What do you think?
Rate this book
A Cowboy Holiday
The cowboy, the rancher, and a little holiday magic...
Tanner
I met the grumpiest man on the planet and I’m head over heels in lust. No joke. Oak Ridge Ranch’s new parttime vet slash ranch hand is a bear and he’s built like one too. If I were smart, I'd keep my distance.
In a twist, I’m not so smart.
But I can tell that under his hard as nails exterior, the cowboy is a gentle giant. Axel is a devoted single dad, a dedicated vet, and…I think he likes me. Or he wants me.
I can work with that.
There’s nothing wrong with a little holiday fun, is there?
Axel
I need this job at the ranch through December, then I’m out of here. I have a kid to think of and it’s time to settle old scores and build a new life for her.
But Tanner is making things complicated. He’s smart, intuitive, and charming, and—
Whoa! I’ve learned my lesson. This is temporary and I am not Tanner’s cowboy.
I might be attracted to him, but I can handle it.
I hope.
Okay, fine. I may need some Christmas magic to get out of this with my heart in one piece. Wish me luck.
A Cowboy Holiday is an MM, bisexual romance featuring a single dad-cowboy-grump, a sweetheart of a rancher, and some holiday magic.
156 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 15, 2025
90 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
Lane Hayes
107 books1,723 followersLane Hayes loves a good romance! She’s the bestselling author of the Out in College, Starting From, Better Than, A Kind Of, Right and Wrong, and Leaning Into Series! Lane loves red wine, chocolate and travel (in no particular order). All things she can find in sunny SoCal where she lives with her amazing husband in a not quite empty nest.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
![Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1626057011i%2F10717098._UX200_CR0%2C33%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
January 6, 2026
A Cowboy Holiday by Lane Hayes is a stand alone, MM, cowboy, holiday romance that will melt your heart. It’s no secret that I adore cowboy romance. Add in some twinkly lights and Christmas trees, and I’m a goner.
Tanner Spade is one of the owner’s of Oak Ridge Ranch in California. He and his brother have built the ranch into a multifaceted business that includes both dairy and beef cows, horses, goats, a high end lodge for guests wanting the “cowboy” experience, a winery, and so much more. Tanner works with the animals. It’s all he’s ever wanted to do. Tanner is a walking bundle of sunshine. He is always smiling and everyone loves him. Building the ranch into what it is now has taken up every waking moment of Tanner’s life. He isn’t interested in relationships, there just isn’t time. But he can’t help but to notice the new part time vet in town. He checks off every one of the boxes in his head of the perfect guy!
Axel Vogel is thirty six years old. He is both a veterinarian, working part time for the vet’s office in town, and also a cowboy, able to do just about any cowboy duties needed of him. Axel is also a single dad to five year old Phoebe. Phoebe is a twirling, tulle wearing, happy ray of sunshine. And Axel’s world revolves around her. That’s why, after Christmas, he is moving on to a full time job in Texas that will give her a more stable home environment. The one thing that Axel never figured into the equation, though, was Tanner.
In the short time Axel has been in town, he has gotten to be known as a bit of a grump. He answers questions with a low, rumbly grunt. Or one word answers if he must. At home, though, he is a loving, doting father to Phoebe. There is nothing he wouldn’t do for her.
When Axel goes to work at Oak Ridge Ranch, the sparks start flying between he and Tanner. Little by little, he lets his armor down with Tanner. And Tanner finds something with Axel that he’s never had with anyone before. They just fit. But their time has an expiration date. Can they just enjoy each other for the few weeks they have together, then say goodbye?
This was such a sweet story, steamy as well. I loved these two together. I loved seeing the man Axel was when he let his guard down. He was so good with Phoebe. She was such an adorable little girl. What an idyllic life it was on the ranch. And Tanner, who was already a happy guy, simply shone with Axel. This was a wonderful holiday romance with the sweetest ending ever.
Tanner Spade is one of the owner’s of Oak Ridge Ranch in California. He and his brother have built the ranch into a multifaceted business that includes both dairy and beef cows, horses, goats, a high end lodge for guests wanting the “cowboy” experience, a winery, and so much more. Tanner works with the animals. It’s all he’s ever wanted to do. Tanner is a walking bundle of sunshine. He is always smiling and everyone loves him. Building the ranch into what it is now has taken up every waking moment of Tanner’s life. He isn’t interested in relationships, there just isn’t time. But he can’t help but to notice the new part time vet in town. He checks off every one of the boxes in his head of the perfect guy!
Axel Vogel is thirty six years old. He is both a veterinarian, working part time for the vet’s office in town, and also a cowboy, able to do just about any cowboy duties needed of him. Axel is also a single dad to five year old Phoebe. Phoebe is a twirling, tulle wearing, happy ray of sunshine. And Axel’s world revolves around her. That’s why, after Christmas, he is moving on to a full time job in Texas that will give her a more stable home environment. The one thing that Axel never figured into the equation, though, was Tanner.
In the short time Axel has been in town, he has gotten to be known as a bit of a grump. He answers questions with a low, rumbly grunt. Or one word answers if he must. At home, though, he is a loving, doting father to Phoebe. There is nothing he wouldn’t do for her.
When Axel goes to work at Oak Ridge Ranch, the sparks start flying between he and Tanner. Little by little, he lets his armor down with Tanner. And Tanner finds something with Axel that he’s never had with anyone before. They just fit. But their time has an expiration date. Can they just enjoy each other for the few weeks they have together, then say goodbye?
This was such a sweet story, steamy as well. I loved these two together. I loved seeing the man Axel was when he let his guard down. He was so good with Phoebe. She was such an adorable little girl. What an idyllic life it was on the ranch. And Tanner, who was already a happy guy, simply shone with Axel. This was a wonderful holiday romance with the sweetest ending ever.
December 29, 2025
~2.5~
Standard Lane Hayes fare: two bisexual men, precocious 5-year-old, ranch with cute animals, insta attraction, grumpy/sunshine, Christmas cheer, HEA; it's all very cutesy but basic.
Rounding down for the sloppy editing; e.g., a goat named Nelly becomes Nellie at some point, seemingly not a big deal, but that's just one example. I noted numerous typos, wrong names used for characters, and continuity issues.
Standard Lane Hayes fare: two bisexual men, precocious 5-year-old, ranch with cute animals, insta attraction, grumpy/sunshine, Christmas cheer, HEA; it's all very cutesy but basic.
