The love of my life left our small town without a second glance. What he didn’t know? I had a secret of my own.
I created a life for myself and my daughter in Pinecrest with someone who was supposed to take care of us. But all he wanted was my father’s company. He didn’t care about us. So I left.
When tragedy strikes and my first love comes back to town, I’m thrown for a loop. And I’m not the only one.
When he discovers the truth about my daughter, he does what’s needed to stick around.
For our daughter.
But I can’t ignore the chemistry still there between us. It never left. I want him more than anything. But if he leaves town again, I don’t know if I’ll be able to recover.
Will we be able to move on from the past? Will my ex let us go?
After winning a Young Author’s Award in second grade, Emily Silver was destined to be a writer. She loves writing strong heroines and the swoony men who fall for them.
A lover of all things romance, Emily started writing books set in her favorite places around the world. As an avid traveler, she’s been to all seven continents and sailed around the globe.
When she’s not writing, Emily can be found sipping cocktails on her porch, reading all the romance she can get her hands on and planning her next big adventure!
Find her on social media to stay up to date on all her adventures and upcoming releases!
This is my first Emily Silver book and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It is the first in the Pinecrest, Montana series. The story revolves around small town life & second chances. Presley is a single mother to Poppy having separated from her soon to be ex-husband who was picked out for her by her wealthy parents. Kade is her first love & first heartbreak. He left town years ago devasted when Poppy's parents announced her surprise engagement and never came back. Kade inherits a rundown ranch from a long time mentor and returns to sort out the estate. On cue he almost immediately runs into Presley & Poppy. Then the truth of Poppy's real father is revealed and yes, it's actually Kade. Can they survive all the hurt to form a new family & rekindle their love? Of course they can - this is why we love romance! I found myself liking Emily's writing style & this was a enjoyable read. Highly recommend & will be looking forward to the rest of the series.
This is an honest review of an advance copy received from The Smuthood.
Honest review of ARC Fight for Us (Pinecrest, Montana #1) by Emily Silver is a heartfelt, emotional romance that pulls you in from the start. The connection between the characters feels genuine, with just the right mix of tension, vulnerability, and small-town charm.
The story flows well and keeps you invested, even if a few moments feel a bit predictable. Overall, it’s a warm, satisfying read with strong emotions and a couple worth rooting for.
Emily Silver is one of the authors, whenever she writes a book, I'll pick it up knowing I'm going to love it. Fight for Us was no different, I was hooked right from the start, I loved the characters and their story and finished it just so quickly because the writing style of this author really draws you in and won't let you go. I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
Emily Silver absolutely delivered an exceptional start to this new series. From the emotional depth to the undeniable chemistry and second chance tension, I was completely hooked on her storytelling and fell in love with every moment of this beautifully written journey.
Was so excited to receive this ARC 💕 from The Smuthood
Fight for Us is book one in the new Pinecrest, Montana series by Emily Silver. If you have read the prequel Tequila and Cowboys then you will have already met some of the residents of Pinecrest. This is a sweet second chance romance between Kade Miller and single mum Presley King. These two have history as they were high school sweethearts but ended up breaking each other’s hearts. It starts as an enemies to lovers story because he gave her his heart and never got it back and no matter how much she tried, she’s has never moved on from him. Now he is reluctantly returning home and about to find out Presley has a big surprise for him. A delightful tale about a couple who should have been together but circumstances went against them. Can they recapture the magic and see if the love is still there.
Presley is part of a very close knit group of women who have been friends since school. Kade was the love of her life but abruptly left town, leaving her with a very big secret. She ended up married to a man who didn’t love her and only wanted the family business. Life has been hard since she left him and then her dad died causing more problems. While her father’s estate is being fought over, she’s been focusing on her daughter. All she wants is to get divorced and put the past behind her. She’s currently working at the diner to provide Poppy with a better life than she had.
Kade left Pinecrest six years ago and now works as an investment banker in Seattle. He didn’t want to leave but had no choice after thinking his future was all planned out. He cut all ties to help himself move on and has his reasons why he rarely visits his family. He is shocked when he learns he has inherited The Lost Spur Ranch and needs to return home to sort everything out. He can’t believe it looks like his life is about to change again.
Kade didn’t realise Verne’s ranch was so bad so he must decide whether to keep it or sell it. Renovating will take longer than he thought which means he’ll have to stay and help fix everything up. The surprises don’t end there when he sees Presley’s daughter for the first time and can’t believe she never told him he had a daughter. Suddenly he finds himself being drawn back into life in Pinecrest. The more work he does on the ranch, the more the memories come flooding back and he starts questioning the way his life has turned out. His work / life balance needs addressing and the open fields and peaceful landscape is just the escape he didn’t know he needed.
Presley has enough on her plate at the moment to cope with Kade being back in town especially if he’s going to leave again. Both their lives changed that fateful night and Poppy has been the only thing that has kept her going. We learn about their relationship and how they loved each other. What really happened that night and how he didn’t fight for her. There is anger and despair as they learn the truth but when the tension between them ignites, one kiss changes everything again. Kade knows he needs to be there for them and fight for what’s growing between them.
