Back in the Saddle: A brother's best friend romance

by E.A. Buckingham-Young

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.

Genres: Westerns, Romance

375 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 22, 2026

Reviews

[The Sewist's Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐ 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

[Dayna · Rating 5 out of 5]

⚠️‼️ While this isn’t a dark romance, it does touch on a few sensitive topics, so please check the trigger warnings before reading! ‼️⚠️

📖 Back in the Saddle by E.A. Buckingham-Young

⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 3.5/5

Tropes:
🤠 Brother’s Best Friend
💗 Childhood Crush
🌶️ Spicy Bucket List
🐶 Golden Retriever MMC

Review:
I found this little gem while scrolling Facebook and saw an excerpt in a romance book club. It’s WAY outside my usual dark romance lane, but then I saw brother’s best friend + cowboys and thought… well, now I have to read it. 🤭🤠

Sometimes you need a good palate cleanser, and this one delivered! Quinn is the responsible, everything-under-control good girl, while Tripp is her complete opposite. And somehow? They just WORK. 😍

When Tripp agrees to help Quinn with her spicy bucket list, things get HOT pretty quickly. 🔥 And ladies… never underestimate the golden retriever MMC. 🐶 The mouth on this cowboy?! 🥵 Definitely caught me off guard—and I was absolutely not complaining. 😂

The spice was chef’s kiss 👩‍🍳💋, but I loved their journey even more. Quinn learns that life doesn’t always need a plan, while Tripp finally realizes he can be loved.

Turns out, he wasn’t waiting for just any girl…

He was waiting for his girl. 😉❤️‍🔥

A sweet, swoony cowboy romance with just enough spice to make this dark romance girl very, VERY happy. 🤠🌶️

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[alis :p · Rating 4 out of 5]

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!

[Keri Moore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super cute!

[sam · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐
**Back in the Saddle by E.A. Buckingham-Young**

Sometimes I just want a romance with a small-town setting, a cowboy, a little bit of romantic tension, and two people who need to figure out what they actually want from life. *Back in the Saddle* definitely has plenty of those ingredients, and I really liked the idea of Quinn returning to her childhood summer home after walking away from the life she had worked so hard to build. Add in her brother's best friend, Tripp, who seems determined to keep things light and uncomplicated, and you have a setup that is practically designed for romantic tension.

Quinn was an interesting character to follow because she has spent so much of her life trying to get everything right. She has the perfect job, the perfect apartment, and a carefully organised life that looks good on paper, but underneath all of that, she is clearly questioning whether any of it is actually making her happy. When she quits her job without another plan in place and returns to Cottonwood Creek, she is suddenly forced to confront who she is without all the things she has used to define herself.

I liked this aspect of her story because it makes the romance about more than simply finding a relationship. Quinn is also trying to work out what she wants her future to look like, and whether the life she thought she wanted is actually the life she needs. There is something relatable about reaching a point where the things you have worked towards no longer feel quite right, even if everyone else thinks you should be happy with what you have achieved.

Her return to Cottonwood Creek gives her the opportunity to slow down, reconnect with a place that holds memories for her, and consider a different kind of life. I enjoyed the contrast between her previous existence, which seems to revolve around achievement and having everything under control, and the more relaxed, grounded atmosphere of a small town.

And then there is Tripp Matthews.

I can definitely see the appeal of Tripp as a romantic lead. He has that charming, easygoing personality that makes him seem like someone who is always having a good time and never takes anything too seriously. He is the kind of person who can make a joke, flash a grin, and move on before anyone has the chance to ask him what he is really feeling.

However, there is more to him than that carefree exterior suggests. I liked the idea of a character who has become comfortable being seen as the fun guy because it means nobody expects him to be particularly vulnerable. Keeping things light can be an easy way to avoid difficult conversations, especially when you are worried about what might happen if you let someone see a different side of you.

His relationship with Quinn gives him a reason to question that approach. She isn't simply another woman he can charm and move on from. She is his best friend's little sister, someone he has known for years, and someone who suddenly makes it much harder for him to pretend that he doesn't have deeper feelings.

The brother's-best-friend trope is one I can enjoy when the characters have a believable history and there is a genuine reason for the tension between them. I liked the setup here because Quinn and Tripp already have a connection before the romance really begins. There is familiarity between them, but their relationship is also changing as they get to know each other as adults rather than simply as the people they used to be.

That shift is part of what makes the romance appealing. Quinn is no longer just the younger sister Tripp remembers, and Tripp is more than the easygoing guy she might have thought she knew. They have to reconsider their assumptions about each other, and I enjoyed watching that dynamic develop.

