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Back in the Saddle: A brother's best friend romance
Not yet published
Expected 22 Jan 26
Quinn Dawson
My life has always been a carefully curated existence—a checklist with every item ticked off in perfect order. But when I quit my job without a backup plan and land back in my childhood summer home in Cottonwood Creek, I’m left wondering who I am without the perfect job, the perfect apartment, and the (not-so-perfect) ex-boyfriend. Maybe I’m finally ready for something different—something less pristine and a lot more real.
Tripp Matthews
I've always been the good times guy—never one to be taken too seriously. And that's always been fine by me. Life's easier when nobody expects more than a grin and a cold beer. But then Quinn Dawson shows up with her fancy degrees, high heels, and endless checklists—my best friend's little sister, all grown up and impossible to ignore. I've proved to myself I can resist temptation. But Quinn Dawson? That's a whole different story.
My life has always been a carefully curated existence—a checklist with every item ticked off in perfect order. But when I quit my job without a backup plan and land back in my childhood summer home in Cottonwood Creek, I’m left wondering who I am without the perfect job, the perfect apartment, and the (not-so-perfect) ex-boyfriend. Maybe I’m finally ready for something different—something less pristine and a lot more real.
Tripp Matthews
I've always been the good times guy—never one to be taken too seriously. And that's always been fine by me. Life's easier when nobody expects more than a grin and a cold beer. But then Quinn Dawson shows up with her fancy degrees, high heels, and endless checklists—my best friend's little sister, all grown up and impossible to ignore. I've proved to myself I can resist temptation. But Quinn Dawson? That's a whole different story.
375 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 22, 2026
2 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐ 4
🌶️ 4
🥵 Spicy Chapters: 17, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 30, 33, 37, 43, epilogue
❤️🔥 Swoon Factor: 3
📚 Tropes/Themes: Small town, brother's best friend, childhood Crush, it's always been you, flashbacks, sexy bucket list, fuck it, comes in his pants, crawl to me
👀 Dual POV first person
💔 Triggers: terminal illness, medical content, parental death,
💬 Wooo, It's been quite a while since I've gotten to sink my teeth into a really good cowboy romance and danggggg this was a spicy read 🔥.
Overall I enjoyed it, although this was more kink heavy and that's not really my jam. I did end up skipping past a few scenes toward the end. I was more invested in/enjoyed the character growth arcs and how they FINALLY figured out how to communicate with each other lol, although I wish Tripp had a little more of a backbone.
The characters are flawed but realistic, and have a lot of depth to them and which I really appreciated - it definitely left me with an emotional payoff at the end when they finally got their shit together. I also really enjoyed the flashbacks which helped flesh out the "friends to lovers/it's always been you" tropes.
And I laughed SO HARD at the scene when Wes accidentally discovera Tripps toys 👌🏼 😂😂
My biggest frustration is it felt like it was dragging in the middle. I was pretty keyed in to the first third of the story and while I wouldn't say the pacing was slow, just there was a lot to get through if that makes sense? It took me longer than I expected to finish it and I definitely thought the Kindle "left to read" times were off a couple times
🌶️ 4
🥵 Spicy Chapters: 17, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 30, 33, 37, 43, epilogue
❤️🔥 Swoon Factor: 3
📚 Tropes/Themes: Small town, brother's best friend, childhood Crush, it's always been you, flashbacks, sexy bucket list, fuck it, comes in his pants, crawl to me
👀 Dual POV first person
💔 Triggers: terminal illness, medical content, parental death,
💬 Wooo, It's been quite a while since I've gotten to sink my teeth into a really good cowboy romance and danggggg this was a spicy read 🔥.
Overall I enjoyed it, although this was more kink heavy and that's not really my jam. I did end up skipping past a few scenes toward the end. I was more invested in/enjoyed the character growth arcs and how they FINALLY figured out how to communicate with each other lol, although I wish Tripp had a little more of a backbone.
The characters are flawed but realistic, and have a lot of depth to them and which I really appreciated - it definitely left me with an emotional payoff at the end when they finally got their shit together. I also really enjoyed the flashbacks which helped flesh out the "friends to lovers/it's always been you" tropes.
And I laughed SO HARD at the scene when Wes accidentally discovera Tripps toys 👌🏼 😂😂
My biggest frustration is it felt like it was dragging in the middle. I was pretty keyed in to the first third of the story and while I wouldn't say the pacing was slow, just there was a lot to get through if that makes sense? It took me longer than I expected to finish it and I definitely thought the Kindle "left to read" times were off a couple times
January 3, 2026
Back in the Saddle — E.A. Buckingham Young
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
This one is heartfelt, grounded, and quietly emotional — a story about second chances, healing old wounds, and finding your footing again when life knocks you off balance.