Poppy is adorable and so funny, I loved her toy goose which is dressed like a strawberry. It was sweet all the activities Kade did with her. Laughed at the girls standing up for Presley and making things difficult for Kade at the ranch. I really liked rancher Sam and his book is going to be fun because he’s attracted to Joey, however, there’s a big age gap and she’s his best friend's daughter. The bonus scene is ten years later, very funny and just the way they had always wanted things to be. Although a lack of communication at the time and her parents against them, I was pleased they sorted things out and Kade ended up being exactly where he was meant to be.
Welcome to Pinecrest, Montana and Welcome Home, Kade! Pinecrest seems very much like my hometown but definitely bigger. With the gossips at coffee row in the diner trying to overhear juicy tidbits that they can spread like wildfire and vicariously living through other's drama and lives. Some have lived within the area for their entire lives and others have roamed but returned to stay. Presley stayed and Kade roamed after outside forces blew them apart. These high school sweethearts lost six years because of controlling parents who only saw status and dollar signs, love wasn't necessary. Six years of lies and hurt and living with heartbreak.
Presley was forced into an arranged marriage with an appropriate man for business purposes. There was no love but since she had been carrying a child she agreed for stability. After years of being ignored and left alone fir her father's company, she had enough and left. She knew that she would be better off without her negligent husband and Poppy deserved a real father not just a name on the birth certificate. She never got over Kade, and she tried to reach him years ago but he had dropped off the map. Now that he's back, can she trust him to stay? Will her fight for them?
Kade was hard-working and determined to make something of himself. He climbed rhe corporate ladder in Seattle before inheriting his old friend's ranch. Now he is back in Pinecrest to fix up the ranch to its former glory. He is unsure if he will keep it or sell it at first but he is committed to making it better before he makes any decision. When he runs into Poppy and her mom at the diner he can't help but think about what might have been. Then he starts counting backwards, could he have a child? Was Presley pregnant when he left? He had to know and he needed to know if the love Presley and him shared still burned under the surface. Would he be a good father? Once he knew the truth, he knew that he needed to prove to Presley that he would stay! That he wouldn't run again. He would fight for a future with them.
I loved Poppy and her curiosity. She is such a great kid. Presley knew what she wanted and finally found the courage to fight for it even though it meant giving up a comfortable life. There is more to life than money and status. Kane might have adopted the city life but deep down he is still a country boy with small town roots. Those roots grow deep and never go away no matter where you roam. Home will always be where your people are and Kane found his with Presley and Poppy on the lost spur ranch.
Thank you Emily Silver and The Smuthood for the ARC and the opportunity to review this amazing book!
Emily Silver is back in her small town era and I’m loving being in Montant. “Fight for Us” is a heartfelt, romantic and sweet second chance, small town romance that was a great start to her new series.
Kade left his small town of Pinecrest, Montana without a second glance when he was younger and never thought he’d return. But when an old friend passes and leaves his ranch to him, he has to come back. And there is also a girl he left behind that he thought was his forever. Presley loves her life in Pinecrest with her daughter, Poppy, although she’s at odds with her soon to be ex-husband and her mother over her late father’s estate. Presley is just as shocked to see Kade again and she’s been keeping a secret from him… Poppy is his daughter. Kade quickly figures out that Poppy is his and vows to do whatever he needs to be there for her and stay in Pinecrest.
I love a second chance romance, especially when it’s two people who were each other's first loves and were truly meant to be together. Presley is kind, smart and an amazing mom to Poppy. She always made sure she was put first and knew how much she loved her. She was in a battle with her mother and soon to be ex over a company she really didn’t need or want. And seeing Kade again after how he left and even though she tried to get ahold of him, was a shock for sure. Kade is driven, wants to succeed and throws himself into work and builds a different life for himself in Seattle after leaving Pinecrest. Both were hurt by how things went down and they never really got a chance to hash out those feelings. Kade inheriting the ranch was exactly what he needed to get himself back to Pinecrest. The two had a deep history and that made the shock of being Poppy’s dad a little easier for him to wrap his brain around and how things went down shortly after she left. Kade never held anything over Presley and went at her speed to introduce Kade into Poppy's life. The connection they had when they were younger was still very much there and I loved how they reconnected. Presley is a mama bear and she fought for her daughter’s future while securing hers at the same time. The ending was so sweet and I loved the bonus epilogue so much.
Second chance romance & cowboys....YES, sign me up!
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of this book.
Fight For Us is written in first person and alternating dual POV.
Fight For Us by Emily Silver follows Presley, single mom to Poppy and Kade, a man who inherits a ranch from a long time friend. Presley and Kade where high school sweethearts who had everything planned out, or so they thought. Presley's parents are powerful and rich, and Kade's family is on the opposite side. It took one night to change EVERYTHING for these two, which sent Kade running and leaving town to never turn back.