The *it's always been you* element also fits nicely with this kind of romance. There is something satisfying about the possibility that feelings have been sitting beneath the surface for much longer than either character has been willing to admit. It adds an extra layer of anticipation to their interactions, especially when both characters have reasons to hesitate.

I also liked the combination of the cowboy and veterinarian elements. Tripp's connection to animals and his veterinary work adds another dimension to his character, while the cowboy setting helps establish the book's small-town romantic atmosphere. I always enjoy when a romance gives its characters lives and responsibilities beyond their relationship, and those details help make the world feel more complete.

Cottonwood Creek itself is another appealing part of the premise. The coming-home storyline works well alongside Quinn's personal journey because returning to a familiar place can make you look at your life differently. Sometimes you need to step away from the environment where you have been trying to prove yourself to realise that there are other ways to be happy.

I liked that the story brings together the comfort of returning home with the uncertainty of starting over. Quinn might be back somewhere familiar, but that doesn't mean she can simply return to the person she used to be. She has changed, and she has to figure out what she wants to take with her into this next chapter of her life.

The romance also has plenty of potential for those who enjoy a golden-retriever-style male lead paired with a more career-focused heroine. Tripp's relaxed personality contrasts nicely with Quinn's tendency to organise and plan everything, and I can see why that difference would create both amusing moments and romantic tension. They approach life differently, which gives them opportunities to challenge each other and learn to see things from another perspective.

I also appreciated that the characters are in their thirties. There is something refreshing about a romance that centres on people who have already spent years building their lives and are now trying to work out what comes next. Their questions aren't necessarily about figuring out who they want to be for the first time. Instead, they are about recognising that the person they have become might not be entirely fulfilled by the life they have built.

That is a theme I found particularly fitting for Quinn.

Of course, the romantic tension and spicy elements are also part of the appeal. With the history between Quinn and Tripp, the best-friend's-sister complication, and Tripp's determination to resist his feelings, there is plenty of room for the relationship to become complicated. I enjoyed the potential for their carefully maintained boundaries to become increasingly difficult to uphold.

That said, while I liked the overall premise, *Back in the Saddle* ultimately landed at three stars for me rather than becoming a new favourite.

My biggest issue was that I wanted a little more depth in certain areas. The tropes are appealing, and the characters have a promising dynamic, but I sometimes wanted the emotional development to go further. Quinn's decision to leave her job and rethink her future is an interesting starting point, and I would have loved even more exploration of what that change means for her beyond the romantic relationship.

I also would have liked a little more time to sit with the characters' feelings as their relationship developed. With a history like theirs, there is so much potential for complicated emotions, uncertainty, and meaningful conversations about what they want from each other. I wanted some of those moments to have a little more room to breathe.

The contrast between Quinn and Tripp is enjoyable, but it is also a familiar romance dynamic. That isn't necessarily a bad thing, especially when you are picking up a book because you love the tropes, but I found myself wanting something that made their particular relationship stand out a little more.

Even so, I still think there is plenty to enjoy here. The small-town atmosphere, the cowboy romance, the best friend's sister trope, and the coming-home storyline all work together to create a cosy, appealing setup. Quinn's journey towards figuring out what she really wants from life also gives the story a relatable emotional foundation.

Overall, *Back in the Saddle* was an enjoyable contemporary romance with a charming premise, an appealing romantic lead, and a heroine who is learning that she doesn't have to keep following a checklist just because it is what she has always done. I liked the contrast between Quinn's carefully planned life and Tripp's more carefree attitude, and I enjoyed the potential for their relationship to become something neither of them had planned for.

Although I wanted a little more emotional depth and character development to make the romance truly stand out for me, I still appreciated the familiar tropes, the small-town setting, and the idea of finding love while figuring out what you actually want your life to look like.

If you enjoy brother's-best-friend romances, cowboys, veterinarians, golden-retriever male leads, career-focused heroines, second chances at happiness, and small-town love stories, *Back in the Saddle* could be a fun addition to your reading list.

**3/5 stars ⭐⭐⭐**

[Tori · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[alliareadss · Rating 4 out of 5]

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!

[Sarah Furlow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Back in the Saddle Book 2 - E.A. Buckingham Young.


Saddle on up cowgirls and boys and enjoy the ride, quite literally.


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.

Triggers: terminal illness, medical content, parental death.


Quinn is back in town to help care for her Pop after another heartache but is also back to refocus and put herself first for once. After quitting her job which is so unlike her she is trying to find what she truly wants out of life, what she thought she did, she realizes is no longer appeasing to her. So what does she do you ask?