At its core, this is a return-to-your-roots kind of romance. The story leans into small-town vibes, unresolved pasts, and the kind of attraction that never fully fades, even after time and distance. There’s a strong sense of reflection throughout — characters carrying regret, learning to communicate, and deciding whether love is worth the risk again.
The vibes:
🐎 Small-town setting
💔 Second-chance romance
🌾 Slower pacing with emotional payoff
🫶 Healing, growth, and forgiveness
🔥 Quiet chemistry that builds
What really worked for me was the emotional realism. This isn’t flashy or over-the-top — it’s about showing up, doing the work, and choosing love with open eyes. The tension comes less from drama and more from what’s left unsaid, which made the payoff feel earned.
If you enjoy character-driven romances with depth, maturity, and a strong sense of place, Back in the Saddle is a solid, satisfying read that I enjoyed and would recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
This one is heartfelt, grounded, and quietly emotional — a story about second chances, healing old wounds, and finding your footing again when life knocks you off balance.
At its core, this is a return-to-your-roots kind of romance. The story leans into small-town vibes, unresolved pasts, and the kind of attraction that never fully fades, even after time and distance. There’s a strong sense of reflection throughout — characters carrying regret, learning to communicate, and deciding whether love is worth the risk again.
The vibes:
🐎 Small-town setting
💔 Second-chance romance
🌾 Slower pacing with emotional payoff
🫶 Healing, growth, and forgiveness
🔥 Quiet chemistry that builds
What really worked for me was the emotional realism. This isn’t flashy or over-the-top — it’s about showing up, doing the work, and choosing love with open eyes. The tension comes less from drama and more from what’s left unsaid, which made the payoff feel earned.
If you enjoy character-driven romances with depth, maturity, and a strong sense of place, Back in the Saddle is a solid, satisfying read that I enjoyed and would recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2026
Rating: 5/5
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
This is the second book in the Cottonwood Creek series. While it can absolutely be read as standalone, I highly recommend starting with book one, Roped In, which was just as wonderful. If you enjoy brother’s best friend, cowboy romance, small-town settings, friends to lovers, found family vibes, healing and self-discovery, and spice done right, this book needs to be on your TBR.
In this story, we meet Quinn, who returns to the ranch after leaving her city life behind. After discovering her boyfriend cheated on her and had to continue working alongside him. Quinn needs a fresh start. She heads back to where life was once simpler: hard work, familiar faces, and a sense of belonging. With Pops coming home soon and her brother and sister-in-law needing support, Quinn also takes this time to figure out what she truly wants from life.
Reuniting with Tripp her brother’s best friend and the ranch’s dependable right-hand man stirs up feelings she thought she’d left behind. As Quinn and Tripp spend more time together, old emotions resurface, boundaries blur, and their connection deepens. It certainly doesn’t hurt that Tripp is more than willing to help Quinn work through her rather naughty bucket list.
The plot is fun and engaging, with strong character development and immersive worldbuilding. The pacing remains steady throughout, even during moments of emotional realization, allowing the story to flow naturally. Quinn is a relatable and well-written heroine career-focused, strong, and thoughtful, yet hesitant to open up. With Tripp, however, she feels safe enough to be vulnerable. Tripp himself is patient, respectful, and genuinely kind. Even when navigating the more intimate aspects of their relationship, he leads with care and sincerity, making their romance feel both passionate and emotionally grounded.
The chemistry between these two is undeniable so intense it’s almost shocking they managed to hide it for as long as they did. Their tension leads to some truly steamy moments that are equal parts swoon-worthy and blush-inducing. This is absolutely a Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy kind of book. Still, what stood out most to me was the emotional depth beneath the romance. At its heart, this is a story about healing, friendship, and finding comfort in someone who understands you. Watching Quinn and Tripp support each other through honest conversations and shared vulnerability made their journey all the more satisfying.
I can’t wait to see what Buckingham-Young gives readers next, and I’m already eager to dive into the next book.
I want to thank E.A. Buckingham-Young for the opportunity to review this book.
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
This is the second book in the Cottonwood Creek series. While it can absolutely be read as standalone, I highly recommend starting with book one, Roped In, which was just as wonderful. If you enjoy brother’s best friend, cowboy romance, small-town settings, friends to lovers, found family vibes, healing and self-discovery, and spice done right, this book needs to be on your TBR.
In this story, we meet Quinn, who returns to the ranch after leaving her city life behind. After discovering her boyfriend cheated on her and had to continue working alongside him. Quinn needs a fresh start. She heads back to where life was once simpler: hard work, familiar faces, and a sense of belonging. With Pops coming home soon and her brother and sister-in-law needing support, Quinn also takes this time to figure out what she truly wants from life.
Reuniting with Tripp her brother’s best friend and the ranch’s dependable right-hand man stirs up feelings she thought she’d left behind. As Quinn and Tripp spend more time together, old emotions resurface, boundaries blur, and their connection deepens. It certainly doesn’t hurt that Tripp is more than willing to help Quinn work through her rather naughty bucket list.