Rounding down for the sloppy editing; e.g., a goat named Nelly becomes Nellie at some point, seemingly not a big deal, but that's just one example. I noted numerous typos, wrong names used for characters, and continuity issues.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
What a wonderful festive romance this is!
Grumpy vet and a ranch owner with a sunshiny outlook on life makes for a perfect opposites attract narrative.
This has a crossover with Lane's previous Christmas story Moody's Grumpy Holiday and works as an introduction to her new upcoming series.
I absolutely adored everything about this story, the setting was perfect as it allowed for plenty of occasions for Axel and Tanner's paths to cross and I loved just how much of a family vibe there was about the ranch.
Axel is just the sort of guy I love, grumpy with good reason, dealing with a tough hand that life's dealt him and doing his best for the daughter he'd never expected.
Tanner is one of life's good guys and he's determined to get to the bottom of what's making Axel's stay in the area a temporary one. The spark between them is instantaneous, even as Axel's chewing out Tanner for getting in the way when he's looking after a sick cow.
They continue to fight it for a short while but things boil over in scorching fashion with a kiss that leaves them both reeling and wanting more.
Of course, agreeing to a short term fling is never going to be enough!
Throw in a cute kid, loads of animals and a little bit of Christmas magic via a Santa who might be more than a man in a fake beard and you get a really lovely way to spend a few hours reading.
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR Tours, I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Grumpy vet and a ranch owner with a sunshiny outlook on life makes for a perfect opposites attract narrative.
This has a crossover with Lane's previous Christmas story Moody's Grumpy Holiday and works as an introduction to her new upcoming series.
I absolutely adored everything about this story, the setting was perfect as it allowed for plenty of occasions for Axel and Tanner's paths to cross and I loved just how much of a family vibe there was about the ranch.
Axel is just the sort of guy I love, grumpy with good reason, dealing with a tough hand that life's dealt him and doing his best for the daughter he'd never expected.
Tanner is one of life's good guys and he's determined to get to the bottom of what's making Axel's stay in the area a temporary one. The spark between them is instantaneous, even as Axel's chewing out Tanner for getting in the way when he's looking after a sick cow.
They continue to fight it for a short while but things boil over in scorching fashion with a kiss that leaves them both reeling and wanting more.
Of course, agreeing to a short term fling is never going to be enough!
Throw in a cute kid, loads of animals and a little bit of Christmas magic via a Santa who might be more than a man in a fake beard and you get a really lovely way to spend a few hours reading.
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR Tours, I am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 9, 2025
**4.5**
Two of my favourites, single dad romance Christmas work perfectly well in this festive romance, and in the grumpy factor and it's full swoon.
The chemistry between Tanner and Axel is hot, and though Axel is very reserved and intent on moving away at Christmas, neither can help themselves when it comes to each other. When little Phee gets involved, it's just the most adorable little family possible and if only Axel weren't so stubborn, and could allow himself this piece of happiness they'd found at Oak Ranch.
A very recommended festive read!
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
**Mention of passing of daughter's mother, a few years ago**
Two of my favourites, single dad romance Christmas work perfectly well in this festive romance, and in the grumpy factor and it's full swoon.
The chemistry between Tanner and Axel is hot, and though Axel is very reserved and intent on moving away at Christmas, neither can help themselves when it comes to each other. When little Phee gets involved, it's just the most adorable little family possible and if only Axel weren't so stubborn, and could allow himself this piece of happiness they'd found at Oak Ranch.
A very recommended festive read!
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
**Mention of passing of daughter's mother, a few years ago**
December 16, 2025
I enjoyed this book immensely! Axel is a single dad and a vet to boot, and Tanner is the owner of Oak Ridge Ranch. They both have some baggage from their past lives, but are trying to make a better life for both of them, including Axel's daughter. Christmas brings that magical feeling that everything is going to work itself out.
December 30, 2025
Tanner and Axel… what a story !
Ranch owner and cowboy, Tanner, is a great businessman and ranch man, who needed a Veterinarian. A big bear of a cowboy/Veterinarian, Axel, shows up and saves the day. He has a young daughter and is a devoted Dad.
This is a wonderful story of love, an unlikely pair, Christmas excitement, obstacles and working together to form a “found family.”
It’s full of heart and happiness and a terrific epilogue.
ENJOY !
======
Ranch owner and cowboy, Tanner, is a great businessman and ranch man, who needed a Veterinarian. A big bear of a cowboy/Veterinarian, Axel, shows up and saves the day. He has a young daughter and is a devoted Dad.
This is a wonderful story of love, an unlikely pair, Christmas excitement, obstacles and working together to form a “found family.”
It’s full of heart and happiness and a terrific epilogue.
ENJOY !
======
December 27, 2025
A few parts annoyed me but at the core of it all it was sweet, short and lots of feels perfect for a cozy holiday read!
December 19, 2025
Five stars. No hesitation.
🎄🤠👨👧🐄🌈
Single dad MM romance | Cowboy romance | Vet MC | Grumpy x sunshine ☀️
This was the perfect holiday read and I absolutely adored every second of it. Sexy, cute, cozy, emotional, and surprisingly vulnerable in all the right ways. This book honestly had everything for me.
Axel is pure grumpy single dad energy, guarded, tired, and doing his best for his daughter, and Tanner is sunshine personified. He is warm, intuitive, open hearted, and the perfect counterbalance to Axel’s gruff exterior. Their chemistry was instant and delicious.
“I think I want to kiss you,” was the first thing that popped into my mind.
Tanner bit his bottom lip like a f’ing porn star.
“Do it.”
That right there? Inject it directly into my bloodstream.
The attraction between them was intense and unapologetic, and the heat did not hold back.
“I wanted to climb him, ride him, use him. He could use me too. I wouldn’t mind. Not one f’ing bit.”
Yet what really made this story special was the heart underneath all that heat. Axel’s journey as a father and as a man absolutely wrecked me in the best way.
“My heart ached for the young man he’d been and for the adult who’d struggled to find his path. And I hated that he’d lost his friend and that Phoebe had never known her mother. So much pain and suffering. And yet… he’d persevered. He was a talented vet, a wonderful father, and… I wished he were mine.”
And Phoebe. Oh my heart.