Years later, Kade is forced to come back to the small town after inheriting a ranch from his friend after passing. Of course, Kade comes face to face with Presley. Kade is absolutely surprised when he sees that Presley has a daughter, Poppy.
Kade doesn't hesitate when it comes to wanting to know Poppy and be there wholeheartedly for Presley. Visualizing the three of them together gave me all the cozy small-town family vibes.
Who isn't a sucker for a second chance romance?! I loved seeing Presley finally have someone in her corner. She’s been through a lot with her marriage and everything surrounding it, so having Kade back in her life felt like something she truly deserved.
I do wish we had gotten a little more emotional depth around their original breakup. Since that moment is what separated them for so many years, I found myself wanting a bigger conversation between the two on how it really happened and how it affected them both.
Still, the small town ranch setting, the family moments, and the second chance love made this a really easy and enjoyable read for me. If you like cowboy romances, secret child tropes, and couples finding their way back to each other, this one is DEFINITELY for YOU!
I’m still sitting here with that warm, swoony, emotional book hangover that only happens when a romance hits all the feelings. Presley and Kade absolutely wrecked me in the best way.
This book is everything I love about second-chance romance. The history between them? Thick. Messy. Emotional. You can feel the weight of everything they lost and everything they never stopped feeling. From the second Kade walks back into Pinecrest, the tension is just THERE. The kind that makes you want to yell at the characters to kiss already but also hug them because wow… these two have been through it.
Presley completely stole my heart. She’s strong in that quiet, determined way. She’s been carrying the weight of the world for years, protecting her daughter and trying to build a life out of the pieces she was left with. Watching her guard her heart around Kade while also clearly still loving him? My chest actually hurt.
And Kade… listen. When this man finds out the truth about the daughter? I melted. Absolutely melted. The way he steps up, no hesitation, ready to do whatever it takes for them? Top tier book boyfriend behavior. The growth, the regret, the way he’s determined not to make the same mistakes again. Yes please.
But it’s not just sweet moments. There’s drama, there’s tension with the ex, there’s history and hurt that doesn’t magically disappear overnight. They actually have to fight for their relationship, which made the payoff so much more satisfying. Every look, every touch, every moment where their walls start to crumble felt earned.
And the chemistry?? Still off the charts. Years apart and it’s like a spark that never even tried to go out.
Presley and Kade’s story is emotional, hopeful, and full of heart. A small-town second-chance romance with a protective hero, a fierce mama, a secret that changes everything, and a love that refuses to stay buried.
I loved every single second. If you’re a sucker for second chances, secret children, and heroes who realize exactly what they almost lost… this one will absolutely own you. 💕📚
Single mom Presley King built a life for herself and her five-year-old daughter, Poppy, in her hometown of Pinecrest, Montana. Presley's first love, Kade Miller, left Pinecrest six years ago and had a life in Seattle but he was back in town fixing up The Lost Spur Ranch, a legacy he never asked for. Their story was filled with conflicting emotions, unresolved feelings and undeniable tension, an all-consuming love that was destined for forever.
I loved how Kade wanted to be there for Presley and Poppy regardless of what the future held. He was thoughtful and caring and had such a strong work ethic. I loved the little things he remembered throughout the years and the times he shared with Poppy at the ranch. And any guy who would buy me veggies at the farmers' market instantly wins bonus points!
Presley had gone through so much, settling her dad's estate, the drama with her ex, her dysfunctional family dynamics. I admired how she stayed strong and true to herself through everything, how she always put her daughter first.
Presley and Kade gave their hearts to each other years ago. There was always something missing because they never stopped loving each other. But the big question was what Kade would do with the ranch. Would he sell it and move back to Seattle or would he stay and fight to be with the woman he loved, finding his family with Presley and Poppy?
Do you choose what's easy or do you fight for the future you've always wanted?
Fight For Us was sweet and heartwarming and a great start to the Pinecrest, Montana series. It was a story about first dates and second chances, reconnecting to write a new chapter and finding true happiness. I had a smile on my face the entire time reading it and I can't wait to see what this series will bring next!
“I’ll always come back for you, Pres. Always.”
*Special thanks to author Emily Silver for the ARC! 🫶
Thank you for the ARC opportunity. I truly appreciate it!
I really wanted to like this book. It has some of my favourite tropes: second chance, single mom, small town, and secret child, but unfortunately, it just didn’t work for me.
The story follows Presley and Kade, who were high school sweethearts before life pulled them in different directions. Years later, Kade returns to their small town for business, and the two are forced back into each other’s orbit.
Where the book lost me was in the character voices. Presley and Kade often sounded the same in their internal thoughts, and I struggled to feel a clear distinction in how each of them processed things emotionally. Because of that, their perspectives didn’t feel as layered as I hoped they would.