The plot is fun and engaging, with strong character development and immersive worldbuilding. The pacing remains steady throughout, even during moments of emotional realization, allowing the story to flow naturally. Quinn is a relatable and well-written heroine career-focused, strong, and thoughtful, yet hesitant to open up. With Tripp, however, she feels safe enough to be vulnerable. Tripp himself is patient, respectful, and genuinely kind. Even when navigating the more intimate aspects of their relationship, he leads with care and sincerity, making their romance feel both passionate and emotionally grounded.
The chemistry between these two is undeniable so intense it’s almost shocking they managed to hide it for as long as they did. Their tension leads to some truly steamy moments that are equal parts swoon-worthy and blush-inducing. This is absolutely a Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy kind of book. Still, what stood out most to me was the emotional depth beneath the romance. At its heart, this is a story about healing, friendship, and finding comfort in someone who understands you. Watching Quinn and Tripp support each other through honest conversations and shared vulnerability made their journey all the more satisfying.
I can’t wait to see what Buckingham-Young gives readers next, and I’m already eager to dive into the next book.
I want to thank E.A. Buckingham-Young for the opportunity to review this book.
January 10, 2026
First of all I want to thank Victory Editing and NetGalley Co-op for the ARC provided to me.
This was my first book written by E.A. Buckingham-Young and so the first book in the Cottonwood Creek series, and let’s just say that I LOVED it!
“Back in the saddle” was funny as hell, sexy as much and filled with chemistry between the main characters: I loved following Quinn in her journey finding herself and getting to know Tripp.
If I have to find a flaw in the book, it’s the way the characters acted considering their age, I expected 30 years olds to be more mature about the circumstances. I get the whole “forbidden love” thing, and the “brother’s best friend” quite always has some sneaking behind everyone’s back, but it was a bit forced: for example, Wes finds out that his sister has a relationship with his childhood best friend and the first thing he thinks about doing is punching him in the face and roll with him in the mud?🧍♀️
you’re full on grown-ups. Same reason why I felt like I couldn’t deal with the miscommunication near the ending, it was SO frustrating.
However, I can overlook all that considering the plot, the way the relationships between the characters developed, the realness I found in the book: I loved how the ranch life and all the aspects involving Quinn’s job were portrayed.
Apart from some passages, I appreciated the characters too: how can I not love a mmc who’s not afraid to show his emotions, to cry, to act on his responsibilities, especially when said responsibilities involve putting the fmc on a pedestal and treating her as such.
I liked the way we can see bits of Quinn and Tripp's relationships through the years, even tho for me it resulted kind of forced: they were an obvious way the author introduced aspects of their dynamic, maybe she could've found a way to make it flow better with the plot. It was like "Oh, character A said such thing to character B, let me tell you about when they said the exact same thing to each other twenty years ago". It wasn't needed at all, but I get the choice and how it could add to the story.
The ending hit just right, it lived up to the expectations and I loved it.
I’m 100% going to catch up on “Roped In” as I fell in love with Wes and Sawyer's characters: I know their couple and their dynamic made up for a great story and since I was so positively surprised by E.A. Buckingham Young's writing I can't wait to read more from her hand. As a cowboy romance enthusiast, and former horse rider, I am so excited to get to know Sawyer better, considering "Back in the saddle" was one of the fews that REALLY got a well done representation of the cowboy lifestyle and that Sawyer herself is a horse trainer.
I absolutely recommend “Back in the saddle” if you’re in your cowboy/Elsie Silver era, this book thoroughly scratches the itch!
This was my first book written by E.A. Buckingham-Young and so the first book in the Cottonwood Creek series, and let’s just say that I LOVED it!
“Back in the saddle” was funny as hell, sexy as much and filled with chemistry between the main characters: I loved following Quinn in her journey finding herself and getting to know Tripp.
If I have to find a flaw in the book, it’s the way the characters acted considering their age, I expected 30 years olds to be more mature about the circumstances. I get the whole “forbidden love” thing, and the “brother’s best friend” quite always has some sneaking behind everyone’s back, but it was a bit forced: for example, Wes finds out that his sister has a relationship with his childhood best friend and the first thing he thinks about doing is punching him in the face and roll with him in the mud?🧍♀️
you’re full on grown-ups. Same reason why I felt like I couldn’t deal with the miscommunication near the ending, it was SO frustrating.
However, I can overlook all that considering the plot, the way the relationships between the characters developed, the realness I found in the book: I loved how the ranch life and all the aspects involving Quinn’s job were portrayed.
Apart from some passages, I appreciated the characters too: how can I not love a mmc who’s not afraid to show his emotions, to cry, to act on his responsibilities, especially when said responsibilities involve putting the fmc on a pedestal and treating her as such.
