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Love is a Cowboy #1
Wilde Cowboy
From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kelly Elliott comes a new series that takes us back to her roots.
Ladd
As the son of a third-generation cattle rancher, it’s expected that I would follow in the footsteps of my father, grandfather, and great-grandfather and work the family ranch just as they did.
However, that wasn’t my dream, and thankfully, my parents stood behind me when I told them I wanted to open a sporting goods store in our hometown of River Falls, Colorado. That’s my plan. My endgame, and nothing is going to distract me from that goal.
Then, I met Vivianne Pennington. It soon becomes clear to me that Vivianne is now a part of my dreams, and when I bring her home for Christmas, my entire family and the town of River Falls fall head over heels in love with her.
Vivianne
I’ve gone and found myself in love with a cowboy from a small town in Colorado. When Ladd’s mother and father insist that I come and spend Christmas with them on the family’s cattle ranch, I’m both excited and nervous.
It becomes clear to me that Ladd’s family has deep roots in the community and a family bond I’ve never experienced before. Estranged from my own parents, I long to be a part of the Wilde family and start to see myself living on the ranch and being a part of the community.
But I’m keeping a secret from my past. A secret that I’m terrified will destroy the future I envision, and I’m scared to lose the wild cowboy who has stolen my heart.
Wilde Cowboy is a prequel in the Love Is a Cowboy series. It is the author’s hope that by listening to Ladd and Vivianne’s story first, you will have a beautifully painted picture of River Falls Cattle Ranch and the Wilde Family.
Ladd
As the son of a third-generation cattle rancher, it’s expected that I would follow in the footsteps of my father, grandfather, and great-grandfather and work the family ranch just as they did.
However, that wasn’t my dream, and thankfully, my parents stood behind me when I told them I wanted to open a sporting goods store in our hometown of River Falls, Colorado. That’s my plan. My endgame, and nothing is going to distract me from that goal.
Then, I met Vivianne Pennington. It soon becomes clear to me that Vivianne is now a part of my dreams, and when I bring her home for Christmas, my entire family and the town of River Falls fall head over heels in love with her.
Vivianne
I’ve gone and found myself in love with a cowboy from a small town in Colorado. When Ladd’s mother and father insist that I come and spend Christmas with them on the family’s cattle ranch, I’m both excited and nervous.
It becomes clear to me that Ladd’s family has deep roots in the community and a family bond I’ve never experienced before. Estranged from my own parents, I long to be a part of the Wilde family and start to see myself living on the ranch and being a part of the community.
But I’m keeping a secret from my past. A secret that I’m terrified will destroy the future I envision, and I’m scared to lose the wild cowboy who has stolen my heart.
Wilde Cowboy is a prequel in the Love Is a Cowboy series. It is the author’s hope that by listening to Ladd and Vivianne’s story first, you will have a beautifully painted picture of River Falls Cattle Ranch and the Wilde Family.
Audible Audio
First published January 20, 2026
203 people are currently reading
547 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Elliott
107 books6,540 followersKelly Elliott is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling contemporary romance author. Since finishing her bestselling Wanted series, Kelly continues to spread her wings while remaining true to her roots and giving readers stories rich with hot protective men, strong women and beautiful surroundings.
Her bestselling works include, Wanted, Broken, Without You, and Unconditional Love, to name just a few.
Kelly has been passionate about writing since she was fifteen. After years of filling journals with stories, she finally followed her dream and published her first novel, Wanted, in November of 2012.
Kelly lives in central Texas with her husband, daughter, and two pups. When she’s not writing, Kelly enjoys reading and spending time with her family. She is down to earth and very in touch with her readers, both on social media and at signings.
To find out more about Kelly and her books, you can find her through her website.
www.kellyelliottauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 488 reviews
January 21, 2026
5🌟, 2.5🌶️
This book felt like coming home to a place I didn’t even know I missed.
I absolutely loved that the series begins with the parents’ love story because it gave the Wilde family real depth right from the start. River Falls instantly pulled me in with its small-town charm, ranch life, and strong sense of tradition. It felt cozy, familiar, and emotionally grounding in the best way.
Ladd Wilde completely won me over. He’s loyal, steady, and quietly confident, the kind of cowboy hero who makes you swoon without trying. Watching his family welcome Vivianne so openly and treat her like she already belonged was one of my favorite parts of the book. Viv’s longing for family and roots felt so raw and real, and seeing her finally experience unconditional love and community genuinely tugged at my heart.
The romance between Ladd and Viv is sweet, sincere, and comforting. While the story moves quickly, it works because the emotions feel honest and earned. This book is about love, belonging, and finding a place where you truly fit, all wrapped in warm, small-town cowboy vibes.
This was such a heart-hug of a read, and I’m fully invested in this family now.
~~~~
Grateful to Kelly Elliott and Hambright PR for the Advanced Reader Copy. All views expressed are solely my own. ✨
This book felt like coming home to a place I didn’t even know I missed.
I absolutely loved that the series begins with the parents’ love story because it gave the Wilde family real depth right from the start. River Falls instantly pulled me in with its small-town charm, ranch life, and strong sense of tradition. It felt cozy, familiar, and emotionally grounding in the best way.
Ladd Wilde completely won me over. He’s loyal, steady, and quietly confident, the kind of cowboy hero who makes you swoon without trying. Watching his family welcome Vivianne so openly and treat her like she already belonged was one of my favorite parts of the book. Viv’s longing for family and roots felt so raw and real, and seeing her finally experience unconditional love and community genuinely tugged at my heart.
The romance between Ladd and Viv is sweet, sincere, and comforting. While the story moves quickly, it works because the emotions feel honest and earned. This book is about love, belonging, and finding a place where you truly fit, all wrapped in warm, small-town cowboy vibes.