“Phoebe was a gust of an ocean breeze on a hot summer day. She was laughter in the wind and fireflies at midnight. She was all things beautiful, joyful, and wondrous, and not a single day passed without me thanking my lucky stars for her.”
I completely fell in love with the town and the ranch. The sense of community added so much warmth to the story, and the secondary characters were such a joy. Phoebe was beyond adorable and every scene with her made me smile.
Tanner flirting with Axel was everything.
“You have a funny habit of making me like you a little more every time you open your mouth, cowboy.”
I also loved seeing Hudson and Moody again (this another Christmas read from the author, Moody’s Grumpy Holiday), which made the whole experience feel even more special and connected.
The romance was tender and hot, the emotional beats landed perfectly, and the ending left me feeling full and happy. Cozy holiday magic wrapped up in a cowboy romance, and I loved every single second of it. 💖🎄
🎄🤠👨👧🐄🌈
Single dad MM romance | Cowboy romance | Vet MC | Grumpy x sunshine ☀️
This was the perfect holiday read and I absolutely adored every second of it. Sexy, cute, cozy, emotional, and surprisingly vulnerable in all the right ways. This book honestly had everything for me.
Axel is pure grumpy single dad energy, guarded, tired, and doing his best for his daughter, and Tanner is sunshine personified. He is warm, intuitive, open hearted, and the perfect counterbalance to Axel’s gruff exterior. Their chemistry was instant and delicious.
“I think I want to kiss you,” was the first thing that popped into my mind.
Tanner bit his bottom lip like a f’ing porn star.
“Do it.”
That right there? Inject it directly into my bloodstream.
The attraction between them was intense and unapologetic, and the heat did not hold back.
“I wanted to climb him, ride him, use him. He could use me too. I wouldn’t mind. Not one f’ing bit.”
Yet what really made this story special was the heart underneath all that heat. Axel’s journey as a father and as a man absolutely wrecked me in the best way.
“My heart ached for the young man he’d been and for the adult who’d struggled to find his path. And I hated that he’d lost his friend and that Phoebe had never known her mother. So much pain and suffering. And yet… he’d persevered. He was a talented vet, a wonderful father, and… I wished he were mine.”
And Phoebe. Oh my heart.
“Phoebe was a gust of an ocean breeze on a hot summer day. She was laughter in the wind and fireflies at midnight. She was all things beautiful, joyful, and wondrous, and not a single day passed without me thanking my lucky stars for her.”
I completely fell in love with the town and the ranch. The sense of community added so much warmth to the story, and the secondary characters were such a joy. Phoebe was beyond adorable and every scene with her made me smile.
Tanner flirting with Axel was everything.
“You have a funny habit of making me like you a little more every time you open your mouth, cowboy.”
I also loved seeing Hudson and Moody again (this another Christmas read from the author, Moody’s Grumpy Holiday), which made the whole experience feel even more special and connected.
The romance was tender and hot, the emotional beats landed perfectly, and the ending left me feeling full and happy. Cozy holiday magic wrapped up in a cowboy romance, and I loved every single second of it. 💖🎄
December 18, 2025
✨ ARC Review ✨
⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
Debo admitir que al principio quería leer este libro únicamente porque era corto y navideño, jajaja. Sin embargo, terminé llevándome una grata sorpresa, porque la historia resultó ser mucho más interesante de lo que esperaba.
Tanner y Axel me gustaron mucho como pareja, y la pequeña hija de Axel, Phoebe, fue simplemente encantadora. Me habría gustado leer más escenas con ella, pero las pocas que aparecen son súper entrañables y aportan mucha calidez a la historia.
Tanner, como personaje, me encantó: es bueno, dulce y su conexión con los animales fue un detalle que me ganó por completo. Axel, en cambio, siento que necesitaba un poco más de desarrollo para terminar de enamorarme. Justo cuando empezaba a hacerlo, la historia ya estaba llegando a su final.
Hacia el cierre del libro sentí que todo se resolvió de manera bastante apresurada. Aun así, puedo entender por qué la autora decidió no cargar la trama con demasiado drama y optar por una resolución más ligera, acorde al tono general del libro.
De todas formas, es una historia linda, corta y entretenida, ideal para pasar un rato agradable leyendo, especialmente en época navideña. Sin dudas, una lectura recomendable para quienes buscan algo cálido y reconfortante.
〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️
I have to admit I picked this book up mostly because it was short and Christmas-themed, haha. In the end, it turned out to be a really nice surprise, because the story was way more interesting than I expected.
I really liked Tanner and Axel as a couple, and Axel’s little daughter, Phoebe, was absolutely adorable. I wish we’d gotten more scenes with her, but the few she appears in are so sweet and heartwarming.
Tanner was my favorite character—he’s kind, gentle, and his bond with his animals completely won me over. Axel, on the other hand, needed a bit more development for me to fully fall for him. Just when he was starting to get there, the story was already wrapping up.
Toward the end, everything felt a little rushed. Still, I can understand why the author chose not to add too much drama and kept things light and cozy instead.
Overall, it’s a cute, short, and enjoyable read—perfect if you’re looking for something warm and comforting, especially during the holidays.
⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
Debo admitir que al principio quería leer este libro únicamente porque era corto y navideño, jajaja. Sin embargo, terminé llevándome una grata sorpresa, porque la historia resultó ser mucho más interesante de lo que esperaba.
Tanner y Axel me gustaron mucho como pareja, y la pequeña hija de Axel, Phoebe, fue simplemente encantadora. Me habría gustado leer más escenas con ella, pero las pocas que aparecen son súper entrañables y aportan mucha calidez a la historia.
Tanner, como personaje, me encantó: es bueno, dulce y su conexión con los animales fue un detalle que me ganó por completo. Axel, en cambio, siento que necesitaba un poco más de desarrollo para terminar de enamorarme. Justo cuando empezaba a hacerlo, la historia ya estaba llegando a su final.
Hacia el cierre del libro sentí que todo se resolvió de manera bastante apresurada. Aun así, puedo entender por qué la autora decidió no cargar la trama con demasiado drama y optar por una resolución más ligera, acorde al tono general del libro.
De todas formas, es una historia linda, corta y entretenida, ideal para pasar un rato agradable leyendo, especialmente en época navideña. Sin dudas, una lectura recomendable para quienes buscan algo cálido y reconfortante.
〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️
I have to admit I picked this book up mostly because it was short and Christmas-themed, haha. In the end, it turned out to be a really nice surprise, because the story was way more interesting than I expected.