While I do enjoy shorter romances, this one felt too narrowly focused on the two main characters. One of the things I love most about small-town romance is the community—the banter, the friendships, the side characters who bring warmth and personality to the setting. Here, the supporting cast felt underdeveloped, and we didn’t really get meaningful interactions outside of Presley and Kade. It felt like a missed opportunity because those dynamics are often what give small-town stories their charm.
I also wished there had been more grovelling and yearning—honestly, the best part of a second-chance romance. Instead, Presley and Kade reconnect almost instantly, and the emotional shift between them happened so quickly that it gave me a bit of whiplash.
The setup for the next book might have landed better if we’d seen small glimpses of those characters throughout this story through Presley or Kade’s perspective. That buildup could have made the transition feel more natural. The tropes in the second book are actually ones I usually love, but unfortunately, this one didn’t quite convince me to continue the series.
If you are looking for a second-chance romance with a surprise baby and small-town vibes, this is the book for you. Fight for Us is book 2 in the Pinecrest, Montana series by Emily Silver; this is an interconnected standalone. Firstly , I would like to thank Emily Silver and the smuthood for an ARC. Importantly, there may be triggering content, so please check the trigger/ content warnings.
This story was absolutely addicting and written so beautifully. One thing I would recommend is reading book 1 before book 2 in this series; it is up to you (this is just my recommendation). It is very much a character-driven and Romance plot, which is slightly different to what I go for, but turned out absolutely amazing. I loved how much character depth there is for these characters, there was so much added to the story and each character's background. Overall, I loved this book and have added book 1 to the TBR.
Kade and Presley's relationship was written so well and showed that their flame maybe did not go out when they expected it, but had just simmered until they met again under different circumstances. I loved how supportive they are, especially Kade, when Presley needs help and is trying to get her trust, looking after her daughter, Poppy. Kade's character growth was amazing, seeing him grow and be there for Poppy. I loved seeing him deal with the question of whether he should go back to his home in Seattle or stay with his Presley and his daughter on the ranch. Presley was written so well, I loved seeing her stand up and do what she believed (and was) best for both her and her child; Standing up to her family, even if it means losing all their money and having to work at a diner. I loved her character so much, especially poppy, who is a child who wants to make everyone happy while also knowing she has everyone wrapped around her finger. Overall, I loved this book and highly recommend you read it on release day (20/03/2026).
I received an ARC for this book, all thoughts are my own.
Second-chance romance with buried heartbreak and a life-altering secret is the focus of this emotional and compelling series starter.
This story follows Presley, a devoted single mom doing everything she can to build a stable life for her daughter, and Kade, who returns to town after inheriting a ranch from a longtime friend. Once high school sweethearts, Presley and Kade had their entire future mapped out, but one night changed everything. Presley's parents had way too much control over her future, and they decided her future would not include Kade. The fallout sent Kade running, leaving Presley behind to pick up the pieces on her own.
Presley's strength isn’t loud, but it’s unwavering. She’s spent years carrying the weight of her past while fiercely protecting her daughter and holding her life together. If I have one thing that I wasn't completely fond of it's that I think maybe Presley fell a little too easily back into Kade. Her internal monologue was strong with not wanting to be too hasty, but she sure jumped quick.
And Kade… when he finally learns the truth, everything shifts. The way he steps up without hesitation, ready to do whatever it takes, was the sweetest. His growth, his regret and his determination to be better than the boy who left made him impossible not to root for. Truly top-tier book boyfriend material.
What makes this story stand out is that the romance isn’t easy. There’s tension, unresolved hurt, outside complications and emotional scars that don’t just disappear. Presley and Kade have to work for their second chance, and that effort makes every small breakthrough.
Fight For Us delivers angst, heart and healing in equal measure, setting up a series that I’m already excited to continue.
Fight For Us is the first book in Silver's Pinecrest, Montana series. This small town, second chance romance features Presley King and Kade Miller.
Presley has lived in Pinecrest her whole life. Her divorce is underway, and she's working at the Hash 'N Hop to make a life for herself and her daughter, Poppy. Her (almost ex) husband, Paul Leith, refuses to sign the paperwork because he wants her recently deceased father's company which was left to her. Life is not ideal, but she's trying to make the best of it. Things take a turn though when Kade walks into the diner.
Presley and Kade were high school sweethearts. They were madly in love until the day Presley's father publicly announced his daughter's engagement to Paul. This was news to her, and once Kade heard the news, he left town and disappeared. She tried to contact him but was not successful.
Kade moved to Seattle where he works as an investment banker. He is only back in town because Verne Walters left his ranch, The Lost Spur, to him, and he's there to check it out and see if it can be sold. He has no intention of staying. He also never intended on crossing paths with the woman who broke his heart.
After all these years, they still have feelings for each other. If Kade might be willing to remain in Pinecrest, this might be their second chance at happiness.
I liked the story but felt like I couldn't really connect with the characters. There was a lack of depth to their characters, and it felt like getting over their past was a minor blip rather than a hurdle. I also wished there was additional development of the supporting players. This is what usually adds to the charm of small town romance books. Unfortunately it fell short in that respect.