This was such a heart-hug of a read, and I’m fully invested in this family now.
~~~~
Grateful to Kelly Elliott and Hambright PR for the Advanced Reader Copy. All views expressed are solely my own. ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wilde Cowboy
~Kelly Elliott
Wilde Cowboy is the first ride (pun intended) in Kelly Elliott’s newest series, Love is a Cowboy, and honestly, it’s a downright heart-warmer. Now, I’ll admit - I’m usually more of a “give me mystery, danger, and a few plot twists that leave me gasping” kind of reader. Insta-love stories aren’t typically my jam. But this one? This one lassoed my heart faster than I expected. It’s sweet, tender, and full of that small-town charm you can practically smell the fresh hay and hot coffee from.
The Wilde family has deep roots in River Falls, Colorado - picture generations of ranchers, traditions as strong as their fences, and love that runs even deeper than their cattle herd. The Wilde’s have passed down the family ranch from first-born to first-born for decades. But with Gus and Nellie, their biggest wish is simple: they just want their kids to be happy, even if that means breaking a few family traditions along the way.
Enter Ladd Wilde - the dutiful eldest son who loves the ranch life but secretly dreams of something more. Sure, he’s great on a horse and wrangling cattle, but his heart’s also set on opening a sporting goods store in town. His parents support his dream, but his dad throws in one teeny request before he heads off to college: don’t fall in love before you graduate. Famous last words.
Because then comes Vivianne Pennington. Cue the slow-motion meet-cute moment. One glance across campus, and Ladd’s heart practically leaps out of his chest yelling, “That’s her!” They meet, they click, and pretty soon, they’re as inseparable as boots and blue jeans. Vivianne, for her part, is juggling scholarships, classes, and two jobs.
When Ladd’s folks come to town and meet her, she instantly wins them over - but beneath that smile, Vivianne’s hiding a secret. One that could throw a wrench into their picture-perfect love story, and she knows it. You can’t help but root for her while holding your breath, waiting to see if her past gets in the way of her future with Ladd.
Elliott crafts her characters with heart, humanity, and just the right dose of vulnerability. You can’t help but fall for the Wildes and their world - family ties, unspoken hopes, and all. Even if you’re new to Elliott’s books (like me), you’ll slide right into this story without missing a beat.
Elliott paints River Falls so vividly you’ll feel the crisp mountain air and hear the crunch of gravel under cowboy boots. The pacing is smooth and quick, the dialogue feels natural, and there’s not a single “wait… how did we get here?” moment. It’s an easy, heart-hugging read that leaves you with that warm-tummy, small-town-comfort feeling.
All in all, Wilde Cowboy is a beautiful story about family, love, loss, and hope - with just the right amount of western charm. There are no crimes to solve, no shocking twists - just honest-to-goodness love, healing, and those swoon-worthy cowboy moments every girl secretly dreams of. It was a refreshing, feel-good detour from my usual thrillers, and I loved every bit of it.
I would like to thank Grey's Promotions and Kelly Elliot for allowing me the opportunity to Alpha/Beta/ARC Wilde Cowboy. As Always, all opinions and reviews are of my own volition. I have not been promised any compensation, current or future, by the author, publisher or PR company for a fair and honest review.
~Kelly Elliott
Wilde Cowboy is the first ride (pun intended) in Kelly Elliott’s newest series, Love is a Cowboy, and honestly, it’s a downright heart-warmer. Now, I’ll admit - I’m usually more of a “give me mystery, danger, and a few plot twists that leave me gasping” kind of reader. Insta-love stories aren’t typically my jam. But this one? This one lassoed my heart faster than I expected. It’s sweet, tender, and full of that small-town charm you can practically smell the fresh hay and hot coffee from.
The Wilde family has deep roots in River Falls, Colorado - picture generations of ranchers, traditions as strong as their fences, and love that runs even deeper than their cattle herd. The Wilde’s have passed down the family ranch from first-born to first-born for decades. But with Gus and Nellie, their biggest wish is simple: they just want their kids to be happy, even if that means breaking a few family traditions along the way.
Enter Ladd Wilde - the dutiful eldest son who loves the ranch life but secretly dreams of something more. Sure, he’s great on a horse and wrangling cattle, but his heart’s also set on opening a sporting goods store in town. His parents support his dream, but his dad throws in one teeny request before he heads off to college: don’t fall in love before you graduate. Famous last words.
Because then comes Vivianne Pennington. Cue the slow-motion meet-cute moment. One glance across campus, and Ladd’s heart practically leaps out of his chest yelling, “That’s her!” They meet, they click, and pretty soon, they’re as inseparable as boots and blue jeans. Vivianne, for her part, is juggling scholarships, classes, and two jobs.
When Ladd’s folks come to town and meet her, she instantly wins them over - but beneath that smile, Vivianne’s hiding a secret. One that could throw a wrench into their picture-perfect love story, and she knows it. You can’t help but root for her while holding your breath, waiting to see if her past gets in the way of her future with Ladd.
Elliott crafts her characters with heart, humanity, and just the right dose of vulnerability. You can’t help but fall for the Wildes and their world - family ties, unspoken hopes, and all. Even if you’re new to Elliott’s books (like me), you’ll slide right into this story without missing a beat.
Elliott paints River Falls so vividly you’ll feel the crisp mountain air and hear the crunch of gravel under cowboy boots. The pacing is smooth and quick, the dialogue feels natural, and there’s not a single “wait… how did we get here?” moment. It’s an easy, heart-hugging read that leaves you with that warm-tummy, small-town-comfort feeling.