I liked the way we can see bits of Quinn and Tripp's relationships through the years, even tho for me it resulted kind of forced: they were an obvious way the author introduced aspects of their dynamic, maybe she could've found a way to make it flow better with the plot. It was like "Oh, character A said such thing to character B, let me tell you about when they said the exact same thing to each other twenty years ago". It wasn't needed at all, but I get the choice and how it could add to the story.
The ending hit just right, it lived up to the expectations and I loved it.
I’m 100% going to catch up on “Roped In” as I fell in love with Wes and Sawyer's characters: I know their couple and their dynamic made up for a great story and since I was so positively surprised by E.A. Buckingham Young's writing I can't wait to read more from her hand. As a cowboy romance enthusiast, and former horse rider, I am so excited to get to know Sawyer better, considering "Back in the saddle" was one of the fews that REALLY got a well done representation of the cowboy lifestyle and that Sawyer herself is a horse trainer.
I absolutely recommend “Back in the saddle” if you’re in your cowboy/Elsie Silver era, this book thoroughly scratches the itch!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Book Blurb:
Quinn Dawson
My life has always been a carefully curated existence—a checklist with every item ticked off in perfect order. But when I quit my job without a backup plan and land back in my childhood summer home in Cottonwood Creek, I’m left wondering who I am without the perfect job, the perfect apartment, and the (not-so-perfect) ex-boyfriend. Maybe I’m finally ready for something different—something less pristine and a lot more real.
Tripp Matthews
I've always been the good times guy—never one to be taken too seriously. And that's always been fine by me. Life's easier when nobody expects more than a grin and a cold beer. But then Quinn Dawson shows up with her fancy degrees, high heels, and endless checklists—my best friend's little sister, all grown up and impossible to ignore. I've proved to myself I can resist temptation. But Quinn Dawson? That's a whole different story.
Book Tropes:
-Brother’s Best Friend
-Cowboy/Vet
-Friends to lovers
-Spicy bucket list
-Golden retriever MMC
–Career-focused FMC
-Celibate MMC
-"It’s always been you"
-Coming home
-MCs in their 30s
-Small town
Personal Review:
As a professional cowboy romance coinsure, I can officially say this one gave exactly what was needed. I am honestly sick of cowboy romance books that skip over the real farm life (messy, chores, cluttered). As someone who grew up around cows it is a hugeee pet peeve of mine when authors leave out these essential details. We want REAL cowboys!!! E.A. Buckingham-Young gave us a REAL cowboy, Tripp Matthews.
We had our swoon worthy moments (getting the car door, taking care of her, etc.) but then we also got the SPICE!! One of my favorite micro tropes is a spicy bucket list, this one was spot on. It hit all those green lights and had me giggling, swinging my feet off the bed.
If are looking for your next cowboy to adore and FMC to inspire you, Back in the Saddle will give it to you! It has the perfect mix of all romance elements!
Quinn Dawson
My life has always been a carefully curated existence—a checklist with every item ticked off in perfect order. But when I quit my job without a backup plan and land back in my childhood summer home in Cottonwood Creek, I’m left wondering who I am without the perfect job, the perfect apartment, and the (not-so-perfect) ex-boyfriend. Maybe I’m finally ready for something different—something less pristine and a lot more real.
Tripp Matthews
I've always been the good times guy—never one to be taken too seriously. And that's always been fine by me. Life's easier when nobody expects more than a grin and a cold beer. But then Quinn Dawson shows up with her fancy degrees, high heels, and endless checklists—my best friend's little sister, all grown up and impossible to ignore. I've proved to myself I can resist temptation. But Quinn Dawson? That's a whole different story.
Book Tropes:
-Brother’s Best Friend
-Cowboy/Vet
-Friends to lovers
-Spicy bucket list
-Golden retriever MMC
–Career-focused FMC
-Celibate MMC
-"It’s always been you"
-Coming home
-MCs in their 30s
-Small town
Personal Review:
As a professional cowboy romance coinsure, I can officially say this one gave exactly what was needed. I am honestly sick of cowboy romance books that skip over the real farm life (messy, chores, cluttered). As someone who grew up around cows it is a hugeee pet peeve of mine when authors leave out these essential details. We want REAL cowboys!!! E.A. Buckingham-Young gave us a REAL cowboy, Tripp Matthews.
We had our swoon worthy moments (getting the car door, taking care of her, etc.) but then we also got the SPICE!! One of my favorite micro tropes is a spicy bucket list, this one was spot on. It hit all those green lights and had me giggling, swinging my feet off the bed.