Overall, this gets 3 and a half stars for me. It was a decent read but not really memorable.
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers Cowboy Romance Small Town Second Chance Single Mom Surprise Baby
Fight for Us is Book 1 in the Pinecrest Montana Series! This is Kade and Presley's story! This book is about Kade and Presley who were madly in love as teenagers and had planned their whole future together when her parents dropped a huge bombshell on her. Kade feeling hurt and betrayed left town and never looked back. Fast-forward six years and Kade is living in Seattle when he discovers his former boss has passed away and left him his ranch "The Lost Spur", so he goes back home to Pinecrest to deal with the legality of the ranch. Presley is a single mother going through a divorce and working in a diner doing absolutely everything to provide and give her daughter the best life possible. What Kade doesn't know is that when he left six years prior Presley was pregnant with his child. When they do see each other again Kade is still so angry with Presley because he believes she didn't choose him. When he does figure out that Poppy is his daughter he wants to make up for lost time. While getting to know his daughter he starts learning things he didn't know before. Presley and Kade's attraction and love for one another has never faded and the more time they spend together the harder it is for either one of them to fight the love and feelings they both have. I absolutely love how sweet and genuine Kade and Presley's love is. I also loved their little family dynamic it was so cute to read! If you love a small town, second chance romance with a surprise baby and and a happily ever after then this is the book for you!
I received this ARC from The Smuthood
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Thank you to Emily Silver and The Smuthood for the ARC!!
This is the story of Kade and Presley. High school sweethearts meet several years after they broke apart, when Kade is forced to go back home. After so many years Kade meets Presley again, and it starts with a bang. But he also meets someone else, Poppy, Presley’s daughter. __________________________________________________
Unfortunately I found that the book was rushed and flat. The premise of the book could make a wonderful book, but it just wasn’t for me unfortunately. Knowing you were lucky enough to get a advanced copy of a book, and then not liking the book sucks!
We quickly jumped to the next thing without really “closing” the paragraf/page/chapter. I think there was missing som depth to the story, especially considering that it was a second chance romance and surprise baby. At times there was places where I wished for more information, dialog or maybe even a throwback to get the knowledge needed to better the book - in my opinion.
Strawberry clearly has an impact on Kade, but why? What is the backstory with Strawberry? The Goose, not the allergi 😂
When showing her around she sees a porch swing she says “you remembered” - remembered what? It is clearly special to her but why? For us readers this is new info. I was really missing some of the back story.
We didn’t get to see him tell his family about Poppy - which is a big thing I feel should have been included in the book.
Even though this was not my favorite, I will definitely try a Emily Silver book again! 😍
I didn’t just read this… I actually flew through it.
This was one of those books that pulls you in so easily, you don’t even realize how invested you are until you’re already halfway through.
We follow Kade and Presley…. first loves who didn’t just end… they broke. No closure, no proper goodbye, just years of silence. And when Kade comes back to town, he’s not just facing his past… he’s walking straight into a life he didn’t even know existed.
And honestly? That reveal changed everything.
What I loved most about this story was how effortless it felt to read. The pacing, the emotions, the tension — everything just flowed. It wasn’t overly heavy, but it still had enough depth to keep you fully invested.
Kade really surprised me. Watching him step into fatherhood and just… choose to show up? That soft, protective, “I’m all in” energy did it for me every single time.
And Presley? I loved her strength. Everything she does is rooted in protecting her daughter and building a stable life, and you can feel that in every decision she makes.
Their chemistry never felt forced… it was very much giving we never stopped loving each other, we just needed time.
Also, can we talk about how refreshing it was to not have unnecessary drama? No dragged out miscommunication, no frustrating third act breakup — just two people trying to figure things out and actually choosing each other.
The small town setting, the cowboy vibes, the family moments… it all came together so well.
This was such a cozy, emotional read and a really strong start to the series.
Thank you so much to the author and @smuthood for the gifted eARC 🤍 Fight for Us is available now on Amazon & Kindle.
I've been wanting to read this book since it was first posted about! I always look forward to more from this author. To Pinecrest, Montana I went! I enjoyed this story so much!
Presley and Kade's journey pulled me right in! These two were in love, but it ended in heartbreak. The thing is though, Presley was pregnant with their daughter. Years later, Presley is a single mom to Poppy and circumstances bring Kade back to Pinecrest. As they reunite, Can Kade and Presley face everything and find their way back to each other?
I really enjoyed how there was history between Kade and Presley and seeing them be brought back into each other's lives. It wasn't quite so easy for these two. From their past and present, being parents to Poppy, personal stuff in their lives, and everything still between them, I couldn't what to see how they'd deal with it all!
Presley was such an awesome mom. Poppy and Presley got right to Kade's heart which I loved to see. I felt for both Presley and Kade. I enjoyed seeing them navigating things between them. Kade and Presley's chemistry was so good and brought the feels! They were meant to be brought back into each other's lives.