All in all, Wilde Cowboy is a beautiful story about family, love, loss, and hope - with just the right amount of western charm. There are no crimes to solve, no shocking twists - just honest-to-goodness love, healing, and those swoon-worthy cowboy moments every girl secretly dreams of. It was a refreshing, feel-good detour from my usual thrillers, and I loved every bit of it.
I would like to thank Grey's Promotions and Kelly Elliot for allowing me the opportunity to Alpha/Beta/ARC Wilde Cowboy. As Always, all opinions and reviews are of my own volition. I have not been promised any compensation, current or future, by the author, publisher or PR company for a fair and honest review.
Currently reading
September 3, 2025The first book in a new small town series is coming this January!
From New York Times and USA Today best-selling author, Kelly Elliott, comes a new series that takes us back to her roots.
River Falls, Colorado, is a small town nestled within the Rocky Mountains, where we meet the Wilde family. A family legacy whose roots are deep into the cattle ranching community, the Wilde’s are the heart of this small town saga.
In River Falls, you’ll find some of your favorite tropes, like family saga, small town, grumpy cowboy, single dad, age gap, ranch life, second chance, enemies to lovers, older brother’s best friend, and friends to lovers.
Grab your favorite drink, a comfy blanket, you’re about to go on a Wilde ride. Prepare yourself for to swoonworthy moments, laughter, and be whisked into this all-new world.
Oh, did I mention the first book is a prequel and is the parents’ book?
From New York Times and USA Today best-selling author, Kelly Elliott, comes a new series that takes us back to her roots.
River Falls, Colorado, is a small town nestled within the Rocky Mountains, where we meet the Wilde family. A family legacy whose roots are deep into the cattle ranching community, the Wilde’s are the heart of this small town saga.
In River Falls, you’ll find some of your favorite tropes, like family saga, small town, grumpy cowboy, single dad, age gap, ranch life, second chance, enemies to lovers, older brother’s best friend, and friends to lovers.
Grab your favorite drink, a comfy blanket, you’re about to go on a Wilde ride. Prepare yourself for to swoonworthy moments, laughter, and be whisked into this all-new world.
Oh, did I mention the first book is a prequel and is the parents’ book?
January 31, 2026
#Review: *Wilde Cowboy* - Kelly Elliott - ARC [18+]
4.2/5✨
2.5/5🌶️
Ladd wasn't looking for love, being focused on chasing his dream of opening a sporting goods store, in spite of his family tradition on working on their ranch. But beautiful Vivianne stole Ladd's heart and there was no way back from that. Vivianne was super impressed by Ladd's family and the feeling of comfort they offered because she didn't have that in a long time. That was a secret she wanted to kept buried, not wanting to share anything about her family, a fact which concerned her because if it would come to surface, everything she had built with Ladd and his family could disappear in an instant. Could their love survive those secrets?
This was a super sweet love story, being represented by that soul mate situation. Ladd knew that Vivianne was the one even from the first time he saw her and that was super cute. I liked how much care and love Ladd and his family have offed her and how she was finally felling a bit more at ease with her life. She had a complicated relationship with her own family and founding this unconditional love was something new and special for her, not wanting to ever loose it.
I loved those cozy vibes of this story and the comfortable life from that small town, filled with love and safety. It was super endearing to see how everyone has accepted Vivianne and how easily they've accepted her as a member of their family, no matter what happened in her past.
Hambright Pr were the ones who were kind enough to accept me to receive this e-ARC, for which I'm super grateful and I wanna thank them for it.
✨Tropes
▫️Soul Mates
▫️Cowboy Romance
▫️Small Town
▫️He Falls First
▫️Found Family
▫️Hidden Secrets
4.2/5✨
2.5/5🌶️
Ladd wasn't looking for love, being focused on chasing his dream of opening a sporting goods store, in spite of his family tradition on working on their ranch. But beautiful Vivianne stole Ladd's heart and there was no way back from that. Vivianne was super impressed by Ladd's family and the feeling of comfort they offered because she didn't have that in a long time. That was a secret she wanted to kept buried, not wanting to share anything about her family, a fact which concerned her because if it would come to surface, everything she had built with Ladd and his family could disappear in an instant. Could their love survive those secrets?
This was a super sweet love story, being represented by that soul mate situation. Ladd knew that Vivianne was the one even from the first time he saw her and that was super cute. I liked how much care and love Ladd and his family have offed her and how she was finally felling a bit more at ease with her life. She had a complicated relationship with her own family and founding this unconditional love was something new and special for her, not wanting to ever loose it.
I loved those cozy vibes of this story and the comfortable life from that small town, filled with love and safety. It was super endearing to see how everyone has accepted Vivianne and how easily they've accepted her as a member of their family, no matter what happened in her past.
Hambright Pr were the ones who were kind enough to accept me to receive this e-ARC, for which I'm super grateful and I wanna thank them for it.
✨Tropes
▫️Soul Mates
▫️Cowboy Romance
▫️Small Town
▫️He Falls First
▫️Found Family
▫️Hidden Secrets
January 9, 2026
~ARC Review~
📚Wilde Cowboy
✍🏼 Kelly Elliott
⭐️3.75/5
This book was a sweet and enjoyable read🩷 The love story between Ladd and Viv was great, but the best part was how the Wilde family welcomed Viv and treated her like one of their own. Their love and support meant a lot to Viv, especially her bond with Nellie, which helped Viv open up to Ladd about her biggest secret. Through them, Viv learned what a real family feels like and what kind of future she wants.
The setting was described beautifully. The details made it easy to picture River Falls Cattle Ranch and feel like part of the story!
The story moved very fast, which was not a favorite part, since some scenes felt a little rushed. However, the writing was very easy to read and kept the pages turning, making it possible to finish the book in just two days. Overall, this was an enjoyable read and a promising start to the series! For sure I’m gonna read the next book when it comes out!!