If are looking for your next cowboy to adore and FMC to inspire you, Back in the Saddle will give it to you! It has the perfect mix of all romance elements!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book did not just hit — it slapped! As a certified connoisseur of cowboy romance, I can confidently say this one DELIVERED. That trope list? ELITE. NO NOTES. Brother’s best friend? Small town? Golden retriever MMC? Career-focused FMC? A celibate cowboy with feelings?? I was already seated.
I was instantly hooked from page one. The writing is smooth and the story just flows. Quinn’s journey of unraveling her perfectly curated life felt so real, and Tripp Matthews… sir. He has officially galloped his way straight into book boyfriend territory. This man is the walking embodiment of why the Brother’s Best Friend trope will always have me in a chokehold. The flashbacks are used perfectly, building the story instead of pulling you out of it.
And the spice?? So many sexy little microtropes — absolute catnip for smut readers.
Top-tier, toe-curling, screaming-into-the-pillow, fan-yourself-and-pace-the-room kind of hot. No filler, no dragging, no rushed chaos, the pacing was chef’s kiss. I was never bored, never skimming, never wanting it to hurry up… just fully feral and along for the ride.
If small-town romance that actually delivers on emotion and chemistry is your thing, this is a must-read.
This book is the reason I love cowboy romance. The reason I love coming-home stories. The reason I will never shut up about the Brother’s Best Friend trope ever again.
Thank you to the author, NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for an early copy - all opinions are my own.
I was instantly hooked from page one. The writing is smooth and the story just flows. Quinn’s journey of unraveling her perfectly curated life felt so real, and Tripp Matthews… sir. He has officially galloped his way straight into book boyfriend territory. This man is the walking embodiment of why the Brother’s Best Friend trope will always have me in a chokehold. The flashbacks are used perfectly, building the story instead of pulling you out of it.
And the spice?? So many sexy little microtropes — absolute catnip for smut readers.
Top-tier, toe-curling, screaming-into-the-pillow, fan-yourself-and-pace-the-room kind of hot. No filler, no dragging, no rushed chaos, the pacing was chef’s kiss. I was never bored, never skimming, never wanting it to hurry up… just fully feral and along for the ride.
If small-town romance that actually delivers on emotion and chemistry is your thing, this is a must-read.
This book is the reason I love cowboy romance. The reason I love coming-home stories. The reason I will never shut up about the Brother’s Best Friend trope ever again.
Thank you to the author, NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for an early copy - all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another gem by E.A. Buckingham-Young!
Buckingham-Young's compelling story-telling takes us back to Cottonwood Creek, where we first met Wes and Sawyer. Now, we get Wes's little sister and his best friend/employee! Quinn and Tripp have known each other for years, and he's always been the guy she relied on- driving her home from a party, wiping away her childhood tears, and helping the future vet care for all the strays. You'll love every moment of Tripp's sweet nature, his dedication to his family and friends, and the heart-warming promise to his dad that he's determined to uphold.
Quinn is a flower just before it opens- already lovely, but it will shine so much more once she breaks out of her shell, and Tripp is just the man to help her. I felt her sooo much- the drive to succeed, the need to be the best and meet the expectations of not only those around her, but herself. I loved watching her unfold and become the vibrant person she was always meant to be, and be with the person who doesn't need to quiet her.
Did I mention there is a rescue pig? Um...because there is. And I want to dive into this book, snuggle with Winnie, and watch this love story unfold again and again. It's heartwarming, tear-jerking, and has the kind of spice where you feel the emotions the characters are experiencing.
This series is top-tier, and if you have not read either one of these books, you are missing out!
Buckingham-Young's compelling story-telling takes us back to Cottonwood Creek, where we first met Wes and Sawyer. Now, we get Wes's little sister and his best friend/employee! Quinn and Tripp have known each other for years, and he's always been the guy she relied on- driving her home from a party, wiping away her childhood tears, and helping the future vet care for all the strays. You'll love every moment of Tripp's sweet nature, his dedication to his family and friends, and the heart-warming promise to his dad that he's determined to uphold.
Quinn is a flower just before it opens- already lovely, but it will shine so much more once she breaks out of her shell, and Tripp is just the man to help her. I felt her sooo much- the drive to succeed, the need to be the best and meet the expectations of not only those around her, but herself. I loved watching her unfold and become the vibrant person she was always meant to be, and be with the person who doesn't need to quiet her.
Did I mention there is a rescue pig? Um...because there is. And I want to dive into this book, snuggle with Winnie, and watch this love story unfold again and again. It's heartwarming, tear-jerking, and has the kind of spice where you feel the emotions the characters are experiencing.
This series is top-tier, and if you have not read either one of these books, you are missing out!
January 2, 2026
First off, I just wanted to say thank you for letting me be apart of your arc team! I loved the first book “roped in” and now this one was also wonderful! I sometimes don’t care for friends to lovers trope, but I loved this one and it’s childhood friends as well. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars girl. I’m ready for the 3rd one!