I really liked Tanner and Axel as a couple, and Axel’s little daughter, Phoebe, was absolutely adorable. I wish we’d gotten more scenes with her, but the few she appears in are so sweet and heartwarming.
Tanner was my favorite character—he’s kind, gentle, and his bond with his animals completely won me over. Axel, on the other hand, needed a bit more development for me to fully fall for him. Just when he was starting to get there, the story was already wrapping up.
Toward the end, everything felt a little rushed. Still, I can understand why the author chose not to add too much drama and kept things light and cozy instead.
Overall, it’s a cute, short, and enjoyable read—perfect if you’re looking for something warm and comforting, especially during the holidays.
December 16, 2025
Tanner owns the Oak Ridge Ranch, one of the biggest in the area that offers everything from horseback riding to luxury getaways and even a winery. But as he's about to purchase a herd of cattle from another nearby ranch, he's absolutely taken with the grouchy vet who is overseeing the cows, Dr. Axel Vogel.
Axel is huge and masculine and grouchy and so sexy, and after buying the cows, Tanner wants nothing more than to also hire this intriguing vet. But there's more to Axel than meets the eye. He's got a five year old daughter named Phoebe, he's very guarded about himself, and he's leaving in a few months.
But a few months is plenty of time for Tanner to show Axel the Christmas of his life.
What to expect...
🐴 A grouchy, sexy vet who can't stop thinking about the sunshiney cowboy
🤠 A happy, successful, sweet cowboy who wants the grouchy vet something fierce
🩰 An adorable little girl who wants to be a ballerina
🐐 Wandering unruly goats
🐄 Hookups in the barn
🎁 A Christmas-themed village with meddling townsfolk
🌲 Decorating together
🎅A jolly man who makes wishes come true
❄️ A sweet, sexy, and very magical HEA
I don't rate or count novellas, but I'm telling you right now -- I LOVED THIS LITTLE BOOK. Usually I like one MC more than the other, but I fell for both Tanner and Axel immediately. And Phoebe was the sweetest thing ever. I loved the setting, the supporting cast, the amount of spice, the pacing, literally everything. Sometimes novellas don't land well with me because I wish they were longer or something else but this was absolutely perfect. And to find out that we'll have another book next season? Talk about the icing on top of the Christmas cookie.
Do not skip this one this year! Grab it now, and yes, it's also on KU!
Axel is huge and masculine and grouchy and so sexy, and after buying the cows, Tanner wants nothing more than to also hire this intriguing vet. But there's more to Axel than meets the eye. He's got a five year old daughter named Phoebe, he's very guarded about himself, and he's leaving in a few months.
But a few months is plenty of time for Tanner to show Axel the Christmas of his life.
What to expect...
🐴 A grouchy, sexy vet who can't stop thinking about the sunshiney cowboy
🤠 A happy, successful, sweet cowboy who wants the grouchy vet something fierce
🩰 An adorable little girl who wants to be a ballerina
🐐 Wandering unruly goats
🐄 Hookups in the barn
🎁 A Christmas-themed village with meddling townsfolk
🌲 Decorating together
🎅A jolly man who makes wishes come true
❄️ A sweet, sexy, and very magical HEA
I don't rate or count novellas, but I'm telling you right now -- I LOVED THIS LITTLE BOOK. Usually I like one MC more than the other, but I fell for both Tanner and Axel immediately. And Phoebe was the sweetest thing ever. I loved the setting, the supporting cast, the amount of spice, the pacing, literally everything. Sometimes novellas don't land well with me because I wish they were longer or something else but this was absolutely perfect. And to find out that we'll have another book next season? Talk about the icing on top of the Christmas cookie.
Do not skip this one this year! Grab it now, and yes, it's also on KU!
December 22, 2025
This is a boss x employee / single dad holiday romance, featuring Axel and Tanner, and is a standalone book.
Tanner is instantly smitten with the grumpy new ranch vet, convinced there’s a gentle, devoted single dad beneath Axel’s tough exterior. Axel plans to leave after December and doesn’t want attachments, but Tanner’s charm, makes resisting a temporary holiday fling nearly impossible.
A sweet and steamy grumpy x sunshine romance with great chemistry and a cozy ranch setting. Tanner and Axel are easy to root for, and their “no-strings” plan melts fast into something real and heartwarming. I loved it!
Things to expect in this book are:
Standalone book
MM holiday romance
Christmas time
Single dad
Grumpy x Sunshine
Vet x Ranch owner
Size difference
Gentle giant
Insta lust
Spicy times & dirty talk
Biting & marking
Admit feelings
Calls him Cowboy
Found family
HEA
Tanner is instantly smitten with the grumpy new ranch vet, convinced there’s a gentle, devoted single dad beneath Axel’s tough exterior. Axel plans to leave after December and doesn’t want attachments, but Tanner’s charm, makes resisting a temporary holiday fling nearly impossible.
A sweet and steamy grumpy x sunshine romance with great chemistry and a cozy ranch setting. Tanner and Axel are easy to root for, and their “no-strings” plan melts fast into something real and heartwarming. I loved it!
Things to expect in this book are:
Standalone book
MM holiday romance
Christmas time
Single dad
Grumpy x Sunshine
Vet x Ranch owner
Size difference
Gentle giant
Insta lust
Spicy times & dirty talk
Biting & marking
Admit feelings
Calls him Cowboy
Found family
HEA
December 15, 2025
A Cowboy Holiday is a super sweet, low angst and fun story with great characters and an amazing setting. Axel is a wonderful father to his daughter Phoebe but comes across as a big grump when he first meets Tanner. They are exactly what the other needs but it does take a while for Axel to realize that constantly moving because of his past may not be as necessary as he thinks it is. Tanner is an absolute sweetheart and I love how supportive he is of Axel and Phoebe. I love how their relationship develops and the ending is perfect. I can't wait to read more books centered around the ranch as it really is a huge inclusive family where everyone is welcomed in.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
December 10, 2025
Arc Review
Tanner Spade is about to buy a herd of cattle to add to his ranch. He wants to make sure all the cows are in good health, before he parts with his money.
Axel Vogel is a temporary vet in town, stopping through until the new year when he has a job planned in Texas. Money is tight for him, as he has sole custody of his daughter, five year old, Phoebe. The man Tanner is buying the cattle off, asks Axel to speak to Tanner to give the cows a bill of health.