📚Wilde Cowboy
✍🏼 Kelly Elliott
⭐️3.75/5
This book was a sweet and enjoyable read🩷 The love story between Ladd and Viv was great, but the best part was how the Wilde family welcomed Viv and treated her like one of their own. Their love and support meant a lot to Viv, especially her bond with Nellie, which helped Viv open up to Ladd about her biggest secret. Through them, Viv learned what a real family feels like and what kind of future she wants.
The setting was described beautifully. The details made it easy to picture River Falls Cattle Ranch and feel like part of the story!
The story moved very fast, which was not a favorite part, since some scenes felt a little rushed. However, the writing was very easy to read and kept the pages turning, making it possible to finish the book in just two days. Overall, this was an enjoyable read and a promising start to the series! For sure I’m gonna read the next book when it comes out!!
February 1, 2026
I enjoyed this sweet cowboy romance that kicks off the Wilde family series with their parents love story! It was very insta-love and while I did not initially love it, I grew to enjoy their love story and book overall.
I will say the audiobook was not my favorite- I’ve become a snob for duet narration audiobooks and the fact that this was not, in addition to not loving the male narrator- it took me away from the story at times.
Overall I did enjoy the story and would recommend it- just read it with your eyeballs! I’ll be reading the rest of this series as it releases.
I will say the audiobook was not my favorite- I’ve become a snob for duet narration audiobooks and the fact that this was not, in addition to not loving the male narrator- it took me away from the story at times.
Overall I did enjoy the story and would recommend it- just read it with your eyeballs! I’ll be reading the rest of this series as it releases.
January 21, 2026
This was super cute! Cowboy and romance and heartbreak all in one. I loved the story and the characters and how much each one felt unique and yet fit together like part of the puzzle.
My only wish is that it was longer! The time jumps were fast and I was left wanting more details!
My only wish is that it was longer! The time jumps were fast and I was left wanting more details!
Review of advance copy
3.5 stars.
Kelly Elliott's "Wilde Cowboy" is an origin story/prequel to the Love is a Cowboy series that tells the story of Ladd and Viv, the parents of the kids in the series. While I did enjoy this book, the insta-love aspect wasn't jiving with me at first. I liked Ladd and Viv together, but everything about their relationship happened in the blink of an eye, only to later be expanded upon. It felt like every single time they were together in the beginning of the book/the end of their college experience, all they were doing was, well, YOU know. It just felt rushed here and there throughout the course of the book, while other parts felt a tad bit repetitive. Ladd is such a golden retriever. He clearly has it bad for Viv. He's such a sweet MMC. Viv has a lot of baggage about her upbringing and her parents, who are painted as very unkind to each other and always act like they dislike each other. They are also portrayed as users/borderline abusers who constantly ask for favors while not caring enough to give back to their daughter. Luckily, Ladd is insanely close to his family, including his numerous siblings and his golden, smoochy, sickeningly in love parents. As they spend Christmas together on his family's ranch, Viv comes to find the Wilde clan as her found family. I found Viv's ultimate confession about her past to be a bit overblown, but who am I to complain about what someone deems traumatizing? I did enjoy that this book basically has no angst, which I admit might be in direct opposition to the insta-love trope, but it made for an easily digestible and cute "he falls first and HARD" small-town read with interesting characters. I love how Ladd and Viv basically got everything they always wanted in the end... that made my heartstrings tug quite a bit! That being said, it is basically indistinguishable from the several handfuls of other books I have read with the same tropes and the same type of story. Was it a good book? Yes. Will I remember I read it come the end of the year? No, probably not.
Thank you to Kelly Elliott and Hambright PR for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
Kelly Elliott's "Wilde Cowboy" is an origin story/prequel to the Love is a Cowboy series that tells the story of Ladd and Viv, the parents of the kids in the series. While I did enjoy this book, the insta-love aspect wasn't jiving with me at first. I liked Ladd and Viv together, but everything about their relationship happened in the blink of an eye, only to later be expanded upon. It felt like every single time they were together in the beginning of the book/the end of their college experience, all they were doing was, well, YOU know. It just felt rushed here and there throughout the course of the book, while other parts felt a tad bit repetitive. Ladd is such a golden retriever. He clearly has it bad for Viv. He's such a sweet MMC. Viv has a lot of baggage about her upbringing and her parents, who are painted as very unkind to each other and always act like they dislike each other. They are also portrayed as users/borderline abusers who constantly ask for favors while not caring enough to give back to their daughter. Luckily, Ladd is insanely close to his family, including his numerous siblings and his golden, smoochy, sickeningly in love parents. As they spend Christmas together on his family's ranch, Viv comes to find the Wilde clan as her found family. I found Viv's ultimate confession about her past to be a bit overblown, but who am I to complain about what someone deems traumatizing? I did enjoy that this book basically has no angst, which I admit might be in direct opposition to the insta-love trope, but it made for an easily digestible and cute "he falls first and HARD" small-town read with interesting characters. I love how Ladd and Viv basically got everything they always wanted in the end... that made my heartstrings tug quite a bit! That being said, it is basically indistinguishable from the several handfuls of other books I have read with the same tropes and the same type of story. Was it a good book? Yes. Will I remember I read it come the end of the year? No, probably not.
Thank you to Kelly Elliott and Hambright PR for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
January 25, 2026
✨ Thank you to Kelly Elliott and Hambright PR for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. ✨
This was my first Kelly Elliott book, and it didn’t disappoint. Ladd Wilde and Vivianne Pennington deliver a sweet, heartfelt endgame love story that pulled me in from the start.