There might be a sexy bucket list she needs helping crossing things off of and a certain cowboy she in lists help her out, and with their strong friendship they developed he can’t say no. But they promised no feelings would be involved, easier said than done. And when it all blows up, will their be a happy ever after, will her brother speak to either of the again?

Tripp always known as the playboy in the rodeo circuit promised his dad before he passed of ALS that he would truly wait for that connection and hence his 5 year celibacy. He has waited for a connection for so long and figured it wasn’t in the cards for him, or was it? Maybe that person was right in front of him this whole time and just never truly knew how to show the feelings he’s harbored for so long with them.



The part I enjoyed most is when both Quinn and Tripp showed their character growth arcs and how they FINALLY figured out how to communicate with each other, although I will say I wish Tripp had a little more of a backbone. In certain parts he let his feelings aside for Quinn and my heart broke and wished he had spoken up for himself more.

I also really enjoyed the flashbacks which helped flesh out the "friends to lovers/it's always been you" tropes.


Allie and Brooks are next and why do I think this one might be even more interesting? 🤔 single dad trope…

[Kell 5wordsorlessbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Sav · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet and easy read! I loved watching Quinn and Tripp's relationship unfold, both through their childhood memories and in the present day. Their story was heartwarming, charming, and left me smiling. I thoroughly enjoyed this one and can't wait to see what's next in the series.

My favourite quote: “I’d change for garlic bread,” I say, reaching for the last piece - but Wes’ hand is already hovering above it. We both freeze. His eyes narrow. “You already had three.” “I’m a growing boy,” I counter.

Genre: western romance
✨️ Magic: no
🌶 Spice level: high
📚Book standalone book in an interconnected series: Cottonwood Creek
Method of reading: ebook
Rating: 5/5
Thank you NetGalley

Vibe: A spicy small-town cowboy romance about a woman rebuilding her life, a cowboy who's loved her for years, and the realization that home and love, might have been waiting for them all along.

Tropes found:
- brothers bestfriend / bestfriends little sister
- small town romance
- coming home / return to roots
- friends to lovers
- duel time flashbacks
- ‘its always been you’
- spicy bucket-list challenge

Characters:
Quinn (FMC) 32
Likes: she's a smart, capable, and responsible girl learning it's ok to let go.
Dislikes: there was nothing about her that I didn’t like.

Tripp (MMC) 34
Likes: he’s a fun loving, easy going, gentleman cowboy. Also an ex team roper, which I just love.
Dislikes: there was nothing about him that I didn’t like.

[Mary-Anna Cassis · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Avery · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Rosi · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Savannah Willis · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Hayley Peckham · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 🫶

[Cheyenne J · Rating 5 out of 5]

top five favorite cowboy romance series!!!!

Unbelievably good!!!! I absolutely love this series. I wish I could live in Cottonwood Creek. Quinn and Tucker have such amazing chemistry. I can’t get enough of the characters. They are realistic and so much fun to read. I’m obsessed with Tucker to be honest. Him and his dirty mouth ,Swooooon. While they both have flaws. Their growth throughout the book is wonderful. I was cheering for them from Page one. It’s well paced with tons of witty banter. You’ll be up way past your bedtime, laughing into the morning hours. Yes I was still reading just one more chapter at 2 AM with an alarm set for 4:30 AM for my 12 hour work day. I don’t regret a second.

I highly recommend this very kinky, brother’s BFF, small town, cowboy romance to everyone. You can read Back in the Saddle as a standalone, but I do suggest reading Roped in first. You need Wes and Sawyer in your life.

This is a top five favorite cowboy romance series for me!!!

[Anacostia Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book early in exchange for a review. Thank you so much E.A. for the chance to read it!
Oh this book was so much fun! Every time I pick up a book from this author it’s cozy, sweet and spicy and this was no exception. “Back in the Saddle,” was a great addition to the Cottonwood Creek series. The spicy scenes were delicious and balanced the line of that forbidden yearning, sweet romance and kink really well. And the flashbacks from their childhoods felt really sweet and helped bridge the gaps between the past and present.
I also felt like the brother’s best friend/best friend’s sister trope was well represented here. And while this book isn’t as sweet as “Roped In,” it definitely has its moments.
I really enjoyed it. It has a message of embracing who you are and not feeling ashamed of your kinks and asking for what you want. If that speaks to you, then you will not be disappointed.

[Sian curtis · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Kaitlynn Genevieve · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC Review*

Cottonwood Creek is back and I was absolutely down for the ride.