Tropes:
Friends to lovers
Brothers best friend
Found family
Cowboy & Vet
Kinky bucket list
Celibate MMC
Crawl to me
I enjoyed getting the past storylines as well to get more of how they were at a young age. Quinn left her life from the city where her bf cheated on her and now she has come back to the ranch because Pops had a heart attack. She’s reunited with Tripp and things start warming up. Quinn’s best friend told her to get out and have fun so what does she do? Goes out with a guy at the bar, gets drunk and does some coyote ugly dancing and the Tripp sees and carries her out of the bar. He takes her to a spot and they sit in the back of the truck with blankets and food and Quinn asks Tripp if he will help her with her “kinky bucket list” because she trusts him and says they can’t fall for each other. Well obviously it goes sideways and they both end up realizing they’ve had feelings for each other since they were little. Also can’t forget there’s a pot bellied pig named “Winston” and of course we love him.
Tropes:
Friends to lovers
Brothers best friend
Found family
Cowboy & Vet
Kinky bucket list
Celibate MMC
Crawl to me
I enjoyed getting the past storylines as well to get more of how they were at a young age. Quinn left her life from the city where her bf cheated on her and now she has come back to the ranch because Pops had a heart attack. She’s reunited with Tripp and things start warming up. Quinn’s best friend told her to get out and have fun so what does she do? Goes out with a guy at the bar, gets drunk and does some coyote ugly dancing and the Tripp sees and carries her out of the bar. He takes her to a spot and they sit in the back of the truck with blankets and food and Quinn asks Tripp if he will help her with her “kinky bucket list” because she trusts him and says they can’t fall for each other. Well obviously it goes sideways and they both end up realizing they’ve had feelings for each other since they were little. Also can’t forget there’s a pot bellied pig named “Winston” and of course we love him.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you're looking for a wholesome cowboy romance, this isn't that. Yes, it is a cowboy romance, but it's filth. Like mostly filth with a little bit of plot sprinkled in (a good thing in my opinion). So, if you're just trying to get in your slutty little cowboy fix, this is the book for you.
Now for the tropes - did it have the cliche brothers best friend + friends to lovers? Yeah. But the cliches are popular for a reason. It was good.
The book did start off a little slow. Up until about 30% of the way through, I was a little worried, but then it picked up and I literally couldn't put it down (finished it in an evening). Now could I see the ending from a mile away? Sure, but it's not like this was a murder mystery so who really cares.
I will say, one issue I had was that there were some parts/word choices that were a little cringe, but you can ignore them and move on with your day and it's fine. It felt like it was done in a way that you shouldn't take it too seriously, and I can appreciate that.
Basically, if you want a quick, slutty little cowboy romance with some humor, this will do it for you.
Now for the tropes - did it have the cliche brothers best friend + friends to lovers? Yeah. But the cliches are popular for a reason. It was good.
The book did start off a little slow. Up until about 30% of the way through, I was a little worried, but then it picked up and I literally couldn't put it down (finished it in an evening). Now could I see the ending from a mile away? Sure, but it's not like this was a murder mystery so who really cares.
I will say, one issue I had was that there were some parts/word choices that were a little cringe, but you can ignore them and move on with your day and it's fine. It felt like it was done in a way that you shouldn't take it too seriously, and I can appreciate that.
Basically, if you want a quick, slutty little cowboy romance with some humor, this will do it for you.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with an ARC of this title.
Let me start by saying this was my first cowboy romance, and I’m officially obsessed. I now need to add many more cowboy romances to my TBR.
I’m usually not a fan of friends-to-lovers stories, but this one completely exceeded my expectations. The plot was phenomenal. Quinn has always had a crush on her brother’s best friend, Tripp, but she’s never been able to explore that connection due to fear, timing, and the fact that they don’t live in the same city.
She ends up returning home under less-than-ideal circumstances to take care of her grandpa after he suffers a heart attack. That’s when she asks Tripp to help her complete a “bucket list,” and from there… everything changes.
Quinn has always been very career-focused, but now she’s forced to confront what she really wants and whether she’s willing to risk it all for the love of her life.
This book truly has everything: comedy, romance, forbidden love, family drama, emotional depth, and plenty of spicy, steamy moments. I was fully invested from start to finish.
If you’re even slightly curious about cowboy romances — trust me, start here
Let me start by saying this was my first cowboy romance, and I’m officially obsessed. I now need to add many more cowboy romances to my TBR.
I’m usually not a fan of friends-to-lovers stories, but this one completely exceeded my expectations. The plot was phenomenal. Quinn has always had a crush on her brother’s best friend, Tripp, but she’s never been able to explore that connection due to fear, timing, and the fact that they don’t live in the same city.
She ends up returning home under less-than-ideal circumstances to take care of her grandpa after he suffers a heart attack. That’s when she asks Tripp to help her complete a “bucket list,” and from there… everything changes.