They meet while away at college and instantly connect. Vivianne carries a lot of family baggage from a childhood where her parents seemed disinterested in raising her, while Ladd’s experience is the complete opposite—he’s deeply connected to his siblings and family. When Vivianne agrees to spend Christmas with the Wilde family, she slowly realizes they feel like the family she’s always been missing. But before their future can move forward, she must finally share something from her past. Will the truth bring them closer… or change everything?
Read this if you want a sweep-you-off-your-feet cowboy romance centered on family, love, belonging, and choosing forever despite past fears. 🤍🤠
#HPRWildeCowboy #KellyElliott #HambrightPR #ARCReview #CowboyRomance
This was my first Kelly Elliott book, and it didn’t disappoint. Ladd Wilde and Vivianne Pennington deliver a sweet, heartfelt endgame love story that pulled me in from the start.
They meet while away at college and instantly connect. Vivianne carries a lot of family baggage from a childhood where her parents seemed disinterested in raising her, while Ladd’s experience is the complete opposite—he’s deeply connected to his siblings and family. When Vivianne agrees to spend Christmas with the Wilde family, she slowly realizes they feel like the family she’s always been missing. But before their future can move forward, she must finally share something from her past. Will the truth bring them closer… or change everything?
Read this if you want a sweep-you-off-your-feet cowboy romance centered on family, love, belonging, and choosing forever despite past fears. 🤍🤠
#HPRWildeCowboy #KellyElliott #HambrightPR #ARCReview #CowboyRomance
January 20, 2026
Wilde Cowboy was such a cozy, feel-good read for me. From the moment I stepped into River Falls, I was pulled into the small-town charm, ranch life, and strong family bonds that Kelly Elliott does so well.
Ladd Wilde is everything I love in a cowboy hero—grounded, loyal, and completely devoted once he falls. His connection with Vivianne is instant and sincere, and while the romance definitely leans toward insta-love, it worked for me because of how genuine their emotions felt. Their relationship had a sweetness to it that made me smile more than once.
What really stood out was the Wilde family. The sense of love, support, and community added so much heart to the story and made the setting feel alive. I also enjoyed Vivianne’s emotional journey and watching her find a place where she truly belonged.
The story moves quickly and is an easy, comforting read. I did wish for a little more depth in certain moments, but overall it delivered exactly what I wanted—a heartfelt cowboy romance with strong family vibes.
Ladd Wilde is everything I love in a cowboy hero—grounded, loyal, and completely devoted once he falls. His connection with Vivianne is instant and sincere, and while the romance definitely leans toward insta-love, it worked for me because of how genuine their emotions felt. Their relationship had a sweetness to it that made me smile more than once.
What really stood out was the Wilde family. The sense of love, support, and community added so much heart to the story and made the setting feel alive. I also enjoyed Vivianne’s emotional journey and watching her find a place where she truly belonged.
The story moves quickly and is an easy, comforting read. I did wish for a little more depth in certain moments, but overall it delivered exactly what I wanted—a heartfelt cowboy romance with strong family vibes.
January 29, 2026
Alright I was hooked from the very start, never read anything by Kelly Elliott before but wow, i loved every single second of it. I absolutely loved that the start to this series gives us the foundation of the Wilde Family (Ladd and Viv) who we’ll be following along with. I adored all of the feel good, small town, country romance you could ever ask for within this little universe Kelly Elliott has created.
The banter was so amazing, and not just from our mains but even with the side characters, the connection between Ladd and Viv was beautiful and well written. I don’t think too hard when it comes to how books are written but I will say if its easy to immerse myself into the story right from the start then I know its going to be an amazing read for me personally.
Highly recommend reading if you’re looking for that feel good cowboy romance that just leaves you smiling for a while longer once you’ve reached the end. Can’t wait to see what else is in store for the Wilde Family.
Thank you Grey’s Promotions for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Absolutely adored this book.
The banter was so amazing, and not just from our mains but even with the side characters, the connection between Ladd and Viv was beautiful and well written. I don’t think too hard when it comes to how books are written but I will say if its easy to immerse myself into the story right from the start then I know its going to be an amazing read for me personally.
Highly recommend reading if you’re looking for that feel good cowboy romance that just leaves you smiling for a while longer once you’ve reached the end. Can’t wait to see what else is in store for the Wilde Family.
Thank you Grey’s Promotions for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Absolutely adored this book.
January 25, 2026
This is book one in the new love is a cowboy series. I absolutely loved it! This definitely gives some hallmark vibes. It was plotted so well and the origin story was so sweet. It made me want to move to Colorado. I want to see the sky turn orange above the mountains and lake. The characters were all amazing as well. This book made me tear up so many times. Mostly swoony, loving tears and some sad ones too. This is what everyone deserves in life and love. I immersive read through eBook and audio. The narrators did a great job! I cannot wait for the rest of the series. I highly recommend.
January 20, 2026
I loved loved loved Ladd and Vivianne's story. So sweet and steamy, yet heartbreaking and heartwarming. Really love Ladd's family and I cannot wait for the second book. The author is giving us the backstory and I love this idea.
Cannot wait for more!
Cannot wait for more!
January 27, 2026
ARC - 5 🌟 2 🌶️
🤍 Small town
🩵 He falls first
🤍 Found family
🩵 Cowboy
🤍 Instant love
🩵 Emotional scars
I absolutely inhaled this one. I usually go feral for super fluffy, insta-love romances, and Wilde Cowboy completely won me over. From the second I stepped into River Falls, I was wrapped up in small-town charm, ranch life, and the kind of family dynamic that makes your heart ache.
Ladd Wilde is truly top-tier cowboy material, steady, loyal, and all in once he falls. He adores Vivianne in that soft, sincere way that just melts you. Their connection is instant and sweet, and even though it leans into insta-love, it felt genuine and emotionally grounded. Their relationship had this cozy warmth that kept a smile on my face the whole time.