Poppy was too precious! I just adored her and seeing the moments she shared with Presley and Kade.
I so enjoyed being in Pinecrest, Montana!
With Fight For Us, Ms.Silver has created such a good second chance romance that had me feeling so much! I'm already looking forward to heading back to Pinecrest, Montana!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from The Smuthood / the author*
Second-chance sparks, old heartbreak, and a secret that changes everything—Fight For Us is the emotional start to the Pinecrest, Montana series.
I was so excited to dive into Fight For Us the first book in the Pinecrest Montana series by Emily Silver—and she absolutely did not disappoint.
From the very first pages, Emily Silver sets the scene perfectly in the small town of Pinecrest with a romance that ticks all the right boxes. Presley and Kade’s story blends second-chance romance and enemies-to-lovers tension with a gut-wrenching twist that kept me completely hooked.
Kade left town years ago with his heart shattered, walking away not only from Pinecrest but from the only girl he had ever loved—Presley. Now he’s back after unexpectedly inheriting a rundown ranch. Returning home was never part of his plan… but discovering the secret Presley has kept all these years makes his return even more emotional.
Presley, however, has struggles of her own. She has been carrying heavy burdens and trying to build a life for herself and her adorable five-year-old daughter, Poppy, while dealing with family drama. What I really loved about Presley is her strength—because sometimes doing what is right means standing up even to the people closest to you. Emily Silver weaves this conflict beautifully into the story, showing that loyalty to family doesn’t always mean staying silent when something isn’t right.
Poppy absolutely stole my heart. Watching Kade slowly connect with her brought tears to my eyes, and seeing the three of them begin to form something that looks and feels like a family was incredibly heartfelt.
Despite the years apart and the pain between them, the chemistry between Presley and Kade never faded. Their tension, lingering emotions, and undeniable pull toward one another make their journey back to love feel authentic and deeply emotional.
Once again, Emily Silver delivers everything romance readers crave—swoon-worthy moments, emotional punches, sizzling chemistry, and a beautifully satisfying happy ending.
Book 1 of 2 in the Pinecrest, Montana series—and I already cannot wait for the next story.
If you like: • Small-town romance • Second-chance love • Enemies-to-lovers tension • Single-mom romance • Emotional, heart-tugging love stories
then Fight For Us is definitely one to add to your TBR. 💕📚
✨ARC REVIEW✨ 4.5⭐️ Second Chance AND Cowboy?? Sign me up! Kade and Presley had their whole life planned out but Presley’s family would never accept Kade. One fateful night left them both heartbroken and Kade running to escape Presley and their small town. After inheriting a ranch Kade is now back in town and coming face to face with Presley’s daughter he’s instantly struck with the thought that she might be his. Kade never wanted to come back to his hometown. He made a life for himself in the city that didn’t include the only woman he would ever love. Presley wanted out of her loveless marriage but not at the cost of her daughter’s happiness. Now that he’s back to fix up the ranch can Presley and Kade have the second chance they both deserve?
This was my first book by Emily Silver and I really really enjoyed it!! I’m all about a second chance and this was such a good one. Seeing Kade get to know his daughter and him and Presley falling back in love just made my heart so so happy! Kade steps into the role without hesitation. He wants to know his daughter and to finally have the family with Presley they always dreamed about. Presley has been through enough so to finally have Kade back in their lives and have someone to fight for her was exactly what she deserved. These three were so cute together and just made my heart so happy!! Can’t wait to see what’s next with this series!
🇬🇧I received this book from The Smuthood as an ARC.
It was a perfect small-town romance, with plenty of tension and love. A town where everyone gets involved in everything and everyone knows everyone’s business. The plot twist about why these two didn’t stay together was something I absolutely didn’t see coming. They were perfect for each other, but as this book shows once again, image and reputation can sometimes be far too important.
Luckily, this book has a happy ending, and we know that Presley and Kade get their happily ever after.
The epilogue teases that the next book will be about Sam and Joey! Oh my god, I already can’t wait — that sounds amazing 🤩 Falling in love with your best friend’s daughter — AMEN! 🙏🏻
🇳🇱Dit boek heb ik mogen krijgen van The Smuthood als ARC.
Het was een perfecte smalltown romance, genoeg spanning en liefde. Het stadje dat zich overal mee bemoeit, waar iedereen alles weet. De plot twist als waarom deze twee niet bij elkaar zijn gebleven had ik niet zien aankomen. Ze waren perfect voor elkaar maar zoals je door dit boek weer ziet is imago soms veel te belangrijk.
Gelukkig is dit boek een eind goed al goed & weten we dat Presley en Kade hun happy ever after krijgen.