Tanner offers Axel to be Oak Ridge Ranch’s vet.
Having had an emergency with Hazel, a pregnant cow, Axel has to travel with his daughter in tow in the middle of the night. Tanner offers him a house on the ranch for employees, so he can be near if anything happens again.
Tanner and Axel find each other very attractive, but can they start anything knowing they are boss and employee? Plus Axel has Phee to think about.
This sweet, short holiday novella, from Lane Hayes was just the cute read I needed.
It was lovely to take a trip back to Christmas Town and visit past characters. Phee was such a cute side character.
Tanner Spade is about to buy a herd of cattle to add to his ranch. He wants to make sure all the cows are in good health, before he parts with his money.
Axel Vogel is a temporary vet in town, stopping through until the new year when he has a job planned in Texas. Money is tight for him, as he has sole custody of his daughter, five year old, Phoebe. The man Tanner is buying the cattle off, asks Axel to speak to Tanner to give the cows a bill of health.
Tanner offers Axel to be Oak Ridge Ranch’s vet.
Having had an emergency with Hazel, a pregnant cow, Axel has to travel with his daughter in tow in the middle of the night. Tanner offers him a house on the ranch for employees, so he can be near if anything happens again.
Tanner and Axel find each other very attractive, but can they start anything knowing they are boss and employee? Plus Axel has Phee to think about.
This sweet, short holiday novella, from Lane Hayes was just the cute read I needed.
It was lovely to take a trip back to Christmas Town and visit past characters. Phee was such a cute side character.
December 30, 2025
Happy sigh. Lane Hayes has done it again. This book gives you the warm fuzzies while also making you want to slap one of the characters. Sometimes they are just hard headed. LOL. I loved this story and kept smiling, but there were moments when I would cringe because I wanted to yell at them to pull their heads out of their... This one is a must read. Good story. Great characters. Just perfect for the holiday season. 4.5 stars.
December 12, 2025
I’m always such a fan of Lane’s Christmas novellas, so I’m happy to say this one was a winner. Tanner and Axel seem to fit together like puzzle pieces as soon as they kiss for the first time. I love a single dad trope although I wasn’t overly fond of the circumstances of Axel becoming a father. He’s a great dad though and I love how well Phoebe and Tanner got along. Very sweet, I loved the epilogue, and an all round lovely Christmas book.
Thank you GRR for the ARC. This review is honest and voluntary.
Thank you GRR for the ARC. This review is honest and voluntary.
December 22, 2025
Aww, I loved Tanner and Axel's story. It's such a heartwarming grumpy/sunshine between cowboy Tanner and vet Axel. They meet when Tanner is trying to buy some cows and is instantly drawn to the the moody single dad Axel. Axel is only in town for a couple of months and ends up taking a job at Tanner's ranch. It doesn't take them long before they act on the chemistry. I loved following their story especially how Axel slowly starts trusting and living life again after past traumas. But what happens when feelings become involved and Axel needs to make a decision when it is coming to leave and if he and his daughter will be be happier somewhere else. I really loved reading this.
Read
December 17, 2025DNF ~40%
Wasn't particularly interested in either character and didn't really feel their connection. Pacing here felt super rushed, which makes sense when I realized it was novella length.
Wasn't particularly interested in either character and didn't really feel their connection. Pacing here felt super rushed, which makes sense when I realized it was novella length.
January 6, 2026
Tanner and Axe ❤️
Each and every story from lane Hayes is like a warm hug with tickles! I can never get enough!! This is such a sweet and sexy read with some swoony MC'S. I absolutely recommend, I was down with the flu during the holidays and this is just what the doctor ordered for me ❤️.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
Each and every story from lane Hayes is like a warm hug with tickles! I can never get enough!! This is such a sweet and sexy read with some swoony MC'S. I absolutely recommend, I was down with the flu during the holidays and this is just what the doctor ordered for me ❤️.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
January 4, 2026
Holiday Themed
The storyline is OK. It has a holiday theme but the focus is on the physical actions for Tanner and Axel, with a nod to romance and bits of a story scattered throughout. Lots of characters, though not much depth for any of them, not even Tanner and Axel. It does end happily, so that’s nice.
The storyline is OK. It has a holiday theme but the focus is on the physical actions for Tanner and Axel, with a nod to romance and bits of a story scattered throughout. Lots of characters, though not much depth for any of them, not even Tanner and Axel. It does end happily, so that’s nice.
December 26, 2025
Thank you to GRR for providing me with an eARC of this title in exchange for a review.
This should have been an easy 4-4.5 star read for me, and I'll get to why it's not in a second, and start with what worked. I loved Axel and Tanner's dynamic together, I love seeing grumps pulled out into the light by a character who breaks down their walls without even trying. Axel had a lot he was running from and a lot to prove, and was just biding his time until he could establish a home for him and his daughter back in the place where he lost his birth family, or more accurately where his birth family lost him for being gross. Tanner was also a fun character, a rancher looking to expand his empire who had already built a very good situation for himself, and got a lot more than he had bargained for when he went to purchase a herd of cows from a failing ranch in over their heads. I enjoyed their relationship together, and how it managed to have a little bit of a slow burn feel to it despite the book being so short. Axel's daughter Phoebe was also delightful, and put down roots way faster than Axel ever did, I don't know for a second how Axel thought he could ever get out of there pain-free. Everything is all well and good, EXCEPT!!!!
Like I still enjoy it, I'm glad I still have the eARC because I could see myself reading it again when I need something light and comforting and quick, but if/when that day comes, I know which chapter I'm going to skip.
This should have been an easy 4-4.5 star read for me, and I'll get to why it's not in a second, and start with what worked. I loved Axel and Tanner's dynamic together, I love seeing grumps pulled out into the light by a character who breaks down their walls without even trying. Axel had a lot he was running from and a lot to prove, and was just biding his time until he could establish a home for him and his daughter back in the place where he lost his birth family, or more accurately where his birth family lost him for being gross. Tanner was also a fun character, a rancher looking to expand his empire who had already built a very good situation for himself, and got a lot more than he had bargained for when he went to purchase a herd of cows from a failing ranch in over their heads. I enjoyed their relationship together, and how it managed to have a little bit of a slow burn feel to it despite the book being so short. Axel's daughter Phoebe was also delightful, and put down roots way faster than Axel ever did, I don't know for a second how Axel thought he could ever get out of there pain-free. Everything is all well and good, EXCEPT!!!!