Vivianne’s journey really got to me. She carries so much from her childhood, and watching her slowly find safety, love, and a place where she belongs was incredibly satisfying. When she’s welcomed into the Wilde family, you feel it, this is found family done right. The love, support, and pure chaos of that family? Absolute in-law goals.
The story moves quickly and is an easy, comforting read. While I might’ve wanted a bit more tension or depth in spots, it still delivered exactly what it promised: a heartfelt, feel-good cowboy romance full of love, belonging, and warmth. If you’re craving something cozy, sweet, and emotionally soothing (with cowboys) this one’s a must!
Thank you so much Grey’s Promo and Kelly Elliott for this arc opportunity! I can’t wait for what’s next for this series 🤍
🤍 Small town
🩵 He falls first
🤍 Found family
🩵 Cowboy
🤍 Instant love
🩵 Emotional scars
I absolutely inhaled this one. I usually go feral for super fluffy, insta-love romances, and Wilde Cowboy completely won me over. From the second I stepped into River Falls, I was wrapped up in small-town charm, ranch life, and the kind of family dynamic that makes your heart ache.
Ladd Wilde is truly top-tier cowboy material, steady, loyal, and all in once he falls. He adores Vivianne in that soft, sincere way that just melts you. Their connection is instant and sweet, and even though it leans into insta-love, it felt genuine and emotionally grounded. Their relationship had this cozy warmth that kept a smile on my face the whole time.
Vivianne’s journey really got to me. She carries so much from her childhood, and watching her slowly find safety, love, and a place where she belongs was incredibly satisfying. When she’s welcomed into the Wilde family, you feel it, this is found family done right. The love, support, and pure chaos of that family? Absolute in-law goals.
The story moves quickly and is an easy, comforting read. While I might’ve wanted a bit more tension or depth in spots, it still delivered exactly what it promised: a heartfelt, feel-good cowboy romance full of love, belonging, and warmth. If you’re craving something cozy, sweet, and emotionally soothing (with cowboys) this one’s a must!
Thank you so much Grey’s Promo and Kelly Elliott for this arc opportunity! I can’t wait for what’s next for this series 🤍
January 10, 2026
ARC.
I simply devoured this. I’m not usually a big fluffy romance & especially not an insta love romance. But your heart simply cannot fall for the Wilde family.
This gave me all the feels I’ve been chasing since the chestnut springs series!!
This is a prequel starting the series with the parents story, which I love!!!
I could feel Viv’s emotions & heartache through this book and I really felt for her, she deserved all the happiness she got. Her childhood storyline felt somewhat unnecessary until the epilogue & then it was wrapped up beautifully.
Ladd, what an absolute darling. He genuinely adores his wife & it was just lovely to read if you love a soppy man. The Wilde family is absolutely in law GOALS, you cannot expect more from in laws than this! Found family at its best.
I didn’t love the insta love & the fact there was no bumps at all in the relationship. It was all smooth sailing which isn’t exactly boring but not the most exciting to read about. But if you want something cute, heart warming & feel good with cowboys, this is a must. 🤠 🥰
#HPRWildeCowboy
#KellyElliott
#HambrightPR
I simply devoured this. I’m not usually a big fluffy romance & especially not an insta love romance. But your heart simply cannot fall for the Wilde family.
This gave me all the feels I’ve been chasing since the chestnut springs series!!
This is a prequel starting the series with the parents story, which I love!!!
I could feel Viv’s emotions & heartache through this book and I really felt for her, she deserved all the happiness she got. Her childhood storyline felt somewhat unnecessary until the epilogue & then it was wrapped up beautifully.
Ladd, what an absolute darling. He genuinely adores his wife & it was just lovely to read if you love a soppy man. The Wilde family is absolutely in law GOALS, you cannot expect more from in laws than this! Found family at its best.
I didn’t love the insta love & the fact there was no bumps at all in the relationship. It was all smooth sailing which isn’t exactly boring but not the most exciting to read about. But if you want something cute, heart warming & feel good with cowboys, this is a must. 🤠 🥰
#HPRWildeCowboy
#KellyElliott
#HambrightPR
January 10, 2026
The way I devoured this book—and fast! It completely made me want to pack up and live in River Falls.
When Ladd heads off to college, he meets Vivienne and instantly falls in love, sparking a whirlwind romance that pulls you in from the start.
Ladd is a small-town boy with an incredibly close-knit family and siblings, while Vivienne comes from a very different background—one where love from her parents was never something she truly felt. She also carries a secretive past that shapes who she is.
Together, these two make the cutest couple as they navigate their struggles, family dynamics, and the weight of the past. This book is overflowing with romance and heart, making you believe that happy endings really do exist.
Wilde Cowboy is the first book in the series by Kelly Elliott, and I can’t wait to dive into the next one!
Tropes:
• Small-town romance
• Friends to lovers
• Cowboy romance
• Found family
When Ladd heads off to college, he meets Vivienne and instantly falls in love, sparking a whirlwind romance that pulls you in from the start.
Ladd is a small-town boy with an incredibly close-knit family and siblings, while Vivienne comes from a very different background—one where love from her parents was never something she truly felt. She also carries a secretive past that shapes who she is.
Together, these two make the cutest couple as they navigate their struggles, family dynamics, and the weight of the past. This book is overflowing with romance and heart, making you believe that happy endings really do exist.
Wilde Cowboy is the first book in the series by Kelly Elliott, and I can’t wait to dive into the next one!
Tropes:
• Small-town romance
• Friends to lovers
• Cowboy romance
• Found family
Read
January 14, 2026Thank you Kelly Elliot and Grey’s Promotions for the ARC.