Quinn has always been very career-focused, but now she’s forced to confront what she really wants and whether she’s willing to risk it all for the love of her life.
This book truly has everything: comedy, romance, forbidden love, family drama, emotional depth, and plenty of spicy, steamy moments. I was fully invested from start to finish.
If you’re even slightly curious about cowboy romances — trust me, start here
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all, I am so grateful to have gotten an arc of this book! I loved every single second of it and I was so hooked from the beginning. Parts of it had me on the verge of tears because of how well the story was written.
The story is brother’s best friend, and WOW is it spicy!🌶️ Tripp is a reformed playboy turned celibate but all the changes when Quinn comes back into town to help take care of her healing father. The two start to spend more time together like old times and when Quinn asks for help with a list of hers…. boy does Tripp help with that list all while they go back and forth trying to fight their feelings for one another. Tripp is goofy, golden retriever vibes but underneath has a heart of gold while Quinn is the passionate and driven veterinarian who has only ever focused on her career in life but when the two of them come together… sparks just fly and something that started casual may not be so casual anymore. This book is an absolute MUST READ if you love cowboy romance and very spicy stories.
The story is brother’s best friend, and WOW is it spicy!🌶️ Tripp is a reformed playboy turned celibate but all the changes when Quinn comes back into town to help take care of her healing father. The two start to spend more time together like old times and when Quinn asks for help with a list of hers…. boy does Tripp help with that list all while they go back and forth trying to fight their feelings for one another. Tripp is goofy, golden retriever vibes but underneath has a heart of gold while Quinn is the passionate and driven veterinarian who has only ever focused on her career in life but when the two of them come together… sparks just fly and something that started casual may not be so casual anymore. This book is an absolute MUST READ if you love cowboy romance and very spicy stories.
January 16, 2026
Who’s weak for a filthy mouthed cowboy who’s completely obsessed?! 🙋♀️ ME! That’s who.
Quinn’s life is a hot mess, so when her dad needs help, she packs up and heads back home…right into the orbit of Tripp: her childhood crush, her constant protector, and the one man she’s always trusted with her whole heart.
Enter tequila. Bad decisions. And one very reckless proposal. Quinn asks Tripp to help her work through her kinky bucket list. Is it a terrible idea? Yes. Will his best friend murder him? Also yes. But Tripp has never ever been able to say no to his Quinnie. And let me tell you… that bucket list? 🥵 Unhinged. Filthy. Delicious. I devoured every single page.
This is forbidden romance at its finest (best friend’s little sister), with years of mutual pining, stolen looks, and two idiots who’ve been in love since childhood but are too scared to admit it. I swear, I wanted to smash their heads together…and then thank them for the chaos. 🤣🔥
4.5 ⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy to read 🫶
Quinn’s life is a hot mess, so when her dad needs help, she packs up and heads back home…right into the orbit of Tripp: her childhood crush, her constant protector, and the one man she’s always trusted with her whole heart.
Enter tequila. Bad decisions. And one very reckless proposal. Quinn asks Tripp to help her work through her kinky bucket list. Is it a terrible idea? Yes. Will his best friend murder him? Also yes. But Tripp has never ever been able to say no to his Quinnie. And let me tell you… that bucket list? 🥵 Unhinged. Filthy. Delicious. I devoured every single page.
This is forbidden romance at its finest (best friend’s little sister), with years of mutual pining, stolen looks, and two idiots who’ve been in love since childhood but are too scared to admit it. I swear, I wanted to smash their heads together…and then thank them for the chaos. 🤣🔥
4.5 ⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy to read 🫶
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, what a read to have for the start of 2026. I loved book 1, but Tripp and Quinn's book has my heart brothers' best friend and brothers little sister. Im so glad that Quinn got to return home although it wasnt in the best of circumstances coming home was her calling because there was so much unfinished business at home on the ranch and quinn needed to find who she really was not who she thought she was. Tripp had gone through alot with losing his dad to ALS (amazing having a book talk bit about this) and making a promise that he wouldnt keep using women and the next woman he found would be the one but to know the one for you is the one you always used to climb a tree for is even more special. Honestly, I can't say too much about this without spoiling it because it was that good, but Tripp is such a gentleman, and im so glad things turned out the way they did for them
January 5, 2026
“I’m not revolving around the sun anymore - it’s her. She’s my sun.” ~ Tripp
“I see him. Every bit of him. I always have.” ~ Quinn
Quinn has always had a crush on her older brother’s friend Tripp… ever since she can remember really. Now, that they are both adults the flirting they’ve always had in the past is different. The temptation so much harder to ignore. Quinn has always been beautiful but after all these years of not seeing her, Tripp doesn’t know if he can resist her any longer.