Like I still enjoy it, I'm glad I still have the eARC because I could see myself reading it again when I need something light and comforting and quick, but if/when that day comes, I know which chapter I'm going to skip.
December 26, 2025
This was such a good low angst, sweet and spicy holiday romance between a single dad cowboy and a rancher with his own successful ranch. Axel is a stoic hunk of a cowboy who has been through alot all the while raising a little girl on his own with really only one good friend who doesn't even live close by. He works as a vet and can do cowboy tasks as well and is just trying to provide for his daughter and give her a good life. Right now he only has one job as the other changed when the herd he was working with got bought by a charming rancher whose undeterred by Axel's grumpy state of being. Axel has an opportunity for a good job and a place to live for him and his daughter but right now he needs another job to make up the money he'd lost after the herd sold. So he goes to Tanmer, who bought the herd he knows better than anyone, and tossed his hat in the ring for a temporary position. What he didn't expect is for both men to fall head first into lust and into each other. What started as fun and something good but temporary started to turn into meaning so much more to both men. Tanner fit so well not just with Axel but with him and his daughter Pheobe as well. He now had neighbors and kids for his daughter to play with and people he trusted to have her over for sleep overs or fun things kids do with their friends as well as attend Pre K. He had a good job and a home as well as a gorgeous rancher who fit so seamlessly into his life even though Axel wasn't one for opening up. Tanner also felt so much for Axel. He admired him and the person and father he was and could see a whole future with him he never thought either of them would be ready for. But with a time stamp on Axel and Pheobe leaving there wasn't much reason to hold out hope. Was there? Read and find out! This was such a feel good book with some hard topics and deep feelings but it was just the right mix. Add in finding where you belong without even looking for it and some holiday magic and it makes for the perfect book to read for the holidays curled up in a blanket with some hot cocoa. I'm definitely ready for more of this series so I'll be waiting patiently.
December 30, 2025
Tanner is that wonderful guy we met in Moody's Grumpy Holiday, Hudson's boss and co-owner. He is the CEO and one of the owners of Oak Ridge Ranch, a dude ranch, large working farm/ranch, and a vineyard in California. He is outgoing and possess a positive attitude that has serves him well with people meets and with all the animals he works with. He’s that guy both people and animals trust immediate. However, when Tanner meets Axel, he realizes his sunny personality doesn’t cut it with the stoic, grumpy, communicates-with-grunts Axel.
Axel is the veterinarian who works with a somewhat neglected dairy herd that Tanner wants to buy. Once the herd is sold, putting Axel out of one of his part time jobs, he pushes passed his gruff exterior to talk Tanner into hiring him part time as a vet and ranch worker until December. He needs the income to care for his 5-year old daughter Phoebe.
Tanner is smart enough to see a good thing, and it gives him an opportunity to work on breaking through that shell Axel has erected around himself. Tanner was right. He could out-patient Axel’s taciturn personality.
I absolutely loved these two. I loved how they initially connected through their gentle treatment of animals. Tanner was a genius, using silly questions like “What was the weirdest place you threw up?” to get Axel share things about himself. It was great watching the trust build between the two of them outside their sexual relationship. Tanner was great with Phoebe, helping Axel learn to trust other people with his daughter. And the little bit of mysticism added that special Christmas touch to the story for me.
I’m assuming there will be more books to the series, and I’m hoping the next one is about Jax, one of Tanner’s brothers.
Axel is the veterinarian who works with a somewhat neglected dairy herd that Tanner wants to buy. Once the herd is sold, putting Axel out of one of his part time jobs, he pushes passed his gruff exterior to talk Tanner into hiring him part time as a vet and ranch worker until December. He needs the income to care for his 5-year old daughter Phoebe.
Tanner is smart enough to see a good thing, and it gives him an opportunity to work on breaking through that shell Axel has erected around himself. Tanner was right. He could out-patient Axel’s taciturn personality.
I absolutely loved these two. I loved how they initially connected through their gentle treatment of animals. Tanner was a genius, using silly questions like “What was the weirdest place you threw up?” to get Axel share things about himself. It was great watching the trust build between the two of them outside their sexual relationship. Tanner was great with Phoebe, helping Axel learn to trust other people with his daughter. And the little bit of mysticism added that special Christmas touch to the story for me.
I’m assuming there will be more books to the series, and I’m hoping the next one is about Jax, one of Tanner’s brothers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The moment Tanner meets the handsome grumpy vet who would rather grunt than talk, he knows he is in trouble. Tanner is sunshine and friendly and has basically never met a stranger. And lately, he can’t stop thinking about Axel. Especially when he hires him to work on the ranch. And once Tanner breaks through Axel’s walls a bit, they realize that the attraction between them is very mutual. Just one catch. Axel plans to leave in just a few months. He has a job opportunity he feels he can’t pass up in order to give his daughter a more stable life. Tanner knows the deal but the more they get to know one another, the more he realizes that Axel may be just the one for him. Axel never planned to be a dad, but he loves his daughter more than anything and is going to do everything in his power to take care of her. He just never expected Tanner to come into his life. Tanner who can get him to talk about himself and just seems to get him. But Axel can’t stay. He has a plan. He can’t change it…right? This was such a sweet holiday romance! Plus a dash of grumpy and sunshine characters. I loved getting to know Tanner and Axel and watch them fall for one another despite knowing they shouldn’t. These two were the definition of knowing when you found your person and why others in the past didn’t work out. A perfect Christmas romance you don’t want to miss!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2025
Rating: 4.5🌈
“There’s a little cowboy in all of us, a little frontier.” —Louis L’Amour
Of course, Lane Hayes starts this heartwarming Christmas romance with a quote from one of my favorite authors, Louis L’Amour. Perfect.
And the story that follows it is just as heartwarming and seasonally satisfying for all readers, those who are familiar with this author and those new to her stories and this holiday universe.
Written so that it’s in the same location and includes many of the characters from Hayes’ previous Christmas story, Moody's Grumpy Holiday, this year we get a single veterinarian dad and his adorable daughter who end up helping settle in a dairy herd to a local ranch and find more than they expected.
Tanner, who’s co owner of Oak Ridge Ranch, finds himself drawn to the large, quiet vet who is marvelous with his animals and protective of his daughter.