Anyway on to the story, Quinn is absolutely adorable, and so damn oblivious it’s endearing. Tripp is honestly a freakin’ trip and I love it. After breaking the cardinal rule of not entering an FWB relationship, with someone you already have feelings for, shenanigans ensued. Very sexy shenaningans. The story flowed well and naturally, almost like they were supposed to be together. I wonder why, after two decades of pining from both sides. XD
I enjoyed reading about them trying and failing horribly at keeping things secret, and if I hadn’t already read the first book. I would’ve been really confused about how Wes managed to stay oblivious to the whole situation. If you enjoyed the first one, you’ll definitely enjoy this one. It’s technically a standalone, but honestly might as well hit the first before you read this one. It made it a little better, at least for me.

[Riley Pleczkowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first cowboy romance of the year and it was SO GOOD! I loved Roped In and was looking very forward to learning more about Tripp. This story had the best of all worlds - emotional depth, character growth, so many spicy micro tropes. One of my least favorite tropes is dual timeline… probably because I also dislike second chance and they usually go hand in hand. Anyway! I love that the past timelines were woven into the chapters, didn’t seem disruptive and were short n’ sweet. Tripp is immediately on my book boyfriend list. I think I melted a little every time Tripp called her Quinnie. And the pig? I loved this book so much that I have already ordered a copy from the Author’s store.

Thank you to the author, NetGalley and Victory Editing for providing this advanced copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Coffeenbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

- Friends to lovers
- Brother's best friend
- Bucket List
- Small town romance
- Cowboy romance

Oh, my word, hold on to your (cowboy) hat. This book is a wild ride!

It is well known that friends to lovers is my absolute favorite all-time trope. ESPECIALLY childhood friends to lovers with a pining factor. So yummy!

Quinn is such a wonderful FMC. I love that she moved back to town to help her grandfather. Tripp, her brother's best friend and the object of many of her daydreams, still lives in town. So when the opportunity presents itself to request Tripp help her with her adult bucket list, Quinn thinks she can keep her heart in line. Spoiler alert: Hearts are involved!

The quirky characters absolutely made this book special. I had a soft spot for Winston the pig. Looking forward to the next book in this series!

[Jessica Cam · Rating 4 out of 5]

“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.

[Laced In Lit · Rating 5 out of 5]

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. 😊🤠

[Jill Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

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!

[Donna Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review, tropes, themes, spicy chapters, and so on.
Stars: ⭐ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Spicy Chapters: 17, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 30, 33, 37, 43, epilogue
Swoon Factor: 10
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,


You know it’s been quite a while since I’ve gotten to sink my teeth in a cowboy romance. And good heavens this one definitely didn’t disappoint. I throughly enjoyed every spicy inch of it, I literally devoured this book in one sitting. Add this to your tbr and be mindful of the triggers.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the absolute honor of being both a beta reader and an ARC reader for Back in the Saddle by E.A. Buckingham -Young, and I loved every minute of it!

This book was so much fun and had the perfect mix of heart, spice, emotional depth, and moments that made me laugh and ache in the best ways!

One of my all-time favorite tropes, brother’s best friend, is done beautifully here. I’ll never get tired of that dynamic, and this story absolutely delivered. While it can be read as a standalone, I do recommend reading Roped In first, since those characters appear often and I love book 1 as well!

Quinn is finding herself again after escaping a difficult chapter, and Trip is that steady, fun-loving constant who’s always been there. Watching old feelings resurface and seeing them finally come together just works so well.

I absolutely recommend this book. It’s heartfelt, swoony, and oh sooo goood!!😏

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rebecca Norton · Rating 5 out of 5]

BACK IN THE SADDLE BY E.A. BUCKINGHAM YOUNG

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶🌶🌶/5

❤️Brother’s Best Friend
❤️Best Friend’s Little Sister
❤️Friends to Lovers
❤️”It was always you”
❤️Kinky bucket list
❤️FMC Veterinarian
❤️MMC Cowboy & former playboy
❤️The Best Spiceeeee
Quinn and Tripp have my heart. I thought that no one could beat Sawyer and Wes from Roped In (I love a good enemies to lovers) but I think they were knocked down a peg. The dirty bucket list really did it for me and the way these two TRULY loved each other pretty much from the beginning. The Cottonwood Creek series will definitely be a repeat read for me and I. CAN’T. WAIT. FOR. BOOK. THREE.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Back in the Saddle by EA Buckingham-Young 


Back in the Saddle is the second book in the Cottonwood Creek series by EA Buckingham-Young, and it was just as fun and full as Roped In. Back in the Saddle follows Quinn, a veternarian in the city who returns to her roots at her family ranch in Cottonwood Creek, and Tripp, her brother's best friend who also works on the ranch. Tripp and Quinn have a longstanding trust that they have built over decades, the friendship spanning childhood and adulthood. With romance, humor, spice, and friendship, this was a perfect Western romance!