De epiloog teased dat het volgende boek over Sam gaat met Joey! Oh my god ik kan nu al niet wachten dat lijkt me fantastisch 🤩 Verliefd op de dochter van je beste vriend AMEN! 🙏🏻
#Cowboy #SecondChance #SecretBaby #SmallTown #ARC I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of this book. It is written in first person from an alternating dual POV, can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA. Presley and Kade come back together after a six-year separation and a lot of life to find each other again for a sweet and steamy HEA. Presley had some pretty awful family dynamics growing up with a constant push pull with parental control. Kade grew up on the wrong side of town (according to her parents) and they made sure to split the high school sweethearts. When they see each other again, they must overcome some miscommunications and a secret to move forward and decide if their relationship is worth fighting for. Luckily for us readers, it is. Kade has grown into a successful man who recognizes his value (most of the time) and isn’t afraid to pursue what he wants. Presley has finally learned to stand up for her own happiness and that of her daughter, Poppy. They are young but take brave steps toward the future they want. I loved seeing Kade as a dad. Poppy is a joy. I really liked that Presley didn’t prevent Kade from knowing her. They fall back together quickly and are such a sweet second chance story. Don’t worry though: there are plenty of steamy moments too. Their history makes it easy to know each other in the best ways. This was a wonderful start to a new series, and I seriously cannot wait for book 2.
I picked this one up because I enjoy a pregnancy/secret child trope, even though I know it’s a trope that can be a little hit or miss for some readers.
The story follows Presley and Kade, high school sweethearts who were deeply in love until her wealthy family pushed her into an engagement with another man. When Kade sees the announcement happen in front of everyone, he assumes the worst and leaves town without ever speaking to Presley again.
Years later he returns after inheriting a ranch, only to discover Presley has a daughter… and quickly realizes the little girl might actually be his.
I liked the second chance romance and the small-town ranch setting, and the premise had a lot of potential. However, the biggest issue for me was the emotional depth around their breakup. The entire relationship hinges on that moment, but it never felt fully explored. Kade runs away after seeing the engagement announcement and the two never really have a meaningful conversation about it later, which made the reunion feel a little flat for me.
There was also a lot happening with Presley’s divorce and legal battle with her ex, which added drama to the story, but I found myself wanting more emotional development between Presley and Kade.
Overall, the idea behind the story was interesting, but the execution just didn’t fully connect for me.
Thank you to Emily Silver and The Smuthood for the ARC opportunity.
Fight For Us, is a sweet second chance, small town romance story. Kade and Presley were high school sweethearts before events pulled them apart. Years later Kade returns where Presley lives and works after leaving her husband. Feelings resurface as they bump into each other and have to interact. Secrets are revealed and life problems are navigated along with their feelings before we are led to their HEA.
This is a sweet story, so if you like lots of angst and passion, you won't find it here. But if you like that small town story and to see first loves reunite then this is for you.
From reading the outline of the story I was excited and really wanted to give this book a four star review, but it fell a little flat for me which is why I dropped my rating. I was expecting more turmoil and angst than we were given. There was some hesitation and doubt but these were dealt with very quickly. It all felt a little superficial and I couldn't always buy into the chemistry between Kade and Presley. Despite all this, I enjoyed the storyline and the characters and even the tease for the next book, which I will read, but maybe change my expectations.
Please also consider that all reading tastes and opinions vary and just because this one didn't hit the mark for me, you may enjoy the story immensely.
Thank you to Emily Silver and The Smuthood for giving me the chance to read and review this book.
This was a first Emily Silver book for me and wow! What a seriously cute book it was! A small town, cowboy, second chance lovers, single mom romance book that is light hearted, easy to read, will have your heart swooning, and leave you with a smile. It’s heart warming, and sweet, and even a bit spicy. It’s truly a “has it all” book.
Presley is a single mom and is currently going through a divorce from her husband who she was forced to marry by her parents. Her biggest accomplishment is her daughter, and her biggest regret is losing her first love, Kade. Kade gets called back home after acquiring a ranch in his hometown from his former boss when he was younger. He’s immediately brought back into all the emotions of his and Presley’s love. And what does he do when he finds out he has a daughter? He works hard to form a relationship and get to know her. At the same time as falling back in love with Presley. Gahhh these two are the freaking cutest! They fall right back into each other’s arms, being supportive, being sweet, and wanting to rekindle things the right way. And boy, do they rekindle!
This was a short and super sweet book. They jump back into a relationship fast, so no slow burn here! It’s so cute watching Kade become a dad, and watching him and Presley become a family. Absolutely would recommend for a quick, refreshing romantic read.
This was an ARC read for me, and these are my honest opinions.
Fight For Us, the first installment in Emily Silver’s Pinecrest, Montana series, introduces readers to Presley, a devoted single mother who has worked tirelessly to build a stable life for heroes and her daughter, Poppy. Having carefully constructed that life, Presley is unwilling to invite further complications. However, the unexpected return of Kade, who left Pinecrest years earlier without explanation and has now come back to claim his late friend’s ranch, disrupts the balance she has fought to maintain.
Presley is a compelling protagonist, portrayed as resilient, intelligent, and deeply committed to her role as a mother. Already navigating conflict involving her ex and her own mother over a business she never wanted, Presley is understandably resistant to Kade’s reappearance. Their shared history introduces significant emotional tension, marked by lingering hurt and unresolved issues that both characters must confront.