Let me say the characters are excellently written, the relationships between each one feels grounded and believable and the town as well was a joy to revisit. The men, the children, and the animals! Heartfelt and emotionally charged. And so joyful.
I’m hoping that Hayes makes returning to the town and ranch in whatever way possible an annual story.
Two down. Hopefully more to come.
Another winner.
Cover Design by Reese Dante
“There’s a little cowboy in all of us, a little frontier.” —Louis L’Amour
Of course, Lane Hayes starts this heartwarming Christmas romance with a quote from one of my favorite authors, Louis L’Amour. Perfect.
And the story that follows it is just as heartwarming and seasonally satisfying for all readers, those who are familiar with this author and those new to her stories and this holiday universe.
Written so that it’s in the same location and includes many of the characters from Hayes’ previous Christmas story, Moody's Grumpy Holiday, this year we get a single veterinarian dad and his adorable daughter who end up helping settle in a dairy herd to a local ranch and find more than they expected.
Tanner, who’s co owner of Oak Ridge Ranch, finds himself drawn to the large, quiet vet who is marvelous with his animals and protective of his daughter.
Let me say the characters are excellently written, the relationships between each one feels grounded and believable and the town as well was a joy to revisit. The men, the children, and the animals! Heartfelt and emotionally charged. And so joyful.
I’m hoping that Hayes makes returning to the town and ranch in whatever way possible an annual story.
Two down. Hopefully more to come.
Another winner.
Cover Design by Reese Dante
December 30, 2025
Stars
It's a fun and spicy holiday novella that's the perfect bow on your Christmas gift. I love it when a gruff and closed-off character finally allows their real nature to shine. You get this, plus a solid romance.
Axel is a veterinarian who has a precious small daughter named Phoebe. One day, she will be a ballerina. This 5-year-old is very certain of her future career path.
Phoebe is his world, and Axel is determined to improve their lifestyle by heading to Texas with a great job offer. In the meantime, he has found temp work to tide him over until the move.
His new boss is Tanner, the most likable fellow on the planet. Even Mr. Grumpy can't help but smile at his jokes, and Axel is definitely not immune to how handsome this good-natured man is. Tanner is pure sunshine who knows how to run a ranch. He treats his workers and animals with care and the respect they deserve.
Axel, at first, was relieved to get this position until he headed to Texas. It turns out that the longer he sees Tanner around his child, the more he knows something has shifted inside himself.
This book was full of great feels and an adorable little girl who had both cowboys wrapped around her little finger. I highly recommend this festive treat. Happy reading and happy holidays.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement*
It's a fun and spicy holiday novella that's the perfect bow on your Christmas gift. I love it when a gruff and closed-off character finally allows their real nature to shine. You get this, plus a solid romance.
Axel is a veterinarian who has a precious small daughter named Phoebe. One day, she will be a ballerina. This 5-year-old is very certain of her future career path.
Phoebe is his world, and Axel is determined to improve their lifestyle by heading to Texas with a great job offer. In the meantime, he has found temp work to tide him over until the move.
His new boss is Tanner, the most likable fellow on the planet. Even Mr. Grumpy can't help but smile at his jokes, and Axel is definitely not immune to how handsome this good-natured man is. Tanner is pure sunshine who knows how to run a ranch. He treats his workers and animals with care and the respect they deserve.
Axel, at first, was relieved to get this position until he headed to Texas. It turns out that the longer he sees Tanner around his child, the more he knows something has shifted inside himself.
This book was full of great feels and an adorable little girl who had both cowboys wrapped around her little finger. I highly recommend this festive treat. Happy reading and happy holidays.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn’t a requirement*
January 13, 2026
M/M
Grumpy/Sunshine
Cowboy romance
Single full time father (5 year old girl)
Christmas
Standalone
Quick read (under 4 hours)
Arc audio review
Story = 5 stars
Narration = 5 stars
This was such a sweet story with some good spice. It was low angst and I could not stop listening to it and finished it in one listen. It was a fast paced, quick read that didn't drag at all and it still felt complete. I absolutely loved the big gesture grand finale. It was very sweet. It did feel a little rushed and ott but it is Christmas and a short story so it gets a pass from me on that. I don't always like books with kids but this little girl was an absolute delight to listen to.
The 2 MCs and the little girl were very loveable characters. Grumpy doesn't always work for me but it was nice to watch this character melt by the little girl. The 2 MCs had amazing chemistry and they seemed like the perfect little family from the start.
I think Ive only read 1 other book by this author but I thought it was written really well and will have to read more of their work. I think this was a standalone but I absolutely loved the world building and would love more. This is definitely going into my future reread list.
The narrator did a fantastic job. He has a pleasant reading voice and kept a good pace. He expressed all the emotions wonderfully and brought the story to life. He gave all the characters including the side characters their own distinct voice that suited them each perfectly especially the little girl.
Grumpy/Sunshine
Cowboy romance
Single full time father (5 year old girl)
Christmas
Standalone
Quick read (under 4 hours)
Arc audio review
Story = 5 stars
Narration = 5 stars
This was such a sweet story with some good spice. It was low angst and I could not stop listening to it and finished it in one listen. It was a fast paced, quick read that didn't drag at all and it still felt complete. I absolutely loved the big gesture grand finale. It was very sweet. It did feel a little rushed and ott but it is Christmas and a short story so it gets a pass from me on that. I don't always like books with kids but this little girl was an absolute delight to listen to.
The 2 MCs and the little girl were very loveable characters. Grumpy doesn't always work for me but it was nice to watch this character melt by the little girl. The 2 MCs had amazing chemistry and they seemed like the perfect little family from the start.
I think Ive only read 1 other book by this author but I thought it was written really well and will have to read more of their work. I think this was a standalone but I absolutely loved the world building and would love more. This is definitely going into my future reread list.
The narrator did a fantastic job. He has a pleasant reading voice and kept a good pace. He expressed all the emotions wonderfully and brought the story to life. He gave all the characters including the side characters their own distinct voice that suited them each perfectly especially the little girl.