This was the prequel book of Kelly Elliot’s new series where we follow the parents of the kids in the following books. This is a really interesting approach when starting a new series because a lot of the time you are interested in how the parents got together, so to get it first was perfect.
However, I think there was just too much packed into this book. For something so short, I think it could have been simpler and a lot of the time it was so much information and different things being thrown at you at once it was hard to get the full impact of what happened because you were already moving onto the next thing. If it were longer I think it could’ve been done well because all of the things that made these characters who they are deserved to be expanded on in more than a chapter.
Overall I think this was a good start to the series so you get the introduction to the family and the world, but it would have benefited being longer.
This was the prequel book of Kelly Elliot’s new series where we follow the parents of the kids in the following books. This is a really interesting approach when starting a new series because a lot of the time you are interested in how the parents got together, so to get it first was perfect.
However, I think there was just too much packed into this book. For something so short, I think it could have been simpler and a lot of the time it was so much information and different things being thrown at you at once it was hard to get the full impact of what happened because you were already moving onto the next thing. If it were longer I think it could’ve been done well because all of the things that made these characters who they are deserved to be expanded on in more than a chapter.
Overall I think this was a good start to the series so you get the introduction to the family and the world, but it would have benefited being longer.
February 6, 2026
Wilde Cowboy by Kelly Elliott is a swoony and heartfelt small-town romance brimming with cowboy charm, family drama, and slow-simmering chemistry that feels like a warm embrace. The story follows a spirited heroine returning home to Texas, where she clashes and connects with a rugged, loyal cowboy from the Wilde family, navigating past heartaches, ranch life, and undeniable sparks. Elliott's evocative prose paints a vivid picture of dusty trails, tight-knit community, and tender passion that drew me right in.
I loved the hero's steadfast honor mixed with playful flirtation, the heroine's resilience, and their opposites-attract vibe that builds to swoon-worthy moments of vulnerability and heat. The family dynamics add emotional layers without bogging down the romance.
While cowboy tropes ring familiar, Elliott's emotional warmth and satisfying HEA make it shine. Overall, I’m giving Wilde Cowboy four stars. It’s a cozy, steamy read perfect for fans of ranch romances with heart.
I loved the hero's steadfast honor mixed with playful flirtation, the heroine's resilience, and their opposites-attract vibe that builds to swoon-worthy moments of vulnerability and heat. The family dynamics add emotional layers without bogging down the romance.
While cowboy tropes ring familiar, Elliott's emotional warmth and satisfying HEA make it shine. Overall, I’m giving Wilde Cowboy four stars. It’s a cozy, steamy read perfect for fans of ranch romances with heart.
January 20, 2026
Ebook ARC Review
This novela romance is a swoon fest from start to finish. This is the prequel story centered around Vivianne and Ladd, the parents of the main characters from Elliott’s upcoming cowboy series. It perfectly set the tone for the future books to come as there’s so much Wilde family history to cover.
Ladd and Vivianne meet during their junior year in college and the chemistry between them is sizzling. He falls first and she’s close behind but is hiding a huge secret…A shameful one from her past that becomes the elephant in the room. Experiencing these two fall in love and find their HEA was a joy. Elliott writes a wonderful romance that will put anyone in a good mood. If you enjoy tropes like found family, he falls first and small town cowboy then Wilde Cowboy is the book for you.
Thank you to Grey's Promotions for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
This novela romance is a swoon fest from start to finish. This is the prequel story centered around Vivianne and Ladd, the parents of the main characters from Elliott’s upcoming cowboy series. It perfectly set the tone for the future books to come as there’s so much Wilde family history to cover.
Ladd and Vivianne meet during their junior year in college and the chemistry between them is sizzling. He falls first and she’s close behind but is hiding a huge secret…A shameful one from her past that becomes the elephant in the room. Experiencing these two fall in love and find their HEA was a joy. Elliott writes a wonderful romance that will put anyone in a good mood. If you enjoy tropes like found family, he falls first and small town cowboy then Wilde Cowboy is the book for you.
Thank you to Grey's Promotions for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
January 24, 2026
Tropes:
🤠Cowboy Romance
🏡Small Town Romance
💕Friends to Lovers
👥Found Family
📖Origin Story
This is the first book in the Love is a Cowboy series. Wilde Cowboy is a short and sweet read. It’s guaranteed to make you a tad emotional within its chapters, and make you swoon over the relationship between Vivianne and Ladd.
The way this couple pulled at my heartstrings though!! Their love, passion, and growth shines through every page. I loved to see Vivianne be vulnerable with Ladd and his mother about her past. What made it even better was the support she received without a doubt. Being a part of the Wilde family has shown to be special.
It’s the perfect book to read by the fireplace, or wrapped in a fuzzy blanket on the couch. Calling all my cowboy romance readers, because this one is for you!
🤠Cowboy Romance
🏡Small Town Romance
💕Friends to Lovers
👥Found Family
📖Origin Story
This is the first book in the Love is a Cowboy series. Wilde Cowboy is a short and sweet read. It’s guaranteed to make you a tad emotional within its chapters, and make you swoon over the relationship between Vivianne and Ladd.
The way this couple pulled at my heartstrings though!! Their love, passion, and growth shines through every page. I loved to see Vivianne be vulnerable with Ladd and his mother about her past. What made it even better was the support she received without a doubt. Being a part of the Wilde family has shown to be special.
It’s the perfect book to read by the fireplace, or wrapped in a fuzzy blanket on the couch. Calling all my cowboy romance readers, because this one is for you!