Tripp used to be a ladies man however, he hasn’t been for many years. He’s tired of everyone only seeing one thing when they look at him. He’s ready for Quinn, ready to finally give his heart to her.
These two have such amazing chemistry. The character development was top tier as was the intimacy between Quinn and Tripp. I loved it and cannot wait for book 3 in this series.
“I see him. Every bit of him. I always have.” ~ Quinn
Quinn has always had a crush on her older brother’s friend Tripp… ever since she can remember really. Now, that they are both adults the flirting they’ve always had in the past is different. The temptation so much harder to ignore. Quinn has always been beautiful but after all these years of not seeing her, Tripp doesn’t know if he can resist her any longer.
Tripp used to be a ladies man however, he hasn’t been for many years. He’s tired of everyone only seeing one thing when they look at him. He’s ready for Quinn, ready to finally give his heart to her.
These two have such amazing chemistry. The character development was top tier as was the intimacy between Quinn and Tripp. I loved it and cannot wait for book 3 in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC 🫶
📚 Brothers best friend
📚 Wear the hat 😜
📚 Spicy bucket list
This is my first read by the author and im hooked!
Thoroughly enjoyed Tripp and Quinns story 👌
Quinn arrives back at the family ranch to help out after Pops suffers another heart attack. Or so she tells her family. Really she is fleeing a cheating ex and is homeless and unemployed.
She immediately encounters brothers best friend and childhood mate Tripp who is smoking hot. After too many tequilas she spills her sexual secret and tells him about her spicy bucket list thinking he will laugh her off. But Tripp is more than happy to tick off Quinns list 🥰
Didn't love the 3rd act breakup not going to lie but overall I enjoyed the spice and thought it was well written. 😊🤠
📚 Brothers best friend
📚 Wear the hat 😜
📚 Spicy bucket list
This is my first read by the author and im hooked!
Thoroughly enjoyed Tripp and Quinns story 👌
Quinn arrives back at the family ranch to help out after Pops suffers another heart attack. Or so she tells her family. Really she is fleeing a cheating ex and is homeless and unemployed.
She immediately encounters brothers best friend and childhood mate Tripp who is smoking hot. After too many tequilas she spills her sexual secret and tells him about her spicy bucket list thinking he will laugh her off. But Tripp is more than happy to tick off Quinns list 🥰
Didn't love the 3rd act breakup not going to lie but overall I enjoyed the spice and thought it was well written. 😊🤠
January 14, 2026
First off I have to say this book is super cute! Adult romance, cowboy romance, it has so much humor in it! Tripp and Quinn can not get enough of each other! It’s just all around a cute love story and quick read. Trip is Quinn’s big brother’s best friend and also his ranch hand. It has spice which I would rate 3 out of 5 stars. But still super good for this book! It has humor that will make you laugh out loud at part(especially anything to do with Quinn’s papa) it has deep feelings, hurt feelings, heartbreak, but finding out who they are and where they belong. All in all this book was super good, super easy and quick to read and just adorable. I ate this book up and can’t wait to read the next one coming out in 2026!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
OMG!! Hold on to your hats this one is spicy! Quinn has a ‘list’ and Tripp is more than willing to help check off everything on her list. The banter between characters is hilarious. There’s laugh out loud moments sprinkled throughout the whole book. I couldn’t put it down!
🩷Filthy bucket list
🩷Brothers Best Friend
🩷Small town
🩷Childhood crush
📖 375 pages
📚 Book 2
🎶 Playlist
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
📍NE
🩷Filthy bucket list
🩷Brothers Best Friend
🩷Small town
🩷Childhood crush
📖 375 pages
📚 Book 2
🎶 Playlist
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
📍NE
Review of advance copy received from Author
Save a horse, ride a cowboy. Especially if his name is Tripp Matthews 😉. I loved Back In The Saddle! - it was absolute perfection! This book reeled me in from the start. I'm a sucker for a cowboy romance, and this one had it all: family, forbidden love, an amazing friend group, witty banter, steamy and swoon worthy moments. Quinn and Tripp's history and blossoming relationship was everything. Tripp has definitely earned his spot in my book boyfriend rotation. I highly recommend this book!
January 7, 2026
I got this as an ARC and wow! Tripp is a top tier book boyfriend for sure! And a best friends sister trope is definitely one of my favorites! I love Quinn and Tripp. Their development together and separately is everything. I’m not going to spoil anything with the review. But now I really can’t wait for book 3!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had me hooked from the beginning!! Loved the characters building love story. Perfect brother’s best friend. Only downfall I was not a fan of the nickname Quinnie but I can look past that for the plot!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Good one! I liked the MMCs golden retriever personality. Usually I find that character annoying but I loved it in this case. The main characters were destined to end up together!
Review of advance copy received from Author
this was absolutely phenomenal. this is the best small town cowboy romance I've read in a long time. highly recommend.
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