The narrative is well-structured, with a smooth progression and effective use of alternating points of view between Presley and Kade, which adds depth to their perspectives. However, the emotional impact of their initial separation could have been more fully developed to strengthen the stakes of their reunion. Additionally, the story would have benefited from a great sense of longing and emotional intensity, elements that are often central to a compelling second chance romance.
Overall, this installment offers an engaging and character driven introduction to the Pinecrest, Montana series.
Thank you to the author and The Smuthood for the ARC!
ARC Review: Fight for Us by Emily Silver Pinecrest, Montana Book 1
Kade leaves town and doesn't look back when he was younger after hearing his high school sweetheart is forced into an arranged marriage by her parents. He never thought he would come back to Pinecrest until he receives a call one day of an old friend passing and hear that he left his the ranch he use to work at during his teen years, "The Lost Spur". He comes back to town to see what needs fixed up on the ranch and to figure out if he is gonna keep it or sell it. But happens to bump into Presley his sweetheart and all finds out she has a little girl named Poppy.
Presley who is hard working single mom, who has a lot of crap on her plate. Between dealing with lawyers regarding her dad's estate and trying to get her divorce finalized. But the lawyers are taking for ever and her ex is trying to threaten her about taking full custody of Poppy, even though she really isn't really his according to DNA. While working a shift at the dinner in walks the man she once loved, but ending up breaking her heart when he left town 6yrs ago.
This is my first book my Emily and absolutely loved it! The chemistry, spice, and the emotional parts with the cozy small town. I am really looking forward to book 2 of Pinecrest, Montana to find out what is next.
Tropes: 💘Small Town 🤠Single Mom X Cowboy 💘Enemies to Lovers 🤠Second Chance Romance 💘Surprise Baby Girl
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this as an arc.
General Premise: MMC and FMC were in love as teenagers. MMC is from the 'bad side' of the town, FMC is from the rich side. FMC's parents don't like MMC. FMC's dad surprises her in a one-off flashback chapter in the middle of the book (🙄) announcing her engagement to another man. MMC runs away without letting her explain ANYTHING. FMC finds out she's pregnant.
FMC is in the middle of divorcing the other man. Other man is trying to get her Dad's company, since he died and never updated the will.
Unfortunately, there was zero meat to this story. MMC ends up coming back because he inherited a ranch. He finds out he has a daughter. MMC and FMC do not communicate AT ALL about the 'break-up' and instead pretty much jump into having sex. MMC also gets to know his daughter while waffling on whether or not to stay in the town or go back 'home' to seattle. If the story was a little more fleshed out, if we got to see the characters a little more (especially the epilogue characters, which are the hinted next book of).
This probably would've gotten 3 stars, because the writing was okay, if the two characters had just fucking had one talk about what happened between them.
In general, we needed more. The story was flat, the characters were flat - nothing had depth.
I’m so glad I got the chance to read this ARC because I absolutely loved it. This is the first book in the Pinecrest, Montana series and it was such a fast, emotional read for me.
Presley and Kade’s story really pulled me in. Even though years passed after Kade left town, it was clear their love never really went away. The way they still cared about each other like they did back in high school made their second chance feel so real.
I also loved the small-town Pinecrest vibes, especially the gossip — because you know in a town that small everyone knows everyone’s business and it just added such a fun and realistic layer to the story.
And Poppy 🥹 she completely stole my heart. She’s such a cutie with her love for mac and cheese (the blue box only!), riding the ranch horse Lollipop, and learning how to fish. Getting to watch Kade and Poppy start to bond was honestly one of my favorite parts of the book. Those moments felt really special and heartfelt.
This book also had spice!!!!!, great chemistry, and so much emotion mixed with the cozy small-town setting. I’m really excited to see where the Pinecrest, Montana series goes next.
Tropes:
Small town Single mom Enemies to lovers Second chance romance Surprise baby Cowboy
💭: This was my first Emily Silver book, and I was so excited when it landed in my inbox — the first book in a new series set in Pinecrest, Montana. And I’ll give you one guess what pulled me in and made me apply for this ARC: cowboys, a rundown ranch, and a small Montana town. Say less. 🤠
This was a quick, easy read — at under 250 pages, I flew through it in record time.
I really liked the overall storyline and genuinely enjoyed the characters, but I found myself wishing for just a little more depth in some places. There were moments that had the potential to be emotionally powerful, especially with the second-chance romance element, and I kept hoping for that extra punch of yearning and making up for lost time. It was there, just not quite as intense as I personally wanted.
That said, if you’re looking for a light, fast read that won’t emotionally wreck you and still delivers a sweet HEA, this is definitely worth picking up.
And even though I wanted more from this one, I’m very intrigued by book two. I found myself really drawn to Sam — maybe because he’s a bit older? I don’t know, but now I need his story.
Thank you to Emily Silver for the ARC — this ended up being the perfect snow-day read!