January 23, 2026
Vivienne & Ladd. This book is a quick 229 pages on my Kindle and so their relationship and any issues is resolved quickly. I love reading shorter books in between longer books because the resolution of the angst and the HEA comes quickly! These two are so sweet and so perfect together - they are the missing pieces to each others' puzzles. Kelly Elliot wrote two MCs that are kind and considerate, who help each other through the tough times.
This is a feel good story that left me smiling and celebrating their love and HEA. Wilde Cowboy is the first in the Love is a Cowboy series (I love that series name!). Can't wait to read the subsequent books!
What you'll find in this book:
*found family
*small town romance
*cowboy romance
*he falls first
I received a complimentary eARC and my review is voluntary. Thank you to the author!
This is a feel good story that left me smiling and celebrating their love and HEA. Wilde Cowboy is the first in the Love is a Cowboy series (I love that series name!). Can't wait to read the subsequent books!
What you'll find in this book:
*found family
*small town romance
*cowboy romance
*he falls first
I received a complimentary eARC and my review is voluntary. Thank you to the author!
January 20, 2026
I love how the author started this series by telling the parents’ love story first it’s such a fresh twist and really builds the Wilde family before we dive into the kids’ romances. And the best part? This book is available now on Kindle Unlimited!
The way Ladd’s family welcomes Viv and treats her like she already belongs is honestly one of my favorite parts. And Ladd? He completely made me swoon. Loyal, supportive, and such a great cowboy book boyfriend 🐎💖
Ladd and Viv’s story is cozy, emotional, and the perfect start to the Wilde family legacy. I’m already so excited for the kids’ love stories next! 🥹
A huge thank you to Kelli for sending me the ARC before release day!
The way Ladd’s family welcomes Viv and treats her like she already belongs is honestly one of my favorite parts. And Ladd? He completely made me swoon. Loyal, supportive, and such a great cowboy book boyfriend 🐎💖
Ladd and Viv’s story is cozy, emotional, and the perfect start to the Wilde family legacy. I’m already so excited for the kids’ love stories next! 🥹
A huge thank you to Kelli for sending me the ARC before release day!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This series is a new one from Kelly Elliot and I have always enjoyed her books. This one starts off with the parent's story of the kids that will be in the series. I liked that she did that. When reading her stories I always want to parent's love story, so I am glad she did that with this one.
Ladd and Vivienne meet in college and it is love at first sight. He definitely falls first and harder, I think. Their love story is one that is fun and easy to read. There isn't a lot of drama and low steam level in this one. The story is one that is a great set up for the series.
I am always one to enjoy a HEA, and you get that with this one.
Ladd and Vivienne meet in college and it is love at first sight. He definitely falls first and harder, I think. Their love story is one that is fun and easy to read. There isn't a lot of drama and low steam level in this one. The story is one that is a great set up for the series.
I am always one to enjoy a HEA, and you get that with this one.
January 22, 2026
Wilde Cowboy
What a wonderful story about a family who has grown up on a ranch, but Ladd is going off to college to get his education.As life goes, and truly you see someone who you feel you have to meet. And, the saying goes, Love at first sight, Vivian and Ladd just click. The family dynamics of the Wilde family are so close, and she finds herself in amazement of how a good family should act/ treat their children. This is an amazing story about love, loss and finding your ❤️ heart, what fills oneself.
What a wonderful story about a family who has grown up on a ranch, but Ladd is going off to college to get his education.As life goes, and truly you see someone who you feel you have to meet. And, the saying goes, Love at first sight, Vivian and Ladd just click. The family dynamics of the Wilde family are so close, and she finds herself in amazement of how a good family should act/ treat their children. This is an amazing story about love, loss and finding your ❤️ heart, what fills oneself.
January 23, 2026
Is a love at first sight, he falls first cowboy love story between Liv and Ladd.
This story was so cute and heartwarming! I got to read through how they met, meeting the family, and the struggles Liv has with her past and how she can fully be herself and honest with everyone. Not just Ladd but his whole family is SOOO sweet and welcoming 🥹 they treated her like their own with zero judgement. The story has it’s spicy moments too, after all, Wilde is their last name 😏
This is the mom & dad story and the rest of the books will be about their kids🫶🏼 can’t wait to read about them all!
This story was so cute and heartwarming! I got to read through how they met, meeting the family, and the struggles Liv has with her past and how she can fully be herself and honest with everyone. Not just Ladd but his whole family is SOOO sweet and welcoming 🥹 they treated her like their own with zero judgement. The story has it’s spicy moments too, after all, Wilde is their last name 😏
This is the mom & dad story and the rest of the books will be about their kids🫶🏼 can’t wait to read about them all!
December 29, 2025
OMG……I absolutely loved this book!!!! The Wilde family is definitely a family I wish I was a part of in real life. This book definitely takes you on a journey and leaves you wanting more. I can’t wait to continue this series!!!!! ❤️
January 23, 2026
I loved that this book kicks off the series with the parents love story!
Ladd and Vivianne fell quick and hard and they are the sweetest couple besides his parents!
Im looking forward to the next book which focuses on one the their kids!
Bring on all the cowboy romance, Im here for it!
Ladd and Vivianne fell quick and hard and they are the sweetest couple besides his parents!
Im looking forward to the next book which focuses on one the their kids!
Bring on all the cowboy romance, Im here for it!
January 11, 2026
I received this book from Hambright PR! Oh my gosh I absolutely loved this cowboy romance. The entire Wilde family captured my heart, and Ladd and Vivianne’s story is absolute perfection. I cannot WAIT to read more from this author! Fans of Elsie Silver or Lyla Sage will love this one. All the stars!! Thank you the Hambright PR and the author for my copy!
January 15, 2026
A great story to begin this new series. This small town storyline has insta love, no drama and found family feels. An easy and quick read that’s filled with all the sweetness and a bit of spice.
January 17, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
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