January 11, 2026
Throw a sunshiny-outlook rancher together with a grumpy, growly-bear vet-cowboy, his cheerful, Christmas-loving daughter, an expansive ranch/winery/dairy, lovable farm animals, Christmas-town, and found ranch family, and what do you get? A warm, low-angst, holiday-themed love story. I loved Tanner and his optimistic, joyful outlook on life; and Axel...I knew there was a warm heart of gold beneath the grouchy cold exterior from the first scene with his daughter. It just took a sexy connection with Tanner, some steamy times in the barn, the shower, Tanner's cabin (you get the picture), and precocious 5 year old Phoebe, to dhow them they belonged together. But Axel was only at Oak Ridge until Christmas, then he had a new job, and some old scores to settle, in Texas. Can Tanner, Phoebe's Christmas wish, and a little Christmas magic change his mind?
I loved this story, the MCs, farm animals, and all the ranch found family. It was a perfect low-angst listen that I would recommend for the holidays or any day you want a sweet love story.
The narration by Nick Russo was great, especially with the grouchy, short comments and nonverbal grunts from Axel, and animated, nonstop chatter from Phoebe. He was a pleasure to listen to.
I received an audio ALC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I loved this story, the MCs, farm animals, and all the ranch found family. It was a perfect low-angst listen that I would recommend for the holidays or any day you want a sweet love story.
The narration by Nick Russo was great, especially with the grouchy, short comments and nonverbal grunts from Axel, and animated, nonstop chatter from Phoebe. He was a pleasure to listen to.
I received an audio ALC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
December 15, 2025
A COWBOY HOLIDAY is a standalone story, but with crossovers to another of the author's series. In this story, Axel is a single dad who is a qualified vet but also helps out on the ranch doing odd jobs. Tanner is the co-owner of the ranch. These two meet when Tanner wants to buy a herd of cows, and Axel is the vet caring for them. It is set at Christmastime, and they visit Christmas Town.
This is a well-written and well-paced story. Axel and Tanner get together fairly quickly, and the majority of the story isn't whether they love each other or not, but will Axel stay on the ranch, or will he go to Texas as planned? All in all, it is fairly low angst, with medium heat.
Told from both Axel and Tanner's perspectives, they are also ably supported by a great cast of characters, and most of them have four legs! Throw in some Christmas magic in the shape of a mysterious Santa, and you have an easy Christmas read that I enjoyed and can recommend. 3.5 rounded up.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 15, 2025
This is a well-written and well-paced story. Axel and Tanner get together fairly quickly, and the majority of the story isn't whether they love each other or not, but will Axel stay on the ranch, or will he go to Texas as planned? All in all, it is fairly low angst, with medium heat.
Told from both Axel and Tanner's perspectives, they are also ably supported by a great cast of characters, and most of them have four legs! Throw in some Christmas magic in the shape of a mysterious Santa, and you have an easy Christmas read that I enjoyed and can recommend. 3.5 rounded up.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 15, 2025
December 29, 2025
4.25 stars
This one is interconnected with Christmas Town and Moody’s Grumpy Holiday, the author’s Christmas novella from last year, and it’s just as sweet. It takes place on Oak Ridge Ranch, a dude ranch and working farm outside of Christmas Town and the home of Tanner and his friends—complete with cows, goats, horses, and pigs. Only thing is, you can’t have that many animals without having someone to care for them… and that’s where Axel, the grumpy, antisocial vet and his sweet daughter, Phee, came in.
Friends with benefits isn’t really one of my favorite tropes but somehow it worked here with Tanner and Axel’s temporary situation and the way they danced around each other. Each man had legitimate reasons for not getting involved with each other but I was really rooting for them to finally get out of their own way and loved it when they did.
This is a great book for readers looking for a little Christmas romance with zero angst or drama and a newfound group of found family and friends. If that sounds like something you’d enjoy, check it out. And don’t forget to stop by Moody’s Marvelous Bah Humbug Bookshop while you’re in town! 4.25 stars
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
This one is interconnected with Christmas Town and Moody’s Grumpy Holiday, the author’s Christmas novella from last year, and it’s just as sweet. It takes place on Oak Ridge Ranch, a dude ranch and working farm outside of Christmas Town and the home of Tanner and his friends—complete with cows, goats, horses, and pigs. Only thing is, you can’t have that many animals without having someone to care for them… and that’s where Axel, the grumpy, antisocial vet and his sweet daughter, Phee, came in.
Friends with benefits isn’t really one of my favorite tropes but somehow it worked here with Tanner and Axel’s temporary situation and the way they danced around each other. Each man had legitimate reasons for not getting involved with each other but I was really rooting for them to finally get out of their own way and loved it when they did.
This is a great book for readers looking for a little Christmas romance with zero angst or drama and a newfound group of found family and friends. If that sounds like something you’d enjoy, check it out. And don’t forget to stop by Moody’s Marvelous Bah Humbug Bookshop while you’re in town! 4.25 stars
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 29, 2025
A Cowboy Holiday is one of those sorts of stories that creep behind your back and make you smile at the close. I adored the warmness of the combination of grumpy/sunshine, single dad, and that instant spark which gradually develops into something actual. The ranching background is so pleasant, animals, discovered family time, and suggestions that there are more couples in the queue.
Tanner is such a tender sweetie, and a scene where he opened up to Axel was very authentic. At first, Axel seems reserved, concentrated on his daughter and his intention to relocate but you can sense his exhaustion with having to keep on reinventing himself. The way that he falls in love with Phoebe is beautiful and how he gradually understands that perhaps he can find stability and be happy is one of my favorite parts.
They naturally connect and have sweet moments and slight tension and the right amount of holiday magic to make it all seem all the more special. The end was enough to make one comfortable enough and hopeful enough by the end, like the ideal Christmas movie in book form.
It was an endearing, angst-free read that made me feel warm and holiday, and I can certainly look forward to coming back to this ranch and finding out what becomes of the rest of the crew.
ARC REVIEW
Tanner is such a tender sweetie, and a scene where he opened up to Axel was very authentic. At first, Axel seems reserved, concentrated on his daughter and his intention to relocate but you can sense his exhaustion with having to keep on reinventing himself. The way that he falls in love with Phoebe is beautiful and how he gradually understands that perhaps he can find stability and be happy is one of my favorite parts.
They naturally connect and have sweet moments and slight tension and the right amount of holiday magic to make it all seem all the more special. The end was enough to make one comfortable enough and hopeful enough by the end, like the ideal Christmas movie in book form.
It was an endearing, angst-free read that made me feel warm and holiday, and I can certainly look forward to coming back to this ranch and finding out what becomes of the rest of the crew.
ARC REVIEW
Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews