NFR after her injury had me cheering her on every step of the way, and I loved being right alongside her through the ups and downs of her rodeo season. She’s tough, focused, and fiercely independent… until Wyatt Hartwell turns her world upside down.
Now, let’s talk about Wyatt. I wasn’t sure I’d like him at first—he came across as cocky and a little too smooth—but wow, did he ever redeem himself. His character growth completely melted me. The way he supported Quinn, encouraged her dreams, and quietly proved he was more than his reputation? Swoon.
Their slow-burn chemistry was spot on—full of tension, heart, and humor. And while this one leans more “cracked door” than the previous fade-to-black books in the series, it still stays on the mild side. You definitely feel the attraction and intimacy between them, but without crossing into explicit territory. It’s tasteful, romantic, and true to their emotional journey.
And that ending? Absolute perfection. The epilogue had me grinning from ear to ear. Stefanie K. Steck continues to deliver heartwarming, faith-filled love stories that make you fall harder for every cowboy she writes.
ARC provided for honest review. All opinions are my own.
“She didn’t want to be chased, yet I didn’t want to chase anyone else.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Quinn Compton is a fierce and independent barrel racer, not in the mood for Wyatt’s games. Wyatt Hartwell is a reformed playboy with his sights set on one woman - Quinn. Fans of Lyla Sage’s Done and Dusted will love this new Cowboy romance.
I really enjoyed the slow building of trust between Wyatt and Quinn. I am glad that they became friends first because it really showed Wyatt’s character development. Their chemistry is palpable, their banter is witty, and the longing is heart-wrenching.
Two primary subplots include Quinn and Wyatt’s rodeo careers and Quinn’s strained family relationships. These storylines did a great job to heighten the stakes above your typical love story and lended emotional depth to the characters.
My only critique is the third act breakup. I was upset that Quinn wasn’t even willing to have a conversation and listen to Wyatt for month(s). It really kicked down Quinn’s emotional maturity for me.
Overall though, I thoroughly enjoyed Fool For You - it was definitely a ride worth taking 🤠
My first read of the hartwell hills series and it won’t be my last! I need to go read the other two books immediately because I LOVED IT!
Fool for you was a perfect 5 star read for me. The reformed playboy trope wouldn’t be top of my list but the author did such a good job with Wyatt that I was hooked on his character from the prologue! He was flirty, funny, kind and caring all rolled in to one. I especially loved his character development as the story went on and his admiration for Quinn grew. We saw more of his caring and supportive side near the end.
Quinn was such a fun FMC. She was an extremely strong character from the moment she landed on the page and I especially loved her first impressions of Wyatt and how their small interactions added such humour to the storyline. Getting to know Quinn and peel back her layers as the story went on was so satisfying and her relationship with Wyatt and his family was so good. I LOVED it all.
I just loved everything about this story, from the rodeo world, the family members, the humour and the small stuff, everything just felt so genuine and I could not put it down. One of my favorite reads this year hands down 🙌🏻
Say hello to my favorite book of the Hartwell Hills series (so far) and new all-time favorite of Stefanie K Steck's novels. Fool for You is Wyatt Hartwell and Quinn Compton's love story and the third book in the Hartwell Hills series. Fool for You features the small town, rodeo, cowgirl x reluctant cowboy, barrel racer x announcer, dislike (on her end) to friends to lovers, slow burn romance book tropes.
Oh, how I love this book. Wyatt and Quinn's story is so beautiful. I honestly wish it never had to end. I love the growth that both MC's showed over the course of the book. To see Quinn learn to trust Wyatt after she realised that he is a good guy, behind the facade he puts on at rodeos and the fact that he used to chase girls, was beautiful. And to see Wyatt mature and rise to his full potential was just fantastic. The third act breakup in this book brought me to tears. Even though it brought the tears, I felt that this third act break up was necessary because when they came back together you could feel how much stronger their relationship was going to be.
The pacing of this book was well timed and didn't feel rushed. The plot was written to perfection with nothing being forgotten. That can sometimes happen, and I was super glad that that wasn't the case with Fool for You. Also, the writing style was very easy to follow.
Stefanie, you have really done Wyatt and Quinn justice, and I can't wait to see what you come up with next.
Thank you to Stefanie K Steck for the gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.
Fool For You is a fantastic read for any rodeo fans out there! Although third in the Hartwell Hills series, it can be read as a standalone.
Quinn is everything an ambitious barrel racer should be, and more! Wyatt has a cliché cowboy ‘reputation,’ but is more than meets the eye. The continuous banter about hats and boots kept me smiling, as did the pop-culture references (“As you wish”…need I say more?!). The inclusion of Wyatt’s passion for rodeo announcing was a refreshing addition for this genre, too.
The pressure to perform, rodeo bookings, long days of travel, training runs, balancing family & friends, packing outfits (including worn old ball caps), horse care, dancing & drinks, pursuing dreams, or just unwinding after a long dusty day in the arena…so much truth about this western corner of the universe was encapsulated in this novel. I tip my {light brown Stetson} hat to you for this one, Stefanie!
“We have more than tonight…” is the quote living rent free in my mind. Highly recommend this novel.
Thank you soooo, SO much to Stefanie for trusting me with an ARC. Getting the chance to sneak books early never gets old.
This was a new to me author and an enjoyable read. I liked the writing style and how the story developed. At first I wasn’t sure if I was going to warm to either main character but they both quickly grew on me and I loved the build up of their relationship. Watching their friendship grow and develop was lovely and they quickly became close.
Quinn is a barrel racer and trains on Wyatt’s family ranch. Despite turning him down whenever he’s hit on her in the past, she secretly harbours a little crush on him too. When she needs help with the planning and logistics of her races, Wyatt steps up. The more time they spend together the closer they become.
I enjoyed the story a lot, my only complaint would be the miscommunication towards the end which could have easily been resolved with a proper conversation. Quinn’s behaviour frustrated me because Wyatt had never given her any reason to doubt or not trust him in the past. But overall a lovely read and I’d definitely pick up another of this author’s book. Whilst this is book 3 in the series it can absolutely be read as a stand alone.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and NetGalley for this ARC to bring me into the world of Hartwell Hill Series, for an honest review of book 3.
I haven't read the previous books in this series, but loved all of the characters immediately. If you love a very slow burn where the MMC is playing the long game, this book is for you! Wyatt has been black listed as a rodeo announcer due to an incident where he defended his crush, Quinn. Quinn, who hates Wyatt's playboy and lazy persona, shuts down all advances he makes. We see so much growth with Wyatt's character as he becomes best friends with Quinn and starts taking life a bit more serious with hard work at the ranch and on the road helping Quinn at her races.
When their relationship finally turns romantic, the love they have for each other is so beautiful! One mis-communication turns their world upside down, not finding a resolution until 10 pages left in the book. I wish we would have seen more acceptance from Quinn by listening and communicating instead of running, but there reunion was very sweet.
Fool for You is the third book in the Hartwell Hills series, though each can be read as an interconnected standalone. In this story, we meet the third Hartwell sibling, Wyatt, a rodeo announcer with a charming personality and a reputation as an aloof playboy. Quinn, a barrel racer, relocates to Hartwell Ranch to train for her upcoming National Finals Rodeo (NFR). She initially rejects all of Wyatt’s advances, and the two form a tentative friendship instead. As they spend more time together,especially when Wyatt begins helping her with her rodeo travels, their relationship deepens, and feelings start to surface. But is Quinn willing to trust Wyatt with her heart?
I appreciated receiving the ARC copy! I enjoyed the story overall, though my rating was mainly affected by the conflict and miscommunication. While Quinn admits she overreacted once things were resolved, her complete refusal to speak to Wyatt felt irrational and a bit childish.